Tennessee has always been known for top-tier athletics on both the men’s and women’s sides. This time, it’s the softball program in the spotlight, with a star player going No. 1 overall.
SEC Softball Tournament sets up Tennessee to erase any doubt from midseason struggles
Tennessee ace Karlyn Pickens made history as the first Tennessee softball player to go No. 1 overall in the Athletes Unlimited Softball League. The debut league had a strong first year, and now they are looking to come back even bigger in 2026. Pickens was picked by the Carolina Blaze, who went 7–17 and finished last in the league’s first season. The last time Tennessee had a No. 1 overall pick was Candace Parker in the 2008 WNBA draft. This now marks the sixth top overall pick in school history, joining a list with Peyton Manning and many other top Tennesse athletes.
Karlyn Pickens goes No. 1 overall to the Carolina Blaze! pic.twitter.com/tvZwuUYJEO
— Tennessee Softball (@Vol_Softball) May 4, 2026
Karlyn Pickens drafted 1st overall in the AUSL
I mean, does this surprise any Lady Vols fan? Pickens has been an amazing player during her time in Knoxville and has solidified herself as one of the best pitchers in the nation. In 2026, Pickens continued her amazing play on the diamond. While her ERA is slightly up this season compared to last year (it's still insanely good), hitters still have no answer for Pickens. They’re batting just .126 against her this season. That’s unreal.
Overall, in 2026, Pickens has posted a 1.44 ERA and 154 strikeouts in 112 innings this year. Had she not missed some time this year, she was on track to break the 306 strikeouts she posted last season, which is nuts. Tennessee will need to lean on Pickens heavily come tournament time, as the bats have been hot and cold for the Lady Vols. The likely scenario for the Lady Vols to make noise in the tournament is leaning on their pitching and defense.
All in all, Pickens is going to go down as the best softball player in school history with her consistently dominant play. She will do great things at the next level, but hopefully she can bring the Vols a national title before she goes on to the AUSL.
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