JACKSON, Tenn. — Delta State University’s softball team earned its first Gulf South Conference victory of the season Saturday, defeating Union University 8-6 on the road. The Lady Statesmen scored six runs across the fourth and sixth innings to secure the win, with Kyleigh Wheaton playing a pivotal role.
Wheaton, a junior first baseman, opened the scoring with a two-run homer in the first inning. She added a solo shot in the fourth, finishing 3-for-4 with four RBIs. Her early home run sparked Delta State’s offense, which totaled 12 hits on the day.
Union responded with two runs in the bottom of the first but failed to take control. Delta State’s pitching staff kept the Bearcats in check long enough for the offense to take over. The Lady Statesmen scored six runs in the fourth inning, highlighted by a double from Hallie Turner, a single from Jayden Reyes, and an RBI single from Joryie McKnight, pushing their lead to 6-2.
Union scored twice in the fourth and once in the fifth but was limited by relievers Ellie Cox and Kendal Moore. Moore pitched 2.2 innings, allowing one run on six hits while earning the save. Delta State added two insurance runs in the sixth inning, with Maeve Lavoy doubling and later scoring on a Calli McConnell double, and Wheaton driving in another run with a single.
Union threatened in the seventh, pulling within 8-6 on an RBI single. However, Moore induced ground balls to end the game with runners on base. McConnell finished 2-for-4 with two RBIs and two extra-base hits, while McKnight added two singles and an RBI. Turner doubled and drove in a run, and Ally Agner contributed a hit and two runs scored.
Delta State improves to 3-9 overall and 1-3 in conference play. The Lady Statesmen return home Tuesday for a non-conference game against Blue Mountain Christian University at 2 p.m. Central time at University Field.
