Oklahoma captured its third national championship on Wednesday, routing the University of North Carolina 13‑2 in the decisive Game 3 of the best‑of‑three series. The win marks the Sooners’ first title since 1994 and ends UNC’s 29‑game unbeaten streak in the tournament.
The Sooners exploded for runs in every inning from the second through the sixth, piling up 13 hits while UNC could only muster a single run. Oklahoma’s offense was fueled by a relentless attack that saw the team draw five walks in the third inning alone, turning a modest start into a decisive rally.
A dominant performance
Heading the pitching staff, Oklahoma relied on a trio of relievers after starter Nick Wesloski lasted just 2.1 innings. L.J. Mercurius stepped in to throw 5.2 scoreless frames, allowing only one run and preserving the lead. In contrast, UNC cycled through eight different pitchers, a strategy that backfired as they issued eight walks, surrendered 14 hits and recorded two wild pitches.
Among the arms used for UNC, starter Jackson Rose was limited to 2.2 innings before exiting, while Walker McDuffie, Caden Glauber and Matthew Matthijs combined for just five outs. Glauber, who had been flawless in his previous 29 appearances, finally tasted defeat, snapping a perfect streak that had defined his season.
The offensive onslaught was not limited to extra‑base hits; Carolina managed no doubles or triples, underscoring the Sooners’ disciplined approach at the plate. The victory also highlighted Oklahoma’s depth, as the team employed only three pitchers compared to UNC’s eight, a disparity that proved pivotal.
With the win, Oklahoma improves to a 54‑14‑1 record, the most wins for the Diamond Heels since 2013, yet the team remains in pursuit of its first national championship. The triumph signals a new era for the program and sets the stage for next season’s ambitions.