Houston native overcomes hate and leads University of Oklahoma softball to 4th national title

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — Houston native and Clear Springs High School alum Kelly Maxwell delivered a standout performance, throwing a total of 267 pitches to rescue Oklahoma’s season and lead the Sooners into the national championship final against Texas.

In the final inning of Thursday night’s game, Sooners’ coach Patty Gasso called upon Maxwell to close out the Longhorns. Before taking the circle, Maxwell composed herself in the dugout, fully aware of the high stakes.

“I was just trying to be present,” Maxwell said. “Be where my feet are, grateful for what got me here.”

Maxwell’s journey to becoming the Most Outstanding Player at the Women’s College World Series involved a significant decision to transfer from Oklahoma State to their fierce rival, Oklahoma. Despite facing negative comments and outright hostility for her choice, she remained dedicated to helping her new team secure an unprecedented fourth consecutive national title.

Reflecting on her favorite memory from the championship run, Maxwell said, “Mine was definitely my decision to come here. I received a lot of hate and a lot of doubt, but I’m just thankful for these girls and this team and this staff just to pick me up.”

The talented left-hander concluded the NCAA Tournament with a perfect 5-0 record. She threw 148 pitches to defeat Florida in a crucial game that kept Oklahoma’s season alive and then shut down No. 1 Texas on Wednesday, setting the stage for Thursday night’s clinching victory.