BYU softball achieved season highs in both runs and hits during a 13-10 victory over Houston at Gail Miller Field on April 9.
The game marked a strong offensive performance for BYU, which improved to a record of 12-26 overall and 3-10 in the Big 12 Conference. Every BYU batter recorded at least one hit, with seven players collecting multiple hits throughout the night.
BYU started quickly, scoring five runs in the first inning after Gianna Mares retired Houston’s batters in order. Hailey Shuler and Ilove’a Brittingham each contributed doubles that brought in three runs combined, while Tristen Turlington added an RBI single. The early offense gave BYU a commanding lead.
Houston responded with two runs in the second inning but could not keep pace as Maddie Udall-Woolley hit her second home run of the season for BYU. The team continued to add to its lead with back-to-back RBI singles from Lily Owens and Shuler later on. Despite several rallies by Houston—including a solo home run and multi-run innings—BYU answered with another five-run frame in the fifth inning, highlighted by Rita Tavita’s triple and Danica Acosta’s two-run double.
Pitcher Gianna Mares earned her sixth win of the year after pitching six innings, allowing eight hits, three earned runs, three walks, and striking out eight batters. While Houston managed late-inning offense—including a home run to center field—the Cougars held on for their highest-scoring game this season.
The series between BYU and Houston continues Friday evening at Gail Miller Field.
