Tyler on OU Softball

This story never gets old. It’s actually one of my favorite OU Softball stories of all time.

You probably remember when Jayda Coleman hit the walk-off home run against Florida in the 2024 Women’s College World Series.

But do you remember what happened right before the at-bat?

Alyssa Brito prayed over her.

Jayda told the story after the game:

You remember the Gabbie Garcia walk-off home run against Arkansas in the SEC Tournament. But what’s stuck with me is the emotion she had in that moment.

Months later, I finally had the chance to ask Gabbie what she was feeling in that moment. Her answer revealed something I don't think many people knew and says a lot about who she is as a teammate.

Here's the story behind one of the most memorable moments of OU's 2025 season, as well as what Gabbie has accomplished and if she can become the greatest shortstop in OU Softball history.

Here’s what Patty Gasso said after Team USA’s 2-0 win over Japan to capture the USA Softball International Cup.

Patty discusses Montana Fouts’ dominant outing, what stood out about Team USA throughout the tournament and more.

🇺🇸 GOLD MEDAL FOR TEAM USA! 🥇

USA 2
Japan 0

Montana Fouts was sensational, throwing a complete-game one-hitter to lead Team USA to the USA Softball International Cup championship.

Jayda Coleman had a hit and scored a run, while Alyssa Brito went 2-for-3 at the plate.

🏅 Gold medalists with OU ties:
• Jayda Coleman
• Alyssa Brito
• Tiare Jennings
• Kelly Maxwell
• Patty Gasso
• JT Gasso

Another championship for a group of Sooners who continue adding to their incredible résumés. Boomer Sooner. 💪🥎

Tiare Jennings went 1-for-3 with two RBI, while Jayda Coleman finished 1-for-3 with an RBI as the U.S. Women’s National Team defeated U.S. Elite, 6-2, to advance to the gold medal game.

🥇 GOLD MEDAL DAY in Oklahoma City!

Tiare Jennings, Jayda Coleman, Alyssa Brito and Kelly Maxwell will play for the gold medal tonight at 7:00 p.m. CT when the U.S. Women’s National Team takes on Japan in the USA Softball International Cup.

📺 TV: ESPN+

Before that, Gabbie Garcia, Kendall Wells and Keilani Ricketts will play for the bronze medal at 3:00 p.m. CT against Canada.

📺 TV: ESPN+

After last night’s semifinal, I asked Jayda Coleman what Alyssa Brito has brought to Team USA beyond her production on the field.

Jayda didn’t hesitate.

She immediately pointed to Brito’s personality.

There are a lot of great players in college softball.

Then there are players who become favorites because of the way they carry themselves.

I think that’s Ella Parker.

We all know about the home runs, the All-American honors and the big moments. But the more I worked on this feature, the more I came to appreciate the person behind the player.

I talked with Ella’s mom, looked back at one of my favorite moments in OU softball history, and shared a few things you may not know about one of the most respected players in the program.

I also asked all of you to describe Ella in one word, and the responses were outstanding.

If you’ve got about 15 minutes today, I hope you’ll check it out.