Crimson Storm Walk-off Arkansas Tech in Series Opener

Southern Nazarene kicks off 3-game conference series with thrilling win.

Apr. 10, 2026 at 4:42pm

An abstract expressionist painting with vibrant neon brushstrokes capturing the intense final moments of a softball game, players' forms dissolving into a blur of color and energy.The Crimson Storm's dramatic walk-off victory sets the stage for an intense conference series against the Golden Suns.Bethany Today

Southern Nazarene University's softball team defeated Arkansas Tech in extra innings in the opening game of their 3-game conference series. Kristen Mullendore drove in the winning run for the Crimson Storm in the dramatic walk-off victory.

Why it matters

This early-season conference matchup between two top teams in the region sets the tone for the rest of their series and could have implications for the conference standings and postseason positioning later in the year.

The details

After a back-and-forth game, the score was tied 3-3 heading into extra innings. In the bottom of the 8th, Kristen Mullendore came through with the game-winning hit to give Southern Nazarene the victory in their series opener against Arkansas Tech.

  • The game took place on April 10, 2026.
  • The series continues with games on April 11 and 12.

The players

Kristen Mullendore

A key player for the Southern Nazarene Crimson Storm softball team who delivered the walk-off hit in the series opener.

Southern Nazarene University Crimson Storm

The home team and host of this 3-game conference series against Arkansas Tech.

Arkansas Tech Golden Suns

The visiting team and conference rival of Southern Nazarene University.

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What they’re saying

“That was a huge win to start the series. Our team showed a lot of fight and resilience to come back and get the walk-off victory.”

— Kristen Mullendore, Southern Nazarene Player

What’s next

The two teams will face off again on April 11 and 12 to complete the 3-game conference series.

The takeaway

This thrilling extra-inning win for Southern Nazarene sets them up well in the early conference standings and gives them momentum heading into the next two games of the series against a tough Arkansas Tech squad.