Oklahoma Softball: Freshman Audrey Lowry Shines as Sooners Complete Sweep of South Carolina
The Oklahoma Sooners secured their first SEC sweep in dramatic fashion, edging out South Carolina in a tightly contested pitcher’s duel. Unlike the previous two games in the series, which featured high-scoring affairs, this final matchup was defined by strong pitching and key defensive plays.
Freshman left-hander Audrey Lowry took center stage for the Sooners, delivering an impressive performance against a South Carolina lineup that had tallied 18 runs in the first two games. Despite facing some late-inning pressure, Lowry remained composed, allowing just three hits while maneuvering around base runners to close out the win.
The seventh inning presented a challenge when Oklahoma first baseman Cydney Sanders committed an error, allowing South Carolina to put the tying run on base. However, Lowry quickly responded. She forced a ground ball up the middle, which shortstop Gabbie Garcia smoothly converted into a double play. With two outs, Lowry induced one final weak grounder, sealing a 2-1 victory and Oklahoma’s second win of the day at Love’s Field.
Reflecting on her performance, Lowry emphasized the importance of stepping up when her team needed her most.
“I was just really motivated, just to kind of hold them back a little, because they were just taking lots and lots of swings,” Lowry said after the win. “I was there for the other pitchers, picking them up during the first two games, and being in the bullpen, just really preparing.”
With the win, the No. 2-ranked Sooners improved to 23-0 on the season, while No. 11 South Carolina dropped to 20-3 in its first-ever trip to Love’s Field.
Early Offensive Spark Provides Crucial Runs
Oklahoma jumped ahead in the first inning, capitalizing on intelligent base running.
Outfielder Kasidi Pickering reached first base and advanced to third on a single by Nelly McEnroe-Marinas. Initially, she appeared content to stay at third, but a misplay by South Carolina right fielder Abigail Knight, followed by a delayed relay throw to second base, created an opening. Seizing the moment, Pickering sprinted home, beating the throw to the plate and putting Oklahoma ahead 1-0.
Head coach Patty Gasso admitted she was surprised by Pickering’s decision but ultimately pleased with the aggressive play.
“I was completely shocked,” Gasso said with a laugh. “I’m just standing there like, ‘What are you doing?’ And I thought for sure she was going to get thrown out at home plate. But it sparked the team, and that’s something we always try to do—score first.”
Oklahoma extended its lead in the bottom of the first thanks to another defensive miscue by South Carolina. Shortstop Gabbie Garcia executed a surprise bunt, which Gamecock third baseman Ella Chancey fielded but overthrew to first base. The ball rolled up the foul line, giving McEnroe-Marinas an opportunity to race home, making it 2-0 in favor of the Sooners.
Lowry Dominates Despite South Carolina’s Pushback
Lowry found her rhythm early, allowing just one hit through the first three innings. However, in the fourth inning, South Carolina first baseman Arianna Rodi launched a solo home run, cutting Oklahoma’s lead to 2-1.
Despite the home run, Lowry remained steady, continuing to keep the Gamecocks’ offense at bay. Meanwhile, Oklahoma’s bats cooled off against South Carolina right-hander Jori Heard, who retired 13 straight Sooners, keeping the game tight.
Oklahoma finally broke that streak in the sixth inning when Maya Bland worked a leadoff walk, followed by another free pass issued to Ella Parker. However, the Sooners were unable to capitalize on the opportunity, sending Lowry back to the circle with just a one-run cushion heading into the final frame.
Clutch Defense Secures the Win
South Carolina’s last chance at a comeback began with an error, as Sanders misplayed a ball at first base, putting the tying run aboard. The pressure mounted, but Lowry remained calm.
She forced a ground ball up the middle, which Garcia fielded cleanly before flipping to second baseman Tiare Jennings, who turned a textbook double play. Moments later, Lowry induced another ground ball, this time to third, sealing the game with a routine out.
Lowry’s final stat line was impressive: seven innings pitched, three hits allowed, no walks, one hit batter, and two strikeouts while facing 25 batters. Her stellar performance showcased both her talent and mental toughness, making a strong statement in her freshman season.
Looking Ahead: A Tough Road Stretch Awaits
With the South Carolina series behind them, the Sooners now prepare for a challenging stretch on the road. They will face Tulsa in a mid-week contest on Wednesday before heading to Fayetteville for a marquee SEC matchup against No. 10 Arkansas next weekend.
Oklahoma’s dominant start to the season has reinforced their status as a national championship contender, but tougher tests lie ahead. As conference play intensifies, performances like Lowry’s will be crucial in maintaining the Sooners’ unbeaten streak.
The series sweep over South Carolina not only marked a significant milestone in Oklahoma’s first SEC season but also highlighted the depth of their pitching staff. While the Sooners boast a powerful offense, their ability to win close, low-scoring battles will be essential as they pursue another championship.
Final Thoughts
Oklahoma’s victory over South Carolina was a testament to both strong pitching and opportunistic base running. Lowry’s poise under pressure provided a glimpse of the Sooners’ bright future, while the team’s aggressive approach on the basepaths demonstrated their ability to manufacture runs in tight games.
With tougher competition on the horizon, Oklahoma will look to build on this momentum as they navigate the rest of their inaugural SEC campaign. If Lowry’s performance is any indication, the Sooners have a formidable weapon in the circle who could play a key role in their championship aspirations.
