Northern Colorado and Portland State each won a game during their Big Sky Conference doubleheader at Hillsboro Ballpark, according to an April 17 announcement. The Vikings took the first game with a 10–2 victory, while the Bears responded with an 8–0 shutout in the second.
The outcome keeps both teams in contention as they look ahead to the deciding third game of the series. These results are important for conference standings and momentum as teams approach the end of regular season play.
In the opener, Portland State established control early by scoring four runs in the first inning. Northern Colorado managed to get on the board when KK Christie singled home Abby Gaona in the second inning. Krista Francia added a solo home run for UNC, but Portland State continued to add runs and finished with a convincing win behind pitcher Sherreigh Nakoa-Chung.
Game two saw Northern Colorado turn things around quickly. The Bears capitalized on a defensive error by Portland State to score first, then built their lead through timely hitting from Amailee Morales and Baylie Kakallis, who hit her first home run of the season. Control problems from Viking pitchers allowed UNC to extend its lead further through bases-loaded walks. Anna Wilming pitched a complete-game one-hitter for Northern Colorado’s shutout win.
Looking ahead, both teams will meet again for game three of their series with first pitch scheduled for 2 p.m. Mountain Daylight Time.
The Rally Starters Club continues to support UNC Softball by providing resources that enhance training opportunities and student-athlete experiences. Fans can follow team updates online or through social media platforms.
