The FAMU softball team (23-18, 19-5 SWAC) begins its quest for a Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) championship today as the No. 1 seed in the Eastern Division, opening the double-elimination tournament against Grambling State, the Western Division’s No. 4 seed. First pitch for the Rattlers is set for 4:30 p.m. EST at the Gulfport Sportsplex, with all games streaming live on the SWAC Digital Network.
Dominant SWAC season earns top billing
The Rattlers, under first-year head coach Bittany Beall, secured their division crown with a commanding 19-5 conference record. Their potent combination of pitching depth and explosive offense propelled them to 11 wins in their final 13 regular-season games, cementing their status as title contenders.
“This team has shown grit and focus all season,” said Beall. “Earning the top seed is a testament to their hard work, but we’re here to finish the job.”
Tournament outlook
FAMU’s opening matchup against Grambling State 17-28 (10-14 SWAC) offers a favorable start, but the Rattlers are wary of complacency.
A win today would advance FAMU to a second-round game on Wednesday against the winner of Alabama State (No. 2 East) vs. Texas Southern (No. 3 West). A loss would send them to the elimination bracket, where one more defeat would end their tournament run.
Path to the championship
The SWAC Tournament runs through Saturday, May 10, if a final “if necessary” game is required. The champion earns an automatic bid to the NCAA Regionals.