Leaving Friday night’s upset loss firmly in the rearview mirror, the No. 2/1-ranked Oklahoma Sooners (38-4, 15-3 Big 12) bounced back with a convincing 7-3 victory over BYU (22-19, 5-13 Big 12) on Saturday afternoon. This win secured the series victory for Oklahoma and showcased their ability to respond to adversity.
Top Takeaways for Oklahoma:
- Brito’s Big Day: Third baseman Alyssa Brito delivered a stellar performance, going 3-for-4 with a key two-run single in the third and a towering home run in the fifth, driving in a game-high four RBIs.
- Maxwell’s Gritty Effort: Kelly Maxwell displayed resilience on the mound, pitching a complete game and allowing only three runs on six hits. She struck out six batters and navigated her way out of a bases-loaded jam in the sixth inning.
- Offensive Improvement: The Sooners’ offense displayed better discipline compared to Friday’s game. They capitalized on scoring opportunities, with Torres’ single in the third inning plating two runs and Parker’s infield single in the fifth adding another. Coach Gasso highlighted the team’s improved focus and ability to fight with two strikes.
- Hansen Extends Hit Streak: Kinzie Hansen continued her hot hitting, extending her streak to 10 games with a double in the fifth inning.
Key Quotes:
- OU Coach Patty Gasso: “Proud. They were fighting… When things aren’t clicking on all cylinders, it can get really frustrating… A little more poise, more focus, fighting with two strikes, did a good job of that… Our plans were better. We just talked about throwing punches and really fighting. I felt much better today.”
- Alyssa Brito on her adjustments: “Today I really wanted to make adjustments as far as taking away the offspeed… I knew that was something that they were consistently going to against me. So honestly, just digging in finding an elevated pitch was what I was wanting and just hitting it hard. Not trying to press or do too much and just let it come as it is.”
Big 12 Standings Update
The Sooners remain atop the Big 12 standings with a 15-3 conference record. This win keeps them 1.5 games ahead of second-place Texas (13-4 Big 12), who are also in action this weekend wrapping up their series against Baylor. Oklahoma State (12-5 Big 12) sits in third place and is also finishing their series against Iowa State.
What’s Next:
The Sooners will look to build on this momentum in their upcoming midweek matchup against Tulsa on Tuesday, April 16th, at Hall of Fame Stadium in Oklahoma City. The game is scheduled for a 6:00 PM CT first pitch and will be broadcasted on ESPN+.
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