The FAMU softball team’s unbeaten run through the Southwestern Athletic Conference Championship tournament came to a jarring halt on Friday, after being overpowered 8-0 by the Southern University Jaguars in a game shortened to five innings by the NCAA’s run rule.
The loss forces a decisive rematch Saturday at noon Eastern time, with the SWAC’s automatic bid to the N.C.A.A. tournament on the line.
“We didn’t execute today, and Southern made us pay for every mistake,” said FAMU Head Coach Brittany Beall. “The character of this team will be tested tomorrow. Our season, our goal, is still right in front of us.”
“It’s all on the line now — 21 outs to define your season,” said FAMU senior infielder Nyomi Jones. “We’ve responded to pressure all year. We’ll be ready.”
Saturday’s championship game will be streamed on SWAC TV at noon.