The William Carey Crusaders triumphed over Southeastern (Fla.) with a decisive 17-7 victory in the semifinals of the 2026 Avista NAIA World Series. They established a strong lead early, scoring four runs in the first inning, primarily through a two-run double from Hays Carley. Despite a later surge from Southeastern, William Carey dominated the game, notably with a six-run sixth inning that included contributions from players like Jayden Mark and Tyler Ducksworth. The Crusaders showcased a solid offense and are set to face Taylor University next.

By the Numbers
  • William Carey scored 17 runs compared to Southeastern's 7.
  • Jayden Mark drove in 5 runs, while Hays Carley added 3 RBIs.
State of Play
  • The Crusaders advanced to the semifinals, demonstrating a powerful offensive performance.
  • They will compete against Taylor University in their next matchup.
What's Next

William Carey will face Taylor University on Thursday, with expectations high after their dominant performance. A continuation of their offensive momentum could propel them to the finals, while securing a strong start will be crucial against their upcoming opponent.

Bottom Line

This victory highlights the Crusaders' potent offense and strategic gameplay. Carey's ability to respond swiftly to threats and extend leads will be key as they progress in the tournament, setting the stage for potentially significant postseason success.