(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)
Owen Hull’s Walk-Off Sends UNC Baseball to College World Series in Dramatic Finish
UNC Baseball secured its place in the Men’s College World Series with a thrilling 4-3 comeback win over USC, sealed by Owen Hull’s walk-off hit in the bottom of the ninth inning at Boshamer Stadium.
The victory came after the Diamond Heels erased a 3-2 deficit in the final inning, producing a dramatic finish to punch their ticket to Omaha next weekend.
Late-Inning Rally Secures Win
Trailing by one run entering the ninth, UNC kept its hopes alive with a determined late push. After an early out, the Tar Heels sparked a rally with a walk and a key single that put runners in scoring position.
A sacrifice fly from Jake Schaffner brought the game level at 3-3, setting the stage for Hull’s decisive moment.
Hull Delivers Under Pressure
Owen Hull delivered a standout performance, not only hitting the walk-off winner but also contributing throughout the game with multiple extra-base hits, including three doubles.
His timely hit in the ninth completed UNC’s comeback and sent the home crowd into celebration.
Strong Efforts on Both Sides
USC had taken control earlier in the game behind a strong pitching performance from Andrew Johnson, who kept UNC’s offense quiet for much of the contest.
The Trojans held a 3-2 lead entering the final inning, but could not close out the game despite strong relief pitching late on.
Coach Reaction
UNC head coach Scott Forbes praised the performance, calling it one of the most memorable games he has experienced at Boshamer Stadium.
USC coach Andy Stankiewicz also acknowledged the effort from his pitching staff, highlighting Johnson’s strong outing despite the loss.
Road to Omaha
With the win, UNC advances to the Men’s College World Series, continuing their postseason run after a dramatic and hard-fought victory in one of the season’s most exciting finishes.
