Friday, April 7, 2023

Friday, April 7, 2023

BUSINESS, MAN

Jaiden Daughty

Ken Eastman is a well-established leader who comes from humble beginnings. A first-generation college student and college dropout, Eastman’s story began on a farm in north central Iowa.

Spears dean Eastman closing memorable run Eastman’s 10-year period as dean marked a time of growth for the business school, as Eastman oversaw developments such as the planning and construction of the business building, thoughtful changes to the core curriculum and the implementation of Bella Casey bold initiatives that targeted enhancStaff Reporter ing the connection between students and faculty.

Ken Eastman spun records in a Although Eastman is a wellradio studio, quit school and returned, established leader, he comes from again and again, all part of a varied humble beginnings. and strong résumé that soon concludes A first-generation college stuwith his retirement as dean of the dent, and one-time college dropout, Spears School of Business.

Eastman’s story began on a farm in After 34 years with OSU, East- north central Iowa. man will retire from his position as After high school, the senior dean following the spring semester. class president and Future Farmer’s of

America chapter president traded caring for hogs for textbooks, although not for long. Once Eastman arrived at college and discussed dreams of becoming a lawyer with fellow students, he realized law school was not for him, and he dropped out to return to the farm.

Eastman said he doesn’t regret dropping out, and even suggested it was the best decision he’s ever made.

“I think some of the bravest decisions are to quit,” Eastman said. “If you’re on the wrong path, it’s insane to keep going.”

This is a message Eastman preaches to students inside the Spears School of Business. Evelyn Larson, a sophomore marketing major and

member of the Business Student Council, described herself as a “go, go, go” kind of person who struggles to say no. Larson said the dean’s perspective on quitting shaped how she lived out her freshman year.

Eastman’s college journey didn’t end with quitting.

Each weekend, Eastman’s friends returned home from Iowa State University, and their visits encouraged him to return to college.

Eastman attended a junior college where he received a two-year degree in broadcasting, sparking his time working as a radio DJ for a large country music station after graduation.

See Eastman on 4A

OSU students start nonprofit to fund sustainable water source in Zimbabwe Rebekah Cleary Staff Reporter

During her time in Zimbabwe, Chavez, is a junior majoring in global studies, learned that in a nearby village, when a local sustainable water source was introduced, all aspects of life improved.

The health of the people, the production and selling of crops and the school attendance rates increased. The ratio of male to female students began to even as the girls no longer spent their days fetching water.

She used this evidence as the foundation for her mission, and for two months she worked along side faculty to create ideas. From the brainstorming sessions, “Wishes for Water” was born, three words that represent why the organization began and what they are working to do.

See Zimbabwe on 5A

The OSU Spirit Band performs at every regular season game, making its members view themselves as a pivotal part of gameday activities.

On the last day of her study abroad trip, Lily Chavez received a letter from Mark Trent, husband of Oklahoma State alumna and “Oprah’s Favorite Guest”, Tererai Trent.

The letter was from a Zimbabwean village-head pleading for a local sustainable water source.

Women had been traveling miles every day to acquire the water their families needed in order to drink, bathe, cook and produce crops.

Reading this letter sparked something in Chavez.

“This was the seed that inspired me to make a difference,” Chavez said.

And so her mission began.

received the ball. She sprang into action driving forward through West Virginia’s defense.

Milton shot, and Proctor raised his trumpet Hayden Alexander in the air, cheering her on. The ball landed on Staff Reporter the rim. Proctor and his bandmates fell silent as the ball circled the Jacob Proctor stood in the Oklahoma rim for an agonizing second.

State Spirit Band’s Proctor hesitated designated section in Municipal Auditorium anxiously, tapping the keys of his instrument, in Kansas City, Missouri, as the OSU Cow- not knowing whether girls were locked in an to celebrate or pack up.

The ball came to a stop intense game against tilting before falling West Virginia.

With a chance at through the basket. The buzzer sounded, and progressing in the Big Proctor and his fellow 12 Tournament and members exploded into only three seconds on the clock, Proctor knew a wave of OSU’s victhe Cowgirls had to act tory, celebrating with their team in their own fast. way.

Proctor held “It was the coolest his trumpet tightly as thing I’ve ever seen,” OSU’s Terryn Milton

Women for OSU made it possible for Kanyati Primary School to start a garden after the donation of a sustainable well.

Courtesy of Cayden Clark

Spirit Band delivers the beat from GIA

Proctor said. “It was this huge moment of hesitation before we finally realized.”

Proctor and his spirit band members devoted their spring break to traveling with OSU’s men’s and women’s basketball teams for their Big 12 and NCAA Tournament runs. They spent the trip recreating the spirit of GallagherIba on the road.

“Being the biggest spirit group on campus, we definitely brought a lot of that spirit and made the whole trip worth it,” Proctor said.

The recognition and inclusion from the OSU basketball program in bringing the rowdy to Gallagher Iba Arena was an important take away for the band.

See Spirit on 4A

Courtesy of Lily Chavez

Page 2A Friday, April 7, 2023

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Page 2 Former Cowboys in The Masters Viktor Hovland Alex Norén Talor Gooch

By Rebekah Cleary

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Friday, April 7, 2023 Page 3A

News New nursing program at OSU increases enrollment Bella Casey Staff Reporter After a basketball camp in sixth grade, Faith Street knew she belonged at OSU, but something bigger stood in her way.

“I stayed at Bennett Hall, and when the camp was over that week, I told my mom, ‘Take a pic with Pistol Pete because I am coming to college at OSU someday,’” Street said.

As Norman natives, Street said her parents didn’t take her claim seriously. Street stuck to her plan and announced to her parents she wanted to go to OSU when she was a senior in high school.

Street’s plan had one flaw: OSU did not offer a four-year nursing program.

Similar to her passion for OSU, Street knew she wanted to be a nurse practitioner since she was young.

Street said her passion for nursing began with doctor appointments with nurse practitioners and physician assistants when she was younger and progressed as she became a lifeguard in ninth grade, where she took courses in CPR/AED for the professional rescuer and first aid.

Alana Cluck had a similar story, with a different ending. The director of the nursing program said she came to OSU to get her prerequisites but had to leave to finish her degree somewhere else because the

school didn’t offer a nursing program at the time.

“It’s very exciting for me to be able to offer this for the university for the students, and even for Stillwater,” Cluck said.

OSU’s four-year nursing program will enable students to get their Bachelor of Science in Nursing at OSU’s Stillwater campus, a degree pre-nursing students had to complete online or relocate to receive in the past.

Cluck received her BSN from the University of Oklahoma and returned to OSU in 2017. In 2018, Cluck contributed to an effort to introduce a four-year nursing program to OSU that was not granted approval at the time.

Street reached out to Cluck and other faculty members at OSU who told her they had high hopes for a four-year nursing program at OSU. Street said her parents felt choosing a college that already had a four-year program would be the more practical choice, but Street said she had faith the nursing program would be approved.

Just before Street enrolled in her first semester of classes at OSU, she saw an Instagram post announcing the nursing program’s approval.

“I just knew in my spirit that OSU was the place for me and that the nursing program would be approved,” Street said.

“Now it’s all working out in perfect timing, and I am planning to be one of those people that they approve.”

The program’s establishment reflects OSU’s land grant mission and aims to improve health care in

Oklahoma and satisfy the state’s nursing shortage.

Oklahoma is ranked No. 46 among all states for the number of registered nurses per capita, according to the Oklahoma Nurses Association.

Students who have grown up in Oklahoma or surrounding states are familiar with the need for nurses. Rienna Franks, a sophomore animal science pre-vet/pre-med major, said she thinks the program is amazing.

“Nursing is a profession that is in high demand,” Franks said. “It’s a lot of bang for your buck with a great career outlook.”

Cluck said the program will offer clinical experience in urban and rural settings, which provides students with a broad perspective on health care.

OSU is renovating an area on campus to create a fullyequipped simulation lab for the program that is expected to be completed in 2024.

The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited the program.

To apply for the program, students must complete 59 hours of prerequisite coursework. In the semester prior to completing those 59 hours, students must submit a competitive application to continue professional coursework toward the nursing degree.

OSU plans to admit 50 students this fall and grow the program to 100 students in its second year.

OSU also offers online RN and BSN degree programs accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. news.ed@ocolly.com

Courtesy of OSU OSU’s four-year nursing program will enable students to get their Bachelor of Science in Nursing at OSU’s Stillwater campus, a degree pre-nursing students had to complete online or relocate to receive in the past.

Courtesy of OSU Luan Nuam and James Lee win the Mr. and Miss Asian pageant in an event that pageant showcased the diversity of Asian cultures with the presentation of cultural wear and the talent competition.

Mr. and Miss Asian pageant shares inspiring stories Olivia Lane Staff Reporter

ture that they felt best represented them.

After the cultural wear portion, it was time for each contestant to participate in the talent competiA new reign begins. tion. Lee performed “Oklahoma” 2023 marked 12 years since from the musical “Oklahoma” on the first Mr. and Miss Asian paghis violin. eant at OSU, and this year Luan “I practiced my violin in Nuam and James Lee took the preparation for my talent and crown home. shared it with my violin studio The pageant showcased the diversity of Asian cultures with the class and my private lesson teacher who helped me with phrasing and presentation of cultural wear and showmanship,” Lee said. the talent competition.

Nuam performed a dance “It’s a great way to show our called Chheih Lam. heritage and identities,” 2022 Mr. “[It] is a popular folk dance Asian Jordan Lim said. “A lot of in Mizoram, India, characterized contestants don’t always have the by triplets sung with improvised time to explore what makes them lyrics praising honored guests and truly them, so the whole process recounting heroic deeds,” Nuam motivates the growth of their said. “It is also known as the bird knowledge on their heritage.” dance.”

The event started with each First Miss Asian runner-up contestant providing a brief deCorrianna Hong won the People’s scription of their platform. Lee discussed his passion for providing Choice Award for the night, as well as the talent and cultural wear clean drinking water for all. awards. Second Miss Asian runner“What winning this title up Hannamei Carlson won the means to me is that I am able to evening wear award. promote my platform of water eq“Winning this title means uity so I can help spark change that the world to me. It is an honor and will hopefully inspire each student a privilege to represent the Asian and individual to do their part to community at OSU and to use my conserve and protect their water platform to make a positive imresources,” Lee said.

Nuam wanted to raise aware- pact,” Nuam said.

Lim said the bar for cultural ness about challenges faced by representation has been raised since immigrants in America.

“I saw it as an opportunity to the first pageant 12 years ago.

“It’s not just another way use my voice and my platform to make a positive impact in my com- of showing off our heritage,” Lim said. “ It’s a way for us to take acmunity,” Nuam said.

During the cultural wear por- tion for our communities which is tion of the pageant, each contestant much more difficult than it sounds.” presented clothing from their culnews.ed@ocolly.com

Page 4A Friday, April 7, 2023

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News Eastman..

saken place like Oklahoma.’”

Eastman got the job, but once he arrived at OSU, he said he suffered Continued from 1A heavily from “imposter syndrome.” He said he remembers referring to fellow Eastman said his time as a DJ colleagues as “Dr.” rather than their was the best experience for being dean, first names, as he still viewed himself even compared to his Ph.D. program. as a farm boy from Iowa rather than a Talking on air taught him to speak in professor. front of crowds and on video, which he Slowly, Eastman grew comfortdoes often as dean. able in his new environment. He credAlthough Eastman enjoyed being ited key figures such as Meinhart with a DJ, it wasn’t paying the bills. supporting him throughout his journey “I was in charge of millions of to becoming dean and helping him dollars worth of equipment making transition from warehouse supervisor minimum wage,” Eastman said. to business professor.

Eastman once again returned to “No one goes through it alone college, this time at Iowa State Uniand you shouldn’t feel you have to or versity. He graduated with a degree you should,” Eastman said. “Finding in business and began working as a people who will invest in you is imporwarehouse supervisor, a job he said he tant. That’s why I always tell kids to hated. get to know some of your faculty.”

“So, I went back to whine to a As dean, Eastman played the couple of my professors at Iowa State,” same supporting role Meinhart and Eastman said. “They said ‘You should other professors played in his cado this.’ I go ‘What? I can’t be a proreer for students and faculty at the fessor.’

Spears School of Business. Eastman’s “’I’d go ‘I’m not smart enough. I longtime friend and colleague Rick can’t do this.’ Wilson described Eastman as part of And after what his “squad” and as someone who has I call counsel- always been there for him and suping sessions, ported his goals. they con“You need good people around Courtesy of OSU vinced me.” you to make it through life - to enjoy Eastman said his time as a DJ was the best experience for being dean, even compared to his Ph.D. Eastthe good times with you, to help you Eastman described the changes man returned survive the not-so-good times, to pro- years socializing over softball games, to college a vide advice, to just be there, and some- racquetball matches and lunches in the as a blend of content combined with student union. the skills and talents a student needs to final time, this times just knowing that someone “The place will not be the same be successful, such as professionalism, without him,” Wilson said.

“Just knowinterpersonal skills and critical thinktime at the ing a trusted friend and colleague is a ing. Eastman steered classroom content University floor away… even if I would go weeks away from memorization and lectures of Nebraswithout talking to him… it was comand toward team-oriented, engaging ka-Lincoln. forting.

It will all change in August. teaching.

After “That will be a tough lacuna to Eastman’s vision for the school completing fill.” is what motivated him to apply for the his Ph.D. Relationships such as the one position of dean. After multiple deans program, Wilson and Eastman share shuffled in and out of the business Eastman take an effort to maintain. building over the course of a few years, attended Wilson described Eastman Eastman stepped in, prepared to make Ken Eastman a national as a great listener, and as difficult decisions for the sake of the business dean, Eastman has used business school. conference in hope the “Power of Personal” to Wilson said it was Eastman who of landing a job. He ensure students feel heard. “stopped the madness” and stood up interviewed with a Eastman strives to for the school. variety of schools, but one stood out: can be there and sets a good make a personal connec“Outsiders would come in to lead Oklahoma State University. example,” Wilson said. tion to students through us, and they kept wanting to measure Eastman said Wayne Meinhart, Wilson and Eastman dean’s lunches, TikToks our value to students and the commuthe department head at the time, met through the Departand even phone calls to nity in traditional, inappropriate ways,” showed a passion and positivity for ment of Management at the University concerned parents.

Larson said it is Wilson said. “We needed an insider to OSU that drew him to the school. One of Nebraska-Lincoln in 1987 while common to see the dean wandering the stand up and declare that we live the he may have never considered. working toward their PhDs. One year halls of the business building with the “Power of Personal.”

Eastman recalls a time he hated after Eastman interviewed with OSU, media team or sitting in the Keystone “And that is what makes our the idea of moving to a state like Okla- Wilson did the same and followed lobby. students, alumni and our community homa through a conversation with high Eastman to Stillwater.

Eastman’s biggest accomplishso successful instead of comparing school buddies.

The two friends shared what ourselves to others. Ken was the per“We were walking down the hall Wilson described as a “nearly parallel ment as dean revolves around his students.

Although the new business son who did this.” of our high school contemplating our career,” as they served as junior facbuilding is one of Eastman’s greatest Eastman, now recognized as futures,” Eastman said. “I remember ulty together in the same department, vividly saying, ‘If we’re not careful became directors of master’s programs achievements, he said the changes he’s the third-longest serving dean in the school’s history, said the COVID-19 we’re going to end up in some godfor- and department heads, and spent many made to the school’s core curriculum meant the most to him. pandemic introduced him to the idea of retirement. He said once the idea was mentioned, it was difficult to stop thinking about it.

Eastman compared his retirement realization to riding a trail horse.

Once the barn is in sight, the horse is focused only on heading back to the barn.

Eastman said it is time for him to head toward the barn.

Once he retires, Eastman said he plans to spend time with his wife and return to Iowa. Eastman’s official retirement date is Aug. 2, and he said it’s the people he will miss the most when he retires.

“That will be hard to walk away from,” Eastman said. “I’ve enjoyed being dean, but it doesn’t define who I am.”

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Finding people who will invest in you is important

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news.ed@ocolly.com Courtesy of OSU Spirit Band Members from the marching band, the student body and alumni take part in the band.

spirit band members see themselves as part of the team and their support never flinches.

Continued from 1A “We are very ride or die with our team,” SwanThe OSU Spirit Band son said. “We celebrate hard, and we go crazy if we is comprised of over 70 win. If we lose, you know, students and performs at every regular season game we are just as upset as the allowing its members view team is.”

The coaching staff themselves as a pivotal part of gameday activities. has not let the band’s devoMembers from the march- tion go unnoticed. Junior ing band, the student body Cayden Clark has noticed a and alumni take part in the defiant change in the three band. The band shows play- years since joining the ing the OSU fight songs and band.

“The only interaction stand tunes for the team we had with the coaches and fans while distracting was the women’s coach the opposing team. when we would play HaLuke Swanson, a waii, the women’s coach sophomore at OSU, plays would step out and listen the clarinet and said he works hard to find the per- because that was his favorfect pitch to break through ite stand tune,” Clark said.

Head coaches for the the weak points of an women’s and men’s basketenemy huddle.

“I think it’s an under- ball team, Jacie Hoyt and rated home-field advantage Mike Boynton are changing when you have a band that the standard, and Swanson can get way into the game,” and his other bandmates feel the difference. During Swanson said. “We’ll just the season, both coaches turn and play as loud as sent videos to the band, expossible at the other team panded the spirit band secas they’re in their huddle tion to make room for more drawing up a play.” members and acknowledged Swanson said the

Spirit...

the band whenever they could.

“They don’t have to go out of their way to do the things that they do, like expanding our band section and acknowledging us in postgame stuff,” Swanson said. “It feels like the basketball teams really value what we do and the job we do.”

Clark sees their renewed involvement as an acknowledgment of the band’s role in returning the Gallagher-Iba arena to its former glory.

“They actually care about us, and we’re a part of that rebuild of bringing everybody back to Gallagher Iba,” Clark said. “They want us to be there and to bring the energy.”

The woman at the center of this revival, Hoyt, led the women’s team to many victories this season and propelled the team into the spotlight on the national stage. However, she has never forgotten the band.

“She is incredible.

She brings a whole lot of spirit to the team and to the spirit band,” Proctor said.

Before the Big 12

Tournament, Hoyt climbed onto the band bus to talk to the band. She told the band how much she appreciated their involvement.

“I’ve never had a coach get on the bus with us and tell us that they value our impact,” Swanson said. “Hoyt is a great advocate for band involvement.”

The connection she fosters continues to grow in the off season, and the band members are excited for the coming season.

“I’ve seen more connection between the coaches and the spirit band than ever before,” Proctor said.

The spirit band finished their season with unyielding support for the teams in the face of the end of their tournament runs.

Proctor, Swanson, Clark and the other members said they are eager to play their part in a winning Cowboy season.

“Band is the coolest place to be because everyone’s completely into the game,” Proctor said. “Everyone wants to be there.” news.ed@ocolly.com

Jaiden Daughty Ken Eastman said it will be hard to walk away from his position.

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Friday, April 7, 2023 Page 5A

News and Lifestyle Zimbabwe...

on larger opportunities for donations.

Member Jacob Smith works to spread the mission through face-to-face interactions with possible donors. Smith Continued from 1A spent his time in Wishes for Water building a presentation to be shown to donors that details the importance and necessity She needed a team. of the teams goal.

Chavez took her mission and pre“Through showing the technicalisented it to her peers in the President’s Leadership Council, hoping to gain sup- ties of what we’re doing, along with the moral reasons, I hope I can show why port and a team, and she did. what we’re doing is so important,” Smith Twenty students volunteered to said. work along side her with the goal to Embedded in the presentation are fund a sustainable well in the Hurungwe maps of the local villages and the routes School District. To reach this goal, the a woman must take to acquire water students would need to raise $15,000 and work through the legal challenges of each day. By providing visuals, such as the map and student-taken photos of becoming a nonprofit. “EIN” and “501 the families and children who will be CR” became new terms in the team’s impacted, the team hopes they are able vocabulary.

Becoming a state recognized non- to inspire the hearts of donors to fund a sustainable water source for the Hurunprofit was just one of the obstacles the Wishes for Water team had to overcome. gwe School District.

With four weeks left to reach their “Our biggest challenge is that our target of $15,000, the team continues volunteers are college students, but our moving forward. donor demographic isn’t. We’ve had to “Knowing the life-changing impact get in touch with our Stillwater commuwe are capable of making pushes me to nity,” Chavez said. do my best every single day,” Smith said.

The team quickly got to work to These students know the real reach the community, creating the webchange they are able to make through the site, wishesforwater.org, as the central point of the organization and functioning mission’s success.

“We’re doing this not for ourselves as a hub for donations and information. or our resumes, but for the people who’s The Wishes for Water staff continue to lives seriously depend on this. We want try and find new, creative ways to gain to uplift communities and see them grow support and donations. and innovate. We know that change “It’s so hard to communicate our mission and the reality of what’s at stake is very possible and very necessary,” Chavez said. over an email,” Chavez said.

To help bring a sustainable water So the team got creative. source to the Hurungwe School District, For every dollar donated, the dobettering the health, stability, economy nor’s name was entered into a raffle for and education of families in Zimbabwe, Cowboy baseball tickets, merchandise donate and learn more at wishesforwater. and an Iron Monk Brewery tour. Other org.

Wishes for Water staff focus their time news.ed@ocolly.com

Courtesy of Lily Chavez Alumna, Dr. Tererai Trent (left) and student Lily Chavez (right) work together to build a nonprofit that will fund a sustainable water source in rural Zimbabwe.

Courtesy of Fred Seibert via Flickr Cartoon Network’s “Adventure Time” premiered 13 years ago. The show follows Finn the Human and his brother, Jake, who is a dog.

‘Adventure Time’ celebrates anniversary Isaac Terry Staff Reporter On April 5, 2010, the first episode for “Adventure Time” was aired.

Many kids and teens today look back on the TV show, which aired on Cartoon Network from 2010-2018, with a sense of warm remembrance.

Teens are not the only ones who think the show was good, as it has garnered a rare 100% average on Rotten Tomatoes. Despite “Adventure Time” being a kid’s TV show, it had some deeper and darker themes, such as death, mental issues and other factors that can relate to teenagers.

The show mainly features Finn the Human, a 12-year-old boy at the beginning of the series that ages along with it, and his brother, a half-demon stretchy dog named Jake. They live in the

land of Ooo, and the voices other important series has hundreds characters, such as Ice of storylines and plot King and Simon. points throughout the The series was 10 seasons. also one of the first Seven-time cartoons to have a Emmy Award winlesbian relationship in ner Pendleton Ward a kid’s show, another created the show. He thing it shared with is also well-known “Steven Universe.” for “Over the Garden The relationship is beWall,” “Bee and Pup- tween Marceline the pycat: Lazy in Space” Vampire Queen and and many other Princess Bubblegum. shows.

The series “Adventure inspired spin-offs as Time” is not unlike well, with “Adven“Steven Universe” ture Time: Distant in its humor and the Lands” being the most creator of “Steven notable. This aired Universe,” Rebecca from 2020-21 and Sugar, worked on was nominated for an “Adventure Time.”

Emmy, despite only Sugar did some visual having a handful of work and also wrote episodes. its iconic intro theme Although new song, “Island Song episodes are no longer - Come Along With produced, you can Me.” still watch the series Aside from on Amazon, Hulu or Ward and Sugar, the Cartoon Network. The series hosts other rec- series still has a strong ognizable names and following, especially voices. John DiMagbecause it ended a few gio, the same voice as years ago.

Bender from “FuturaTo celebrate ma,” voices Jake.

“Adventure Time”’s Jeremy Shada, 13th anniversary, pop popular for playing some popcorn, dim Lance in “Voltron: the lights and strap Legendary Dein to binge watch the fender,” voices Finn, more than 250 epiand Tom Kenny, the sodes in the series. voice of Spongebob SquarePants, also entertainment.ed@ocolly.com

Spring DIY decorations for your college home Jaycee Hampton Staff Reporter The weather is warmer, the days are longer — it’s springtime in Stillwater.

Decorating your college dorm or home is the perfect way to transition into the spring season. Easy and affordable projects are a productive way to take time away from studying and enjoy something different, with friends or on your own.

There are many craft stores throughout Stillwater, including Hobby Lobby and Joann’s, but almost everything listed can be found in Dollar General or Walmart as well.

A simple craft that can be done for cheap is painting mason jars, creating a small flower pot or vase. Mason jars can be purchased at Hobby Lobby.

Prices vary but the cheapest is $2.79.

Hobby Lobby also sells acrylic paint, in bulk for $15.99 or singular tubes for as cheap as $0.63.

Creating a design, painting a rainbow or configuring all of your favorite colors in a unique pattern is a great way to create something meaningful that matches your personality.

Fill it with a simple bouquet from Walmart, and you have the perfect springtime vase for your living space.

Creating a bird feeder is a cool way to connect with wildlife that resides in Stillwater, too. There are multiple ways to make them, but here is the easiest.

All you need is an empty plastic water bottle, two small wooden spoons, a utility blade and birdseed.

You will skewer two holes into the plastic bottle with the wooden spoons, allowing birdseed to come through as it is filled.

Bird seed at Petco ranges from $3.99 to $13.19 in smaller portions.

If you have access to a balcony or an open window, brighten a bird’s lucky day. Using empty water bottles is a cool way to recycle and give back to nature in some way.

A flower wreath for your door is another easy way to get into spring.

Wreaths are common door decor year round, so there are many options on how to create a wreath with differing price ranges.

For a quick and cheap way, all you will need is a grapevine wreath, scissors, floral wire, a glue gun and differing kinds of faux flowers to intertwine with the grapevine wreath.

Depending on the amount of flowers and kinds acquired, each stem can range from $2.49 to $6.99.

Gather your supplies, trim the flower stems to your liking and frame them within the wreath. A hot glue gun can help hold things in its exact place, securing the floral wire and extra leaves around the wreath. After it’s done, hang it up on your door for everyone to see. entertainment.ed@ocolly.com

Courtesy of sjaustin via Flickr Creating a homemade birdfeeder is an inexpensive spring-themed project you can make for your porch or backyard.

Page 6A Friday, April 7, 2023

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News/Lifestyle OSU Theatre Council hosts showcase with scholarships and performances

Isaac Terry Staff Reporter Savannah Harrod woke up Monday thinking her day would hold no surprises.

But at the end of it, she had a new scholarship.

On Monday, OSU’s Theatre Council hosted its first donor party and performance since 2020.

The event, which was open to those who donate to the theatre department, students and staff, offered food to its guests before the scholarships were distributed.

“I was just here to enjoy the night,” Harrod said. “I wasn’t part of the extravaganza.”

Harrod said she was just excited to see her friends perform and to mingle. Different people handed out the scholarships, including Lee Brasuell and Sandi DeVore, who worked behind the scenes to make the event happen.

“As the interim

head of the department of theatre, I’ve been working with the team, especially Sandi DeVore, to get this done,” Brasuell said. “The theatre circle is even creating a scholarship for the fall of 2023.

We’ve got the first funds to deliver this next year to freshmen.”

After the scholarships were handed out, the Evening Extravaganza began. A member of the Theatre Council group took the stage and, with a shaky voice, announced the council would be shutting down because of a copyright issue with a previous play that had been performed this school year. Shortly after, all members of the group jumped out on stage, shouting “April Fools!”

Acts included everything from monologues, bad dating advice, dancing duets, a singing man and muppet, a recycled fashion show and a drag queen performance.

The 2022-23 TCO President Liliana Cudly was in charge of getting the acts to flow together.

“I was basically the executive producer of this,” Cudly said. “I was also in charge of a

lot of the communication between all the students and the tech side of things.”

They posted a casting call of sorts on their Instagram account, tco.okstate, asking for people who would like to perform for the donors to try out and sign up.

“We wanted it to be a huge showcase of everything that we are doing in the theatre department,” Cudly said.

“Instead of just like a cabaret style where it’s all songs. Before COVID-19, it was formally a thing called ‘The Mistcast,’ where girls would sing guys’ songs or people perform things that they never would have performed in a million years, stuff like that. We wanted to take that and focus it on showcasing the talents that we’ve been honing this past school year.”

The performers worked on their performances on their own time. They started working at the beginning of February and only had a month of rehearsal time before they would perform live on the Vivia Locke stage in the Seretean. news.ed@ocolly.com

Courtesy of Tribune.

Chris Pine in “Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves.”

Simplicity and surprise ‘Dungeons and Dragons’ Review Michael Clark Staff Reporter

Isaac Terry Savannah Harrod receiving her scholarship from OSU’s Theatre Council.

Against all the odds, “Dungeons and Dragons: Honor Among Thieves” might end up being the most pleasant surprise the film industry has to offer this year.

Despite mediocre trailers and poor marketing, this movie is a nice surprise for “Dungeons and Dragons” fans and general audiences.

Simplicity makes this movie work.

Instead of worrying about ambitious plots, deep, complex characters or an unnecessary spectacle, “Honor Among Thieves” takes a light approach and tells a rather predictable, yet heartfelt story with a lovable cast of characters and a great comedic core. This movie doesn’t want to sell you something or tease an ambitious franchise like a majority of modern films. The earnestness of this film is almost unnerving in a sea of movies that desperately want to be the next best thing.

With that in mind, I can say that “Honor Among Thieves” is the most fun I’ve had with a movie in a long time, and a large portion of that is thanks to the fantastic cast.

Chris Pine delivers an excellent

performance as a charming bard with a dark past, but there isn’t a poor performance across the board. These actors could have delivered cheesy or overthe-top performances, but the fact that each character is played completely straight makes for a fun time.

Some people have compared this movie to a medieval “Guardians of the Galaxy,” and that comparison fits well.

If you liked “Guardians of the Galaxy,” you will likely enjoy this as well.

Obviously it isn’t a perfect film.

The CGI looks particularly bad during a chase sequence, although this sequence is creative, it is a bit hard on the eyes. There are a few characters that are rather underutilized. Especially the tiefling character who can transform into any animal. However, she does have a few scenes where she shines. The cast is utilized well for the most part. The directing and editing is extremely wonky in a few scenes, with some strange cuts and shots.

Despite this, “Dungeons and Dragons: Honor Among Thieves” makes up for its flaws and does something Hollywood hasn’t done in a long time: it delivered an honestly fun and enjoyable film. With great humorous beats, fun action and a great, memorable cast of misfit characters, it’s a film that is extremely hard to hate and is certainly worth your time. entertainment.ed@ocolly.com

O’Colly

Friday, April 7, 2023 Page 7A

Lifestyle

Courtesy of Tribune News Service Mario (voiced by Chris Pratt), left, and Princess Peach (voiced by Anya Taylor-Joy) in “The Super Mario Bros. Movie.”

‘The Super Mario Bros. Movie’ brings fun to families, fans rio and mountains upon mountains of references.

The Pros: “The Super Mario Bros. Movie” delivers exactly what the title says. It is a movie starring Nintendo’s popular Payton Little Super Mario video game characters on the biggest screen yet. It also explores Staff Reporter areas of Super Mario that the games tend to shy away from, with the biggest focus being on the family.

Everything in this movie pops.

The bright colors of all the Mario locales are here, looking better than they It’s been 30 years since Ninever have. Whether it is the lush jungle tendo’s last venture to the silver screen, of the Kong Kingdom or the various but this time, landing into the Mushpipes and shops lining the Mushroom room Kingdom was much smoother.

Kingdom, there is always something to “The Super Mario Bros. Movie” look at. has been a topic of conversation in Coincidently enough, the best the movie and video game landscape. things that make a Super Mario game With a voice cast filled to the top with were the highlights of the movie. The celebrities and animation company Il- platforming scene being redesigned as lumination at the helm, many fans were a big obstacle course was a cute way skeptical about whether “The Super to call back the 2D platforming roots, Mario Bros. Movie” would deliver. and the Mario Kart segments taking These worries should be quickly place on Rainbow Road were nostalgic put to ease, as the “Super Mario Bros. yet modern, all the while iconic themes Movie” provides a product full of accompanied themes the Super Mario gorgeous colors and animation, fun franchise has produced. An excellent character interactions in the wacky appreciation for the source material.

Nintendo-made world of Super MaOne could throw a rock and hit

Review

a reference in this movie at any point.

They are crammed to the brim with fun easter eggs for Mario and Nintendo fans to try and spot. It may be as big the Punch-Out Pizzeria, being a callback to the NES game of the same name, or subtle like a background shop being named Sunshine Travel Agency as a reference to “Super Mario Sunshine.” These callbacks add an excellent layer to the movie, making it rewatchable for fans of the franchise.

The Cons: This movie acts almost as a Mario speed run of shorts. Right from the beginning, it hits the ground sprinting, barely giving time for anyone to breathe. It creates a fairly bare-bones plot, yet this is nothing new for the franchise. The plots of the Super Mario series have never been known to tell much of a grand story. If there would have been around 20 more minutes added to the run time, it may have created a more seamless experience.

Luigi being a damsel in distress is a blessing and a curse. While it opens up the opportunity for Anya Taylor Joy to shine as Princess Peach, Charlie Day’s excellent execution of the green half of the Mario Brothers just seems to get lost for a majority of the

Party/Semi-formal Pageant/Performace Wedding

film.

Throwback pop tracks are fun to have here and there in a film, however, when dealing with a franchise like Super Mario, which has more than 35 years of material to use, using songs like “Take on Me” or “Thunderstruck” felt a bit too out of place.

Those that have never picked up a controller may have a hard time with this film. It is clear that “The Super Mario Bros. Movie” was created with families and super-fans in mind, and that may leave some moviegoers in the dust when it comes to understanding references and character portrayals.

Overall: “The Super Mario Bros. Movie” is a colorful, delightful experience for families and enjoyers of the Super Mario Brothers franchise. Movie lovers may still have a good time with this film, but given the focus more on how the movie looks and references spanning more than 35 years of games, shortcomings with the plot may be harder to excuse. Nonetheless, “The Super Mario Bros. Movie” bashes every box that a Super Mario movie should strive to hit. entertainment.ed@ocolly.com

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O’Colly

Lifestyle Underrated TV shows to comfort students during study breaks

Jaycee Hampton Staff Reporter Being able to transport yourself into an entirely different world for a half hour is a great way to relax and take a study break.

Scrolling through streaming services can be a hassle, but to ease that decision for you, here is a list of some underappreciated TV shows that you maybe haven’t heard of before.

“Arrested Development” follows the eccentric Bluth family. Being forced to keep his family together, Michael Bluth (Jason Bateman), takes over the family real estate business after his father is sent to prison for using the company as his own personal piggy bank.

While juggling the needs of his spoiled and slightly insane family, Michael does everything he can to keep things afloat. Fox originally canceled the show in 2006 because of low ratings and viewership, but Netflix picked up the series years later for seasons four and five.

“Arrested Development” is the greatest example of absurdist humor in a sitcom, and cast members such as David Cross, Michael Cera and Will Arnett bring an uncomfortable, second-hand embarrassment feeling someone might feel when watching “The Office” (2005).

“Pose” is a show based on the 1980s and 90s New York City ballroom culture. Following characters who are dancers and models, they compete for trophies and recognition in an underground LGBTQ culture.

They receive support from one another in a network of chosen families known as houses. The show is not only fabulous, but it discusses important issues

FOX/Via Tribune News Service Will Arnett (left) and Portia de Rossi (right) starred in “Arrested Development,” a FOX and Netflix sitcom that lasted five seasons.

within the community. With cast members such as Evan Peters and Billy Porter, creator Ryan Murphy and Brad Falchuk strike gold once again with another terrific series.

The show has received many nominations, which led Billy Porter to be the the first openly gay Black man to be nominated for and win an Emmy for a lead acting category. It is currently streaming on Hulu.

“Kaguya-sama: Love is War” is a Japanese romance comedy that follows student

council president Miyuki Shirogane and vice president Kaguya Shinomiya. The chemistry between the two is obvious, and despite them liking each other, pride gets in the way. Too proud to be the first to admit their feelings, believing whoever confesses first would “lose” in their relationship, the student council room quickly becomes a war zone.

Quirky characters, such as Chika Fujiwara, add humor to the schemes they go through trying to get the other to come

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clean first with their feelings.

Streaming on CrunchyRoll and Hulu, “Love is War” is a great introduction to anime.

“Freaks and Geeks” (1999) is a short-lived show that had an amazing cast and too much potential to waste.

Despite being canceled after season one, “Freaks and Geeks” follows Lindsey (Linda Cardellini) and her younger brother, Sam, as they attend high school, making friends with the “freaks” and “geeks.”

Cast members Seth Rogen,

Jason Segel, Busy Phillips and James Franco created great potential for more seasons, but it fell short. Too many good shows have been canceled after one season, like “Generation” (2021) and “I Am Not Okay With This” (2020). It’s a shame considering the fanbase and traction these shows have gained over the years. These short-lived programs tend to go unnoticed, but thankfully “Freaks and Geeks” is streaming on Paramount + and Hulu. entertainment.ed@ocolly.com

With 18 new players on OSU’s spring football roster, who is sticking out to Mike Gundy and the Cowboys so far?

See more on Page 2B

Tearin’ it up

Molly Jolliff

‘I’m here’

OSU coach John Smith said he is making sure his program is moving forward in an exclusive interview with The O’Colly.

Smith reassures future as OSU wrestling coach

Carson Toulouse

After two torn ACLs, broken forearm, Wark slugging for OSU Micaela Wark is batting .374 as Thursday with six home runs in 2023.

their father.

Micaela, a redshirt freshman at OSU, tore her first ACL in her junior year of high school, then COVID shut down the season.

Gabriel Trevino Five games after she recovered from the Sports Editor first injury, she tore another ACL and The Wark family suffered a compound is unlucky. forearm bone break on Three of the four the same play. sisters played softAfter missing ball; Melissa, Maia almost three years and Micaela, and all of softball and transthree tore both of their ferring colleges in ACLs. between, Micaela is “It might be ge- starting at first base netic,” said Bill Wark, and hitting fourth in

No. 2 OSU’s lineup, adding a .400 bat to a team eyeing another trip to the Women’s College World Series.

“She’s got a chance to be a really special player here,” said OSU coach Kenny Gajewski.

After her first injury, Micaela contemplated ending her softball career. There were complications after the surgery forcing a subsequent surgery where her surgeon had to “go in blind” to finish repairing her knee.

But she returned.

Even when physically recovering from a serious injury, the mental hurdle can be difficult for athletes to overcome. Her sisters’ support and experience helped her recovery, though. Maia — who medically retired from softball after a short career at North Texas in 2022 — used her knowledge of ACL recovery and the mental challenges that caused her to not play a game she had for most of her life to help Micaela recover.

Carson Benge is batting .367, second-best among qualifying Cowboys this season as of Thursday.

ing appearances.

Benge started on the mound last Tuesday at Dallas Baptist.

In his fourth Davis Cordova appearance this seahe allowed five Staff Reporter son, runs and received the loss.

Josh Holliday His dad, had big plans for Kevin Benge, gave Carson Benge in him strong advice 2022. following the loss.

But days “I told him, before his freshman ‘Baseball is a game season, Benge felt of failures, and if discomfort in his you can’t accept throwing arm. failure, then you’ll The unordinever go far in basenary feeling turned ball,’” Kevin said. into Tommy John In the outsurgery, which put ing, Benge wasn’t Benge out for most finding his spots of the year. consistently and This season, was pitching about Benge, a redshirt 92 miles per hour, freshman, is finding compared to his comfort using his 96-97 MPH range surgically repaired before surgery. right elbow and doing so as OSU’s starting right fielder, with frequent pitch- See Benge on 3B

a dislocated right shoulder. Carter Young hobbled around with a knee injury and Reece Witcraft defaulted with a concussion.

Now, Smith deals with the aftermath of consecutive finishes outside the top 10 for the first time in his career.

“You can’t go anywhere when the season ends,” he said. “Even in a successful season maybe. There are potshots and sneaky people. There’s a lot of negative.

Damn, there is a lot of negative in this world. I’m glad I’m sure not around it for the most part.

See Story on 2B

Gordon spent offseason building body, chemistry in running back room

See Wark on 4B

Benge progressing after a lost season

Chase Davis

Smith told The O’Colly. “I got work to do. We’re moving things forward. It’s important that we address everything as we’re Adam Engel moving forward.”

Smith led his Editor-in-Chief team of 10 qualifiers to Tulsa and the John Smith Cowboys left three usually leaves his days later wounded, office and goes battered and defeatfishing the week ed. No one outwresafter the NCAA tled their seed, and Wrestling Champi- OSU logged 28.5 onships. team points — the Not this year. program’s lowest Or recent seasons. since the modern He said there scoring era began in is too much respon- 2001. sibility, especially Travis after a poor ending Wittlake stayed like OSU’s proovernight in a gram-worst finish hospital because at the tournament of an arm infeca few weeks ago in tion. Kaden Gfeller Tulsa. departed the “I’m here,” tournament with

Sam Hutchens Staff Reporter Ollie Gordon had a few goals for his first college offseason.

Between offseason film study, lifts and trips to Texas Roadhouse, OSU’s burgeoning

sophomore running back made progress on his itinerary.

“I wanted to gain weight,” Gordon said. “That’s really what I wanted to do. And then learn the game even more. I learned last year, but you can’t learn too much.

Those two things, for sure.”

He also said he wants to help his teammates build close bonds. Four backs from 2022 are not playing

for OSU: Dominic Richardson, Zach Middleton, CJ Brown and Andre Washington. Elijah Collins, a super senior transfer from Michigan State with more than 1,500 career yards, seems in place to be the key addition to OSU’s running back room in addition to Gordon, Jaden Nixon and Deondre Jackson.

See Ollie on 2B

Mackenzie Janish Ollie Gordon emerged as an OSU fan-favorite in 2022 after playing in every game as a freshman.

Page 2B Friday, April 7, 2023

O’Colly

sports

Cooper, Stribling, highlight newcomers throughout Cowboys’ spring football season Braden Bush Assistant Sports Editor The transfer portal shuffles college football rosters like a deck of cards.

The Cowboys are no exception. There are 18 newcomers on OSU’s spring football roster, including 13 from the transfer portal. Spring practice is two weeks in.

Coaches and players have now had a live look at these newcomers.

Who’s standing out?

Dalton Cooper, Rs Sr. – OL Hometown: Prague.

6-7, 311 pounds Previous school: Texas State Eligibility remaining: two seasons Health and experience were things the Cowboys’ offensive line lacked at times last season, and that’s what Cooper brings.

Cooper transferred from TSU, where he started in 36 consecutive games at left tackle. Last season, he allowed just three sacks on 429 pass plays.

OSU coach Mike Gundy said the offense is adapting its run game to get more production, and Cooper – who played more than 2,500 snaps at Texas State – brings the reps to help rejuvenate the rush. He was rated the top left tackle in the Sun Belt Conference in 2022, according to Pro Football Focus.

Cooper is from Prague, so staff was familiar with him when he entered the transfer portal after last season. Through two weeks of spring practice, redshirt senior lineman Preston Wilson likes what he sees.

“He’s a pure country boy,” Wilson said. “He

works hard, he wants to be here. He’s fit in well with the program. He’s fit in well with the group of guys. He just meshes well.

He’s a guy that I can for sure see playing here.”

Arland Bruce IV, Jr. – WR Hometown: Olathe, Kansas 5-10, 200 pounds Previous School: Iowa Eligibility remaining: two seasons

Jaden Bray knew of Bruce through mutual friends in high school, so when Bruce entered the transfer portal, Bray reached out and helped recruit him.

And through the first two weeks of spring, Bray hasn’t been disappointed.

“Arland’s really twitchy and fast,” Bray said. “He runs great routes. He can get out of break really fast. I feel like he’s a really good route runner.”

In two seasons at Iowa, Bruce had 44 catches for 396 yards and two touchdowns. Gundy compared him to former OSU slot receiver John Paul Richardson, saying he’s physical, especially for his size.

Brennan Presley, a senior receiver, said Bruce’s route running and evasiveness has most impressed him.

“His feet are amazing,” Presley said. “He got them sticks — I don’t know if y’all say that.

But, like, he can stop on a dime. He’s made some cuts and stuff that have made some people miss.

He’s a very shifty dude.”

Jaiden Daughty Arland Bruce IV had 44 catches for 396 yards at Iowa in two seasons.

tight ends and fullbacks, Johnson brings what OSU needs.

The Cowboys completed just eight passes to Cowboy Backs last season, totaling 75 yards and a touchdown. The position was block-heavy, and while Johnson can do that, he also brings receiving.

In five seasons at UMass, Johnson caught 50 passes for 465 yards and five touchdowns. Thirtyfive of those catches, 278 yards and three touchdowns came in the last two seasons.

Johnson is the tallest in the tight end room.

Gundy said Johnson is filling out his 6-foot-5 frame and will look even better by fall.

“Josiah has come in here and worked hard,” Gundy said. “He’s 23 pounds heavier than when he walked in here in January. I would guess he’ll gain another 12-15 prior to August.”

practices, seven practices, he’s gotten plenty of pancake blocks and plenty of touchdowns, as well. So, he’s not afraid to block and he takes every part of the game pretty serious.”

– OL

Jack Endean, Fr.

Hometown: Tucson, Arizona 6-6, 297 pounds Previous school: Tanque Verde High School Eligibility remaining: four seasons

Endean might not see much playing time this season, but he’s a player to keep an eye on.

When asked which newcomers have been most impressive through the early portion of spring ball, Wilson named only Endean, a freshman, specifically.

“He’s got the right mindset,” Wilson said.

“Very few freshmen come in with the mindset that De’Zhaun Stribhe has.”

Josiah Johnson, Rs ling, Jr. – WR Endean was the No. Sr. – TE Hometown: Kapolei, 12 overall prospect from Hometown: JacksonHawai’i Arizona and the No. 67 ville, Florida 6-3, 205 pounds offensive tackle in the 6-5, 235 pounds.

Previous school: country, according to Previous school: Washington State Rivals. He received offers UMass Eligibility remainfrom several West Coast Eligibility remaining: two seasons schools, such as Arizona ing: one season and California. After OSU might have a helping lead Tanque Verde With the deconstrucnew red zone threat. to its first winning season, tion of the Cowboy Back Stribling caught 95 Endean enrolled at OSU position to traditional passes for 1,073 yards and early to participate in 10 touchdowns in two sea- spring practice. sons at Washington State, Wilson said Endean but eight of those touchsought him out as soon downs came in the red as he got on campus and zone. Seven were inside made it clear he’s willing the 15-yard line, and his to work. longest touchdown catch “(Endean) came in is 29 yards. the first week and he was Stribling is able to like, ‘Hey, man, from get up and locate balls, what I understand, you’re which helped lead to suc- a leader around here,’” cess in the short field. In Wilson said. “He’s like, Tuesday’s practice, Bray ‘Will you take me upstairs said Stribling made a and show me some film, tough catch in the endshow me something?’ I zone and kept a foot in was like, ‘Man, this guy bounds. wants it. He wants to be But Bray said Strib- here. He genuinely does.’” ling’s skill isn’t just in pass catching.

“Strong, physical Courtesy of Texas State Athletics guy,” Bray said. “Just Dalton Cooper allowed just three sacks on 429 pass plays last year at sports.ed@ocolly.com Texas State. throughout his first six

Chase Davis Collin Oliver will make the switch to linebacker this season.

Oliver changing to hybrid linebacker role for OSU

said. “Change, it’s gonna be tough for anybody, but I’m adjusting really well. It’s coming natural for me.”

The new-look scheme relies heavily Daniel Allen on Oliver’s new role. It’s Staff Reporter dependent on his ability to make a read, play Collin Oliver in coverage or make a grinned when talking tackle in the open. about a position switch.

As a freshman, Three years ago, Oliver recorded 11 1/2 Oliver was an outside sacks, earning the Big linebacker for Edmond 12 Defensive FreshSanta Fe. Now, with new man of the Year award defensive coordinator, and was a Freshman Bryan Nardo, and a new All-American. He was scheme, Oliver said he thrown into the limelight feels at ease. at an early stage of the “It’s a good change season and capitalized. for me,” Oliver said.

In his sophomore year “Don’t get me wrong, I he had five sacks and 7 love pass rushing and I 1/2 tackles for loss. love being on the (deIn his new role in fensive) line. But this 2023, Oliver sees it as an is good for me. It’s real opportunity. comfortable for me “He finally gets though, being back at to show how versatile linebacker.” he is,” senior linebacker Oliver was a pure Xavier Benson said. edge rusher in the 4-2-5 “That’s just a natural defense in his first two athlete. That’s a God seasons at OSU. gift for (Oliver) to just Nardo runs a 3-3- be able to adjust like 5 defense, with three that. I’ve loved watching defensive linemen, three his development. I love linebackers and five being able to talk to him defensive backs. and be more involved Oliver will play with him. He’ll be fine. more of a “star” lineHe’s gonna be great this backer role. He will year. I’m looking forlikely drop in coverage ward to it.” more, something Oliver said isn’t too daunting now that he weighs 235 pounds and feels leaner.

“I’m very comfortable right now,” Oliver sports.ed@ocolly.com

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Friday, April 7, 2023 Page 3B

sports Ollie...

Garret Rangel, receiver Talyn Shettron and tight end Tabry Shettron.

“I want us to be Continued from 1 closer together,” Gordon said. “Last year we were close. But I feel like we Gordon is in a should build a bigger, unique position. Despite better bond this year.” coming off his true freshAfter getting man season, he had the invaluable experience in most carries last season the second half of OSU’s of any returning Cowboy. 2022 season, he has Working at those offsea- knowledge to lean on and son goals gives Gordon a pass along. chance to lead the OSU “I feel like this backfield in 2023. year I’m more into it,” With a reshuffled Gordon said. “I know offensive line, there are what I’m doing, since I new faces all around. had a season last year. I Speaking about the can thank all the running entire team, Gordon backs last year for taking made it a point before the me under their wing. spring to familiarize.

Now this year we have That’s where Texas new faces in the running Roadhouse comes in. It’s back room. I feel like I not just a hearty meal have to play my part in to fill out his 6-foot-1, bringing them under my 211-pound frame. Gorwing. Even though I’m don gets steak — always still one of the youngest medium rare — weekly backs in the room.” with his roommates; He said he sits next second year quarterback to Collins during film

sessions. Sometimes Collins, who has played in 41 games for MSU, will point out something to his younger counterpart.

Occasionally Gordon returns the favor, helps Collins with pointers tailored to the OSU offense.

Coach Mike Gundy said he had some things in mind for Gordon, too.

Manage physicality. With padded practice underway, Gundy said he was looking forward to seeing Gordon’s downhill style in live reps.

“There’ll be more contact over the next two to three weeks than what he’s been accustomed to,” Gundy said. “And as he adjusts to the physicality, which he should be fine, he has to do that and he hasn’t proven that to us yet. We haven’t given him that chance yet.”

sports.ed@ocolly.com

Chase Davis Carson Benge is starting in right field and pitches for OSU this season after Tommy John surgery that didn’t allow him to play in 2022.

Benge...

Continued from 1 Tommy John surgery reconstructs the ulnar collateral ligament.

The surgery is common in baseball but still challenging to fully recover from, considering the timetable is between 12-16 months. Benge is around 14 months, and it will take a few more to get back.

It took Benge about nine months to throw a baseball again. He actually threw before he could swing. He couldn’t swing until February.

The recovery now for Benge is not about the UCL or soreness, it’s about rebuilding stamina and regaining strength in his arm.

“I just think it’ll take a little while longer to get back up to speed,” Benge said. “I’ve been throwing it for 13 and a half months, so I won’t

see that velocity tick up for a few more months.”

Through his recovery, Benge had a few people there to help him out, such as his brothers Garrett and Tyler.

Although Benge is in his second collegiate season, he said he feels this is his freshman season.

“Yeah, it’s my first time playing ball in college,” Benge said.

“Which is like a big change from high school, especially at the D-I level. It’s just a whole new wave of competition.

It’s completely new.”

Benge took a few weeks to settle in at the plate.

Eight games in, Benge hit .200, but since his three-hit, four-RBI game versus Austin Peay on March 5, he’s improved his average to .367. He holds the second-best average on the team.

Holliday said Benge has a lot of potential to be OSU’s next two-way player.

“You see why going into last season we had a big role in mind for him,” Holliday said. “To lose him was a major blow to last year’s team because he’s got such a loose, athletic swing, versatile defensively and as a pitcher we think he has tremendous upside.

“He’s a starting pitcher and hits fifth in the lineup. Go find college baseball players to do these things.

How many guys do both?

Many guys come to college thinking they can be two-way players. Very few ever do. He’s actually doing it.”

A silver lining from going 10 months without baseball for Benge?

Finding the passion for baseball.

“I really realized how much I loved the game,” Benge said. “I realized that it’s tough being away from the game, but as I got back into it, I just love it even more now.” sports.ed@ocolly.com

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Chase Davis From trips to Texas Roadhouse to film sessions, Gordon made it a goal to familiarize himself with teammates during the offseason.

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sports Wark...

Molly Jolliff OSU third baseman Tyler Wulfert raised his average to .306 since moving into an everyday starting role.

Wulfert flourishing, starting at third base after injury to starter

ning of the spring seaWulfert, at the time son. OSU coach Josh dealing with a nagging Holliday tried to work quad injury and hitting Wulfert in as much as only .214, got pressed possible, putting the into the starting lineup. talented bat at designated Since Meola’s injury, hitter and pinch hitter.

Wulfert has been OSU’s It didn’t come primary third baseman.

Ben Hutchens together immediately for He flourished in the Staff Reporter Wulfert as it did in the opportunity, racking up fall. In his first seven seven hits and raising his Before Oklahoma games, Wulfert slashed average to .287.

State, Tyler Wulfert .176 and struck out nine “We knew when never had to guess if he’d times. he found his swing it be in the starting lineup.

“I was a little frus- would be a good swing,” From 2020-22, trated with myself, but I Holliday said. “He goes Wulfert played two just needed to continue on the shelf with a quad seasons of junior college working hard and focus injury, so he just never baseball for the Midland on what I could do to had a chance to get those Chaparrals, getting all help the team and regain rhythms and those box the action he could have the confidence that I had mannerisms and all the desired, playing in 104 of in the fall,” Wulfert said. things that go into being 105 games.

“Just trusting in myself a great hitter reestabWulfert hit .390 and my abilities.” lished in the second with 26 home runs and On March 24, semester.”

26 doubles for Midland, a warm Friday series Mark Wulfert, drawing Oklahoma opener against Baylor, an Tyler’s dad, said the State’s attention. He opportunity for Wulfert Tyler who knocked five joined the Cowboys, sprung from the ground. hits in the weekend and in fall scrimmages Meola swung through series against Texas is picked up where he left a pitch with so much the player he’s used to off, batting better than torque, he injured his watching. .500 in scrimmages hand.

“You just got to against Air Force and the “It sucks when one stick to your faith, and if Texas Rangers instrucof your teammates get the good Lord presents tional league team. hurt, especially when he opportunities just got to But opportunity is was having a good year take advantage of it. He’s a fickle thing. Wulfert so far,” Wulfert said. done that with his second found that out when “You never want anyone chance here,” Mark said.

Aidan Meola assumed to get hurt, especially the role of starting third one of your own teamsports.ed@ocolly.com baseman at the beginmates.”

constant in her recovery.

Without many connections, she said she felt isolated in Lawrence.

Continued from 1 So, she entered the transfer portal after a redshirt season, and “Within a couple immediately, Gajewweeks, she went to go ski, whom remembered support her teammates,” recruiting Micaela while Bill said. “That was reshe was in high school, ally important for her to showed interest. be there. My wife and Micaela rememdaughter got her to do bered him, too, so she that. You have to go back sent him an email askinto that surrounding. For ing about the program. these girls, it starts when While at the gym with they’re 8, 9 years old. her friend, Gajewski They’re living that life, responded. and an injury can take “All it said was, you out.”

‘Are you still available?’”

After the second Micaela said. set of injuries — a play After a call and trip where she collided with to Stillwater, Micaela fellow Cowgirl Audrey canceled her other visits, Schneidmiller in a high shut down her recruitschool game — many ment and committed schools recruiting Mito OSU — saying she caela backed off. She wanted to join a family previously committed to who can help her mentalHouston in eighth grade, ly recover and compete to but decommitted because make her a better player. of a number of factors, “Coach G showed including experiences of confidence in me, and the family’s car being that’s something I hadn’t broken into while at the felt in a couple years,” campus. Later in high Micaela said. school, she committed to Before the season, Kansas, one of the few Gajewski talked about schools to remain loyal to the option for three first her after the injuries. basemen for the 2023 “If I was them, I season. Morgyn Wynne, would take that chance, a senior who also transtoo,” Gajewski said. ferred from Kansas; While she recovClaire Timm, a freshman ered at Kansas, a 10-hour Gajewski saw potential difference separated Mi- in; and Wark, who won caela from her family; the the job.

Through 31 starts as a Cowgirl, Wark is reaching base 45% of the time with a 1.090 OPS— third among starters. Working with team strength and conditioning coach Chance Marek allowed her to regain strength in her lower body — although she said she still can’t jump as high or run as fast.

Gajewski nor Micaela said they are shocked at the offensive production, but Bill, is. He said he treasures watching his youngest daughter succeed, but finds more appreciation in the road it took her to get to this point.

“If you would have asked me, I was questioning it a little bit,” Bill said. “OSU is a really good program, they’ve been to the World Series a few times, but that’s what Micaela wanted.

She competed. We thought she would get a few at bats here and there, but she’s the No. 4 bat for the second team in the country. That’s what makes me more proud.

She battled all the way back, and she’s there and she’s playing.

“That’s going to be a life lesson that she’s going to have forever.”

sports.ed@ocolly.com

Molly Jolliff Micaela Wark broke her forearm and tore an ACL on a collision at first base in high school with fellow Cowgirl Audrey Schneidmiller

Smith...

Continued from 1 “I want our guys to feel a little disappointed in finishing 18th and I also want them to be motivated about their future.

That’s what we’re here for.”

Smith said he recently “recovered” from the finish and focused on meeting with his wrestlers. He said he wants to see motivation in disappointment.

“For some of these guys, it’s a real painful experience if they don’t have the season they want,” Smith said.

Some instantly returned to the mat to transition into freestyle season.

But how does a squad go from 18th to a top-five finish at NCAAs? “Athletes,” Smith said.

“We got to do a better job recruiting. We gotta do a better job making sure that we have people coming in and we have a level to work with if we’re going to be very competitive.

I feel good about where we’re at.”

The Cowboys only lose one point of their NCAA

Molly Jolliff John Smith and the OSU wrestling team will return eight starters from this year.

Championships total. Wyatt Sheets, who went 1-2 at 165 pounds, also exhausted his eligibility. Smith said he feels “way better” about this season compared to this time in 2022 where he said he knew the season would be one of development.

Eight starters return plus three of MatScouts’ top-10

incoming freshmen: heavyweight Christian Carroll (No. 2 overall), 184-pounder Brayden Thompson (No. 5 overall) and 133-pounder Cael Hughes (No. 8 overall.).

Of course, the inevitable usage of the transfer portal, too. Smith said he still doesn’t like the portal. A year ago, he called it a “cop out.”

“It doesn’t matter what you think about it,” he said.

“You gotta be involved in it.”

The Cowboys recently landed Sammy Alvarez, a 141-pounder from Rutgers.

Smith said he expects more transfer additions before the end of the school year. Three non-starters dipped in the transfer portal last week, but

the focus remains on OSU. “Although there is some uncertainty after a finish like we had, you need to solidify what we got,” he said. “Make it easy for people to leave. If you want to leave, put your boots on and head out.” sports.ed@ocolly.com

O’Colly

Classifieds Business Squares Come check out the wide variety of elegant clothing at Formal Fantasy!

Located on 121 E. 9th Ave, Downtown Stillwater The best selection of beer, wine and liquor that Stillwater has to offer! Perfect for all your game day needs, come to Brown’s Bottle Shop located on 128 N. Main

Friday, April 7, 2023 Page 5B

FOR RELEASE APRIL 7, 2023

Help Wanted

Yost Lake (private lake located northeast of Stillwater) is hiring certified lifeguards to work Saturday-Sunday from May 25th-September 3rd and July 3rd-4th. $15/hr with bonus and paid uniform. Call/text Cathy at (405)788.6435 to apply.

Business Squares

Business Squares

Company Coming?

Check out “Cowboy Cabin” 550 steps east of Boone Pickens Stadium Airbnb.com/h/cowboy-cabin

“The Original Hideaway, located on the corner of Knoblock and University.

Serving quality pizza and more since 1957.”

Murphy’s Department Store 815 S Main, Downtown Open 10-6 Monday thru Saturday

Daily Horoscope

Nancy Black Tribune Content Agency Linda Black Horoscopes Today’s Birthday (04/07/23). Develop personal talents, skills and ambitions this year.

Realize dreams with disciplined efforts following thoughtful plans. Springtime encourages blossoming. Unexpected expenses require adaptation and collaboration this summer, strengthening and renewing partnership bonds this autumn. Shift directions for increased winter cash flow. Dress for success.

To get the advantage, check the day’s rating: 10 is the easiest day, 0 the most challenging.

Aries (March 21-April 19) — Today is a 9 — Contribute your energies to reduce debt and build wealth together. Collaboration is key. Find clever ways to reuse and repurpose things. Send invoices.

Taurus (April 20-May 20) — Today is an 8 — Collaborate to realize shared dreams.

Share talents to grow and build resources together. Honey gets farther than vinegar.

Support each other to blossom.

Gemini (May 21-June 20) — Today is a 9 — Set goals to raise physical performance levels. Action speaks louder than words. Nurture yourself with good food, exercise and rest. Savor time in nature.

Cancer (June 21-July 22) — Today is a 9 — Romance is in the air. Express it with the object of your affection. Discuss passions, interesting curiosities and delightful diversions. Your energy is contagious.

Leo (July 23-Aug. 22) — Today is an 8 — Invent possibilities. Nurture your family with home improvements. Clean and clear clutter. Your trash may be someone else’s treasure. Cook up something dreamy.

Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) — Today is an 8 — Creative muses inspire your words and illustrations. Share your ideas, passions and dreams. Adapt communications around a transition. Changes confirm your intuition. Practice diplomacy.

Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22) — Today is a 9 — Keep lucrative gears in motion. Provide excellent products, services and results. Have faith in your own capabilities and imagination. Prepare a winning pitch.

Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21) — Today is a 9 — Review your profile or brand. What do you want to be known for? Build your unique and valuable contribution. Take action for love.

Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21) — Today is a 7 — You can get especially productive in private. Nature and beloved creatures inspire your creative spirit. Envision new possibilities. Imagine and dream. Sketch your ideas.

Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) — Today is an 8 — Imagine and envision what you would love. Collaborative efforts get a lucky boost. Build and strengthen lasting connections for shared resilience. Lead by example.

Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18) — Today is a 9 — Discover and develop interesting professional opportunities. Put your creativity, talents and passion to work on a juicy project. Your work is gaining respect.

Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20) — Today is an 8 — Investigate a fascinating possibility.

Study and research. Explore options, opportunities and potential directions. Expand boundaries. Coordinate and network. An adventure develops in conversation.

Los Angeles Times Daily Crossword Puzzle Edited by Patti Varol and Joyce Lewis

ACROSS 1 Home of the College World Series 6 Many Chrome runners 9 Dog breed of Tokyo’s Hachiko statues 14 Cars sold at auction 15 Barrel wood 16 Western Wyoming county 17 Giddy 19 Urban Dictionary content 20 “Big __” Delaney: “Sons of Anarchy” character 21 Common toothbrush holder 22 Pop music’s __ Vanilli 23 Fritterlike side with fried catfish 25 Emblems 26 “Ditto” 27 “La La Land” Oscar nominee By Ella Dershowitz 28 __ milk DOWN 29 Recruit with arm- 1 Guesstimate twisting phrase 31 Butter used in 2 Cheesy diner saag paneer fare 35 Haggler’s concern 3 Not engaged 37 Cupcake 4 “We’re here!”

38 Past potentates 5 Cigar end 39 Qdoba snack 6 __ shop 40 Con artist?

7 Photographer 42 On Kristin 43 In the running 8 Pie in the __ 45 Blue Apron 9 Part of an online offering tag 47 Indiana state 10 Breakfast brand flower 11 Emphatic letters, 48 “Stayin’ Alive” for short genre 12 Singer Braxton 49 Any “Gilmore 13 Filmmaker Lee Girls” episode, 18 Allergy season now sound 50 Cartoon still 22 Complain 51 Silly fool 24 Feeling 54 Roomba target yesterday’s yoga 55 Tiny units of class, perhaps progress depicted 25 Full of beans four times in this 26 Name before puzzle?

Wilson or after 57 Mid-pirouette, say Rooney 58 Blue-__: pain 27 Corp. shake-up relief brand 28 Go (for) 59 Fine-tune 60 Origin of the street 30 Full of beans 32 Time for a food koshary 61 Freelancer’s job costume from a 62 Swimming holes boo-tique?

Level 1

2

3

4/7/23

Thursday’s Puzzle Solved

©2023 Tribune Content Agency, LLC

33 “Black Panther” villain Killmonger 34 Contractor’s fig.

36 Spy mission 38 Cinco menos dos 40 Wolfhard of “Stranger Things” 41 “Revenge” star VanCamp 44 “No doubt about it!”

4/7/23

46 What many modern plays lack 47 Annoying 48 Correct coding errors, say 49 Ladder part 50 Tank 52 Streaming device 53 Judgy syllables 54 Generic surname 55 “I __ to differ” 56 Indy brand

4

4/7/23

Solution to Thursday’s puzzle

Complete the grid so each row, column and 3-by-3 box (in bold borders) contains every digit, 1 to 9.

For strategies on how to solve Sudoku, visit sudoku.org.uk

© 2023 The Mepham Group. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency. All rights reserved.

Page 6B Friday, April 7, 2023

O’Colly

sports Boone entering transfer portal

Sam Hutchens Staff Reporter The Cowboys are set to lose their most talented offensive big man.

Kalib Boone, a 6-foot-9 forward, is entering the transfer portal. The Athletic’s Tobias Bass first reported the news

that multiple outlets confirmed.

He has one year of eligibility remaining.

Boone played four seasons at OSU, developing a reputation as a streaky but talented interior player. In 2022-23, he averaged 21.2 minutes, 10.6 points and 4.9 rebounds per game.

He is the second key Cowboy to enter the transfer portal.

Senior guard Avery Anderson announced his intentions to

transfer Wednesday.

Moussa Cisse and Tyreek Smith now anchor the Cowboys’ front court. Cisse, a 7-foot-1 center, is an outstanding defensive player but does not possess Boone’s shotcreating skills and scoring ability. Smith played well down the stretch and scored in double digits in three of OSU’s last six games.

sports.ed@ocolly.com

Chase Davis Avery Anderson III is the first Cowboy to enter the transfer portal this season.

Anderson III first Cowboy entering the transfer portal

Andy Crown Kalib Boone became the second Cowboy to enter the transfer portal.

nounce he’s entering the transfer portal. In a tweet, Anderson thanked the man above, Boynton, his coaches and teammates and said “sometimes in life you just need a change.”

Anderson’s best seaBen Hutchens son was arguably his sophoStaff Reporter more campaign, when he averaged 12.2 points a game and scored 37 points in two Mike Boynton knew NCAA Tournament games. the transfers were coming.

Anderson came to OSU as a Now it’s here.

“I don’t expect every- four-star recruit from Justin, one that’s eligible (to return) Texas. He chose OSU over TCU, Texas Tech, LSU and to be back, in all candor,” others.

OSU coach Boynton said.

This season, Anderson Avery Anderson III started 22 games and averis the first Cowboy to an-

aged 11.1 points per game.

He shot 39.9% from the field and 18% from the 3-point line. He fought through a left wrist injury that sidelined him for OSU’s final 14 games. In those games, the Cowboys struggled from a playmaking perspective offensively, and will surely look to fill the hole Anderson leaves with a guard capable of penetrating defenses.

“There’s going to be a lot of fluidity in the roster, honestly,” Boynton said last week. sports.ed@ocolly.com

Former OSU running back Hubbard part of lawsuit against the NCAA

Gabriel Trevino Sports Editor On Tuesday, lawyers filed an antitrust lawsuit against the NCAA for past educational payments to athletes as a part of the NCAA v. Alston case. The plaintiffs in the case are former Oklahoma State running back Chuba Hubbard and former Oregon and Auburn track athlete Keira McCarrell.

In 2019, Claudia Ann Wilkens, district court judge of the United States District Court for Northern District

of California, ruled against the NCAA, requiring it to allow schools to provide up to $5,980 in “non-cash education-related benefits” beyond scholarships to student-athletes, as the NCAA’s previous restrictions for schools violated the Sherman Act. The United States Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit and the United States Supreme Court upheld the decision.

The law firms that won the case, Winston & Strawn LLP and Hagens Berman Sobol Shapiro LLP, filed the lawsuit on Tuesday on behalf of Hubbard and McCarrell.

The attorneys say as many as 5,000 athletes are owed years of payments from the original NCAA v. Alston decision in 2019, and are seeking triple the damages.

Attorneys also say the number of athletes could become 20,000, which makes damages seeking between $200 million and $1 billion.

OSU announced it would be offering the $5,980 in March 2022. Hubbard played at OSU from 2017-21.

The lawsuit alleges that Hubbard was deprived of receiving those benefits throughout his career because of the NCAA’s restriction of schools such as OSU from offering them.

McCarrell competed at Oregon from 2017-19 and at Auburn from 2020-22, with the lawsuit alleging she was also deprived of the benefits in her three years at Oregon and first two at Auburn.

A trial could begin in 2024. sports.ed@ocolly.com

File Photo At OSU, Chuba Hubbard rushed for 3,459 yards and 33 touchdowns in three seasons.

O’Colly

Friday, April 7, 2023 Page 7B

sports Cowboys tennis prideful of top grades throughout OSU athletics Baylor Bryant Staff Reporter Cowboys tennis coach Dustin Taylor and the Cowboys strive for success on and off the court and in the classroom.

The Cowboy tennis team returned to the Greenwood Tennis Center after a week-long stretch of road matches in California in March.

With fans anticipating the home return of the Cowboys and how they would fare in their next match, many fans would not think about the other side of being a student athlete, being a student.

With tough and busy schedules that put strain on your body and mind, how do tennis athletes have the time for their class work especially when they can spend upward to a week across the country training for and playing in matches almost everyday? Well, Taylor has a plan in place to ensure that the Cowboys are set up for success in the classroom.

“We have weekly dialogues every Sunday,” Taylor said. “They answer five questions, one of those being how is school? That’s when they can let us know that they have exams coming up and they got papers, or if it’s going to be a light week. But I believe we have the highest GPA on campus. We want them to take care of what’s off the court, so then on the court they can really be locked in and feel confident about themselves.

I think our team GPA is up to around 3.6. And it hasn’t really been an issue to be quite honest.”

Even with good scheduling and help from coaches, staying up to date in class work along with being a collegiate athlete can be difficult.

Chase Ferguson, senior captain of the team, acknowledges how keeping up to date with classes can be challenging, but there are ways to stay on top of things.

“It’s obviously a challenge and

the best way to do it is trying to get it in early,” Ferguson said. “Whether that’s if you know you’re going on a trip, say on a weekend especially you can try and get all of that done in the beginning of the week. There are always challenges, especially when you’re traveling. But I think the guys do a really good job of it. They are all pretty studious. I would say I’m the least studious, but I still get work done.”

Players have commended the professors at OSU for accommodating their busy scheduling and understanding how busy the life of a student-athlete is. Ferguson has seen professors with an understanding mindset when it comes to studentathletes.

“There are definitely some professors out there who are really into sports,” Ferguson said. “Sometimes there are ones who are really into tennis. That’s always a wonderful help being able to get some extra time here and there and getting some extra help. I don’t really tell my professors that I like playing tennis, so I’m not sure if they all know but, I’ve experienced that for sure.”

On the tennis court it is Taylor’s goal to turn these aspiring college athletes into professionals, but Taylor is also there to set up the student-athletes for their future career and ensure that they have successful futures. Tyler Zink, senior and Cowboys tennis court one player, commends Taylor for what he has been able to do for the team outside of tennis.

“He helps a tremendous amount,” Zink said. “He does a really good job. Him and Alan Good, have a good schedule for us that we’re able to achieve outside of the tennis courts. They have a good schedule as far as Monday through Friday where we’re able to get our schoolwork done. So it’s not always tennis first. It’s a good balance I feel and all credit to that goes to (Taylor) I feel.”

Mia Ledbetter The Cowboys tennis team GPA is 3.6, per coach Dustin Taylor.

Andy Crown At 5-foot-9, 175 pounds, Brennan Holt adapted a “little guy mentality.”

‘Little guy mentality’

Holt using blue-collar work ethic to provide for OSU

the game late. I’m going Matt Holliday, the to capitalize.” brother of OSU coach He knows he’s the Josh Holliday, scouted little guy, whose power Holt at a Perfect Game and offensive potential event in Atlanta. The can often be overlooked. Cowboys made a push, Still, he shows up to and Holt passed up the Daniel Allen practice and games with opportunity to play for Staff Reporter a blue-collar approach. his dream school.

“Finding my role “It’s like a full-cirand helping the team cle moment for me kind Nolan Schubart win in any way posof,” Brennan said. “It’s just walked-off a series sible,” Holt said. “(Win- kind of surreal.” win, but he was deflecWith Nolan tive about his late-game ning) is the end goal and I’m here to help make McLean and starting heroics. that happen.” center field Zach Eh“If Brennan didn’t His father, Scott, rhard both out for the start that one-out rally foreseeable future with I wouldn’t have had the recalls an instance that encapsulates his play injuries, Holt is making opportunity to (walk it style. the most of his opportuoff),” he said.

Holt, 13 at the nity. His steady .267 batBrennan? OSU time, was in a batting ting average has kept a center fielder Brennan session with former prolific Cowboy offense Holt and his 5-foot-9 LSU hitting coach, Bill afloat, even without two stature.

Dailey, whom coached of its vital pieces.

Trailing in the He doesn’t know bottom of the ninth, Holt his U13 travel team.

One day when he how long it will last, went to the plate and hit was struggling, Dailey nor does he know how a single up the middle his role will alter once to conclude a lengthy at- pulled Holt aside, with McLean and Ehrhard bat, and represented the Scott standing in plain sight. return. Regardless, he’d tying run on base. “(Dailey) told him, rather be the guy to help Two walks later, ‘You see those guys? his team win in pivotal Schubart delivered his base hit, clinching a 4-3 They don’t have to try,’” moments than a superScott said. “The problem star in the spotlight. win for OSU. is that everyone, scouts It’s all part of the Holt’s hits aren’t and coaches at some little guy mentality. monstrous, but they do point, are gonna pass “It’s guys like come in a timely manthem up.

But you have to Brennan that are really ner. He isn’t a starter, work your ass off just to the glue to everything,” but he says he wants be on the baseball field. Schubart said. “You see to make the most of a That work ethic, when the guys in the spotlight pinch-hit or pinch-run (it does click) is gonna but the true guys that opportunity. propel you past all of hold the team together “Little guys stick these other guys. are guys like Brennan. together,” Holt said.

“From that moIt’s the guys that don’t “That’s my little guy ment on, Brennan always necessarily get the mentality. I’m going to played with an extra spotlight. But they’re the work so hard to help my ones doing all the hard team win, whether or not chip on his shoulder.”

Holt earned a work and keeping our I’m starting or whether scholarship offer from team going in the right that means an opportuhis hometown program, direction.” nity when I come into LSU, and committed. sports.ed@ocolly.com

Page 8B Friday, April 7, 2023

O’Colly

sports

Gundy sees potential in new quarterbacks added for depth, experience

Mia Ledbetter Alan Bowman, a sixth-year player from Michigan and Texas Tech, adds experience to a quarterback room full of underclassmen.

Rowdy Baribeau Staff Reporter

very powerful arm, but he’s try- get through the difficult time of ing to figure it out.” being sidelined.

“It’s been good, OklaWide receiver Bray get- homa State does a good job, estremely well,” he said. “We’re ting back to full health after pecially with the training staff,” rotating him in with all three When quarterback Spen- groups, never says a word. an injury-plagued career Bray said. “They’re always with cer Sanders announced his me, getting me back healthy. I When I was evaluating him the intentions to enter the transfer In 2021, Cowboy coaches feel great going into this seaother day, very similar to Spenportal, OSU was left with mini- cer, except Spencer chose to got a glimpse of who could son. I feel like spring has been mal experience at the position. make plays with his legs. So far, be Tay Martin’s successor on good for everybody.”

Gunnar Gundy, who split Bowman’s choosing to make the outside. Cowboy offenses time with Garrett Rangel as Gundy says lack of plays, buying himself time and typically have two things: a Sanders’ backup last season, gunslinging quarterback and a physicality from offensive line using his arm. played in four games. Yet, the true No. 1 outside wide receiv- falls on him “Gunnar and Rangel are team needed experience and er. With a 6-foot-2 205-pound progressing like you would depth. The Cowboys added Gundy acknowledged the think freshmen would, moving frame matched with high-level three-star recruit Zane Flores 50-50-ball abilities, Bray had fact his offensive line hasn’t into their next year. Just maand Alan Bowman from Michi- turity, getting it, seeing things all the makings of being the been where he wants it from a gan in the transfer portal. OSU they didn’t see a year ago, the next star receiver for OSU. physicality standpoint. He also coach Mike Gundy said the two game has slowed down for But injuries hampered his acknowledged there is a lot of quarterbacks he reeled in this ability to play and make neces- work to do on that front and them. Zane’s done good. Zane offseason are as advertised. that his guys are aware of it. is showing us what we thought sary steps in his development. “(Bowman) acted very Bray said the help he got menhe was, last year. Very athletic, mature, handles himself extally and physically helped him “Well, you just tell them

Notebook

the truth,” Gundy said. “And it’s also not their fault. A lot of what we do here, as we’ve changed over the last four or five, six years, didn’t stress the physicality on them that we had my first 12 or 14 years here. We stressed it based on play calls, sets, formations, tight ends… We started to get away from physicality based on our concepts and schemes…

What we’ve learned is, we lose our physicality, (being physical) is not fun. So we told them the truth and we also took the blame, I took the blame. I now need adjustments to take place.”

sports.ed@ocolly.com