SEC Commissioner Greg Sankey Praises Oklahoma’s First Year in the Conference: ‘The Fundamentals Are in Place for Big Success’

When Oklahoma officially joined the Southeastern Conference in 2025, the move sent shockwaves across the college football landscape. After decades of dominance in the Big 12, the Sooners embraced the challenge of the SEC, often described as the toughest and most competitive league in college sports. One year into their tenure as an SEC member, Oklahoma is already drawing praise from the highest levels of leadership within the conference.

SEC Commissioner Greg Sankey, speaking to reporters during the league’s annual summer meetings, had nothing but admiration for how Brent Venables’ program, and the university as a whole, have handled the transition. His words made it clear that Oklahoma is not only fitting in — they’re positioning themselves to thrive.

“I’ve been very impressed with Oklahoma’s first year competing in the Southeastern Conference,” Sankey said. “The fundamentals are there — the institutional commitment, the resources, the fan support, and the competitive edge you need to succeed at this level.”

The Sooners entered the SEC facing endless speculation about how they would adapt. The league’s physical style of play, depth of talent, and relentless week-to-week battles represented a significant change from what Oklahoma was accustomed to. But according to Sankey, Oklahoma’s preparation and infrastructure made that adjustment smoother than many outsiders anticipated.

“You look at the university leadership, their athletic department alignment, and their commitment to excellence — that’s what gives them a strong foundation,” Sankey continued. “It’s not just about football, though that’s obviously a big part of it. It’s across the board — softball, baseball, basketball — Oklahoma understands the comprehensive expectations of competing in the SEC.”

Indeed, the Sooners didn’t waste time proving they belong. On the football field, Brent Venables’ team posted a respectable showing, battling through the SEC gauntlet with toughness and resilience. While they faced their share of challenges, Oklahoma’s competitiveness and flashes of brilliance served notice to the rest of the conference that they’re building something formidable.

“I’ve talked with Coach Venables, and he’s clear-eyed about where they are and where they want to go,” Sankey added. “They’ve had to grow fast, but I see the trajectory, and it’s only going upward.”

Beyond football, Oklahoma’s integration into the SEC has extended to other sports, where the Sooners have made immediate impacts. Patty Gasso’s softball juggernaut wasted no time cementing itself as an SEC powerhouse, while Oklahoma’s men’s and women’s basketball programs are showing steady growth under the increased spotlight.

For Sankey, one of the most impressive aspects of Oklahoma’s first year has been the way the university embraced the cultural and competitive identity of the SEC. The conference is more than just a collection of athletic programs — it’s a way of life, built on fierce rivalries, tradition, and an unrelenting pursuit of excellence.

“Oklahoma respects that tradition and understands the standard,” Sankey explained. “They’ve been a historic program for years, but they’ve shown they’re willing to evolve and elevate themselves to meet the expectations of the SEC.”

That willingness to evolve has been evident in Oklahoma’s aggressive approach to recruiting, facility upgrades, and administrative alignment. Athletic director Joe Castiglione, a respected figure in college athletics, has played a central role in ensuring the Sooners are equipped to meet the moment.

“We’re not coming in with excuses,” Castiglione said earlier this year. “We knew joining the SEC would be the ultimate test, but we’re here to compete at the highest level — in every sport, every year.”

The fans have also played a major role in helping Oklahoma settle into their new surroundings. The Sooners’ passionate fan base made its presence felt in SEC stadiums and arenas throughout the season, proving that they belong in the league’s tradition-rich environment.

From the electric atmospheres at Gaylord Family-Oklahoma Memorial Stadium to sold-out softball games and rabid support on the road, Oklahoma’s fans have demonstrated that their loyalty and enthusiasm match anything seen across the conference.

“Our fan base understands what the SEC means,” Venables said during spring practice. “They’ve traveled, they’ve supported us, they’ve embraced the new rivalries, and they’ve brought that Sooner pride to every environment.”

Perhaps one of the most anticipated aspects of Oklahoma’s SEC membership has been the rekindling of the historic rivalry with Texas on an even bigger stage. The Red River Rivalry, always one of college football’s most heated showdowns, took on a new intensity with both programs now battling for SEC supremacy.

“The Texas-Oklahoma rivalry is one of those special traditions that fits perfectly within the SEC fabric,” Sankey said. “And I think we saw that this year — the passion, the energy, the quality of play. It elevates the entire league.”

While the first year in the SEC has been filled with memorable moments, Oklahoma’s leadership knows that sustained success in the conference requires more than just one season of adaptation. Venables, Castiglione, and the university administration have laid out a vision for long-term competitiveness, with a focus on player development, recruiting at the highest level, and building depth across the roster.

“We’ve got work to do,” Venables admitted. “There’s no sugarcoating the fact that the SEC is a weekly battle. But I love the fight in our players, I love the direction we’re headed, and I love the challenge. We’re going to build this program to compete for championships.”

For Sankey, that mindset — embracing the challenge rather than fearing it — is exactly what he wants to see from any program entering the SEC. It’s why he remains confident that Oklahoma is on the right trajectory.

“Success in this league doesn’t happen overnight,” Sankey emphasized. “But when you have the fundamentals in place — leadership, culture, commitment, and belief — you put yourself in a position to grow into a championship-caliber program.”

The commissioner’s vote of confidence will undoubtedly resonate in Norman, where the Sooners are determined to prove that their rich history and tradition translate seamlessly to the SEC stage. With year one nearly in the books, the foundation appears solid — and the belief around the conference is that Oklahoma is here to contend, not just participate.

As Sankey wrapped up his remarks, he left no doubt about where he believes Oklahoma stands within the league hierarchy.

“They’ve shown they belong,” Sankey concluded. “And I’m excited to see how far they can go from here. The SEC is better with Oklahoma in it — and I think the best is yet to come.”