Orange Beach junior infielder Jayde Palmer announced Sunday that she will be committing to the University of Alabama to further her softball career.

A statement from Palmer:

"I’m unbelievably blessed and excited to announce my commitment to The University of Alabama!!

First, I want to thank Coach Murphy, Coach Braud, Coach Arbour, Lance, Ryan, and Jadyn for believing in me and giving me the opportunity to continue pursuing my passion at the best there is. The culture and legacy they’ve built at Alabama are truly unmatched, and I couldn’t be more excited to be a part of it. I’m already ready to go win a Natty! 

I also want to give a huge thank you to Coach Nathan and the entire Hotshots organization for constantly pushing me, believing in me, and supporting me throughout this journey. I’m also incredibly grateful for Coach A, Jody, and Boyd for welcoming me with open arms and always being willing to do anything and everything to help me succeed. I truly couldn’t have asked for better coaches, mentors, and role models.

I also want to thank some of the coaches who have poured into me throughout the years and helped shape me into the player and person I am today: Coach Kody, Coach Kasey, Coach Scottie, Coach Terry Seneca, Coach Guy, Coach Terry Spencer, Coach Matt, Coach Mel, Coach Canova, Coach McLain, Coach Niehoff, Coach Bob, Coach Rock, Coach Roger, and Coach Matusak. Every lesson, opportunity, and word of encouragement has played a part in getting me to this moment, and I’m so grateful for each of you!

Above all, I’m beyond grateful for my family. My siblings, Justice, Jace, and Georgia, have made countless sacrifices to be there for me, support me, and show me love every step of the way. And to my parents, my biggest supporter and my favorite coach of all time, thank you will never be enough. You have worked, sacrificed, believed in me, and pushed me to be my best in everything I do. I can’t begin to express how blessed God has made me with the parents and family I have. None of this would be possible without you.

All glory to God for every opportunity, every person, and every step that has led me here.

This is just the beginning….

ROLL TIDE!!"

A two-sport star who also suits up for Orange Beach in basketball, Palmer was named one of MaxPreps' Underclassmen All-Americans following the 2026 campaign.

The junior batted .533 with 65 hits and 55 RBIs last season, and she also stole 14 bases.

The Alabama softball program is coming off a season in which it posted a 56-9 overall record and reached the College World Series.