OU News: Oklahoma Sooners Land No. 1-Ranked WCWS Stance Star Chaney Helton After Shocking Commitment Announcement
In a stunning recruiting victory that sent shockwaves across the college softball landscape, the Oklahoma Sooners have secured a commitment from Chaney Helton, the nationโs No. 1-ranked Women’s College World Series (WCWS) stance specialist. Helton announced her decision via social media Monday morning, confirming sheโs headed to Norman โ and rejecting a host of elite programs in the process.
The commitment is a major win for Oklahoma head coach Patty Gasso, whose dynasty continues to thrive on both dominance and top-tier recruitment. Helton, a five-tool phenom known for her explosive base-running, elite bat control, and dynamic defensive presence, was widely considered the top uncommitted player in the 2025 class. Her final choices reportedly included perennial powerhouse UCLA, SEC giant LSU, and rising Big 12 rival Texas โ but Helton chose the Sooners.
โI prayed about it, and I just knew OU was home,โ Helton wrote. โTheir culture, the way they develop players, and the way they compete โ I want to be part of that legacy.โ
Helton’s commitment bolsters what is already being hailed as one of the most stacked recruiting classes in recent memory. The Sooners, fresh off another WCWS appearance and eyeing their fifth national title in six seasons, continue to attract and develop elite-level talent. Adding Helton, whose stance and approach at the plate have drawn comparisons to former Sooner greats Jocelyn Alo and Rylie Boone, only raises expectations.
Recruiting analysts have noted Heltonโs unusual maturity, high softball IQ, and relentless work ethic. Standing 5-foot-8, the Tennessee native slashed .552/.615/.982 during her junior season and stole 46 bases without being caught. Her quick-twitch speed and fearless aggression make her a game-changer on both sides of the ball.
โChaney is a generational talent,โ said D1Softball scout Michelle Carter. โShe can impact the game in every phase โ offensively, defensively, and mentally. OU just secured its next program leader.โ
This commitment also sends a clear message to the rest of the nation: Oklahoma remains the gold standard in college softball. Even amid fierce competition, the Soonersโ player development, national profile, and winning tradition continue to attract the sportโs brightest stars.
With Helton now officially on board, the Soonersโ future looks even more formidable โ and the rest of college softball has once again been put on notice.
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