Texas Tech’s NiJaree Canady Hurls Shutout Victory Over Arizona in Big 12 Tournament Final
Texas Tech’s coach Gerry Glasco had his focus set on a shutout heading into Saturday’s game.
Big 12 Tournament final match
, and
star pitcher NiJaree Canady
provided the talent to make it happen.
After the Red Raiders’ 4-0 victory over Arizona securing their first Big 12 tournament championship, Glasco stated, ‘My aim wasn’t just to prevent runs; I desired a clean sheet.’ He added, ‘In my view, we completely controlled the game. We demonstrated our dominance out there on the field.’
Thanks to Friday’s unprecedented 18-0 victory, Texas Tech (45-12) dominated their three tournament adversaries with a combined score of 26-0. Although the team’s offensive performance has played an essential role in their recent success—winning 22 out of the past 25 matches—it is Canady’s outstanding pitching that sets them apart.
Over the course of the three tournament games, she pitched 16 and two-thirds scoreless innings. On Saturday, she completed a two-hitter shutout, walking two and striking out eight batters.
“It’s everything to see the work this team has put in,” said Canady, who held a WWE-style championship belt on her lap, recognition of her Most Outstanding Player honor. “Not only being able to win the regular season, but the tournament, too, especially being in Oklahoma City, it’s a dream come true to be able to hold that trophy.
I think being capable of winning any trophy at this stage of the season is our objective. We still have a major goal ahead of us, but we’ve managed to complete two out of the three.
Canady retired Arizona (45-11) in order in five of seven innings, allowing a single and walk each in the fourth and sixth.
“This week, it was really fun to see her compete,” Glasco said. “She’s so strong and ready to go in the postseason. To see her dominate the way she dominated this week in the circle was really eye-opening for me as a coach. We know her greatness, but it was very visible, very evident.
When we reached 4-0, my confidence soared, and such assurance comes from having an outstanding pitcher.
That’s when the significant third frame made all the difference.
Bailey Lindemuth started the inning with a single and promptly stole second base. She later moved to third when a wild pitch was thrown, putting runners at the corners after Canady received a walk.
Victoria Valdez followed with an RBI single and No. 9 hitter Hailey Toney lined a double off the left field wall to score two. The last run came in when Mihyia Davis singled to score Toney.
With Canady dialed in — and fully healthy for the first time all year, according to Glasco — the Tech offense can elevate the team’s potential in the postseason.
“I think we started off kind of slow, because it was a new team and we had to get used to each other,” Davis said. “But I think it has really come together now.
As of Thursday, Arizona was No. 12 in the RPI, with Texas Tech at 19, hoping this weekend’s success will boost them into a top-16 spot and regional host berth. The NCAA Tournament selection show is set for 6 p.m. Sunday on ESPN2.
“I feel really good about where we stand,” Glasco said. “I think we’ve got a really good resume and I can’t wait to see where we end up.”
Scott Wright
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.
NCAA selection show
What:
The unveiling of the 64-team bracket for the NCAA softball tournament.
When/TV:
6 p.m. Sunday (ESPN2)
The article initially appeared in The Oklahoman.
NiJaree Canady leads Texas Tech softball past Arizona for Big 12 Tournament championship
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