Lions Roar: Top 10 Ranking, Home Games Shifted

Missouri Southern State University's softball team is off to a dominant start in the 2026 season, achieving a remarkable 15-1 record.

This success has propelled the Lions to No. 7 in the National Fastpitch Coaches Association's top 25 rankings for NCAA Division II softball, a significant achievement not seen since at least 2011.

Despite their high ranking, the Lions will play their upcoming home games at Joplin High School's softball field. This relocation is necessary due to unplayable outfield conditions at their usual venue, the Pat Lipira Softball Complex.

Coach Hallie Blackney expressed excitement about playing in front of their home fans at Joplin High. The team's strong performance is fueled by a cohesive unit, with five players batting over .400 and an on-base plus slugging (OPS) exceeding 1.000.

Key offensive contributors include senior shortstop Taylor Knuckolls, who leads in runs, hits, and stolen bases, and Katie Gray, who tops the team in batting average, OPS, RBIs, and home runs.

On the pitching front, freshman Emily Davis earned MIAA pitcher of the week honors. Alongside Kiki Pickens, an MIAA pitcher of the year recipient from 2025, and Kadence Janney, the staff has held opponents to an average of fewer than three runs per game.