This season, Auburn softball will be highlighted on nine national broadcasts, giving a wider audience a chance to see their skill and enthusiasm.

As the 2025 college softball season kicks into full swing, Auburn University’s softball program is gearing up for one of its most exciting seasons yet. For the first time in recent memory, the Auburn Tigers will be featured on nine national broadcasts, giving fans across the country a chance to see the team’s incredible skill, determination, and passion on display. These broadcasts represent a huge opportunity not only for the program but also for the sport of softball as a whole, as it continues to grow in visibility and popularity across the nation.

Auburn softball, under the leadership of head coach Mickey Dean, has become a powerhouse in the Southeastern Conference (SEC) and a program known for its resilience, competitive spirit, and ability to thrive on the national stage. With the Tigers’ inclusion in these national broadcasts, the team is set to showcase their talent to a wider audience, attracting new fans and providing a platform for their student-athletes to shine.

This season’s national broadcast deal is a recognition of Auburn softball’s rising stature within the world of college sports. Fans across the nation will have the chance to tune in and witness the skill, athleticism, and excitement that has made Auburn one of the most exciting teams to watch in college softball.

Auburn Softball’s Growing National Recognition

Auburn softball’s rise to prominence has been a culmination of years of hard work, recruiting, and development. Under coach Mickey Dean, who has been with the program since 2017, the Tigers have consistently been ranked among the top teams in the SEC. Dean has successfully built a team that competes at the highest level of college softball, and the team’s success on the field has translated into increased visibility for the program.

Auburn’s success in the SEC has also played a significant role in the team’s increased national exposure. The SEC, home to some of the most competitive softball programs in the country, is widely regarded as the premier conference in college softball. Auburn’s ability to compete with powerhouse programs such as Alabama, Florida, and LSU has solidified its place as one of the top teams in the country. As a result, the Tigers have drawn the attention of national broadcasters who want to showcase the best talent that college softball has to offer.

The national broadcasts provide a unique opportunity to showcase Auburn softball’s athletes, many of whom are among the best in the nation. The team boasts a mix of experienced veterans and rising stars, making them an exciting group to watch. Players like shortstop Bri Ellis, pitcher Maddie Penta, and outfielder Kelsey Schmidt have been instrumental in the Tigers’ success and will be front and center as they take their talents to the national stage.

Auburn’s inclusion in national broadcasts is also an indication of the growing popularity of softball as a whole. While softball has traditionally been seen as a regional sport, it is gaining more and more fans across the United States. With growing viewership numbers, increased media attention, and a rise in the quality of play, softball is being embraced by a wider audience. These broadcasts help amplify the sport’s presence and provide fans with an accessible way to watch top-tier college softball.

The Importance of National Exposure for Auburn Softball

The national broadcast deal is more than just an opportunity for Auburn softball to showcase its talent—it’s also a significant step for the program in terms of visibility, recruiting, and fan engagement. National exposure can have a far-reaching impact, influencing the future of the program in various ways.

1. Boosting Recruitment

One of the most significant benefits of national broadcasts for Auburn softball is the exposure it provides to potential recruits. High school athletes who aspire to play at the collegiate level are constantly watching games to evaluate the teams they might want to join. By having games broadcast nationally, Auburn is able to demonstrate its competitive edge, top-tier coaching staff, and the quality of life for student-athletes within the program.

Recruiting has become increasingly competitive, and programs that receive more national exposure are often able to attract better talent. For Auburn, the ability to showcase their skills on a national stage provides an opportunity to draw the attention of top recruits who may otherwise have been focused on other schools. Players watching Auburn on national television can see the high level of competition and the supportive environment the team provides, making it a more desirable destination for future stars.

2. Elevating the Auburn Brand

Auburn has a storied athletic history, with success across multiple sports. However, the spotlight has traditionally been focused more on football and basketball, with other sports, such as softball, receiving less national attention. This broadcast deal will help elevate the Auburn brand within the world of college athletics, showcasing the university’s commitment to excellence in every sport.

By featuring Auburn softball on national broadcasts, the program is able to position itself as a top-tier program in the eyes of the broader college sports landscape. The exposure will raise awareness of the program, attracting new fans and helping to build a stronger and more passionate fanbase.

The Auburn brand will also benefit from the increased exposure in terms of recruiting, fundraising, and community engagement. As fans tune in to watch the team, they will gain a deeper appreciation for the sport of softball and Auburn’s role in shaping the future of the game.

3. Inspiring Future Generations

National broadcasts provide a platform for Auburn softball’s athletes to inspire young girls who are dreaming of playing college softball one day. Seeing athletes like Bri Ellis, Kelsey Schmidt, and Maddie Penta perform on national television can motivate aspiring softball players to chase their dreams, knowing that it is possible to play at the highest level.

Exposure on a national stage helps normalize women’s sports and provides role models for young athletes. For young softball players, watching Auburn’s athletes compete at the collegiate level provides tangible proof that they, too, can reach that level of competition. The broadcast will allow fans of all ages to connect with the team, furthering the sport’s growth and development at the grassroots level.

The Power of Softball on Television

In recent years, women’s sports in general have been receiving increased attention, with more networks dedicating time and resources to broadcasting women’s competitions. Softball, in particular, has experienced a surge in popularity, thanks in part to its engaging, fast-paced nature, as well as its growing fanbase. The NCAA Women’s Softball College World Series has become a major event, attracting millions of viewers annually. Auburn’s national broadcasts this season are part of this broader trend of growing visibility for women’s sports, which is helping to create new opportunities for programs across the country.

The increased exposure has also allowed for better production quality, including high-definition broadcasts, expert analysis, and interviews with players and coaches. These broadcasts bring fans closer to the action and give them a behind-the-scenes look at the hard work and dedication that goes into competing at the collegiate level. The production value of these broadcasts is on par with those of major professional sports leagues, and it helps elevate the perception of college softball as a high-caliber sport worthy of attention.

Auburn’s games being featured on national television not only raise awareness for the program but also contribute to the continued growth of softball as a premier sport in the United States. As the sport gains more media coverage, it paves the way for greater investment in women’s sports and provides new opportunities for female athletes to showcase their talent.

The Road Ahead: A Season Full of Excitement

With nine national broadcasts lined up for the 2025 season, Auburn softball fans can look forward to an exciting season full of thrilling games and high-level competition. The Tigers will face off against some of the best teams in the country, including SEC rivals and top-ranked programs, all of which will provide an opportunity to demonstrate their skill, enthusiasm, and love for the game.

The Auburn Tigers are a team built on talent, grit, and determination, and this season’s national broadcasts will allow fans to experience that firsthand. Whether it’s watching an incredible pitching duel, witnessing a clutch home run, or cheering on a game-changing defensive play, these broadcasts will capture the essence of what makes Auburn softball such a special program.

As the Tigers take the field in front of a national audience, they will be carrying the hopes and dreams of their fans, recruits, and the entire Auburn community. The spotlight is on them, and they are ready to shine.