Ohio Valley Conference

EVANSVILLE, Ind. - University of Southern Indiana Softball finished off its first series sweep of the season in walk-off fashion on Saturday at USI Softball Field, capturing a 4-3 victory over Tennessee Tech University in Ohio Valley Conference play.
 
Following two scoreless frames to begin Saturday's series finale, Tennessee Tech (10-23, 4-8 OVC) struck first with an unearned run in the top of the third inning to grab an early 1-0 advantage.
 
Southern Indiana (9-17, 6-5 OVC) broke through and jumped in front in the bottom of the fourth inning when sophomore outfielder Kate Satkoski doubled down the left-field line to drive in a pair of runs and give USI a 2-1 lead.
 
Tennessee Tech answered back with two runs in the top of the fifth to regain a one-run lead, 3-2. However, the Screaming Eagles responded with an unearned run in the home half of the fifth to knot the game up at three.
 
With the game still even at three, USI got their chance in the bottom of the seventh. After a one-out walk, single, and hit-by-pitch, freshman designated player Grace Huffman stepped up to the plate with the bases loaded. Huffman delivered by getting a ball airborne into deep left field, allowing sophomore infielder Sydney Long to score the game-winning run from third on a walk-off sac fly and completing the series sweep for the Screaming Eagles.
 
USI totaled seven hits at the plate Saturday. Freshman catcher Jordan Mackey, senior infielder Whitley Hunter, and Satkoski each recorded two hits in the game. Satkoski led Southern Indiana with the two RBIs.
 
In the pitching circle, senior pitcher Josie Newman (6-10) collected her second win and complete game of the series. Newman struck out eight and allowed three runs – two earned – in the seven innings of work.
 
Tennessee Tech, who had three hits offensively, had senior pitcher Payton Wagner make the start on Saturday. Wagner did not factor into the decision after starting the first 3.1 innings with two runs – one earned – given up. Junior pitcher Addison Abell (2-3) was charged with the loss after tossing the last 3.1 innings and also surrendering two runs – one earned – including the game-winning run.

WESTERN ILLINOIS 8, UT MARTIN 7 (9)
MACOMB, Ill. - Western Illinois softball delivered an impressive performance in their latest extra inning game, securing a crucial victory with strong contributions on both offense and defense. The Leathernecks capitalized on key moments, demonstrating resilience and precision throughout the match-up.

At the plate, Western Illinois showcased their offensive firepower, recording twelve hits and driving in eight runs. Payton Brown led the charge, going 3-for-5 with five RBIs and a crucial home run to win the game. Ruby Tarr also played a vital role, going 2-3 to keep the momentum in favor of the Leathernecks.

On the mound, Lillie Wools delivered a standout performance, throwing all 9.0 innings while allowing only six earned runs. The ace struck out six batters and controlled the game with pinpoint accuracy, keeping the opposing lineup in check. The defense behind the pitcher was equally solid, with Malia Robertson making a highlight-reel catch to prevent extra bases and Payton Brown turning a key double play in a crucial inning. Western Illinois' ability to execute in clutch situations proved to be the difference.

LINDENWOOD 1, SIUE 0
EDWARDSVILLE, Ill. - The Lindenwood softball team (15-16, 6-6 OVC) earned a 1-0 shutout win over SIUE on Saturday afternoon in Edwardsville, Ill.

Lindenwood softball secured a series win after defeating SIUE 1-0 on Saturday afternoon in Edwardsville, Ill. Avery Wapp (6-4) tossed a complete game shutout, while striking out a season-high 11, while allowing just three hits.

The Lions had six hits on the afternoon, including a pair in the third inning as Irelynn West drove in Izzy Wilcox for the only run of the game. West finished the day with two hits, as did Jolie McMinn who went 2-3 at the plate with a double.

SIUE threatened in the bottom of the seventh, putting a runner in scoring position, but Wapp slammed the door, finishing the game off with her 11th strikeout of the day.

TENNESSEE STATE 8, MOREHEAD STATE 0 (5)
TENNESSEE STATE 8, MOREHEAD STATE 0 (5)
NASHVILLE - Recap coming soon.