Oklahoma Sooners Cheerleaders Defeat Kentucky, Earn ESPN’s Crown as World’s Best Cheerleading Squad.
The Oklahoma Sooners cheerleading squad has achieved a distinction that few programs can ever claim. In a competition that brought together the best and most elite teams from across the globe, the Sooners rose above the rest and were officially named the “World’s Best Cheerleading Squad” by ESPN, beating out none other than perennial powerhouse Kentucky. This triumph didn’t just happen overnight—it was a result of relentless effort, unwavering team chemistry, and a deep-rooted passion for representing the University of Oklahoma with pride, flair, and athletic precision.
This year’s showdown was one of the most highly anticipated in the cheerleading world. Kentucky, widely regarded as the gold standard in competitive cheer for decades, came into the competition with a legacy of dominance and expectations to match. Oklahoma, while respected, had long existed in the shadow of Kentucky and other traditional powerhouses. But this time, the Sooners weren’t content with playing the role of the underdog. They had one goal—win it all, and in doing so, redefine the hierarchy in the cheerleading world.
From the opening routines to the final stunts, Oklahoma put on a show that stunned even their fiercest critics. Their precision, energy, synchronization, and creativity stood out on every level. Judges praised the squad’s innovative choreography that fused athleticism and artistry in ways rarely seen on such a stage. High-flying stunts executed with military-like precision, dynamic tumbling passes, and a clear sense of unity made them impossible to ignore.
What truly set the Sooners apart was their ability to connect with the crowd and radiate the spirit of their school with every move. The intangible elements—the smiles, the eye contact, the infectious enthusiasm—elevated their performance from technically excellent to emotionally unforgettable. It wasn’t just about nailing the routine. It was about telling a story, representing a community, and leaving everything on the mat. Oklahoma did all of that and more.
Kentucky was no slouch. Their routine was powerful, polished, and filled with the technical difficulty that fans have come to expect. They brought their usual intensity and confidence, and by any standard, their performance was championship-caliber. But on this night, the judges saw a spark in Oklahoma that couldn’t be denied. The final score was close, but the Sooners emerged victorious, etching their name into the history books in the process.
For the Oklahoma cheerleaders, this moment was the culmination of years of work. It wasn’t just the training sessions that mattered—it was the culture of excellence that had been building steadily over time. Behind the scenes, the squad is known for its tireless work ethic, often practicing in early morning sessions and late-night rehearsals, pushing each other to improve, and holding themselves to the highest standards. This win was not just about one routine. It was about every step on the long road to glory.
Head coach Amanda Stevens, who took over the program five years ago, has been the driving force behind the team’s transformation. Under her leadership, the program has shifted from being a solid competitor to a national and now global force. Stevens brought not only technical expertise but also a deep understanding of team dynamics, mental toughness, and the importance of culture. Her leadership philosophy centered around empowering athletes to believe in themselves and one another, creating an environment where greatness could grow.
After the win, Stevens addressed the media with visible emotion, saying, “These athletes have put in so much more than what people see. They’ve shown up day after day, never giving up, always believing in each other. This title isn’t just a win for us—it’s a statement about what this program stands for. We’ve always believed we belonged on this stage, and tonight, we proved it.”
Team captain Brooke Taylor, a senior and four-year veteran of the squad, described the moment as surreal. “I can’t even describe how proud I am,” she said. “We’ve dreamed of this. We’ve fought for it. We’ve lived and breathed this moment. To hear our name called as the best in the world—it just makes all the sacrifices worth it. We did this together.”
Taylor’s leadership has been crucial to the team’s rise. Known for her quiet confidence and relentless dedication, she became the heart and soul of the squad. She was instrumental in pushing teammates to elevate their performance while keeping spirits high during difficult training phases. It was fitting that in her final season, she helped guide the team to its ultimate goal.
The victory sent waves through the collegiate cheerleading world. Fans and experts alike praised the result, noting that Oklahoma had earned every bit of the title. Social media exploded with clips of the routine, commentary from former champions, and admiration from alumni, fans, and current athletes. The energy surrounding the win wasn’t just about the title—it was about what it represented: a shift in power, a celebration of resilience, and the rise of a new era.
For the University of Oklahoma, the championship adds another jewel to its athletic crown. Already known for powerhouse programs in football, softball, gymnastics, and basketball, the addition of a world-class cheerleading squad strengthens the school’s identity as a center of excellence in collegiate sports. University President Joseph Harroz Jr. released a statement congratulating the team, calling the win “a proud moment for the entire Sooner family.”
Beyond the trophies and accolades, the win also serves as an inspiration for young cheerleaders around the country. Oklahoma’s journey shows that greatness isn’t limited to legacy programs—it can be built through commitment, unity, and belief. The Sooners’ story is one of perseverance and passion, and it’s already motivating the next generation of athletes to aim high and dream big.
Looking ahead, the challenge now becomes sustaining this level of excellence. With key seniors graduating, including Taylor and several others who were instrumental in the title run, the torch will be passed to a new generation. But with Stevens at the helm and a culture firmly in place, the future looks bright. The incoming class of recruits, inspired by the recent success, is already considered one of the strongest in program history.
Several team members have also hinted at pursuing opportunities beyond college cheer, whether in coaching, choreography, or performance-based careers. The exposure from being named the world’s best opens doors, not just for individuals, but for the broader visibility and credibility of collegiate cheerleading. The sport, long celebrated for its athleticism and entertainment value, continues to grow in recognition, and Oklahoma’s win helps push it further into the mainstream.
In many ways, this win is about more than just Oklahoma or Kentucky or any one program. It’s about the evolution of cheerleading as a sport, a discipline, and a platform for expression. The athleticism on display rivals that of any other NCAA competition, and the performances are increasingly earning respect from a wider audience. ESPN’s decision to label the event as the crowning of the world’s best only adds legitimacy to what athletes and fans have known for years.
As the celebration continues in Norman, one thing is clear—the Oklahoma Sooners cheerleaders didn’t just win a title. They made a statement. They announced to the world that they are here, they are elite, and they are worthy of the highest honor in their field. Their victory will be remembered not just for the routine itself, but for the spirit, heart, and belief that carried them to the top. The road to becoming world champions was anything but easy, but for the Sooners, every step, every practice, every challenge was worth it. This is their time. And they’ve earned every moment of it.
