The University of Southern California Trojans kicked off the Super Regional showdown in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, with a decisive 9‑5 win over the Tar Heels on Friday night.
The final tally saw the Trojans pull ahead in the sixth and seventh innings, manufacturing three runs to extend their lead and seal the victory.
Dean Capentier was the catalyst, delivering a go‑ahead grand slam in the top of the sixth that flipped the scoreboard and energized the crowd.
The rally began with Kevin Takeuchi’s bloop single down the left‑field line, which plated Adrian Lopez, and continued as Andrew Lamb drew a two‑out walk to load the bases.
A pivotal moment
Carpentier’s slam not only gave USC a 6‑5 edge but also sparked a burst of eight runs across the sixth and seventh frames, a surge that proved unstoppable.
With the series now tilted in their favor, the Trojans will look to carry the momentum into the next contest, while North Carolina hopes to rebound.
The atmosphere in Chapel Hill was electric, as fans witnessed a swing of fortunes that underscored the unpredictability of postseason baseball.