OU softball dominated Oklahoma Christian University 35-0 in front of 2,837 at Love’s Field, a new fall attendance record.
Amid the offensive outburst, freshman catcher Kendall Wells delivered a lasting impression with two home runs in four at-bats.
Wells, a right-handed power hitter from North Oconee High School in Bogart, Georgia, was a 2023 National Fastpitch Coaches Association all-region first-team selection and a 2024 Gatorade Player of the Year finalist. The Georgia native has quickly impressed head coach Patty Gasso.
“I’m really happy with the improvement of some of the freshmen — Kendall Wells being one of them that’s really setting off her power,” Gasso said.
Her first blast came in the third inning, a solo shot that continued OU’s early scoring spree. She struck again in the ninth, driving a towering shot into the stands to close the Sooners’ 35-run night.
“She just has a presence at the plate that if I was a pitcher, I would think I’ve got to be very careful here,” Gasso said. “If you’re making a pitcher think that just by the way you look at the plate, you’ve won. She always gets her swing off, so it’s been really impressive.”
Wells said the experience of playing under the lights and in front of thousands has been special as a first-year player.
“It’s definitely been a very cool experience,” Wells said. “I think it’s really helpful and cool to be in this environment so early in my career. ... Playing in front of 2,800 fans in the fall is not something that all freshmen get to experience.”
Gasso credited the team’s culture for helping freshmen like Wells thrive in big moments.
“I could have the greatest athletes in the world, but if they don’t connect or like each other, you’re going to see it disperse and dissipate,” Gasso said. “The goal here is to have a cohesive locker room (and) culture. They enjoy each other, … and they play some good softball when they’re in that space.”
Wells and the Sooners will continue their fall schedule with Battle Series 2 at 6:30 p.m. Friday at Love's Field.
This story was edited by Joshua McDaniel.
