Following a college softball season with more than 55 games airing across ESPN networks, ESPNU will air the 2012 NCAA Division I Softball Championship Selection Show presented by Capital One on Sunday, May 13, at 10 p.m. announcing the 64 teams selected for participation. Host Beth Mowins will be joined by ESPN analysts and U.S. Olympic Gold Medal Winners Jessica Mendoza and Michele Smith, to discuss the matchups and reveal the 16 regional site locations. The one-hour special, now in its fifth year, includes head coach interviews and 2012 season highlights.

espnW.com will continue the conversation with post-show segments, an available online bracket and “5 Burning Questions” prior to championship play. Coverage of the entire NCAA Division I Softball Championship will continue throughout the Women’s College World Series including player blogs from six of the top-25 schools: Kayla Braud (No. 4 Alabama), Ashley Hansen (No. 21 Stanford), Ryan Iamurri (No. 4 Alabama), Meagan May (No. 16 Texas A&M), Michelle Moultrie (No. 7 Florida), Ashley Pauly (No. 11 Georgia) and Jessica Shults (No. 3 Oklahoma).

In 2011, the Big 12 led with eight bids, followed closely by the Pac-12 and SEC, both with seven. By state, California (7), Texas (6) and Florida (5) had the most teams selected.

For the 11^th consecutive season, ESPN networks will air every NCAA Women’s College World Series, in addition to every game at all eight Super Regional sites and three Regional sites.

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