OMAHA — Arizona was hoping to get some payback Sunday at the College World Series in its rematch against Louisville.

Arkansas catcher Ryder Helfrick (left) talks with pitcher Gage Wood during a game against Murray State on Monday, June 16, 2025, at the College World Series in Omaha, Neb. (Hank Layton/WholeHogSports)

Arizona starter Smith Bailey held that 3-1 lead until the seventh inning, when Louisville led off with a Garret Pike double and bunt single from Neighbors. Bailey was relieved by Garrett Hicks, who allowed a sacrifice fly by Lucas Moore.

The Wildcats lost the opener of the College World Series in a game full of quirks — a balk, fan interference, hits batsmen, and what Arizona coach Chip Hale called

Six conferences and an independent will be represented at the College World Series. None were among the final eight in Omaha a year ago.