On February 9, 2025, the No. 1-ranked Oklahoma Sooners softball team showcased their dominance as they wrapped up an undefeated weekend to kick off the new season. The Sooners, who entered the season as the consensus top team in the nation, continued their impressive form with a series of victories in the opening weekend of play, proving why they are the team to beat in college softball.
Opening Weekend Overview
Oklahoma’s opening weekend included a combination of tough matchups against several quality opponents, but the Sooners made it clear that they were not to be underestimated. With their offensive firepower, tight defense, and dominant pitching, Oklahoma cruised through the weekend, leaving a trail of defeated opponents in their wake.
Head coach Patty Gasso, a Hall of Fame coach, has built a powerhouse program in Norman, and this season’s squad looks as strong as ever. From pitching ace Alex Storako to a lineup loaded with talent, the Sooners are poised for another deep run in the NCAA Tournament. Their performance over the opening weekend demonstrated why they are the No. 1 team in the country, setting the tone for the rest of the season.
Game-by-Game Recap
Game 1: Oklahoma vs. Montana
In their first game of the weekend, the Sooners took on the Montana Grizzlies, a team they were expected to dominate. From the start, Oklahoma’s power was evident as they stormed to a commanding 9-0 victory. Storako started in the circle and was nearly perfect, throwing a five-inning shutout, allowing just two hits while striking out eight batters.
At the plate, the Sooners were relentless. Tiare Jennings had a standout performance, hitting a two-run homer and contributing to an offense that tallied 12 hits. Grace Lyons and Jada Coleman also contributed key hits, helping Oklahoma put the game out of reach early.
Game 2: Oklahoma vs. Cal State Fullerton
The Sooners’ second game of the weekend saw them face Cal State Fullerton, another tough opponent that posed a bigger challenge. However, Oklahoma’s offense continued to impress, with the team securing an 8-1 victory.
Storako once again took the circle for Oklahoma, tossing another dominant performance, striking out nine and allowing only one run in a complete-game effort. At the plate, Jayda Coleman was on fire, recording a home run and three RBIs. The Sooners’ ability to manufacture runs with timely hits and aggressive base running kept the Titans off balance throughout the game.
Game 3: Oklahoma vs. Nebraska
In a highly anticipated matchup, Oklahoma faced off against a Big Ten rival, the Nebraska Cornhuskers, in their third game of the opening weekend. The game was more competitive than the previous two, but Oklahoma’s firepower and pitching once again proved too much for the Cornhuskers.
Jocelyn Alo, the reigning NCAA Player of the Year, had a big day at the plate, delivering a two-run double to give the Sooners an early lead. Despite a strong offensive effort from Nebraska, which managed to get a few runners on base, Nicole May, Oklahoma’s sophomore pitcher, showed poise in the circle and closed out the game with a strong finish, securing an 8-3 victory for the Sooners.
Game 4: Oklahoma vs. LSU
The final game of the weekend for Oklahoma was against a highly-ranked LSU team that had been a national contender in recent years. The Tigers came into the game with a lot of confidence, but they were no match for the Sooners’ offense and pitching.
Oklahoma took control of the game early with a four-run first inning, highlighted by Jocelyn Alo’s two-run blast to center field. Alyssa Brito added another home run later in the game, and Alex Storako returned to the circle for another solid outing, holding LSU to just one run in a 7-1 victory for the Sooners.
Team Performances
Pitching: Oklahoma’s pitching staff was nothing short of spectacular over the weekend. Led by ace Alex Storako, who earned two victories and struck out 17 batters in her outings, the Sooners showed that they have one of the most dominant pitching staffs in the country. Nicole May also showed that she is a force to be reckoned with in the circle, providing excellent depth for the Sooners.
Offense: At the plate, Oklahoma displayed their trademark power-hitting ability, with Jocelyn Alo, Tiare Jennings, and Jada Coleman leading the charge. Alo, who holds several NCAA records, showed why she is one of the most feared hitters in college softball. The Sooners’ lineup is deep, with numerous players capable of driving in runs and making an impact in every game. Oklahoma’s offensive explosion, combined with their aggressive base running, makes them a constant threat to score.
Defense: Oklahoma’s defense was solid, and their ability to turn double plays and limit errors was key to their success. With players like Grace Lyons and Alyssa Brito anchoring the infield, the Sooners showed their defensive prowess, which will be critical as the season progresses.
Player of the Weekend
While several players contributed to the Sooners’ undefeated weekend, Jocelyn Alo proved to be the standout performer. Alo, who is widely regarded as one of the best players in college softball history, delivered with clutch hits, including two home runs and five RBIs. Her leadership and ability to produce in high-pressure situations made her the clear choice as the Player of the Weekend.
Looking Ahead
With an undefeated opening weekend in the books, the Oklahoma Sooners are setting their sights on the rest of the season. The team will continue to build on their momentum, with upcoming games against tough opponents in the Big 12 and non-conference rivals. With a roster full of talent, both on the mound and at the plate, Oklahoma is poised to remain at the top of the rankings and make another deep run in the NCAA Tournament.
As the Sooners continue their journey, all eyes will be on their continued success, and whether they can maintain their undefeated streak. The team’s chemistry, talent, and depth will be key as they seek to defend their National Championship and claim another title in 2025.