Coastal Carolina Softball Set to Shine at NCAA Durham Regional
Introduction: Coastal Carolina’s Historic Journey
In an exhilarating announcement that fans have eagerly anticipated, Coastal Carolina University is set to represent the Sun Belt Conference in the upcoming NCAA Softball Durham Regional. This thrilling event kicks off on Friday, May 16, heralding a new chapter in the program’s storied history. Mark your calendars, as the Chanticleers prepare to face off against Georgia at 2:30 p.m. ET/1:30 p.m. The match will be streamed live on ESPN+.
A Historic Return: The Sixth NCAA Regional Appearance
This marks the sixth NCAA Regional appearance for the Chanticleers, and their first since 2012. With an impressive season record of 41-17, Coastal Carolina’s journey reflects a remarkable turnaround and determination. As one of the 22 NCAA berths awarded to Sun Belt softball programs over the past 11 seasons, this achievement underscores the growing competitiveness of the conference.
Chanticleers’ Path to Glory: Road to the Championship
The 2025 season has been nothing short of sensational for the Chanticleers. Under the guidance of Kelley Green, in her 16th season as head coach, Coastal Carolina clinched its first Sun Belt tournament championship in program history. Achieving this milestone as the first No. 7 seed to do so, they triumphed in an intense four-game streak during the tournament held in Troy, Alabama.
Dominant Pitching and Timely Hitting
Central to their success has been the outstanding performance of Nicolette Picone, the senior ace and Sun Belt Pitcher of the Year. She not only pitched every inning during the tournament but also earned the title of Sun Belt Tournament Most Outstanding Player. With a stellar 4-0 record and a 2.13 ERA across 28 innings, her resilience and skill in the circle have been vital to the Chanticleers’ triumph.
Challenging the Best: The Road Ahead
Coastal Carolina’s impressive 6-2 record against teams that received bids to NCAA regionals—including notable victories over No. 8 national seed South Carolina, Kentucky, and Georgia Tech—positions them well heading into the regional. These performances highlight the team’s ability to step up against formidable competition, offering a glimpse into the potential chaos they could create in Durham.
NCAA Super Regionals: The Next Stop?
The stakes are high as the teams compete in a double-elimination tournament, with the winners earning a place in the NCAA Super Regionals scheduled for May 22-25. The ultimate goal? To secure a coveted spot in the 2025 College World Series commencing on May 29 in Oklahoma City. Fans across the nation are gearing up for what promises to be a thrilling and action-packed postseason.
Conclusion: A Community Rallying Behind the Chants
As Coastal Carolina steps onto the field, they carry not just their helmets and bats, but also the hopes and dreams of a dedicated community. As the first pitch approaches, let’s rally behind the Chanticleers and support their journey in this historic regional. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a newcomer to the sport, this is an exciting moment in collegiate softball that you won’t want to miss!
For updates on the tournament and more details, keep an eye on the NCAA Bracket and cheer on our Chanticleers as they aim for glory!
