Which pitcher started Iowa’s combined no-hitter at the 2026 Little League World Series?
Answer
Cooper Thissen
Cooper Thissen started Iowa’s combined no-hitter at the 2026 Little League World Series.
Thissen threw 5⅓ hitless innings for Davenport Northwest Little League before reaching the tournament’s pitch limit. He struck out 15 batters, producing the dominant opening performance in Iowa’s 1–0 victory over California’s Sweetwater Valley team.
Anthony Johnson Jr. completed the no-hitter by recording the final two outs. The pair combined for 17 strikeouts, and California was held without a hit throughout the game.
The achievement is called a combined no-hitter because more than one pitcher contributed. Thissen was the starter, while Johnson Jr. was the relief pitcher who finished the final outs.