Who could have predicted this twist in the OU softball world? Despite the numerous rumors about Texas Tech, it seemed unlikely that NiJaree Canady would actually choose Lubbock.
Yet, that’s exactly what happened.
Canady shocked the softball community by committing to Texas Tech on Wednesday. Reports suggest this move was facilitated by a groundbreaking Name, Image, Likeness deal to secure one of the best players for the Red Raiders.
Like every other school, OU did everything possible to attract Canady. Head coach Patty Gasso and the program undoubtedly made a compelling pitch.
OU seemed to put forth its best effort after Canady’s visit in June, then it was a waiting game. Although OU initially felt like the favorite, other programs continued their pursuit.
This season, Canady posted a 24-7 record with a 0.73 ERA and five saves for Stanford. In 230.2 innings, she allowed 116 hits, 24 earned runs, and amassed an incredible 337 strikeouts, including 24 complete games and nine shutouts.
From Topeka, Kansas, Canady has two seasons of eligibility left. She has been instrumental in leading Stanford to consecutive Women’s College World Series semifinals and earned the title of National Player of the Year.
When OU signed Sam Landry less than two weeks ago, many assumed the Sooners were out of the running for Canady. While this wasn’t entirely accurate, Gasso and her staff knew they had to prepare.
Waiting indefinitely wasn’t an option, and for one of the rare times, OU missed out.
OU made significant moves, bringing in pitchers like Landry and Isabella Smith (Campbell) and adding dynamic position players.
The Sooners are the four-time defending national champions for a reason. However, they will enter 2025 as one of the top teams, but not the top team.
Gasso has expressed her excitement about coaching the freshmen and starting anew in 2025 with a new group.
With eight freshmen, eight returning players, and five portal additions, the 2025 Sooners roster appears set.
OU Transfer Portal Commitments:
– Sam Landry, P, Louisiana (1 year): A three-time All-Sun Belt honoree with a 2.12 career ERA, 63 wins, and 460 strikeouts. Landry’s addition, alongside Kierston Deal, is crucial for OU. Landry was the best pitcher in the portal not named Canady in June and July, ensuring OU wasn’t left empty-handed.
– Ailana Agbayani, SS, BYU (2 years): Agbayani hit .424, with five home runs and 33 RBIs. She displayed exceptional plate discipline, drawing 30 walks and striking out only seven times in 165 plate appearances. She had standout performances against top teams, including a memorable game against Oklahoma State.
– Isabela Emerling, C, North Carolina (2 years): Emerling hit .323 with 14 home runs and 53 RBIs in her sophomore season. With Kinzie Hansen as a grad assistant, Emerling has great mentorship. Her improvement from freshman to sophomore year was notable.
– Abby Dayton, OF, Utah (2 years): The Pac-12 batting champion hit .431 last season, earning All-Pac-12 honors and a third-team All-American selection. Dayton also excelled defensively in center field.
– Isabella Smith, P, Campbell (1 year): The CAA Pitcher of the Year went 26-7 with a 1.56 ERA in 2024, recording 18 complete games, nine shutouts, two saves, and 239 strikeouts in 206 innings. Smith holds several school records at Campbell, including career strikeouts and single-season wins.
