Ki’ele “Ele” Ho-Ching Announces Commitment to Oklahoma Softball: Top-Ranked 2026 Infielder Joins Patty Gasso’s Sooners
In a major development for the Oklahoma Sooners softball program, Ki’ele “Ele” Ho-Ching, one of the top-ranked players in the 2026 recruiting class, has announced her commitment to play for head coach Patty Gasso. On3 recently listed Ho-Ching as the second-ranked infielder and the third-ranked player overall in the 2026 class, and her decision to join the Sooners is a significant coup for Gasso and the program.
Ho-Ching, a dynamic and versatile infielder known for her elite defensive skills and powerful bat, will add to Oklahoma’s already loaded roster in the coming years. Her commitment is expected to bolster the Sooners’ continued dominance in NCAA softball, especially as they look to extend their championship success in the post-Jocelyn Alo era.
The young standout has turned heads across the country with her impressive performances at the high school and travel ball levels. As an infielder, she showcases exceptional range, quick reflexes, and a strong throwing arm, making her a potential cornerstone of Oklahoma’s infield for years to come. At the plate, Ho-Ching has demonstrated the ability to hit for both average and power, and her leadership and presence on the field are qualities that will make her an immediate asset for the Sooners.
Coach Patty Gasso, known for her ability to recruit and develop top-tier talent, was quick to praise Ho-Ching’s skills after the announcement. “Ele is an incredibly talented player with a tremendous work ethic,” Gasso said. “Her skills on both sides of the ball will make her an invaluable part of our team. We are thrilled to welcome her to the Sooners family and excited to see her continue to grow as a player and leader.”
Ho-Ching’s decision to commit to Oklahoma also highlights the program’s ongoing national prominence. The Sooners have been one of the premier teams in NCAA softball for over a decade, with multiple national championships under Gasso’s leadership. Oklahoma has consistently been a top contender, and the addition of Ho-Ching to the roster in a few years ensures that the Sooners will remain at the forefront of college softball for years to come.
For Ho-Ching, the decision to play for the Sooners comes after careful consideration and visits to multiple schools, but ultimately, Oklahoma’s tradition of excellence and its track record of developing athletes into professionals made it the perfect fit. “I’ve always admired Oklahoma’s program and what Coach Gasso has done for the sport,” Ho-Ching explained. “The culture, the winning mentality, and the opportunity to grow as a player made this the right choice for me. I’m excited to be part of a team that’s committed to excellence.”
The commitment from Ho-Ching adds to Oklahoma’s growing reputation as a powerhouse in recruiting. With the Sooners consistently landing top-tier talent, the future of the program looks incredibly bright. Ho-Ching’s arrival will further elevate the Sooners’ infield and contribute to the continued success of the team in both the Big 12 and at the national level.
As Ho-Ching prepares for her senior year of high school and the next chapter of her softball career, she will undoubtedly be one of the most highly anticipated recruits in the 2026 class. For Oklahoma fans, the announcement is a thrilling moment, as they look forward to the arrival of one of the best young players in the country, ready to help the Sooners continue their dominance in NCAA softball.
