Oklahoma Softball: Patty Gasso Expresses Disappointment in Oklahoma Players’ Performance, But Won’t Resort to Panic
Trust Patty Gasso to offer a balanced perspective on the surprising conclusion of an unprecedented winning streak.
Gasso acknowledged that her players felt a sense of embarrassment following Sunday’s performance, recognizing their underachievement. However, she emphasized that she harbors no concerns.
During her weekly press conference at Marita Hynes Field on Tuesday, Gasso made it clear that both sentiments can coexist.
The top-ranked Oklahoma team’s lackluster defense, inconsistent pitching, stagnant batting, and sloppy base running led to a 7-5 defeat against Louisiana—a team that had entered Love’s Field with a losing record this season. This outcome left the Sooners feeling “embarrassed.”
The squad, predominantly comprised of seniors who have secured three consecutive national championships and spearheaded a 71-game winning streak, found themselves “embarrassed” by lapses such as careless baserunning or errors in fielding routine grounders or catching short throws, or failing to advance baserunners during critical moments.
At Oklahoma, standards are rightly set high. Players choose OU to compete at the highest level. Maintaining fundamental excellence in softball and demonstrating consistency is vital to meeting those standards.
Despite Sunday’s performance—or any previous instances of subpar play that might have been masked by victories—Gasso remains unfazed. She acknowledged mistakes were made and reassured that they will be addressed.
Gasso made it clear that she isn’t dwelling on the setback. She drew parallels to past experiences, including a game during the World Series where the team made five errors in one inning yet went on to win a national championship. Such setbacks don’t provoke panic; Gasso remains confident in her team’s athleticism and understanding of what it takes to succeed.
