Why series win over Alabama is important for Tennessee softball postseason

Tennessee softball (40-8, 14-7 SEC) won a series over No. 3 Alabama (44-6, 16-5) by taking two straight games after an opening 12-0 loss, winning Game 2 by a 2-0 shutout and Game 3 by 4-1. The series win is significant for postseason positioning, as the No. 8 Lady Vols have effectively locked up a top-eight seed in the NCAA Tournament, which would allow them to host super regionals. Coach Karen Weekly called the series win 'big time,' noting Tennessee is 16-6 against ranked opponents this season.