UCLA Softball Explodes for 8 Home Runs as Megan Grant Makes Big Ten History Again

The Bruins' offense erupted for 14 runs in the 7th inning to defeat Illinois 17-0.

Apr. 11, 2026 at 5:56pm

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A fractured, multi-perspective painting in vibrant shades of blue, gold, and white, breaking down a softball game into sharp, overlapping geometric shapes and planes, conveying the explosive energy of the UCLA Bruins' historic offensive display.The UCLA Bruins' softball team's record-breaking offensive performance against Illinois is captured in a cubist, geometric illustration that captures the raw energy and movement of the game.Los Angeles Today

The No. 9 UCLA Bruins' softball team scored 14 runs in the seventh inning against Illinois, including six home runs, to win 17-0. Megan Grant hit two homers, breaking her own Big Ten single-season record of 26 set last year. The Bruins tied their program record with eight home runs in the game, which is tied for the second-most in a single inning in NCAA Division I history.

Why it matters

This game showcases the incredible offensive firepower of the UCLA softball team, which has now hit eight home runs in a game twice this season. Megan Grant's continued dominance and record-breaking performance highlights the individual talent on the team. The Bruins' offensive explosion and pitching performance demonstrate their status as one of the top teams in the country.

The details

In the Big Ten series opener against Illinois, the No. 9 Bruins scored 14 runs in the seventh inning, including six home runs. Megan Grant, Jordan Woolery, Kaniya Bragg (twice), Alexis Ramirez, and Aleena Garcia all hit home runs in the historic inning. The Bruins finished the game with 13 hits and went through the order twice in the seventh. Grant's two-homer night broke her own Big Ten single-season record of 26, which she set last season. She finished the game 2-for-4 with five RBIs and three runs scored.

  • The game was played on Friday, April 11, 2026.

The players

Megan Grant

A senior on the UCLA softball team who broke her own Big Ten single-season home run record with 28 homers after hitting two in this game.

Taylor Tinsley

The UCLA pitcher who tossed six shutout innings, allowing just two hits and striking out six batters to earn her 20th win of the season.

Brynne Nally

The UCLA relief pitcher who recorded one strikeout in the seventh inning.

Jordan Woolery

A UCLA player who hit one of the six home runs in the Bruins' 14-run seventh inning.

Kaniya Bragg

A UCLA player who hit two home runs in the Bruins' 14-run seventh inning.

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What they’re saying

“It's a lot of rinse and repeat, honestly. It's my last year, so knowing my swing more and more and staying consistent (is key). The four letters mean everything to me. I know with this senior group, we'll do anything for this program and for each other.”

— Megan Grant

What’s next

The Bruins will try to carry their momentum into game two of the series against Illinois on Saturday at 1 p.m. CT on B1G+.

The takeaway

UCLA's historic offensive performance, led by Megan Grant's continued dominance, showcases the team's status as one of the top softball programs in the country. The Bruins' ability to hit eight home runs in a game, tying a program record, demonstrates their explosive offensive capabilities and will make them a formidable opponent for any team they face.