The Pearl River Community College Wildcats etched their names into collegiate baseball history by winning the 2026 World Series, defeating South Mountain Community College in a tightly contested 11‑inning game that ended 4‑3. The triumph marked the team's second national championship, with the first coming in 2022 when they beat Madison College 7‑2.
Key moments defined the marathon contest. Jackson Estes ignited the offense with a solo home run in the fourth inning, cutting the deficit to one. Jackson Beddoe then delivered a clutch tying run in the sixth, and later gave the Wildcats their first lead in the eighth. The decisive blow arrived in the 11th when Ethan Garner's timely hit sealed the victory, sending the crowd into celebration.
Head coach Michael Avalon, still haunted by the team's loss in the 2025 finals, channeled that disappointment into preparation that paid dividends. Pitcher Landon Watts spoke of the importance of leaving a lasting mark on the program, while MVP Jackson Beddoe reflected on the collective effort that made the championship possible.
A historic double for Pearl River
The celebration extended beyond the baseball diamond. The Pearl River softball team also captured the national championship, delivering a historic double for the college. Softball head coach Christie Meeks expressed pride in the team's achievement, highlighting the unified spirit that propelled both programs to the top.
Community members from across the Coast gathered in Poplarville to honor the Wildcats, underscoring the deep local roots that bind the athletes. With the titles now secured, the college looks forward to building on this momentum, aiming to sustain excellence across its sports programs.