Carbondale Reporter

Southern Illinois University's softball team completed a three-game sweep against Bradley University with a 9-3 victory on Sunday. The Salukis, currently holding a record of 25-15 and a conference record of 16-1, showcased resilience as they overcame multiple deficits during the game held in Carbondale, Illinois.

"It speaks to how much our players are willing to let the win come to them," said head coach Jen Sewell. "We have really clicked together lately as a roster. And they have allowed us to challenge them and they respond. It is not easy to wear this jersey; these players are gritty and gutsy and they have to be prepared to take everyone's best shot. They are willing to fail and come back for more and learn from it. Sweeps look easy on paper but they are never easy. Sweeps take not just physical preparedness but they require everything a team has mentally. Super impressed by this sweep."

The Salukis' victory was bolstered by Emily Williams, who recorded a home run and three RBIs. Emma Austin added two RBIs with her two singles. McKenzie Newcomb secured her 15th win of the season, delivering 2.1 innings of shutout pitching.

Bradley initiated the scoring in the first inning, taking a 2-0 lead by the third inning. However, Southern Illinois responded in the bottom of the third inning with a bases-loaded walk to equalize at 2-2. In the fifth inning, Williams' home run shifted momentum, putting Southern Illinois in the lead at 5-3. The Salukis expanded their lead with additional runs in the fifth and sixth innings, concluding the game at 9-3.

Newcomb shut down Bradley's lineup despite early challenges in the seventh inning, ensuring a decisive win for Southern Illinois.

Next, the Salukis will travel to Northern Iowa for a three-game series starting Friday, April 18.

For updates on the Salukis, fans can follow their social media accounts on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram, or download the "Salukis" Mobile App.