The 2026 NCAA Softball Tournament bracket is set, and the road to the Women's College World Series begins with 16 regionals kicking off on Friday, May 15. With 64 teams vying for just eight spots in Oklahoma City, the competition promises to be fierce. Last year, four unseeded teams shocked the field by winning their regionals, including Mississippi, which made a memorable run to the WCWS. This season, a few dark horses are poised to challenge the hosts and shake up the bracket once again.

The SEC dominates the top 16 seeds, placing nine teams in the regional host slots, including the top three: Alabama, Texas, and Oklahoma. However, notable snubs like Stanford, Virginia Tech, and Arizona State could prove to be dangerous opponents, making for some intriguing matchups right from the start.

Here's a look at USA TODAY Sports' predictions for each regional winner:

Tuscaloosa Regional: Both analysts agree that Alabama is the team to beat. Despite a tough challenge from Southeastern Louisiana and a Belmont squad led by standout Maya Johnson, the Crimson Tide's deep lineup and dominant pitching duo—SEC Pitcher of the Year Jocelyn Briski alongside Vic Moten—make them the clear favorite to advance.

Baton Rouge Regional: There's a strong consensus that Virginia Tech will pull off an upset over host LSU. The Hokies, who narrowly missed out on hosting a regional themselves, boast an offense that matches up well against the Tigers' pitching. With a 6-0 record on the road against SEC teams this season—including sweeps of tournament-bound Georgia and South Carolina—and a chip on their shoulder after a one-run loss to Florida State in the ACC title game, Virginia Tech is primed to make a statement.

Austin Regional: The Longhorns are expected to hold serve at home, leveraging their powerful offense and home-field advantage to secure a spot in the Super Regionals. Texas has been a consistent force all season, and their experience in high-pressure games should serve them well.