ESPN: Keilani Ricketts Appointed Associate Head Coach at Oklahoma..
In a significant development for the University of Oklahoma’s softball program, Keilani Ricketts has been appointed as the Associate Head Coach. This move marks a return to her alma mater for Ricketts, who previously served as a volunteer assistant coach from 2018 to 2019 under head coach Patty Gasso. Her appointment is expected to bolster the Sooners’ coaching staff as they continue to compete at the highest levels of collegiate softball.
Keilani Ricketts is widely regarded as one of the most accomplished players in the history of college softball. During her time at the University of Oklahoma from 2010 to 2013, she amassed a 133-35 pitching record with 1,605 strikeouts over 1,074.1 innings. She also contributed offensively with a .340 batting average, 50 home runs, and 174 RBIs. Ricketts was a four-time NFCA All-American and a two-time USA Softball Collegiate Player of the Year. In her senior season, she led the Sooners to their second NCAA Division I National Championship and was named the Most Outstanding Player of the Women’s College World Series.
Following her collegiate career, Ricketts was drafted No. 4 overall in the 2013 NPF Draft by the USSSA Pride. She played professionally for six seasons, leading the Pride to four championships and earning All-NPF Team honors in 2017 and 2018. Additionally, Ricketts represented Team USA, helping the national team secure a gold medal at the 2018 WBSC Women’s Softball World Championship.
After retiring from professional play, Ricketts transitioned into coaching. She served as a volunteer assistant coach at Mississippi State University in 2015 and 2016, focusing on pitching and hitting instruction. In 2018, she returned to Oklahoma as a volunteer assistant coach, where she contributed to the development of the Sooners’ pitching staff and offensive strategies. Ricketts also operated her own softball instruction business, providing lessons and clinics for athletes at various levels.
In 2023, Ricketts joined Mid-America Christian University (MACU) as an assistant coach, working under head coach Jim Gasso. Her role at MACU involved mentoring student-athletes and helping to elevate the program’s performance. Ricketts’ return to Oklahoma as Associate Head Coach signifies a full-circle moment in her career, allowing her to bring her extensive experience and passion for the game back to the program that launched her into the national spotlight.
Ricketts’ appointment as Associate Head Coach is expected to have a profound impact on the Oklahoma softball program. Her wealth of experience as both a player and coach will provide invaluable insight to the team’s current roster. Head coach Patty Gasso expressed enthusiasm about Ricketts’ return, highlighting her leadership qualities and deep understanding of the game. With Ricketts on board, the Sooners are poised to continue their tradition of excellence and maintain their position as a powerhouse in collegiate softball.
As the Associate Head Coach, Ricketts will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the Oklahoma softball program. Her leadership and expertise are expected to enhance the development of the team’s pitchers and hitters, as well as contribute to the overall strategic direction of the program. With Ricketts’ guidance, the Sooners aim to build upon their storied legacy and achieve continued success in the competitive landscape of NCAA softball.
