Bulldogs Softball Splits Doubleheader at Northern State

Minnesota Duluth takes Game 1 but falls in Game 2 against host Northern State

Apr. 12, 2026 at 5:00am

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A cubist-style painting featuring sharp, overlapping geometric shapes in navy, green, and red, conceptually representing the back-and-forth action of a high-stakes college softball game.A fractured, geometric illustration captures the competitive intensity of a pivotal NSIC softball doubleheader between Minnesota Duluth and Northern State.Duluth Today

The Minnesota Duluth Bulldogs softball team split a doubleheader against Northern State on Saturday, winning the first game 9-4 after a big five-run first inning, but dropping the second game 4-1.

Why it matters

This NSIC conference doubleheader is an important early-season matchup that could impact the standings and playoff positioning for both teams as they compete for a spot in the NCAA Division II tournament.

The details

In the opening game, the Bulldogs jumped out to a 5-0 lead in the first inning and held on for a 9-4 victory. However, Northern State bounced back to win the second game 4-1, evening the day's results.

  • The doubleheader took place on Saturday, April 12, 2026.

The players

Minnesota Duluth Bulldogs

The NCAA Division II softball team representing the University of Minnesota Duluth.

Northern State

The NCAA Division II softball team representing Northern State University in Aberdeen, South Dakota.

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What’s next

The two teams will meet again later in the season for another NSIC conference doubleheader, which could have major implications for their postseason hopes.

The takeaway

This split doubleheader showcases the competitive balance in the NSIC conference, as the Bulldogs and Northern State traded victories in a closely contested matchup between two strong softball programs.