South Alabama secured two victories over James Madison University on March 28, winning both games of a Sun Belt Conference doubleheader at Bank of the James Field at Veterans Memorial Park. The Jaguars won the first game 6-0 and the second game 5-2, with strong pitching performances and balanced offense contributing to their success.
The series is significant for South Alabama as it boosts their standing in conference play and provides momentum heading into future matchups. Ryley Harrison played a key role by throwing a complete game shutout in the opener and providing three innings of scoreless relief in the second game. Olivia Branstetter, Kara Wine, and Presley Lively each collected four hits across both games.
Head coach Becky Clark said, “These were two big road wins for us today. I was proud of our effort and fight. We played together both games, and came away with two team wins. Tomorrow will be big for us as we work to keep it rolling.” Harrison commented on her performance: “My rise ball and my drop ball complimented each other very well today. JMU has a strong offense, but I was able to keep them off balance with the drop, rise and change… We saw today that when we work as one unit, we’re a really good team. That needs to carry into tomorrow to give us a chance to secure the sweep.” Lively added about her achievement becoming South Alabama’s career triples leader: “Honestly, I didn’t really know that I had reached the record until after the game… I’m excited for the future of this team and what we are capable of doing.”
In Game 1, South Alabama took an early lead in the second inning with aggressive base running from Gracie McDonald. Key contributions included RBI singles from Wine and Smith as well as consistent pitching from Harrison who allowed just two hits while striking out nine batters.
Game 2 saw JMU take an initial lead before South Alabama responded with timely hitting from Lively—who hit her record-breaking triple—and Branstetter’s home run that tied up the contest. Walks drawn by Mambelli contributed to scoring opportunities while Sydney Scapin struck out four over four innings pitched.
The Jaguars look ahead to Sunday’s series finale against James Madison scheduled for an 11 a.m. first pitch.
