Southern Miss Softball Surges Through Conference Play

Golden Eagles win three straight conference series for first time since 2006 under head coach Natalie Poole.

Apr. 2, 2026 at 4:34am

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Southern Miss softball has won three consecutive conference series, the first time since 2006, with the most wins in a season under head coach Natalie Poole. The Golden Eagles have 13 home runs in the last 15 games and lead the nation in several offensive categories. They will host James Madison, who is struggling in conference play, in a three-game series starting on April 2.

Why it matters

Southern Miss softball's hot streak in conference play has them positioned well for a strong finish to the season. The team's offensive production and national rankings in key statistical categories suggest they could make a deep postseason run if they continue this momentum.

The details

Southern Miss (25-14, 6-3 Sun Belt) has won three consecutive conference series, the first time they've accomplished that feat since 2006. The Golden Eagles have the most wins in a season under head coach Natalie Poole. They've hit 13 home runs in the last 15 games, with sophomore Hannah Christian leading the team with four. Southern Miss leads the nation in hit by pitches (41), is second in sac flies (23), 11th in fielding percentage (0.981), and 32nd in hits (310). They'll host James Madison (15-18, 3-6 Sun Belt), who has struggled in conference play, in a three-game series starting on April 2.

  • The three-game series between Southern Miss and James Madison starts at 6 p.m. on April 2.
  • Southern Miss has won three consecutive conference series, the first time since 2006.

The players

Natalie Poole

The head coach of the Southern Miss softball team, who has led the Golden Eagles to their most wins in a season.

Hannah Christian

A sophomore on the Southern Miss softball team who leads the team with four home runs in the last 15 games.

Kendra Lewis

The leading hitter for James Madison, batting .477 with 8 home runs and 16 walks.

Taylor Johnson

The top pitcher for James Madison, with a 4.48 ERA and 1.94 WHIP.

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What they’re saying

“Southern Miss has won three consecutive conference series, the first time since 2006, with the most wins in a season having head coach Natalie Poole at the helm.”

— Southern Miss Sports Information

What’s next

The winner of the three-game series between Southern Miss and James Madison will gain an advantage in the Sun Belt Conference standings.

The takeaway

Southern Miss softball is surging at the right time, with a potent offense and strong pitching leading them to their best conference start in over 15 years. If they can maintain this momentum, they could be a team to watch in the postseason.