UNC softball crushes Bryant, 20-0, in blowout

Tar Heels score 11 runs in the first inning to cruise to victory

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The North Carolina softball team dominated Bryant University, 20-0, on Saturday afternoon. The Tar Heels scored 11 runs in the first inning and never looked back, getting strong pitching from senior Kenna Raye Dark and offensive contributions up and down the lineup, including home runs from Emily LeGette, Reece Outlaw, and Lindsay Lumsden.

Why it matters

This lopsided victory continues UNC's strong start to the season, as they improve to 8-0. The Tar Heels have now outscored their opponents 80-6 through their first eight games, showcasing their offensive firepower and defensive prowess.

The details

After allowing some early baserunners, Dark settled in and kept Bryant off the scoreboard. UNC's offense erupted in the first inning, scoring 11 runs highlighted by a 3-run homer from LeGette and a 2-run double from Rayna Blackwell. The Tar Heels continued to pour it on, adding 9 more runs over the next three innings, including solo shots from Outlaw and Lumsden.

  • The game took place on Saturday, February 14, 2026 at Anderson Softball Stadium.
  • UNC will host Monmouth on Sunday, February 15, 2026 at 11:30am.

The players

Kenna Raye Dark

Senior right-handed pitcher for the North Carolina Tar Heels softball team.

Emily LeGette

Junior first baseman for the North Carolina Tar Heels softball team.

Rayna Blackwell

Junior catcher for the North Carolina Tar Heels softball team.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“This was a great team win for us today. Our offense really set the tone early and Kenna Raye did a fantastic job in the circle.”

— Donna J. Papa, Head Coach, North Carolina Tar Heels Softball (dailytarheel.com)

What’s next

North Carolina will look to continue their hot start when they host Monmouth on Sunday morning.

The takeaway

The Tar Heels have been dominant through the first eight games of the season, outscoring opponents by a wide margin and getting contributions from their entire lineup. This blowout victory over Bryant is an encouraging sign as UNC aims to make a deep postseason run.