In what’s shaping up to be a truly unforgettable Women’s College World Series, Texas Tech’s NiJaree Canady delivered a jaw-dropping performance that had everyone in the college softball world — and beyond — talking. And when we say everyone, we mean everyone, including none other than Texas Tech’s most iconic alum, NFL superstar Patrick Mahomes.
After Canady’s dominant showing in the Red Raiders’ 3-0 win over the Ole Miss Rebels — the program’s first-ever victory in a Women’s College World Series game — Mahomes took to social media to send a powerful message: NiJaree Canady is the GOAT.
Yes, you read that right. The GOAT.
Mahomes, a proud Texas Tech legend who’s not only a Super Bowl MVP but also one of the most recognizable athletes in the world, was clearly impressed with what he saw from Canady on the sport’s biggest stage. And it’s not hard to see why.
In the Red Raiders’ third game of the 2025 WCWS, Canady put on a masterclass against an Ole Miss squad that has earned a reputation as one of the most dangerous and dynamic teams in college softball. The right-handed ace struck out 10 batters and gave up just a couple of hits — completely neutralizing the Rebels’ offense and showing exactly why she’s one of the most feared pitchers in the country.
Her performance not only secured the historic win for Texas Tech, but also improved upon her already jaw-dropping ERA, proving that she gets even better when the pressure is at its highest.
Social media exploded as fans, alumni, and college softball lovers across the nation reacted to her performance. But Mahomes’ shoutout carried special weight, not just because of his own legendary status, but because it signaled a powerful passing of the torch moment — from one Red Raider icon to another.
“GOAT status,” Mahomes tweeted with a flame emoji, along with a clip of Canady mowing down Ole Miss hitters. It wasn’t just a compliment. It was a coronation.
Canady, who has been lights-out all season, is now firmly cemented in the national spotlight — and with good reason. Her poise, power, and precision were on full display in Oklahoma City, and with her leading the charge, Texas Tech is suddenly a serious contender on the WCWS stage.
For a university and community that takes immense pride in its athletes, this moment felt monumental. West Texas is buzzing. Red Raiders around the country are fired up. And now, with a Mahomes stamp of approval, the legend of NiJaree Canady is only growing.
The GOAT has been crowned — and her name is NiJaree Canady.
