Oklahoma secures an experienced catcher with their initial commitment from the transfer portal.

Patty Gasso secured her first transfer portal acquisition of the offseason as Isabela Emerling, formerly of North Carolina, committed to Oklahoma last Friday. Emerling, who boasted impressive stats at North Carolina including a .323 batting average, 1.103 OPS, and .685 slugging percentage with 14 home runs and 53 RBIs in 2023, fills one of the Sooners’ five transfer spots for the season.

Emerling, recognized for her defensive skills behind the plate, will step into the role vacated by Kinzie Hansen, who graduated but remains with the team as a graduate assistant. Emerling, originally from Martinez, CA, redshirted in 2022 due to injury and started in 48 games as a redshirt freshman in 2023, playing both catcher and first base.

With two years of eligibility left, Emerling joins Oklahoma as they prepare to transition into the SEC in 2025, aiming to defend their four consecutive national championships. The team now shifts focus to filling additional roster spots, eyeing an infielder, outfielder, and two pitchers via the transfer portal.