LeGette Homers Twice as Tar Heels Defeat NC State 9-6

Carolina softball picks up sixth straight win over rival NC State in Raleigh

Apr. 3, 2026 at 3:33am

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting a softball game, with the players and field broken down into sharp, overlapping planes of color representing the UNC and NC State uniforms.A cubist interpretation of the heated softball rivalry between UNC and NC State, with the Tar Heels' offensive firepower on full display.Today in Raleigh

The University of North Carolina softball team defeated NC State 9-6 on Thursday night, powered by two home runs from Emily LeGette. LeGette's 19th and 20th homers of the season helped the Tar Heels build an early 7-0 lead, which they were able to hold on to despite a late NC State rally.

Why it matters

This win extends UNC's recent dominance over their in-state rival, marking the sixth consecutive victory for the Tar Heels in Raleigh. Emily LeGette's power surge has been a key factor in Carolina's success this season, as she continues to climb the program's single-season home run record book.

The details

Carolina jumped out to a 3-0 lead in the third inning, highlighted by RBI hits from Shelby Barbee and MC Eaton. The Tar Heels then broke the game open with a four-run outburst, capped by RBI doubles from Michele Tarpey and Raegan Jennings. NC State responded with three runs in the bottom of the third, but LeGette answered with a solo shot to make it 8-3. The Wolfpack cut the deficit to 8-6 in the sixth, but LeGette struck again with another solo homer to provide the final 9-6 margin.

  • The game took place on Thursday, April 3, 2026.
  • This was the sixth consecutive win for UNC over NC State in Raleigh.

The players

Emily LeGette

A standout junior outfielder for the Tar Heels, LeGette hit two home runs in the game to bring her season total to 20, tying the single-season program record.

Shelby Barbee

A senior infielder who drove in runs with an RBI double and hit-by-pitch, extending her single-season program record to 52 RBIs.

Kendall Frost

The Tar Heels' starting pitcher who went the distance, recording her third complete game of the season.

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What’s next

UNC and NC State will face off again on Friday, April 4 at 5 PM on ACCNX.

The takeaway

This victory showcases the Tar Heels' offensive firepower, led by the record-setting performance of Emily LeGette, as well as the team's ability to respond to adversity and maintain their dominance over their in-state rival.