Get ready for an exciting softball showdown! Nebraska's softball team, ranked at No. 9, kicked off their 2026 season with a thrilling 8-5 victory over No. 25 Washington in the UTSA Invitational. This game, despite being between Big Ten rivals, didn't count towards their conference standings, but it sure set the tone for an incredible season ahead.
The game featured an impressive performance by Nebraska's freshman pitcher, Alexis Jensen. Hailing from Gretna, Neb., Jensen struck out an impressive 10 batters in just five innings. She showcased her skills, but also learned a valuable lesson about the higher level of competition. Washington's batters made her pay for any mistakes, a stark contrast to high school softball.
On the other side, Washington's starting pitcher, Rylee Rehbein, struggled early on. She gave up three runs in the first inning, setting the tone for a challenging game. Sophomore Morgan Reimer took over, but Nebraska's offense proved too much, with five earned runs in her innings.
Nebraska's lineup, known for their power, didn't disappoint. They hit two home runs, with Jesse Farrell and Lauren Camenzind leading the charge. Farrell's first pitch as a Husker resulted in a crushing homer, and Camenzind followed with a three-run blast to take an early lead. Washington fought back with solo homers from Gabi Toney and Alexis DeBoer, but Nebraska's response in the fifth inning sealed the deal.
But here's where it gets controversial... Nebraska's head coach, Rhonda Revelle, believes they've found their new starter and closer in Jensen. With Frahm carrying a heavy workload last season, Jensen's performance could be a game-changer.
And this is the part most people miss... Jensen's first start was a true test of her abilities. She showed promise, but also learned a tough lesson about the next level. Her change-up, while effective, also left some pitches hanging, and she'll need to refine her control.
So, what do you think? Is Jensen the real deal, or will she need more time to adjust? Share your thoughts in the comments and let's discuss the future of Nebraska's softball dynasty!
