February 6, 2025
Mesquite, TX – The Nelson University Lady Lions battled fiercely in their NAIA Invitational Tournament opener but fell just short, dropping a 4-2 decision to Missouri Baptist on Thursday afternoon. A spirited fourth-inning comeback gave Nelson momentum, but clutch late-game execution from the Spartans sealed the contest.
After Missouri Baptist jumped ahead 2-0 in the second inning, Nelson responded in the fourth with a resilient offensive push. Sasha Jennings sparked the charge with a leadoff double to right-center, setting the stage for Trista Ford, who delivered an RBI single to get the Lady Lions on the board. A defensive miscue by Missouri Baptist allowed Makinzy Kneip to cross home plate, knotting the game at 2-2.
The Lady Lions' pitching staff, led by Macie Blizzard, Gavi Baecker, and Valerie Guzman, kept the game within reach, scattering eight hits while striking out five. However, Missouri Baptist capitalized on an RBI double in the sixth and an error in the seventh to regain a 4-2 advantage.
Despite the loss, the Lady Lions showcased resilience, demonstrating their ability to compete at a high level. With two more games on the horizon, they'll look to bounce back quickly.
What's Next?
Nelson University will return to action Friday, Feb. 7, with a doubleheader in Mesquite:
- Oklahoma Wesleyan – 11:00 AM
- Cottey College – 1:30 PM
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.
