Tennessee Lady Vols fans have a new reason to celebrate as star pitcher Karlyn Pickens has been selected as the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 AUSL College Draft by the Carolina Blaze. The Durham-based franchise secured the right-handed ace, making her the centerpiece of their future plans.

Pickens leaves behind a legacy that few can match. As a two-time SEC Pitcher of the Year and consensus First Team All-American, she was the driving force behind Tennessee's deep postseason runs. Her leadership helped the Lady Vols reach two Women's College World Series semifinals and capture three SEC championships, cementing her status as one of the program's all-time greats.

On the mound, Pickens was simply dominant. Over 137 appearances, she posted a remarkable 1.47 ERA while racking up 784 strikeouts. Her stellar 2025 campaign earned her National Pitcher of the Year honors, a testament to her consistency and big-game mentality. But her impact wasn't limited to the circle—Pickens also shined in the classroom as a CSC Academic All-American and multiple-time SEC Honor Roll selection.

Now, she takes her talents to the professional stage with the Athletes Unlimited Softball League. Pickens will reunite with former Lady Vol teammate Aubrey Leach on the Blaze roster, adding an exciting layer of chemistry to her transition. For fans looking to rep their favorite new pro, Pickens' journey from Knoxville to the pros is just beginning—and it's one worth following closely.