Emma Young

Defensive Duel Ends Series

3/25/2026 5:30:00 PM

Box Score BOURBONNAIS, Ill. --- IU South Bend and Olivet Nazarene wrapped up their three-game series Wednesday afternoon at Tiger Field with a tightly contested defensive battle. A single home run proved to be the difference, as the Tigers claimed a 1-0 victory.

The series finale showcased strong pitching and defensive execution on both sides with neither team able to generate sustained offense.

Olivet Nazarene scored the game's only run in the bottom of the second inning when a solo home run broke the silence. That swing would stand as the lone blemish in an otherwise stellar pitching performance by the Titans.

IU South Bend threatened throughout the contest, collecting six hits and placing runners in scoring position in multiple innings. A great opportunity came in the top of the sixth, as Pailei Cripe reached with a double to left-center. She moved to third with two outs, before the Titans loaded the bases. The key RBI hit never came though, as the game remained at 1-0.

The top of the seventh brought another chance for the Titans to tie or take the lead. Three singles loaded the bases with one out, as the bottom of the order found a way to put the tying and go-ahead runners in scoring position. Once again, ONU responded, retiring the last two hitters to end the contest.

Peyton Norman recorded two hits, including a double, while Grace Swangin added a pair of singles. Pailei Cripe and Jaylah Harlan each contributed a base hit as well.

The Titans' pitching staff delivered another strong outing. Savannah Hamilton started in the circle and worked the first three innings, allowing just one run before handing the ball to Jaylah Harlan. Harlan closed the final three innings in relief, keeping the Tigers off the board and giving IU South Bend an opportunity to rally.

IUSB will continue conference play on Friday, hosting Saint Xavier for a single game at 3:00 pm at Newton Park.

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