USC Upstate Clinches Series Against UNC Asheville

Baseball players in action at USC Upstate game

News Summary

USC Upstate’s baseball team showcased resilience in their comeback victory over UNC Asheville, winning 7-5. Trailing in the ninth inning, the Spartans rallied to secure their spot ahead of the Big South Conference Tournament. Stellar performances from pitchers and key players highlighted their determination and grit.

Greenwood, SC – USC Upstate secured a hard-fought victory against UNC Asheville, winning 7-5 in the final game of their series on May 16, 2025, at Greenwood Baseball Field. This comeback win allowed USC Upstate to clinch the series ahead of the upcoming Big South Conference Tournament, showcasing their resilience and determination on the field.

Entering the ninth inning, USC Upstate trailed by two runs, putting them in a precarious position. However, the Spartans rallied impressively, scoring four runs in the decisive inning. Down to their last out, Scott Newman delivered a crucial line drive into center field, enabling him to tie the game. Following him, Preston Lucas stepped up and secured the go-ahead run with a double, driving Newman home. Gage Griggs then added an insurance run with a two-out double, plating Lucas and solidifying the Spartans’ lead.

On the mound, pitchers Cooper Ellingworth and Max Bianchini combined to provide stellar relief for USC Upstate, covering 7.0 innings while allowing only four hits and one run. They also struck out five opposing batters throughout their performances, with Bianchini earning the win and improving his season record to 5-0. The resilience of the USC Upstate pitching staff played a critical role in maintaining their competitive edge during the game.

The victory follows a dominant performance by USC Upstate in an earlier matchup on May 15, where they decisively defeated UNC Asheville 15-3. In that game, Amp Phillips took the mound and was credited as the winning pitcher, improving to a season record of 6-2. The Spartans showcased their offensive prowess, with Henry Zenor running the bases effectively, hitting a home run and contributing one RBI. Additionally, Vance Sheahan and Scott Campbell each drove in three runs, underlining the team’s collective strength and collaborative effort in both games against UNC Asheville.

As USC Upstate heads into the Big South Conference Tournament, players have consistently performed at a high level, which bodes well for the team’s future encounters. Their ability to perform under pressure, as evidenced by their comeback against UNC Asheville, reflects their preparedness and determination. The upcoming tournament represents a significant opportunity for the Spartans to build upon their recent successes and potentially make a deep run.

In summary, USC Upstate’s baseball team demonstrated remarkable grit and tenacity in their victory over UNC Asheville, both in the second game on May 16 and in the earlier matchup on May 15. As they look forward to the Big South Conference Tournament, their momentum and performance will be critical factors in striving for success against other conference rivals.