In a stunning twist, former Oklahoma State ace and Oklahoma Sooners’ 2024 Women’s College World Series champion Kelly Maxwell has announced her recommitment to play one final collegiate season but not with OU, BYU, or Tennessee. Instead, Maxwell revealed she will return to her original school, Oklahoma State, reigniting the Bedlam rivalry and leaving Sooners fans in shock.
The left-handed pitcher, who transferred to Oklahoma ahead of the 2024 season and played a pivotal role in the Sooners’ national title run, announced her decision via social media:
“After careful consideration, I’ve decided to finish my career where it began. Thank you to OU for an unforgettable year, but my heart is leading me back to Stillwater. #GoPokes”*
Instead, she’s reigniting one of softball’s fiercest rivalries by returning to Oklahoma State, the program she left after the 2023 season.
Oklahoma’s Official Response
Sooners head coach Patty Gasso released a brief statement:
“We appreciate everything Kelly contributed to our program and wish her the best in her future endeavors.”
However, sources close to the program indicate OU’s No. 1-ranked stance remains unchanged: They will reload, not rebuild. With the nation’s top 2024 recruiting class and potential transfer portal additions, the Sooners are still the team to beat.
What This Means for Bedlam
Maxwell’s return to OSU sets up a must-watch storyline for 2025:
– Maxwell vs. OU’s lineup – She dominated in the 2024 WCWS, but now she’ll face Sooners hitters as an opponent.
– OSU’s revenge tour – After losing Maxwell to OU last year, the Cowgirls now get their ace back.
– NIL implications– Did OSU’s collective outbid others to bring her home?
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