MU softball opens conference play
The Tigers (22-3, 0-0 Big 12) look to continue their hot streak as they head to Norman, Okla., to kick off conference play against the Sooners.
The No. 3 Tigers, who are coming off a successful weekend at the Demarini Invitational, look to pounce early on the capable Sooner squad. Oklahoma (25-7, 0-0) started off the season strong, but has struggled as of late. The No. 12 Sooners suffered tough losses to No. 2 Arizona and unranked Tulsa, San Jose State and Cal State Northridge. The Sooners have lost three of their last four games.
The Sooners hope to stifle the Tiger bats with freshman ace Keilani Ricketts, who leads the team with 15 wins. Senior utility player Amber Flores, a two-time All American and three-time All-Big 12 selection, commands the offense. Freshman catcher Jessica Shults and junior outfielder Haley Nix provide the power, with 10 and eight home runs, respectively.
Missouri coach Ehren Earleywine believes both teams are not completely prepared for the start of conference play.
“We’re not totally ready, and I’d like to have two or three more weeks, but they probably are in the same situation,” Earleywine said. “Having said that, we are absolutely chomping at the bit to go down there and play.”
The Tigers and Sooners square off at 2 p.m. March 27 to kick off conference play.