The Park University Gilbert softball team (25-23, 8-14) faced the Ottawa University Arizona Spirit (28-14, 15-7) in a doubleheader, splitting the games. The Buccaneers won the first match in thrilling fashion, finishing 10-9 after extra innings, highlighted by a walk-off single from Amaya Ruiz. However, they fell short in the second game, losing 8-6 after the Spirit scored four runs in the seventh inning, sealing their victory. The series continues with a final matchup tomorrow, where Park-Gilbert will celebrate senior day.

By the Numbers
  • Game 1: Park-Gilbert 10, OUAZ 9 (8 innings)
  • Game 2: OUAZ 8, Park-Gilbert 6
  • Amaya Ruiz had three RBIs and Madi Ban recorded her first career home run.
  • Parker-Gilbert totaled 12 hits in Game 2; OUAZ had 14 hits.
State of Play
  • Park-Gilbert tied the first game in the sixth inning after a two-run single from Rebekka Nance.
  • OUAZ's Alexis Jimenez hit a two-run homer in the eighth inning of Game 1 to take the lead.
  • In Game 2, the Buccaneers scored four runs in the third but were unable to maintain the lead.
What's Next

The Buccaneers will face off against the Spirit for the final time this season, with first pitch scheduled for 11 a.m. MST. Key players will look to carry the momentum from the first game's win into the final matchup, especially as they celebrate senior day.

Bottom Line

The split highlights the competitive nature of the series, demonstrating Park-Gilbert's resilience. As they approach their final game, consistency and maintaining offensive pressure will be crucial for closing out the season on a high note.