Shay Knighten Appointed Associate Head Coach of Oklahoma Sooners Softball
In a significant move that underscores the University of Oklahoma’s commitment to excellence in softball, former standout player Shay Knighten has been appointed as the Associate Head Coach of the Sooners softball team. This appointment marks a full-circle moment for Knighten, who began her illustrious career at Oklahoma before making impactful contributions as a coach.
Shay Knighten’s journey with the Oklahoma Sooners began in 2016 when she joined the team as a freshman. Over the course of her collegiate career, she became a cornerstone of the program’s success. Knighten played in 233 of 239 games, starting 233, and finished her career with a .360 batting average, 247 hits, and 197 RBIs. Her performance was pivotal in leading the Sooners to back-to-back Women’s College World Series (WCWS) championships in 2016 and 2017. Notably, she was named the Most Outstanding Player of the 2017 WCWS, a testament to her clutch performances in critical moments.
In addition to her on-field achievements, Knighten was recognized with several accolades, including:
- 2017 Big 12 Player of the Year
- Two-time NFCA Second Team All-American (2016, 2017)
- Four-time All-Big 12 honoree
Her leadership and dedication to the sport have left an indelible mark on the Oklahoma softball program.
Following her playing career, Knighten transitioned into coaching, bringing her wealth of experience and passion for the game to the next generation of athletes. In 2019, she served as an undergraduate assistant coach at Oklahoma, where she worked closely with the team’s hitters and infielders. Her coaching journey continued at the University of San Diego, where she joined the Toreros as an assistant coach in 2020. At USD, Knighten focused on developing hitters and infielders, while also contributing to recruiting, scheduling, and fundraising efforts.
Knighten’s coaching philosophy emphasizes a championship mindset, drawing from her own experiences as a player. Her approach has been instrumental in shaping the programs she has been a part of, fostering a culture of excellence and resilience.
In 2025, Knighten returns to her alma mater as the Associate Head Coach of the Sooners softball team. Under the leadership of Head Coach Patty Gasso, Knighten will play a crucial role in continuing the program’s legacy of success. Her appointment is seen as a strategic move to leverage her firsthand experience with the program’s culture and her proven track record as a coach.
As the Sooners embark on their first season in the Southeastern Conference (SEC), Knighten’s expertise will be invaluable in navigating the challenges of a new conference while maintaining the high standards of performance and sportsmanship that have defined Oklahoma softball.
With Shay Knighten’s appointment as Associate Head Coach, the Oklahoma Sooners softball team is poised to continue its tradition of excellence. Her unique blend of playing experience, coaching acumen, and deep understanding of the program’s values positions her to make a significant impact on the team’s success in the coming seasons.
As the Sooners prepare for the challenges of the 2025 season, the addition of Knighten to the coaching staff brings a renewed sense of purpose and determination. Her leadership will undoubtedly inspire the next generation of Sooners to achieve greatness both on and off the field.
