UCLA’s Walk‑Off Homer Beats USC, Secures Spot in Big Ten Championship
The Bruins erupted in celebration as Mulivai Levu launched a three‑run walk‑off homer in the bottom of the ninth, turning a 5‑5 tie into a 7‑5 win over USC. The blast not only sealed the game but also pushed UCLA to a historic 50‑win season, the first Division I baseball team to reach that mark this year.
Dean West provided the earlier spark with a two‑run homer in the seventh that gave UCLA its first lead, while Will Gasparino’s three‑hit effort, highlighted by a pair of doubles, kept the offense rolling. Dominic Cadiz and Aidan Espinoza added multi‑hit performances, fueling a balanced attack that outpaced the Trojans.
On the mound, Landon Stump, Justin Lee and Zach Strickland combined to hold USC in check after the early surge, while Easton Hawk earned his second win despite surrendering unearned runs. The pitching staff’s resilience was crucial in a game that saw multiple lead changes.
The victory sets up a championship showdown against the winner of the Nebraska versus Oregon matchup. With a 50‑win record and a hot offense, UCLA enters the final with momentum and a clear target: capture the Big Ten Tournament title and cement their dominant season.
The Bruins’ blend of power hitting, timely pitching, and clutch performances has turned heads across the conference, and fans will be eager to see if they can translate this late‑season surge into a championship.