UB Softball opens season 2-3 in Orlando

The Bulls softball team (2-3, 0-0 MAC) opened its 2026 season with a 2-3 record after competing in the Black & Gold Classic in Orlando, Florida, facing a challenging early non-conference slate.

The Bulls opened the tournament by splitting its first two games before picking up a thrilling 20-16 win over the Boston University Terriers (3-2, 0-0 Patriot) . During this game, the Bulls set a program record for most hits in a single game. Senior first baseman Abbey Nagel had an amazing game and led the Bulls with five Runs Batted In (RBI) as well as having five base hits. Junior third baseman Bri Delaney also had a great game; she finished with 4 RBIs and a double. With the help of Nagel and Delaney, the Bulls were able to outlast the Terriers in an exciting game with heavy scoring from both teams. 

Later that day, the Bulls faced a much tougher test against No.19 Duke (4-1, 0-0 ACC). The Bulls kept it close but unfortunately lost 3-1. Runs were hard to come by for the Bulls as they didn’t score until the sixth inning and couldn’t complete the rally in the seventh. Despite the tough loss, the game served as a key measuring stick for a UB squad early in the year.

The Bulls ended the weekend with a 12-2 loss to the UCF Knights (5-1, 0-0 B12). Despite struggling heavily on offense and defense against the Knights, sophomore infielder Ava Thelen did hit a home run in the loss. After the strong start to the tournament, Buffalo had a difficult time generating offense after scoring 20 runs against Boston, scoring a combined three runs in two games.

While the results were mixed, the opening weekend provided valuable experience for a UB team still working through early-season adjustments. Facing ranked and Power Five competition offered the Bulls a clear test before they start Mid-American Conference (MAC) play later this Spring.

The Bulls will continue non-conference play this weekend at the Pirate Clash hosted by East Carolina. With MAC play still weeks away, the Bulls have plenty of time to settle into things. The Orlando trip served as an early snapshot of a team with massive offensive potential as the season moves forward.

The sports desk can be reached at sports@ubspectrum.com