The 2025 NCAA Division I Softball Tournament Selection Sunday revealed that the Big 12 Conference secured five bids, marking a notable achievement for the league. The five teams selected were:
- Texas Tech
- Arizona
- Arizona State
- Oklahoma State
- UCF
This selection underscores the Big 12’s competitive depth and the successful integration of new members like Arizona, Arizona State, and UCF into the conference’s softball landscape.
Texas Tech made a significant impact by winning both the Big 12 regular season and tournament titles. Under first-year head coach Gerry Glasco, the Red Raiders showcased a dominant performance, culminating in a 4–0 victory over Arizona in the championship game. Pitcher NiJaree Canady was named the tournament’s Most Outstanding Player, contributing to the team’s strong showing.
Arizona, Arizona State, and Oklahoma State also earned their spots in the tournament, reflecting the Big 12’s robust softball programs. These teams have consistently performed well in the conference, and their inclusion in the NCAA Tournament highlights the league’s overall strength.
UCF, another new addition to the Big 12, secured an automatic bid by winning the American Athletic Conference Tournament. Their successful season and subsequent selection into the NCAA Tournament demonstrate the positive impact of conference realignment on the league’s competitiveness.
While the Big 12 secured five bids, it’s noteworthy that BYU was among the “First Four Out,” missing the tournament despite a commendable season. This highlights the competitive nature of the league and the challenging decisions faced by the selection committee.
Looking ahead, the Big 12’s performance in the NCAA Tournament will be closely watched, as teams like Texas Tech aim to advance further and represent the conference on a national stage.
