VYPE Northeast Oklahoma December-January 2015 by Austin Chadwick

VYPEOK.COM

D ecem b e r - J a n u a r y 2 0 1 5

VYPEOK.COM

5 | Bartlesville Area Basketball VYPE has your fix for the upcoming basketball season. From the Bruins to the Ironmen of Nowata, we have it all.

14 | Claremore Area Basketball The Zebra’s, Eagles and Cardinals are ready to fight it out this season as they push for their ticket to the tournament.

26 | Pryor Basketball The gym is heating up as Pryor prepares for the 2014-15 season on the hardwood.

Trinity Media Group, LLC 12330 E. 60th St. STE A. • Tulsa, OK 74146 • All rights reserved. Publisher Austin Chadwick Partner/Editorial Director Brad Heath Oklahoma Sales Director Roscoe Migliore Partner/Director of Operations Rod Coulter Partner/Three Rivers Director Bill Huddleston Editor Kyle Kendrick Partner Mark Rodgers Contributing Writers Brad Heath, Lynn Jacobsen, Tiffany Rogers, Joel Hahn, Kyle Kendrick Contributing Photographers Marea Breedlove, Jim Ellis, Dean Majors, Brad Heath, Rip Stell, Josh Clough, Michael Mayberry, Brett Rojo, Kirk Wells, Rolf Clements, Kyle Kendrick, David Hunt Contact Information: www.VYPEOK.com • Phone: 918.495.1771 • Fax: 918.495.1787 Subscriptions: 918.495.1771 VYPE is published monthly by Trinity Media Group, LLC. Reproductions in whole or in part without permission are prohibited. VYPE is not responsible for the return of unsolicited artwork, photography or manuscripts and will not be responsible for holding fees or similar charges. All digital submissions and correspondences will become property of VYPE. 4

VYPEOK.COM

AU G U S T 2 0 1 4

N o r t h e a s t O K B AS K ET B A L L P RE V I E W

Bartlesville Bruins Website: www.bartlesville. k12.ok.us GIRLS Terry Rogers 13-14 Record: 18-6

Outlook: Coming into this season the Lady Bruins are hungry to improve on last season’s finish when they were eliminated in the area tournament. To help ensure that the Lady Bruins accomplish that goal are three returning starters led by VYPE Top 100 forward Hailey Tucker (6-2, Sr.). Last season Tucker put up stats that look like they belong to LeBron James by averaging 24 points, 10 rebounds and five assists per game and showed exactly why she is one of the most feared players in the state. Guard Gabby Culver (5-5, Sr.) is another player who will make a huge impact for the Lady Bruins after averaging 7.0 points and 5.0 assists last year. Lauren Washington (5-7, Jr.) will also work on the perimeter this year as a versatile shooting guard. In the paint expect Rachel Behar (6-0, Sr.) and Destiny Harris (6-3, Fr.) will give the Lady Bruins some serious length. As a junior last season Behar averaged 5.0 points and 5.0 assists, numbers that could get even better this year. Off the bench fans can expect any one of four players to emerge as the team’s all-important sixth man. Seniors Erin Henry and Erin Waddle give the Lady Bruins experience off the bench while freshman Erin Shoemaker and sophomore Kearstin Littau bring a healthy dose of young talent. Hailey Tucker 6-2 F Sr. Gabby Culver 5-5 G Sr. Rachel Behar 6-0 F Sr. Lauren Washington 5-7 G/F Jr.

Destiny Harris 6-3 C Fr. Erin Henry Sr. Erin Waddle Sr. Erin Shoemaker Fr. Kearstin Littau So. BOYS Clent Stewart 13-14 Record: 10-11

Outlook: Clent Stewart takes over on the sidelines at Bartlesville replacing long time coach Tim Bart who spent 14 years as the Bruins head man. Overall Stewart said his players are excited for the obstacles the season may send their way. “Our kids are excited to get the season underway. Being back in the Frontier Conference is a challenge that all of our players are ready to accept. We’re excited to play in what is one of the toughest conferences in the state,” Stewart said. The straw that stirs the drink for the Bruins is guard and VYPE Top 100 selection Antonio Castillo (6-0, Sr.). Last season Castillo averaged 17 points per game and is a player that Stewart calls “one of the best guards in the state.” Fellow guard AJ Parker (6-1, Jr.) averaged nine points per game last year and will be stepping into an even bigger role this year. Forward Barron Tanner (6-4, So.) will be doing the same after averaging eight points per

game as a freshman. Rounding out Bartlesville’s projected starting lineup will be forward AJ Archambo (6-3, So.) and center Hayden Bryant (6-4, Sr.). Lucas Rutter (Sr.) is expected to come off the bench as the team’s sixth man and provide

some instant offense on the perimeter. Antonio Castillo 6-0 G Sr. AJ Parker 6-1 G Jr. Barron Tanner 6-4 F So. AJ Archambo 6-3 G/F So. Hayden Bryant 6-4 C Sr. Lucas Rutter G Sr.

Ben Rainey 3803 Nowata Rd., Ste. A Bartlesville, OK 918-333-0840 ShelterInsurance.com

Go Bruins! D ecem b e r - J a n u a r y 2 0 1 5

VYPEOK.COM

N o r t h e a s t O K B AS K ET B A L L P RE V I E W

DEWEY BULLDOGGERS Website: www.dewey.k12. ok.us

GIRLS Scott Neighbors (2nd year) 13-14 Record: N/A

Outlook: Head coach Scott Neighbors returns two players with varsity starting experience in the lineup. Jaycie Nickerson (5-4, Sr.) averaged 10 points and 3.0 assists a game last year and she could become the team’s go-to player this year. Kiersten Vincent (5-4, So.) is a young but talented guard coach Neighbors will lean on for quality minutes on both ends of the court. Erin Herchock (5-7, Jr.) averaged 8.0 points and 3.6 rebounds per contest last year. Herchock is a leader on this team and will need to be another coach on the floor. Madi Brown (5-8, Sr.) and Emma Tillman (5-8, Jr.) did not start last season, but do figure heavily into the overall scheme and success of this team. Jaycie Nickerson 5-4 G Sr. Kiersten Vincent 5-4 G So. Erin Herchock 5-7 F Jr.

Madi Brown 5-8 F Sr. Emma Tillman 5-8 F Jr. Haley Gurule Emily Sellers

BOYS Lance Knight (13th year) 13-14 Record: 16-15

Outlook: This team is working hard to improve and head coach Lance Knight expects to surprise some people. “This is a dedicated group that will surprise most people. We have several good shooters and explosive players,” said coach Knight. One of those explosive players is Hunter Hines (5-10). Hines, or whom we like to call “the fuse,” is very explosive to the basket and plays bigger than 5-foot10. Trenton Anderson (6-1, Jr.) will start at point guard giving the Bulldoggers are solid pair in the backcourt. Spencer Hayes (5-10, Sr.) brings tough defense and an ability to force the issue with opponents. Blake Baughman (6-3, Sr.) and Takota Ruble (6-5, Sr.) are two big forwards coach Knight will use dominate the boards and force teams to stay out of the paint. Trenton Anderson 6-1 PG Jr. Hunter Hines 5-10 G Jr.

Spencer Hayes 5-10 G Sr. Blake Baughman 6-3 F Sr. Takota Ruble 6-5 F Sr. Chase Kirby Jarrett Dillsaver Josh Gomez

Copan Hornets

Website: www.copan.k12. ok.us GIRLS Kristy Bryan 13-14 Record: 12-12

Outlook: With three starters returning this year for new head coach Kristy Bryan the Lady Hornets have high expectations. “Our two senior leaders along with the mixture of young talent will provide a combination for a good season,” said Bryan. Those two senior leads will also allow the Lady Hornets to utilize an inside-out attack and attack defenses from multiple places on the floor. On the perimeter, guard Abby Bryan (5-8, Sr.) is a versatile athlete that provides a tough matchup for a lot of teams. Meanwhile on the inside Abby Fogarty (5-10, Sr.) gives the Lady Hornets a good amount of length and size in the paint.

Rounding out the Lady Hornets starting rotation will be Winter Williams (5-9, So.), Bethany Bates (5-9, Jr.) and Kylie Long (5-4, So.). Abby Bryan 5-8 G/F Sr. Winter Williams 5-9 G/F So. Bethany Bates 5-9 F/C Jr. Abby Fogarty 5-10 F/C Sr. Kylie Long 5-4 G So. BOYS Kevin Foreman 13-14 Record: 0-21

Outlook: The Hornets failed to record a victory last season and lost all of those games by double digits. All of that is in the past though and with all five starters returning head coach Kevin Foreman is ready to get the season underway. At point guard Austin King (5-8, Sr.) is back and looking to improve on his averages of 10 points and seven assists per game. Dylan Williams (5-8, So.) will also be in the starting lineup at guard after averaging eight points per game last year. In the frontcourt Kirk Foreman (6-1, So.) averaged 13 points per game last year and will be the Hornets’ best weapon in the paint. Forward Jeff Carver (6-2, Sr.) and center Joseph Phelon (6-3, So.) will also both be major contributors this season after combining to average 13 points a game last year. Austin King 5-8 G Sr. Kirk Foreman 6-1 F So. Jeff Carver 6-2 F Sr. Dylan Williams 5-8 G So. Joseph Phelon 6-3 C So.

VYPEOK.COM

D ecem b e r - J a n u a r y 2 0 1 5

EVERY GREAT PLAY starts with a great plan.

Photo courtesy of Lehmer Photography.

Truity Credit Union proudly supports the Bartlesville Bruins. We offer the only Bruin Spirit Debit Card that gives back to Bartlesville Schools with each swipe. Over $42,000 has been raised since 2009. Bruin Spirit Debit Card | Student Select Checking Student Loans | Child & Teen Savings Accounts Visit TruityCU.org/BruinCard

501 S Johnstone | 2612 SE Washington TruityCU.org | 918.336.7662 D ecem b e r - J a n u a r y 2 0 1 5

VYPEOK.COM

N o r t h e a s t O K B AS K ET B A L L P RE V I E W

Nowata Ironmen Website: www.npsok.org GIRLS Kurt Heller 13-14 Record: 11-14

Outlook: Head coach Kurt Heller takes over at Nowata after the Lady Ironmen finished last season with an 11-14 overall record. Heller said that he hopes to use his team’s athleticism to frustrate opposing teams. “The girls have adjusted well to the new system. We are very athletic and are hoping to use that to make things happen both offensively and defensively,” Heller said. Guards Halley Hewitt (5-2, Jr.) and Reva Smith (5-6, Jr.) will both play key roles this year for the Lady Ironmen. Alecia Mayhew (5-6, Jr.) will also likely find a starting job in the Nowata backcourt this year. On the interior Nowata won’t have an abundance of size but

will have two forwards who promise to cause matchup problems for bigger posts in Alexis Mayhew (5-6, Jr.) and Emily Belden (5-7, So.). Justice Owens (5-7, Jr.) will also push for time at forward this year and give the Lady Ironmen yet another athletic option on the block. Halley Hewitt 5-2 G Jr. Reva Smith 5-6 G Jr. Alexis Mayhew 5-6 F Jr. Alecia Mayhew 5-6 G Jr. Emily Belden 5-7 F So. Justice Owens 5-7 F Jr. BOYS Gary Hollingshed 13-14 Record: 17-11

Outlook: With two returning starters from last season’s 17-win team the Ironmen are looking to build on the success they experienced a year ago. “Last season we won the regional championship for the first time since 1984. We are looking to build on

PLAN FOR YOUR FUTURE...

that success this year,” head coach Gary Hollingshed said. “We have a talented group of young kids coming up that are going to lead us this year and for seasons to come.” Coming into this season Matt Price (6-4, Sr.) will be the team’s leader at forward. Last season Price averaged 15 points and 12 rebounds per game and is starting to garner some interest from several regional colleges. Scott Pruett (6-2, Sr.) is another talented athlete at the forward position who averaged six points and eight rebounds per game last year. Rounding out the frontcourt will be Seth Glasscock (6-0, Sr.). Glasscock is a star football player for the Ironmen and will give Nowata some serious toughness and strength on the glass this year. While the Ironmen are very

experienced in the frontcourt the opposite is true of their backcourt. Michael Velasco (5-9, So.) will start at point guard for the Ironmen with Cody Smith (6-0, So.) starting at shooting guard. Matt Price 6-4 F Sr. Scott Pruett 6-2 F Sr. Cody Smith 6-0 G So. Seth Glasscock 6-0 F Sr. Michael Velasco 5-9 PG So. Zen Callahan 6-0 Fr. Will Luster 5-10 So. Bryce Bell 6-1 Sr. Wyatt Steigerwald 6-1 Sr. Grayson Hass 6-3 Sr. Jakob Barnes 6-2 So.

...TRAIN LIKE A CHAMPION!

www.tricountytech.edu For enrollment information contact Lauren at

918.331.3291 or lwalls@tctc.org 8

VYPEOK.COM

D ecem b e r - J a n u a r y 2 0 1 5

Pawhuska Huskies Website: www.pawhuskahs.org GIRLS Austin Minshall 13-14 Record: 7-15

Outlook: The Lady Huskies will be a team that gets it done by committee this season. With a good blend of experienced upperclassmen and young athletic players, Austin Minshall will be able to mix and match his lineups. The important x-factor for Minshall’s lineup is the health of his players. Last season, starting guard Kailee Hambright (5-5) missed the entirety of her sophomore season due to shoulder surgery. This season, senior and two year starter Andie Sweeden will miss part of the season with shoulder surgery. This will require his experienced players to pick up

the slack. Juniors Keylee Kirk (5-4) and Genie Herren (5-4) return to the starting lineup. Both provide solid scoring and ferocious effort on the defensive end. Sophomore Sydney Sellers (5-9) will enter the starting lineup. Her length will allow her to provide solid post defense. Freshman Mya Hambright (5-3) rounds out the starting lineup. She will give the Lady Huskies the spark they need at the point guard position. “The turnout for our ‘summer pride’ was successful as numbers were high,” Minshall said. “We have a good mix of youthful athleticism and smart, experienced upperclassmen.” Sydney Sellers 5-9 F So. Keylee Kirk 5-4 G Jr. Genie Herren 5-4 G Jr. Kailee Hambright 5-5 SG Jr. Mya Hambright 5-3 PG Fr. BOYS Monty Unruh 13-14 Record: 8-16

Outlook: Monty Unruh enters his seventh season at the helm of Pawhuska with a lineup that boasts five 6-footers. That length will give offenses a tough time trying to move the ball. Seniors Trent Barnett (6-0) and Trey Redeagle (6-2) return to the starting lineup. They will set the tone on the defensive end. Redeagle averaged 2 steals per game last season, while Barnett was right behind him with 1.6 steals per game. Junior Hayden Henley (6-3) will man the center spot. Unruh looks for him to make major strides this season. Sophomores Matthew Rector (6-0)

and William Merril (6-0) complete the starting lineup. These two sophomores will utilize all the experience they can get. “We will play great defense,” Unruh said. “If we can find ways to score we will be tough to beat.” Trent Barnett 6-0 G Sr. Trey Redeagle 6-2 F Sr. Hayden Henley 6-3 C Jr. Matthew Rector 6-0 G So. William Merril 6-0 F So.

T. E. A . M .

Together. Everyone. Achieves. More. Follow your dreams

T. E. A . M .

Together. Everyone. Achieves. More.

$5 ofF Follow your dreams

every $25 you spend at Garfields

$5 ofF

Washington Park Mall • 2350 SE Washington Blvd, Bartlesville, 74006you • (918) spend 333-7020 at Garfields everyOK$25

WASHINGTON PARK MALL • 2350 S.E. WASHINGTON BLVD • BARTLESVILLE, OK • 918-333-7020

Expires September 30, 2014

off any T. E. A . M T.E.A.M. purchase. of

Together. Everyone. Achieves. More. $25 or more. Together. Everyone. Achieves. More. Follow your dreams

*Not good with any other discounted offer or on alcoholic beverages, tax or tip. Please present coupon. Follow your dreams

WASHINGTON PARK MALL • 2350 S.E. WASHINGTON BLVD • BARTLESVILLE, OK • 918-333-7020 Expires September 30, 2014

The Lady Mustangs are working hard on the hardwood.

Jocelin Merciez After going 11-15 last season the Lady Mustangs basketball team is eager to improve this season and finish above .500 as they prepare for a deep run in the OCSSA playoffs. Through the first four games wins have been at a minimum with the team going just 1-3 but a solid group of experienced players hopes to turn that around. So far the team’s lone win came in the Welch Tournament when the Lady Mustangs took down Hominy by a score of 38-27.

VYPEOK.COM

D ecem b e r - J a n u a r y 2 0 1 5

Leading the way for the Lady Mustangs are seniors Jocelin Merciez and Desirae Plummer. Merciez will start at guard this year after averaging six points and three steals per game last year. Plummer meanwhile is a difference maker in the paint who averaged 10.4 points, 5.0 rebounds and 2.7 steals per game last year. Plummer brings a wealth of energy to the floor and is capable of starting a lot of fastbreaks with long outlet passes after she hauls in rebounds. Merciez on the other hand is a speedy guard who can shoot the three and find open teammates cutting to the rim. Other key players for the Lady Mustangs this year will be juniors Merissa Bailey and Alicia Deal. Freshman Camryn Holley also expects to see a good portion of minutes this year. Last year both Bailey and Deal averaged 4.4 points per game with Bailey tacking on an

Desirae Plummer average of 5.2 rebounds and Holley averaging 3.3 boards per game. Off the bench sixth man Emily Meadows could be nicknamed “The Microwave” because she provides instant offense for the Lady Mustangs. Meadows also brings a level of toughness to the perimeter especially on defense and will make plenty of plays on that end of the floor as well.

Mededith Franke Nowata

Hailey Tucker Bartlesville

Academic Athlete of the Month Nowata junior Meredith Franke competes on the Nowata cheer squad and not only helped her team qualify for the Class 3A state competition but also helped push her team to a third place finish at that meet as Nowata finished behind only Washington and Keys. Franke is also an outstanding student at Nowata and carries a 4.0 grade point average. Although Nowata doesn’t offer any Advanced Placement classes Franke is currently taking college prep English and a concurrently enrolled History course through Coffeyville Community College. Franke said her favorite class is Math Analysis which is taught by Carolann Stinnett, who in her 40 years at Nowata also taught Franke’s mother. After high school Franke plans on attending college at either Oklahoma State University or Rogers State University and majoring in business. For her commitment to being an outstanding studentathlete Meredith Franke is the Nowata Academic Athlete of the Month.

Bartlesville Lady Bruins junior forward Hailey Tucker is the Bartlesville Female Athlete of the Month. On the floor Tucker is a scoring machine that causes matchup problems for nearly every opponent the Lady Bruins face. Off the floor however Tucker carries a 4.0 grade point average and takes AP Calculus and AP Government. Tucker is also involved in the Spirit Committee at Bartlesville High School along with being a standout on the hardwood and in the classroom. After high school Tucker wants to play college basketball and is being recruited by Kansas State, Arkansas, New Mexico, Oklahoma State, Nebraska, Washington, TCU and Texas Tech.

Submit your nomination for the RE/MAX Realtors Academic Athlete of the Month to: Oklahoma@VYPE.com

“EXCEEDING YOUR EXPECTATIONS”

Kevin Lynch

Donna Barclay

(918)214-3700 (918)440-3000 YourBartlesvilleRealEstateTeam.com of Bartlesville

1809 SE Washington Blvd Bartlesville, OK 74006 Office: (918) 335-3833

Toll Free: (877) 335-6888

Each Office Independently Owned and Operated

Character Counts Athlete of the Month

ConocoPhillips is proud to highlight the great student-athletes who uphold the fabric of character on and off the field and court.

Gabby Culver Bartlesville Basketball

Bartlesville basketball player Gabby Culver is the Character Counts player for the month. With basketball as her only sport, Culver has been able to hone in on critiquing her agility and skills for the sport. Culver is also involved in Student Council and is the Student Body President for Bartlesville High School. She is also a member of National Honor Society and in the Young Republicans Club. In her community, she is involved with K-Life student ministry and

Grace Community Church. Culver plans to attend the University of Oklahoma to study medicine, in hopes of one day becoming a dermatologist. Outside of her busy schedule, she still makes time to have fun.

“I love to work out, read and go shopping. My favorite thing to do in Bartlesville area is eat at Frank and Lola’s!” Culver said. Keep up the good work, Gabby, and we wish you the best

Same values. Same name.

Local pride.

At ConocoPhillips, we’re building on our SPIRIT values – safety, people, integrity, responsibility, innovation and teamwork – to create a company like no other. A company with global reach and strong ties to the local communities where we operate. With more than 1,500 employees in the community, ConocoPhillips is proud to call Bartlesville home. As an industry leader exclusively focused on exploration and production, we are pioneering a new standard of excellence. But even as we embark on this new journey, the way we do business, our pride as a Bartlesville citizen – our spirit – is staying the same. It’s just a part of who we are.

V Y PDewey E O K HS . C ad.indd OM | 12 13-1892

D ecem b e r - J a n u a r y 2 0 1 5

11/8/13 3:13 PM

Bartlesville Mom Month Kim Lashbrook – Bartlesville Mom As many know, being a mom is not an easy job. To be an excellent mom takes extra effort, expendable energy and the patience of a saint. Kim Lashbrook of Bartlesville has rightly earned this title. As a mother of two cheerleaders, Lashbrook has remained active in both their sports and academic lives. Her daughter Rabeka is a senior cheerleader for Bartlesville High School and is on her third year for varsity cheer squad. Her youngest, Ashtyn, is in eighth grade and is in her first year as a cheerleader. Lashbrook serves as the eighth grade representative on the Cheer Booster Board, is the librarian and student council sponsor for the High School. When she isn’t busy being an active mom for her daughters, she enjoys spending time with her husband Travis, crocheting gifts, reading and baking. “I love working at the same school with my kids. It’s fun to be able to work and still have the opportunity to see them during the day. I get to be a second mom to many of their friends,” Lashbrook said. Lashbrook graduated from Byng High School and then went on to East Central University where she graduated with a bachelor’s degree in English and a Master’s in Education.

Being a cheer mom and an active mom in her kids’ lives means a lot of time and travel, but Lashbrook soaks up every moment and really enjoys it. “I like knowing what is going on in their lives and that they can talk to me about everything. We have had so many good memories and fantastic opportunities to travel together with their squads,” Lashbrook said. For being the best cheerleader for your cheerleaders, we applaud you Kim!

D ecem b e r - J a n u a r y 2 0 1 5

VYPEOK.COM

N o r t h e a s t O K B AS K ET B A L L P RE V I E W

CLAREMORE ZEBRAS Website: www.claremore.k12.ok.us GIRLS Stephanie Shaw 13-14 Record: 16-8

Outlook: Entering her third season at the helm of the Lady Zebras, Stephanie Shaw discussed the outlook of her squad “we are a very young team with no seniors and might struggle early. However we return three starters including our leading scorer and two juniors that have started on varsity since their freshman year.” That leading scorer is sophomore guard Lauren Chancellor (5-9, So.) that broke onto the scene as a freshman with 12.6 points, six rebounds, 1.4 assists and two steals. Coach Shaw and her staff will look towards the sophomore to carry even more of the load in scoring this year with her ability to create off the dribble. Juniors Bailey Steckline (5-10, Jr.) and Monica Taylor (5-3, Jr.) return with varsity experience as starters. Taylor is a great three point shooter that can get on a hot streak quickly while Steckline is a solid player that averaged 3.3 points and 2.6 rebounds per game last season. Forward Brylee Brasher (5-7, Jr.)

is another junior that will see an increased role for the Lady Zebras. Keep an eye on point guard Skylar Muncy (5-2, So.) who pushes the ball offensively for Claremore and does an excellent job directing the squad but must be respected as a shooter. Coach Shaw likes the ability of her young team to shoot the ball from every position forcing opponents to respect every player on the court.

Lauren Chancellor 5-9 G So. Bailey Steckline 5-10 F Jr. Monica Taylor 5-3 G Jr. Skylar Muncy 5-2 G So. Brylee Brasher 5-7 F Jr. BOYS Tommy Nolan 13-14 Record: 8-13

Outlook: After a sub-.500 season last year third year head coach Tommy Nolan and his squad has put in the work to position themselves for a better 2014-15 campaign. “Our kids have prepared and worked hard in the offseason and are very excited about the upcoming year,” explained Nolan. “Countless hours spent in the gym and weight room will hopefully pay dividends for the upcoming 201415 season.” Nolan will look toward senior leadership especially in the early

Bailey Streckline, Reid Joyner 14

VYPEOK.COM

D ecem b e r - J a n u a r y 2 0 1 5

season and forward Reid Joyner (63, Sr.) has progressed into a good player. After averaging eight points and six rebounds a year ago, Joyner will provide a senior presence for the Zebras. He’ll be surrounded by four guards that will look to help stretch defenses this year one of whom showed signs last season as a freshman is Jeffery Oxford (6-0, So.). Averaging 10 points, four rebounds, and three assists last season Oxford will look to develop into a bigger threat for Claremore. Joe Clifton (6-0, Jr.) returns and should take on a larger production role for coach Nolan’s squad. Gunner Hall (6-0, So.) and Rande Williams (5-10, Sr.) are solid players that will be decisive pieces in games this year.

Jeffery Oxford Reid Joyner Joe Clifton Gunner Hall Rande Williams

6-0 G So. 6-3 F Sr. 6-0 G Jr. 6-0 G So. 5-10 G Sr.

SEQUOYAH CLAREMORE EAGLES

Website: www.sequoyaheagles.net GIRLS Richie Burks 13-14 Record: 15-12

Outlook: Senior Aubryana Matussak (5-8, Sr.) returns after averaging 12 points, 5.8 rebounds and 3.4 assists. A versatile player, Matussak can play any position on the floor giving first year head coach Richie Burks a lot of options. “We have some veteran players that have been through the battles,” Burks said of his squad for the 2014-15 season. Lynzey Moriz (5-6, Jr.) will join Matussak in the backcourt providing an additional scoring threat that can fill a number of roles for the Eagles. Courtney Nugent (5-6, Sr.) averaged 7.2 points per game last season while dishing out two assists and pulling down two rebounds on average. The guard trio should give opposing coaches headaches this season. Add in forward Savannah Mathews (5-10, Sr.) and center Janna Eaton (6-0, Jr.) the headache might grow stronger for those coaches. Mathews averaged 7.8 rebounds per game a season

ago and Eaton should see her figures increase this year. Hanna Hansen, Brilee Whitten, and Sadie Wilson will all three give the Eagles a strong second line. Aubryana Matussak 5-8 G Sr. Lynzey Moriz 5-6 G Jr. Courtney Nugent 5-6 G Sr. Savannah Mathews 5-10 F Sr. Janna Eaton 6-0 C Jr. Hanna Hansen Brilee Whitten Sadie Wilson BOYS Larry Grigg 13-14 Record: 4-21

Outlook: After a down season the Eagles are excited to begin the 2014-15 campaign with all five starters returning from last year. Second year head coach Larry Grigg discussed his expectations, “We hope to be improved. We’ll have a number of players see time on the court. Our focus is on improving our rebounding over last year and to be more physical.” One of those players that will see the court early and often is guard Blake Mills (5-8, Sr.) who gained the admiration of his head coach, “For his size he’s one of the best players I have coached. He handles the ball well, is quick, and can core outside or take the ball to the rack.” Last season the five-foot-eight guard averaged 16 points per game as a junior. Up front the Eagles feature good size in forwards George Longhorn (6-3, Jr.), Tanner Ortery (6-0, Jr.) and Grant Akin (6-5, Jr.) who all three averaged more than five points per game last season. At guard, Daniel Devore (5-10, Jr.) averaged four points per game last season and should see that number rise this year. Grigg spoke of the depth of his squad and explained that Johnny Pryor (5-9, So.), Josh Sabharwall (6-2, Fr.), Miguel Fulgenczo (6-1, Fr.), Skylar Dennis (6-1, Sr.), and Darrek Devore (5-9, Jr.) could also start throughout the season. Blake Mills George Longhorn Tanner Ortery Grant Akin Daniel Devore Johnny Pryor Josh Sabharwall Miguel Fulgenczo Skylar Dennis Darrek Devore

5-8 G Sr. 6-3 F Jr. 6-0 F Jr. 6-5 F Jr. 5-10 G Jr. 5-9 So. 6-2 Fr. 6-1 Fr. 6-1 Sr. 5-9 Jr.

Verdigris Cardinals www.vps.k12.ok.us

GIRLS Mike Buntin 2013-14 Record: 25-3

Outlook: After a State Quarterfinals appearance last season the Lady Cardinals will look to Keara Batternfield (5-9, So.) will take over the point guard spot after the graduation of Baileigh O’Dell. Fourth year head coach Mike Buntin had high praise when speaking of

Keara Batternfield

his sophomore point guard, “Keara is long, athletic, and the smartest player I’ve ever coached.” As a freshman she averaged 12.6 points, 4.6 rebounds, 2.3 assists, and 2 steals while shooting 52 percent from the field and 45 percent from 3-point range. Courtney Risenhoover (5-10, Sr.) will man one forward spot for the Lady Cardinals and should be a threat for a doubledouble often this year in points and rebounds. Joining her at the other forward spots will be sophomores Erin Raines and McKenzie Risenhoover both of whom will see their roles increase this season. Kylie Barbee (5-7, Sr.) will round out the back court giving Verdigris an outside threat that defenses must respect. Look for Kennedy Franklin (5-8, So.) to provide a versatile option off the bench for the Lady Cards as she can play both the guard and forward spot. Keara Batternfield 5-9 PG So. Courtney Risenhoover 5-10

F Sr. Erin Raines 5-8 F So. McKenzie Risenhoover 5-8 F So. Kylie Barbee 5-7 G Sr. Kennedy Franklin 5-8 G So. BOYS Randy Upshaw 2013-14 Record: 25-5

Outlook: The Cardinals kept the near dominance of Verdigris athletics going as the boys basketball team reached the State Semifinals last season and were just four points away from a trip to the State Title game. Seventh year head coach Randy Upshaw will look towards three returning starters from last year’s semifinalist team. Cade Upshaw (5-11, Sr.) averaged 17.1 points per game from his guard spot and leads a team that is very strong offensively. Laef Payne (6-0, Jr.) will join Upshaw in the backcourt and is a threat as well after

Cade Upshaw tallying 11 points per game as a sophomore. The third returning starter is forward Brewster Peacock (6-2, So.). Peacock posted 10 points and 7.9 rebounds per game as a freshman last season and will be counted upon even more after a year of experience. Cade Upshaw 5-11 G Sr. Laef Payne 6-0 G Jr. Brewster Peacock 6-2 F So.

Ph ys ical Th e r apy

918.342.3800 Claremore • Catoosa • Pryor D ecem b e r - J a n u a r y 2 0 1 5

VYPEOK.COM

Northeast Technology Athlete of the MOnth

Courtney Nugent - Sequoyah Claremore Courtney Nugent, of Sequoyah High School, is the Northeast Tech Athlete of the Month for VYPE. As a shooting guard for the basketball team and a mid-fielder for the soccer team, Neugent is an all-around athlete and student. Nugent recalls one of her favorite memories of last season when her team beat a top team in the playoffs, and the memories made from the past years of being on both teams.

“I am very blessed to be a part of the team I am on. The girls on my team are my best friends on and off the court. We are a family. Just hanging out are the best memories,” Nugent said. On top of playing sports and attending Sequoyah, Nugent also attends Northeast Tech for half of the day to take classes more geared towards college courses and careers.

“Going to tech was the best decision I have made. My coaches and team support me all the way and have encouraged me to go. Tech is preparing me for my future and helping me decide that I want to be a physical therapist one day,” Nugent said.

Nugent plans to attend Rogers State University then transfer to University of Oklahoma to get her masters in Physical Therapy. Nugent gives her gratitude to her team and coaches over the years for encouraging her to pursue her dreams.

“I wouldn’t be where I am today without the support and love from my coaches and team. They have helped shape me into the player and person I am today,” Nugent said.

FIND YOUR FUTURE HERE Flexible Schedules | Earn College Credit | 20+ Career Options High School Students Attend Tuition Free

NORTHEAST TECHNOLOGY CENTER Afton 918-257-8324 | Claremore 918-342-8066 Kansas 918-868-3535 | Pryor 918-825-5555

www.netech.edu | Like us on Facebook! 16

VYPEOK.COM

D ecem b e r - J a n u a r y 2 0 1 5

Cade Upshaw

Verdigris High School

How long have you been involved with FCA? I have been involved with FCA for three years. Who influenced you to join? Mrs. Worley played a huge part in me joining FCA. How has FCA made an impact in your life on and off the field? Off the court it has brought me closer to people and changed how I look at things. On the court it has made me a better teammate. How have your beliefs helped you as an athlete? It helped me believe there is more than just a game and it has really humbled me to be a better person. What is your favorite Bible verse and why? My favorite bible verse is John 3:16 because you can do anything if you just believe in Christ. D ecem b e r - J a n u a r y 2 0 1 5

VYPEOK.COM

University Tulsa University RogersofState

RSU Men The 2014-15 edition of Rogers State men’s basketball features the return of six players, all with an opportunity to step in and fill vacant roles after the departure of seven players, as it enters its second season as a member of the NCAA Division II Heartland Conference.

RETURNERS

The most tenured player for Coach Barkley this season is J.C. Hartzler as he enters his third year on the Hill as the top returning scorer. The Tulsa, Oklahoma native started 45 games during his first two seasons, including playing a team-high 32.5 minutes per game a year ago while starting all but one contest, averaging 12.2 points per game.

“I think a lot of people are going to see a different guy in J.C. Hartzler this year. His freshman year, he started on and off, last year you saw bits and pieces, and we are hoping this year to tie it all together and see an all-league performer. He is another one that we are counting on from a leadership standpoint. Not only is he a good basketball player, he is just a great young man and leads our program in the classroom as well,” Barkley said.

RSU returns five other players that will continue to push for playing time after getting a taste of action last season, with the exception of Jordan Huffman after he took a redshirt in 2013-14. Deran Banton, Cory Ayala, Johnathon Buckley, and Jeylyn Sharpe each played their first season in RSU navy and red and according to Coach Barkley, “all four bring something to the table and each one of them does something really well and have specific traits that make our basketball club a little bit better.”

NEWCOMERS

Barkley and his assistant coaches hit the recruiting trail hard bringing in seven players for the 2014-15 season, which is arguably one of the most difficult in school history when looking at the strength of schedule.

Rogers State fans will get to know four players right away as they all come to the Hill with collegiate experience under their belts transferring from the NCAA Division I, II, and junior college ranks. “We brought two (NCAA) Division I transfers in DesJuan Newton and Donald Moore,” Barkley added. “We feel like both will be very good fits for our program, fit our returning guys, and basically the philosophy we want to play with this year. I’m excited in what they bring to the table from an athleticism stand point.”

Newton transferred to RSU for his senior campaign from Robert Morris where he made 12 appearances for the Colonials a season ago. Moore will join Newton in the back court making the transition from Eastern Illinois after playing 12 games for the Panthers as a sophomore last year.

The Hillcats also added size and strength down low welcoming a pair of six-foot, five-inch forwards to the fold in Frederico Santos and Carlos Perez. Both players enter their final year of eligibility looking to make an impact at RSU. Coming to RSU with a mantle full of high school accolades is Matt Lea, the Oklahoma Class 4A Player of the Year last year for Stilwell High School. Another Oklahoma Basketball Coaches Association and Oklahoma Coaches Association 6A All-State selection will don the navy and red as Tanner Gregurich joins the Hillcats from Broken Arrow High School.

Schedule

Hillcats seek their eighth-consecutive winning season in 2015 and will do so with one of the program’s toughest schedules to date. Five teams on the schedule reached their regional tournament in 2014. RSU will play their first four Heartland Conference contest on the road and complete the season with a two-game home stand. For more information on RSU Basketball, visit www.rsuhillcats.com.

RSU woMen After five years as an assistant with the Rogers State women’s basketball team, Bobby Cope takes the reins as the third head coach in team history bringing a familiarity of the program to his new position. His transition will be aided by welcoming seven players back to campus. Those seven players will have to replace nearly 70 percent of RSU’s scoring from a year ago after losing its top three scorers, including two Heartland Conference Honorable Mention All-Conference selections in Katy Harsen and Clarissa Cannon. RETURNERS

The Hillcats will rely heavily upon Mikaila Newton, Jade Hardy, and Breanna Burford, their three seniors, to provide leadership both on and off the court as the program enters its second season in the Heartland Conference and NCAA Division II candidacy.

Newton is back on the Hill as the top returning scorer after appearing in all 26 games as a junior in 2013-14, earning 23 starts. The only Hillcat to have spent all four years at RSU, Hardy brings that experience to all aspects of the program providing leadership on and off the court. The senior has appeared in 59 games over a three-year span, including 25 a season ago averaging roughly 12 minutes per game. Burford is one of merely two players returning to the front court for RSU as the senior played 25 games in her first season on the Hill. Jackie Bueno will join Burford in the paint for her second season at RSU.

Another key position on the floor will be covered by a veteran presence as point guard Kami Bunch returns for her junior campaign. Bunch set a single-game record last season with 14 assists against Newman and dished 125 on the year playing more than 28 minutes per game while adding 5.3 points and 4.3 rebounds a night. Two more Hillcats enter the mix in the back court as sophomore Stacia Payne and redshirt freshman Heather Roberts return to the program looking to make an impact.

NEWCOMERS

As the Rogers State women’s basketball program starts a new chapter under a first-year head coach, it will do so with six fresh faces added to the mix. The Hillcats welcome a local name back to the area as former Daniel Webster High School standout Jordan Evans transfers to RSU for her junior season after playing 42 games over two seasons at UMKC.

Two more players come to the Hill with collegiate experience from the junior college ranks as Amari Jones and Jalissa Felici transfer in from Blinn College and Des Moines Area Community College, respectively. Jones, another Tulsa, Oklahoma native, returns closer to home joining the Hillcats following two seasons with the Buccaneers where she helped the team to a quarterfinal appearance at the NJCAA National Championships.

A second-team all-region selection a season ago at DMACC, Felici started all 32 games for the Bears in 2013-14 scoring 11.2 points per game, including a season-best 23. Former Owasso High School standout Taylor Koelsch joins the Hillcats after spending one year at St. Gregory’s where she averaged doublefigure scoring at 10.3 points per game.

RSU also adds two players jumping to the collegiate scene straight from high school as Madison Dearmin and Kelsy Byrd remain in the state of Oklahoma coming from Balko and Ketchum, respectively. SCHEDULE

Coach Cope and the Hillcats face a demanding 26-game schedule squaring off against several regional rivals. RSU will play 14 of its contests in front of a home crowd at the Claremore Expo Center where it has a .663 winning percentage during its seven-year history. The eight non-conference games will give RSU a chance to get ready for the challenges of its second year in the Heartland Conference as a relative newcomer to the 10-team league. For more information on RSU Basketball, visit www.rsuhillcats.com.

VYPEOK.COM

D ecem b e r - J a n u a r y 2 0 1 5

OOLOGAH MUSTANGS Website: www.oologah.k12. ok.us GIRLS Kandy Damron 13-14 Record: 9-19

Outlook: The Lady Mustangs return just one starter from last season’s team and that lack of experience may be daunting to some coaches but not to Oologah’s Kandy Damron. The coach said she believes what will help her team grow the most s their tough schedule. “We don’t have a lot of experience and we play a very tough schedule. I don’t know what our record will be at the end of the year but I do think we will be a tough, battle-tested team by playoff time,” Damron said. “I think this is the start of something good and a team that could be good for several years but we do have a lot of growing to do.”

The lone returning starter for the Lady Mustangs is Gracie Garrison (Jr.) who will start at guard. Also starting at guard this year will be Cherokee Gott (Jr.). The Lady Mustangs will also most likely start two freshman this year and feature a lineup that includes just one senior that will get significant playing time. Gracie Garrison G Jr. Cherokee Gott G Jr. BOYS Tyler Chronister 13-14 Record: 20-6

Outlook: Last season the Mustangs won 20 games and advanced all the way to the area tournament. This season however Oologah brings back just two starters and will be relying heavily on a group of players who have waited in the wings for their chance at success in an Oologah uniform. The silver lining of that

dark cloud is that the two returning starters give the Mustangs quite the 1-2 punch. At forward Breydon DeSpain (6-2, Jr.) gives the Mustangs an athletic big man who is a tough cover for any post. DeSpain was also selected to the VYPE Top 100 list after averaging 20.9 points and 8.3 rebounds per game last year. Guard Levi Potter (6-2, Sr.) is the other half of Oologah’s dynamic duo and averaged 15.1 points and 5.8 rebounds per game last season. “We have two core players back and some good young kids along with some older kids who are getting their first experience of playing big minutes,” head coach Tyler Chronister said. “Our schedule is tough but moving forward I think it will be good for us and have us ready for the playoffs.” Breydon DeSpain 6-2 F Jr. Levi Potter 6-2 G Sr.

Levi Potter

Breydon DeSpain

D ecem b e r - J a n u a r y 2 0 1 5

VYPEOK.COM

Garrett Reynolds Claremore High School

Garrett Reynolds is no stranger to Claremore football fans. Those fans know Reynolds because the junior has been shining in between the sidelines each week as a wide receiver and safety for the Zebras. Reynolds is also well known to basketball fans in Claremore and will soon be known for his soccer prowess this spring. While Reynolds is a very solid football player and all-around athlete he is also a star in the classroom. Carrying a GPA of 4.25 Reynolds takes both AP English and AP Biology. When asked what his favorite class was Reynolds answered, “anything science….I would probably say Biology though.” After high school Garrett plans to go to college and possibly put his love of science to use by obtaining a degree in physical therapy. For his outstanding commitment to both athletics and academics Garrett Reynolds is the Claremore Academic Athlete of the Month.

Christian Folks

Miami High School

Miami High School junior Christian Folks is a triple threat when it comes to athletics, and is the Academic Athlete of the Month for VYPE. A football player, catcher for the varsity baseball team and a top competitor on the Miami Swim team, Folks has stood out to his coaches for numerous reasons. Not only does he have incredible athleticism, but his academic reports have exceeded expectations for such a busy schedule. With a 4.0 GPA and enrolled in numerous AP courses, it’s no wonder Folks plans to attend a top college and get an engineering degree. His mathematical brains and interest in playing football at the next level have placed him in the top of his class. Folks is also involved in his youth group, FCA NHS, all the while being the junior class president. Folks loves Miami High School for many reasons but says the people are what has made his experience the greatest. “All of our teachers are great and make learning fun. I love the opportunity of being able to play with teammates I have grown up with my whole life here in Miami,” Folks said.

Submit your nomination for the TTCU Academic Athlete of the Month to: Oklahoma@VYPE.com

GO! SWIPE! WIN! • You swipe, we donate!®

$25 minimum deposit to open. Annual Percentage Yield for dividend bearing accounts 0.20% as of June 25, 2014. Rate is variable and subject to change after account opening. Fees could reduce the earnings on the account. Some restrictions apply. Federally insured by NCUA.

VYPEOK.COM

Claremore

Miami

A more spirited swipe.

D ecem b e r - J a n u a r y 2 0 1 5

ttcu_vype_swipe_only__clare_miami_7.625x2.75.indd 1

10/3/14 10:34 AM

N o r t h e a s t O K B AS K ET B A L L P RE V I E W

Miami Wardogs Website: www.miami.k12. ok.us GIRLS Jody Fincher 13-14 Record: 8-14

Outlook: Jody Fincher takes over the Lady Wardog program this year and said that he is excited about the group of girls who make up this year’s team. “The girls have worked hard to learn a new system and a new way to play Lady Wardog basketball. They have learned to be aggressive on both ends of the floor,” Fincher said. Overall Miami brings back two starters from last year and will look to forward Taylor Stepp (5-9, Jr.) to make a big impact according to Fincher who says Stepp has shown an ability to score in the post plus be the team’s leader on the defensive end of the floor. Fellow forwards Kristen Munsen (5-10, Sr.) and Rylee Hammons (5-9, Jr.) will provide good length on the inside. In the backcourt Miami will be led by Mary Crosby (5-5, Jr.) and Gabby Wooden (5-5, Sr.). Fans can also expect to see a lot of junior Madi Barnes who is expected to be a major energy source off the bench this year. Mary Crosby 5-5 G Jr. Taylor Stepp 5-9 F Jr. Kristen Munsen 5-10 F Sr. Gabby Wooden 5-5 G Sr. Rylee Hammons 5-9 F Jr. Madi Barnes Jr. BOYS Rusty Mercer 13-14 Record: 10-12

Outlook: After finishing 10-12 last year Miami head coach Rusty Mercer feels confident about his team this year but did point out some areas where the Wardogs will need to improve. “We have a chance to play

fast and should be able to score and be balanced. We will need to be improved defensively and be a better rebounding team this year,” Mercer said. Offensively the Wardogs will look to unleash the consistent 1-2 punch of guards Beau Bussey (6-2, Sr.) and Colt Summers (6-0, Jr.) on opponents night in and night out. Last season Bussey averaged 18.1points and 3.2 assists per game while Summers averaged 11.3 points, 6.1 assists and 2.0 steals a game. With Bussey and Summers triggering the offensive attack expect Braden Hessee (6-1, Jr.), Caden Mercer (5-8, Jr.) and Ben Pulley (5-10, Jr.) to all see significant time on the perimeter this season. Meanwhile on the inside fans can look to Jerry Reed (6-3, Jr.) to start at center with Corey Fincher (6-2, Sr.), Alec Hayward (6-2, Jr.) and Kameron Jinks (6-3, So.) to all see big minutes at the forward spots. “Bussey and Summers have the most experience and should be there night in and night out, but we feel like we also have six or seven others that are capable of scoring in double figures any given night,” Mercer said. Beau Bussey 6-2 G Sr. Colt Summers 6-0 G Jr. Braden Hessee 6-1 G/F Jr. Jerry Reed 6-3 C Jr. Corey Fincher 6-2 F Sr. Caden Mercer 5-8 G Jr. Alec Hayward 6-2 F Jr. Ben Pulley 5-10 G Jr. Kameron Jinks 6-3 F So. Photo By Jim Ellis Miami News-Record

Colt Summers NEW Miami Multi-Purpose Event Center

Bring your event to Northeast Oklahoma! • • • • • • •

6 Little League Fields 4 Softball Fields Miami Fairgrounds with seating for 3500 BMX Racing Track Championship Golf Course Oklahoma’s Capital for Spoonbill Fishing 10 acre Soccer Complex

Free Facility Guide 918-542-4435 Miami Convention and Visitors Bureau VisitMiamiOK.com D ecem b e r - J a n u a r y 2 0 1 5

VYPEOK.COM

N o r t h e a s t O K B AS K ET B A L L P RE V I E W

VINITA HORNETS Website: www.vinitahornets.com GIRLS Scott Reed (25th year) 13-14 Record: 22-7

Outlook: Is this the year the Lady Hornets connect all the pieces to win a Class 4A gold ball? After reaching the state semifinals a year ago, Vinita appears ready to raise the championship trophy on Saturday at the Big House returning the talents of VYPE Top

Carsyn Spurgeon

100 selection Carsyn Spurgeon and two other starters to the lineup surrounded by a talented group of players. Spurgeon, a 5-10 junior, capable of scoring from the perimeter as well as at the rim, tallied impressive stats including a 16.6 scoring average along with 8.3 rebounds per game. Just as effective as her scoring, Spurgeon rejected 39 opponents’ shots while snatching 76 steals last year. Baylee Mendell, a 5-7 guard, was a vital part of the state semifinals run averaging 8.1 points along with 2.3 rebounds while creating 55 assists. Taylor Steinhoff, a 5-7 senior forward delivered 43 assists, 42 steals and 7.7 points per outing for head coach Scott Reed who will also expect consistent play from 5-8 junior forward Bailee Orr (2.4ppg/3.7reb) and 5-6 senior guard Sydney Hopwood. The Hornets will maintain their consistency with quality efforts off the bench from Keely Dickson, Rylie Roach, Ashton Baker and Shelby Scott. “We’ll be more athletic

in all positions,” said Reed, who enters his 25th season. “Our lineup is longer that we’ve been in several years that will enable us to play with pressure and go at an up-tempo pace.” Baylee Mendell 5-7 G Sr. Taylor Steinhoff 5-7 F Sr. Sydney Hopwood 5-6 G Sr. Keely Dickson 5-11 F Sr. Ashton Baker 5-5 G Sr. Carsyn Spurgeon 5-10 G/F Jr. Bailee Orr 5-8 F Jr. Shelby Scott 5-7 G Jr Rylie Roach 5-7 G So. BOYS Tony Roach (7th year) 13-14 Record: 11-14

Outlook: The Hornets flight into this season begins with a new group of talent in the nest as head coach Tony Roach begins his seventh season at the helm. With only three seniors and without a single starter to begin the season, the sky is the limit for opportunity. Senior forwards Jacob Gaylor (6.2ppg/4.1reb), and Garrett Sauer join 5-10 guard Michael Haltom as the players that Roach will look to for leadership. Junior forward

Miami • Vinita

Gunner Reed and sophomore point guard Grant Watkins will have key responsibilities in the lineup along with a boost of scoring and defensive production from Tylan Derosia, Kyle Johnson, M.J. Shield Gabe Sooter and Cole Owen. “We’re starting over,” admits Roach referencing the absence of returning starters. “Our three seniors understand the system and are trying to make sure the young guys know their roles on the court. We’ll mix and match what we do based on our opponent. The opportunities for playing time are aplenty and with our length and athleticism can be a good team by the time playoffs roll around. The kids will do one thing for certain, they WILL work hard.” Michael Haltom 5-10 G Sr. Jacob Gaylor 6-1 F Sr. Garrett Sauer 6-3 F Sr. Gunner Reed 6-3 F Jr. Ethan Gibson 5-11 G Jr. Tylan Derosia 6-3 F Jr. Grant Watkins 5-9 G So. Kyle Johnson 6-2 G So. M.J. Shield 5-10 G Jr. Gabe Sooter 6-3 F So. Cole Owen 6-2 F So.

a ProRx Pharmacy

Miami • 11 West Central • 918-542-4444 Vinita • 207 W. Illinois • 918-256-6459 22

VYPEOK.COM

D ecem b e r - J a n u a r y 2 0 1 5

Character Counts

Athletes of the Month

Presented by Stout-Ferguson Chiropractic having a huge part in making her who she is today.

“My mom and dad have both had a huge influence on my life because my mom has always been there to talk me through things and help me understand Lily Jeffries when something needs Grove Basketball to change, and my dad has been a huge leader for me through my sports Grove senior Lily Jeffries and teaching me how to is a standout on the basketball floor for the Lady work for what I want,” Ridgerunners as well as on Jeffries said. the track. But athletics isn’t After high school Jeffries all Jeffries is involved with plans to earn a bachelor’s at Grove. degree in nursing and later Jeffries is also a member of become a registered nurse. the Ridgerunner band and For her effort in athletics, a member of the Integris academics and other Grove Student Hospital extra-curricular activities Board. A hard worker in Lily Jeffries is the Grove everything she does Jeffries Character Counts Athlete of credits her parents for the Month.

Grove Ridgerunners wrestler Garrett Sisco has spent some serious time on the mat, wrestling since he was 12 years old. That dedication paid off last season when Garrett not only earned a spot in the Class 5A state tournament but also won his first match at state.

When asked about who has been his biggest influence Sisco pointed to those closest to him.

“The biggest influence on my life has been my parents and coach John Henry II. They push me to be the best person I can be on and off the mat,” Sisco said.

Garrett Sisco Grove Wrestling

college and earn a degree.

For his continued dedication to becoming a better wrestler, better student, and most importantly a better person Garrett Sisco is the Grove Character Counts Athlete of the Month.

After high school Garrett said he hopes to go to

Special Discount for Student Athletes!

D ecem b e r - J a n u a r y 2 0 1 5

VYPEOK.COM

N o r t h e a s t O K B AS K ET B A L L P RE V I E W

stretch run of last season. Combo guard Kelsey Gorham (So.) will also be crucial to the Grove gameplan as a player who can do multiple jobs on the perimeter.

GROVE RIDGERUNNERS Website: www.ridgerunners. net GIRLS Richard Bassett 13-14 Record: 11-11

Outlook: The Lady Ridgerunners bring back four very experienced players this year as they look to improve on last season’s 11-11 record. Grove will also have more depth this year according to Richard Bassett which paired with the returning experience should equal more wins. “I feel like we are a little better this year with a deeper bench and a lot of experienced players coming back,” Bassett said. Leading the way for the Lady Ridgerunners will be point guard Kara Bassett (Sr.) and guard Libby Morris (Sr.). Bassett will handle the

majority of the ballhandling duties but also poses a threat to score from nearly anywhere on the floor. Morris meanwhile is an athletic attacking guard who can get to the rim off the dribble or post up smaller defenders and bully them in the paint. Forwards Lily Jeffries (Sr.) and Paige Miller (Jr.) will be the players the Lady Ridgerunners turn to in the frontcourt. Jeffries started last year while Miller came on late and cracked the starting lineup during the

Kara Bassett PG Sr. Libby Morris G Sr. Lily Jeffries F Sr. Paige Miller F Jr. Kelsey Gorham G So. Lanie Befort So. Madison Lloyd Fr. Cheyenne Tanner Fr.

BOYS Zach Trimbe 13-14 Record: 6-17

Outlook: No returning starters is a tough thing to overcome for any team. For Grove it may be a bit tougher than for others when you consider their very challenging schedule and the fact that the Ridgerunners join the very tough Metro Lakes conference this year. “We have a lot to replace

after a core group of seniors graduated. Young players will have to step up and form roles. We have a lot of inexperience to overcome but I’m excited about the group of boys we have,” head coach Zach Trimbe said. On the perimeter, look for Justin Sanders (6-0, Jr.) to lead the way for the Ridgerunners. Joe Carlson (58, So.) and Brady Phillips (60, So.) will also be key figures in the backcourt this year. On the interior Sam Pagels (6-3, Jr.) gives Grove its best size meanwhile Will Amos (61, Fr.) is a talented newcomer who will make a big impact not only this year but for year’s to come. Justin Sanders 6-0 G Jr. Sam Pagels 6-3 F Jr. Will Amos 6-1 F Fr. Joe Carlson 5-8 G So. Brady Phillips 6-0 G So.

Your Success Starts Here. Rogers State University provides – Small class sizes – Personalized academic attention – Financial aid packages – On-campus housing – NCAA Division II athletics

www.rsu.edu | 800-256-7511

Cl a re more | Bartlesvi lle | Pryor | Onli ne 24

VYPEOK.COM

D ecem b e r - J a n u a r y 2 0 1 5

GOOD LUCK RIDGERUNNERS At Grand Lake Orthopedic we are dedicated to providing exceptional care to our patients. Our orthopedic surgeon Dr. Tyson Trimble specializes in sports medicine and orthopedics, which includes the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of disorders of the bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, muscles and nerves (musculoskeletal system).

Dr. Tyson Trimble is proud to be the official sports medicine physician for the Ridgerunners. D ecem b e r - J a n u a r y 2 0 1 5

VYPEOK.COM

N o r t h e a s t O K B AS K ET B A L L P RE V I E W

PRYOR TIGERS Website: www.pryorok.org GIRLS Kim Barth 13-14 Record: 0-23

Outlook: The Lady Tigers battled through an injuryriddled season last year and finished with a 0-23 record. This season the Lady Tigers return just two starters and have been putting in the time in the gym to make themselves better according to head coach Kim Barth. “We worked extremely hard in the preseason. It was a tough year last year because of injuries so we are hoping to keep everyone healthy and gain some respect in 5A,” Barth

Emily Osborne, Rachel Zumstein

College doesn’t offer the only path to success. See for yourself. Near 0% 12.2%

OSUIT Unemployment Degree Rates Based Some College on Educational But No Degree Attainment Bachelor’s % Degree +

27K

75%

report shortage of skilled workers in manufacturing

the average college student loan debt

FACT:

It will take 39%of college graduates 10+ years to pay off their student loans.

Master’s Degree

OVER

60K

average annual income for manufacturing workers in OK

The truth is the facts about career training and manufacturing might surprise you. Earn competitive pay at a young age without worrying about student loan debt. If you are a parent or student who is intersted in gaining the skills needed in today’s job market, talk to your high school guidance counselor for more information or contact the MidAmerica Career Center.

Bachelor’s Degree 1 year certificate

or 2 year degree

1:2:7 26

VYPEOK.COM

Job Availability Ratio

D ecem b e r - J a n u a r y 2 0 1 5

57%

of jobs requiring skilled training by 2018

4075 Sanders Mitchell St Pryor Creek, Oklahoma 74361 918.825.3500 Visit MidAmericaDelivers.com and MAIP.com for more info.

said. Versatile athlete Hunter Gilstrap (5-8, So.) will start at guard this year and be a major impact player for the Lady Tigers. Gilstrap is a combo guard that can play multiple spots on the perimeter but also take defenders into the paint and bully them on the block. Kelsie Kerns (5-7, Jr.) and Sarah Wood (5-5, Fr.) will both see significant time at the other guard spots this year. Rachel Zumstein (5-9, Sr.) will lead the Lady Tigers in the frontcourt this season. Destiny Richards (5-9, So.) will also be a player the Lady Tigers turn to for production in the paint this year.

Rachel Zumstein 5-9 C Sr. Kelsie Kerns 5-7 G Jr. Hunter Gilstrap 5-8 G So. Destiny Richards 5-9 F So. Sarah Wood 5-5 G Fr. Alyissa Harny C Halee Nichols G BOYS Russ Gilmore 13-14 Record: 12-11

Outlook: The Tigers finished just above .500 this year and with three starters returning hope to build on the foundation that was laid by last year’s team. Overall head coach Russ Gilmore praised his players’ blue-collar mentality. “They are good kids who work hard. We have good experience back from a year ago but we will be in

a lot of close games. There is no margin for error,” Gilmore said. Senior guard Robert Ross (6-2, Sr.) is a player to watch in the Pryor offense this year after he averaged 15 points and 3.0 assists per game last year. Tyler Arnold (6-1, So.) is another guard who Pryor will count on to score the basketball. As a freshman Arnold averaged 10 points and 2.5 assists per game as he showed glimpses of just how good he could be by the end of his high school career. Tyler Bradshaw (6-1, Sr.) and Anthony Martinez (5-11, Jr.) will also be key contributors on the perimeter this year for the Tigers. Last year Martinez averaged 6.0 points and

4.0 assists per game and will be expected to up those numbers this year. Forward Donley Ledoux (6-4, Sr.) will be the Tigers only true post player in the starting lineup and give the Tigers some muscle on the glass. Robert Ross 6-2 G Sr. Anthony Martinez 5-11 G Jr. Tyler Arnold 6-1 G So. Donley Ledoux 6-4 F Sr. Tyler Bradshaw 6-1 G Sr. Brice Daniels

200 S Adair St, Pryor, Oklahoma 74361 (918) 825-3059

D ecem b e r - J a n u a r y 2 0 1 5

VYPEOK.COM

Adair Warriors Website: www.adair.k12.ok.us GIRLS Scott Winfield 13-14 Record: 28-2

Outlook: Last season the Adair girls ripped off 21-straight wins and made it all the way to the Class 3A state title game only to have their heart ripped out by the Alva Ladybugs and the heroics of Jaden Hobbs. This season the Lady Warriors bring back just two starters but both of those players, Kylie Looney (5-8, Sr.) and Keni Lippe (5-8, So.), are VYPE Top 100 selections. Looney, who signed with Northeastern State, is an athletic point guard who averaged 16 points per game last year and has the ability to shoot the three as well as go to the rim. Lippe meanwhile also averaged 16 points per game and is a strong and physical guard capable of taking bigger defenders off the dribble or bullying smaller ones into the paint. Surrounding Looney and Lippe this year will be guards Abbey Stephens (5-6, Jr.) and Calley Stephens (5-8 So.) and forward Chloe Maritz (5-10 So.). Last year Maritz and Calley Stephens both averaged 4.0 points per game while Abbey averaged 3.0 points per game. Kylie Looney 5-8 PG Sr. Keni Lippe 5-8 G So. Chloe Maritz 5-10 F So. Abbey Stephens 5-6 G Jr. Calley Stephens 5-8 G So. BOYS Travis Cannady 13-14 Record: 15-10

Outlook: An extremely young team last year Adair finished

Jerame McCollum 15-10 but is looking for great improvement this year with all five starters back in the fold. The straw that stirs the drink for Adair will be forward B.J. Bradbury (6-2, So.). Last year Bradbury averaged 14.6 points and 6.5 rebounds per game and will be expected to put up even bigger numbers this year. Also working on the block will be forward Brock Martin (6-2, Jr.), who averaged 7.6 points per game in 2013-14. Fans can look for point guard Bo Rogers (5-10, So.) and guards Jereme McCollum (6-0, Jr.) and Cody Eby (5-10, Jr.) to be the leaders in the backcourt for the Warriors. The Warriors will also feature an extremely deep bench with six other players capable of seeing significant time. Because of that depth head coach Travis Cannady said that chemistry will be a major factor in his team’s success. “Our chemistry as a team is our biggest impact player. We feel that any one of our players on any night has the ability to affect the outcome of the game be it offensively or defensively.”

shy of 20 wins last season the Wildcats have high expectations for this year. Third year head coach Mark Fraley spoke about his squad this season, “We have the potential to be a top 10 team this season depending on how the young players come together. Class 3A is so tough especially in the northeast part of the state. Top nine out of 10 players return from last season.” Courtney Condit (5-8, Jr.) returns for her third season and is a threat both inside and from the outside as shown by her 18.8 points average last year. Condit pulled down 6.8 rebounds from her post position while averaging 3.6 assists and 1.5 steals as a sophomore. At the other post spot will be Cassi Barry (5-8, Jr.) who averaged just under six points per game and 6.2 rebounds but was a force defensively averaging 1.3 blocks and 1.5 steals per game. In the backcourt Shaylee Morgan (5-8, So.) is the second leading returning scorer for the Wildcats while Morgan Littlefield (5-7, Sr.) can fill up a stat sheet in a number of ways. Manay McCarter (5-7, So.) will round out the backcourt after averaging 4.1 points per game as a freshman. Look for Sydney Sanders to provide a spark off the bench this season. Courtney Condit 5-8 P Jr. Shaylee Morgan 5-8 G So. Cassi Barry 5-8 P Jr. Morgan Littlefield 5-7 G Sr. Manay McCarter 5-7 G So. Sydney Sanders

BOYS Jody Hull 2013-14 Record: 13-14

Outlook: Entering his first season as head coach at Salina, coach Jody Hull is no stranger to Oklahoma high school basketball. Entering his 25th season of coaching Hull most recently spent two years at Haileyville coaching both the boys and girls teams. At Salina he will be required to find players that can replace the production of high scorers Cale Backward and Mark Cowan from last year’s team. Hull, who likes to put points on the board out of the press and half-court traps, will look to point guard Coby Backward (5-9, Jr.) as strong offensive option after not only averaging 8.7 points but also dishing out 4.2 assists per game. In the post Colton Burgess (6-4, Sr.) will give the new head coach for the Wildcats another option as he averaged 12 points and 10 rebounds last year. Bryce Kerns (5-8, Jr.) could see his 6.2 points per game average increase in Hull’s offense as the Wildcats shooting guard. Keep an eye also on Jared Mellowbug (5-10, Jr.) and Cody Daniels (510, Jr.) two guys that play along the offensive line of the football team to make their presence known. Luke Laster Jackson Winrow Tanner Rowland Antonio Garza

6-3 F Sr. 5-11 G Jr. 5-9 G Sr. 5-10 G Jr.

B.J. Bradbury 6-2 F So. Bo Rogers 5-10 PG So. Brock Martin 6-2 F Jr. Jereme McCollum 6-0 G Jr. Cody Eby 5-10 G Jr. Ty Cannady 6-1 Sr. James Eastin 6-2 Sr. Derek Dillman 6-2 Sr. Lane Yoder 6-2 Jr. Travis Brand 6-0 So.

Salina Wildcats Website: www.salina.k12.ok.us

Kylie Looney 28

VYPEOK.COM

GIRLS Mark Fraley 2013-14 Record: 17-10

Outlook: After totaling just

D ecem b e r - J a n u a r y 2 0 1 5

Morgan Littlefield, Coby Blackwell

LOCUST GROVE PIRATES Website: www.lg.k12.ok.us GIRLS Justin Brown 13-14 Record: 18-8

Outlook: Last season the Lady Pirates finished 18-8, just steps away from the state tournament after being eliminated in the area tournament. This season don’t expect the Lady Pirates to be satisfied with anything less than a

Rylie Torrey

gold ball though. Returning is guard Madison Davis (6-0, Sr.) who averaged 14 points, six rebounds, 2.5 assists and 2.5 steals per game last year. Davis is also committed to play at DII West Texas A&M next season. Oral Roberts commit and VYPE Top 100 selection Rylie Torrey (5-11, Sr.) will team with Davis this year after coming to Locust Grove from Weatherford. Last year Torrey averaged 15.5 points, 5.0 rebounds, 3.5 assists and 2.5 steals per game. Also working in Locust Grove’s guard-oriented offense will be Kennedy Sockoloski (5-10, Sr.) and Morgan Littlebear (5-8, Sr.). A year ago Sockoloski averaged 8.5 points and 6.0 rebounds per game while Littlebear averaged 5.8 and 3.7 rebounds per contest. Other players that fans can expect to play big roles this year are Brianna Grass (5-6, Jr.), Haylie Gregory (5-6, Jr.), Sheridan Houser (5-8, Jr.) and Macy Pierce (5-7, So.). Rylie Torrey 5-11 G Sr. Madison Davis 6-0 G Sr.

Kennedy Sockoloski 5-10 G Sr. Morgan Littlebear 5-8 G Sr. Brianna Grass 5-6 G Jr. Haylie Gregory 5-6 F Jr. Sheridan Houser 5-8 G Jr. Macy Pierce 5-7 G So. BOYS Dusty Torrey 13-14 Record: 22-4

Outlook: Dusty Torrey takes over on the sidelines for Locust Grove this season leading a team that finished 22-4 last year and made it all the way to the area tournament. With four starters back the transition to a new system may be a bit easier but Torrey said there will still be a learning curve. “This is my first year as the Locust Grove boys coach so we will be learning from each other every day this season. From what I have seen this summer and on last year’s game film we should be able to place a very quick and athletic team on the floor with solid offensive balance,” Torrey said. “Our guards can really score at times and our post players do a nice job around the basket as well. Defense will be our emphasis and we will look to run and apply very

good defensive pressure on our opponents.” The trio of Tyler Rowland (6-1, Sr.), Mason Fine (5-9, Jr.0 and Colton Pike (6-4, Sr.) will be the driving force behind the Pirates offense this year. Last season Rowland averaged 13.2 points and 6.1 rebounds per game from his spot at guard while Fine averaged 12.5 points, 3.6 assists and 3.1 steals per game. With Rowland and Fine working on the outside, Pike gives the Pirates a big presence inside and averaged 11.6 points and 8.2 rebounds per game last year. Point guard Zach Robinson (5-8, Jr.) and forward Jason Pirtle (6-2, Jr.) round out the starting five. Last year Robinson averaged 7.8 points and 4.1 assists per game while Pirtle missed most of last year with an injury. Tyler Rowland 6-1 G Sr. Mason Fine 5-9 G Jr. Colton Pike 6-4 C Sr. Zach Robinson 5-8 PG Jr. Jason Pirtle 6-2 F Jr. Keven Wadlow 6-2 F Sr. Zach Bailey 6-4 F Jr. Wyatt Rogers 6-0 G Sr.

THERE’S MORE THAN ONE PLACE TO FIND A

Unlike any other university in Oklahoma, OSU Institute of Technology in Okmulgee offers an applied education where students learn by using the latest equipment and technology found in their field of study. With industry-experienced instructors and internships as the cornerstone of our programs, our job placement rate among graduates is one of the highest in the state.

PISTOLS FIRING from OSUIT in OKMULGEE

Find out more at osuit.edu or call 800.722.4471

D ecem b e r - J a n u a r y 2 0 1 5

VYPEOK.COM

Character Counts Athlete of the Month

Rhett Minson at State Farm is proud to highlight the great studentathletes in the Pryor area who portray great character on and off the field. Pryor High School Senior Emily Osborne is this month’s Character Counts athlete for VYPE. A basketball player, cross country runner, track runner and a baseball trainer, Osborne keeps her schedule busy with athletics, not to mention she is the President of FCA, the Yearbook Editor, helped build the school’s website and is a member of FBC Claremore.

In Osborne’s free time, she spends it wisely, with her family. “I love spending time with my family, whether going to the gym to shoot with my dad and little brother or during the spring at the baseball field hanging with my dad (the coach) and my brother, too,” Osborne said.

Emily Osborne Pryor Basketball

Osborne aspires to someday become a physical therapist because of her recent experience with an ACL tear, or possibly follow in her dad’s footsteps of becoming a teacher and coach. As far as the next step, Osborne is not 100% sure where she will end up, but knows it will all work out. “I have faith I am going to end up where God wants me to be,” Osborne said.

For your quality character and inspiring aspirations, we honor you as this month’s Character Counts athlete for Pryor, Emily!

When I say “good,” you say “neighbor.” Rhett Minson, Agent 716 S Mill Pryor, OK 74361 Bus: 918-825-4000 rhett.minson.mdjt@statefarm.com

P097314.1 30

VYPEOK.COM

Now that's teamwork. CALL FOR A QUOTE 24/7

State Farm Home Office, Bloomington, IL |

D ecem b e r - J a n u a r y 2 0 1 5

Northeast Technology Athlete of the MOnth

Brandon Harper & Caleb Crites - Colcord

Northeastern Tech Students and Colcord High School football players Brandon Harper and Caleb Crites are this month’s NE Tech student athletes of the Month. Brandon’s memories on the field range from beating Haskell in the game before playoffs, in which Harper ran for a first down and run the clock to win the game, to his teams win against big rivals Kansas, Westville and Commerce Tigers.

“I love every minute of playing football with my team, my family. These are memories I will never forget,” Harper said. “One of the things I remember most is running behind Harper as he sprinted down the sidelines. There’s not a better feeling than blocking for one guy. It’s really like protecting your brother, your family,” Crites said Harper’s experience at Northeastern Tech

has been enhanced greatly because of the staff and intentionality of the people there.

“From bus drivers to teachers to the cooks, NTC has amazing staff who are great people. They all set such a great example and are hard-workers,” Harper said.

“My favorite class at NTC is by far electrical because I love getting to do stuff with my hands, such as pipe bending and residential wiring,” Harper said. Crites enjoys the many courses that are helping prepare him for his goal of

becoming a personal trainer.

“NTC is amazing. In my health careers class, I always learn something new about the body. I plan to take this knowledge and use it in my future job,” Crites said.

D ecem b e r - J a n u a r y 2 0 1 5

VYPEOK.COM

D ecem b e r - J a n u a r y 2 0 1 5