Jackson State softball opens Lion Invitational with two losses in Texas

COMMERCE, Texas — Jackson State’s softball team opened the Lion Invitational with back-to-back losses Friday. The Tigers were shut out 8-0 by Missouri State in their first game and lost 9-6 to Southeast Missouri State in the second.

In the first game, sophomore Jorgina Gant started for Jackson State and took the loss. The Tigers did not advance a runner past second base and went 0-for-1 with runners in scoring position. Missouri State’s Emily Koranda pitched six scoreless innings, striking out three and allowing six ground balls and six fly balls. Mya January led the Bears offensively with a 1-for-2 effort, including a home run and two RBIs.

Jackson State’s best offensive performance came from Ka’Liyah Gipson, who went 3-for-4 in the second game and stole two bases. Gipson continues to lead the nation in stolen bases. The Tigers scored two runs in the first inning and added three in the second, but Southeast Missouri State responded with seven runs to take control. The Redhawks eventually won 9-6. Gipson also contributed defensively with two stolen bases, and Jace Jackson hit a home run with three RBIs.

Jackson State’s pitching in the second game was led by Maddie Carney, who threw one shutout inning. Brooklyn Morris pitched four innings, allowing two earned runs on four hits while striking out one. Offensively, Gipson and Jackson led the Tigers, with Gipson going 3-for-4 and Jackson 1-for-4 with a home run and three RBIs. Kinley Wilkins paced Southeast Missouri State with two doubles and four RBIs.

The Tigers will continue their tournament play Saturday, facing Rhode Island at 6 p.m. and East Texas A&M at 8:15 p.m., weather permitting. Follow Jackson State Athletics for updates on social media at @GoJSUTigers (Instagram and Twitter), Jackson State Tigers (Facebook), or visit GoJSUTigers.com.

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