Completed Event: Softball versus #13 Virginia Tech on May 8, 2026 , Loss , 0, to, 5
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Final
Softball
0
vs #13 Virginia Tech
5
Blue Devils Welcome Oakland as Transfer
12/26/2024 1:00:00 PM | Softball
DURHAM, N.C. – Duke softball head coach Marissa Young announced the addition of infielder Jess Oakland to the Blue Devil softball program on Thursday afternoon.
"We are ecstatic to announce a major addition to our program with Jess! A proven winner and a standout All-American, her presence in our lineup will be a true game-changer. While her accolades speak for themselves, it's her infectious joy, unmatched competitive spirit and alignment with our team's values that make her an extraordinary fit for our culture. Iron sharpens iron and we're confident that Jess will not only raise the standard but also inspire those around her to reach new heights."
Oakland joins the program after playing two seasons at Minnesota. A native of San Jose, Calif., Oakland made her mark on the Golden Gopher program, setting single season records in runs scored (70) and home runs (20) last season. She was a force at the plate, posting a .452 batting average which sits second all-time on Minnesota's single season charts. The starting shortstop sent out three home runs during Minnesota's 13-0 run-rule victory over Illinois on March 30 to set the single game home run record.
The 2024 Big Ten Player of the Year and NFCA All-American was among the best in the NCAA last season, finishing the year ranked fourth in slugging percentage (.923), fifth in batting average (.452), on base percentage (.563) and total bases (155), ninth in home runs (20) and 10th in doubles (19). She was also named a top 26 finalist for the USA Softball Collegiate Player of the Year Award.
In her initial season, Oakland quickly made her presence known after being named to the NFCA Great Lakes All-Region Second Team, All-Big Ten First Team and All-Big Ten Freshman Team. Oakland earned Big Ten Freshman of the Week honors on two occasions and was one of just five Gophers to start all 57 games. She launched 14 home runs on the year, which tied for first on the team and ranked fourth in the Big Ten.
Off the field, Oakland was recognized for her efforts in the classroom as she was tabbed a College Sports Communicators (CSC) Academic All-American and earned All-Big Ten Academic Team honors.
To stay up to date with Blue Devils softball, follow the team on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook by searching "DukeSOFTBALL"
#GoDuke
"We are ecstatic to announce a major addition to our program with Jess! A proven winner and a standout All-American, her presence in our lineup will be a true game-changer. While her accolades speak for themselves, it's her infectious joy, unmatched competitive spirit and alignment with our team's values that make her an extraordinary fit for our culture. Iron sharpens iron and we're confident that Jess will not only raise the standard but also inspire those around her to reach new heights."
Oakland joins the program after playing two seasons at Minnesota. A native of San Jose, Calif., Oakland made her mark on the Golden Gopher program, setting single season records in runs scored (70) and home runs (20) last season. She was a force at the plate, posting a .452 batting average which sits second all-time on Minnesota's single season charts. The starting shortstop sent out three home runs during Minnesota's 13-0 run-rule victory over Illinois on March 30 to set the single game home run record.
The 2024 Big Ten Player of the Year and NFCA All-American was among the best in the NCAA last season, finishing the year ranked fourth in slugging percentage (.923), fifth in batting average (.452), on base percentage (.563) and total bases (155), ninth in home runs (20) and 10th in doubles (19). She was also named a top 26 finalist for the USA Softball Collegiate Player of the Year Award.
In her initial season, Oakland quickly made her presence known after being named to the NFCA Great Lakes All-Region Second Team, All-Big Ten First Team and All-Big Ten Freshman Team. Oakland earned Big Ten Freshman of the Week honors on two occasions and was one of just five Gophers to start all 57 games. She launched 14 home runs on the year, which tied for first on the team and ranked fourth in the Big Ten.
Off the field, Oakland was recognized for her efforts in the classroom as she was tabbed a College Sports Communicators (CSC) Academic All-American and earned All-Big Ten Academic Team honors.
To stay up to date with Blue Devils softball, follow the team on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook by searching "DukeSOFTBALL"
#GoDuke
Players Mentioned
INF
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