Texas Tech University Athletics
NiJaree Canady awarded with AUSL Golden Ticket
March 27, 2026 | Softball
Texas Tech’s Canady given first AUSL Golden Ticket of the season
LUBBOCK, Texas – NiJaree Canady was given the first Athletes Unlimited Softball League (AUSL) Golden Ticket of the year following No. 2 Texas Tech's 9-1 win over Iowa State on Friday night which saw Canady earn a complete-game victory in the circle.
The Golden Ticket started last season with the beginning of a new pro softball league and symbolizes a player being drafted into the league. Last season, eight different student-athletes were given the prestigious honor with more to be given out this year with such a talented senior class.
Canady was given the ticket by the commissioner of the league, Kim Ng, and also received a special video announcement from Texas Tech alumni and NFL MVP Patrick Mahomes congratulating her on the historic occasion.
"As one of the most talented players in the game today, it is fitting that NiJaree is the first recipient of a Golden Ticket this year," Ng said in a release from the AUSL. "This is also the beginning of what will be a truly special draft class, with many outstanding players across the country. The Golden Ticket represents an important milestone as we recognize players who have been selected in the draft and will have the opportunity to continue their careers at the professional level in the AUSL once their college careers are complete."
The Red Raiders already have one tie to the pro league as assistant coach Kayla Kowalik currently plays for the Carolina Blaze who, coincidentally, own the first overall pick of the 2026 AUSL College Draft. The AUSL College Draft Show will air on Monday, May 4, at 7 p.m. ET on ESPN2 to reveal which team Canady and the other draftees are selected to.
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The Golden Ticket started last season with the beginning of a new pro softball league and symbolizes a player being drafted into the league. Last season, eight different student-athletes were given the prestigious honor with more to be given out this year with such a talented senior class.
Canady was given the ticket by the commissioner of the league, Kim Ng, and also received a special video announcement from Texas Tech alumni and NFL MVP Patrick Mahomes congratulating her on the historic occasion.
"As one of the most talented players in the game today, it is fitting that NiJaree is the first recipient of a Golden Ticket this year," Ng said in a release from the AUSL. "This is also the beginning of what will be a truly special draft class, with many outstanding players across the country. The Golden Ticket represents an important milestone as we recognize players who have been selected in the draft and will have the opportunity to continue their careers at the professional level in the AUSL once their college careers are complete."
The Red Raiders already have one tie to the pro league as assistant coach Kayla Kowalik currently plays for the Carolina Blaze who, coincidentally, own the first overall pick of the 2026 AUSL College Draft. The AUSL College Draft Show will air on Monday, May 4, at 7 p.m. ET on ESPN2 to reveal which team Canady and the other draftees are selected to.
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Players Mentioned
P/UTL
/ SoftballHighlights vs. Iowa State
Friday, March 27
Media Availability - Jackie Lis and Gerry Glasco
Wednesday, March 25
Reliant Hype: v. Iowa State
Wednesday, March 25
NiJaree Canady on ESPN's Get Up
Wednesday, March 25