DALLAS, Texas – As the Hilltoppers went 3-1-1 in their opening weekend, right-hander Katie Gardner was tabbed the first CUSA Pitcher of the Week for 2024, the league announced Monday. Gardner was also named to the NFCA Leadoff Classic All-Tournament Team.
The Bowling Green native earned three starts over the weekend in Clearwater, operating with a 1.40 ERA and only allowing four runs in 15.0 innings, while retiring 11 at the plate.
Gardner shutout Missouri State in the Tops' season opener, only allowing three hits while drawing four walks in a complete game. She also earned the win in WKU's first Power 5 win since 2022, holding NC State to two runs off of four hits and striking out eight against an offense that hit 73 home runs last season.
The Hilltoppers are back for their second road tournament of the season in Chattanooga. The Tops will face North Alabama, Chattanooga, Murray State, and Ball State from Feb. 16-18.
How to Follow Hilltopper Softball: For complete information on WKU Softball, follow the team on X at @WKUSoftball, Instagram @WKU_Softball, and Facebook/WKUSoftball.
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