Mississippi State’s Richardson Makes History in First Women’s College World Series

STARKVILLE, Miss. — Mississippi State softball is making its first appearance in the Women’s College World Series, and senior Abby Grace Richardson is a key reason why. The Bulldogs will face an unprecedented stage for the program Thursday in Oklahoma City, according to team sources.

Richardson, a native of Brookhaven, Mississippi, has a history of performing in high-pressure situations. She was a four-time all-state selection at Brookhaven Academy and led her high school team to its first softball state championship in 2021. “My freshman year of high school, we went to the state title game and lost,” she said. “That experience fueled my drive to win and never lose again.”

Her success continued at the college level, where she helped Copiah Lincoln Community College win its first national championship in 2023. Richardson also reached the NJCAA World Series with the Wolves. “That was insane, because it was the school’s first national title in any sport,” she said. “It was very special.”

Now at Mississippi State, Richardson’s toughness and leadership have helped propel the Bulldogs to college softball’s biggest stage. She is among a small group of players to compete in the World Series at both the NJCAA and NCAA levels.

“This is a dream come true,” Richardson said. “I’ve wanted to play on this stage since I was six years old. It’s even more meaningful to do it with this team.”

While some may be surprised to see Mississippi State here, Richardson’s track record suggests the Bulldogs are a formidable competitor. She believes playing without pressure and embracing the underdog mentality will help her team succeed.

“Playing loose and having fun is the key,” she said. “An underdog is still a dog, so we’re going to keep fighting.”

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