Big South

Chirello and Sliver Propel Owls to Series-Opening Win Friday

LOUISVILLE, Ky. – Kennesaw State (23-17, 13-6 Atlantic Sun Conference) opened up its three-game set with a 7-2 victory over Bellarmine (6-35, 5-14 ASUN) Friday afternoon at Knights Field.

Right fielder Jackson Chirello had three hits in the outing, his most since Feb. 23 in KSU's 18-1 win at No. Clemson. The sophomore posted three RBI and his first homer of the 2024 campaign against the Knights.

He posted a double later in the game, improving KSU's record to 10-0 this season when an Owl has multiple extra-base hits in a single game.

Righty Nolan Sliver (2-2) got the start and threw a career-high seven innings allowing just five hits and two earned runs for his second win of the season. He struck out four batters.

Kennesaw State is now 10-1 in series openers this season and 21-8 under head coach Ryan Coe when scoring at least seven runs. The Black and Gold have won six of their last nine.