Carbondale Reporter

Southern Illinois University's softball team had a memorable day at Charlotte West Stadium as Jackie Lis set a new career home run record for the Salukis. Lis hit her 40th home run during SIU's second game against Northern Illinois, surpassing the previous record held by Katie Jordan, who had 39 home runs from 2002 to 2005.

The Salukis began their day with a 7-3 victory over Wisconsin and later secured a 4-1 win against Northern Illinois, concluding the Saluki Invitational with a 3-1 record.

In the first game against Wisconsin, both teams recorded seven hits each. McKenzie Newcomb improved her season record to 5-5 by pitching for nearly six innings, allowing only one earned run. Freshman Emma Gipson started the game but allowed two unearned runs in just over an inning. Addi Baker contributed significantly with her third home run of the season and three RBIs.

The second game saw Southern Illinois out-hitting Northern Illinois 11-9. Kiana McDowell and Kaytee Dahlstrom combined efforts on the mound to secure the win. Dahlstrom earned her third win of the season with four scoreless innings pitched. Lis not only hit her record-breaking home run but also contributed two RBIs in this match.

Southern Illinois will now prepare for their upcoming conference games at home against Illinois State next weekend.