HONOLULU (February 28, 2025) – Howard University softball team earned its first win at the Outrigger Invitational, taking down Jackson State (JSU), 3-1. In the nightcap, HU fell to Washington,8-0 (f/5).
HOWARD 3, JACKSON STATE 1
Howard produced three runs on 10 hits with senior infielder
Lealani Ricks (Madera, Calif.) going a perfect 3-of-3 at the plate.
After a scoreless first inning, HU got on the board with a two-run blast from junior outfielder
Maryn Jordan (San Diego), 2-0.
Senior utility player
Sidney Fletcher (Whittier, Calif.) created more separation in the fifth, delivering an RBI-single to left field while bringing home second-year Bison
Angel Riggins (San Diego), 3-1.
JSU scored its lone run in the sixth, 3-1, but threatened for more in the seventh until senior pitcher
Mia Gonzales (Atwater, Calif.) ended the Tigers' rally with a two-out save.
MEAC (Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference) Preseason Pitcher of the Year junior
Julia Holt (Tucson, Ariz.) secured her first win of the season in relief, tossing 5.1 innings with three strikeouts.
With the win, HU snapped its seven-game slide.
HOWARD 0, WASHINGTON 8 (F/5)
Gonzales got the starting nod against Washington where she threw three scoreless innings to open the contest.
Washington scored twice to take a 2-0 advantage after four frames.
Top five, the Huskies produced six runs, including a grand slam, to down HU in five, 8-0.
Seniors
Kenna Higa (Honolulu) and
Payton Quinonez (Tulare, Calif.) and second-year Bison
Merci Hart (Los Angeles) each produced a hit in the loss.
UPCOMING SCHEDULE
Howard closes out the Outrigger Invite Saturday (March 1) with rematches against Jackson State (3 p.m. ET / 10 a.m. HT) and Hawaii (5:30 p.m. ET / 12:30 p.m. HT).
For more information, visit the Bison Athletics website at
www.HUBison.com.
