BREAKING: “World’s Best Cheerleading Squad” — Oklahoma Sooners Cheerleaders Defeat Kentucky, Crowned World’s Best by ESPN
In a jaw-dropping finale that had fans around the globe on their feet, the Oklahoma Sooners cheerleading squad has officially been crowned the “World’s Best Cheerleading Squad” by ESPN, following a sensational victory over their longtime rivals, the Kentucky Wildcats, at the 2025 International Cheer Championship.
The epic showdown, held this year in Orlando, Florida, drew elite teams from across the world, but it was the Sooners and Wildcats—two powerhouses of American collegiate cheer—that stole the spotlight. When the dust settled, it was Oklahoma who emerged victorious, dazzling the judges with a nearly flawless routine that combined breathtaking acrobatics, perfect synchronization, and unmistakable team spirit.
A Moment of Glory for Oklahoma
“This is more than just a trophy. This is a legacy,” said Oklahoma cheerleading head coach Lauren McKenzie, tears of joy streaming down her face. “We’ve worked for years to reach this moment, and to be named the world’s best by ESPN—it’s unbelievable.”
With this win, the Sooners didn’t just secure another title—they made history. It is the first time in collegiate cheerleading history that a program has been recognized as the world’s best by ESPN, the leading global authority in sports broadcasting. The network cited the Sooners’ “precision, athletic excellence, and unmatched energy” as key reasons behind the honor.
The Routine That Stunned the World
The Sooners’ final performance, set to a mashup of high-energy pop and hip-hop tracks, began with a high-flying sequence of basket tosses that immediately brought the crowd to life. What followed was a display of technical mastery—back-to-back pyramid stunts, synchronized tumbling passes, and innovative choreography that seamlessly blended modern dance with traditional cheer elements.
The team executed every element with zero errors, drawing a standing ovation from the packed arena and near-perfect scores from the judges.
“We knew we had to be perfect,” said senior captain Brianna Thompson, who performed one of the routine’s most dangerous aerial flips. “Kentucky pushed us to our limit, but we didn’t come here to compete—we came here to dominate.”
A Fierce Rivalry Reignited
The Oklahoma-Kentucky cheer rivalry is one of the fiercest in collegiate sports, and this year’s international final marked the tenth time the two programs have faced off in a title bout over the past two decades.
Kentucky, an 18-time national champion and former world champion, brought their signature precision and flair to the floor, delivering a nearly flawless performance of their own. But a minor timing error during a pyramid transition proved costly—just enough to give Oklahoma the edge.
“Both squads were incredible,” said ESPN commentator and former NCAA cheer judge Kristin Morgan. “But Oklahoma had that extra spark tonight—the creativity, the energy, the execution. It was undeniable.”
Fans React: “Sooner Magic Is Real”
Sooner Nation erupted as news of the historic win spread. Social media was flooded with messages of congratulations and pride, with hashtags like #WorldsBestSooners, #SoonerMagic, and #OUCheerChamps trending nationwide.
“What an incredible moment for OU. This squad deserves every bit of this recognition!” – former Sooner football star Baker Mayfield on X (formerly Twitter).
“Oklahoma Cheer just gave the performance of the decade. Pure magic.” – ESPN analyst Jay Williams
“They’re not just the best in the country—they’re the best on the planet.” – NCAA Cheerleading Federation statement
The university itself held an impromptu celebration outside Gaylord Family Oklahoma Memorial Stadium, where students, alumni, and faculty gathered to watch a replay of the final performance on the big screen. Chants of “O-U! O-U!” rang out as the final scores were announced.
More Than Just Cheerleaders
Beyond the dazzling routines and viral stunts, Oklahoma’s cheerleaders have long represented excellence off the mat as well. The squad boasts a team GPA above 3.7, is active in multiple community outreach programs, and mentors local youth cheer teams throughout the state.
“This win shows the world what we’ve always known,” said University of Oklahoma President Joseph Harroz Jr.. “Our cheerleaders are elite athletes, cultural ambassadors, and true representatives of the Sooner spirit.”
The victory also brings increased attention to the evolving recognition of cheerleading as a sport. In recent years, advocates have pushed for greater respect and resources for cheer athletes, and Oklahoma’s historic win may serve as a turning point.
What’s Next for the Champions?
After the celebrations die down, the Sooners plan to return to Norman, Oklahoma for a championship parade and university-wide ceremony. There are also reports that ESPN will feature the team in an upcoming “30 for 30” documentary titled “More Than a Cheer”, chronicling the team’s rise to international glory.
Coach McKenzie confirmed that several team members are already being scouted for professional stunt and performance roles, while others are receiving invitations to speak at athletic and leadership conferences across the country.
“This is just the beginning,” McKenzie said. “We’re not done making history.”
Be the first to comment