SHOCKER: Former OU Star Tiare Jennings Buys Stake in Sooners Softball! ‘I’m Investing in Norman’s Future,’ Says Legend After 2025 AUSL Glory!

SHOCKER: Former OU Star Tiare Jennings Buys Stake in Sooners Softball! ‘I’m Investing in Norman’s Future,’ Says Legend After 2025 AUSL Glory!

SHOCKER: Former OU Star Tiare Jennings Buys Stake in Sooners Softball! ‘I’m Investing in Norman’s Future,’ Says Legend After 2025 AUSL Glory

In a stunning and unprecedented move, former University of Oklahoma softball superstar Tiare Jennings has officially purchased a stake in the Sooners softball program. Just days after leading her team to a championship in the inaugural 2025 Athletes Unlimited Softball League (AUSL), Jennings confirmed the news during a press conference at Love’s Field, sending shockwaves through the collegiate and professional softball communities.

“I’m investing in Norman’s future,” said Jennings, standing beside longtime mentor and head coach Patty Gasso. “OU gave me everything—an education, a platform, a second family. Now, I get to help shape its future in a way that’s never been done before.”

A Bold Move from a Modern Legend

Tiare Jennings is no stranger to making history. As one of the most decorated players in Oklahoma softball history, Jennings helped lead the Sooners to four consecutive national titles (2021–2024), setting records in home runs, RBIs, and total bases. Her elite combination of power, consistency, and clutch performances made her a cornerstone of what many consider the greatest dynasty in college softball history.

In 2025, she took her talents to the newly-formed Athletes Unlimited Softball League, where she immediately became a fan favorite and MVP-caliber force. Her leadership helped her team dominate the league’s debut season, culminating in a thrilling AUSL championship victory just two weeks before her OU announcement.

Her decision to invest in the Oklahoma program marks the first time a former NCAA softball player has taken an ownership or equity role in their alma mater’s athletic department—an historic moment for college sports.

What the Stake Means

While Jennings hasn’t disclosed the full financial details, sources close to the situation say the investment includes a blend of philanthropic funding, business partnership rights, and an advisory role. She will not own the team in a professional sense, but she will have direct input in development plans, facility enhancements, and strategic initiatives related to the softball program.

“Think of this as part-owner, part-architect,” Jennings explained. “This isn’t just a donation. I’ll be working with the university to shape long-term plans—everything from recruitment and NIL strategy to community outreach and infrastructure. It’s time we treat softball like the marquee sport it is.”

Athletic Director Joe Castiglione called the move “visionary” and “a perfect example of what leadership looks like in modern athletics.” He added, “Tiare’s influence stretches beyond the diamond. Her passion for OU, for this program, and for the future of women’s sports is exactly what we want to build on.”

Continuing the Legacy

Jennings’ former coach, Patty Gasso, was visibly emotional during the announcement.

“Tiare changed our program forever with her play,” said Gasso. “Now she’s going to change it again with her vision. I’ve never seen anything like this—former players stepping up in this way. It makes me incredibly proud.”