In a move that left fans in shock and her head coach at a loss for words, Oklahoma Sooners women’s basketball center Raegan Beers made a major announcement Monday morning that has sent waves across the NCAA women’s basketball community. Standing alongside head coach Jennie Baranczyk during an emotional press conference at the Lloyd Noble Center, Beers revealed her decision to step away from college basketball indefinitely, citing deeply personal reasons and a desire to focus on her mental health and future aspirations.
The Announcement That No One Saw Coming
The 6-foot-4 center, who transferred to Oklahoma from Oregon State ahead of the 2024–25 season, had been widely expected to be one of the cornerstones of the Sooners’ frontcourt for the upcoming campaign. Her combination of strength, finesse, and rebounding prowess made her a formidable presence on the court. But it was not her physical dominance that captivated the room Monday — it was her heartfelt honesty.
“After a great deal of thought, prayer, and discussion with my family and close mentors, I’ve decided to step away from basketball for the foreseeable future,” Beers said, holding back tears. “This has not been an easy decision. Basketball has been my life for as long as I can remember. But I need to take this time to focus on my mental health, rediscover my identity outside of basketball, and pursue personal growth off the court.”
As she finished her remarks, an emotional hush settled over the room. Coach Baranczyk, known for her energetic and empowering leadership style, was visibly moved and initially too choked up to speak. After a brief pause, she finally offered her full support.
“I am heartbroken to lose Raegan on the court, but I am incredibly proud of the woman she is,” Baranczyk said. “It takes immense strength and courage to step away from something you love to focus on your well-being. We stand with her — now and always.”
A Promising Season Rewritten
Beers’ decision comes just weeks before summer training begins and only months after she transferred to Oklahoma, a move that had fans buzzing with excitement. She was expected to pair with rising star Payton Verhulst and veteran leadership from Skylar Vann to form one of the most balanced and dynamic rosters in the Big 12.
In her sophomore season at Oregon State, Beers averaged 15.2 points and 10.4 rebounds per game, earning All-Pac-12 honors and establishing herself as one of the top post players in the nation. Her transition to the Big 12 was seen as a major recruiting win for Baranczyk and a statement of Oklahoma’s rising national profile.
Beers had already been participating in team workouts and community events since arriving in Norman, making the announcement even more surprising.
A Candid Conversation on Mental Health
Beers’ decision adds to the growing list of college athletes openly addressing mental health — a topic once kept in the shadows but now increasingly part of the national sports dialogue. Her bravery in speaking out joins the likes of Simone Biles, Naomi Osaka, and countless NCAA athletes who have prioritized their personal wellness in an era of rising pressures and expectations.
“This generation of athletes is under more scrutiny than ever,” said Dr. Kristen Morgan, a sports psychologist at the University of Oklahoma. “What Raegan did today is powerful. She’s sending a message that your value goes beyond your stats, and that taking care of your mind is just as important as training your body.”
Beers expressed gratitude toward her teammates, coaching staff, and the Sooners fanbase for their support and understanding.
“I’m not ruling out a return to basketball — this is not goodbye forever,” she clarified. “But right now, I need to hit pause and make sure I’m living life fully, not just performing.”
Fan and Community Response
News of Beers’ announcement quickly spread across social media, prompting an outpouring of support from fellow athletes, Oklahoma alumni, and fans from across the country. The hashtag #WeStandWithRaegan began trending within hours of the press conference.
“Raegan Beers is a class act and a role model,” tweeted former Oklahoma standout Courtney Paris. “Proud of her strength and wishing her all the peace and clarity she needs.”
Many fans echoed the sentiment, expressing admiration for Beers’ courage and disappointment at her absence, but also understanding and compassion.
“Would’ve loved to see her dominate in the paint for us this season, but her well-being comes first. Respect to Raegan,” one fan posted on the Sooners’ online message board.
What’s Next for the Sooners?
With Beers stepping away, Coach Baranczyk will now look to adjust the team’s roster and rotation. Oklahoma still returns a strong core and has a talented incoming freshman class. However, Beers’ absence leaves a noticeable gap in the post that may require tactical changes or the pursuit of additional frontcourt depth.
Baranczyk declined to comment on any immediate roster adjustments, instead emphasizing the human element.
“Basketball will be fine. We’ll find our way as a team,” she said. “But today is about Raegan — and making sure she knows that she is valued beyond basketball.”
A Legacy Beyond the Court
Though her time on the court for Oklahoma may have ended before it began, Raegan Beers has already left a lasting impact. Her decision to speak openly and truthfully about her struggles will serve as a beacon for others facing similar crossroads.
As one banner in the stands read during the press conference:
“Thank you, Raegan — for your honesty, your heart, and your humanity.”
