The Jackson State Tigers softball team lost both games on the opening day of the Lion Invitational in Commerce, Texas, on Friday.
In their first matchup, Jackson State was defeated 8-0 by Missouri State. The Tigers were unable to score against Missouri State pitcher Emily Koranda, who threw six scoreless innings. Sophomore Jorgina Gant started for Jackson State and took the loss. The Tigers struggled offensively and did not advance a runner past second base. Jace Jackson led the team at the plate, going 1-for-2 with a double.
Missouri State’s Mya January contributed significantly with a home run and two RBIs. The Jackson State pitching staff faced 32 batters, allowing six ground balls and six fly balls while striking out three.
In their second game of the day, Jackson State fell to Southeast Missouri State (SEMO) 9-6. Madison McDowell started for JSU and recorded the loss. Ka’Liyah Gipson led the Tigers offensively with three hits and stole two bases, continuing her streak as a national leader in stolen bases. Brooklyn Morris pitched four innings in relief, giving up two earned runs on four hits without issuing any walks.
Jace Jackson also had an impact in game two with a home run and three RBIs, while Meah Almaraz added two hits and an RBI. The Tigers scored five runs in the first two innings but could not hold their lead as SEMO came back to win after scoring seven runs between the fifth and seventh innings.
Southeast Missouri State was led by Kinley Wilkins with two doubles and four RBIs, while Maddie Carney pitched one shutout inning for SEMO.
Jackson State will continue play at the Lion Invitational on Saturday with scheduled games against Rhode Island at 6 p.m. and East Texas A&M at 8:15 p.m., pending weather conditions.
For updates on Jackson State athletics, fans can follow @GoJSUTigers on Instagram and Twitter or visit GoJSUTigers.com.
