Oklahoma Softball once again proved its status as the gold standard of collegiate development by leading all programs in the 2026 Athletes Unlimited Softball League (AUSL) Draft, placing nine former Sooners across the professional ranks. No other school in the country came close to matching OU’s presence, as UCLA finished second with six selections.
The Sooners’ nine draftees were split across the league’s Expansion Draft and Allocation Draft, highlighting both Oklahoma’s influence on elite player development and the league’s commitment to building competitive rosters through proven performers. The nine selected were:
- Sydney Romero
- Sam Landry
- Kelly Maxwell
- Kinzie Hansen
- Jayda Coleman
- Alyssa Brito
- Jocelyn Alo
- Rylie Boone
- Haley Lee
Together, they represent nearly a decade of dominant Oklahoma softball that includes multiple national championships, All-America honors, conference titles, and record-setting seasons.
The 2026 AUSL Draft was conducted in two phases: the Expansion Draft, which allowed new teams to form rosters, and the Allocation Draft, which distributed opted-in players across all six franchises.
This year’s draft expanded the professional landscape with the addition of two new teams:
- Cascade
- Spark
The other four clubs—Bandits, Blaze, Talons, and Volts—rounded out the league’s allocation process.
A total of 43 players were selected between both drafts, bringing league rosters to 78 athletes. Remaining spots will be filled in the AUSL College Draft, which, like in previous seasons, will include NCAA players who receive “golden tickets” for participation.
Within that framework, Oklahoma didn’t just participate—it dominated.
The Expansion Draft featured 13 total selections as the Cascade and Spark stocked their inaugural rosters. Two of Oklahoma’s most impactful players headlined those moves.
Sam Landry was selected second overall by the Cascade, immediately becoming one of the foundation pieces of that franchise. Landry, known for her resilience, competitiveness, and leadership in the circle, now steps into a role as an organizational cornerstone.
Later in the round, the Spark selected Sydney Romero fifth overall. Romero’s reputation as one of the most complete players in college softball history made her one of the most captivating names available. Her ability to produce offensively, defend at a high level, and lead in the locker room positions her as a natural leader for expansion success.
The tone of the draft was clear: if you’re building a franchise, you start with Oklahoma.
If the Expansion Draft set the stage, the Allocation Draft solidified Oklahoma’s league-wide influence.
Kelly Maxwell went first overall to the Cascade, an unmistakable statement about her value in the pitching market. Maxwell’s strikeout ability, composure, and experience against elite competition made her a premier asset.
The Spark followed with Kinzie Hansen at No. 2, securing one of the most accomplished catchers in college softball. Hansen’s combination of defensive mastery, game management, and clutch hitting places her among the most respected players in the sport.
Jayda Coleman went to the Talons with the third pick, giving that franchise an elite leadoff presence and defensive weapon. Her speed, range, and consistency make her one of the most dynamic outfielders in the game.
Next, the Blaze selected Alyssa Brito fifth, welcoming one of the nation’s most reliable middle-infielders and run producers. Brito’s versatility and infield instincts are tailor-made for professional play.
At No. 10, the Bandits selected Jocelyn Alo, one of the most iconic hitters in NCAA history. Alo’s raw power, discipline, and presence in the box command immediate attention—and instant credibility for any roster.
Rylie Boone went to the Volts at No. 18, delivering speed, instinctive defense, and offensive spark to a club seeking balance and explosiveness.
Finally, the Spark added Haley Lee with the 31st pick, giving Oklahoma City a third former Sooner. Lee’s reliability, athleticism, and high softball IQ round out what quickly became one of the league’s deepest Oklahoma-heavy rosters.
While many Sooners are moving across the country, three remain physically close to home.
Romero, Hansen, and Lee will suit up for the AUSL Spark, an expansion team based in Oklahoma City. The connection between the professional game and one of the country’s strongest softball markets creates continuity for fans and provides instant familiarity for supporters who followed these players through their collegiate careers.
For the Spark, landing three Sooners isn’t just a roster move—it’s a brand builder.
The draft results reinforce what has become standard truth throughout the softball world: Oklahoma develops professionals.
From pitching to power hitting to defensive versatility, the Sooners’ alumni were targeted because they provide reliability at the highest level. That reputation has been earned through a program built on accountability, preparation, and championship expectations.
OU’s nine selections also reflect the evolution of college softball into a true pipeline for professional opportunities. The AUSL now serves as a direct continuation of top-tier competition, and Oklahoma athletes constitute a substantial portion of its foundation.
Nine out of 43 selections came from one school.
That percentage alone underscores how deeply Oklahoma has shaped the early structure of the Athletes Unlimited Softball League. Multiple franchises now include former Sooners in key roles, and three teams—Spark, Cascade, and Bandits—feature Oklahoma players drafted early and often.
In many ways, the league now reflects the standard set in Norman: athleticism, discipline, versatility, and competitive excellence.
With the College Draft still upcoming and rosters yet to be finalized, the AUSL will continue to grow in both depth and visibility. But one thing is firmly established:
Oklahoma isn’t just dominating college softball.
Oklahoma is shaping the future of professional softball.
Whether on the mound, in the field, or at the plate, former Sooners will occupy center stage in AUSL as the league plays its next chapter. And for a program that measures success not only by championships but by longevity, the 2026 draft stands as another defining moment.
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