What's Happening?
The Oklahoma Sooners, a dominant force in college softball with eight national championships, are set to begin their 2026 season against Arizona State. The game is part of the Kajikawa Classic and will take place in Tempe, Arizona. Oklahoma, ranked No. 3 in the USA Softball preseason poll, is looking to start strong after missing a five-peat last season. The Sooners have not lost to Arizona State since 2015, adding an extra layer of anticipation to the matchup. The game will not be broadcast on traditional TV but will be available for live streaming on ESPN+. The first pitch is scheduled for 8:15 p.m. ET on February 5, 2026.
Why It's Important?
This game marks the beginning of a new season for Oklahoma, a team with a storied history in NCAA softball. Their performance
in this opener could set the tone for the rest of the season, especially as they aim to reclaim their dominance after falling short of a five-peat. For Arizona State, this game presents an opportunity to break a long-standing losing streak against Oklahoma, potentially boosting their confidence and standing in the league. The outcome of this game could influence rankings and momentum for both teams as they progress through the season.
What's Next?
Following the game against Arizona State, Oklahoma will continue their season with a series of matches against Arizona and Montana. These games will further test the team's capabilities and strategies as they aim to maintain their high ranking and pursue another national championship. Arizona State will also continue their season with games against Texas State, Northwestern, and Memphis, providing them with additional opportunities to improve their record and performance.
