In a commanding start to the 2026 season, Ole Miss baseball secured an 11-3 victory over Nevada on March 3 at Swayze Field. This win marks the Rebels’ (1-0) sixth consecutive season-opening victory since 2021. The triumph also represents a significant milestone for head coach Mike Bianco, who recorded his 950th career win at Ole Miss.
Key Performances Drive the Victory
Tristan Bissetta made a notable debut, finishing the game with a batting line of 2-for-3, driving in four runs and scoring twice. He was pivotal in the offense, contributing to the Rebels’ dynamic performance against the Wolfpack (0-1). Alongside Bissetta, first baseman Will Furniss and shortstop Brayden Randle also recorded two hits each, showcasing a balanced offensive effort.
On the mound, Hunter Elliott, recognized as Ole Miss’ most recent All-American, started the game and delivered an impressive performance. In five innings, he struck out seven batters, the highest for a Rebel pitcher in a season opener since he achieved nine strikeouts against Delaware in 2023. Elliott allowed just three hits, two walks, and one earned run, reflecting his ability to control the game.
Game Highlights and Momentum Shifts
The game began with a challenge for Ole Miss as they conceded a run in the first inning. Nevertheless, the Rebels quickly responded by scoring four runs in the bottom half of the inning. Bissetta’s first at-bat as a Rebel was a double that cleared the bases, marking the first three runs of the season. He continued to contribute, driving in another run in the second inning, bringing his total to four RBIs for the game.
As the game progressed, Judd Utermark emerged as a key player, reaching base three times and scoring a career-high three runs, the first Rebel to achieve this in a season opener since Thomas Dillard in 2018. Utermark’s consistent presence on the bases helped maintain pressure on the Nevada defense.
In the sixth inning, Nevada narrowed the gap to 7-3, threatening to shift the momentum. However, Hudson Calhoun entered the game and effectively quelled the Wolfpack’s rally by striking out two consecutive batters. The Rebels capitalized on this momentum, extending their lead when Pacella recorded his first hit and drove in Bissetta.
The final innings saw further offensive contributions from Ole Miss. In the eighth inning, Furniss walked and advanced on a wild pitch, scoring off a single from Hayden Federico. Brett Moseley, in his first collegiate at-bat, launched a home run that traveled over 403 feet, driving in both himself and Federico to finalize the scoring at 11-3.
Calhoun maintained control on the mound in the ninth, ultimately earning his first career save by inducing a double play that sealed the outcome. The Rebels will face Nevada again on March 4 at noon CT, with the final game of the series scheduled for March 5 at 1:30 p.m. CT. Both matches will be available for streaming on SECN+.
This strong opening performance sets a positive tone for Ole Miss as they aim to build on their early success in the season.
