Oklahoma Sooners Dominate Opening Game of the 2025 Norman Tournament with Commanding Win Over Tulsa
In a commanding display of dominance, the Oklahoma Sooners opened the 2025 Norman Tournament with an emphatic 9-0 victory over Tulsa, showcasing their unparalleled talent both in the circle and at the plate. The Sooners’ all-around performance was highlighted by a brilliant outing from left-handed ace Kierston Deal, who delivered a masterful pitching performance, and power-hitter Kasidi Pickering, who crushed a three-run home run to seal the run-rule victory in just five innings.
Kierston Deal: Unstoppable in the Circle
Kierston Deal, who has quickly emerged as one of the top pitchers in college softball, put on a clinic in the circle. The left-handed sophomore was virtually unhittable, throwing a complete five-inning game, allowing only a single hit, and striking out eight batters. Deal was in complete control from the start, commanding the strike zone and utilizing a mix of pitches that kept Tulsa’s hitters guessing.
Deal’s ability to dictate the tempo of the game and shut down Tulsa’s offense made her one of the biggest factors in Oklahoma’s run-rule victory. Whether it was her ability to freeze batters with her rise ball or her pinpoint accuracy with her changeup, Deal was in her element. The Sooners have come to rely on her to anchor their pitching staff, and she did not disappoint in the opening game of the Norman Tournament.
Kasidi Pickering’s Power Propels the Sooners’ Offense
While Deal’s pitching was dominant, Kasidi Pickering’s bat was just as lethal. Known for her ability to hit for both power and average, Pickering delivered a defining moment in the game when she blasted a three-run home run in the fourth inning. The towering shot over the left-field fence extended Oklahoma’s lead to 9-0, ensuring the run-rule victory and sending a message to the rest of the field that the Sooners were firing on all cylinders.
Pickering’s home run was a testament to her ability to step up in big moments and provide a spark for the Sooners’ offense. The power-hitter has consistently proven herself to be one of the most dangerous players in college softball, and her performance against Tulsa only further solidified her status as one of the game’s premier talents. In addition to her home run, Pickering’s overall offensive approach remains one of the cornerstones of Oklahoma’s success at the plate.
A Complete Team Effort
While Deal and Pickering stole the spotlight, the Sooners’ performance was a true team effort. Oklahoma’s defense was solid behind Deal, with stellar plays in both the infield and outfield. The Sooners’ aggressive baserunning also kept the pressure on Tulsa, forcing them to make plays under pressure, leading to defensive miscues and additional scoring opportunities.
The Sooners’ offense was balanced and relentless, with contributions from players up and down the lineup. In addition to Pickering’s powerful home run, the Sooners tallied several extra-base hits, and their ability to string together hits allowed them to build a commanding lead early. The relentless attack and discipline at the plate are hallmarks of Coach Patty Gasso’s system, and her team’s execution was on full display.
Run-Rule Victory: A Statement of Intent
The 9-0 run-rule victory not only sent the Sooners to a strong start in the tournament but also served as a statement to the rest of the teams in attendance. Oklahoma’s ability to close out the game in five innings is a testament to their dominance and readiness for another deep postseason run. The game was over before Tulsa had a chance to find any rhythm, as Oklahoma’s offense was too explosive and Deal’s pitching too effective.
For Oklahoma, the win was more than just a one-sided victory—it was a showcase of the team’s depth and the seamless execution of their game plan. From Deal’s stellar pitching to Pickering’s timely power, the Sooners proved that they are ready to make their mark in 2025.
Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Oklahoma?
With their dominant win over Tulsa, the Sooners now set their sights on continuing their success in the remainder of the Norman Tournament. The Sooners have established themselves as the team to beat in the tournament, and their performance only adds to the growing anticipation surrounding their season.
As the Sooners move through the tournament and into the next phase of their season, Coach Patty Gasso will look for her team to continue to build on their momentum. With Kierston Deal leading the pitching staff and Kasidi Pickering anchoring the offense, Oklahoma is well-positioned to remain a national title contender throughout 2025.
The Sooners’ all-around performance in their opening game against Tulsa serves as a reminder that they are a complete team with no weak spots. With more games on the horizon, the Sooners will look to continue their dominance and carry this momentum into the rest of their season.
Oklahoma is poised for another successful year, and after their commanding performance in the Norman Tournament opener, it’s clear that they are ready to make their mark once again as the gold standard in collegiate softball.