Oklahoma and Arizona Set for 2026 Softball Showdown

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The 2026 college softball season is underway as Oklahoma, ranked No. 3 in the nation, travels to Tucson to face off against the No. 18 Arizona Wildcats in a three-game series at the Candrea Classic. The Sooners, who are seeking their fifth national championship in six years, will look to continue their recent dominance over the Wildcats, having won the last three matchups between the two programs.

Why it matters

This early-season series between two top-25 teams will provide an early barometer for both squads as they look to establish themselves as national title contenders. Oklahoma, with four returning All-Americans, is expected to be one of the top teams in the country, while Arizona will be looking to pull off an upset and prove it can compete with the elite programs in the sport.

The details

The three-game series will take place from February 6-8, with the first two games scheduled for 6 p.m. ET and 7 p.m. ET on Friday and Saturday, respectively, followed by a 1 p.m. ET matinee on Sunday. All three games will be streamed live on ESPN+, as there will be no traditional television broadcast.

• The series will take place from February 6-8, 2026.
• Game 1 is scheduled for 6 p.m. ET on Friday, February 6.
• Game 2 is scheduled for 7 p.m. ET on Saturday, February 7.
• Game 3 is scheduled for 1 p.m. ET on Sunday, February 8.

What’s next

The winner of this early-season series could gain valuable momentum and positioning in the national rankings as the season progresses.