WKU Softball Gears Up for 2024 Conference USA Tournament

WKU Softball is primed to kick off the 2024 Conference USA Tournament with a matchup scheduled for Thursday at 3:30 p.m. CT against the winner of the game between LA Tech and UTEP. All tournament games leading up to the championship will be streamed on ESPN+, with the championship game airing on CBS Sports Network. The Hilltoppers return to NM State’s Softball Complex, where they commenced conference action back in March.

Tournament Seeding and Outlook

Securing the No. 2 seed in the tournament, WKU aims to start strong on Thursday, setting themselves up for game seven against the winner of the Liberty and NM State clash on Friday at 1 p.m. CT. A double-elimination format ensures that even in case of a Thursday loss, the Hilltoppers will have another shot in game eight later that Friday.

Conference Contenders

The tournament features Liberty as the top seed, coming off a successful regular season campaign. WKU’s second seed marks their highest since 2015, showcasing their prowess in the conference. LA Tech, NM State, Jax State, and UTEP complete the competitive field.

Season Highlights and Statistics

With an impressive 31-19-1 overall record, including a 16-7 mark in CUSA action, WKU enters the tournament with confidence. They’ve clinched series wins over formidable opponents like NM State and UTEP, along with sweeps against FIU, Sam Houston, and Middle Tennessee. While avoiding road sweeps, they’ve faced challenges against LA Tech, Liberty, and Jax State.

In the 2024 season, WKU has showcased dominance in various statistical categories, boasting leaders in batting average, slugging, home runs, and strikeouts. Notably, TJ Webster leads in batting average, while Taylor Sanders tops the charts in slugging and home runs. Katie Gardner shines as the conference’s top pitcher.

Legacy and Milestones

With a storied history in the Conference USA Tournament, including two championship victories in 2021 and 2015, WKU aims to add to their impressive record. Coach Tudor’s leadership has been instrumental, with the team displaying resilience and excellence on the field.

As the tournament unfolds, WKU Softball looks to build upon their successes and make their mark once again in the Conference USA landscape. With a talented roster and a legacy of triumph, the Hilltoppers are poised for an exciting tournament run.

CUSA TOURNAMENT GAME 5
WKU vs. [3]LA Tech/[6] UTEP
Watch: ESPN+ | Livestats
Thursday, May 9, 2024 | 3:30 p.m. CT
 
FULL SCHEDULE 
Wednesday, May 8 – 1 p.m. CT         Game 1: (4) NM State vs. (5) Jax Stat (ESPN+)
Wednesday, May 8 – 3:30 p.m. CT    Game 2: (3) LA Tech vs. (6) UTEP (ESPN+)
Wednesday, May 8 – 4 p.m. CT         Game 3: Loser Game 1 vs. Loser Game 2 (ESPN+).
 
Thursday, May 9 – 1 pm. CT              Game 4: (1) Liberty vs. Winner Game 1 (ESPN+)
Thursday, May 9 – 2:30 p.m. CT        Game 5: (2) WKU vs. Winner Game 2 (ESPN+)
Thursday, May 9 – 5 p.m. CT              Game 6: Winner Game 3 vs. Loser Game 4 (ESPN+)
 
Friday, May 10 – 1 p.m. CT                Game 7: Winner Game 4 vs. Winner Game 5 (ESPN+)
Friday, May 10 – 2:30 pm                   Game 8: Loser Game 5 vs. Winner Game 6 (ESPN+)
Friday, May 10 – 5 pm                        Game 9: Loser Game 7 vs. Winner Game 8 (ESPN+)
 
Saturday, May 11 – 1 p.m. CT           Game 10: Winner Game 9 vs. Winner Game 11 (CBS Sports Network)