Coastal Carolina Rolls to 24th Straight Victory, Takes Down Arizona in MCWS Opener
OMAHA, NE — The Coastal Carolina Chanticleers extended their electrifying run through the college baseball season with a thrilling 5-3 win over Arizona in the opening game of the 2025 Men’s College World Series (MCWS) on Friday. With this latest victory, the Chanticleers have now won 24 consecutive games, the longest active streak in Division I baseball, and they’re showing no signs of slowing down.
Coastal’s dominance continued under the bright lights of Charles Schwab Field, proving once again that they’re legitimate title contenders in this year’s NCAA tournament. The win not only keeps their season alive but sets the tone for a potentially historic championship run.
🔥 Clutch Pitching, Timely Hitting Fuel Another Coastal Win
Coastal Carolina leaned on a complete team effort, including stellar pitching and disciplined offense, to overcome an Arizona squad that came in with its own momentum. Sophomore right-hander Ethan Watson tossed six strong innings, striking out eight while allowing just two earned runs.
But it was the bats that came alive when needed. Down 3-2 in the sixth, Jake Thompson ripped a go-ahead two-run double, shifting the momentum in the Chanticleers’ favor. Tyler McMillan followed with an insurance RBI single in the eighth to seal the 5-3 scoreline.
“We’ve just got a group of guys that believe in each other,” said head coach Gary Gilmore postgame. “Every time we step on the field, they expect to win—and they’ve earned that confidence.”
📈 24 Straight and Counting: A Program-Defining Streak
Coastal Carolina’s 24-game win streak is the second-longest in program history and ranks among the longest in NCAA baseball this decade. The streak includes sweeping the Sun Belt Conference Tournament, cruising through regional and super regional play, and now taking down a Power Five opponent on the sport’s biggest stage.
Their formula has been simple yet effective: dominant pitching, elite baserunning, and a clutch-hitting lineup anchored by seniors who have seen it all.
Arizona coach Chip Hale credited Coastal’s composure and discipline. “They don’t beat themselves. You have to play perfect to beat them—and we weren’t perfect today,” he admitted.
⚾ What’s Next for the Chanticleers?
Coastal Carolina now advances to the winner’s bracket, giving them a strategic advantage as the tournament progresses. They’ll face the winner of the Tennessee–Florida State matchup on Sunday, while Arizona drops into the elimination bracket with their backs against the wall.
For the Chanticleers, momentum is peaking at the perfect time. Fans and analysts alike are already speculating about a potential return to glory reminiscent of their 2016 national championship run.
🗣️ Fan Reactions: Coastal is the Team to Watch
On social media, Coastal Carolina is quickly becoming a fan favorite. One trending post read:
“This team is FUN. Coastal’s energy, chemistry, and clutch play make them must-watch TV.”
Another viral comment stated:
“Not a big college baseball fan, but I’m all in on Coastal Carolina now. That 6th inning rally was elite!”
🧠 College Baseball is Changing—and Coastal is Leading the Charge
In a tournament often dominated by SEC and Pac-12 powerhouses, mid-major programs like Coastal Carolina are proving they belong. Their run is a testament to scouting, player development, and belief in team-first baseball.
Coach Gilmore echoed that sentiment:
“We don’t care about labels. We just show up and play ball. We’re not done yet.”
If their 24th win is any indication, the Chanticleers might just be writing the most compelling underdog story of the 2025 MCWS.
🧩 Bottom Line: Don’t Sleep on the Chanticleers
Coastal Carolina’s thrilling 5-3 win over Arizona wasn’t just another checkmark on a win streak—it was a statement. They’re here to compete, they’re hungry for a title, and they’re capturing national attention with every inning.
As the Men’s College World Series continues, all eyes will be on the teal and black—and for good reason.