LAWRENCE, Kan. – After a powerful weekend in Houston that gave Kansas its first Big 12 series win of the season, the Jayhawks return home to host a single midweek game against South Dakota on Wednesday, March 17. The schedule change comes after Kansas adjusted its originally planned Tuesday doubleheader due to unforeseen circumstances.
"We're excited to get back on the field at home," head coach Jennifer McFalls said. "Our team showed what we're capable of in Houston, and we're ready to keep building momentum. Every player in our lineup has the ability to make an impact, and we're focused on continuing our success as we take on South Dakota.
Kansas (20-8, 2-1 Big 12) rode an offensive surge to a 2-1 series win over Houston, highlighted by timely hitting and four home runs in the series clincher. Senior Presley Limbaugh stole her 10th base of the season in the opener, moving into fifth in the conference and now sitting 10-for-11 on the year. Freshman Ella Boyer extended her career home run total to 11, ranking second-most in the conference, and earned Big 12 Freshman of the Week honors for a second consecutive week. Kansas now sits fifth in the Big 12 standings.
The Jayhawks showcased depth throughout the lineup in the last game of the series. Campbell Bagshaw, Hailey Cripe, Aynslee Linduff, September Flanagan, and transfer Tehya Pitts all contributed home runs, including Linduff's grand slam that helped Kansas build a commanding 10-1 lead before holding off a late Houston rally. Pitching was anchored by Lila Partridge, who earned the win with six innings of solid work.
Kansas also broke multiple program records over the weekend. On Saturday, March 14, the Jayhawks hit seven home runs in a single game, surpassing the previous mark of six set against Utah State on March 6. Four of those home runs came in a single inning, the first time Kansas accomplished that feat since 2003. KU also recorded its 11th run-rule victory of the season, just two shy of the program record of 13.
Kansas holds a 5-1 advantage all-time against South Dakota, including a perfect 4-0 record at home. The Jayhawks' most recent meeting came in 2022, when Kansas secured a 6-1 victory. The only loss in series history occurred in 2014 at a neutral site. With that history and home-field success, Kansas will aim to continue its dominance in the series.
HOW TO FOLLOW
First pitch is set for 12 p.m. CT on ESPN+, with updates available via the Kansas Softball X account and live stats.