Texas Softball Unveils National Championship Rings with Touching Tribute

The defending champions show off their championship jewelry, including a special nod to a beloved family member.

Published on Feb. 4, 2026

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The University of Texas Longhorns softball team unveiled their 2025 National Championship rings this week, which feature a sparkling design and a touching tribute to star pitcher Teagan Kavan's late grandmother, Anna Lukehart. Lukehart, who passed away during the team's championship run at the Women's College World Series, is honored with a black diamond and the words "20 years in the making" on the underside of the ring.

Why it matters

The championship rings not only celebrate the Longhorns' historic first NCAA softball title, but also serve as a poignant reminder of the personal connections and inspirations that fueled the team's success. The tribute to Kavan's grandmother underscores the emotional significance of the championship victory.

The details

The rings include the words "Texas" and "2025 National Champions" on the top, surrounded by diamonds. But the special touch is the tribute to Kavan's grandmother on the underside - a single black diamond and the words "20 years in the making". Kavan has worn the number 17 in honor of her grandmother, who was born on November 17 and was the team's biggest fan.

  • The Longhorns begin defense of their national title on Friday, February 6, 2026 against Nebraska.
  • Kavan's grandmother, Anna Lukehart, passed away on May 31, 2025 during the team's championship run.

The players

Teagan Kavan

The star pitcher for the Texas Longhorns softball team, who drew inspiration from her late grandmother Anna Lukehart and wears the number 17 in her honor.

Anna Lukehart

Teagan Kavan's grandmother, who was the team's biggest fan and passed away during the Longhorns' 2025 championship run at the age of 97.

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What they’re saying

“She was my biggest fan in everything. She knew everybody's name. She knew everyone's nickname. She would ask me all about them, and they all loved her, too. It was super special for them to also get to know her and love on her. It made it even more special during the [Women's College] World Series [that] they were able to rally around me during a tough time when we lost her.”

— Teagan Kavan, Texas Longhorns Softball Pitcher (Yahoo Sports)

What’s next

The Longhorns begin their title defense on Friday, February 6, 2026 against Nebraska in San Antonio.

The takeaway

The Longhorns' championship rings not only celebrate the team's historic first NCAA softball title, but also serve as a poignant tribute to the personal connections and inspirations that fueled their success. The touching nod to Teagan Kavan's late grandmother underscores the emotional significance of the championship victory and the lasting impact of family bonds.