May 6, 2007

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. -- Tennessee's Monica Abbott became the NCAA's career strikeout leader Sunday, overtaking Olympian and former Texas star Cat Osterman.

Abbott tied Osterman last weekend at 2,265 strikeouts. She then struck out six against Alabama, putting the record -- covering all NCAA divisions -- at 2,271.

Osterman was at the game as an ESPN commentator.

"It was a little overwhelming," Abbott said, referring to having to wait a week to get the record.

"Props to Cat. That's an awesome record."

The senior from Salinas, Calif., broke the NCAA career victory record this season at 152 in March, passing the mark set by Southern Mississippi's Courtney Blades in 2000. With a 40-2 record this season, Abbott has 179 victories.

The Lady Vols beat Alabama 9-2 in the first game of a doubleheader.