A night of fireworks in Mobile
The Oklahoma Sooners captured their third College World Series title on Tuesday, outscoring the North Carolina Tar Heels 13-2 in a game that left little doubt about the champion.
From the outset, the Sooners built a two‑run lead in the second inning and never looked back, setting the tone for a dominant performance.
Kyle Branch was the offensive engine, finishing 3‑for‑4 with six runs batted in and two scores, highlighted by a three‑run homer in the eighth that stretched the lead.
Reliever LJ Mercurius added a stellar 5.2 innings on the mound, surrendering just one run on four hits while striking out five batters, preserving the lead.
The final four batters in Oklahoma’s lineup went a combined 9‑for‑17, driving in nine runs and crossing the plate eight times, underscoring the depth of the attack.
Coach Skip Johnson praised Branch’s work ethic and perseverance, noting that the player’s relentless effort had been a cornerstone of the team’s success.
The victory marks the third national championship in Oklahoma’s baseball history, cementing the program’s status among the elite of college sports.