Oklahoma Sooners Cheerleaders Defeat Kentucky, Earn ESPN’s Crown as World’s Best
The Oklahoma Sooners cheerleading squad has once again proven itself as the gold standard in collegiate spirit programs, defeating the University of Kentucky in a thrilling competition to claim ESPN’s title of *World’s Best Cheerleaders*. The high-energy showdown, held in front of a packed arena and a national television audience, showcased the precision, athleticism, and showmanship that have made Oklahoma’s cheer program one of the most decorated in history.
The victory marks another milestone for the Sooners, who have long been recognized as a powerhouse in competitive cheerleading. Going head-to-head with Kentucky—a program with its own storied tradition—Oklahoma delivered a near-flawless routine packed with gravity-defying stunts, intricate tumbling passes, and seamless synchronization. The performance earned rave reviews from judges and fans alike, solidifying the Sooners’ reputation as innovators in the sport.
ESPN’s *World’s Best Cheerleaders* competition brings together elite collegiate programs to determine which squad reigns supreme. The event highlights not just sideline spirit but the extreme athleticism required in competitive cheer, where teams are judged on difficulty, execution, creativity, and crowd engagement. Oklahoma’s routine stood out for its technical brilliance, with perfectly timed basket tosses, pyramid transitions, and a high-flying coed stunt section that left the audience in awe.
Head coach Kasey Kearney, who has led the program to multiple national championships, praised her team’s dedication. *”This win is a testament to the countless hours of hard work these athletes put in,”* Kearney said. *”They train like any other elite sport, with early mornings, late nights, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. Beating a program like Kentucky, which has such a strong legacy, makes this victory even sweeter.”*
The rivalry between Oklahoma and Kentucky in competitive cheer is well-documented, with both schools frequently battling for national titles. Kentucky, known for its high-energy routines and all-girl squad dominance, pushed the Sooners to their limits. However, Oklahoma’s blend of coed stunting prowess, tumbling difficulty, and crowd-pleasing choreography ultimately gave them the edge. The final scores reflected the razor-thin margin between the two programs, with Oklahoma’s near-perfect execution in the finals sealing the win.
For the Sooners cheerleaders, this victory is more than just another trophy—it’s a validation of their status as trendsetters in the sport. The program has produced numerous professional cheerleaders, including NFL and NBA dancers, as well as coaches who have gone on to shape the next generation of talent. ESPN’s recognition further cements Oklahoma’s place at the top of the cheerleading world, attracting even more elite recruits eager to be part of the legacy.
As the celebration continues in Norman, the team is already looking ahead to defending its title next season. With a mix of veteran leadership and rising stars, the Sooners show no signs of slowing down. For fans of Oklahoma athletics, this latest triumph is another reason to cheer—because when it comes to spirit, precision, and sheer excitement, no one does it better than the Sooners.
