Mesquite, TX —
The Oklahoma Wesleyan softball team opened its 2026 season over the weekend at the Southern Collegiate Sports Invitational in Mesquite, Texas, facing a competitive slate of nonconference opponents. The Lady Eagles secured their first win of the season during the trip and return home with a 1–3 overall record.
Game 1 vs. British Columbia
Oklahoma Wesleyan opened the season against British Columbia, falling 3–0 in a tightly contested matchup. The Lady Eagles were held to just one hit in the contest, coming from Aaliyah Huie, as British Columbia's pitching kept Oklahoma Wesleyan off balance throughout the game. Both teams remained scoreless through six innings before British Columbia broke through with three runs in the seventh to secure the win.Gracee Simpson delivered a strong outing in the circle, tossing six innings and allowing just one run while keeping the game within reach deep into the contest. Despite the defensive effort, Oklahoma Wesleyan was unable to generate late offense and dropped its season opener.
Game 2 vs. Xavier (La.)
The Lady Eagles responded with a strong offensive effort in their second game but came up short in a 10–7 loss to Xavier (La.). Oklahoma Wesleyan totaled nine hits and drew six walks, with multiple players contributing at the plate. Huie drove in two runs, while Karsyn Withem added two RBIs on a multi-hit performance. Macy Fory also finished with two hits and an RBI as the offense continued to apply pressure throughout the game. After Xavier built an early lead, the Lady Eagles battled back and remained within striking distance through the middle innings. Oklahoma Wesleyan plated runs across several frames but could not overcome Xavier's early surge despite the late push.
Game 3 vs. Concordia (Neb.)
Oklahoma Wesleyan picked up its first win of the season with a 7–6 victory over Concordia (Neb.) in a back-and-forth contest. The Lady Eagles struck early with a two-run home run from Bri Purtell in the first inning and added four more runs in the third to build momentum. Purtell finished with four RBIs in the win, while Huie led the offense with a four-hit performance and two runs scored. Alexis Matthews and Withem each added RBIs as Oklahoma Wesleyan totaled 10 hits in the game. Concordia mounted a late push to narrow the margin, but the Lady Eagles held on behind solid relief pitching from G. Simpson, who secured the save to close out the 7–6 victory.
Game 4 vs. Nelson (Texas)
In the tournament finale, Oklahoma Wesleyan fell 2–1 to Nelson (Texas) in a close defensive battle. Macy Fory provided the lone run for the Lady Eagles with a solo home run in the fifth inning, giving Oklahoma Wesleyan a brief lead. Nelson responded with two runs in the sixth to take control, and the Lady Eagles were unable to find the equalizer late. Oklahoma Wesleyan finished with four hits in the game, including two from Alexis Matthews. Simpson delivered another solid performance in the circle, allowing just two runs over 5.2 innings, but the Lady Eagles were unable to generate enough offense down the stretch.
The Lady Eagles will open their home schedule this week as they host Crowley's Ridge College on Thursday and Friday at the OKWU Softball Complex.