SHOCKWAVE IN SOFTBALL: Cydney Sanders Breaks Silence on Sudden Oklahoma Exit — “It Wasn’t What Everyone Thought”
By [Your News Outlet] Sports Desk — June 13, 2025
In a revelation that has sent shockwaves throughout the college softball world, Cydney Sanders, one of the most recognizable power hitters in the game, has finally opened up about her surprise departure from the powerhouse Oklahoma Sooners program. Known for her explosive bat and big-game charisma, Sanders’ exit from the Sooners last season was met with speculation, rumors, and a media frenzy. Now, for the first time, she’s telling her side of the story.
“I Had to Choose Myself”: Sanders Speaks Out
In an exclusive sit-down interview with [News Outlet], Sanders delivered a raw and candid look into the personal and professional reasons behind her shocking decision to leave the Sooners.
“It wasn’t about drama, it wasn’t about playing time, and it wasn’t about not liking the team,” Sanders began. “It was about my identity, my mental health, and finding my love for the game again.”
Sanders transferred to Oklahoma after a standout freshman season at Arizona State, where she was named a First-Team All-American and quickly became one of the most feared hitters in the country. Her move to Norman was seen as a perfect match — a rising star joining a dynasty under head coach Patty Gasso.
But things behind the scenes weren’t as seamless as they seemed.
The Pressure of Perfection
Oklahoma softball has been a dynasty — three consecutive national titles, a loaded roster, and a relentless standard of excellence. For Sanders, who joined a roster full of stars and a fanbase with sky-high expectations, the weight was overwhelming.
“There’s this idea that when you go to Oklahoma, you’ll become invincible,” Sanders said. “But I started to feel invisible.”
She described how the environment, while elite and championship-driven, left little room for individuality or personal growth.
“I lost sight of why I started playing softball in the first place. I wasn’t smiling anymore. I wasn’t breathing. I felt like a piece on a chessboard, not a person.”
Misunderstood and Mislabeled
When Sanders was benched during key stretches of the season, questions began swirling. Fans speculated about injuries, discipline, or even internal conflict. Social media lit up with unconfirmed theories.
“People painted me as a quitter, as someone who couldn’t handle competition,” Sanders said, visibly emotional. “But none of that was true. I was struggling mentally, and no one really saw it.”
She revealed that she dealt with anxiety and panic attacks, and sought counseling midway through the season. Though she praised Gasso and the OU staff for their professionalism, she admitted that the system “just wasn’t the right fit.”
A Bold Decision: Walking Away
In a move that surprised even her inner circle, Sanders informed the coaching staff after the season that she would be leaving the program.
“I had to choose peace over prestige,” she said. “It wasn’t an easy call. But it was the right one.”
Sanders says she spent weeks soul-searching before ultimately deciding that her time in Norman had come to an end.
“Sometimes, success isn’t just trophies. Sometimes, success is waking up and liking the person you see in the mirror.”
What’s Next for Cydney Sanders?
Sanders has not yet announced her next destination — if any. There are whispers of her considering a return to Arizona, or even stepping away from softball entirely to focus on her mental well-being.
“I’m not closing the door on anything,” she smiled. “But if I come back, it’ll be on my terms, in a place where I can thrive as a player and as a person.”
She’s been seen training privately, working with hitting coaches, and speaking to young athletes about mental health in sports — a cause she’s now passionate about advocating for.
Support from the Softball Community
Since her interview dropped, Sanders has received a wave of support from former teammates, fans, and even competitors. Arizona State pitcher Marissa Schuld tweeted: “Cydney Sanders is one of the realest in this game. Proud of her strength and voice.”
Even Oklahoma’s official social media account shared the story, captioning it: “We support our players on and off the field. Always. #OnceASooner”
Final Words
As Sanders concluded her interview, she offered a powerful message for athletes everywhere:
“Don’t ever be afraid to walk away from something that doesn’t feel right. No championship is worth your happiness. I thought leaving Oklahoma meant I was giving up. But really… I was just getting started.”
Stay tuned to [News Outlet] for updates on Cydney Sanders’ next move, exclusive player reactions, and more insight into the shifting culture of collegiate athletics.
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