Game 1: Carolina U Edges Out Bluefield State in Thrilling Contest

In a nail-biting opening game of the doubleheader at Wilson Park on April 21, 2025, Carolina U squeezed out a 7-6 victory over Bluefield State. The game was a rollercoaster of emotions, featuring lead changes and late-inning drama.

Bluefield State started strong, taking an early 1-0 lead in the first inning. However, Carolina U responded, eventually taking the lead and holding on despite a late surge from Bluefield State.

The game was marked by aggressive base-running, with a total of nine stolen bases between the two teams, and also some defensive lapses, as evidenced by the errors on both sides. Ultimately, Carolina U demonstrated resilience and clutch hitting to secure the win.  

Key Players:
Carolina U

• Danielle Brooks: Winning pitcher, 2 hits, 1 RBI  
• Annika Bergmeier: 1 double, 1 RBI, 1 stolen base  
• ZyMaijah Thomas: 1 hit, 2 runs  

Bluefield State

• P. Whittington: 2 hits, 2 runs
• J. Costanzo: 2 hits, 3 RBIs
• L. Shadowens: 2 stolen bases  

Game 2: Carolina U Completes Sweep with Decisive Victory
Carolina U carried its momentum into the second game, securing a 7-5 victory to complete the doubleheader sweep of Bluefield State.

Bluefield State again showed early promise, scoring a run in the first inning. However, Carolina U responded emphatically, scoring four runs in the second inning and adding two more in the third to take a commanding lead.

D. Brooks starred both on the mound and at the plate for Carolina, earning a save while also driving in four runs with a crucial double. M. Hamilton also contributed significantly with strong pitching and a key hit.  

Bluefield State battled back, scoring two runs in the top of the 7th, but it wasn't enough to overcome Carolina's lead. P. Whittington continued his strong performance for Bluefield State, with three hits and three stolen bases. However, the team's five errors were ultimately too much to overcome.  

Overall, Carolina U demonstrated strong hitting and effective pitching to secure both wins in the doubleheader, while Bluefield State showcased resilience but was ultimately undone by defensive miscues.

Key Players:
Carolina U

• Danielle Brooks: 1 double, 4 RBIs, 2 walks  
• Madison Hamilton: Winning pitcher, 1 hit, 1 run  
• Nicole Otto: 1 hit, 1 RBI  

Bluefield State

• P. Whittington: 3 hits, 3 stolen bases  
• L. Shadowens: 2 hits, 2 RBIs  

Up Next:
The Bruins will be back at home on Thursday, April 24 against Fayetteville State where they will honor their 4 seniors! The ceremony will be between the 2 games.