No. 2 Oklahoma Softball Shuts Out Wichita State 7-0, Snaps Losing Skid
The Oklahoma Sooners’ softball team wasted no time quieting their two-game losing streak on Tuesday night. Facing off against the Wichita State Shockers (18-15), the Sooners (36-3) unleashed an offensive outburst in the early innings, coasting to a comfortable 7-0 victory. Sophomore pitching star Kierston Deal delivered a dominant performance in the circle, striking out nine batters and allowing just one hit over five and one-third innings. The win extends Oklahoma’s remarkable winning streak against Wichita State.
Early Offense Propels Sooners
The Sooners planted three runs in the top of the first inning. Jayda Coleman drew a walk to start the game, extending her on-base streak to an impressive 26 games. She later scored on a double by Alyssa Brito. The Sooners added two more runs thanks to a double from Kinzie Hansen and a groundout by Kasidi Pickering.
The second inning saw another offensive outburst from Oklahoma. Avery Hodge reached on a bunt single and proceeded to steal both second and third base. A bases-loaded walk by Tiare Jennings and a sacrifice fly by Brito brought in two more runs. Hansen capped off the scoring with a two-run double, putting the Sooners comfortably ahead 7-0.
Dominant Pitching Performance
Sophomore lefty Kierston Deal (8-0) was lights out in the circle for Oklahoma. She pitched 5.1 innings, allowing just one hit and striking out nine batters. Deal effectively shut down the Shocker offense, retiring 13 straight batters after surrendering a leadoff single in the first inning. Karlie Keeney came on in relief for the final 1.2 innings, striking out three to secure the victory.
Wichita State Held in Check
The Shockers’ bats were silenced by the Sooner pitching duo. Lauren Howell (3-3) took the loss for Wichita State, surrendering all seven runs in just one inning of work. While reliever Alison Cooper held Oklahoma scoreless over the final six innings, the early deficit proved insurmountable.
Looking Ahead
With this win, Oklahoma extends its winning streak against Wichita State to a remarkable 42 consecutive games, dating back to 1990. The Sooners will return home to Love’s Field on Thursday to open a Big 12 series against BYU.
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