The Road to Oklahoma City is officially paved, and the 2026 NCAA softball tournament bracket is set! With the Women's College World Series looming, the question on everyone's mind is: which 16 teams will punch their tickets out of regionals?

This year's field feels as wide open as ever. Can the Texas Longhorns defend their crown? Will Jordy Frahm lead the Nebraska Cornhuskers to glory? Or will the Oklahoma Sooners reclaim their throne with a fifth title in six years? The drama is just beginning.

Our expert panel—Jenni Carlson, Joe Mussatto, Colton Sulley, and Scott Wright—has broken down every regional matchup to bring you their predictions. Here's where the action gets heated:

Tuscaloosa Regional
The Crimson Tide (49-7) drew a tough hand with Southeast Louisiana (46-14)—a mid-major giant-killer that stunned LSU last season—and Belmont (40-11), led by ace Maya Johnson, the No. 3 AUSL draft pick. Despite the challenge, our panel is unanimous: Alabama's depth and experience should carry them through, though it won't be a walk in the park.

Baton Rouge Regional
LSU (37-17) might be the 16th overall seed, but they face a formidable Virginia Tech squad (46-10) that went 21-4 on the road this season. The Hokies' powerful bats and resilient pitching make them a dangerous visitor. Expect Virginia Tech to roar in Baton Rouge and advance.

As the bracket unfolds, keep an eye on these regional battles—they're setting the stage for an unforgettable WCWS. Stay tuned for more updates as the Road to OKC heats up!