LUBBOCK, Texas — Ole Miss softball started the 2026 NCAA Tournament with an 8-6 victory over Boston University on Friday afternoon at Tracey Sellers Field.
The Rebels (35-24) scored seven runs in the third inning to take control of the game. The rally was sparked by a home run from Mackenzie Pickens, part of a five-hit performance that included three RBIs. Madi George added three RBIs with her 22nd home run of the season, while Lilly Whitten pitched six innings of relief, allowing three runs and striking out two.
Boston University struck first, capitalizing on three walks to score an early run. Taylor Malvin helped limit the damage with a double play, and the Terriers added another run on a sacrifice fly, taking a 2-1 lead.
Ole Miss quickly responded, with singles from Pickens and Persy Llamas, and a hit-by-pitch loading the bases. Laylonna Applin drove in a run with an infield single to trim the deficit to 2-1. After a scoreless second inning, the Rebels exploded in the third, beginning with Pickens’ home run to tie the game.
George followed with her 22nd home run of the season, giving Ole Miss a 4-2 lead. The Rebels then loaded the bases on a hit-by-pitch and singles, with Taylor Malvin driving in two more runs with a single. A series of hit-by-pitches later in the inning extended the lead to 8-2.
Whitten kept Boston University at bay, allowing only one run over the next three innings. The Terriers made a late push with two home runs and three runs in the seventh, but Ole Miss held on. Emilee Boyer closed out the game with a double play to secure the win.
The Rebels will face the winner of Saturday’s game between Texas Tech and Marist at 2 p.m. CT on Saturday. Ole Miss continues its pursuit of the NCAA title in Lubbock.
