Shepherd's Heroics Lift SUNO Past Morehouse in Season-Opening Thriller

Kyler Shepherd's clutch solo home run in the bottom of the sixth inning proved to be the difference as Southern University at New Orleans opened their 2026 campaign with a thrilling 8-7 victory over Morehouse College Thursday afternoon at Wesley Barrow Stadium in the inaugural Ron Washington Baseball Classic.

The Knights appeared to have the game well in hand after jumping out to a commanding 6-0 lead through two innings, but Morehouse staged a furious rally with five runs in the sixth to tie the game at 7-7 before Shepherd delivered the knockout punch.

"That's the kind of grit we need to show all season," said SUNO skipper Olen Parker, Jr. after the nail-biting win in front of 217 fans at the season opener for the six-team tournament featuring three NAIA schools and three Division II programs.

Early Fireworks Set the Tone

SUNO wasted no time making a statement in the bottom of the first. After Shepherd drew a walk and promptly swiped second base, the Knights loaded the bases before Donovan Hill cleared them with a two-run double to center field. Before the inning ended, Hill had crossed the plate himself on a wild pitch, staking SUNO to a 3-0 advantage.

The onslaught continued in the second as the Knights tacked on three more runs. Shepherd delivered again with an RBI single, then came around to score when Hill was hit by a pitch with the bases loaded. Miles Bowens later scored on another wild pitch as Morehouse starter Cameron Solomon struggled with command, issuing six walks in just 1.2 innings.

Morehouse Mounts Dramatic Comeback

Trailing 7-2 entering the sixth inning, Morehouse exploded for five runs to knot the score. The rally featured key contributions from substitutes, including Raymond Jenkins' RBI double and Cameron Simmons' two-run single. Vernon Clay capped the comeback with a sacrifice groundout that plated Kendyn Fredieu, stunning the home crowd and setting up a dramatic finish.

Shepherd Plays the Hero

With the game tied and momentum seemingly shifted, Shepherd stepped to the plate in the bottom of the sixth and launched his first home run of the season over the right field wall, giving SUNO an 8-7 lead they would not relinquish.

Shepherd finished the day 2-for-3 with two RBIs, a home run, two stolen bases, and three runs scored – a stellar all-around performance in the season opener.

Pitching Battle

Cade Menina earned the win despite a rocky outing, allowing four runs in a third of an inning. Mikel Black provided crucial relief with two innings of one-run ball to close out the victory. For Morehouse, Tripp Braswell took the loss after surrendering Shepherd's decisive homer.

Looking Ahead

SUNO (1-0) opens their season with momentum as the Ron Washington Classic continues through the weekend. The victory marks an encouraging start for a SUNO squad looking to make noise in 2026, showcasing both offensive firepower and the resilience to withstand a late-game challenge from a quality Division II opponent.

The Knights will look to build on strong performances from Shepherd, Hill (3 RBIs), and P. Strahan (two walks, two runs) as they face their next opponent in the tournament – Miles College – on Saturday, February 7 at 1:30 p.m. at Wesley Barrow Stadium.

For the team's schedule, visit sunoathletics.com.

-SUNOKNIGHTLIFE-

Home Game Tickets & Media

Season tickets will be available through SUNO Athletics at the Emmett Bashful Administration Building cashier's office. Fans can make their purchase in person or by calling (504) 286-5321. Admission is $10 for baseball single games and $15 for doubleheaders.

Media inquiries, interview requests, and credential applications should be directed to athletics@suno.edu.

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About SUNO Athletics

The Southern University at New Orleans Knights Department of Athletics emphasizes competitive excellence, academic achievement and community engagement. For the full 2025–26 schedule, rosters, and ticket information, visit sunoathletics.com and follow @sunoathletics on social media.