Lions Rally Late but Fall in Extras in WCC Opener

LMU softball battles back to force extras against Santa Clara before falling in the 8th inning

Mar. 28, 2026 at 4:21am

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Loyola Marymount softball opened West Coast Conference play with a hard-fought battle against Santa Clara, rallying late to force extra innings before ultimately falling 5-2 in the 8th. The Lions showed grit and resilience, getting contributions up and down the lineup and making key defensive plays to keep the game close.

Why it matters

This was the first WCC matchup of the season for LMU, setting the tone for their conference campaign. Despite the loss, the Lions' late-game comeback and ability to compete with a tough opponent demonstrates their potential to be a factor in the WCC race this year.

The details

Santa Clara struck first with two runs in the 1st inning, but LMU starter Lindsay O'Dell settled in and kept the Lions within striking distance. Defensively, LMU turned two key double plays to erase scoring threats. In the 6th, McKenna Charbonneau delivered a clutch pinch-hit RBI double to get LMU on the board, and Sakora Harvell brought home the tying run on a fielder's choice to even the score at 2-2. However, Santa Clara responded with 3 runs in the 8th to regain control and hold on for the win.

  • The game was played on Friday, March 28, 2026.
  • LMU and Santa Clara will continue their series on Saturday, March 28 at 4:00 PM, and conclude it on Sunday, March 29 at 12:00 PM.

The players

Lindsay O'Dell

The LMU starting pitcher who went the distance, tossing all 8 innings and keeping the Lions within striking distance.

Izzy Jamgotchian

The LMU player who reached base 4 times with 4 walks, consistently putting pressure on the defense.

Rubi Lopez

The LMU player who went 2-for-4 at the plate with a strong offensive performance.

Taelor Walker

The LMU player who contributed a hit and a run scored.

McKenna Charbonneau

The LMU player who delivered a clutch pinch-hit RBI double in the 6th inning to get the Lions on the board.

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What’s next

LMU (22-12, 0-1) will return to Smith Field to continue its WCC-opening series against Santa Clara on Saturday, March 28 at 4:00 PM, before concluding the series Sunday, March 29 at 12:00 PM.

The takeaway

This hard-fought loss to open WCC play demonstrates LMU's potential to be a factor in the conference race this season, as the Lions showed resilience, defensive prowess, and contributions from up and down the lineup despite ultimately falling in extras.