In a significant move for the Oklahoma Sooners softball program, junior left-handed pitcher Kierston Deal has reaffirmed her commitment to the team, solidifying her role as a cornerstone for the upcoming season. This announcement comes on the heels of the Sooners’ unexpected exit from the 2025 Women’s College World Series (WCWS), where their pursuit of a fifth consecutive national title was halted by Texas Tech in a dramatic loss.
Deal, hailing from Winston-Salem, North Carolina, has been a pivotal figure in Oklahoma’s pitching lineup. Throughout the 2025 season, she showcased her prowess with standout performances, including a complete game victory against No. 3 Texas, allowing only two runs in a 7-2 win . Her contributions have not gone unnoticed; she was named to the 2025 SEC Softball Community Service Team, highlighting her dedication both on and off the field .
The Sooners are undergoing a period of transition, with several players entering the transfer portal following their WCWS exit. However, the addition of former LSU ace Sydney Berzon, who boasts a career ERA of 2.02 and 416 strikeouts, is set to bolster the pitching roster alongside Deal . Berzon’s experience and Deal’s continued development position Oklahoma to remain competitive in the upcoming season.
Deal’s reaffirmed commitment is a testament to her belief in the program’s direction under head coach Patty Gasso. As the Sooners aim to reclaim their dominance in collegiate softball, Deal’s leadership and skill will be instrumental in guiding a team blending seasoned players and new talent.
With the 2026 season on the horizon, Oklahoma’s roster, fortified by Deal’s presence and strategic additions like Berzon, is poised to make a strong bid for another national title. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as the Sooners embark on this new chapter, determined to return to the pinnacle of college softball.
