In a move that has sent shockwaves through the collegiate softball world, the nation’s No. 1-ranked high school softball player, Kayla Henderson, has officially committed to play for the Oklahoma Sooners, choosing the reigning national champions over powerhouse programs like Tennessee, Florida State, and Georgia.
Henderson, a 17-year-old pitcher and infielder from Chandler, Arizona, made her announcement during a nationally televised press conference at her high school on Monday morning. Donning a crimson Oklahoma cap and flashing a confident smile, she declared, “There’s just something special about Oklahoma. The culture, the coaching staff, the fans—it just feels like home.”
A two-time Gatorade National Player of the Year, Henderson has been dominating the high school circuit since her freshman year. With a fastball that regularly clocks in at 71 mph and a batting average of .582, she has been a once-in-a-generation talent that coaches across the nation were eager to land. Many experts compare her two-way dominance to former Sooner legend Lauren Chamberlain, mixed with the pitching prowess of Jordy Bahl.
Oklahoma head coach Patty Gasso, who has led the Sooners to seven national championships, including four in the last five years, called Henderson “a transformational player.”
“She’s not just the best in her class—she’s one of the best we’ve ever seen,” Gasso said. “Kayla has the fire, the discipline, and the talent to carry on the Sooner legacy and elevate it even further.”
According to sources close to Henderson’s recruitment, Tennessee made a late push, offering a compelling NIL package and promising early starting time. Florida State touted its recent Women’s College World Series appearances and elite pitching development program. Georgia, meanwhile, emphasized its academic programs and family atmosphere.
In the end, Henderson said the Sooners’ history of success and her connection with current players sealed the deal. “I want to win, and I want to be part of a team that pushes each other every day,” she said. “Oklahoma gives me that.”
Henderson is expected to enroll early in January 2026 and could make an immediate impact on a roster already stacked with All-Americans. With this commitment, the Sooners’ dynasty shows no signs of slowing down.
