Texas softball is riding high, and it's not just because of their championship aspirations. Two of the Longhorns' brightest stars—seniors Reese Atwood and Leighann Goode—have officially punched their tickets to the professional ranks. Both players were selected in Monday's Athletes Unlimited Softball League (AUSL) College Draft, adding even more excitement to an already memorable season.
Atwood, the powerhouse catcher who has spent four years anchoring the Texas lineup, was picked seventh overall by the Carolina Blaze. That selection also marked the first pick of the second round, a fitting nod to her record-breaking career. She leaves Austin as the Longhorns' all-time leader in both home runs and RBIs, a legacy that makes her one of the most feared hitters in college softball.
Just one pick later, Goode heard her name called by the Texas Volts, a team based in Round Rock. A versatile infielder who has split time between shortstop and second base, Goode brings defensive flexibility and a steady bat to the professional level. For her, staying in Texas—and close to the Longhorns' home turf—adds a special layer to this milestone.
The AUSL draft featured 17 collegiate seniors who received a coveted "golden ticket" earlier this year, guaranteeing their selection by one of the league's six teams. Tennessee pitcher Karlyn Pickens went first overall to the Blaze, while Texas Tech's NiJaree Canady followed at No. 2 to the Volts. The draft underscores the growing depth and talent in women's professional softball.
Before Atwood and Goode trade their burnt orange for new colors, they still have unfinished business in college. Texas finished the regular season with a 39-10 record and a fourth-place finish in the SEC. The postseason begins this week at the SEC Tournament, with the Longhorns likely hosting both a regional and super regional. Their ultimate goal? A third straight trip to the Women's College World Series in Oklahoma City—and a shot at defending their national championship.
For fans of Texas softball, this is a season of celebration on and off the field. Whether you're cheering for the Longhorns' title defense or following these two stars into the pros, one thing is clear: Reese Atwood and Leighann Goode are just getting started.