Gorillas Clinch No. 3 Seed in NCAA Central Regional: A Milestone for Pittsburg State University Athletics

Gorillas Gear Up for NCAA Tournament

The Pittsburg State University baseball team is ready for its next challenge! They secured the No. 3 seed in the NCAA Division II Central Regional, which was announced on May 11. This tournament features 56 teams from across the country.

The Gorillas will head to Mankato, Minnesota, from May 15-18. They are set to face the No. 6 seed, Henderson State University, which has a record of 32 wins and 22 losses. Meanwhile, Minnesota State, the No. 2 seed and host, will open against the No. 7 seed, University of Arkansas-Monticello.

This marks an exciting return for the Gorillas, making their first NCAA-II National Tournament appearance since 2018. In total, this will be the sixth time the team competes at this level. They previously made consecutive appearances from 1997 to 1999, plus in 2002 and 2018.

In the 2023 season, the Gorillas finished strong, placing second in the MIAA with a record of 27-9 in league play. However, they faced a tough loss recently, dropping a close game 2-1 to Washburn University in the MIAA Postseason Tournament quarterfinals.

The Central Regional also features No. 1 seed University of Central Missouri, hosting a separate pod in Warrensburg, Missouri. They will play against the No. 8 seed, Harding University. The winner from each pod will meet in a best-of-three Super Regional from May 23-24. The ultimate victor will earn a spot in the prestigious eight-team Division II World Series in Cary, North Carolina, later this month.

As anticipation builds, fans and players alike are buzzing on social media, sharing excitement and support for the Gorillas. This year’s tournament is shaping up to be a thrilling event for all involved, making it a great moment for Pittsburg State baseball.

For updates and more details about the tournament, check out Pitt State Athletics.

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