The University of Louisville softball team defeated California 12-2 on April 4 at Viking Field, securing a series win after taking the final two games of the weekend. The victory improved Louisville’s record to 32-8 overall and 8-4 in Atlantic Coast Conference play.
This result is significant as it demonstrates Louisville’s ability to recover from an early series loss and maintain strong performance within their conference schedule.
Bri Despines, Jordan Williams, and Madison Pickens each hit multi-run home runs during the game. Alyssa Zabala earned her ninth win of the season by pitching four innings in relief, combining with Jayden Gohs for seven strikeouts while allowing only four hits and two runs. Despines and Pickens both recorded two hits and four RBIs, while Williams went three-for-four with two RBIs and scored twice.
Louisville took an early lead when Chelsea Mack singled, stole second base, advanced to third on a groundout by Easton Lotus, then scored on a sacrifice fly from Despines. After California responded with two runs in the bottom of the first inning, Louisville regained control with consecutive scoring innings. Riley Janda doubled home Williams to tie the game before Lotus singled in another run.
The decisive moment came in the fifth inning when Despines hit a home run with runners on base. Consecutive doubles by Camryn Lookadoo and Pickens extended Louisville’s lead before Williams added another home run for a commanding advantage. In the seventh inning, Pickens capped off Louisville’s offense with another multi-run homer.
Looking ahead, Louisville will travel to Notre Dame for its next series from April 10 through April 12. All games are scheduled to be streamed on ACCNX.
