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Hannah Wells' Ladybug Luck Fuels Texas Softball

ESPN General •
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Texas freshman Hannah Wells eats ladybugs for good luck, a tradition dating back to her childhood in Coahoma, Texas. Wells confirmed the unusual superstition after Texas defeated Tennessee to advance to the Women's College World Series championship against Texas Tech. The Longhorns' defending champions continue to ride this quirky habit into the national spotlight.

Wells' ladybug ritual stems from her high school days where her team won three consecutive Texas 3A state championships. The freshman utility player brought this superstition to the collegiate level, maintaining a habit that has seemingly worked for her so far. Wells wears No. 13 as well, not for luck but in honor of her aunt who wore the same number.

An entomologist confirmed ladybugs offer negligible nutritional value—less than one-tenth of a calorie per bug—and primarily have a bitter taste due to defensive compounds. Despite the odd tradition, Wells produced four hits against Tennessee, including a two-run single in the fifth inning of the first game. The Longhorns' championship series appearance proves the superstition's effectiveness at this level.