LOS ANGELES — Freshman Alex Gamboa made his collegiate debut one to remember, belting a two-run home run for his first career hit, but LMU couldn't overcome early offensive struggles in a 12-3 loss to Tulane on Thursday night at Page Stadium.

Both teams scored early before a prolonged offensive drought settled over Page Stadium. The Lions (0-1) plated runs in each of the first two innings while Tulane jumped ahead with seven runs over the same span. Neither team would score again until the Green Wave broke the game open with five runs in the ninth.

Gamboa's milestone homer in the second inning highlighted an encouraging night for LMU's freshmen. Andrew Mhoon recorded his first career hit, while left-hander Caleb Sweeney made a statement in his college debut. Sweeney entered in relief and tossed two scoreless innings, allowing no hits while notching his first three career strikeouts.

Senior right-hander Jake Geis provided the Lions' most dominant pitching performance of the night, working 4 1/3 innings with nine strikeout, including five consecutive at one point. His efforts kept LMU within striking distance deep into the game.

Zion Williams and Jaxson Wall also contributed hits for the Lions, who drew nine walks to keep pressure on Tulane pitchers throughout the contest. Cooper Whitton exemplified LMU's patient approach at the plate, drawing four walks. Zach Wadas reached base three times via walk and hit-by-pitch while scoring twice.

Tulane (1-0) capitalized on their opportunities, recording nine hits including five doubles and a triple. The Green Wave's ninth-inning outburst came against Dylan Singh, who faced four batters.

LMU pitchers combined for 13 strikeouts on the night, matching Tulane's total.