**World’s Best Cheerleading Squad — Oklahoma Sooners Cheerleaders Defeat Kentucky, Crowned World’s Best by ESPN**
The world of competitive cheerleading has a new reigning champion, and they hail from Norman, Oklahoma. The Oklahoma Sooners cheerleading squad made history this past weekend by defeating the defending champions, the Kentucky Wildcats, in a thrilling showdown at the ESPN Cheerleading Championships. With a near-flawless performance packed with jaw-dropping stunts, electrifying tumbling passes, and unmatched synchronization, the Sooners claimed the title of “World’s Best Cheerleading Squad” in front of a packed arena and millions watching live on ESPN.
The road to victory was anything but easy. Kentucky, a perennial powerhouse in collegiate cheerleading, entered the competition as the favorite, having won multiple national titles in recent years. Known for their precision, athleticism, and innovative routines, the Wildcats were expected to dominate once again. But Oklahoma had other plans. The Sooners, under the leadership of head coach Kelsey Wicks, brought a routine that pushed the boundaries of creativity and difficulty, leaving the judges and audience in awe.
From the moment the music started, Oklahoma commanded the floor with an energy that was impossible to ignore. Their opening stunt sequence featured a series of gravity-defying pyramids, including a never-before-seen double-twisting basket toss that drew gasps from the crowd. The squad’s flyers moved with the grace of gymnasts, hitting every position with razor-sharp precision, while the bases and backspots demonstrated strength and timing that could only come from years of relentless training.
What set Oklahoma apart, however, was their ability to blend technical perfection with showmanship. Every motion was sharp, every landing stuck, and every transition seamless. Their tumbling section was a masterclass in power and control, with every athlete throwing standing back tucks, full-twisting layouts, and even a few double fulls that left no doubt about their elite status. The choreography was dynamic, weaving in elements of dance and crowd engagement that kept the audience on their feet.
Kentucky, to their credit, delivered a stellar performance of their own. Their routine was packed with difficulty, including a series of synchronized standing back handspring back tucks that showcased their trademark discipline. Their coed stunts were executed with near-perfect timing, and their energy never wavered. But in the end, it was Oklahoma’s combination of innovation, difficulty, and sheer charisma that tipped the scales in their favor. When the final scores were announced, the Sooners erupted in celebration, hugging each other in disbelief and joy as confetti rained down.
For Oklahoma, this victory was years in the making. The program has long been considered one of the best in the nation, but breaking through against Kentucky’s dynasty required something extraordinary. Coach Wicks, a former Sooner cheerleader herself, emphasized the team’s dedication to pushing limits. “We knew we had to take risks if we wanted to beat Kentucky,” she said in a post-victory interview. “This team put in the work every single day—early mornings, late nights, countless reps until every detail was perfect. They earned this.”
The win is a testament to the growing depth of talent in collegiate cheerleading. What was once dominated by a few elite programs has become a fiercely competitive landscape, with schools like Oklahoma, Kentucky, Alabama, and UCF constantly raising the bar. ESPN’s coverage of the event highlighted just how far the sport has come, with commentators marveling at the athleticism and artistry on display.
For the athletes themselves, this moment was the culmination of a lifetime of dedication. Many of the Sooners’ cheerleaders began their journeys in all-star gyms as children, dreaming of one day competing at the highest level. Senior flyer Jessica Reynolds, who nailed every stunt in the routine, fought back tears as she reflected on the journey. “This is everything we’ve worked for,” she said. “To finally stand on that stage and hear our name called as champions—it’s surreal.”
The impact of this victory extends beyond just trophies and bragging rights. For Oklahoma, it solidifies their place among the elite programs in cheerleading history. It also serves as inspiration for the next generation of athletes who now see that even the most dominant dynasties can be challenged.
As the confetti settled and the celebrations continued, one thing became clear: the Oklahoma Sooners cheerleading squad didn’t just win a championship—they made a statement. With a mix of innovation, heart, and unmatched skill, they proved that they are, without a doubt, the world’s best. And if this performance was any indication, they plan to stay on top for a long time to come.
