Arkansas softball invited to NCAA Tournament

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – The University of Arkansas softball team was selected to the 64-team NCAA Division I Softball Championship it was announced by the softball committee on Sunday evening. The Lady Razorbacks are set to play in the regional hosted by Oklahoma in Norman, Okla., May 16-18. Arkansas’ first game is slated for 5 p.m. on Friday against Tulsa. The Sooners and Oregon face off following the Lady’Backs’ contest. “I’m ecstatic for our team, our university and our softball program,” said head coach Jamie Pinkerton. “It’s been a lot of hard work from the players and everyone involved. When I was hired and in the course of building this program, the goal was to make it to the NCAA Tournament and this is just one step along the way. There are a lot of pieces to the puzzle that helped us get to this day. We’re humbled and blessed to have this opportunity.” Arkansas finished the regular season 36-27 and was an at-large selection in the bracket. This is the Lady’Backs’ third trip to the NCAA Tournament. Arkansas reached the NCAA Regionals in 2002 and 2000 also competing at Oklahoma. “I’m glad our student-athletes have the opportunity to play in the post season,” said Pinkerton. “It’s a new season; we’re 0-0 and its time to take the next step. It’s just a wonderful feeling to attain a goal that we all strive for. It’s a great field and it’s going to be an exciting weekend.” The Southeastern Conference led all conferences with eight teams in the championship. Arkansas marks the first time in SEC history that a team has advanced to the NCAA Tournament without competing in the SEC Tournament. Florida, Alabama, Tennessee, LSU, Georgia, Auburn and Mississippi State were also selected. For more information about Arkansas softball, please log on to LADYBACKS.COM.