BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – The Southeastern Conference (SEC) has recently announced its college athletics awards for standout performances over the past week, with significant acknowledgments going to Jori Heard from South Carolina and Kyson Witherspoon from Oklahoma.
Heard has been named SEC Pitcher of the Week following her impressive run on the field. According to the announcement on February 24, 2025, the junior right-hander finished the week with stellar statistics, ending with 3-0 and a remarkable 0.00 ERA. Throughout the course of 15 innings pitched, she managed to strike out 12 batters and allowed only five hits, showcasing her dominance as opposing batters could only manage to hit .100 against her.
Heard kicked off her week with six innings of relief work during a decisive 11-3 victory over North Carolina. During this match, she struck out four batters, allowing just two hits. Continuing her exceptional performance, she achieved another significant milestone with a complete game shutout against Boston University, leading to an 8-0 win where she struck out five and surrendered just two hits. Her work culminated on Sunday when she earned another win against UNLV, pitching three innings and allowing only one hit and three strikeouts. Cumulatively, her record stands at 7-0 and she ranks third in the SEC for both victories and earned run average.
“It’s quite the honor to be recognized for my efforts,” Heard said, reflecting on the achievements made early this season. “I couldn’t have done it without my teammates supporting me.”
Meanwhile, Kyson Witherspoon, representing Oklahoma, has also distinguished himself by being named SEC Pitcher of the Week on the same date. The junior right-handed pitcher delivered stellar performance during the Round Rock Classic, registering 12 strikeouts and not giving up any walks as the Sooners defeated Minnesota with a close score of 3-2.
Witherspoon, who hurled seven innings allowing only one run and three hits, bounced back after surrendering a home run to retire the next 13 batters faced. Displaying consistency, this award marks the first weekly honor for the Oklahoma program since joining the SEC. Witherspoon's impressive stats also include a 2-0 record and 21 strikeouts across 12.0 innings pitched, with a 2.25 ERA.
“It feels great to get this acknowledgment,” said Witherspoon. “But it’s really about the team and the support they give me when I’m on the mound.”
Elsewhere, the SEC Power 10 rankings after week two of college baseball also highlight the top-performing teams as Texas A&M holds the first rank, even after sustaining one loss against Cal Poly. Tennessee stands impressively at number two, remaining undefeated at 7-0, showcasing its offensive prowess by scoring 29 runs against UNC Asheville over the weekend.
“This early part of the season has shown us incredible potential,” commented one expert analyst from the SEC. “Teams like Tennessee are proving they are serious contenders this year.”
LSU retained its third-place position following their 3-1 week, powered by stellar games from players like Jared Jones. Arkansas has been consistent as well, holding its fourth-place ranking after dealing with minor setbacks but still securing notable wins against TCU and Michigan. North Carolina climbed to the fifth position after impressive victories over Kansas State and ECU.
The excitement of the season continues as teams gear up for more face-offs, leading to intense competition as athletes strive for recognition both for personal achievements and team success. With athletes like Heard and Witherspoon making headlines, the SEC continues to demonstrate its caliber as one of the leading conferences for college athletics.
For those following these athletes and their teams, next up for South Carolina is another contest on Tuesday against Charlotte, where Heard will once again take the mound. Meanwhile, Oklahoma looks forward to their five-game homestand starting Tuesday against Texas Southern.
For updated scores, stats, and athlete profiles, fans are encouraged to check out the official SEC websites or follow their respective teams on social media platforms.