GREENSBORO, N.C. – Emily Kepple and Kiaya Jeusi had three hits each, while Jeusi and Jacki Gonzalez drove in three runs apiece as Hampton defeated future conference member N.C. A&T 15-4 in the softball season opener on Saturday.

Game two was stopped after three innings due to darkness and will not be finished.

Hampton jumped out to a 3-0 lead after four innings and then broke it open for a five-run fifth inning.  Jeusi drove in two with a single and Mo'ne Davis drove in two with a single to right.  Gonzalez sac bunt scored the fifth run to put Hampton up 8-0.

The host Aggies pushed four across in the home half of the fifth to extend the game.  Hampton then broke the game open with a seven-run sixth.

Noelle Doan got the win with 4.1 innings and five strikeouts.  Tiera Washington had two hits and drove in two, while Davis was 1-for-3 with a run scored and driving in two.

Hampton now will participate in the East Carolina Pirate Invitational on Friday with a pair of games against George Washington (10am) and East Carolina (3 pm).

For more information on Hampton University softball, please contact the Office of Sports Information at 757-727-5757 or visit the official Pirates website at www.hamptonpirates.com.