Oklahoma City is buzzing as the Sooners prepare for a crucial matchup against Texas Tech in the Women’s College World Series, set for Monday evening at 6 p.m. The game carries significant importance for ace pitcher Sam Landry, who has been a powerhouse on the mound, pitching 18.1 out of 21 possible innings in the tournament thus far.
Landry, who transferred to Oklahoma after three successful years at Louisiana, finds herself facing her former coach Gerry Glasco and several former teammates from Louisiana in this high-stakes game. Despite the emotional connection, Landry emphasizes the need to focus on the task at hand—securing two victories against Texas Tech to advance to the championship series.
“I’m excited, like I said earlier. It’s going to be a family reunion after the game,” Landry said following the Sooners’ recent win over Oregon. “But we’re here to do a job.”
Throughout the season, Landry has established herself as the Sooners’ ace, boasting a 1.89 ERA and a significant increase in her pitching workload during the postseason. Her dedication was evident when she pitched every inning in the first two World Series games against Tennessee and Texas, followed by a stellar performance in relief against Oregon.
Sooners head coach Patty Gasso expressed confidence in Landry’s abilities, stating, “She’s quite a different pitcher than she was,” and emphasized the importance of maintaining focus throughout the game.
Texas Tech, who won their first two games in the World Series, poses a formidable challenge with their ace pitcher, NiJaree Canady, showcasing an impressive performance throughout the tournament.
As the Sooners gear up for this pivotal game, Landry is prepared to rise to the challenge. “Physically I feel good. Mentally I feel pretty good. So, just ready to go,” she stated, indicating her determination to contribute to her team’s success.
This match promises to be an exciting blend of competitive spirit and personal connections, as both teams vie for a chance to continue their championship dreams. The Sooners will lean heavily on Landry as they look to keep their season alive.