North Dakota State University’s softball team defeated UC Riverside 6-2 on March 11 in a non-conference matchup at Amy S. Harrison Softball Field.
The win was highlighted by Star Cortez, who hit her first career home run in the opening inning to give the Bison an early lead. Mya Boos extended the advantage with a two-run home run in the third inning, marking her fourth of the season.
UC Riverside narrowed the gap with runs in the third and fourth innings, but North Dakota State responded with two runs in the sixth. Taylinn Warren contributed an RBI single and later scored on another RBI single from Bella Dean. The Bison added a final run in the seventh inning after capitalizing on a Highlanders error.
Cortez led North Dakota State offensively with three hits, two runs scored, and two stolen bases. Amai Hanta also made an impact off the bench, going 2-for-2 with doubles in both the sixth and seventh innings and scoring twice. In pitching, Madison Wihlm earned the win by allowing two runs on three hits and recording two strikeouts. Piper Reed secured the save by pitching 3.1 hitless innings, allowing only one walk and striking out one batter.
North Dakota State will stay in Riverside for a day off before beginning a three-game series against California Baptist on Friday at John C. Funk Stadium.
