Category: Oklahoma Sooners

In an exciting announcement, Oklahoma Sooners softball legend Jocelyn Alo has officially been engaged to NBA star Paolo Banchero. The couple, who have been together for some time, shared the news of their engagement with their fans, celebrating this special milestone in their lives.

Alo, a record-breaking softball player, became a household name with her impressive career at the University of Oklahoma. With numerous accolades, including being named NCAA Softball Player of the Year, Alo is regarded as one of the greatest players in college softball history. On the other hand, Banchero, the first overall pick in the 2022 NBA Draft, has quickly made a name for himself as a rising star with the Orlando Magic, showing incredible skill and leadership on the court.

The two met through mutual friends and have since become one of the most talked-about power couples in the world of sports. Their engagement is a joyous occasion for both their families and fans, with the couple receiving heartfelt congratulations from teammates, friends, and followers on social media.

The couple has revealed that their wedding date is set for later this year, though specific details about the ceremony are still under wraps. The excitement surrounding their upcoming wedding has only added to the couple’s already thriving relationship. Fans eagerly anticipate further details about the big day and look forward to seeing the couple’s love story unfold.

This engagement marks a new chapter for the two athletes, who continue to inspire and impress both on and off the field. Their union represents a blending of sports excellence and personal achievement, making them an even more beloved duo in the world of professional sports.

It’s no secret: To say the Oklahoma Sooners have a linebacker-centric staff would be an understatement.

But it became clear over the course of the 2025 cycle that OU was going to have a hard time landing multiple players at that position. The depth of the room at that time became well-known on the recruiting trail and it ended up working against the program to a degree.

The early signing period in December arrived and Oklahoma made it official with one linebacker prospect. However, that lone backer recruit has several in-house thrilled. An in-state star with every trait you can imagine, Marcus James has head coach Brent Venables and the other OU staffers who love the linebacker spot on the edge of their seat.

“Marcus James comes from one of the best, again, we signed three guys from one of the best programs in the state of Oklahoma, Carl Albert, and what they’ve been able to achieve is really special,” Venables said. “To have the level of elite consistency is really remarkable. But Marcus has been a big part of that.”

Power Four caliber linebacker talent isn’t something you see often in the Sooner State. So you can imagine the excitement Venables and others had as someone like James popped up on the radar. It didn’t take long for James to cement himself as a priority target for OU.

“We noticed him a few years ago coming to camp,” Venables said. “Just a really long, rangy athletic guy, and really excited to see what he’s going to develop into.”

Much of James’ profile has to do with the developmental upside. But the steps forward he took in his high school career alone reiterated what this player brings to the table.

James still has some time to learn ahead of him. But his growth sets the table for a promising future in a Sooner uniform.

“He’s a very versatile outside linebacker, plays tight end, can play middle linebacker,” Venables said. “Can rush the passer really well. A good athlete. Plays in space… Got a great frame as well. So love where he’s at right now.”

According to the industry generated 247Sports Composite Player Rankings, the world of recruiting combines to see James as the No. 758 overall prospect in the ’25 cycle. The three-star also ranks as the No. 78 backer across the country and the No. 13 player inside the Sooner State. As for the 247Sports Network’s specific rankings, James is considered the No. 79 linebacker nationally and a top-12 player in the state of Oklahoma.

The following is the 247Sports scouting report on James. This courtesy of network national scouting analyst Gabe Brooks:

“Versatile high school player with functionality at receiver, H-back, and multiple defensive spots who could project to either side of the ball. Viewed initially as an off-ball linebacker projection, but yet-to-be-verified size could dictate an eventual change to edge. Easy, fluid mover across all duties. Still developing short-area suddenness and explosive twitch, but possesses good physical tools and upside to his frame. Also plays basketball, which reflects in body control and fluidity. Plays with some early hesitancy but does flash periodic short-area pop as a tackler. Don’t necessarily view as a ‘tweener; rather, more of a legitimate big “athlete” who could project to the P5 level as a matchup pass catcher, rangy off-ball linebacker, or scheme-fit edge rusher.”

George Rogers, the 1980 Heisman Trophy winner and former star running back for the South Carolina Gamecocks, has pledged a substantial $5 million donation to support the university’s football program. This generous contribution is expected to significantly enhance the team’s facilities, recruitment efforts, and overall competitiveness.

George Rogers’ Legacy

George Rogers’ impact on the South Carolina Gamecocks is profound. During his tenure from 1977 to 1980, he amassed 5,204 rushing yards and 34 touchdowns, setting numerous school records. His exceptional performance culminated in winning the Heisman Trophy in 1980, solidifying his status as a Gamecocks legend. Rogers’ legacy continues to inspire current players and fans alike.

The $5 Million Donation

Rogers’ $5 million donation is earmarked for the enhancement of the Gamecocks’ football facilities. This investment aims to provide state-of-the-art amenities for players and coaching staff, thereby attracting top-tier talent and fostering a competitive environment. The donation underscores Rogers’ enduring commitment to the university and its athletic programs.

Shane Beamer’s Response

Head coach Shane Beamer expressed profound gratitude for Rogers’ generous contribution. Beamer emphasized that this donation would have a lasting impact on the program, enhancing the team’s ability to compete at the highest levels. He noted that Rogers’ support exemplifies the strong bond between former players and the university, highlighting the importance of alumni engagement in the program’s success.

Impact on the Program

The infusion of $5 million is anticipated to facilitate several key developments:

• Facility Upgrades: Improving training rooms, locker facilities, and practice fields to provide players with top-tier resources.
• Recruitment Enhancement: Attracting high-caliber recruits by showcasing the university’s commitment to excellence through improved facilities.
• Program Growth: Enabling the coaching staff to implement advanced training programs and strategies, thereby elevating the team’s performance.

Conclusion

George Rogers’ $5 million donation is a testament to his enduring dedication to the South Carolina Gamecocks football program. This significant contribution is poised to bolster the team’s infrastructure, recruitment, and overall competitiveness, ensuring a bright future for the program. The collaboration between Rogers and head coach Shane Beamer exemplifies the powerful impact of alumni support on collegiate athletics.

For a deeper insight into George Rogers’ remarkable career and his contributions to the Gamecocks, you might find the following video informative:

Oklahoma’s list of official visits is beginning to take shape.

The Sooners have clearly made an impression on a few prospects in the 2026 class, and they’ve earned an official visit from a prospect who is currently committed elsewhere.

Here is a rundown of what’s going on.

The University of Oklahoma’s football program is making a major push in recruiting as they work on flipping a highly sought-after 4-star recruit while also making the final cut for another coveted linebacker prospect.

Oklahoma has set its sights on a promising 4-star linebacker, who is currently committed to another program. Sources reveal that the Sooners have been intensifying their efforts to secure this standout talent, making significant strides in recent weeks. With a well-established reputation for developing linebackers, OU’s coaching staff has shown the recruit their vision for him in Norman, and it seems the program is increasingly confident about their chances. While the recruit has not yet made a final decision, Oklahoma is considered one of the front-runners to land his commitment in the coming weeks, creating excitement around what would be a major flip.

In addition to the potential flip, the Sooners have also earned a spot in the final cut for another 4-star linebacker. After impressing during official visits, the recruit has narrowed down his options to just a few elite programs, and Oklahoma has made the cut as one of the finalists. The Sooners’ strong defensive reputation and the opportunity to play in a competitive program are likely factors that helped Oklahoma stay in the hunt for the talented linebacker.

As the 2025 recruiting class continues to take shape, the Oklahoma Sooners are positioning themselves to add key playmakers to their defense. If they can secure these top-tier linebackers, it would significantly strengthen their defensive depth for the future. Fans and analysts alike are eagerly watching how these recruitment battles unfold.

In a devastating blow to both the Oklahoma Sooners softball program and the wider sports community, star player Alynah Torres has been forced to announce that her career has come to an unexpected and heartbreaking end. Torres, a standout at both the plate and in the field, suffered a severe injury that will prevent her from ever playing again.

The injury, which occurred during a routine practice, was initially feared to be significant, and after further evaluation by medical professionals, it was confirmed that the damage to her body was too extensive for a successful recovery. The specifics of the injury have not been fully disclosed, but reports suggest that it is related to a joint or ligament issue that would severely limit her mobility and performance. Despite extensive rehabilitation, Torres was informed that there would be no path forward for her to return to the sport she loved.

Alynah Torres, known for her explosive bat and exceptional defensive skills, has been a cornerstone of the Oklahoma Sooners’ dominance in college softball. Throughout her career, she was consistently one of the team’s top performers, earning numerous accolades and recognition for her leadership on and off the field. Her passion, dedication, and competitive spirit made her a fan favorite, and her loss is a massive blow to the Sooners as they prepare for future seasons.

Head coach Patty Gasso expressed deep sorrow for the talented player, stating, “Alynah has been an integral part of this program, and we will miss her both as an athlete and as a person. We support her fully during this difficult time and wish her nothing but the best as she embarks on a new chapter.”

Torres’ injury marks the end of an illustrious career, but her legacy at Oklahoma will remain a lasting inspiration for generations to come.

Jocelyn Alo, the Oklahoma Sooners’ softball star and NCAA Division I career home run leader, has announced her departure from the sport. Alo’s decision marks the end of an illustrious career that has left an indelible mark on collegiate softball.

During her tenure with the Sooners, Alo achieved remarkable milestones, including being named USA Softball Collegiate Player of the Year in 2021 and 2022. She also earned the distinction of NFCA National Player of the Year in 2022. Her prowess at the plate was unparalleled, culminating in her setting the NCAA Division I career home run record. citeturn0search5

After concluding her college career, Alo transitioned to professional softball, joining the Oklahoma City Spark in 2023. Her tenure with the Spark was marked by her leadership and continued excellence on the field. However, recent reports indicate that she has announced her departure from the team. citeturn0search0

Alo’s decision to leave the sport has been met with an outpouring of support and admiration from fans, teammates, and the broader softball community. Her legacy as a trailblazer for women’s sports and her contributions to the game will be remembered for years to come.

As of now, details regarding her future plans remain undisclosed. The softball community eagerly awaits further information on her next endeavors.

For a glimpse into her final moments on the field during her college career, you can watch the following video:

videoJocelyn Alo exits the field one final time in her Oklahoma careerturn0search9

Patty Gasso, the esteemed head coach of the Oklahoma Sooners women’s softball team, has announced her resignation amid growing criticism following the departure of star pitcher Jordy Bahl. Gasso’s decision to step down has sent shockwaves through the softball community, as she has been instrumental in building Oklahoma into a powerhouse in collegiate softball.

Jordy Bahl, a two-time All-American and the 2023 Women’s College World Series Most Outstanding Player, transferred from Oklahoma to Nebraska in June 2023. Bahl cited homesickness and a desire to be closer to her family as primary reasons for her decision. Despite her exceptional performance at Oklahoma, Bahl expressed a strong need to return home, stating, “Being away has led me to appreciate home even more.” citeturn0search1

The transfer of such a key player has been met with mixed reactions. While many understand Bahl’s personal reasons, others have questioned the team’s ability to maintain its dominance without her. This uncertainty has intensified scrutiny on Coach Gasso’s leadership and the program’s future.

In response to the mounting criticism, Gasso announced her resignation, expressing gratitude for the support she received during her tenure. She stated, “I am proud of what we have accomplished together, and I believe it is time for new leadership to guide this team forward.”

Gasso’s departure marks the end of an era for Oklahoma softball. Under her guidance, the Sooners secured multiple national championships and produced numerous All-Americans. Her resignation raises questions about the program’s direction and the future of Oklahoma softball.

As the Sooners prepare for the upcoming season, the search for a new head coach is underway. The university aims to find a leader who can uphold the program’s storied tradition and navigate the challenges that lie ahead.

Opening day of the 2025 college softball season kicked off Thursday with multiple ranked matchups and exciting series. Here are some of the biggest moments and games of the opening day’s slate.

No. 3 Oklahoma capped off a doubleheader sweep in thrilling fashion Thursday night, outlasting San Diego State 11-6 in a nine-inning battle at SDSU Softball Stadium.

The Sooners (2-0) trailed 3-1 entering the fifth, but a three-run homer from Kasidi Pickering put them ahead before SDSU (0-1) clawed back to force extra innings. In the ninth, North Carolina transfer Isabela Emerling delivered the decisive blow — a grand slam to left — before Ailana Agbayani’s inside-the-park dash sealed the game.

OU’s offense erupted late, but its bullpen proved just as vital. Freshman Audrey Lowry took over in the sixth and held the Aztecs hitless over 3.1 innings, striking out five to earn the win. Starter Sam Landry struck out 11 over 5.2 innings but allowed five runs.

The Aztecs jumped ahead early in the second behind a three-run pinch-hit homer from Shannon Cunningham. OU chipped away, with Ella Parker driving in two runs before Pickering’s go-ahead blast in the fifth. SDSU’s Grace Uribe answered with a two-run single to tie it at 5-5.

With international tiebreaker rules in effect, Oklahoma briefly reclaimed the lead in the eighth on a squeeze bunt from Hannah Coor. But SDSU evened it again before Emerling’s grand slam in the ninth put the game away.

Earlier in the day, OU opened its season with a 7-2 win over CSUN, fueled by Parker and Pickering’s combined five RBIs and a dominant relief outing from Isabella Smith.

The Sooners continue their California road trip against Cal Baptist and Cal State Fullerton.

In a remarkable comeback, Nebraska’s Jordy Bahl led her team to a 7-1 victory over No. 5 Tennessee at the NFCA Leadoff Classic in Clearwater, Florida. Bahl, returning from a season-ending ACL injury in 2024, not only pitched a complete game but also hit a two-run home run, dominating on both sides of game.

The tilt remained scoreless until the fourth inning when Tennessee’s Sophia Nugent hit an RBI double, putting the Vols ahead. Nebraska responded in the fifth inning with five runs scored. This offensive surge included Bahl’s two-run homer, which was instrumental in shifting the momentum. The Huskers added two more runs in the seventh inning, sealing their lead.

Bahl’s performance was complemented by teammate Samantha Bland, who went 3-for-3 at the plate and contributed two RBIs. On the opposing side, Tennessee’s starting pitcher, Karlyn Pickens, showcased her talent by striking out 11 hitters but faced challenges in the fifth inning that led to her replacement in the sixth.

This victory marks a significant milestone for Bahl, who had been sidelined since February 2024 due to her ACL injury.

Texas A&M outfielder Kramer Eschete wasted no time delivering one of the most jaw-dropping plays of the softball season.

In the second inning of the Aggies’ season opener against Utah State, Eschete chased a deep foul ball down the left-field line, leaped into the wall, and made contact with the ball. As it ricocheted back toward the field, she fell to the ground but stayed locked in, securing the catch mid-air before it hit the ground.

The play quickly went viral, with fans and analysts alike stunned by the effort.

Eschete, who wears No. 91 for Texas A&M, has already set the bar high for defensive gems this season. The Aggies went on to win the game 11-5, but Eschete’s play stole the show. The left fielder finished the game going 2-for-3 with 2 RBIs at the plate.

In a highly anticipated season opener at the NFCA Leadoff Classic, No. 10 Texas Tech secured a 2-0 victory over Marshall, highlighted by NiJaree Canady’s impressive debut in the circle.

Canady, a junior transfer from Stanford and the reigning USA Softball Collegiate Player of the Year, entered in relief during the third inning and pitched 3.2 innings of no-hit softball. She struck out seven of the 13 hitters she faced, proving the dominance that made her a standout at Stanford, where she led the nation with a 0.73 ERA and 337 strikeouts in 2024.

Freshman Sam Lincoln started the game for the Red Raiders, pitching two solid innings and allowing just one hit. Offensively, Texas Tech capitalized on Marshall’s defensive miscues. In the first inning, outfielder Mihyia Davis advanced from first to third on a throwing error, setting up utility player Alana Johnson’s RBI single. Johnson later scored in the fifth inning on a passed ball, extending the lead to 2-0.

Johnson led the offense, going 2-for-2 with an RBI, a run scored and a stolen base. Despite leaving nine runners on base, the Red Raiders’ pitching staff ensured the early runs held up. Chloe Riassetto closed the game, retiring all four batters she faced.

The Red Raiders continue their campaign Friday, facing No. 25 Mississippi State and Penn State.

No. 4 Oklahoma State started its 2025 season on a high note, beating No. 12 Florida State 9-6 in the Puerto Vallarta College Challenge in Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco, Mexico.

The Cowgirls wasted no time waking their bats up, scoring three runs total in the first two innings. They kept it simple in the first, scoring off an infield error and a single to left field. Third baseman Tallen Edwards was the first to homer, going deep in the second to give Oklahoma State a 3-0 lead.

By the fifth inning, the Cowgirls had doubled their run total.

Washington transfer pitcher Ruby Meylan took care of business in her debut for the orange and black. She struck out nine in five innings and allowed just two runs, leaving right-hander RyLee Crandall with a 6-2 lead and two innings of work to complete.

Oklahoma State tacked on three more runs in the sixth — and they ended up being important runs. The Seminoles attempted a late comeback behind a four-run seventh spearheaded by two home runs, but it wasn’t enough to make it over the hump.

The Bulldogs wasted no time with the Wolfpack at the Black and Gold Classic, winning 9-0 in five innings after a scorching-hot first.

It took Georgia only two pitches to get on the board, as center fielder Dallis Goodnight clobbered a home run to right field on the team’s first at-bat of the game.

Goodnight’s homer served as the trigger for the whole lineup to start racking, as the next eight batters at least reached first base. By the time Goodnight came back up to the plate, UGA had six more hits and runs. Coincidentally, Goodnight was the first Bulldog to get out on their own at-bat, grounding out on her second plate appearance.

After beating Cal State Bakersfield 3-2 earlier in the day, the Wolfpack couldn’t put together any momentum. They finished with three hits and zero runs in the contest.

Georgia tacked on two more runs in the fourth behind shortstop Emily Digby’s two-run homer to left center. Eight of Georgia’s nine batters had at least one hit — four players had one or more RBI.

football career, there was a sense of finality for Bowman Jr. along with players like fellow defensive leader Danny Stutsman as they trekked into the locker room following the loss.

After the conclusion of the Sooners’ last regular season game, ESPN updated its predictions, sending OU to the Gasparilla Bowl in Tampa, Florida, or the Independence Bowl in Shreveport, Louisiana. Bowman Jr. and Stutsman will soon enter the NFL Draft and both stated postgame that they are unsure if they will play in the post-season matchup.

However, whether they participate in the bowl game or not, their personal transformations and dedication to the program through coaching and conference changes have provided them with a portfolio of work to utilize in whatever comes next.

“I remember coming in as a scrawny three-star, just trying to eat the table scraps to get onto the field,” Stutsman said, thinking about his time at OU. “From where I am today, it has been a lot of hard work. I couldn’t do it without my teammates, the strength staff that built me into the man I am today and Coach Venables, the character he has instilled in me.”

“I am happy to be a Sooner, it is one of the proudest things I could ever say and I am just proud of this university and proud of everything it has given me.”

Junior defensive lineman Damonic Williams, redshirt junior offensive lineman Troy Everett and senior linebacker Danny Stutsman before the game against LSU on Nov. 30.

Despite OU’s lackluster performance against LSU, which could potentially mark the conclusion of Bowman Jr. and Stutsman’s collegiate careers and the end of an era for Oklahoma’s defense, it is understood that there is life for the unit after the two defensive leaders decide to depart.

“We’re Oklahoma, and we’re not going to take a backseat to anybody,” Bowman Jr. said of what is next for the defense. “We brought the right guys in the building transfer-wise, freshman-wise and I expect them to do that again.”

There have been positive signs throughout OU’s difficult season, as players like redshirt sophomore linebacker Kip Lewis became a pass coverage threat, recording two pick-sixes, or as junior defensive lineman R Mason Thomas overcame injuries he sustained in 2023 and collected a career-high nine sacks.

It even showed as junior defensive lineman Gracen Halton forced fumbles and freshman defensive back Eli Bowen rose through the ranks, gradually earning playing time throughout the season.

On Saturday, fittingly, Stutsman, who is ranked ninth in Oklahoma history with 377 total tackles, led the team 10, but it was Bowman Jr., Halton and Lewis who followed behind him with seven. Halton also made a crucial play in the first quarter, sacking LSU’s quarterback Garrett Nussmeier on the Tigers’ own nine-yard line and forcing a fumble. This allowed Thomas to scoop and score and tie the game 7-7.

part will carry over for next year, so I am excited for that.”

Oklahoma’s defense still has a long way to go after allowing LSU to score 37 points — the most OU has given up this season — and allowing the Tigers to generate 395 total yards of offense on Saturday.

Now, more than ever, as veterans are preparing to leave, there are big gaps to fill and improvements to make for players returning.

However, for leaders like Bowman Jr., there was an understanding that as he walked away from Death Valley on Saturday night — and potentially his collegiate career — letting it go and leaving it behind for someone else was a part of the reason he came back.

“It is the end of a story,” Bowman Jr. said. “But it continues to go on.”

The February edition of National Signing Day has passed. And yet, zero drama in relation to the Oklahoma Sooners.

The same can pretty much be said for what was seen during the December early signing period for OU, too. At least, that’s what Oklahoma head coach Brent Venables felt at the time.

The Sooners sign 18 players in their 2025 class. In the middle of a changing college football landscape, impacting roster construction specifically, OU is thrilled about its incoming group despite the lighter number.

“Excellent group of guys,” Venables said. “Hit on most of our targets in a really competitive space.”

It’s one thing to get the commitment from a recruit the program likes. But it’s another to get pen on paper. Oklahoma seeks players who won’t stir the pot in between those two moments and in 2025, OU found what it was looking for.

“Recruiting never stops,” Venables said. “What I appreciate, man, there was no drama whatsoever. I say this a lot, and this is my 30 years of experience in doing this that if there’s drama in recruiting, whatever that means, if there’s drama in recruiting, there’s going to be drama when they come to your campus. So just always something that I’ve always kept in my back pocket and been very keen to.”

Now to be clear, there was ‘drama’ related to OU between the two signing stretches. But it was really only related to one player, five-star Michael Fasusi, who ended up joining Oklahoma anyway. While that situation stole the spotlight, it may have created an illusion that the signing period for OU was more hectic than it actually was. Venables feels this concept is important, not just in the present but the future in relation to the program.

“I don’t ever take things for granted,” Venables said. “I don’t think we had to do anything any different than what we’ve done in the past in regards to, you know, it’s about relationships… Just, our guys, when they commit, it means something. Again, we’re not gonna be immune to decommitment. Some of it’s by strategy. Some of it, people are free to make their decisions as they see fit.”

And that rings true in a few ways. More relevantly for OU, though, it’s easy for prospects to look elsewhere when the spot they’re pledged to is struggling on the field. It wasn’t the 2024 the Sooners were hoping for and as a result, their commits received an earful from others while trying to convince them to look elsewhere. Most of OU’s class was assembled prior to the start of the ’24 season and because most of it stayed intact, Venables feels it’s a testament to the class’ mindset.

“I think when people, you look at this year, I think people have a voice of reason. There’s no panic. They are aligning with a body of work, they’re aligning with a university that’s represented excellence for a long period of time. And nobody — I think you look at college football, I think nobody is immune to some of the things that happened this year to us. A little bit of the instability in the environment that you’re dealing with. So I think this is a class that had faith in people and relationships with people, and a belief that hey, maybe there’s even more opportunity — I know I had opportunity, but maybe there’s even more of an opportunity that myself and other guys in this class that we can come in and be the glue and be a part of an opportunity to help turn around what we’re trying to do.”

Oklahoma knows the program identity it wants under Venables and his staff. But the Sooners aren’t ignoring the fact their reputation may have been overshadowed by a 6-7 record. Venables feels this 2025 class will help success return to Norman as it’s full of players and people who are perfect OU fits, on-and-off the field.

“We just continue to be who we’ve been,” Venables said. “Be consistent, be real, genuine, honest.”