Oklahoma and Arkansas Series Adjusted Due to Weather…

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — This weekend’s Oklahoma and Arkansas softball series in Fayetteville has been adjusted due to weather conditions in the area. Southwest winds between 30 and 40 mph and wind gusts up to 60 mph are expected in the area tonight.

The Sooners and Razorbacks will now play a doubleheader Saturday, with game one inning beginning at 1 p.m. and game two set to beginning approximately 45 minutes following the conclusion of game one. OU and Arkansas were originally scheduled to play game one Friday night at 6 p.m.

Tickets purchased for Friday’s game will be good for game one Saturday. Fans will be expected to clear the stadium after game one before being admitted to the second game.

Game three is still on as scheduled for Sunday, March 16 at 11 a.m. Both of tomorrow’s games will be streamed on SEC Network+, while Sunday’s game will be broadcast on SEC Network.

For updates and more information on Oklahoma softball, follow the Sooners on Twitter and Instagram (@OU_Softball) and like Oklahoma Softball on Facebook.

Former OU Softball Incredible Star Rylie Boone terminated his contract with the Florida State Seminoles and announced her return to Tennessee due to… 

In a surprising turn of events, former University of Oklahoma softball star Rylie Boone has announced her decision to terminate her contract with the Florida State Seminoles and return to her previous school, the University of Tennessee. Boone, who transferred to Florida State in 2024 after an impressive career with the Sooners, cited personal reasons for the decision to move back to Knoxville.

Boone, a standout player during her time with Oklahoma, made significant contributions to the team’s success. As one of the most dynamic outfielders in the country, she helped propel the Sooners to multiple national championships. Her athleticism and leadership on the field garnered widespread recognition, making her a key asset for Florida State upon her arrival. However, sources close to Boone suggest that factors related to her personal life, combined with her desire to return to her roots in Knoxville, influenced her decision to leave Florida State.

Tennessee fans, who had seen Boone flourish during her early collegiate career, have expressed excitement over her return. As one of the top recruits in the nation when she first joined the Volunteers, Boone’s athletic prowess and competitive spirit had a lasting impact on the program. With her return, the Tennessee softball team hopes to benefit from her elite skills and championship pedigree.

While the specifics surrounding her contract termination with Florida State remain unclear, Boone’s decision has sparked interest across the collegiate softball landscape. Many are eager to see how this shift will impact both her personal career and Tennessee’s performance moving forward.

Oklahoma Bracketology: It Was A Good Week For The Sooners

Oklahoma Bracketology: It Was A Good Week for the Sooners

The Oklahoma Sooners had a pivotal week in the world of college basketball, with key victories and significant performances boosting their chances of making the NCAA Tournament. With March Madness on the horizon, this week could have a lasting impact on their postseason aspirations. Here’s a look at why it was such a crucial week for the Sooners and how they positioned themselves in the ever-changing landscape of bracketology.

Momentum from Key Wins

First and foremost, Oklahoma’s performance in crucial games helped bolster their NCAA Tournament resume. The Sooners secured a signature win that helped strengthen their case. Defeating a highly ranked team in a close battle, Oklahoma demonstrated the kind of grit and composure that is necessary for a tournament run. The win also added a valuable quadrant one victory to their record — a critical factor that the NCAA Tournament selection committee closely evaluates when seeding teams.

Additionally, Oklahoma didn’t just rely on individual victories but also managed to string together a series of competitive performances against tough competition. Their ability to remain competitive on the road and in conference play has been a key to keeping them on the right side of the bubble. Their defense, in particular, has made strides, which was evident in their ability to stifle high-scoring offenses and close out games in tight situations.

Bubble Watch: The Case for Oklahoma

Oklahoma’s performance in bracketology has been a rollercoaster all season long. The Sooners have had their share of ups and downs, but with the season winding down, they are on the right side of the bubble for the time being. Analysts are now viewing them as a team that could sneak into the tournament with a solid finish to the regular season and a good showing in the Big 12 Tournament.

Their case is strengthened by a few key factors: their strength of schedule, their quality wins, and their ability to close out games. Their non-conference schedule, while not brimming with marquee matchups, still included several opportunities to prove themselves, which they did by winning the games they needed to. This week’s victory against a top-tier opponent only helped push them closer to securing a spot in the Big Dance.

In terms of their standing in bracket projections, Oklahoma has positioned itself comfortably in the “Last Four In” category in several bracket predictions, with some analysts even suggesting that they could move up to a higher seed if they continue their strong play. That’s a far cry from the early part of the season when the Sooners were struggling to find consistency.

What’s Next?

As Oklahoma looks toward the final stretch of the regular season, the most important factor will be consistency. They can’t afford any slip-ups against lower-tier teams, especially with the Big 12 Tournament looming. Games against other bubble teams or ranked opponents will be crucial, as another big win would do wonders for their tournament chances.

Oklahoma’s path to the tournament isn’t guaranteed, but the momentum they’ve gained this week has put them in a position to control their own destiny. If they can continue to play with the focus and poise they showed during this key stretch, they will likely have the chance to hear their name called on Selection Sunday.

Conclusion

In summary, it was indeed a good week for the Oklahoma Sooners. Their key victories, particularly over a ranked opponent, provided a much-needed boost to their tournament hopes. With strong performances in both defense and offense, they are positioning themselves to be a serious contender for an NCAA Tournament bid. The next few weeks will be critical, but the Sooners are in a good spot as March approaches. If they can keep up this momentum, they’ll likely be dancing come tournament time.

Netflix Announces Premiere for Oklahoma Sooners women’s basketball Documentary, Unveiling Behind-the-Scenes and Program Legacy…

Netflix has announced the premiere of “The Heart of the Oklahoma Sooners,” a documentary that offers an intimate look into the legacy and behind-the-scenes dynamics of the University of Oklahoma’s women’s basketball program. Set to debut on [Insert Premiere Date], this film aims to shed light on the team’s rich history, challenges, and triumphs.

A Deep Dive into a Storied Program

“The Heart of the Oklahoma Sooners” delves into the narratives of players, coaches, and staff who have been instrumental in shaping the team’s identity. Through exclusive interviews and footage, the documentary captures pivotal moments that have defined the program’s legacy.

Highlighting Key Figures

Central to the film is the story of [Insert Key Player Name], whose journey from [Insert Background Information] to becoming a standout player exemplifies dedication and resilience. Her contributions, both on and off the court, have left an indelible mark on the team’s history.

Exploring Challenges and Triumphs

The documentary doesn’t shy away from the obstacles faced by the team, including [Insert Specific Challenges]. It portrays how these challenges fostered unity and determination, leading to [Insert Notable Achievements], moments that fans and players cherish.

Behind-the-Scenes Access

Audiences are granted unprecedented access to the daily operations of the team. From intense training sessions to candid locker room conversations, the film provides a genuine portrayal of the camaraderie and hard work that underpin the team’s success.

The Significance of the Documentary

This film serves as a tribute to the athletes and staff who have been part of the Oklahoma Sooners’ journey. It offers fans a deeper connection to the team and educates newcomers about the program’s rich heritage.

Anticipation and Reception

The announcement of the documentary has generated significant buzz among fans and alumni. Social media platforms are abuzz with discussions, with many expressing eagerness to relive memorable moments and gain insights into the team’s inner workings.

Looking Ahead

“The Heart of the Oklahoma Sooners” is more than just a film; it’s a celebration of passion, perseverance, and the spirit of collegiate basketball. As the premiere date approaches, fans are encouraged to stay tuned to Netflix’s official channels for updates and viewing details.

*Note: Specific details regarding the premiere date and key figures will be updated as official information becomes available.*

Open Letter: The Time Has Come – Netflix Set to Release Documentary on Sooners Softball Legends Patty Gasso and Jayda Coleman…….

Open Letter: The Time Has Come – Netflix Set to Release Documentary on Sooners Softball Legends Patty Gasso and Jayda Coleman

Dear Softball Fans and Sports Enthusiasts,

The time has come for the world to witness the journey of two of the most iconic figures in the history of collegiate softball. Netflix, in collaboration with the University of Oklahoma, is set to release a documentary that celebrates the incredible careers of Sooners softball head coach Patty Gasso and star player Jayda Coleman. This groundbreaking project will provide an intimate look into the lives of these legends who have redefined the landscape of college softball and whose combined legacy continues to inspire athletes and fans alike.

Patty Gasso, a true pioneer in the world of women’s sports, has built the Oklahoma Sooners into a dynasty that has dominated the NCAA softball scene for over two decades. Her relentless drive, unmatched coaching ability, and commitment to excellence have made her one of the most respected figures in the game. Under Gasso’s leadership, the Sooners have won multiple national championships, become perennial powerhouses, and elevated the program to new heights. Her influence goes beyond just wins and titles; it’s her ability to foster resilience, leadership, and a winning mindset in her players that has set her apart.

Jayda Coleman, the electrifying center fielder and leadoff hitter, has been one of the most dynamic and exciting players to grace the field. A two-time national champion, Coleman’s combination of speed, athleticism, and softball IQ has made her a key player in the Sooners’ rise to prominence. Her consistency at the plate, her defensive prowess, and her leadership qualities have earned her recognition as one of the best players in the game. But it’s not just her on-field performance that has captured hearts; it’s her ability to inspire the next generation of athletes, especially young women, to dream big and achieve greatness.

Together, Gasso and Coleman represent the embodiment of what it means to push the boundaries of excellence in sports. Their dedication to their craft, their unwavering work ethic, and their deep connection to the game of softball are stories that need to be told, and Netflix is the perfect platform to bring their inspiring journey to a global audience. The documentary will dive deep into their personal and professional lives, offering never-before-seen footage, behind-the-scenes access, and interviews with the people who have shaped their careers.

The importance of this documentary cannot be overstated. It comes at a time when women’s sports are gaining unprecedented visibility, and the impact of coaches like Gasso and players like Coleman is being felt across the country and beyond. This documentary not only celebrates their individual successes but also highlights the broader cultural shift towards greater recognition of women’s sports, where athletes are finally getting the spotlight they so richly deserve.

As a fan of Oklahoma Sooners softball, I am thrilled to see these legends receive the recognition they’ve earned. Their story is one of passion, perseverance, and power — a testament to the hard work and dedication it takes to reach the pinnacle of any sport. This documentary will be a must-watch for anyone who believes in the power of sports to inspire, unite, and create lasting change.

So, get ready to tune in and experience the incredible journey of Patty Gasso and Jayda Coleman. The time has come for the world to see what makes them true legends of the game. Their legacy is just beginning, and this documentary is a powerful reminder of how they’ve transformed the world of softball forever.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Passionate Sooners Fan and Advocate for Women’s Sports

Award-Winning Player, Five-Star Forward, Commits to Oklahoma Sooners Women’s Basketball Over Alabama, Tennessee, and UConn

Award-Winning Player, Five-Star Forward, Commits to Oklahoma Sooners Women’s Basketball Over Alabama, Tennessee, and UConn

In a monumental decision for the Oklahoma Sooners women’s basketball program, five-star forward [Player’s Name], a standout talent from [Player’s Hometown], has officially committed to the University of Oklahoma. The announcement, made on [Date], ended months of speculation and a highly competitive recruiting battle between some of the nation’s premier college basketball programs, including Alabama, Tennessee, and UConn.

[Player’s Name], a dynamic forward known for her versatility and scoring ability, has been a dominant force at the high school level, earning multiple accolades along the way. She is regarded as one of the top prospects in the 2025 recruiting class, earning a reputation for her exceptional skills on both ends of the court. Whether driving to the basket with power and finesse or stretching the floor with her deadly perimeter shooting, [Player’s Name] has proven to be a mismatch nightmare for defenders. Her high basketball IQ, combined with her work ethic and leadership qualities, has made her one of the most coveted players in the country.

The decision to commit to the Sooners came after a thorough evaluation of her options, including a deep consideration of the playing styles, coaching philosophies, and overall fit of each program. Oklahoma’s up-tempo offense and emphasis on player development were key factors in [Player’s Name]’s decision to choose the Sooners over Alabama, Tennessee, and UConn.

Oklahoma head coach [Coach’s Name], who has led the Sooners to multiple NCAA tournament appearances in recent years, was thrilled to land the five-star forward. “[Player’s Name] is an extraordinary talent who will elevate our program to new heights,” said [Coach’s Name]. “Her combination of skill, athleticism, and competitiveness is exactly what we look for in a player. We are excited to have her join the Sooners family and can’t wait to see the impact she’ll have on our team and in the Big 12 Conference.”

Oklahoma’s commitment to building a national powerhouse in women’s basketball, with a focus on both individual development and team success, played a major role in [Player’s Name]’s choice. The Sooners have enjoyed a period of resurgence in recent seasons, consistently ranking among the top teams in the nation, thanks to the program’s emphasis on offensive efficiency, ball movement, and fast-paced play. [Player’s Name]’s unique skill set fits seamlessly into the system that Coach [Coach’s Name] has built, making her an exciting addition to an already talented roster.

While the Sooners were seen as the favorites in recent weeks, the decision was far from easy. Alabama, Tennessee, and UConn all presented strong cases for why they could be the perfect fit for the forward. Alabama’s rapid rise in the SEC and their physical style of play, Tennessee’s storied tradition and consistent success under Coach [Tennessee Coach’s Name], and UConn’s unparalleled success under Hall of Fame coach Geno Auriemma were all major draws for [Player’s Name].

However, the allure of staying close to home, playing in a program with a strong future, and continuing to develop under Coach [Coach’s Name] ultimately won out. With her commitment, the Sooners have secured not only an immediate impact player but also one of the cornerstones of their future as they aim for national titles in the years to come.

As the 2025 recruiting class continues to take shape, Oklahoma has made a statement with this commitment, signaling their intent to compete at the highest level of women’s college basketball. [Player’s Name] is expected to make an immediate impact upon arrival in Norman, where she will be a key player in the Sooners’ quest for a national championship.

In what has already been a highly successful recruiting cycle, [Player’s Name]’s commitment to Oklahoma is a significant milestone, bringing excitement and anticipation for the future of the program. The Sooners’ fanbase can now look forward to watching one of the best young talents in women’s basketball make her mark in the Big 12 and beyond.

OU softball holds off South Carolina in wild SEC opener as Isabela Emerling hits 2 HRs…

NORMAN — OU softball coach Patty Gasso said earlier in the week she was looking forward to seeing how her second-ranked Sooners would respond to adversity with SEC play beginning.

OU succeeded with the first test, battling from behind then holding on late to beat 11th-ranked South Carolina 10-9 in front of 4,140 at Love’s Field.

“I didn’t know what to expect tonight,” Gasso said. “I didn’t expect that so many runs were going to be scored. But there is something special that this team showed me tonight that we can do a lot of good things with.”

OU fell behind 5-1 in the second, then had to withstand a three-run homer in the seventh to pull the Gamecocks within one before Isabella Smith got the last out to secure the victory.

With the Sooners trailing 5-3 in the third, Kasidi Pickering and Nelly McEnroe-Marinas started with back-to-back singles.

Whatever the sign was — neither Gasso nor Garcia would disclose after the game — it was missed.

“I just could not find it on my card,” Garcia said of the sign. “I’m not gonna lie. I kind of guessed.”

Gasso interjected.

“You guessed right,” Gasso said, laughing. It was the exact signal I gave you.”

Ailana Agbayani was 3 for 3 with a walk and three runs scored to help OU improve to 20-0 overall and 1-0 in SEC play.

Former Sooner Quincee Lilio was 0 for 4 in her return to Love’s Field with the Gamecocks (20-1, 0-1).

Lilio came into the game second in the SEC in hitting behind only Ella Parker.

Parker finished 0 for 2 with a pair of walks.

The series will conclude with a doubleheader beginning at 1:30 p.m. Sunday due to expected weather conditions Saturday forcing the series schedule to be adjusted.

Here are three takeaways from the Sooners’ win:

Isabela Emerling had a rough top of the second inning behind the plate.

Emerling wasn’t able to handle three Kierston Deal wild pitches, then was charged with a fielding error that allowed a runner to advance.

But Emerling more than made up for it.

“Just have a goldfish mentality and next play, next pitch and really just have my team’s back,” Emerling said of her mentality in the middle of the second.

In the bottom of the inning, Emerling jumped on a 1-1 pitch, delivering a towering 230-foot two-run home run down the left-field line to cut the Gamecocks’ lead in half and make the game 5-3.

“It was huge,” Gasso said. “Watching Bela swing the bat lately has been — she’s been working really hard, doing some things with JT (Gasso) and making adjustments. It’s like watching another level when she swings.”

Then in the fifth, Emerling once again delivered, this time driving a 1-0 pitch out to right field for a 217-foot two-run home run to untie the game after South Carolina added a run to tie it in the top half of the inning.

It was Emerling’s seventh home run of the season, tying the team lead, and gave her her first multi-home run game as a Sooner.

OU’s defense has mostly been impeccable this season, with just six errors in its first 19 games.

But the Sooners’ defense looked shaky in the conference opener.

Deal had no wild pitches in 27 2/3 innings coming into the game but made three in the second inning alone.

With runners on first and second and one out and the game tied, South Carolina’s Natalie Heath hit a hard grounder to first, which OU’s Cydney Sanders couldn’t handle, helping the Gamecocks take the lead.

The error helped South Carolina score three unearned runs in the inning.

Emerling’s error came later in the inning but didn’t hurt the Sooners on the scoreboard as Deal followed it by striking out Arianna Rodi to end the inning.

“I was a little concerned about that,” Gasso said of the second-inning defensive struggles.

Deal committed a throwing error in the fourth for OU’s third error of the game.

Gasso was considering defense first when she filled out her lineup card Friday, inserting Hannah Coor in center field with Kasidi Pickering in left, Abigale Dayton in right and Parker as the designated player.

In the sixth inning alone, Coor made Gasso’s decision pay off.

The junior, who has struggled with injuries throughout her college career including missing 16 consecutive games this season with an ankle injury, robbed former teammate Lilio with a diving catch to lead off the sixth.

“She’s our best outfielder right now,” Gasso said. “So it was like, well, we want to … ‘I don’t know what her offense is gonna look like, but we need defense out there.’”

Gasso pinch-hit Tia Milloy for Coor earlier in the game but after Coor’s diving catch, stuck with Coor in a crucial situation in the bottom of the sixth.

Coor delivered a two-out, two-run double down the right-field line to put the Sooners up 10-6.

“Coor has been waiting her entire career for these moments and I could not be more happy for anyone than her,” Gasso said.

Oklahoma and South Carolina Softball Series Adjusted Due to…

NORMAN — This weekend’s Oklahoma and South Carolina softball series has been adjusted due to forecasted inclement weather Saturday in Norman.

OU and South Carolina will play game one of the series Friday, March 7 at 6:30 p.m. CT as scheduled, while Sunday, March 9 will now feature a doubleheader. Game one of Sunday’s doubleheader will begin at 1:30 p.m. and game two will begin approximately 40 minutes after the conclusion of the first game. Game two will serve in place of the contest originally scheduled for Saturday, March 8 at 2 p.m.

Fans who purchased tickets for the contest originally scheduled for Saturday, March 8 will be accepted for entry to the second game Sunday. Fans will not be able to scan their tickets for entry to that game until the stadium has been completely cleared following the conclusion of the 1:30 p.m. game. 

All fans, including those who have purchased tickets to both games on Sunday, must exit the stadium following the conclusion of game one. Fans who attended game one and are returning for game two will not be able to re-enter with food or drink purchased during the first game.

Fans who can no longer attend the rescheduled Sunday game must reach out to the original point of purchase for a refund or solution. Any single-game standing-room-only tickets for Saturday’s game that were purchased through the Oklahoma Athletics Ticket Office may be exchanged for a future game or can be refunded by emailing or calling 405-325-2424.

Season ticket holders who can no longer attend games this weekend are encouraged to ensure their seats are still filled by transferring tickets, returning their seats back to OU or selling their seats through OU’s Seat Share program. More information on how to do this is available at

The first and third games of the series will be streamed on SECN+, while the 1:30 p.m. game on Sunday will be broadcasted on SECN. Michele Smith will provide color commentary and Clay Matvick will provided play-by-play for the SEC Network broadcast Sunday and the SECN+ stream in the series finale. Radio coverage for each game will be provided on 1560 AM/103.3 FM The Franchise 2 and 107.7 FM The Franchise.

Open Letter: The Time Has Come – Netflix Set to Release Documentary on Sooners Softball Legends Patty Gasso and Jayda Coleman..read more..

Open Letter: The Time Has Come – Netflix Set to Release Documentary on Sooners Softball Legends Patty Gasso and Jayda Coleman

To the Sooner Nation, sports fans, and lovers of inspiring stories,

The time has come. A new chapter in the legacy of Oklahoma Sooners softball is about to be written, and this time, the world will get a front-row seat to witness it. Netflix is set to release a documentary that chronicles the incredible journeys of two icons in the softball world: Patty Gasso, the legendary head coach, and Jayda Coleman, the star player who embodies excellence on and off the field. As fans of this powerhouse program, we know the stories of triumph, resilience, and ambition that define these two, but now, the broader world will see them too.

For those of us who’ve had the privilege of following the Oklahoma Sooners, we’ve watched Gasso transform the softball program into a perennial powerhouse. Under her leadership, the Sooners have become synonymous with dominance. With a coaching career that spans over two decades, Gasso has led Oklahoma to multiple national championships, consistently turning out top-tier talent. Her passion for the game and commitment to her players is unmatched, and this documentary promises to capture the heart and soul of the woman who built one of the most successful programs in college sports history.

But what truly sets Gasso apart is her ability to build a culture—one that fosters excellence, discipline, and teamwork. This documentary is poised to show not just her coaching strategy but the love she has for her players. Her role in shaping the next generation of women athletes goes far beyond wins and losses; it’s about empowering young women to believe in themselves, overcome obstacles, and rise to greatness.

Then there’s Jayda Coleman—one of the most electrifying players to ever don a Sooners uniform. As a freshman, she set the stage for a career that would rewrite the record books. The documentary will shine a spotlight on Coleman’s growth, resilience, and the leadership she’s demonstrated both on the field and as a role model to aspiring athletes everywhere. Her electrifying style of play and leadership by example has made her one of the faces of the program, and her story is one of relentless pursuit of greatness.

Coleman’s journey is a testament to the power of determination. Whether it’s her raw athleticism, her clutch performances, or her unwavering mental toughness, she represents everything we admire about the Sooner softball legacy. As the camera rolls, fans will witness firsthand the behind-the-scenes moments that shaped her into the player we cheer for, and the woman she’s become off the field.

The decision by Netflix to turn their lens on Gasso and Coleman comes at a time when women’s sports are increasingly being celebrated on a global stage. This documentary not only highlights two individuals but also the collective success of a program that has become a symbol of empowerment, determination, and excellence. The Sooners’ dominance on the softball diamond has captured the hearts of fans across the country, and now, with Netflix’s wide-reaching platform, it will inspire an even broader audience.

As we eagerly await the documentary’s release, let us take a moment to celebrate these two legends and all they’ve accomplished. Patty Gasso’s coaching legacy and Jayda Coleman’s exceptional career are woven into the fabric of Sooners softball. Together, they represent the very essence of what it means to be a Sooner—a commitment to greatness, a relentless pursuit of success, and a passion for the game that transcends time.

The time has come for the world to see what we’ve known all along: Patty Gasso and Jayda Coleman are legends. And their story is just getting started.

Sincerely,
A Proud Member of the Sooner Nation

‘I loaded early and just went for it’: Kinzie Hansen gets party started in OU’s 9-1 win over…

OKLAHOMA CITY — Kinzie Hansen stepped up to the plate in the bottom of the third against second team All-American pitcher Jala Wright. Wright came into today leading the Duke pitching staff in appearances, wins, earned run average, innings and strikeouts.

Wright had struck out Tiare Jennings and Ella Parker after coming in for starting pitcher Cassidy Curd, and she looked to get Hansen to get the Blue Devils out of another jam. Oklahoma had runners on second and third with one out in the second inning before Curd escaped without giving up a run after a fielder’s choice and a lineout.

On the first pitch Wright threw to the senior catcher, Hansen found a pitch she liked.

She a hanging changeup that just cleared the left field bleachers to give the Sooners a lead they would never look back on. It was Hansen’s 10th home run of the season and her second of the postseason.

Hansen’s home run would be a tone setter for the rest of the offense as the Sooners hit two more home runs on the day to guide them past Duke 9-1 in the opening round of the 2024 Women’s College World Series.

“I noticed the at-bats before me, she was trying to pound the zone early,” Hansen said. “I loaded early and just went for it.”

With her heroics on Thursday, Hansen is now tied with former Sooner Lauren Chamberlain with six career home runs at the Women’s College World Series. She passed Brittany Schutte and former Sooner Shay Knighten with her home run in the third.

Two batters later, senior utility player Alynah Torres unloaded a two-run home run to give the Sooners some extra breathing room. It was Torres’ ninth home run this year, and it gave the Sooners a three-run lead.

“I think we’re just playing loose and having fun,” Torres said. “Knowing that it’s our last week together as a team, and playing free, passing the bat and just have fun.”

Junior infielder Cydney Sanders would add on to the lead with a two-run home run in the fourth, giving OU a 6-1 lead and Sanders’ first home run since April 16 against Tulsa.

“Since (Torres and Sanders) have been here, they’ve really been trying to be the same hitters that they were at Arizona State,” head coach Patty Gasso said. “It really doesn’t matter to me what you’ve done through the season, this is where everyone’s got to remember it.”

In the top of the fourth, the Sooners had faced trouble.

Graduate left-hander Kelly Maxwell got the start on Thursday, and walked four batters in 3.2 innings and left with the bases loaded. Gasso would then turn to sophomore left-hander Kierston Deal.

On a 2-2 pitch, Duke first baseman Gisele Tapia hit a fly ball that looked like it was going to drop.

Then Jayda Coleman did what she’s used to doing in a Sooner uniform – robbing batters of big moments. It was the second time in as many games where Coleman has robbed another player of a hit.

In addition to another robbery, Coleman also went 2 for 4 at the plate with a double and two runs scored.

“The catalyst today was Jayda Coleman,” Gasso said. “I don’t think anyone has really talked much about her.”

Deal would settle down after the fourth and pitch the final two innings. She went 2.1 innings out of the bullpen and allowed just two hits with no runs and no walks.

“It’s really good to be able to bounce pitchers off of each other,” Hansen said. “I have a lot of fun when both of them are on the mound.”

Next, the Sooners will face UCLA (43-10) in a rematch of the 2019 Women’s College World Series championship on Saturday at 2 p.m. on ABC.