Lawrence, Kan. – Kansas softball head coach
Jennifer McFalls announced the addition of five new student athletes to join the program next season, Daniella Gloria, Mackenna Jackson, Jocelyn Alatorre, Kynleigh Ball and Shelbi Stevens.
"This is a strong and well rounded recruiting class that will make an immediate impact on our program," said head coach
Jennifer McFalls. "We're graduating a very special senior class that has set the standard for Kansas softball, and this incoming group has the talent, athleticism and competitiveness to continue that momentum. I'm confident they'll help us keep building a team capable of competing at the highest level."
This group includes one pitcher and four position players, representing three different states, with three of the newcomers coming from Texas.
Daniella Gloria
Right handed pitcher | Apache Junction, Arizona | Mountain View High School | Rogue FC Kaye 18U
Gloria joins the Jayhawks following an impressive prep career at Mountain View High School in Mesa, Arizona. The right handed pitcher posted a 15 win season and recorded nearly 500 strikeouts across 288 innings pitched while maintaining a 3.25 earned run average. She also proved to be a reliable hitter, batting .384 over her career with a strong presence at the plate. Gloria was recognized for her academic achievements as well, earning All Academic honors in Arizona. Her ability to command the zone, paired with her poise in the circle, will add depth and consistency to the Kansas pitching staff.
Mackenna Jackson
Infielder | Keller, Texas | Keller High School | Texas Glory 18U Shelton
Jackson comes to Kansas as a standout middle infielder from Keller High School, where she showcased elite defensive ability and a consistent offensive presence. She hit .475 with a .525 on base percentage during her junior season, collecting 57 hits, 68 RBIs and 56 runs scored in 36 games. Jackson also displayed extra base power with 17 doubles, eight triples and eight home runs while maintaining a .950 slugging percentage. A competitor who plays with energy and leadership, she will strengthen the infield unit and bring an offensive spark to the Jayhawks' lineup.
Jocelyn Alatorre
Outfielder | Orange County, California | El Modena High School | BSC Bengals Briggs 18U
Alatorre arrives in Lawrence as an athletic and dynamic outfielder from Orange County, California. A left handed hitter known for her speed and versatility, she hit over .530 during her most recent club season, driving in more than 20 runs and scoring 25 herself. At El Modena High School she has been a steady contributor both offensively and defensively, maintaining a perfect fielding percentage in the outfield. A former teammate of current Jayhawk Lila Partridge, Alatorre will bring speed, range and base running intelligence to the Kansas outfield.
Kynleigh Ball
Infielder and outfielder | Georgetown, Texas | Georgetown High School | Buzz 18U Waller
Ball is a true utility player from Georgetown, Texas, who provides power from the left side of the plate and defensive versatility across multiple positions. She hit .565 with a slugging percentage above 1.160 in her most recent season, recording 11 home runs and eight triples while driving in runs at a consistent clip. Ball's ability to contribute both in the infield and outfield, along with her left handed power, makes her a valuable addition to the Kansas roster.
Shelbi Stevens
Catcher and infielder | Seguin, Texas | Navarro High School | Hotshots Nelson
Shelbi Stevens joins Kansas from Navarro High School in Seguin, Texas, and plays for Hotshots Nelson. A right handed power hitter and standout catcher, Stevens has been a consistent offensive force throughout her high school career. Over her varsity seasons she has hit .446 with a .510 on base percentage, 82 hits and 66 RBIs in 65 games. During the 2024 to 2025 campaign she batted .647 with a 1.412 slugging percentage and broke Navarro's single season home run record with 11 homers. Stevens has earned multiple First Team All State honors and was recognized on the Texas 4A All State Super Elite Team. Her combination of power, consistency and defensive skill behind the plate adds a key piece to Kansas' future lineup.