Iowa Softball Scores 21 Runs in Series Opener Defeat of Illinois

Game featured 9 home runs and 36 combined runs in high-scoring affair

Mar. 14, 2026 at 8:35am

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The University of Iowa softball team defeated Illinois, 21-15, in the series opener on Friday night at Eichelberger Field. The game featured nine home runs and 36 combined runs, with Iowa scoring at least one run in every inning.

Why it matters

This was a high-scoring affair between two Big Ten softball programs, showcasing the offensive firepower of both teams. Iowa's 21 runs mark the second-most scored in program history, highlighting their potent lineup and ability to respond after falling behind early.

The details

Iowa opened the game with a leadoff home run by Devin Simon, but Illinois responded with 8 runs in the bottom of the first. The Hawkeyes then erupted for 10 runs in the 3rd inning, capped by a 2-run homer from Leah McAnally, to take the lead. Brianna Johnson hit 2 home runs for Iowa, while Nailyn Marshall and Devin Simon also went deep. Illinois made it close late, but Iowa pulled away with 5 runs in the 6th inning.

  • The game was played on Friday, March 13, 2026.
  • The series will conclude with a doubleheader on Saturday, March 14, 2026 starting at 1 p.m. CT.

The players

Devin Simon

An Iowa softball player who hit a leadoff home run to open the game.

Nailyn Marshall

An Iowa softball player who hit a home run and drove in multiple runs.

Brianna Johnson

An Iowa softball player who hit 2 home runs in the game.

Leah McAnally

An Iowa softball player who hit a 2-run home run in the 3rd inning.

Avery Sapp

The Iowa softball pitcher who recorded her 200th career strikeout in the game.

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What they’re saying

“It was a slugfest tonight, but there was no panic from our team after we got hit early. Brianna Johnson has been swinging the bat really well, so it was great to see her have success. Avery Sapp was the right pitcher for a game like this — she stays composed and keeps competing.”

— Stacy May-Johnson, Head Coach

What’s next

The Hawkeyes will close out the series against Illinois on Saturday with a doubleheader beginning at 1 p.m. (CT). Fans can watch on B1G+ (subscription required).

The takeaway

Iowa's offensive explosion, with 9 home runs and 21 runs scored, showcased the team's potent lineup and ability to respond after falling behind early. This high-scoring affair highlighted the competitive nature of Big Ten softball and Iowa's status as a contender in the conference.