The Oklahoma Sooners, four-time defending national champions, enter the 2025 season with significant changes and challenges. Softball America’s preseason Top 25 poll ranks Oklahoma at No. 3, behind Florida and Texas.
Preseason Ranking and Competition
Oklahoma is ranked No. 3 in Softball America’s preseason Top 25, trailing Florida (No. 1) and Texas (No. 2). The Sooners defeated both teams in last year’s Women’s College World Series, showcasing their competitive edge.
Departing Seniors and Team Rebuilding
The Sooners bid farewell to key seniors, including Tiare Jennings, Jayda Coleman, Kinzie Hansen, Rylie Boone, and Nicole May, all of whom had impactful collegiate careers at OU.
Additionally, significant contributors like Alyssa Brito, Alynah Torres, Kelly Maxwell, Karlie Keeney, and Riley Ludlam have departed, necessitating a strategic rebuild for the upcoming season.
Returning Talent and New Additions
Sophomores Ella Parker and Kasidi Pickering return for their sophomore seasons, both earning Preseason First Team All-American honors from Softball America. Senior first baseman Cydney Sanders and juniors Kierston Deal, Hannah Coor, and Paytn Monticelli also bolster the roster.
The team is further strengthened by five transfer portal additions: Utah outfielder Abigale Dayton, Louisiana pitcher Sam Landry, Campbell pitcher Isabella Smith, North Carolina catcher Isabela Emerling, and BYU infielder Ailana Agbayani. A talented freshman class, including pitcher Sophia Bordi, adds depth to the squad.
Upcoming Season Schedule
The Sooners’ 2025 season begins on February 6 against CSUN in San Diego, CA. Notable matchups include hosting Texas from April 25-27 and traveling to Gainesville to face Florida from May 1-3.
The schedule features SEC series against Tennessee, South Carolina, and Mississippi, as well as road games against Arkansas, Missouri, and Alabama. Non-conference contests include games against No. 16 Baylor and a battle with No. 4 Oklahoma State.
| Date | Opponent | Location | Conference | Notable Info |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Feb 6 | CSUN | San Diego, CA | Non-Conf | Season Opener |
| Apr 25-27 | Texas | Norman, OK | SEC | Penultimate SEC Series |
| May 1-3 | Florida | Gainesville, FL | SEC | Final Regular Season Series |
| Various | Tennessee | Norman, OK | SEC | Home Series |
| Various | Baylor | Waco, TX | Non-Conf | Two Games Against Ranked Team |
The Oklahoma Sooners face a season of transition, balancing the loss of key players with the integration of new talent. Their No. 3 preseason ranking reflects both the challenges ahead and the program’s enduring strength.
As the season unfolds, the team’s performance against top-ranked opponents will be pivotal in their pursuit of a fifth consecutive national championship.
FAQs
What is Oklahoma’s preseason ranking for 2025?
Oklahoma is ranked No. 3 in Softball America’s preseason Top 25 for 2025.
Which key players have departed from the team?
Departing seniors include Tiare Jennings, Jayda Coleman, Kinzie Hansen, Rylie Boone, and Nicole May. Other significant departures are Alyssa Brito, Alynah Torres, Kelly Maxwell, Karlie Keeney, and Riley Ludlam.
Who are the notable returning players?
Sophomores Ella Parker and Kasidi Pickering, both Preseason First Team All-Americans, along with senior first baseman Cydney Sanders and juniors Kierston Deal, Hannah Coor, and Paytn Monticelli, are key returners.