**💔 Emotional Farewell: Beloved Oklahoma Volleyball Star Announces Her Departure, Closing a Legendary Chapter with the Sooners and Leaving Fans in Tears as She Steps Away from the Court**
NORMAN, Okla. — The Oklahoma volleyball community was left stunned and heartbroken this week as senior outside hitter **Kinley Paris**, one of the most decorated and beloved players in program history, announced her decision to depart the Sooners, bringing an emotional close to a storied career.
In a press conference that drew both media and devoted fans, Paris, visibly moved, shared the reasons behind her departure. While she cited the need to focus on personal goals and future career opportunities, the emotional weight in her voice revealed just how deeply intertwined her life has been with the crimson and cream.
> “This program has been my family,” Paris said, holding back tears. “Every time I stepped onto the court, I carried the pride of Oklahoma with me. The decision to leave was not easy, but I know it’s the right time for me to take the next step in my journey.”
Paris’s tenure with the Sooners has been nothing short of remarkable. Since joining the squad as a freshman, she has been a force both offensively and defensively, recording multiple double-doubles, leading the team in kills for three consecutive seasons, and helping propel Oklahoma to multiple NCAA tournament appearances. Her leadership extended far beyond the box score — she was the heartbeat of the locker room, a mentor to younger players, and a fan favorite known for her relentless energy and never-say-die attitude.
Fans took to social media immediately after the announcement, flooding timelines with highlights, photos, and heartfelt messages. Many thanked her for “putting Oklahoma volleyball on the map” and for being “a true embodiment of what it means to be a Sooner.”
Head coach Lindsey Gray-Walton praised Paris for her dedication and impact, both on and off the court.
> “Kinley’s contributions to this program can’t be measured in just wins or stats,” Walton said. “She changed the culture. She inspired. She made every player and coach around her better. We are so proud of the woman she has become and will always consider her part of this family.”
Paris’s departure leaves a notable gap in Oklahoma’s lineup heading into the 2025 season. The Sooners will now look to rising stars such as sophomore outside hitter Alyssa Miller and junior setter Jordan Banks to step up and fill the leadership void. Still, many acknowledge that replacing Paris’s passion and presence will be an almost impossible task.
As for Paris’s next chapter, she hinted at potential opportunities to play professionally overseas and expressed interest in coaching in the future. Regardless of where her path takes her, she made it clear that Norman will always hold a special place in her heart.
> “I’ll always be a Sooner,” Paris said with a smile. “This isn’t goodbye forever — it’s just goodbye for now.”
For the Sooners faithful, that’s a glimmer of hope that someday, one of their greatest players might return home.
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