Mount Hood

The madness is underway

April 2, 2025

Written by: Quincy Bentley | Sports Editor

The 2025 NCAA men’s basketball tournament is in full swing, pulling in views from fans across the nation with its signature blend of unexpected upsets and standout performances. As teams battle for the national championship, the tournament showcases an array of talent and grit, with powerhouse programs living up to expectations and underdog teams defying the odds. With the journey to the Final Four well underway, the 2025 edition of March Madness is proving to be one to remember.
This year’s tournament has featured multiple No. 1 seeds, including the Houston Cougars, Florida Gators, Duke Blue Devils and Auburn Tigers. Each of these teams have dominated throughout their seasons, positioning themselves as favorites for the national title. The Houston Cougars, known for their lockdown defense, have proved to be one of the most disciplined teams in college basketball. Their ability to shut down opponents and control the tempo of games have been key factors in their success this season.
The Florida Gators have shown their ability to adapt to any playstyle, driving them to a deep run in the tournament. Their dynamic offense, combined with an aggressive defensive game plan, has made them an extremely tough matchup for any opponent. The Duke Blue Devils, under the guidance of head coach Jon Scheyer, have crafted a powerhouse of players. Headlined by freshman phenom Cooper Flagg, Duke has been able to balance young talent and depth, making them a dangerous team in the East Region. Auburn, led by senior forward and Naismith Player of the Year candidate Johni Broome, has dominated the paint and used their versatile guard play to run through opponents on their route to the Sweet 16.
Several players have already captured the national spotlight with their standout performances. Cooper Flagg, an 18-year-old sensation from Duke, delivered a historic performance in the second round against Arizona State, recording 30 points, six rebounds, seven assists and three blocks. His skill set and composure under pressure have shown scouts and fans alike his status as a top prospect for the 2025 NBA draft. Another standout performer has been Purdue’s Braden Smith, who has been one of the most consistent guards in the nation. As the Big Ten Player of the Year, Smith has been the main contributor to Purdue’s offense, finishing the season as the conference leader in assists and second in steals.
As the tournament advances into the Sweet 16 and beyond, the anticipation is building for tough matchups that will determine the path to the national championship. One of the most anticipated matchups was between the Auburn Tigers and Michigan State Spartans, where the Tigers secured a 70-64 victory over the Spartans. Also, the matchup between the Purdue Boilermakers and the Houston Cougars lived up to the hype, as the Houston Cougars edged out the Purdue Boilermakers 62-60.
The 2025 NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament has also showcased a combination of exceptional talent and thrilling games, leading to a Final Four featuring UCLA, South Carolina, Texas and UConn. UCLA, making its inaugural Final Four appearance, has been led by center Lauren Betts, whose dominance in the paint has been a game-changer. Texas returns to this stage for the first time since 2003, with standout performances from Madison Booker. The defending champions, South Carolina under Coach Dawn Staley, continue to dominate the college scene, marking their fifth consecutive Final Four. UConn, led by arguably the best player in NCAA women’s basketball at the moment, Paige Bueckers, aims to end a nine-year championship drought, with Bueckers delivering remarkable games, including a 31-point game against Southern Cal.
As the dust settles and the Final Four draws near, the excitement of the March Madness tournament continues to build. With established powerhouses fighting to sustain their dominance and underdog teams refusing to back down, this year’s tournament embodies the spirit of college basketball. Fans across the country will remain glued to their screens until they are able to witness who will come out on top and cut down the nets in Phoenix. 

Contact the author at howlsports@wou.edu

Curry makes history

April 2, 2025

Written by: Quincy Bentley | Sports Editor

Golden State Warriors legend Stephen Curry has once again etched his name in the record books, becoming the first player in NBA history to make 4,000 career three-pointers. In a home game against the Sacramento Kings March 13, 2025, Curry drained a three, sending Chase Center into a frenzy as he shattered yet another milestone that seemed nearly impossible when he first entered the league.
This achievement cements Curry’s legacy as the greatest shooter of all time, putting him well above his competitors. Known for completely changing the game of basketball with his shooting range and quick release, Curry has single-handedly transformed the modern NBA. His influence is evident across all levels of basketball, from youth leagues emulating his shots to NBA teams designing offenses that prioritize three-point shooting.
When Curry surpassed Ray Allen’s previous record of 2,973 made three-pointers back in December 2021, it was clear that he was far from finished. Now, having racked up 4,000, Curry has set a standard that may take decades for another player to even come close to.
While modern players are attempting more threes than ever before, no one has combined Curry’s volume, accuracy and longevity in quite the same way. His career three-point percentage remains around 42%, a remarkable number given the degree of difficulty of many of his shot attempts.
Even as talented shooters like Klay Thompson, James Harden and Kevin Durant continue to ascend the all-time three-point leaderboard, none appear to have the consistency required to approach 4,000 threes. Younger stars like Luka Dončić and Anthony Edwards are also great shooters but will need to maintain an elite level of shooting for over a decade just to match Curry’s mark.
Drafted seventh overall in the 2009 NBA draft by the Golden State Warriors, Curry entered the league with a reputation as a sharpshooter from Davidson College. However, injuries and early skepticism about his durability and size threatened to stunt his career. But Curry’s hard work and commitment to improvement paid off.
By the 2014-2015 season, Curry had reached superstardom, leading the Warriors to their first NBA title in 40 years and capturing the league’s MVP award. His 402 made threes during the 2015-2016 season — another record — showcased his ability to hit shots from unthinkable distances and angles, forever altering how teams approach perimeter defense.
While the 4,000 three-pointers are a remarkable statistic, Curry’s impact on the game transcends the numbers. He has inspired a generation of young players to embrace shooting as an essential skill, shifting the way basketball is taught and played. Other NBA stars such as Trae Young, Damian Lillard and even rising stars such as Jordan Hawkins have admitted to modeling aspects of their game after Curry’s shooting and movement off the ball.
Moreover, Curry’s influence extends beyond the court. His contagious joy, humility and leadership have made him a global icon and a role model for aspiring athletes. Through his “Eat. Learn. Play.” Foundation, Curry and his wife, Ayesha, have helped countless communities by ensuring every student in the Oakland Unified School District has access to high-quality sports and play opportunities at every stage of their education.
At 37 years old, Curry shows no signs of slowing down. Though his role with the Warriors has shifted slightly, he remains the focal point of the team’s offense, capable of taking over games at any given moment. With his conditioning and skill set allowing him to age gracefully, Curry could potentially extend his three-point record well beyond 4,000, perhaps even approaching 5,000 if he maintains his current pace over the next few seasons.
Stephen Curry’s journey to the top of the list in career three-pointers is not just a milestone but a reflection of how one player can redefine an entire sport. His impact on basketball, both culturally and strategically, is immeasurable. As he continues to light up arenas with his shooting, fans around the world can witness history unfold in real-time.

Contact the author at howlsports@wou.edu

Western moves on

March 12, 2025

Written by: Quincy Bentley | Sports Editor

After six seasons, Western has officially announced the departure of men’s basketball head coach Wes Pifer and his accompanying staff, marking the end of a challenging era for the Wolves. This decision comes after a series of disappointing seasons, culminating in a two-year stretch where the team held a record of just 10-44, with three of those closely contested victories coming against NAIA or Division III opponents — teams that a Division II program like Western would typically be expected to defeat.
Wes Pifer took charge of the Western men’s basketball program at the start of the 2019-2020 season, bringing with him a wealth of experience from his previous coaching job at Division I Northern Arizona University. In his initial season with the Wolves, Pifer led the team to nine wins out of their first 11 games. This impressive start drove them to the No. 24 spot in the National Association of Basketball Coaches poll. A standout moment during this period was a decisive 16-point victory over then No. 6 ranked Dixie State, a team that has since transitioned to Division I competition.
Despite the initial success, the program’s performance began to decline in following seasons. Over the course of Pifer’s tenure, the Wolves compiled an overall record of 50-84, translating to a .373 win percentage. They also had an overall record of 32-58 in Great Northwest Athletic Conference — GNAC — play under Pifer’s leadership. As stated before, the past two seasons were particularly challenging, with the team recording a dismal 10-44 record.
Many factors contributed to the team’s decline during Pifer’s leadership. The 2023-2024 season was spoiled by numerous season-ending and in-season injuries, including those to key starters as well as potential stand-out players. Of the 14 active players in the 2023 season, three were sidelined with season-ending injuries early on, one left the team due to internal conflicts and others battled persistent injuries throughout the year. This significantly limited Western’s roster, leaving them with only seven healthy players available on some nights. These setbacks scattered overall team performance, ultimately leading to the Wolves missing the GNAC Championships after three consecutive appearances. Recruitment challenges also played a role in the program’s struggles. Maintaining a competitive edge in collegiate athletics relies on effective recruitment, and the Wolves faced difficulties honing in on top-tier talent at the center position coming into the 2024-25 season, impacting their ability to compete at a high level within the GNAC. The GNAC, known for its high-level competitiveness, contains several teams that perform at the best of their abilities on a nightly basis. The lack of a presence in the paint heightened competition, making it even more difficult for the Wolves to secure wins.
Beyond injuries and recruiting challenges, another issue that plagued the Wolves was their inability to close out games. Many of their losses were by narrow margins, with late-game execution proving to be a major weakness. This inability to finish games often frustrated players and fans alike, as the team, along with their coaching staff, struggled to maintain composure in critical moments. Though some of these struggles could be attributed to inexperience and a lack of depth, it became clear that a fresh approach was necessary to change the team’s trajectory.
The decision to part ways with Coach Pifer and his staff was not made lightly. Athletic Director Randi Lydum acknowledged Pifer’s passion and dedication to the program, but emphasized the imperative need for a new direction to restore the team’s competitiveness within the conference. “Coach Pifer is a dynamic and passionate leader. I am grateful for his commitment to our student-athletes and the men’s basketball program,” Lydum stated. “We wish Wes and his family the very best in the future.”
Coaching changes invariably affect student-athletes, both current team members and potential recruits. Current players may experience uncertainty regarding their roles and futures with the program, while new recruits might reconsider their commitments. The ability of Western’s athletic department to quickly hire a strong leader will be consequential in reducing these concerns.
With the search for a new head coach underway, the university is aiming to identify a leader who can rejuvenate the program and steer it back to its winning ways. It is likely that key qualities sought in the next coach will include a proven track record of success, strong recruiting capabilities and the ability to develop student-athletes both on and off the court. Finding a coach who can truly lead a team will be essential, as Western seeks to reestablish itself as a competitive force within the GNAC. The hiring process will be closely watched by alumni, fans and players who hope that the next chapter of Wolves basketball will be defined by progress rather than continued struggles.
The departure of head Coach Wes Pifer and his staff signifies a pivotal moment for Western’s men’s basketball program. The coming months will play a crucial role in shaping the future of the team, and with the right guidance, the Wolves have the potential to rise from the ashes and compete at the highest level within their division.

Contact the author at howlsports@wou.edu

Wemby

March 5, 2025

Written by: Quincy Bentley | Sports Editor

In a devastating blow to the San Antonio Spurs, star center Victor Wembanyama has been ruled out for the remainder of the 2024-2025 NBA season due to deep vein thrombosis in his right shoulder. This condition, identified as a blood clot forming in a deep vein, poses serious health risks if not promptly addressed. Wembanyama’s sudden departure from the lineup has thrown the team’s future into uncertainty, as they had been looking forward to a promising second half of the season.
Wembanyama, the reigning Rookie of the Year and a first-time NBA All-Star, was averaging an impressive 24.3 points, 11.0 rebounds, 3.7 assists and a league-leading 3.8 blocks over 46 games this season. His impact on both ends of the floor had made him the face of the Spurs’ rebuild, his absence leaving a significant void in the lineup. The team had high hopes of making a strong push in the second half of the season, especially after acquiring star point guard De’Aaron Fox in a shocking trade with the Sacramento Kings. Fox, known for his speed and playmaking ability, was expected to provide a significant boost to the Spurs’ offense when paired with Wembanyama. However, with Wembanyama sidelined, the team must regroup and form a new strategy moving forward.
The Spurs’ medical team discovered the blood clot after Wembanyama experienced discomfort in his right shoulder. Recognizing the potential severity of blood clots, the team quickly began treatment and ruled him out for the rest of the season to prioritize his health and safety. This situation brings to mind the case of Chris Bosh, the former Miami Heat star whose career was derailed by similar health issues. In February 2015, Bosh was hospitalized due to a blood clot in his lung, leading him to miss the remainder of that season. Despite attempts to return, recurrent clotting issues ultimately forced Bosh into early retirement. Bosh’s story sheds light on the potential career-threatening nature of such conditions. The Spurs, like the Heat did with Bosh, are exercising extreme caution with Wembanyama to make sure his long-term health is not jeopardized.
In response to Wembanyama’s absence, the Spurs have faced challenges with their frontcourt depth. With backup big-man Charles Bassey also out with a knee injury, the team has been experimenting with smaller lineups. They have signed veteran center Bismack Biyombo to a 10-day contract to help fill the position. However, rebounding has become a significant concern, as seen in a recent 118-106 loss to the Houston Rockets, where they were outrebounded 60-41 and allowed 20 offensive rebounds. Despite these challenges, De’Aaron Fox has stepped up on offense, averaging 25.1 points and 7.2 assists per game since joining the team. His ability to push the pace and create for teammates has always been a bright spot in his game, clearly translating with his new team.
Head coach Gregg Popovich has also undergone health problems this year, suffering from a stroke earlier in the season. He has announced he will not return for the remainder of the season to focus on his recovery. Assistant coach Mitch Johnson has taken over head coaching duties, holding a 22-30 record in Popovich’s absence. The loss of both Popovich and Wembanyama has created a season of adversity for the Spurs, but the organization remains committed to building a team around its young core.
Though Wembanyama is out for the rest of this season, the Spurs’ management and medical staff currently expect him to return for the 2025-26 season. For now, the organization’s priority is ensuring Wembanyama makes a full recovery and returns to the court stronger than ever.

Contact the author at howlsports@wou.edu

MLB 2025

March 5, 2025

Written by: Quincy Bentley | Sports Editor

As the 2025 major league baseball — MLB — season approaches, fans around the world are eagerly anticipating what promises to be a thrilling year. With big teams making aggressive offseason moves, rising stars ready to break out and new rule changes designed to intensify the game, the upcoming season is set to captivate audiences from Opening Day to the final out of the World Series.
This season will kick off in Tokyo, marking the sixth time in MLB history that the league has begun its schedule in Japan. The Los Angeles Dodgers and the Chicago Cubs will face off at the Tokyo Dome March 18-19, 2025, in a special series that honors the 25th anniversary of MLB’s inaugural regular-season games in Japan. The event will also shine light on the global expansion of baseball, as the Dodgers boast a roster that includes reigning National League MVP Shohei Ohtani and star pitcher Yoshinobu Yamamoto, both of whom are from Japan. Their presence is expected to draw massive attention from fans across the world, highlighting MLB’s presence on the global stage.
The race for the 2025 World Series title will be competitive, as multiple teams have positioned themselves as dominant forces in the league. The Los Angeles Dodgers enter the season as the reigning champions, having claimed the 2024 World Series title. During the offseason, they made significant additions to their roster, including the addition of pitchers Blake Snell and Roki Sasaki, solidifying an already formidable lineup. With one of the highest payrolls in baseball, the Dodgers are locked in on securing back-to-back championships.
On the other hand, the New York Yankees have also made strategic moves to build up their roster. By adding pitcher Max Fried and closer Devin Williams, they have acquired a pitching staff that is capable of shutting down notable offenses. With Aaron Judge leading the lineup, the Yankees have the tools necessary to make a deep postseason run, just like they did last year. The Seattle Mariners, who led MLB in ERA and quality starts in 2024, are also emerging as a serious contender in the American League. Their dominant rotation, combined with a solid core of position players, could prove to be a game-changer in the upcoming season.
In addition to powerhouse teams, the 2025 season will feature various players poised for breakout performances. Shohei Ohtani continues to be the most electrifying player in the sport, having made history in 2024 by achieving the first-ever 50-home run, 50-stolen base season. His ability to dominate as both a pitcher and a hitter makes him a must-watch player once again this season. Additionally, young talents like Detroit Tigers pitching prospect Jackson Jobe are expected to make an impact, with Jobe being a strong contender for the Rookie of the Year award.
The league’s efforts to expand its global reach continue to pay dividends, as seen by the signing of 17-year-old Joseph Deng by the Los Angeles Dodgers. Deng, a towering 6-foot-7 prospect from South Sudan, is the first MLB prospect to emerge from the country. His signing showcases MLB’s increasing investment in scouting and developing international talent in regions that have been underrepresented in professional baseball.
As the 2025 season approaches, the anticipation surrounding MLB has reached new heights. With a mix of elite teams and rising stars, baseball fans have a lot to look forward to. Whether it is the spectacle of Opening Day in Tokyo or the race for October glory, this season promises to deliver excitement. The stage is set for another unforgettable year in Major League Baseball.

Contact the author at howlsports@wou.edu

All-Star Weekend

February 26, 2025

Written by: Quincy Bentley | Sports Editor

The 2025 NBA All-Star Weekend was a three-day spectacle, bringing together the league’s top talent, celebrities and passionate fans for an unforgettable celebration of basketball. Held from Feb. 14 – 16 in the San Francisco Bay Area, the event took over Chase Center, home of the Golden State Warriors. It delivered thrilling competitions, including the AT&T Slam Dunk Contest, the Starry 3-Point Contest and the much-anticipated All-Star Game. This 74th edition of the NBA’s marquee midseason event struck a perfect balance between tradition and innovation, keeping fans on the edge of their seats.
The weekend kicked off on Friday with the NBA All-Star Celebrity Game, where musicians, actors, athletes and social media influencers took center stage. Team Bonds, led by MLB legend Barry Bonds and rapper 2 Chainz, faced off against Team Rice, coached by NFL Hall of Famer Jerry Rice and viral sensation Khaby Lame. The game delivered plenty of entertainment, from comedian Kevin Hart’s surprisingly sharp playmaking to Grammy-winning artist J. Cole’s smooth jump shooting. In a contested matchup, Team Bonds came out with the victory, with actor and model Rome Flynn earning MVP honors for his all-around performance.
Following the celebrity showdown, the Rising Stars Challenge showcased the league’s most promising young talent in a fast-paced, tournament-style format. Four teams — Team T, Team C, Team G League and Team M — battled in target-score games. In the semifinals, Team C worked past Team T, 40-34, while Team G League edged out a nail-biting 40-39 victory over Team M. The championship matchup saw Team C dominate Team G League with a 25-14 win, fueled by an outstanding performance from San Antonio Spurs guard Stephon Castle, who was named MVP.
Saturday’s festivities began with the NBA All-Star Practice, giving fans an exclusive look at their favorite stars in action. The relaxed practice session featured lighthearted drills, team bonding moments and behind-the-scenes interviews. Later in the day, the NBA HBCU Classic took center stage, spotlighting two historically Black colleges and universities in a competitive matchup. The game not only showcased rising talent, but also reinforced the NBA’s ongoing commitment to supporting HBCU athletics and education.

The evening’s main event, State Farm All-Star Saturday Night, brought the action to another level with three of the most highly anticipated skill-based competitions.
The Kia Skills Challenge featured four teams: Team Cavs (Donovan Mitchell, Evan Mobley), Team Rooks (Zaccharie Risacher, Alex Sarr), Team Spurs (Chris Paul, Victor Wembanyama) and Team Warriors (Draymond Green, Moses Moody). After a difficult series of dribbling, passing and shooting challenges, Team Cavs emerged victorious, with Mitchell’s leadership and Mobley’s versatility stealing the show.
Next came the Starry 3-Point Contest, where eight elite sharpshooters — Tyler Herro, Buddy Hield, Darius Garland, Jalen Brunson, Damian Lillard, Cade Cunningham, Cameron Johnson and Norman Powell — competed for the title of the NBA’s most precise marksman. In a thrilling finale, Tyler Herro beat Buddy Hield with a clutch shot on his last rack, while also preventing Damian Lillard from achieving a potential three-peat.
The night reached its climax with the AT&T Slam Dunk Contest, where Mac McClung, Stephon Castle, Andre Jackson Jr. and Matas Buzelis put on an impressive display of athleticism. McClung stole the show once again, successfully defending his title. He threw down a series of never-before-seen acrobatic dunks that earned him perfect scores from every judge. His performance capped off an unforgettable Saturday night.
Sunday night introduced a brand-new format for the 74th NBA All-Star Game, altering the traditional matchup into a four-team mini-tournament. Each squad, composed of eight players, was drafted by honorary general managers. These managers and teams included Charles Barkley’s “Chuck’s Global Stars,” Shaquille O’Neal’s “Shaq’s OGs,” Kenny Smith’s “Kenny’s Young Stars,” and Candace Parker’s “Candace’s Rising Stars.”
The tournament consisted of two semifinal games played to a target score of 40, followed by a championship game played to 50. In the first semifinal, Chuck’s Global Stars defeated Kenny’s Young Stars, 41-32, while Shaq’s OGs narrowly overcame Candace’s Rising Stars, 42-35. The final matchup saw Shaq’s OGs dominate, securing a 50-36 victory over Chuck’s Global Stars.
Playing in his home arena, Stephen Curry delivered a masterclass in shooting for Shaq’s OGs. Curry dazzled the crowd with his signature deep threes and effortless playmaking, and fans erupted when he sealed the championship with a spectacular half-court shot, solidifying his MVP honors and capping off a thrilling conclusion to the tournament.
The 2025 NBA All-Star Weekend successfully combined elite competition with top-tier entertainment, giving fans a weekend that will be remembered for years to come. As the NBA continues to evolve, its annual midseason classic remains a thrilling celebration of the sport, uniting athletes and fans alike in a shared love for the game.

Contact the author at howlsports@wou.edu

Jalen Hurts ’em

February 19, 2025

Written by: Quincy Bentley | Sports Editor

In a lopsided victory, the Philadelphia Eagles overcame the Kansas City Chiefs 40-22 in the 2025 Super Bowl. Held Feb. 9, 2025, the win highlighted the Eagles’ well-orchestrated game plan throughout the duration of the contest.
From the start, the Eagles established control. Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts led his team with efficient drives, with great protection from his offense. This allowed him to connect with his receivers for huge gains, giving them a 24-0 lead by halftime. The Eagles’ offensive line not only helped Hurts’ passing yards but also opened lanes for rushing attacks, keeping the Chiefs’ defense on its heels.
Defensively, Philadelphia was led by mastermind defensive coordinator Vic Fangio. The Eagles’ defense limited the Chiefs to only 23 total yards in the first half, an anomaly for Kansas City. Patrick Mahomes, who is known for his playmaking abilities, found himself under constant pressure, leading to hurried throws and sack, after sack, after sack. In total, Mahomes was sacked six times, a career high, and just one short of the Super Bowl record. He also threw two interceptions, both of them occurring in the first half. The Eagles’ defensive linemen consistently collapsed the pocket, preventing Mahomes from establishing any type of rhythm throughout the initial half.
In the second half, fans saw the Chiefs attempting to mount a comeback, with Mahomes sparking a drive that put Kansas City on the scoreboard. However, the score at that point was 34-6. Yes, that’s right, 34-6. The Eagles’ defense was so strong that the Chiefs weren’t even able to secure their first points until late in the 3rd quarter.
Offensively, the Eagles continued to execute plays with precision. Hurts added to his impressive stat line with a rushing touchdown while receivers A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith consistently gained yards and exploited mismatches, securing crucial first downs. Offensively and defensively, the Eagles showed the world who inevitably deserved the big win.
Entering the game, the Kansas City Chiefs held aspirations of a third consecutive championship — a challenge that has yet to be conquered throughout NFL history. Unfortunately for the Chiefs, they were uncharacteristically outmatched. Mahomes received no protection from his offensive line, while Hurts was able to comfortably make reads in the pocket. The Eagles clearly came prepared, leaving Kansas City’s roster in shambles throughout the whole game.
This Super Bowl victory marks the Philadelphia Eagles’ second Lombardi Trophy, solidifying their status as a powerful force in the league. The 18-point margin places this game among the more decisive outcomes in Super Bowl history, though it falls short of the record 45-point blowout by the San Francisco 49ers over the Denver Broncos in the 1990 Super Bowl. Nonetheless, the Eagles’ performance will be remembered for its dominance and strategic masterclass.
After his outstanding performance, Jalen Hurts was rightfully named Super Bowl MVP, silencing any lingering doubts about his capability to perform on the big stage. His composure, leadership and athleticism were on full display, guiding the Eagles to a resounding victory. Hurts’ journey this season was capped off with a performance that will be etched in Super Bowl lore.
For the Chiefs, this blowout loss may leave a bitter taste in their mouths, but should be used as motivation to come back even stronger next season. 

Contact the author at howlsports@wou.edu