OU Softball’s Future Star Crowned 2025 Gatorade Oklahoma Player of the Year…Read More…
NORMAN, Okla. — The University of Oklahoma softball program just received another major boost for its already stacked future. One of the Sooners’ top incoming recruits has been named the 2025 Gatorade Oklahoma Softball Player of the Year, signaling not just individual excellence but the continuation of a softball dynasty in Norman.
Alexis “Lexi” Matthews, a senior pitcher and shortstop from Broken Arrow High School, was officially awarded the prestigious honor this week, further solidifying her status as one of the most dominant high school players in the country. Matthews, who signed with Oklahoma during the early signing period last fall, becomes the latest in a growing list of Sooner signees to earn Gatorade State Player of the Year honors—a testament to head coach Patty Gasso’s elite recruiting standards.
A Season for the Ages
Matthews’ numbers this season have been nothing short of astonishing. The 5-foot-9 two-way star led her team to the 6A state championship game, posting a jaw-dropping 0.56 ERA across 148 innings pitched. She notched 312 strikeouts and issued just 22 walks, establishing herself as a relentless force in the circle.
But it wasn’t just her pitching that caught attention. Matthews also batted .515 on the year, with 11 home runs, 47 RBIs, and an on-base percentage of .612. Whether she was striking out batters or launching fastballs over the fence, Lexi’s presence on the field was impossible to ignore.
“She’s the kind of player who changes the energy of a game just by stepping onto the field,” said Broken Arrow head coach Megan Riley. “Her work ethic, leadership, and competitive spirit have set the tone for this team all season long. The fact that she’s headed to OU? That just makes perfect sense.”
Gatorade’s Prestigious Seal of Excellence
The Gatorade Player of the Year award is more than just a recognition of athletic excellence. It also takes into account academic performance and character off the field—areas in which Matthews excels just as much.
According to Gatorade’s official release, Matthews holds a 4.3 GPA, ranks in the top 5% of her graduating class, and is an active member of her school’s National Honor Society. She also volunteers with a local youth softball league and is involved in several charitable efforts, including fundraising for pediatric cancer research.
“Lexi is the total package,” said Gatorade’s National Softball Chair Rachel Buckley. “She embodies what the Gatorade Player of the Year stands for—she dominates on the field, thrives in the classroom, and leads in her community. She’s a phenomenal ambassador for the sport of softball.”
OU’s Pipeline of Power
The honor is also a powerful statement for the Sooners, who continue to reload with elite talent year after year. With national titles in 2021, 2022, and 2023, and a runner-up finish in 2024, Oklahoma remains the most feared program in college softball. Adding a talent like Matthews ensures that the program’s future remains as bright as its storied past.
“She’s built for this stage,” said Coach Gasso, who has led the Sooners since 1995. “Lexi’s a game-changer. What stood out to us during recruiting was her composure and confidence, even under pressure. She’s mature beyond her years, and we’re excited to help her reach the next level of her game.”
OU’s 2025 signing class is widely considered one of the best in the nation, with Matthews joining an elite group that includes California catcher Riley Sanchez, Florida outfielder Jade Thomas, and Texas infielder Morgan Blake. But it’s Matthews who headlines the group now, thanks to the Gatorade honor.
Recruiting analyst Taryn James of Softball America believes Matthews could make an immediate impact in Norman.
“She’s not just a future contributor—she’s a future star,” said James. “Her mechanics are elite, and her versatility gives OU options. Whether she’s in the circle, at shortstop, or batting cleanup, she’s going to be a name fans get to know very quickly.”
From Oklahoma Roots to National Spotlight
For Matthews, the recognition carries special weight as a homegrown talent. Raised in the heart of Oklahoma softball country, she grew up idolizing Sooner greats like Keilani Ricketts, Paige Parker, and Jocelyn Alo.
“Watching OU win championships was my childhood,” Matthews said in a phone interview. “It’s always been my dream to wear the crimson and cream. To be honored with this award, and to represent my state on such a big stage—it’s honestly overwhelming.”
Her commitment to the Sooners was never in doubt. As a sophomore, she gave her verbal pledge to Oklahoma and never looked back. Despite receiving interest from several other powerhouse programs, including UCLA, Florida, and Tennessee, Matthews said her heart was always in Norman.
Looking Ahead
While she’ll now add the Gatorade trophy to her growing collection of accolades, Matthews isn’t done yet. She plans to participate in several summer travel tournaments with her elite club team, the Tulsa Thunder, before enrolling at OU next fall.
Her goals? They’re as big as the spotlight she’s stepping into.
“I want to win a national championship,” she said. “I know that sounds ambitious, but at OU, it’s not a dream—it’s a standard. I’m ready to work, ready to compete, and ready to be part of something special.”
With a talent like Lexi Matthews joining the fold, Sooner Nation has every reason to believe the dynasty isn’t just continuing—it’s evolving. And with the 2025 Gatorade Oklahoma Player of the Year in their corner, the future is as electric as ever.
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