Hurricane Elite Fall 2016 by Austin Chadwick

HURRICANE ELITE

FALL 2016

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10 | Back to Business The Tulsa football team is ready to take last year’s bowl birth and build in Philip Montgomery’s second season.

20 | Player-By-Player We give you a breakdown of each and every player that will be a factor this year for the Golden Hurricane.

26 | Fall Sports We look at the very best in Tulsa athletics with a break down of the fall sports of soccer, cross country and volleyball

Annual Subscription includes three publications: • ANNUAL FOOTBALL AND FALL SPORTS PREVIEW (AUGUST) • ANNUAL BASKETBALL PREVIEW (NOVEMBER) • ANNUAL RECRUITING ISSUE (FEBRUARY) For all the best in the highest quality publication covering The University of Tulsa Athletic Programs, get it all with Hurricane Elite. Go to HurricaneElite.com

34 | Recruiting News The summer TU is well ahead of schedule with multiple commitments in football. Check them out as we feature homegrown Oklahoma talent and more kids from Texas. Trinity Media Group, LLC 12330 E. 60th St. Ste. A. • Tulsa, OK 74146 All rights reserved. Publisher Austin Chadwick Senior Writer/Recruiting Chris Harmon Contributing Writers Kyle Kendrick, Austin Chadwick Feature Photographer Brandy Moton, Brad Heath, Dave Crenshaw Contact Information Website: www.VYPEOK.com • Phone: 918.495.1771 • Fax: 918.495.1787 Hurricane Elite is published tri-annually by Trinity Media Group, LLC. Reproductions in whole or in part without permission are prohibited. Hurricane Elite is not responsible for the return of unsolicited artwork, photography or manuscripts and will not be responsible for holding fees or similar charges.

HURRICANE ELITE

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The Lead.....

John Hoover Joins Hurricane Elite Seriously, who’s ready for some football? The Tulsa Golden Hurricane and all of college football are now only days away from kicking off the 2016 season. At TU, that means lots of touchdowns. But does it also mean lots of wins?

Pundits are picking TU to duplicate last year’s 6-6 regular-season mark. Many forecast a 7-5 season. Some — including Your Faithful Editor — don’t rule out 8-4.

Eight wins certainly seems like a realistic ceiling. Tulsa is equipped with a three-year starter and senior at quarterback, a bunch of experienced and explosive receivers and a veteran offensive line. The Golden Hurricane run game has an early look of versatility.

JOHN E. HOOVER -H U R R I C A N E E L I T E

Now examine the schedule.

A Sept. 10 road trip to No. 5 Ohio State looms large, and although these might be Urban Meyer’s most - R A D I O H O S T 1 0 7 . 9 F M talented Buckeyes, they’re by far his least experienced. An Oct. 15 road THE FRANCHISE trip to No. 13 Houston also looks daunting. And based on last year’s mismatch, a Nov. 12 visit to the U.S. Naval Academy looks like a rough time for now.

EDITOR

None of TU’s other nine opponents are 800-pound gorillas.

HURRICANE ELITE

FALL 2016

Fresno State is dangerous. Memphis and East Carolina have some nice talent. Cincinnati’s good. But none are unbeatable. Which brings us to the Tulsa defense.

If TU is going to push for 7-5 or 8-4, it will have to come from improved defensive play. The Golden Hurricane doesn’t have to become the Monsters of the Midway. But something other than 66 points and 704 yards by Memphis, or 49 points and 662 yards by Cincinnati, or 44 points and 524 yards by Navy would be preferable. TU ranked 118th or lower in the four major defensive categories last year. But like Montgomery with his offense, Bill Young and Brian Norwood are in their second season coordinating the defense. Last year’s players, for better or worse, are more seasoned. The talent has been upgraded. There is way more speed. With an offense like this, a small defensive surge could go a long way. As always, fall at TU means more than just football.

The men’s and women’s cross country teams are back after winning the American Athletic Conference. The men’s soccer team also won The American in 2015. Women’s soccer had its most successful start ever (9-0) and its first-ever Top 25 ranking. And volleyball is poised for a bounce-back season. They’re all previewed in this edition of Hurricane Elite, as well as in-depth recruiting reports on the 2017 class. So who’s ready for some football?

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THE University of Tulsa

IMAGES FROM 2015 Photos Provided by The University of Tulsa - TulsaHurricane.com

KeevanLucas

Tulsa Pom

Philip Montgomery

HURRICANE ELITE

Tulsa Defense

FALL 2016

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The University of Tulsa

Back to Business By John E. Hoover Philip Montgomery’s first season at the University of Tulsa — his first season as a head coach on any level — was like opening night on Broadway: lots of nervous energy, lots of confidence, but really, nobody knew how it would go. The second night usually goes a lot smoother. Especially when you have an accomplished performer in the lead role. With quarterback Dane Evans back for his senior season, Montgomery’s high-powered offense could bring down the house. But the supporting cast — namely, the TU defense — needs to have a stronger stage presence. Montgomery himself is more comfortable now than when he arrived after seven years as a Baylor assistant and five at Houston. He’s run his own program for 20 months now and although he learns something new every day, he knows what he’s doing. That was proven in 2015, when Tulsa jumped from a 2-10 record to a 6-6 regular season and a bowl game (a 55-52 loss to Virginia Tech). “I don’t have as many questions about how the season’s gonna go, trying to handle our football team and our responsibilities of being the head coach in addition to doing all the play-calling duties and all of that,” Montgomery said. “I’ve got a year of that under my belt, so that part of it is better.” And that should be reflected in how the team performs.

OFFENSE

In his 12 seasons at Houston and Baylor, Montgomery was part of an offense that statistically ranked in the top 10 nationally six times (and in the top 20 nine times). He coordinated Baylor offenses that ranked second in the nation in total offense in 2011 and 2012 and first in 2013

and 2014. No wonder, then, that TU was so much better last season. Quarterback Dane Evans directed a Golden Hurricane offense that ranked 13th in the Football Bowl Subdivision in total offense (507.4 yards per game) and 21st in scoring (37.2 points per game). Evans ranked eighth in the country in passing yards (4,332), 26th in passing touchdowns (25) and 11th in total offense (332.5 yards per game). Now back for his senior year, Evans has 30 career starts. In Montgomery’s offense, that’s everything. “Yeah, that’s a comforting feeling — as comfortable as you can get on it,” Montgomery said. “I mean, obviously Dane did some things last year that we were very, very pleased about. I think his growth as a quarterback throughout the spring and

then as we get into fall camp, I think he’s got a whole lot more growth and work to do. But he’s so much further along now than he was obviously last year.” The backup spot is up for grabs between former four-star prospect Chad President (he ran the ball last year in a short-yardage package) and legacy QB Ryan Rubley (son of former TU star T.J. Rubley). But that beats the heck out of this time last year, when it wasn’t entirely certain that Evans would retain his job. Now Evans is unquestionably The Man. “Just from a maturity standpoint, the way he’s carrying himself right now, the way he’s handling our football team,” Montgomery said. “I mean, before … he did a lot of things more by his play on the field and he wasn’t as outspoken as he needed to be, and right now, as far as stepping up vocally and all the little drill things

UP CLOSE

Coach: Philip Montgomery 2nd season, 6-7) Conference Championships: N/A Bowl Record: 0-1

Keevan Lucas

2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

5 - Hurricane Year Trend Wins

Armed Forces Bowl BYU 24-21 - L

Autozone Liberty Bowl Iowa State 31-17 - W

3 2 Independence Bowl Virginia Tech 55-52 - L

2016 SCHEDULE

9/3 - vs. San Jose State 9/10 - @ Ohio State 9/17 - vs. North Carolina A&T 9/24 - @ Fresno State 10/7 - vs. SMU* 10/15 - @ Houston* 10/22 vs. Tulane* 10/29 - @ Memphis* 11/5 - vs. East Carolina* 11/12 - @ Navy* 11/19 - @ UCF* 11/25 - vs. Cincinnati* *AAC Conference Opponents

Defensive Coordinators: Bill Young, Brian Norwood

VITAL STATISTICS

FBS Rankings: Total Offense: 13th (507.4 ypg) Scoring Offense: 21st (37.2 ppg) Passing Offense: 11th (333.2 ypg) Rushing Offense: 61st (174.3 ypg) Total Defense: 126th (536.6 ypg) Scoring Defense: 121st (39.8 ppg) Passing Defense: 125th (296.9 ypg) Rushing Defense: 118th (239.5 ypg)

HURRICANE ELITE

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The University of Tulsa and workouts that we’re doing, he’s doing a great job of that.” Evans won’t have Keyarris Garrett to throw to — all Garrett did was lead the nation in receiving yards in 2015 (1,588 on 96 receptions) — but the receiver corps may be more well-rounded. Keevan Lucas is returning from a knee injury that knocked him out of all but four games last season. Lucas caught 101 passes for 1,219 yards and 11 touchdowns the year before and, if he’s healthy, will be one of the top targets in the nation. Josh Atkinson had a breakout season in 2015 (76 catches, 1,071 yards, five TDs), and Justin Hobbs (32 catches, 551 yards, two TDs) led TU at 17.2 yards per catch and will have “a fire lit under him” to be even better in 2016. Montgomery expects big contributions out of Nigel Carter and Bishop Louie, too, as well as big-bodied freshmen Josh Stewart and Jordan Brown. “Our depth is probably not as good as it needs to be right now, but overall I’m very pleased with our receiving corps,” Montgomery said. “Keevan coming back, we plan on him having a great year. I mean, he’s worked tremendously hard in his rehab to get to where he’s at. He’s still got a little bit to go, but we’ve still got a little bit of time.” Running back should be improved too, with D’Angelo Brewer now carrying around 195 pounds (he played around 175 two years ago). That’s big since shortyardage TD machine Zack Langer (777 yards, 18 TDs in 2015) graduated. “(Brewer) has really filled out,” Montgomery said. “He hasn’t lost a step and he’s carrying it well.” Ramadi Warren had 475 yards and six TDs last year. James Flanders has been healthy and hopes to have a

Josh Atkinson

Philip Montgomery

season better than 2014 when he rushed for 456 yards. Tulsa added graduate transfer Raymond Taylor from Oklahoma State, where he gained 297 yards and a 6.3yard average in 2015. “I really feel like the job is D’Angelo’s,” Montgomery said. “But we’re always gonna be multiple running backs every year.” Tight end “doesn’t get a lot of pub,” in this offense, Montgomery said, “but needs to. It was a big concern of mine when I got here, and I thought (converted fullback) Mandel Dixon did an outstanding job. We kind of struck gold a little bit with Chris Minter. It’s very difficult for a true freshman to come in and play that spot and I thought Chris came in and handled it.” Montgomery expects an expanded role for the position this season as the players learn the offense. That could mean a red-zone scoring threat. All of which is moot if the offensive line struggles. “As we go is the way those guys go,” Montgomery said. “I’m excited about it. I think we’re gonna be much better, more athletic, I think we’re gonna be stronger and be able to do more things up front than we did last year.” Tackles Evan Plagg and Willie Wright and center Chandler Miller return, and guard Blake Belcher is back after missing last year with an injury. “The biggest question for us right now is figuring out the right combination of five guys,” Montgomery said. “That may be Willie or Evan moving to guard and Blake playing tackle, or Blake playing guard and Willie and Evan staying at tackle.” Montgomery said 6-foot-5, 250-pound true freshman Tiller Bucktrot “has just come in and blown the top off of everything” and 6-4, 330-pound rookie Rowdy Fred-

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28 ANNUAL GOLF TOURNAMENT TH

LaFortune Park Golf Course â&#x20AC;&#x201C; October 21, 2016 Presented by Eastern Oklahoma Orthopedic Center WHERE:

Lafortune Park Golf Course (918-496-6200)

TEE-TIMES:

7:30 AM & 1:00 PM â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Check in at least 30 minutes prior to scheduled tee-time.

PRIZES:

Awarded to First, Second, and Third place for both Morning and Afternoon tee-times.

RAFFLE:

Many fabulous prizes will be raffled.

SILENT AUCTION: At the golf course during both flights. ENTRY FEES:

$100 per player; $400 per team of 4; Includes: Green Fee, practice balls, golf cart, food, beverages, and favors.

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FORMAT:

Four-Man Best Ball Scramble

QUESTIONS:

Contact Mark Wojciehowski, Chairman at (918-637-7115) mwojo@mcgrawok.com

SPONSOR INFORMATION The tournament will have approximately 200 golfers comprised of alumni, former lettermen, business and civic leaders and friends of the University. Below is a list of the various levels of sponsorships. We hope you will participate in making this the most successful tournament yet. Eagle - $1,000 Company logo and/or names will be included on any materials or promotions associated with the event as entry forms, banners, signs, media contacts, etc. Logo will be the largest display of all levels. Also, your company will be allowed to have one team participate in the golf tournament.

Birdie - $500 Your company will be allowed to have one team participate in the golf tournament. The company name or your name will be displayed either on a teeing area or near a green. Hole Sponsor - $150 The company name or your name will be displayed either on a teeing area or near a green. Donor-in-kind We are seeking gifts for tournament prizes, raffle prizes, silent auction items, and items that we will share with all tournament players. For your contribution, your name will be recognized in the tournament package.

The University of Tulsa erick “may have a chance to play.”

“We’ve still got some questions coming into fall camp,” Montgomery said, “about how those five guys are gonna fit.”

Defense

Dane Evans

Matt Linscott

The fact that no one is expecting much of Tulsa’s defense may be just the fuel that unit needs to burn. TU ranked last or next-to-last in the American Athletic Conference in the four major NCAA defensive categories (rushing yards, passing yards, total yards and points) and last in first downs. Now in their second year under co-coordinators Bill Young and Brian Norwood, things will be simpler just from a logistical standpoint. But although some significant players graduated, the talent overall has been renovated, Montgomery said. “I’m not just blowing smoke,” Montgomery said, “I think we’re gonna be much, much better defensively.” Michael Mudoh, an outrageously productive and durable safety, is gone. So are big-play linemen Derrick Luetjen and Derrick Alexander. But most everyone else is back. “We lost some really, really important guys last year up front, so some other guys have got to step up,” Montgomery said. “But I think the strides that we made in the spring defensively were tremendous.” Jeremy Smith moves from weakside to strongside end where he’ll have more freedom to use his quickness and length to chase quarterbacks. Tackle Jerry Uwaezuoke had a good spring until a broken hand shut him down. Montgomery said TU will need contributions from “some of those young freshman that we just brought in.” The Golden Hurricane has loads of experience at linebacker. Seniors Trent Martin and Matt Linscott and junior Craig Suits have combined for 66 career starts and 491 career tackles. All are healthy and have upgraded their speed and

agility in the offseason. “We’ve got a lot of senior leadership right there,” Montgomery said. “Those three guys, I’m excited to see as they grow and continue to keep making us a better defense.” Behind them is the athletic youth of Diamon Cannon, Petera Wilson, Cooper Edmiston, Robert Revels and D.J. Allen. Returning starter Jeremy Brady mans one safey spot, but there is little experience at the other. Montgomery isn’t worried, though, because Owasso junior Jordan Mitchell has starting experience, sophomore McKinley Whitfield “is one of the most athletic guys I’ve been around” and true freshman Manny Bunch “can really, really run.” The safety spot could also get some help from corner, where Will Barrow and Johnell Celistan have experience but may be needed elsewhere. Kerwin Thomas is the starter on one side, and Montgomery thinks redshirt freshman Reggie Richardson could seize the other spot, along with another redshirt freshman Kedrien Wadley in the mix “I feel really confident about the guys we’ve got playing back there,” Montgomery said. “They’re gonna make some mistakes, but they’re gonna make some great plays, too.”

Special Teams

Redford Parks returns at placekicker and Dalton Parks is back at punter, and not having to worry about newcomers at those positions is huge, Montgomery said. “We’re fortunate to have that right now,” he said, “and those guys, they can change the course of a game one way or the other in a hurry.”

Parks averaged 41.2 yards per punt last season with a booming 13 kicks of more than 50 yards and 19 pinned inside the opponents’ 20-yard line.

Jones was 17-of-25 on field goals and only missed four inside 40 yards. Preston Soper returns to handle kickoffs.

“Our biggest question,” Montgomery said, “is just clearing up who’s gonna be our snapper.” HURRICANE ELITE

FALL 2016

Jaguar Tulsa

3905 S Memorial Dr Tulsa, OK 74145 9186654294 jaguartulsa.com

HURRICANE ELITE

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HURRICANE ELITE

FALL 2016

THE University of Tulsa

2016 TEAM ROSTER NO. PLAYER POS. HT. WT. CL HOMETOWN/PREVIOUS SCHOOL

1 1 2 2 4 4 5 5 6 6 7 7 8 8 9 9 10 10 11 11 12 12 13 13 15 15 16 16 18 19 19 20 21 21 22 22 23 23 24 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 30 32 33 35 37 38 39 40 41

Keanu Hill Josh Stewart Keevan Lucas Kerwin Thomas Dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Angelo Brewer Robert Revels III Brodrick Umblance Tim Quickel Diamon Cannon Chris Minter Johnell Celistan Bishop Louie Jesse Brubaker Keenen Johnson Dane Evans Reggie Robinson II Chad President Manny Bunch Nigel Carter Keidrien Wadley Ryan Rubley Micheal Thomas Jordan Mitchell Luke Skipper Sam Gottsch Trevis Gipson Jarion Anderson Montray Norris David Fitzwater Will Hefley III Redford Jones James Flanders McKinley Whitfield Rowdy Simon Jeremy Brady Javon Thomas Will Barrow Jordan Brown Treyvon Reeves Corey Taylor II Ramadi Warren Dalton Parks Matthew Harvey Craig Suits Justin Hobbs Raymond Taylor Cristian Williams DJ Allen Rob Riederer Drew Klinghagen Gage Murphy Matt Linscott Preston Soper Trent Martin Andrew McKinnis

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CB WR WR CB RB LB WR LB LB TE CB WR DT WR QB CB QB S WR CB QB LB S QB QB DE WR CB TE QB PK RB S RB S RB CB WR LB RB RB P RB LB WR RB S LB TE PK S LB PK LB WR

6-2 6-4 5-10 5-10 5-9 6-3 6-1 6-2 6-2 6-3 6-2 5-10 6-3 6-1 6-1 6-1 6-3 6-2 6-3 6-1 6-3 6-0 6-2 6-3 6-2 6-5 5-9 6-2 6-4 6-5 5-10 5-10 6-4 5-8 5-10 6-2 5-9 6-2 6-3 5-10 5-9 6-3 6-0 6-0 6-4 5-8 6-0 5-11 6-0 6-3 6-0 6-1 6-0 6-2 6-0

185 201 195 170 185 234 187 225 232 247 197 172 270 190 210 190 222 191 205 185 220 219 187 200 190 239 179 165 230 207 175 203 212 203 197 223 172 198 190 200 210 209 205 220 207 195 176 225 230 190 203 223 205 232 165

Jr-JC Fr-HS Sr-3L Jr-2L/RS Jr-2L Fr-HS Jr-2L So-1L/RS Fr-RS So-1L Sr-3L Jr-2L Jr-2L/MR Fr-HS Sr-3L/RS Fr-RS So-1L Fr-HS Jr-2L Fr-RS Jr-SQ/RS Sr-SQ/RS Jr-2L Fr-HS So-1L/RS Fr-RS Fr-RS Fr-HS Fr-HS Fr-RS Jr-2L/WO/RS Sr-3L/RS So-1L Jr-2L/WO/RS Sr-3L/RS Fr-RS Sr-3L Fr-HS Fr-HS Fr-HS So-1L/RS Sr-3L Fr-WO Jr-2L/RS So-1L Sr-GR Fr-RS Fr-HS Jr-2L/RS Fr-RS/WO Jr-1L/WO/RS Sr-3L/RS* Jr-2L/WO/TR Sr-3L/RS Fr-WO

Carson, Calif. Long Beach CC Cedar Hill, Texas Cedar Hill Abilene, Texas Abilene Wagoner, Okla. Wagoner Tulsa, Okla. Central Houston, Texas John H. Reagan Arlington, Texas The Oakridge School Little Rock, Ark. North Little Rock Killeen, Texas Shoemaker Temple, Texas Temple Avondale, La. Hahnville Tulsa, Okla. McLain Wylie, Texas Wylie East Alto, Texas Alto Sanger, Texas Sanger Cleburne, Texas Cleburne Temple, Texas Temple Roland, Okla. Roland Tulsa, Okla. McLain Irving, Texas Ranchview Highlands Ranch, Colo. Mountain Vista Lafayette, La. Lawton (Okla.) MacArthur Owasso, Okla. Owasso Forney, Texas Forney Tulsa, Okla. Sapulpa Cedar Hill, Texas Cedar Hill Texarkana, Texas Texas Houston, Texas Aldine Davis Shreveport, La. Calvary Academy Little Rock, Ark. Pulaski Academy Norman, Okla. Norman North Midwest City, Okla. Midwest City Spiro, Okla. Spiro Vian, Okla. Vian North Little Rock, Ark. Pulaski Academy Texarkana, Texas Texas Dallas, Texas Skyline Stillwater, Okla. Stillwater Fort Worth, Texas Boswell Holland Hall/Air Force Prep Tulsa, Okla. Memphis, Tenn. Whitehaven Kansas City, Mo. Staley Northshore, La. Northshore Sunnyvale, Texas Poteet Overland Park, Kan. Shawnee Mission West Wichita, Kan. Collegiate/Oklahoma State Dallas, Texas Lincoln San Antonio, Texas Brennan Holton, Kan. Holton Tulsa, Okla. Holland Hall May, Okla. Laverne Tulsa, Okla. Jenks Muskogee, Okla. Muskogee/Missouri Jenks, Okla. Jenks Edmond, Okla. Oklahoma Christian

THE University of Tulsa 42 43 44 46 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 60 62 63 65 66 67 68 70 71 72 74 75 76 77 78 79 80 84 85 86 87 88 88 89 90 90 91 93 95 96 97 98 99

Cooper Edmiston Conner Sherwood Petera Wilson Jr. Forrest Harrell III Spencer Shores Blake Landon Rylee Simon Tristan Lacey Branden Ferguson Blake Browning Thomas von Borstel Zac Uhles Shemarr Robinson Matt Hickman Nicholas Bethea Beau Wooden Willie Wright C.J. Gooden Ty Lott Robert Hill John “Trip” Newfield Chris Ivy Jr. Evan Plagg Tristan Wyatt Tiller Bucktrot Clay Greathouse Jacob Pugh Tyler Bowling Chandler Miller Alex Pagonis Waahid Muhammad Isaac Johnson Blake Belcher Rowdy Frederick Randall Smith Avery Gragg Kolton Shindelar David Snelling Coleman Fields Josh Atkinson Jimmy Nelson Payton Prince Frankie Davis Jr. Nathan Walker Jake Hanks Johnnie Williams Hayden Carman Myles Mouton Tyarise Stevenson Jeremy Smith Jerry Uwaezuoke

LB LB LB LB DS LB LB PK LB C LB OT DT LB LB DE OT LB DS DS OL OT OT OG OL OT DL OG C OG OL OT OT OL WR WR DE WR WR WR DE TE DE PK DE DE DT DE DT DE DT

L – Letters Earned RS – Has used a red-shirt year SQ – Squad member, no letter earned * – Former walk-on now on scholarship WO – Current Walk-on athlete TR – Transferred to Tulsa GR – Graduate Student Transfer MR – Received Medical Red-shirt

6-3 6-3 6-2 6-2 5-10 6-1 5-11 5-10 6-2 6-0 6-2 6-3 6-4 6-0 5-11 6-3 6-3 6-1 5-11 5-11 6-1 6-4 6-3 6-5 6-5 6-4 6-2 6-6 6-3 6-5 6-7 6-7 6-5 6-4 6-1 6-2 6-6 5-9 6-0 6-2 6-3 6-4 6-2 5-9 6-2 6-5 6-4 6-3 6-4 6-5 6-3

245 232 220 225 167 215 203 169 220 298 221 276 280 227 210 230 296 227 223 190 275 280 292 299 350 305 290 325 290 320 295 275 304 330 211 204 276 182 195 208 248 257 240 170 240 275 289 257 320 260 286

Fr-HS Sr-3L/RS Jr-2L Fr-RS/WO Fr-RS/WO Fr-WO Fr-RS/WO So-SQ/WO/RS Fr-WO Fr-RS Fr-RS/WO Jr-2L/RS Fr-HS Sr-2L Fr-WO Fr-WO So-1L/RS Jr-2L/RS Jr-SQ/WO/RS Fr-WO Fr-WO Fr-RS Jr-2L/RS* Fr-RS Fr-HS Fr-HS Fr-WO So-1L So-1L/RS Sr-1L/JC Fr-HS So-SQ/RS Sr-2L/RS Fr-HS Jr-WO/RS Fr-RS/WO Jr-2L/RS Fr-RS/WO Fr-WO Sr-3L/RS Fr-HS So-SQ/RS Jr-2L/RS So-SQ/WO/RS Jr-2L/RS Fr-HS Sr-3L/RS* So-1L/RS Fr-HS Jr-2L Sr-3L/RS

Gatesville, Texas Gatesville Tulsa, Okla. Cascia Hall Memphis, Tenn. White Hall Houston, Texas Christian Broken Arrow, Okla. Union Edmond, Okla. Deer Creek Vian, Okla. Vian Crescent, Okla. Crescent Catoosa, Okla. Catoosa Pflugerville, Texas Hendrickson Woodstock, Ga. The King’s Academy Norman, Okla. Norman Tulsa, Okla. Central Edmond, Okla. Edmond Memorial Dallas, Texas Parish Episcopal Skiatook, Okla. Skiatook Houston, Texas Cypress Ridge Ashdown, Ark. Ashdown Sand Springs, Okla. Charles Page Raleigh, NC Sanderson Tulsa, Okla. Union Wichita, Kan. Wichita Heights Guthrie, Okla. Guthrie Shawnee, Okla. Shawnee Stroud, Okla. Stroud Wichita Falls, Texas Rider Addison, Texas Greenhill Yukon, Okla. Yukon Bixby, Okla. Bixby Gulf Breeze, Fla. Gulf Breeze/Fort Scott CC Waco, Texas La Vega Springdale, Ark. Har-ber Guthrie, Okla. Guthrie Broken Arrow, Okla. Broken Arrow Coweta, Okla. Coweta Tulsa, Okla. Holland Hall Liberty, Mo. Liberty Boerne, Texas Boerne Oak Park, Ill. Oak Park-River Forest Carrollton, Texas The Oakridge School Arlington, Texas Martin Norman, Okla. Norman North Broken Arrow, Okla. Broken Arrow Kingwood, Texas Kingwood Fort Collins, Colo. Fort Collins Austin, Texas Lyndon B. Johnson Little Rock, Ark. Catholic Beaumont, Texas Ozen Donaldson, La. Donaldson Tulsa, Okla. Berryhill Houston, Texas Westbury

HURRICANE ELITE

FALL 2015

The University of Tulsa

Player-By-Player Breakdowns We give you the TU fan a player-by-player breakdown of all notable personnel with the 2016 Golden Hurricane. Quarterbacks QB Dane Evans, Sr. F ifth-year senior who has blossomed in this offense. Threw for 4,332 yards last year (eighth nationally) with 25 TDs and just 8 INTs. Completed 63 percent of his passes. Unquestioned leader on the offense. Projected backups:

QB Chad President, So. Played in this system in high school, but last season was a short-yardage runner, running 17 times for 43 yards. Struggled passing (0-for-3) but polished things up in the spring.

QB Ryan Rubley, Jr. Son of T.J. Rubley who has yet to play, but has a big arm and good frame. Had a productive spring and has emerged to push President for backup duty. Freshmen: Luke Skipper

Dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Angelo Brewer

Running Backs RB Dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Angelo Brewer, Jr. Local product who in two seasons has played in 23 games (10 starts). Rushed for 965 yards and seven TDs, with 19 catches and another TD. Has muscled up to nearly 195 pounds.

RB James Flanders, Sr. Versatile athlete who has played in 29 career games Justin Hobbs (four starts). Compiled 548 yards rushing. Good in the passing game (protection and Wide receiving) but needs to stay Receivers healthy. WR Keevan Lucas, Sr. Caught 26 passes for 409 yards and 5 Projected backups TDs before a knee injury wrecked his 2015 season. As a sophomore, caught RB Raymond Taylor, Sr. 101 passes for 1,219 yards and 11 Graduate transfer from Okla- TDs. Fast, explosive and tough. homa State. Rushed for just 281 yards at OSU last year WR Josh Atkinson, Sr. after two years as a reserve, Fifth-year senior who broke out last but led the Cowboys at 6.3 year with 76 catches for 1,071 yards yards per carry. Low center and 5 TDs. Good speed, good hands, of gravity and good power. plays his best in big games. RB Rowdy Simon, Jr. Walk-on who shined in emergency duty against Memphis, with 35 yards and a TD. Short, powerful runner with a good grasp of the offensive scheme. Freshmen: Corey Taylor

HURRICANE ELITE

FALL 2016

WR Justin Hobbs, So. Big, physical receiver forced into action as a redshirt freshman last year and made plays. Caught 32 passes for 551 yards and two TDs, and led TU with a 17.2-yard average. Projected backups

WR Nigel Carter, Jr. Played in all 13 games but caught just

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Player-By-Player Breakdown includes 59 punts inside the 20-yard line and only 11 touchbacks.

two passes for 27 yards last season. Reliable hands and big frame. WR Bishop Louie, Jr. Explosive talent who caught 23 passes as a freshman and just two last season. Also a threat in the running game (7 carries, 100 yards, 1 TD).

K Redford Jones, Jr. Walk-on who has played in 20 career games. Handled kickoffs in 2014, then took over placekicking duties in 2015 and hit 17-of-25 field goals and 58-of-60 extra points.

WR Brodrick Umblance, Jr. Switched to cornerback last year and played in all 13 games, but is back at receiver. Good speed and superior fitness and will add depth to a talented corps.

Defensive Linemen

Freshmen: Josh Stewart, Keenan Johnson, Jordan Brown

Tight Ends

TE Chris Minter, So. Popular for his work ethic and attitude, and a key player in this offense. Played in 12 games last year (two starts). TE Rob Riederer, Jr. Undersized but adds value and depth in certain packages to both the passing game and running game.

TE Payton Prince, So. Needs to continue to develop and improve, but has the frame to be a contributor. Freshmen: David Fitzwater

Offensive Line

C Chandler Miller, So. Local product and preseason awards watch list candidate; powerful in the weight room and knows how to translate that to the field. Has grown into a leadership role. RG Blake Belcher, Sr. Fifth-year senior coming off an injury. Has played in 22 career games with 13 starts (12 in 2014). Tall, long and strong, and a natural leader up front.

RT Willie Wright, So. Thrown into action last year when Belcher went down and performed well, starting the last 12 games at left tackle. Strong and powerful and learning how to use leverage. LG Tyler Bowling, So. Played in all 13 games as a freshman and is expected to make his first start this season. Massive frame is a plus, but moves well and has an enormous upside.

Evan Plagg

LG Evan Plagg, Jr. Started 13 games at tackle last year. Former walk-on who has become quietly reliable. Good hands, good feet and a nasty streak coaches love. Projected backups

OL Alex Pagonis, Sr. Junior college transfer last year who played in 13 games. Could be a key player in the rotation at several positions.

DE Jeremy Smith, Jr. A local product and AllConference candidate, could be lined up for a breakout year. Had an important offseason adding bulk, but still an explosive playmaker. Has transformed himself into a team leader. In 11 starts last year, accumulated 43 tackles (6 ½ for loss) with 2 ½ sacks).

DT Hayden Carman, Sr. Former walk-on who earned a scholarship and now is a fifth-year senior. Can become a defensive anchor inside. Provides good size and frequently draws double teams.

C Zack Uhles, Jr. Two-year letterwinner who’s played in 18 games, including all 13 last year. Has played tackle. Started against Memphis in 2014.

Freshmen: Tiller Bucktrot, Rowdy Frederick, Waahid Muhammad, Clay Greathouse

Special Teams

P Dalton Parks, Sr. Former walk-on who will be a four-year starter. Has punted 204 times for 8,347 yards. Career average of 41.0 yards

Jesse Brubaker

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Player-By-Player Breakdown NG Jerry Uwaezuoke, Sr. Fifth-year senior who had a productive offseason adding size and strength. Will be very active inside and demand double teams to allow linebacker movement.

passing lanes and blitzing off the edge. Second on the team with 107 tackles (16 for loss) with five sacks, one interception, four passes defensed and two fumbles. Projected backups

LEO Frankie Davis, Jr. Got thrown in last year after Jeremy Smith’s injury. Undersized, but quick and savvy with good football instincts.

MLB Patera Wilson, Jr. Has what coaches call “freakish” athletic ability. Adds versatility and physicality.

DE Kolton Shindelar, Jr. Sent TU to the Liberty Bowl with a gameclinching interception and TD return at Tulane. Athletic, versatile and a good nose for the football.

WLB Diamon Cannon, R-Fr. Good upside. Big, explosive, strong. Had a productive offseason and should help the defense.

Projected backups

DE Myles Mouton, So. Versatile enough to spin down and play tackle. Played in 13 games last season and made 11 tackles (three for loss).

DE Trevis Gipson, R-Fr. Spent last season redshirting. Added size and strength in the offseason. DE Jake Hanks, Jr. Career has been plagued by injuries, but coaches still love his upside. DT Jesse Brubaker, Jr. Has overcome injuries and should be a key player in 2016. In 22 career starts, has made 52 tackles (7 ½ for loss) and 2 ½ sacks. Experienced enough to play multiple positions.

MLB Matt Hickman, Sr. Fifth-year senior, special teams leader.

SLB Michael Thomas, Sr. Fifth-year senior, big, physical and explosive blitzer off the edge.

Freshmen: Robert Revels, D.J. Allen, Cooper Edmiston, Treyvon Reeves.

DEFENSIVE BACK

CB Kerwin Thomas, Jr. Fifth on the team with 60 tackles last year. Among the national leaders with 14 passes defensed, including 12 PBUs and two INTs. Could be on the verge of a massive season. CB Reggie Robinson, R-Fr. Coaches say he ran a 4.25 twice in the offseason. Also has good size and long

Freshmen Johnnie Williams, Tyarise Stevenson, Shemarr Robinson, Jimmy Nelson.

Linebackers

SLB Matt Linscott, Sr. Disruptive playmaker last year defending

CS Jordan Mitchell, Jr. Local product who played CB in 2014 but moved to safety. Has played in 23 career games (three starts) and has 42 career tackles. Long, rangy, good communicator, sure tackler who knows the defense. DS Jeremy Brady, Sr. Fifth-year senior who was fourth on the team last year with 71 tackles. Also had two interceptions and broke up three passes. Physical, dependable playmaker who has emerged as a leader. Projected backups

CB Will Barrow, Sr. Has played in 30 career games with 16 starts and has 91 career tackles with 11 passes defensed. Had two interceptions as a true freshman. Also has played safety. CB Keanu Hill, Jr. Junior college transfer from Long Beach CC. Could contribute right away on special teams and may evolve into a regular on defense. CB Johnell Celistan, Sr. Has played in 36 career games (two starts) and has 32 career tackles). CB Keidrien Wadley, R-Fr.

Coming off an injury in the spring, but had a productive summer. Could eventually work his way into substantial playing time.

DS McKinley Whitfield, So. Big, strong, athletic playmaker who played in all 13 games last year and contributed 21 tackles.

MLB Trent Martin, Sr. Captain of the defense, a tremendous leader and clutch playmaker. Third on the team with 104 tackles last year (14 for loss) with two sacks, four fumbles forced and one fumble recovered.

WLB Craig Suits, Jr. Plays well in space, defends well against both the run and pass and can blitz. Made 47 tackles in 2015 (5 ½ for loss). Turned in the game-changing interception and touchdown in a bowl-clinching win at Tulane.

arms. Still young and inexperienced, but should experience rapid growth.

Trent Martin

DS Cristian Williams, R-Fr. Nicknamed “Rattlesnake.” Explosive, quick, physical hitter who enjoys contact. Freshmen: CS Manny Bunch, CB Montray Norris

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THE University of Tulsa

TU CROSS COUNTRY that, so we have two months to address the issue. On the women’s side, we have a lot more experience than we’ve ever had in the back. So, we may be better in the back, but how are we going to adapt having to replace the No. 1 runner? That will be our situation.”

Luke Traynor Tulsa Cross Country Looks for Return to NCAA Championships in 2016 The two-time American Athletic Conference Champion Tulsa cross country teams open the 2016 season in September in search of a another pair of championships and another trip to the NCAA Championships.

In 2015, the Golden Hurricane claimed both the men’s and women’s American conference titles for the second straight season, and both ran at the NCAA Championships in the same year for the first time in program history. The men’s team finished 20th and the women placed 29th. The goal every year for TU cross-country is to win the conference championship, and compete at the NCAA Championships. “It was a benefit for the women’s team to qualify last year,” said Head Coach Steve Gulley, beginning his 17th season at Tulsa. “Most of the team is coming back, so we have to look at it as, maybe the experience will get them over the boat again. The last five years, the guys have qualified, so it is something that’s kind of a goal here every year, to make sure we’re at the NCAA Championships.”

The Hurricane returns senior All-Amer26

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ican Luke Traynor, who placed 34th at the NCAA Championships in Louisville, Ky., and leads a squad that returns six of the seven runners who participated at nationals. TU only must replace AllAmerican Marc Scott, the team’s top runner for the last three years. Juniors Ben Preisner, Adam Roderique and Elijah Silva, and sophomores Austin Del Rosso and Isaac Dobos are top returners for the Hurricane. The TU men have won six straight conference championships overall and have made five consecutive appearances at the NCAA Championships.

The women’s team reached the NCAA Championships for the second time, and claimed its third straight conference title in 2015. The squad also returns six of its top seven runners from last year, including seniors Stacie Taylor, Clara Langley and Emma Galbraith, juniors Nicole Lee and Danielle Medearis, and sophomore Alyssa Bolliger. TU will need to replace Rachel Baptista, the top runner from last season. “The big plus for the men is that we have an All-American at the front,” Gulley said. “The key is going to be the experience. We are going to be vulnerable in the four and five hole. We know

Tulsa opens the season on Sept. 1 at the Cowboy Preview in Stillwater, Okla. The Hurricane returns to Stillwater on Sept. 24 for the Cowboy Jamboree, before hitting the national stage at the prestigious Wisconsin Invitational on Oct. 14. The American Athletic Conference Championships will be held in Cincinnati on Oct. 29, followed by the NCAA Midwest Regional on Nov. 11 in Iowa City, Iowa. The NCAA Championships return to Terre Haute, Indiana on Nov. 19.

Clara Langley

THE University of Tulsa

TU VOLLEYBALL

Erica Bohannon Tulsa Volleyball Preview The University of Tulsa Volleyball team opens their 2016 season as the hosts of the Hurricane Classic on Aug. 26-27, in the Donald W. Reynolds Center, featuring Incarnate Word, Alabama, and South Dakota. The Golden Hurricane will begin their 32-game regular season schedule against Incarnate Word at 12 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 26 before taking on Alabama at 7 p.m., when three-time AVCA All-American Tyler Henderson’s jersey will be retired.

“It’s always nice to start the season at home,” said Tulsa Head Volleyball Coach Ryan Wills. “You have extra time, you don’t have to travel, and you get to play on your home floor the first weekend. We’ve got three matches that weekend, two on Friday against Incarnate Word and then Alabama. We were able to win at Alabama last year, so we know they’re going to come in with a stronger team and wanting to get redemption. I’m excited about that match on our first day of competition.”

Tulsa will hit the road for the following two weeks for the Texas State Invitational and A-State Invitational before returning home to host their final non-conference tournament of the season, the Tulsa Volleyball Invitational on Sept. 16-17 before starting their 20-game American Athletic Conference slate.

The Hurricane returns 11 letterwinners from last year’s 15-17 team that finished in a three-way tie for fourth in the conference with a 10-10 league mark.

Fellow seniors Trinity Alualu, Rebecca Reeve and Alyssa LaMont are back for their second and final seasons after leading their Blinn Junior College team to the NJCAA national title for two consecutive seasons.

“Our seniors have been through a lot of battles with each other and with us. We know a little bit more about what to expect from them and they know what to expect of each other,” said Wills. “It’s been a good transition with this senior group. They’ve really taken on the leadership role well. I think they’re working really well together and setting a good example for everyone else on the team. As a coaching staff, they’ve taken a lot off our plate and allowed us to focus on some other things this season.”

Headlining the returners in 2016 is two-time first-team All-American Conference outside hitter Erica Bohannon, who ranked among the top-20 nationally for total attacks, kills and points. Three-year letter winner Brooke Berryhill returns for the Golden Hurricane Brooke Berryhill after leading Tulsa in digs last season. HURRICANE ELITE

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THE University of Tulsa

TU WOMEN’S SOCCER Eight NCAA Tournament Teams Highlight Tulsa Women’s Soccer Slate Tulsa looks to jump out to an identical start from a year ago when the Golden Hurricane women’s soccer team posted a school-best 9-0 start to the season, but duplicating that feat may be more difficult in 2016.

TU finished the 2015 season with a 13-6-1 overall record, including a 4-4-1 record in American Athletic Conference play and received the program’s first-ever top-25 national ranking of No. 19 early in the year. Eight NCAA tournament teams from the 2015 season are on the 2016 soccer slate, while the schedule features 13 teams that posted double-digit wins and four teams that concluded the 2015 campaign ranked in the NSCAA top-25 poll a year ago.

“Our strength of schedule is phenomenal,” Head Coach Kyle Cussen said. “Yes, we will play eight teams that played in the NCAA Championship last year, but we will also face two others that were also among the top-50 a year ago. We’ve set up our schedule this way because we feel like we have a strong team this year. We want to do everything we can to help prepare for American Athletic Conference play, as well as give us every advantage in our fight for an NCAA Tournament bid. This league sent four teams to the NCAA Championships last season and we finished fifth. We know we were close a year ago, 28

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Tana Dake so we have to prepare our kids to play at a high level every day.”

The eight NCAA tournament participants on the schedule include Loyola Marymount, South Carolina, Texas A&M, Ole Miss, UConn, Cincinnati, UCF and USF. Four of those will be played at home, two on the road and two at a neutral site. The four teams who concluded their season ranked in the NSCAA top-25 poll included Texas A&M (9th), UConn (10th), Ole Miss (16th) and Loyola Marymount (23rd). Tulsa opens the season with Loyola Marymount in Norman, Oklahoma, on Friday, Aug. 26.

Despite the rugged schedule, it’s not like the Golden Hurricane women aren’t up to the task. Tulsa returns 17 letter winners, including eight starters, and

welcomes nine newcomers to the roster. Junior midfielder and two-time all-league selection Rachel Thun leads the way for the Hurricane after having scored 22 points on seven goals and eight assists a year ago. Christina Holmes (12), Tana Dake (8) were the next two top scorers last season, while goalkeeper Courtney McKeon and defenders Sierra Krenik, Darienne Chapman and Claire Maris anchor the Tulsa defense. Dake Photo: John E. Hoover/ DanCamPhoto.com

Rachel Thun

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THE University of Tulsa

TU MEN’S SOCCER Sights Still Set High for Young Tulsa Men’s Soccer Team

Underclassmen represent 73-percent of the 2016 Tulsa men’s soccer roster, as the Golden Hurricane has 11 freshmen and eight sophomores, and only three juniors and four seniors. TU, however, has eight returning starters from last year’s team that won the American Athletic Conference Tournament Championship and advanced to the second round of the NCAA Tournament. “Our returners have come back with a good mindset, in good physical condition and were anxious to pick up where we left off in the spring,” Head Coach Tom McIntosh said. “We just need to keep growing as a group. I think the young guys will fit in well as they continue to understand our play and what we demand out of our players.”

Three key returners include sophomore forward Juan Sanchez, sophomore midfielder Lesley Nchanji and senior goalkeeper Jake McGuire. Sanchez had a team-best eight goals and 19 points last season as a true freshman. He was selected as the Rookie of the Year by the American Athletic Conference coaches, picked up all-conference and all-Rookie team accolades, and was named to the NSCAA All-East Region third team. Nchanji totaled two goals and 30

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Ray Sarri

three assists, while starting in 13 games as a true freshman. He was tabbed as the Most Outstanding Offensive Player of The American tournament, and picked up all-Rookie team and all-tournament team accolades. A three-year starter, McGuire has logged over 4,454 minutes in goal, recorded 182 saves and 11 shutouts, and has a 1.13 goals-against average. He is a three-time all-conference tournament team selection, and picked up second-team all-conference accolades last season.

Although the Golden Hurricane is young, they feel they have good players in place to help them battle for a third straight American Athletic Conference title and NCAA Tournament bid.

For all Tulsa men’s soccer news and information, visit TulsaHurricane.com. Follow the team on Twitter (@TulsaMSoccer) and on Facebook (/TulsaMSoccer).

Juan Sanchez

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Hurricane Focuses on Oklahoma Commitments By Chris Harmon

While the Tulsa coaching staff is using its numerous connections in the state of Texas to draw in talent, they haven’t forgotten about the Sooner State. As of Aug. 16, TU currently had five commitments from Oklahoma in its 2017 recruiting class. The first in-state pledge came from talented Tulsa Union running back Shamari Brooks. The 5-foot-9, 185 pound speedster was the Hurricane’s second member of the 2017 class when he committed on May 1, 2016.

“I loved the coaching staff -- they made me feel like I was home every time I visited, and ultimately it just felt like home,” Brooks told Inside Tulsa Sports shortly after making his decision. “I loved everything about the University. The facilities are top notch, and the campus is nice -- it’s beautiful.”

Brooks chose Tulsa over offers from Arkansas State and Sam Houston State. He was also receiving increased interest from SMU, Kansas, Colorado State, North Texas and Wyoming. “I would just like to thank God for blessing me time after time and giving me the amazing ability to do what I do,” Brooks said. The all-purpose back is currently rated at No. 42 in the 2017 Sooner State Rankings on Rivals.com. He said “quickness and speed” are his main strengths on the gridiron. 34

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Shamari Brooks

“I’m very shifty,” Brooks added.

The next local product to commit to Tulsa was Collinsville quarterback Seth Boomer on May 24.

“I was just ready,” the 6-foot-3 and 190 pound pocket passer told Inside Tulsa Sports. “I felt that it was the best fit for me, so I went ahead and pulled the trigger.”

Tulsa’s fast-paced offense was a big draw for Boomer.

“Oh absolutely - it’s a perfect offense for a quarterback,” he described. “I don’t know any quarterbacks that wouldn’t want to go somewhere you can throw it all over the field.”

Boomer attended a TU junior day in March, and even though he lives a short distance from the Tulsa campus, he was able to get a better feel for the school and football program.

“The junior day went great,” he said. “I had gone to a spring practice a

RECRUITING defensive lineman chose the Hurricane on June 3.

“I want to be closer to my family and have them be able to come and watch me play,” he told Inside Tulsa Sports. “Plus, Tulsa is a great education for me.”

Garrett Flanary few days before the junior day to meet all the coaches. I loved every one of them, they are awesome guys. “I loved it, felt like a tight knit campus. I could for sure see it being a really great home for me. The facilities are super nice.”

Boomer led Collinsville to the Class 5A state title game in 2015, where the Cardinals narrowly fell 31-28 to Altus. In the championship game, Boomer completed 17 of 27 passes for 252 yards. For the season, he connected on 108 of 191 throws for 1,987 yards and 22 touchdowns with just 7 interceptions. He also ran the ball 42 times for 186 yards and a touchdown.

“I’m more of a pocket passer than a running quarterback, but I think I have the ability to make something happen when things break down and get it to the guys that can do more with it than I can,” he described. “Leadership is a big role in the position, and I try to get better at that every day.” With his college decision behind him, Boomer will focus on his senior season at Collinsville.

“I honestly don’t have any individual goals, but there is a team goal I would like to accomplish,” he explained. “That’s to get the other color ball in December.” The most recent Tulsa commitment from a local prospect was Garrett Flanary. The Tulsa Lincoln Christian

The 6-foot-3 and 275 pound defensive tackle also had scholarship offers from Fresno State, Southern Miss, New Mexico, Temple, Army, Utah State, San Diego State, Ohio, Nevada, Louisiana-Lafayette, Colorado State, Navy, Air Force, Tulane, Dartmouth, Arkansas State, ULM, UTSA and others.

Flanary credits his lead recruiter, Tulsa assistant coach Bill Young, and other TU coaches with luring him to stay close to home.

“They make it seem like a big family to me,” he explained. “The whole staff is nice -- even the strength and conditioning coach. Everyone connects really well, and that’s what I liked.” Flanary helped Lincoln Christian to a 14-1 record last season, as the Bulldogs fell in the state title game to Heritage Hall. Opposing offensive linemen found it hard to keep the big DL out of the backfield. He finished the year with 53 tackles and 8 sacks.

“My pass rush is my best strength,” Flanary described. “I am really quick off the ball, and my speed kills linemen trying to block me. Teams have to try and double team me, because if they try and run pulls away from me, I’m already back there before the quarterback hands it off.”

In mid-August, two more local talents committed to the Hurricane: 6-4, 220 pound Hominy athlete Zaven Collins picked TU on Aug. 14, and 6-3, 220 pound defensive end Ryan Patrick of Bishop Kelley made his choice the next day.

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WIDE RECEIVER RECRUITS TU coaches also played a major role in Stokes’ decision.

Keylon Stokes By Chris Harmon It’s no surprise that the new Tulsa coaching staff is heavily recruiting the state of Texas, where many of the Hurricane coaches have roots, and it is paying off in a big way. As of mid-Aug. 16th, eight of Tulsa’s 13 commitments in the 2017 class were from the Lone Star State, including a duo of talented wide receivers. On August 1, TU picked up a commitment from Manvel (TX) wide receiver Keylon Stokes, the younger brother of current Golden Hurricane standout receiver Keevan Lucas. “What stands out to me at Tulsa and that made me commit -- not only do I love the speed and spread of their offense, but I also love how they are just a family, how they go to war for one another and how they are there for one another through thick and thin. The support system is crazy, and I love it.

“I really like the campus. It’s just peaceful. I’m in love with the weight room, and my favorite place to be is on the field. The field is amazing.”

Stokes chose Tulsa over offers from New Mexico, Louisiana-Monroe, Texas State, Abilene Christian and McNeese State. The fact that his older brother is at Tulsa certainly gave the Hurricane an advantage, but the 36

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“(Keevan) played into my decision, but not that much,” said Stokes. “It was more the experience -- just to see how good of a time he is having and how much of great player Tulsa has really made him just really made me want to be a part of Tulsa. “The (Tulsa) coaches are excellent. They know exactly what they are doing. They turn good players into great players.”

As a junior at Manvel last season, Stokes had 28 receptions for 768 yards and seven touchdowns, helping the Mavericks to an 11-3 record. Manvel lost to Katy, 35-17, in the regional championship game. “I feel like my strengths are my quickness and how Elusive I am on the field,” he said. “The best thing I do on the field is make plays.”

The 6-foot, 180 pound wideout has lofty goals for his senior season.

“My individual senior goals would be to win state and break all Manvel records,” he said. “We are looking pretty good. I really like this team this year. We are more of a team this year then we were last year, and I know we can win state.” When he gets to Tulsa, Stokes not only wants to replicate his older brother’s accomplishments -- he’d like to surpass them.

“You know, every little brother wants to be better, and I plan to do just

that,” he added.

Prior to Stokes’ commitment, the Hurricane earned a commitment from Taylor (TX) receiver Malik Jackson. The speedster gave his verbal pledge back in June. “I love the coaches,” Jackson said when discussing his decision. “(Coach Calvin Lowry) is a good coach. I’ve learned a lot from him already.”

The Golden Hurricane was the first to offer the 6-foot-2, 200-pounder after he attended a summer camp on the TU campus. Jackson didn’t get much time to check out the campus and football facilities, but he was impressed by the little bit he was able to view. “I barely got to see it, but it looked pretty good from what I did see,” he added.

Jackson, who said he was looking for a “fast-paced offense that throws a lot”, was also receiving strong interest from Oklahoma State, Kansas, New Mexico State and Texas State. Taylor finished 4-7 last season, but Jackson was a bright spot for the Ducks. He led the team in receiving with 18 catches for 419 yards and 6 touchdowns.

“My big hands, jumping ability, and my route running are my strengths,” he said.

Jackson’s older brother, Mark, ran track initially at the University of Texas before transferring to UTEP, where he received All-American honors as a long-jumper. In May, Malik Jackson finished third in the long jump at the Texas state high school finals.

WHERE TULSA FANS GO FOR DAILY COVERAGE OF GOLDEN HURRICANE FOOTBALL, BASKETBALL AND RECRUITING • Daily exclusive information on Tulsa athletics and recruits, including feature articles, team and player notes, recruiting updates and video you won’t find anywhere else. • Access to the most in-depth Tulsa recruiting coverage available for football and basketball. • Hurricane Alley access, where you’ll find breaking news, team and player notes, the latest recruiting tidbits and more. Plus, a Tulsa-fans-only spot to discuss hot topics.

DON’T MISS OUT! GET A 30-DAY FREE TRIAL! Use the promo code HURRICANE30 for a 30-day free trial of all the premium information. Just go to: InsideTulsaSports.com/subscribe.asp Code expires October 31, 2016. Part of

RECRUITING OVERVIEW the campus is nice -- it’s beautiful.”

Committed on July 16, 2016

Zaven Collins, Hominy High, Hominy (OK) 6-4, 220 pounds Linebacker Committed on August 14, 2016 Why he chose Tulsa: “The (Tulsa) coaches really care about you and want to build a strong relationship with you. They’re an upbeat program with a bunch of energy and want to see you succeed not only on the field but in the classroom and life as well.”

Abram Smith, Abilene High, Abilene (TX) 6-1, 205 pounds Running Back Committed on May 9, 2016 Why he chose Tulsa: “When I went on a visit there, it just felt like home to me. The coaches are really good people, and I enjoy being around them. The school, overall, looked amazing.”

Chase Brown, Tivy High, Kerrville (TX) 6-2, 220 pounds Linebacker Committed on June 2, 2015 Why he chose Tulsa: “I’ve always wanted to play for Coach (Philip) Montgomery and Coach (Joseph) Gillespie. It’s been a dream ever since I started playing football. I know they’re great people who will treat any kid like their own. This is a dream come true.”

Akayleb Evans

Inside Tulsa Sports gives TU fans a quick look at the current list of high school athletes who have given their verbal commitment to the Golden Hurricane. Dante Bivens, Klein Collins High, Spring (TX) 6-3, 310 pounds Offensive Lineman Committed on June 12, 2016 Why he chose Tulsa: “My relationship with Coach (Philip Montgomery) and the (assistant) coaches, and the fact that they wanted me.”

Seth Boomer, Collinsville High, Collinsville (OK) 6-3, 185 pounds Quarterback Committed on May 24, 2016 Why he chose Tulsa: “I was just ready. I felt that it was the best fit for me, so I went ahead and pulled the trigger.” Shamari Brooks, Union High, Tulsa (OK) 5-9, 185 pounds Running Back Committed on May 1, 2016 Why he chose Tulsa: “I loved the coaching staff -- they made me feel like I was home every time I visited, and ultimately it just felt like home. I loved everything about the University. The facilities are top notch, and 38

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Akayleb Evans, McKinney High, McKinney (TX) 6-2, 180 pounds Cornerback Committed on July 21, 2016 Why he chose Tulsa: “The family atmosphere and the sincerity of the coaching staff made me feel comfortable.”

Garrett Flanary, Lincoln Christian High, Tulsa (OK) 6-2, 273 pounds Defensive Lineman Committed on June 3, 2016 Why he chose Tulsa: “I want to be closer to my family and have them be able to come and watch me play. Plus, Tulsa is a great education for me.”

Ryan Patrick, Bishop Kelley High, Tulsa (OK) 6-3, 220 pounds Defensive End Committed on August 15, 2016 Why he chose Tulsa: “I ultimately decided this was best for me because it is an outstanding education, I’ll be playing football, and it’s not too far from home. Tulsa was the one I felt most comfortable with at this stage.”

Keylon Stokes, Manvel High, Manvel (TX) 6-0, 180 pounds Wide Receiver Committed on August 1, 2016 Why he chose Tulsa: “I really like the campus. It’s just peaceful. I’m in love with the weight room, and my favorite place to be is on the field. The field is amazing.” Verbal commitments are non-binding. High school football recruits may sign national letters of intent in February.

Daiquain Jackson, Poteet High, Mesquite (TX) 5-11, 190 pounds Safety Committed on July 31, 2016 Malik Jackson, Taylor High, Taylor (TX) 6-2, 205 pounds Wide Receiver Committed on June 26, 2016 Why he chose Tulsa: “I love the coaches. (Coach Calvin Lowry) is a good coach. I’ve learned a lot from him already.”

Coy McMillon, Abilene High, Abilene (TX) 6-4, 260 pounds Offensive Tackle

Abram Smith

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