In the 2025 NCAA Clemson Regional, the USC Upstate Spartans’ softball team faced a challenging elimination game against the University of Kentucky Wildcats. The Wildcats showcased a dominant offensive performance, defeating the Spartans 11–0 and ending Upstate’s postseason run.
Kentucky initiated the game with a strong start, scoring two runs in the first inning through a leadoff single, a triple, and a sacrifice fly. They continued to build their lead with additional runs in the second and third innings, including a solo home run. The Wildcats sealed their victory with a six-run sixth inning, accumulating 16 hits in total.
The Spartans managed three hits during the game, with contributions from Abigail Pippen, Liza Simmerson, and senior Alanna Deal. Despite these efforts, they were unable to advance any runners home. Kentucky’s pitcher, Julia Kelley, delivered an impressive performance, pitching six shutout innings, allowing only three hits, and striking out two batters.
This loss concluded USC Upstate’s season with a commendable 39–16 record, highlighting their achievement as back-to-back Big South Tournament champions. Kentucky, improving to a 30–27 record, advanced in the regional bracket to face the loser of the Clemson vs. Northwestern game.
Earlier in the regional, the Spartans faced the No. 11 seed Clemson Tigers, where they initially took a 2–1 lead. However, Clemson responded with a three-run homer in the fourth inning and added five more runs in the fifth, resulting in a 10–2 run-rule victory over Upstate.
Despite the early exits, USC Upstate’s season was marked by significant accomplishments, including surpassing 500 hits for the year and demonstrating resilience against higher-seeded teams.