Nebraska Softball Triumphs Over No. 1 Texas Tech as Newcomers Shine

The Nebraska Cornhuskers softball team achieved a significant milestone by defeating the top-ranked Texas Tech Red Raiders 3-2 at the Shriners Children’s Clearwater Invitational. This victory marks the second time in two weeks that the Huskers have defeated a No. 1 team, emphasizing their strong start in the season.

Nebraska’s Historic Wins

Prior to this game, Nebraska defeated No. 1 Texas on February 7, marking the first instance in the program’s history of beating two top-ranked teams in the same season. With this win, the Cornhuskers improved their overall record to 6-4, while Texas Tech suffered its first loss, dropping to 11-1.

Freshman Pitcher Shines

Freshman pitcher Alexis Jensen was instrumental in the victory. She faced one of the nation’s premier pitchers, NiJaree Canady, and excelled, allowing two runs on five hits while striking out seven in four innings. Jensen’s performance included striking out the side in one inning, showcasing her impressive skills early in her collegiate career.

Coaching Decisions Pay Off

Head coach Rhonda Revelle decided to replace Jensen with senior Jordy Frahm in the fifth inning. Frahm delivered a flawless performance, retiring all nine batters she faced and striking out four. This granted her a third save of the season, a significant achievement that exceeds her total saves from the previous year.

Key Contributors at the Plate

At the plate, junior catcher Jesse Farrell and senior outfielder Hannah Coor proved to be vital to the victory. Farrell hit a crucial two-run home run off Canady, marking her fourth of the season and tying her with Frahm for the team lead. Coor then drove in the game-winning run, producing clutch hits when needed.

Game Highlights

• Texas Tech opened scoring in the first inning, taking a 1-0 lead.
• Huskers rallied in the fourth inning, scoring all three runs and taking the lead.
• Mihyia Davis and Kaitlyn Terry were instrumental in Texas Tech’s initial runs.
• Hannah Camenzind also contributed with a 2-for-3 performance, leading the team with 13 hits.

Upcoming Games and Notes

Looking ahead, Nebraska will participate in the Mary Nutter Collegiate Classic in Cathedral City, California, set to face ranked opponents including No. 20 South Carolina and No. 8 Texas A&M over three days.

This victory stands as Nebraska’s fifth win against a No. 1 ranked team in school history and underlines the team’s promising start to the season as they prove capable of challenging the best teams in the nation.