Baylor Prevails Over Houston in Softball Series Opener

HOUSTON, Texas — The University of Houston Softball team faced a tough challenge on Friday night as they fell to Texas rival Baylor, 5-3, during the first game of their series at Cougar Softball Stadium.

Despite a late-game resurgence, the Cougars (20-14, 3-8 Big 12) could not overcome an early deficit against the Bears (record not specified), who took the lead with three runs in the first inning. Baylor’s Lillie Walker (6-6) pitched a complete game, allowing three runs on 11 hits and one walk, helping her team clinch the victory.

“We started off poorly and put ourselves in a hole,” said Houston head coach. “But I’m proud of the girls for not giving up, and we had our chances to come back.”

Baylor jumped to an early advantage when Brooklyn Carter reached base with a single and stole second. She scored on an error, followed by two more runs driven in by another error on a sacrifice bunt and a sacrifice fly, making it 3-0.

The Bears extended their lead in the third inning with a two-run home run, pushing the score to 5-0. Houston finally broke the scoreboard in the fifth when Wilkins led off with a single and scored on a throwing error after a sacrifice bunt.

In a valiant attempt to stage a comeback, Houston scored two runs in the bottom of the seventh inning. Following a single from a sophomore player, Wilkins hit her 11th double of the season, scoring the runner. Another single from Aguilar followed, allowing Wilkins to cross home. However, Baylor’s defense held strong, executing a double play and securing the final out with a strikeout.

“We have to tighten up our late-game performance,” said Baylor coach. “We did well in the beginning, but we need to close out games without unnecessary pressure.”

Due to forecasted inclement weather, Saturday’s game against Baylor has been rescheduled for a 6 p.m. first pitch, while Sunday’s game remains set for noon.

Fans looking to support Houston Softball can engage through the university’s Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) collective, which seeks to provide financial assistance beyond operational budgets. Updates are available through the program’s social media channels, including X and Facebook.

This opening game sets the stage for an eagerly anticipated series, as Baylor looks to claim another win and Houston aims for redemption.