UCLA softball kicks off NCAA regionals powerfully, defeating UC Santa Barbara decisively.
The Phenomenal Kaitlyn Terry: UCLA's Game-Changer
With UCLA's bats struggling initially, Kaitlyn Terry stomped into the batting box determined to spark a two-out rally – and giving the Bruins a much-needed boost, she delivered a devastating three-run homer in the second inning against UC Santa Barbara.
Terry, a versatile right fielder and pitcher, is UCLA's power duo along with Taylor Tinsley. Their dynamic partnership has been instrumental to the team throughout the season, as demonstrated by their unbeatable performance in the regional opener.
Tinsley, a first-team All-Big Ten selection, showed her might by giving up just three hits and one walk while striking out one. Although UCSB's catcher Delaina Ma'ae achieved a run with an RBI single in the second inning, Tinsley’s performance remained solid.
The No. 9 Bruins met San Diego State in Game 3 of the regional on Saturday at 2 p.m. PDT, continuing their chase for a ninth Women's College World Series berth in a decade.
Coach Kelly Inouye-Perez ensured the team would focus on securing a regional at Easton Stadium and taking care of business once they were there. UCLA is on a mission, aiming to be the last team standing, but the road to success lies in conquering challenges one pitch, one inning, and one game at a time.
The Bruins initially showed signs of anxiety, failing to capitalize on scoring opportunities that were uncharacteristic of a team sporting the nation's No. 2 run-scoring lineup. Facing a 1-0 deficit in the second inning, Alexis Ramirez sprinted to second base after a hit, but a gut-wrenching rundown resulted in a wasted opportunity.
In the fifth inning, Terry experienced a similar situation. UCLA had runners on first and second with just two outs, but a flyout to center field ended the inning without a run. Terry turned things around in the fourth, launching a home run to the distance – embodying the “get to the next pitch” mantra that Coach Inouye-Perez has emphasized throughout the season.
With Tinsley delivering an average performance, it became clear the Bruins would need Terry to step up. Fueled by her home run, she took the pitching mound, pitching two scoreless innings to consolidate the Bruins' victory.
"Mindset was just having Taylor's back" Terry declared. "They threw a punch at her, and knowing we are family - no matter if they throw a punch at us, we’re going to punch back."
That combination of power and grit appears to be just what UCLA needs to conquer the regionals and cement their place in the Women’s College World Series.[1][3][4]
A Revelation in Swimsuits
Jordan Chiles, a U.S. and UCLA gymnastics star, couldn't believe her eyes when she saw herself gracing the cover of the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit issue. After overcoming feelings of inadequacy about her appearance, Chiles now embraces her beauty and strength as a model.
The game then ended in the sixth inning due to the mercy rule, following the succession of home runs. Jessica Clements, Savannah Pola, Jordan Woolery, and Megan Grant all contributed to the bombardment, scoring a combined nine runs.[2] This was the 26th game in the season where UCLA secured victory via the mercy rule, reflecting their dominance throughout the year.
Coach Inouye-Perez appreciated the team's shining performance, but she was confident that the experience would help them maintain focus and sharpen their skills for the following games.[2]
More to Read
- UCLA Softball clinches record 40th NCAA tournament appearance, securing their spot as hosts for the regional tournament.[5]
In the heart of Los Angeles, California, Kaitlyn Terry became a game-changer for UCLA's softball team, propelling them with a three-run homer in a critical game against UC Santa Barbara. Terry's dynamic partnership with Taylor Tinsley, who was also recognized as a first-team All-Big Ten selection, has been instrumental in UCLA's victories throughout the season. As the team gears up for the Women's College World Series, their spirit remains undeterred, with Terry embodying the mantra of perseverance - "get to the next pitch."
Jordan Chiles, another UCLA representative, also made headlines off the field. She graced the cover of Sports Illustrated's Swimsuit issue, having embraced her beauty and strength after overcoming feelings of inadequacy about her appearance.
The sports scene in Los Angeles continues to thrive as UCLA's softball team and gymnastics star Jordan Chiles make their mark, showcasing the Californian university's prowess in both business and sports.
