In a move that has thrilled fans and electrified the Oklahoma softball community, Nicole May is officially returning to Norman—but this time, not as a player. The former standout pitcher has been named the new Associate Head Coach of the storied Oklahoma softball program, marking a monumental full-circle moment in her already impressive career. For May, it’s more than a promotion; it’s a homecoming filled with emotion, legacy, and the promise of even greater things to come.
May, who made a name for herself as one of the most dependable arms in the Sooners’ pitching rotation during her collegiate career, is now stepping into a role that will allow her to shape the next generation of talent. Her return to Oklahoma, one of the most dominant programs in college softball history, signals both continuity and transformation. It’s a blend of tradition and evolution, as a former player who once stood in the circle under the brightest lights now takes her place in the dugout as a leader and mentor.
During her playing days with the Sooners, Nicole May helped lead Oklahoma to multiple Women’s College World Series appearances, earning championship hardware and etching her name into the program’s rich history. Known for her composure, consistency, and fierce competitive spirit, she was not only a fan favorite but also a cornerstone of Oklahoma’s sustained dominance on the national stage. Her maturity and poise on the mound made her a natural leader, traits that are now being recognized and rewarded in her new coaching role.
What makes this appointment particularly special is the timing and context. Oklahoma has just completed another incredible season, remaining at the pinnacle of college softball, and now enters a new era of development. The decision to bring May back as Associate Head Coach reflects both a respect for her past contributions and a strong belief in her future as a leader within the program. Head Coach Patty Gasso, who has built a dynasty in Norman, praised the move, calling it a “strategic and heartfelt addition” to her coaching staff. Gasso noted that May’s deep understanding of the program’s culture, her championship mindset, and her ability to connect with players make her an invaluable asset going forward.
Nicole May’s journey from player to coach hasn’t happened overnight. After concluding her collegiate playing career, she quickly transitioned into coaching, embracing the opportunity to study the game from a new vantage point. She served in various developmental roles and assistant coaching positions, quickly gaining a reputation for her attention to detail, strategic acumen, and ability to bring out the best in young pitchers. Her rise through the coaching ranks was swift but not surprising to those who had watched her lead from the mound. Every stop along the way only confirmed that she was destined for something bigger.
For May, the opportunity to return to Oklahoma means more than a career milestone—it’s a deeply personal chapter. “This place shaped me,” she shared in her announcement. “Oklahoma isn’t just where I played—it’s where I learned what it means to compete at the highest level, to hold myself accountable, and to fight for something bigger than myself. I’m honored and beyond excited to now help others do the same.” Her message struck a chord with both fans and former teammates, many of whom celebrated the announcement with emotional tributes on social media.
Oklahoma’s softball program has long prided itself on creating a family atmosphere, where former players are celebrated and often welcomed back into the fold. May’s return exemplifies that culture perfectly. Her familiarity with the program’s expectations, training regimen, and core values means she won’t need any adjustment period. She’s walking back into a world she knows intimately—but now, with the wisdom and perspective of someone who’s seen both sides of the game.
One of the most exciting elements of May’s appointment is the impact she’s expected to have on Oklahoma’s pitching staff. As a former ace herself, she brings firsthand experience, technical mastery, and a deep understanding of the mental aspects of pitching. Her ability to mentor young pitchers, to teach them how to manage pressure and refine their craft, will be critical as Oklahoma continues to attract and develop elite talent. In many ways, May’s presence bridges generations of Sooners, connecting the past to the present in a powerful and inspiring way.
The softball world is already buzzing with anticipation. Coaches, analysts, and former players agree that Nicole May’s appointment could serve as a blueprint for other top-tier programs looking to integrate former players into leadership roles. The trend of elevating former athletes into coaching positions is gaining momentum across college athletics, and May’s promotion adds significant momentum to that movement. Her story stands as a testament to what’s possible when a player’s leadership extends beyond the field and into the next phase of the game.
As for May’s goals, she remains laser-focused on the success of the team. She has emphasized the importance of upholding the standard that Oklahoma has set, while also continuing to innovate and grow. She’s already hard at work preparing for the next season—scouting, strategizing, and building relationships with players and recruits. Her approach is all-encompassing: she’s thinking not just about wins and losses, but about character, growth, and legacy.
The return of Nicole May is also a deeply symbolic moment for fans. Her presence on the coaching staff serves as a reminder of where the program has been and where it’s headed. It’s a reinforcement of the values that have made Oklahoma softball a powerhouse—discipline, unity, and resilience. And for young athletes dreaming of playing at the next level, May’s journey offers a powerful message: with hard work, dedication, and heart, it’s possible to come full circle—and to lead from wherever you stand.
In a time when sports headlines are often dominated by controversy and conflict, Nicole May’s return to Oklahoma is a story that resonates for all the right reasons. It’s about homecoming, legacy, and the enduring power of belief. It’s about a program investing in one of its own and a young leader stepping boldly into her future. And most of all, it’s about the limitless possibilities that unfold when talent meets purpose.
As Oklahoma prepares for another title run, the addition of Nicole May injects not only excitement but also a sense of continuity. She’s been here before. She knows what it takes. And now, she’s ready to guide others to their own defining moments. The circle is complete—but the journey is just beginning.
