February 28, 2025 

Waxahachie, TX – In a game that showcased resilience, firepower, and an electric late-inning rally, the Nelson University Lions nearly pulled off a stunning comeback against the University of Science and Arts (Okla.), ultimately falling just short in a heart-pounding 13-12 loss at the Lions Athletic Complex.  

The early innings belonged to USAO, as they capitalized on a massive nine-run fourth inning to put Nelson in an early 10-0 hole. The Lions struggled to get anything going offensively through the first five frames, with their lone run coming in the fifth on a clutch RBI single by Josh Pinter that scored Xavien Thompson.  

However, the script flipped in the seventh. Down 12-1, Nelson erupted for five runs, sparked by a three-RBI double from Tristan McGee and additional run-producing hits from *Mitchell Baker and Addison Patton.  

The Lions continued their relentless charge in the eighth, plating six more runs behind timely hitting from Andrew Ortiz, McGee, and Patton, cutting the deficit to one run (13-12) heading into the final frame.  

After holding USAO scoreless in the ninth, Nelson had a chance to complete the comeback. Unfortunately, the rally came to a heartbreaking halt, as Thrasher lined out, A. Patton popped up, and J. Pinter's flyout sealed the game.  

Despite the loss, McGee (3 RBI), Patton (3 RBI, 2B), and Ortiz (2 RBI, 2 H) fueled an offense that racked up 12 hits and battled until the final out.  

What's Next?  
The Lions will look to even the series in tomorrow's Saturday showdown at 12:00 PM at the Lions Athletic Complex. With the momentum from their explosive late-inning performance, Nelson aims to bounce back and defend their home turf.  

Nelson University (formerly SAGU) is a private Christian university, established in 1927 by P.C. Nelson. The University is located 30 minutes south of the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex in Waxahachie, Texas, and offers more than 70 associate, bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees on campus or online. For more information, visit www.nelson.edu or by calling 1-888-YES-NELSON.