Overview

• Samford's Michael Gupton hit a two-run home run in the sixth inning, giving his team a 5-1 lead and triggering a heated reaction from Mercer players and staff.
• Gupton's celebratory taunts led to confrontations, resulting in his ejection along with Mercer's Bradley Frye, who attempted to follow him in protest.
• The incident escalated as Mercer's coaching staff argued with umpires, pulling players off the field in protest, while Frye's mother was ejected for climbing on the dugout.
• Additional ejections included Mercer pitching coach Tanner Gordon, Samford assistant coach Gil Walker, and Mercer's third baseman Brant Baughcum after a separate altercation.
• Despite the chaos and a 25-minute delay, Samford secured the victory and advanced to the championship game against East Tennessee State.