BELMONT, N.C. (Feb. 6, 2026) – Fayetteville State wrapped up its season-opening doubleheader Friday afternoon, falling 18–6 to Belmont Abbey in the second game at Crusader Field.

Belmont Abbey surged out to a commanding lead in the opening inning, scoring 12 runs on seven hits to take early control. The Crusaders added two more runs in the second to push the advantage to 14–0.

The Broncos responded with a strong offensive showing in the top of the third inning, plating all six of their runs in the frame. Fayetteville State capitalized on multiple Belmont Abbey miscues and aggressive baserunning to spark the rally.

A'Leah Wilson delivered the key hit of the inning, tripling to right-center field to drive in two runs. Taylor Stueck added an RBI groundout, while additional runs scored on stolen bases and throwing errors as the Broncos trimmed the deficit to 14–6.

Belmont Abbey answered in the bottom of the third with a run and then added three more in the fourth inning to extend the margin to 18–6, bringing the game to its final score after five innings.

Wilson finished 1-for-3 with a triple and two RBIs to lead Fayetteville State at the plate. The Broncos totaled five stolen bases in the contest, highlighting an aggressive approach on the basepaths.

In the circle, Kevana Deberry worked 3.2 innings in relief, striking out three, while Kendall Jackson was tagged with the loss after the opening inning. Tory Cagno earned the win for Belmont Abbey, tossing 2.1 scoreless innings without allowing a hit.

Fayetteville State concludes opening day with an 0–2 record and will look to build on its third-inning momentum as the Broncos continue early-season play.