Friday, May 16, 2025
The films you won’t want to miss
A moviegoer’s guide to a successful summer in 2025
KENZIE KRAICH
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
It seems like every summer holds great anticipation for the avid moviegoer, and this one is no different. Summer 2025’s lineup has already made waves in the movie industry with the newest release of Marvel’s “Thunderbolts” a couple of weeks ago, and it’s safe to say the film has set the tone for the next few months.
After doing a deep dive into the most anticipated releases of the summer, here is my evaluation of which movies spectators should be most excited for.
‘Superman’ The rivalry between DC and Marvel Studios has been essentially nonexistent for years, but this movie has pushed
the envelope for a new DC Universe. Directed by James Gunn, this has the potential to make a splash among audiences. Gunn is famous for his work with the “Guardians of the Galaxy” series with Marvel, debatably one of the most creative, unique spins on a classic franchise. Many are holding out hope for this new Superman movie to get its own touch of Gunn reconstruction.
DC fans have been less-thanimpressed with the more recent developments, giving this new release the potential to make or break the opinions of millions of supporters. It’ll be interesting to see how Gunn and new Superman David Corenswet bring this classic film to life in a modern-day Marvel landscape.
See FILMS on page 3
OSU ResLife students serve Special Olympics in first week of summer break
KENZIE KRAICH EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
While many packed up and headed home last week, there is a group of Oklahoma State students who have stayed on campus with a serving attitude.
Dozens of resident assistants have dedicated their first week of summer to helping OSU host the Special Olympics Summer Games in Stillwater. For
many, this has shone a light on some of the most gratifying aspects of their position on campus.
“I love being (an RA), and I miss my residents, but I’m also glad to have people coming back and bringing those nice vibes,” said Tye Alcorn, one of OSU’s RAs. “(The athletes) are having a great time. I can see the joy in them, and they’re excited to play.”
ANNA CHILDRESS STAFF REPORTER
OKLAHOMA CITY — Hundreds of protestors gathered May 4 at Scissortail Park in Oklahoma City for “macha hasta que nos escuchen,” Spanish for “march until they hear us,” advocating for immigration reform and labor rights. Organized by Immigrant Connexión Empowerment, Community Response Network, League of United Latin American Citizens’ Oklahoma chapter and several other organizations, the event was part of nationwide disapproval against the Trump administration’s policies on labor and immigration. The protest united local activists, labor organizers and families seeking justice. The Action Network campaign called the nationwide effort a movement for housing, healthcare and union protection for all. The Oklahoma protest amplified that call with speeches, chants and signs that demanded a path to citizenship and protection against deportation raids.
See MAY on page 3
Courtesy Creative Commons
DC’s new Superman movie makes its way to screens on July 11, 2025.
Anna Childress
Kenzie Kraich
Oklahoma State resident assistants prepared decorations, rooms and check-ins for incoming Special Olympic athletes.
Summertime in Stilly What you can do to stay sane over break News
HOWELL
RAYNEE
ASSISTANT NEWS & LIFESTYLE EDITOR
@RAYNEEHOWELL
Oklahoma State’s graduation signals the end of the semester and the beginning of summer.
Graduates move away to begin their new lives, students venture off to new cities for internships and others go back home when their leases are up. But a few stragglers are always left behind.
If that’s you, don’t worry. Being stuck in Stillwater can have its advantages.
Lakes
The sun beats down on Oklahoma in the summer.
Recreational activities on the lake are always a good way to stay cool. Lake Carl Blackwell, about eight miles out of town, is fit for fishing, boating, swimming, hiking and more.
To spend more than a day on its shores, Lake Carl Blackwell has several RV spots and seven cabins available to rent. Check out the availability early to secure a spot.
Another lake worth a short drive is Lake McMurtry. About 10 miles out of town, you can go camping, fishing and hiking.
Complete with a disc golf course, a playground and kayak and paddleboard rentals, this lake is the ultimate getaway for families or friends.
Grab an ice chest, beach towels and some sunscreen before heading to one of Stillwater’s finest lakes this summer.
Pools
Are you sensing a theme? It’s going to be hot. The two public pools available in Stillwater are at the Colvin Recreation Center and the YMCA.
Students enrolled in summer classes can visit the Colvin pool for free. If you are not in summer classes, a $75 summer membership will give you access to the pool and all other amenities available to students during the school year. Day passes are $6. Pool hours at the Colvin are 1-7 p.m. Monday through Friday and noon to 7 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.
At the YMCA pool, memberships, starting at $38 a month for ages 20-25, will give you access to the pool, gym and other areas. A $5 day pass is also available.
Art
If water activities aren’t your thing, embrace your inner creativity through art.
Summer on the Plaza
Community, Creativity & Continuity: Native American Art in Everyday Life has already started and will continue through Aug. 23.
Several student artists created the work to represent life and culture in multiple tribes.
The OSU Museum of Art is hosting two showcases over the summer. Fur, Fangs, Feathers & Fins, a wildlifethemed contemporary quilting exhibition, will begin May 27. The Studio Art Quilt Association is bringing 43 artists who made the intricate quilts.
To fully immerse yourself in the showcases, the museum will host Second Saturdays on June 14 and July 12 with
hands-on art activities based on the exhibitions.
If hands-on is your thing, Prairie Arts Center hosts several adult and youth art classes throughout the year. This summer, check out its schedule online to reserve a spot and learn a new craft. The center has classes ranging from pottery to rug tufting.
Live music
Students may leave, but the bars stay open. Several venues such as Stonecloud Patio & Taproom, Iron Monk Brewing Company and The Salty Bronc host concerts from up-andcoming artists each week.
A simple Google search for
live music in Stillwater will pull up a schedule of Red Dirt country artists, and even some alternative bands, who will play into the night. Musician Katie Bardwell — who performed with Tanner Usrey on the Calf Fry stage — is one of the stars continuously on the scene in Stillwater. This week alone, she performed at Iron Monk and will perform at Modella Art Gallery on Friday.
If you’re not of drinking age but still love live music, Stonecloud will welcome you with open arms as long as you don’t sit at the bar. Catch a show; the local talent will surprise you.
OSU’s Student Union Activities Board keeps students preoccupied with a lineup of events throughout the school year, but the fun doesn’t stop once the semester ends. Summer on the Plaza is a family-oriented event with water slides, face painting, live music and more. It will take place at the Student Union Plaza on June 5, 12 and 26 beginning at 6 p.m.
If you start missing campus, this is your chance to see people inhabit it again. Grab a University Dining popsicle and join in on the fun!
news.ed@ocolly.com
Payton Little
Students who stay in Stillwater over the summer have multiple options for entertainment ranging from fishing to taking art classes.
Films
Continued from 1
‘Fantastic Four’
As we just pointed out, Marvel Studios has dominated the movie industry in a multitude of ways, and this new release continues to prove its dedication to excellence among spectators.
Marvel just dropped a fan-favorite in Thunderbolts, so it was a wonder how it would move next, but the franchise is entering its “Phase 6” with the introduction of a new Fantastic Four movie and anticipation surrounding future Avengers productions is generating buzz globally.
The first three versions of the movie were not favorable, so the newest one played on screens in July will be a test of time. It’s been 10 years since audiences last saw a Fantastic Four production, but there is good news her: This is the first one with Marvel at the helm.
This is another one of those “make or break” situations for a hopeful revamp on a classic series, which, based on the trailer, is looking very promising.
‘Happy Gilmore 2’
Continued from 1
There was music, drumming and chants echoed through the park as attendees gathered with their handmade signs and flags representing Latin American countries. Marchers held signs reading “resist” and “hands off,” as they chanted against corporate greed, calling out policies they say threaten workers and immigrants.
Volunteers passed out water bottles and voter registration forms, while different speakers set the stage to rally the crowd together. Some speakers vocalized their speeches in Spanish and English sharing stories of friends and family members currently in detention or living in fear.
“We’re working for justice and dignity for our immigrant community,” said Amy Warne, a registered dietitian and chair of the Oklahoma County Democratic Party. “We’re working to build bridges for all the communities that are fighting for our democracy and fighting for our Constitution.”
Warne spoke along with other fellow activists at the event. Each speaker delivered a powerful message that called for unity, love and justice. They also highlighted the importance of civic engagement, including local voting, mutual aid and community education. They voiced the significance of voting and where Oklahoma lacks in this area.
Resources were available at tables for those seeking legal aid or information on workplace rights. Their voices aimed for the purpose of making a change in the country.
For Lesly Fraire, a board member for LULAC Oklahoma, the issue is deeply personal.
“I came out here for all the undocumented people, especially the ones who haven’t been receiving rightful due process,” Fraire said. “All these deportations are bringing fear to our communities, especially for the hardworking immigrants who pay
their taxes and work.”
In Oklahoma, undocumented immigrants face limited access to healthcare and legal protections.
According to the Migration Policy Institute, nearly 90,000 undocumented individuals reside in the state. Many of these individuals work in construction, agriculture and service jobs remaining vulnerable to wage theft, unsafe working conditions and deportation.
Advocacy groups at the event emphasized the need for workers protections, livable wages and legal reforms, saying without such changes thousands would remain exposed to exploitation with little hope.
Attendee Jaycee Porter said she showed up to defend fundamental values.
“I think it’s just very important to stand up for what is right,” she said. “It’s our duty as American citizens to make sure that every voice is heard. We must consistently fight for others and spread love as a community.”
The May Day protests were organized under the 50501 Movement. The first protests were a response to the actions of the Trump administration. 50501 stands for 50 protests in 50 states on 1 day. This nationwide protest has mobilized five times over a span of 4 months.
The movement has brought together millions of people growing a network of organizers and organizations that are both new and established. Their values are fostered on inclusivity, nonviolence and conflict resolution.
Through the peaceful efforts of the May 4 protest, its message was clear: May Day is just the beginning.
Organizers pledged to keep pushing for immigration and labor rights in the months ahead, additionally encouraging attendees to stay involved beyond May Day. They emphasized that real change happens through persistence, unity and action beyond the protest.
The protestors were left with this chant at the end, “No somos uno. No somos cien. Somos millionescuentanos bien.” (We’re not one. We’re not one hundred. We’re in the millions. Count us well.)
news.ed@ocolly.com
This one is a personal favorite of mine, and anyone who shares a love for Adam Sandler or golf prodigies won’t want to miss this Netflix production.
Coming to Netflix in July, this highly anticipated film will feature some of the biggest names in mainstream media, including some high-profile athletes. Ben Stiller, Bad Bunny, Julie Bowen and Travis Kelce are making an appearance on screen alongside some of golf’s greatest athletes in Bryson DeChambeau, Scottie Scheffler and the 2025 Master’s Champion, Rory McIlroy.
Sandler is known for his street clothes and don’t-care attitude, which is already evident in the film’s
Release Dates
newest trailer. As he teams up with Christopher McDonald, AKA Shooter McGavin, for this nostalgic release, I and other Sandler fans are left on our toes waiting to see how the storyline will unfold.
‘Jurassic World Rebirth’
As the fourth movie of the Jurassic World series, I anticipate viewers having mixed opinions on the new release. Of course, the iconic first movie of Jurassic Park will hold a special place in the hearts of many, but can we really say the five after that were all that great?
Even the Internet Movie Database ranks the rest of the movies as lessthan-average, with the 2022 release of Jurassic World: Dominion being in the red. This really begs the question – who asked for this sixth movie in the first place?
To be frank, this movie won’t hurt my feelings if it goes one way or another. But, I know others are eager to see what Universal Pictures comes up with when the production hits the big screen on July 2.
‘I Know What You Did Last Summer’
What’s a movie preview without a little thriller, especially one featuring Madelyn Cline?
This gruesome, stomach-turning production has captured the eyes of many through the simple fact that it has an actual storyline. As five friends try to figure out who is torturing them, they are faced with the reality of one thing: Someone knows what they did 365 days earlier.
I would be a terrible previewer if I gave you the entire plot, but what I will say is that this trailer has left me wanting more. Not only do I give credit where it’s due in Cline’s expertise, but I also believe viewers could be left with a bit more of an appreciation for “slasher” movies at the end of it.
Superman: July 11, 2025
Fantastic Four: July 25, 2025 Happy Gilmore 2: July 25, 2025
Jurassic World Rebirth: July 2, 2025
I Know What You Did Last Summer: July 18, 2025
Anna Childress
Hundreds of people walked OKC for a May Day March on May 4.
A guide for the perfect shot through Stillwater’s underrated photo gems
BRYSON THADHANI SOCIAL MEDIA EDITOR
If you have ever scrolled through Instagram and seen yet another Theta Pond sunset or Boone Pickens senior portrait session, you’re not alone.
Sure, they are classic Stillwater staples, but what if you want something different? Whether you are looking for a hidden mural, a scenic overlook or a spot that makes your followers ask, “Where is that,” Stillwater has some underrated gems waiting to be discovered.
This guide will take you beyond the usual campus landmarks to highlight both well-known and hidden locations for your next great photo.
Classic Stillwater shots
Boone Pickens Stadium: Yes I know, but it is one of the most recognizable places in Stillwater, and starting off this list with anything other than the home of Cowboy football just did not feel right. The best time to visit would be sunset for warm lighting over the stadium.
lights that are always on, and anybody who knows me knows I am a sucker for vertical objects. I cannot tell you why, but that is just how it is. I would try to go midday when the light hits the courtyard just right.
The OSU Foundation building: A sleek mix of modern glass and classic brick that works well for professional or academic-style photos. For this spot, the ideal time to go would be overcast days or late afternoon to get softer lighting.
Hidden gems and unique backdrops
The Coffee House mural: This bold, religious mural features an image of Jesus with outstretched arms alongside the phrase, “I am the way and the truth & life.” The bright colors and graffiti-style design makes it stand out from traditional murals. Midday would give great even lighting, or you could go during sunset to get a nice glow.
to go would be the evening for softer lighting.
Downtown fire escapes and historic brick buildings: If you’re lucky, you will be able to find some rustic iron staircases that were fire escapes on the older buildings. The textured brick walls and vintage signs can create an old-school aesthetic, perfect for street-style shots. If you can, go during sunset to get warm tones, or at night for a city-lit effect.
Scenic outdoor spots
The hidden creek near Boomer Lake: A small waterfall-like section of the creek offers a peaceful, natural setting for photos. If you can, go after a rainstorm for a better water flow. Lake McMurty’s rope swing: A true hidden gem, this rope swing over the lake adds an adventurous feel to any shoot. Go during the afternoon for bright, clear lighting.
The final shot
Over the past week, RAs have switched gears from checkouts to check ins, decorating hallways, preparing dorm rooms and welcoming teams with smiling faces. Every Special Olympic athlete has brought immense joy as they check in, helping the RA’s transition from end-of-year chaos into an element of excitement and positivity.
The empty OSU campus and lonely halls didn’t last long for these students, but they didn’t seem to mind.
“A week ago, it was really chaotic,” said Jake Goodman, another RA on campus. “Everyone was worried about how they were going to move all their stuff out, and their plans for the summer… (but) during this session, we can focus on Special Olympics and make sure that (the participants and coaches) feel welcomed and support them in their time on campus.”
Regardless of their connection to Special Olympics, it is apparent the OSU Residence Life staff is all hands on deck in making this week as memorable as possible for incoming athletes. Alcorn, however, has found great pride in what she has been able to do so far this week as Special Olympics has a unique place in her heart.
“In my family, I have people who have special needs, so it’s fun for me to see this as an opportunity for other people, whereas back in the day… they didn’t have those same opportunities,” Alcorn said. “I’m grateful that Oklahoma State has done this and provided this experience for them, and I’m hopeful that they have a great time.”
Alcorn and Goodman, alongside their peers, are excited to take their servitude to the next level this week, helping remind them why they chose to become RAs to begin with.
“That is part of my why for wanting to help with Special Olympics, and why it’s enjoyable to do,” Goodman said. “You get to add to that experience for them, and you can really see the meaning in their experience and that it means a lot to them. I just want to just add to that.”
Theta Pond: Again, it is a classic for a reason. It has everything you could need for a good shot—A bench, bridge and, of course, water. I recommend going in the morning to avoid crowds or late afternoon for golden-hour lighting.
St. John Catholic Student Center: The church’s architecture, red brick and courtyard make it a peaceful and elegant setting for portraits. It has tall
The alley next to Balanced Coffee: Noticing a theme here with coffee shops? Don’t worry, this is the last one. This a narrow alley with an urban feel, featuring textured brick and an industrial vibe and is great for moody portraits or creative angles. The best time to visit would be late afternoon for dramatic shadows.
The mural behind Stillwater Marital Arts: This mural is a window into Stillwater’s past. It shows horse-drawn carriages and barrels and is unlike any other mural in town. The best time
Stillwater may not have towering skylines or oceanfront views, but it offers a mix of classic landmarks, artistic murals and hidden nature sports that make for great photos. Whether you’re capturing a new profile picture, a senior portrait or just an interesting snapshot, these locations prove that great backdrops are everywhere—you just have to know where to look.
Did we miss a spot? Let us know your favorite photo-worthy locations in Stillwater.
news.ed@ocolly.com
Kenzie Kraich
Mardi Gras was the theme as OSU residence life welcomed Special Olympic athletes to campus.
Isaac Dennis
Balanced Coffee’s alleyway poses a perfect opportunity for photos among Stillwater residents.
OSU Women’s basketball adds Carter as next assistant coach
ALYSSA BRANDON SPORTS EDITOR
Oklahoma State women’s basketball is right in the midst of its offseason but is bolstering its staff with a new hire to replace former assistant coach Jhasmin Player.
Head coach Jacie Hoyt announced Monday that Mandi Carter would be joining the Cowgirls as the team’s newest assistant coach.
Carter is coming to Stillwater fresh off of a highly productive tenure at Fresno State, where she spent 11 seasons in a coaching role and the last eight as the Bulldogs’ associate head coach. Carter aided the Bulldogs to five postseason appearances and a three-rounddeep run into the Mountain West’s 2024-25 conference championship.
Hoyt had high praise for Carter.
“Mandi is a great fit for our culture,” Hoyt said in a release. “Her passion for basketball and developing women on and off the court shines through her. She had a very illustrious playing career and I know our players will greatly benefit from her knowledge and ability to develop them at the highest level”.
Carter brings playing experience at the college and professional levels, providing a well-roundedness to the Cowgirl coaching staff.
In 2002, she was signed as a free agent to the WNBA’s Detroit Shock. She spent the next seven years overseas, where she helped lead her team to multiple championships in the French League, the Swiss Cup, the Adriatic League and the Latvian League.
Carter has had her fair share of individual success as well. Her time overseas led her to winning the Swiss League MVP, Latvian League MVP, becoming a two-time all-star selectee and MVP of the Arab Clubs Tournament. Now she’s looking to make a mark on one of the nation’s up-and-coming women’s basketball programs.
“I am honored and excited to join the Oklahoma State women’s basketball program,” Carver said in a release. “This is a university with a proud tradition and a passionate fanbase and I am eager to contribute to the growth,
development and success of our student-athletes both on and off the court. I cannot wait to get to work alongside Coach Jacie and this incredible staff.”
While it’s clear she has an eye for the game, Carter also has experience in the recruiting field, which was something that the Cowgirls’ coaching search found alluring.
“She has recruited and developed some of the country’s best talents in the last few years and I am positive she will do the same for us,” Hoyt said in a release.
Some of the players she helped recruit and accrue success at Fresno State were the 2015 Mountain West Co-Player of the Year Alex Sheedy, backto-back Mountain West Players of the Year Madi Uit and Haley Cavinder, and league Defensive Player of the Year Bego Faz Davalos. Cavinder and Davalos both went on to transfer to higher-level programs in Miami
player for Idaho State.
Carver became the first player in program history to score more than 1,000 points and grab more than 1,000 rebounds. In addition, she was named Big Sky MVP her senior season, in which she led the nation in rebounding at 12.4 per game.
Her experience on the glass could be a wise addition to
Tarleton State.
It’s another huge add for the Cowgirls, who are looking to improve upon a season in which they won the third-most games in program history and danced their way to a second postseason appearance in the Jacie Hoyt era. It is unknown what the exact hierarchy will be regarding
Connor Fuxa
Oklahoma State women’s basketball coach Jacie Hoyt filled the vacancy on her coaching staff this week, hiring former Fresno State assistant Mandi Carter.
SPORTS
Flying under the radar
A look at softball’s Regional matchups
LUKE MAZZA STAFF REPORTER
No one is picking the Oklahoma State softball team to emerge from the Fayetteville Super Regional — and that may be the Cowgirls’ biggest advantage.
Flying under the radar is not familiar territory for coach Kenny Gajewski and the Cowgirls. OSU (33-18) has hosted the Super Regionals the past five seasons, but this year’s journey looks different. The Cowgirls entered the season ranked No. 4 in the preseason poll, but they have fallen short of those lofty expectations.
The Cowgirls are chasing their sixth consecutive Women’s College World Series berth, but now the road begins away from Stillwater.
Arkansas, host of the Fayetteville Super Regional, enters as the favorite behind the power of Bri Ellis, who leads the NCAA in on-base (.649) and slugging percentage (1.189). Despite earning the No. 4 overall seed, the Razorbacks have failed to advance past Super Regionals in each of the past two seasons, even while hosting in both years.
The Cowgirls, the No. 2 seed in the Fayetteville Regional, will face thirdseeded Indiana at 3 p.m. on Friday at Bogle Park. Top-seeded Arkansas takes on No. 4 seed Saint Louis in the nightcap at 5:30 p.m.
Here is an in-depth look at the teams the Cowgirls could face in Fayetteville:
No. 1 Arkansas
Arkansas (40-12) is making its 14th NCAA Tournament appearance, aiming to break through after recent postseason struggles.
This year’s team may be its strongest in recent memory. Ellis, the SEC Player of the Year, leads the offense, while Robyn Herron (17-6) anchors the pitching staff with a 2.50 ERA and
150 strikeouts. Payton Burnham (13-2) adds depth with a 2.80 ERA in 97 ⅔ innings. At the plate, the Razorbacks are one of the best, with five hitters batting .320 or better.
No. 3 Indiana Indiana (33-18), the Cowgirls’ first opponent, is making its 11th NCAA Tournament appearance.
The Hoosiers lead the nation in team batting average at .368, with four players hitting over .400. Senior outfielder Taylor Minnick headlines the offense, batting .470 with 16 home runs and in the top 10 in slugging (.973) and on-base percentage (.579). In the circle, Brianna Copeland (17-8) leads the Indiana pitching staff with a 4.63 ERA — no other pitcher for the Hoosiers has thrown more than 66 innings.
The matchup will be a battle of contrasting styles, with the Cowgirls leaning on ace Ruby Meylen and Indiana counting on its high-powered lineup.
No. 4 St. Louis Saint Louis (34-22) enters its first NCAA Tournament after winning the Atlantic 10 title with an 18-7 conference record.
The Billikens dropped their A-10 Tournament opener to Fordham, but battled through the loser’s bracket and beat Fordham twice to clinch the conference title. Junior catcher Abby Mallo, Atlantic 10 Co-Player of the Year, leads the Billikens with a .368 batting average, 19 home runs and 80 RBIs — the second-most in the nation.
In the circle, senior Taylor Hochman (16-7) leads the staff with a 2.38 ERA over 182 ⅔ innings. Senior outfielder Natalie Sullivan adds speed to the lineup, batting .363 with five triples and 25 stolen bases.
The Cowgirls’ first pitch of postseason play is scheduled for Friday at 3 p.m.
sports.ed@ocolly.com
Former Cowgirl basketball guard to continue career in Europe
ALYSSA BRANDON SPORTS EDITOR
Cowgirl sharpshooter Anna Gret Asi has officially graduated, but her journey on the court isn’t over yet.
Asi announced Tuesday, via Instagram, that she is agreeing to play with Castors Braine, a Belgian basketball club that plays in the FIBA Women’s EuroLeague.
“(Asi) is one of the best shooters in the college championship,” a social media post by Castors Braine read. “Scoring, creation, leadership: a weight reinforcement for our team.”
The Estonian native is joining a championship-quality program as Castors Braine took home the EuroCup title in 2014. The team also won the Belgium women’s basketball league seven years straight from 2014-2020. After four years, they regained their place atop the league again, becoming the 2024-25 champions.
“With her fighting spirit, natural leadership and complete profile as a scorer and passer, (Asi) will undoubtedly contribute to broadening our game and creating new offensive dynamics,” the club said in a release.
Asi spent her first season in the NCAA as an Arizona Wildcat, but since transferring to Oklahoma State in 2022, she has been one of the Cowgirls’ most reliable outside shooters.
In her best season with the team, Asi shot 39.3% from 3-point range and 42.9% from the field, drilling 70 shots from behind the arc. In Asi’s last year in the orange and black, she saw
a career-high 33-point performance against Texas Southern and earned National Big-12 Player of the Week in February and Third-team Big-12 honors for the season.
As a pro, the 5-foot-8 guard offers an electric energy from long range and NCAA experience that will serve her well in the EuroLeague. Along with her on-court skills, Asi brings a strength in leadership to Europe that OSU coach Jacie Hoyt spoke about earlier this year.
“She’s grown so much,” Hoyt said. “She’s more than a scorer now. She’s become a defender that we can rely on. She’s been a great leader this year.”
It could be a different role and a drastic change in atmosphere for Asi, but so was leaving Estonia to come play college basketball – a decision Asi certainly does not regret.
“I take a lot of pride being an Estonian,” Asi said. “Not a lot of people, especially girls who play basketball, make it to play outside of Estonia. Oklahoma State has really become my second home now, and I have really enjoyed my time (in Stillwater).”
Having to leave the loyal and true will not be an easy goodbye for Asi, but she won’t be alone when she gets to Belgium. Fellow Estonian and former teammate of Asi, Merick Anderson, is also on the Castors. The two played together on the Estonia Women National Team in 2018 and 2019.
The Cowgirl fandom knew big things were in store for Asi, and she has risen to that expectation with this move.
sports.ed@ocolly.com
OUR EYES ARE ON CHRIST!
“ As the eyes of slaves look to the hand of their master, as the eyes of a maid look to the hand of her mistress, so our eyes look to the LORD our God, till he show us his mercy.” (Ps.123:2 NIV)
“My heart is not proud, O LORD, my eyes are not haughty...But I have stilled and quieted my soul; like a weaned child with its mother, like a weaned child is my soul within me.” (Ps.131:1,2 NIV)
“ I waited patiently for the LORD; he turned to me and heard my cry. He lifted me out of the slimy pit...he set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand. He put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise to our God. Many will see and fear (stand in awe) and put their trust in the LORD.” (Ps.40:1-3 NIV)
“But they that wait upon the LORD shall
renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.” (Is.40:31 KJV)
There is something definite and real about waiting on the Lord. I remember years ago when I sensed the Lord speak to me. “Make yourself available!” I thought I was! I was reading my Bible some and going to church regularly. As I considered this challenge from Lord, I felt I should spend some quiet time daily with the Lord. With my busy days,I decided to spend a hour (5 to 6 a.m.) each day. That decision brought about important changes in my
Chance Marick
Megan Bloodworth and the Oklahoma State softball team will open NCAA Tournament play this weekend in Fayetteville, Arkansas. The Cowgirls will face Indiana in the opening round Friday.
Connor Fuxa
After scoring 10.6 points per game over three seasons at OSU, women’s basketball guard Anna Gret Asi will begin her professional career in Belgium. Asi started 60 games for the Cowgirls over the past two seasons.
OSU baseball postseason outlook ahead of series vs. Arizona State
TIMOTHY CHRISTENSEN STAFF REPORTER
With coach Josh Holliday’s 11year tournament streak in jeopardy, the biggest series of the season for Oklahoma State is coming up against Arizona State.
ASU comes to Stillwater playing some of its best baseball of the year, defeating Grand Canyon 17–7 in seven innings Tuesday night. The bats were already hot as ASU had scored 13 runs in each of their last two games against its Big 12 foe, Houston.
The Sun Devils’ combination of batting and solid defense has already proven to be successful. ASU has won its last four Big 12 series, vaulting it to No. 2 in the conference. However, those
wins have come against some of the lowest-seeded teams in the conference. Their best victories? Two wins over ninth-seeded Texas Tech.
ASU head coach Willie Bloomquist will head to Stillwater attempting to earn his first win against the Cowboys, with Josh Holliday holding the series advantage 4-0. The Cowboys, on the other hand, would love to keep Bloomquist winless, not only for the pride of defending home-field, but also to strengthen their season-long resume heading into tournament play.
OSU has clinched a spot in the Big 12 Baseball Championship, scheduled for May 21–24 at Globe Life Field in Arlington, Texas. The eighth-seeded Cowboys currently have a .500 conference win percentage and could
pass Cincinnati at .519, depending on how they perform in their series against Kansas State.
OSU only needs to win one out of three against Arizona State to avoid dropping to the ninth seed in the conference. However, the Cowboys will want to win more than that if they want to bolster their chances of attending the NCAA Tournament.
In RPI, a ranking system that combines a team’s winning percentage with their opponent’s winning percentage, OSU sits at No. 51. With the automatic bids for the NCAA tournament handed out to conference champions, that most likely means OSU would not be chosen as an at-large team by the selection committee if it were to happen today.
Fortunately for the Cowboys, it’s not happening today, and there is still time to continue righting the ship. ASU currently sits at No. 45 in RPI, so earning a series win against the squad would go a long way in giving OSU an edge toward being one of the last four selected for the tournament.
If Holliday and Co. want to keep tournament hopes alive, the team needs to perform well all weekend. OSU has been winning at a more consistent level in recent showings, going 5-1 in the Big 12 within the month of May. However, these wins have come against lowerseeded opponents.
The ASU series at home will determine whether the hot streak is simply a fluke or if the Cowboys are peaking at the right time.
sports.ed@ocolly.com
The Oklahoma State baseball team hosts Arizona State this weekend with the Cowboys’ postseason future uncertain.
SPORTS
OSU track and field preparing to take the stage at Big 12 Championships
PEARSON GILLAM STAFF REPORTER
With the regular season in the books, it’s time for Oklahoma State’s track and field teams to throw out all other races and personal bests as they head into the final stretch.
OSU’s track and field teams will be in Lawrence, KS, May 15-17 to compete in the 2025 Big 12 Outdoor Track & Field Championships.
Difficulties arise during this time of season as the training becomes rigorous, the coaching gets tricky and a variety of important decisions must be made.
“You kind of have to pick where you want to be great… is it the conference meet or the national meet,” said OSU coach Dave Smith. “A lot of the guys are running in events that aren’t their primary event.”
Additionally, star sophomore Brian Musau will not make the trip to Lawrence and will instead continue preparing for nationals.
Although the Cowboys may not be in striking distance of the outright team championship, many have a great shot at claiming individual crowns, ultimately generating confidence within the coaching staff.
“I think Fouad Messaoudi has a great chance to win the 1500 Meter title,” Smith said.
“Kaylie Politza in the women’s (800 Meter) has a great chance to win, Emma Robbins in the hammer throw has a great chance to win the conference title.”
Annie Molenhouse in the
women’s Heptathlon, Denis Kipngetich in the 10,000 Meters and Ryan Schoppe in the 5,000 Meters are all athletes looking to make a splash for OSU.
The message that Smith has projected to his team throughout the week is to maintain a short-term mindset as the Big 12 Championships
are unique, being more centered around placement.
“It’s not about how fast you run anymore, it’s not about what your PR’s are or what you did at some random race some place,” Smith said. “The slate’s wiped clean, and it’s all about who can you beat.”
OSU will have to be ready for more tactical and fierce
races, knowing competitors will have the same goal in mind. This is another message that Smith has delivered to his athletes.
“It’s much more physical,” Smith said. “There’s a lot of contact… not a lot of cooperation. Each kid [needs to] try to keep themselves in the perfect position.”
Every race will feature stellar talent as three teams in the Big 12 on both the men’s and women’s side rank in the top 16 nationally. The meet kicks off with the men’s Decathlon 100 Meters at 11:30 a.m. on Thursday, and live coverage can be found on ESPN+.
sports.ed@ocolly.com
Courtesy OSU Athletics
From left, Alex Stitt, Fouad Messaoudi, Ryan Schoppe, and Dave Smith gearing up for Big 12 Championships.