The Oklahoma Sooners softball team is embarking on its inaugural season in the Southeastern Conference, and after their first weekend, one Sooner has earned conference recognition for the first time in this new chapter. The SEC named sophomore Ella Parker co-Player of the Week following a remarkable performance during their west coast road trip.
Parker, who shared the honor with Auburn’s senior shortstop Nelia Peralta, batted an impressive .591 as the Sooners commenced the 2025 campaign with a perfect 6-0 record, defeating Cal State Northridge, San Diego State, California Baptist, Cal State Fullerton, Loyola Marymount, and Long Beach State. Her contributions were instrumental; she amassed 13 hits, including five doubles and a home run, scored 10 runs, and recorded eight RBIs, achieving a .955 slugging percentage. The release highlighted her outstanding weekend, showcasing her impact on the team’s success.
In a special moment, she clubbed a home run in her hometown of Los Angeles against Loyola Marymount. As she tweeted, “Hometown homers hit different 🏠,” marking a memorable highlight of her weekend.
Hometown homers hit different 🏠@ellaparkerrr_ | #ChampionshipMindset pic.twitter.com/US7vZs63Fo
— Oklahoma Softball (@OU_Softball) February 8, 2025
The Sooners have established themselves as a powerhouse in college softball, clinching the last four NCAA Softball Championships and showcasing dominance in the Women’s College World Series. As they navigate their new conference, which is known for sending multiple teams to the NCAA Tournament and producing champions, it remains to be seen who will challenge the Sooners’ reign. Nonetheless, given their track record, they seem far from slowing down.
This season is poised to test Oklahoma as they contend in the SEC, a conference renowned for its competitive softball landscape. With several teams having made appearances in the Women’s College World Series and claimed titles, the 2025 season promises to be an exciting journey for the Sooners.
