Nicole May Appointed Associate Head Coach at Oklahoma Softball in Monumental Homecoming
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In a move that has sent waves of excitement through the college softball world, former Oklahoma Sooners pitching standout Nicole May has been named Associate Head Coach of the Oklahoma softball program. The announcement marks a powerful homecoming for the four-time national champion, whose legacy as a Sooner continues now from the dugout rather than the pitching circle.
May’s appointment is not just a sentimental reunion—it’s a strategic elevation for one of the most dominant programs in NCAA softball history. She joins the elite coaching ranks under legendary head coach Patty Gasso and alongside fellow Associate Head Coaches JT Gasso and Jennifer Rocha, forming what many are already calling one of the most formidable coaching staffs in the sport.
Nicole May starred at Oklahoma from 2021 to 2024, during which the Sooners captured four straight Women’s College World Series championships. Her composure under pressure, consistency in the circle, and ability to deliver in clutch moments made her a vital piece of Oklahoma’s historic championship run. May finished her collegiate career with a 44–6 record and an ERA that hovered around 2.00 throughout her years as a Sooner. Her final season in 2024 saw her post a 14–3 record with a 2.59 ERA, further establishing her as a leader and mentor on and off the field.
Beyond her numbers, May was a symbol of grit and loyalty. While many players in the NIL and transfer portal era opted for change, Nicole stayed committed to the Sooners, becoming a trusted veteran voice within a constantly evolving roster. Her leadership became especially critical during the team’s pursuit of its third and fourth straight national titles, cementing her place as one of the core pillars of OU’s dynasty.
Following graduation, May didn’t stray far from the game. She co-founded “Pitcher University” alongside mentor Kristina Thorson, offering elite-level instruction and development for aspiring pitchers across the country. This coaching venture highlighted her dedication to building the next generation of athletes and set the stage for her eventual full-circle return to Norman.
Her appointment as Associate Head Coach signals Patty Gasso’s confidence not only in May’s knowledge of the game but also her ability to lead in the competitive coaching landscape. “Nicole represents everything this program stands for—excellence, resilience, and a love for the game that can’t be taught,” Gasso said in a statement. “She knows what it takes to win here. Now, she’ll help teach it.”
May’s role will likely focus on developing Oklahoma’s pitching staff—a group she once led with poise and command. Her intimate understanding of the program’s philosophy, expectations, and championship culture makes her an invaluable addition as OU prepares to enter a new era in the SEC.
For fans, alumni, and current players, this hire feels like more than a coaching change—it’s the continuation of a legacy. Nicole May represents the embodiment of Sooner softball: a relentless competitor, a selfless teammate, and now, a rising star in coaching. As the Oklahoma Sooners look to maintain their softball supremacy and navigate the challenges of the powerhouse SEC conference, they will do so with one of their most beloved champions once again by their side.
Nicole May’s return to Norman isn’t just a headline—it’s a homecoming, a passing of the torch, and a celebration of what it means to be
a Sooner for life.