According to ESPN report: Oklahoma sooners women’s basketball coach Jennie Baranczyk was not named as AP Women’s Basketball Coach of the Year for mean reasons……….

In a surprising and controversial twist reported by ESPN, Oklahoma Sooners women’s basketball head coach Jennie Baranczyk was not named the AP Women’s Basketball Coach of the Year**, despite a standout season that saw the Sooners rise in national rankings and earn respect across the NCAA landscape. What’s causing a stir isn’t just the snub—it’s the **alleged reasons** behind the decision.

According to sources close to the situation and cited in the ESPN report, Baranczyk was intentionally overlooked** for what insiders describe as “mean-spirited” reasons unrelated to her coaching performance. These include personality clashes with certain voting committee members**, internal politics within the media, and a perceived lack of “flash” compared to coaches at higher-profile programs.

Baranczyk led the Sooners to an impressive season, marked by **key conference wins, a deep postseason run, and a visible improvement in player development and team culture**. Her leadership drew praise from fellow coaches, analysts, and fans, with many considering her a top contender for the prestigious honor.

Jennie turned this program into a force to be reckoned with,” said one anonymous Big 12 coach. “If the award was truly about coaching, she should’ve been at the top of that list.”

Yet despite her achievements, the award went elsewhere—leaving many baffled.

According to ESPN’s report, some members of the selection committee allegedly found Baranczyk’s competitive demeanor off-putting, describing her approach as “too intense” or “lacking polish.” Others pointed to limited national TV exposure and the program’s quieter media presence as reasons for her being overshadowed.

Fans and supporters quickly took to social media, calling out the perceived bias and gatekeeping in the awards process.

This is politics, plain and simple,” wrote one fan on X. “You can’t ignore results just because someone doesn’t fit a certain mold.

Despite the snub, Baranczyk remains focused on her players and the upcoming season. In a brief statement, she thanked the Sooner community and emphasized her commitment to continuing the program’s upward climb.

While the AP may not have recognized her this year, the message is clear: Jennie Baranczyk has already earned the respect that matters most—on the court, in the locker room, and among those who truly understand the game.**