Showing posts with label college sports. Show all posts
Showing posts with label college sports. Show all posts


2024-2025 Mountain West Coaches on the Move: A Tracking Guide

This piece aims at bringing you up-to-date with the most recent developments concerning the coaching changes within the Mountain West conference.

Make sure to visit frequently for the most recent updates.

Vacant Positions:

Air Force: DT

Colorado State: TE

Fresno State: WR, S

San Jose State: Wide Receivers coach

Updates:

https://csurams.com/news/2025/1/29/football-norvell-announces-staff-updates

  • 4-8-25: Wyoming announced Gary Harrell serves as the running backs coach.
  • 3-7-25: UNLV announced Paul Guenther serves as the safeties coach.
  • 2-27-25: Nevada announced Jim Mastro serves as the running backs coach.
  • 2-25-25: Colorado State announced Matt Ah You from Nickelback’s team, Clint Sintim who plays as a linebacker (LB), Nigel Madison for cornerback positions (CBs), along with Trent Matthews specializing in the run game.
  • 2-5-25: Colorado State announced Grant Chesnut serves as the tight ends coach.
  • 2-4-25: Air Force announced Fred Wyatt serves as the assistant defensive line coach.
  • 2-3-25: Fresno State announced Delvon Hardaway serves as the wide receivers coach.
  • 1-30-25: New Mexico announced Clay Bignell serves as the coach for safeties.
  • 1-29-25: UNLV announced Jeremy Bruce serves as the Outside Linebackers coach.
  • 1-24-25: Fresno State announced Tucker Meyer serves as Nickels' coach.
  • 1-21-24: New Mexico announced Colin Lockett at WR coach, Jared Elliott as TE coach, and Spence Nowinsky as DC/LB coach.
  • 1-21-24: Colorado State announced Brayden Herdic will serve as the Safety coach, with John Janceck taking on the role of OLB coach.
  • 1/17: Utah State announced Its whole new team of coaches.
  • 1-16: Wyoming announced Jovon Bouknight as WR coach.
  • 1/15: Fresno State announced Marcus Hall-Oliver as Edge coach, Jordan Gigli as DL coach, and Brian Ferentz as TE coach.
  • 1/15: Fresno State is expected to appoint DelVon Hardaway as its new wide receivers coach.
  • 1/15: San Diego State announced Roy Manning serves as their EDGE coach.
  • 1/14: Nevada announced the advancement of David Gilbertson to OC.
  • 1/11: Colorado State will reportedly Add John Jancek as the outside linebacker coach.
  • 1/11: Brian Ferentz is expected to become the tight ends coach at Fresno State.
  • 1/11: Colorado State will reportedly Promote TE coach James Finley to become the WR coach.
  • 1/10: Colorado State announced the appointment of Allen Brown as cornerbacks coach.
  • 1/10: Matt Johnson was promoted to OC.
  • 1/10: Miami is expected to employ Hawaii GM Keiki Misipeka.
  • 1/9: Boise State announced Zak Hill will serve as the quarterback coach.
  • 1/8: The defensive tackles coach for the Cowboys, Jeff Phelps, departed to join Ohio State. announced The appointment of Deonte Gibson as the defensive tackle coach. Previously, he was associated with Air Force.
  • 1/8: UNLV announced Quinton Ganther serves as the running backs coach.
  • 1/7: It is reported That Chad Savage, who currently coaches wide receivers at Colorado State, is set to join the staff at USC.
  • 1/7: New Mexico is expected to employ Colin Lockett for the position of wide receivers coach.
  • 1/7: New Mexico has announced new appointments. John Johnson as RB coach, Daniel Da Prato As an assistant head coach focusing on special teams,
  • 1/5: It is reported Daniel Da Prato will be joining the New Mexico team as the special teams coordinator.
  • 1-3: It is reported SJSU plans to elevate Billy Ray Stutzmann to the position of wide receivers coach.
  • 1-3: UNLV announced Adam Scheier as special teams coach, Mike Sollenne as OL coach, Kyle Hoke Adrian Mayes serves as the tight ends coach, and Andrell safety coach. (Note: There seems to be an inconsistency with "Andrell" not clearly indicating a role like 'safeties'. If this was intended differently please clarify.)
  • 1-3: Fresno State announced Adam Breske serves as the linebacker coach.
  • 1-3: Boise State tight ends coach Nate Potter was promoted to the OC position.
  • 1-2: The running backs coach at Wyoming, Gordie Haug, departed for North Dakota. hired Donnell Kirkwood Jr has been appointed as the new running backs coach.
  • 12-30: UNLV announced Zach Arnett is serving as their DC.
  • 12-29: Sacramento State hired Marcus Patton, who serves as the Colorado State cornerback coach, has been appointed as their defensive coordinator.
  • 12-28: Fresno State announced Nick Benedetto portraying the role of DC.
  • 12-27: UNLV is expected to bring aboard Adrian Mayes as their TE coach.
  • 12-26: New Mexico announced Stanley Franks Jr. serving as the defensive backs coach and passing game coordinator.
  • 12-26: Fresno State announced Josh Davis will serve as their offensive coordinator.
  • 12-23: New Mexico announced Cody Booth as OL coach, Dan Jackson as DC/LB coach, Hebron Fangupo as DL coach, and John Waters as Director of Scouting.
  • 12-23: Tyson Summers was announced as the Director of Corrections for Colorado State
  • 12-20: Fresno State announced the appointment of Zach Crabtree as its offensive line coach.
  • 12-20: Colorado State is targeting Western Kentucky has appointed Tyson Summers as their DC.
  • 12-19: The defensive coordinator of UNLV is Mike Scherer. joining Barry Odom at Purdue.
  • 12-19: Dan Mullen is targeting Ohio State quarterback coach Corey Dennis could take on an additional position within his team's coaching staff, likely as offensive coordinator or quarterbacks coach.
  • 12-17: Brennan Marion is set To accept the head coaching position at Sacramento State and will not be involved in the bowl game.
  • 12-17: Dan Mullen is pursuing Zach Arnett will serve as the DC at UNLV.
  • 12-17: Jason Eck is reportedly He brought numerous Idaho coaches along with him. This includes Luke Schleusner (offensive coordinator/quarterbacks), Dan Jackson (defensive coordinator/linebackers), Cody Booth (offense line), and Loni Fangupo (defense line).
  • 12-16: Dan Mullen will reportedly employ Jon Clark for the position of GM/chief of staff
  • 12-14: New Mexico announced Idaho has appointed Jason Eck as their new head coach.
  • 12-13: San Diego State announced and promoted Rob Aurich to serve as their defensive coordinator.
  • 12-12: UNLV hired Dan served as their head coach
  • 12-11: Several accounts indicate that Dan Mullen has emerged as a title in the UNLV job listing.
  • 12-11: Kirby Moore has emerged As a title in the New Mexico employment hunt.
  • 12-11: Matt Wells took the lead target For the New Mexico project, he stepped back from contention.
  • 12-10: Nevada Offensive Coordinator/Quarterbacks Coach Matt Lubick left to accept the CO/TE position in Kansas.
  • 12-8: OC Brennan Marion remains as candidate For the UNLV head coaching position.
  • 12-8: The head coach position at Purdue was awarded to UNLV's coach Barry Odom.
  • 12-7-24: Utah State will hire SJSU has appointed WR coach Kevin McGiven as their Offensive Coordinator.
  • 12-6-24: New Mexico Head Coach Bronco Mendenhall was announced as the new head coach at Utah State.
  • 12-5-24: The Officer in Charge (OC) of New Mexico, Jason Beck, has been hired as the Utah OC.
  • 12-5-24: There are multiple reports That Bronco Mendenhall is set to interview for the Utah State position today.
  • 12-4: Fresno State announced the appointment of Matt Entz as their head coach.
  • 12-4-24: Kevin Lytle reports Freddie Banks will not be returning as the defensive coordinator at Colorado State.
  • 12-4-24: The Athletic is reporting Fresno State plans to appoint USC linebackers coach Matt Entz as their upcoming head coach.
  • 12-3-24: It is being reported Brent Vigen is the top contender for the Fresno State position.
  • 12-2-24: Football Scoop reports Bronco Mundenhall has become a key figure of interest for Utah State University. Additionally, Nate Dreiling and Jay Hill have been noted as potential contenders. It’s worth mentioning that Brent Vigen is being considered for both the Utah State and Fresno State positions.
  • 12-1-24: MWCConnection reports Jay Hill sought facility and budget enhancements from Utah State, but the two parties remained significantly distant in their negotiations.
  • 11-25-24: JD Walker reports That Carlos Locklyn and Justin Frye are two individuals to watch out for regarding the Utah State head coaching position.
  • 11-24-24: MWCConnection reported Jay Hill and one current Mountain West head coach are among the four shortlisted candidates for the Utah State head coaching role. Additionally, a second coach from the same conference has had an interview for the position.


Texas A&M Football: Mike Elko Highlights Spring Progress, Responds to DJ Hicks' Remarks

COLLEGE STATION — Like this Texas A&M football program enters the second half of spring ball, many players are still adjusting to new roles and opportunities.

The most significant shift on the Aggies' roster might be happening on the defensive line, as three key players—Shemar Stewart, Nic Scourton, and Shemar Turner—are now focusing on their aspirations for an NFL career.

The three's absence has created several holes along the defense, which the Aggies have addressed aggressively since the 2024 season concluded.

A&M included four additions through the portal and an additional four from the high school level. They also retain players like DJ Hicks, Albert Regis, and Rylan Kennedy, expected to take on bigger responsibilities.

This is what Hicks and head coach Mike Elka shared following the Aggies' practice on Wednesday:

More: How Bucky McMillan might revamp Texas A&M basketball following Buzz Williams' exit

Why DJ Hicks might have an impressive season coming up.

When Hicks joined A&M in the 2023 recruitment cycle, he arrived as an exceptionally promising athlete. According to three prominent scouting organizations—247Sports, ESPN, and Rivals—he earned a five-star rating and secured positions within the top 15 nationally. Additionally, 247Sports designated him as the premier talent in the state of Texas.

Many spots might have allowed Hicks to step in immediately and play, considering he only had 325 defensive snaps in 2024, ranking as the 17th highest total on the team. However, remaining with the Aggies proved to be advantageous for Hicks.

"To be 100% percent honest, it's difficult," Hicks told reporters about not playing much early. "It's hard coming in as a highly-regarded recruit, thinking you're going to play a lot, and then having to wait your turn. It taught me a lot."

Over the past two seasons, Hicks has played in 24 games, starting in both bowl games during this period. He recorded a total of 30 tackles, including five tackles for loss and 2½ sacks.

The days of him feeling around are over," Head Coach Mike Elka stated to journalists about Hicks. "He understands what it takes to be a college football player. Last year definitely gave him a good sense of that experience.

More: Texas A&M football: Transfer portal addition Jordan Shaw turning heads at CB

Elko tackles an alarming slogan.

During Wednesday's session with the media, Hicks garnered notice due to an unsettling remark he made regarding a slogan his fellow team members use.

Hicks referred to "C.B.O." as the benchmark of performance he and his fellow players aim to maintain.

Last season’s defensive line demonstrated to us the standard of excellence we should strive for through their dedication and approach to each day,” Hicks stated. “We’re continuing to adhere to our slogan, which remains ‘C.B.O.,’ embodying everything we believe in.

When questioned regarding the abbreviation Hicks, 20, provided an unsettling answer. He stated, "In simple terms: Strangle a woman. Let’s put it that way," according to Hicks.

When confronted directly with Hicks' remark, Elko firmly opposed it and said it would be "dealt with."

It’s sharing information that should not have been shared, so we will address and resolve this issue," Elko stated. "It’s completely absurd that such a statement was made.

It's uncertain how Elko will respond to the remark.

'Moving in the right direction'

Spring practices hold significant importance and have been highlighted by Elko as crucial periods for the Aggies' growth.

Nevertheless, the Aggies' head coach chose not to make big statements regarding what they had gleaned from the initial nine practice sessions.

"I'm confident, but it's the middle of spring. I'm confident that we're making the next step. I'm confident that we'll get there," Elko said.

"There's progress. There's always progress. We're moving in the right direction ... I'm happy with how we're working. I'm happy with where we're going. I'm happy with the development and improvement."

The Aggies are allotted 15 total spring practices and have six more scheduled before their spring game on April 19.

A&M's 10th spring practice is Thursday morning. The media will be allowed to view the first 30 minutes of practice.

Reach Texas A&M Beat Reporter Tony Catalina via email at ACatalina@gannett.com. Follow the American-Statesman on Facebook and X for more. Your subscription makes work like this possible. Access all of our finest material with this tremendous offer .

This article originally appeared on Austin American-Statesman: Texas A&M Football: Mike Elko Notes Spring Advancement, Responds to DJ Hicks' Remark



Syracuse Star Turns Heads: Transfer phenom commits to Mississippi State (Report)

In Syracuse, New York, Quincy Ballard—a previous star player from Henninger High School who was regarded as one of the better center choices in the current NCAA transfer portal—has decided to commit to Mississippi State, as reported by 247 Sports' Dushawn London.

London cited Ballard’s agent.

When Ballard opted for Florida State right after high school, Syracuse still showed interest in him. Similarly, they reached out again during his initial transfer when he chose Wichita State instead.

It appears that Syracuse did not pursue him on this occasion.

Ballard, standing 6 feet 11 inches tall as a center, significantly improved throughout the previous two years at Wichita State. During his fifth season playing collegiate basketball, he managed to average almost a double-double.

In more than 33 games, Ballard maintained an average of 10 points and 9.2 rebounds over 27.6 minutes of playtime. Additionally, he showcased his defensive prowess as a shot blocker, with 1.9 blocks per game.

Ballard hit 75.1% of his field goals but just 55.7% of his free throws. Last season, Wichita State ended with a record of 19-15.

Because he had one season affected by the coronavirus pandemic and another cut short by an injury, he qualifies for a sixth year of collegiate basketball eligibility.

Ballard was rated as the No. 8 center in the NCAA transfer portal and the No. 89 overall transfer prospect according to the rankings. EvanMiya.com, and the number 13 center along with the number 124 player On3.com.

Before attending Quality Education Academy in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, Ballard spent one year playing varsity basketball at Henninger High School.

Syracuse indeed needed to add several centers during the off-season, and so far, they have signed a lesser-known duo for this position. UCLA’s William Kyle III and Georgia Tech’s Ibrahim Souare.

The largest transfer additions for Syracuse have been at the point guard position. (Naithan George) and wing (Nate Kingz).

Contact Chris Carlson anytime: Email ’ Twitter ’ 315-382-7932

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Will Florida Basketball Defend Their Title in 2025-26? Oddsmakers and Early Top 25 Polls Weigh In

While Florida basketball and its fans continue to bask in the glow of the program’s third national championship, attention has already begun to shift to next season.

Ultimately, the age of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) along with the transfer portal leaves little room for celebration. If the coach Todd Golden If he and his team do not swiftly shift their focus, the Gators could miss out on securing some of the top transfer players.

Repeating is UF basketball’s MO. Before UConn’s previous season, Florida The last time such repetition occurred was during the 2006-07 season. The Florida Gators team from that year kept all members of its starting lineup intact. In contrast, this current group will definitely see the departure of Aliyah Martin, Walter Clayton Jr., and Will Richard, as they have used up their remaining eligibility.

Despite this, the "Gator Boys" remain well-placed for achievement in the 2025-26 season. How do the odds makers and preseason Top 25 rankings view them?

What are the chances of Florida basketball repeating their success in the 2025-26 season?

Bet MGM Florida has odds of +2000 to defend their title, alongside BYU, Kentucky, Arkansas, Kansas, and Alabama. Among these teams, UF is the sole one to have reached this year’s Final Four.

In front of the Gators are Houston with odds at +900, Duke at +1000, UConn at +1400, Auburn also at +1600, Purdue at +1600 as well, and Louisville at +1800.

This places the Gators beneath all three of their Final Four counterparts and in a tie for second place within the SEC. The University of Florida’s recruitment class ranks lower than those of other programs, coming in at number thirty-one nationwide with commitments from Fort Lauderdale guard Alex Lloyd and Hawthorne/Montverde Academy forward CJ Ingram.

All the teams ranking above Florida, excluding Purdue and Louisville, boast higher-rated recruiting classes. Purdue brings back Braden Smith, while Louisville has added Xavier transfer Ryan Conwell.

How high does Florida rank in early pre-season top 25 rankings?

The Gators' ranking differs depending on the poll. According to Fox Sports’ John Fanta, UF is ranked 13th nationally, placing them third in their conference, trailing only No. 9 Alabama and No. 11 Auburn.

According to USA Today, Florida ranks slightly above at number 8 and holds the second position within the conference following Alabama. The piece mentions that although losing Clayton is significant, Florida gains an advantage with the comeback of majority of their interior players.

ESPN ranks the Gators at number 19, mentioning they will come back with a significantly altered starting lineup. However, this projection does not account for possible transfers and assumes the potential departure of Alex Condon, who may consider entering the NBA draft.

The roster includes Haugh, Rueben Chinyelu, Denzel Aberdeen, Urban Klavzar, and CJ Ingram.

In conclusion, CBS Sports ranks Florida at number nine, pointing out that the team retains seven of their top ten scorers.

Which players return for UF in the 2025-26 season?

The sole three Gators set to depart are the three starting guards. Aberdeen will step in to fill one spot. Klavzar, freshmen Isaiah Brown, Lloyd, Ingram, or any transfer player might claim the remaining two positions.

So long as Condon comes back, the Gators will have their whole frontcourt returning. This lineup includes Condon, Haugh, Chinyelu, and Micah Handlogten.

Noah Ram reports on high school sports in the Gainesville area as well as University of Florida athletics for The Gainesville Sun, GatorSports.com, and the USA TODAY Network. Reach out to him via email for more information. Nram@gannett.com and follow him @Noah_ram1 on X/Twitter.

The article initially appeared in The Gainesville Sun. Will Florida basketball defend their title in the 2025-26 season? Here’s what the odds makers and early preseason rankings suggest.



Sooners Surge Ahead: OU Softball Dominates OSU With Run-Rule Victory in Bedlam Showdown

Coach Patty Gasso and the second-ranked Oklahoma Sooners will face coach Kenny Gajewski and the 16th-ranked Oklahoma State Cowgirls In this season's single Bedlam softball match on Wednesday evening at Devon Park.

The Sooners (34-3) have secured victories in their last three matches, while the Cowgirls (23-11) come into the game having lost two consecutive matches.

This is the information you require. Sooners-Cowgirls game:

More: SEC softball power rankings: The Florida-Arkansas series, along with Tim Walton’s ejection, reshuffles the order

OU softball real-time score updates against Oklahoma State in the Bedlam game

More: Why Bedlam Softball Stays Significant for Oklahoma State as the Season Draws to an End

FINAL: OU 11, OSU 3 | The Sooners secure an run-rule victory with their last 11 runs in just five innings.

Kasidi Pickering barely failed to hit her second home run of the evening.

Pickering connected with a 3-2 pitch, sending it off the top of the fence in left field. She began jogging toward second base but then picked up speed again when the ball came back in, ultimately reaching second safely for an RBI double.

The Sooners earlier in the inning, scored a run when Ailana Agbayani got hit by a pitch, stole second base, and subsequently crossed home plate thanks to Hannah Coor’s hit to right field.

Pickering's double sent Coor home, giving the Sooners a 9-3 lead.

Pickering has gone 2 for 4 with three RBIs. She scored a two-run homer in the third inning.

Later, Ella Parker drove in a run with a double, making the score 10-3, and Gabbie Garcia continued the rally with an RBI single, resulting in a 11-3 victory for the Sooners.

Parker went 3 for 3. It was his first multi-hit game since March 1.

—Ryan Aber, Staff writer

More: OU softball cruises past OSU in Bedlam as Sooners and Cowgirls contribute to setting an NCAA attendance record

Bedlam softball breaks NCAA regular-season attendance mark

The Wednesday Bedlam match established a new attendance record for regular-season collegiate softball games.

The reported attendance for the crowd was 9,259.

The prior record was set at Devon Park as well. In 2023, a match between OU and Texas attracted a spectator count of 8,930.

—Ryan Aber, Staff writer

More: Oklahoma State's softball team was overcome by a 'here we go again' feeling after their Bedlam loss.

Top 5: OU 7, OSU 3 | Sam Landry maintains momentum with the Sooners

Following OU’s five-run outburst in the fourth, Sam Landry swiftly dominated the Cowgirls during the fifth inning.

Landry secured two outs with grounders to the shortstop prior to Nelly McEnroe-Marinas delivering a powerful toss on the move off Megan Delgadillo’s sluggish grounder towards third base, thus concluding the frame.

—Ryan Aber, Staff writer

CARLSON: How over 9,200 fans, along with two leading teams and an incredible stadium, created a landmark moment for NCAA softball.

Conclusion 4: OU 7, OSU 3 | Maya Bland hits a home run to put the Sooners in front

Maya Bland initiated a running procession for the Sooners.

She hit a three-run home run with one out to left field, giving the Sooners their initial lead for the evening. This was just the second home run of her sophomore season.

The pitch capitalized on Cowgirl ace Ruby Meylan walking the initial two hitters of the frame. Following the home run allowed, she induced a flyout and seemed nearly finished with the inning. However, an error by Karli Godwin at first base advanced Nelly McEnroe-Marianas to second, leaving Ella Parker at bat and putting additional pressure on the Cowgirls.

Parker sent a laser shot up the center that almost struck Meylan and resulted in scoring for McEnroe-Marianas.

Parker drove in a run with a double to left field hit by Gabbie Garcia.

This resulted in a pitching switch with Katie Kutz stepping in for Meylan. Kutz then induced pinch hitter Tia Malloy to ground out to the first baseman, thus concluding the inning.

—Jenni Carlson, columnist

MUSSATTO: OU and Oklahoma State softball teams are heading in opposite directions following a lopsided Bedlam game | Mussatto

Midsection 4: OSU 3, OU 2 | Sam Landry helps get the Sooners out of a bind

Early standout Sam Landry found himself in a major predicament.

Thanks to a pair of infield hits flanking a base-on-balls, The Cowgirls had runners at every bag without any outs on the board.

However, Landry managed through it, securing a line on a diving play from second baseman Ailana Agbayani, followed by striking out a batter and inducing a ground out.

—Jenni Carlson, columnist

Conclusion 3: OSU 3, OU 2 | Kasidi Pickering’s home run puts OU on the scoreboard

Maya Bland walked leading off the bottom of the third inning for OU, and the next batter, Kasidi Pickering, hit a homerun to right field, scoring the first runs of the game for OU.

OSU's Ruby Meylan issued a one-out walk, but she responded with a lineout and a strikeout to conclude the inning.

— Scott Wright, Correspondent Writer

Midsection 3: OSU OU | Rosie Davis' Homer ExtendsCowgirls' Lead

At OSU, second baseman Rosie Davis swung at an outside slow pitch and sent it over the center-right outfield wall for a solo homer, giving theCowgirls a 3-0 advantage.

Amanda Hasler then hit an infield single, yet the Cowgirls couldn't cause any further harm during the top of the third inning.

— Scott Wright, Team Writer

Conclusion 2: OSU 2, OU 0 | Ruby Meylan continues her impressive streak

Ailana Agbayani sent a line drive soaring above OSU left fielder Tia Warsop’s reach, resulting in a two-out double. However, no harm was inflicted as Ruby Meylan managed to retire Isabela Emerling, thus ending the inning.

—Joe Mussatto, columnist

Midsection 2: OSU 2, OU 0 | Sam Landry swiftly dominates the Cowgirls

Following a wobbly opening frame, Sam Landry dominated the Cowgirls during their turn at bat in the top of the second. Landry fanned Micaela Wark and then secured a pair of straightforward groundout outs.

—Joe Mussatto, columnist

Conclusion 1: OSU 2, OU | Ruby Meylan escapes difficulty

The Sooners appeared set for a clean inning with three consecutive outs, but they allowed a runner to reach base during the bottom of the first when Ella Parker managed to squeeze out a slow bouncer for an infield hit.

However, Cowgirl standout Ruby Meylan left her there after inducing a flyout to left field from Gabbie Garcia with a strong batting effort.

—Jenni Carlson, columnist

Middle 1: OSU 2, OU 0 | The Cowgirls take an early lead in Bedlam

A mistake-ridden start to the first inning by the Sooners has handed the Cowgirls an early advantage.

OSU’s speedster Tia Warsop was at first base when OU’s pitcher, Sam Landry, botched a ground ball hit by Rosie Davis. This mistake was followed by another error as Landry mishandled a throw to first, causing the ball to sail past Sooner’s first baseman, Cydney Sanders. These errors enabled Warsop to advance towards home plate. Despite Landry successfully throwing the ball back home in an attempt to stop her, Warsop managed to slide safely underneath the tag.

After one more pitch, the Sooners made an additional mistake. This time, it was due to a ball hitting the glove of third baseman Nelly McEnroe-Marinas.

This enabled Davis to score.

The Cowgirls secured an additional runner when Karli Godwin hit a single towards center field; however, Landry managed to contain the extent of the damage afterward.

—Jenni Carlson, columnist

More: Top 16 NCAA women’s softball rankings: See how Bri Ellis and Arkansas dominated over Florida

Pre-game: Sam Landry and Ruby Meylan are set to start in the circle for Bedlam Softball.

In Wednesday’s Bedlam showdown, both squads will be sending out their star pitchers.

OU (34-3) is beginning with Sam Landry pitching.

So far this season, Landry has an impressive record of 11 wins against just 2 losses, maintaining an outstanding earned run average (ERA) of 1.83 and recording 99 strikeout pitches over 84 innings played.

Kasidi Pickering will bat first for the Sooners, followed by Nelly McEnroe-Marinas, Ella Parker, Gabbie Garcia, and Cydney Sanders.

Maya Bland is leading off from the left side and will bat ninth. This marks her sixth start of the season.

Ruby Meylan will take the mound for the Cowgirls.

Meylan has a record of 15-4 along with a 1.32 ERA over 121 2/3 innings pitched. She has also recorded 143 strikeouts.

Tallen Edwards will bat first for Oklahoma State (23-11), followed by Tia Warsop, Rosie Davis, and Amanda Hasler.

—Ryan Aber, Staff writer

More: The Oklahoma State softball schedule for 2025 includes dates, start times, and television networks for OSU Cowgirls games.

What time is theOU softball game against Oklahoma State tonight?

  • Date: Wednesday, April 9
  • Time: 7 p.m. CT

The match between Oklahoma and Oklahoma State begins at 7 p.m. CT on Wednesday at Devon Park in Oklahoma City.

More: Could OU softball maintain its top-eight position for the NCAA Tournament? The Bedlam series might have a significant impact.

Which channel will broadcast the Oklahoma versus Oklahoma State softball game tonight?

  • TV channel: ESPN2
  • Livestream: ESPN+ ( Here’s how you can watch it live online )

The game between Oklahoma and Oklahoma State will air on ESPN2. Additionally, it can be watched via streaming on ESPN+.

More: Top Big 12 softball power rankings: Could Texas Tech secure one of the top-16 seeds for an NCAA regional hosting spot?

OU softball highlights against Oklahoma State in the Bedlam game

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The article initially appeared in The Oklahoman. OU Softball versus OSU summary: The Sooners dominate the Cowgirls with a run-rule victory in the Bedlam game.



Caleb Smith: Top Texas Wide Receiver Commits to Arizona

While Arizona is in the midst of spring practices, they're also welcoming numerous recruits from the Class of 2026 and later. Among these visitors was one who decided after his visit that Tucson is the place for him to pursue collegiate football.

The UA has secured a pledge from a 3-star wide receiver. Caleb Smith , becoming the fourth addition to their 2026 recruiting class.

The 5-foot-8, 160-pound Smith ranks as the No. 735 overall player in the Class of 2026 according to 247Sports, placing him at No. 119 among wide receivers nationally and 99th best out of Texas. He competes for Allen High School, where besides playing football, he participates in track events such as sprints and long jump. His impressive 100-meter dash time stands at 10.6 seconds, which earned him the moniker 'Jett.'

Smith chose the University of Alabama over offers from Arkansas, Baylor, Houston, Kansas, Louisville, Mississippi State, Nebraska, Texas Tech, and Utah, amongst other institutions.

He is the second wide receiver commitment for Arizona in the 2026 class, joining the 3-star in-state recruit. Hamisi Juma , starting with Texas. The state known as the Lone Star State significantly contributed to the 2025 class, yielding nine high school signees.



TCU Star Hits Back at Angel Reese in 2 Words Following Big Announcement

Before Chicago Sky’s forward Angel Reese even took the floor for the WNBA, she had already made waves in the realm of women's basketball. Her victory with LSU in the 2023 National Championship against Caitlin Clark and the Iowa Hawkeyes intensified the rivalry between these emerging talents.

While not every team enjoys the success experienced by Coach Kim Mulkey and her Tigers, Notre Dame stood out for most of the season with their formidable lineup featuring Olivia Miles, Sonia Citron, and Hannah Hidalgo. However, towards the end of the year, the program faced tough challenges. Despite maintaining championship aspirations throughout the campaign, they struggled down the stretch and were eliminated in the Sweet 16 round of the NCAA Tournament.

Miles then announced her major decision To join the transfer portal and swiftly committed to the TCU Horned Frogs. She will step into the void left by Hailey Van Lith, who is heading into the 2025 WNBA Draft, aiming to rejuvenate her career much as Van Lith did this year.

On Tuesday, a video emerged from Miles' Instagram Live where she praised Sky's Angel Reese. The next day, she went on to continue showing appreciation for Reese. most recent Instagram post .

"Get active," wrote Miles.

In the past year, Reese has garnered significant backing from athletes across the WNBA and women’s college basketball. Her skills on the court command great admiration, but she also earns praise for broadening her endeavors and stepping into new territories outside of playing.

This off-season, she secured numerous significant endorsement deals, launched her own podcast, and appeared on the cover of a leading magazine, further boosting her growing popularity. Nonetheless, come May 17, the focus will be solely on basketball as the Chicago Sky kick off their season with an away game against Clark and the Indiana Fever.

Related: Chicago Sky Predicted to Bring Back Angel Reese With Her Former LSU teammate in Latest Forecast

Related: Ex-Notre Dame Player Sends an Angel Reese Message Following BigCareer Shift



Goodman Reveals Auburn Star's Emotional Triumph That Moved Bruce Pearl to Tears at Final Four

This is an editorial piece.

_____________________

If I gleaned one thing on Friday in San Antonio, it's that Dylan Cardwell is an exceptionally talented public speaker.

Cardwell is Mr. Auburn Fans adore him. Auburn's coach, Bruce Pearl, holds him in high regard. There’s a television position lined up for Cardwell once his professional basketball journey ends. He’s that impressive. Possibly as remarkable as Charles Barkley.

What Cardwell stated at the Alamodome caused Pearl to burst into tears in front of all the cameras. This touching scene should definitely be shared and commemorated.

I even felt a bit emotional, and it really takes a lot for this seasoned journalist to uncover their emotions.

Regardless of whether they win or lose in the Final Four, Cardwell and his Tigers will be remembered as the greatest team in Auburn basketball history. Auburn (32-5), facing Florida (34-4), will start their match at 5:09 p.m. Central Time on Saturday inside the historic Alamodome. Earlier this season, Florida stunned Auburn with an 90-81 victory at Neville Arena. The upcoming Final Four showdown between Auburn and Florida highlights connections, making Cardwell’s statement particularly poignant before such a significant contest.

This marks an SEC national semifinal clash, with the primary and clearest link being their conference affiliation.

Throughout the season, the SEC has been exceptionally powerful. Alabama showcased remarkable performance. Auburn emerged as an unstoppable force. Meanwhile, Florida evolved into a squad that numerous observers at the Final Four consider invincible.

However, the league displayed exceptional basketball talent nightly. Auburn secured the SEC regular-season championship. Florida claimed victory in the SEC tournament. Now, they resolve their differences on this raised court in San Antonio.

The closeness shared by Auburn and Florida extends beyond that, however.

Auburn is led by coach Pearl, whereas Florida is under the guidance of coach Todd Golden. When Pearl joined Auburn in 2014, he and Golden worked side by side as colleagues. During their time together, Golden shared his knowledge of analytics with Pearl, who in turn imparted his expertise on maximizing player potential to Golden.

It’s not much of a secret. It’s simply love.

Pearl cares deeply for his players, which makes him an excellent coach. This enables him to push them intensively.

The Final Four isn't merely a pair of basketball matches held in April; many individuals fail to recognize this fact. This event encompasses far more than just gameplay—it serves as a coaching conference and offers crucial training opportunities for up-and-coming athletes within the USA Basketball program. Additionally, numerous accolade ceremonies take place throughout the festivities. On Friday, Pearl secured the AP National Coach of the Year honor alongside Rick Pitino from St. John’s, resulting in a shared victory between them.

At his awards news conference, Pearl spoke about his approach as a coaches who prioritizes players' needs. To encapsulate this idea, he shared a tale attributed to Pat Dye, the iconic Auburn football mentor. Dye would often remark that fathers and uncles were able to impart harsh realities to their young relatives knowing these lessons stemmed unequivocally from affectionate intentions.

I pamper my children, but I'll correct their misbehavior," Pearl stated. "I coddle my players, but I'll correct their misbehavior as well.

Pearl cherishes his players as if they were his own kids. This approach provides Auburn with an edge on the basketball court and helps shape exceptional individuals. To Pearl, this method is the only one that makes sense, which explains why he shed tears during Friday’s press conference at the Final Four. The emotion welled up when Cardwell spoke about his beliefs.

Pearl is Jewish and he motivates all of his players to delve into the scriptures. When questioned about praying following his disqualification during the game with Alabama earlier in the season, Cardwell responded. How significant is spirituality for this Auburn squad?

Cardwell’s response was remarkable, so I’ll reproduce it in full here as I believe it holds significant importance. Ultimately, the games will conclude, but the connections we forge and the lessons we glean from these experiences endure for generations and are shared with future ones.

Primarily, all praise goes to my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ," Cardwell stated. "As Christians, Jews and ourselves may differ, we share belief in the same God. It has been wonderful and inspiring to observe that I'm under a coach who openly shares his beliefs yet permits each of us to follow our own paths. He even motivates us to express our convictions freely.

The impact of our faith on this team is immeasurable. We couldn't have made it this far without it. Faith acts as a major driving force due to the close matches we've had. Out of the ten to eleven one-point games, we've only lost once. That loss came during the Alabama game at home, which was particularly tough. However, seeing how things have turned out so positively overall is really uplifting.

We wouldn't possess such humility nor this strong connection among us without having faith. Let me illustrate: take for instance Bruce Pearl. Not only does he motivate us to attend these breakfast gatherings, but he also promotes participating in Bible studies. It’s rare to come across a coach who advocates for both of these activities. These interactions allow us to bond more profoundly beyond just playing basketball.

The theme of our year has been 'sacrifice,' " Cardwell stated. "True understanding of what sacrifice means comes from knowing Jesus Christ. It was he who gave his life for everyone’s transgressions. This explains why we've felt such intensity recently—because we recognize that our sacrifices could lead us to claim a national championship title. We do this not merely seeking personal accolades or individual praise, but rather out of devotion to our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

But we also aim to secure a national title for both this university and Bruce Pearl. It’s my fifth year here, and he has guided me on how to become an outstanding Auburn man. Each time I pray, I pray for us to clinch a national championship, to claim victory for Bruce Pearl. He has worked hard and truly merits it.

I'm thankful to be standing on this platform and playing under a coach as remarkable as Bruce Pearl. I attribute my continued presence at Auburn over these past five years to divine guidance—I love God, I love Auburn. Importantly, not just among others—but indeed, I also hold Coach Bruce Pearl in high regard.

Pearl sat beside Cardwell on the podium. The coach from Auburn dabbed his eyes. A smile crossed his face as he gazed at Cardwell with an expression akin to a father beaming at his own child. While claiming a national championship is remarkable, it doesn’t compare to the true pinnacle of achievement.

The game between Auburn and Florida promises to be a thrilling showdown. Though I'm not a coach, perhaps Pearl might consider having Cardwell deliver the halftime address.

BE HEARD

Have a query for Joe? Need to share something important? Drop Joe an email with whatever is on your mind. Make your voice known. Feel free to ask him anything.

Joseph Goodman serves as the chief sports columnist. For the Alabama Media Group, and as the writer of the book We Desire Bama: A Year Filled with Hope and the Creation of Nick Saban’s Premier Squad.

©2025Advance Local Media LLC. Check out News.DiwiDa|. The content is distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.



Nebraska Baseball Starts Strong: 8-5 Victory Over Rutgers Sets Tone for Weekend

Despite Nebraska baseball not having secured a Big Ten Conference series victory this season, they will get two opportunities to achieve one this coming weekend.

In the opening game of the series at Haymarket Park on Friday night, Nebraska secured an 8-5 victory over Rutgers. This brings Nebraska’s record for the season to 13-17 and their conference standing to 3-7, whereas Rutgers drops to 14-16 overall and 4-6 within the Big Ten.

It took 70 minutes to complete the initial two innings, during which both teams scored a total of 10 runs.

Rutgers took an early lead by scoring two runs in the top of the first inning. However, Nebraska responded with five runs off six hits in the bottom half of that same inning.

In the following half-inning, the Scarlet Knights tacked on an additional three runs. The Huskers had a chance to respond when they loaded the bases with two outs, but a strikeout thwarted their attempt.

Riley Silva put NU back in front during the fifth inning with a hit that drove in two runs via a single to the left side. In the eighth, Dylan Carey added an extra run for the Big Red with a sacrifice fly.

Will Walsh conceded five runs on nine hits across 5.0 innings, securing the victory and moving his record to 4-4 for the season. Luke Broderick earned the save with 1.1 innings of work, permitting only one runner to reach safely.

On the evening, the Huskers notched 13 hits, with five players ending up with two hits each. Carey contributed to this effort by getting two hits himself, which he used to score three runs.

Nebraska and Rutgers will resume their rivalry on Saturday. The game is scheduled to start at 2 p.m. CDT and can be watched on B1G+.

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Keep current with everything Huskers by saving this link as a favorite. Nebraska Cornhuskers On SI , subscribing to HuskerMax on YouTube , and visiting HuskerMax.com daily.

This piece was initially released on www.si.com/college/nebraska as Nebraska Baseball Starts Weekend with 8-5 Victory Against Rutgers .



Duke's Cooper Flagg Creates History as 2025's Top College Football Player

Duke's Cooper Flagg has been selected as the 2025 recipient of the John R. Wooden Award, which honors him as the top player in NCAA men's basketball. This announcement was made on Saturday during a broadcast on ESPN. College GameDay This solidifies Flagg's position as one of the sport’s most influential newcomers and highlights a season marked by outstanding performance and reliability.

Flagg becomes just the fourth freshman to win the award since its inception in 1977, joining Kevin Durant (2007), Anthony Davis (2012), and Zion Williamson (2019). His selection comes ahead of fellow finalists Johni Broome (Auburn), Walter Clayton Jr. (Florida), Mark Sears (Alabama), and Braden Smith (Purdue).

Consistency at the Heart of Flagg’s Ascension

Throughout the entire season leading up to Duke's journey in the Final Four, Flagg has consistently performed at a high level. This 6-foot-9 forward is putting up averages of 18.9 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per contest, with field-goal and three-point percentages standing at 48.3% and 37.4%, respectively. His versatility in influencing games in various ways has solidified his position as a key player for a Duke squad that clinched both the ACC regular-season and tournament championships.

In January, his exceptional play against Notre Dame, where he scored 42 points along with grabbing 6 rebounds and dishing out 7 assists, broke the ACC freshman scoring record. This achievement was the peak of a month during which he consistently scored more than 25 points each game. The string of dominant performances from Flagg positioned him strongly for potential national accolades heading into the postseason.

Award Comes After Year of Honors

Flagg’s achievements have paralleled his team’s accomplishments. He earned both the ACC Player of the Year and ACC Rookie of the Year honors, and he was also chosen for the First Team All-America squad by the Associated Press. His stellar performance has led Duke to their initial Final Four berth since 2022, with the team preparing to compete against Houston for a chance at the championship.

Even though Flagg sat out two games at the ACC Tournament because of an ankle injury, he came back strong in the NCAA Tournament. This included scoring 30 points in Duke’s victory over Arizona in the Sweet 16 round.

As his first season continues, Flagg’s influence is unmistakable—and with the NBA Draft approaching, he seems ready to advance to the next stage of what promises to be a successful pro career.



Kennedy Harp's two-run homer leads FSU softball to comeback victory over Virginia

Florida State Softball (35-6, 10-1) was down but far from defeated. After being excluded from game one versus Virginia (26-11, 7-6) On Friday, FSU staged a comeback to secure a win over the opponent. Cavaliers , 9-8 in front of an audience of 1400 at the Seminole Softball Complex on Saturday afternoon.

"It was their chance for kids to seize control of both their team and their fate," said the FSU coach. Lonni Alameda said.

I believe that today taught us a valuable lesson: we can either focus on the result or simply go out and compete. When we switched into compete mode, everything fell into place for us.

Following two scoreless frames, UVA got their first points on the scoreboard with four runs in the fourth inning, adding another three in the third and one in the fifth.

FSU came back from a 7-1 deficit by scoring eight runs in the last three innings against the Cavaliers. With just two outs remaining in the sixth inning at the bottom of the ninth, FSU trailed by merely one run.

UVA's pitcher, Eden Bigham, who recorded six strikeouts in the first game, took her place on the mound. Kennedy Harp Hit a two-run home run for FSU to secure their initial lead. Harp gained insights from facing Bigham and understanding her capabilities.

"Frankly, it's all about handling one pitch at a time," Harp stated.

I believe she's an excellent pitcher. Simply focusing on my routine and ensuring my foot is firmly planted. This helps me maintain control and aim for the strike zone. Therefore, I'll do everything possible to support my team.

The defense took care of the remainder. Following a difficult day for FSU's starting pitcher, Julia Apsel and a relieved pitcher Ashtyn Danley , freshman Jazzy Francik assumed control in the fourth frame.

For Jazzy to come and provide us with a great view was significant for our team," Alameda stated. "It was also important for her to demonstrate such composure as a newcomer.

The sole strikeout pitch ignited the Seminoles. She secured her position as the winning pitcher with a record of 6-2. During the final 3.1 innings, she conceded just two hits, one run, a walk, and made an error. This period was rich with valuable lessons for her.

Another notable defensive play came from the left fielder. Addie Delong' That diving catch secured UVA their third out and stranded two runners on base as FSU fell behind 8-5.

At least four batters with at least one RBI each. Harp, Michaela Edenfield and Haille Wacaster each had two RBI . Jahni Kerr led with three hits at bat and one run batted in.

FSU goes back to the Plex to finish their series with UVA on Saturday at noon.

Need a break? Enjoy the USA TODAY Daily Crossword Challenge.

Where to stream FSU softball against Virginia

  • TV: ACC Network Extra
  • Radio/stream: 96.5 FM, Seminoles.com
  • Date/Time: Sunday, April 6th at 12:00 PM
  • Where: Seminole Softball Complex, Tallahassee

More: Ex-FSU softball players share what makes Lonni Alameda exceptional as she battles cancer.

Peter Holland Jr. reports on Florida State sports for the Tallahassee Democrat. Reach out to him through his email at PHolland@Gannett.com or on X (@_Da_pistol).

The article initially appeared in the Tallahassee Democrat. Kennedy Harp's two-run home run propels FSU softball to a comeback win against Virginia.



What Cori Close Said About UConn’s Jim Mora: "A Real Good Friend"

At her inaugural Final Four press conference on Thursday in Tampa, Florida, UCLA's women’s basketball coach Cori Close recounted several tales of her proximity to various occasions. UConn program And over the years, its players have cultivated a strong rapport and deep admiration for the Huskies.

Once her speech concluded, she kept conversing with several journalists and acknowledged that her strong connections to UConn extend beyond just the Huskies' basketball team.

A year following her appointment as the head coach for UCLA during the 2011-12 campaign, she currently serves as UConn football Coach Jim Mora was appointed as the UCLA Bruins' football coach.

Mora served as the UCLA head coach from 2012 through 2017.

As Close was still honing her skills and starting to guide the Bruins towards the prominence they've achieved this season as a consistent top-four squad—having held the No. 1 ranking longer than any other team—it meant a lot to her that Mora backed her up.

He was one of my friends from UCLA," Close stated. "Our offices were directly next to each other since their backs faced each other. Plus, we always kept better treats. That’s why he used to stop by frequently.

They shared more than just sweets. Close valued that Mora, a renowned and respected football coach, genuinely cared about the success of the women’s program.

I have traveled multiple times with Football, and he has been someone I frequently visited," Close stated. "He used to interact with our prospects. When he was at UCLA, he became a true friend of mine, and his supportive role has persisted even during his time at UConn.

(Chris Dailey, UConn's associate head coach, has mentioned to me that he has approached her multiple times and spoken with them regarding my involvement. Therefore, I am grateful for having someone significant in football who truly cares about other sports, particularly women's basketball.)



Former NFL Stars Hernandez and Demps Return to UTEP for Spring Football Showdown

Each player on the field is UTEP's spring football game aims to make the transition from playing for the Miners to competing in the NFL.

They won’t have to search far to find someone who exemplified that objective. Currently, in the NFL. offensive lineman Will Hernandez and recently retired safety Quintin Demps They will return to the Sun Bowl sidelines as coaches for UTEP when they lead the team during the April 12 Orange versus Blue Spring Game.

Thomas Howard, UTEP’s third all-time leading rusher, will help Demps coach from the sidelines with the Blue team, whereas newly appointed El Paso Mayor Renard Johnson will support Hernandez in guiding the Orange squad.

UTEP also confirmed New York Giants Defensive end and former UTEP player Roy Robertson-Harris will attend the game.

Hernandez is presently without a team after playing as a starting guard for the past three years. Arizona Cardinals He experienced the peak of his seven-year professional journey during the previous season but then encountered a season-ending knee injury.

He often goes back to El Paso, with his most recent visit being last summer, to run a football camp. He will be a co-host at the camp. This past summer in El Paso, Hernandez spent time with Aaron and Alvin Jones. He had been a standout player for UTEP throughout the previous ten years before being selected by the New York Giants as the 34th overall pick in the 2018 NFL Draft.

Demps was selected from UTEP in the fourth round of the 2008 draft and enjoyed a decade-long tenure in the NFL with teams such as the Philadelphia Eagles, Houston Texans (twice), Chicago Bears, Kansas City Chiefs, and New York Giants before hanging up his cleats following the 2017 season. Currently, he serves as the head coach for Converse Judson High School located near San Antonio.

The spring game starts at 11 a.m. with tickets costing $5.

Bret Bloomquist can be contacted via bbloomquist@News.Diwida, or follow him on Twitter at @Bretbloomquist.

The article initially appeared on El Paso Times: Previous UTEP Players Will Hernandez and Quintin Demps Return for Coaches Role at Spring Football Game



Photo of CBS’ Tracy Wolfson Standing Next to Florida’s 7’9’’ Center is Too Good

The Florida Gators men's basketball team is currently battling UConn, the two-time defending champs, in the second round of the NCAA tournament. The Gators have title hopes of their own this year as they are the No. 1 seed in the West region and are one of the favorites to win it all.

The Gators have the tallest player in the tournament in 7'9'' center Olivier Rioux. While the freshman likely won't see any playing time, he has had some viral moments this year thanks to his height.

Now he has another one as CBS sideline reporter Tracy Wolfson shared a photo of her standing next to Rioux. Their size difference is pretty wild:

Too good.

The Gators are looking to win their first national title since 2007.

More College Basketball on Sports Illstrated

This article was originally published on www.si.com as Photo of CBS’ Tracy Wolfson Standing Next to Florida’s 7’9’’ Center is Too Good .



Tom Izzo's Hilarious Response to Michigan State's Second Round Game Start Time

When Michigan State was drawn into Cleveland for the first and second rounds of the NCAA men's tournament, it probably didn't expect to play its opening game well past 9 p.m. Eastern Time.

That's the fate that befell the Spartans, however—and they made the most of it, overcoming a slow start to demolish Bryant 87–62.

Did this performance earn Michigan State an earlier start time for the second round Sunday? It did not. The Spartans will play New Mexico at 8:40 p.m. Eastern Time. When told of this development, Michigan State coach Tom Izzo had a priceless reaction.

After working through a pained facial expression, he deadpanned, "Guess it's an hour earlier."

Izzo will encounter a recognizable figure in the second round since Coach Richard Pitino of the Lobos is at the helm. Minnesota from 2014 to '21. In 2019, their two squads met in the second round of the NCAA tournament in Des Moines—with the Spartans winning 70–50.

More March Madness on Sports Illustrated

This piece was initially released on www.si.com as Tom IzzoHad an Understandable Response to the Starting Time of Michigan State's Second-Round Game .



Mother-in-Law Journeys From Louisiana to Cheer Son-In-Law’s Historic Baseball Debut

MIDLAND, Mich. — During the Great Lakes Loons' home opener against the Lake County Captains, an avid spectator had journeyed hundreds of miles just to see a significant event unfold.

Monica Judice traveled all the way from Lafayette, Louisiana, to cheer for her son-in-law, Kole Myers, as he took the field for his inaugural professional baseball match.

Monica stated, "It took us two days to travel here from Lafayette, Louisiana." She also mentioned, "This year, he was recruited by the Dodgers; previously, he played for Troy University in Alabama."

Kole Myers, making his first appearance as a Loon, connected with Monica's daughter due to their family’s deep bond with baseball.

Monica remarked, it’s incredible since he really got to know her via my son, who was part of the LSU team.

For Monica, witnessing Kole and her daughter start this new phase of life is nothing short of a dream realized.

She remarked, 'It’s wonderful to realize that dreams can become real because at this moment, it seems as though we’re living in a dream.'

The Great Lakes Loons will debut a fresh idea known as Foodie Fridays, featuring menu items rarely seen at ballparks. The weekend will be even more thrilling with the unveiling of the team’s new red jerseys on Saturday followed by Kids Day on Sunday, when children get complimentary meals and have the opportunity to run around the bases.



Grok Predicts the Top 12 College Football Teams for the 2025 Playoffs

At this time of year, hope remains forever blooming as college football squads take to the practice fields aiming to gain an early advantage toward securing one of the 12 spots in the playoffs.

In an era dominated by machine learning and immediate responses, we were eager from the start to identify which teams stood the best chances of securing a spot in the national championship tournament this year.

College Football HQ approached Grok with a straightforward ask: Forecast which 12 teams will secure their spots in the College Football Playoff for 2025.

This is what was written. And this is what we responded with...

Texas (SEC Champion)

Grok says: Texas brings back quarterback Quinn Ewers along with Arch Manning, fields one of the best rosters enhanced by transfer players, and enjoys an advantageous initial schedule. Their journey to the 2024 CFP semifinals indicates they're well-prepared for both the SEC championship and securing a high seeding.

College Football HQ says: Sure, we understand that Texas isn't getting Quinn Ewers back, which was a misstep by Grok. The transition of Manning as the new starting quarterback will hinge on how effectively the Longhorns can redesign his blocking scheme following the loss of several crucial offensive line members during the off-season.

-

Ohio State (Champions of the Big Ten)

Grok says: Following their victory in the 2024 national championship, Ohio State keeps crucial players such as Jeremiah Smith and maintains a strong defensive lineup. Even with questions surrounding the quarterback position, their impressive recruitment efforts and success in the transfer portal ensure they remain top contenders for the Big Ten title.

College Football HQ says: We'll see what happens with Ohio State’s quarterback position as Julian Sayin is poised to take over for Will Howard. However, our main concern lies with their "tough defense," which will lose much of its key pass-rushing ability.

-

Clemson (ACC Champion)

Grok says: Clemson's steady performance under Coach Dabo Swinney, combined with the growth of quarterback Cade Klubnik, puts them in a strong position to regain control of the ACC. With a feasible schedule for 2025 and an opportunity presented by a less competitive conference, they seem ready to take advantage.

College Football HQ says: Coming off her best performance last season, Klubnik played a crucial role in helping the Tigers return to the playoffs as ACC champions. They remain strong favorites to achieve this feat once more; however, Swinney needs to address some gaps within his team’s defensive lineup before they can solidify their chances.

-

Arizona State (Champions of the Big 12)

Grok says: The reigning champions of the 2024 Big 12 will have quarterback Sam Leavitt and wide receiver Jordan Tyson back on their roster. The fact that they won’t be facing Kansas State and BYU within their conference schedule provides them with a significant advantage in the highly competitive Big 12.

College Football HQ says: The comeback of Jordan Tyson at wide receiver is essential since Leavitt assumes control of the Sun Devils' offensive strategy following Cam Skattebo's departure from the program. With more than 1,000 yards receiving under his belt, Tyson will play an indispensable role if this squad hopes to make another appearance in the Big 12 championship game.

-

Boise State (Champion of the Group of Five)

Grok says: Almost fifty percent of initial predictions suggest that Boise State will defend their title as champions of the Group of Five even with the departure of Ashton Jeanty. The team’s structure and guidance from coach Spencer Danielson continue to place them at the top of the Mountain West.

College Football HQ says: Jeanty’s departure will reduce the Broncos' offensive output, but they still have significant returning talent alongside quarterback Maddux Madsen. The early season matchups against USF and Notre Dame will serve as crucial benchmarks.

-

Read More: Grok forecasts the top 10 college football teams for 2025.

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Georgia (At-Large)

Grok says: Despite losing quarterback Carson Beck, Kirby Smart’s team strengthens through top-tier recruitment. Although their challenging SEC schedule could hinder their championship run, securing an 10-2 or 11-1 record will likely guarantee them an at-large berth.

College Football HQ says: Grok is opting for a repeat of last year’s SEC Championship Game, though with a varied outcome, raising questions about whether Gunner Stockton can effectively take over from Beck and maintain his level of performance. What will present a challenging lineup? However, many of those more challenging games are played at home.

-

Oregon (At-Large)

Grok says: In their sophomore season in the Big Ten, Oregon's prowess under coach Dan Lanning—with leadership from Dillon Gabriel's heir apparent—is expected to keep them on track for a playoff berth. While they might not clinch the conference title, they should secure a high enough ranking for a wild card position.

College Football HQ says: The Ducks have dropped in several Big Ten preseason rankings due to personnel losses, particularly at the quarterback position. However, with some capable transfers joining the team and a promising young QB named Dante Moore leading the offense, they still have a chance to claim victory in their conference.

-

Penn State (At-Large)

Grok says: Thanks to Drew Allar returning and having a solid defensive lineup, Penn State is building upon their 2024 College Football Playoff campaign. They're almost certain to achieve over ten victories, ensuring they get an at-large berth even if Ohio State claims the Big Ten title.

College Football HQ says: Abdul Carter has left the defensive side, which removes a key element from Penn State’s pass rush. However, with the return of their strong offensive lineup featuring Drew Allar as quarterback and Nick Singleton along with Kaytron Allen in the running backs position, this squad might still have what it takes to challenge for the Big Ten championship effortlessly.

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Notre Dame (At-Large)

Grok says: As an independent program, Notre Dame’s impressive showing in the 2024 championship game along with Marcus Freeman’s positive trajectory continue into this season. Despite a challenging lineup including teams like Miami and Alabama, these obstacles will not prevent them from achieving a 10-2 record and securing a place in the playoffs.

College Football HQ says: Alabama doesn’t actually appear on Notre Dame’s schedule this year, making this yet another mistake by Grok. However, the Irish will face another SEC team when they welcome Texas A&M to South Bend. This game will serve as a significant benchmark for the selection committee to evaluate.

LSU (At-Large)

Grok says: Brian Kelly’s Tigers welcome back quarterback Garrett Nussmeier along with a strong group of transfers. With a more manageable 2025 SEC schedule (featuring home games against Tennessee, LSU, and Oklahoma), achieving 10 victories and securing an at-large berth seems within reach.

College Football HQ says: Nussmeier along with select skilled players should help maintain LSU at the top of the country’s passing statistics rankings. However, it remains unclear whether Blake Baker will be able to improve a defense that didn’t show significant improvement over the previous year.

-

Alabama (At-Large)

Grok says: Kalen DeBoer’s second year introduces stability along with a top-four ranked recruitment class and a resolved quarterback position (either Ty Simpson or Keelon Russell). Despite not claiming victory in the SEC, their challenging schedule guarantees them a high ranking.

College Football HQ says: The "quarterback issue" remains unresolved, making it one of the most captivating storylines heading into this season as Alabama seeks to fill the shoes of the talented Jalen Milroe. Simpson, once considered a top-five star recruit, will get an opportunity to showcase his abilities now that Ryan Williams has returned as a wide receiver.

-

Kansas State (At-Large)

Grok says: “Thanks to quarterback Avery Johnson and a well-rounded offense, Kansas State might not claim the Big 12 championship but could still reach double-digit victories. Their steady performance in a unpredictable league secures them an automatic bid.”

College Football HQ says: We decided to bet on the Wildcats being number one. Our Big 12 strength ratings Thanks to the comeback of Johnson as quarterback, but particularly due to the resurgence of running back Dylan Edwards, who put up an impressive performance in the bowl game to conclude last season.

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Explore more content from College Football HQ

The article was initially posted on www.si.com/fannation/college/cfb-hq as We requested Grok to forecast the top 12 college football playoff teams for the year 2025. .



Florida's Elite Eight Victory Bolsters SEC's Impressive March Madness Men's Record

In 2025, college basketball has been the SEC's sport—and fans around the country are just living in it.

After putting a record 14 team s in the NCAA men's tournament this year, the conference set a new record Saturday when No. 1 Florida defeated No. 3 Texas Tech, 84–79, in the Elite Eight. The win gave the SEC 20 wins this tournament—the most in history.

The record was previously held by the ACC, which won 19 games in 2016 as it reaped early fruits of its expansion.

The SEC appears far from done, with four teams—the Gators, Alabama, Tennessee and Auburn—still alive and kicking.

Other squads contributing to the league's pile of wins include Arkansas, Kentucky, Ole Miss and Texas A&M. The Aggies were knocked out in the second round, while the Razorbacks, Wildcats and Rebels bowed out in the Sweet 16.

Notably, when the ACC set that record in '16, it did not win the national title—North Carolina fell to Villanova in the championship. It remains to be seen whether the league converts its dominance into a crown.

More March Madness on Sports Illustrated

This article was originally published on www.si.com as Florida's Elite Eight Win Gives SEC Impressive Men's March Madness Record .



Duke Snags Top Seed in East for 2025 NCAA Tournament, Faces Off Against Either American or Mount St. Mary’s

The unveiling ceremony has started, with Duke set to begin in Raleigh as the top seed in the East against the victor of the game between American and Mount St. Mary’s.

If Duke emerges victorious, they will proceed to face the team that triumphs between Mississippi State and Baylor.

In either scenario, the Blue Devils will go up against a former Blue Devil: Jaemyn Brakefield from Mississippi State or Jeremy Roach from Baylor.

Oregon and Liberty are set for the 5/12 match-up.

On April 13th, Arizona and Akron will compete in the match at the lower portion of Duke's section of the bracket.

In the lower section of the bracket, BYU faces off against VCU at position #6/11, Wisconsin competes with Montana in the 3/14 matchup, St. Mary’s goes head-to-head with Vanderbilt in the 7/10 slot, and Alabama takes on Robert Morris for the 2/15 placement.

UNC is in on the South bracket which has already sparked massive controversy. We’ll have more soon.

Clemson ranks #5 in the Midwest region and kicks off their season against Will Wade’s #12 McNeese State. Notably, Wade is a Clemson alumnus who almost returned as head coach for the university a couple of years back.

Louisville ranks #8 in the South region. Should they defeat #9 Creighton, they will likely face off against #1 Auburn next. Notably, Clemson has previously performed well against Auburn with an impressive score of 84-53 back in 2018. Additionally, the SEC’s Tigers have experienced some difficulties recently as they've lost three out of their last four games.

We'll examine things in greater detail later, but for now here are some brief points:

  • Michigan faced off against UC San Diego. As far as we've gathered, the Tritons pose a significant threat.
  • The matchup between Yale and Texas A&M ought to be quite a grueling contest.
  • New Mexico and Marquette deserve serious consideration, largely due to the fact that Shaka Smart has yet to prove himself as a strong tournament coach.
  • We might witness an unexpected 12/5 upset with Colorado State overcoming Memphis.
  • We'd choose #11 Drake over #6 Mizzou, especially if Mark Mitchell remains sidelined or restricted due to his knee injury.
  • The game between BYU and VCU might just turn out to be one of the most entertaining matches in the opening round.
  • It’s possible we might witness Clemson advancing to the Elite Eight.
  • San Diego State has fallen from its recent peaks, yet Brian Dutcher excels as a defensive strategist and UNC’s forward lineup has shown some weaknesses. Do the calculations yourself.
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2025 College Basketball Recruiting Rankings Kick Off with March Madness

NCAA basketball frenzy kicks off in March. The constant recruitment chase is an all-year sprint.

With the NCAA tournament nearing and the conference championships leading to net-cutting glory into the final 68—and perhaps Final Four—many fans are looking ahead to the future basketball dynasties beyond the current run.

The 2025 class has garnered significant attention due to its abundance of NIL deals and transfers, making it stand out among recent cohorts. With NBA lineage such as Anthony and Boozer being key members, this talented roster is expected to compete strongly for high seeds in future NCAA tournaments (for at least their first year).

Which teams boast the strongest recruiting for the Class of 2025?

Here is the current top 25 as March Madness gets underway…

25. Iowa

Points: 52.90

24. Penn State

Points: 53.30

23. West Virginia

Points: 55.39

22. Georgia Tech

Points: 57.12

21. Northwestern

Points: 57.43

20. Iowa State

Points: 57.64

19. Georgia

Points: 57.75

18. LSU

Points: 58.18

17. Butler

Points: 58.43

16. Marquette

Points: 58.69

15. Auburn

Points: 60.13

14. Washington

Points: 61.32

13. Alabama

Points: 61.76

12. Mississippi State

Points: 62.16

11. BYU

Points: 62.94

10. Syracuse

Points: 62.99

9. North Carolina

Points: 63.53

8. USC

Points: 63.57

7. SMU

Points: 63.80

6. Kentucky

Points: 64.35

5. Notre Dame

Points: 64.37

4. Arkansas

Points: 64.38

3. UConn

Points: 67.93

2. Houston

68.16

1. Duke

Points: 69.29

More: USA TODAY High School Sports' top 2026 boys basketball prospects for every state

Data: 247Sports

The article initially appeared on the USA TODAY High School Sports Wire: As March Madness begins, here are the 2025 college basketball recruiting rankings.