Nicole May Appointed Associate Head Coach at Oklahoma Softball in Monumental Homecoming

NORMAN, Okla. — In a stunning and emotionally charged move that has sent ripples across the college softball world, Nicole May, a former Oklahoma pitching standout and national champion, is returning to OU — this time in a leadership role as the program’s Associate Head Coach.

The university announced the hire on Saturday, calling it a “full-circle moment” for one of the most decorated pitchers in recent Sooner history. The appointment is seen as both a celebration of May’s legacy and a bold investment in the program’s future under newly elevated head coach JT Gasso, following Patty Gasso’s transition to a senior advisory role.

“Nicole embodies the culture, passion, and championship mentality that defines Oklahoma Softball,” JT Gasso said in a press release. “She knows what it takes to wear the jersey and raise the trophy. Bringing her home is not just a win — it’s a message.”

 

Nicole May was a two-time national champion and All-Big 12 performer during her time as a Sooner from 2021 to 2023. Known for her poise under pressure and elite control, she compiled a career record of 50–6 with a 1.70 ERA in a loaded pitching rotation that also included Jordy Bahl and Hope Trautwein.

Following graduation, May quickly transitioned into coaching. In 2024, she joined the staff at Utah, where she served as the pitching coach and helped guide the Utes to a surprise NCAA Super Regional appearance. Her staff posted one of the top strikeout-to-walk ratios in the country and showed significant growth over the season — catching the attention of major programs.

Now, just two years into her coaching career, May returns to Norman as one of the youngest associate head coaches in Division I softball.

May’s return comes at a time of transition for Oklahoma Softball. With legendary head coach Patty Gasso stepping back after delivering seven national titles, the program has placed its future in the hands of the next generation. JT Gasso, her son and longtime hitting coach, now leads the program with a renewed energy and vision — and May will be a central figure in that evolution.

“It’s the greatest honor to come back home,” May said. “This program shaped me, and now I get to help shape it for the next generation of Sooners. I’m grateful, humbled, and ready to work.”

Her presence on staff ensures that the culture of Oklahoma Softball — one of grit, dominance, faith, and family — will remain intact, even as the program evolves in the post-Gasso era

The softball community erupted in praise following the announcement:

• Jordy Bahl, former OU ace and teammate:
  “Nicole was always the steady hand. I’m not surprised one bit she’s coaching already — and crushing it. OU got even better today.”
• Patty Gasso, via statement:
  “Nicole May is one of the most coachable and intelligent players I’ve ever had the privilege of mentoring. She has a champion’s heart and a coach’s mind. This is the right move for Oklahoma Softball.”
• Michelle Smith, ESPN analyst:
  *“This hire blends tradition and innovation. Nicole May represents where college softball is going — dynamic, young leaders who understand the game and the generation.”

May’s appointment is expected to bring immediate benefits in several key areas:

• Pitching Development: With firsthand experience competing at the sport’s highest level, May is uniquely equipped to develop the next wave of OU pitchers. Her technical knowledge and relatability to players will be invaluable.
• Recruiting: May’s name still carries weight nationally, especially on the West Coast, where she originally hails from (Pleasanton, California). Her ability to connect with young athletes and their families gives Oklahoma another recruiting weapon.
• Culture Leadership: As a former champion who’s lived through the daily demands of OU’s elite standards, May is a culture carrier — someone who knows what it means to uphold and elevate the Sooner legacy.

Even with transitions taking place in leadership, Oklahoma’s roster remains stacked. The Sooners are coming off a 59–7 campaign and a trip to the Women’s College World Series semifinals, and they return several All-Americans along with a top-five incoming recruiting class.

The addition of May now rounds out a staff that blends veteran wisdom with fresh energy:

• JT Gasso, Head Coach
• Nicole May, Associate Head Coach (Pitching)
• Tripp MacKay, Assistant Coach (Hitting)
• Melyssa Lombardi, Director of Player Development (former Oregon and Tulsa HC)

Nicole May’s homecoming is more than just a coaching hire — it’s a message to the college softball world that Oklahoma is not rebuilding, it’s reloading, and it’s doing so by investing in its own legacy.

Bringing back a player who helped define a golden era and empowering her to shape the future ensures that Oklahoma Softball’s dynasty not only continues — but evolves.

Welcome home, Coach May. Sooner Magic lives on.