In a fiercely contested series, Bowie State University and Claflin University faced off in the 2025 Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA) softball championship. The matchup marked their fourth consecutive season as rivals for the title. In Game 1, Claflin secured a decisive victory with strong batting performances and strategic pitching. Game 2 showcased an intense back-and-forth battle, ultimately resulting in Bowie State's thrilling triumph, securing their third consecutive championship.

Game 1: Claflin Dominates with Strategic Plays

Claflin took the early lead in Game 1, leveraging key hits by Cydney Cooper and Lauryn Foster. Michaela Cromartie's crucial hit further widened the gap, while Bowie State made a late rally with Taylor Dawkins' impressive home run. However, Claflin’s relentless offense and Katelynn Grissom's stellar pitching sealed the win with a final score of 5-2.

The Panthers started strong, capitalizing on opportunities presented by their batters. Cydney Cooper's double set the tone, followed by Lauryn Foster's RBI triple. Later, Cromartie delivered a pivotal hit that brought two runners home, significantly boosting Claflin's lead. Despite Bowie State's valiant effort to narrow the deficit, Claflin maintained composure. Foster contributed another triple, extending Claflin's advantage. Grissom's complete-game performance ensured Bowie State couldn't capitalize in the final inning.

Game 2: Bowie State Claims Championship in Dramatic Fashion

The second game saw both teams exchanging leads multiple times. Bowie State demonstrated resilience, overcoming Claflin's initial edge through strategic plays and timely hits. Mikayla Amos' critical double put Bowie State ahead, setting the stage for a dramatic conclusion where Makayla Drakeford secured the championship with a clutch pop-out.

The contest began with Claflin gaining an early advantage thanks to Aniyah Jackson's savvy baserunning. Bowie State quickly responded with Taylor Dawkins' sac fly, leveling the playing field. Aralynn Robinson's single in the third inning proved pivotal, allowing Bowie State to take the lead momentarily. Morgan Tate's RBI triple re-established Claflin's dominance, but Bowie State countered swiftly with an inside-the-park home run. As the game progressed, Claflin regained the lead briefly, only for Bowie State to surge forward again via Amos' double. With tension mounting, Claflin attempted a comeback in the seventh inning, but Drakeford's decisive play thwarted their efforts, cementing Bowie State's hard-fought victory and securing their spot in the NCAA Division II Softball postseason tournament.