The Memphis Softball team finally tasted victory in the finale of the Blues City Classic at the Tiger Softball Complex on a sunny Sunday afternoon. The Tigers, with a challenging start to their season, improved their record to 1-13 after splitting the day’s games—first, a tough 5-0 loss to DePaul, followed by a hard-fought 2-1 win against Tennessee Tech, showcasing their resilience and determination to turn their season around.
The win against Tennessee Tech was characterized by early runs from Kennedy Semien and Aubrey Williams in the second inning, giving the Tigers the lead they would maintain throughout the match. Memphis’s defense was notably strong, holding the Golden Eagles to just one run on four hits, a testament to the team’s collective effort and strategic gameplay.
Head coach Stephanie VanBrakle Prothro commended the team’s performance, highlighting the contributions from Rylee Dugar on the mound and key hits from Aubrey Williams and Arianna Cox-Cole that drove in the runs. “Abby came in and finished the game. It was a total team effort and much better play from this morning,” VanBrakle Prothro said, emphasizing the improvement from the earlier loss to DePaul.
The game’s details unfolded with strategic plays and key moments that led to the Tigers’ victory. The team showed potential right from the start, with Berner and Khamiyah Brown recording hits and creating scoring opportunities. Despite not capitalizing on a loaded bases situation in the first inning, Memphis took the lead in the second inning through Williams’ double and an error that allowed another run. Tennessee Tech managed to cut the lead in the fourth, but Memphis’s defense, particularly in the final innings, was impenetrable, ensuring the win.
Notably, seven Tigers recorded hits, showcasing the depth of the team’s batting lineup. Cox-Cole and Williams were credited with the game’s RBIs while pitching duties were split between Rylee Dugar, who started the game and delivered 3.2 solid innings, and Abigail Morgan, who provided effective relief to close out the match.
Looking ahead, the Tigers are set to host both Jackson State and UT Martin in the upcoming 901 Classic from March 1-3. This victory, though just the start, could serve as a turning point for the team, providing momentum and confidence as they face their next opponents. Memphis softball fans and the team alike will be hopeful that this win is a sign of more positive results to come, marking the beginning of a turnaround in their season.
