MESA, Arizona – Amid the sun-baked grandeur of Hohokam Stadium, the Sam Houston Bearkats staged a riveting comeback to secure a thrilling 12-10 victory over Utah Valley in the Western Athletic Conference baseball tournament. This hard-won triumph propels both teams into a high-stakes, winner-take-all rematch for the prestigious Conference title and a coveted NCAA berth.
The Wolverines, seeded third, launched into the game with an aggressive start, amassing an imposing seven runs in the first inning and adding individual runs in the second and fourth innings. However, the second-seeded Bearkats displayed their resilience, counteracting with five runs in the opening inning, followed by steady run accumulation over the subsequent innings, which finally saw them overcoming their rivals by the ninth.
Braden Davis, the winning pitcher for Sam Houston, exemplified endurance on the mound. He withstood Utah Valley’s initial onslaught, paving the way for his team’s remarkable comeback. Chandler David, stepping into the game as a reliever, rose to the occasion by securing his second save of the season, and confirming the Bearkats’ victory.
Despite a tough beginning for the Bearkats with starting pitcher Steven Beard having a testing first inning, their offense rallied splendidly. Josh Wishkoski stood out with a notable double, a home run, and three RBIs. James Redfield and Chris Contreras each played significant roles by providing two runs, while Todd Davis and Mark Jefferson further boosted the run tally.
On the opposing side, Utah Valley demonstrated impressive offensive capabilities early in the game. Junior Chris Halvorson, in particular, delivered a double and a home run, while driving in five runs. Freshman Don Dickinson and Junior George Broussard also provided crucial performances, each contributing two runs.
However, the Wolverines faced stern challenges on the mound. Starting pitcher Jayse Burkett found it difficult to contain the resilient batting order of the Bearkats. Burkett conceded five runs in less than an inning, resulting in an early withdrawal from the game.
This dramatic contest now sets the stage for a winner-take-all match, elevating the stakes for both teams. With the Western Athletic Conference title and an NCAA tournament spot on the line, both the Bearkats and the Wolverines face immense pressure. The momentum is with Sam Houston after their comeback victory, while Utah Valley will be determined to make a triumphant return and claim the title. As anticipation soars, all eyes are on Hohokam Stadium in Mesa, Arizona, for what promises to be a thrilling showdown.
