Oklahoma’s Commanding Victory: Dominating Boston U with an 8-0 Shutout
In a display of dominance that left no room for doubt, the top-ranked Oklahoma Sooners delivered a resounding 8-0 shutout against Boston University on Saturday in the NCAA Softball Tournament. The win, achieved in just five innings due to the mercy rule, showcased the Sooners’ elite pitching, explosive offense, and unrelenting competitive spirit as they advanced in the tournament with authority.
From the opening pitch, Oklahoma set the tone. Star pitcher Kelly Maxwell delivered a flawless performance in the circle, holding Boston University hitless through five innings. The graduate transfer struck out six batters, walked just one, and made quick work of a Terriers lineup that struggled to make any meaningful contact. Her dominance extended Oklahoma’s streak of scoreless innings in postseason play, reinforcing their reputation as a national powerhouse.
Offensively, the Sooners wasted no time establishing their superiority. Tiare Jennings got the scoring started in the first inning with a sharp RBI single, driving in Jayda Coleman, who had led off with a double. The floodgates opened in the third, when Oklahoma plated five runs, capitalizing on defensive miscues and delivering timely hits.
Sophomore slugger Kinzie Hansen added to the damage with a towering three-run homer to left field, electrifying the home crowd and putting the game firmly out of reach. The Sooners added two more runs in the fourth inning to cap the scoring, effectively sealing the mercy-rule victory and handing Boston U a harsh welcome to the regional stage.
With the win, Oklahoma improved to 53-6 on the season and remains a top contender for a fourth consecutive national championship. The team’s ability to dominate on both sides of the ball, especially in high-pressure postseason moments, has been a hallmark of their program under head coach Patty Gasso.
“That’s the kind of softball we expect from this group,” Gasso said postgame. “Kelly was outstanding, our bats came alive, and we stayed aggressive. That’s how we play Oklahoma softball.”
Boston University, champions of the Patriot League, will now face an elimination game, while Oklahoma moves forward with momentum and confidence. For the Sooners, this win was more than just a statement — it was a reminder of their dynastic grip on college softball.
As the tournament progresses, all eyes will remain on the Sooners, whose blend of power, precision, and postseason poise continues to make them the team to beat. With each inning, Oklahoma sends a clear message: the road to the Women’s College World Series still runs through Norman.
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