Gators Upset No. 1 Team on Senior Day with Grand Slam Victory

GAINESVILLE, Fla. — The No. 9 Florida Gators achieved a significant win over the No. 1 Oklahoma Sooners, triumphing 9-4 on Senior Day Saturday. Freshman Taylor Shumaker hit a grand slam, contributing to Florida’s impressive tally of four home runs during the game.

This victory marked Florida’s first regular-season win against a top-ranked team since 2013 and their first home win over a No. 1 team since 2007. Senior pitcher Kara Hammock played a pivotal role in securing the victory, limiting Oklahoma to just five hits throughout the game.

“This win shows what we can do as a team when we play together,” Hammock said. “We’ve worked so hard, and I think this is a turning point for us.”

While the win carries great significance, the Gators emphasized that rankings do not dictate their approach. Their focus remains on teamwork and performance rather than just statistics.

Looking ahead, the Gators aim to clinch the series against Oklahoma with the next game scheduled for Saturday at 5 p.m., which will be broadcast on ESPN. This victory not only boosts the team’s confidence but also highlights the emotional weight of playing for their seniors.

In other news, head coach Kevin O’Sullivan confirmed that starting shortstop Colby Shelton is dealing with a wrist injury sustained after a swing in a previous game. Shelton has been a leading contributor this season, topping the team with a .377 batting average and 66 hits.

“Losing him would have been tough, especially now,” O’Sullivan mentioned, as the Gators search for vital wins to secure a postseason berth with a current SEC record of 7-13. They hope to solidify their performance against Arkansas in a decisive game scheduled for 1 p.m. on Sunday, streamed via SEC Network+.