Liberty won its opening game of the 2026 Conference USA Softball Championship with a 9-0, five-inning victory over seventh-seeded Louisiana Tech on May 6 at Delaware Softball Diamond.
The win brings Liberty’s season record to an even 27-27 and marks their fourth consecutive victory. Louisiana Tech, which entered the game after defeating FIU in extra innings earlier in the day, saw its eight-game winning streak come to an end and now moves into the losers’ bracket.
Key moments included Liberty’s third inning rally, where Brynn McManus doubled before Savannah Jessee hit a two-run home run and Alexia Carrasquillo followed with another homer. The Lady Flames then extended their lead with a five-run fourth inning. Camden Anders pitched her second shutout of the season for Liberty, allowing three hits while walking two and striking out six batters. Ruby Fidge took the loss for LA Tech after giving up four runs on four hits in just under three innings.
Savannah Jessee led Liberty’s offense by going 2-for-3 with a double, home run, sacrifice fly, and five runs batted in. Brynn McManus contributed two hits, including a double and two RBI. Ella Fox also had two hits and scored twice while Alexia Carrasquillo hit her twelfth home run of the year.
Historically, Liberty leads LA Tech 12-3 in their all-time series despite being swept by them during the regular season just two weeks ago. The Lady Flames have now recorded seven shutouts this season—six against Conference USA opponents—and are undefeated against LA Tech in CUSA Tournament play at 4-0. This was also Liberty’s seventeenth all-time conference tournament shutout.
Looking ahead, Liberty advances to face No. 2 seed Western Kentucky tomorrow at 2:30 p.m., continuing their pursuit of another conference title.
