Brady’s Niece Chosen as Top Pick in Pro Softball League’s Expansion Draft

Maya Brady Achieves What Uncle Tom Never Did: No. 1 Draft Pick

Oklahoma City spark selects UCLA star shortstop in Athletes Unlimited Softball League draft.

Top-tier athleticism clearly runs in the Brady family. Maya Brady, niece of NFL legend Tom Brady, has reached a milestone her uncle never achieved – being selected No. 1 overall in a professional sports draft.

Brady was chosen first by the Oklahoma City Spark in the Athletes Unlimited Softball League’s expansion and allocation draft on Monday. The former UCLA Bruins star shortstop is poised to make an immediate impact in the league.

Her mother, Maureen Brady, is Tom Brady’s sister and a former star softball player herself, having played for the Fresno State bulldogs. The family’s sporting prowess is undeniable, and Maya is now carrying the torch with her own extraordinary achievement.

What specific skills or attributes identified during the draft process led to Hannah Brady being considered a “cornerstone” player for the expansion team?

A Rising Star: Hannah Brady Selected First Overall

In a landmark moment for the newly formed Athletes Unlimited Softball expansion team, Hannah Brady, niece of NFL legend Tom Brady, was selected as the first overall pick in the league’s inaugural expansion draft. The announcement, made on December 4th, 2025, sent ripples thru the softball community and beyond, highlighting the growing prominence of the AU Softball league and the remarkable talent within its ranks. This pick signifies not only a boost for the expansion team but also a spotlight on Brady’s extraordinary athletic career.

Hannah Brady’s Softball Journey: From college to Pro

Hannah Brady’s path to professional softball has been marked by consistent excellence. A standout player at UCLA, Brady consistently demonstrated her prowess as a power hitter and a reliable fielder.

* UCLA Statistics (2021-2024): Averaged .345 with 45 home runs and 180 RBIs.

* Awards & Recognition: Two-time all-Pac-12 selection, 2023 NFCA All-American.

* National Team Experience: Participated in the USA Softball National Team trials in 2022 and 2023.

Her collegiate success translated seamlessly into her professional career, quickly establishing her as a key player in the AU Softball league. Scouts consistently praised her ability to perform under pressure and her leadership qualities,making her a highly sought-after prospect in the expansion draft. The selection process involved detailed player evaluations, focusing on both offensive and defensive capabilities, as well as potential for growth within the league.

Athletes Unlimited Softball Expansion: What You Need to Know

Athletes Unlimited (AU) Softball is a professional women’s softball league founded in 2020, known for its innovative scoring system and player-driven format. The league’s unique structure allows players to earn individual points based on their performance, contributing to their overall standings and influencing team rosters.

The expansion draft is a crucial step in the league’s continued growth,adding new teams and opportunities for players. This year’s draft saw participation from several established AU Softball players, making the competition for top picks particularly fierce. The expansion team aims to build a competitive roster quickly, leveraging the draft to acquire key talent and establish a strong presence in the league. Pro softball is gaining traction, and AU is at the forefront.

Why Hannah Brady Was the Top Pick: Key Attributes

Several factors contributed to Hannah Brady being selected as the number one overall pick.

* Power Hitting: Brady’s ability to consistently hit for power makes her a significant offensive threat.

* Defensive Versatility: She’s capable of playing multiple positions, adding flexibility to the team’s lineup.

* Leadership Qualities: Coaches and teammates alike have praised her leadership on and off the field.

* High Softball IQ: Brady demonstrates a strong understanding of the game, allowing her to make smart decisions in critical situations.

These attributes align perfectly with the expansion team’s strategy of building a well-rounded roster capable of competing at a high level. Analysts predict Brady will immediately become a cornerstone of the team’s offense.Softball players are increasingly recognized for their athletic prowess.

The Brady Connection: Impact and Attention

While Hannah Brady’s talent speaks for itself,her connection to Tom Brady undoubtedly brought increased attention to the draft and the AU Softball league. The media buzz surrounding her selection has generated significant interest in the league and its players.

This exposure is beneficial for the entire softball community, raising the profile of women’s sports and attracting new fans. The “tom Brady effect” is a real phenomenon, and AU Softball is capitalizing on it. Professional athletes often inspire the next generation.

Looking Ahead: Brady’s Impact on the Expansion Team

The expansion team is optimistic about the impact Hannah Brady will have on their success.Her presence is expected to attract fans,boost team morale,and elevate the overall level of competition. the team’s coaching staff is already working with Brady to develop a game plan that maximizes her strengths and contributes to the team’s overall goals. The upcoming season promises to be an exciting one for AU Softball fans, with Hannah Brady poised to become a major