Congratulations! The Oklahoma Sooners have selected a professional softball player for the Blaze division of the Athletes Unlimited Softball League. Keilani Ricketts as the New Assistant Assistant Coach
Keilani Ricketts, a name synonymous with excellence in the world of softball, has embarked on a new journey as a member of the Blaze in the inaugural season of the Athletes Unlimited Softball League (AUSL). This move marks a significant chapter in her illustrious career, transitioning from a decorated collegiate and professional player to a key figure in a groundbreaking league that is reshaping women’s professional sports.theausl.com
Born on September 1, 1991, in San Jose, California, Ricketts’ softball journey began at the University of Oklahoma, where she played from 2010 to 2013. Her impact was immediate and profound. As a left-handed pitcher and versatile player, she became the cornerstone of the Sooners’ success, leading them to a national championship in 2013. That season, she achieved a remarkable 35-1 record, a 1.23 ERA, and 350 strikeouts, earning her the title of Women’s College World Series Most Outstanding Player. Her accolades include being a two-time USA Softball Collegiate Player of the Year and a four-time NFCA All-American .WikipediaTimes Union+2theausl.com+2theausl.com+2theausl.com+3theausl.com+3University of Oklahoma+3
Beyond her collegiate achievements, Ricketts made significant contributions to the USA Softball Women’s National Team, securing gold medals at the 2011 and 2019 Pan American Games, the 2018 WBSC World Championship, and the 2018 and 2019 Japan Cups. Her international experience further solidified her reputation as one of the premier pitchers in the world.theausl.com+1theausl.com+1
After her collegiate career, Ricketts continued to excel in professional softball. She was selected fourth overall in the 2013 National Pro Fastpitch (NPF) Draft by the USSSA Pride, where she played until 2018. During her tenure, she was named to the All-NPF Team in 2017 and 2018 and led the team to the 2018 Cowles Cup. In 2023, she joined the Oklahoma City Spark, posting a 5-3 record with a 3.03 ERA over 57.2 innings .Instagram+4theausl.com+4Wikipedia+4University of Oklahoma+1Wikipedia+1
In 2025, Ricketts signed with the Blaze for the inaugural season of the Athletes Unlimited Softball League. The AUSL represents a new era in women’s professional sports, featuring a unique scoring system and a focus on individual player performance. Ricketts’ extensive experience and leadership qualities make her a valuable addition to the team. Her role with the Blaze is not just as a player but as a mentor and ambassador for the sport, inspiring the next generation of softball athletes.Times Union+1theausl.com+1
Keilani Ricketts’ journey from a standout player at Oklahoma to a leader in the AUSL exemplifies the evolution of women’s sports. Her transition into the Blaze is a testament to her adaptability and commitment to the growth of softball. As she continues to compete at the highest level, Ricketts remains a beacon of excellence and a source of inspiration for aspiring athletes worldwide.
In conclusion, Keilani Ricketts’ move to the Blaze in the Athletes Unlimited Softball League is more than just a career milestone; it is a continuation of her legacy as one of the most accomplished and influential figures in the history of softball. Her presence in the AUSL will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on the league and the sport as a whole.
