Maya Brady Picked #1 Overall by Oklahoma City Spark in AUSL Expansion Draft
Key Insights
Maya Brady, a standout shortstop/outfielder from UCLA, was chosen #1 overall by the Oklahoma City Spark in the AUSL Expansion Draft.
The AUSL is expanding to six teams: Bandits, Blaze, Talons, Volts, Oklahoma City Spark, and Cascade, with the Spark and Cascade being the new additions.
Brady had an impressive debut in the 2025 AUSL season, hitting .500 in 22 at-bats after recovering from a hamstring injury.
The Cascade selected pitcher Sam Landry as the second overall pick.
Other top picks in the expansion draft include Carley Hoover, Sydney McKinney, and Sydney Romero.
The Expansion Draft was followed by the AUSL Allocation Draft, where teams selected players not currently on an AUSL roster.
Why this matters: The selection of Maya Brady as the first overall pick highlights the growing popularity and talent within the Athletes Unlimited Softball League. Her addition to the Oklahoma City Spark is expected to significantly boost the team's competitiveness and fan engagement. The expansion of the AUSL signifies the increasing interest in women's professional softball and provides more opportunities for talented athletes.
In-Depth Analysis
The Athletes Unlimited Softball League (AUSL) is set to expand from four to six teams for the 2026 season, with the Oklahoma City Spark and Cascade joining the league. The expansion draft took place on December 1, 2025, with Maya Brady, niece of Tom Brady, being selected as the first overall pick by the Spark.
Brady's selection underscores her exceptional talent and potential to become a franchise player. Prior to her professional debut, she had a decorated softball career at UCLA, earning Pac-12 Player of the Year honors in 2023 and 2024. Her versatility as a defensive player and her power at the plate make her a valuable asset to the Spark.
The Cascade followed up by selecting pitcher Sam Landry, who played collegiately at Oklahoma. The expansion draft continued with both teams selecting additional players to build out their rosters. Following the Expansion Draft, the AUSL Allocation Draft took place, allowing teams to select players not currently in the AUSL.
AUSL Expansion Draft Top 5 Picks:
Spark: Maya Brady (Talons), INF/OF
Cascade: Sam Landry (Volts), P
Cascade: Carley Hoover (Blaze), P
Spark: Sydney McKinney (Bandits), INF
Spark: Sydney Romero (Talons), INF
AUSL Allocation Draft Top 6 Picks:
Cascade: Kelly Maxwell, P
Spark: Kinzie Hansen, C
Talons: Jayda Coleman, OF
Bandits: Kat Sandercock, P
Blaze: Alyssa Brito, INF
Volts: Ally Carda, P
The AUSL will hold its College Draft in the spring to finalize team rosters.
FAQs
Who was the first overall pick in the AUSL Expansion Draft?
A:: Maya Brady was the first overall pick, selected by the Oklahoma City Spark.
Which teams are new to the AUSL in 2026?
A:: The Oklahoma City Spark and Cascade are the two new expansion teams.
Where can I watch AUSL games?
A:: AUSL games are broadcast on ESPNU and the AUSL streaming hub.
What is the AUSL Allocation Draft?
A:: The Allocation Draft allows teams to select players who are not currently on an AUSL roster.
Key Takeaways
The Athletes Unlimited Softball League is expanding, offering more opportunities for players and excitement for fans. Maya Brady's selection as the first overall pick signifies the high level of talent entering the league. Keep an eye on the Oklahoma City Spark and Cascade as they build their teams for the 2026 season.
Key actions to take:
Follow the AUSL and its teams to stay updated on the latest news and games.
Watch games on ESPNU and the AUSL streaming hub.
Support women's professional softball and its athletes.
Discussion
What do you think about Maya Brady being the first overall pick? Which AUSL team are you most excited to watch in the 2026 season? Let us know in the comments!
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