Iowa Softball Defeats Georgia Tech in Classic Opener

Hawkeyes win 2-1 behind strong pitching performance from Serayah Neiss

Apr. 11, 2026 at 7:19am

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A cubist-style painting depicting a softball game broken down into abstract geometric shapes and planes of emerald green, navy blue, and golden yellow, conveying the dynamic energy and competitive spirit of the sport.Iowa's softball team celebrates a hard-fought victory over Georgia Tech, showcasing the program's competitive spirit and strategic execution on the diamond.Iowa City Today

The University of Iowa softball team defeated Georgia Tech 2-1 in the opening game of the Dr. Christine Grant Classic on Friday evening at Pearl Field in Iowa City. Pitcher Serayah Neiss went the distance for the Hawkeyes, tossing a complete game with 5 strikeouts while allowing just 1 run. Leah McAnally drove in both Iowa runs with a single in the 3rd inning.

Why it matters

This early-season matchup between two strong softball programs provides an important test for the Hawkeyes as they look to build momentum heading into Big Ten conference play. The win over a quality opponent like Georgia Tech could boost Iowa's confidence and help establish them as a team to watch in the NCAA tournament picture.

The details

Iowa struck first in the bottom of the 3rd inning when Tory Bennett singled and Kiara Sipe reached on a fielder's choice. Leah McAnally then singled to center, driving in both runners to give the Hawkeyes a 2-0 lead. Georgia Tech got on the board in the 7th with an infield single, but Neiss was able to close out the game and secure the victory for Iowa.

  • The game was played on Friday, April 10, 2026.
  • Iowa struck for 2 runs in the bottom of the 3rd inning.

The players

Serayah Neiss

The senior pitcher for the University of Iowa softball team, who recorded her 50th career win and 2nd complete game of the season in the victory over Georgia Tech.

Leah McAnally

The Iowa player who went 1-for-3 at the plate and drove in both of the Hawkeyes' runs with a single in the 3rd inning.

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What they’re saying

“It was a well-played game on both sides. Both pitchers were very good. There weren't many scoring opportunities for either team; it just came down to Leah McAnally knocking in two runs. Serayah was really good today. She had great control of her pitches and made it tough on them.”

— Stacy May-Johnson, Head Coach

What’s next

Iowa will return to action on Saturday with a doubleheader against Georgia Tech at 1:30 p.m. and South Dakota State at 4 p.m.

The takeaway

This victory over a strong Georgia Tech program demonstrates the Hawkeyes' ability to win close, low-scoring games behind stellar pitching and timely hitting. As Iowa continues its non-conference schedule, this win could prove pivotal in building momentum and confidence ahead of the critical Big Ten slate.