The O'Colly, Friday, November 10, 2023.

WINTER WONDER-LAND Izzak Olejnik

Javon Small

Stailee Heard

Winter Sports Preview Wonder surrounds OSU’s winter. New players, storylines and questions loom across all sports, each with their own expectations. Can Daton Fix lead wrestling to a bounce-back season?

Will the Cowboy newcomers take them to the tournament? And are the Cowgirls experienced enough now to make a leap? All will be answered as spring comes, but for now, OSU fans are left wondering how their winter will unfold.

Cowboy Basketball

Cowboy Basketball

Wrestling

Pg. 2 & 3

Pg. 4 & 5

Pg. 6 & 7

Page 2A Friday, November 10, 2023

sports MEN’S BASKETBALL

Roster Breakdown

With roster full of youth, Thompson and Wright adjusting to leadership Baylor Bryant Staff Reporter

File Photo Quion Williams enters his second season with OSU as a power forward.

Versatile players provide lineup flexibility for Boynton Gabriel Trevino Staff Reporter

Quion Williams steps were hard enough it could’ve cracked the hardwood as he ran toward the basket.

The 6-foot-4 guard sprinted into a jump to get the rebound, getting higher than most near 7-footers. Williams has shown his knack for getting to the ball throughout his career so far, such as 10 rebounds against Abilene Christian on Monday or 11 vs Youngstown State last year.

Williams started at power forward in OSU’s season opener, something coach Mike Boynton said may be frequent. His play style despite his size, and defensive quickness and strength allows Williams to be put anywhere from 1-through-4.

A freshman may have more versatility, though.

Eric Dailey Jr., a freshman from IMG Academy, at 6-8, can play handle point guard duties, be a two-way dominant forward or at center with his length on an OSU team who can use him anywhere.

Boynton hasn’t experimented much with players in the past. With Cade Cunningham, he played him wherever because he was the most talented player in the country, and it worked, but with others,

O’Colly

he’s found it difficult to use star players in different roles.

“Everybody in our league has had a skilled forward,” Boynton said.

“They can post up, make a 3, get a rebound and push, can be a defensive challenge, and we haven’t had that in a consistent manner. He knows what he should be looking for.

Now, he’s a willing passer.

He knows when to kick it out. He’s unselfish. But he’s naturally got the ability to get buckets.”

Dailey came off the bench in his first game, but his inexperience and talent showed. He turned the ball over thrice, scored six points on 25% shooting with five rebounds, four assists and two steals in 23 minutes.

With injuries to guard Javon Small and center Isaiah Miranda to begin the season, Williams and Dailey will likely be forced to play more minutes in OSU’s eight or nine-man rotation. Williams played all but one minute Monday, and Dailey was OSU’s sixth man.

“I’ll do anything,” Dailey said. “If you want me on the 5, I’ll play the 5. If you want me on the point, I’ll be the point. If you want me to cheer on the bench and clap, I’m gonna do that. My versatility is something I definitely bring to this team.” sports.ed@ocolly.com

Cowboy veterans are vocally stepping up on a team loaded with freshmen.

Oklahoma State brought in six freshmen this offseason, as Bryce Thompson, John-Michael Wright and Quion Williams are the only returners from last year’s squad.

OSU coach Mike Boynton had to find them some help.

“A lot of our conversation in the spring and summer was we are going to help you relieve some of this pressure of making all the decisions and playing kind of like you got to run the team,” Boynton said.

“We recruited a couple guys to do that for them and both of them are out right now. So it’s back to balancing what they do naturally best, which is score, make shots while also trying to run the team with a bunch of new guys.

Those are the kind of guys that I don’t worry about much.”

Thompson and Wright are not known for being vocal, and they lead more by example, but Wright said being a vocal leader is something he is adapting to.

“It is something that for me personally, I’m not used to doing,” Wright said. “I do like to lead

by example, but it does require for the team to be better. It’s something I have to get out of my comfort zone and do it. It makes me a better player as well because if I get on with them about it, then I’m also holding myself to the same standard so it’s uncomfortable, but it’s just worth it.”

Thompson, as a veteran and leader on the team, said he sees his role partly as a guide for the freshmen.

“I think those are times where us as leaders, as vets of the group, we got to make sure they wake up like come on practice is starting,” Thompson said.

“Coach ain’t playing today, so I think we’ve done a good job of bringing those guys along and just making sure that we can help them whenever they need help.”

With many new faces on the team, Wright emphasized that it is just not him and Thompson who have stepped up.

“It’s not just us two,” Wright said. “Even the other upperclassmen or even some of the transfers and the freshmen they try and coach each other up as well. Everybody really wants to get better. Nobody’s getting their feelings hurt. We all turn to the truth, and we all want to win.”

No. 12 Javon Small - G

The East Carolina transfer’s court vision and high-level playmaking will set up teammates with easy buckets and bring more offensive structure to this year’s team.

No. 51 John-Michael Wright - G

In his second season with OSU. A speedy combo guard who can get hot and score from just about anywhere.

No. 1 Bryce Thompson - G

The best individual scorer on the team. An effective shot creator with a smooth pull-up mid-range jumper and an improved 3-point shot.

No. 2 Eric Dailey Jr. - F

A unique ball-handler for his size, Dailey’s versatility stands out with his point-forward skill set, effective slashing and mid-range jumper.

No. 32 Mike Marsh - C

Brings an experienced presence with good touch and footwork around the rim to OSU’s frontcourt rotation in his first year with the team.

No. 23 Brandon Garrison - C

Garrison can take over a game with his elite defense, shotblocking and rebounding, and is a talented passer for a big man.

sports.ed@ocolly.com

No. 5 Quion Wiliams - F

The scrappy slasher who does most of his work as a rebounder and defender, uses his athleticism and length to guard multiple positions.

Payton Little Bryce Thompson said that as a senior and a leader, his job is to help the progress of OSU’s young team.

Dow brings needed 3-point shooting Parker Gerl Staff Reporter

OSU guard Connor Dow received a pass, set his feet and let a 3 go.

As the Cowboys were making a late comeback push against Abilene Christian, Dow sank his third 3-pointer of the night off Eric Dailey Jr.’s assist. Gallagher-Iba Arena erupted, and Dow let his emotions out after giving OSU a spark of life thanks to his marksmanship.

Meanwhile, Dailey was just following suit of how he operates alongside Dow. “If you see C-Dow, give him the ball,” Dailey Jr. said after OSU’s exhibition against Oklahoma Baptist.

Dow, a freshman, arrived in Stillwater as part of a high-profile recruiting class headlined by Dailey — a four-star recruit, and Brandon Garrison, a fivestar, McDonald’s All-American center.

At 6-foot-6, Dow walked into a team dominated by his position in guards and forwards. And aside from prolific perimeter shooting, the rest of his repertoire appeared raw, leaving his level of role for the 2023-24 season uncertain.

But Dow’s 3-point shot fills a void for the Cowboys, one that has lasted for some time. And his defense has come along throughout his time since joining Payton Little the program, putting him ahead of schedConnor Dow is a freshman from ule for this season.

Broken Arrow.

“His ability to shoot the basketball

obviously stands out,” said OSU coach Mike Boynton. “But he’s a really good athlete. He’s much better defensively than people would probably assume…probably better than I assumed.”

Since putting on an OSU jersey, Dow has wasted no time drilling triples and showing his worth. Through the Cowboys’ exhibition and first game, an exhibition win against Oklahoma Baptist and season opener loss to Abilene Christian, he shot the 3-ball at a 54.5% clip (6-of-11).

Having a wing who brings elite 3-point shooting gives OSU more creation offensively, too. Dow is able to move around and cut off-ball, and he serves as a security blanket for Cowboy bigs when they draw an extra defender.

“When we get (double teamed) in the post, just having a guy you can like depend on to make the shot when you kick it out (makes it easier for us).” Garrison said.

As OSU looks to redeem its shooting woes after years of it plaguing their seasonal success, Dow’s abilities and early signs of promise could be a perfect starting point.

He’s going to get plenty of opportunities based on his shooting capability alone to help OSU flip the script.

“He’s gonna find his way on the court,” Boynton said. “He plays with great confidence.” sports.ed@ocolly.com

No. 4 Jarius Hicklen - G

An experienced 3-point specialist who will help the Cowboys improve their perimeter shooting.

No. 24 Isaiah Miranda - F/C

Hyper-athletic 7-footer from NC State. Miranda is a raw talent that wows with his dunking and has shown flashes of being able to knock down jump-shots.

No. 13 Connor Dow - G

A knock-down 3-point sniper who has come along nicely as a defender. Has the green light to shoot it from anywhere.

No. 14 Jamyron Keller - G

Facilitating and defense are Keller’s strong suits. He’s a gritty defender who’s shown signs of being an effective driver.

No. 12 Justin McBride - F

The offensive-minded big man is capable of just about everything as a scorer and can grab rebounds on both ends. He’s viewed as a raw prospect right now.

COWBOY BASKETBALL SCHEDULE Sam Houston

St. Bonaventure

Auburn / Notre Dame

New Orleans

Houston Christian

Creighton

Southern Illinois

Tulsa

ORU

Wofford

Nov. 12

Nov. 16

Nov. 17

Nov. 20

Nov. 24

Nov. 30

Dec. 5

Dec. 10

Dec. 17

Dec. 20

South Carolina St.

Chicago St.

Baylor

Texas Tech

Iowa State

Kansas

Kansas State

TCU

West Virginia

Kansas

Dec. 31

Jan. 3

Jan. 6

Jan. 9

Jan. 13

Jan. 16

Jan. 20

Jan. 23

Jan. 27

Jan. 30

Kansas State

Houston

Oklahoma

BYU

Cincinnati

Oklahoma

UCF

Texas

Texas Tech

BYU

Legend - Home - Away - Legends Classic (Brooklyn, NY) - Paycom Center (Oklahoma City)

Feb. 3

Feb. 6

Feb. 10

Feb. 17

Feb. 21

Feb. 24

Feb. 28

March 2

March 5

March 9

O’Colly

Marsh’s big man experience an outlier on young Cowboys team

Friday, November 10, 2023 Page 3A

sports

Gabriel Trevino Staff Reporter

get to his spot, he’s gonna play with great force and have some physicality.”

After 13 points and nine rebounds in OSU’s season opener, Marsh proMike Marsh is almost six years vides a tertiary scoring option in the older than most of his teammates. post that past OSU teams have lacked at He’s been around. Marsh started times. Without drawing the attention of college at two JUCOs, transferred to double teams, Marsh can score one-onJacksonville where he played for three one when the perimeter primary shootseasons before getting to Stillwater for ers are guarded. his last year of eligibility.

Marsh has also used that experience The Cowboys’ 6-foot-10, 250 pound to mentor the younger big men. “Big forward/center wasn’t the talented Mike,” as his teammates call him, will recruit like Brandon Garrison, Eric say something to a player like Garrison Dailey Jr. or Isaiah Miranda were, but that they have never thought of before. he’s seen more college basketball than Something that you don’t learn unless all of them combined by multiple years. you’ve played college basketball for as That experience isn’t coachable, and long as Marsh has. it’s what’s making Marsh OSU coach “All the little moves I’m getting, I’d Mike Boynton’s starting center. say I’m getting from him,” Garrison “He’s got a plan,” Boynton said. said. “In practice, he’s working with all “Mike ain’t guessing. He knows what of us.” he wants to do. Our young guys are guessing all the time. They’re trying things, hoping it works. Mike’s gonna sports.ed@ocolly.com

Andon Freitas Mike Marsh has been to four different schools and played college basketball for longer than most other big men on OSU’s roster combined.

Andon Freitas Justin McBride still has lots of development ahead, but coach Mike Boynton said McBride could turn out to be the best long-term college prospect on the team.

Athlteic freshman McBride making ‘big improvements’ entering 2023-24 Calif Poncy Staff Reporter

freshman Connor Dow, and pulled up for a 3, before his shot even began its descent, he started to backpedal, a classic showboat.

Justin McBride confidently jogged There was only one issue. He onto Eddie Sutton Court for the first missed... again. time.

Boynton looked into McBride’s eyes He tried to establish himself, dartas the whistle blew for a timeout. ing through a defender to the rim on his “Justin did the trot back to halfcourt third offensive possession. before the ball hits the rim on his first McBride awkwardly put up his first three,” Boynton said. “You’re not that career shot, and he missed, but quickly good yet.” refocused, moved the Oklahoma BapMcBride, who turned 18 in July, tist defender to the side, rebounded oozes potential in all facets of his his own miss and laid the ball into the game. basket.

Despite his size, he is potent with McBride’s explosive athleticism, the ball in his hands, creating looks for heads-up playmaking ability and nose himself and his teammates with regufor the ball make him one of the biglarity in OSU’s exhibition against OBU. gest swing players on the Cowboys’ McBride talented his way to a roster this season, his flashes of domi- 19-point, five-rebound, two-assist debut nance against OBU came a few weeks while also recording a block and a after he hardly looked like a college steal. player in practice.

He likely won’t reach his potential “McBride has probably had the big- this season, but when he hits his ceilgest improvement of any kid I’ve seen ing, OSU could have its next program before the season starts,” said OSU building block. When he’s on the court, coach Mike Boynton. “There was liter- he has the ability to do special things. ally conversations in August of whether “I think he could turn out to be we should redshirt him or not because the best college prospect, long term,” he just wasn’t ready.”

Boynton said. “He’s that talented.”

One possession after his layup, McBride filled his lane as the Cowboys ran up the court on the fastbreak.

McBride put his hands up, catching a perfectly placed pass from fellow sports.ed@ocolly.com

Rashod’s breakout: Comparing Owens’ late bloom to past Cowboys upperclassmen Ashton Slaughter Asst. Sports Editor

Rashod Owens started the season as a third-string wide receiver.

Now, he leads OSU in receiving yards.

“I don’t know what to say about Rashod Owens,” said OSU coach Mike Gundy. “...He’s a perfect example of you never know what a young man can do if given the chance to be in a situation.

Owens is the newest example of a Cowboy who, when given the runway, has taken off. Now in his fourth year in the program, the redshirt junior is making his presence felt. Injuries to De’Zhaun Stribling, Jaden Bray and Blaine Green (not to mention transfer slot receiver Arland Bruce IV’s involvement with the gambling probe at Iowa) have put Owens in a prime position to excel.

“Rashod’s been — what do they call it in the NFL? The Comeback Player of the Year? Whatever it is, he outta win that,” Gundy said.

Rather than “comeback player,” Owens applies to the “breakout player” category. He’s not coming back from any injury; he played in 12 games last season and totaled six catches.

But he has broken out, surpassing his career high in receiving yards after six games this season, notably totaling 10 catches for 136 yards in OSU’s Bedlam victory.

Not everyone could produce that stat line, sure. But he was given the chance.

Here are some other Cowboys who have broken out after years with the program.

Clint Chelf, quarterback: Chint Chelf’s time had come.

After backing up Brandon Weeden for two seasons, he was one of the quarterbacks in the mix for the starting job in 2012, competing with Wes Lunt and J.W.

Walsh.

Lunt and Walsh got injured, and Chelf was thrust into the starting role for the last six games of the season.

The next season, Chelf and Walsh went back and forth for the starting job before Gundy named Chelf the starter for the season’s final seven games (winning five of those games).

The dual-threat quarterback had a total of 2,542 yards and 25 touchdowns in 2013. All he needed was an opportunity.

Devin Harper, linebacker: Cowboy defensive end Kody Walterscheid saw Devin Harper’s preparation for years.

Harper spent five years with the program before breaking out in 2021.

“He was a monster on the field,” Walterscheid said.

In his first year as a full-time starter, Harper had 96 tackles, trailing only Malcolm Rodriguez, who had 129.

For reference, Harper’s 96 tackles in 2021 were more than he had in any other two seasons combined.

Keith Toston, running back: Like Owens, Toston played behind stars and battled injuries before he broke out.

He played behind Dantrell Savage and Kendall Hunter, two future NFL backs.

When Toston got his chance in 2009, he seized it, totaling 1,479 yards from scrimmage and 12 touchdowns, outplaying Hunter.

Owens is cut from the same cloth as Chelf, Harper and Toston.

They never had the position handed to them. Their stats didn’t come easy. Yet, they’ve put their head down and shined when it was their time. “...It’s pretty cool when a young man gets a chance to play,” Gundy said. sports.ed@ocolly.com

Bryson Thadhani Rashod Owens is the newest example of an OSU player who has a breakout season when given the opportunity.

Page 4A Friday, November 10, 2023

O’Colly

sports WOMEN’S BASKETBALL COWGIRL BASKETBALL SCHEDULE

Colorado

Penn State

Ohio State

Missouri St.

Wyoming

Texas State

Southern Illinois

Utah Tech

Oregon

Iowa State

Nov. 12

Nov. 20

Nov. 22

Nov. 26

Dec. 3

Dec. 9

Dec. 17

Dec. 20

Dec. 21

Dec. 30

UCF

TCU

Texas Tech

Kansas

BYU

Texas

Cincinnati

Baylor

Iowa State

Oklahoma

Jan. 3

Jan. 6

Jan. 10

Jan. 13

Jan. 17

Jan. 20

Jan. 24

Jan. 28

Jan. 31

Feb. 3

Kansas State

Texas Tech

Houston

UCF

Oklahoma

West Virginia

Baylor

Legend - Home - Away - Baha Mar Hoops, The Bahamas - Trailblazer Classic, St. George, Utah

Feb. 10

Feb. 14

Roster Breakdown No. 12 Lior Garzon - F

OSU’s star player returns for her second season in Stillwater. Garzon is a three-point specialist and has taken a step up this season on defense.

No. 4 Anna Gret Asi - G

Bursted onto the scene late last season and is expected to be a top player for coach Hoyt. Will play mostly point guard.

No. 32 Stailee Heard - G

Heard is the biggest get for OSU this offseason and is a freshman.

Heard is listed as a guard, but will play center and forward for the Cowgirls.

No. 2 Kennedy Fauntleroy - G

Fauntleroy won the Big East Freshman of the Year award last season at Georgetown. She is a flashy dribbler with great finishing skills in the paint.

No. 0 Quincy Noble - G

Scored 1,000 points in four years at North Texas. Averaged 17 points per game last season and was named a first-team all-conference player.

Feb. 17

Feb. 24

Feb. 24

Feb. 27

Cowgirls face tough stretch with questions at center Davis Cordova Staff Reporter Three games against two top-ranked teams await the Cowgirls who are still looking for some answers.

The Cowgirls started the week 2-0, with wins over SIUE and New Orleans, but get a three-game stretch full of early tests.

OSU first heads to Boulder noon Sunday to play the No. 20 Colorado Lady Buffaloes − who beat No. 1 LSU on Monday.

On Nov. 20, the Cowgirls fly down to The Bahamas to play Penn State and No. 7 Ohio State (Nov. 22).

The three games bode a stretch full of challenges and answers for OSU coach Jacie Hoyt and her squad, especially after OSU’s close win on Wednesday over UNO, 74-66.

Hoyt said that this three game stretch will show her team what they will see down the road in March.

“I think it shows our players that whatever happened last game doesn’t matter,” Hoyt said. “We’re going to be put in that situation a lot. We’re going to The Bahamas and playing two incredibly tough teams, we’re going to see that in the conference tournament and hopefully in the NCAA Tournament. It will be a good preparation for us.”

The big question for these games and moving forward is the depth for size for

the Cowgirls.

Freshman Stailee Heard has been playing well manning the center position in the first two games for the Cowgirls, but Heard is listed as a guard and is 5-foot-11. She played center in high school, but a big matchup awaits in Boulder.

The Lady Buffs boast Aaronette Vonleh, a 6-3 center who scored 24 points against LSU and won the most improved player in the Pac-12 last season.

For depth for OSU, they only have Brianna Jackson, a 6-3 transfer from Old Dominion who has played limited minutes in the first two games.

The Cowgirls do have two waiting to play though at the center position.

Hannah Gusters, a transfer from LSU and former five-star, will be eligible to play for OSU once the first semester of school ends, unless her waiver is approved. Her first game is expected to be Dec. 17.

Praise Egharevba, a 6-3 forward, is recovering from an injury and expected to play later this season.

Hoyt said her depth and versatility from her team is the most exhilarating part about this season’s team.

“The most exciting part is the versatility, the depth. We can play a lot of different ways,” Hoyt said. “We’re still waiting on an answer for Hannah and we’re hoping to get Praise back soon. We Andon Freitas still have more ahead of us that we can plays Colorado, Penn State and learn from and it’s gonna be really fun.” OSU Ohio State in the next three games. sports.ed@ocolly.com

Heard filling big role as a freshman

No. 21 Hannah Gusters - C

Gusters is a former five-star prospect who’s transffered twice. She will not be eligible to play until Dec. 17 unless her NCAA waiver is approved.

Calif Poncy Staff Reporter

No. 5 Chandler Prater - G

Spent three seasons at Kansas where she was known as a doit-all player and a season-long starter.

No. 11 Rylee Langerman - G

Langerman is from Norman and spent the past three seasons at Arkansas.

No. 1 Ale’jah Douglas - G

A quick guard who is known as a defender. Douglas transffered in from Clemson where she averaged more than five points a game.

No. 22 Mia Galbraith - G

A freshman guard from Texas - originally from Australia averaged more than 14 points per game as a senior.

No. 24 Praise Egharevba - F

Egharevba is a redshirt freshman from Germany, who’s the secondtallest on the team. Dealing with an injury and is expected to be back later this season.

No. 23 Brianna Jackson - F

A fifth-year senior forward from Old Dominion, where she started 15 games last season.

March 3

Ethan Scott Rylee Langerman, a Norman native, spent the past three seasons at Arkansas where she played in 82 games for the Razorbacks.

Langerman back in state after 3 years at Arkansas Tessa Dorrell Staff Reporter

Rylee Langerman returned home.

She is new to Oklahoma State, but not Oklahoma. Langerman went to high school at Christian Heritage High School in Norman but spent the past three seasons at Arkansas.

Now, she’s back in Oklahoma.

“To play back home is just literally a dream,” Langerman said. “So many people, so many friends and family have been my biggest supporters. Being able to play at where they can come watch me is just so rewarding.”

Langerman played in 82 games for the Razorbacks, including all 37 of the team’s games in the 2022-23 season. Fayetteville is a bit far from home for Langerman’s family, but it didn’t keep them from showing up.

“My parents are awesome, and they did not miss a single game any of my college years,” Langerman said. “They made it to every single one. I think that makes it a lot easier on them that they can just

go home this night instead of making arrangements.”

Langerman’s family attending each game brings more than just comfort. It brings confidence for the senior guard.

“I think you can just feel the love from the crowd and just feel the support,” Langerman said.

“Knowing people I know are there brings comfort and that kind of like, ‘Oh, I have supporters out there,’ and makes you more confident.”

Langerman’s game has changed after three years away from her home state. The new and improved Langerman is now a system player for the Cowgirls. A different role for her since her last appearance on a team in Oklahoma.

“Since high school so much has changed,” Langerman said. “I’ve matured both on and off the court, but I think I’ve just grown into having confidence in myself. Especially since being back at OSU and I am just excited to see where this season takes me.”

sports.ed@ocolly.com

Jacie Hoyt had yet to start a freshman in her time at Oklahoma State.

The first year of Hoyt’s tenure in Stillwater didn’t even feature a sophomore until late into last season.

In each of her first two offseasons, Hoyt has attacked the transfer portal, looking for players with experience at the college level.

Hoyt’s preference for older players has been evident early in her tenure, but freshman Stailee Heard is one of those players that Hoyt can’t help but put on the court.

Heard, who had an illustrious high school career with Supulpa, hit the ground running in her first game as a Cowgirl, starting at center despite her 5-foot-11 frame. She racked 18 points, 10 rebounds and four assists in her debut.

“It felt awesome,” Heard said. “I’ve really enjoyed playing with these girls and playing for coach Jacie and the whole coaching staff, I feel like it’s perfect for me.”

Heard brings a wide range of skills to the table for the Cowgirls. She is a more-than-willing passer, often initiating offense out of the high post, she has a mix of speed and

physicality that makes her tough for opponents to get a grasp on and is also a capable defender.

Heard’s advanced skillset has her flying up the ranks when it comes to go-to offensive options for the Cowgirls, an impressive feat for a freshman on a team filled with experienced players.

Although Anna Gret Asi and Lior Garzon remain atop the pecking order, Heard fits in nicely as third option. With her willingness to cut, pass or do whatever is asked of her, she is a connective piece in an OSU offense that values a willingness to play multiple roles.

“We want to play free, we want to play fast, we have a lot of weapons,” Hoyt said. “You can see that and so we just want to put them in positions and create space for them.”

Hoyt’s pass-first, fastpaced style is a perfect fit for Heard, and because of this, she can continue to develop at OSU. Heard may be just a freshman, but she is already becoming a key piece for the Cowgirls this season and the future.

“Stailee Heard is not going anywhere,” Hoyt said. “So I’m excited to see what she can continue to do.” sports.ed@ocolly.com

Payton Little OSU coach Jacie Hoyt hadn’t played many freshmen in her time at OSU, but Stailee Heard has found her way and is producing early.

O’Colly

sports

Asi helping lead team of newcomers Griff McClellan Staff Reporter After a dominant 10059 victory over the Southern Illinois Edwardsville Cougars in their season opener, the Cowgirls displayed promising signs this season.

OSU begins its 2023-24 campaign with a new-look roster. Head coach Jacie Hoyt successfully remodeled the team in her first season, guiding the Cowgirls to the NCAA Tournament following a dismal 2022 season.

Hoyt and the Cowgirls look to continue building on last season’s success.

Notable newcomers include Chandler Prater, Kennedy Fauntleroy, Stailee Heard and many others.

With the new additions, one returning Cowgirl is ready to embrace her new leadership role this season.

Junior guard Anna Gret Asi came off the bench last season, averaging over seven points and 17 minutes per game. She appeared in 31 games total.

Asi has prepared to take a step as a leader, and in doing so she and Coach Hoyt have formed a close relationship.

“Anna Gret and I had a lot of conversations in the offseason about what the expectation was for her as

Friday, November 10, 2023 Page 5A

far as leadership because she’s my girl at this point,” Hoyt said. “She knows exactly what we want to do, how we want to do it, and what it looks like. She knows our terminology.

She knows our expectations. I’ve challenged her to really step into that role and help her new teammates. We’re still working on getting better and being vocal about it, but she’s done it by example every single day and that means a lot to me.”

Asi has already gained respect from her new teammates. Freshman guard Stailee Heard is impressed with her leadership both on and off the court.

“She has really taken on the leadership role and guided us to the right place. She tells us how to do things and helps us, but off the court, she’s a great leader. She leads by example and vocally,” Heard said.

Asi says her teammates help inspire her to excel in leadership.

“Every day, they’re taking little steps toward being there for somebody who might need help with anything,” Asi said.

“It doesn’t matter if it’s basketball, academics or whatever. It’s step by step every day and we’re going to get there.” sports.ed@ocolly.com

Courtesy OSU athletics Marta Silchenko moved from Latvia to Dubai to Latvia to Stillwater, which allowed her to see dfferent golf cultures and improve her play.

Silchenko moved across the world to stay close with family, continue golf career Gina Foster Staff Reporter

Ethan Scott OSU coach Jacie Hoyt said she had conversations with Anna Gret Asi in the offseason to address expectaions in leadership.

talent, her dedication and motivation increased.

“I started playing because my dad and mom started playing,” Challenges are something few Silchenko said. “I was playing people enjoy, but Cowgirl golfer tennis at the time, but then at 8 Marta Silchenko embraces them. years old, I tried golf. I remember Moving to Stillwater from training and six months later I had Riga, Latvia, was the biggest already won my first tournament, challenge thus far, but was the which was pretty insane.” most beneficial to her developThe freshman made her colment. legiate debut at the first tournaDuring her senior year, she ment of the fall in Pebble Beach, chose to move to Dubai with her California. mom, which helped her adjust to Although Silchenko carded the United States quickly. some incredible scores throughout “I think it was more about the the season, this offseason is the facilities and the different weather time to make changes and stay I can practice in especially the focused if she wants to make the wind,” Silchenko said. “This trip to Puerto Rico in February. choice was more of a challenge “She’s learning as she goes,” for me. That’s why I chose it here, coach Greg Robertson said. the coaches and the facilities.”

“We’ve seen a lot of growth from There were two courses in her, and we just need to continue Latvia so golf was not Silchenko’s to see that. I think her discipline first love. Once she came around and her work ethic will evolve as and recognized it was a natural more forward, and when she real-

izes what she needs to do to be a great player is when she’s gonna turn into something special.”

She, along with Ellie Bushnell, are the only freshmen who have qualified for each tournament. For Silchenko, this includes focusing on playing safe golf and leaving her risks for other aspects of her life.

“She tries to do the more miraculous thing and next thing you know, it gets her in even more trouble and it turns into double bogeys and triple bogeys,” Robertson said. “That’s the one thing from her that if we can eliminate those high scores that she has on certain holes each round, her scoring average is going to come down significantly.”

There is an abundance of golf left to be played for Silchenko, but her collegiate career has begun significantly. sports.ed@ocolly.com

Garzon continuing scoring for Cowgirls again this season Gina Foster Staff Reporter

and senior forward Lior Garzon have proven to be fundamental leaders on the court.

With these upperThe Cowgirls have classmen leading the shown strength in their pack, Hoyt will look to freelance offense and execution in transition to utilize the weapons she help put up big numbers has on the floor, giving her players the green in their first outings of light to attack the rim the season. and make good deciOklahoma State coach Jacie Hoyt prides sions offensively.

“They’re getting in herself in the way her the gym outside of practeam has carried out tice, and in my eyes, the game plans so far this majority of our players season, and she looks have earned the right to forward to continuing take those shots,” Hoyt the fast-paced momensaid. tum the Cowgirls have Transition points established. for the Cowgirls have “We just want to play become anything but fast, we want to play abnormal this season. free, it’s a fun style,” After a forced turnover Hoyt said. “I think our or quick rebound, all fans enjoy it, so I don’t five OSU jerseys are think that’s going anysprinting down the floor. where.”

With only four With several athletes turnovers in their season already sticking out to opener, Asi said, “We Cowgirl fans this seaare really in control of son, two of them spark taking care of the ball a familiarity in Gallalike the assist to turngher Iba Arena. Junior over ratio is saying.” guard Anna Gret Asi

The ball is barely seen touching the hardwood when the Cowgirls are in transition, allowing for selfless play and fun basketball from a player and spectator perspective. Hoyt doesn’t want her team to run an offense if they don’t have to, especially when the momentum is constantly shifted in their favor.

“We talk a lot about it’s not your shot, it’s our shot, and if we find our shot in the first 10 seconds of the shot clock, great,” Hoyt said.

Cowgirl fans can look forward to continuing to see selfless basketball and a quick pace of play on the hardwood this season thanks to the humble leadership the team possesses.

“They’re guiding us in the right place,” said freshman guard Stailee Heard.

File Photo

sports.ed@ocolly.com

Lior Garzon (above) and Anna Gret Asi are proving to be fundamental leaders for the Cowgirls this season.

Page 6A Friday, November 10, 2023

O’Colly

sports WRESTLING

Smith ‘waking up’ to transfer portal after rough season Braden Bush Sports Editor

File Photo After his worst finish at nationals last season, Daton Fix is ready to return for a final shot at the NCAA 133-pound title.

Fix hopes for storybook ending to final season Daniel Allen Staff Reporter

A distraught Daton Fix exited the mat at the BOK Center.

Accompanied by his father, Derek, the two walked toward the entrance tunnels, not uttering a word. Anguish filled Daton’s mind, a familiar feeling. It just hadn’t been this bad.

A 2-1 loss to Arizona State’s Michael McGee in the third-place match at 133 pounds put Daton at fourth place in the final standings. It marked his worst ever postseason finish.

“It wasn’t easy, really at all,” Daton said. “Realizing you came up short, that’s never easy. I had obviously planned on making the finals and wasn’t able to do that. And it hurt me to know that.”

It was supposed to be his year. Three runnerup finishes lingered in his mind throughout last season, building anticipation for an opportunity to end years of agony in his hometown Tulsa.

Everything was aligning for a potential storybook ending to a prolific collegiate career. Until it didn’t happen.

An 11-3 major-decision loss to third-seeded Vito Arujau of Cornell ended that dream. The loss to McGee made matters worse.

Now, Daton holds another opportunity to attain a feat he was unable to last season.

“That’s the lowest he’s ever placed, and to be able to say that is amazing quite frankly,” Derek said.

“There’s a lot of people who come out of that tournament and they’re eighth place, and they’re as happy as can be. He took it all

pretty much in stride, which is something he’s done so well throughout his career.”

Complacency can be one’s own worst enemy.

Daton knows that. It’s something he’s understood his entire career. Thus, the ability to take failure – as minimal as it may have come – in stride was instilled in him at an early age.

He has used that mentality through encountered failure at OSU. And each time, he’s drawn closer to his pipe dream of winning an individual national title.

Yet, he’s come up short each time.

Now, the final chapter of Daton’s college career begins Nov. 10 when No. 11 OSU faces Bucknell to open the season.

A 108-6 career dual record adorns his resume. In spite of that, no individual national titles.

The not-too-distant memory of his worst finish in Nationals has fueled him since last season’s conclusion. Come Friday, Daton’s long-awaited final return to the mat comes to fruition.

And he hopes it’s the start of the road to attaining that storybook ending.

“Daton doesn’t take losses easy at all,” Derek said. “But he does understand that his ultimate goal is to be the Olympic champion, the world champion.

And first he needs to win a national title.

“He’s just excited to wrestle. He’s excited to step out on the mat. Is he a five-time NCAA champ?

No. But he has the opportunity to be a one-time champ. And frankly, that would be a fitting ending to a pretty fun journey here at Oklahoma State.”

sports.ed@ocolly.com

John Smith has never been much of a fan of the transfer portal.

The Cowboys finished 18th at the NCAA Championships this past season, the worst in program history. For Smith, that was a wakeup call.

Trevor Mastrogiovanni is no longer on the roster, leaving a void at 125.

Carter Young was hurt at the end of the season and had to draw out of matches, so more depth at 141 wouldn’t hurt. Travis Wittlake transferred to Oregon State in September, shuffling the lineup.

So, Smith went to the portal, putting his old feeling behind and adapting to the new world of wrestling.

“I finally woke up,” he said. “Maybe 18th woke me up.”

He brought in several transfers. Troy Spratley and Tagen Jamison from Minnesota; Sammy Alvarez from Rutgers; Izzak Olejnik from Northern Illinois. Several of those, he said, will crack the starting lineup.

Smith said he likes the energy from his new wrestlers, who are excited to have an opportunity to be in Stillwater.

“Instead of just me and what am I getting, what’s my NIL, I think they feel like, ‘Wow, I’m getting a chance, too. I’m getting an opportunity to wrestle at a historic program,’” Smith said. “And that’s exciting for me to see, rather than all the other stuff that’s self-centered and gimme, gimme, gimme. It’s good to see these guys excited to be here.

“And that’s the beauty of it. It helps me deal with all these changes. Good kids that appreciate having the opportunity.”

At 165, Olejnik is in one of the toughest weight classes in the country.

Smith said he is confident in Olejnik because of his work ethic from being a coach’s kid.

“Just the discipline and the no bulls***, you know, he’s got it together,” Smith said. “Ain’t no drama in anything he does.”

Smith isn’t the only one who sees a difference bringing in transfers.

Senior 174-pounder Dustin Plott said the transfers are all fitting in and creating a tight group.

“Our team this year, I’d say definitely has more of an edge to it…” Plott said. “All the guys seem to kind of have a chip on the shoulder. All great guys.

Attitude is definitely different this year.” sports.ed@ocolly.com

John Smith’s Projected Lineups 125 pounds - Troy Spratley

Spratley is a redshirt freshman with plenty of potential. He went 8-2 at Minnesota last year, defeating a couple of NCAA qualifiers in tournaments along the way.

133 pounds - Daton Fix

Fix needs no explanation. He is nearly a guaranteed NCAA finalist, but he is ready for revenge after finishing fourth last year.

141 pounds - Tagen Jamison

Jamison is another redshirt freshman who wrestled at Minnesota last year. He was a four-time state finalist at Durant High School and Plano West High School.

149 pounds - Teague Travis / Carter Young / Jordan Williams Travis and Wiliams are young guys without much college experience, but Carter Young struggled at times last season, then dealt with injury.

157 pounds - Daniel Manibog / Jalin Harper

Harper and Manibog each are in their sixth year in the program and have wrestled in tournaments and filed in some duals because of injuries.

165 pounds - Izzak Olejnik

Olejnik had a great career at Northern Illinois and finished eighth at last year’s NCAAs. He could be an immediate impact for the lineup.

174 pounds - Brayden Thompson

Thompson went 152-11 in high school in Illinois and was the No. 3 pound-for-pound wreslter in the 2023 class.

184 pounds - Dustin Plott

Plott is making the jump from 174 to 184 pounds after Travis Wittlake transferred to Oregon St.

197 - Luke Surber

Surber entered the spotlight last year after upsetting No. 1 Rocky Elam on his way to a third-place finish at Big 12s. Now he’s looking to continue to climb the ranks.

285 pounds - Konner Doucet

Courtesy OSU Athletics Izzak Olejnik (left), a 165-pounder from Northern Illinois, is one of several transfers OSU coach John Smith brought in to bounce back from last season.

Doucet made NCAAs as the No. 20 seed in his first season.

After a year in the lineup, this year could be even better.

WRESTLING SCHEDULE Bucknell

Lehigh

Oklahoma

Wyoming

NC State

Legend

Nov. 10

Dec. 8

Jan. 10

Dec. 19

Dec. 30

- Home

Pittsburgh

West Virginia

Oregon State

Northern Iowa

Iowa State

- Away Jan. 12

Jan. 14

Jan. 21

Jan. 26

Jan. 27

Arizona St.

Missouri

SDSU

Oklahoma

Iowa

Feb. 2

Feb. 4

Feb. 10

Feb. 18

Feb. 25

- Sicily, Italy

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Friday, November 10, 2023 Page 7A

OSU’s Smith, Plott weigh in on new 3-point takedown rule Savannah Chenoweth coaches as well. “You kind of have to re-learn some Staff Reporter

on,” Plott said. “As far as strategy or how I’m trainthings of what you would ing, not at all.” do in this kind of situation Some suggest that that was way different with takedowns are so difficult The new three-point to earn that the new scoring takedown rule has some dif- the two-point takedown,” said OSU coach John Smith. may not change how many fering views on how it will “I watched a couple of takedowns occur during a affect collegiate wrestling dual meets in the nation match. Others are hopeful moving forward. and there were four or five it will follow the trend of Previously, takedowns situations that I didn’t think the four-point near-fall rule. were scored as two points, about.”

When the four-point nearwhich made it difficult for The new strategy of fall rule was implemented an offensive wrestler to the three-point takedown a few years ago, wrestlers widen the gap in the score is something coaches will sharpened their skills on against his opponent, behave to adapt to as well top to take advantage of the cause of the one-point difopportunity to score more ferential between takedowns as the wrestlers. However, OSU wrestler Dustin Plott points. and escapes. A reversal said the rule change won’t “First and foremost, you remains worth at two points. have an effect on his wresgotta be a guy that can take With the new scoring of someone down,” Smith said. a takedown, the more offen- tling.

“The only change I’ve “If you can’t do that, you’ve sive wrestler will be rewardhad to make is the mental got problems.” ed more for their efforts. math in my head of what the This new rule influences not score is and what’s going sports.ed@ocolly.com only the wrestlers but the

File Photo Dustin Plott said the new three-point takedown rule doesn’t change much for him except for more mental math during matches.

The 13 new rules in college wrestling Savannah Chenoweth would be awarded. Now, wrestlers are awarded Staff Reporter With wrestling season around the corner, there have been some changes that fans should know about.

The NCAA has made 13 rule changes regarding things as small as facial hair to changes in how a match is scored.

Facial hair There is no restriction for facial hair on wrestlers.

Medical forfeits The first medical forfeit results in a loss on the wrestler’s individual season record. The exception is when a medical forfeit occurs immediately following an injury default.

This new rule discourages wrestlers from using the medical forfeit when not injured. Before, wrestlers could medically forfeit, and their record would not be affected.

Mat-side video review The referee now has the authority to confirm or overturn all calls or missed calls during a video-review challenge.

Previously, if points were scored from each wrestler in a situation when a challenge occurred, and the scoring of the match was changed during the review, all points after the challenged call were removed for either wrestler.

Now, points scored after a review change may be kept or scored differently.

Coach’s video-review challenge Eliminates the control of mat violation and team-point deduction for a delayed video review.

Hand-touch takedown Previously, if a wrestler touched the mat with a hand from the rear standing positions, a takedown

reaction time in all positions.

Near fall A three near-fall points option has been added this year. Wrestlers can now earn two points for two seconds, three points for three seconds and four points for four seconds.

Takedown scoring Takedowns are now worth three points instead of two. This rewards the wrestler willing to be more offensive.

Tournament team scoring True placement matches cannot alter the final team score.

Assessing match penalties Removes the required match stoppage after a wrestler is penalized for an illegal hold when there is no presence of injury.

Waist and ankle ride stalling Expands the fivesecond count to include all situations in which the offensive/advantaged wrestler grabs the bottom wrestler’s ankle.

On-the-mat stalling Specifies the offensive wrestler must work toward obtaining near-fall points and/or pin to avoid stalling.

Weight certification procedures Standardized the weight certification period to not sooner than Sept. 1 and redefines the playing rules season as Sept. 1 until the end of the competition season.

Weigh-ins for dual, triangular, and quadrangle meets Allows weigh-ins to be held two hours or earlier before the start time of conception. sports.ed@ocolly.com

File Photo Weigh-ins can now be two hours or earlier before the start of a dual.

Ethan Scott Dylan Smith intercepted Dillon Gabriel and tackled Drake Stoops to save OSU’s win last week, two impressive plays for a true freshman.

Youth movement leading OSU’s Big 12 championship game hopes Gabriel Trevino Staff Reporter

tackle.

Dylan didn’t play the ball, like most others might have, and he didn’t wait for Stoops to come to Mike Gundy wanted Dylan him. Knowing Stoops was behind Smith to play as a freshman but the chains, Dylan charged him, couldn’t find where to put him. made a clean tackle and stopped Four weeks into the season, OU from potentially driving down that decision would be made for the field further to tie or win the him. game.

With injuries to starters, “From Day 1 of him being Smith, and a number of other here, there were discussions about young players, have been forced him being able to play early on,” to play for the Cowboys. UsuGundy said. “He has a very high ally, that’s a bad thing. This year, football I.Q. To be a true freshthough, it’s been the difference man, to be in that moment, to between disaster and a likely Big understand who they’re going to 12 championship appearance. throw it to, he’s perfect for those “Nobody could’ve predicted situations. For a true freshman, the changes we’ve made,” Gundy that’s impressive.” said. “Nobody. If anybody in this Six weeks before, Dylan wasn’t room said that, I would call B.S. I playing. knew we could get better but not OSU entered its bye week 2-2 like this. We’ve come along fast. and with starting safety Lyrik We just need to stay the course.”

Rawls ending his season with a leg Smith’s game-winning tackle injury, Dylan and freshman safety against OU is a play Gundy Cameron Epps filled his place. doesn’t expect many veterans to The next game, Epps intercepted be aware of, nevertheless three Kansas State twice, returning one young players to help. OU’s for a touchdown. The week after, leading receiver, Drake Stoops, Dylan intercepted Kansas’ Jason caught a pass two yards behind the Bean in the fourth quarter, and first down. As he turned up field last week got his second of the toward the ball, another Sooners season against OU. went to block. Kale Smith, another The youth movement easfreshman, engaged to allow Dylan ily could have never come after to recognize he needed to make a September, though. When the

Cowboys were 2-2 with bad losses at home to South Alabama and at Iowa State, the young players weren’t seeing the field. If the older starters stopped believing in the season, Gundy said the team could have collapsed.

Now in November, it’s clear what happened.

Their coachability and intent to get better, rather than quietly quitting on the season, is what has OSU at 7-2 and in control of its destiny for a Big 12 championship appearance. Ollie Gordon II, Alan Bowman and the step-up receivers will likely perform like they have in the five-game win streak, but with three games left, Dylan and the six other underclassmen playing significant time on Bryan Nardo’s defense will be the key to will have to continue to stay hungry.

“The culture of teams is hard to identify,” Gundy said. “You don’t know why kids do what they do, but this year’s group has been really good. In most cases, young kids follow the leaders of the veterans. Like, if Ollie Gordon or Alan Bowman or Collin Oliver went in the tank, then some kids are gonna be like, “Yeah, I don’t care either.’ That’s what happens most of the time.”

sports.ed@ocolly.com

Page 8A Friday, November 10, 2023

sports

O’Colly

Cross-country chasing ring Friday Kenzie Kraich Staff Reporter

Courtesy George Fox baseball After three years of playing baseball and football at George Fox, a Division-III school, Leon Johnson III is having a breakout season at OSU.

Family, friends, former teammates soaking in Johnson III’s success at OSU Braden Bush Sports Editor

when he came to OSU, and Johnson said he has added 15 pounds of muscle to his 215-pound frame. That helps him high-point the The George Fox ball and win 50-50 battles University baseball team against defensive backs. swung at fall baseball It helped him on the at-bats last Saturday while baseball field, too. their minds were fixated “I gave him a hard on a football game 1,900 time,” Kopple said. “He miles away. would swing at some unCoach Kevin Kopple was interested, too. Sure, believably bad pitches, but because he has such long he was focused on the levers, and because of the task at hand, but he was athleticism he had, he’d also keeping up with the Bedlam football score and end up putting them in play or hitting them hard.” fielding questions from The ability and talent players. As crazy as it were always there. The sounds, the Division-III Bruin baseball team had a same stuff Kopple saw in him on the diamond. dog in Division-I fight in Now, he is learning he Stillwater between top-25 can apply it in football at teams. the Division-I level.

OSU wide receiver “I think (the intangiLeon Johnson III spent bles) are all things that we four years in Newberg, Oregon, at George Fox as all saw them, and I think it kind of came down to a receiver on the football him deciding he wanted to team, but he also spent put his best foot forward three seasons as an outwith that,” Kopple said. fielder on the baseball team. For Johnson III and “I think it was in there, and I think a lot of a lot his family – and his former baseball team – it has of people saw it. I think he just needed to really been a whirlwind ride to understand it.” major college football.

That ride hit a new ***** high during a nationally televised Bedlam game As Ollie Gordon ran that captivated his former 46 yards to the end zone coaches and teammates. in the second half of “‘Hey, how’s Leon OSU’s game against West doing? Hey, what’s the Virginia, Leon Johnson score?’” players asked Kopple during the at-bats. Jr., Johnson III’s father, “And I think it’s just really started yelling at his TV, ‘Go, Ollie. Let’s go.’ cool for all of us because As he celebrated, he he’s a guy who was here saw a familiar face celnot too long ago.”

In January 2020, John- ebrating in the end zone with Gordon. son showed up at George “I look and I see (JohnFox baseball practice son III) in the end zone, looking to play. After a couple weeks of practice, jumping and celebrating he made the final spot on with Ollie after the touchthe travel roster for open- down,” Johnson Jr. said.

“And I was like, ‘Wait a ing weekend.

In the first game, John- minute, what is he doing in the game? Why is he in son, the football team’s leading receiver, pinch hit the game?’ It just caught and recorded a single. The me off guard.”

Johnson III had only next game, Johnson found appeared in two games himself in the starting leading up the Oct. 21 lineup.

“All of a sudden it was game in Morgantown, so the Johnsons expected him like, alright, this guy is to redshirt. But here he gonna get some playing was in action. Injuries actime,” Kopple said. “Just cruing in the wide receiver his athleticism was speroom forced Johnson III cial.” onto the field, and JohnJohnson has all the son Jr. had no clue his son intangibles. At 6-foot-5, he already had the height was even on the field until

then.

Neither did Johnson III’s mother, Sarah Johnson.

“I was at a work conference in California, and I got a text from my dad, ‘(Leon) is in the game,” Sarah said. ‘And I remember thinking, ‘What is he doing in the game?’ We weren’t expecting that at all.”

Everyone knows what happened next. Johnson III recorded 10 catches for 219 yards the next two weeks, including a five-catch, 70-yard performance in Bedlam.

Johnson Jr. and Sarah were in attendance for both. They flew in from Washington on the Friday of Homecoming and checked out the house decorations and celebrations. It was a different world than what they knew at George Fox. Another crazy chapter in their son’s rapid rise to major college football.

Sarah stayed the entire week after, while Johnson Jr. flew back home. But he came right back to Stillwater for Bedlam.

“It’s an expensive venture,” Sarah said.

Well worth it, though.

They, like Johnson III, thought another year at OSU was ahead of them.

The Cowboys’ injury problems at wide receiver aren’t going anywhere, so Johnson III decided to do what was best for the team and burn his redshirt.

He had friends travel all day and night Friday to be at Bedlam on Saturday. They all just wanted to catch a glimpse of the Leon Johnson III show while they still can.

“They slept an hour and a half from the Friday to the Sunday they left because of the last-minute travel they had to set up,” Johnson III said.

For the Johnsons, they were still just getting accustomed to seeing their son on national TV, but suddenly they had just a month to watch their son live out his dream.

Flights to Stillwater, Arizona State and Houston. It’s been a crazy season for the Johnsons,

but they don’t want to miss a second of it.

“It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience,” Sarah said. “If he had another year, we wouldn’t be rushing to get to much of this, but we want to soak it all in with him.” ***** After the past few games, Johnson III has been bombarded with calls and texts.

Some from friends, some from family and some from his former baseball teammates back in Oregon. The messages usually consist of “good game” and “congratulations,” but some from the George Fox baseball team remind him of where he was just a year ago.

“They all love to try to kick me down a few pegs when they can because they don’t want my head getting big,” Johnson III said. “I always have to promise them I’m not getting cocky or anything because I’m out here.”

Don’t worry, he said.

He isn’t. At times, it still hasn’t felt real.

The night before the Cowboys’ season opener against Central Arkansas, he sat in bed and thought about what it would be like to play in front of nearly 60,000 fans the next day. George Fox’s stadium seats 1,200.

“I was like, ‘Oh my god, like I’m about to play in front of millions of people watching this on TV,” Johnson III said.

He’s adjusting to his new life, but it is still crazy to think about for him and the people around him. A year ago, Johnson III was roaming DivisionIII outfields. Now, he’s one of the top new targets on a team trending toward the Big 12 championship game.

“I’m more overwhelmed than he is, and it’s happening to him,” Johnson Jr. said.

is staying calm under pressure because at the end of the day, you’re just running out there, like it’s nothing different,” Price Oklahoma State’s men’s and women’s cross said.

Placing ninth at the country teams made an Big 12 Championships, impression in the Big 12 Championships last week, Price is looking to contribute even more to claiming the top two his team at the regional individual spots in both divisions, as well as a first championships Friday.

Senior Gabija Galvyand second place finish dyte is another athlete by the men’s and women’s for the Cowgirls who has teams.

OSU is set to host the taken on a supporting role Midwest Regional Cham- this season. Finishing No. 15 in the Big 12 Championships Friday, Nov. pionships, Galvydyte is 8 at the Greiner Family hoping to build on her Cross Country Course contribution to the team with the women taking heading into regionals. off at 10:30 a.m. and the “I want to give it all men at 11:30 a.m. Being for myself,” said Galvyon their home course is dyte. “I try to be the best expected to be a driving I can for the team and factor towards the success of the Cowboys and help them to maybe win a Cowgirls as they chase a trophy.”

Duncan touched on regional title. the importance of the “With us spending that much time out there, regional meet in a larger perspective, displaying there’s no intimidation the mental focus that factor,” said OSU coach has to be present Friday Justin Duncan. “We can go in there more relaxed, morning for both teams.

“This is where it more focused and just hurts,” Duncan said. consistently run well.”

“This is when it gets Coming off strong individual performances tough, just be patient and relaxed.” from the Big 12 ChamWith an iron sharpens pionships, Brian Musau, iron mentality, both teams Alex Maier, Taylor Roe and Billah Jepkuri will all will look to capitalize on be looking to headline the each other’s strengths as regional race Friday. Dun- they head into Friday.

“We’re the best team can mentioned the impact in the nation, and I’m just the remaining athletes will have to contribute to going to use it to my adcapturing a team title for vantage to make myself a better athlete,” Price said. the Cowboys and Cowgirls. Senior Jonas Price is one of the athletes that has taken on a role-player responsibility this season.

“The majority of it sports.ed@ocolly.com

sports.ed@ocolly.com

LEON JOHNSON III’s PAST TWO GAMES

vs

five catches, 149 yards

vs

five catches, 70 yards

File Photo OSU cross-country athlete Jonas Price said his team is the best in the nation, and he’s using it to make himself a better athlete.

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Friday, November 10, 2023 Page 9A

3 storylines: OSU-UCF Calif Poncy Staff Reporter

Gordon against UCF’s rush defense

Bryson Thadhani

As seen against Cincinnati and Iowa State, Ollie Gordon has no problem carving up the best the Big 12 has to offer when it comes to run defenses.

Unfortunately for UCF, its rush defense ranks outside the top 100 nationally, paving the way for Gordon to strengthen his Heisman case with another massive game.

If the Knights’ porous rush defense rears its head, UCF could be in for a long day.

Plumlee returning to form Plumlee has been out for a majority of UCF’s Big 12 games this season, but he has shown flashes of his old self at times over the past three weeks.

UCF is going to have to play at a much higher level than it has throughout this season if it wants to knock off a scorchinghot OSU team, and Plumlee could be the key to doing so.

If Plumlee can turn those flashes into a full game, the Knights’ chances at an upset would increase tenfold.

Courtesy UCF Athletics

UCF establishing Big 12 footprint in Florida UCF was picked eighth in the preseason Big 12 media poll, but has only won one conference game.

Calif Poncy Staff Reporter

Courtesy of UCF Athletics

UCF able to exploit OSU’s pass defense Courtesy of UCF Athletics

The Cowboy defense has shown steady improvement as the season has progressed, but one area they are still vulnerable is in the intermediate passing game.

UCF doesn’t have the threats OU did, but they do boast two receivers with more than 600 yards receiving on the season in Kobe Hudson and Javon Baker.

If the duo gets going the same way Drake Stoops and Jalil Farooq were able to, the game could get more interesting.

Brash said after announcing his commitment.

Fast forward four years and Morris-Brash has lived Despite its success in re- up to the hype, slowly growcent years, UCF has never been ing into UCF’s best defensive a recruiting juggernaut. player after being a key rotaThe Knights have a New tion piece his first three years.

Year’s Six bowl win in the last Morris-Brash has been decade, have commonly been a bright spot on the Knights’ a member of the Top 25, play defense this season, recording in Orlando and are located in 8.5 sacks through the team’s one of America’s most talented first nine games, along with 41 states. But for whatever reason, tackles off the edge. it usually hasn’t mattered.

Morris-Brash has also Defensive end Tre’Mon established himself as a leader Morris-Brash is an outlier. for the Knights, setting himself The senior defensive end apart as a key member of the chose UCF over schools such UCF defense. as LSU, Florida and others in Morris-Brash came up 2019. Commanding a four-star huge for UCF in its win over ranking in some publications, Cincinnati, bringing down Morris-Brash was atop UCF’s quarterback Emory Jones recruiting class.

2.5 times and racking up five “I’m headed to the best tackles. school in Florida,” Morris“It felt good, that’s what

I do, that’s me,” Morris-Brash said. “I sack the quarterback.”

Morris-Brash is leading the Big 12 in sacks this season, and from his time as a heralded recruit to his time as a key piece of a Knight defense looking to turn it around as they creep toward bowl eligibility, Morris-Brash has established himself as one of the most important players on this year’s UCF team.

“That goes back to the summer, when you guys are like, ‘Whats your goals for the season?’ And then I’m just telling you, ‘I really honestly don’t have any goals,’” Morris-Brash said. “I just want to produce more than I did last year, and I’m gonna continue to do that.”

sports.ed@ocolly.com

UCF players to watch: Plumlee, Harvey lead rushing offense No. 10 John Rhys Plumlee, QB

Plumlee stats may not indicate it, but he is a differencemaker for the UCF offense.

Plumlee was forced to miss three games due to a leg injury earlier in the season, and after a few games of knocking off rust, he is starting to round back into form.

The senior quarterback has the 36th-ranked QBR despite throwing one more touchdown than interception this season and has thrown for at least 248 passing yards in four of his six starts this season.

Plumlee may not be as dangerous as Dillon Gabriel, but if OSU lets him get going, it could be in trouble.

Both photos courtesy of UCF Athletics

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No. 7 RJ Harvey, RB

Due to Plumlee’s injury, UCF has been forced to lean on Harvey multiple times this season.

Harvey has racked up more than 800 rushing yards this season, averaging six yards per carry and toting the rock for touchdowns nine times.

Harvey is not the big, bruising type like a few of the players OSU has gone against this year, but with his compact frame, elite speed and slithery shiftiness, he is a big-play threat every time he touches the ball.

For the Knights to pull off the upset, Harvey will have to bring his A game, and if this season has been any indication, he’ll have no problem doing so.

Page 10A Friday, November 10, 2023

O’Colly

SPORTS

POINT / COUNTERPOINT

ASHTON SLAUGHTER

I’m not so sure about the Cowboys’ March hopes.

Sure, they’re going to get Small at some point, and Garrison, Dailey and others will improve with more games under their belt. However, every game (especially nonconference games) matters when tournament resumes are being compared. With one bad (and I mean, bad) loss on their record, more losses seem inevitable. An average Big 12 record won’t help their nonconference record, so I predict they’ll have an extended spring break.

Week 11 Games

*Highlighted games are locks of the week by the pickers

Braden Bush

Total ATS: 52-48 Last week ATS: 4-6 Total Straight:58-32 Last week straight: 6-4 Lock of the week: 6-3

Ashton Slaughter Total ATS: 56-44 Last week ATS: 3-7 Total Straight: 63-37 Last week straight: 7-3 Lock of the week: 7-2

Gabriel Trevino Total ATS: 58-42 Last week ATS: 6-4 Total Straight: 72-28 Last week straight: 7-3 Lock of the week: 5-4

Davis Cordova

Total ATS: 57-43 Last week ATS: 6-4 Total Straight: 66-34 Last week straight: 7-3 Lock of the week: 4-5

Daniel Allen

Total ATS: 47-53 Last week ATS: 4-6 Total Straight: 53-47 Last week straight: 2-8 Lock of the week: 4-5

PARKER GERL

Will the Cowboys make the NCAA tournament?

I do think the Cowboys make the tournament. After reshaping its roster, OSU brought in much more talent than it previously had. A McDonald’s All-American in Brandon Garrison and a four-star recruit in Eric Dailey Jr., along with East Carolina trasnfer Javon Small to start. Then there’s a couple of 3-point specialists in Connor Dow and Jarius Hicklen. When you consider the talent increase and expected shooting improvement, OSU should have enough to reach the NCAA tourney.

THE O’COLLY SPORTS PICKS

OSU (-2.5) @ UCF

Mich. (-4.5) @ Penn State

Texas Tech vs.

MD (-2.5) West Virginia Cincinnati Northwestern Miami @ @ @ @ @ Nebraska OU (-13.5) Hou. (-2.5) Wisc. (-11.5) FSU (-14.5)

Ole Miss @ UGA (-10.5)

AF (-18.5) @ Hawai’i

Kansas (-3.5)

OSU

Michigan

Kansas

Nebraska

Oklahoma

Cincinnati

Wisconsin

Florida St.

Georgia

Air Force

(37-27)

(31-20)

(40-28)

(23-20)

(35-34)

(30-28)

(24-17)

(36-23)

(30-28)

(31-13)

OSU

Michigan

Kansas

Maryland

Oklahoma

Houston

Wisconsin

Florida St.

Georgia

Air Force

(33-25)

(23-14)

(35-27)

(20-17)

(40-27)

(24-21)

(23-12)

(40-22)

(32-24)

(30-11)

OSU

Michigan

Kansas

Nebraska

Oklahoma

Houston

Wisconsin

Florida St.

Georgia

Air Force

(40-35)

(20-17)

(45-25)

(30-27)

(38-31)

(22-16)

(16-6)

(38-24)

(35-31)

(27-14 )

UCF

Michigan

Texas Tech

Nebraska

Oklahoma

Houston

Wisconsin

Florida St.

Ole Miss

Air Force

(41-37)

(23-17)

(51-48)

(24-20)

(33-27)

(34-24)

(27-14)

(44-28)

(27-24)

(30-10)

OSU

Penn State

Kansas

Nebraska

Oklahoma

Houston

Wisconsin

Miami

Ole Miss

Air Force

(41-27)

(20-14)

(30-14)

(24-21)

(35-20)

(37-21)

(24-17)

(45-31)

(30-24)

(38-14)

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Friday, November 10, 2023

Veterans Day ‘No one forgotten’

7,158 flags planted in honor of fallen veterans Jessica Pearce Staff Reporter

me chills every time because you know that each one of these flags represents a person.

There’s no one that’s forgotten.”

For Cadence For six years, Dare, the flags lining OSU’s Office of Stulibrary lawn are more dent Veteran Success than decorations. has organized teams Each flag repreof students, staff and sents a fallen service member, and the annual community members in the months-long effort display is put together to commemorate the in honor of Veteran’s sacrifice of U.S. service Day. members.

“People actuVolunteers braved ally died to protect low temperatures on us, and I think a lot Nov. 3 and 4 to plant of people forget that,” the flags carefully arDare said, a student ranged rows and lay employee in the Office of Student Veteran dog tags with the name Success. “When we put and information of each the dog tags on, it gives memorialized service member.

See Veterans on 5B

Battle scars

Post-Bedlam field rush left students at risk Kennedy Thomason News & Lifestyle Editor Kamryn Major ended Bedlam lying on her back in a first aid station.

It was not how she expected the historic day to end.

Before the conclusion of Saturday’s football game, the student section was in

agreement; they were going to rush the field in the case of an OSU victory.

Major and her friends were no exception.

“That’s the main reason why we stayed the entire game,” Major said.

“We were like, ‘If we’re winning, and we know we’re gonna win or even if it’s close, we’re staying the whole time to rush the field.’”

See Scars on 7B

Courtesy of Bella Eneff Bella Eneff (left) and Preston Smith, alumni of Yukon High school, play in their college’s band, OSU and OU, respectively.

When worlds collide

Bedlam bands marched together Jessica Pearce Staff Reporter

band.

Courtesy of Kamryn Major

Two schools, two students, one

Bella Eneff and Preston Smith have performed alongside each other since they were in middle school.

On Nov. 4, in the midst of more than a century of competition, bitterness and rivalry, they took the field together one last time.

Both alumni of Yukon High School’s Pride of Yukon Marching Band and music majors, the college juniors share nearly 10 years of friendship and a deep love of music.

Upon graduation, however,

The sharp, exposed end of the goalpost hit Kamryn Major in the head while she was on the field.

their paths diverged. Eneff became game was no exception. a music education and horn perOSU’s Cowboy Marching formance major at Oklahoma State Band and OU’s Pride of Oklahoma University; Smith continued a fam- performed a joint halftime show ily tradition and chose to study mu- honoring U.S. veterans in what may sic at the University of Oklahoma. have been the day’s only moment of Eneff and Smith’s rivalry unity. started well before they went to The Pride of Oklahoma college. opened the performance with “His (Smith’s) parents both “American Salute,” though jeers went to OU, so they’re big OU fans,” from OSU fans nearly drowned out Eneff said. “I rooted for the Pokes their march onto the field. Watching because it annoyed Preston (Smith). from the endzone, Eneff said she Now I go here, and I love the Pokes was reminded of how hostile Bedvery much.” lam games can be for the visiting Although they are both pasband. sionate supporters of their respec“It’s kind of insane being tive teams, Eneff and Smith said here and being on the field and they treasure the Bedlam game then hearing everyone boo the more for the opportunity it provides entire marching band,” Eneff said. to perform alongside their child“They’re literally just trying to play hood friends— and the final Bedlam some patriotic tunes.”

See Bands on 4B

‘Send Silence Packing’ shines light on suicide prevention Ashton Miller Staff Reporter Kyle Johnson was known as a caring person who could bring the light in any dark situation.

Johnson struggled with mental

What’s Inside

health his entire life, according to the Active Minds website. However, that never stopped him from continuously welcoming others and making sure the people around him were always smiling.

At 19 years old, Johnson committed suicide.

Johnson was hospitalized multiple times in inpatient psych facilities.

‘New Girl’ star Max Greenfield to visit campus

4B

Even though Johnson faced some of his toughest battles during those times, he still made sure the people around him were OK. “The first night we walked in there, it was kind of somber and serious for the first maybe 10 minutes, and then Kyle had us all red in the face, holding back tears because we were trying to

Q&A with Native American Student Association president

7B

hold back our laughter,” according to activeminds.org In 2021, over 40,000 Americans committed suicide, and approximately 1,100 of those deaths were college students.

See Packing on 5B

‘Dirty Dough’ opens, bringing latest cookie franchise to Stillwater

9B

Page 2B Friday, November 10, 2023

O’Colly

Page 2 OSU students to vote on new SGA constitution Luisa Clausen Editor-in-Chief

change it. how these people are selected “We needed to make and how the convention will things more coherent,” Adkins operate. said. “We needed to make “It’s very logistics-based, them accessible to students.” just making sure we know The new constitution will what we’re doing versus startAfter five hours, Sydney be easier for students to read, ing from scratch,” Adkins said.

Adkins lifted a weight off of and Adkins said it is as de“I realized last year that we her shoulder. tailed as possible.

The convendidn’t have that, so I created On Sunday, the Student tion went from noon through 5 it.”

Government Association held p.m. and during three of those The past two presidential its Constitutional Convenhours, senators present revised elections for SGA were filled tion, an event where SGA and every document, and Adkins with tensions, and Adkins members of the student body explained what and why they attributes that to the lack of revised and edited the SGA clarity in the bylaws. The new Constitution and bylaws. SGA made changes in specific bylaws. constitution will lift previous delegated proposed amend“We didn’t want to say restrictions and make it easier ments to the existing bylaws ‘Here are all the changes, for students interested in runand voted on them. let’s vote,’” Adkins said. “We ning for student body president Adkins, the senate speaker, said SGA is supposed wanted to make sure everyone and vice president. thought it made sense and that Wyatt Moore, the interim to do a convention every five there weren’t more things we vice speaker and the internal years. needed to fix.” affairs committee chair for COVID didn’t let that Adkins and her team SGA, said students will have happen. prepared for the convention access to the newly revised “Up until the end of last for months, analyzing the old governing documents when year, we didn’t have a proceconstitution and brainstorming they vote for new senators on dure on how to do that,” Adhow it could be improved.

Nov. 14 and 15 through Camkins said. “So, I took it upon Adkins created Title pusLink. myself to create those.”

XV, which Title XV is the “I am excited that movAfter eight years with the same constitution, Adkins procedure that SGA follows in ing forward our government documents are structured in a said the way SGA was operat- order to select and designate votes and representation to the way we can thrive and no loning was not following the older different colleges and living ger just survive,” Moore said. bylaws, and they needed to groups. The title sets rules of news.ed@ocolly.com

Ben Holieway

A look back at Bedlam Isaiah Dehoyoes “I think my favorite part was me not realizing that we were actually going to win. Because I’ve been here for, you know, nine Bedlams, and I’ve seen loss, after loss, after loss, after just one random win, after another loss.”

Hailey Bare

“The reaction of all the students and just how intense it was and how everybody interacted with each other. When OU fumbled the ball, and then when we got it over the line, it was like the fourth quarter, that was cool.”

McKinsey Tate

Karlie Boothe SGA held its first Constitutional Convention in eight years.

“Watching everyone storm the field, definitely. I did storm the field, but it was way after everyone first started. It was honestly beautiful and so pure, like it was the last Bedlam, it was crazy. I talked about it with my mom and, I was like I feel cool or something, like special being able to experience the last Bedlam.”

Editorial board Editor-in-Chief Luisa Clausen editorinchief@ocolly.com 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

The O’Colly Staff News & Lifestyle reporters:

News & Life editor Kennedy Thomason news.ed@ocolly.com Assistant News & Life editor Bella Casey news.ed@ocolly.com Photo editor Ethan Scott photo.ed@ocolly.com Adviser John Helsley john.helsley@okstate.edu

Addie Wagner Ashton Miller Cloe Campfield Emi Norton Hayden Alexander Isaac Terry Jaycee Hampton Jessica Pearce Lauren King Lauren Joseph Michael Clark Raynee Howell

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O’Colly

Friday, November 10, 2023 Page 3B

News

Valentina Plata Plata came to OSU to get her masters degree and fell in love with the slower pace of life in Stillwater.

Valentina Plata leads the way for international students at OSU Luisa Clausen Editor-in-Chief Valentina Plata let curiosity lead her path.

Growing up in Mexico City, Martinez’s parents encouraged her to dream big.

The only international student in the art history masters program at OSU, Plata never planned to move to Stillwater. She wanted to continue her studies in Europe, but after visiting friends who were getting their masters at OSU, Plata decided she wanted to live somewhere with a slower pace of life.

“My parents always said I had to discover what is out of my range,” Plata said. “Meaning, I have to discover what is out of my comfort zone.”

From a young age, Plata thrived on meeting new cultures. After spending eight months in Finland studying art and anthropology, Martinez said she understood adapting to different environments was easy for her and that she could gain knowledge.

Plata arrived at OSU in August

2022, and since then, building a bridge to represent and to connect the international community in the university with

tional Students and Scholars. In the fall, give to students thinking to do the same Plata took on the presidential role for as her. the organization.

“Be open to change and diversity,” Plata said. “Meet as many people as you can, and build your support network.”

Although sometimes being the only international student in her department is lonely, Plata said they are still open to learning her story. She said she has built a chosen family in Stillwater who accepts her for who she is.

“People are different than they are back home,” Plata said. “But it is nice to be in a diverse community where I can find people like me too. At the end of the day, multiculturalism enriches the university and the whole community.”

Living abroad comes with chal“iSo office has helped me a lot lenges, and for Plata, they came in the when I need to do any paperwork, mak- shape of keeping a budget and undering my academic journey in a foreign standing the Oklahoma accent. With land much smoother and more enjoytime, the graduate student understood able,” Plata said. her choices came with sacrifices.

As the president, Plata said she Plata said she makes a conscious wants to advertise ISS events as much as effort to not spend money on what she possible, such as the Mr.&Mrs. Interna- doesn’t need. Her goal is to save up for tional OSU, because they showcase the her future and travel on her free time. wide diversity of international students “You may not buy everything you in the university. Plata’s leadership rewant, but that means it is for a bigger flects on the pieces of advice she would purpose,” Plata said. news.ed@ocolly.com

“Be open to change and diversity,” Plata said.

“Meet as many people as you can and build your support network.”

Valentina Plata iSo President the rest of the students has been her goal.

“American students should understand that since we are from diverse backgrounds, we sometimes have language barriers and are used to different educational systems,” Plata said. “Nonetheless, we have many stories to tell and we are excited to share our cultures with them, learn from their culture and make new friends.”

Plata was an intern for the Interna-

Page 4B Friday, November 10, 2023

O’Colly

News

‘New Girl’ star Max Greenfield to visit campus Kennedy Thomason News & Lifestyle Editor

town.

Courtesy of OSU The two bands performed “America the Beautiful” for the sold-out stadium.

Bands . . .

Continued from 1B After the CMB’s performance of “The Stars and Stripes Forever,” animosity toward the OU band soon shifted to celebration, as more than 600 students between the combined bands performed “America the Beautiful” for the sold-out stadium.

The performance was the culmination of weeks of work from the bands. The bands had only half an hour to rehearse together on the day of the game, so students devoted hours to memorizing music and practicing drills to be ready for the joint performance.

“The joint halftime was really cool,” Smith said. “I think it really had an impact in showing the respect for each other that goes beyond the game itself.”

Respect for the visiting band is not always a guarantee during a Bedlam game.

Regardless of which school hosts Bedlam, the visiting band must take extra precautions to protect its students and equipment.

“Going into Norman is very scary,” Eneff said. “I’m sure that’s exactly how the OU band feels here because the fanbases on both sides just go kind of ham.”

Band members were encouraged to travel in groups while on campus. Smith, who performed with OU’s front ensemble and drumline when visiting Stillwater, said the her band had to be extra diligent about securing and protecting its equipment.

“It’s a very hostile environment,” Smith said. “But there’s a little bit of fun in that— being able to go and be in the enemy territory.”

Smith and Eneff said they agree that performing in Bedlam games is unlike any other experience: the stakes are higher, the stadium is louder and the game is more intense.

“The energy was just so high,” Eneff said. “Everyone was having a good time, but everyone was intensely focused.”

Following the game, OSU horn professor Lanette Compton told Eneff and the other horn players their enthusiasm was tangible.

“You guys were just smiling so big and looked so excited to be there,” Compton said.

For band students from Oklahoma, knowing this may be the final Bedlam did not curb their excitement. For some, being in band gives them the opportunity to be an integral part of an event that defined their childhoods.

Smith said being part of the Pride’s storied Bedlam history was thrilling, especially as he grew up watching the game.

“Getting to be a part of that whole thing and the history that comes from how much the bands have impacted the morale of the game is everything,” Preston said. “There was one time back in the mid-’80s that the football coach back then gave the Pride the game ball because they straight up played “Boomer Sooner” nonstop for a comeback win.”

Now, playing the repeated fight song is a Bedlam tradition. For the final matchup, Smith said the OU band hoped to play the “Boomer Sooner” at least 100 times.

In the CMB, Eneff said OSU band students were more interested in outplaying the Pride.

“It was game on for us,” Eneff said. “We were going to prove we’re the best mellophone section in the nation.

We were memorizing better than we’ve ever had before.”

Although the rivalry of Bedlam undoubtedly seeped into the bands’ performances, the competitive spirit of the game was not stronger than students’ desire to share their love of music and visit with longtime friends.

“When we go to a lot of the Texas schools, my friends who are from Texas are like, ‘This is the game where I get to see this person and this person,’” Eneff said. “That’s how I feel about OU. This is the game I get to see the people I grew up with.”

While Bedlam is an intense rivalry for most fans, band students see it as an opportunity to celebrate music and perform alongside friends in a one-of-a-kind environment.

“We want to be able to get to know each other,” Eneff said. “I know there’s people who always like to trade (baseball) hats.”

After this year, these interactions between OU and OSU’s bands are not guaranteed, and Eneff and Smith recognize this may change the relationship between the OU and OSU bands. “‘I’ve loved one like this rivalry growing up,” Smith said. “There’s a little bit of fun in that that just won’t be there as much anymore without playing each other yearly.”

As the century-old series draws to a close, Eneff and Smith said they are appreciative of the opportunity to perform with each other and their childhood friends one last time.

“There is absolutely no hate between the Cowboy Marching Band and the Pride of Oklahoma,” Eneff said.

Despite the outcome of the game, Smith said he will treasure his last Bedlam experience.

“It’s really cool, especially for this last Bedlam, to be able to come together and do a joint performance,” Smith said. “This is something bigger than just a game.” news.ed@ocolly.com

Schmidt is coming to

Max Greenfield, who plays Winston Schmidt on the popular sitcom, “New Girl,” will visit campus on Tuesday. The Speaker’s Board, which brings in famous guests each semester, has worked on this event since April.

Makinley Kennedy, the executive director for Speaker’s Board, said Greenfield is a good fit for OSU’s demographic.

“He literally actually requested an OSU sweatshirt,” Kennedy said. “So he’s already pumped for this event. I think that’s half the battle. You know, when you’re the speaker who comes in and they are already super excited to be there, like that energy is going to be in the room, and the students are going to be able to feed off of that.”

The group works with an agent based in New York, fondly referred to as ‘Agent Will.’ He helps the group take its list of desired guests, matches budgets and helps the Speaker’s Board land guests at OSU. The board generates a list of 10-20 desired speakers, then narrows it down based on various factors.

“A huge factor is budget,” Kennedy said. “You know, when we make up our initial list, we want people to really feel like they have creative freedom. And so sometimes we get people so for instance, like Chris Pratt.

Chris Pratt is considered a unicorn and speaker sport, in the sense of he is much too expensive.”

In the past, Speaker’s

Tribune News Service Max Greenfield (left) starred on popular sitcom TV show “New Girl” for seven seasons.

Board has hosted guests such as same name recognition as a Tim Tebow, “Outer Banks” star high-profile speaker like Tebow, Madison Bailey and Olympians he thinks students will still Laurie Hernandez and Aly Rais- enjoy the event. man.

“A lot of people won’t Brooks White, a senior know the name, but I think once member of the board in charge they see the face (and) hear of the hospitality committee, about ‘New Girl’ and everysaid the board is ready to receive thing, that will really (help Greenfield. them) understand why we think White’s role is to ensure he really pertains to students, Tuesday runs smoothly. and why we think students will The Speaker’s Board pro- enjoy hearing what he has to vides a gift basket for its guests, say,” White said. and always with a specialized Kennedy added she thinks gift. When Tebow visited camstudents will relate to Greenpus, the group gave him a dog field. toy for his many dogs. Speaker’s “Just from what our agent Board will present Greenfield has said, (he) is such a lovwith the standard OSU merch able guy, he’s so personable on along with a customized OSU stage,” Kennedy said. “So, just dog toy and coffee mug. really, for the fact that if you White said that though come to this event, it is going to Greenfield does not have the be an enjoyable one.” news.ed@ocolly.com

Courtesy of OSU Into the Streets, a one-day service event, sends volunteers to 164 job sites.

‘Into the Streets’ brings OSU, Stillwater communities together Addie Wagner Staff Reporter

give back to the community of Stillwater,” Puckett said. “This community has welcomed us with open arms while we spend our college years here. This Last year’s Into the Streets organization is just a small way students can say, ‘Thank you.’” event left sophomore Bella The event is Saturday, Smith with lasting memories. and check-in will be held at the “When serving during the April 2023 date, I distinctly South Wes Watkins parking lot from 8-9 a.m. Tools, such as remember a kind older lady rakes, along with other items who lived alone with her cat,” necessary for cleaning particular Smith said. “While we helped lay mulch she brought us waters locations will be distributed to and bars to eat, and she was just volunteers.

Jack Runnels, a commuso thankful for the work that we nity involvement member, said were helping her with. It was student involvement with the one of the sweetest memories I event makes it special. made while volunteering with “Into the Streets is unique Into the Streets.” in the fact that it is a studentInto the Streets, a oneday service event, sends at least led organization,” Runnels said.

“It is also so encouraging to 1,000 volunteers to help at 164 see how willing this number of job sites. students are to help serve the Rachel Puckett, the Into community. Every event, I am the Streets president, said the amazed and so grateful to see so event was created for the commany people so excited to help munity.

“Into the Streets was cre- others.”

Before the volunteers are ated to give students a way to sent to their job sites, Into the

Streets will offer students a wide selection of “kick-off activities.” They will begin at 8 a.m. and serve as bonding time for students and groups to play yard games and enjoy food.

Students will be given a specific job site in Stillwater, as well as a volunteer group, and are required to be at the site no later than 9:30 a.m.

They can contribute a maximum of four hours of community service to their location on Saturday.

Once students arrive at the job site, the resident of the job site will greet volunteers and assign them to whatever needs tidying up around their home.

Into the Streets not only gives students the chance to give back to their college-town, but also connect personally with the people they are assisting.

“This event makes me feel so joyful and warm,” Smith said.

“Giving back to our community is one of the greatest gifts, and I’m so happy I get to share it with so many others.” news.ed@ocolly.com

O’Colly

Friday, November 10, 2023 Page 5B

News Packing . . .

Continued from 1B The Active Minds chapter at Oklahoma State hosted its “Send Silence Packing” exhibit Nov. 2 on Engineering South lawn to bring awareness to mental health and suicide prevention.

The exhibit featured backpacks that share the personal experiences of people dealing with mental health issues and the impacts of suicide. There were stories of struggle, loss and hope positioned throughout the exhibit.

Garrin Morlan, a masters student studying marriage and family therapy, helped co-found the Active Minds chapter on campus in the fall of 2020.

After hearing about several students committing suicide that year, along with a personal mental health journey, Morlan was drawn to create a student-led organization.

“I think a lot has to do with my personal journey, as well as in the fall of 2020 we lost a couple students to suicide, and we didn’t have necessarily a student-led organization to kind of bridge the gap between students and faculty,” Morlan said.

“Send Silence Packing” is a traveling exhibit that Active Minds brings to 60-80 schools and communities each year.

Morlan said the exhibit’s main goal is to raise awareness and destigmatize discussions surrounding mental health.

“I think this is just starting a conversation,” Morlan said.

“I’m not worried about the attendance numbers of an event like this, it’s more of students walking past and seeing the topic.”

Destigmatizing mental health is an initial step toward suicide prevention, and recognizing warning signs is crucial.

Demetrius Jackson, an Active Minds employee who joined the organization in January, initially wasn’t familiar with why mental health mattered. However, he said he quickly realized the impact mental health has on

people’s lives and the significance of being open about it.

“A lot of the time, people don’t even know that their best friend or their family member is going through something,” Jackson said. “Being able to see the signs by learning through the experiences that they’ve read through these stories, or just through these resources that we have is very beneficial.”

Although other resources are available on campus for students, Active Minds ensures there’s a comprehensive plan in place to support those who need it.

The organization offers a wraparound service, which engages students to determine what resources should be added or adapted to better address their needs.

Cheyenne Fisher, the grief and loss outreach intern for University Counseling Services, said she sees first-hand how events such as “Send Silence Packing” impact students who face mental health struggles, as well as those who don’t.

Fisher said that for those volunteering and working for events like these, the emphasis is not on the numbers, but rather on the messages conveyed and the conversations initiated.

“It’s not so much getting a lot of people at events, a lot of it is just, you know, making people more aware about subjects like suicide and also just mental health in general,” Fisher said.

Even for those who do not struggle with mental health, events like these are significant because mental health affects a wide range of people in various ways. “‘Send Silence Packing’ really helps a lot of people to understand the stories if they haven’t been affected by suicide loss, which is why we do a lot of awareness and prevention trainings,” Fisher said. “Just letting people know about the scope of suicide and all the impacts and being able to know how to prevent suicide. Events like this just help share the stories and so that way, these lives that were affected aren’t forgotten.”

File Photo 7,158 American flags were planted on Library Lawn on Nov. 3 and 4 in honor of fallen veterans.

the list of On Nov. 4, the volunVeterans . . . serviceOnce members is set, the teers reconvened to lay the

Office of Student Veteran Success must order and Continued from 1B organize the flags and dog tags, which include the names, branches and time Ensuring every service in service for each service member is remembered is member. what motivates Vincent Ri“It’s not just 7,000 dog vera, Veteran Success Coor- tags,” Rivera said. “We have dinator, a former Marine and people who come out to find Air Force Reservesman. a family member’s dog tag For the past three every year.” years, he has overseen every Ultimately, Rivera step of the process, starting plans to construct a database with compiling the list of with the location of every fallen service members from dog tag in the memorial the Department of Defence’s to help friends and family database each July. He inmembers locate their loved cludes every official casualty ones. since Sept. 11, 2001, and an This preparation culadditional 32 casualties not minates in two days of flag included on the DOD’s ofplanting prior to Veteran ficial list.

Appreciation Week.

“Families are contestIn the pre-dawn hours ing the DOD saying, ‘Hey, of Nov. 3, Rivera and memwe think our family members of OSU’s ROTC set the bers should be on that list,’ boundaries for this year’s and the DOD right now is flag display on the lawn. Volsaying they’re not sure,” unteers worked throughout Rivera said. “I made an the day to plant thousands of executive decision and said, flags, sometimes using a drill ‘They’re on our list. We’re to break through the cold going to plant a flag for ground. them.’”

dog tags on each flag. Several organizations, including OSU’s ROTC, Daughters of the American Revolution, the American Legion, and students from OSU and Northern Oklahoma College, sent volunteers to the flag planting and dog tag events.

About 150 volunteer slots were filled over three days— a marked increase from 40 volunteers the year before.

The outpouring of support from community members touched Bryan Rich, the community engagement and outreach peer specialist for Oklahoma City’s VA health care system.

Rich said he is honored to see people, especially students, from the Stillwater community and hopes the tradition will continue to grow.

“It’s really cool to see more people out,” Rich said.

“It means a lot to us to see the students out here to kind of pay it forward for the next generation.” news.ed@ocolly.com

news.ed@ocolly.com

Andon Freitas Unusual Geometrics is a collection of pieces by various artists featuring geometry as an art form.

OSU Museum of Art melds art, math with ‘Unusual Geometries’ Lauren Joseph Staff Reporter

Ashton Miller “Send Silence Packing” is a traveling exhibit that Active Minds brings to 60-80 schools and communities each year.

possibilities—both in problem solving and art.”

Unusual Geometrics paints a blended picture of art and math working in tandem.

Unusual Geometries, Though mathematia collection of pieces by cians did not create this various artists featuring geometry as an art form, is a collection, the works “have new installment in the OSU a mathematical quality to them and offer an opportuMuseum of Art. With geometric shapes nity to explore mathematical concepts.” and mathematical patterns, “Sonakinetogrophy” the art exhibit stretches the

by Channa Horwitz was audience’s concept of the created with colored pencils artistic and beautiful. The and graph-lined paper in a display is a mix of the two typically opposing concepts. pattern of colored lines and squares.

Casey Ihde, the marThese two dimensional keting director for the OSU Museum of Art, said the ex- colored pencil squares, when hibition was a collaboration. put together into a “three “(It) grew out of a con- dimensional assortment of versation with the math fac- solid blocks” transforms ulty,” Ihde said. “We started into a fully playable musical score. talking about the artistic The vertical lines qualities of math and then represent an instrument the exhibition took shape.” that could be played, and At first glance, this combination seems unnatu- each color corresponds to the duration in beats one ral and far-fetched. through eight. Organized A walk through this exhibit, however, shows this through numbers and a color concept is not so far-fetched code, this unusual musical score utilizes mathematical, after all. represents the auditory and Henry Segerman, a displays the visual magnimathematics associate professor, said the exhibit could tude of color.

“Hyperbolic Plane,” lead to new developments in inspired

by Daina Timina, both subjects. uses yarn to allow for “freer “The ability to blend manipulation and explora(these) two subjects (will) open up to a wider variety of tions of hyperbolic space.”

The curly models repre-

senting negative curvature provide an aesthetically interesting model of a mathematically complex concept.

Symmetric colorings of “Regular Solids” displays a long shelf of 3-D models fold in on themselves to create complex paper structures.

Like “Hyperbolic Plane,” this piece may at first appear to simply be a model, but when examined further opens up to a new realm of meaning.

Ihde said viewers should take the exhibit in.

“Consider the shapes, how they fold together to create something new,” Ihde said. “Consider the mathematical knowledge and craftsmanship it takes to fold the pieces together so they fit just right.That takes practiced skill—artistry.”

Artistry presents itself again and again in the mathematical medium of this exhibit.

“Take your time, slow down, and seek answers to your questions,” Ihde said.

“Our hope is that viewers take away a fresh perspective - that math and art are not one-dimensional, they aren’t exclusive of each other, but rather they coexist. Creativity is essential to problem solving and when you open yourself to creativity, your possibilities become exponential.” news.ed@ocolly.com

Page 6B Friday, November 10, 2023

O’Colly

News

Payton Little

Payton Little Students dyed free shirts at the National First-Gen Day Celebration.

Students were given the opportunity to tie-dye their shirts and take it home with them.

OSU first-gen students unite at national celebration Luisa Clausen Editor-in-Chief

they can, including her finances.

“I appreciate them a lot,” Mason said. “I want to make them proud, and I know I am. I just want them to know I am fine, I got this.”

Kaliah Love and Mia Mason want Love and Mason have more than to make their parents proud. one thing in common. Beyond being The friends attended the National first-gen students, the freshmen said they First-Gen Day Celebration at the Stuare proud of themselves for taking on dent Union Plaza on Wednesday and this responsibility. said they felt seen as first-generation “If I do great, my mom will be students. happy,” Love said. “And I will be happy In 76-degree weather, the event to make her proud.” gave out free T-shirts for students to Cassandra Cotton, the First-Gen tie dye along with free food, a T-shirt coordinator at OSU who was responsible design contest and tables from different for the event, was a non-traditional firstcolleges offering academic guidance. gen student. During her time in school, “It’s really fun, you get a lot of Cotton was not engaged in extra-curricucool stuff from events, but also it’s fun lar activities or clubs. When she took on to go out together and meet other peoher position, she did not want the same ple,” Love said. for her students.

After 17 years of living with her “One of my goals is to make sure parents, Mason struggled when transimy students are integrated into the comtioning to live on her own. Although she munity,” Cotton said. “It wasn’t somefelt lonely, Mason said she is trying to thing I did for myself, but I know the find different places to study and meet importance of it.” new people.

The First-Gen Forward Advisory Mason calls her parents every day Council organized the event with the and though they did not attend college help of on-campus partners such as and can’t help with academic questions, tabling partners, SUAB and the Dining she said they try to help with as much as Services. Cotton said this is the biggest

event of the year, but they are not stopping there.

“We are looking to do some events in the future targeted more at getting parents incorporated into the space because they are a valuable part of (the) OSU community, even though they are not the ones going to school here,” Cotton said.

While Jerah White, a first-gen freshman, turned her white shirt into a mix of orange and blue, she reflected on how her parents can’t help her understand how college technicalities work, such as the Bursar’s office.

However, she is involved in different groups on campus that may be able to help her.

“When I told my parents about certain rules the Bursar office has, they said, ‘We wish we could help,’ but it’s just different,” White said.

White said being the first of her family to go to college is a nerve-wracking experience, but she is proud of herself. White said she wants to show her family she can do this and serve as an inspiration to her younger family members who may want to attend college in the future.

The freshman said she was sur-

prised to find out 20% of students are first-generation. She thought it would be more.

“Having an event like this where all first-gen students are coming together is so important for our representation, so important,” White said.

Cotton said she encourages firstgen students to reach out to staff and faculty members if they need help. The coordinator said it can be scary for firstgen students to walk into a university and not feel like they belong because nobody in their family went to college.

“We are here to provide resources for you,” Cotton said. “For non-first-gen students, you can either educate yourself about the first-gen experience or let a student know, ‘Hey, I am a first-gen supporter, and I am going out of my way to understand what that means.’ That goes a long way.”

OSU offers several programs to help first-generation students transition into the unknown. F1rst2Go, OSU library’s first-gen college student employment mentor experience and Trio, which hosts outreach and comprehensive support service programs to assist firstgeneration, low-income or underrepresented students in higher education. news.ed@ocolly.com

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O’Colly

Friday, November 10, 2023 Page 7B

News Scars . . .

Continued from 1B By the time she got onto the field, Major said fans were already attempting to rip down the first goalpost.

Hundreds of fans rushed the field following the Bedlam victory, despite warnings.

Although no university officials were available for an interview, OSU provided a statement about Saturday’s post-game events.

“Saturday’s thrilling Bedlam victory was a historic milestone worthy of celebration, and the vast majority of attendees did so in a safe manner,” the statement read. “Some, however, ignored clear warnings on the stadium speaker system and video boards advising attendees to remain off the field.

With a sustained emphasis on safety, we are gathering information and reviewing the events that occurred after the game.”

Major, along with her friends, were taking photos when the goalpost was torn down.

“I saw them get the other field goal down,” Major said. “And I was like, ‘Oh God, they got it down.’ And they’re running around the field with it. And I’m like, ‘Oh, we should probably get out of the way or we’re gonna get hit.’”

Major was right to have a cause for concern.

Once the goalpost

was down and traveling toward Major, she said that she attempted to get out of its path. Stuck between fellow fans and pushed backward against the west endzone wall, Major was trapped.

“I just saw it like sweep down and I was like, ‘Oh gosh,’ like right then I knew is like hitting me,” Major said.

The torn, sharp and exposed end of the goalpost hit Major on the right side of her forehead and left three scratches by her eye.

Initially, Major said she was stunned.

“I was like, ‘Oh God,’ and then I touched my head, and I look at my hand and there’s just blood everywhere.”

Overwhelmed and crying, Major turned to her friends and fans around her for help.

The parents next to Major gave her a paper towel to hold on the wound, and two dads lifted her back into the stands.

“I was just in shock,” Major said. “I remember everything, I didn’t get knocked out. I didn’t like, blackout or anything. It was just, adrenaline was high.”

After 5-10 minutes of a confused paramedic leading the group of girls in circles searching for the first aid station, Major was relieved to find it.

The staff evaluated Major and quickly sent her on her way.

After she was cleaned up, the first call Major made was to her

twin brother. The next, to her older brother.

“They were more freaked out than I probably was,” Major said.

“I think they probably thought it was way worse than it actually is.”

On Monday morning, Major visited Health Services, where she was diagnosed with a mild concussion. It kept her away from class for two days, and Major said she has experienced minor symptoms.

Major was not the only student who sustained injuries after hopping down onto the swamped field.

Following the game on Saturday, head coach Mike Gundy said that although there are safety concerns, Saturday’s postgame events are all part of the fun.

“The only issue you have with that is, people send me the copies of videos from, I guess, Twitter, where you know the goal post falls and hits people in the head,” Gundy said.

“Those are the things that you worry about. The rest of it, the students, it’s part of life. Let them have it, and tear it down.”

Despite the injury and concussion, Major said she was glad to be part of the final Bedlam’s story.

For Major, Saturday’s game will be a story she tells for years to come.

“I never regretted that I went down there,” Major said. “Because if I do have this big scar on my face, it’s definitely a memory I’m not going to forget ever.” news.ed@ocolly.com

Courtesy of Kamryn Major Kamryn Major was treated for an injury on the right side of her forehead and three scratches around her eye at the first aid station.

Kaitlyn Pinkerton Kaitlyn Pinkerton fell in love with OSU when they were introduced to the Center for Sovereign Nations on a campus tour.

Q&A with NASA president The impact of Indigenous Heritage Month Bella Casey News and Lifestyle Assistant Editor Kaitlyn Pinkerton is a voice for those who cannot speak up.

Pinkerton said Indigenous voices are not well heard at OSU. They are working to change that.

Pinkerton works daily to educate others and create opportunities for their peers. They recommend others use Indigenous Heritage Month as an opportunity to educate themselves on their country’s history or recognize one’s ancestors.

U.S. President George H. W. Bush declared the month of November as Indigenous Heritage Month Aug. 3, 1990.

Pinkerton is a senior political science major, and they plan to go to graduate school to get a Master of Public Administration and a Master of Native American Studies and eventually get a Ph.D. Q: Tell me about your heritage. What does it mean to your identity?

A: I grew up in Oklahoma, but I was really disconnected from my tribe and culture until I was in late elementary school early middle school. That’s when I started getting active in my tribe, joining the Cherokee National Youth Choir, eventually winning Jr Miss Cherokee, and now that I’m in college I’ve interned for them every summer. I’m incredibly proud of my heritage and my culture, and I love the opportunities I’ve been given to share it with others.

Q: When have you been especially proud of your heritage?

A: There have been many times I’ve felt proud of my heritage. I think I often feel it when I’m educating others about sovereignty and the history of my tribe or when I’m celebrating community. Here at OSU, one of those times is our annual powwow, which I’ve played a role in every year I’ve been a student here.

I love getting to see people from all over the state and even other states come to support the Native youth here on campus, and it really shows the power of our community.

Q: What does being Indigenous mean to you?

A: I think the biggest thing being indigenous means to me is surviving and thriving. My ancestors have fought so I can be here, their resilience has engrained itself in my DNA and given me everything I need to not only survive but thrive, no matter where I go or what I do.

Q: What does Indigenous Heritage Month mean to you, and how do you celebrate?

A: Indigenous Heritage Month means celebrating those who came before me through community. There were so many generations of my family who were disenfranchised, and I know how privileged I am to be in the position I am in today. So, I celebrate their strength by surround-

Q&A ing myself with my community and celebrating my culture with them.

Q: Is Indigenous Heritage month important to only those with Indigenous heritage, or is it important for everyone to recognize? Why? A: Indigenous Heritage Month is important to everyone to recognize. Every single person in the United States is on the ancestral lands of a tribe, regardless of if that tribe still resides there today. The United States has had a long, gnarly, and complicated history with tribes, and I think it is incredibly important to recognize that history.

Q: Why are Indigenous voices important to the student body at OSU? To society?

A: I think Indigenous voices are important to the student body at OSU for a lot of reasons. One of the biggest reasons is that here in Oklahoma we are surrounded by tribes, and it is almost impossible to find someone whose life hasn’t been impacted by them, even if they don’t know it. Even the school itself has a rich history with the tribes, and has current partnerships with tribes like the OSU and Cherokee Nation partnership for the medical school in Tahlequah. The same reasoning can be applied to society, with only 15 states not having federally recognized tribes within their boundaries, the majority of the United States has some sort of interaction with Native communities. Despite being a minority, we are the original stewards of this land, and we know a lot about how to keep it.

Q: If Indigenous voices were not heard at OSU, what do you think our college would look like?

A: I personally don’t think they are heard here. I’ve experienced a lot of racism and prejudice here on campus, as have many of my peers.

It often goes overlooked, and it often feels like the only people that care are those that have a stake in the Center or NASA. There’s also a lot of misinformation or ignorance surrounding Native Americans and tribes, and I’ve found myself having to correct people on a regular basis. It feels like I have to justify my existence as a Native student.

It’s not to say that they’re not heard at all, there are small wins like the American Indians Into Psychology program and the Center host programs to elevate our voices and bring awareness to Native students on campus, but outside of that it often falls on the Native students to educate their peers when it shouldn’t be our jobs. I’ve seen it slowly get better as people slowly start to utilize the resources provided through American Indian Studies and the Center, but I would like to see people taking it upon themselves more to educate themselves. news.ed@ocolly.com

O’Colly

Friday, November 10, 2023 Page 8B

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

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

FOR RELEASE NOVEMBER 10, 2023

Lost and Found

Reward!

Lost mens wedding band on Oct. 28 at OSU/Cincinnati football game. Lost between the South side of stadium, Row 8, Seat 1and Washington Street.

Please call 405-249-2160.

Houses for rent Spacious 1100 sq. ft 2 bedroom home. Recently remodeled, CH/A, wood floors, nice yard. 2214 E. 6th Ave., Scarlett Bus Route.

405-372-7107.

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

Serving quality pizza and more since 1957.”

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

Cowboy Calendar Friday 11/10/2023 2023 United Way Pickleball Tournament - beginner session United Way @ 7:30 a.m. https://www.unitedwaypaynecounty.org/2023-pickleball-benefit-tournament Adventuring Academy: A Pathfinder Campaign Stillwater Public Library @ 5:30 - 7:30 p.m.

Cowboy Wrestling: Cowboys VS Bucknell Gallagher-Iba Arena @ 7 p.m. https://okstate.com/sports/wrestling/schedule Central Regional Rabbit Show Payne County Expo Center @ 6:30 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Classic Cinema Stillwater Community Center @ 7 p.m.

NCAA Cross Country Midwest Regional Championship OSU Cowboys & Cowgirls Athletics https://okstate.com/ Painting/Ceramics with 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) Rage in the Cage Payne County Expo Center @ 8:00 - 5:pm on Friday; 7:00 - 10:00 pm on Saturday https://www.facebook.com/Rageinthecageoklahoma/ TGIF: Thank Goodness It’s Folding OSU Museum of Art @ 2 - 4 p.m.

Uncle Lucius Tumbleweed Dancehall & Concert Venue @ 9:30 p.m.

Seasonal Schedule Leafer Lodge Christmas Tree Farm @ Friday & Saturday 10AM-6PM; Sunday 2PM-6PM Saturday 11/11/2023 Central Regional Rabbit Show Payne County Expo Center @ 6:30 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Internet Basics At Senior Residences @ 3 p.m. https://stillwaterok.gov/736/Digital-Literacy-Workshops Luminary Pottery Workshop Prairie Arts Center @ 10:30 a.m. $40.00 for members, $50.00 for non-members https://artscenter.okstate.edu/adult-classes/ pottery/1286-luminary-pottery-workshop Metal Stamped Ornaments Prairie Arts Center @ 1 p.m. $25 members, $35 non-members https://artscenter.okstate.edu/adult-classes/ jewelry/1280-metal-stamped-ornaments

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

ACROSS 1 View from much of U.S. Highway 101 8 Water stopper 11 __ Dhabi 14 Oval-shaped instrument 15 One of the only two South American countries that doesn’t border Brazil 17 Compete in a hybrid winter sport 18 Pillow filling bought at wholesale?

19 Unusual 20 Contacted with a click 22 Specialized session of baseball practice?

25 Separate by type 29 Sound engineer’s slider 30 Starship Enterprise letters 32 “Don’t reckon so” 33 Some govt. lawyers 35 Fossey subject 37 Genesis maker 38 Crown, scepter, and ermine robe?

41 Home of the Muscat Gate Museum 43 “Let You Love Me” singer Rita 44 Fall Out Boy genre 45 Benatar in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame 46 Yukon XL maker 48 Killer whales 52 Cooks in a bamboo basket 56 Barbie, bush telly, choccy biccy, etc.?

58 Share a course?

60 Vegetable soup bit 61 Excluded, and what 18-, 22-, 38-, and 56-Across need to match their clues?

64 Uncomfortable situation 67 Emphatic denial 68 Hosp. triage expert 69 TiVo antecedent 70 Oft-redacted ID 71 Has no use for

Daily Horoscope

11/10/23

By Annemarie Brethauer

DOWN 1 Rant 2 National park on the Maine coast 3 Stopped at the door, perhaps 4 Writer Levin 5 Grafton’s “__ for Fugitive” 6 Signed in pen 7 Large Central American reptile 8 Grocery section 9 Amtrak service that caters to business travelers 10 Silences with a button 11 Brouhaha 12 Fiddle stick 13 Ornate garden pot 16 Tots up 21 “¡Dios mío!”

23 Ushered 24 “Cripes!”

26 Univ. donor type 27 Tabloid 28 Former JFK flyer 31 No. cruncher 34 West Coast luggage tag letters 36 Make (out) 37 Horse noise

Nancy Black Tribune Content Agency Linda Black Horoscopes Today’s Birthday (11/10/23). Romantic collaboration illuminates this year. Steady coordination builds teamwork, ease and efficiency. Work around winter challenges, before springtime privacy recharges and inspires. Summer conditions favor health, fitness and fun. Creative challenges could reorient a passion project for more heart. Fall in love all over again.

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 an 8 — Take a trip together. Long distance communications improve for three weeks, with Mercury in Sagittarius. Expand territory. Study, research and explore. Investigate clues.

Taurus (April 20-May 20) — Today is a 9 — Lucrative deals arise in conversation over the next three weeks, with Mercury in Sagittarius. Monitor budgets for greater financial power.

Collaborate and coordinate.

Gemini (May 21-June 20) — Today is an 8 — Support your team and work together. Get expert coaching and listen carefully. Over the next three weeks, with Mercury in Sagittarius, the competition is fierce.

Cancer (June 21-July 22) — Today is an 8 — Read about your physical concerns. Communication reveals health and fitness solutions for three weeks, with Mercury in Sagittarius. Learn from a great coach.

Leo (July 23-Aug. 22) — Today is a 9 — Creativity surges.

It’s easier to express your heart, with Mercury in Sagittarius over three weeks. Communication and arts flourish. Connect with the ones you love.

Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) — Today is a 9 — Talk about options. With Mercury in Sagittarius, focus on household renovation. Reorganize and clear space. Uncover forgotten treasures. Discuss creative possibilities with your household.

Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22) — Today is a 9 — You’re especially creative. Get into an intensive three-week communications phase, with Mercury in Sagittarius. Indulge curiosity. Write reports and investigate ideas. Edit and polish.

Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21) — Today is a 7 — Rest and recharge today. Network and put lucrative deals together over the next three weeks, with Mercury in Sagittarius. Communication can get especially profitable.

Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21) — Today is an 8 — Learn from friends. Listen for solutions. You’re especially creative and clever over the next three weeks, with Mercury in your sign.

Advance your agenda.

Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) — Today is a 7 — Begin a three-week philosophical, thoughtful and spiritual phase, with Mercury in Sagittarius. Listen to your own heart song.

Contemplate beauty. Imagine a miracle.

Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18) — Today is an 8 — Make a longdistance connection. Friends offer good advice. Enjoy a fun three-week social phase, with Mercury in Sagittarius. You can accomplish great things together.

Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20) — Today is a 9 — Profit in collaboration. Professional opportunities abound, with Mercury in Sagittarius. Clarify your objectives. Let others know what you want. Communication opens career doors.

Thursday’s Puzzle Solved

©2023 Tribune Content Agency, LLC

38 Lot 39 Gp. 40 “No broken bones!”

41 Photo __ 42 Bathroom rug 47 Stashed away 49 Tartar sauce ingredient 50 Div. of the Blue Jays and the Rays 51 Hockey gear

11/10/23

53 When Lear divides his kingdom 54 Humors 55 Bowls over 57 Gofer’s task 59 Fleming and Orwell’s school 61 Actress Tyler 62 Key next to F1 63 At a distance 65 Demo stuff 66 Go after, in a way

Level 1 2 3 4

11/10/23

Solution to Thursday’s puzzle

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

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

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

O’Colly

Friday, November 10, 2023 Page 9B

News ‘Dirty Dough’ opens, bringing latest cookie franchise to Stillwater Raynee Howell Staff Reporter

Stillwater, is the gluten-free Oatmeal Raisin.

Dirty Dough has two new cookies on the menu each

Review There’s a new sweet treat place in town.

Late night cookie shops are a staple in Stillwater, with Great American Cookies located on Campus Corner and Insomnia Cookies located on The Strip.

The newest addition to the lineup, Dirty Dough, brings something new to the cookie scene.

Stuffed cookies.

Upon my arrival at Dirty Dough, I was overwhelmed with the aroma of warm cookies and the many options I could choose from. Not only did it have an amazing line-up of cookies, but it also had ice cream and shakes that you could customize based on the cookie you picked.

The cookies that are part of the main line-up include Stuffed Chocolate Chip, Brookie, Raspberry Toaster Tart, The Reverse, The Muscle and Cookies n’ Crème.

Another cookie, off the main menu but present on the menu in

week.

This is similar to the popular cookie franchise, Crumbl Cookies, which had recent success changing its menu weekly.

This week, The Captain and Candy Bar were the two new cookie flavors. Candy Bar is a classic cookie filled with multiple different candy bars including Butter-

finger, Reese’s and Kit Kats.

The Captain is a strawberry cookie with Captain Crunch cereal and pink marshmallow cream cheese inside.

I chose to order both a

Cookies ‘n Payton Little Crème and Oatmeal Raisin cookie to try.

As I was waiting in the store, the worker realized there were no fresh Cookies ‘n Crème cookies left.

Instead of

chose The Captain.

All three cookies were around the size of two normal-sized homemade cookies.

The middle of each cookie was stuffed, which contributed to a softer middle contrasting with the crunchy outside.

The oatmeal raisin cookie was my least favorite of the three, but if you love raisins and are looking for a gluten-free option, this cookie is for you. Dipping this cookie in milk saved the experience for me. It was serotonin-inducing.

The Captain, my surprise cookie, was amazing. I love

there are few places who make them. This cookie also had a pink marshmallow crème filling, which made it stand out in terms of sweetness compared to the other cookies. The Captain Crunch pieces were my least favorite part because I felt it took away from the lovely strawberry flavor.

The winner was the Cookies N’ Crème, which was a vanilla stuffed cookie with crème filling and Oreo chunks.

It tasted similar to a Cookies & Crème PopTart. It brought back memories from when I would come home from school and put a

Best desserts in Stillwater -Insomnia Cookies -Marble Slab -Blue Spruce -Smallcakes

By Luisa Clausen

making me choose a different cookie, I was given a cookie from the day before, still in the warmer, as well as a free fresh cookie.

For my third cookie, I

OPEN YOUR HEART TO GOD! “Open your heart and let him in. God will remove all your sorrow and sin. He may not pass this way again, so open your heart and let him come in.” These are words from an old hymn.

Many struggle so hard to take this step, not wanting to give up their independence; not wanting to humble themselves before God. In the Psalms, David said: “When I refused to confess my sin, my body wasted away, and I groaned all the day long. Day and night your hand of discipline was heavy on me.

My strength evaporated like water in the summer heat. Finally, I confessed all my sins to you and stopped trying to hide my guilt. I said to myself, ‘I will confess my rebellion to the Lord.’ And you forgave me! All my guilt is gone.”

(32:3-5 NLT) It seems so simple, and it is! Yet, so many

struggle with honesty and humility. These qualities are of great importance with God. The truth is another has paid the penalty for your sins and mine. That is the good news! What we could not do (get rid of our sins), Jesus did by dying in our place. Therefore, “Blessed are they whose transgressions are forgiven,whose sins are covered. Blessed is the man whose sin the Lord will never count against him.” (Ro.4:7-8 NIV) Again, blaming friends or relatives will not help; getting religious does not help, thinking you are among the “better” people does no good. Trust what God has done for you through Christ. Get honest and humble yourself before God. Confess your sinfulness, and God will freely forgive. You will be free of guilt and stand innocent before God. Then you can begin a lasting and fruitful relationship with this great and loving God.

Payton Little

strawberry sugar cookies and

PopTart into the toaster.

The crème in the middle melted in my mouth and after dipping this cookie into milk, I felt myself become hooked on Dirty Dough. news.ed@ocolly.com

Page 10B Friday, November 10, 2023

O’Colly

photo

Abigail Thomas

Ollie Gordon II

Dylan Smith and Trey Rucker

The Cowboys celebrated their win in the last Bedlam football game on Saturday.

Alan Bowman

Leon Johnson and Braden Cassity All photos by Bryson Thadani, Ethan Scott and Payton Little