Oklahoma Softball continues to make preseason waves as three of its standout players—Abigale Dayton, Ella Parker, and Kasidi Pickering—have been named to the Preseason All-Southeastern Conference (SEC) Team, as announced by the league office on Thursday, January 30.
Sooners Earn High Preseason Honors
The SEC preseason all-league team and coaches poll are determined by votes from the 15 head coaches across the conference. The Sooners, who received two first-place votes, were selected third in the preseason poll. This recognition solidifies Oklahoma’s status as a major player in its first season of the SEC.
Parker and Pickering, both standout sophomores, played crucial roles in the Sooners’ 2024 National Championship run and have also been named Softball America First-Team Preseason All-Americans. Dayton, an accomplished junior transfer, received second-team honors.
Player Spotlights
Abigale Dayton
Dayton arrived at Oklahoma after an impressive two-season tenure at Utah, where she hit .479 with 62 runs, 38 walks, and 19 stolen bases. She was named a 2024 National Fastpitch Coaches Association (NFCA) Third-Team All-American and was a two-time Pac-12 First-Team honoree. Dayton’s speed and versatility will be key assets for the Sooners in their SEC debut season.
Ella Parker
Parker had a breakout freshman year, earning NFCA Third-Team All-American status. Hailing from Los Angeles, California, she shined on the biggest stages, earning Women’s College World Series All-Tournament Team and Big 12 Tournament Most Outstanding Player accolades. Parker’s ability to deliver in high-pressure moments makes her one to watch in 2025.
Kasidi Pickering
Pickering made her mark in 2024, starting 64 of Oklahoma’s 66 games. She recorded 12 home runs, 51 RBIs, and 45 runs scored, proving herself as a reliable offensive force. Pickering was named to the Women’s College World Series All-Tournament Team and the Big 12 All-Freshman squad, further highlighting her talent and potential.
Roster Breakdown & Key Additions
The 2025 Oklahoma roster consists of 22 players, including 14 newcomers and eight returning players. The Sooners bolstered their squad with five key transfers:
- Isabella Smith (Campbell)
- Sam Landry (Louisiana)
- Isabela Emerling (North Carolina)
- Abigale Dayton (Utah)
- Ailana Agbayani (BYU)
With a mix of veteran leadership and fresh talent, Oklahoma is primed for another competitive season.
2025 Season Outlook
The Sooners kick off their season in California, playing in San Diego, Fullerton, Los Angeles, and Long Beach across four days. Historically, Oklahoma has performed well in the Golden State, holding a 178-65 all-time record in California.
Key Dates:
- Home Opener: Feb. 20 vs. Abilene Christian
- SEC Home Debut: March 7 vs. South Carolina
- SEC Tournament: May 6-10 at Jack Turner Softball Stadium in Athens, Georgia
SEC Preseason Rankings & Competition
Oklahoma enters its first season in the SEC ranked third in the preseason poll. The Sooners will face stiff competition, with Texas and Florida ranking first and second, respectively.
Top 5 SEC Preseason Rankings:
- Texas (7 first-place votes)
- Florida (6 first-place votes)
- Oklahoma (2 first-place votes)
- Tennessee
- Texas A&M
Get Ready for an Exciting Season
With a strong returning core and dynamic new additions, the Sooners are poised to make a statement in their first SEC season.
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