Oklahoma Sooners Softball: Preview, Live Thread, & How to Watch the Norman Regional

The Oklahoma Sooners are on a heck of a run as of late, winning 27 of their last 28 games. Despite this fact, they were somehow seeded 10th overall last weekend, meaning that they’ll likely have to hit the road for the Super Regionals. But for now the Sooners get to play at the friendly confines of the OU Softball Complex, where they host Arkansas, Tulsa and North Dakota State in the Norman Regional. OU’s first game against North Dakota State will begin at 2 p.m. CT on Friday (weather permitting).

Players to Watch

Shay Knighten: After making a name for herself as a freshman in 2016, Knighten got off to a slow start as a sophomore. However, she’s brought her season average up to .347 and has hit five home runs in the past eight games.

Nicole Mendes: The freshman utility player is batting .430 on the season and is currently on a 15-game hit streak. Additionally, she has a 0.81 ERA in 11 appearances as a pitcher.

Paige Parker: The two-time All-American has had plenty of help in the rotation from Paige Lowary and Mariah Lopez, and her ERA is at a career-low 1.36.

The Opponents

Arkansas: The Razorbacks finished 31-22 on the season with an SEC record of 7-18. The Sooners have won 22 or 24 matchups against Arkansas in their history, including a 4-2 victory earlier this season.

Tulsa: With a record of 39-15, Tulsa comes to Norman as the regular season and tournament champions of the American Athletic Conference. Oklahoma narrowly defeated the Golden Hurricane 1-0 in a 10-inning game earlier this season.

North Dakota State: Despite having a record of 28-31, the Bison were able to make the NCAA Tournament by winning the Summit League Tournament. The Sooners are 2-1 all time against North Dakota State, with the lone loss coming in the 2009 Regional.

How to Watch

This weekend’s games can be viewed on ESPN3. Additionally, you can listen to the action locally on KEBC 1560 (or online at the following link).

Regional Thread

Head down to the comments section to discuss all of this weekend’s action! We’ll try to post updates down there as often as we can.