The top-ranked softball player in the country chooses to play for the Oklahoma Sooners over Florida State, Tennessee, and….see more….
In a seismic shift in the world of collegiate softball, the nation’s No. 1-ranked high school softball player, Madison “Maddie” Torres has officially announced her commitment to play for the powerhouse Oklahoma Sooners, choosing the defending NCAA champions over other top-tier programs such as Florida State, Tennessee, and UCLA. The announcement came via her social media channels early this morning and instantly set the softball community buzzing.
Maddie Torres, a five-tool phenom from Southern California’s Orange County, is widely considered a generational talent. A left-handed slugger with a .598 batting average, 23 home runs, and 60 stolen bases in her senior season, Torres has been the focal point of nearly every major recruiting list for the past two years.
After long nights of prayer, consideration, and conversations with my family and coaches, I’m beyond excited to announce I will be continuing my academic and athletic journey at The University of Oklahoma. The tradition, the passion, and the championship culture make this the perfect fit.
Oklahoma head coach Patty Gasso already regarded as one of the most successful and respected coaches in softball history, continues to dominate on the recruiting trail. With Torres’ commitment, the Sooners not only secure the top player of the 2025 class but also send a powerful message: the dynasty is far from over.
Gasso, who has led Oklahoma to seven national titles—four of them in the last five seasons—issued a brief but telling comment:
> “Maddie is a rare talent. She’s explosive, disciplined, and a true competitor. She’s the type of player that fits perfectly in the Oklahoma family.
Each of the finalist programs brought unique strengths to the table. Florida State offered Torres the chance to become the face of their next title push under coach Lonni Alameda. Tennessee promised a strong Southern presence and a path to stardom in the SEC. And UCLA—the hometown favorite—pitched staying close to family while continuing the Bruins’ legendary softball legacy.
In the end, however, Oklahoma’s championship pedigree and consistent development of All-Americans and Olympians proved too strong to ignore.
With Torres now headed to Norman, the Sooners’ roster becomes even more formidable. She is expected to start at shortstop or center field and instantly impact both sides of the game. Her presence will help offset the upcoming graduation of several key senior players and continue the team’s reign at the top of the sport.
Analysts are already calling this one of the most significant commitments in recent recruiting history. ESPNW’s lead softball analyst Cheryl Thompson noted:
> “This isn’t just about Oklahoma getting better. This is about a player who could change the face of college softball choosing to be part of a dynasty rather than build one elsewhere.
Oklahoma fans have every reason to celebrate. With a sparkling new softball stadium, back-to-back national titles, and now the best high school player in the country joining the squad, the Sooners continue to set the standard in college softball.