Nanakuli Outlasts Radford in Undefeated Showdown, 9-8
In a long-awaited clash between two of the OIA Division II’s top teams, Nanakuli finally got its shot at Radford—and made it count. The Golden Hawks edged the Rams 9-8 on Wednesday afternoon, handing Radford its first loss of the season in a game that lived up to the hype after a March 17 postponement due to weather.
Early Fireworks Set the Tone
Both teams wasted no time getting on the board, trading punches in a high-scoring first inning. Nanakuli plated three runs to open the game, only for Radford to answer with three of its own, immediately signaling this would be a back-and-forth battle.
Naehu Powers the Offense
Nanakuli leaned on a standout performance from Kailey Naehu, who delivered a massive day at the plate. Naehu went 3-for-4 with five RBIs, including a home run, driving in more than half of the Golden Hawks’ runs. Her production proved to be the difference in a one-run game.
Jaisha Barrozo and Sadie Manabat also contributed multi-hit efforts, helping Nanakuli build and maintain offensive pressure throughout the contest.
Radford Responds, But Comes Up Short
Radford stayed within striking distance all game, fueled by a strong showing from Siitia Baughn, who went 3-for-4 with two RBIs and a triple. Meghan Castro added four hits and two RBIs, leading a Rams lineup that out-hit Nanakuli 11-9.
The Rams mounted a late push, scoring five runs across the fifth and sixth innings to take an 8-5 lead, putting Nanakuli on its heels.
Seventh-Inning Surge Seals It
With their undefeated record on the line, Nanakuli delivered in the clutch. The Golden Hawks erupted for four runs in the top of the seventh inning, flipping a three-run deficit into a 9-8 lead.
From there, Naehu—who also went the distance in the circle—closed the door despite a heavy workload. She allowed eight runs (three earned) on 11 hits while striking out eight to earn the win.
Fun Factory VIP of the Game: Kailey Naehu
There was no question who stood out in this one. Kailey Naehu earns Fun Factory VIP of the Game honors after a dominant all-around performance. At the plate, she drove in five runs and delivered a key home run, while in the circle, she battled through seven innings against a tough Radford lineup to secure the win. In a game filled with big moments, Naehu delivered the biggest ones when Nanakuli needed them most.
PHOTOS BY DANIEL FUJITA
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