Oklahoma and Alabama are rising in the Super 16 college softball rankings, with OU's Kendall Wells on track to potentially break the single-season home-run record. The Sooners' pitchers also had a notable performance against Texas.
Super 16 college softball rankings: OU, Alabama surge, so who's No. 1?
Kendall Wells and the Sooner offense are the headliners for OU softball.
Rightfully so — Wells may well break the single-season home-run record before the end of the regular season while the Sooners are going to obliterate college softball's single-season record for dingers and may well flirt with hitting 200.
But what Oklahoma's pitchers did this past weekend at Texas shouldn't go unnoticed.
The Sooner arms, which have had their struggles this season and have ended up leaning fairly heavily on ace Audrey Lowry, bowed up and went toe-to-toe with the Longhorns. They allowed only three runs over the first two games of the series, which the Sooners won with a combination of Lowry and Miali Guachino. Then in the series finale, even though five OU pitchers surrendered eight runs in an extra-inning loss, they kept Texas within arm's length the entire time.
More: Kendall Wells 'like no other hitter' OU softball coach Patty Gasso has ever seen
Oklahoma's Kendall Wells (1) hits her 30th home run of the year during the college softball game between the University of Oklahoma Sooners and the Kentucky Wildcats at Love's Field in Norman, Okla. Saturday April 4, 2026. Wells tied the freshman home run season record.
Oklahoma head coach Patty Gasso high fives Oklahoma's Kendall Wells (1) after she hit her 30th home run of the year during the college softball game between the University of Oklahoma Sooners and the Kentucky Wildcats at Love's Field in Norman, Okla. Saturday April 4, 2026. Wells tied the freshman home run season record.
Oklahoma's Kendall Wells (1) celebrates her 30th home run of the year during the college softball game between the University of Oklahoma Sooners and the Kentucky Wildcats at Love's Field in Norman, Okla. Saturday April 4, 2026. Wells tied the freshman home run season record.
Oklahoma's Kendall Wells (1) hits her 30th home run of the year during the college softball game between the University of Oklahoma Sooners and the Kentucky Wildcats at Love's Field in Norman, Okla. Saturday April 4, 2026. Wells tied the freshman home run season record.
Oklahoma's Abby Dayton (16) celebrates after Kasidi Pickering (7) hit a grand slam during the college softball game between the University of Oklahoma Sooners and the Kentucky Wildcats at Love's Field in Norman, Okla. Saturday April 4, 2026.
Oklahoma celebrates the grand slam of Kasidi Pickering (7) during the college softball game between the University of Oklahoma Sooners and the Kentucky Wildcats at Love's Field in Norman, Okla. Saturday April 4, 2026.
Oklahoma celebrates the grand slam of Kasidi Pickering (7) during the college softball game between the University of Oklahoma Sooners and the Kentucky Wildcats at Love's Field in Norman, Okla. Saturday April 4, 2026.
Oklahoma's Sydney Berzon (29) throws a pitch during the college softball game between the University of Oklahoma Sooners and the Kentucky Wildcats at Love's Field in Norman, Okla. Saturday April 4, 2026.
Oklahoma's Sydney Berzon (29) throws a pitch during the college softball game between the University of Oklahoma Sooners and the Kentucky Wildcats at Love's Field in Norman, Okla. Saturday April 4, 2026.
Oklahoma assistant coach JT Gasso talks to the team during the college softball game between the University of Oklahoma Sooners and the Kentucky Wildcats at Love's Field in Norman, Okla. Saturday April 4, 2026.
Oklahoma's Ailana Agbayani (50) throws to first during the college softball game between the University of Oklahoma Sooners and the Kentucky Wildcats at Love's Field in Norman, Okla. Saturday April 4, 2026.
Oklahoma's Ella Parker (5) watches her home run ball during the college softball game between the University of Oklahoma Sooners and the Kentucky Wildcats at Love's Field in Norman, Okla. Saturday April 4, 2026.
Oklahoma celebrates the home run of Ella Parker (5) during the college softball game between the University of Oklahoma Sooners and the Kentucky Wildcats at Love's Field in Norman, Okla. Saturday April 4, 2026.
Oklahoma celebrates the home run of Ella Parker (5) during the college softball game between the University of Oklahoma Sooners and the Kentucky Wildcats at Love's Field in Norman, Okla. Saturday April 4, 2026.
Oklahoma's Ailana Agbayani (50) hits during the college softball game between the University of Oklahoma Sooners and the Kentucky Wildcats at Love's Field in Norman, Okla. Saturday April 4, 2026.
Oklahoma's Kai Minor (22) slides into second for a double at Kentucky's Madyson Clark (7) takes the throw during the college softball game between the University of Oklahoma Sooners and the Kentucky Wildcats at Love's Field in Norman, Okla. Saturday April 4, 2026.
Oklahoma's Kai Minor (22) slides into second for a double at Kentucky's Madyson Clark (7) takes the throw during the college softball game between the University of Oklahoma Sooners and the Kentucky Wildcats at Love's Field in Norman, Okla. Saturday April 4, 2026.
Oklahoma's Kai Minor (22) celebrates a double next to Kentucky's Madyson Clark (7) during the college softball game between the University of Oklahoma Sooners and the Kentucky Wildcats at Love's Field in Norman, Okla. Saturday April 4, 2026.
during the college softball game between the University of Oklahoma Sooners and the Kentucky Wildcats at Love's Field in Norman, Okla. Saturday April 4, 2026.
during the college softball game between the University of Oklahoma Sooners and the Kentucky Wildcats at Love's Field in Norman, Okla. Saturday April 4, 2026.
during the college softball game between the University of Oklahoma Sooners and the Kentucky Wildcats at Love's Field in Norman, Okla. Saturday April 4, 2026.
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Oklahoma's Kendall Wells (1) hits her 30th home run of the year during the college softball game between the University of Oklahoma Sooners and the Kentucky Wildcats at Love's Field in Norman, Okla. Saturday April 4, 2026. Wells tied the freshman home run season record.
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Oklahoma's Kendall Wells (1) hits her 30th home run of the year during the college softball game between the University of Oklahoma Sooners and the Kentucky Wildcats at Love's Field in Norman, Okla. Saturday April 4, 2026. Wells tied the freshman home run season record.
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Oklahoma head coach Patty Gasso high fives Oklahoma's Kendall Wells (1) after she hit her 30th home run of the year during the college softball game between the University of Oklahoma Sooners and the Kentucky Wildcats at Love's Field in Norman, Okla. Saturday April 4, 2026. Wells tied the freshman home run season record.
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Oklahoma's Kendall Wells (1) celebrates her 30th home run of the year during the college softball game between the University of Oklahoma Sooners and the Kentucky Wildcats at Love's Field in Norman, Okla. Saturday April 4, 2026. Wells tied the freshman home run season record.
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Oklahoma's Kendall Wells (1) hits her 30th home run of the year during the college softball game between the University of Oklahoma Sooners and the Kentucky Wildcats at Love's Field in Norman, Okla. Saturday April 4, 2026. Wells tied the freshman home run season record.
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Oklahoma's Abby Dayton (16) celebrates after Kasidi Pickering (7) hit a grand slam during the college softball game between the University of Oklahoma Sooners and the Kentucky Wildcats at Love's Field in Norman, Okla. Saturday April 4, 2026.
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Oklahoma celebrates the grand slam of Kasidi Pickering (7) during the college softball game between the University of Oklahoma Sooners and the Kentucky Wildcats at Love's Field in Norman, Okla. Saturday April 4, 2026.
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Oklahoma celebrates the grand slam of Kasidi Pickering (7) during the college softball game between the University of Oklahoma Sooners and the Kentucky Wildcats at Love's Field in Norman, Okla. Saturday April 4, 2026.
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Oklahoma's Sydney Berzon (29) throws a pitch during the college softball game between the University of Oklahoma Sooners and the Kentucky Wildcats at Love's Field in Norman, Okla. Saturday April 4, 2026.
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Oklahoma's Sydney Berzon (29) throws a pitch during the college softball game between the University of Oklahoma Sooners and the Kentucky Wildcats at Love's Field in Norman, Okla. Saturday April 4, 2026.
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Oklahoma assistant coach JT Gasso talks to the team during the college softball game between the University of Oklahoma Sooners and the Kentucky Wildcats at Love's Field in Norman, Okla. Saturday April 4, 2026.
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Oklahoma's Ailana Agbayani (50) throws to first during the college softball game between the University of Oklahoma Sooners and the Kentucky Wildcats at Love's Field in Norman, Okla. Saturday April 4, 2026.
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Oklahoma's Ella Parker (5) watches her home run ball during the college softball game between the University of Oklahoma Sooners and the Kentucky Wildcats at Love's Field in Norman, Okla. Saturday April 4, 2026.
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Oklahoma celebrates the home run of Ella Parker (5) during the college softball game between the University of Oklahoma Sooners and the Kentucky Wildcats at Love's Field in Norman, Okla. Saturday April 4, 2026.
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Oklahoma celebrates the home run of Ella Parker (5) during the college softball game between the University of Oklahoma Sooners and the Kentucky Wildcats at Love's Field in Norman, Okla. Saturday April 4, 2026.
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Oklahoma's Ailana Agbayani (50) hits during the college softball game between the University of Oklahoma Sooners and the Kentucky Wildcats at Love's Field in Norman, Okla. Saturday April 4, 2026.
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Oklahoma's Kai Minor (22) slides into second for a double at Kentucky's Madyson Clark (7) takes the throw during the college softball game between the University of Oklahoma Sooners and the Kentucky Wildcats at Love's Field in Norman, Okla. Saturday April 4, 2026.
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Oklahoma's Kai Minor (22) slides into second for a double at Kentucky's Madyson Clark (7) takes the throw during the college softball game between the University of Oklahoma Sooners and the Kentucky Wildcats at Love's Field in Norman, Okla. Saturday April 4, 2026.
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Oklahoma's Kai Minor (22) celebrates a double next to Kentucky's Madyson Clark (7) during the college softball game between the University of Oklahoma Sooners and the Kentucky Wildcats at Love's Field in Norman, Okla. Saturday April 4, 2026.
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during the college softball game between the University of Oklahoma Sooners and the Kentucky Wildcats at Love's Field in Norman, Okla. Saturday April 4, 2026.
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during the college softball game between the University of Oklahoma Sooners and the Kentucky Wildcats at Love's Field in Norman, Okla. Saturday April 4, 2026.
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during the college softball game between the University of Oklahoma Sooners and the Kentucky Wildcats at Love's Field in Norman, Okla. Saturday April 4, 2026.
If the OU pitching is coming around, look out.
The Sooners, after all, are already stout.
OU takes over the top spot in The Oklahoman's College Softball Super 16 this week, riding the momentum from its series win at Texas. OU not only bested Texas Tech, which had been No. 1 but got shutout in the second game of its series against Utah, but also leapfrogged Alabama, which swept in-state rival Auburn.
Even though the Sooners have not been ranked outside the top five this season, this is the first time they have been No. 1.
Let's get to the Super 16.
More: Get ready for epic college softball HR race with OU's Kendall Wells, UCLA's Megan Grant
Texas Tech's NiJaree Canady (24) throws a pitch in the first inning of the Women's College World Series softball game between the Texas Tech Raiders and the Oklahoma Sooners at Devon Park in Oklahoma City, Monday, June, 2, 2025.
Texas Tech's NiJaree Canady (24) celebrates in the the first inning during the Women's College World Series championship game between Texas Tech and Texas at Devon Park, Friday, June, 6, 2025, in Oklahoma City.
Texas Tech NiJaree Canady (24)watches a pop up in Game 2 of the Women's College World Series championship series between the Texas Longhorns at Texas Tech Red Raiders at Devon Park in Oklahoma City, Thursday, June 5, 2025. Texas Tech won 4-3.
Texas Tech's NiJaree Canady (24) throws a pitch in the first inning of the Women's College World Series championship game between Texas Tech and Texas at Devon Park, Friday, June, 6, 2025, in Oklahoma City.
Texas Tech starting pitcher NiJaree Canady (24) in Game 2 of the Women's College World Series championship series between the Texas Longhorns at Texas Tech Red Raiders at Devon Park in Oklahoma City, Thursday, June 5, 2025. Texas Tech won 4-3.
Texas Tech starting pitcher pitcher NiJaree Canady (24) in Game 2 of the Women's College World Series championship series between the Texas Longhorns at Texas Tech Red Raiders at Devon Park in Oklahoma City, Thursday, June 5, 2025. Texas Tech won 4-3.
Texas Tech starting pitcher NiJaree Canady (24) in Game 2 of the Women's College World Series championship series between the Texas Longhorns at Texas Tech Red Raiders at Devon Park in Oklahoma City, Thursday, June 5, 2025. Texas Tech won 4-3.
Texas Tech starting pitcher NiJaree Canady (24) in Game 2 of the Women's College World Series championship series between the Texas Longhorns at Texas Tech Red Raiders at Devon Park in Oklahoma City, Thursday, June 5, 2025. Texas Tech won 4-3.
Texas Tech starting pitcher/relief pitcher NiJaree Canady (24) leaps up after the last out in Game 2 of the Women's College World Series championship series between the Texas Longhorns at Texas Tech Red Raiders at Devon Park in Oklahoma City, Thursday, June 5, 2025. Texas Tech won 4-3.
Texas Tech starting pitcher/relief pitcher NiJaree Canady (24) and Texas Tech catcher Victoria Valdez (13) celebrate the win in Game 2 of the Women's College World Series championship series between the Texas Longhorns at Texas Tech Red Raiders at Devon Park in Oklahoma City, Thursday, June 5, 2025. Texas Tech won 4-3.
Texas Tech starting pitcher NiJaree Canady (24) in Game 2 of the Women's College World Series championship series between the Texas Longhorns at Texas Tech Red Raiders at Devon Park in Oklahoma City, Thursday, June 5, 2025. Texas Tech won 4-3.
Texas Tech starting pitcher/relief pitcher NiJaree Canady (24) leaps up after the last out in Game 2 of the Women's College World Series championship series between the Texas Longhorns at Texas Tech Red Raiders at Devon Park in Oklahoma City, Thursday, June 5, 2025. Texas Tech won 4-3.
Texas Tech pitcher NiJaree Canady (24) throws a pitch during Game 1 of the Women's College World Series championship series between the Texas Longhorns at Texas Tech Red Raiders at Devon Park in Oklahoma City, Wednesday, June 4, 2025. Texas won 2-1.
Texas Tech pitcher NiJaree Canady (24) is introduced before Game 1 of the Women's College World Series championship series between the Texas Longhorns at Texas Tech Red Raiders at Devon Park in Oklahoma City, Wednesday, June 4, 2025. Texas won 2-1.
Texas Tech pitcher NiJaree Canady (24) looks up after giving up two runs in the seventh inning Game 1 of the Women's College World Series championship series between the Texas Longhorns at Texas Tech Red Raiders at Devon Park in Oklahoma City, Wednesday, June 4, 2025. Texas won 2-1.
Texas Tech's NiJaree Canady (24) throws a pitch in the first inning of the Women's College World Series softball game between the Texas Tech Raiders and the Oklahoma Sooners at Devon Park in Oklahoma City, Monday, June, 2, 2025.
Texas Tech's NiJaree Canady (24) throws a pitch in the first inning of the Women's College World Series softball game between the Texas Tech Raiders and the Oklahoma Sooners at Devon Park in Oklahoma City, Monday, June, 2, 2025.
Texas Tech's NiJaree Canady (24) celebrates in the first inning of the Women's College World Series softball game between the Texas Tech Raiders and the Oklahoma Sooners at Devon Park in Oklahoma City, Monday, June, 2, 2025.
Texas Tech's NiJaree Canady (24) celebrates in the first inning of the Women's College World Series softball game between the Texas Tech Raiders and the Oklahoma Sooners at Devon Park in Oklahoma City, Monday, June, 2, 2025.
Texas Tech starting pitcher NiJaree Canady (24) celebrates winng against UCLA after a softball game between Texas Tech and UCLA at the Women’s College World Series at Devon Park in Oklahoma City, on Saturday, May 31, 2025.
Texas Tech starting pitcher NiJaree Canady (24) pitches in the fourth inning during a softball game between Texas Tech and UCLA at the Women’s College World Series at Devon Park in Oklahoma City, on Saturday, May 31, 2025.
Texas Tech starting pitcher NiJaree Canady (24) pitches in the sixth inning during a softball game between Texas Tech and UCLA at the Women’s College World Series at Devon Park in Oklahoma City, on Saturday, May 31, 2025.
Texas Tech starting pitcher NiJaree Canady (24) walks on the field before a softball game between Texas Tech and UCLA at the Women’s College World Series at Devon Park in Oklahoma City, on Saturday, May 31, 2025.
Texas Tech starting pitcher NiJaree Canady (24) pitches in the second inning during a softball game between Texas Tech and UCLA at the Women’s College World Series at Devon Park in Oklahoma City, on Saturday, May 31, 2025.
Texas Tech starting pitcher NiJaree Canady (24) pitches in the first inning during a softball game between Texas Tech and UCLA at the Women’s College World Series at Devon Park in Oklahoma City, on Saturday, May 31, 2025.
Texas Tech starting pitcher/relief pitcher NiJaree Canady (24) celebrates with teammates in the fourth inning during game 3 between Texas Tech and Ole Miss at the Women’s College World Series at Devon Park in Oklahoma City, on Thursday, May 29, 2025.
Texas Tech starting pitcher NiJaree Canady (24) walks off the field in the first inning during game 3 between Texas Tech and Ole Miss at the Women’s College World Series at Devon Park in Oklahoma City, on Thursday, May 29, 2025.
Texas Tech's, from left, Mihyia Davis, NiJaree Canady and Lauren Allred are pictured during media and practice day for the Women's College World Series at Devon Park in Oklahoma City, Wednesday, May, 28, 2025.
Texas Tech's NiJaree Canady speaks during media and practice day for the Women's College World Series at Devon Park in Oklahoma City, Wednesday, May, 28, 2025.
NiJaree Canady (24) celebrates following the 2025 Phillips 66 Big 12 Softball Championship game between Arizona Wildcats and Texas Tech Red Raiders at Devon Park in Oklahoma City, Saturday, May, 10, 2025.
Texas Tech's NiJaree Canady (24) throws a pitch during the 2025 Phillips 66 Big 12 Softball Championship game between Arizona Wildcats and Texas Tech Red Raiders at Devon Park in Oklahoma City, Saturday, May, 10, 2025.
Stanford's NiJaree Canady (24) pitches during a Women's College World Series semifinal softball game between the Stanford Cardinal and the Texas Longhorns at Devon Park in Oklahoma City, Monday, June 3, 2024. Texas won 1-0.
Stanford pitcher NiJaree Canady (24) wipes sweat from her face during a Women's College World Series softball game between the Texas Longhorns and the Stanford Cardinal at Devon Park in Oklahoma City on Thursday, May 30, 2024. Texas won 4-0.
Stanford pitcher NiJaree Canady (24) throws to first in the second inning of a Women's College World Series semifinal softball game between the Stanford Cardinal and the Texas Longhorns at Devon Park in Oklahoma City, Monday, June 3, 2024. Texas won 1-0.
Stanford pitcher NiJaree Canady (24) catches the ball for an out in the second inning of a Women's College World Series semifinal softball game between the Stanford Cardinal and the Texas Longhorns at Devon Park in Oklahoma City on Monday, June 3, 2024. Texas won 1-0.
Stanford pitcher NiJaree Canady (24) and Stanford outfielder Kaitlyn Lim (21) walk off the field after a Women's College World Series semifinal softball game between the Stanford Cardinal and the Texas Longhorns at Devon Park in Oklahoma City on Monday, June 3, 2024. Texas won 1-0.
Stanford's NiJaree Canady (24) pitcher ches during a Women's College World Series softball game between the Stanford Cardinal and the UCLA Bruins at Devon Park in Oklahoma City, Sunday, June 2, 2024. Stanford won 3-1.
Stanford's NiJaree Canady (24) celebrates during a Women's College World Series softball game between the Stanford Cardinal and the UCLA Bruins at Devon Park in Oklahoma City, Sunday, June 2, 2024. Stanford won 3-1.
Stanford pitcher NiJaree Canady (24) celebrates with catcher Aly Kaneshiro (4) after a Women's College World Series softball game between the Stanford Cardinal and the UCLA Bruins at Devon Park in Oklahoma City, Sunday, June 2, 2024. Stanford won 3-1.
Stanford pitcher NiJaree Canady (24) hugs catcher Aly Kaneshiro (4) as Stanford celebrates after a Women's College World Series softball game between the Stanford Cardinal and the UCLA Bruins at Devon Park in Oklahoma City on Sunday, June 2, 2024. Stanford won 3-1.
Stanford's NiJaree Canady (24) throws a pitch during the Women's College World Series game between the Oklahoma State Cowgirls and Stanford at Devon Park in Oklahoma City, Friday, May, 31, 2024.
Stanford's NiJaree Canady (24) throws a pitch during the Women's College World Series game between the Oklahoma State Cowgirls and Stanford at Devon Park in Oklahoma City on Friday, May, 31, 2024.
Stanford's NiJaree Canady (24) throws a pitch during the Women's College World Series game between the Oklahoma State Cowgirls and Stanford at Devon Park in Oklahoma City on Friday, May, 31, 2024.
Stanford's NiJaree Canady (24) pitches during a Women's College World Series softball game between the Texas Longhorns and the Stanford Cardinal at Devon Park in Oklahoma City on Thursday, May 30, 2024. Texas won 4-0.
Stanford’s NiJaree Canady speaks the the press during the practice and media day for the Women's College World Series at Devon Park in Oklahoma City on Wednesday, May 29, 2024.
Stanford's NiJaree Canady throws during a practice for the Women's College World Series at USA Softball Hall of Fame Stadium in Oklahoma City on Wednesday, May 31, 2023.
Stanford starting pitcher NiJaree Canady (24) pitches during a softball game between Stanford and Washington at the Women's College World Series at USA Softball Hall of Fame Stadium in in Oklahoma City on Sunday, June 4, 2023.
Stanford's NiJaree Canady (24) celebrates after an out during a softball game between University of Oklahoma Sooners (OU) and Stanford in the Women's College World Series at USA Softball Hall of Fame Stadium in Oklahoma City, Thursday, June 1, 2023. Oklahoma won 2-0.
Stanford's NiJaree Canady (24) throws a pitch during a softball game between the Oklahoma Sooners and Stanford in the Women's College World Series at USA Softball Hall of Fame Stadium in in Oklahoma City, Monday, June, 5, 2023.
Stanford's NiJaree Canady (24) and Emily Schultz celebrate the last out during a softball game between Alabama and Stanford in the Women's College World Series at USA Softball Hall of Fame Stadium in in Oklahoma City, Friday, June, 2, 2023.
Stanford's NiJaree Canady (24) pitches during a softball game between University of Oklahoma Sooners (OU) and Stanford in the Women's College World Series at USA Softball Hall of Fame Stadium in Oklahoma City, Thursday, June 1, 2023. Oklahoma won 2-0.
Stanford starting pitcher/relief pitcher NiJaree Canady (24) pitches during a softball game between Stanford and Washington at the Women's College World Series at USA Softball Hall of Fame Stadium in in Oklahoma City on Sunday, June 4, 2023.
Stanford's NiJaree Canady (24) walks back to the pitching circle after Oklahoma scored two runs in the ninth inning during a softball game between the Oklahoma Sooners and Stanford in the Women's College World Series at USA Softball Hall of Fame Stadium in in Oklahoma City on Monday, June, 5, 2023.
Stanford starting pitcher NiJaree Canady (24) pitches during a softball game between Stanford and Washington at the Women's College World Series at USA Softball Hall of Fame Stadium in in Oklahoma City on Sunday on June 4, 2023.
Stanford's NiJaree Canady (24) celebrates a strike out during a softball game between the Oklahoma Sooners and Stanford in the Women's College World Series at USA Softball Hall of Fame Stadium in in Oklahoma City, Monday, June, 5, 2023.
Topeka High NiJaree Canady pitches Tuesday April 12, 2022, at Hummer Sports Park in Topeka.
Topeka High senior NiJaree Canady (24) runs in to score a run against Wichita East in the first inning of a 2022 6A regional tournament at Hummer Sports Park.
Topeka High junior NiJaree Canady was a first-team All-State selection last season, helping lead the Trojans to a perfect 23-0 record and a spot in the Class 6A final four.
Topeka High junior NiJaree Canady pitches during a game in 2021 at Washburn Rural.
NiJaree Canady, Topeka High
Topeka senior NiJaree Canady (24) swings the bat against Topeka West on Thursday, March 31, 2022 at Hummer Sports Park.
NiJaree Canady, Topeka High
Topeka High senior NiJaree Canady has been known to wow crowds in softball and basketball. She recently announced her commitment to play softball at Stanford and forgo her senior year of basketball.
Topeka High junior Nijaree Canady lays in for two in the first half of Friday's 6A semifinal game against Dodge City at Koch Arena in Wichita. The Trojans won 54-37.
Topeka High junior NiJaree Canady throws up a three after scoring in the second half of Friday's 6A semifinal game against Dodge City at Koch Arena in Wichita. The Trojans won 54-37.
Topeka High junior NiJaree Canady shoots a free throw in the 2021 6A semifinal game against Dodge City at Koch Arena in Wichita. The Trojans won 54-37.
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Texas Tech's NiJaree Canady (24) throws a pitch in the first inning of the Women's College World Series softball game between the Texas Tech Raiders and the Oklahoma Sooners at Devon Park in Oklahoma City, Monday, June, 2, 2025.
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Texas Tech's NiJaree Canady (24) throws a pitch in the first inning of the Women's College World Series softball game between the Texas Tech Raiders and the Oklahoma Sooners at Devon Park in Oklahoma City, Monday, June, 2, 2025.
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Texas Tech's NiJaree Canady (24) celebrates in the the first inning during the Women's College World Series championship game between Texas Tech and Texas at Devon Park, Friday, June, 6, 2025, in Oklahoma City.
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Texas Tech NiJaree Canady (24)watches a pop up in Game 2 of the Women's College World Series championship series between the Texas Longhorns at Texas Tech Red Raiders at Devon Park in Oklahoma City, Thursday, June 5, 2025. Texas Tech won 4-3.
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Texas Tech's NiJaree Canady (24) throws a pitch in the first inning of the Women's College World Series championship game between Texas Tech and Texas at Devon Park, Friday, June, 6, 2025, in Oklahoma City.
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Texas Tech starting pitcher NiJaree Canady (24) in Game 2 of the Women's College World Series championship series between the Texas Longhorns at Texas Tech Red Raiders at Devon Park in Oklahoma City, Thursday, June 5, 2025. Texas Tech won 4-3.
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Texas Tech starting pitcher pitcher NiJaree Canady (24) in Game 2 of the Women's College World Series championship series between the Texas Longhorns at Texas Tech Red Raiders at Devon Park in Oklahoma City, Thursday, June 5, 2025. Texas Tech won 4-3.
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Texas Tech starting pitcher NiJaree Canady (24) in Game 2 of the Women's College World Series championship series between the Texas Longhorns at Texas Tech Red Raiders at Devon Park in Oklahoma City, Thursday, June 5, 2025. Texas Tech won 4-3.
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Texas Tech starting pitcher NiJaree Canady (24) in Game 2 of the Women's College World Series championship series between the Texas Longhorns at Texas Tech Red Raiders at Devon Park in Oklahoma City, Thursday, June 5, 2025. Texas Tech won 4-3.
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Texas Tech starting pitcher/relief pitcher NiJaree Canady (24) leaps up after the last out in Game 2 of the Women's College World Series championship series between the Texas Longhorns at Texas Tech Red Raiders at Devon Park in Oklahoma City, Thursday, June 5, 2025. Texas Tech won 4-3.
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Texas Tech starting pitcher/relief pitcher NiJaree Canady (24) and Texas Tech catcher Victoria Valdez (13) celebrate the win in Game 2 of the Women's College World Series championship series between the Texas Longhorns at Texas Tech Red Raiders at Devon Park in Oklahoma City, Thursday, June 5, 2025. Texas Tech won 4-3.
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Texas Tech starting pitcher NiJaree Canady (24) in Game 2 of the Women's College World Series championship series between the Texas Longhorns at Texas Tech Red Raiders at Devon Park in Oklahoma City, Thursday, June 5, 2025. Texas Tech won 4-3.
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Texas Tech starting pitcher/relief pitcher NiJaree Canady (24) leaps up after the last out in Game 2 of the Women's College World Series championship series between the Texas Longhorns at Texas Tech Red Raiders at Devon Park in Oklahoma City, Thursday, June 5, 2025. Texas Tech won 4-3.
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Texas Tech pitcher NiJaree Canady (24) throws a pitch during Game 1 of the Women's College World Series championship series between the Texas Longhorns at Texas Tech Red Raiders at Devon Park in Oklahoma City, Wednesday, June 4, 2025. Texas won 2-1.
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Texas Tech pitcher NiJaree Canady (24) is introduced before Game 1 of the Women's College World Series championship series between the Texas Longhorns at Texas Tech Red Raiders at Devon Park in Oklahoma City, Wednesday, June 4, 2025. Texas won 2-1.
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Texas Tech pitcher NiJaree Canady (24) looks up after giving up two runs in the seventh inning Game 1 of the Women's College World Series championship series between the Texas Longhorns at Texas Tech Red Raiders at Devon Park in Oklahoma City, Wednesday, June 4, 2025. Texas won 2-1.
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Texas Tech's NiJaree Canady (24) throws a pitch in the first inning of the Women's College World Series softball game between the Texas Tech Raiders and the Oklahoma Sooners at Devon Park in Oklahoma City, Monday, June, 2, 2025.
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Texas Tech's NiJaree Canady (24) throws a pitch in the first inning of the Women's College World Series softball game between the Texas Tech Raiders and the Oklahoma Sooners at Devon Park in Oklahoma City, Monday, June, 2, 2025.
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Texas Tech's NiJaree Canady (24) celebrates in the first inning of the Women's College World Series softball game between the Texas Tech Raiders and the Oklahoma Sooners at Devon Park in Oklahoma City, Monday, June, 2, 2025.
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Texas Tech's NiJaree Canady (24) celebrates in the first inning of the Women's College World Series softball game between the Texas Tech Raiders and the Oklahoma Sooners at Devon Park in Oklahoma City, Monday, June, 2, 2025.
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Texas Tech starting pitcher NiJaree Canady (24) celebrates winng against UCLA after a softball game between Texas Tech and UCLA at the Women’s College World Series at Devon Park in Oklahoma City, on Saturday, May 31, 2025.
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Texas Tech starting pitcher NiJaree Canady (24) pitches in the fourth inning during a softball game between Texas Tech and UCLA at the Women’s College World Series at Devon Park in Oklahoma City, on Saturday, May 31, 2025.
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Texas Tech starting pitcher NiJaree Canady (24) pitches in the sixth inning during a softball game between Texas Tech and UCLA at the Women’s College World Series at Devon Park in Oklahoma City, on Saturday, May 31, 2025.
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Texas Tech starting pitcher NiJaree Canady (24) walks on the field before a softball game between Texas Tech and UCLA at the Women’s College World Series at Devon Park in Oklahoma City, on Saturday, May 31, 2025.
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Texas Tech starting pitcher NiJaree Canady (24) pitches in the second inning during a softball game between Texas Tech and UCLA at the Women’s College World Series at Devon Park in Oklahoma City, on Saturday, May 31, 2025.
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Texas Tech starting pitcher NiJaree Canady (24) pitches in the first inning during a softball game between Texas Tech and UCLA at the Women’s College World Series at Devon Park in Oklahoma City, on Saturday, May 31, 2025.
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Texas Tech starting pitcher/relief pitcher NiJaree Canady (24) celebrates with teammates in the fourth inning during game 3 between Texas Tech and Ole Miss at the Women’s College World Series at Devon Park in Oklahoma City, on Thursday, May 29, 2025.
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Texas Tech starting pitcher NiJaree Canady (24) walks off the field in the first inning during game 3 between Texas Tech and Ole Miss at the Women’s College World Series at Devon Park in Oklahoma City, on Thursday, May 29, 2025.
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Texas Tech's, from left, Mihyia Davis, NiJaree Canady and Lauren Allred are pictured during media and practice day for the Women's College World Series at Devon Park in Oklahoma City, Wednesday, May, 28, 2025.
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Texas Tech's NiJaree Canady speaks during media and practice day for the Women's College World Series at Devon Park in Oklahoma City, Wednesday, May, 28, 2025.
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NiJaree Canady (24) celebrates following the 2025 Phillips 66 Big 12 Softball Championship game between Arizona Wildcats and Texas Tech Red Raiders at Devon Park in Oklahoma City, Saturday, May, 10, 2025.
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Texas Tech's NiJaree Canady (24) throws a pitch during the 2025 Phillips 66 Big 12 Softball Championship game between Arizona Wildcats and Texas Tech Red Raiders at Devon Park in Oklahoma City, Saturday, May, 10, 2025.
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Stanford's NiJaree Canady (24) pitches during a Women's College World Series semifinal softball game between the Stanford Cardinal and the Texas Longhorns at Devon Park in Oklahoma City, Monday, June 3, 2024. Texas won 1-0.
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Stanford pitcher NiJaree Canady (24) wipes sweat from her face during a Women's College World Series softball game between the Texas Longhorns and the Stanford Cardinal at Devon Park in Oklahoma City on Thursday, May 30, 2024. Texas won 4-0.
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Stanford pitcher NiJaree Canady (24) throws to first in the second inning of a Women's College World Series semifinal softball game between the Stanford Cardinal and the Texas Longhorns at Devon Park in Oklahoma City, Monday, June 3, 2024. Texas won 1-0.
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Stanford pitcher NiJaree Canady (24) catches the ball for an out in the second inning of a Women's College World Series semifinal softball game between the Stanford Cardinal and the Texas Longhorns at Devon Park in Oklahoma City on Monday, June 3, 2024. Texas won 1-0.
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Stanford pitcher NiJaree Canady (24) and Stanford outfielder Kaitlyn Lim (21) walk off the field after a Women's College World Series semifinal softball game between the Stanford Cardinal and the Texas Longhorns at Devon Park in Oklahoma City on Monday, June 3, 2024. Texas won 1-0.
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Stanford's NiJaree Canady (24) pitcher ches during a Women's College World Series softball game between the Stanford Cardinal and the UCLA Bruins at Devon Park in Oklahoma City, Sunday, June 2, 2024. Stanford won 3-1.
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Stanford's NiJaree Canady (24) celebrates during a Women's College World Series softball game between the Stanford Cardinal and the UCLA Bruins at Devon Park in Oklahoma City, Sunday, June 2, 2024. Stanford won 3-1.
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Stanford pitcher NiJaree Canady (24) celebrates with catcher Aly Kaneshiro (4) after a Women's College World Series softball game between the Stanford Cardinal and the UCLA Bruins at Devon Park in Oklahoma City, Sunday, June 2, 2024. Stanford won 3-1.
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Stanford pitcher NiJaree Canady (24) hugs catcher Aly Kaneshiro (4) as Stanford celebrates after a Women's College World Series softball game between the Stanford Cardinal and the UCLA Bruins at Devon Park in Oklahoma City on Sunday, June 2, 2024. Stanford won 3-1.
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Stanford's NiJaree Canady (24) throws a pitch during the Women's College World Series game between the Oklahoma State Cowgirls and Stanford at Devon Park in Oklahoma City, Friday, May, 31, 2024.
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Stanford's NiJaree Canady (24) throws a pitch during the Women's College World Series game between the Oklahoma State Cowgirls and Stanford at Devon Park in Oklahoma City on Friday, May, 31, 2024.
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Stanford's NiJaree Canady (24) throws a pitch during the Women's College World Series game between the Oklahoma State Cowgirls and Stanford at Devon Park in Oklahoma City on Friday, May, 31, 2024.
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Stanford's NiJaree Canady (24) pitches during a Women's College World Series softball game between the Texas Longhorns and the Stanford Cardinal at Devon Park in Oklahoma City on Thursday, May 30, 2024. Texas won 4-0.
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Stanford’s NiJaree Canady speaks the the press during the practice and media day for the Women's College World Series at Devon Park in Oklahoma City on Wednesday, May 29, 2024.
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Stanford's NiJaree Canady throws during a practice for the Women's College World Series at USA Softball Hall of Fame Stadium in Oklahoma City on Wednesday, May 31, 2023.
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Stanford starting pitcher NiJaree Canady (24) pitches during a softball game between Stanford and Washington at the Women's College World Series at USA Softball Hall of Fame Stadium in in Oklahoma City on Sunday, June 4, 2023.
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Stanford's NiJaree Canady (24) celebrates after an out during a softball game between University of Oklahoma Sooners (OU) and Stanford in the Women's College World Series at USA Softball Hall of Fame Stadium in Oklahoma City, Thursday, June 1, 2023. Oklahoma won 2-0.
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Stanford's NiJaree Canady (24) throws a pitch during a softball game between the Oklahoma Sooners and Stanford in the Women's College World Series at USA Softball Hall of Fame Stadium in in Oklahoma City, Monday, June, 5, 2023.
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Stanford's NiJaree Canady (24) and Emily Schultz celebrate the last out during a softball game between Alabama and Stanford in the Women's College World Series at USA Softball Hall of Fame Stadium in in Oklahoma City, Friday, June, 2, 2023.
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Stanford's NiJaree Canady (24) pitches during a softball game between University of Oklahoma Sooners (OU) and Stanford in the Women's College World Series at USA Softball Hall of Fame Stadium in Oklahoma City, Thursday, June 1, 2023. Oklahoma won 2-0.
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Stanford starting pitcher/relief pitcher NiJaree Canady (24) pitches during a softball game between Stanford and Washington at the Women's College World Series at USA Softball Hall of Fame Stadium in in Oklahoma City on Sunday, June 4, 2023.
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Stanford's NiJaree Canady (24) walks back to the pitching circle after Oklahoma scored two runs in the ninth inning during a softball game between the Oklahoma Sooners and Stanford in the Women's College World Series at USA Softball Hall of Fame Stadium in in Oklahoma City on Monday, June, 5, 2023.
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Stanford starting pitcher NiJaree Canady (24) pitches during a softball game between Stanford and Washington at the Women's College World Series at USA Softball Hall of Fame Stadium in in Oklahoma City on Sunday on June 4, 2023.
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Stanford's NiJaree Canady (24) celebrates a strike out during a softball game between the Oklahoma Sooners and Stanford in the Women's College World Series at USA Softball Hall of Fame Stadium in in Oklahoma City, Monday, June, 5, 2023.
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Topeka High NiJaree Canady pitches Tuesday April 12, 2022, at Hummer Sports Park in Topeka.
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Topeka High senior NiJaree Canady (24) runs in to score a run against Wichita East in the first inning of a 2022 6A regional tournament at Hummer Sports Park.
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Topeka High junior NiJaree Canady was a first-team All-State selection last season, helping lead the Trojans to a perfect 23-0 record and a spot in the Class 6A final four.
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Topeka High junior NiJaree Canady pitches during a game in 2021 at Washburn Rural.
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NiJaree Canady, Topeka High
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Topeka senior NiJaree Canady (24) swings the bat against Topeka West on Thursday, March 31, 2022 at Hummer Sports Park.
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NiJaree Canady, Topeka High
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Topeka High senior NiJaree Canady has been known to wow crowds in softball and basketball. She recently announced her commitment to play softball at Stanford and forgo her senior year of basketball.
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Topeka High junior Nijaree Canady lays in for two in the first half of Friday's 6A semifinal game against Dodge City at Koch Arena in Wichita. The Trojans won 54-37.
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Topeka High junior NiJaree Canady throws up a three after scoring in the second half of Friday's 6A semifinal game against Dodge City at Koch Arena in Wichita. The Trojans won 54-37.
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Topeka High junior NiJaree Canady shoots a free throw in the 2021 6A semifinal game against Dodge City at Koch Arena in Wichita. The Trojans won 54-37.
Team, Points (first-place votes), Record, Last week’s ranking
Oklahoma, 174 (9), 40-4, 3
Alabama, 160 (2), 39-3, 2
Texas Tech, 148, 40-3, 1
Nebraska, 146, 33-6, 4
Arkansas, 126, 35-6, 6
Texas, 122, 33-6, 5
7T. Florida, 106, 40-5, 8
7T. UCLA, 106, 37-5, 9
Tennessee, 97, 36-6, 10
Virginia Tech, 57, 36-6, 12
Texas A&M, 54, 30-12, 13
Duke, 44, 31-12, 15
Georgia, 42, 31-11, 14
Florida State, 35, 36-7, 7
Arizona, 30, 30-11, 11
LSU, 1, 28-14, RV
Others receiving votes: Mississippi State, 12, 34-11, 16; Oregon, 10, 32-9, RV; Stanford, 4, 26-12, NR; Washington, 2, 34-9, RV
Voters: Jenni Carlson, The Oklahoman; Nathan Giese, Lubbock (Texas) Avalanche-Journal; Cora Hall, Knoxville (Tenn.) News Sentinel; Eric Lopez, In The Circle; Justin McLeod, D1Softball.com; Joe Mussatto, The Oklahoman; Noah Ram, Gainesville (Fla.) Sun; Colton Sulley, The Oklahoman; Brady Vernon, Softball America; Kirk Walker, Oklahoma City Spark general manager; Scott Wright, The Oklahoman.
This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Super 16 softball rankings: Oklahoma takes top spot, leaping Alabama
The latest Super 16 college softball rankings highlight Oklahoma and Alabama as top contenders, with specific rankings available on sports news platforms.
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