The Sooners’ roster is complete, but what about their top transfer target, NiJaree Canady?
Practically as soon as it was announced that NiJaree Canady, college softball’s top pitcher over the past two seasons, was entering the transfer portal, Oklahoma emerged as a likely destination.
It seemed like a perfect match: the former Stanford standout seeking to join a winning program and championship contender, and the Sooners needing pitching support after securing their NCAA record fourth consecutive championship.
It’s been a month since Canady entered the portal, and although there has been speculation about where the All-American pitcher and this year’s National Collegiate Player of the Year might end up, there has been no public indication of her thoughts or leanings. However, Canady will need to enroll somewhere within the next month.
Rumor has it that Canady is considering Florida, Florida State, Texas, and Oklahoma. Each of these schools offers qualities and benefits that would appeal to her, and the fall semester begins in about a month for all of them.
Oklahoma’s appeal to Canady extends beyond pitching opportunities to include one of college softball’s best offenses supporting her, the program’s rich history and tradition, and the significant resources available for her development. Additionally, NIL opportunities are likely to play a significant role in her decision.
While the Sooners would be eager to secure a transfer commitment from Canady, there is now a complication to overcome for that to happen. After the 2024 season ended and the natural roster changes from players graduating and transferring, head coach Patty Gasso had five roster openings to fill alongside the eight incoming freshmen.
Recently, Oklahoma filled the final roster spot by adding All-Sun Belt First-Team pitcher Sam Landry from the Sun Belt champion Louisiana Ragin Cajuns.
This seems to imply that Canady won’t be joining Oklahoma, but I wouldn’t jump to that conclusion. It will require some creative roster management, but considering that Canady hasn’t made a decision yet, her hometown of Topeka, Kansas, is conveniently close for family and friends to watch her play, and knowing Gasso’s persuasive ability to attract top talent to Norman, I wouldn’t be quick to rule out the star pitcher just yet.
If the Sooners manage to bring Canady to Norman, they should be the presumptive preseason No. 1 again next season. While OU can still be a national title contender without her, Canady’s commitment would significantly bolster the Oklahoma softball dynasty that has dominated the past decade.
