CLIFF BRUNT Sports Writer, Author at The Rapid City Post

Oklahoma guard Aaliyah Chavez (2) celebrates after scoring against South Carolina during the second half of an NCAA college basketball game Thursday, Jan. 22, 2026 in Norman, Okla. (AP Photo/Alonzo Adams)

Oklahoma’s Chavez earns Dawn Staley’s respect with 15 points in OT to stun No. 2 South Carolina

January 22, 2026

Aaliyah Chavez shined in overtime, leading Oklahoma to a stunning 94-82 victory over No. 2 South Carolina on Thursday night. The freshman point guard scored 15 of her 26 points in the extra period. She had struggled in regulation, making only 4 of 14 shots. Encouraged by teammates Raegan Beers and Sahara Williams, Chavez found her rhythm, hitting all five shots in overtime, including four 3-pointers. Oklahoma coach Jennie Baranczyk praised Chavez’s performance, emphasizing the importance of staying focused for future games. South Carolina coach Dawn Staley also acknowledged Chavez’s impressive play.

Oklahoma guard Aaliyah Chavez (2) goes up for a basket beside South Carolina center Madina Okot (11) during overtime of a NCAA college basketball game Thursday, Jan. 22, 2026 in Norman, Okla. (AP Photo/Alonzo Adams)

Chavez scores 15 of her 26 points in overtime as No. 16 Oklahoma stuns No. 2 South Carolina 94-82

January 22, 2026

Aaliyah Chavez scored 15 of her 26 points in overtime as No. 16 Oklahoma stunned No. 2 South Carolina 94-82 on Thursday night. The freshman made all five of her shots in overtime after struggling in regulation. Payton Verhulst and Raegan Beers also contributed significantly for the Sooners, who had lost three straight to ranked opponents. The victory matches the highest-ranked opponent Oklahoma has ever beaten. South Carolina’s 12-game win streak ended despite strong performances from Tessa Johnson and Raven Johnson. Oklahoma forced overtime with a late putback by Beers and a defensive stop.

Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (2) looks for an outlet against San Antonio Spurs guard Stephon Castle (5) during the first half of an NBA basketball game, Tuesday, Jan. 13, 2026, in Oklahoma City. (AP Photo/Nate Billings)

Gilgeous-Alexander scores 34 as Thunder top Spurs for first time in four meetings this season

January 13, 2026

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored 34 points as the defending NBA champion Oklahoma City Thunder beat San Antonio 119-98 on Tuesday night. This marked their first win in four tries against the Spurs this season. Jalen Williams added 20 points, while Chet Holmgren contributed eight points, 10 rebounds and three blocks. The Thunder improved to a league-best 34-7 at the season’s midway point. Stephon Castle leads San Antonio with 20 points. Victor Wembanyama added 17 points and seven rebounds. Oklahoma City has now won four straight games. The teams will meet again on Feb. 4 in San Antonio.

Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (2) shoots against Utah Jazz during the first half of an NBA basketball game, Wednesday, Jan. 7, 2025, in Oklahoma City. (AP Photo/Gerald Leong)

Gilgeous-Alexander scores 46 points as Thunder halt rare skid with OT win over Jazz

January 7, 2026

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored 46 points and the Oklahoma City Thunder beat the Utah Jazz 129-125 in overtime Wednesday night to snap a two-game losing skid. Gilgeous-Alexander calmly made a shot from near the free-throw line at the regulation buzzer to force overtime, then scored nine points in the extra period. The reigning MVP increased his streak of games with at least 20 points to 109, the second-longest run in NBA history. Chet Holmgren had 23 points and 12 rebounds, Jalen Williams scored 17 points and Ajay Mitchell added 16 for defending champion Oklahoma City. Lauri Markkanen had 29 points and 13 rebounds for Utah. Keyonte George added 25 points and 11 assists.

Charlotte Hornets forward Brandon Miller, right, drives past Oklahoma City Thunder guard Aaron Wiggins, left, during the second half of an NBA basketball game, Monday, Jan. 5, 2026, in Oklahoma City. (AP Photo/Kyle Phillips)

NBA-leading Thunder humbled in 124-97 home loss to struggling Hornets

January 5, 2026

Brandon Miller scored 28 points as the Charlotte Hornets stunned the NBA-leading Oklahoma City Thunder 124-97 on Monday night. Kon Knueppel added 23 points for the Hornets, who had lost three of four before handing Oklahoma City its worst loss of the season. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored 21 points for his 108th straight game with at least 20, the second-longest streak in NBA history. Oklahoma City took its second straight loss and second home defeat of the season.

San Antonio Spurs Victor Wembanyama (1) drives against Oklahoma City Thunder guard/forward Jalen Williams (8) during the first half of an NBA basketball game, Thursday, Dec. 25, 2025, in Oklahoma City. (AP Photo/Gerald Leong)

Wembanyama’s Spurs emerge as threat to defending champion Thunder after three wins over OKC

December 26, 2025

The San Antonio Spurs have emerged as a serious threat to the Oklahoma City Thunder’s NBA dominance. After winning 24 of their first 25 games, the Thunder lost three times to the Spurs, including a 117-102 defeat on Thursday. Spurs center Victor Wembanyama has been a key player, averaging 17.7 points and 8.3 rebounds against the Thunder. The Thunder’s Shai Gilgeous-Alexander acknowledges the need for improvement. Spurs coach Mitch Johnson is leading the team in his first full season, and the Spurs’ focus on teamwork is paying off. The Thunder aim to learn from these losses as they prepare for their next matchup on January 13.

San Antonio Spurs guard De'Aaron Fox (4) shoots against Oklahoma City Thunder Chet Holmgren (7) during the first half of an NBA basketball game, Thursday, Dec. 25, 2025, in Oklahoma City. (AP Photo/Gerald Leong)

Spurs beat Thunder 117-102 for 3rd win over defending NBA champs in 2 weeks

December 25, 2025

De’Aaron Fox scores 29 points as the San Antonio Spurs defeated the Oklahoma City Thunder 117-102 on Thursday. This marked their third win over the defending NBA champs in two weeks. The Spurs also beat the Thunder in an NBA Cup semifinal on Dec. 13 and in San Antonio on Tuesday. San Antonio shot 53.6% from the field, while the Thunder managed only 38.9% shooting. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored 22 points for Oklahoma City. The Thunder started the season 24-1 but are 2-4 since, including three losses to the Spurs. The teams meet again on Jan. 13 in Oklahoma City.

Alabama head coach Kalen Deboer, center, speaks with an official during the first half in the first round of an NCAA College Football Playoff against Oklahoma, Friday, Dec. 19, 2025, in Norman, Okla. (AP Photo/Alonzo Adams)

Alabama coach Kalen DeBoer claps back at critics following comeback victory at Oklahoma in playoff

December 20, 2025

Alabama coach Kalen DeBoer addressed doubts about his team after their College Football Playoff game against Oklahoma. Critics questioned Alabama’s inclusion after a tough loss to Georgia, while Notre Dame was left out. Rumors about DeBoer leaving for Michigan prompted him to affirm his commitment to Alabama. On Friday, Alabama overcame a 17-0 deficit to defeat Oklahoma 34-24, securing a spot in the Rose Bowl quarterfinal against Indiana. DeBoer expressed confidence in his team, emphasizing their resilience. Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson and linebacker Deontae Lawson acknowledged the media’s role in motivating them.

Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson (15) passes against Oklahoma defensive lineman Gracen Halton (56) during the first half in the first round of an NCAA College Football Playoff, Friday, Dec. 19, 2025, in Norman, Okla. (AP Photo/Alonzo Adams)

Alabama rallies from 17-point deficit to beat Oklahoma 34-24 in College Football Playoff

December 19, 2025

Ty Simpson passed for 232 yards and two touchdowns as No. 9 seed Alabama rallied to beat No. 8 Oklahoma 34-24 in the College Football Playoff first round. Alabama overcame a 17-point deficit. Freshman Lotzeir Brooks scored twice, marking his first touchdowns of the season. This is Alabama’s first playoff appearance under coach Kalen DeBoer. Oklahoma’s John Mateer threw for 307 yards and two touchdowns but had a costly interception. Alabama advanced to face No. 1 seed Indiana in the Rose Bowl on Jan. 1.

Oklahoma head coach Brent Venables celebrates with linebacker Kip Lewis (10) after defeating LSU during an NCAA college football game Saturday, Nov. 29, 2025, in Norman, Okla. (AP Photo/Alonzo Adams)

Brent Venables’ aggressive defense gives Oklahoma a different look than past Sooners playoff teams

December 11, 2025

Brent Venables has transformed the Oklahoma Sooners into a defensive powerhouse. The eighth-ranked Sooners lead the nation in tackles for loss and are tied for the lead in sacks. Venables took over defensive play calling this season, turning the team around after a 6-7 record last year. Oklahoma ranks high in rushing, scoring, and total defense. Defensive stars like R Mason Thomas and Taylor Wein have been key contributors. Venables credits the players’ determination and the cohesive coaching staff for the success. The Sooners face No. 11 Alabama in the playoffs next Friday.

Oklahoma quarterback John Mateer (10) runs the ball against LSU during the first half of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Nov. 29, 2025, in Norman, Okla. (AP Photo/Alonzo Adams)

Mateer throws late TD pass, No. 8 Oklahoma beats LSU 17-13 to likely secure playoff spot

November 29, 2025

John Mateer threw a 58-yard touchdown pass to Isaiah Sategna with 4:16 left to overcome three interceptions, and No. 8 Oklahoma beat LSU 17-13 on Saturday night to likely wrap up a College Football Playoff spot. The Sooners (10-2, 6-2 Southeastern Conference, No. 8 CFP) are in position to host a first-round game after winning four straight. Mateer was 23 of 38 for 318 yards and two touchdowns, and Sategna caught nine passes for 121 yards. Oklahoma held the Tigers (7-5, 3-5) to 198 total yards and came up with a late stop to hold on. LSU played through rumors about its coaching situation. Brian Kelly was fired earlier and Ole Miss coach Lane Kiffin has been rumored to be his replacement.

Oklahoma City Thunder center/forward Chet Holmgren (7), center, celebrates with Oklahoma City Thunder center/forward Isaiah Hartenstein (55) and Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (2) during the second half of an Emirates NBA Cup basketball game, Wednesday, Nov. 26, 2025, in Oklahoma City. (AP Photo/Gerald Leong)

Sick Gilgeous-Alexander still looks like MVP as Thunder beat Timberwolves for 10th straight win

November 26, 2025

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the Oklahoma City Thunder to a 113-105 victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves on Wednesday night. Despite being listed as questionable due to illness, he scored 40 points, helping the Thunder secure their 10th straight win and improve to 18-1. Gilgeous-Alexander made 12 of 19 field goals and 15 of 17 free throws. Thunder coach Mark Daigneault praised his performance, especially in the second quarter. The Thunder remain undefeated in West Group A of the NBA Cup.

Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (2) shoots against Minnesota Timberwolves guard Jaylen Clark (22) during the first half of an Emirates NBA Cup basketball game, Wednesday, Nov. 26, 2025, in Oklahoma City. (AP Photo/Gerald Leong)

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scores 40 points while ill, leads Thunder to 10th straight win

November 26, 2025

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored 40 points despite being ill, leading the Oklahoma City Thunder to a 113-105 win over the Minnesota Timberwolves. He was listed as questionable but delivered a standout performance, making 12 of 19 field goals and 15 of 17 free throws. The Thunder have now won their 10th straight game, improving to 18-1. Oklahoma City is 4-0 in West Group A and is well-positioned for the knockout round. Anthony Edwards scored 31 points for Minnesota, but the Timberwolves lost their third straight. The Thunder host the Phoenix Suns on Friday.

Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, right, shoots next to Portland Trail Blazers center Donovan Clingan, left, and Thunder center Isaiah Hartenstein during the first half of an NBA basketball game, Sunday, Nov. 23, 2025, in Oklahoma City. (AP Photo/Nate Billings)

Gilgeous-Alexander scores 37 points, Thunder rout Blazers to avenge only loss

November 23, 2025

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored 37 points in three quarters and the Oklahoma City Thunder beat the Portland Trail Blazers 122-95 on Sunday night to avenge their only loss of the season.Gilgeous-Alexander made 13 of 18 attempts from the field and all nine of his free throws.Ajay Mitchell scored 20 points on 8-for-8 shooting as the defending champion Thunder won their ninth straight after a 121-119 loss at Portland on Nov. 5. They improved to an NBA-best 17-1 and are 85-15 since the start of last season. Oklahoma City’s average scoring margin during its winning streak is 22.3 points, with a 13-point difference being the closest result. Jerami Grant led Portland with 21 points.

Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (2) pushes past New Orleans Pelicans guard Jeremiah Fears, left, during the first half of an NBA basketball game, Sunday, Nov. 2, 2025, in Oklahoma City. (AP Photo/Kyle Phillips)

Gilgeous-Alexander scores 30 points to help keep Thunder unbeaten, Pelicans winless

November 2, 2025

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored 30 points to lead the Oklahoma City Thunder to a 137-106 victory over the New Orleans Pelicans. The Thunder improved to 7-0. Gilgeous-Alexander hit 8 of 14 field goals and all 13 of his free throws in 30 minutes. Isaiah Hartenstein added 14 points, 14 rebounds and eight assists for the Thunder. Oklahoma City shot 56% from the field and had eight players score in double figures. Despite missing key players, Oklahoma City held a 36-point lead in the fourth quarter. Zion Williamson scored 20 points for New Orleans, which fell to 0-6.

Mississippi quarterback Trinidad Chambliss (6) throws a pass during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Oklahoma in Norman, Okla., Saturday, Oct. 25, 2025. (AP Photo/Alonzo Adams)

Chambliss leads No. 8 Mississippi to 34-26 victory over No. 13 Oklahoma

October 25, 2025

Trinidad Chambliss threw for 315 yards and a touchdown and Kewan Lacy ran for two scores to help No. 8 Mississippi defeat No. 13 Oklahoma 34-26. Chambliss also rushed for 53 yards and Lacy had 78 yards on 27 carries for the Rebels. Ole Miss gained 431 yards against an Oklahoma squad that that led the nation in total defense. John Mateer was 17 of 31 for 223 yards and a touchdown and an interception for Oklahoma. Isaiah Sategna had six catches for a career-high 131 yards but had a key fumble in the fourth quarter. Xavier Robinson ran for 109 yards and two scores.

Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander looks at his championship ring during a ceremony before an NBA basketball game against the Houston Rockets Tuesday, Oct. 21, 2025, in Oklahoma City. (AP Photo/Nate Billings)

Thunder receive NBA championship rings, raise banner before season opener against Rockets

October 21, 2025

The Oklahoma City Thunder received their NBA championship rings before their season opener against the Houston Rockets. Commissioner Adam Silver awarded the rings to the team, including League MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. The rings, designed by Jostens, feature 14-karat gold and over 800 gemstones. After the rings were handed out, the championship banner was raised. It was the first title for the franchise since it moved from Seattle in 2008. Houston’s new star is ex-Thunder forward Kevin Durant. Many Thunder fans felt betrayed after Durant joined the team that beat Oklahoma City in the Western Conference Finals months before he switched teams in 2016.

Oklahoma wide receiver Keontez Lewis, center, is carted off the field after a play against Kent State during the first half of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Oct. 4, 2025, in Norman, Okla. (AP Photo/Alonzo Adams)

Oklahoma WR Keontez Lewis leaves game after headfirst collision with brick barrier

October 4, 2025

Oklahoma receiver Keontez Lewis left Saturday’s game against Kent State after hitting his head on a brick barrier. A pass by Michael Hawkins Jr. was overthrown, causing Lewis to collide headfirst with the unpadded wall in the end zone. Lewis lay motionless before being attended to and strapped onto a stretcher. The team gathered around him before he was carted off. The game was scoreless with 10:37 remaining in the first quarter. OU Sports Medicine said during the game that Lewis was sent offsite for additional testing, and the outlook for him is “promising.”

Oklahoma quarterback John Mateer (10) runs the ball for a first down against Auburn during the first half of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025, in Norman, Okla. (AP Photo/Alonzo Adams)

No. 11 Oklahoma’s 9 sacks and Mateer’s late TD sink No. 22 Auburn and ex-Sooners QB Arnold

September 21, 2025

John Mateer passed for 271 yards as No. 11 Oklahoma defeated No. 22 Auburn 24-17. Mateer scored the go-ahead touchdown on a 9-yard run with 4:54 remaining. Former Sooners quarterback Jackson Arnold, now with Auburn, struggled as Oklahoma sacked him nine times. Arnold passed for 220 yards and a touchdown but rushed for minus-11 yards. Oklahoma’s R Mason Thomas returned in the third quarter after a first-half suspension and sacked Arnold for a safety with 1:06 left. Isaiah Sategna had career highs of nine catches and 127 yards.

Auburn head coach Hugh Freeze and Oklahoma head coach Brent Venables meet mid field after an NCAA college football game Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025, in Norman, Okla. (AP Photo/Alonzo Adams)

SEC Officiating acknowledges critical blunder in Oklahoma’s win over Auburn

September 20, 2025

Oklahoma has sparked controversy with a second-quarter touchdown against Auburn on Saturday. On Isaiah Sategna’s 24-yard catch from John Mateer, it seemed like he was leaving the field, but he ended up wide open for the score. This play was crucial in Oklahoma’s 24-17 win. The Southeastern Conference addressed the issue on its SEC Officiating account, stating the crew failed to interpret the play as a hideout tactic. Auburn coach Hugh Freeze said he tried to call a timeout, but it wasn’t granted. He expressed frustration over the situation, referencing offseason instructions about deception plays.

Oklahoma quarterback John Mateer (10) runs the ball against Michigan during the first half of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Sept. 6, 2025, in Norman, Okla. (AP Photo/Alonzo Adams)

John Mateer has 2 TDs rushing, 1 passing as No. 18 Oklahoma beats No. 15 Michigan 24-13

September 6, 2025

John Mateer ran for two touchdowns and passed for another, and No. 18 Oklahoma defeated No. 15 Michigan 24-13. Mateer is a Washington State transfer who was playing in his first marquee game for the Sooners. He passed for 270 yards and ran for 74. Oklahoma got a much-needed signature win for coach Brent Venables. Deion Burks caught seven passes for 101 yards and Jaren Kanak added five catches for 69 yards for the Sooners. Freshman quarterback Bryce Underwood struggled for Michigan, completing 9 of 24 passes for 142 yards. Justice Haynes ran for 125 yards for the Wolverines.

FILE - Oklahoma State's Wyatt Hendrickson reacts after defeating Minnesota's Gable Steveson during a 285-pound match in the finals at the NCAA wrestling championship, Saturday, March 22, 2025, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke, file)

Hendrickson to headline wrestling event as Hulk Hogan’s venture continues after his death

August 5, 2025

Wyatt Hendrickson will face Mostafa Aly Elsayed Gabr Elders in Real American Freestyle wrestling’s main event on Aug. 30. RAF01 is set to go as planned at the Wolstein Center in Cleveland despite the death of commissioner Hulk Hogan last month. Elders was the African Games champion at 97 kilograms in 2024 and qualified for the 2024 Paris Olympics. Hendrickson beat Olympic gold medalist Gable Steveson to win the 285-pound national title at the NCAA Division I wrestling championships in March. The event will be streamed on FOX Nation.

Oklahoma City Thunder fans celebrate NBA title with a parade after years of heartbreak

June 24, 2025

Oklahoma City’s unwavering fans finally got to celebrate a championship after several close calls and heartbreaking moments the past two decades. The Oklahoma City Thunder defeated the Indiana Pacers on Sunday to clinch the NBA title, and the city held a parade downtown to honor its first major professional championship. The Seattle SuperSonics relocated to Oklahoma City in time for the 2008-09 season, and the Thunder became contenders with young stars Kevin Durant, Russell Westbrook and James Harden. They finally broke through with MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and All-Star selection Jalen Williams.

Oklahoma City Thunder forward Jalen Williams (8) drives as Indiana Pacers forward Aaron Nesmith defends during the second half of Game 4 of the NBA Finals basketball series, Friday, June 13, 2025, in Indianapolis. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)

Jalen Williams’ resilience helps Thunder gain solid position heading into Game 5 vs. Pacers

June 15, 2025

Jalen Williams keeps bouncing back. The Oklahoma City Thunder’s All-Star forward has suffered through poor shooting stretches in each of the past three playoff series. And each time, he’s recovered to help the Thunder win critical games. After two rough shooting nights to start the Finals series against the Indiana Pacers, he found his stride. In Game 4, Williams handled the ball more and was aggressive. He scored 27 points and made 8 of 18 field goals and 11 of 11 free throws. His success helped the Thunder win 111-104 to even the series at 2-2.

Oklahoma City Thunder forward Jalen Williams (8) shoots against Indiana Pacers guard T.J. McConnell (9) during the first half of Game 2 of the NBA Finals basketball series Sunday, June 8, 2025, in Oklahoma City. (Matthew Stockman/Pool Photo via AP)

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander gets help in Game 2 as Thunder roll past Pacers to even NBA Finals

June 8, 2025

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander got some much-needed assistance from his teammates in Game 2 of the NBA Finals, and the Oklahoma City Thunder evened the series against the Indiana Pacers with a 123-107 victory. After scoring 38 points in Game 1, Gilgeous-Alexander had 34 points and eight assists in Game 2 — typical performances from the league’s MVP and scoring champion. Co-stars Jalen Williams and Chet Holmgren played more like their usual selves on Sunday. Veteran reserve Alex Caruso had another strong performance and Aaron Wiggins provided a surprise boost in Oklahoma City’s first Finals win since 2012.

The Texas Longhorns softball team celebrates after defeating Texas Tech 10-4 to win the Women's College World Series championship in Oklahoma City, Friday, June 6, 2025. (AP Photo/Kyle Phillips)

Texas beats Texas Tech 10-4 in decisive 3rd game of WCWS to win its 1st national championship

June 6, 2025

Mia Scott hit a grand slam, Teagan Kavan claimed another win and Texas defeated Texas Tech 10-4 in Game 3 of the Women’s College World Series championship series on Friday night to win its first national title. Kavan, a sophomore, allowed no earned runs in all 31 2/3 innings she pitched at the World Series. She went 4-0 with a save in the World Series for the Longhorns (56-12). Texas Tech star pitcher NiJaree Canady, who had thrown every pitch for the Red Raiders through their first five World Series games, was pulled after one inning in Game 3. She gave up five runs on five hits and only threw 25 pitches.

Texas Tech pitcher NiJaree Canady celebrates during the second game of the NCAA softball Women's College World Series finals against Texas in Oklahoma City, Thursday, June 5, 2025. (AP Photo/Kyle Phillips

Texas Tech’s NiJaree Canady breaks down after heavy pitching load in Women’s College World Series

June 6, 2025

Texas Tech’s NiJaree Canady threw every pitch for the Red Raiders in the Women’s College World Series, all the way through the first two games of the championship series and the first inning of the third. Canady, who has signed a second NIL deal worth more than $1 million, finally broke down. She was pulled after giving up five runs in the first inning of Game 3 against Texas on Friday. Canady threw 88 pitches on Wednesday 107 on Thursday and started Friday. She had no doubt she was going to pitch, despite going the distance in the previous five World Series games.

Texas pitcher NiJaree Canady throws during the third game of the NCAA softball Women's College World Series finals against Texas in Oklahoma City, Friday, June 6, 2025. (AP Photo/Kyle Phillips)

Texas Tech pitcher NiJaree Canady signs a second $1 million-plus NIL deal, AP source says

June 6, 2025

Texas Tech pitcher NiJaree Canady has signed another $1 million-plus NIL deal, a person with knowledge of the agreement told The Associated Press. The person spoke to the AP on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to discuss the situation publicly. ESPN first reported the deal. The name, image and likeness deal came hours before Canady was set to pitch for the Red Raiders in the decisive Game 3 of the Women’s College World Series championship series against Texas.

CORRECTS TO GAME WINNING BASKET, NOT 3-PT BASKET - Indiana Pacers guard Tyrese Haliburton (0) shoots the game winning basket over Oklahoma City Thunder guard Cason Wallace (22) in the closing second of the second half of Game 1 of the NBA Finals basketball series Thursday, June 5, 2025, in Oklahoma City. (AP Photo/Nate Billings)

Thunder collapse late as Haliburton’s buzzer-beater lifts Pacers to Game 1 win

June 6, 2025

Things were going as expected for the heavily favored Oklahoma City Thunder in Game 1 of the NBA Finals. They forced the normally efficient Indiana Pacers into 19 turnovers in the first half to lead by 12 at the break. That advantage had swelled to 15 early in the fourth quarter, and it looked like the Thunder were off to one of their usual blowout victories. The Thunder fell apart late, then Tyrese Haliburton hit a mid-range dagger that gave Indiana a 111-110 victory. The homecourt advantage Oklahoma City fought all season to gain vanished in a game it dominated for three quarters.

FILE - Texas Tech pitcher NiJaree Canady (24) throws during an NCAA college softball game on Friday, March 28, 2025, in Lawrence, Kan. (AP Photo/Colin E Braley, File)

Texas Tech ends Oklahoma’s 4-year run as Women’s College World Series champ with walk-off 3-2 win

June 2, 2025

Oklahoma’s run of four straight Women’s College World Series titles ended when Lauren Allred’s walk-off sacrifice fly gave Texas Tech a 3-2 victory in the semifinals. Coach Patty Gasso’s Sooners were down to their last strike in the top of the seventh inning when Abigale Dayton summoned a bit of magic, hitting a tying two-run homer against Red Raiders ace NiJaree Canady. But the Red Raiders responded quickly in the bottom half. Mihyia Davis singled with one out and Hailey Toney followed with a double. Allred hit a fly ball to right field and Sydney Barker’s throw to the plate was wide, allowing Davis to score easily.

FILE - Tennessee pitcher Karlyn Pickens (23) warms up before an NCAA college softball game against Delaware State on Friday, Feb. 28, 2025, in Knoxville, Tenn. (AP Photo/Mike Buscher, File)

Oklahoma will face hard-throwing Karlyn Pickens in quest for 5th straight Women’s CWS title

May 28, 2025

The Oklahoma Sooners may face their toughest road yet as they seek a record fifth straight Women’s College World Series championship. The second-seeded Sooners will open against hard-throwing Karlyn Pickens and No. 7 seed Tennessee. In the second game of super regional play, Pickens unleashed a pitch that traveled an NCAA record 79.4 miles per hour. Action in the eight-team double-elimination bracket begins Thursday at Devon Park. The final two teams will play for the title in a best-of-three series starting June 4. In other opening-day matchups, Texas plays Florida, Texas Tech will face Mississippi and UCLA meets Oregon.

Oklahoma City Thunder forward Jalen Williams (8) gestures after making a 3-point basket next to Minnesota Timberwolves forward Jaden McDaniels (3) during the second half of Game 4 of the Western Conference finals of the NBA basketball playoffs Monday, May 26, 2025, in Minneapolis. (AP Photo/Abbie Parr)

OKC’s Jalen Williams is key as Thunder look to clinch the West, Wolves try to stay alive in Game 5

May 27, 2025

Jalen Williams, the Oklahoma City Thunder’s second scoring option, looked like a budding superstar during Game 4 of the Western Conference finals. Julius Randle, the Minnesota Timberwolves’ second option, looked like a bystander. If those results repeats themselves Wednesday in Game 5, the Thunder could clinch the series and be heading to the NBA Finals while the Timberwolves likely will head into next year still having never gotten past the conference finals. Williams scored 34 points on 13-for-24 shooting in Game 4, a 128-126 win for Oklahoma City that gave the Thunder a 3-1 lead in the series.

Oklahoma City Thunder forward Chet Holmgren (7) dunks on Minnesota Timberwolves guard Donte DiVincenzo (0) during the second half of Game 2 of an NBA basketball Western Conference Finals playoff series Thursday, May 22, 2025, in Oklahoma City. (AP Photo/Nate Billings)

Chet Holmgren to face hometown team when Thunder visit Timberwolves in Game 3 of West finals

May 23, 2025

Minneapolis native Chet Holmgren could block his hometown team from winning a championship. Holmgren, a 7-foot-1 forward, has helped the Oklahoma City Thunder take a 2-0 lead over the Minnesota Timberwolves in the Western Conference finals. He scored 22 points in Game 2, a 118-103 Thunder win. Now, he will play Game 3 in the same building where he won his fourth state title for Minnehaha Academy in his final high school game. The 7-foot-1 forward is averaging 16.2 points, 9.1 rebounds and 2.0 blocks in the playoffs.

Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander reacts after a play against the Minnesota Timberwolves during the first half of Game 2 of an NBA basketball Western Conference Finals playoff series Thursday, May 22, 2025, in Oklahoma City. (AP Photo/Nate Billings)

Gilgeous-Alexander and Thunder overwhelm Timberwolves again, win 118-103 for 2-0 West finals lead

May 22, 2025

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored 38 points a day after being named the NBA’s MVP, and the Oklahoma City Thunder overwhelmed the Minnesota Timberwolves again, winning 118-103 to take a 2-0 lead in the Western Conference finals. Gilgeous-Alexander made 12 of 21 field goals and 13 of 15 free throws after receiving his MVP trophy from Commissioner Adam Silver before the game. He also had eight assists and three steals. Jalen Williams had 26 points and 10 rebounds and Chet Holmgren added 22 points for the Thunder. Anthony Edwards scored 32 points for the Wolves but it took him 26 shots to get them.

Minnesota Timberwolves guard Anthony Edwards (5) works the floor against Oklahoma City Thunder forward Chet Holmgren during the first half of Game 1 of an NBA basketball Western Conference Finals playoff series Tuesday, May 20, 2025, in Oklahoma City. (AP Photo/Nate Billings)

Edwards, Timberwolves seek answers to Thunder’s ‘AAU’ defense to avoid 2-0 deficit

May 21, 2025

The Minnesota Timberwolves will need to solve Oklahoma City’s ‘AAU’ defense to avoid a 2-0 deficit in the Western Conference finals. Minnesota’s Anthony Edwards used the term to describe Oklahoma City’s young, aggressive unit after the Thunder held the Timberwolves to 34.9% shooting in a 114-88 victory in Game 1. Edwards said the first key for him is to be more aggressive. He didn’t like that he took just 13 shots in the Game 1 loss. Minnesota made just 15 of 51 3-pointers in the opener and committed 17 turnovers. Game 2 is on Thursday night.

Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander dribbles the ball up court against Minnesota Timberwolves during the second half of Game 1 of an NBA basketball Western Conference Finals playoff series Tuesday, May 20, 2025, in Oklahoma City. (AP Photo/Nate Billings)

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and the Thunder beat the rested Timberwolves 114-88 in Game 1 of West finals

May 20, 2025

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored 20 of his 31 points in the second half, and the top-seeded Oklahoma City Thunder beat the Minnesota Timberwolves 114-88 in Game 1 of the Western Conference finals. Gilgeous-Alexander, an MVP finalist, had nine assists. He made 8 of 14 field goals after halftime. Julius Randle scored 28 points for Minnesota, but just eight in the second half. Anthony Edwards, who had been averaging 26.5 points per game in the playoffs, was held to 18 points on 5-of-13 shooting. Oklahoma City was just two days removed from eliminating Denver in Game 7 of the conference semifinals. Minnesota hadn’t played in a week.

CLIFF BRUNT Sports Writer.