The UNLV softball team secured a 4-2 victory against rival UNR, clinching the Mountain West series. The pivotal moment came in the third inning when Mantha Hatzenbeller hit a three-run homer, bringing UNLV to a 4-0 lead. UNR managed to score twice but couldn't overcome the deficit, marking UNLV’s 30th win of the season.

By the Numbers
  • UNLV's record improved to 30-20 overall and 17-7 in conference play.
  • Mantha Hatzenbeller recorded three RBIs with a three-run homer in the third inning.
Yes, But

Despite the victory, UNR’s strong season performance (37-16, 16-8) highlights that they remain competitive within the conference. Additionally, UNLV’s earlier momentum could face potential challenges moving forward given the unpredictable nature of postseason play.

State of Play
  • UNLV has now won the series against UNR with one game remaining.
  • Keyannah Chavez extended her on-base streak to 21 games, contributing to the team's offensive efforts.
What's Next

The final game of the series occurs on May 2, where UNLV will honor its six senior players. This matchup could have implications for seeding in the upcoming conference tournament.

Bottom Line

UNLV's strong performance against UNR not only secures a series win but also showcases the team's potential heading into the postseason. Key players’ streaks and solid pitching are promising signs for their championship aspirations.