The Alabama softball team found itself in a tough position just one game into the 2024 Women’s College World Series.
UCLA, seeded No. 6 nationally, sealed the victory with a three-run home run from Jordan Woolery in the sixth inning to defeat the No. 14 seeded Crimson Tide 4-1 at Devon Park in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.
More:Watch the Women’s College World Series live on Fubo (free trial)
The game, delayed by thunderstorms in Oklahoma City, eventually started 96 minutes after its original scheduled time, beginning at 12:36 p.m. CT.
Alabama’s pitcher Kayla Beaver held her ground against UCLA until the sixth inning, allowing only one earned run, striking out four, and walking one in the first 5 2/3 innings.
Kenleigh Cahalan evened the score for Alabama with a single to right field in the fifth inning before the UCLA’s powerful response.
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Bailey Dowling’s strong performance, going 2 for 3, was not enough for Alabama, who managed six hits against UCLA’s pitchers Kaitlyn Terry and Taylor Tinsley.
With this loss, Alabama will face the loser of the Oklahoma vs. Duke game on Friday night, with the possibility of being eliminated from the double-elimination tournament.
Stay tuned for live updates, highlights, and more from Alabama’s WCWS journey.
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Alabama softball vs UCLA updates, highlights
All times Central
Final: UCLA 4, Alabama 1
Top of the seventh inning: UCLA 4, Alabama 1
2:35 p.m.: Kristen White pops out to center field, securing UCLA’s victory at 4-1 against Alabama in the WCWS opener.
2:32 p.m.: Alabama is down to their last out, with Lauren Esman and Kali Heivilin unable to secure a comeback.
Bottom of the sixth inning: UCLA 4, Alabama 1
2:26 p.m.: Jordan Woolery’s homer gives UCLA a 4-1 lead, putting them in a strong position to win their first WCWS game.
2:25 p.m.: Beaver strikes out UCLA’s Megan Grant. Two outs for UCLA.
2:22 p.m.: Beaver intentionally walks Palacios after a meeting at the mound. UCLA now has runners on first and second.
2:20 p.m.: Alabama uses a sacrifice bunt to advance a runner to second base, adding pressure to the situation.
2:19 p.m.: UCLA secures an infield single, putting the go-ahead run on base.
Top of the sixth inning: Alabama 1, UCLA 1
3:15 p.m.: Dowling strikes out, setting the stage for an intense bottom of the sixth inning.
3:12 p.m.: Tinsley’s pitch is low, allowing Giles to advance to second base. The tension continues to rise in the game.
3:10 p.m.: Giles is hit by the pitch, giving Alabama a runner on base with high stakes.
3:08 p.m.: Alabama’s Jenna Johnson pops up for the first out, creating a crucial moment in the game.
Bottom of the fifth inning: Alabama 1, UCLA 1
2:05 p.m.: Another ground-out adds to the intensity of the game, as both teams fight for an advantage.
2:04 p.m.: Malau’ulu grounds out for the second out of the inning.
2:03 p.m.: Preuitt fields the grounder, completing another out for Alabama.
Top of the fifth inning: Alabama 1, UCLA 1
1:58 p.m.: With some challenges along the way, Alabama fights to stay in the game, showing determination and resilience.
1:56 p.m.: Cahalan’s hit ties the game at 1-1, but aggressive baserunning results in an out for Alabama.
1:54 p.m.: Johnson’s pop-up adds a twist to the game, creating a crucial moment for Alabama.
1:51 p.m.: White’s walk loads the bases, setting the stage for a potentially game-changing moment.
1:48 p.m.: Heivilin’s hit adds pressure to UCLA, as Alabama looks to turn the tide of the game.
1:47 p.m.: Esman’s sacrifice bunt advances a runner, setting the stage for a potentially game-changing play.
1:44 p.m.: UCLA prepares for a pitching change as Alabama secures a lead-off single.
1:43 p.m.: Dowling’s single adds excitement to the game, creating an opportunity for Alabama to take the lead.
Bottom of the fourth inning: UCLA 1, Alabama 0
1:38 p.m.: Beaver maintains control, securing three outs for Alabama to keep the game within reach.
1:36 p.m.: In an interview, Alabama coach Patrick Murphy shares insights into Larissa Preuitt’s injury, highlighting the team’s dedication and resilience.
Top of the fourth inning: UCLA 1, Alabama 0
1:32 p.m.: Terry’s strikes boost UCLA’s defense, keeping Alabama on their toes.
1:28 p.m.: Despite a baserunner, Alabama faces another challenge as UCLA’s defense proves strong.
Bottom of the third inning: UCLA 1, Alabama 0
1:23 p.m: Beaver’s double play puts Alabama in a strong defensive position, showing their resilience and determination.
1:20 p.m.: UCLA takes the lead, showcasing their offensive prowess in a crucial inning of the game.
1:19 p.m.: The game intensifies as UCLA seizes the opportunity to build momentum with runners on base.
1:18 p.m.: Beaver faces challenges as UCLA’s offense puts pressure on Alabama.
1:17 p.m.: UCLA faces an out, showcasing Alabama’s defensive capabilities in a crucial moment of the game.
Top of the third: Alabama 0, UCLA 0
1:13 p.m.: Alabama faces challenges at bat, highlighting UCLA’s strong defense in the game.
Second inning: Alabama 0, UCLA 0
1:05 p.m.: UCLA’s defense holds strong against Alabama, keeping the game scoreless through the second inning.
1:00 p.m.: Alabama shows moments of promise, building momentum in the game.
12:58 p.m.: Alabama secures a hit, adding excitement to the game in the second inning.
12:50 p.m.: Alabama faces challenges but maintains a strong defensive stance against UCLA’s offense.
12:41 p.m.: The top of the first inning concludes with both teams showing resilience and determination.
12:40 p.m.: Preuitt leaves the game due to an injury, showcasing Alabama’s adaptability in challenging situations.
Pregame
12:27 p.m.: Alabama prepares for their WCWS opener, setting the stage for an exciting game.
12:10 p.m.: The Alabama team remains focused and determined before their WCWS game.
12:07 p.m.: Excitement builds as the game approaches, creating anticipation for the upcoming matchup.
11:59 a.m.: Alabama confirms the start time for the game, adding to the excitement and anticipation.
The game continues to be delayed due to the weather, adding tension and anticipation for the matchup.
11:46 a.m.: The weather delay continues, creating challenges and uncertainty for both teams.
Challenges continue with the weather delay, adding to the anticipation and excitement for the upcoming matchup.
11:12 a.m,: Weather challenges persist, creating uncertainty and adding to the tension of the game.
The game continues to face delays, showcasing the resilience and determination of both teams in challenging situations.
10:52 a.m.: Weather conditions delay the game, creating challenges and uncertainty for both teams.
10:28 a.m.: UCLA prepares to face Alabama, setting the stage for an exciting and intense matchup.
8:46 a.m.: Motivation and determination drive both teams as they prepare for the upcoming game.
What channel is Alabama vs UCLA softball on today?
Catch the Alabama vs. UCLA softball game on ESPN, with live coverage provided by Beth Mowins, Michele Smith, Jessica Mendoza, and Holly Rowe.
You can also stream the game on the ESPN App or Fubo, with a free trial available for potential subscribers.
Alabama vs UCLA softball start time
- Date: Thursday, May 30
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