IRVINE, Calif. – The Chico State softball squad dove into day two of the CUI Kickoff Classic, splitting the day in similar fashion to Friday with a 1–0 morning win over Chaminade followed by a narrow loss to CSU Pueblo's ThunderWolves.

Game 1 vs. Chaminade

Amelie Valdez followed up her stellar season-opening performance with an even stronger outing in the circle, striking out nine Silverswords to earn her second win of the season.

Tiana Johnson emerged as the hero of the morning, launching a solo home run in the fourth inning that proved to be the only run the Wildcats needed to secure the victory over the PacWest opponent.

Offensively, only two other 'Cats recorded hits in the contest, as Aiyana Curry singled twice and Lucy Sherburne added a base hit.

Game 2 vs. Colorado State Pueblo

The Wildcats' bats stayed quiet early in their second matchup of the day, as the ThunderWolves jumped out to a two-run lead in the first inning and added another run in the second.

Kylie Loertscher, Bella Tavares, and Amelie Valdez all shared time in the circle, keeping the ThunderWolves' lead within reach. Loertscher tallied three strikeouts, while Tavares retired one batter.

Chico State's comeback effort in the seventh inning fell just one run short. Brianna Swihart singled into left field to drive in a run before later scoring on a hit from NeVaeh Scheper. The Wildcats put runners in scoring position, but CSU Pueblo's pitching staff shut down the late surge before it could fully develop.

The Wildcats will close out their weekend in Southern California with a final morning matchup against the Vanguard Lions. First pitch is set for 8 a.m. and the game will be broadcast on the PacWest Network.