On Wednesday, Patty Gasso, head softball coach at the University of Oklahoma, announced the addition of six new recruits to strengthen the program’s highly-ranked
On Wednesday, Patty Gasso, head coach of the University of Oklahoma softball team, announced the addition of six exceptional recruits to the program’s highly-ranked 2025 class. These athletes—Sophia Bordi, Lexi McDaniel, Kai Minor, Allyssa Parker, Kendall Wells, and Berkley Zache—are set to join the Sooners as freshmen for the 2026 season, further solidifying Oklahoma’s position as a powerhouse in collegiate softball.
🥎 Meet the 2025 Recruits
1. Sophia Bordi – Right-Handed Pitcher (RHP) / Merchantville, NJ
Sophia Bordi is a two-time Gatorade New Jersey Player of the Year and has led her high school team to two state titles, earning tournament MVP honors both times. A three-time first-team all-state and all-conference selection, Bordi is known for her dominant pitching and powerful bat. She has also been recognized for her community involvement, volunteering with the Dreamality Foundation.
2. Lexi McDaniel – Infielder / St. Joseph, MO
Lexi McDaniel is a versatile infielder who excels in both softball and basketball. Although her high school does not sponsor a softball program, McDaniel has made a name for herself in travel ball and has earned accolades such as all-conference, all-district, and offensive MVP in basketball. She is also a National Honor Society member and has been actively involved in community service.
3. Kai Minor – Outfielder / Orange, CA
Kai Minor is a speedster with power at the plate, playing for the Orange County Batbusters and Orange Lutheran High School. She is a two-time travel ball national champion and is ranked among the top 25 players in the nation by Perfect Game Softball. Minor is known for her athleticism and competitive spirit, making her a valuable addition to the Sooners’ roster.
4. Allyssa Parker – Right-Handed Pitcher / Pocola, OK
Allyssa Parker is a dynamic athlete who excels both on the mound and at the plate. Named the 2024 Gatorade Oklahoma Player of the Year, she has led her high school team to multiple state runner-up finishes and has been a four-time county tournament MVP. Parker is also a standout in basketball, leading her team to a state title and earning tournament MVP honors. Her versatility and leadership qualities make her a standout recruit.
5. Kendall Wells – Catcher / Bogart, GA
Kendall Wells is a powerful right-handed-hitting catcher from North Oconee High School. With impressive career statistics, including 127 hits, 55 home runs, and 184 RBIs, Wells has been recognized as a 2024 Gatorade Georgia Player of the Year finalist. She is also a standout in basketball and has been involved in various community service activities. Wells’ strong fundamentals and leadership skills make her a top prospect for the Sooners.
6. Berkley Zache – Outfielder / Grand Blanc, MI
Berkley Zache is an outfielder from Grand Blanc, Michigan, known for her speed and defensive prowess. She has been a key player for her high school team and has earned recognition for her athletic achievements. Zache’s commitment to excellence and her competitive nature align with the Sooners’ standards.
Coach Patty Gasso expressed her enthusiasm about the incoming class, stating, “This group of six represents one of the most athletic and powerful recruiting classes we have ever assembled. The thought of merging them with our returners next season is incredibly intriguing. It’s an extremely talented class that will help keep our program at the top.”
With the addition of these six recruits, the Sooners are poised to continue their dominance in collegiate softball. The blend of pitching depth, offensive power, and defensive versatility will provide Coach Gasso with a well-rounded roster capable of competing at the highest level.
Under Coach Gasso’s leadership, the Oklahoma softball program has consistently been a national contender. The 2025 season saw the Sooners achieve a record-setting fourth consecutive national championship, marking their eighth under Gasso’s direction in 17 trips to the Women’s College World Series.
The addition of these six recruits further strengthens the program’s foundation and ensures that Oklahoma will remain a formidable force in collegiate softball for years to come.
As the 2026 season approaches, fans can look forward to seeing these talented recruits in action as they join a team rich in tradition and success. With a blend of experienced returners and dynamic newcomers, the Sooners are set to continue their pursuit of excellence on the softball field.
