When the 2025 Oklahoma Sooners softball season began, few could have predicted just how crucial sophomore slugger Kasidi Pickering would become to the team’s dominant campaign. But as the dust settled on another season marked by triumph, records, and unwavering grit, one name stood above the rest: Kasidi Pickering.
In a historic announcement this week, Pickering was officially named the 2025 Oklahoma Sooners Women’s Softball MVP, capping off a sensational season filled with unforgettable moments. The honor didn’t stop there—Pickering also received the prestigious USA Softball National Player of the Year Award, making her the latest Sooner to add a national accolade to Oklahoma’s rich trophy case.
The announcement was met with thunderous applause across Norman and the broader softball world, as fans, teammates, and coaches recognized the unstoppable force Pickering had become on both sides of the ball. In a program legendary for producing icons, Pickering’s emergence signals the dawn of a new era.
A STAR IS BORN: PICKERING’S BREAKOUT SEASON
After a promising freshman year in 2024, expectations were high for Kasidi Pickering heading into 2025. But even the most optimistic Sooners fans couldn’t have foreseen the meteoric leap she would make.
In her sophomore campaign, Pickering led the team in home runs (24), RBIs (76), slugging percentage (.802), and on-base percentage (.512). She was a terror at the plate and a vacuum at first base, committing just one error the entire season and serving as the infield’s vocal leader.
From walk-off hits to jaw-dropping defensive plays, Pickering delivered in the clutch time and time again.
“Kasidi was our heart this year,” said head coach Patty Gasso. “She played with fire, led with grace, and showed everyone what it means to wear the OU jersey. We don’t win half of our games without her.”
MVP MOMENTS: DEFINING GAMES OF PICKERING’S 2025 SEASON
While her statistics were elite, it was Pickering’s performances in Oklahoma’s toughest moments that cemented her MVP status.
- Red River Rivalry vs. Texas: In front of a sellout crowd at Devon Park in Oklahoma City, Pickering blasted a towering three-run homer to walk it off in the bottom of the seventh, propelling the Sooners to a 7-5 win and keeping their undefeated Big 12 record intact.
- College World Series Semifinals vs. UCLA: Facing a future No. 1 draft pick in the circle, Pickering went 3-for-3 with a home run, a double, and 4 RBIs. Her performance was the difference-maker in Oklahoma’s 6-4 win, punching their ticket to the finals.
- Big 12 Tournament Championship: Pickering drove in the game-winning run with a slicing opposite-field single, giving Oklahoma a 3-2 edge over Baylor in a tension-filled final. She was named Big 12 Tournament MVP the next day.
THE USA SOFTBALL NATIONAL PLAYER OF THE YEAR
Pickering became the fifth Oklahoma player in the past decade to win the USA Softball National Player of the Year Award, joining legends like Jocelyn Alo, Keilani Ricketts, and Lauren Chamberlain.
What set her apart this year was her all-around excellence—offense, defense, leadership, and poise.
“Kasidi is a generational talent,” said ESPN analyst and former Olympian Jessica Mendoza. “She’s got the bat speed of a pro and the glove of a Gold Glover. What impressed me most is her maturity—she looks like a senior but she’s just a sophomore.”
A LEADER OFF THE FIELD
Pickering’s impact wasn’t limited to between the white lines. She was instrumental in mentoring younger players, particularly Oklahoma’s highly-touted freshman class. In the locker room, she set the tone for work ethic, discipline, and humility.
“I looked up to Kasidi from day one,” said freshman infielder Layla Jennings. “She treated me like I’d been here for years and helped me adjust to the speed of the game. Her belief in me gave me confidence.”
Pickering was also active in the Norman community, volunteering at youth softball clinics and participating in the Sooners’ “Books and Bats” literacy program for elementary school students.
FAMILY, FAITH, AND FOCUS: WHAT DRIVES KASIDI
In her acceptance speech after receiving the MVP and USA Softball honors, Pickering was quick to credit her support system.
“I’m so grateful to Coach Gasso, my teammates, and most importantly my family,” she said through tears. “This game is bigger than stats or trophies. It’s about people, faith, and love.”
Born and raised in Texas, Pickering comes from a deeply rooted Christian household and often attributes her success to her faith.
“I play for God first,” she told reporters during the College World Series. “I always remind myself that I’m blessed to be out here doing what I love.”
A LEGACY STILL IN THE MAKING
With two more years of eligibility left, Pickering has the chance to go down as one of the greatest players in program history. She’s on pace to break numerous records, including career RBIs, slugging percentage, and possibly even home runs.
“Kasidi’s just getting started,” said OU hitting coach JT Gasso. “What people saw this year is a glimpse of what she can be. Her ceiling? There is none.”
Many believe Pickering could eventually be the No. 1 overall pick in the Women’s Professional Fastpitch (WPF) Draft, or even compete for a spot on the U.S. Olympic team.
“She has that ‘it’ factor,” said Oklahoma legend Jocelyn Alo. “It’s not just talent. It’s presence. She walks into the box and pitchers get nervous.”
REACTION FROM SOONER NATION
Social media exploded with praise and celebration following the news of Pickering’s awards.
@BoomerSoonerFan22: “KASIDI PICKERING IS HER!!! What a player, what a person. So proud she’s a Sooner #MVP #OUsoftball”
@OUAlumniHQ: “From Denton to Destiny! Kasidi Pickering joins the pantheon of OU Softball greats. What a season. #Boomer”
@PattyGassoFanClub: “Coach Gasso really has a gift for growing legends. Kasidi Pickering is living proof.”
WHAT’S NEXT FOR PICKERING AND THE SOONERS?
After finishing another stellar season, Oklahoma looks poised to continue their dynasty. With Pickering returning, alongside pitchers Kelly Maxwell and Jordyn Bahl, and a top-5 recruiting class inbound, the Sooners are again early favorites for the 2026 Women’s College World Series.
Kasidi, however, isn’t looking too far ahead.
“I’m going to enjoy this moment with my team and coaches,” she said after receiving the MVP trophy. “We’ll get back to work soon enough. Our journey isn’t finished—we’ve still got more to prove.”
FINAL THOUGHTS: AN MVP FOR THE AGES
Kasidi Pickering’s 2025 season wasn’t just great—it was historic. Her power, precision, and passion made her a nightmare for opponents and a dream for Sooner Nation. She didn’t just carry her team; she elevated them. She didn’t just win games; she inspired greatness.
And now, with MVP and National Player of the Year honors in hand, Kasidi Pickering has not only solidified her name in Oklahoma lore—she’s shaping the future of softball itself.
Here’s to the MVP, the leader, and the legend in the making.
