Some athletes do not just perform in pressure moments — they embrace them.
In this episode of When the Cleats Come Off, Ashley sits down with Nicole Mendes, one of the most talented and humble athletes in the game, for a conversation about postseason performance, championship culture, leadership, and finding the right fit in the recruiting process. Drawing from her experience at Oklahoma, Nicole shares the mindset that helped her shine in some of the biggest moments of her career and what it meant to be part of a program built on excellence under Hall of Fame head coach Patty Gasso.
This episode offers a thoughtful look at what it takes to compete with freedom, lead selflessly, and stay grounded through both success and struggle.
Inside Oklahoma’s Championship Culture
One of the strongest themes in the episode is Nicole’s experience inside the championship culture at Oklahoma.
She reflects on what made that environment so special, what she learned from playing for Patty Gasso, and how the program’s standards shaped her as both an athlete and a teammate. Championship culture, as Nicole describes it, is not just about winning — it is about selflessness, accountability, preparation, and belief in something bigger than yourself.
That perspective gives listeners a clearer picture of what sustained excellence really looks like.
Leading Selflessly
Nicole also shares what selfless leadership looks like on a championship team.
Rather than focusing only on personal recognition, great leaders find ways to support the people around them, stay committed to the team’s mission, and do the little things that strengthen the group. Nicole’s perspective reinforces that some of the most impactful leaders are the ones who care deeply, compete hard, and put the team first.
Navigating Challenges Along the Way
This conversation also makes room for the overwhelming challenges Nicole has faced throughout her journey.
She speaks to the reality that even athletes in elite programs face adversity, doubt, and difficult moments. Her ability to keep going, stay grounded, and continue growing adds even more depth to the conversation and makes her story resonate beyond softball.
Recruiting Advice for Athletes Looking for the Right Fit
Nicole also offers recruiting insight for athletes trying to find the school that fits them best.
Rather than chasing only the biggest name, she emphasizes the importance of finding an environment where you can grow, be supported, and align with the culture of the program. That advice is especially helpful for athletes and families navigating the recruiting process with long-term development in mind.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode
- How Nicole learned to love competing in pressure moments
Building trust in preparation and reframing big situations. - What championship culture looked like at Oklahoma
Standards, selflessness, and consistency inside an elite program. - What Patty Gasso’s leadership taught her
Lessons in excellence, accountability, and team-first thinking. - What selfless leadership really looks like
Competing hard while putting the team above yourself. - How athletes can approach recruiting more thoughtfully
Finding the right school and the right environment for growth.
About
Nicole Mendes
Nicole Mendes is a former Oklahoma softball standout known for her versatility, competitive poise, and ability to perform in big moments. During her time at Oklahoma, she was part of one of the most dominant eras in college softball and helped contribute to the championship culture that defined the program.
Known for her humility, work ethic, and team-first mentality, Nicole continues to be a strong example of what it looks like to compete with confidence while leading selflessly.
Connect with Nicole:
- Instagram: @nicole_mendes_
- Twitter: @nicole_mendes_
