KNOXVILLE, Tenn — Tennessee softball has been ranked No. 2 in the Softball America 2024 preseason poll, the organization announced Thursday morning. The Lady Vols earned their highest preseason ranking since the team was picked No. 1 by the National Fastpitch Coaches Association in 2014.
Three-time defending NCAA Champion Oklahoma was picked above Tennessee at No. 1 in the preseason poll.
The Lady Vols return 17 players from their 2023 team that reached the Women's College World Series, including first-team All-American outfielder Kiki Milloy and second-team All-American McKenna Gibson.
Tennessee notably lost NFCA Pitcher of the Year Ashley Rogers, but veteran arm Payton Gottshall returns alongside 2023 SEC Freshman of the Year and Freshman All-American Karlyn Pickens.
The Lady Vols begin their 2024 season with a long stretch away from home that begins with a visit to the University of Texas at Arlington on Feb. 8.
Tennessee's home opener will not be until March 1 when the Lady Vols take on Stetson as part of the Tennessee Classic at Sherri Parker Lee Stadium.
