Posted: Apr 24, 2025

Rust College’s Leona Joshua Earns All-HBCUAC First Team Honors as Pitcher

In just her second year with the Bearcats, Joshua solidified her role as the team's ace, showcasing tremendous growth and leadership on the mound. She put together one of the most dominant pitching campaigns in recent program history.

Her season stats speak volumes:

Pitched 4 complete games
Earned half of the team's total wins as the starting pitcher
Struck out 87 batters
Allowed only 2 home runs all season
Decreased runs allowed by 50% compared to last year
Reduced walks by 41% from the previous season
Allowed 40% fewer hits, demonstrating better control and pitch placement
Improved ERA from 6.82 to 3.88, proving her development as a reliable and efficient starter
Recorded a WHIP of 1.61, significantly lower than last season's 2.45, showcasing her improved ability to limit base runners

"Leona's progression from last season to now has been nothing short of phenomenal," said Head Coach Kendrick Vivians. "Her work ethic, composure under pressure, and consistent improvement have made her one of the best pitchers in the conference and a cornerstone of our program."

Joshua's All-HBCUAC First Team selection reflects not only her individual excellence but also the strides Rust College Softball continues to make as a team.

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Contact:
Rust College Athletics
(662) 252-8000
athletics@rustcollege.edu