COMMITMENT SHOCKER: Boise State’s Makenzie Butt Transfers to Tennessee After Record-Breaking Freshman Season
In a major move shaking up the college softball landscape, standout freshman Makenzie Butt has officially announced her transfer from Boise State to the University of Tennessee. Butt, who turned heads across the nation with a stellar debut season, is bringing her powerhouse bat to Knoxville after hitting an impressive .363 with 22 home runs and 77 RBIs as a freshman.
Butt’s freshman campaign at Boise State was nothing short of remarkable. She quickly established herself as one of the top offensive threats in the nation, showcasing a rare combination of power, consistency, and poise well beyond her years. Her 22 home runs not only led her team but also positioned her among the national leaders in long balls, earning her All-Conference honors and national attention.
Her decision to transfer to Tennessee signals her ambition to compete on an even bigger stage in the SEC — widely regarded as the toughest conference in college softball. For Tennessee, Butt’s arrival is a significant addition to an already competitive roster. The Lady Vols, perennial postseason contenders, will gain a powerful right-handed bat capable of altering the course of any game.
Speaking on her transfer, Butt shared, “I’m incredibly thankful for my time at Boise State and everything the program did for me. I’ve grown so much as a player and a person. But I’m also excited for this next chapter at Tennessee. I’m ready to challenge myself, keep developing, and help the Lady Vols chase championships.”
Tennessee head coach Karen Weekly welcomed Butt with open arms, praising her as a dynamic player with the potential to make an immediate impact. “Makenzie is a game-changer. Her work ethic, talent, and competitive fire align perfectly with what we’re building here at Tennessee. We’re thrilled to have her join our family.”
This transfer underscores a growing trend in college athletics, where elite players are increasingly making bold moves to find the right competitive and developmental fit. For Boise State, losing a talent like Butt is a significant blow, but her legacy as one of the program’s most explosive freshmen will not be forgotten.
All eyes will now turn to Knoxville, where Makenzie Butt is set to add even more firepower to Tennessee’s championship ambitions.
