OKLAHOMA CITY, Oklahoma — The Oklahoma City Spark is thrilled to announce the signing of standout catcher and National Champion Kinzie Hansen for the 2024 season, which kicks off in Chattanooga, Tennessee on June 19th.
Hansen, who recently concluded a record-breaking collegiate career by four-peating at the University of Oklahoma, brings an impressive list of accolades and achievements to the Spark roster. Her remarkable 2024 season saw her named to the USA Softball National Team roster, where she will proudly represent the red, white, and blue in the Japan All-Star Series this summer. She was also among the top 26 finalists for the 2024 USA Softball Collegiate Player of the Year award, further solidifying her status as one of the most elite players in collegiate softball. To cap off the season, she was named to the 2024 WCWS All-Tournament Team.
Her strong defense earned her the 2024 Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year honor, and she was a unanimous selection for the 2024 All-Big 12 First Team. Additionally, Hansen received the 2024 Athletics Director's Leadership Award and was named to the 2024 NFCA All-Region First Team. Hansen anchored the Sooner defense with a .990 fielding percentage and 282 putouts, contributing to a team defense that ranks fourth nationally with a .981 fielding percentage. At the plate, she finished the season with a .400 batting average, driving in 41 RBIs and hitting 11 home runs.
Her 2023 season was equally impressive, featuring selection to the USA Softball Women’s National Team for the Japan All-Star Series, and winning the Johnny Bench Award for Best College Softball Catcher. Hansen was also named a 2023 NFCA First Team All-American, selected to the 2023 All-Big 12 First Team, the 2023 WCWS All-Tournament Team, and the 2023 NFCA All-Central Region First Team.
"We are ecstatic to welcome Kinzie Hansen to the OKC Spark," said team owner Dr. Tina Floyd. "Her exceptional talent, leadership, and competitive spirit make her a perfect fit for our team. We look forward to seeing the impact she will make both on and off the field."
Hansen, originally from Norco, California, has consistently demonstrated her dedication to excellence throughout her career. Her signing marks a significant addition to the OKC Spark as they prepare for a competitive 2024 season. She is set to make her pro debut in a few short days as the Spark heads to the Scenic City Pro Cup in Chattanooga, Tennessee.
For more information about the Spark, visit our website at okcspark.com. All tickets are on sale at okcspark.com/tickets. For more announcements and behind the scenes content, follow us on social media, @okcityspark