Almost as soon as it was discovered that NiJaree Canady, collegiate softball’s greatest pitcher the previous two seasons, was entering the transfer portal, Oklahoma’s name sprang up as a possible destination.
After all, it appeared to be a logical fit, with the former Stanford star looking to join a great program and a championship contender, and the Sooners in need of pitching aid after winning their fourth consecutive NCAA title.
It’s been a month since Canady entered the portal, and there has been talk about probable destinations for the All-American pitcher and this year’s National Collegiate Player of the Year. There has been no public information out regarding what she is thinking or how she may be leaning. But Canady will need to enroll somewhere within the next month.
Canady is believed to be considering Florida, Florida State, Texas, and Oklahoma. All of these colleges have traits and perks that would appeal to Canady, and the autumn semester begins in roughly a month.
Canady would be drawn to OU not only for the pitching potential, but also for having one of collegiate softball’s finest offenses behind her, as well as the rich history and tradition, and the vast resources available to help her future development. We’d be foolish not to mention that NIL opportunity will undoubtedly play a role.
While the Sooners would be foolish not to be interested in obtaining a transfer pledge from Canady, there is now a difficulty that must be solved if this is to happen. After the dust had cleared from the 2024 season and the usual roster fallout from players out of eligibility and transfers, head coach Patty Gasso faced five roster gaps to fill, in addition to the eight members of the Sooners’ incoming freshman class.
Oklahoma filled the final roster space this week by adding Louisiana pitching and All-Sun Belt First-Team pitcher Sam Landry from the Sun Belt champion Louisiana Ragin Cajuns.
That, of course, gives the idea that Canady will not be coming to Oklahoma, but I would not jump to that conclusion. Without a doubt, clever roster management will be required. But, given that Canady has yet to make a decision, that she is from Topeka, Kansas, which would make it much easier for her family and friends to come see her play for the next two seasons, and knowing Gasso’s ability to persuade Norman to bring in the best talent available, I wouldn’t be so quick to write off the star pitcher just yet.
If the Sooners can convince Canady to come to Norman, they should be the preseason No. 1 again next season. Not that OU can’t compete for a national title without her, but that is how important Canady’s commitment has been to the Oklahoma softball dynasty over the last decade.