The LeMoyne-Owen College softball team continued its run at the SIAC Crossover Tournament in Gardendale, Alabama with a performance that reflected both growth and determination. Competing in their next two games at Bill Noble Park, the Lady Magicians earned a hard fought victory over Edward Waters University before dropping a match-up to Fort Valley State University. The split result highlighted a team that is beginning to find its footing while continuing to develop through the early stages of the season.
LeMoyne-Owen delivered one of its most complete performances of the tournament in a 4 to 2 win over Edward Waters. The contest unfolded as a tightly contested battle from the start, with both teams trading momentum through the early innings. The Lady Magicians managed to gain a slight edge, holding a 3 to 2 lead after three innings of play, setting up a competitive finish.
KiLitta Sowell proved to be the difference maker, turning in a standout performance at the plate. The third baseman went two for three with two runs batted in, including a crucial home run that came at a pivotal moment. In the top of the seventh inning, Sowell delivered a solo shot that extended the Lady Magicians' lead and provided valuable insurance. Her ability to rise to the occasion underscored her importance within the lineup and gave LeMoyne-Owen the cushion it needed to secure the win.
Kelby Harvey and Khaylani Bailey also contributed offensively in key moments. Harvey finished one for three with a run batted in on a sacrifice fly, while Bailey added a hit in two at bats along with an RBI of her own, also coming via a sacrifice fly. As a team, the Lady Magicians recorded five hits in twenty two at bats, finishing with four runs batted in. While the offense was not overwhelming in volume, it was effective when opportunities presented themselves.
In the circle, Bailey delivered a composed and steady outing that anchored the team. Pitching a complete seven innings, she allowed just two runs on ten hits, consistently working through pressure situations and limiting Edward Waters' ability to capitalize. Her performance provided stability and confidence for the defense, playing a major role in the team's first victory of the tournament.
Looking to build on that momentum, the Lady Magicians returned to the field to face Fort Valley State. Despite a strong effort, LeMoyne-Owen fell by a score of 10 to 1 in a game where execution proved difficult against a tough opponent.
Even in defeat, there were encouraging performances at the plate. Kelby Harvey continued her impressive showing, going three for four with a double and a stolen base. Her consistency throughout the tournament has been a bright spot, as she has repeatedly found ways to generate offense. Jaci Joiner also contributed with two hits in four at bats and drove in the team's lone run, demonstrating her ability to compete against quality pitching.
As a team, the Lady Magicians finished with six hits in twenty five at bats, producing one run batted in. While the total number of hits improved, converting those opportunities into runs remained a challenge against Fort Valley State's defense.
Aiden Hughes took the mound and worked through a full seven innings, allowing ten runs on eleven hits. Though the outcome was not favorable, her endurance and willingness to compete reflected the resilience that this team has shown throughout the tournament.
Through these two games, the Lady Magicians demonstrated clear signs of progress. The victory over Edward Waters showcased their ability to execute in key moments, while the matchup against Fort Valley State revealed areas that will require continued attention. As the tournament continues, LeMoyne-Owen will look to build on its successes and learn from its challenges.
With each game, the Lady Magicians are gaining valuable experience and developing a stronger sense of identity. The growth displayed in these contests suggests that this team is moving in the right direction, with the potential to turn early lessons into meaningful success as the season unfolds.
