Softball Game Preview: Gila Bend Gila Monsters vs. Thunderbird Adventist Academy

The Gila Bend Gila Monsters will venture away from home to face off against Thunderbird Adventist Academy at 5:30 p.m. on Monday. Gila Bend knows how to get runs on the board -- the team has finished with ten runs or more in their past five games -- so hopefully Thunderbird Adventist Academy likes a good challenge.

Gila Bend had to skate by with only a one-run margin when they last took the field, which might have inspired the 11-run drubbing they dealt Berean Academy on Thursday. The Gila Monsters were the clear victors by a 17-6 margin over the Eagles. The Gila Monsters haven't had any issues with the Eagles recently, as the game was their fourth consecutive victory against them.

Nadiyah Martinez

Home Runs

04/03/25 @ Berean Academy	1
04/01/25 vs Sequoia Charter	1
03/25/25 vs Berean Academy	1

The team relied heavily on Nadiyah Martinez, who went a perfect 3-for-3 with one home run, three RBI, and two runs. She is on a roll when it comes to home runs, as she's now launched at least one in each of the last three games she's played. Paityn Sly was another key player, scoring three runs and stealing two bases while getting on base in all four of her plate appearances.

Gila Bend was getting hits left and right and finished the game having posted a batting average of .526. That was just more of the same: they've now posted a batting average of .412 or higher in four consecutive matches.

Meanwhile, Thunderbird Adventist Academy scored the most runs they've had this season on Wednesday, but it wasn't enough. They fell just short of Paradise Valley Christian Prep by a score of 12-11. While Thunderbird Adventist Academy didn't get the win, they did start the game off strong, beating Paradise Valley Christian Prep 8-2 in the first period.

Gila Bend picked up their first road win, bumping their record up to 5-3. As for Thunderbird Adventist Academy, their defeat dropped their record down to 1-4.

Gila Bend was able to grind out a solid victory over Thunderbird Adventist Academy in their previous meeting back in March, winning 10-6. The rematch might be a little tougher for the Gila Monsters since the squad won't have the home-field advantage this time around. We'll see if the change in venue makes a difference.