LeMoyne-Owen College delivered a statement performance in Game Three of its weekend series against Kentucky State University, pulling away for an 8 to 4 victory to secure the series win. After splitting the first two contests, the Lady Magicians saved their most complete effort for the finale, using a decisive fifth inning surge to take control and never look back.
The game remained competitive through the early innings, with both teams searching for timely hits to create separation. LeMoyne-Owen remained patient at the plate and aggressive on the bases, setting the stage for a breakthrough moment midway through the contest. That breakthrough came in the fifth inning when the Lady Magicians erupted offensively, stringing together quality at bats and capitalizing on opportunities to blow the game open.
Kelby Harvey continued her steady presence at the top of the lineup, finishing 1 for 3 with two runs scored, a run batted in, a double, and a walk. Her ability to reach base and apply pressure proved instrumental in igniting the offense. Jaliyah Davis delivered a flawless performance at the plate, going 2 for 2 with two runs scored and two walks. She also added a triple that energized the dugout and shifted momentum firmly in favor of LeMoyne-Owen.
Kerrielle Brown once again showcased her all around impact. She finished 1 for 2 with two runs scored and two runs batted in, while adding a double, two sacrifice flies, and a stolen base. Brown's situational awareness and execution in key moments allowed the Lady Magicians to extend innings and maximize scoring opportunities.
Alexis Virgil contributed a strong performance of her own, going 2 for 4 with a run and a run batted in. KiLitta Sowell added another key run batted in, finishing 1 for 4 with a run scored. Each contribution added to the offensive wave that overwhelmed Kentucky State in the decisive frame.
Speed and aggressiveness on the base paths also played a vital role. Jaci Joiner recorded a stolen base, helping to disrupt the defensive rhythm and create additional pressure. The Lady Magicians combined timely hitting with disciplined base running, a formula that proved too much for Kentucky State to overcome once the fifth inning rally began.
In the circle, Aidan Hughes delivered a composed and effective outing to earn the win. Hughes pitched four innings, allowing five hits and two runs while striking out one and walking two. She faced 19 batters and maintained control throughout her appearance, limiting big innings and keeping Kentucky State from building sustained momentum. Her steady presence allowed the offense to settle in and eventually take command of the game.
Defensively, LeMoyne-Owen backed its pitching with consistent play in the field, minimizing mistakes and executing routine outs. After the offensive explosion in the fifth inning, the Lady Magicians maintained their focus and composure, ensuring that Kentucky State would not mount a late comeback.
The 8 to 4 victory not only secured the series but also demonstrated the growth and resilience of this LeMoyne-Owen squad. Throughout the weekend, the Lady Magicians displayed the ability to battle in close contests, respond to adversity, and seize control when opportunities presented themselves. Game Three served as the clearest example of their potential when all facets of the game align.
Balanced contributions across the lineup, disciplined pitching, and aggressive base running defined the final contest of the series. The fifth inning surge will stand as the turning point, a moment when preparation met opportunity and the Lady Magicians asserted themselves.
The next time the Lady Magicians take the field will be March 10 through March 12 in Gardendale, Alabama, where they will compete in the SIAC Crossover Tournament. Carrying the momentum of a series victory, LeMoyne-Owen now turns its focus toward that tournament opportunity, determined to build on this performance and continue its upward trajectory.
