Independent Student Journalism since 1987. Volume 50 l Issue 19 l February 12, 2025
THE OU PLEDGE A commitment to experience PAGE 4
ARTIFACT LAB NIGHT Transported back in time PAGE 10-11
HANGING HIGH Kay Felder’s banner rises PAGE 18
PHOTO BY EVELYN APAHIDEAN
DURING ARTIFACT LAB NIGHT hosted by the Anthropology Club of Oakland University, Dr. Spencer-Wood shows students a pitcher that she previously reconstructed. Learn more about the night of archaeological exploration on page 10-11.
Don Ritenburgh Business Adviser ritenbur@oakland.edu
248.370.2533
PHOTO BY ADRIAN JIMENEZ MORALES
Professional development at OU’s Winter Career Fair
MATILDE RABAJOLI Campus Reporter
The winter semester at Oakland University is well underway as students prepare for midterm exams and plan for the future. One of the most anticipated events, the Winter Career Fair, provided students with a safe, professional and welcoming environment on Feb. 5 from noon to 3 p.m.
The annual event allowed students to meet at the Oakland Center and talk with 85 employers that ranged from engineering companies to law firms and various other industries. Over 800 students attended the event, interested in possible internships or employment options in the fields of “business, engineering, computer science, information technology, liberal arts and human resources.”
“It was very inspiring and productive. I was able to go around and put myself out there with all the different companies. I mean, my favorite was Rocket. So, I went there first,” student Ailin Collins said. “Definitely worth waiting in line for Rocket Companies.”
DTE Energy, Challenge Detroit, Blue Cross Blue Shield and MAHLE were some of the employers present at the fair. The companies present at the event were part of the automation, educational and healthcare industries with some more specialized ones like pest control, renewable energy and investment industries.
Many students were seen waiting in line at the booths hours before the allocated interview time.
The Career and Life Design Center (CLDC) encouraged students to use the Handshake App before and during the event to research employers. QR codes at each booth also allowed for easy exchange of information between students and employers with a personalized list of connections.
“It’s great, a lot of people showed up a lot better than the last one,” senior Jason Midulla said. “A lot of great companies were here and a lot of [CLDC] people were helping out, walking around, talking to [attendees].”
Similar to the Fall Career Fair, the event hosted a couple of afternoon hours to allow students to wander from booth to booth of the various
companies represented. After 3 p.m., students were invited to onsite interviews for further discussion on their future careers.
“While face-to-face interaction can be stressful, it offers valuable insight to the real-life experience of the interviews or a work environment, so the Career Fair was a good way to prepare for future job applications,” Midulla explained.
Participating employers attending career fair offered first-hand knowledge to the up-and-coming professionals at OU.
“I definitely think a lot of students took the opportunity to come up to us individually, showed their confidence and showed the skills and education they learned at Oakland University and how they can implement it into the field,” Thomas Demers, a representative of Sherwin Williams, said.
The CLDC hosts three large-scale career fairs to targeted majors each academic year and several smaller career fairs, including the March 14 Exploration Fair: Opportunities in Healthcare and Natural Sciences. This event is open to School of Health Sciences, School of Nursing, and College of Arts and Sciences natural science students.
The various fairs give students multiple opportunities to find different employment locations and internship experiences. “Yes, if I don’t land that internship, I’ll definitely try again,” Collins said before leaving for her own interview slot time.
For more information about future career fairs visit the Career and Life Design Center’s Handshake page or their office at 103 North Foundation Hall.
PHOTO BY EVELYN APAHIDEAN
CLDC launches ‘The OU Pledge:’ Commits career and research opportunities to students
CHELSEA BOSSERT Arts Editor
On Wednesday, Feb. 5, Oakland University, in collaboration with the Career and Life Design Center, opened the 2025 Winter Career Fair with a ceremony launching OU’s newest initiative and commitment to students: the OU Pledge.
The CLDC-led initiative pledges that every student at OU who wants an internship, cooperative learning
experience, research opportunities and other careerrelevant involvement will receive it.
Wayne Thibodeau, Senior Director of OU’s Career and Life Design Center, spoke first at the ceremony and welcomed the five other speakers to the podium, including Michelle Richard from Governor Whitmer’s office.
“We need students that are ready to excel in today’s economy,” Michelle Richard, Deputy Director for Higher Education and Michigan Department of Lifelong Education, Advancement and Potential said. “That means focusing on rigor and relevance in their education. It means creating more opportunities to see our economy in action, so they can learn how to solve today’s tough problems and hopefully find interesting careers right here in Michigan.”
The common theme that was mentioned again and again during the launch was competitiveness and the instinct to explore. This resonated in OU administrator
and audience member Glenn McIntosh, Senior Vice President for Student Affairs.
“Part of our role as community members and stewards of place is being good partners in the community, and our students are always going into the job market highly prepared. So, when you talk about talent for the state of Michigan, we provide that,” McIntosh said. “I’m looking forward to many students taking advantage of this opportunity from their freshman year to their senior year.”
Another one of the speakers was recent OU graduate, Aadeesh Dhiman, who was heavily involved with the CLDC during his time at Oakland.
“I think that is really crucial for all the universities to have since that is what prepares them for the actual industry,” Dhiman said. “The internship experience and the commitment that Oakland has to that is really good.”
Dhiman, who graduated in December 2024, is now employed at General Motors. Dhiman is just one of many success stories that the CLDC has. This key initiative is first and foremost about students’ progress and future careers — no one understands that more than Thibodeau.
“What I love about this initiative, it’s a universitywide, presidential initiative that is helping our students develop transferable skills through internships and experiential learning for future success,” Wayne Thibodeau, Senior Director OU’s Career and Life Design Center, said.
Other speakers that took the stage included Kevin Corcoran, Interim Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost, Trina Scott, Vice President, Civic and Community Affairs at Rocket Companies and Oakland University Board of Trustee. In addition to that, Mark Guthrie, Chief Information Officer, AM General Former Chair-OUAA and
active board member in OU’s School of Business Administration, was in attendance.
Wayne Thibodeau stayed after the launch for questions and pictures with the speakers, OU board members and students.
“There’s a new homepage for OU Pledge, students can also work with the Career and Life Design Center to get themselves prepared for internships,” Thibodeau said. “That’s the beauty about our foundational elements of life-design, it’s helping students really prepare for their futures, explore and navigate the unknowns.”
For any student who is wondering how to find out more about this commitment from OU and the CLDC, visit oakland.edu/pledge/. For more info on the CLDC you can visit oakland.edu/cldc/ or find them in North Foundation Hall room 103.
PHOTO BY EVELYN APAHIDEAN
PHOTO BY EVELYN APAHIDEAN
PHOTO BY EVELYN APAHIDEAN
PHOTO BY EVELYN APAHIDEAN
Honors College awards students and teaching assistants with Spirit of Discovery Award
DANIELA CESARIO
Features Reporter
Oakland University’s Credit Union (OUCU) is recognizing the dedication and excellence of both students and Honors College teaching assistants through the Spirit of Discovery Award, a scholarship designed to support and celebrate their contributions to academic and community engagement.
“Honors College students and TAs are mentors and leaders who help shape the experiences of our university community,” Dr. Graeme Harper, Dean of the Honors College, said. “This award is a testament to their dedication and the vital role they play in enhancing learning at Oakland University.”
The Spirit of Discovery Award is given annually to outstanding students and teaching assistants (TAs) in the Honors College who demonstrate a commitment to mentorship, academic excellence, research and fostering a dynamic learning environment.
“Being recognized for our contributions to the learning environment means a lot,” sophomore recipient Amelia Richter said. “It encourages us to keep striving for excellence in academics and mentorship. I was really honored to have received this, and I can’t wait for what my future at OU has in store.”
Recipients of the Spirit of Discovery Award are selected based on their leadership in the classroom, dedication to student engagement and ability to inspire a passion for learning. Many are involved in research projects, community service, leadership
initiatives or serve as role models to their peers.
“Helping students improve their writing skills and develop confidence in their academic abilities has been one of the most fulfilling parts of my role,” Richter said. “Receiving this award not only acknowledges my efforts but also encourages me to continue supporting students in their learning journeys.”
The scholarship is funded by the OU Credit Union, an institution committed to supporting Oakland University students and faculty. By
offering financial assistance to all students, the OUCU hopes to encourage continued excellence in academics, research and mentorship. Sophomore Grace Kasmarogi, a TA who nominated a student of hers after recognizing her efforts in fostering inclusivity and her eagerness to learn, explained the rewarding nature of the awards.
“Seeing my student recognized for their hard work and passion for learning was incredibly rewarding,” Kasmarogi said. “It reinforces the importance of mentorship and the impact we can have not just as TA’s, but as educators.”
The Spirit of Discovery Award recognizes students and TAs who make a positive impact beyond the classroom, by honoring those willing to step out of their comfort zone and voice their thoughts. Honors College students and faculty members are encouraged to nominate deserving individuals for the award, ensuring that exceptional students and TAs receive the acknowledgment they deserve.
“The Spirit of Discovery Award really shows how dedicated OU is to its students,” Richter said. “I am forever grateful I applied for this position, and had the opportunity in HC 1000, Making Discoveries. This award reflects the university’s dedication to academic growth and exploration. I loved my group and am looking forward to making new discoveries and growing in my education at OU.”
For more information on the Spirit of Discovery Award and how to nominate a student or TA, visit the Honors College webpage or contact the Honors College office at hc@oakland.edu.
PHOTO BY MATTHEW VIGELIUS
Classes from several departments are being cancelled: Here’s why
NOAH FRANCIS Features Editor
There will always be classes that many students will have to take at one time or another during their degree, whether it’s a general education class or not. Classes such as these never have the fear of being canceled, as they usually end up filling all of their seats quickly.
The smaller and less popular major classes do not have such luxuries, as they just barely hit the required number of students to be taught. The Religious Studies program and the Department of Sociology, Anthropology, Social Work and Criminal Justice have been hit due to the scarce number of students taking these courses.
Professor Henry Gooren, the director of religious studies and a professor of anthropology at OU, has experienced canceled classes in the past. With the class size requirements increasing, it’s difficult to tell whether or not a class is going to make the cut for the next semester.
“In the past, they would have allowed us to run classes with maybe five or six students, but that’s not the case anymore,” Gooren said. “There are special circumstances that allow it, but officially the rules are that for an intro 1000 level class, you need a minimum of 20 students. For an upper level, you need a minimum
of 16 students now, and that can be flexible sometimes with lower numbers, but you rarely get a class with less than 10 or 12 people in it nowadays.”
A big factor hat affects these smaller classes is the fact that enrollment is far lower than it used to be at OU, mainly due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
“OU enrollment overall used to be around 21,00022,000 students eight years ago, and it’s been just barely around 15,000-16,000 in the last couple of years,” Gooren said. “With intro classes, if they’re gen ed, they may have 50 students. For upper-level classes, if you have a limited number of students in your major, those classes are going to have between five and 10 students.”
Similarly, Joe Shively, the Senior Associate Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, shed light on how elective classes are managed from behind the scenes.
“If somebody’s running a course that’s a pure elective, nobody actually needs it for their degree, then we are really going to need some enrollment,” Shively said. “Running that versus a major course folks have to have, recognizing that it’s a senior level course and we’ve got 10 students or 12 students who need it as seniors, we’re gonna run that. Then we’re gonna kind of trade off and go, ‘Okay, here’s a 1000 level section.’ If we don’t even cancel the course, but combine the sections, then we get good enrollment in those sections.”
To save these classes from being cancelled last minute, professors advise students to register earlier to ensure their classes stay together.
“I know this is hard for students, because sometimes they’re waiting to see about financial aid, and sometimes they’re waiting to see about their job and their hours,” Gooren said. “But in general, I would say, please try to register at least four weeks before the semester starts. The earlier, the better.”
For more information on how to register for classes, visit the registration webpage at oakland.edu.
Students react to Sabrina Carpenter announcing deluxe edition of ‘Short n’ Sweet’
DANIELA CESARIO
Features Reporter
Sabrina Carpenter has thrilled fans with the announcement of a deluxe edition of her album “Short n’ Sweet,” set to release on Valentine’s Day, Feb. 14. This is very on theme for Carpenter’s aesthetic, and it’s been announced that the expanded version will feature none other than country music icon Dolly Parton.
“Sabrina’s music has been such a huge part of my life, and this announcement just made my entire semester,” freshman Ava O’Conner said. “The fact that she’s collaborating with Dolly Parton makes it even more special.”
The original “Short n’ Sweet“ album, which debuted to critical acclaim, showcased Carpenter’s evolving artistry and musical maturity. The deluxe edition promises to build on that foundation with additional tracks, including her collaboration with Parton.
“Dolly Parton is definitely a very big step for Sabrina,” freshman Farah Al-Hasan said. “And hearing her on one of Sabrina’s most popular songs is going to be amazing. I grew up listening to country music, so this crossover is really exciting.”
Carpenter has been teasing the deluxe album, dropping cryptic hints on social media that led fans to speculate about new music. The official announcement has only heightened excitement.
“I’ve been following all of her hints on Instagram, and this was exactly what I was hoping for,” Al-Hasan said. “She always knows how to keep fans engaged.”
With Carpenter’s growing fanbase and a highly anticipated collaboration with Parton, industry experts predict the deluxe album will be a major success. Critics have praised Carpenter’s recent work for its lyrical depth and refined production, and many expect the new tracks to continue that trend.
“Sabrina’s music has evolved so much over the years, and she keeps proving herself as an artist,” O’Conner
said. “This deluxe edition is going to give fans even more reasons to love her. I am really hoping to get tickets if she decides to go on tour again, although they sold out so fast I am not sure I will be able to.”
Many Oakland University students are already planning to listen and celebrate the album’s release. Some fans have expressed their excitement on social media, sharing their favorite Carpenter songs and speculating on the themes of the new tracks.
“I’m hoping she does a live performance of the new songs,” Al-Hasan said. “That would be the ultimate way to experience this album. Given her history of surprising her fans with performances and intimate events, I think it would be really cool, and I am definitely holding out hope for something.”
Whether it’s a live concert, a virtual meet-and-greet or exclusive behind-the-scenes content, fans are ready to celebrate the new music in any way possible. As the anticipation builds, all eyes are on Carpenter as she prepares to share more details and surprises leading up to the album’s release.
Fans can expect updates on social media, where Carpenter has been known to tease her next moves and keep her audience engaged. With the Valentine’s Day release, it’s clear that Carpenter is giving her fans a gift that will keep on giving, leaving them eager for what’s to come in the world of “Short n’ Sweet.”
PHOTO COURTESY OF COSMOPOLITAN
PHOTO BY MATTHEW VIGELIUS
The African Student Union showcases African culture at Oakland
SOPHIA CURRAN
Features Reporter
The African Student Union creates a community for international African students at Oakland University, allowing them to form bonds with students by encouraging them to show others themselves and their culture.
The Union balances comfort and joy for international students who join. Originally aimed to ensure that African students at Oakland are adjusting well to their college life, the African Student Union also makes sure to host several events that include students outside of the African student community, with the goal of forming lifelong friendships and creating a welcoming environment for those who share different backgrounds.
One of the biggest events of the year is the beginning of the year potluck. This event has students introduce themselves and their culture to other members of the Union. In addition to the potluck, they also host different events throughout the year in order to introduce African culture to students all over campus. These events are welcomed to all and are curated by the African Student Union (ASU) board, which includes members from all over Africa.
Vice President Fatoumata Samb was born in Senegal and moved to multiple countries across North and West Africa. The exposure to many cultures and perspectives is what ultimately led her to finding the African Student Union.
“I heard about the African Student Union when my friend told me about a potluck being organized by a group of African students,” Samb said. “The idea of coming together over food and culture immediately caught my attention, so I decided to attend. That event introduced me to the amazing sense of community within the African Student Union, and I knew I wanted to be part of it. It truly felt like home away from home.”
Samb is involved with many community-driven leadership roles at Oakland, including being a Resident Assistant and a peer mentor for the Center for Multicultural Initiative (CMI). Her work within the student union and her overall involvement within the Oakland community led to her being gifted with the Keeper of the Dream Award.
“I was recently honored with the Keeper of the Dream Award, which recognizes students who promote diversity, equity and inclusion on campus,” Samb said. “Receiving this award was incredibly humbling, as it affirmed that the work I do to foster a sense of belonging and advocate for multicultural understanding truly matters. It was a reminder that every effort, big or small, in creating an inclusive community has a meaningful impact, and it motivates me to continue working towards a more equitable and connected campus.”
Personal Relations Manager and head of the African Student Union social media account Dominic Agyei Gyimah was born in Ghana and enrolled in the Oakland University PhD program for Organic Chemistry.
“When I was kid, my mom used to work in a hospital as a secretary in the medicine management unit, so I was almost always drawn to medicine,” Gyimah said. “I was more drawn to the pharmacy aspect, so generally I felt that if I wanted to have an impact on how drugs work, and what drugs help people, then I have a better chance of going through the pharmacy route.”
While he attends Oakland with the mission to get a PhD, the African Student Union has also allowed him to connect his personal life with the campus community. The Union has allowed to share his culture and connect with those who are and are not African.
“It’s one of the best things I’ve seen with ASU and I really like that it is called that,” Gyimah said. “We actually like it when we have different people coming into our events. People from different continents, to show that when we see unity, it’s not just people from Africa, but different people from everywhere. And regardless of what you speak, what you look like, regardless of anything, once we are human beings, you see that they seek the same thing that all of us believe, all of us are interesting.”
President Michele Sende Nzimbou is in the Nursing Program as a student at Oakland University and was born in Congo. Members of the Union are proud of seeing the representation of African culture thrive on campus.
“People see the name and they are like ‘Oh, it’s only for Africans,’ but it’s not,” Nzimbou said. “The target group is non-Africans and I wish more people knew about it. We are trying to show you African culture, so we want to see
non-Africans come to our events and see how things are done. My favorite event that we have is the fashion show. It’s a lot of work because you need to get people to volunteer to be models and to create outfits, but watching the whole show happen — even though I was behind the stage the whole time to make sure the models were in line — but watching the whole show was actually fun, I love it.”
Not only is she seen behind the scenes of these events, but she is also seen often being expressive and very open to sharing her Congolese culture with other students at Oakland.
“We have a big reputation in Africa for being ‘extra’ with everything. There is even this funny meme that says, ‘If you invite your Congolese friend to your party you have to be really specific, tell them ‘Oh it’s just casual don’t be extra,’” Nzimbou said. “I just love it. I’m like ‘I’m Congolese, I can’t help it. We always have to make sure we have fun through everything, and just enjoy life.’ It’s like being the life of the life of the party, and I love sharing it with people. We smile, we dance through everything.”
The African Student Union opens International African students to be themselves at Oakland University, as well as encourages them to introduce and connect with other students who may or may not be African as well.
For more information about the African Student Union and what they do, be sure to visit them on their Instagram page, as well as their GrizzOrgs page.
PHOTO COURTESY OF THE AFRICAN STUDENT UNION AT OU
PHOTO COURTESY OF THE AFRICAN STUDENT UNION AT OU Samb being honored as a 2025 Keeper of the Dream.
Dealing with burnout
MALLORY WALIGORA
Political Editor
“I’m so incredibly burnt out this semester. What do I do?”
This week is when the mid-semester slump officially begins. The excitement of new classes, new friends and new professors has worn off. Now is when midterm preparations begin and you’re drowning in homework. Burnout is common in college, especially when we’re juggling so many different things.
The good news is that spring break is near! Feb. 22 is so close. You’ll have a week off from classes and hopefully some time to unwind. Spring break is always a perfect time to take some time off from school and recharge your batteries for the rest of the semester.
If it’s any consolidation, the last day of school this semester is Apr. 26. After finals, you have over four months of summer vacation, if you’re lucky enough to not be taking summer classes. This means a third of your year will be spent at a silly summer job in your hometown. Looking forward to summer always keeps me going.
Another thing that always keeps me going is seeing the weather get warmer. In a few months,
Michigan weather will be nice, and you won’t be wearing a winter coat. Although right now it’s cold out and school is getting challenging, in a few months you will be able to feel the sun.
Of course, my only advice for you isn’t simply to wait until spring break or summer. Starting with good studying habits and time management is a good start. Find time to socialize and spend time with friends and family.
I am also extremely motivated by material things. A nice coffee or a new pair of shoes will do wonders for my motivation. Sometimes I make a goal for myself. For example, if I get an “A” on this upcoming exam, I’m allowed to buy myself a new mascara from Sephora. Consider setting small, reasonable goals for yourself during this period to motivate yourself.
“I hate my major. Should I change it or just stick with it?”
It’s a rite of passage to go through this in college. Very rarely does someone fall in love with their major and stick with it for four-plus years with no doubt. Doubt is common, especially in college.
One big thing to consider is how far you are in your major requirements. If you have only one, four-credit class to finish your major requirements, you probably shouldn’t change everything. You can
get through a handful of classes if that’s all you have left. You’ve come this far, and you can stick it out.
On the other hand, if you just completed one introductory psychology course and realized that you hate psychology, you should change. If you’re one or two introductory classes in, it’s pretty easy to change your major and path.
Also, consider getting some certifications or adding on a minor if changing your entire major isn’t an option. You can still academically pursue an interest of yours without changing your major.
GRAPHIC BY MEGAN JUDY
Reconstructing
with archeology, really, when I was 13, 14,” she said. “We went to all of the sites, we went to Pompeii, Herculaneum, all of the ancient sites. I fell in love with ruins, actually, while I was there. I like getting lost in the ruins, losing my family, particularly — not permanently, but you know.”
Labels, stamps and engraved details were all explored in depth by the associate of Ethnology at Harvard. While she painted a picture of the excavation site with her hands, she dissected the theological relevance of what someone would discard as junk.
“This has got eight sides, that’s what’s called Gothic and the reason it’s called Gothic is that it is modeled after baptismal fonts in churches,” Spencer-Wood said, returning to the Chinese imitation whiteware. “It symbolizes the sacredness of women, and particularly mothers in the home. It became, from the 1850s and later, very popular.”
In a span of five minutes, the anthropology professor would examine the blue engravings of the pitcher to point out the Chinese style, and all of a sudden, the conversation would turn to Puritan consumer choice. The time machine of her expertise was swift and smooth, continuously dropping the jaws of students.
“The different meanings I’m finding out about really fascinate me about this,” she said. “Because when I started, I was just doing trade networks, and that’s, you know, interesting, especially when you’re talking about this little town, hill town.”
Most of the relics she dissected with the Anthropology Club were part of her six-year-long PhD dissertation project. She excavated 20,000 pieces and reconstructed the artifacts from the Old Sturbridge Village in New England, an experience she carries with pride and remembers with laughter.
“We have in archeology, what’s called the tongue test,” SpencerWood said. “If you are in the field, we do this — yeah, gross — and you recover one [earthenware artifact], if you put your tongue to one of these, you can feel the water getting pulled out of your tongue into the ceramic.”
In a little over two hours, the Anthropology Club went from Portugal to New England and back, tracing the trading routes, meaning and cultural relevance of glass bottles, clay jugs and porcelain cups. Meanwhile, Spencer-Wood revived her anecdotes on the field and cultural observations with a casual expertise.
“One of the things archeologists learned to do is look closely, which goes right along with being a feminist, who reads closely, which is also what I do,” Spencer-Wood said.
editon
New season, new suit: ‘Invincible’ first episode’s review
NOAH FRANCIS
Features Editor
The hit Amazon Prime series, “Invincible,” is back with a darker and more serious third season. Created by Robert Kirkman, Ryan Ottley and Cory Walker for both the original comic book series and the Amazon Prime show, “Invincible” lifts the exact storyline from the comics, making slight changes as if the creators were updating their work as more experienced selves.
On Thursday, Feb. 6, viewers were treated with not one, not two, but three brand-new episodes to start off season three, “You’re Not Laughing Now,” “A Deal with the Devil” and “You Want a Real Costume, Right?”
The story currently being adapted is referred to as the blue suit era, marking one of the darkest and most intense arcs in the comic book series.
“Going into the third season, it seemed like a good time to bring a new Mark to the forefront after everything he’s been through in season 2,” Kirkman said in an interview with Variety. “He’s in a different headspace and that gets reflected in his costume.”
There are two vital conflicts seen within the new episodes. The first conflict is the rift between Mark Grayson, a.k.a. Invincible, and Cecil Stedman, the Director of the Global Defense Agency (GDA), as both of their questionable morals clash against each other.
While Mark takes pride in viewing the world in
black and white, we get to view Cecil’s journey from originally taking the same stance as Mark, to becoming the morally gray director we know him as now.
The second conflict comes in the form of Oliver, Mark’s younger stepbrother, as he starts the season by awakening his powers. Since the duo’s father, the notorious Omni-man, is currently imprisoned in space, Mark is filling in as a role model and mentor for Oliver.
As expected from a younger brother, Oliver refuses to listen to Mark as he teaches him to become a hero, resulting in the death of two villains at Oliver’s hands, without a hint of remorse.
Throughout the three episodes, I have found that the animation is no better in quality than season two, notorious for several questionable scenes due to the animation quality. Seeing how the budget for each season is sinking for each season however, I am surprised and relieved we still have a serviceable quality at all.
On a brighter note, the storytelling in this season is downright incredible, honing in on the web of tension between each of the characters. From Mark and Cecil’s clash of morals to the terrifying reason of why children having incredible power is a nightmare, “Invincible” once again delves into the ideas and viewpoints of a super-powered world that mainstream media tends to avoid, with the main argument being hammered into the story; “We can be the good guys, or we can be the guys that save the world. We can’t be both.”
Despite the extremely fast pace of the story,
“Invincible” season three brings incredible storytelling, interesting moral dilemmas and a darker tone that will leave viewers craving more.
PHOTO COURTESY OF AMAZON PRIME VIDEO
Dear Jaques Audiard, please keep your ignorance to yourself
ADRIAN JIMENEZ MORALES
Campus Editor
Do you remember that one person who would just spit the most outlandish, pedantic, tactless, out-of-topic comment during a conversation, adding nothing more than an outrageous pause to the actual discussion? It was probably Jaques Audiard.
In his avant-garde, genre-breaking and mindbending 2024 film, “Emilia Pérez,” Audiard makes a shitshow out of his unapologetic arrogance.
The premise could’ve been something truly great — a Mexican drug lord undergoes gender reassignment surgery and mends their wrongdoing, now as a trans woman, accompanied by an empowered female cast.
“No, I didn’t study much, I kinda already knew what I had to understand,” Audiard says and it shows. If the film director didn’t take the time to think about what he wanted to say, then why say anything at all?
If the “Mexican reality is so powerful that you either have to face it and film it, or you have to break it,” as Audiard puts it, then why didn’t he choose a different setting for his movie? Something more aesthetically pleasing for a French director with the audacity to say that “Spanish is the language of underdeveloped countries, the poor and migrants.”
“In my own language, I’m too attached to the language because I’m an academic,” Audiard said in Interview. “Whereas if I don’t speak the language, I have the freedom to just focus on the musicality of the language itself.”
Such a statement has a name: exoticism. It is the
fetishization and commodification of ethnic or cultural otherness under Eurocentric standards.
They looked for Mexican actors to portray Mexican characters but found Hollywood household names as the most suitable for the main roles; Emilia’s gender and sex transition arc is reduced to a musical bit centered around vaginoplasty, and breast sizes; and when Emilia screams in rage, it is a deep Macho Mexicano voice that comes from within her— all of these are exoticism.
Audiard is unapologetic about sharing his lack of understanding of Mexico and the trans experience. It’s insulting that his defense mechanism is to say that he worked with a Trans woman as a leading actress and a Mexican support actress who we only see for 15 minutes and thus he has been “authentic.”
“It’s a script that is so alienated from the process of transitioning as a trans woman – and yet blurts falsehoods out with such bold, intense conviction –that you’d think Audiard himself had gone through 500 different gender-affirming surgeries in one sitting,”
Amelia Hansford, a reporter for PinkNews says.
The movie, its conception, production and nominations are insulting, especially because they tamper with some of the most difficult processes of people’s lives. This is what exoticism does, it takes the very real experience of non-European, white cis experiences and fetishizes them as the backdrop of a painting or the body of a supermodel — in this case, a 13-Oscars-nominated movie.
Musicalizing the drug war in Mexico and insinuating that flashing someone with their breasts is the only way to show that a character is trans are a few of the out-
of-touch directing decisions that Audiard could have kept to himself.
If he didn’t work with LGBTQ+ cast and crew, if he only went to Mexico to publicize his movie, if he “didn’t know anything about Selena and I didn’t know much about Zoe [Saldana] either,” why make a movie about experiences and lives he is so detached from?
There is no conclusion to this conversation, just like there is no conclusion to the movie. As a Mexican audience member, I feel used. Queer film critics can tell a similar story.
We are having a conversation about the importance of representation and respect, cultural appropriation and pink-washing and while this is awesome, these should be primary things to know before making a movie like “Emilia Pérez.”
Thank you Jaques Audiard for making me write yet another article about why you should think before you speak or direct a film. Next time just keep your ignorance to yourself, please.
PHOTO COURTESY OF GETTY IMAGES
Kendrick Lamar’s ‘Euphoric’ road to the Super Bowl: A hip hop milestone
SHARDÉ FORD
Contributor
After 50 years since its inception, hip hop is finally being recognized as a legitimate and influential art form, thanks in large part to the contributions of artists like Kendrick Lamar, whose storytelling, lyrical depth and cultural impact have helped elevate the genre to a new level.
In 2022, the Super Bowl was headlined by Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, Eminem, Mary J. Blige and Kendrick Lamar. However, this year, at the 2025 Super Bowl, Kendrick Lamar is the first hip hop artist to solo headline the Super Bowl halftime show with special guest, and fellow Top Dawg Entertainment artist, SZA.
Fans are pumped as this will be a sneak peek of Lamar and SZA’s upcoming “Grand National” tour. In an exclusive interview with Apple Music, Lamar highlighted that, “This will be a pgLang production,” and the show will be one of many elaborate productions from his co-founded creative multimedia agency, which produces art of all mediums, such as films, music, books and videography.
I had the pleasure of seeing Kendrick Lamar live in concert during his ”Mr. Morale and the Big Steppers Tour” in 2022 at Little Caesars Arena. The arena was ignited with electrifying energy from start to finish. Lamar brought along pgLang collaborators such as Baby Keem and Tanna Leone as openers to perform their music, adding to the night’s unforgettable atmosphere. Lamar showcased an elaborate set complete with props, visuals and movie shorts, complete with a light and pyro show to enhance the performance and storytelling aspect of Mr. Morale. In any show, Lamar’s personality and work ethic shine through. He has an inimitable ability to shock and move a crowd, keeping the audience on their toes. Just when the audience thought we had seen all Kendrick Lamar planned for the show, the stage began to lift and appeared to float with a long black cloak draping the bottom half.
I can still remember the feeling of leaving the arena wondering if I would ever experience such a cultural, personal and vulnerable performance again. It was clear to me that artists like Kendrick Lamar were born to tell their stories through the powerful medium of hip hop.
This past year marked a significant milestone for the trailblazing rapper, sweeping the Grammys with five wins — two of which were in major categories. He took home Song of the Year, a prestigious songwriter award, and Record of the Year for his chart-topping summer anthem, “Not Like Us.” These victories brought his career total to an impressive 22 Grammy wins, further cementing his legacy in the industry.
After its initial release on May 4, 2024, I played “Not Like Us” on the way to and from work every day for two weeks. The beat to the song is sonically unique and has a way of making listeners want to dance and sing along to the brazen lyrics. Not only is the song a strong diss to a certain rapper, but it is also a song with cultural significance to Black Americans, who have been enchained, segregated and berated in history. It is an anthem to remind us that we are not like the default Americans built on the principles of “freedom.” Our fight to be truly free and equal remains, and this makes our position in society complicated and unique.
Despite the song’s success, speculation loomed over whether it would make it to the big stage. With ongoing legal battles within Universal Music Group and the controversy surrounding the diss track, there were rumors that the NFL may have advised Lamar against performing it. However, the song is bigger than just one of the greatest diss tracks of all time, it has become
a patriotic anthem showcasing West Coast resilience and cultural pride, symbolizing a deeper movement of empowerment beyond rap beef, resonating with fans as a declaration of identity, self-confidence, hometown loyalty and artistic freedom.
Kendrick Lamar went the extra mile previously performing the song five times at his “Pop Out Concert,” a Juneteenth celebration, acknowledging Black culture and freedom. With his concrete lyricism and progression, his career impacts his hometown of Compton, Los Angeles. Lamar has always expressed his love for his city through music, and it is clear that he wanted to bring about social change within its neighborhoods.
With this concert, he was able to bring his community together in a way that hadn’t been seen in decades, bridging divides caused by gang affiliations. For the first time since the late 80s, his neighborhood stood side by side on stage, disregarding their deeprooted feuds and ongoing violence — united, not by conflict, but by the culture, music and a shared legacy. This impact prompted fans to be amped to potentially hear the song at the Halftime show when it was announced in September.
With the anticipation of his Super Bowl performance finally over, I can yet again confirm Kendrick Lamar is a visionary performer. He kicked off his performance with the second track, “Squabble Up,” from his new album GNX, featuring a special appearance by Samuel L. Jackson — widely regarded as one of Hollywood’s most iconic and recognizable actors, and a cornerstone of Black culture. The performance’s narrator, Jackson, or “Uncle Sam,” delivered his lines from the sidelines, encouraging Kendrick Lamar forward with his signature commanding presence.
Stepping out of an all-black Grand National Buick, a symbol of his new artistic phase, Kendrick Lamar began his visual masterpiece, forming an American flag with the help of background dancers clad in red, white and blue, to perform his 2017 hit “Humble.” The moment soared with euphoric energy, flowing seamlessly into the intensity of “DNA,” a transition that captured the essence of his evolution.
A pivotal moment in the performance unfolded as Kendrick Lamar walked down a path toward a street corner, where background actors gathered beneath a streetlight, dressed in long-sleeve white tees, grills, fitted caps and jeans. This scene vividly captures the essence of a cultural phenomenon — the freestyle sessions that Black American teens experience in their neighborhoods, bonding over music and expression in the streets. In this intimate moment, Lamar delivers a powerful acapella rendition of “Man at the Garden,” a song that reflects his journey toward recognition, the legacy of generational wealth he aims to build and the ambition he hopes to pass down to his children.
The tension in the stadium reached a high as Lamar teased the crowd with a tantalizing snippet of “Not Like Us,” but then pulled back, leaving the audience on edge, wondering if he’d take the risk that had been the subject of heated debate for days. As women in white surround him, Lamar quipped, “Ladies, I want to make a move. I want to perform their favorite song, but you know they love to sue.” The crowd hung on his every word as he contemplated the decision before the scene shifted, heightening the anticipation. The ethereal SZA then stepped onto the stage, and together, they delivered a performance of their iconic hits, “Luther” and “All the Stars,” igniting the atmosphere with their magnetic energy and unrelenting chemistry.
The tension thickened as “Uncle Sam” reappeared, telling Kendrick Lamar he’s given America exactly
what they wanted: “something nice and calm.” However, Lamar responded with defiance stating, “It’s a cultural divide, I’ma get it on theFortyloor. 40 acres and a mule, this is bigger than the music.” With that, the crowd erupted as “Not Like Us” blasted through the speakers once again as Kendrick performed the Grammy-winning song, leaving the crowd thrilled beyond measure. Just when the excitement couldn’t get any higher, Serena Williams made a surprise appearance, showing off her “Crip Walk,” a footwork dance that was originally performed by “Crips” at parties, but quickly became popular in Compton. Lamar then closed the set with “TV Off,” another hit produced by DJ Mustard, making one final appearance on stage, leaving the crowd ecstatic and the atmosphere charged with cultural pride.
From his early mixtapes like “Overly Dedicated,” to his most vulnerable works such as “Good Kid, m.A.A.d City,” “DAMN.” and “Mr. Morale and the Big Steppers,” to his most recent and vibrant work, “GNX,” we see the story of an artist that cannot be encapsulated in a mere 12-minute set at the Super Bowl halftime. Yet, in that short time, he masterfully wove a story of growth, resilience and cultural pride, using the art of hip hop to highlight the past, the present and the powerful legacy he’s building. Through vivid imagery and symbolism, Lamar’s performance became more than just a show — it was a testament to his unparalleled influence on music and his deep reflection of Black American culture.
PHOTO COURTESY OF
Trudeau responds to Trump’s tariffs
SOPHIA CURRAN Features Reporter
On Feb. 1, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau responded to President Donald Trump’s announcement of a 25% tariff on imports of Canadian goods. Trudeau addressed both Canadian and American citizens on what his next steps will be.
Only a few weeks into his presidency, Trump has taken much initiative to end illegal immigration and the flow of illegal drugs entering the country — even if that comes at the expense of American trade. Trudeau responded only hours after Trump decided to impose tariffs on Canadian goods. Trump’s actions were in the hope that Canada would strengthen its border control, as well as end the importation of drugs such as fentanyl and other drugs from illegally entering the U.S.
In addition to a 25% tariff on Canadian goods, this also includes a 10% tariff on its energy resources. Trudeau explained what he and Canadian manufacturers will do to combat Trump’s tariff war. Along with Canadian energy resources, this tariff will also include resources such as nickel, potash, uranium, steel and aluminum.
“Tonight, I am announcing Canada will be responding to the U.S. trade action with 25% tariffs against $155 billion worth of American goods,” Trudeau said. “This will include immediate tariffs
on $30 billion worth of goods as of Tuesday, followed by further tariffs on $125 billion worth of American products in 21 days time to allow Canadian companies and supply chains to seek to find alternatives.”
Trudeau also took time to announce to the American citizens that this tariff would be affecting them as well, warning them of what is to come.
“This is a choice that yes, will harm Canadians, but beyond that, it will have real consequences for you, the American people,” Trudeau said. “As
I have consistently said, tariffs against Canada will put your jobs at risk, potentially shutting down American auto assembly plants and other manufacturing facilities.”
However, he reassured Americans that there are solutions to the current disagreement between the two nations.
“But it doesn’t have to be this way. As President John F. Kennedy said many years ago, ‘Geography has made us neighbors, history has made us friends, economics has made us partners and necessity has made us allies,’” Trudeau said, reminding Americans of the relationship that is possible without tariffs. “As I’ve said before, if President Trump wants to usher in a new golden age for the United States, the better path is to partner with Canada, not to punish us.”
Since the announcement of the counterattack on tariffs, on Feb. 4, Trump agreed to a pause on the tariffs for 30 days until both Mexico and Canada agree on tightening their border security.
“I am very pleased with this initial outcome, and the Tariffs announced on Saturday will be paused for a 30-day period to see whether or not a final Economic deal with Canada can be structured,” Trump said on Truth Social.
While the implementation of the tariffs is yet to be fully enacted, there is still much time for negotiations between the two nations — a decision that will be impactful on the lives of millions of people across North America.
DOGE intern fired over racist comments
MALLORY WALIGORA
Political Editor
The Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) is in full swing following President Donald Trump’s inauguration. The department, led by Elon Musk, has spent the last few weeks slashing federal spending. It is estimated that the force has saved over $1 billion so far after cutting diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) contracts.
However, DOGE has been met with backlash from opposition to their actions. Some have pointed out the irony of Musk running the department, despite no public election. Notably, a judge has temporarily blocked the team from accessing treasury records.
In recent days, a staffer from DOGE has also made headlines. The Wall Street Journal uncovered racist statements from Marko Elez, a 25-year-old DOGE staffer. Elez is a former employee of both Starlink and SpaceX, and he followed Elon over to DOGE after the new administration took office.
“Normalize Indian hate,” one of his posts read.
All of his posts have since been deleted, however, an immense amount of damage has been done to both DOGE’s and Elez’s reputation.
“You could not pay me to marry outside of my ethnicity,” Elez said in September.
The staffer soon resigned, and the situation blew up on social media. A heated debate ensued, causing some to come support Elez while others
expressed their disapproval of his very recent racist comments. The entire situation has been divisive.
As a response to the controversy, Musk created a poll on X asking if the hire should be brought back — in true Pollice verso Colosseum fashion. 78% of respondents agreed that Elez should be brought back.
Both President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance have said that the staffer should return to DOGE to work.
“Here’s my view: I obviously disagree with some of Elez’s posts, but I don’t think stupid social media activity should ruin a kid’s life. We shouldn’t reward journalists who try to destroy people. Ever,” Vance wrote on X. “So I say bring him back. If he’s a bad dude or a terrible member of the team, fire him for that.”
Trump echoed these sentiments, agreeing with Vance.
“I’m with the vice president,” Trump said.
Musk then reposted Vance’s post, with Vance urging Musk to bring Elez back onto the DOGE team.
“He will be brought back. To err is human, to forgive divine,” Musk wrote on X.
There is no confirmation that Elez has officially been hired back, despite Musk’s tweet.
This situation has been heated, with many on the left attacking Vance for his forgiveness. Rep. Ro Khanna (D-CA) took to X to challenge Vance. Vance is married to Usha Vance, an Indian American born
to immigrant parents.
“Are you going to tell him to apologize for saying ‘Normalize Indian hate’ before this rehire? Just asking for the sake of both of our kids,” Khanna asked.
This situation brings forward some important questions. Should you forgive someone despite their past comments? Who do you give a second chance to? What actions are forgivable?
Above all, this is a lesson in keeping a clean digital footprint. You never know who will find your past activity.
PHOTO COURTESY OF THE NEW YORK TIMES
PHOTO COURTESY OF AP NEWS
Trump signs executive order barring trans women in NCAA women’s sports teams
CHELSEA BOSSERT Arts Editor
On Feb. 5, 2025, President Trump signed an executive order to ban trans women from competing in women’s sports at the collegiate level. Amidst a confusing slew of different state and federal regulations, this order aims to flatten out any concerns that transgender athletes — specifically trans women — have an innate biological advantage against athletes born female.
The executive order, titled “Keeping Men Out of Women’s Sports,” contains definitive language as to what constitutes male and female athletes. The Trump administration continually cited Tennessee v. Cardona (2024) in the order.
“As some Federal courts have recognized, ‘ignoring fundamental biological truths between the two sexes deprives women and girls of meaningful access to educational facilities,’” according to the White House website.
The Trump administration opens up potential retaliation by rescinding title IX funding to schools who do not comply with the order.
“Therefore, it is the policy of the United States to rescind all funds from educational programs that deprive women and girls of fair athletic opportunities, which results in the endangerment, humiliation, and silencing of women and girls and
deprives them of privacy. It shall also be the policy of the United States to oppose male competitive participation in women’s sports more broadly, as a matter of safety, fairness, dignity, and truth,” the order states.
After the order was issued, the NCAA changed their already existing policy in regards to transgender athletes to adhere to the recently signed order. Their updated policy addressed both male and female sports teams and aimed to answer the Trump administration’s concerns.
“A student-athlete assigned male at birth may not compete on a women’s team,” according to the NCAA’s website.
The NCAA specifically uses three key words in regard to playing sports: practicing, competing and participating. According to the NCAA, all studentathletes assigned male at birth cannot compete on a women’s team, however, these student-athletes can still practice with the women’s team in accordance with their gender-identity.
The current policy also applies to student athletes assigned female at birth who identify as trans. They can practice with whichever team they want, however, what is different is that if transmen who are on hormone-therapy compete with the women’s team they are barred from national championship eligibility.
“A student-athlete assigned female at birth who
has begun hormone therapy (e.g., testosterone) may not compete on a women’s team. If such competition occurs, the team is subject to NCAA mixed-team legislation, and the team will no longer be eligible for NCAA women’s championships,” according to the NCAA’s website.
Both the Trump administration and the NCAA give unclear information about what will or should happen with trans-men who compete with men’s sports teams. The executive order put out by The White House does have any mention of trans-men or language that includes them. The NCAA simply states that, “Regardless of sex assigned at birth or gender identity, a student-athlete may participate (practice and compete) with a men’s team, assuming they meet all other NCAA eligibility requirements.”
The scrutiny that trans-athletes are facing by the current administration and the Republican party atlarge has drawn mixed-reactions from all sides of the political aisle. Some, including Josh Hawley (RMo.) and John Kennedy (R-La.) grilled the current NCAA president, Charlie Baker, in a congressional hearing in December for their — now former — trans-athlete policy. According to Baker, there are “less than 10” trans student-athletes in the NCAA.
“From now on, women’s sports will be only for women,” Trump said after signing the order last Wednesday.
Trump criticizes DEI hiring practices after plane crash
MEGHAN BAREIS Political Reporter
On Jan. 29, the American public was left in disbelief when news broke of a plane and military helicopter colliding over the Potomac River near Washington, D.C. Despite authorities having no explanation for this catastrophic event, the Trump administration has used this moment to highlight criticisms of DEI hiring.
“Equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) is a conceptual framework that promotes the fair treatment and full participation of all people, especially populations that have historically been underrepresented or subject to discrimination because of their background, identity, disability, etc.,” the American Psychological Association explained. These foundations of equality facilitate nondiscriminatory practices — especially within the workplace. In theory, this means that diversity is actively promoted through equity practices. DEI has been met with both support and opposition.
At first, some might immediately see a connection between the accident and DEI practices, while others might struggle to rationalize the claim.
A week prior to the accident, President Donald Trump signed Executive Orders EO 14151 and EO 14173. These actions aimed to stop antidiscriminatory practices that Trump claims are
violating the nation’s civil rights laws. Accounting for his past aversion to DEI policies, Trump’s actions within his first few weeks in the Oval Office seem fit.
However, not everyone agrees with his reasoning. In fact, some have raised concerns about the legitimacy of his claims and what consequences they may have on future hiring practices.
“Are you saying this crash was somehow caused as the result of diversity hiring? And what evidence have you seen to support these claims?” a reporter questioned during Trump’s White House briefing.
“It just could have been. We have a high standard. We’ve had a much higher standard than anybody else. And there are things where you have to go by brainpower. You have to go by psychological quality, and psychological quality is a very important element of it,” Trump responded. “These are various, very powerful tests that we put to use. And they were terminated by Biden. And Biden went by a standard that seeks the exact opposite … But certainly, for an air traffic controller, we want the brightest, the smartest, the sharpest. We want somebody that’s psychologically superior. And that’s what we’re going to have.”
On Jan. 31, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt upheld Trump’s sentiments. Leavitt emphasized that merit and skills need to supersede identity and politics within the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) hiring practices.
Leavitt promoted Trump’s concept that there is no room for discourse, rather, Trump explains it as “common sense.”
“Do you pray that your plane lands safely and gets you to your destination, or do you pray that the pilot has a certain skin color,” Leavitt asked.
After a moment of silence at his press briefing, Trump singled out the chair of the Department of Transportation under the Biden administration: Pete Buttigieg.
“The FAA, which is overseen by Secretary Pete Buttigieg — real winner, that guy, real winner — do you know how badly everything’s run since he’s run this Department of Transportation?” Trump said.
Buttigieg then took to X to respond to the president’s harsh statements.
“It’s time for the President to show actual leadership and explain what he will do to prevent this from happening again,” Buttigieg said.
The same day, the president signed a presidential memorandum ordering the FAA to take necessary “corrective action” and review their hiring standards over the past four years of the former Biden administration. Trump aims to end Biden’s era of “woke policies.”
While Trump’s new policies and actions remain highly divisive, it is important to remember the 67 lives that were tragically lost in the accident.
Hanging High, Standing Tall: Kay Felder’s banner rises at Oakland
KURT SZYMANSKI Sports Editor
Let’s rewind real quick.
It’s still the start of the 2015-16 season, and the Oakland Golden Grizzlies are taking on the Michigan State Spartans, the No. 1 ranked team in the nation, at The Palace of Auburn Hills on national television. The game comes down to the wire in front of a nearly sold-out crowd.
With the shot clock turned off and the Golden Grizzlies down four, Kay Felder dribbles to the right corner. He hesitates, making the defender jump early before burying a three.
After the Spartans miss at the line, Felder draws a foul on the next possession, sinks two free throws and sends the best team in the country to overtime.
It’s just one of the defining moments of Felder’s career at Oakland, and that career was celebrated Thursday night, Feb. 6, at the OU Credit Union O’Rena.
Felder’s banner was revealed at halftime during the Oakland game against Youngstown State in front of fans, Felder’s former Oakland teammates, and his family and friends.
“They think this is long overdue, but I don’t think so. I think this is perfect timing,” Felder said in a speech during the ceremony.
Felder joins Scott Bittinger, Rawle Marshall, Keith Benson, Travis Bader and Kendrick Nunn as the six men’s basketball players with banners at Oakland’s home court.
Another thing these Oakland basketball legends have in common is that they all have college degrees, which is the one rule head coach Greg Kampe laid out for Golden Grizzlies aspiring to be in the rafters.
Since Felder gave up his eligibility for his senior season at Oakland, opting into the 2016 NBA draft in the process, Felder hadn’t initially ended his career at Oakland with a degree.
However, that didn’t stop Felder from obtaining his college degree following his time on the court for the Golden Grizzlies, making him eligible to be honored.
“Kampe taught me a valuable lesson: once you start something, you finish it,” Felder said. “You don’t halfway do nothing. You do it all the way, and you do it the right way.”
Kampe’s admiration for Felder was evident as he reflected on Felder’s impact on Oakland basketball.
“More than anything in the world, I wanted his name up there,” Kampe said. “I don’t think there’s a guy up there that deserves it more than him.”
Felder collected many accolades during his time at Oakland. In 2014, he earned the Horizon League Freshman of the Year and was named to the Horizon
League First Team in the following two seasons. Additionally, during his junior year, Felder finished the season as the NCAA assist leader, totaling 324 assists on his way to being named the Horizon League Player of the Year award.
From the Oakland record book, Felder ranks in the top 10 in various statistical categories. Most notably, Felder ranks in the top three in total points, assists, and free throws.
After his career at Oakland, the Atlanta Hawks selected Felder with the 54th overall pick in the second round of the 2016 NBA Draft before trading Felder to the Cleveland Cavaliers on draft night, making him the second player from Oakland drafted into the NBA.
Felder’s NBA career lasted just over two seasons, during which he played for the Chicago Bulls, the Detroit Pistons, the Toronto Raptors and their respective G-league affiliated teams.
After being waived by the Raptors 905, the Toronto Raptors G-league affiliate, Felder took his playing career to China. There, he has spent multiple seasons playing for five different teams in the CBA (Chinese Basketball Association), notably winning CBA International MVP in 2022 while on the Shanxi Loongs.
“Whenever I left any court, I wanted y’all to know my name and know who I was because that’s the work I put in every day, night in, night out.”
Men’s basketball drops second consecutive game to Youngstown State Penguins
EVAN BLANCHARD
Sports Reporter
It hasn’t been an ideal start to February for the men’s basketball team. After beginning the month with a home loss to Northern Kentucky University, the Golden Grizzlies followed it up with another loss, this time to the Youngstown State University (YSU) Penguins. Coincidentally, both games had a score of 84-75.
The loss drops Oakland to sixth in the Horizon League standings, sitting 4.5 games behind Cleveland State in first place. They’re also two games behind fourth-place Robert Morris. A top-four finish is highly coveted in the Horizon League because it secures you a home-court game before the semifinals and championship in Indianapolis.
Before the first media timeout, the game got out to a fast start. DQ Cole went coast to coast after a steal for the game’s first points, but YSU’s Cris Carroll quickly answered with a jumper. There was some more back and forth, with Buru Naivalurua getting two layups, but the Golden Grizzlies allowed three Penguin threes in quick succession. Youngstown’s Ty Harper hit two of them, a scary sign early. Thankfully, Jayson Woodrich hit a three of his own to keep Oakland close, down only 11-9 at 14:30 left in the first half.
Soon after, the Penguins would rip off a 9-2 run due to two threes from Juwan Maxey and David Wilkerson. An Isaiah Jones layup stopped some bleeding and kept Oakland within seven points at the under-eight-minute timeout, down 22-15.
For much of the first half, whenever Oakland got on the board, YSU immediately had an answer. They ballooned their lead to 12 points after an EJ Farmer layup and another Maxey three. Naivalurua again found the basket for a layup, and freshman Nassim Mashhour hit a three, but the Penguins responded with a pair of free throws and yet another Farmer three. Going into the under-four-minute timeout, the Golden Grizzlies were hanging around down 12 points, 34-22.
OU had a quick punch in them right before the half, going on a 6-0 run courtesy of a Malcolm Christie three and a Jaylen Jones layup. They’d bring the game within four after an Allen Mukeba layup, but the Penguins got the last points of the half with two free throws. After one up-and-down half, Oakland found themselves down 38-32.
Two big things had to change in the second half. The Golden Grizzlies coughed up the ball 12 times. First, they would have to take better care of the ball and limit turnovers in the second half if they hoped to win. Second, the defense must get out to the threepoint line and limit YSU’s shots from downtown.
The Penguins hit a staggering seven threes in the first half alone.
Another quick burst of scoring opened the second half. YSU won those first four minutes, outscoring Oakland 13-9. Mukeba got two more buckets, with Christie hitting his second three. Youngstown State’s Nico Galette began asserting himself with his two baskets. YSU’s over-seven-footer, Gabe Dynes, put an exclamation point on their run with a dunk, giving them a 51-41 lead.
More back and forth followed, as neither team could get much traction either way. Every time one team scored, there was an immediate answer. After a Naivalurua and-one layup and an Isaiah Jones three, Oakland had worked themselves back into the game down only seven, 64-57. Almost immediately after, though, Mashhour committed a foul, sending Maxey to the line for two free throws. YSU held a 66-57 lead with eight minutes left to play.
Unfortunately for the Golden Grizzlies, the team didn’t have it in them to put together one last run. Another Farmer three opened up the game to a 15-point lead, icing it at 77-62. After a couple more minutes of action, the final score was a resounding Oakland defeat, 84-75.
(Continue reading on our website.)
Cleveland State overpowers Oakland in tough road battle
KURT SZYMANSKI Sports Editor
In a game on the road against the Cleveland State Vikings on Saturday, Feb. 8, the Oakland Golden Grizzlies women’s basketball team came up short 79-58.
Macy Smith led the Golden Grizzlies in scoring, scoring a season-high 25 points while making 50% of her attempts from the field. Dani Grim also had a solid showing, putting up 13 points while snagging a team-high five boards.
The Vikings’ offensive output was nearly entirely provided by four players, with Destiny Leo scoring the most in the game with 20 points. Sara Guerreiro was another Viking who dominated the matchup, notching 16 points while distributing eight assists and grabbing six rebounds.
The first quarter started solid for the Golden Grizzlies. Smith and Maddy Skorupski supplemented the scoring early. On the other side of the court, Cleveland State developed its offensive identity early, scoring its first four baskets with layups.
Towards the end of the quarter, Grim got involved offensively, scoring the last four points of the frame for the Golden Grizzlies. Behind Grim’s momentum, Oakland ended the quarter down by just four points.
At the beginning of the second quarter, the
Vikings started to pull away. Despite the Golden Grizzlies still keeping pace through the first three minutes, Leo completely took over, making a trio of consecutive threes to give Cleveland State its first double-digit lead of the game.
Oakland worked at stopping the bleeding throughout the rest of the quarter with a four-point play from Smith, cutting the Viking lead to eight. However, Leo was fouled on a three-point attempt on the last possession of the quarter, sinking all three attempts at the charity stripe to give the Vikings a 38-26 lead heading into the break.
With a large deficit to make up in the second half, the Golden Grizzlies could not stop the Vikings’ momentum. Cleveland State opened the third on a 10-2 run as they attacked the paint, hunting for high-percentage looks at the rim.
Kylie Buckley ended Cleveland State’s run with a pair of free throws, but the Vikings weren’t going anywhere, continuing to overpower the Golden Grizzlies in the low post as Oakland finished the quarter down 60-40.
In the final quarter, the Golden Grizzlies started showing more consistency on offense, keeping pace with the Vikings for nearly the entire quarter. Still, keeping up with the Vikings isn’t enough when there’s a massive gap to close, leading to Oakland’s eighth conference loss of the season.
The loss shifts Oakland’s conference record to
6-8, which is good for sixth place in the Horizon League standings.
From the box score, Cleveland State’s efficiency in the paint proved to be Oakland’s most prominent issue all game long. In this game, the Vikings converted 88% of its two-point attempts, and the team outscored the Golden Grizzlies in points in the paint 38-10.
Next, the Golden Grizzlies will have a chance to get back in the win column with a two-game homestand at the OU Credit Union O’Rena, starting with the Green Bay Phoenix on Thursday, Feb. 13, and ending with the Milwaukee Panthers on Saturday, Feb. 15.
Green Bay will be a tough matchup for the Golden Grizzlies, as the Phoenix rank second in the Horizon League standings and have only lost one conference game this season. Additionally, Green Bay handed Oakland a rough 69-39 loss earlier in the season.
However, the game against Milwaukee should be a lot more manageable for this Oakland squad. The Panthers are dead last in the standings, and the Golden Grizzlies have already picked up a 75-72 win against them on the road earlier in the season.
Women’s basketball suffers huge road loss at Purdue Fort Wayne
EVAN BLANCHARD Sports Reporter
Last week, in my article on women’s basketball, I talked about the daunting stretch that remained on their schedule. After taking care of the Detroit Mercy Titans last Saturday, February 1, they had a date with the best team in the Horizon League: the Purdue Fort Wayne (PFW) Mastodons. PFW was 13-0, riding a 15-game winning streak.
And now, after their game last Thursday, the Mastodons are 14-0 in conference play, owing to a 75-46 dismantling of Oakland.
Going into the game, OU had every reason to feel good. They just dispatched their rival, the Titans, by 14 points at home, and guard Maddy Skorupski had a career-high 38 points. It was a great way to start the month.
But reality came crashing back down just a couple of days later.
It was only really a game in the first quarter. Oakland managed to hang on for the first 10 minutes of the game, only down 18-11 after the first quarter. But then the floodgates opened.
The Mastodons quickly put the game away, going on a 19-7 run in the second quarter. PFW guard Audra Emmerson hit two threes within just 30 seconds to begin the frame. Her teammate, Sydney Graber, got two baskets of her own in quick succession. OU had no answers on the offensive
end, missing numerous jumpers and lacking any spark to begin a scoring run. The Golden Grizzlies headed into the half down 37-18, searching for any answers at all.
Unfortunately, the second half began in much the same way. PFW hit two threes on back-toback possessions, capped off with a layup to put an exclamation point on the start of the half.
Golden Grizzlies Macy Smith and Dani Grim were able to sink two jumpers to stop some of the bleeding, but the Mastodons quickly responded before any run could start.
I always like to say that and-one layups, where someone gets followed and hits the free throw, stop all momentum that the defending team has. Amelia Bromenschenkel of Fort Wayne did just that, followed soon after with yet another Emmerson three-pointer.
The game would stabilize as Oakland stayed down 25 for most of the quarter. Both teams began trading baskets, and OU ended the quarter down 59-32.
As the game dragged on, PFW’s size slowly wore down the Golden Grizzlies. By the time the final buzzer sounded, OU had been outrebounded 49-29, surrendering 19 offensive rebounds. Five Mastodons had five or more rebounds in the game, compared to only two players for Oakland.
Skorupski was largely contained for the duration of the game. Oakland’s star was held to just six
points on 2-11 shooting with three turnovers. Senior Macy Smith was probably the biggest bright spot on the team with 15 points, but she committed five turnovers herself.
It’s no wonder the Mastodons sit atop the Horizon League standings, as they had seven players who scored seven or more points in the contest. Dominating the glass and scoring efficiently are trademarks of great teams. A 75-46 win over the Golden Grizzlies is proof of their quality as a team.
Next up for Oakland is a road trip to Cleveland State on Saturday, February 8.
The Post evaluates the Detroit Pistons’ trade deadline moves
KURT SZYMANSKI AND EVAN BLANCHARD
Evan Blanchard:
For the sake of clarity, these are the transactions the Pistons made:
• Acquired forward KJ Martin and two second-round picks from the 76ers for cash considerations.
• Acquired Lindy Waters III and Josh Richardson as part of the Golden State and Miami megadeal for Jimmy Butler.
• Traded Richardson, Martin and a second-round pick to the Utah Jazz for Dennis Schroder. Essentially, they ended up with Waters III and Schroder while netting a couple of second-round picks. For a team that’s playing as well as Detroit lately, I think they made the right choice to stick with the group they had.
Schroder is an ideal fit to take ball-handling pressures off of all-star Cade Cunningham. Schroder can step in to lead the team’s bench unit or even play alongside Cunningham. Aged 31, the 12-year NBA veteran is averaging 14.4 points per game, 2.6 rebounds and 5.5 assists on 41.8% shooting from the field. His best season, 2017-18 with Atlanta, saw him average nearly 20 points per game with six assists.
Waters III is a decent bench player who will help round out the rotations and give added depth. He is only averaging 5.5 points but brings great size as a 6’6” forward, weighing 210 pounds.
Most importantly, this trade deadline signified that the Pistons were comfortable with the group they had and believed in them. It was the first deadline in a while that instead of subtracting, the team looked to add and supplement the guys they already had. It’s a very encouraging sign going forward.
Kurt Szymanski:
Trajan Langdon handled his first trade deadline in Detroit with grace.
As Evan said, the Detroit Pistons added assets instead of subtracting at this deadline. But the main thing that sticks out to me is that the Pistons did not have to give up anything of value for the players and picks they acquired at this deadline.
Sure, they had to waive Wendell Moore Jr. to make roster space for Schroder and Waters III, but the impact Schroder alone can bring far outweighs what Moore Jr. could do in a Pistons jersey. Acquiring two second-round picks is the cherry on top as well.
The only unfortunate aspect of acquiring Schroder, who has had a solid season so far, is that his contract expires at the end of the season, making him an unrestricted free agent.
While the Pistons could look to bring him back, ideally on a more short-term deal that lasts at most three years, Schroder might ultimately look to join a team that is in a better position to win an NBA championship than the Pistons next season.
As for Waters III, I have difficulty seeing how he can crack the rotation among all of the forwards on this Detroit team.
Typically, Piston’s head coach, J.B. Bickerstaff, runs a rotation of 10 to 11 players every game. Considering Schroder will undeniably be a part of that rotation, Waters III will have to compete with Simone Fontecchio for minutes.
As it stands, Fontecchio plays 17 minutes a night, which is about how much Waters III played in Golden State this season, and averages a similar stat line to Waters III while shooting more efficiently on all three levels.
Additionally, Fontecchio is under contract until next year for the Pistons and was extended by Langdon himself this summer, meaning Fontecchio seeing the floor will likely be a priority over Waters III.
Luckily for Detroit, should the Waters III experiment not work out, his contract will expire at the end of the season, and they didn’t give up any significant assets to acquire him in the first place.
