HILO, HAWAII – The University of Sioux Falls baseball team kicked off the 2025 season in thrilling fashion, rallying late for an 11-10 victory over Hawaii Hilo on Friday night at Wong Stadium.

How It Happened:

Trailing 7-2 heading into the eighth inning, the Cougars erupted for eight runs in the frame to take control of the game and secure the win. Sophomore Mitch Iliff played a pivotal role, delivering a key two-run double as part of his three-hit, three-RBI performance. Carson Jager also provided a clutch moment, ripping a pinch-hit two-run double that helped fuel the comeback.

Sioux Falls (1-0) capitalized on six Hawaii Hilo errors while displaying patience at the plate, drawing nine walks. The Cougars finished with nine hits on the night, led by Iliff and Dominic Vogel, who went 2-for-6 with two runs scored and an RBI.

On the mound, Kaleb Klinkhammer earned the win in relief, allowing just one earned run over four innings. Dylan Immel recorded the final out to pick up the save after Hawaii Hilo (0-1) attempted a ninth-inning rally, plating three runs before Sioux Falls slammed the door.

Up Next:

The Cougars jump back into a double-header with the Vulcans, February 8th, starting at 6:00pm (CST).

For all things USF Baseball, be sure to download the USF Cougars app as well as follow along on Instagram and Twitter!