Alexandria, LA | January 29, 2026 — The Nelson University Lady Lions officially opened the 2026 season Thursday afternoon at Champions Sportsplex in Alexandria, Louisiana, taking the field for a two-game slate at the Louisiana Christian University Tournament. Nelson showed flashes of fight and offensive spark across the day but ultimately fell in both contests—dropping a 10–5 decision to LSU Alexandria in Game One before closing the day against host Louisiana Christian University.
Game One – vs. LSU Alexandria
After a tough opening inning that saw LSUA jump out to an early lead, the Lady Lions refused to fold. Nelson found its rhythm in the fourth inning, erupting for five runs to swing momentum back into the game. Morgan Womack delivered a key RBI single, followed by a clutch two-run double from K'Leigh Williams that sliced the deficit. Layla Oliver and Elena Mendez added RBI hits to cap the rally and keep Nelson firmly in striking distance.
In the circle, Braylei Pylant provided steady relief, settling the game down with 5.1 innings of work after the opening frame. LSU Alexandria answered late with home runs in the sixth inning, holding on for the 10–5 final despite Nelson's mid-game surge.
Game Two – vs. Louisiana Christian University
The Lady Lions came out aggressive in the nightcap, striking first and answering early pressure with a three-run third inning to knot the game at 4–4. Elena Mendez stayed hot at the plate, going 3-for-4, while Juli King, Haley Ehlert, and Kinsley Rodriguez each drove in runs during Nelson's most productive stretch of the afternoon.
Louisiana Christian capitalized on timely hitting and extra-base damage in the middle innings, pulling away late to secure a 12–4 win. Despite the final score, Nelson finished with eight hits and continued to show offensive balance and resilience throughout the lineup.
With opening-day reps in the books and lessons learned, the Lady Lions now turn the page quickly as tournament play continues.
Next Up:
Nelson returns to action for Day 2 of the LCU Tournament on Friday, January 30, facing Central Baptist College at 2:00 PM before closing the day against Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University at 4:00 PM in Alexandria.
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.
