Texas State Bobcats Upset No. 18 Clemson Tigers in Shutout Victory

Junior pitcher Madison Azua tosses a complete game shutout as the Bobcats take down the ranked Tigers at home.

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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The Texas State Bobcats softball team defeated the 18th-ranked Clemson Tigers 4-0 in a home matchup on Thursday night. Junior pitcher Madison Azua dominated in the circle, pitching a complete game shutout with seven strikeouts. The Bobcats struck early with an RBI single from senior first baseman Aiyana Coleman, and senior second baseman Katarina Zarate added a two-RBI single and a solo home run to provide the offense. Senior outfielder Keely Williams also had a strong 3-for-4 performance at the plate for the Bobcats.

Why it matters

This upset victory over a ranked opponent is a significant win for the Texas State softball program, showcasing their ability to compete with top teams in the country. The Bobcats' strong start to the season has them positioned well heading into this weekend's States Up Invitational tournament, where they will look to continue their success against Wichita State and BYU.

The details

Junior pitcher Madison Azua was dominant in the circle, tossing a complete game shutout with seven strikeouts, allowing seven hits and two walks. The Bobcats struck first in the 1st inning when senior first baseman Aiyana Coleman singled to drive in senior designated player Karmyn Bass. In the 5th inning, senior second baseman Katarina Zarate delivered a two-RBI single and then followed that up with a solo home run in the 7th to provide the Bobcats' final runs. Senior outfielder Keely Williams also had a strong offensive performance, going 3-for-4 at the plate and throwing out a Clemson runner at second base.

  • The game was played on Thursday, February 13, 2026 at the Bobcat Softball Stadium in San Marcos, Texas.

The players

Madison Azua

A junior starting pitcher for the Texas State Bobcats who tossed a complete game shutout against Clemson, striking out seven batters.

Aiyana Coleman

A senior first baseman for the Texas State Bobcats who drove in the first run of the game with an RBI single.

Katarina Zarate

A senior second baseman for the Texas State Bobcats who went 2-for-3 with a two-RBI single and a solo home run.

Keely Williams

A senior outfielder for the Texas State Bobcats who went 3-for-4 at the plate and threw out a Clemson runner at second base.

Ricci Woodard

The head coach of the Texas State Bobcats softball team.

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What they’re saying

“I thought Madi Azua threw the heck out of it. She threw the best game I have seen her throw all around.”

— Ricci Woodard, Texas State Head Coach (universitystar.com)

“I'm just trusting the work that I do in practice, just trying to keep it simple and not trying to be someone I'm not.”

— Katarina Zarate, Texas State Senior Second Baseman (universitystar.com)

What’s next

The Texas State Bobcats will look to continue their strong start to the season this weekend as they host the States Up Invitational tournament. They will face Wichita State on Friday at 12:15 PM and BYU at 2:45 PM, with both games available to stream on ESPN+.

The takeaway

This upset victory over a ranked Clemson team showcases the talent and potential of the Texas State Bobcats softball program. Led by a dominant pitching performance from Madison Azua and timely hitting from veterans like Katarina Zarate and Keely Williams, the Bobcats proved they can compete with the best teams in the country. As they host the States Up Invitational this weekend, the Bobcats will look to build on this momentum and establish themselves as a force to be reckoned with in college softball.