Friday, January 19, 2024
Welcome students
‘Busy as ever’
Hargis embraces new chapter of life Bella Casey News and Lifestyle Assistant Editor
“I’m as busy as I’ve ever been,” Hargis said. Among the excitement of traveling and continued mentorship, one thing is missing. “I’ll tell you what, we missed the kids,” Hargis said. “I mean, we missed that. You can’t replicate that anywhere Every other week, Burns Hargis else.” creeps up to his office on the third Hargis recalled the advice anothfloor of the Student Union. er university president once gave him: The maintenance workers recwhen he gets frustrated, take a walk on ognize him, and a few professors and campus. Breathing in the excitement students pay him a smile or a nod in and energy of the students would be passing. The last class of students who like taking an energizing elixir. were at OSU during his presidency Hargis took his advice. He was are anticipating graduation. Many right, the students’ energy proved freshmen recognize him only when contagious. Hargis said he and Ann they walk past his statue in front of Hargis miss that feeling. the classroom building because it is Now, the Hargises draw less of labeled with a plaque. their energy from campus, but they Although his days on campus are have not slowed down. quieter and fewer, Hargis never left “I don’t know that (Hargis) has a OSU. The Hargis Leadership Institute, slow gear,” said Joshua Taylor, direcPete’s Pet Posse, and most of all, stutor of the Hargis Leadership Institute. dents, continually lure Burns and Ann “And so he’s just always moving, and Hargis back to campus. so I think now he’s just doing different To Hargis, this ritual is not rethings.” tirement. It is a new chapter. Although Hargis’ daily commit“I really don’t like the word rements look different from those of his tirement,” Hargis said. “That’s (when) OSU presidency, one priority proved you’re sitting on the front porch just permanent: leadership. rocking, watching kids riding their The Hargis Leadership Institute bicycles. That’s not me.” was founded as Hargis retired. Despite For Hargis, retirement has been the opportunity to take a step back lunches with students, mentoring those from OSU, Hargis remained a constant working at the McAfee & Taft law presence during staff training. firm, sitting near the Royal Family at “He insisted he wanted to be a Ascot and continuing to mentor stupart of every minute of that,” Taylor dents at OSU. said. “So he came up each day.”
Bryson Thadhani Students surrounded Kilty O’Connor-Box’s cage, which he set up on Library Lawn, but he could not see them. The lenses of his glasses were covered with duct tape.
All caged up Bella Casey News and Lifestyle Assistant Editor As students poured onto campus on the first day of class, Kilty O’Connor-Box was waiting for them. In a cage. Students swarmed O’Connor-Box’s cage, set up on Library Lawn, and peppered him with questions. Did he lose a Fantasy Football bet? Is
See Hargis on 4A
he associated with Greek life? Is he a student? Who put him in the cage? His answers: He does not play Fantasy Football, he does not go to OSU, he is from Springfield, Missouri, he is 28 and he locked himself in the cage. O’Connor-Box answered the same series of questions each time a new audience surrounded his cage, though he had no idea who was asking them. The lenses of his sunglasses were covered with duct tape. He said
this helped him focus and communicate with others better than if he could see. As the group of students surrounding the cage grew, students talked among each other and rumors of why O’Connor-Box was in the cage spread across campus. “It’s very interesting, a guy in a cage,” said spectator Sam Armentrout. “You would expect this to be a joke or a bad hazing thing.” See Caged on 4A
MLK Jr.’s legacy lives on through OSU Luisa Clausen Editor-in-Chief
File Photo Burns Hargis spends time on the OSU campus almost every other week despite retiring as OSU’s president.
What’s Inside
‘Saltburn’ explores desire, wealth, obsession
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subject to discrimination. “For me being a Black officer today, I always felt like I had to be better,” Galbraith said. “I had to score the highest on the test. I had to be Throughout his the best because I wanted career, Capt. Michael Galbraith thought he had to undo that stigma of to work twice as hard to ‘I’m here because of affirmative action.’” overcome certain stigGalbraith was mas. raised in Guthrie, speAnd for years, he cifically in an area where was right. African Americans When Galbraith, settled. The community the now operations caphad its system and everytain for the OSU Tulsa one knew each other. At Police, started working for OSU 17 years ago, he the time he was growing and Leon Jones, the chief up, the country he lived in was changing. of OSU police, were the Dr. Martin Luther only Black officers. King Jr. was the face In the back of of a movement. He was his mind, there was an fighting for the end of insecurity that the only reason he was there, was segregation and counter because of affirmative ac- prejudice. Galbraith was a kid tion, a practice or policy when King was assasthat favored individuals sinated, but throughout who belonged to disadvantaged groups or were his life, he never stopped learning from his legacy.
Wings of Hope helps domestic violence victims
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“We have to remember where we came from,” Galbraith said. “We have to remember the struggles that we endured. That is why it’s important to continue conversations about Martin Luther King Jr., and the things that he did for civil rights.” Galbraith said King worked for people of all colors who were not heard, and even though his legacy is extensive, there is still work to be done. “The older I get, the more I realize younger people weren’t taught the things I was taught,” Galbraith said. “I think we need to focus on the teachings that are being lost. What was the Civil Rights Movement? What did it mean to people? What is racial discrimination?” See MLK Jr. on 4A
SGA adds to ranks, prepares for presidential election
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Page 2A Friday, January 19, 2024
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Ben Holieway Tribune Content Agency
What are seniors looking ‘Saltburn’ shocks audience, forward to this semester? explores desire, wealth, obsession
Felix Catton (Jacob Elordi) (left) and Oliver Quick (Barry Keoghan) become close friends, despite Oliver’s nefarious intentions.
Cloe Campfield Staff Reporter
Review This article contains spoilers. “Saltburn” captivated its audience with an exploration of its deeper message. Filmmaker Emerald Fennell offers the world a glimpse into the nature of humanity and our inhumane tendencies as we watch the protagonist, Oliver Quick (Barry Keoghan), deal with desire and envy. The ending of “Saltburn” walks the audience through the process of Quick’s schemes, unveiling his true nature, which was strongly suggested throughout the plot. Quick, a homely loner with drug addict parents, set his sights on the popular and charismatic aristocrat Felix Catton (Jacob Elordi), the youngest of a rich, wellknown family who resides in their home, the Saltburn estate. Meeting “unexpectedly” at university, the two quickly become close, exhibit-
ing a wholesome and caring relationship with one other. Catton even goes as far as to invite Oliver home with him for summer break after Quick discovers his father died. Although Catton exhibits nurturing characteristics toward Quick, in return, Quick becomes needier. Quick desperately attempts to climb the social ladder to the top of the Catton family, destroying lives and ending them in the process. The first scene that left viewers speechless and exposed Quick’s darkest side is the infamous bathtub scene. Not long after arriving at Saltburn, Oliver accidentally peeps on Catton compromised in the tub, which a normal person would look away from, however, Quick did not. The events that unfold after have many looking away from their TVs in horror and disgust, yet it is a pivotal moment in the film when depicting Quick’s obsession with Catton. Wishing to do something nice for his friend for his birthday, Catton contacts Quick’s mother, who Quick accused of being an abusive addict, so they can reconnect. Catton discovers Quick lied about his parents’ addiction and his father’s death. This twist exposed Quick’s true nature.
From there, though it seems bleak for Quick, his master plan spirals more into his control as he sinks his talons deeper into the rest of the family. Playing sexual, dark and disturbing games with Venetia, Catton’s sister, and Farleigh, Catton’s cousin, Quick is able to continue his manipulation of the family even after Catton’s untimely death. One by one, the Catton family is picked off. It seems the story will end after Quick’s departure from the Saltburn estate, though Quick is not finished with the Catton family. He waits for Catton’s father to succumb to illness years later and worms his way back into Saltburn through the mother, who inevitably leaves the place to Quick on her deathbed before he ends her life himself. From the use of symbolic lighting and sharp camera angles, the many disturbing and explicit scenes throughout this film highlight the dark nature of humanity that Fennell was trying to expose. From the bathtub scene to the graveyard scene, Quick exposed for who he truly was: A sociopathic monster who will do anything to satisfy his obsession and desires.
Izzy Wilkerson “I am looking forward to my costume design class this semester. I have waited a couple of years for it to come back, and I am just glowing with excitement.”
Jasmine Taplin “I am looking forward to graduation. Graduation 100%. And trying to get out.”
Sports editor Braden Bush sports.ed@ocolly.com Assistant Sports editor Ashton Slaughter sports.ed@ocolly.com Design editor Ben Holieway design.ed@ocolly.com
“I’m looking forward to having some free time and kind of see what’s around us and the different events and things since I’m taking less hours. I’d love to support some of the other organizations on campus.”
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Editorial board Editor-in-Chief Luisa Clausen editorinchief@ocolly.com
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News & Life editor Kennedy Thomason news.ed@ocolly.com Assistant News & Life editor Bella Casey news.ed@ocolly.com Photo editor Payton Little photo.ed@ocolly.com
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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
Photographers & Designers: Andon Freitas Ashlyn Bryant Brock Mills Bryson Thadhani Cassius Davis Connor Fuxa Davis Cordova Ethan Hilbert Gabriel Trevino Grace Galvin Jazmine Robinson Karlie Boothe Lexie Higgins Marcus Conrad Michael Jane‘t Philip Soliz
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 life and service to God. I was learning to wait on the Lord. What a loving and faithful God we have to help us find his best for our lives. It pays off to have a definite, daily time with your Bible and Jesus
O’Colly
Friday, January 19, 2023 Page 3A
news/lifestyle SGA adds to ranks, prepares for presidential election Kennedy Thomason News & Lifestyle Editor
The Student Government Association is back with more senators and plans for the presidential election after its first meeting of the semester. Ten new senators were sworn in on Wednesday, making a total of 43 senators. Senate Vice Speaker Wyatt More said he is optimistic about the new faces. “. . .which is more senators than we’ve had in a long time,” Moore said. “I think we have more on the way, which is even more exciting trying to get to our goal number of 50.” Despite the large numbers, Moore said he is not overwhelmed. “It’s encouraging to see that people want to make change on campus and that they want to be involved in student government,” Moore said. As a part of that change, SGA held its Constitutional Convention for the first time in
eight years last semester. The convention allowed senators to change its bylaws, and those changes are being implemented. One of the biggest bylaw revisions was a change to the governing process of elections. Instead of having an election commission, which was made of third party students, oversee the election, committees of senators will run the processes. The election will be open to voters from March 12 at 8 a.m. to March 13 at 5 p.m. SGA adviser Melisa Echols said intent to run forms for the presidential and vice presidential election will close on Jan. 30. Echols also reminded senators briefly of campaign rules, which prohibit campaigning during SGA meetings or in the SGA office space in the Student Union. “That also goes for any insignias that you might decide to wear, any stickers, et cetera,” Echols said during the meeting. “Please keep that in mind if you go to put stuff on your computers et cetera, that’s considered campaigning.” Another major
change from the convention was adding two senators to represent international students, who make up about 1,500 of 26,008 students. “Never before has student government ever represented international students in the 100 plus years we’ve been around,” Moore said. While SGA is growing its numbers, it will also take on larger advocacy opportunities. As one of five that will travel from SGA’s leadership team to Washington, D.C., for the Big 12 conference this semester, Moore said he is excited to lobby Oklahoma’s lawmakers on behalf of students. The group will speak with Oklahoma’s two senators and five representatives during their stay. “We will be going to Washington, D.C., here in a few weeks, all of us flying out there to lobby on behalf of Oklahoma State and Oklahoma and the Big 12, trying to just advocate for students to hopefully make some differences here on our campuses at the national level,” Moore said. news.ed@ocolly.com
Connor Fuxa Wings of Hope gives butterfly statues to organizations that donate over $4,000.
Wings of Hope Family Crisis Services provides help to domestic violence victims Liberty Davis O’Colly Contributor
Tribune Content Agency Emma Stone plays Bella Baxter in the movie adaptation of 1992 novel “Poor Things.”
‘Poor Things’ disturbs, enthralls audience Jaycee Hampton Staff Reporter
Review “Poor Things” captures the essence of what it means to be alive, including the trials and tribulations of the way the world works. An adaptation of Alasdair Gray’s 1992 novel of the same name, “Poor Things” is a comedy/ fantasy that follows Bella Baxter (Emma Stone), a young woman brought back to life by Godwin Baxter (Willem Dafoe), an unorthodox surgeon. The film begins when Baxter takes a liking to one of his students, Max McCandless (Ramy Youssef). Baxter asks McCandless to help him with an experiment at his home, and McCandless agrees due to his admiration of Baxter. Unsure of what awaits him, Baxter asks McCandless to track data on Bella Baxter and her bodily improvements. Both
men adore Bella Baxter and want only what is best for her, and given her circumstances, they are right to worry about how she will handle outside issues. As her intelligence grows, she craves autonomy. Bella Baxter’s journey rapidly progresses when she runs off with a lawyer, Duncan Wedderburn (Mark Ruffalo). The pair partake in a whirlwind of adventures across Europe, ultimately introducing her to the way of life and its pleasures. With childlike naïveté and enthusiasm, she meets others along her journey who open her mind to philosophy and other wonders of the world. Although she is excited to explore and gain knowledge, Wedderburn does his best to keep her away from the things that intrigue her, almost as if he wants ownership of her. When she has moments to break away, she is faced with the “poor things” of the human experience. Director Yorgos Lanthimos is known for his rather bizarre filmmaking and “Poor Things”
is nothing short of that. It is a disturbing film. There were moments I felt disgusted with the characters, and it was hard to push past some of the themes showcased. Despite that, it was unbelievably funny. I laughed, cringed and even experienced the five stages of grief throughout the showtime. I took parts of the dialogue as advice that I can apply to my own life. Stone gives the performance of her lifetime, making the film all more enjoyable. Ruffalo was hilarious, and Dafoe continues to make audiences disturbed and intrigued. The entire ensemble created a story worth telling and left me speechless at times. This is not a film you want to watch with your family, as there are many sexual scenes. Although they are necessary for the film’s progression, it could make for an awkward car ride home. The visuals were beautiful and the use of color stood out. Its themes are relatable and hard to swallow, but it is worth experiencing. news.ed@ocolly.com
The Wings of Hope Family Crisis Services offices and shelter have been open for almost 13 years. It serves the community and helping individuals affected by domestic violence find a safe space. At the shelter, families are provided with their own bedrooms and restrooms. There is a shared living room and kitchen, laundry facilities, playrooms and playgrounds for children. “Wings of Hope helps provide shelter, counseling and help to get back on your feet,” said Taylor Bohannan, volunteer for Wings of Hope and OSU student. “Their mission is to break the cycle of violence by providing safety, hope and empowerment. They want to end this cycle that has been seen to be passed through several generations and cause tremendous harm.” Wings of Hope started in 1979 when three friends decided they wanted to offer solutions for people experiencing domestic violence and sexual assault. It originally started as a hotline, where community members and these three individuals would try to help people in their own homes. In February 1981, they opened up the first shelter in Stillwater. A large reason they chose Oklahoma to start this shelter was because of the statistics surrounding the state. A study by World Population Review found, for 2023, 49.1% of Oklahoma women and 40.7% of Oklahoma men either have or are currently experiencing domestic abuse, which is higher than any other state. Domestic abuse, also known as domestic violence or intimatepartner violence, can be many things. It includes physical, psychological, emotional and sexual abuse. Oklahoma also ranks third in the U.S. for the number of women killed by men in single-victim, single-offender homicides. Many organizations and groups both on and off campus help donate to Wings of Hope. Alpha Chi Omega, a sorority at
OSU, hosts philanthropy events and raises money for Wings of Hope. It also sends alumnae links to Amazon Wishlist, so they can stay involved in helping Wings Of Hope. Duren Weber, Alpha Chi Omega’s vice president of philanthropy, said the sorority actively donates to Wings of Hope. “We give all of our proceeds to Wings of Hope,” Weber said. “Some of our members volunteer there, and we host two large events every semester. During each semester, we will also do smaller events within the sorority to keep raising money and supplies for Wings of Hope. This semester we raised almost $20,000 for the shelter.” People who sign up to volunteer or work at Wings of Hope have to go through an extensive interview process to ensure the facility’s safety. Volunteers are required to finish an application, agree to a background check and complete a training program. “To Volunteer at Wings of Hope, I had to go through background checks and 40 hours of training to work in the shelter,” Bohannan said. “Working in the shelter does require the most training, but it was completely worth it.” Fourty percent of women and 38% of men experience physical violence in relationships, intimate partner rape and/or stalking in their lifetimes, according to the Oklahoma State Department of Health. A way to help domestic violence victims, other than working at Wings of Hope, is to volunteer for the domestic violence hotline. This hotline is available 24/7 and helps individuals in an emergency. Volunteers can pick which times they want to work the hotline as well. The domestic violence hotlines are split up into geographic areas and are mostly divided up by towns. “Working at the domestic violence hotline is a very rewarding opportunity,” said Addi Eubank, a volunteer for the hotline. “It is hard hearing what others have to go through, but getting to help them through it and direct them somewhere safe is the best feeling. Living in Oklahoma and hearing the statistics about domestic violence makes me want to work even harder to lower those statistics.” news.ed@ocolly.com
Page 4A Friday, January 19, 2024
O’Colly
news/lifestyle Caged . . .
Bella Casey Kilty O’Connor-Box, who spent Wednesday and Thursday locked in a cage on Library Lawn, denied that he lost a Fantasy Football bet or is associated with Greek life.
the flexibility to travel to college campuses whenever he would like. He said he attended two colleges in Missouri but did not finish his Continued from 1A degree. He said he plans ahead and saves money to travel to new uniTaylor Johnson, another versities. He said he packed up his spectator, said when she first saw cage Wednesday morning, drove O’Connor-Box, she assumed he to OSU, parked his car on a nearby was part of Greek life, though street and brought his cage onto O’Connor-Box said he does not at- campus. tend any college. OSU is barely the beginning “I think even if it’s not associ- of O’Connor-Box locking himself ated with Greek life, he definitely in the cage. He started by locking for some reason has to be out here,” himself in the cage in public areas, Johnson said. “Nobody willingly not universities, but those locations does that.” attracted unwanted visitors. O’Connor-Box said he is not “Most of (the places I started) in the cage for any of those reasons. weren’t universities, but universities He said he came up with the idea I found to be really chill because if to lock himself in a cage in public you’re on a city square, you might places two years ago while listenhave some disheveled humans ing to philosophy at a gas station. roll up, they’re pretty sketchy,” “Now, I have reasons for beO’Connor-Box said. ing in here, I just don’t share ’em,” O’Connor-Box said his reason O’Connor-Box said. for choosing OSU was a long story, O’Connor-Box said he works but his uncle went to OSU and at Costco, so his schedule gives him
shared great stories of his experience on campus. “So this will be a great story in 10 years that I tell (family) at dinner one time,” O’Connor-Box said. He said his uncle does not know he locked himself in a cage at OSU. OSU is not O’Connor-Box’s first experience in a cage on a college campus. He said he was kicked in the head at the University of Arkansas, spent five days at the University of Colorado, and once let a woman crawl in the cage with him. The first time O’Connor-Box crawled in the cage, a woman loved his idea so much she left and returned with her own cage and sat with him for six of his twelve-hour stay. O’Connor-Box spent all day on the OSU campus on Wednesday and returned on Thursday. “Oklahoma State seems pretty chill and awesome,” O’Connor-Box said. news.ed@ocolly.com
‘Twisters’ announces 2024 debut date Isaac Terry Staff Reporter
comeback for “Twisters.” Previous cast members Bill Paxton and Philip Seymour Hoffman died, though star Helen Hunt has been rumored off and on as to July 19 marks the whether she will return to release of highly anticipated the series. sequel “Twisters.” Some of the new film’s The previous film, actors include Anthony “Twister,” released in 1996 Ramos from “Hamilton” and was a huge success, and “The Bad Guys”; Daisy especially among storm-cen- Edgar-Jones from “Where tered Oklahomans. The film the Crawdads Sing” and earned over $494 million “Flesh”; and Glen Powell worldwide, according to Box from “Hidden Figures” and Office Mojo. “Twisters” is a “Scream Queens.” standalone sequel to the film. Universal Pictures is Not a lot is known set to release the film in the about the film other than United States with Lee Isaac its release date, some of the Chung as the director. Chung starring actors and a hint at is known for directing and the plot. No official trailers writing “Minari” in 2019, have been released. as well as his work on “The None of the previous Mandalorian.” film’s actors announced a
Mark L. Smith is the writer, popular for “The Revenant” and “The Boys in the Boat.” In an interview with Collider, Smith said the film will have a focus on how climate change affects the area, intensity and timeframe of major storms like tornados. Filming took place across the United States, but many scenes were shot in Oklahoma and employed local residents and places to be part of the film. Some Oklahoma spots used include Oklahoma City, Spencer, Cashion, Okarche and EL Reno, according to Collider. As for now, people can sit back and wait for the trailers to be released and rewatch the original “Twister” to fulfill their hunger for a good disaster flick. news.ed@ocolly.com
Hargis . . . Continued from 1A He spoke up when he had questions. He shared his experiences. He challenged ideas for the sake of thoroughly evaluating each of them. He set an example of what qualities a leader should embody. He took that attitude with him to McAfee & Taft law firm, where he helps associates acclimate to practicing law. Before he was OSU’s president, Hargis practiced law for 27 years and ran for state governor. “He’s a proven leader who has done really incredFile Photo ible things for the state of Oklahoma, and so we benefit Even after retiring from his position as OSU president, Burns Hargis remains a greatly from his experiences constant on campus. (and) from his expertise,” traveling earned its spot in the time in this new chapter. Taylor said. his calendar. Hargis is reflecting on each In this new chapter of Ann Hargis is golfing, chapter of his life as he life, Hargis shares his pasinstructing yoga and remains works on his book. sion for leadership at leader- involved in Pete’s Pet Posse. “It’s an exciting time, ship events and the law firm Taylor said Hargis is and I really haven’t emrather than from the presialways investing in relation- barked on what it is just yet,” dent’s suite. Socializing with ships, which he gets to do all Hargis said. students remains a habit, and news.ed@ocolly.com
Courtesy of Capt. Galbraith Capt. Galbraith, left, and Lieutenant Leon Jones, right, have been working together for 17 years.
MLK Jr. . . . Continued from 1A Chauntal Dudley, a senior majoring in interior design, plays her part in keeping King’s legacy alive. On Thursday, Dudley was the guest speaker for the MLK Jr. Celebration at OSU, hosted by The OSU MLK Jr. Celebration Committee, Division of Student Affairs and the Division of Institutional Diversity . Although from two different generations, Dudley and Galbraith share the same goal: spread the same peace King did. “He was about uniting
anyone and everyone,” Dudley said. “He impacted me in a way to know that the community is the most important thing that you can have. Loving people, being kind to others, it’s just the most important thing.” Dudley said students should know and understand history because it may not affect all people, but all people should be an ally. Galbraith and Dudley said increasing knowledge and education around history makes a difference in keeping it from happening again. Galbraith said he has witnessed several incidents of racial profiling and racial discrimination. “That will never stop,” Galbraith said. “For me, it’s a reminder that there is still work to be done.” news.ed@ocolly.com
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Stillwater’s first snowfall of the season covered campus over the holiday weekend. All Photos by Payton Little
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osu’s weekend schedule
Men’s tennis: Friday at 3 p.m. vs Middle Tennessee Women’s tennis: Friday at 6 p.m. vs Michigan Women’s basketball: Saturday at 2 p.m. vs Texas Men’s basketball: Saturday at 6 p.m. at Kansas State Women’s tennis: Sunday at Noon vs Ohio State Wrestling: Sunday at 2 p.m. vs Oregon State
Noble’s revitalized offense paramount during pivotal stretch for Cowgirls Calif Poncy Staff Reporter
with 1.5 steals per game and is often tasked with guarding the opposing team’s best player. “Q is really the head of our snake defensively, she just does such a great job of setting the Most college offenses are led by a head of tone and intensity,” said OSU coach Jacie Hoyt. the snake. A certain player is responsible for Noble’s defensive impact has been noticerunning most of the offense and touching the able from Day 1. With the Cowgirls consistently ball on almost every possession. instituting a full-court press, Noble’s rangy, The Oklahoma State Cowgirls are not most athletic defense is paramount to success on that teams. end of the court. The Cowgirls feature five players who averAlthough defense has been Noble’s calling age double-figure point totals, three of whom card most of the season, she has tapped into the hover around 14. And then there is Quincy No- scoring prowess she often displayed during her ble, OSU’s fourth-leading scorer who dropped a time at North Texas over the past few games, casual 30 points on 67% shooting on Wednesday and it couldn’t have happened at a better time. against BYU. OSU is heading toward massive matchups It marked her fifth consecutive game with at with three ranked teams its next four games, least 10 points, a sign that she could be turning and when the Cowgirls’ typical scoring leadinto that metaphorical head as the team trudges ers are unable to get going, adding a revitalized through conference play. Noble could make all the difference. Noble’s offense comes from her tenacity on See Noble on 5B the defensive end, she is second on the team
Payton Little Quincy Noble scored 30 points in the Cowgirls’ win on Wednesday, her season-high.
GROWTH SPURT
Cowboys challenged every night in Big 12 Parker Gerl Staff Reporter After No. 3 Kansas scored its third easy bucket to go up 6-0 in Tuesday’s game, Oklahoma State coach Mike Boynton swiftly called a timeout. Burning it in less than two minutes of game time, Boynton didn’t like what he saw and wanted to deliver a message, centering it toward how his team had to play against one of the best teams in the country. “I mean, you can’t play uphill against these guys,” Boynton said. “So, it was like, ‘Hey, we’re not gonna give ourselves a chance here if this thing gets to double-digits quick.’” Ultimately falling to the Jayhawks, 90-66, the Cowboys sit at 8-9 and 0-4 in the conference. But Boynton’s message doesn’t just fit for a game against KU, but for OSU’s remainder of the season, too. The Cowboys are set to play six of their remaining 14 regular season games against teams ranked in the latest AP Poll after already facing Baylor, Texas Tech
and Iowa State, each of whom fill out spots in the top 25. And when you look at OSU’s future opponents that aren’t currently ranked, you’ll see two games against a Kansas State squad that sits at 13-4 and just took down No. 9 Baylor and a road game against Cincinnati, who just edged out No. 19 TCU in overtime. Home, away or neutral, there aren’t gonna be any easy ones left. The Cowboys will have the rest of their regular season and the Big 12 Tournament to right the ship in a conference that’s probably the best in the country. “(We) lost to a really good (Kansas) team, and that’s what you deal with in this league,” Boynton said. “I don’t really follow the rankings hardly ever, but I did see a stat that for the first time ever there were nine teams ranked in the conference… the competition in this league is better than anywhere else and so you just got to put your big boy pants on and show up and do the job.” sports.ed@ocolly.com
File Photo With a team full of young wrestlers (such as Troy Spratley above), OSU has grown rapidly and enters the heart of the schedule undefeated.
Young Cowboys squad surpassing Smith’s preseason expectations said road duals are tough and can force a young team to grow up quickly. The Cowboys faced four ranked opponents during the stretch, many in front of sellout crowds, and started as many as five freshmen in a dual. But here the Braden Bush Cowboys sit, 7-0 with five ranked Sports Editor wins as they head into the final eight duals of the season. Not even Smith pictured the For any team, a stretch of away team where it is at this point in the duals can be grueling and testing, season, undefeated and ranked in much less a team as young as John the top five with so much youth and Smith’s Cowboys. so many new faces. He would have OSU begins a four-dual homesaid “no way” before the season if stand on Sunday against Oregon he was told his team would be top State, which will be the Cowboys’ five and getting such big contrifirst appearance on their home mat butions from underclassmen and since Dec. 8 and for only the third transfers at the midway point. time since the season began on Nov. “I was a little bit uncertain,” 10. The past five duals have been Smith said. “It’s always been good away from Stillwater. for me to be uncertain about what“Oh, man, it’s nice (to be back),” ever, because we worked. We busted Smith said. “I mean, it’s been a long our butt, the staff and coaches, maktime.” ing sure that we’re prepared and On Monday during his weekly we’re ready. For a team that’s as radio show, Smith, OSU’s coach,
What’s Inside
John Smith said Konner Doucet can become an AllAmerican at nationals.
5B
young as it is, you’ve got to be ready, or it’s going to show. Not only has our staff done a good job, but we’ve got really good chemistry among the team.” It wasn’t a choice to go with a younger roster, Smith said, but it’s just how it’s worked out. And the mix of youth and experience has meshed nicely. Troy Spratley, a freshman, starts the Cowboys out at 125. Then, the four-time All-American Daton Fix picks up at 133. At 141, in comes redshirt freshman Tagen Jamison, the No. 7 wrestler at the weight. Fix, a redshirt senior, is at the side of the mat alongside Smith helping coach those young teammates. The three are a combined 32-6 and have gotten the Cowboys off to quick starts in duals lately. A blend of young potential and senior experience. See Growth on 2B
The O’Colly’s way-too early 2024 projetctions for the Big 12 football season.
Payton Little The Cowboys have just one Quad 3 game remaining on its schedule.
4B
Cowgirls softball preseason national No. 12, third in Big 12 poll
8B
Page 2B Friday, January 19, 2024
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Growth...
the Cowboys haven’t missed a called a sparkplug and full of efbeat. fort, and Travis, who Smith said “Sometimes they don’t look is the hardest-working athlete he’s like freshmen when they get out had in the past few seasons. Continued from 1B there on the mat, and that’s a good “I’ve got a lot of those guys, thing,” said junior heavyweight it seems like this year, that are Konner Doucet. “They want to putting a lot of time in on their “We’ve got leadership all win now, and that’s what we own,” Smith said. “I can’t give around us from the standpoint of want.” them something better, you know, guys on the team taking roles, Winning now was big for when they’re up here at 10 o’clock, showing us how to stretch scores Doucet and the rest of the team. 11 o’clock at night getting an extra out, showing us how to get takeThe Cowboys have had talent on run in. That’s pretty impressive.” downs,” Smith said. “So it sure the roster, but he watched as OSU The schedule doesn’t get any helps when the guy before you had two of its worst-ever NCAA easier, even though home duals performs at a high level, and Championships the past two are coming up. All remaining then you step out. We’re feeling seasons. opponents are ranked, and four that right now in the last several “At Oklahoma State that’s not are in the top 10. But the Cowboys matches.” really acceptable,” Doucet said. have been tested and are showing From a season ago, Spratley And the Cowboys seem to have they can compete while still growreplaced Trevor Mastrogiovanni righted the ship so far. Not that ing a young core. and Reece Witcraft, both redshirt the chemistry was bad the past “I definitely don’t think that seniors. Teague Travis, a redshirt few years, but it is certainly in we’ve seen our best wrestling,” sophomore, took over duties for good standing now. Fix said. “I think that we have a redshirt senior Kaden Gfeller at Fix, Plott (184) and Izzak lot to improve on, and the sky’s 157. When Dustin Plott moved up Olejnik (165) each rank in the top the limit for us.” to 184, freshman Brayden Thomp- four of their weights. Then, there son took his spot at 184. And with are the young guns like Spratley, freshman Jordan Williams at 149, who Smith and the team have sports.ed@ocolly.com
Bryson Thadhani OSU’s next eight duals are against ranked opponents, including vs No. 2 Iowa.
Column: Boynton could be men’s basketball coach next year Gabriel Trevino Staff Reporter
Payton Little Quincy Noble’s calling card has been defense, but she has scored at least 10 points in each of the last five games, including 30 against BYU on Wednesday.
Noble...
Cowgirls Game day
Continued from 1B
vs.
Next is the No. 11 Texas Longhorns, who have won four of its last five, and has wins over UConn, West Virginia and TCU. “Texas is one of the best teams in the country, that’s no secret,” Hoyt said. “They’re gonna make things hard on you.” Despite coming into the game as an underdog, adding Noble to the trio of potent scorers it already has makes OSU a more dangerous team. With third place in the Big 12 within reach, the upcoming stretch of games is the most important of the Cowgirls’ season thus far. And with Noble finding her stride, they are looking to make some noise. “Us working together led to us getting steals and transition layups,” Noble said. “A lot of my layups are transition, it’s just them throwing the ball to me, and I’m just finishing.”
WHEN: Saturday at 2 p.m. WHERE: Gallagher-Iba Arena TV: ESPN+ RADIO: 93.7 FM SERIES: 43-17 Texas PREVIOUS GAME: 64-57 Texas
When the NCAA’s investigation into former assistant coach Lamont Evans’ bribery scheme led to a postseason ban, it also imposed a three year scholarship Mike Boynton’s been through more reduction and probation. If OSU was to as a basketball coach than most others at fire Boynton, the job would be attractive Oklahoma State. for most across the country. It’s a chance Is that an excuse for making the to compete in the Big 12. Coaches at all tournament once in now seven seasons? levels want that. No, but the aftermath of the NCAA’s deIt should be attractive for coaches cision two years ago could be why he’s looking to prove themselves, but who still around next season. would want to be under the NCAA’s The Cowboys at 8-9, with most of thumb and at a disadvantage for their their games remaining being Quad 1, first season? their chances of making the NCAA The team is also full of young playTournament are slim to none. If their ers who committed to play for Boynton play doesn’t drastically increase, it’ll be as much as OSU. How many of them the third consecutive season without a would transfer? The job looks less aptournament appearance and second los- pealing if Brandon Garrison or Eric ing season with Boynton. Dailey Jr. are in the transfer portal. OSU hasn’t made the Sweet Sixteen With a smaller athletic budget, buysince 2005 in Eddie Sutton’s second to ing out a coach is one decision. Hiring last season. The fanbase is eager for a the best subsequent candidate when the fifth time since, but skeptics are uncerjob comes with an asterisk is harder. If I tain if it will happen. were Chad Weiberg, you wait this thing Many point to Boynton’s buyout. Af- out with Boynton one more year before ter April 1, it will drop from $8 million making a decision. to $6.67 million as he is under contract Who knows, bigger turnarounds have through 2028 with $10 million remainhappened. Look at down the road, where ing on his deal. Porter Moser has a top-15 team in the The money is already an issue, but country after he was last in the Big 12 OSU’s basketball program isn’t in a with a losing season. great spot. sports.ed@ocolly.com
Big 12 standings 1. Kansas State (17-1, 6-0) 2. Iowa State (12-5, 5-1) 3. Oklahoma (10-6. 4-1 4. Texas (17-2, 4-1) 5. West Virginia (15-2, 4-2) 6. Oklahoma State (11-6, 4-2) 7. Baylor (14-2, 3-3) 8. Texas Tech (14-5, 3-3) 9. Houston (11-6, 2-4) 10. Kansas (9-8, 2-4) 11. Cincinnati (9-7, 1-4) 12. TCU (14-4, 1-5) 13. BYU (11-8, 1-5) 14. UCF (9-6, 0-5)
sports.ed@ocolly.com
File Photo Mike Boynton still has $10 million remaining on his contract, which goes through the 2028.
O’Colly
Friday, January 19, 2024 Page 3B
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Murphy’s Department Store 815 S Main, Downtown Open 10-6 Monday thru Saturday
Cowboy Calendar Friday, 1/19/2023 · Cowboy Tennis vs. Middle Tennessee Greenwood Tennis Center @ 6 p.m. https://okstate.com/sports/mens-tennis/schedule · Cowgirl Tennis vs. Michigan Greenwood Tennis Center @ 6 p.m. https://okstate.com/sports/womens-tennis/schedule · Grillin’ & Chillin’ At the Varsity Shop EM Curators of Craft @ 1 - 3 p.m. https://curatorsofcraft.co · OSU Swine Club Hog Show (Move In Day) Payne county Expo Center @ 12 - 10 p.m. https://pcexpocenter.com/events/month/2024-01/ · Painting/Ceramic w/ Pizza StillyArts @ 5:30 - 7:30 p.m. Book your tickets here: https://stillyarts.com/paintnights Fee: $20 (8x10 canvas + pizza) / $30 (11x14 canvas + Pizza) Saturday, 1/20/2023 · Basket Weaving w/ Buck Dollarhide Prairie Arts Center @ 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. $70 https://artscenter.okstate.edu/adult-classes/fiberarts/1315-basket-weaving-with-buck-dollarhide-2 · Cowgirl Basketball OSu vs. Texas @ 2 p.m. https://okstate.com/sports/womens-basketball/ schedule?elq_cid=438419&ehash=e86157a204a75e7c8 eea39ac470e0154c36673f74efc88636835d55c73c184e0 · Kid’s DIY-U Workshop: My First DIY Toolbox Lowe’s Home Improvement @ 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. · Looking & Making: Teaching Abstract Art OSU Museum of Art @ a0 a.m. - 3 p.m. https://docs.google.com/forms/u/3/d/ e/1FAIpQLSfBNkdxqKGSPR4Dnk_sk2gG_cbvc4s9Eue8v6BNwTZJeTKKg/viewform?fbclid=IwAR2965H7 DVRcYwRwjotb-hQscGCGFnko-_UAmBnEH9m6Emm-SszD4eoyoQ · OSU Cheer & Pom Mini Clinic OSU Cowboy & Cowgirl Athletics @ 11:15 a.m. $50 / child https://okstate.evenue.net/www/ev_okstate-athletics/ ss/ev/SpecialEvent?specialEvent=OSUCHEER&siteId =ev_okstate-athletics&locale=en_US&linkID=okstateathletics&elq_cid=77191&ehash=04984b24265d75d440 526103af558ad6fe6e9cd16e44b9645219d66f3bffa984 · OSU Swine Club Hog Show Payne County Expo Center @ 8 a.m. - 7 p.m. https://pcexpocenter.com/events/month/2024-01/ · Payne County Flea Market Payne County Expo Center @ 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. https://pcexpocenter.com/events/month/2024-01/ · Pinch Pot Snowman Luminary Pottery Workshop Prairie Arts Center @ 10:30 a.m - 1:30 p.m. $40 https://artscenter.okstate.edu/adult-classes/pottery/1316pinch-pot-snowman-luminary-pottery-workshop-3 · Viking 5K, 10K, & Half Marathon Boomer Lake @ 8 a.m. h t t p s : / / r u n s i g n u p . c o m / R a c e / FindARunner/?raceId=155480 · Brewery Tours Iron Monk Brewing Company @ 3 p.m. $15
Los Angeles Times Daily Crossword Puzzle Edited by Patti Varol
ACROSS 1 Framing piece 5 Swiatek who won her fourth major singles championship in 2023 8 Carding pre-entry 13 Vineyard measure 14 Russian dynast 15 West Coast NFLer 16 Class reunion attendee who’s in no one’s yearbook? 18 Dried poblano 19 Off the street, in a way 21 Irish capital 22 Touch 25 Proper etiquette at the plate? 27 Many of the Marshall Islands 29 Order member 30 Seldom seen 31 IRS action 34 Place for a By Gary Larson & Amy Ensz 1/19/24 mineral scrub 37 Impulse behind DOWN Thursday’s Puzzle Solved the gift-giving 1 Giant part of a in “The Twelve Tyrannosaurus Days of rex skeleton Christmas”? 2 Big heart? 41 “__-boom-bah!” 3 Sports doc’s order 42 “The __ in Me”: 4 Part of an icy Britney Spears breakup memoir 5 Quran faith 43 Senior advocacy 6 Speedometer, e.g. group 7 Set, as an alarm 44 Bank of China 8 Cookbook writer Tower architect Garten 45 Hot Wheels 9 Make a meal of maker 10 Run up, as debts 47 Discussion panel 11 Jacket style about sheets, named for an duvets, blankets, Indian leader etc.? 12 Best man’s best 53 Go out with friend, often 54 Again ©2024 Tribune Content Agency, LLC 1/19/24 55 Sang high notes? 14 Need for poi 17 Arlene of classic 57 Shopping aids 33 __ Quixote 49 Italian scooter cinema 59 Book 34 Sports figures 50 Bubbles up supplements, and 20 Sturdy material 51 More eccentric an apt title for this 22 Infield protectors 35 Blender setting 36 Copious 52 __-wip: dessert 23 Centipede puzzle 38 Washbasin jug topping platform 63 Looks down? 56 June 6, 1944 64 Pharmacy orders, 24 Sponge features 39 Loud 40 NL East player 58 London-to-Paris 26 Adorable informally 44 Tin alloy dir. 28 Guitar legend 65 Far offshore 45 Grand Canyon 60 “__ your head!” Paul 66 Catch in a trap rentals 61 Airport code for 31 24/7 money 67 Hindu title of 46 Hymn finale Australia’s second source respect largest city 68 Business review 32 Thurman of “The 47 Settles 48 Gibson garnish 62 Plant juice Producers” app
Daily Horoscope
Nancy Black Tribune Content Agency Linda Black Horoscopes Today’s Birthday (01/19/24). Inspiration, love, and creativity bloom this year. Launch successfully with strategic, coordinated outreach. Discover career opportunities from new directions this spring, before cultivating summertime domestic bliss. Navigate autumn changes with patient communication, before your professional work earns winter acclaim. Follow your heart for deeper connection. To get the advantage, check the day’s rating: 10 is the easiest day, 0 the most challenging. Aries (March 21-April 19) — Today is a 9 — Gather in whatever you need, and more. Discover hidden treasure. Nonetheless, minimize unnecessary spending. Stick to practical priorities. You’re building for the future. Taurus (April 20-May 20) — Today is a 9 — Talk about passions, interests and dreams. Make a lucky connection. You can see what’s missing. Imagine perfection, and list the steps. Grow and develop. Gemini (May 21-June 20) — Today is a 7 — Make optimistic plans. That which you seek lies within your reach. Research and discover hidden opportunities. Make logical connections. Review and edit carefully. Cancer (June 21-July 22) — Today is an 8 — Make a delightful social connection. Collaborations develop naturally. You have more friends than you realized. Join forces for common gain. Raise some fun together. Leo (July 23-Aug. 22) — Today is an 8 — Fortune follows professional initiative. Actions can get farther than anticipated. Discuss and develop plans. Talk about your ideas for success. Articulate possibilities and potential options. Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) — Today is a 9 — Spread your wings. The wide world beckons. Make a long-distance connection. Take advantage of a lucky break. Explore and investigate the possibilities. An adventure calls. Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22) — Today is an 8 — Monitor accounts for growth. Collaborative projects sprout and develop. Tend them carefully. Make sure your partner has what they need. Support each other. Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21) — Today is a 9 — Collaboration can get exciting. Inspiration feeds motivation. One idea sparks another. Encourage each other to greatness. Share some fun with someone you love. Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21) — Today is an 8 — Practice builds strength, endurance and resilience. Connect with nature to recharge. Prioritize time for yourself. Eat and rest well. Use or lose your physical skills. Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) — Today is an 8 — Have fun doing what you love. You’re especially creative and charming. Connect to advance a passion project. Strengthen foundations, and then add beautiful elaborations. Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18) — Today is a 7 — Can you work from home? Domestic bliss draws you in. Catch up on household chores. Reduce complications. You’re especially productive in your comfort zone. Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20) — Today is an 8 — Connect the dots. Patiently clarify the situation. Not everyone gets it. Monitor and share the news. Let others know to keep traffic flowing
Level 1 2 3 4
1/19/24
Solution to Thursday’s puzzle
Complete the grid so each row, column and 3-by-3 box (in bold borders) contains every digit, 1 to 9. For strategies on how to solve Sudoku, visit sudoku.org.uk
© 2024 The Mepham Group. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency. All rights reserved.
Page 4B Friday, January 19, 2024
O’Colly
sports
OSU adds Paul Randolph as the Cowboys’ defensive line coach Ashton Slaughter Assistant Sports Editor
ing experience spans 26 years and multiple programs — Indiana, Texas Tech, Memphis, Arizona State, Pittsburgh, Tulsa, Rice, Alabama, West Virginia, OSU did, in fact, make a coaching Toledo, Illinois State, Valdosta State and change this offseason. UT-Martin. It was announced last week that Paul He also played linebacker in the Randolph, who was previously the deCanadian Football League for almost a fensive line coach at Indiana, will coach decade. the Cowboys in the same role. Randolph is taking over for Greg Randolph is familiar with the Big Richmond, whose departure from the 12, coaching the defensive line at Texas program was announced along with Tech for three seasons before heading to Randolph’s arrival. Indiana for two seasons. Randolph’s collegiate football coachsports.ed@ocolly.com
What OSU’s new defensive line coach brings to Stillwater
Rich Janzaruk/Herald-Times OSU announced former Indiana defensive line coach Paul Randolph as its defensive line coach last week.
Gabriel Trevino Staff Reporter
Football League. His fit with OSU appears natural. The co-defensive coordinators he’ll be working with, Bryan Nardo and Joe Watching one Indiana game this Bob Clements, are linebacker coaches. past season could tell you what kind Hoosier linebacker Aaron Casey was of coach Paul Randolph is. Randolph an All-Big Ten first team player with was announced as OSU’s new defensive 109 tackles, 20 for loss and 6.5 sacks in line coach and will take over for Greg 2023. He doesn’t do that by himself. Richmond. This season, OSU sophomore Nick He’s not new to the Big 12 or OklaMartin had 140 tackles, 16 for loss and homa. Before Indiana, where he the six sacks. Those numbers may get better defensive line coach from 2022-23, he with improved defensive line play. Oh, coached at Texas Tech for three seasons, and Collin Oliver, a defensive lineman three at Arizona State and at Tulsa for and linebacker, could get better at both four. his jobs. Randolph has coached a few future sports.ed@ocolly.com NFL players, most notably 2023 No. 7 pick Tyree Wilson, but most of his stars were unsung heroes. Carl Bradford totaled 39.5 sacks from 2012 to ‘13 at ASU. Davon Coleman had 26 in the same two years. And, in the same seaDefensive coordinator: Bryan sons as the others, Will Sutton had 37. Talk about a trio. Nardo But that was more than 10 years ago. What does Randolph do now? After a Co-defensive coordinator and film review of some Indiana games this season, it was clear. His defensive linelinebackers: Joe Bob Clements men at Indiana were intelligent. While in multiple fronts and different looks, they Corners coach: Tim Duffie understand leverage, gaps and where the running back was meant to go. They may not always get to the ballcarrier, but Safeties: Dan Hammerschmidt often times with defensive linemen, their job isn’t flashy. It’s to make their team- Defensive line: Paul Randolph mates, especially linebackers, better. It makes sense. Randolph played linebacker for a decade in the Canadian
OSU’s 2024 defensive coaches
File Photo Sure, the college football season is just now ending, but it’s never too early to look ahead.
Too early 2024 Big 12 predictions Gabriel Trevino Staff Reporter
Big 12 power rankings
Utah is an easy choice at No. 1. The Utes’ defense was top 10 in a number of categories, but its offense was abysmal. However, they’ll be returning one of the best quarterback in the country — Cam Rising, who recovered from a torn ACL a year ago. That’ll fix the offense. Arizona was another easy choice at No. 2. While some offensive production is expected to decline and Jedd Fisch leaving to Washington, but moral is at an all-time high in Tuscon with quarterback Noah Fifita and the skill players. Oklahoma State may be the favorite to win the Big 12 when the media votes on the actual preseason poll in July. The Cowboys have the Doak Walker Award winner returning with a number of skill players across the offense and defense.
the t u o ck e Ch
away! e d i H inal g i r O
1. Utah 2. Arizona 3. Oklahoma State 4. Iowa State 5. Kansas 6. Colorado 7. West Virginia 8. Kansas State 9. Texas Tech 10. UCF 11. Houston 12. TCU 13. BYU 14. Cincinnati 15. Baylor 16. Arizona State
SINCE 1957,
230 S. Knoblock St. Stillwater, OK 74074
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Friday, January 19, 2024 Page 5B
sports
Softball at No. 12 in national rankings, top three in Big 12 poll Ashton Slaughter Assistant Sports Editor
Bryson Thadhani OSU heavyweight Konner Doucet hasn’t scored more than five points in a match this season, but coach John Smith said he will be an All-American if he can find a takedown.
Smith adamant Doucet can earn All-American. What will it take? Daniel Allen Staff Reporter
while exceeding three points in just one of his matches, there remains one glaring issue: Doucet has only scored one takedown, coming in a 5-1 win over Konner Doucet often reflects on his Wyoming’s Kevin Zimmer. He’s much redshirt-freshman season at Oklahoma improved on bottom from a year ago. State. He makes his worth in ride-outs, often How does the OSU heavyweight dominating his opponent on top. The gauge it? Some good. Some bad. The riding-time point has been a catalyst in typical ebbs and flows of a first-year each of his 10 wins. starter. But the takedown hasn’t been there. Doucet logged a handful of upset And in a weight class where offense is wins, a third-place finish in the 2023 relatively sparse, even sporadic takeSouthern Scuffle and a fifth-place finish downs pay major dividends for college at heavyweight in the Big 12 Tournawrestling’s giants down the stretch of a ment, gradually climbing the ranks and season. earning an at-large bid to the NCAA So, how can that be fixed? Neither Championships. However, an 0-2 finish Smith nor Doucet gave a clear-cut and early exit from the big stage left a answer. However, Smith did point to sour feeling with he and his coaches. Doucet’s progression over his past four “It didn’t sit well with me,” Doucet matches as a tell-tale sign of what could said earlier in the season. “An early exit be nearing. like that is a tough pill to swallow.” “I think this year he sees a path to Now, in his second season as a being an All-American, and (he’s a) starter, he and coach John Smith are tough guy,” Smith said. “I think some of hoping for more. Much more. the best matches he’s wrestled have been “All-American,” Smith said. “He’s over the last couple of weeks.” definitely won a lot of matches. If he The path to his first round of Allgets a shot, I think he’s going to be an American honors is set. Now, as he All-American.” embarks on likely a defining stretch for Proclaiming that about his heavythe second-year starter, Doucet said he’s weight – who has yet to score more using his improvement upon last season than five points in a match – as a likely for confidence. With two top-10 oppoAll-American is a bold claim. Especially nents nearing, that will suffice. Still, it’s considering the bulk of Doucet’s slate is nothing Smith doesn’t believe can be nearing its apex with the likes of Oregon overcome. State’s Boone McDermott (No. 11), Iowa “He’s got a lot more confidence in State’s Yonger Bastida (No. 3), Northern himself,” Smith said. “His demeanor is Iowa’s Tyrell Gordon (No. 16) and Mis- much more in tune. And I think last year souri’s Zach Elam (No. 6) upcoming. he was maybe a little bit uncertain at “I know it’s not gonna get much times. easier,” Doucet said. “It’s a long season.” “This year, he’s a different guy.” As Smith said, “winning is winning.” And while that statement holds some truth, as Doucet holds a 10-2 record sports.ed@ocolly.com
players Kelly Maxwell (transferred to OU), Rachel Becker and Kiley Naomi (both out of eligibility) and key contributors like Chyenne Factor and Morgyn Another year, another high-projected Wynne, among others not suiting up for season for Cowgirl softball. the Cowgirls this season. After OSU finished the 2022-23 The Big 12’s preseason poll came out season with a 47-16 record after hosting on Wednesday, and OSU landed at No. a Regional, Super Regional and appear- 3, trailing only OU and Texas. The Cowing in the Women’s College World Series girls went 10-8 in conference play last — one of only two programs to play in season and have finished in the top three OKC the past four seasons — polls and of the conference the last seven seasons. pundits show that coach Kenny GajewThis year’s roster brings back four ski is expected to lead them to success starters and new pitching and hitting again. coaches. Former Cowgirl pitcher Carrie On Tuesday, D1Softball revealed Eberle returns to the program to lead the its annual preseason top 25, and OSU pitchers, taking over for John Bargfeldt, landed at No. 12. D1Softball’s inaugural who retired after the conclusion of last preseason top 25 was in 2020, and the season. Vanessa Shippy-Fletcher was Cowgirls have been in the top 13 every promoted from an assistant to take over year — No. 12 in 2024; No. 3 in 2023; for Whitney Cloer, who is no longer with No. 3 in 2022; No. 10 in 2021; No. 13 in the program, in a decision that came 2020. surprisingly in December. That said, OSU’s No. 12 spot heading into this season is its second-lowest in that span. This is no surprise, though, considering the losses of All-American sports.ed@ocolly.com
Big 12 preseason poll (first place votes)
D1 softball preseason rankings 1. Oklahoma 2. Stanford 3. Tennessee 4. Florida State 5. Texas 6. Georgia 7. Clemson 8. Duke 9. UCLA 10. Washington 11. Alabama 12. Oklahoma State 13. Nebraska T-14. Oregon T-14. Utah 16. Baylor 17. LSU 18. Arkansas 19. Auburn 20. Florida 21. Lousiana 22. South Carolina 23. San Diego State 24. Northwestern 25. Texas A&M
1. Oklahoma (9) 2. Texas (1) 3. Oklahoma State 4. Baylor 5. UCF 6. Texas Tech 7. BYU 8. Kansas 9. Iowa State 10. Houston
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