No. 11 Texas Tech advanced to the Women’s College World Series semifinals for the second straight season after an 8-7 extra-inning win over No. 8 UCLA Bruins at Devon Park. The Red Raiders of Texas Tech Red Raiders improved to 59-9 and remain in championship contention, now facing a demanding Monday path against No. 1 Alabama Crimson Tide. They will need two wins to advance to the WCWS Finals, which begin Wednesday, setting up a high-pressure doubleheader scenario.

The contest turned late after UCLA trailed 6-3 entering the seventh. The Bruins rallied for three runs to tie and force extra innings. Texas Tech answered in the ninth when Taylor Pannell singled to start the frame and later scored on an RBI double from Kaitlyn Terry. Mihyia Davis put the ball in play with the bases loaded, and a UCLA defensive miscue allowed another run, giving Tech a critical edge. UCLA responded with a run in the bottom of the inning, but Texas Tech limited further damage to secure the win.

NiJaree Canady and Kaitlyn Terry combined for 14 strikeouts while sharing pitching duties. Canady started and worked four innings, allowing five hits and striking out seven to earn the win and move to 27-6. Terry handled the remainder in relief, matching Canady’s strikeout impact while navigating traffic and limiting UCLA’s scoring chances. The alternating strategy kept hitters off balance and proved decisive in extra innings. Canady’s season total now surpasses 1,100 career strikeouts, reinforcing her dominance in the circle.

Texas Tech produced 14 hits, led by Mia Williams with a 3-for-5 night including her 25th home run. Jasmyn Burns added her 18th homer, adding power to the lineup. Mihyia Davis went 3-for-6, while Taylor Pannell finished 2-for-4 with two singles and a key leadoff hit in the ninth that sparked the rally. The offense showed depth and consistency throughout the game.

Texas Tech now faces Alabama needing two wins Monday to reach the WCWS Finals. First pitch is set for 6 p.m., with a second game if necessary. The Red Raiders carry momentum from an extra-inning survival win and have not lost back-to-back games this season, while Alabama enters at 56-7 in a high-stakes showdown.