Karlyn Pickens records fastest pitch in softball history for Lady Vols
No. 7 Tennessee (27-6, 3-3 SEC) won the series finale against No. 14 Arkansas (23-7, 3-6 SEC), 3-2, at Sherri Parker Lee Stadium.
Junior pitcher Karlyn Pickens made history for the Lady Vols on Monday against Arkansas.
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In the sixth inning, Pickens recorded the fastest pitch in softball history at 78 mph, breaking a previous record of 77 mph. Former Lady Vol Monica Abbott held the previous record for the fastest pitch in softball history. Abbott previously set the record in 2012 as a professional with the Chicago Bandits and was also matched by Pickens earlier during the 2025 regular season.
Pickens (11-4) pitched 4.1 innings of relief against the Razorbacks. She recorded six strikeouts, while not allowing a hit, run or walk. She totaled 56 pitches, including 33 strikes, against 16 batters to earn her 11th win in 2025.
Abbott played for Tennessee from 2004-07, pitching 23 no-hitters and six perfect games during her collegiate career.
PHOTOS: Monica Abbott through the years
This article originally appeared on Vols Wire: Karlyn Pickens sets record for fastest pitch in softball history
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