Iowa softball downs Illinois State 6-3

Hawkeyes record season-high 13 hits in midweek matchup

Mar. 11, 2026 at 4:49am

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The University of Iowa softball team defeated Illinois State 6-3 in their midweek matchup Tuesday at Marian Kneer Stadium. Senior Tory Bennett hit two home runs to lead the Hawkeyes' offense, which recorded a season-high 13 hits in the game.

Why it matters

This victory builds momentum for the Hawkeyes as they prepare to face Illinois in a three-game weekend series, a key conference matchup that could impact their standing in the Big Ten standings.

The details

Senior Tory Bennett got the Hawkeyes off to a quick start with a leadoff home run in the first inning. Iowa then added three more runs in the first on a three-run homer by redshirt sophomore Nailyn Marshall. Bennett hit her second home run of the game in the second inning to extend Iowa's lead to 6-0. Illinois State scored runs in the third, fourth, and fifth innings to cut the deficit, but the Hawkeyes held on for the 6-3 victory.

  • The game was played on Tuesday, March 10, 2026.
  • Iowa will face Illinois in a three-game weekend series starting on Friday, March 13, 2026.

The players

Tory Bennett

A senior on the Iowa softball team who hit two home runs in the game.

Nailyn Marshall

A redshirt sophomore on the Iowa softball team who hit a three-run homer in the first inning.

Serayah Neiss

The starting pitcher for Iowa, who pitched three innings and allowed just one hit.

Avery Sapp

The relief pitcher for Iowa who earned the win, striking out two in 1⅔ innings of work.

Stacy May-Johnson

The head coach of the Iowa softball team.

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What they’re saying

“We had a lot of hits and hit the ball really well. We should've had more runs, but a few things didn't go our way. I'm really pleased with the way we hit the ball. These midweek games build a lot of confidence, and it's good momentum going into the weekend. Tory Bennett is a great player and knows what to do with a good game plan. She's a strong, physical athlete, and it's been really cool to see her take off.”

— Stacy May-Johnson, Head Coach

What’s next

Iowa will face Illinois in a three-game weekend series at Eichelberger Field, with first pitch scheduled for Friday at 5 p.m. (CT), Saturday at 1 p.m. (CT), and Sunday at 12 p.m. (CT) all games will be streamed on B1G+.

The takeaway

This victory showcases the Hawkeyes' offensive firepower, led by the standout performance of senior Tory Bennett. As Iowa prepares for a crucial conference series against Illinois, this midweek win should provide the team with valuable momentum and confidence heading into the weekend.