Game 1 of the championship between the University of Texas and Texas Tech is tonight, and all eyes are on star pitcher NiJaree Canady to take it home for the Red Raiders.

Texas Tech softball has taken a huge step in 2025, thanks to key contributions from pitcher NiJaree Canady. The pitcher has dominated throughout the campaign, posting a 0.89 ERA to lead the Red Raiders to their first Women’s College World Series appearance. Before Texas Tech takes the big stage, here are five things to know about Canady:

When NiJaree Canady enters the circle, it is often goodnight for the opposing lineup. Texas Tech's star pitcher gave up just five hits during Monday's 3-2 win over four-time defending national champion Oklahoma as the Red Raiders punched their ticket to the championship series of the Women's College World Series with Texas.