No. 23 Gamecocks Secure Third Consecutive Shutout in Victory over Minnesota

In Columbia, S.C., No. 23 South Carolina Gamecocks have registered a third straight shutout in their impressive 4-0 victory against Minnesota. The result came as part of the Garnet & Black Invitational held on March 16, 2024.

Impressive Performance in the Circle

Gamecocks’ Alana Vawter turned in a dominant performance in the circle. Throwing a complete game, she silenced her opponents by scattering four hits and striking out six, without allowing a single walk.

Dominant Show at the Plates

At the batting end, Denver Bryant and Carlie Henderson played a key role in the victory. Both ended the night 2-for-3 at the plate. Bryant led the team with an impressive two RBIs. The Gamecocks took an early initiative in the bottom of the first with Riley Blampied leading off the inning with a walk. Karley Shelton followed up with a single in the middle. Consequently, Blampied managed to score on a groundout by Jen Cummings, following Bryant’s sacrifice bunt.

Building on the Gamecocks’ Lead

The lead was extended in the second inning with Bryant’s crucial contribution. After Henderson singled and Brooke Blankenship drew a walk with one out, Carolina had loaded the bases following a walk to Shelton. On the second pitch, Bryant delivered a single in the middle, enabling Henderson and Blankenship to score.

Capping off the Scoring

South Carolina capped off the scoring in the fifth inning with two outs. Aniyah Black initiated the momentum with a two-out single to right-center. Henderson, following suit, singled through the right side. Marissa Gonzalez, acting as a pinch runner, moved to third on a wild pitch before scoring on another wild pitch.

Upcoming Games

The Gamecocks look forward to continuing their winning streak at the Garnet & Black Invitational. They are set to play against NC State at 3 p.m. and Northwestern, with the match to begin 30 minutes after the conclusion of the first game.

Stay tuned for more updates on South Carolina Softball via its official social media pages (@GamecockSoftbll on Twitter, /GamecockSoftball on Facebook, and @GamecockSoftball on Instagram).