Shocking Swing: Cydney Sanders Explains Her Departure from Oklahoma Sooners Softball
In a move that has stunned the college softball world, powerhouse slugger Cydney Sanders has officially opened up about her decision to leave the dynastic Oklahoma Sooners program. After transferring from Arizona State and helping Oklahoma continue its national championship dominance, Sanders’ sudden departure raised questions and theories. Now, for the first time, she is setting the record straight.
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From Tempe to Norman: A Journey of High Expectations
Sanders first captured national attention in 2022 as a freshman at Arizona State, where she crushed 21 home runs, drove in 63 RBIs, and batted .425. She was one of the top hitters in the nation, earning All-American honors and becoming a finalist for National Freshman of the Year.
Her decision to transfer to Oklahoma in the summer of 2022 was seen as a massive coup for the Sooners and a major blow to the Sun Devils. At the time, Sanders expressed admiration for the program’s winning culture and legendary coach Patty Gasso.
“I wanted to be part of history,” she said then. “Oklahoma represents excellence, and I wanted to challenge myself at the highest level.”
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A Role Player in a Star-Studded Lineup
Although her offensive numbers dipped in Norman, Sanders remained an integral part of Oklahoma’s lineup. The team boasted immense depth, and Sanders was frequently in the rotation as a designated player or first baseman.
While she didn’t replicate her Arizona State production, she contributed key hits in postseason play and helped Oklahoma win its third and fourth consecutive national championships during her tenure.
Yet, beneath the surface, something wasn’t right.
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Cydney Sanders Breaks Her Silence
In an exclusive sit-down interview with Softball America Weekly, Sanders revealed the personal and professional reasons behind her decision to leave Oklahoma.
> “This decision wasn’t easy,” Sanders began. “It wasn’t something that just happened overnight. I spent months thinking about it, praying on it, talking to my family and my mentors. But in the end, I realized I needed to put my own growth first—both as a player and a person.”
She described her Oklahoma experience as a blessing but acknowledged it also came with challenges.
> “There’s no doubt it’s the most competitive environment I’ve ever been in. But sometimes when you’re in such a loaded program, you can lose your individual voice and rhythm. I felt like I was no longer playing free. I was trying to be perfect, and that affected my confidence.”
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A Message to the Sooner Faithful
Sanders made it clear she holds no bitterness toward the program or Coach Gasso.
> “Coach Gasso is one of the greatest to ever do it. I’ve learned so much from her. And my teammates—they are family forever. But I had to make a decision for me. I wasn’t being the best version of Cyd out there. And if I’m not, I’m not helping the team the way I know I can.”
She also emphasized that her departure had nothing to do with personal conflict.
> “There were no falling-outs, no drama. It was internal—me realizing that I needed a new environment to rediscover my joy and power in this game.”
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Mental Health, Identity, and Growth
Sanders spoke candidly about her mental health, identity, and the pressure of playing in a dynasty.
> “The expectations are sky-high in Norman. That’s what makes them great. But I had to get honest with myself. Was I doing this for me, or was I getting caught up in the machine?”
She mentioned that being far from her family—originally from California—also took a toll.
> “Family is everything to me. The distance was hard. I missed birthdays, holidays, and simple moments. I want to play somewhere I can feel more grounded and connected to my roots.”
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The NIL Era and Athlete Empowerment
While Sanders didn’t go into financial details, she acknowledged that the modern NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) landscape influenced her decision to evaluate her brand and opportunities.
> “I’m aware of my value, and I think every athlete should be. You only get a few years to build something really special—on and off the field. I wanted to make sure I was somewhere I could fully shine and build that.”
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What’s Next? The Transfer Portal and Possibilities
As of May 2025, Sanders remains in the NCAA transfer portal, weighing multiple options from top-tier programs, including rumored interest from Pac-12 and SEC schools. She says she’s not rushing the decision.
> “I want to be intentional. I want to go where I can be developed as a hitter again, where I can have fun, lead, and just be Cydney Sanders.”
One source close to the situation says that UCLA, LSU, and Florida State are in contention.
> “She’s not just looking for wins,” the source said. “She wants balance. Coaching, connection, and culture.”
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Legacy in Norman Remains Intact
Despite her exit, Sanders will always be part of Oklahoma’s incredible four-peat run. Her clutch hits, glove at first base, and leadership left a mark.
> “I’m proud of what we did. I’ll always be part of Sooner history. But I have more chapters to write. And I’m excited.”
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Final Message: “This Is Not Goodbye”
Sanders ended her interview with gratitude and a clear message to her supporters.
> “To Sooner Nation: thank you. You welcomed me. You cheered for me. You challenged me. And I grew here. This isn’t goodbye. It’s just part of my journey. And I promise, I’m just getting started.”
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The Broader Implications
Cydney Sanders’ decision underscores the new reality of college athletics—a world where athletes are empowered to make changes not just for wins but for well-being, identity, and purpose. Her story may inspire others to reflect on what fulfillment means beyond trophies.
For Sanders, the next destination remains unknown. But one thing is certain—wherever she goes, the spotlight will follow.
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