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The No. 4 Florida softball team is set for another bout against UCF on Wednesday night in Orlando. The Gators came away with a win in the teams’ last meeting, 3-0. On a three-game win streak, Florida will try to carry its momentum and knock off the Knights.
Sunshine State Success
The Gators also spent last week playing in-state opponents, soundly beating both Jacksonville University and UNF. Against JU, five different Gators recorded an RBI on their way to a 5-2 win. Both Mia Williams and Ava Brown sent solo shots out of the yard to contribute to the run total. Brown also picked up the win in the circle, tying a season-high of six strikeouts against the Dolphins.
After beating JU, the team continued its winning ways against UNF last Thursday. The Gators improved to 9-0 in in-state games in the run-rule win. The game featured 11 Gators hits, including another homer for both Williams and Brown, and was the team’s 12th shutout of the season. They put up eight runs to take care of the Ospreys in five innings.
9-0 against in-state opponents this season ✔️https://t.co/6WKmonBjox
— Gators Softball (@GatorsSB) March 21, 2025
Clearly, playing in-state opponents only bodes well for Florida. It hopes to continue its in-state dominance against UCF.
Jousting the Knights
The Gators last met the Knights on March 12 where they picked up a shutout win. A pair of solo home runs from Kendra Falby and Jocelyn Erickson propelled the team to the 3-0 victory. Pitchers Kara Hammock and Katelynn Oxley stepped up in the absence of Keagan Rothrock, allowing just four combined hits in the game.
Looking at the numbers, it’s clear that UCF isn’t just any in-state opponent. The Knights won’t just be run over. They made the Gators work for this win and kept the game close, something Florida is not used to seeing this season.
Florida can’t overlook the Knights. Throughout the season they have upset No. 15 Missouri, No. 22 FAU and No. 4 Arizona. UCF is a formidable opponent who will capitalize on Florida’s mistakes. The Knights are entering this one on a four-game losing streak. But, if the Gators start the game slow, especially following a week off, the Knights could take advantage.
We'll bring a top-four series win back home pic.twitter.com/tlJJV44xyk
— UCF Softball (@UCF_Softball) March 9, 2025
Gametime and Where to Watch
First pitch at UCF Softball Field in Orlando is set for 6 p.m. The game is available to watch on ESPN+. Coverage of the matchup will also be available on ESPN 98.1 FM/850 AM WRUF starting at 5:45 p.m.
