Friday, January 17, 2025
Little Sapling Market: Where creativity flourishes
A vibrant haven with space for growth, community, collaboration, artistry
NNestled in the heart of Stillwater is a vibrant haven for creativity, community, and artistry — Little Sapling Market.
The unique space, on Main Street, is the brainchild of Sampley family. It’s more than a shop; it’s a bridge connecting local and national creators with people who appreciate their work.
Elizabeth Sampley wears many hats: il-
BY MJ NYAMADAVAA I STAFF REPORTER
lustrator, UX designer and now the proud owner of Little Sapling Market. Her journey to create the artistic marketplace was anything but linear, but it’s clear her passion for fostering creativity has flourished in this space.
“The market is kind of like a space for artists and creators to sell their work,” Sampley said. “It’s not exclusively local artists, but more than half of it is currently local. The rest are national artists, and everything we carry is creator-made.”
Students, campus leaders prepare for MLK Jr. Day celebrations
A space for artistic growth Sampley’s vision extends beyond traditional artwork.
Moving into the new year, Little Sapling Market will showcase a broader array of creator-made goods, including artisanal food and high-end art supplies — a welcome addition to Stillwater’s creative community. “It’s really hard to find good art supplies in Stillwater,” Sampley said. “We’re planning to carry the higherend options that aren’t easily available
at places like Hobby Lobby.”
The scissor-tail connection When asked about a moment that brought unexpected joy as an artist, Sampley didn’t hesitate to mention her scissortail T-shirt design. “A lot of people have been wanting something that represents Stillwater,” she said. “When they see the shirt, they’re like, ‘Oh, this doesn’t feel like just another Stillwater shirt.’ It’s something more personal.”
Monday is Martin Luther King Jr. Day, and the OSU and Stillwater communities are preparing to honor his legacy.
On Sunday at 6 p.m., students and the public can attend a community celebration at the Stillwater Community Center. Guest speakers and music from the Mt. Zion Choir and Connor Helm will be featured.
At OSU, the 2025 MLK Celebration Committee is planning a celebration for King on Thursday at 6 p.m. in the Student Union Ballroom.
A march was planned for Monday, but the committee and the City of
Stillwater cancelled the event because of dangerously cold temperatures.
Melisa Echols, co-chair of the committee and Student Government Association coordinator, said this is not the first time the march has been canceled because of Oklahoma weather.
“If we get to have a march one year, great; if we don’t because of weather, we still try to find a way for our students to be able to hear from a speaker and see our community come out and really support each other,” Echols said.
The celebration will feature multiple speakers, performances and contests ranging from poetry to art. Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. members will perform to honor one of their most important members, King.
See MLK on page 6A HAYDEN ALEXANDER NEWS & LIFESTYLE EDITOR
RAYNEE HOWELL ASSISTANT NEWS & LIFESTYLE EDITOR @RAYNEEHOWELL
When Zac Robbins entered Boone Pickens Stadium during a snowstorm, he was shaking from something other than the cold.
Nerves. Robbins was planning to ask his girlfriend RachelKate Puckett to marry him.
“I was like ‘Hey, we should go take a photo on the 50-yard line,’ trying to be all nonchalant,” Robbins said. “I was reading her a little letter and shaking so she knew exactly what was about to happen.”
The pair had talked about getting engaged soon, and Puckett knew something was up, but 11 months earlier, it all started with not a clue from either of them.
After meeting through mutual friends, Robbins and Puckett became interested in each other. On the first date, the couple hit the courts at the Colvin Recreation Center to play pickleball. Puckett beat Robbins.
Once he accepted the loss, Robbins took Puckett to what he called “the most romantic place on Earth”: Taco Bell. The couple also went to Sprouts to buy gummy worms before entering Gallagher-Iba Arena to hang out. Robbins described it as a “hoot and holler.”
“We thought back to what it was like on the first date,” Robbins said. ”Where we’re excited but really knew nothing, and then, over the past 11 months of dating, just seeing how the Lord has been faithful to bring us together and to give us a really sweet affection for each other.”
That affection never wavered throughout each date and memory the two shared.
Payton Little
Elizabeth Samplet runs the Little Sapling Market with help from her partner Saxon Sampley and their ‘little sapling’ Juniper.
Courtesy Zac Robbins
OSU athlete Zac Robbins (left) proposed to RachelKate Puckett during a snowstorm at BPS.
Ava Whistler
City Council hears proposal on new Animal Welfare facility
KENNEDY THOMASON STAFF REPORTER @_KENNEDYPAGE
A new Animal Welfare facility is still a work in progress.
A proposal for a new facility was presented during the City Council meeting Monday. The layout includes redesigned catteries and dog kennels, expanded office space and a new meet-and-greet area, among other upgrades. The project’s budget is estimated to be $8.7 million and 12,200 square feet.
City Director of Engineering Candy Staring said design has been kept to necessary upgrades.
“As we went through this first phase of design, (it) was really kept at the forefront of our mission to be practical and purposeful in our design and not go fancy or extra,” Staring said. “It was just to meet the community’s needs and space and functionality.”
The existing facility is about 40 years old, she said. The facility, which is along South Main Street, faces issues including insufficient space, no intake area and no medical care area.
“Whenever we run out of space for the dogs, they set up temporary kennels in the garage,” Staring said. “The garage is also the cattery, so it’s really a cat garage, and when we have the dogs in there, they
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are right next to the cats, and they’re all stressing each other out.”
A representative from Barrett L. Williamson Architects, the architecture firm working with the city to design the welfare facility, said the building is expected to last at least 50 years, with renovations needed after that point.
Councilwoman Christie Hawkins said explaining the faults of the current facility will be important when talking with community members about the proposal.
“Our existing building almost was not enough almost immediately, and so I think talking in terms of, this is a 50 year building, this is almost (quadrupling) the square footage we currently have… I think those are all important points to make,” Hawkins said.
Although proposals for the facility require approval from the City Council and a majority vote from Stillwater’s citizens, the Stillwater Police Department operates the Animal Welfare facility.
Stillwater Police Captain Royce Stephens, who has been with the force for 34 years, said the process of planning for a new facility has been five and a half years in the making.
“It’s our desire that the new Animal Welfare would be a facility that our employees enjoy working in where animals can receive a second chance on being well cared for and a source of pride for our city,” Stephens said.
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Ask the Pokes
What are you looking forward to this semester?
“I’m really excited for all the new opportunities that I’ll have over in the Ferguson College of Agriculture.”
- Ethan Drake
“I’m mostly looking forward to joining clubs. I’m only in one, The Paddle People.”
- Laney Schliesser
“I’m really looking forward to making new friends and connections this semester.”
- Casey King
The O’Colly Staff
News & Lifestyle reporters:
Bella Casey
Luisa Clausen
Jackson Johns
Audie Martin
MJ Nyamdavaa
Ricky Robertson
Megan Roy
Kennedy Thomason
Alli Themer
Ava Whistler
Aliyah Young
Newsroom
Sports reporters: Photographers & Designers:
Daniel Allen Dalton Arredondo
Baylor Bryant
Cayden Cox
Timothy Christensen
Gina Foster
Kenzie Kraich
Samuel Mitchell
Calif Poncy
Allyn Orndorff
Kaitlyn Robertson
Wyatt Tesssier
Will Thorogood
Wyatt Watson
Weston Wertzberger
Jose Brito
Maya Blanks
Mykalyn Daidone
Catherine Dzanski
Lillian Easter
Andon Freitas
Connor Fuxa
Kaytlyn Hayes
Ethan Hilbert
Jonathan Jackson
Michael Jane‘t
Benjamin Perry Bryson Thadhani
Kennedy Thomason
Director of Engineering Candy Staring said the current Animal Welfare facility lacks many necessities, including a medical care area.
President Joe Biden addressed the nation for the final time from behind the desk in the Oval Office on Wednesday.
He looked back fondly on the values of America and his term as president before warning citizens to challenge potential abuses of power he foresees becoming reality in the near future. In his 20-minute livestream Biden cited AI, social media, misinformation, disinformation and the wealthy as examples of powers to watch out for.
“We know the idea of America; our institution, our people, our values that uphold it are constantly being tested,” Biden said. “...Our system of separation of powers, checks and balances may not be perfect, but it’s maintained our democracy for nearly 250 years — longer than any other nation in history that’s ever tried such a bold experiment.”
For 50 of those 250, Biden has worked in politics, and he said he is proud of what he’s accomplished for Americans. The Biden Administration’s work on infrastructure, COVID-19 relief, Medicare and gun violence laws were honorable mentions for his work as president.
He thanked Vice President Kamala Harris’ for her role in his presidency a couple of times, saying she is family to him now. He also thanked First Lady Jill Biden, his family, other members of his administration and first responders for their help.
He also wished the future administration, President-elect Donald Trump and
Vice President-elect J.D. Vance’s administration, success. Biden said he’s held his duty to ensure a peaceful transition between the administrations. Seconds later, he began to warn Americans of things that give him “great concern.”
“There’s a dangerous concentration of power in the hands of a very few ultra-wealthy people,” Biden said. “The dangerous consequences if their abuse of power is left unchecked today — an oligarchy is taking shape in America of extreme wealth, power and influence that literally threatens our entire democracy, our basic rights and freedoms and a fair shot for everyone to get ahead.”
Biden mentioned tech-industrial complexes rising and misinformation spreading, for example. He worries for the future in terms of these powers overtaking America.
To combat concerns of abuse of power in politics, he pointed to reforms in the Supreme Court, including barring members of Congress from trading stock and holding presidents accountable for crimes committed while in office. He mentioned getting rid of “dark money,” likely alluding to President-elect Donald Trump’s conviction of felony business fraud in May 2024.
He ended the address speaking about the future of America and how it is ultimately in the hands of Americans.
“After 50 years of public service, I give you my word,” Biden said. “I still believe in the idea for which this nation stands — a nation where the strengths of our institutions and the character of our people matter and must endure. Now it’s your turn to stand guard.”
previous president and vice president depart, the president will gather with aides and Congress members to sign nominations, memoranda, proclamations or executive orders as Trump’s first official act.
Israel and Hamas reached a potential ceasefire and hostage deal Wednesday after 15 months of war.
The Israeli cabinet was slated to vote on the deal Thursday morning, but the vote was delayed. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu cited a “last-minute dispute” with Hamas that is halting the deal, according to AP News
Israel continued airstrikes in the midst of the proposal killing more than 70 people Wednesday night.
If the vote passes the first phase of the three-phase deal will go into effect which includes the release of hostages.
Hamas has agreed to release at least 33 hostages. It will also provide relief to the people of Gaza.
The current conflict was sparked by Hamas’ attack on Oct. 7 2023 killing more than 1,200. On Oct. 7 2024 46 Americans were killed according to a press release by the U.S. State Department.
Over 46,000 Palestinians have been killed as a result with over half of that number accounting for women and children, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry Multiple news organizations and officials believe that number is higher. Over 100,000 Palestinians have been injured during the conflict.
AP News reports that as of Jan 15 840 Israeli soldiers have been killed since the initial 1,200 Israelis killed on Oct. 7. If passed the deal will go into affect Sunday.
President-elect Donald Trump will be officially sworn into office Monday as the 47th President of the United States.
For those across the nation who will be tuning in, here’s a guide to all things inauguration. Second inauguration for Trump Trump previously was inaugurated on Jan. 20, 2017 as the 45th President. Monday will be Trump’s second time reciting the oath of office. His oath will signal the end of the Biden-Harris Administration and the start of the Trump-Vance Administration, which will span until 2028.
Around 11 a.m. CST, Trump will stand atop the steps of the U.S. Capitol to recite the oath of office, shortly after the Biden Administration bids farewell and J.D. Vance recites his oath for vice president.
The day will be filled with classic inauguration traditions, but Trump’s true celebrations start days earlier.
Inauguration celebration schedule
On Saturday, at the Trump National Golf Club in Virginia, a few events will take place: a president’s reception, a vice president’s dinner, a Cabinet reception and a fireworks display to celebrate the festivities.
Sunday morning, a wreath-laying ceremony will be at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Arlington, Texas. From there, Trump will travel to Washington for a Make America Great Again rally at Capital One Arena.
Monday morning will begin with a church service at St. John’s Church.
After the service, the president-elect will head to the White House for tea. Then, he will recite the oath.
After the oath is recited for all of America to see, Trump will head to the President’s room for the signing ceremony, a tradition that began with President Ronald Reagan. Once the
Following the ceremony, there will be a private luncheon before the parade. After the presidential parade, the president will attend three inaugural balls. Trump will speak at all three, according to a press release. Performers Oklahoma native Carrie Underwood will perform at the inauguration ceremony. She will sing “America the Beautiful.” Country singer Lee Greenwood and opera singer Christopher Macchio will also perform.
American band The Village People famous for its song “Y.M.C.A,” will perform twice throughout the festivities — once at the rally and once at a ball. Kid Rock, Billy Ray Cyrus and Liberty University’s Praise Choir will also take the stage at the rally in Washington.
A few other country artists, including Jason Aldean, Rascal Flatts and Parker McCollum, will perform at various balls. So will Gavin DeGraw, a singer-songwriter popular for creating the theme song for the TV show “One Tree Hill.” Martin Luther King Jr. Day
The inauguration will fall on Martin Luther King Jr. Day, which hasn’t happened since President Bill Clinton was inaugurated for his second term in 1997. Barack Obama was close to inauguration on MLK day during his 2009 Inauguration. With Jan. 20 occurring on a Sunday, Obama was sworn in privately on that date; his public ceremony took place the next day on MLK day. A president will not be inaugurated on the holiday again until 2053. Where to watch
All major news channels will be covering the inauguration, but if you’re on the go or without cable, The White House will stream the entire ceremony.
Courtesy Creative Commons
Donald Trump and J.D. Vance shake hands at a Make America Great Again rally.
Courtesy Creative Commons
President Joe Biden speaks to America from the Oval Office on Wednesday.
Resources, tips, tricks for students navigating illness
tion can help you negotiate deadlines with professors.
Keep up online
It starts with the dreaded tingle in your throat, a slight soreness that you ignore as you walk to class, but by the time the professor wraps up the lecture, other symptoms start popping up, and the next thing you know, you’re sick.
As a student, catching a bug can derail schedules and coursework. While there are multiple ways to avoid getting sick, sometimes it’s inevitable.
If you are feeling sick, here are 11 resources, reminders and tips to help you recover quickly and safely.
University Health Services Urgent Care
Students can schedule appointments with UHS through the patient portal on the UHS website or by calling (405) 744-7665.
The portal allows students to schedule appointments online, but UHS recommends calling if there are no available appointments listed and the reason for the appointment is urgent.
The portal also gives students the ability to add medical records, insurance information and health history.
Students can self-pay, charge their bursar or utilize insurance to pay for appointments. UHS accepts Aetna, Blue Cross & Blue Shield, Cigna, HealthChoice and United Healthcare.
UHS is not accepting Medicare.
The UHS clinic is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and closed on the weekends.
Off-campus urgent care
If you get sick over the weekend, there are multiple urgent care locations in Stillwater. Call ahead to schedule an appointment to reduce wait time.
Stillwater Medical Center has three urgent care locations in town that are open seven days a week.
Reach out to primary care doctor
After the COVID-19 pandemic many primary care doctors provide a virtual option for their patients. Not everyone has made the adjustment, so check with your primary care physician’s office first.
Doctor’s note
Make sure to request a doctor’s note when visiting urgent care. Absence policies vary from professor to professor, but you might face a few unexcused absences without a doctor’s note.
Communicate
The last thing anyone wants to do while sick is send emails, but communicate with your professors about missing class as early as possible. Establishing a clear line of communica -
Try to keep up with your assignments on Canvas as best you can. Talk to your professors if your work is unavailable online, and phone a friend to pick up your course materials.
Home remedies
Prescribed medications will kickstart healing, but adding a few home remedies into your routine can help. Dehydration is a common issue associated with the cold and flu, so fluids are key, however, stick to water and electrolyte-rich drinks.
Vitamin C
Add vitamin C to your diet. Orange juice and Emergen-C are quick and easy ways to add some vitamin C into your diet.
While our instinct when sick is to seek our comfort foods step away from the fast food. Junk food weakens your immune system, making it difficult for your body to gather the energy it needs to fight off viruses. Balance the sweet and savory with healthier options with natural ingredients to recover faster.
Gargling salt water, drinking a hot beverage or snacking on honey can help relieve a sore throat. Warm liquids like tea or broth can help break up congestion and keep you hydrated.
Quarantine
Get comfy, because no one wants what you have. If you are living with roommates try to stay in your room as much as possible to stop the spread.
If you share a room or live in a Greek house let your roommates know you’re sick immediately so they can take the necessary steps to avoid catching anything.
Consider if you live close to Stillwater going home for a few days.
Clean
After you’ve recovered, take a few hours to clean your dorm, apartment or room. If you can deep clean, go for it. Cleaning will help keep you and your roommates healthy.
Mental health
Be mindful of your mental health. Getting sick can be stressful and exhausting as your immune system works overtime to heal. It can also be lonely.
Stay connected through calls and FaceTime hangouts. If you feel up to it, hop online and play a few chill games with friends. Watch your favorite movies and shows and allow yourself to rest.
If you are struggling with mental health while sick, University Counseling Services offers multiple online resources and programs for students on their website.
is showcasing three spring semester productions, starting with “Small Mouth Sounds” by Bess Wohl in February. “Rumors” by Neil Simon takes the stage from Feb. 28 through March 2. The department wraps up the season with “Alice By Heart,” a take on the classic tale with a World War 2 setting.
Class is back in session.
Students are frantically searching for new classes, syllabi are piling up and professors are waiting until the last minute to publish their courses on Canvas.
It’s a classic, freezing, cold start to another semester at OSU. Unlike the spring semester, homecoming and football define the fall semester, but it’s a different story in the spring.
Here are a few of the big events to look forward to this spring.
Martin Luther King Jr. Day celebration
Organized by OSU students for OSU students, the Martin Luther King Jr. day celebration gives students a chance to celebrate the civil rights activist with a celebration at the Student Union Ballroom on Jan. 23.
Athletics
There might not be a football game every Saturday, but OSU is home to various spring sports. Watch OSU’s basketball teams and the OSU wrestling team take on the competition in Gallagher-Iba Arena and get fired up for baseball and softball season starting in early March. Students with the sports pass can utilize it at all OSU sporting events.
Mr. and Miss OSU
During the spring semester, students compete in a series of competitions to be named the next Mr. and Miss. OSU. Miss OSU is taking place on Saturday, Jan. 25. The winner will go on to compete for the title of Miss Oklahoma. Mr. Oklahoma is happening on April 7.
Theater
The OSU Department of Theater
Tickets typically cost $10 to $15, but freshmen can claim a free ticket at the Department of Theater office one week before the performance or from the box office the night of the show.
The Boys From Oklahoma In October, two Oklahoma bands, Cross Canadian Ragweed and the Turnpike Troubadours, announced they would play two shows at Boone Pickens Stadium and, due to demand, added two more. All four shows are sold out, but the weekend promises to be fun and exciting at OSU.
‘Chicago’ the musical The famous Broadway musical will perform at the McKnight Center on Feb. 22 and 23. Tickets start at $50.
Red Dirt Film Festival
The 12th annual Red Dirt Film Festival is happening in Stillwater April 4-6 . The festival features films ranging from comedy to horror. Filmmakers come from all over the world to showcase their work.
Calf Fry
A Tumbleweed classic, Calf Fry is Stillwater’s red dirt and country musical festival with three days of music, food and fun. It is a great way to end the spring semester and get into the summer mood.
Tickets are pricy, but it’s worth saving up for if you’re a country music fan. This year, the three-day festival runs from Thursday, May 1 to Saturday, May 3. .
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candy corn, dyed marshmallows and maraschino cherries.
Christi Evans is a registered dietitian and works as an assistant extension specialist with the OSU Nutritional Sciences department. Evans said that the ban is a positive move.
A key ingredient in Brach’s conversation hearts and a few other well-known sweets and foods is getting kicked out of the conversation.
The FDA banned the use of FD&C Red Dye No. 3 (Red 3) in food products after multiple studies showed dye caused cancer in animals,
The FDA also reported no evidence that humans consuming Red No. 3 causes cancer. Under the Delaney Clase of the FD&C, the FDA must ban products that cause cancer in humans or animals.
Red Dye No. 3 is one of several dyes and additives companies use in food production.
In recent years, many advocates of natural ingredients have pushed back against using additives in food products, opting for natural options.
While Red Dye No. 3 is not widely used few products will be affected, including
“There’s a lot of things going on research-wise that look at different ingredients in our food so I think that’s kind of a comfort as a consumer,” Evans said. “There is research being done and they’re trying to protect the public.” Currently, more than 30 color additives are approved by the FDA. Evans said it never hurts to re-evaluate.
“Whether or not that (Red Dye No.3) was found to affect humans, or not, I think it’s a good idea to take a step back and evaluate things,” Evans said.
Research takes time, but students can self advocate.
Evans encourages students to take the time to read labels and learn about what they are consuming.
“I think consumers, especially students, think it’s a good idea to always look at food labels and be aware of what kind of things are in our food,” Evans said.
Courtesy Creative Commons
The FDA has officially banned Red Dye No. 3 from use in the manufacturing of food products in the U.S.
Payton Little
The Scissor-Tail Flycatcher, Oklahoma’s state bird, holds a special place in Sampley’s heart. It’s even become the unofficial mascot of Little Sapling Market.
“We love birds and trees here,” Sampley said with a smile. “The Scissor-Tail is absolutely my favorite bird. It’s in our front window and on our T-shirts. It was almost part of our name until we realized someone else had already claimed it.”
Advice for Aspiring Artists
Sapling Proposal
As a former student navigating the balance of creative passions and financial pressures, Sampley knows the struggle firsthand. Her advice for budding artists is simple: start small.
“We feel like we have to do everything all at once, but we can’t. It’s not sustainable,” she emphasized. “Figure out what you actually want to do, dabble in a little bit of everything, and see what resonates with you.”
Sampley also pushes back against the idea that artists must define their unique style early on.
“If you stick to one thing, you lose the chance to experiment,” she said. “Keep dabbling, even if you’ve found something you love. Don’t get stuck in your comfort zone.”
Building Connections and Community For Sampley, the key to her success has been building genuine connections—a challenge for her as a selfproclaimed former introvert.
“Talking to people and making friends—not just networking—opens doors you wouldn’t expect,” she said. “Over time, you start knowing everyone, and it becomes this network of support.”
She encourages students and emerging artists to tap into the resources around them, including Little Sapling Market. The shop currently features work from several Oklahoma State University students and alumni, and Sampley is eager to expand their presence.
“If we get enough student work, I’d love to have a whole section dedicated to just students,” she said. “This space is meant to help artists get started.”
A Creative Ecosystem Little Sapling Market isn’t just a
store—it’s a creative ecosystem. From showcasing intricate ceramics to advising on the benefits of owning a personal printer for aspiring illustrators, Sampley’s commitment to nurturing artistic talent is evident.
“This is what the goal of the space is,” she said. “To help artists get going, even if it’s just a place for them to put their work out there.”
Quotes from The Sapling Market Artist Family
Rach Cromer, an illustrator and OSU alum, reflects fondly on her experience with the market. “Elizabeth does a great job curating work from local and national creators, ensuring there’s something for everyone,”
Rach said. Her Cowboy Fish prints and stickers, inspired by her life in a small apartment before moving into her historic home, have become one of the bestsellers at the shop.
“It’s nice to have my work shown to younger generations in Stillwater and reconnect with the community,” she added.
For Adrian Ramos, a ceramic artist behind the “Bizarre Pottery” line, the market has been instrumental in his journey. “I first met Elizabeth at the Steamroller Print Festival in OKC when I was still in high school,” he recalled. “She approached me at my booth, and I was thrilled when she mentioned selling my work in Stillwater.” Adrian’s Parasite Cups, inspired by his first sculpture, explore themes of emotional resilience and have become a favorite among market visitors.
Margaret C. Price, a screen printer and illustrator, also emphasizes the supportive environment of Little Sapling Market. “I was inspired by the other local artists represented here,” she shared. Margaret’s work often features her beloved pets, blending everyday life with her love for animals. “Being part of this market has given me exposure and helped me grow my portfolio. It’s also great to see how the market makes art tangible for the community and provides learning opportunities through art classes.”
For anyone looking for inspiration, community, or simply a beautiful space to explore, Little Sapling Market is a must-visit. It’s not just a place—it’s an experience.
Continued from 1
On the day of the engagement, Robbins took Puckett through a timeline of their dates and memories starting with handing her a letter for each location the couple stopped at before arriving at BPS.
“He had written out letters specifically for that spot,” Puckett said. “Kind of memories from when we were dating, and those when we had gone to those places, and just really thoughtful and sweet. And I just felt so loved and cared for.”
While Puckett was enjoying her letters, Robbins was worried about the snowstorm. He hadn’t planned for the snow and thought it would make it hard to travel from spot to spot. He made it work and decided to make peace with the snowstorm at the last stop before BPS — GIA.
The two reminisced on the first
date while sitting there, and Robbins decided the snow would make the engagement even more special.
“I was like ‘I really want this to be snowy now,’ Robbins said. “I was like’ Lord, if you could continue to keep it snowy, that’d be awesome,’ and it was.” Puckett said she felt she got engaged in a “snow globe” and she described the engagement as sweet and magical. The perfect engagement will always stay with the couple, and they hope to share it with their future children.
“Our best memories have been in Stillwater,” Robbins said. “I thought this (BPS) would be probably the most perfect spot in Stillwater…”
“And watching games, like football games, in the future, and imagining one day taking little kiddos like we got proposed right there,” Puckett said.
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Student Support setting up transfer students for spring
KAREEM SAWAN STAFF REPORTER
Transitioning to a new campus can be daunting.
As the spring semester at OSU begins, many new transfer students are starting their first week of classes on campus.
Emma Alvord transferred from Southern Methodist University (SMU) to play soccer, but visiting the Stillwater campus sealed the deal.
“When I visited Stillwater, it felt more like home,” Alvord said. “It’s not too far from home, and I’m very much a homebody so being close was important to me.”
Part of being a transfer student is opening up to new experiences, classes and friends. Alvord said she liked the campus because of the support she felt from her peers.
“OSU is a great place to be,” Alvord said. “Just because the connections are really easy and making friends here is awesome.”
Alvord plans to play soccer at OSU. While she misses her teammates, she is excited to connect with her new team and discover what the university offers.
“I definitely miss my friends,” Alvord said. “I feel like being in a sport is built on friendships and almost like a family, so it makes it (transferring) a lot easier.”
Students like Alvord are not alone in the transfer process. Matt Williams is the director for student support in Campus Life and helps students like Alvord daily.
Williams said that the enrollment process for transfer students is no different from traditional students.
“Every student who is admitted to the university is required to go through their new student orientation and enrollment process, and that is such a helpful piece of the puzzle for students,”
Williams said.
Transfer students have access to plenty of support resources and locations around campus. Williams and his team are ready to help students every step of the way and set them up for success.
Williams said that on-campus events are a way to engage transfer students and help them get involved with other organizations on campus and meet new people.
“Every student should get involved,” Williams said. “There are tons of free and fun things happening on campus every day as well as just around the community.”
Student Support works with students to make the transition easy and welcome students to OSU.
Williams has lots of advice for students in the process of transferring or considering it, but his favorite bit of wisdom is to get involved.
“My advice for any student, especially someone who’s coming in as a transfer student mid-year, is to get out there and get involved in things,” Williams said. “Go to an event.”
Going to events around campus can help students find their place at OSU and learn more about the university and how they fit in. Events are the easiest way to get plugged in.
“You can usually find events on Facebook or social media, and there are a lot of local businesses that have events,” Williams said.
Outside of events, Student Support collaborates with other areas of Campus Life, including Career Services, Pete’s Pantry, and others, to prepare students for their time at OSU. If students have questions, need more information, or want to chat, they are encouraged to visit the Student Support offices in the Campus Life offices in the Student Union or email nontradtransfer@okstate.edu.
news.ed@ocolly.com
Payton Little
The Little Sapling Market
Courtesy Emma Alvord
Emma Alvord transferred to OSU from SMU to play on the Cowgirls soccer team.
Courtesy Zac Robbins
Zac Robbins and RachelKate Puckett posing inside Boone Pickens Stadium after getting engaged.
Los Angeles wildfires continue to burn, how students can help
BELLA CASEY STAFF REPORTER @BELLACASEYYY
Some areas of Los Angeles are scorched after wildfires ravaged the city, and the blaze is yet to be contained.
Some L.A. residents evacuated their homes as their city went up in flames Jan. 7. Evacuation orders continued to roll out in the following days as the fire swallowed the Palisades, an area west of L.A., and they haven’t stopped.
The Palisades fire spans 23,713 acres, according to the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection. The Eaton fire is ablaze on the northeast side of L.A. and covers 14,117 acres. The Hurst fire is north of L.A. and covers 799 acres. The Palisades fire is 22% contained, and the Eaton fire is 55% contained. The Hurst fire is 98% contained.
Twenty-four people are dead, more than 40,000 acres burned and 12,300 structures are destroyed, according to the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection.
Although the cause of the wildfires is still under investigation, the National Weather Service in L.A. warned residents of extreme fire conditions on Jan. 6, which it attributed to high winds, low humidity and dry vegetation.
How to help
Thousands lost their homes, belongings and pets to the wildfires. Local and national organizations are asking for monetary and specific item donations to help those affected by the wildfires.
Redcross: Donate at redcross. org, or by calling 1-800-RED CROSS (800-733-2767) or texting the word CAWILDFIRES to 90999.
Los Angeles Regional Food Bank: Visit lafoodbank.org/fire to help finance assistance to wildfire victims. It is also accepting essential non-food items such as diapers, wipes and other hygiene items.
Best Friends Animal Society: Help provide emergency support to animals affected by the fires by making a monetary donation at support. bestfriend.org.
Pasadena Humane Society: Pasadena Humane has taken in more than 400 animals from the Eaton fire and is asking for monetary donations, which can be made at give.pasadena humane.org.
World Central Kitchen: WCK is asking for donations to help equip L.A. firefighters with tools and supplies. Donate at donate.wck.org.
Direct Relief: Donate to Direct Relief at directrelief.org to help bring emergency healthcare supplies to community clinics and evacuation centers. news.ed@ocolly.com
As fires continue to burn across the L.A. area
OK AG announces campaign for governor
HAYDEN ALEXANDER NEWS & LIFESTYLE EDITOR
Oklahoma Attorney General and OSU alumnus Gentner Drummond announced his plans to run for Oklahoma governor in 2026 on Monday.
Speaking in Pawhuska, Drummond discussed his time as attorney general and his visions for the governor position.
“I’ve delivered on every single promise,” Drummond said. “I have fought to protect public safety, defend our values and uphold the rule of law.”
Drummond discussed his time serving as a fighter pilot, his background in business and law and his strong family values.
He promised to lower the tax burden, increase the cost of living and create more jobs. He also expressed his interest in working closely with Oklahoma’s Na-
tive American community.
“Together, we can build a future where we will work together with our Native American tribes to invest in education, roads, bridges and public safety,” Drummond said.
Drummond supports President-elect Donald Trump and promised to work with Trump on multiple issues including border security.
“As governor, I will keep standing strong with President Trump to secure our borders, deport illegals and stop the flow of drugs and crime,” he said.
Drummond said that if elected governor, he would continue to serve the people and make Oklahoma greater than ever.
“I stand up for the people of Oklahoma, always have, always will,” Drummond said.
Currently, Drummond is running against Leisa Mitchell Hayes. Gov. Kevin Stitt is term limited.
news.ed@ocolly.com
Continued from 1
Jermaine Kelley is an Alpha Phi Alpha Inc. member and the Black Student Association’s parliamentarian. He said he is excited to honor and recognize King’s work.
“I think of it like a day of service,” Kelley said. “MLK put his life on the line multiple times and his reputation, so it’s, at least to me, a great time to recognize and realize how much work he actually did.”
On the musical side, Jeremiah Moore is the vice president of the Higher Presence Gospel Choir and will perform with the choir Thursday.
“We thought it’d be a good tribute to Martin Luther King,” Moore said. “We’re pretty new on campus; we’re just getting back to being an organization on campus, so it’d be good for us too.”
Moore and Kelley are just a few of the students Echols and co-chair Charmaine Motte work with daily. The pair is dedicated to helping students get involved and succeed. They encourage students to join the committee and bring their voices to the table. The students work together to plan the event with Echols and Motte’s guidance.
“We want to ensure that our students are having a program they’re proud of and that they want to attend,” Echols said.
Echols and Motte are passionate about spotlighting different cultures. They see MLK Jr. Day as a way to continue to recognize the impact diverse students have on OSU’s culture.
“I think we have seen a real shift in our political climate and our state as we navigate a lot of things for our culturally-diverse students and our marginalized students,” Motte said.
In December 2023, Gov. Kevin Stitt banned public universities from using state funds for DEI initiatives. The order went into effect on May 31,
2024, and campus leaders like Echols and Motte are finding new ways to bring culture to the forefront and give students a voice.
“The model has maybe changed in how we support MLK Jr. Day, but we still want to ensure our students know that the vision that King had is still represented,” Echols said.
Motte is pursuing a Ph.D. in education leadership and policy setting. Part of her studies focus on DEI integration in higher education. She views MLK Jr. Day as a way to preserve history.
“One of the things that’s really important to me is that our history, as far as Black history, is being erased and wiped out,” Motte said. “To be able to celebrate this day and the thing that he’s done, hopefully, it drives people who don’t know a lot about him to learn more.”
To Echols, understanding what King stood for and how he conducted himself cannot be understated. She said that in the current political climate, people tend to jump to violence first, but that wasn’t King’s way.
“I think for me it’s about knowing not just who he is as a person, but what he fought for, the rights, the way he fought for those rights, which was non-violent,” Echols said. “I think that’s more important for our students to hear and see today.”
The march is cancelled, but Thursday is shaping up to be an event to remember. All students are encouraged to attend. Echols, Motte and the hard-working students behind the event encourage everyone to come out, get involved and take a moment on Monday to remember King.
“MLK Day is not just a day off, but a day of hope,” Moore said. “It commemorates all the work that he put in for us.” news.ed@ocolly.com
OUR EYES ARE ON CHRIST!
“ As the eyes of slaves look to the hand of their master, as the eyes of a maid look to the hand of her mistress, so our eyes look to the LORD our God, till he show us his mercy.” (Ps.123:2 NIV)
“My heart is not proud, O LORD, my eyes are not haughty...But I have stilled and quieted my soul; like a weaned child with its mother, like a weaned child is my soul within me.” (Ps.131:1,2 NIV)
“ I waited patiently for the LORD; he turned to me and heard my cry. He lifted me out of the slimy pit...he set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand.
He put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise to our God. Many will see and fear (stand in awe) and put their trust in the LORD.” (Ps.40:1-3 NIV)
“But they that wait upon the LORD shall
renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.” (Is.40:31 KJV)
There is something definite and real about waiting on the Lord. I remember years ago when I sensed the Lord speak to me.
“Make yourself available!” I thought I was! I was reading my Bible some and going to church regularly. As I considered this challenge from Lord, I felt I should spend some quiet time daily with the Lord. With my busy days,I decided to spend a hour (5 to 6 a.m.) each day. That decision brought about important changes in my life and service to God. I was learning to wait on the Lord. What a loving and faithful God we have to help us find his best for our lives. It pays off to have a definite, daily time with your Bible and Jesus
Courtesy Creative Commons
MLK Jr. Day is a federal holiday that celebrates work in championing non-violent activism.
Courtesy Creative Commons
national organizations are asking for donations to help.
ALIYAH YOUNG STAFF REPORTER
Two years after SZA dropped the original “SOS” album, she released the deluxe version titled “LANA.”
Repetitive lyric allegations have been thrown at SZA, but I am here to clear the air. I’ve heard some say that her songs are all about going back to her ex and that SZA’s music is for the weak. Maybe this is true, but honestly, what’s wrong with that?
This album is her way of addressing feelings and self-reflections on past relationships, which I wouldn’t dare invalidate. So, before you pass judgment, do some self-reflection and you might find yourself relating to her lyrics. If you don’t, good for you I guess. Sometimes you’re meant to feel the melody, not the lyric. So if you’re looking for a happy pop album, just look the other way.
Some standout tracks from this album include “30 for 30” with the beloved Kendrick Lamar, “BMF,” and my favorite song, “Scorsese Baby Daddy.” These songs perfectly balance emotional intensity with high-energy, fun, melodies.
“No More Hiding” and “Love Me 4
Me” are centered around healing and love. They outline the importance of having confidence and self-love sprouted from yourself and not the validation of others.”No More Hiding” feels like a list of affirmations to remind you who you are, which is refreshing.
“Love Me 4 Me” is SZA professing her standards of love in relationships and proclaiming her love for herself. This album is perfect for late-night drives or chill hangouts. I would recommend playing the song “Drive” while driving late at night and screaming the lyrics like Ben Stiller did in the music video. I would have never imagined Zoolander screaming lyrics to a SZA song but if I’ve learned anything from 2024, anything can happen.
Overall, “LANA” has some serious bangers. To compare it to her old work, the subject matter is similar but her sound has progressed. This album is moody and smooth with a few fun sing-out-loud songs. SZA’s unique artistic sound shines through in every song. It’s a return to her earthy roots and is as honest and relatable as her renowned album Ctrl.
I would 100 percent recommend giving this album a listen if you like indie/R&B music or just can’t seem to get over your ex.
“LANA” addresses SZA’s feelings and self-reflection as she dives into past relationships.
CheckouttheOriginalHideaway!
other players to leave with less-thansuccessful results.
This time, players can vote to stay after each game offering opportunities to examine the characters’ decisions, rationale and consequences.
Pick up the ddakji because it is time to dive into season two of “Squid Game.”
Netflix’s hit series premiered in 2021 and quickly climbed to the top of the rankings. The Korean thriller set the internet ablaze with its unique take on classism issues.
Three years later, “Squid Game” still has a hold on the internet, and with Season 2 out now on Netflix, there are plenty of new theories and content to explore.
Seong Gi-hun (Lee Jung-jae) is back working with detective Hwang Jun-ho (Wi Ha-jun) to try and take down the Frontman and the games.
Gi-hun ultimatley ends up but finds himself back in the games with no backup.
New characters make their debut all motivated by money like Kim Jun-hee (Jo Yuri) a young woman hoping to provide for her unborn child.
It’s easier to cheer for characters this time, making the games more brutal.
“Squid Game” excels at compelling characters. A few lines and visuals attach the viewer to the characters. The actors play their parts emotionally adding a relatable element.
Gi-hun attempts to convince the
“Squid Game” explores how money drives people. Desperate players are willing to continue playing even if others die. This choice haunts many.
For instance Cho Hyun-ju (Park Sung-hoon) votes to stay, but her friend Kim Young-mi (Kim Shi-eun) who wanted to leave, is killed.
On the other hand, the rich sit and watch the games for entertainment, treating life as trivial.
“Squid Game” introduces two new games: the six legged-pentathlon and Mingle. One involves racing through obstacles.These two team-up games create new dynamics and opportunities for betrayal. .
In-ho, a.k.a the Frontman, joins the game his real identity hidden. His inclusion deepens the character development and shows glimpses of a once caring man. As tensions rise the characters turn on each-other.
Gi-hun convinces the players to fight the guards. Hyun ju leads the charge. Sadly their efforts are in vain. Love it or hate it the season ends in a cliffhanger and Gi-hun gets captured. Luckily for fans Season 3 is coming out in 2025.
news.ed@ocolly.com
2025’s most anticipated, rumored albums
REPORTER
2024 was an amazing year for music.
Every genre thrived. However, 2025 has some significant albums slated.
The Weeknd,Taylor Swift, Chappell Roan and more are expected to release albums this year. Between fan speculation and theories, here are my picks for the biggest confirmed and rumored albums of 2025.
Playboi Carti - ‘I AM MUSIC’
Everything pointed to Playboi Carti releasing an album in 2024, but it’s 2025, and he hasn’t made a move. Playboi Carti is too inconsistent to predict anything. It should not be surprising if we go another year without a Carti album.
Lil Nas X - ‘DREAMBOY’
We have not seen a real Lil Nas X album since “MONTERO” in 2021. Lil Nas X is still invested in music, as shown by multiple 2024 songs and music videos. While his popularity is already low, 2025 would be the last year for Nas to maintain any relevance. If he still wants a career in mainstream music, 2025 is a must-drop year for Lil Nas X.
Lana Del Ray - ‘The Right Person Will Stay’
Lana Del Rey has already confirmed that her next album, “The Right Person Will Stay,” will be released on May 21.
Pop singers usually do not lie about album releases. With this much time and an artist this big, something would have to go seriously wrong for us not to get a Lana Del Rey album in 2025.
J. Cole - ‘The Fall Off’ J. Cole, regardless of your opinion of him, has also had a very busy 2024. He entered, then exited, the KendrickDrake Beef and he released a surprise album of his own.
“The Fall Off” is supposed to be J. Cole’s last album. Cole still has a lot of music left in him. I doubt he will hang up the mic now.
The Weekend - ‘Hurry Up Tomorrow’ “Hurry Up Tomorrow” will be released on Jan. 31. It will be The Weeknd’s last album.
The album was delayed a week out of “respect and concern” for the victims of the California wildfires.
Harry Styles: ‘Meanwhile’
Many of Harry’s fans believe he is still interested in making music. Styles released his last album in 2022, so he should be gearing up for another release soon. There is insufficient evidence to call on a potential 2025 Harry Styles album.
Taylor Swift - ‘Reputation: Taylor’s Version’
Since 2021, Taylor Swift has consistently released two “Taylor’s Version” albums in odd-numbered years. Love or hate her, she is one of the most prominent music artists in the world. Fans are speculating, but there is no word yet on “Reputation: Taylor’s Version”
or “Taylor Swift: Taylor’s Version,” but we can assume both will be released this year. Swift is too consistent and far too popular to break this trend.
Kendrick Lamar - ‘GNX Deluxe’
Hip-hop fans are relentless when it comes to finding album hints. Thanks to the “mixtape” nature of “GNX,” fans theorized the possibility of a deluxe version or even a second album. Visuals in and unreleased music in Lamar’s announcement video are leading to wishful thinking on the fans part.
Morgan Wallen - ‘Dark Til Daylight’ Morgan Wallen did not release an album in 2024, but he dominated the charts. Wallen has been teasing music on
Instagram recently. A Morgan Wallen album in 2025 would tactically nuke the charts. Whether the album is called “Dark Til Daylight” or something else remains to be seen. Whatever the title, we expect an album in 2025.
A$AP Rocky - ‘Don’t Be Dumb’
A$AP Rocky’s next album, “Don’t Be Dumb,” might be released in 2025 after three years of anticipation and hints. Everything, including multiple singles, points to Rocky’s album, dropping in 2025. However, this is A$AP Rocky. He has broken fans’ hearts before, and we know he can do it again. Read more on ocolly.com.
The Weeknd
The Weeknd’s new album, ‘Hurry Up Tomorrow,’ comes out on January 31st after the artist delayed the release due to the L.A. Wildfires.
Photo name
RICKY ROBERTSON STAFF
Twenty-four years later, OSU’s still committed to Remembering the Ten
Sitting at his desk in a second-floor Gallagher-Iba Arena office, Oklahoma State athletic director Chad Weiberg fiddles with his glasses and looks down at pieces of paper on his desk while trying to fill the air with words. Words to describe whether the Jan. 27, 2001, plane crash — which killed 10 members of the Cowboy basketball program, including Jared Weiberg, a student manager and Chad’s brother — feels like 24 years ago.
“There’s parts of it that feel like it was yesterday, and there’s times that feel like it was a lifetime ago,” Chad said. “I don’t even know if it feels like it was a lifetime ago — it just feels surreal.”
His eyewear connects with his desk after he spins it around.
“I still, you know, sometimes struggle with the fact he’s not gonna walk through the door at some point,” Chad said.
The spinning starts again. A couple of “um’s” come as Chad pieces together
words to express his thoughts while still looking at the sheets of paper.
“And then you just wonder all the things: wonder what he would be doing now; would he have a family; where he would be coaching; all of those… those things,” Chad said.
For Chad and the rest of the OSU
5 things OSU football needs to do, work on this spring
“We have kids who are willing to do things the right way on and off the floor. Our culture is really, really strong.”
In terms of the roster, it’s clear what changed.
Shortly after Oklahoma State’s 52-0 loss to Colorado in Boulder, head coach Mike Gundy promised to “evaluate” the season.
And while he might not have directly said it, change was looming. Especially after a 3-9 season, which marked the worst finish during the Gundy era at OSU, and the first time in more than three decades the Cowboys had gone winless in conference play.
So far this offseason, fans have gotten just that. Gundy has ushered in a program-record 23 transfer portal prospects, many of whom have valuable experience at their previous schools. But more remains to be done this spring.
Whether it be through the transfer portal or developing in-house, complacency can never become a thing for a club looking to bounce back from its first losing season in 18 years.
On Jan. 11, Gallagher-Iba Arena watched as the Oklahoma State Cowgirls became what they were supposed to be the year prior.
Just 16 games into the season, the Cowgirls earned their 14th win –matching their total from 2023-24 and doing so against No.17 West Virginia. As nearly 3,000 people filled the air with cheers, Jacie Hoyt addressed the crowd as she always does, thanking them for their support before participating in OSU’s alma mater and disappearing into the locker room. Hoyt’s glee when coaching this OSU team is palpable. She has alluded to the differences between this season and last season. The change in mood and performance is evident to anyone who watches this year’s Cowgirls. “We got the right kids,” Hoyt said.
During Hoyt’s first season, her fast-paced, run-and-gun style led to a surprising NCAA Tournament run. Naomie Alnatas, who came to OSU from Kansas City with Hoyt, had a total understanding of the offensive attack Hoyt wanted to employ. Outside shooting, ball movement and aggressive defense were the fundamentals of what Hoyt wanted to do. Alnatas, Lior Garzon, Taylen Collins, Kassidy De Lapp and others fit perfectly.
After losing to Miami in the first round and losing several key contributors, Hoyt was forced to reload. She brought in Hannah Gusters, Quincy Noble, Chandler Prater and Kennedy Fauntleroy to play big roles.
Flores earned an invitation to the Elite 11 — a competition for high school quarterbacks — and dazzled. DANIEL ALLEN STAFF REPORTER
Here are five things OSU should fix during the spring:
Pinpoint a starting quarterback
It’s no secret quarterback play plagued the Cowboys for most of the 2024 season.
After exceeding expectations in Year 1 at OSU, starter Alan Bowman didn’t emulate his 2023 success, much of which was a product of his skill players – running back Ollie Gordon II, a veteran offensive line and a stellar wide receiver trio of Brennan Presley, Rashod Owens and Leon Johnson III.
Now, OSU is without a clear starter under center. That’s not to say Gundy and Co. don’t have their next rising star on the roster, but uncertainty at a position that is responsible for most of an offense’s overall efficiency is no formula for success.
Backup Zane Flores is returning after missing the second half of last season due to ankle surgery. A consensus three-star prospect out of high school, Flores was rated as the No. 483 overall recruit in the 2023 class according to 247Sports.
See SPRING on page 4A
Payton Little
Remember
Continued from 1 community, pain will resurface Saturday, when the Cowboys host Colorado for their annual Remember the Ten game. Memories will be shared, and there will be what-if thoughts for families of the 10 men who died, much like the ones Weiberg had in a Wednesday afternoon interview with The O’Colly.
The importance of that game and remembering the 10 — Jared, players Nate Fleming and Daniel Lawson, radio broadcaster Bill Teegins, pilots Denver Mills and Bjorn Fahlstrom, director of basketball operations Pat Noyes, trainer Brian Luinstra, media relations coordinator Will Hancock and television/radio engineer Kendall Durfey — are important, even nearly 24 years later.
It’s why, after Mike Boynton was fired last March, Chad wanted to hire a coach like Boynton who would understand the gravity of this game and what it still means for the OSU community. He’s confident he found it with Lutz, who will coach his first Remember the Ten game, and is thankful former OSU President James Halligan’s promise of “we will remember” has stuck.
‘Their memory will carry on forever’
Leading up to Saturday, Lutz did a deep dive.
For 36 hours, he read articles and watched interviews about the plane crash and what followed. It’s what helped him fully understand the magnitude of it.
What really got Lutz, though, was watching legendary Cowboy basketball coach Eddie Sutton eulogizing the 10 in their memorial service.
“There’s tears in my eyes to watch Coach Sutton have to address everybody in Gallagher-Iba when they had that memorial,” Lutz said. “I don’t know how the heck he did it.
“Anybody that ever says a bad word about Coach (Sutton) is crazy, because nobody prepares you for that.”
Professionally, Chad sought to hire someone who could win basketball games and connect with fans. Personally, he wanted someone who could also sympathize with this part of Cowboy basketball’s history.
“(Lutz) was great; just like he has been from then (when he got to Stillwater) all the way to now, he’s just continued to confirm to me everything I thought about him in all of those
ways,” Chad said.
And after Lutz’s 36-hour deep dive, it seems like he gets it. Even more than he already did.
“I just know that when it’s all said and done as the ambassador of this program, I will never, never let their memory go away,” Lutz said.
Still remembering
When Chad sees students walking across campus wearing Remember the Ten shirts, he’s struck by an encouraging thought.
“They weren’t even born when this happened,” Chad said.
“This is something that’s been passed down to the point that there’s students on our campus that weren’t alive when it happened but have an understanding of what this is.”
That, Chad said, is because OSU is a “family,” a word that came up many times Wednesday. “Unfortunately,” he said, OSU has gone through “multiple tests” of tragedies — two plane crashes, in particular — and like any family, has worked through them together.
“We talk about family… and that’s when that really becomes a real thing,” Chad said.
“Is it a word and something we talk about, or what does that really look like? And it’s in times like that where you get to see what that really means, and we’ve seen it. We’ve lived it.”
It “means a lot,” Chad said, that the 10 are remembered; the fear of them being forgotten isn’t there — which he credits to those around him at OSU.
“I think that’s your biggest fear sometimes is when you lose someone you love that they’ll be forgotten,” Chad said. “So it’s great just to get together and hear people tell stories, share memories. I mean, that’s what we all want. I think when we lose someone — regardless of the circumstances — that’s what you want.
“And OSU has done an amazing, amazing job at that.”
As of Wednesday, Chad hadn’t talked with Lutz about the game, but he figured it would happen at some point.
And though at one point he struggled to say what his brother’s life could have entailed now, Chad confidently spoke for Jared on one thing.
“I know he would like nothing more than for us to win the game,” Chad said.
sports.ed@ocolly.com
Lutz, new-look squad prepping for annual Remember the Ten game that ‘isn’t really about’ them
memory go away. We will always represent them to the highest degree.” Saturday presents OSU (9-7, 1-4, Big 12) with an opportunity to better its conference record against the Buffaloes, who are 9-7 overall and 0-5 in Big 12 play.
Like most coaches, Steve Lutz spent days preparing for the upcoming game.
But unlike typical game preparation, Lutz, Oklahoma State men’s basketball’s first-year head coach, spent “36 hours” going through old articles and videos — ones that any coach and player donning orange and white learn the magnitude of this time of year.
Lutz and the Cowboys host Colorado at 2 p.m. on Saturday at Gallagher-Iba Arena in the annual Remember the Ten game. OSU will pay tribute to the 10 players and staff members who died in a plane crash in January 2001.
Ahead of his first Remember the Ten game, Lutz promised “everyone at Oklahoma State” that the legacies of Kendall Durfey, Bjorn Fahlstrom, Nate Fleming, Will Hancock, Daniel Lawson, Brian Luinstra, Denver Mills, Pat Noyes, Bill Teegins and Jared Weiberg will “carry on forever.”
But the Cowboys don’t only want to win so they can tack on another number in the win column. They want to win for the families and people who will be honored.
Lutz said Saturday will be a “wonderful day” for the program, win or lose, as it’ll be another game in which families return and “feel the love” from OSU.
“It’ll be a much bigger call (than improving to 2-3 in Big 12 play),” Lutz said. “We’re playing for something much higher than just a win on Saturday afternoon.”
cowboy Game day
Vs.
WHEN: Saturday, 2 p.m. WHERE: Gallagher-Iba Arena
“All of the articles that were written, (and) all of the videos that were produced,” Lutz said. “After watching all of those — the gravity (of them) — there’s tears in my eyes to watch coach Sutton address everybody in GallagherIba.
“... As the ambassador of this program, I will never, never let their
TV: ESPN+ SERIES: 61-48, OSU
Only three players on OSU’s roster were a part of last year’s Remember the Ten game — Connor Dow, Jamyron Keller and Bryce Thompson. Dow, who grew up in Oklahoma and has long known the significance of the annual game, delivered a similar message to Lutz’s.
Saturday is about honoring the families and the 10 people who died almost 24 years ago.
“The game isn’t really about us,” OSU guard Connor Dow said. “It’s about the families and what they’ve had to go through. We’ll do our best to get a win just for them. It’s not about us.”
sports.ed@ocolly.com
Connor Fuxa
OSU coach Steve Lutz said he will “never” let the memory of the 10 men who died fade away.
Courtesy Weiberg family
OSU athletic director Chad Weiberg (right) said he still struggles knowing that late his brother Jared
Weiberg (right) is “not gonna walk through the door at some point.”
OSU basketball midterm report card
making just one 3 all of last season.
Junior Robert Jennings, a transfer from Texas Tech, has been a dependable role player. Starting all 16 games so far, he is averaging 6.7 points in 19.3 minutes.
Hoyt
Continued from 1
Gusters, a former five-star center who had played at Baylor and LSU before committing to OSU, didn’t fit from the beginning. Her style of play emphasized slowing down the game and playing through the post—the antithesis of what Hoyt wants to do. And five games into the season, Prater suffered a season-ending knee injury. Fauntleroy played only five games before being removed from the team.
Noble played well, but the dilapidated, poor-fitting Cowgirls endured an exhausting 14-16 season filled with frustration on and off the court.
tions have unlocked Heard.
As good as Heard was a freshman, her ascent as a sophomore has been one of the primary reasons for the Cowgirls’ bounce-back effort. She leads OSU in points, rebounds and steals per game and has increased her 3-point percentage by 10%.
“She’s got people around her who are competitive,” Hoyt said. “Last year, it was more survival. Stailee had so much responsibility on her shoulders but now she’s surrounded by likeminded people who are going to match her intensity.”
Steve Lutz’s mission to lead Oklahoma State back to March Madness for the first time in three years is faltering, with the season more than halfway finished. With 15 games left on the Cowboys’ (9-7, 1-4 Big 12) schedule, the remainder of the conference schedule presents an uphill battle and a chance to define its season.
Here’s a breakdown of the Cowboys’ season so far.
Coaching: C
This grade reflects Lutz and his staff’s struggle to establish effective rotations.
With a roster pieced together largely from the transfer portal and just three returning players, the Cowboys are navigating a challenging season in the competitive Big 12. Lutz’s vision for a fast-paced, gritty style of basketball hasn’t fully materialized, leaving questions about rotations, player fit and execution.
Although Lutz acknowledged the effort and potential within his team, he emphasizes the need for consistency and toughness to succeed at this level.
“If we don’t embrace being gritty, being tough, being disciplined, fighting every single ball on the floor, and if we are not the first one to get it, we are not good,” Lutz said.
To quantify OSU’s struggles, KenPom. com ranks it 180th in adjusted offensive efficiency and 89th in defensive efficiency.
Still, Lutz remains optimistic, noting flashes of competitiveness and intelligence from his players, though inconsistent.
“I’ve been impressed by the fact that at times we are willing learners and competitors,” Lutz said. “But it’s at times, not all the time.”
Frontcourt: B
The big men, led by seniors Abou Ousmane and Marchelus Avery, have been solid portal additions for Lutz’s squad amid concerns about the team being too guard heavy. However, depth remains an issue, as injuries or foul trouble could be devastating.
Ousmane and Avery lead the team in scoring and both average more than 12 points, so how this team plays hinges on their success. Shot selection and defense are key areas to watch from Avery, while staying out of foul trouble is critical for Ousmane.
Surprisingly, Ousmane has emerged as a reliable shooter, leading the team in 3-point percentage at 58.3%, despite
Backcourt: D+
Many fans expected this backcourt to bring new energy, but it has been a miserable experiment. Fifth-year Bryce Thompson has shown flashes, averaging more than 10 points, but the former McDonald’s All-American seems to have plateaued.
Junior Arturo Dean, a transfer from FIU and last season’s national steals leader, has struggled with shooting and creating his own shot. The highestrated transfer addition from last year’s class, Dean averages 6.6 points on 37.8 shooting this season but has been strong defensively with 2.1 steals per game.
Senior Khalil Brantley, a transfer from La Salle, generated excitement for his scoring contributions but hasn’t panned out. Brantley averages 7.1 points on 28.6% shooting 3. In five Big 12 games, Brantley has averaged 3.6 points. Senior Devonte Davis, a transfer from Arkansas, has been disappointing too.
Sophomore Jamyron Keller is a player fans are excited about for the future.
Although he averages 18.1 minutes and 6.1 points on 37.9% shooting, he has shown real promise. On the surface, his stats might not jump out, but in Tuesday night’s loss to BYU, Keller scored 15 points and was the only player to make multiple 3s, hitting 4 of 6.
Attendance: C-
Many fans have never experienced a sold-out Gallagher-Iba Arena. GIA, which holds 13,611 fans, has had an average crowd size of 6,762 fans this season, a modest increase from last season’s average of 6,604.
Best Win: Kansas State
By default, Kansas State stands as OSU’s best win, marking Lutz’s first Big 12 victory. The Wildcats currently rank 96th in KenPom rankings, making it the Cowboys’ only win against a team in the top 100. K-State is 7-9.
Worst Loss: FAU
The opening loss to the Owls in the Charleston Classic was a tough pill to swallow. Leading by five at halftime and seemingly in control for much of the game, OSU faltered down the stretch, ultimately losing 86-78. Florida Atlantic, now 9-9 on the season and ranked 108th in the KenPom rankings, is the lowestrated team the Cowboys have lost to this season.
sports.ed@ocolly.com
“I just don’t think we were as close,” sophomore guard Stailee Heard said. “It’s not like we didn’t like each other; we loved each other. Our minds were completely different, (and) we had different personalities.”
After a disappointing second season, Hoyt went back to her roots.
She and her staff targeted skilled, hard-working players who quickly bought into the program and how it wanted to play. Micah Gray, an Oklahoma City native, has thrived as a wing/guard hybrid. Tennin Magassa has filled the rim-running, shotblocking role that OSU envisioned when they brought in Gusters.
Macey Huard’s outside shooting and defensive effort have propelled her to the top of the bench rotation.
And most importantly, OSU’s addi -
With Heard leaping from promising freshman to star and the rest of the Cowgirls fitting into Hoyt’s system, OSU captured its first AP Top 25 ranking since 2019. With just under half the regular season remaining, the Cowgirls are on track to return to the NCAA Tournament.
A Big 12 championship is still a realistic possibility and with more time to mesh as a team, the Cowgirls are back on the trajectory their fans expected after Hoyt’s first season.
“This season, we just compete,” Heard said. “We’re not worried about ourselves. We are more worried about us and not me or I. We just love each other, we love being around each other, we fight for each other.”
sports.ed@ocolly.com
Kaytlyn Hayes
Stailee Heard improving from a dominant freshman season has helped OSU’s fast start
Payton Little
More than halfway through Steve Lutz’s first season at OSU, the Cowboys’ midseason grades aren’t great.
LUKE MAZZA STAFF REPORTER
Q&A: Catching up with former OSU, now St. Louis Cardinals pitcher Brian Holiday
the draft to allow me to train my body, get in shape and get everything I need in order. It’s definitely different than a day in the life of a college ballplayer, but I’m enjoying it all so far. It’s fun.”
Most players discover the differences between being a college and professional ballplayer quickly, but for Brian Holiday, it was slightly different.
After a stellar season as Oklahoma State’s Day 2 starting pitcher in 2024, the St. Louis Cardinals selected Holiday in Round 3 of the MLB Draft in July. However, instead of beginning his professional career the following week like many draftees, Holiday was shut down for the next four months and given a mandate to train his body for the 2025 season.
Now, Holiday is back in Stillwater for the next couple of weeks to train and prepare ahead of his first season as a minor leaguer.
“I’m looking forward to it,” Holiday told The O’Colly. “Can’t wait to step out there for the first time.”
In light of Opening Day for the 2025 college baseball season just one month out, The O’Colly caught up with Holiday.
Q: What are the main differences from college ball to professional?
Holiday: “Fortunately, the coaching staff at OSU does a fine job of preparing us for life after college. From a practice schedule to film to everything in between, it genuinely does give you kind of a professional feel. And Coach Josh (Holliday) is so good at communicating with you ahead of the draft and even after it’s done — communicating with you about what it’s going to be like and what to expect and even just telling you that you have a home at OSU whenever you need it.
“Obviously you’re a lot more independent and on your own as a minor league (prospect). But for me, the Cardinals immediately shut me down for the next four months after
Q: What were your emotions during the draft? How did it feel to hear your name called?
Holiday: “You’re nervous the whole time leading in, for sure. The good thing for me is that I actually knew ahead of time that the Cardinals were going to draft me. So, one of their front office folks called my adviser before the draft even started and told them that they were interested in me. Then my adviser called me and told me, ‘Hey, St. Louis said they wanted to take you in the third round.’ And when you hear that, it’s so validating. It’s like you finally have this weight off your shoulders and you’re so happy in the moment. But I wasn’t eased of my stress entirely until I actually saw my name called during the draft because obviously anything can happen.”
Q: Can you put into words the feeling of being back in Stillwater as a program alumnus?
Holiday: “It’s a weird feeling, for sure. We lost a handful of notable guys from last year’s team, so just being back here and not knowing everyone on the roster is pretty weird, too. You spend all of fall camp working and training with a group of guys, and then you obviously play alongside them for a full 54- to 56-game season, plus the postseason, and suddenly I’m back and there’s all these new faces whom I’ve had to meet and get to know — some for the first time. But I’m obviously very thankful to the coaching staff for letting me come back, train my body and mind, and get ready for the upcoming season. Oklahoma State is a place I’ll always call home and one that I’ll cherish forever.” sports.ed@ocolly.com
Oklahoma State women’s tennis sweeps Wyoming to open the season
to add the first singles point to the board.
Oklahoma State softball ranked No. 4 in Softball America Preseason Poll
Among all Big 12 Conference teams, Oklahoma State softball was voted the best.
The Cowgirls, coming off their fifth straight Women’s College World Series appearance, debuted at No. 4 on Softball America’s Preseason Top 25, only behind Florida, Texas and Oklahoma.
OSU’s 2025 preseason ranking is the second-highest in program history and marks the eighth straight year the Cowgirls will start the season in the top 25.
OSU is one of seven programs in the NCAA era to reach five straight WCWS. The Cowgirls have been ranked in the top 25 of the NFCA poll in each of their last 330 games.
Head coach Kenny Gajewski is returning two-thirds of last year’s roster and bolstered the Cowgirls’ 2025 squad with the second-best transfer class, according to Softball America.
OSU’s portal additions include highlytouted pitchers Ruby Meylan and RyLee Crandall, who join key returnees such as Karli Godwin, Tallen Edwards, Rosie Davis, Megan Bloodworth and others.
The Cowgirls open their season against Florida State at 10 a.m. CT on February 6 in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, at the Puerto Vallarta Challenge. OSU is slated to face 14 opponents that are ranked in the top 25.
sports.ed@ocolly.com
Cowgirls in Softball America’s Top 100 No. 22: Megan Delgadillo No. 25: Karli Godwin No. 39: Ruby Meylan No. 55: RyLee Crandall No. 82: Claire Timm *OSU’s five selections are the most among Big 12 Conference teams*
A team of newcomers led Oklahoma State women’s tennis to its first 7-0 sweep of the season against Wyoming.
Kylie Collins landed in Stillwater Tuesday and played doubles alongside Gracie Epps in Wednesday’s matchup — the duo kicked off the doubles matchups with a 6-1 win.
“Warming up with her today was my first time hitting with her,” Epps said. “We did well; we have a lot to build up from. I didn’t know what to expect, so it was good coming up for sure.”
Anastasiya Komar and freshman Rose Marie Nijkamp followed with another 6-1 win to secure the point for OSU. Epps carried her successful fall stint into the spring, as she had a dominant performance in her first match as a Cowgirl in Stillwater.
Epps defeated Eugenia Ceinos 6-1 in set one on Court 2. She followed with a shutout 6-0 in the second
“She brings the energy and attitude that we really need,” OSU coach Chris Young said. “On match day, she’s somebody I think people are gonna really get behind because she brings that kind of spark and that attitude. She’s just really grown because she’s becoming more confident in who she is.”
Nijkamp defeated Anastasiia Kochelaevskaia 6-2, 6-1 to earn her first collegiate win.
With one win needed and three courts in the third set, Komar clinched the Oklahoma State win after scoring 7-6 (7-3), 6-3 in two sets against Violetta Borodina.
Although the winner was decided, the final three courts played out the matches.
Utah transfer Marcela Lopez contributed to the sweep with sets of 4-6, 6-1, 6-2 on Court 4 over opponent Ruby Young. Amber Hochstatter defeated Dilnaz Mashabayeva on Court 6, 6-4, 1-6, 6-2, to earn her first Cowgirl win.
“Just training and being with the girls has always prepared me for any
given moment,” Hochstatter said. “So today, I was ready and felt good.” While Hochstatter had not played since her freshman year — now a redshirt junior — her preparations and mentality led her to make an impact after getting the call just after the doubles matchups. Freshman Alian Zack closed out Court 5, 6-2, 3-6, 6-3, defeating Elena Trencheva and rounding out the 7-0 sweep. “We want to get these kids as much action as possible,” Young said. “That’s
Kaytlyn Hayes
Oklahoma State swept Wyoming 7-0 Wednesday to open its season.
Bryson Thadhani
Oklahoma State was ranked No. 4 in the Softball America Preseason Top 25.
Payton Little
Brian Holiday is back in Stillwater preparing for his minor league debut.
North Carolina State wrestling coach Pat Popolizo relished return to Oklahoma State for top-10 match
helm, Pat said he had scheduled a home-and-home series with his alma mater in hopes of bolstering his team’s RPI and regular-season resume.
Around midnight, sometime during fall 1995, Pat Popolizio awoke to his father Frank standing over him bedside.
An urgent look appeared on Frank’s face as Pat awoke himself. Once he did, he hypothesized about what it might be.
“Coach John Smith is on the phone. He wants to talk to you.”
“I immediately thought, ‘Of course,’” Pat said in a phone interview with The O’Colly. “Who else would be calling around that time?” Pat had committed to wrestle for Pittsburgh more than one week prior. Now, John Smith – then the newlyhired head coach at Oklahoma State – was calling hoping to change his mind and flip the highly-sought-after high school recruit from New York. It was the week of the early signing period, but that didn’t halt Smith’s persistence.
But by the time opening week neared, it was clear to Pat that he had fielded a “top-10 caliber” lineup.
Ahead of the dual, Pat said Smith even told him over lunch that he was “crazy” to suggest a program with minimal success before Pat’s tenure would be swiftly morphed into one of the sport’s marquee brands by Year 4.
Pat, however, knew otherwise, and it was displayed on the mat.
The Wolfpack upset OSU 19-15 behind three straight decisions to close it. At that moment, the spotlight was on Pat’s group. Pundits took notice, and the Wolfpack kept winning.
DANIEL
Halfway through the college wrestling season, Oklahoma State is one of five teams ranked in the NWCA’s top-25 poll that are undefeated.
The Cowboys hold an 8-0 record under first-year head coach David Taylor and have dominated each of their opponents. Ranked wins against Oregon State, Arizona State, Oklahoma, Virginia Tech and North Carolina State have come with relative ease, as OSU has scored at least 30 team points in each of its duals thus far.
As March – Nationals month – draws closer by the week, OSU continues to cement itself as one of the nation’s elite. But with that come enhanced expectations. Taylor and the rest of OSU’s coaching staff are being picky, even after a dominant win.
“We want our guys to set (their) expectations high,” Taylor said. “Having a high expectation of what you want to go do and how you want to go wrestle… it’s about implementing what we work on.”
“It’s constantly resetting your expectations. It’s not about going out and winning by a point, 2 points or 3 points.”
That, Taylor said, includes highlighting doing “the little things,” properly, and telling wrestlers to not be afraid to take risks or make mistakes. It’s a sentiment Taylor has echoed since his first day as OSU’s head coach in May. Simultaneously, Taylor has been extracritical of his wrestlers post-dual, regardless of the outcome.
On Monday, the No. 3 Cowboys cruised over then fifth ranked North Carolina State 34-3, clinching nine of 10 bouts with three of their wins coming in bonus-point fashion. Despite that, Taylor said he wasn’t particularly pleased with the performance from his wrestlers in the middle weights.
At 149, No. 15 Carter Young scraped by North Carolina State’s 33rd-ranked Koy Buesgens via 5-2 decision. At 165, No. 6 Cam Amine earned the same score against 32nd-ranked Derek Fields of the Wolfpack. And at 184, No. 3 D ustin Plott escaped a scare against No. 11 Dylan Fishback via a 5-0 decision.
All were wins for the OSU wrestler, sure. But according to Taylor, they weren’t as dominant as he believed they could have been.
have the reputation that we’re gonna wrestle hard for 7 minutes. Whatever that looks like. You can wrestle hard and win 5-0 (like Plott). You can wrestle hard and win 21-5 (like 141-pounder Tagen Jamison). You can also not wrestle so hard and win 14-4. We’re not hanging out hats on the wins and losses. It’s the way that we’re wrestling.”
Heading in, Plott – a three-time AllAmerican – had logged a bonus-point win in more than 60% of his matches. But on Monday, he struggled offensively through the first two periods, not landing shots that normally come to him with ease. It wasn’t until a takedown in the final period that he pulled away from the Wolfpack’s 11th-ranked Fishback.
“This last match (against Fishback) I feel like I didn’t take a lot of risks,” Plott said. “Just kind of disappointed in that. But just the constant push (from Taylor) to be scoring points, it’s (helped me). We’re gonna give up points trying things and taking risks, and so, I really like that approach.”
Still, OSU has displayed offensive efficiency that statistically is the best nationally. Wrestlers have often praised Taylor’s increased emphasis on scoring points, which in their minds can largely be credited toward the team’s commanding start.
Complacency often leads to crashing halts in the latter part of a season. Thus, Taylor often reminds his wrestlers the paramount nature of staying the course throughout.
“There’s a lot of guys on our team that are implementing (Taylor’s philosophy),” Amine said. “Sometimes you go out there, and it’s like, ‘OK, maybe he didn’t wrestle as good.’ I feel like the three matches I’ve lost this year, I was implementing stuff that we were working on, and sometimes it just takes time for us to finally get it and click.”
“There are no letdowns in wrestling,” Taylor said. “I think you constantly have to be challenged. You’ve got to continue to stay present in the match that you’re wrestling in and optimistically be looking forward” DANIEL
“He tried to give me some small reason for why I shouldn’t go (to Pittsburgh),” Pat said. “I said, ‘Really, coach?’ And he was like, ‘Yeah, Pat. You belong here.’
“That, in my mind, was enough for me to give him a shot.”
Little did Pat know, a phone call would transform his life.
It’s a moment Pat – now in his 13th season as North Carolina State’s (7-0) head coach – said he often reflects upon amid moments of self-triumph. And it is one he said he thought about ahead of Monday’s homecoming, when No. 3 OSU defeated the No. 5 Wolfpack 34-3 in Gallagher-Iba Arena.
The day after Smith called, Pat was on a flight to Stillwater to visit OSU. Days later, he flipped his commitment to the Cowboys and signed his National Letter of Intent to wrestle for Smith. A prolific college career and six world championships at the professional level followed.
“It’s always good to go back and see your old teammates, old coaches, old people and other folks that relationships were built on over time being in Stillwater back in college,” Popolizio said ahead of Monday’s dual. “There’s a lot of dots that are going to be connected.”
This time, however, Pat happened to be on the opposing end. And it wasn’t Pat’s first time back in Stillwater.
In December 2015, the Wolfpack wrestled fourth-ranked OSU in GIA. Then, in his fourth season at the
Pat said he looks back on that upset bid as a “turning point” for the program. One that put the Wolfpack on the college wrestling map. But perhaps most importantly, one that garnered the necessary investment from program donors and boosters to keep the program among the nation’s elite.
“That win instilled a lot of confidence in a lot of different people,” Pat said. “And I’m not necessarily just talking coaches and athletes who are on the frontline of a lot of this. But when you look at your alumni base and your donors, your administration and your fans, that win instilled a lot of confidence and just reassured that people who were investing into this program, there is reward for what they were doing. And that to me was more of the purpose and the value behind a win like that.”
NC State finished the 2015-16 season with a program-best 23-1 record behind 21 straight wins to end the campaign. Success on the recruiting trail ensued, and from that moment, the program gradually transformed into its current state – a perennial contender.
A top-five showdown against his alma mater was exciting in its own right. But above all else, he said he was relishing the opportunity to return to the place that kickstarted his career.
“That (2015) dual was a thank you to the people who have believed in us and have given us the support that we need to make this happen,” Pat said. “And because of that, we’ve had a lot of success as a program since then. Now, we have a chance to do it again.”
“I think there’s things we could do better,” Taylor said post-dual on Monday. “I think we can finish more periods a little stronger. I think those are some things that we can continue to improve on... I want our guys to
Stronger competition lies ahead for Taylor’s Cowboys. No. 22 West Virginia comes to Stillwater on Sunday, before OSU travels to the Hawkeye state to wrestle undefeated and fifthranked Northern Iowa on Jan. 24 and 13th-ranked Iowa State on Jan. 26. No. 24 Missouri and No. 2 Iowa (in Iowa City at Carver-Hawkeye Arena) are also on OSU’s schedule.
Taylor expressed confidence in his team’s ability heading into the bulk of its slate. With that, the vitality of implementing Taylor’s implementing Taylor’s philosophy becomes greater.
sports.ed@ocolly.com
NC State Athletics
NC State coach Pat Popolizo wrestled at OSU under John Smith.
Payton Little
Oklahoma State westling head coach David Taylor talks with the media following the Cowboys’ Bedlam
Spring
Continued from 1
“Kind of his fluidity stuck out to me,” Trent Dilfer, head coach and director of the Elite 11, told The O’Colly in summer 2023. “Like, he wasn’t robotic. He was a nice, fluid thrower and a fluid athlete. Very creative.”
OSU also brought in Hauss Hejny from TCU – a former four-star recruit in the ‘24 Class and All-American Bowl participant.
There’s second-year prospect Maealiuaki Smith, who started in OSU’s final two games of the season. He made his first-career start against Texas Tech, completing 74.3% of his passes and throwing for 316 yards and two touchdowns while also logging a rushing score. And then there’s soon-to-be redshirt junior Garret Rangel, who has started five games the past three seasons.
OSU has a bevy of feasible options to choose from ahead of its 2025 season opener against UT-Martin. But this time, it needs to be the best option rather than the most experienced.
Develop skill positions
OSU might have lost each of its starters at wide receiver, however, it isn’t void of talent.
So far, the Cowboys have brought in three receivers. All played football at a Power 4 school a season ago.
As for the running back unit, star Ollie Gordon II is gone and OU transfer Kalib Hicks is joining the fold next to returnee Rodney Fields Jr.
The offseason is the time to develop younger prospects ahead of the new season. The Cowboys have plenty of time head of them.
Attain more offensive line depth through the transfer portal
After losing all of its starting offensive linemen from a season ago, the Cowboys are in need of another reboot.
Gundy and Co. have already brought in three offensive line transfers via the transfer portal, but none are splash gets. Though, Gundy has made his worth off diamond-in-the-rough prospects in years past.
The first portal window closed Dec. 28, and will not reopen until April 16. If Gundy isn’t satisfied with his current product, OSU has until April 25 to reel in additions.
The Cowboys have the talent at quarterback, wide receiver and running back to have an effective offense next season. But without a sturdy offensive line, it’ll be difficult.
New offensive line coaches Andrew Mitchell and Cooper Bassett have the likes of Calvin Harvey, Jakobe Sanders, Austin Kawecki and former UNLV transfer Noah McKinney to lean on as
potential starting options. However, the deeper OSU is up front, the better.
Find next defensive star
The Cowboys have been spoiled with defensive stars in recent years. But this spring, neither Collin Oliver nor Nick Martin are coming back.
The vitality to find a go-to guy on defense is immense. And there are options – plenty of them.
First is former Akron linebacker
Bryan McCoy, who logged 120 total tackles – 54 solo – and two pass breakups a season ago with the Zips. Another would be defensive back De’Kelvion Beamon, who recently withdrew his name from the transfer portal.
Finally, there’s first-year prospect Carl’veon Young, a four-star recruit in the ‘24 Class who recently signed with and plans to enroll early at OSU.
The Cowboys haven’t produced many freshman stars under Gundy due to his preference for development. However, Young could be an exception.
After all, Oliver, Trace Ford, Korie Black and Kendall Daniels did it.
Adapt to scheme changes
Bryan Nardo’s 3-3-5 didn’t work at defensive coordinator. Nor did Kasey Dunn’s adaptation of Gundy’s spread concepts at offensive coordinator.
So, after firing both coordinators shortly after the end of the regular season, Gundy hired Todd Grantham from the New Orleans Saints at DC, and an old friend, Doug Meacham at OC.
Prior to coaching the Saints’ defensive line, Grantham spent four years as the DC at Florida, producing a top-20 total defense in each of his first two years at the helm. His unique 4-2-5 scheme is capable of giving opposing quarterbacks fits.
Meacham is an air raid disciple, who spent eight seasons (2005-12) as the Cowboys’ wide receiver coach before Dunn, coaching names such as Dez Bryant, Josh Stewart and others.
Then came his inaugural stint at TCU. He transformed Trevone Boykin into one of college football’s most prolific talents of all-time, throwing for 10,728 yards and 86 touchdowns, along with 27 rushing scores in his college career.
And with Boykin starting under center (2013-14), TCU averaged at least 42 points and 533 yards in that span.
Could Flores, Hejn, Smith or Rangel be in line for a similar growth spurt? Time will tell.
Both coaches have successful pedigrees. Adapt to their scheme changes, and the Cowboys should have no problem reappearing in a bowl game in 2025 – or better.
thing even more impressive than almost win a national championship: made Notre Dame likeable.
Although the Fighting Irish are a national brand, they are a college football power. That status comes with a lot of haters.
Column
Minutes after Marcus Freeman lost his first game as Notre Dame’s football coach on New Year’s Day 2022, he, Mike Gundy and their schools became intertwined.
After Oklahoma State’s 37-35 Fiesta Bowl victory over the Fighting Irish, Gundy, on State Farm Stadium’s turf in Glendale, Arizona, thrusted his team into a national spotlight and threw a Cowboy hat into the ring of college football powerhouses.
“My one message to the team was, I understand Notre Dame, I understand their tradition, I understand the helmet and the logo, but we got a logo too,” Gundy said.
Since Gundy tried to stake a claim in the national brand recognition conversation, OSU is 20-19.
Notre Dame since the loss is 33-8 under Freeman. After Brian Kelly — who left South Bend for LSU — departed, Freeman was moved up from defensive coorindaor and has kept the Fighting Irish in their usual spotlight.
In fact, he’s led them to the College Football Playoff National Championship Game, where No. 7 Notre Dame faces No. 8 Ohio State on Monday night to determine the first champion under the new 12-team playoff format. If the Fighting Irish win, it will be their first title since 1988.
While Freeman may take Notre Dame to a height it hasn’t reached in 37 years, Gundy and OSU sputtered to a 3-9 (0-9 Big 12) finish this season. Since Gundy sung his program’s praises to start 2022, he and Freeman’s career trajectories have gone opposite directions, and so have the two program’s brands.
The expectations and resources in South Bend and Stillwater are different. One program gets a slew of fiveand four-star players behind loads of donors; the other patches together a roster of hopeful diamond-in-therough recruits without a heaping amount of name, image and likeness funds.
And though Freeman (national championship-less ahead of Monday) and Gundy (conference championship-less other than 2011) haven’t reached their expectations since they faced off, Freeman has done some -
But Freeman — who, when he was introduced to Notre Dame players as head coach, was mobbed by them — has projected that same likability and personality onto the national media and college football fans.
Gundy’s (already lukewarm) likability heading into essentially a prove-it year, though? Not in a great spot.
If Freeman and Notre Dame won Monday, he, 39, would be the youngest coach since Clemson’s Danny Ford, 33, in 1981, to win a national championship.
OSU, on the other hand, has a seasoned Mike Gundy, 57, whose job status was in peril after a disastrous 2024 season. Much like how Notre Dame went from Kelly (60 then, now 63) to Freeman, OSU could have gone from Gundy to a younger, more withthe-times option.
Because on the first day of 2022, before NIL grew into what it is and the transfer portal became more popular, Gundy had a point — OSU had a logo, and if it were the pre-conference realignment times of line ‘em up and play ball, the Cowboys would still be in a great spot with Gundy’s do-morewith-less mentality.
However, as time has gone on, OSU’s logo has decreased in value while players have increased in value; Notre Dame’s logo has become more successful than in recent memory and more likeable than… ever?
In mid-December, Freeman signed an extension with Notre Dame to keep him under contract until reportedly 2030. Because Notre Dame is a private institution, it doesn’t have to disclose the contract, but the number that’s out there is more than $9 million per year. Gundy, in December, reportedly took a $1 paycut, lowering his annual salary to $6.75 million.
Since Gundy got the best of Freeman, both coaches’ programs, likeability and pockets have changed.
Three January’s removed from Gundy’s logo Fiesta — Freeman’s legacy, not Notre Dame’s logo — will be the real thing to party about with a win Monday night.
And to think, Freeman’s legacy began with Gundy comparing OSU’s logo, brand and importance to Notre Dame.
How the times and logos have changed.
sports.ed@ocolly.com
Little
Zane Flores will be one of OSU’s quarterback options heading into the spring.
Fiesta Bowl Communications
Since Mike Gundy (left) and Marcus Freeman (right) squared off in the 2022 Fiesta Bowl, both of their coaching careers have gone in opposite directions in multiple ways.
SPORTS
Via/@coachcpatt on Instagram
A look at Oklahoma State football’s new position coaches
former Boilermakers star Deion
Burks put up a career season in 2023 and served as running backs coach at Illinois when Chase Brown put up back-to-back 1,000-yard seasons for the Illini.
After two seasons with Alan Bowman at quarterback, Oklahoma State will have a new starter behind center in 2025.
As currently constructed, the Cowboys have four options — returnees Garret Rangel, Zane Flores and Maealiuaki Smith, or TCU transfer Hauss Henjy. OSU badly needs a bounce-back season, and that starts with finding the quarterback to help lead the Cowboys.
With spring ball still months away, O’Colly writers Parker Gerl, Calif Poncy and Ashton Slaughter discuss the golden question: which quarterback should have the early edge heading into spring?
Gerl: Rangel, easily. He’s been on campus for three years and knows coach Mike Gundy the most of the four quarterbacks. Rangel flashed against then-undefeated BYU in his only start last season, throwing for 51 yards and a touchdown and rushing for 77 yards on five carries before breaking his collarbone.
Rangel had the Cowboys in a good position to upset the Cougars and, in general, can make plays through the air and with his legs. Going with the dual-threat junior who’s made five career starts makes sense.
at this point, and while Flores has been the apple of OSU fans’ eye for some time now, Hejny has more comfortability with new offensive coordinator Doug Meacham, who was the inside receivers coach for TCU from 2022-24.
In limited playing time last season, Hejny showed he is dangerous as a runner. On 15 attempts, Hejny rushed for 65 yards, averaging nearly five yards per carry despite only coming in during clearing quarterback run situations. With Hejny’s big-time Texas high school football pedigree and familiarity with Meachem, he would be my pick to go into spring practice as the starter.
Slaughter: Although Rangel might deserve the car keys to OSU’s offense the most and Henjy is familiar with the new Cowboy OC, I think Flores should be QB1. Considering OSU has a less-than-ideal roster on paper heading into next season, I think going with the quarterback with the highest ceiling is the option, which is Flores. The redshirt sophomore hasn’t seen the field yet, but he easily could’ve if he hadn’t suffered a season-ending left foot injury last season, and Gundy — whose job status was up in the air after the season — needs to push his chips to the center and hope for a hit. Flores, the Cowboys’ darling child QB prospect for a couple of seasons now, could be the jackpot Gundy needs to win fans over and secure more seasons in Stillwater.
Coming off of one of the most disappointing seasons in program history, it was clear that Oklahoma State needed to make changes.
After a public contract dispute with Mike Gundy, OSU eventually agreed to bring back the winningest coach in program history – with an overhauled staff. Gundy cleaned house and brought in new coaches on both sides of the ball.
Here’s a look at a few of the most notable names OSU brought in to help restore the program to where it was just two seasons ago.
Quarterbacks coach Kevin Johns
Quarterback play was an issue for Oklahoma State last season, so bringing in a quarterbacks coach with significant experience was important for Mike Gundy.
Kevin Johns has extensive experience coaching the position. He spent last season as co-offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach at Oklahoma, but before that, he served as the OC at Duke where he played a crucial role in developing Riley Leonard. Johns was also at the helm of an explosive offense at Memphis from 2019-2021.
Running backs coach Cory Patterson
One could argue that OSU didn’t need to hire a new running backs coach, but bringing in someone with Cory Patterson’s track record is a positive move.
Patterson, who spent the last two seasons as associate head coach and receivers coach at Purdue, has been key as a recruiter and position coach at his previous stops. He helped
Wide receivers coach Theron Aych
Since Gundy took over as head coach, OSU has a track record of producing NFL wide receivers, and Theron Aych is looking to continue that legacy. Aych, who spent last season as an offensive quality control coach for Marshall, has experience at every level of college football. Before taking a job with Marshall, Aych was the offensive coordinator at Tennessee State. He also spent time with UTEP and was the wide receivers coach at Arizona from 2017-2020. Aych has also spent time with Angelo State, Central Missouri and Washington, where he was a linebackers coach.
Defensive line coach Ryan Osborn
With high expectations heading into last season, OSU’s defensive line, like the rest of the defense, underperformed.
OSU brought in Ryan Osborn, who spent the last two seasons as the defensive coordinator and outside linebacker for Charlotte.
Osborn has experience at the college and NFL levels. Before becoming the DC in Charlotte, Osborn was a defensive assistant for the Baltimore Ravens. Osborn also spent time at Michigan, Florida and Mississippi State. While at Michigan, Osborn played a role in the development of pass rushers Aidan Hutchison and David Ojabo, both of whom were selected in the 2022 NFL Draft.
Poncy: Hejny should have the advantage heading into spring. Rangel and Smith have shown what they are
Oklahoma State football hired Cory Patterson as its new running backs coach
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Because of Garret Rangel’s experience, he could have an advantage heading into the spring.
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