In sunny Florence, Alabama in mid-February, the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee opened in strong fashion, producing two wins.

In a doubleheader, the Panthers dominated early in the first game on the offensive side of the plate cracking doubles, home runs, and stolen bases. The second game followed suit, where they got out to an early 4-0 lead. 

Come the bottom of the 9th, the Panthers were in good shape, leading 6-2. However, following two singles and a wild pitch by Gavin Theis, the Panthers found themselves in trouble, and the North Alabama Lions found themselves some hope.