OU Softball: Why Patty Gasso Says These Oklahoma Players ‘Don’t Care’ About Outside Pressure
The Oklahoma Sooners’ softball team has built a reputation for dominance, resilience, and an unshakable mindset. Head coach Patty Gasso recently shed light on why her players remain unaffected by the immense pressure that comes with being one of the nation’s top teams. According to Gasso, her players have developed a unique mentality that allows them to thrive under expectations — one rooted in focus, preparation, and an unwavering belief in their abilities.
The Pressure of Success
The Sooners have consistently found themselves at the center of attention in college softball. With multiple national championships under Gasso’s leadership, the team faces heightened scrutiny and pressure to maintain their winning ways. Yet, rather than being overwhelmed by expectations, Gasso’s squad embraces the challenge.
“These players don’t care about outside pressure,” Gasso said. “They’re not focused on the noise. They’re focused on their goals, their teammates, and what they can control.”
Cultivating a Focused Mentality
Gasso credits the team’s mindset to their commitment to preparation and a culture that emphasizes mental toughness. The coaching staff works closely with players to develop strategies for handling stress, building confidence, and maintaining focus during high-stakes moments.
“We emphasize preparation and self-belief,” Gasso explained. “When these players step onto the field, they know they’ve put in the work. That belief in themselves eliminates a lot of the pressure.”
This mindset has been evident in several key games where Oklahoma has rallied from behind or maintained composure against top-ranked opponents.
Veteran Leadership and Team Chemistry
A critical factor in Oklahoma’s ability to stay calm under pressure is the leadership provided by experienced players. Veterans like Jayda Coleman, Kinzie Hansen, and Tiare Jennings have set the tone for their younger teammates, showing how to stay grounded in the face of external noise.
“Our veterans know what it takes to win,” Gasso said. “They lead by example, showing our younger players how to block out distractions and stay focused on our goals.”
This leadership has fostered a tight-knit team culture where players hold one another accountable and maintain a collective focus.
Embracing the Challenge
Rather than shy away from the spotlight, Oklahoma’s players embrace the challenge that comes with their elite status. They view each game as an opportunity to prove themselves, turning pressure into motivation.
“We know everyone’s watching,” said Kinzie Hansen. “But instead of letting that stress us out, we use it as fuel. We love proving what we’re capable of.”
This attitude was on full display during their recent series against Texas, where the Sooners overcame a late deficit to secure a crucial win. Gasso praised her team’s composure in that moment, emphasizing their ability to remain calm and execute despite the pressure.
Staying Grounded in Preparation
In addition to mental conditioning, Oklahoma’s success is deeply rooted in preparation. Gasso’s coaching philosophy emphasizes consistent practice, film study, and individual skill development. Players know that their preparation is what sets them apart — and that knowledge instills confidence.
“When you prepare the right way, pressure becomes less intimidating,” Gasso said. “Our players know that when the lights shine brightest, they’ve already done everything possible to succeed.”
Looking Ahead
As the Sooners continue their pursuit of another championship, their ability to handle pressure will remain a crucial factor. Gasso believes that her team’s mindset gives them an edge over opponents, ensuring they stay composed no matter the stakes.
“We don’t get caught up in what’s being said outside our program,” Gasso emphasized. “Our players know who they are, what they’re capable of, and they’re ready for whatever comes their way.”
With a powerful combination of preparation, leadership, and resilience, the Oklahoma Sooners have shown why they remain one of college softball’s most dominant programs — proving that pressure isn’t a burden, but a motivator for continued greatness.
