RALEIGH, N.C. – IUP softball picked up a pair of wins in North Carolina on Saturday, defeating Fayetteville State 2-1 and West Virginia State 6-2 in tournament action.

The Crimson Hawks collected six hits in each game and played error-free defense across both contests. IUP pitchers combined for nine strikeouts, with Olivia Hillegas and Taylor Bumgardner each earning their first wins of the season.

Erin Drotos led the Crimson Hawks offensively on the day, finishing with two hits and two RBIs. Center fielder Maddie Griffin reached base three times with a hit and two walks, scored a run and added two stolen bases.

In the opener against Fayetteville State, senior Kendall Young started in the circle and pitched 3 1/3 innings, allowing one run on three hits. Hillegas worked the final 3 2/3 innings, surrendering just one hit while keeping Fayetteville State scoreless to secure the win.

IUP's offense continued to produce in the second game against West Virginia State. Drotos added another hit, while third baseman Delaney Patella recorded two hits and an RBI. Senior catcher Reagan Rand and left fielder Brianna Pusateri also finished with two hits each, and senior center fielder Jess Cekada drove in three runs.

Bumgardner tossed a complete game in the nightcap, allowing two earned runs while striking out five.

The Crimson Hawks return to action Sunday to conclude tournament play in Raleigh.