Gonzaga Takes Game 3 But Loses Series Against No. 13 Oklahoma

Mikey Bell's two-run homer in the second inning proved enough for Gonzaga to avoid the sweep.

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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Gonzaga avoided a sweep against No. 13 Oklahoma with a 7-1 win in the series finale, but the Sooners still won the three-game set. Zags starter Karsten Sweum pitched well, giving up just three hits and one run, while Mikey Bell's two-run homer in the second inning provided the offense Gonzaga needed. The Sooners scored five runs in the eighth inning to break things open, but the loss is just their second of the season.

Why it matters

This series showcased the strength of the No. 13 Oklahoma Sooners, who took two of three games against a tough Gonzaga squad. The Sooners will look to build on this series win as they prepare for upcoming matchups against Dallas Baptist and Santa Clara.

The details

Gonzaga starter Karsten Sweum kept the Sooners' offense in check, giving up just three hits and one run - a solo home run by Brendan Brock in the sixth inning. Other than Brock's homer, Oklahoma had just one runner get past second base all game. Mikey Bell's two-run shot in the second inning proved to be the difference, as Gonzaga held on until the eighth when they scored five runs to break the game open.

  • The series finale took place on Sunday, March 1, 2026.
  • Oklahoma won the series opener 14-4 in eight innings and Game 2 11-1 in seven innings on Saturday.

The players

Mikey Bell

Gonzaga player who hit a two-run home run in the second inning to give his team the lead.

Karsten Sweum

Gonzaga starting pitcher who threw well, giving up just three hits and one run while striking out seven.

Brendan Brock

Oklahoma player who hit a solo home run in the sixth inning for the Sooners' only run of the game.

Nolan Stevens

Oklahoma player who singled in the second inning to move a runner to third base.

Drew Dickerson

Oklahoma player who walked and was moved to third base in the second inning.

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What’s next

The Sooners will be back in action in Norman for a one-off game against Dallas Baptist on Tuesday, then they'll host Santa Clara for a three-game series the following weekend.

The takeaway

Despite the loss in the series finale, Oklahoma's two wins over Gonzaga demonstrate the Sooners' ability to compete with top teams. This series result will likely boost Oklahoma's ranking and confidence as they prepare for their upcoming matchups.