OU Softball Faces Arizona in Candrea Classic Finale

Third-ranked Sooners look to take series against 17th-ranked Wildcats

Published on Feb. 8, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The third-ranked OU softball team is set to wrap up the opening weekend of the 2026 season with the finale of a three-game series against the 17th-ranked Arizona Wildcats on Sunday in the Candrea Classic in Tucson. The Sooners evened up the series on Saturday with a 21-3 beatdown, powered by two home runs from Ella Parker.

Why it matters

This early-season matchup between two top-20 programs provides an important gauge for both teams as they look to establish momentum heading into conference play. The Sooners, led by veteran coach Patty Gasso, are seeking to continue their recent dominance, while Arizona hopes to defend its home turf and pull off an upset.

The details

After dropping the series opener, the Sooners bounced back with a dominant offensive performance on Saturday, clubbing seven home runs, including two from Ella Parker. The Wildcats will look to regroup and defend their home field in the series finale.

  • The series finale is scheduled for Sunday, February 9, 2026.
  • The Sooners evened the series with a 21-3 win on Saturday, February 8, 2026.

The players

Patty Gasso

The veteran head coach of the OU softball team, leading the Sooners to continued success.

Ella Parker

The OU slugger who hit two home runs in the Sooners' 21-3 win over Arizona on Saturday.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We knew we had to come out strong after the tough loss on Friday. The team responded with a great offensive performance, and we're looking forward to finishing the series strong on Sunday.”

— Patty Gasso, Head Coach, OU Softball (The Oklahoman)

What’s next

The winner of Sunday's series finale will gain valuable momentum heading into the rest of the non-conference schedule and conference play.

The takeaway

This early-season matchup between two top-20 programs provides an exciting preview of the competitive landscape in college softball this season, as the Sooners and Wildcats battle for supremacy on the diamond.