Legendary Oklahoma Sooners Softball Coach Patty Gasso Announces Departure to Lead USA Softball Women’s National Team Through 2028 Olympics
In a monumental shift within the softball community, Patty Gasso, the esteemed head coach of the Oklahoma Sooners women’s softball team, has officially announced her departure from the program to assume the role of head coach for the USA Softball Women’s National Team. This transition marks the end of an illustrious 30-year tenure at the University of Oklahoma and the beginning of a new chapter on the international stage.
A Storied Career at Oklahoma
Since taking the helm in 1995, Gasso transformed Oklahoma softball into a national powerhouse. Under her leadership, the Sooners secured eight NCAA Division I National Championships, including an unprecedented four consecutive titles from 2021 to 2024. Her teams made 17 appearances in the Women’s College World Series, and she amassed a remarkable 1,515-352-2 record at Oklahoma, making her the Big 12 Conference’s all-time winningest coach in any sport.
Beyond the field, Gasso’s commitment to academic excellence was evident. She coached 84 All-Americans, 153 all-region honorees, and 201 all-conference picks. Her players also earned 180 academic all-conference honors and 23 Academic All-America selections, reflecting her dedication to developing well-rounded student-athletes.
Transition to Team USA
Gasso’s appointment as head coach of the USA Softball Women’s National Team was announced in February 2025. Selected by the USA Softball Selection Review Panel, she will lead the national team through the 2025–2028 quadrennial cycle, culminating in the LA28 Olympic Games.
Expressing her enthusiasm for the new role, Gasso stated, “It is truly a remarkable moment in my career and a dream come true to be asked to coach Team USA. This is the highest honor I could ever receive, and I’m humbled by and thankful for the confidence USA Softball has in me.”
Her involvement with USA Softball dates back to 2018, where she contributed to the U.S. Women’s Elite Team during the World Cup of Softball and participated in various training camps and selection trials.
Impact on Oklahoma Softball
Gasso’s departure leaves a significant void in the Oklahoma softball program. However, the university acted swiftly to ensure continuity by appointing Mandy Bauer as the new head coach. Bauer brings a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of championship-level softball, having previously served as an assistant coach at a top-tier program.
In her introductory press conference, Bauer acknowledged the challenge ahead but expressed her excitement: “Oklahoma softball is built on a legacy of greatness, and I’m honored to be part of that tradition. I have the utmost respect for Coach Gasso and what she’s built here. My goal is to continue that success and push this program to even greater heights.”
Looking Ahead
As Gasso transitions to her role with Team USA, she aims to bring her championship mindset and unparalleled coaching expertise to the international stage. Her tenure will encompass major international tournaments, including the WBSC World Cup and the Pan American Games, leading up to the 2028 Olympics.
The Oklahoma softball community, while saddened by her departure, celebrates Gasso’s contributions and wishes her success in her new role. Her legacy at Oklahoma is firmly cemented, and her influence will continue to resonate within the program for years to come.
As the Sooners embark on a new era under Coach Bauer, the foundation laid by Gasso ensures that the program remains poised for continued success. Meanwhile, the national team gains a seasoned leader with a proven track record of excellence, setting the stage for a promising future on the international softball scene