Grand Canyon University (GCU) is making waves in the Mountain West conference. After four straight NCAA regional appearances, the Lopes came in as the preseason favorite. They didn’t disappoint.
GCU dominated the standings, leading from start to finish. With a stellar record of 48-7, they boast the lowest ERA in the conference, and they also shine with the most home runs, the best fielding percentage, and the top on-base percentage. Now, they’re geared up for the Mountain West Championship, kicking off with a game against New Mexico.
The Lopes thrive under pressure, according to senior Emily Gonzalez. “Pressure creates memories. We like it,” she said.
Nationally, only Texas Tech has won more games than GCU this season. Their 21-4 conference record secured them the Mountain West title by a three-game margin over UNLV. Since Coach Shanon Hays took over in 2022, the Lopes have had impressive winning stats, ranking fourth nationally in winning percentage at .800, following heavyweights like Oklahoma and UCLA. Notably, they faced a tough challenge when their star player, Savannah Kirk, suffered a season-ending injury before the season began.
Despite this setback, the team maintained a solid .322 batting average this season. Their pitching staff is also formidable, boasting a national ERA ranking in the top 10 at 2.26. Standout pitchers include sophomores Natalie Fritz and Oakley Vickers, along with senior Taryn Batterton and freshman Abi Jones, who led the conference with top ERAs.
Fritz, who transferred from New Mexico, noted that they’ve kept the momentum despite being the target. As of now, GCU ranks 29th in the RPI national team rankings, giving them a solid case for an NCAA Tournament berth even if they don’t win the championship.
Senior center fielder Sydney McCray, an All-Mountain West first-team player, emphasized the bond among the team. “We have each other’s backs at all times. It’s all about having fun and supporting each other,” she said.
GCU has set a record with 77 home runs this season, fueled by contributors like Trinity Martin and Jada Cooper, each with 14 homers. Freshmen Addison Shifflett and Raegan Holtorf have also shone, showcasing their talents with impressive batting averages.
Coach Hays has encouraged the team to embrace their accomplishments but reminded them that the journey isn’t over yet. With a strong foundation and a focus on teamwork, GCU is ready to tackle their tournament challenges.
As they head into the matchup against New Mexico, where they previously swept the series, they remain focused. The team is not just playing for their record; they are aiming for a championship in the Mountain West tournament.
In recent years, GCU’s progress has highlighted how emerging programs can compete on a larger stage, showing that with hard work and determination, anything is possible.
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