[](https://tennessee.rivals.com/news/tennessee-softball-pitcher-karlyn-pickens-makes-history-after-dominant-week)
In a groundbreaking announcement, ESPN has declared Karlyn Pickens of the Tennessee Volunteers as the greatest collegiate softball pitcher of all time. This recognition comes after a series of record-breaking performances that have solidified her legacy in the sport.
Pickens, a junior from Weaverville, North Carolina, has been a dominant force on the mound for the Lady Vols. In March 2025, she set a new NCAA record by throwing a 78.2 mph pitch against Arkansas, surpassing the previous record of 77 mph held by former Tennessee pitcher Monica Abbott. She further cemented her place in history by breaking her own record with a 79.4 mph pitch during a Super Regional game against Nebraska .([sbnation.com][1], [foxnews.com][2])
Throughout the 2025 season, Pickens posted an impressive 22–8 record with a 0.90 ERA and 252 strikeouts. Her exceptional performance earned her the SEC Pitcher of the Year award for the second consecutive year, making her only the fifth pitcher in SEC history to achieve this feat ([en.wikipedia.org][3]). She also received the Softball America Pitcher of the Year honor and was a top-ten finalist for the USA Softball Collegiate Player of the Year.([en.wikipedia.org][3])
Beyond her on-field achievements, Pickens has inspired countless young athletes with her dedication and leadership. Her journey has been documented in a Netflix special, “Karlyn Pickens: Making the Difference,” which showcases her rise to prominence and the impact she has had on the sport .([correctsports.com][4])
As ESPN’s recognition underscores, Karlyn Pickens has not only redefined excellence in collegiate softball but has also set a new standard for future generations of athletes.
[1]: https://www.sbnation.com/2025/5/25/24437036/ncaa-softball-record-fastest-pitch-karlyn-pickens-tennessee-vols?utm_source=chatgpt.com “SEC softball player tosses fastest pitch ever in NCAA Super Regional”
[2]: https://www.foxnews.com/sports/tennessee-softball-star-karlyn-pickens-throws-fastest-pitch-ncaa-history-surreal-moment?utm_source=chatgpt.com “Tennessee softball player’s pitch makes …”
[3]: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Karlyn_Pickens?utm_source=chatgpt.com “Karlyn Pickens”
[4]: https://correctsports.com/2025/02/24/breaking-first-tennessee-vols-softball-player-to-enter-hall-fame-and-have-full-documentary-on-netflix-karlyn-pickens-makes-the-difference/?utm_source=chatgpt.com “Breaking: First Tennessee Vols Softball Player To Enter Hall Fame And Have Full Documentary on Netflix – Karlyn Pickens Makes The Difference… –
CorrectSports”