Oklahoma Outlasts Texas in SEC Softball Showdown

NORMAN, Okla. — No. 4 Oklahoma edged No. 3 Texas 7-6 in a thrilling SEC softball matchup on Friday night. The game kicked off a three-game series between the two powerhouse programs, with Oklahoma moving to 40-5 overall and 14-5 in the SEC.

Oklahoma controlled the game early, jumping to a 6-0 lead. However, Texas staged a late comeback, bringing the tying run to third base in the seventh inning before falling short. This victory allowed the Sooners to secure sole possession of second place in the SEC standings, while Texas now stands at 42-7 and 13-6 in conference play.

OU pitcher Sam Landry faced pressure in the final inning as Texas fought back. The Longhorns managed to score three runs, highlighted by a two-RBI single from Reese Atwood. Despite the nervous moments, Landry closed out the game with a flyout from Joley Mitchell.

The Sooners showcased their power with a grand slam from Ailana Agbayani, pushing their lead to a more comfortable margin. Texas struggled at the plate, particularly at the bottom of the batting order, which went hitless through eight at-bats during the crucial moments of the game.

Earlier in the contest, Landry effectively kept Texas in check with her strong pitching, retiring the Longhorns in order multiple times. Landry, who transferred from Louisiana, now holds a record of 15-3 and maintains a 1.89 ERA this season.

Texas coach Mike White pointed to the importance of bouncing back in Saturday’s game, scheduled for 11 a.m. “We need to regroup and come out strong tomorrow,” White said.

With Oklahoma’s win, the team improves its all-time series record against Texas to 61-27. The Sooners will look to continue their dominance in game two of the series.