The O'Colly, Jan. 30, 2026

Friday, January 30, 2026

Snow-Mageddon

Snow day brings students together on Library Lawn

Outside of dorm rooms and apartment buildings, past shoveled sidewalks and snowpacked grass, students kept finding their way to Library Lawn.

Two bars close on The Strip

Brother and sister engaged in legal battle

Today, The Strip is left with two less bars and no one knows what comes next.

JR Murphy’s and Outlaws shut down on Jan. 1 as the owners conduct formal audits on financial matters they said were discovered throughout internal reviews.

“Murphy’s and Outlaws are temporarily closed while the ownership group completes formal audits and governance actions arising from historical financial matters identified through an internal review. These matters predate current corrective actions and are the primary focus of the ongoing process,” Outlaws and Murphy’s said in a statement.

“The initial change in management in May 2025 occurred after these historical discrepancies were brought to the attention of current leadership, prompting immediate steps to stabilize operations, initiate audits and implement corrective oversight.”

See STRIP on page

Some came with gloves. Some without. Some came in heavy coats. Others showed up in hoodies. A few didn’t bother with either.

They built snow forts. Threw snowballs. Turned speaker stands into makeshift DJ booths.

After nearly a foot of snow fell across Stillwater, Oklahoma State’s campus became something different for a weekend. Classes were canceled. Schedules loosened. Deadlines paused. And instead of retreating inside, students went outside.

Sculpted snow into stadiums and faces. They stayed out longer than expected. They talked to people they didn’t know. They laughed more than usual.

And for a few days, campus felt slower.

See SNOW on page 3A

Caleson Coon ASSISTANT NEWS & LIFESTYLE EDITOR

During the first day back to classes after a long, snow-filled weekend, two of Oklahoma State University’s BOB’s (Big Orange Bus) came to unexpected stops on its weekday route through Stillwater.

BOB is a shuttle service between Stillwater and Tulsa campuses, and makes a total of nine trips Monday through Thursday.

Milestone, an apartment complex on Perkins Road, at about 11 a.m. is where BOB got

stuck for the first time on Tuesday. As the driver tried to leave the circle drive, the front of the bus tried to go against the curb, so the driver had no choice but to stop due to the curb and some signs. Steve Spradling, director of Parking and Transportation Services at OSU, said they were able to tow the bus away from the curb, and everything was fine afterward.

Near Stillwater Flats on Miller Avenue around 3:30 p.m. is where BOB got stuck while stopping for a passenger and couldn’t seem to continue on afterward.

‘Mercy’ sends a troubling message about AI and justice

With the emergence of AI, it’s becomming an increasingly common topic in movies. “Mercy” attempts something new.

Timur Bekmambetov’s AI message falls flat and feels misguided and poorly executed.

Bekmambetov, best known for films such as “Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter,” and “Wanted,” continues his trend of visually driven storytelling with limited emotional depth. In “Mercy,” that approach once again works against the material.

Set in 2029, the film follows detective Chris Raven, played by Chris Pratt, must prove his innocence within 90 minutes to an AI system that serves as judge, jury and executioner. The premise is simple and has potential. In the right hands, it could have led to a tense, thoughtful exploration of technology and justice. Instead, the film struggles to land its ideas.

Rather than questioning the dangers of automated justice, “Mercy” leans toward the suggestion that AI can be trusted as long as human instinct is added to its calculations. The film treats errors as inevitable and acceptable, framing them as no different from human mistakes.

That message feels especially troubling in a real-world context where AI systems have already been shown to

disproportionately misidentify and falsely accuse people of color. With those realities in mind, “Mercy” comes across as a dystopian story that seems oddly comfortable with its own dystopia.

The writing does little to deepen the moral conflict. What should feel urgent and unsettling instead feels shallow and unresolved — leaving the narrative emotionally unsatisfying.

The performances do not help elevate the material. Pratt’s portrayal of a father

fighting to return to his daughter lacks intensity.

Much of his performance feels restrained and repetitive, while making it difficult to believe he is facing imminent death.

Supporting characters fare no better, often serving as exposition tools rather than fully developed people.

One of the few bright spots is the score by Ramin Djawadi, known for his work on “Game of Thrones” and “Iron Man.”

While not among his strongest compositions, the soundtrack provides more energy than the

film itself and stands out in an otherwise flat experience.

The film’s central gimmick, a visible countdown timer showing the remaining 90 minutes, is initially effective. Over time, however, it becomes a distraction. As the story loses momentum, the timer feels like a reminder of how slowly the narrative is unfolding.

Visually, “Mercy” continues Bekmambetov’s reliance on screens and digital interfaces. Much of the film takes place through monitors and surveillance

footage — creating a detached atmosphere that further limits emotional engagement. The emphasis on star power over cinematography and writing is noticeable throughout. In the end, “Mercy” fails to justify its premise. What could have been a thoughtful examination of technology and justice instead becomes a shallow endorsement of flawed systems.

Among January’s releases, it stands out for the wrong reasons.

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Exhibit focused on disappearing signage

“I’m always interested in the age of things, but, in this case, I was motivated by the fact that they were disappearing,” the artist reflected on the series. “They’re almost an excuse to play with form, color, and line.”

Staff Reports news.ed@ocolly.com

An exhibit at the Oklahoma State Museum of Art depicts the building blocks of language through photographs taken through the Northeast in 1974. Robert Cottingham’s “An American Alphabet” is curated by Carla Shelton, associate director of the Museum Collection and chief registrar for the OSU Museum of Art.

The 15-year project explores the beauty of disappearing signage and American typography. The exhibit runs through Feb. 14.

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Design editor Katie Lehew design.ed@ocolly.com

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Assistant photo editor Andon Freitas photo.ed@ocolly.com

On Saturday, students gathered for a snowball fight organized by Barstool Oklahoma State. By Monday, many of the same students returned for a snow sculpting contest, this time with judges that included several Oklahoma State football players who transferred from North Texas.

Together, the events drew hundreds students to Library Lawn.

Trey Edwards, a sophomore from Tulsa, said he came out because there was nothing else he would rather be doing.

“We’re just having some fun,” Edwards said. “Snow Saturday. No school. Just out here.”

Edwards said the snow gave students a reason to leave their rooms and spend time together.

“Everybody’s out here, not inside their rooms,” he said. “They’re just having fun. We don’t get this snow that often.”

Riley Jones, a freshman from Argyle, Texas, said she had never seen a snowball fight on that scale before.

“I’m from Texas. It’s not as snowy,” Jones said. “It’s a little overwhelming, but it seems really fun. It makes me feel like a part of campus life.”

For Jones, the weekend felt familiar in an unexpected way.

“It feels like childhood,” she said. “Like being a kid again.”

She laughed when she added that missing class only added to the feeling.

“I get to miss my chemistry lab,” Jones said.

For many students, the weekend mirrored snow days they remembered growing up, staying home from school, checking closure lists, watching weather updates and waiting to see what the day would bring.

Except this time, the updates came by email.

With classes canceled and schedules cleared, students leaned into the rare break.

“This should be a tradition,” Jones said.

Music drifted across the lawn as snowballs flew overhead.

Jacob Smith, a student DJ, said he decided to bring his equipment after seeing the event on social media.

“I saw it on Barstool and thought, what if I just pull up and bring music,” Smith said.

Smith and a friend loaded up speakers and carried them onto the snow-covered pavement. To protect his equipment, Smith rigged an umbrella to one of his stands.

“There’s an umbrella hooked up to my speaker stand,” he said. “My speakers are definitely pretty cold. I’m probably going to lose some equipment, but it’s worth it.”

Smith said the music helped keep people outside longer

than they might have stayed otherwise.

“If we didn’t have music, the vibe would be completely different,” he said. “We’ve kept a lot of people out here.”

Even as temperatures dropped, the crowd stayed.

“This is the dad lore,” Smith said. “We’ll tell our kids one day.”

Behind much of the weekend’s activity were Barstool Oklahoma State viceroys Josua Moralo and Jack Surette, who helped turn a snowstorm into a campuswide gathering.

Moralo said the idea started simply.

“It snowed enough, so we figured, let’s get something

Surette said the response showed what happens when students are given space to lead.

“It started with a fun idea, and the cowboy community did the rest,” Surette said. “Everybody here made this possible.”

He said watching students interact made the work feel worthwhile.

“It makes me proud we’re using our influence for good,” Surette said. “It makes me happy we gave people a chance to hang out.”

Surette said one of the most meaningful parts of the weekend was seeing students disconnect.

“It gave everybody a chance

“We figured we might as well come out and have fun.”

DREW MESTEMAKER | OSU QUARTERBACK

going,” he said. “We just wanted to bring Oklahoma State together.”

Within hours, students began spreading the word, equipment was gathered and music was arranged

“We have 1,000-plus people out here just living life,” Moralo said. “Take advantage of this moment.”

He said the snow created an opportunity that did not come around often.

“It’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” Moralo said.

“Like when you were a kid.”

Moralo said he was surprised by how many people participated.

“It’s crazy that the school is helping push snow for snowballs,” he said. “We’re trying to bring a real community together.”

to get off their phones,” he said. “There’s something magical about Stillwater lit up with snow.”

He added that the turnout reflected something deeper.

“We have a culture of unity here,” Surette said.

On Monday, students returned to Library Lawn for a snow sculpting contest.

Groups piled snow into elaborate displays: stadium replicas, cartoon characters and portraits of football players.

Paul Haustien and his friends built a sculpture featuring Boone Pickens Stadium and quarterback Drew Mestemaker, one of 15 North Texas transfers who joined Oklahoma State this offseason.

“We had to build Drew,”

Haustien said. “His face is gorgeous. He fits the build.”

Haustien said the competition was less about winning and more about being together.

“This is what college is about,” he said. “It’s great fun meeting new people.”

Mestemaker served as one of the judges alongside teammates Wyatt Young and Ashton Lepo.

“We’re all just students, too,” Mestemaker said. “We figured we might as well come out and have fun.”

Mestemaker said he enjoyed seeing students’ creativity.

“The Lego one was impressive,” he said.

He said moments like the weekend reinforced why he chose Oklahoma State.

“It’s awesome being at a school with pride and loyalty,” Mestemaker said.

Moralo said the players’ involvement added something special.

“It’s great to put a face to a name behind the guy you’ll see in pads,” he said.

Max Dowd, a sophomore, said the snowstorm changed how he spent his weekend.

“We went to the basketball game and then the snowball fight,” Dowd said. “After that we just watched movies and football.” He said having something to do on campus made a difference.

“I like being able to go out and have something to do,” Dowd said.

Dowd said he appreciated that the events were studentrun.

“I like that it’s studentled,” he said. “You have more freedom.”

For Dowd, the weekend offered something rare.

“There’s not always stuff for people under 21,” he said. “Being able to see everybody is pretty fun.”

Rachel Arrit, another

organizer, said the response exceeded expectations.

“It’s really cool to see the impact our account has,” Arrit said. “This will be one of my favorite days in college.”

She said seeing students gather in the snow felt meaningful.

“This is what it’s about,” Arrit said.

Throughout the weekend, the same scenes repeated themselves.

Friends reunited in the cold. Strangers became teammates. Students paused to watch snowball volleys or sculptors shaping their work. Laughter echoed across the lawn.

Phones stayed in pockets. Notifications went unchecked. Time moved slower.

Moralo said the weekend reminded him why moments like this matter.

“We chose to celebrate this community,” he said. “We’ve been blessed to have this moment.”

He added that students created memories they would carry with them.

“Like when you were a kid,” Moralo said.

Smith, the DJ, said he felt the same way.

“I’ll have the memory,” he said. “I’ll be able to go into winter happy.”

By Tuesday, temperatures rose slightly. Snow began to harden. Footprints crisscrossed the lawn. Sculptures slumped. Forts collapsed.’

Classes resumed.

But for a few days, campus paused.

Students traded routine for play. Deadlines for snowballs. Stress for laughter. Edwards said that was what made the weekend special.

“Everybody’s out here,” he said. “Just having fun.” And for many, that was enough.

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Lifestyle

When tech matters

US ownership of TikTok, ChatGPT shift toward monetization

Bryson Thadhani & Marcus Mesis STAFF REPORT

Over the past year, some of the most popular digital platforms have begun making noticeable changes — not in how they look, but in how they operate.

From short-form video to artificial intelligence, companies that once emphasized growth and accessibility are now prioritizing financial sustainability. Two recent developments — TikTok’s U.S. ownership change and OpenAI’s introduction of advertising on ChatGPT — highlight how major tech platforms are adapting under increasing political and economic pressure.

TikTok’s sale and user backlash

On Jan. 22, TikTok finalized a long-discussed sale of its U.S. operations, transferring majority ownership to a group led by Oracle, Silver Lake and MGX after months of pressure from federal lawmakers.

The deal followed legislation requiring ByteDance, TikTok’s China-based parent company, to divest its American assets or face a nationwide ban.

On This day

President Donald Trump issued multiple extensions during his second term before the agreement was reached.

Oracle, a cloud infrastructure and database company founded by Larry Ellison, partnered with private equity firm Silver Lake and Abu Dhabi-based investment company MGX to acquire a combined 45% stake in the company. ByteDance retained 19.9%, the maximum allowed under federal law, while the remaining shares are held by outside investors.

Lawmakers cited national security concerns over user data and potential foreign influence as the primary motivation behind the forced sale.

Following the transition, TikTok updated its terms of service, prompting criticism from users and privacy advocates. The revised policy expanded the company’s collection of geolocation data and emphasized its use in targeted advertising.

Around the same time, users began reporting technical issues across the platform. Some said they were unable to like or post videos, while others claimed their “For You” pages became

1997. 29 years ago.

repetitive or unresponsive.

Several users also alleged difficulty posting content related to immigration and political topics. TikTok attributed the disruptions to technical power outages and denied that any content was being restricted.

Still, the timing of the problems — coinciding with the ownership change — fueled skepticism among parts of the user base.

Even users who did not experience major glitches reported noticeable changes in their content feeds, suggesting broader shifts in TikTok’s recommendation system under the new ownership.

ChatGPT’s move toward advertising OpenAI has begun rolling out advertisements inside ChatGPT for free and lowertier users in the United States, while paid subscriptions such as Plus and Enterprise remain ad-free.

The move marks a shift from the company’s earlier position. CEO Sam Altman previously described advertising as a “last resort,” framing ChatGPT as a research-focused tool rather than a commercial platform.

The fire alarm sounded at 11:20 a.m. with only Mary Benningfield, historic property manager, and Brian Patrick, student work study, in the building.

“When the alarm went off, I went to the basement and didn’t see anything,” Benningfield said. “When I came back up, I noticed from the (post indicator valve) water was gushing out.”

The PIV valve is a red-water indicator that controls the water to the building.

“It started coming down from the light fixtures, the vents, the air grill and anywhere else it can escape,” Benningfield said.

She said the pipes in the building are inspected quarterly.

“This is a freak accident of a sprinkler pipe bursting,” she said.

The sprinkler valve puts out about 12 gallons of water a minute.

Don Pierce, manager of environmental health and safety, said the damage was minimal.

The decision comes as AI companies face rising operating costs. Training and running large language models requires massive investments in computing power and infrastructure, making new revenue streams increasingly necessary.

In early tests, advertisements appear beneath ChatGPT’s responses and are labeled as sponsored content. OpenAI says the ads will not influence how answers are generated and that user conversations will remain private from advertisers.

Still, the format raises concerns about how commercial content could shape user experience. A request for travel or shopping advice, for example, could place promotional links directly beneath a generated response, blurring the line between neutral information and marketing.

Industry analysts view the shift as part of a broader effort to build an advertising business around OpenAI’s expanding suite of products.

For users, the change reflects a familiar pattern. Platforms that begin as free, user-focused tools often move toward

advertising once they reach scale.

A broader shift in tech

Together, TikTok’s ownership transition and ChatGPT’s introduction of advertising reflect a wider shift across the technology industry.

As companies grow larger and face increased regulation, infrastructure costs and investor pressure, maintaining free or low-cost services becomes more difficult. Platforms are increasingly forced to balance innovation, accessibility and profit.

For students and young users who rely heavily on digital tools for communication, research and entertainment, these changes carry real consequences. Questions about privacy, transparency and trust are no longer abstract concerns but everyday realities.

The evolution of TikTok and ChatGPT suggests the next phase of digital life will be shaped less by rapid experimentation and more by financial and political constraints — a reality that will continue to influence how people interact with technology in the years ahead.

later stepped away from daily operations while Cheryl Cummings managed Willie’s and expanded into Murphy’s and Outlaws.

The statement then went on to say, “Independent professionals are engaged, and all actions are being taken in accordance with governing documents and applicable law. Matters related to external interference are being reviewed separately and through appropriate channels.”

This closure stems from a long dispute between the owners of Willie’s Saloon, Murphy’s and Outlaws over control of the bars.

Cheryl Cummings and her brother, Ryan Cummings, are locked in a Payne County lawsuit over Willie’s, Murphy’s and Outlaws, with a court-ordered management split in place as the case moves forward.

The dispute stretches back to June 2018, when the siblings purchased Willie’s, according to an operating agreement filed with the court. Ryan Cummings

According to a verified petition, May 24 Ryan Cummings changed the locks at all three bars, fired staff, required employees to reapply and placed Cheryl Cummings on administrative leave.

A verified petition is a court document in which the person filing swears under oath that the allegations are true to the best of their knowledge.

Court filings include analysis of bank statements that Cheryl Cummings says show personal expenditures by her brother between May and September, including mortgage payments, credit card charges and vehicle expenses. The analysis was filed as an exhibit to the petition.

The application for a restraining order alleges unpaid sales, payroll and unemployment taxes and states that the

Oklahoma Tax Commission threatened closure. The filing says Cheryl Cummings paid back taxes to keep Willie’s operational.

On Oct. 14, Cheryl Cummings filed a verified petition alleging breach of fiduciary duty, breach of contract, conversion and unjust enrichment.

On Oct. 23, Cheryl Cummings was given control of Willie’s, leaving Ryan Cummings in control of Murphy’s and Outlaws from a judge issueing an amended temporary restraining order.

Before the October filings, Cheryl Cummings attempted to assert control through corporate governance actions in August.

Court records show she voted to remove Ryan Cummings from leadership positions within Three Keys and related limited liability companies.

Ryan Cummings did not respond to requests for comment. Cheryl Cummings declined to comment through an employee.

Attorneys guide tribal citizens on navigating ICE encounters

The National Congress of American Indians, or NCAI, hosted an informational webinar Wednesday in partnership with the Native American Rights Fund, or NARF, sharing the steps tribal citizens can take to engage safely with an Immigration and Customs Enforcement agent. They also shared how tribal leaders can support their members during this uncertain time. The pointers they gave were not legal advice.

At the core of the webinar was a question about ICE’s jurisdiction. Attorneys said it was limited in the U.S. However, when it comes to Indian Country, jurisdiction may change on a case-bycase basis, said Leonard Fineday, NCAI’s General Counsel.

“A general principle: ICE has the authority to enter open tribal lands in order to enforce federal immigration laws,” Fineday, a citizen of the Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe, said. “But that doesn’t necessarily take into consideration unique circumstances that an individual, tribe or community may have by virtue of their treaty or by virtue of the status of their reservation.”

For jurisdictional questions, Fineday suggested consulting the specific attorney for the tribe’s reservation in question.

It is unclear what authority ICE agents have over all of the reservations located in Oklahoma. There was speculation that tribal citizens may have been caught up in an ICE sweep in Northeast Oklahoma, and rumors about an ICE detention facility opening up in Durant, inside the boundaries of the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma reservation.

But what the attorneys hosting the webinar made clear was that tribal leaders can demand consultation from the Department of Homeland Security to discuss operations in Indian Country and encounters with tribal citizens. They can also create a hotline to assist members who may have been affected.

How tribal citizens can exercise their rights during an ICE encounter

One of the most helpful tips is to remember the right to remain silent, according to NARF Senior Staff Attorney Beth Wright, a tribal citizen of the Laguna Pueblo. This right can be used even when an ICE agent is seeking answers about a person’s whereabouts.

“If you choose to remain silent [and] if ICE is asking you any questions, it’s important to say clearly that you are exercising your right to remain silent,” Wright said. “As always, do not lie because lying may impact you in the future.”

The right to remain silent can be invoked in public and private spaces. If detained, NARF suggests utilizing this right and asking for a lawyer.

While not legally required for U.S. citizens traveling within the country, Wright also recommended carrying a valid form of identification at all times, whether it be issued through the tribal, state or federal government. Wright stressed that tribal IDs are valid forms of ID in the U.S., despite some tribal citizens being told otherwise.

“If you are stopped by ICE, ICE needs reasonable suspicion that you are not legally in the United States to legally stop you,” she said.

“And if you are arrested or detained by ICE, they need probable cause that you are not legally in the United States to arrest or detain you.”

ICE agents cannot come into a home without a valid judicial warrant, Wright said. But if ICE agents do enter without permission, choosing to refrain from resisting physically can promote better safety.

“You should be careful to not physically resist or obstruct, but also you should keep in mind that you can always record and document any interaction with ICE,” Wright said. “But you should do so safely.”

Additional resources can be found on NARF’s website.

This article was originally published by KOSU, an independent news service based in Oklahoma.

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Is 2026 the new 2016? What this year’s fashion trends say

around the waist.

Scroll through social media long enough and you’ll see the claim that 2026 is the new 2016. The question is: Will fashion trends include skinny jeans, green army jackets and chokers once again? Predictions show that this year’s styles won’t be a rewind to 2016, but rather a remix, with the reintroduction of once-popular looks with a more contemporary feel.

Kinley Grybowski is a student entrepreneur at Oklahoma State who co-founded a boutique with her mother in 2023, called Disco Lane. Disco Lane has had multiple pop up shops in Stillwater including one at Grybowski’s sorority.

“I think that 2016 fashion is definitely coming back, just maybe in slightly different ways. Fashion in 2026 isn’t a completely new style, it’s refining what 2016 already started with better styling, tailoring and a more up to date point of view,” Grybowski said.

2026 is said to be the end of the “clean girl” era, and the start of an expressive era with color overtaking neutrals, vintage athleisure wear replacing matching sets and statement rather than simple accessories.

“Think more is better. More patterns. More color. More texture. More layers,” said Ellie Sue, fashion vlogger on TikTok. “This year, we will be seeing more fun, funky and out of the box types of outfits.”

She thinks that the trends will add more to an outfit rather than take away from the basics. Rather than the new 2016, Sue sees trends leaning towards 2006.

Examples include mixing and matching patterns, early 2000s hats and aviator glasses. Think large belts, lace layering, tartan print, embroidered pieces and scarves tied

Adding pops of colors to neutral outfits is also a prediction. Bright orange is set to be one of 2026’s hottest colors — perfect for Oklahoma State fans looking to show school spirit in style.

A concept called “dopamine dressing” is wearing clothes that boost your mood and confidence, often with bright colors, patterns and joyful textures that triggers the brain’s dopamine. According to fashion psychologist Dawnn Karen, dopamine dressing is about more than trends, but personal joy and comfort.

“My customers are gravitating to more bold prints and nostalgic styles! My customers definitely still like the clean girl aesthetic with matching sets and put together looks, but they also like the more bold and fun styles as well,” Grybowski said. “I think it depends on the age group for which style is gravitated towards more. Some customers are gravitating towards bold “dopamine dressing” with maximalist vibes, and others are more relaxed and simple. I personally love and gravitate toward both!”

While trends point in different directions, in 2026, many consumers are not just committing to just one style but rather prioritizing authenticity and personal taste.

“Don’t just buy something because it’s trendy, buy something because it speaks to you and applauds your personal style,” said Tash Tyson, a fashion influencer.

If any of the 2026 fashion trend predictions resonate with you, consider adding to your wardrobe, but remember 2026 is the era of expression, so no matter what is trending, the most important piece of fashion advice this year is to dress for yourself.

Squirrels on campus return as winter fades

same environment as students, faculty and staff.

As snow melts and patches of grass begin to reappear, one familiar part of Oklahoma State University’s campus is returning: the squirrels.

Fox squirrels and eastern gray squirrels are the two most common species found around campus. They can be seen darting across sidewalks, climbing trees and searching for dropped food near residence halls and green spaces.

During colder months, squirrel activity decreases as temperatures drop. While squirrels do not hibernate in the traditional sense, they become less active and spend more time in nests built in trees and sheltered areas. As temperatures fluctuate, some remain visible even during winter storms, occasionally appearing on Library Lawn alongside students.

As warmer weather arrives, sightings increase.

For years, rumors have circulated about a supposed “squirrel fee” included in student tuition. The university has repeatedly denied the claim, stating no such fee exists. While some students joke about the idea, campus wildlife is maintained through regular groundskeeping and environmental management.

According to the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation, gray squirrels typically live 10 to 12 years and do not travel far from where they are born. This means many campus squirrels may be multigenerational — raised in the

Squirrels build nests from twigs and plant material, often in tree cavities. On campus, trees near areas such as Theta Pond and residential neighborhoods provide natural shelter.

Over time campus squirrels have grown accustomed to human presence. Many approach students closely when food is dropped and are frequently photographed. Several student-run social media accounts have even featured squirrels as unofficial campus mascots.

Despite their familiarity, university officials and wildlife experts advise against touching them.

While rabies transmission from squirrels is rare, they can carry other illnesses, including tularemia, a bacterial disease that can spread through contact with wildlife or insects. Observing squirrels from a distance is the safest option.

Beyond their visibility, squirrels play an important role in the campus ecosystem. By burying and relocating seeds, they help maintain plant life and contribute to environmental balance.

For many students, they also provide simple moments of entertainment and connection to nature.

As spring approaches, campus squirrels once again serve as small reminders that life on campus extends beyond classrooms and sidewalks, sharing space with wildlife that has long made OSU its home.

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City of Stillwater fixes water leak during snow storm

Stillwater Water Utilities has restored normal water use after crews repaired a major leak in the city’s water system that prompted conservation requests over the weekend.

City officials announced Monday afternoon that customers may resume regular water consumption as crews continue working on a permanent fix at 10th Avenue and Knoblock Street.

“Customers can resume water consumption as usual,” the city said in a statement released at 2:15 p.m. Tuesday. “Crews continue to work on

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a durable solution for the leak located at 10th and Knoblock.”

The investigation began last week after officials detected a potentially large leak and asked residents to limit water use to maintain reliable service.

Residents at One on Fourth, Midtown, Prime Place and Alight previously contacted The O’Colly reporting water-related concerns during the investigation.

Crews located the source of the leak Sunday evening near 10th Avenue and Knoblock Street and began working to isolate the issue.

Temporary repairs were implemented Sunday morning to restore service

while a long-term solution was developed.

Throughout the weekend, city officials encouraged residents to continue dripping faucets to prevent frozen pipes while conserving water when possible.

The request came amid freezing temperatures and winter weather that strained water infrastructure and increased the risk of damaged pipes.

Officials thanked residents for their patience and cooperation as crews worked to stabilize the system.

Additional repairs will continue as part of a permanent solution.

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Although there were speculations of BOB running into a powerline, Spradling confirmed there was no accident as the driver stopped before any connection between BOB and the powerline was made.

“He just couldn’t get it back going again, and when he started to take off, it just started sliding toward the pole,” Spradling said. “So, he stopped and called supervisors.”

The police stopped by only to help and block traffic until the tow truck got there, but there were no incidents of any kind.

Spradling said they were going to tow the bus out, but it was close to the pole and instead called a wrecker and had it pulled back on the road.

A tractor got the street cleared soon after.

The few remaining passengers, but the supervisors still made sure to prioritize the passengers and gave them rides until another bus was available at both Stillwater Flats and Milestone.

“I don’t think anyone missed a ride because the guys (supervisors) went out immediately,” Spradling said.

Spradling said that this is to be expected when getting heavy snow, and both buses only took about 10 minutes to get back on its route.

The snow, Spradling mentioned, is a minimal delay compared to an incident that occurred a few weeks ago when a BOB got hit in an intersection, which is a much longer delay.

“As soon as their free to go, if the bus can’t leave right away, then we will take another bus to start the route,” Spradling said.

A member of Spradling’s staff, Dayton Cambell, came to work early on Wednesday with several bags of salt to spread around town. Spradling, along with other workers, followed suit around entrances to the parking garages and other places.

“We always try to put the students first,” Spradling said.

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In defense of the simple stories on campus

Bryson Thadhani CO-EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Countless times, I have walked into an event looking for conflict, breaking news or the “big story” most journalists hope to find. But it’s the events that are just fun that make you realize a hard truth: journalism isn’t always dramatic. Sometimes, a reporter will walk into an assignment and think, “Is this really it?” or “Is this worth a full story?”

That was my thought process when snow hit Stillwater this weekend and I saw people playing with snowballs. Until I noticed a few things. Campus slowed down. People changed their pace. You could feel the shift in the atmosphere. What I saw on Library Lawn was something you don’t see often in this decade. Phones were down. Strangers were talking. People were

staying outside in the cold — voluntarily.

This weekend reminded many of their childhood snow days, but instead of gathering around with family and friends watching the local news looking for school closures, students got an email at 1:34 p.m. Saturday saying the weekend got a little bit longer. They got a day to forget their assignments, forget the pressure and just be outside.

The main takeaway from all of this is that not every story needs a narrative, needs outrage or a scandal. Some stories are just simple.

In 2026, it is easier than ever to get burnt out and stressed with the constant noise and the busyness of our calendars.

Moments like this cut through all of that.

Sometimes, that’s the story.

news.ed@ocolly.com

Snow days at oklahoma state Lifestyle

TRUST THE LORD! (Part #1)

“Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God; trust also in me.” (Jn.14:1 NIV)

Jesus had just told his disciples of his betrayal. He also told to them of his leaving and they could not go with him. I am sure that it seemed to the disciples that everything was “caving in, falling apart.” The future seemed so uncertain. Then Jesus speaks these words; DON’T BE TROUBLED; TRUST ME!

Jesus tells them that he is going to the Father (God) and in his house there is plenty of room. He tells them that he is going to make a place for them all and he will return to take them there. As we look around us there is much uncertainty about this planet that we live on; safety is a premium, and what about when death comes? What is going to happen to you and me? Many are betting on losing consciousness and never

awakening. They live on that assumption. However, Jesus tells us all are going to experience a resurrection from the dead; some to everlasting life and others to be condemned . (Jn.5:28-29, Dan.12:2)

Again, the Lord Jesus makes things clear to his followers: “I am going to my Father’s house to prepare a place for you. I will return to get you and take you to be with me.” when asked about the way to this wonderful place, Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No

Friday, January 30, 2026

‘You know you screwed up this last year?’

5 a.m. walk helped Gajewski prep for 2026 season

The words were intense and the message was blunt.

But Kenny Gajewski knew it was right.

The Oklahoma State softball coach

went for a summer walk with former athletic director Mike Holder — who hired Gajewski in 2015 — after the Cowgirls’ 2025 season ended earlier than expected in regionals. Holder didn’t waste any time once the 5 a.m., seven-mile walk at the golf course started.

“We got about 500 steps in, and (Holder) said, ‘You know you screwed up this last year?’” Gajewski said Wednesday at media day. “And I was like, ‘Damn… This is gonna be tough.’”

by annoiting last season’s team as the “best you’ve ever had” before game one. They had the talent to live up to that title, but they hadn’t earned it on the field yet, Holder said. Gajewski thought about it. Then it hit him.

See GAJEWSKI on page 2B Parker Gerl

Hoyt wants development success with Heard, Wooten to carry over

Cayden Cox STAFF REPORTER

In the current age of college basketball, roster continuity is difficult to form.

But in recent years, Cowgirls coach Jacie Hoyt has found success turning players into stars during their second season at Oklahoma State.

In 2022, one of the first players Hoyt recruited in her tenure as the Cowgirls coach was Stailee Heard. Three months before Heard

committed to OSU, Jadyn Wooten announced that she was headed to Stillwater. Together, the two have survived roster revamps and have devloped into star players during their sophomore seasons. After their freshman seasons, Wooten and Heard were each named to the All-Big 12 Freshman teams and continued to grow throughout their sophomore seasons.

As the conversation continued, Holder told Gajewski he messed up

Cowboys set for pivotal weekend against UNI, ISU

Weston Wertzberger STAFF REPORTER

Oklahoma State returns home this weekend with Gallagher-Iba Arena set to host one of its most anticipated stretches of the season.

The No. 5 Cowboys (10-1, 5-0 Big 12) welcome No. 13 Northern Iowa (9-4, 3-0) on Friday before hosting No. 3 Iowa State (8-1, 4-0) on Sunday.

The two-dual slate brings conference contenders, postseason implications, and another opportunity for OSU to capitalize on its home mat advantage, which has

paid off under coach David Taylor.

“Anytime we get a chance for us here, it’s awesome,” Taylor said. “We got Northern Iowa and Iowa State coming this weekend, on Friday and Sunday, and I’m looking forward to both.”

OSU has been dominant at home during Taylor’s tenure, posting a 10–0 record inside Gallagher-Iba Arena while going 19–2 against ranked opponents. That success has reinforced the program’s emphasis on turning home duals into marquee events for both wrestlers and fans.

See IOWA on page 4B

“(Holder said) if I’m Chyenne Factor and Kiley Naomi and Taylor Tuck and Chelsea Alexander and I’ve been to four straight Women’s College World Series and you’re telling everybody in this room and outside of here that this is the best team I’ve ever had, I’d be pissed,” Gajewski said. “It’s like you slapped them in the face.

“And I was like, ‘Damn, he’s right.’” So in 2026, Gajewski’s message for his 11th team has been simple: run your own race.

Star ace pitcher Ruby Meylan is back. So is the talented infield duo of Karli Godwin and Rosie Davis. The Cowgirls were picked second in the Big 12 preseason poll. A mix of speed and pop make up the offense. Everything is in place for a deep run — OSU just has to create that opportunity throughout the year.

“As your coach, I need to do a good job of making sure you understand you can get anything you want to get,” Gajewski said. “You just gotta earn it.”

Infield adjustments

With Tallen Edwards (third base) now at Texas A&M and Megan Bloodworth (shortstop) exhaushting her eligibility, infield changes were inevitable.

But not to the degree in which Davis had expected. After playing at second base the past two seasons, Davis is set to move to third base for 2026 season, Gajewski said Wednesday. He also said Jayden Jones and Gabby Castillo are in a battle for the second-base job.

As for Davis, the opportunity was a surprise, but she was quick to accept the offer.

“I was doing my normal thing at second base, and then one day (Gajewski) just brings me in, and he’s like, ‘You want to play third base?’” Davis said. “And I was like, ‘Coach G, I want to do whatever is best for this team and whatever I can do to help. So, I was like automatically a yes. If that’s what needs to happen, then let’s do it.”

Davis had a breakout season in 2025, leading the Cowgirls in batting average (.369), hits (59), RBIs (53), on-base percentage (.469) and walks (29). She also hit nine home runs and 13 doubles.

Offensively, Davis is carrying that momentum into the season, while picking up on what to expect on the infield corner. Gajewski said Davis has done “really good” so far.

“You think it’s gonna (get) hit hard and then they just don’t (sometimes),” Davis said. “You’re just left standing there, so it’s kind of crazy. It’s definitely completely different than second base.”

Godwin’s plate approach

Scary.

Scary good.

That’s how Gajewski described Karli Godwin’s play in the fall. And that could be scary for opposing pitchers come February.

Godwin is coming off a season in which she hit .316 and seven home runs — a good year but a down one compared to her stellar 2024 freshman campaign. She voiced frustrations throughout last season, too, but has worked to reshape her mental plate approach in the offseason: This pitch. And this pitch only. Not the next or the last pitch.

“Last year, that’s where I stayed,” Godwin said. “I spent so much time

and energy and worried about what happened in my previous at-bats. I wasn’t worried about what’s going to happen on the next one. You can’t do that.”

Godwin also said she and the Cowgirls have worked on “mental performance” in the offseason. Gajewski added that it’s some of the “greatest growth” he’s seen from Godwin during her time in Stillwater.

The first baseman is a top hitter for OSU and has the ability to change a game with her power at the plate. Now she’s ready to carry her work from the fall into her third season.

“It’s resetting, and it definitely helps,” Godwin said.

sports.ed@ocolly.com

OSU Cowgirls set for weekend tournament in Mexico

The No. 19 Cowgirl golf team is set to travel to Guadalajara, Mexico, to compete in the Collegiate Invitational on Jan. 30-31.

The 54-hole tournament is held at the par-72 Guadalajara Country Club. The Cowgirls will join No. 28 Florida State, No. 33 Houston, No. 38 Virginia, No. 39 NC State, No. 41 TCU, No. 43 Colorado, Tulsa, Chattanooga, BYU, UTSA and Washington to make up the 12-team field.

Oklahoma State coach Annie Young said the team’s goal is to earn a spot for its photo on the wall in the Karsten Creek Golf Club trophy room. Winning a conference or national championship is the only way to reach it.

The journey to reach that goal begins this weekend.

Last season, the team placed third at the Big 12 Championship and 15th at the NCAA Championsip. After three top-five finishes and one win in the fall, six players return and set the team up to make a deep run in the spring.

Two freshmen, Yu-Chu Chen and Sophia Ellestad, join the veteran squad this year. Chen played in two of the team’s fall tournaments and represented Taiwan at the 2025 World Amateur Team Championships.

Ellestad is yet to make her Cowgirl debut but has gained experience in tournaments across the country. She most recently placed in the top 10 in both the Sunshine State Amateur and the Women’s California State Open.

Following the tournament this weekend, the team will compete in the Arizona Thunderbirds Intercollegiate tournament in Tucson, Ariz., on Feb. 9-10.

sports.ed@ocolly.com

Oklahoma State Cowgirl Basketball vs. BYU

After a scheduled home match last weekend was postponed, this carries added importance.

“We really value our home matches and the experience that it gives to the state of Oklahoma and the surrounding areas,” Taylor said. “So we get a chance to hopefully make up for that this weekend with some fun duals.”

Beyond the atmosphere, Taylor said the FridaySunday format provides consistency for a young lineup still settling into its rhythm.

“It’s actually a little bit easier when you make weight and kind of get started that night and get back the next day to get back on the mats and wrestle again,” Taylor said. “I think it’s nice, especially in our home.”

Gallagher-Iba Arena has already produced one of the season’s best crowds, and Taylor expects the environment to continue evolving.

“Home mat advantage in wrestling, it’s a big deal, especially here,” Taylor said. “Our fans look forward to it. Our wrestlers look forward to it. We have an awesome home experience, and we just got to keep building it.”

High risk, high reward against Iowa State Sunday’s dual against ISU shapes up as the Big 12’s premier regular-season matchup.

The Cowboys and the Cyclones enter the weekend as the conference’s only two teams ranked inside the top 10, and history suggests GIA will favor the Cowboys.

OSU leads the all-time series 64-22-3 and holds a 34-7-1 advantage in Stillwater, including wins in 16 of the last 18 meetings.

This year’s meeting is projected to be one of the most competitive yet. All 10 bouts are expected to feature ranked wrestlers, with four matchups between top-10 opponents.

The spotlight at 141 pounds figures to be the brightest, as No. 2 Sergio Vega will face No. 3 Anthony Echemendia in the highest-ranked matchup. True freshman Vega enters unbeaten at 10-0 while Echemendia brings veteran credentials as a Big 12 champion and NCAA All-American.

Heavyweight presents another major challenge for the Cowboys. Sixth-ranked Konner Doucet is projected to face top-ranked Yonger Bastida, who has yet to be beaten this season and owns both a Big 12 championship and a 2022 All-American finish.

“They have a good team,” Taylor said. “We’ve got to be ready for every single match.”

Facundo earns Big 12 honors

Alex Facundo added another milestone to his season earlier this week, becoming the fifth Cowboy to earn Big 12 Wrestler of the Week honors this season.

The 174-pounder was recognized after a narrow 2-1 win over Missouri’s No. 10 Cam Steed on Jan. 23, marking Facundo’s fourth victory over a ranked opponent this season. The win also gave him back-to-back top-10 victories after he defeated Oklahoma’s then-No. 7 Carter Schubert the previous week.

Facundo joins Troy Spratley, Sergio Vega, Landon Robideau and Zack Ryder as OSU’s conference honorees — the most in the Big 12 and the program’s highest total since 2017.

Taylor said Facundo’s season has been shaped by opportunity and timing. After competing sparingly in recent years, this season has given Facundo a chance to return to the rhythm of a full college schedule.

“He’s starting to hit a little bit of growth,” Taylor said. “When that happens, you’ve got to run with it. It’s been fun to watch.”

holds a 10-1

Merrill settling in well at 197

Cody Merrill didn’t enter the season with much fanfare, but midway through his first year as a starter, the redshirt freshman has quietly carved out an identity at one of the most demanding weights in college wrestling.

Merrill sits ranked No. 7 at 197 pounds by InterMat and carries a 10–1 record into the weekend, including six wins over ranked opponents and a seven-match winning streak.

His lone loss came by one point in November, and he owns a win over Nebraska’s Camden McDanel, an All-American and one of the most established wrestlers in the weight class.

For a first-year starter in the upperweights, that consistency has mattered as much as the results.

“Our whole team is just constantly maturing,” OSU coach David Taylor said. “From where he was at the beginning of the year to where he is now, he’s developed a lot of confidence. He’s been very calm under pressure situations, and he’s really developed a reputation for being tough on top, which has made a big difference for him this year.”

Merrill’s rise hasn’t been built

on flashy offense. Instead, it has come through control — particularly in the top position — where he has limited opponents’ chances and turned close matches in his favor.

At 197 pounds, that ability can quickly separate wrestlers.

“He’s been really hard to score on,” Taylor said. “That’s huge at that weight.”

Early in the season, Merrill often won tight matches without much separation. As the year has progressed, that hesitation has faded. He now wrestles longer stretches in control, slows matches to his pace and dictates where exchanges happen.

While the offense continues to develop, Merrill has made a living by managing position. He keeps opponents underneath him, forces them to work to get free and turns seven-minute bouts into drawn-out, physical battles.

The result has been a growing reluctance from opponents to choose bottom against him — a reflection of discipline rather than dominance.

“He has a patience about it,” Taylor said. “A lot of guys on top get anxious and make a mistake. He’s willing to stick with it. He’s got a great mat return, and he has a really strong, committed ride.”

Taylor noted that top wrestling has been a point of emphasis throughout the lineup, but Merrill’s buy-in has helped accelerate his development.

“Riding someone is hard,” Taylor said. “A lot of people won’t put that work in. As a team, we put a lot of effort there, and for Cody, that’s become a big part of who he is.”

Merrill is projected to face No. 2 Rocky Elam of Iowa State on Sunday, a four-time NCAA All-American and two-time conference champion who enters the matchup unbeaten at 11–0.

Elam is one of the most experienced wrestlers in the country and presents a stylistic challenge similar to Merrill’s own strengths.

“Elam’s pretty good,” Taylor said. “He’s been around for a long time. He’s got a good takedown, he’s tough on top — it’s a similar matchup. I think it’s going to be a good test.”

Taylor believes the next step will come naturally.

“Got to do a little better job of getting some turns, but that comes with experience,” Taylor said. “It comes with confidence. But he’s done a great job on top where guys aren’t taking bottom on him. That’s a free point.”

Sports

OSU gets 7 days off, looks to bounce back

Luke Mazza STAFF REPORTER

A timely reset could help the Oklahoma State Cowboys address flaws and regain momentum.

During conference play, there is usually a three-to-four-day gap between games. However, the Cowboys (14-6 overall, 2-5 Big 12) will have seven days to prepare for Saturday’s road trip to the Utah Utes.

The break comes at a needed time for the Cowboys, who, after beginning the season 12-1, stumbled to a 2-5 record in January. Now, they look to regain form against the struggling Utes (9-11, 1-6). While the matchup appears promising on paper, Big 12 road games have historically challenged both coach Steve Lutz and his team.

Cowboy fans have not seen a Big 12 road win since Feb. 21, 2023, when they beat the Cincinnati Bearcats, under then-coach Mike Boynton.

While time is running out, this extended gap allows the Cowboys to clean up recent struggles ahead of the crucial final two months.

Quad one opportunities

The Cowboys are 0-4 versus quad one opponents.

The Big 12 is a gauntlet, and the Cowboys are staring down a relentless schedule. ESPN’s Basketball Power Index rates the stretch the 24th toughest in the country; each game could make or break the Cowboys’ season.

The Cowboys will square off against the best of the conference and championship contenders. The good news for the Cowboys is that when the schedule gets tough, the battle comes home, as many of its toughest opponents will be played in Gallagher Iba Arena:

Feb. 2: No. 13-ranked BYU

Feb. 7: at No. 1-ranked Arizona

Feb. 18: No. 14-ranked Kansas

March 7: No. 10-ranked Houston

With these high-stakes matchups approaching, the Cowboys have golden chances to bolster their resume. Their response to these games will either set them up for a thrilling turnaround or a challenging February and March.

“We’ve gotta get better,” Lutz said. “This league is such a grind, and if you’re struggling mentally or you’re

struggling physically, obviously, we’ll use this week to get better there. But we’ve gotta get better just in terms of our overall team direction.”

Bubble watch

KenPom ranks the Cowboys 71st and projects an 18-13 regular-season finish.

To keep March Madness dreams alive, the Cowboys will likely need a deep run in the Big 12 tournament to have a shot at making March Madness.

The road ahead is brutal, but not impossible. Five of 11 opponents are outside the top 50, and the Cowboys need to be inside the top 68 teams to go dancing for the first time since 2021.

Consistency is key

However, talk of March Madness is premature if the Cowboys cannot consistently play at a high level.

After November’s fireworks, the offense is searching for a spark.

Offensively, the Cowboys have been mostly bad in conference play. The Cowboys’ highest point total was 87 in a win versus UCF.

Anthony Roy and Parsa Fallah lead the way, but for the Cowboys to surge, one or two of Vyctorius Miller, Kanye Clary, Jaylen Curry and Isaiah Coleman must step up.

“We’ve gotta have a focus on it, doesn’t matter if I score points,” Lutz said. “Or it doesn’t matter if I get rebounds, it matters that I’m gonna give you my best every single possession, and my teammates are gonna give their best. And then collectively, we can be great together.”

Defensively, the Cowboys must build on their best recent showing, allowing only 33 points in the second half against the Iowa State Cyclones. That performance, featuring 12 forced second-half turnovers, is the type of defensive effort needed if they hope to extend their season beyond March.

“I’ve said it over and over to you guys, this team offensively, I think, is going to be okay,” Lutz said. “But our biggest area for growth is defensively.

“We have to become a more cohesive unit on that end and be more diligent in concentrating on winning the game through our defense, not just our offense.”

What sponorship logos could end up on OSU jerseys?

3. BOK Financial

Unsurprisingly, more revenue opportunities are on the table for college athletic programs.

The NCAA announced last week that Divison I schools may begin selling ad space on uniforms, team gear and equipment in August, shortly before the 2026 college football season begins on Aug. 27.

So, will there be a new logo on Oklahoma State football jerseys or helmets? Maybe. But either way, it’s an interesting thing to think about, as schools are always looking for ways to increase their revenue in this moneydriven era of college sports.

Here’s The O’Colly’s list of hypothetical sponsors OSU could use on its equipment if it pursues any collaborations.

1. Eskimo Joe’s Cheese fries. A great gameday spot. Eskimo Joe’s is one of, if not the top, Stillwater spots that locals brag about. It would be a perfect sponsor for the Cowboys, and the two have already collaborated before on custom shirts for former quarterback Spencer Sanders.

Eskimo Joe’s does well with its own merchandise, too, so why wouldn’t they be able to design a nice jersey patch? Maybe the Cowboys would want a more well-known sponsor. That’s the only thing that should stop a partnership from happening.

2. Sonic Sonic is a national powerhouse, but adding a sponsorship patch on a Cowboys jersey would still have local ties.

Built in 1958, the fast food chain’s first-ever drive-in is located in Stillwater at 215 N. Main St. and has a sign out front as a landmark. That alone should be enough for an OSUSonic partnership. And the logo would pop on a jersey, another bonus.

OSU already has a significant longterm partnership with BOK Financial with major athletic and and academic sponsorships. So, it would be easy for the two sides to come together on a jersey patch.

BOK Financial’s logo doesn’t necessarily stand out, but it would still be a nice collaboration for OSU given the company’s status.

4. Hideaway Pizza

Another local food sponsor with history tied to Stillwater. The original Hideaway location is roughly a 10-minute walk from Boone Pickens Stadium and its logo would look nice on Cowboys gear — maybe on the back of a helmet. But just like Joe’s, if OSU does go down the sponsor route, it may want to work with a more national brand than Hideway.

5. ONEOK, Inc.

The natural gas company is headquartered and Tulsa, where a large population of Cowboy fans reside. This would be an opportunity for OSU to stay local but still have a more national brand on its gear. The ONEOK logo is another one that could potentially work well on both a jersey or a helmet, too.

6. BP Capital

Shoutout Thomas Boone Pickens. If OSU wants to pay more homage to the man their stadium is named after, working with the investest management firm he founded in 1997 would be a great way to commemorate one of the most important figures in school history.

7. Braum’s Collaborating with Oklahoma’s most popular fast-food burger chain would be easy and effective. And a jersey patch that would make fans feel at home. That pink and blue ice cream cone logo would pop, too.

Heard went from averaging 12.9 points and 6.3 rebounds during her freshman season to 16.8 points and 8.2 boards in year two.

The same can be said for Wooten: She went from 6.5 points and 3.5 assists a season ago to 12.6 points and 5.3 assists this season.

“I’ve got two players that were on the All-Big 12 Freshman team,” Hoyt said. “There’s definitely a pattern there, and I think that the best thing that we do is develop our players.”

While Heard and Wooten were championship-level players at the high school level, their game has gone to a new level in Stillwater under the Cowgirls’ coaching staff.

Both Cowgirl stars received little attention from high-level programs in their recruiting process, but made an instant connection with the OSU coaches, leading to them joining the Cowgirls.

While OSU’s coaching staff has shuffled in Hoyt’s tenure, one key piece remains.

Kelby Jones.

Jones played a key role in bringing Heard to OSU and was the coach who spotted Lena Girardi, OSU’s lone freshman this year.

“I feel really confident in (our ability to develop),” Hoyt said. “I’ve got a great staff who evaluates really well. I think both (Heard and Wooten) were underrated coming out of high school. We saw something out of both of them, and then once we got them, we were able to develop them into something even better.”

With a history of turning players into stars, Hoyt believes that’s something that stands out when recruiting incoming freshman.

A team that has just one freshman this season has three coming in next season: Bralyn Peck, Addisyn Bollinger and Annie Kibedi.

“It’s great for us on a recruiting trip to sit down with a kid and say ‘this was Stailee Heard’s process, and this is what she’s done each year,’” Hoyt said. “With Jadyn, last season she had some not so great moments, which is normal for a freshman, but you see what she’s doing now. I think history has a way of repeating itself and there are two great examples of that.”

After an inconsistent freshman year,

Sports

Wooten’s sophomore season has been different.

The Cowgirls point guard has taken shots this year that she would have passed up on last season.

Wooten, who traditionally shies away from shooting 3s, has seen a jump in a 3-point percentage.

She went 7 of 32 from beyond the arc last season and has found more success, shooting 8 of 28 from deep this season.

In year two under Hoyt, Wooten has received praise from multiple Big 12 coaches, as they have referred to her mid-range jumper as one of the best in the country.

With her offensive output nearly doubling, Wooten believes that the offseason was key for her to work on her game.

“I would definitely say confidence (was my biggest area of growth),” Wooten said. “But down to the nitty gritty, I would say consistency. I feel like last season I had a lot of ups and downs, like high highs and low lows. When it comes to being a great player at this level, you have to find a foundation that’s just consistent.”

While Wooten is blossoming into a star, Heard is turning into a true leader for the Cowgirls, given her experience within the program.

Having played with Hoyt for three years now, Hoyt said that she believes Heard is becoming an extension of her.

The most recent example of this came in OSU’s win against Houston when Heard was on the bench and started giving out instructions to the players on the court.

“I’ve been here for so long and I know how she plays and wants everything to be,” Heard said.

The Cowgirls have stressed the importance of sisterhood this year, and Hoyt has said that she believes this is her tightest group yet.

With the arrival of NIL, and more players hitting the transfer portal each year, Hoyt believes the bond she’s built with her players is strong enough to keep them in Stillwater.

“Our circle is small, but we are fierce protectors of it, and very loyal to each other,” Hoyt said. “So it’s been a cool thing to develop and watch (them) grow overtime. I would say the same thing about Lena, it is a weird time to be a coach with the transfer portal, but I feel that (loyalty) with Lena as well, and I think that she’s the next one to follow suit.”

OSU midseason report card

Cayden Cox STAFF REPORTER

As the calendar nears February, Oklahoma State has hit the halfway point in conference play.

Through nine conference games, the Cowgirls are tied for third in the Big 12 with a 6-3 record.

While OSU has stumbled at times, Coach Jacie Hoyt believes her team is moving in the right direction.

“I like our trajectory right now,” Hoyt said. “We’ve slipped up a couple of times, but we always bounce back in the best way and I really like the path that we’re on. I like the momentum that we have going into February.”

Here’s the Report Card:

Stars: B

Many expected Stailee Heard to be a star for the Cowgirls, and she’s averaging 12.5 points and 6.6 rebounds in Big 12 play, but those numbers are significantly down from her All Big 12 First Team statline of 16.9 points and 7.6 rebounds in conference play a season ago.

As for Jadyn Wooten, she has been a breakout player for OSU this season. While Heard was finding her footing at the start of conference play, Wooten turned into a major contributor for the Cowgirls coming off the bench.

“She is a special player right now.” Hoyt said. “She’s growing as a leader. She’s growing in her toughness.”

While Heard and Wooten have had stretches where they looked unstoppable, such as OSU’s Jan.7 contest against TCU and the Cowgirls win against Colorado on Jan. 11, they have also been cold in recent games.

The two combined for seven points in the Cowgirls loss to the Buffaloes on Sunday and in OSU’s last three games, Wooten is shooting 20% from the field.

Frontcourt: C+

The frontcourt was by far the biggest question for OSU coming into the season. With the loss of Tenin Magassa and the addition of four new bigs on the lineup, no one knew what to expect out of the group.

Now, nearly three months into the season, it’s safe to say this position group has not played to the level the Cowgirls need, and is a major reason why the team that was preseason No. 22 no longer is ranked.

The bright spot for this group has been Achol Akot, who’s averaging 9.5 points, 8.5 rebounds and 1.4 blocks.

“She’s just unreal, the athleticism, the motor that she has, it’s just really cool to watch,” Hoyt said. “She allows us to play the way we want to.”

However, her biggest issue has been finding herself into foul trouble, which has put OSU at a significant disadvantage down low.

Specialists: A

Their roles are unique to themselves and their goal is to be consistent in that role night in night out.

needed such as against Cincinnati where she went for a career-high 35 points while shooting 9-of-12 from 3. Micah Gray is similar; her role is to put the ball into the basket and step up if Heard or Wooten are having off nights. She has played her role well, leading the team in scoring five separate times, while also leading the team in a points per game basis showcasing her consistency to get buckets every game.

As for Amari Whiting, her role is different. She is tasked night in and night out guarding the best guard on the opposing team. She’s been matched up with Taliah Scott, Jada Williams, Olivia Miles and most recently Delaney Gibb, who she held to 11 points on 4 of 18 shooting. She also has been very involved on the glass averaging 5.2 rebounds per game — the second most on the team.

Overall Timmer, Gray and Whiting may not get the same praise as the stars on this team, but they have all played their roles to near perfection to start this season.

Depth: C-

A group that contains Lena Girardi, Tyla Heard and Praise Egharevba started out as one of OSU’s strengths in nonconference but has turned into a weakness in conference play. Girardi, the lone of the trio that plays significant minutes on a nightly basis missed four games due to a right shoulder injury and has yet to get back to the level of play she was at pre-injury.

While Girardi hasn’t played more than 13 minutes since returning, her presence has been felt as Hoyt missed a key rotational piece while she was out.

For Haleigh Timmer, that is to be the best shooter on the floor every time she steps onto the court, and she has been. Timmer is currently top 15 in the country for 3-point percentage and second in the Big 12. She has also been able to take over games when

“I will always go back to that Baylor game when we were in foul trouble, not really having another option.” Hoyt said. “That depth is huge. Her ability to stretch the floor (is key)... Having her back just makes us that much deeper and that much stronger.”

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