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2021 NCAA Softball Tournament Norman Regional preview, players to watch, predictions and more

By Ethan Lee

Baseball plate stock photo, softball plate stock photo, baseball base, softball baseNorth Florida Christian Softball Regional Final Vs University Christian 051419 Ts 2392
Baseball plate stock photo, softball plate stock photo, baseball base, softball baseNorth Florida Christian Softball Regional Final Vs University Christian 051419 Ts 2392 /
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JAKARTA, INDONESIA – MAY 03: Official balls Mizuno 150 are seen during the match between Hong Kong and Indonesia on day three of the 12th Softball Women’s Asia Cup on May 03, 2019 in Jakarta, Indonesia. (Photo by Robertus Pudyanto/Getty Images) /

Morgan State will face an uphill battle in the Norman Regional, but this team has been given the perfect opportunity to shock its doubters

The Morgan State Bears face an interesting challenge. As the No. 4 seed in the Norman Regional, it’s expected that they’ll be significantly outmatched against Oklahoma, but they’re also facing more talented teams in Wichita State and Texas A&M.

Season overview

Morgan State didn’t play many games this season. The Bears managed to play in just 39 games this year as many of their games were cancelled or postponed. But, they did compile a 24-15 record which comes with a 14-5 record against conference foes and a MEAC tournament championship.

Best wins

It would be fair to argue that the three best wins on Morgan State’s resume came in the MEAC tournament, when the Bears beat North Carolina Central twice and Norfolk State once to claim the conference crown.

  • May 13 vs. North Carolina Central – 4-3
  • May 14 vs. Norfolk State – 3-2
  • May 15 vs. North Carolina Central – 10-5

Worst losses

Despite the fact that Morgan State had a much better season overall than the George Mason Patriots, the Bears struggled early on in the season against them.

  • March 17 at George Mason – 0-6
  • March 17 at George Mason – 0-8

Players to watch

  • Aliya Ewell – Ewell has been one of the most consistent hitters for the Bears this season with a .307 batting average and 20 RBIs. Ewell has also stolen nine bases on 10 attempts.
  • Mikayla Barnard – Barnard has been a very reliable pitcher for the Bears and she’s got a 2.86 ERA and has struck out 65 batters through 88 innings pitched.
  • Stephanie Rundlett – Rundlett, like Barnard, has been solid for Morgan Staet. Rundlett has a 3.12 ERA and 83 strikeouts through 98.2 innings pitched.

Final thoughts

Morgan State has some impressive players and will be looking to go toe-to-toe with Oklahoma in the opening game of the Norman Regional. The Bears will need to play perfect softball as they try to get a win against arguably the best team in the country.

Next. 2021 NCAA Softball Tournament bracket revealed: Predictions, schedule, top storylines to watch. dark

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