Oklahoma Occupies High Chances of Winning Opening Schedule Game Against Tennessee: Former Coach Gives Expert Analysis…
By Lisa Harper | NCAA Softball Insider | May 28, 2025
As the anticipation for the Women’s College World Series (WCWS) continues to build, all eyes are on the much-anticipated opening schedule matchup between the No. 2 Oklahoma Sooners and No. 7 Tennessee Volunteers, originally slated for May 29 and now rescheduled to May 31, 2025. This game stands out as one of the most hyped clashes of the opening round—not just because of the historic reputations of both programs, but because of the growing narrative that Oklahoma holds a significant advantage heading into this tournament.
According to former Oklahoma coach Patty Gasso, who retired in 2024 after a legendary career, the Sooners have a “decisive edge” over Tennessee in this matchup. Her analysis, shared during an exclusive interview with ESPN’s “Road to Oklahoma City” panel, has sparked intense debate, optimism in Norman, and a sense of renewed urgency in Knoxville.
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The Matchup Everyone’s Talking About
The Oklahoma Sooners, widely considered a dynasty in modern college softball, enter this game with a record of 55-4, showcasing both offensive explosiveness and defensive solidity. Tennessee, no slouch themselves, come in at 49-9, riding a wave of momentum after sweeping their super regional. However, while both teams are elite, experts believe Oklahoma may be operating on another level entirely this season.
> “They’re playing chess while everyone else is playing checkers,” said ESPN’s softball analyst, Amanda Scarborough. “Oklahoma is so fundamentally sound that you have to hope they make mistakes—which rarely happens.”
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Patty Gasso’s Expert Breakdown
Patty Gasso, who led the Sooners to six national titles during her illustrious coaching career, knows the DNA of this team better than anyone. Although now retired, she has kept a close watch on the program and provided in-depth insight into why she believes Oklahoma will dominate the opener.
1. Depth in Pitching
> “This year’s pitching staff is the deepest Oklahoma’s ever had,” Gasso said. “They have three pitchers who could each be aces anywhere else.”
Headlined by junior phenom Maya Turner, who boasts a 0.97 ERA and 219 strikeouts, Oklahoma’s bullpen includes Sierra Mendez, a lefty with nasty breaking pitches, and veteran closer Addison Bright, known for her poise in high-pressure situations.
Tennessee’s standout pitcher, Samantha Griggs, has been stellar, with a 1.34 ERA, but will face the unenviable task of silencing one of the most dangerous lineups in NCAA softball.
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2. Power-Packed Lineup
Oklahoma has five starters with batting averages above .390, including:
Kayla Roberts (.426, 21 HRs)
Alaina Fields (.408, 18 HRs)
Tori Galvan (.393, 14 stolen bases)
> “They’re not just big hitters—they’re strategic,” Gasso noted. “They know how to bunt, steal, and pressure the defense with every at-bat.”
Tennessee’s defense will be tested like never before, especially by Oklahoma’s aggressive base running and situational hitting.
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3. Experience Under Pressure
Gasso also emphasized Oklahoma’s postseason pedigree:
> “These girls have been here before—some of them three or four times. They know how to handle pressure. That’s not something you can teach in a single season.”
This experience may prove crucial against Tennessee, whose current roster features many talented players but fewer who’ve played on the WCWS stage.
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What Tennessee Brings to the Table
While much of the focus has been on Oklahoma’s dominance, Gasso also acknowledged that Tennessee shouldn’t be underestimated.
1. Underdog Energy
> “Tennessee plays with a chip on their shoulder, and that makes them dangerous,” she said. “They’re not expected to win—and that freedom can spark magic.”
Coached by Karen Weekly, the Volunteers have developed a reputation for scrappy, grind-it-out softball. Their comeback victories in the regionals and super regionals demonstrate resilience, especially from players like:
Kennedy Collins (.377 AVG, 15 HRs)
Rachel Wheeler, a freshman shortstop with a cannon arm and unshakable confidence
Aliyah Greene, who has become Tennessee’s emotional leader on and off the field
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2. Tactical Adjustments
Coach Weekly is known for adapting mid-game, and her knack for utilizing defensive shifts and late-inning surprises could slow down the Sooners’ high-octane offense.
> “Tennessee won’t roll over,” said former pitcher Cat Osterman. “They’ll adjust quickly, and if Oklahoma gets off to a slow start, we could see this game go the distance.”
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Historical Head-to-Head
Oklahoma and Tennessee last met in the WCWS in 2023, a dramatic game that saw the Sooners win 5–2 in extra innings. Overall, Oklahoma leads the recent head-to-head series 4–1.
> “History favors the Sooners, but history doesn’t play the game—these girls do,” Gasso reminded viewers. “Tennessee’s hungry. That makes them unpredictable.”
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X-Factors to Watch
Oklahoma’s Bench
The Sooners’ bench players could start on most other teams. Players like freshman DH McKenzie Lee, who’s batting .381 in relief appearances, could make a huge impact off the bench.
Tennessee’s Catcher: Olivia Reece
If Reece can manage Oklahoma’s aggressive runners and call a smart game behind the plate, she could neutralize some of their offensive momentum.
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️ What the Softball Community Is Saying
The softball world is abuzz with predictions, and while Oklahoma is favored, the respect for Tennessee runs deep.
“Oklahoma’s scary good, but Tennessee has nothing to lose,” tweeted @SoftballScoutUSA.
“A Gasso endorsement means a lot. But don’t sleep on the Vols,” commented @LadyVolFanPage.
“Best opening round game in years. Period,” said an ESPN panelist.
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Broadcasting and Fan Hype
The Oklahoma vs Tennessee game will now air Saturday, May 31 at 7:00 PM CST on ESPN2, with full pregame coverage starting at 6:30 PM.
Tickets for the game sold out within minutes of the rescheduling announcement, and resale prices have already climbed above $400 on major platforms.
> “This isn’t just a softball game—it’s a statement game,” said broadcaster Beth Mowins.
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Final Predictions
According to NCAA softball analysts and betting markets, Oklahoma is favored by 3.5 runs, but the unpredictability of WCWS play makes every inning vital.
Patty Gasso’s Final Word:
> “If Oklahoma sticks to their fundamentals and plays clean ball, I don’t see them losing. But if they get too comfortable, Tennessee could capitalize. It’s the first game—emotions are high. Anything can happen.”
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Conclusion
As the opening day of the Women’s College World Series looms, the clash between the Oklahoma Sooners and Tennessee Volunteers is more than just a game—it’s a collision of legacy, momentum, and competitive fire. Oklahoma may enter as the favorite, bolstered by elite talent and legendary status, but Tennessee’s spirit, strategy, and hunger to defy the odds make them an opponent to fear.
With a former coaching giant like Patty Gasso giving her stamp of analysis, expectations are soaring—and so is the pressure. Whether the Sooners dominate or the Volunteers shock the world, one thing is certain: softball fans are in for a showdown to remember.
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