Slow Start Proves Costly Against College of Idaho

CHICKASHA, Okla. – Tuesday afternoon, the No. 1 seeded University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma (48-10, 33-3 SAC) were dealt a 6-3 loss in the winner's bracket at the 2026 NAIA Softball Opening Round against No. 3 seed College of Idaho (36-20, 13-12 CCC).

The Yotes jumped out to an early lead with a three-run home run in the top of the first inning. The Drovers answered with a run in the bottom of the first but was then held scoreless until the sixth.

College of Idaho added a run in the third, the fifth, and the sixth, prior to USAO scoring once in the bottom of the sixth and once in the bottom of the seventh.

The Drover offense produced nine hits and drew a walk, while the Yotes tallied seven hits and walked three times. USAO was perfect on defense, while C of I committed a trio of fielding errors.

Aubree Ferguson got the start in the circle and went 2.2 innings, allowing four runs on three hits, and she struck out three batters. Jayden Anderson pitched the final 4.1 innings, surrendering two runs on four hits.

The USAO offense was led by Kinzie Williams' three-hit performance. Williams concluded 3-4 with a double and a run scored. Maddy Baber also doubled as she concluded 1-3 at the plate.

Lilyana Portillo, Leighanne Eaton, and Taylor Cronic each singled and drove in a run. Malea McMurtrey and Maveryck Lightfoot each singled.

WHAT'S NEXT?

The Drovers will return to action for an elimination game on Wednesday (May 13) against No. 2 LSU Alexandria at 1:00 PM CT at Bill Smith Ballpark.

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