BIRMINGHAM – One big inning lifted UAB to a 9-3 win over the Jacksonville State softball team on Wednesday night at Mary Bowers Field.
 
The Gamecocks (19-8) got a solid start in the circle from freshman Lexi Androlevich, who left the game with a 3-1 lead in the sixth. The Blazers (12-19) would score eight in that inning to turn a two-run deficit into a six-run win.
 
In just the second career start and third-career appearance for Androlevich, the Lake Butler, Fla., native tossed five innings, allowing three runs on six hits. She bested her previous career high in innings pitched and ended up with a no decision.
 
For JSU at the plate, seniors Amber Jones and Hayley Sims each went 2-for-4 to lead a nine-hit attack. Jones reached three times and drove in a run. Senior Lex Hull and sophomore Jada Terry had the other RBI for the Gamecocks.
 
Junior Alexus Jimmerson suffered the loss in relief for JSU, surrendering four runs and failing to record an out. Nicole Rodriguez gave up two before Reagan Watkins came in to get the final two outs of the Blazers' big inning.
 
JSU seemed to take control of the game in the fifth, when the Gamecocks plated three runs to take a 3-1 lead. The Blazers then rallied in their final at bat to win the onoy meeting scheduled between the two teams this season.
 
The Gamecocks return home for a key weekend of Ohio Valley Conference play. They will get it started with a doubleheader on Friday vs. SIUE before wrapping it up with a Sunday twinbill vs. Eastern Illinois. Both days start at 1 p.m. CT and will be broadcast on ESPN+.