In a thrilling second round of the Athletes Unlimited Softball League (AUSL) College Draft, Texas Longhorns stars Reese Atwood and Leighann Goode made history by being selected back-to-back, setting the stage for an electrifying professional debut.

Atwood, a standout catcher, was chosen as the No. 7 overall pick by the Carolina Blaze. Just one pick later, Goode—a versatile infielder—learned she'll stay close to home, joining the Texas Volts as the No. 8 selection. The duo had already received the AUSL's prestigious "Golden Ticket" during a March series against Texas A&M, but the draft reveal show finally confirmed their new teams.

The draft's top overall pick was Tennessee's Karlyn Pickens, who holds the world record for the fastest softball pitch at 79.4 mph. She'll join the Blaze, where Atwood will be her catcher at the professional level. Meanwhile, the Volts used their No. 2 pick on Texas Tech pitcher NiJaree Canady.

The AUSL is expanding to six teams for the 2026 season, adding the Oklahoma City Spark and Portland Cascade. The league has moved away from its touring model, with each team now having a home venue. The Texas Volts will play at Dell Diamond in Round Rock, and the championship series will take place at Davis Diamond in College Station from July 23-27.

Opening Day is set for June 9, just four days after the Women's College World Series concludes in Oklahoma City. Volts general manager Cat Osterman made a strategic move, drafting only Canady and Goode, while the Cascade made four selections, including Florida utility player Kenligh Cahalan at No. 17.

Before turning pro, Atwood and Goode have unfinished business with the Longhorns. Texas enters the SEC tournament quarterfinals on Thursday after a first-round bye, facing off at 4 p.m. CT at John Clopp Stadium in Lexington, Kentucky. With their draft futures secured, all eyes will be on this dynamic duo as they chase a college title before stepping onto the professional stage.