The Portland State softball team won against Northern Colorado, 4-3, on April 18 at Hillsboro Ballpark, marking their first Big Sky series win of the season. The Vikings improved to a record of 14-27 overall and 4-8 in conference play, while the Bears dropped to 20-23 and 6-5.
This victory is significant for Portland State as it represents a turnaround in their conference performance. Achieving their first Big Sky series win gives momentum to the team as they approach the end of the regular season.
Portland State took an early lead when Grace Johnson scored on a sacrifice bunt by Abigail Carsley after reaching base with a leadoff single. In the third inning, Mia Martinez added another run with a sacrifice fly, giving the Vikings a brief advantage. Northern Colorado responded in the fourth inning with Baylie Kakallis hitting a two-run home run that put them ahead for the first time at 3-2.
The Vikings quickly answered back in their half of the fourth inning. Rylee Gaustad and Jolee Benson reached base before Carsley delivered again, driving in two runs with a single that reclaimed a one-run lead for Portland State. Pitcher Nakoa-Chung then closed out the game by retiring nine of the final ten batters she faced—including all three hitters in the seventh inning—to secure the win.
Carsley was instrumental offensively for Portland State, finishing perfect at bat (2-for-2) and driving in three runs. Nakoa-Chung pitched all seven innings, allowing three runs (two earned) while striking out seven batters.
Looking ahead, Portland State will conclude its regular season next weekend with an away series against Sacramento State scheduled for April 24–25.
