Tigers Fall to No. 14 Mississippi State Despite Three Home Runs

Memphis softball team's comeback effort falls short against ranked Bulldogs

Feb. 23, 2026 at 1:07pm

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The University of Memphis softball team hit three home runs, including a pair of back-to-back shots, but ultimately fell 8-4 to No. 14/18 Mississippi State on Wednesday night. After taking an early lead, the Tigers were unable to overcome a seven-run third inning by the Bulldogs.

Why it matters

This was Memphis' first game against a top-15 opponent since 2024, providing an early-season test for the Tigers against a nationally ranked program. The loss drops Memphis to 3-6 on the season, while Mississippi State remains undefeated at 11-0.

The details

Memphis got on the board first with a solo home run by Faith Brown in the second inning, but Mississippi State responded with a seven-run third inning to take control of the game. The Bulldogs' big inning was highlighted by a three-run homer by Kiarra Sells and a grand slam by Morgan Bernardini. The Tigers cut the deficit in half with back-to-back home runs by Mya Clark and Kennedy Semien, but Mississippi State added one more run to secure the victory.

  • Faith Brown hit her first career home run in the second inning to give Memphis an early 1-0 lead.
  • Mississippi State scored seven runs in the third inning to take a 7-1 lead.
  • Mya Clark and Kennedy Semien hit back-to-back home runs in the fifth inning to make it 7-4.
  • Mississippi State added one more run in the sixth inning for the final 8-4 score.

The players

Faith Brown

A Memphis softball player who hit her first career home run in the second inning to give the Tigers an early lead.

Kiarra Sells

A Mississippi State softball player who hit a three-run home run in the third inning to help the Bulldogs take control of the game.

Morgan Bernardini

A Mississippi State softball player who hit a grand slam in the third inning to extend the Bulldogs' lead.

Mya Clark

A Memphis softball player who hit a two-run home run in the fifth inning to cut the deficit to 7-3.

Kennedy Semien

A Memphis softball player who hit a solo home run in the fifth inning, following Mya Clark's shot, to make it 7-4.

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The takeaway

Despite the loss, the Tigers' performance against a nationally ranked opponent shows their potential and ability to compete with top programs. The three home runs, including the back-to-back shots, demonstrate the offensive firepower Memphis possesses, which could prove valuable as the season progresses.