On February 20, 2026, Nevada State University's Women's Flag Football team delivered a landmark performance at the Inaugural Scorpion Kick-Off Classic, hosted at the Intermountain Health Performance Center, headquarters of the Las Vegas Raiders, marking the first collegiate flag football games held in Nevada.

Acting President Dr. Amber Lopez Lasater described the day as "more than a tournament," calling it "a milestone in the continued evolution of Nevada State University."

"Athletics at Nevada State is not separate from our mission, it is an extension of it," Dr. Lopez Lasater said. "We are building this program intentionally, guided by strong governance, academic oversight and fiscal responsibility."

Myles Hayes, Senior Director of Football Development for the Las Vegas Raiders, underscored the significance of the partnership and the growth of the sport.

"Today represents opportunity," Hayes said. "The Raiders are proud to support the growth of flag football and to partner with Nevada State University in creating pathways for young women to compete, lead and succeed."

Taking the field in a world-class professional facility, the Scorpions embraced the moment with confidence and composure, transforming preparation into performance and making a powerful statement in the program's inaugural season.

Nevada State opened the tournament with a commanding 51–20 victory over La Sierra University, establishing early momentum with explosive offense and disciplined defensive execution. 

The Scorpions followed with a decisive 38–7 win over Arizona Christian University, demonstrating depth, speed and cohesion. In the evening finale, Nevada State secured a determined 21–12 victory over Arizona State University, completing the tournament undefeated and punctuating a historic day for the program.

Head Coach Brandon Pappillion emphasized the significance of the milestone.

"This team understands the significance of today. We are the first Women's Flag Football team in Nevada State University history. That responsibility means something," Pappillion said.

The roster reflects the University's mission in action, with student-athletes from Southern Nevada pursuing degrees in Nursing, Education, Biology and Business while balancing practices, film study, strength training and academic expectations with discipline and focus. From the program's first day, excellence in the classroom has been held alongside excellence on the field, reinforcing that this tournament represents a beginning, not a finish line.

The launch of Nevada State Athletics has been the result of coordinated leadership and student advocacy. Vice President Dr. Stefanie Coleman, along with Lahana Pearce, President of the Nevada State Student Alliance (NSSA), were instrumental in advancing the vision and securing support to make intercollegiate athletics a reality for the institution. Their leadership helped ensure the program reflects the values, voice and aspirations of the campus community.

Director of Athletics Yvonne Wade noted that the tournament reflects months of intentional planning and infrastructure development designed to support long-term success.

"We are building Nevada State Athletics with purpose," Wade said. "This foundation is rooted in accountability, integrity and opportunity for our student-athletes."

The Kick-Off Classic follows another milestone moment for the department. Just one week earlier, Nevada State's Men's Track & Field team competed in its first meet, marking the official start of competition for the University's newest varsity programs and signaling strong momentum across Scorpion Athletics.

Nevada State extended sincere appreciation to the Las Vegas Raiders organization, including Piper Overstreet-White, Senior Vice President of Government & Community Relations, and Myles Hayes for their partnership and leadership in advancing collegiate sports, including flag football.

Gratitude was also extended to Chancellor Matt McNair, J.D., the Nevada System of Higher Education (NSHE) Board of Regents, colleagues across NSHE, and community supporters, including members of the Nevada State Foundation Board, the Starting Lineup athletic donor program, the City of Henderson, the Vegas Golden Knights, Stephen Lackey and anonymous Starting Lineup donors, whose investment strengthens student success both on and off the field.

The Inaugural Scorpion Kick-Off Classic represents more than three wins. It signals momentum, vision and a future filled with opportunity. As Nevada State Athletics continues to grow with intention and purpose, February 20 stands as a defining chapter, and represents only the beginning.

Follow Nevada State Athletics for upcoming competitions, schedules and continued Scorpion milestones at nsuscorpions.com or @nevadastateu.