In a historic moment for the Brady family, Maya Brady has made headlines by being the No. 1 pick in the Athletes Unlimited Softball League expansion draft. This landmark achievement is a first for the family, as Maya follows in the footsteps of her famous uncle, Tom Brady, the legendary NFL quarterback.
Maya Brady: Rising Softball Star
Maya, a former standout at UCLA, was chosen first overall by the Oklahoma City Spark in the league’s draft held on Monday. This announcement marks a significant milestone for Brady, whose mother, Maureen Brady, also excelled in softball during her time with the Fresno State Bulldogs.
Collegiate Achievements
Brady concluded her UCLA career with an impressive record. Her accolades include:
- Two-time Pac-12 Player of the Year
- Two-time USA Softball Collegiate Player of the Year finalist
- Three-time First Team National Fastpitch Coaches Association All-American
By the end of her collegiate journey in 2024, Maya ranked second in UCLA history for:
- Home runs (71)
- RBIs (246)
- Slugging percentage (.757)
Pressure as a Source of Motivation
Being part of the renowned Brady family comes with expectations. However, Maya embraces this pressure. In a past interview with The Athletic, she expressed her perspective on being a Brady:
“For me, knowing that my family is very successful, I think it puts a lot of good pressure on me. I’m proud of my last name and the legacy it carries.”
Athletes Unlimited Softball League Overview
The Athletes Unlimited Softball League (AUSL) was founded in 2024. The league currently consists of six teams. Earlier this year, the Talons clinched the 2025 championship, defeating the Bandits.
Notable Draft Picks
Following Maya Brady, the Cascade made waves by selecting Sam Landry, a former Oklahoma Sooners pitcher, as the second overall pick. They later picked Kelly Maxwell from Oklahoma State in the allocation draft. Additionally, Jocelyn Alo, another Oklahoma standout, was chosen by the Bandits at No. 10.
Conclusion
Maya Brady’s achievement as the No. 1 pick in the Athletes Unlimited Softball League spotlights her exceptional talents and the legacy of the Brady family. This moment is not just a personal accomplishment but a significant event in the world of women’s sports.
