BOWLING GREEN, Ky. — Sam Houston couldn't recover from a big first inning in a 11-0 loss on day one of the Conference USA Tournament at WKU Softball Complex on Wednesday afternoon. 

The Bearkats (27-28) struggled offensively with four players recording a hit, including two from All-CUSA catcher Bella Perez. The Gamecocks, in the meantime, hit four home runs to power them at the plate. 

Abigail Young got the start in the circle for Sam Houston. She took the loss after allowing four runs on three hits in 2/3 of an inning while dealing with what appeared to be an injury. 

Tiffany Sanchez and Makenzie Jenkins combined for seven runs allowed on eight hits in relief. 

Sam Houston will look to stay alive against the loser of the matchup between No. 4 LA Tech and No. 5 New Mexico State for a chance to advance to day two. First pitch is set for 5 p.m. on ESPN+.