# Michael Kinney Media

> The eyes, heart and soul of the media


## Posts

- [Thunder look playoff-ready in the rout of the Lakers](https://michaelkinneymedia.com/thunder-look-playoff-ready-in-the-rout-of-the-lakers/): Story & Images By Michael Kinney If there is any way for a 43-point blowout to be called generous, then that is what took place Thursday night in Oklahoma City. With the Oklahoma City Thunder hosting the Los Angeles Lakers in a matchup of two of the top three teams in the Western Conference, it was anything but a contest. The home team obliterated the Lakers 139-96 at the Paycom Center.
- [Travel local during tough economic times](https://michaelkinneymedia.com/travel-local-during-tough-economic-times/): Story & Images By Michael Kiiney I love to travel. Whether it’s for work or pleasure, nothing gets me more hyped than jumping on a plane, flying across an ocean and visiting new countries and learning about new cultures.
- [No. 3 Pokes drop kicks seventh-ranked Hawkeyes in rematch](https://michaelkinneymedia.com/no-3-pokes-drop-kicks-seventh-ranked-hawkeyes-in-rematch/): Story & Images By Michael Kinney STILLWATER– In the 60th meeting between No. 3 Oklahoma State and No. 7 Iowa, the Pokes pulled out a convincing 32-11 at Gallagher-Iba Arena. While it was billed as the best rivalry in college sports, OSU dominated from start to finish in front of nearly 13,000 fans Sunday.
- [During tough times, Hartenstein steps up for his OKC community](https://michaelkinneymedia.com/during-tough-times-hartenstein-steps-up-for-his-okc-community/): Photos & Story By Michael Kinney Isaiah Hartenstein was dragging a little. Even standing at 7-feet tall, it was easy to the Oklahoma City Thunder center was not at peak energy level Tuesday afternoon. But considering Hartenstein had barely returned from a game in New Orleans, he made sure he was on time for his special event.
- [Moroccan guide found his calling in his own backyard- The Sahara](https://michaelkinneymedia.com/moroccan-guide-found-his-calling-in-his-own-backyard-the-sahara/): Story & Images By Michael Kinney MOROCCO–It’s hard to imagine someone who enjoys their job more than Said Hatouchi. Some days he wakes up to watch the red sun rising over the vast 3,552,000 square miles of the Sahara Desert with a cup of coffee in his hands. Some nights he can be surrounded by thousands of people roaming around one of the busiest street markets in Africa.
- [The Smithsonian is in the fight of its life](https://michaelkinneymedia.com/as-pres-trump-tries-to-rewrite-history-the-smithsonian-is-in-the-fight-of-its-life/): Story & Photos By Michael Kinney Earlier this year, I happened to be in Washington, D.C. for the retirement of a childhood friend from the military. The most exciting thing I thought would happen would be finding a new bookstore. However, I was wrong. Because on March 27, President Donald Trump announced his now infamous executive order titled “RESTORING TRUTH AND SANITY TO AMERICAN HISTORY.”
- [Exhibit explores life & legacy of photographer Ansel Adams](https://michaelkinneymedia.com/exhibit-explores-life-legacy-of-photographer-ansel-adams/): Story & Photos By Michael Kinney The first image you see when walking through the gallery door of the Discovering Ansel Adams exhibit is Ansel Adams himself. However, the large, black and white image has nothing to do with the panoramic nature scenes he became famous for producing.
- [A photography exhibit in D.C. took one writer on a tour of the 70s](https://michaelkinneymedia.com/a-photography-exhibit-in-d-c-took-one-writer-on-a-tour-of-the-70s/): Story & Photos By Michael Kinney Walking through the corridors of the National Gallery of Art, it can sometimes be a chore to keep focus. With 271,000 square feet and more than 140,000 items on display, it is easy to get distracted. But I figured I was safe. During my last trip to Washington, D.C. in late March, I knew exactly where I was going.
- [The NBA Finals turned into one giant (expensive) photo project](https://michaelkinneymedia.com/the-nba-finals-turned-into-one-giant-expensive-photo-project/): Story & Photos By Michael Kinney From the outset, I don’t think I really understood what I was putting myself through. I hadn’t even shot a full roll of film, and there I was telling myself this was a project I could do. Whether it’s a blessing or a curse, I haven’t decided yet, but I have the ability to come up with almost any idea and believe on the spot that I can make it happen. So when I decided that shooting the NBA Finals with film cameras was a cool idea, I didn’t blink.
- [Thunder roll to first title after drubbing Pacers in Game 7](https://michaelkinneymedia.com/thunder-roll-to-first-title-after-drubbing-pacers-in-game-7/): Story & Photos By Michael Kinney OKLAHOMA CITY– The reactions may have seemed subdued. There was no dogpile at half court, no uncontrollably sobbing or even triumph “Do You Believe” When the Oklahoma City Thunder realized their goal of being crowned NBA Champions late Sunday night, I’m not saying the team took it in stride. But you could tell it was pretty much what they had been expecting for much of the season.
- [NBA Finals: Game 7, nothing else needs to be said](https://michaelkinneymedia.com/nba-finals-game-7-nothing-else-needs-to-be-said/): Story & Photo By Michael Kinney OKLAHOMA CITY- Game 7. In sports vernacular, there aren’t two more elegant and impactful words than when Game and 7 are put next to each other. The only time that isn’t the case is when you add Championship to it. That is what we have this evening in Oklahoma City. A Championship Game 7 between the Oklahoma City Thunder and the Indiana Pacers.
- [Oklahoma City looks to close out Indy tonight](https://michaelkinneymedia.com/oklahoma-city-looks-to-close-out-indy-tonight/): Story & Photos By Michael Kinney INDIANAPOLIS— Oklahoma City’s first shot at winning the 2025 NBA championship comes tonight. For the Thunder fan base, coaches, and players, they hope they won’t need a second shot. When Oklahoma City and Indiana face off in Game 6 tonight in Indianapolis, the Thunder have no opportunity to put the Pacers away and fly home as the best team in the league. However, if the Pacers can once again pull off a victory, a Game 7 will be needed Sunday to settle it all back in Oklahoma City.
- ["The Moment" is a problem for the Thunder](https://michaelkinneymedia.com/the-moment-is-a-problem-for-the-thunder/): Story & Photos By Michael Kinney Through the first three games of the NBA Finals, it has become abundantly clear that Tyrese Haliburton is a problem. For those who may not have been following the former Iowa State’s career trajectory, you are catching him at peak “he’s that dude” status.
- [NBA Finals: Thunder, Pacers make adjustments ahead of Game 2](https://michaelkinneymedia.com/nba-finals-thunder-pacers-make-adjustments-ahead-of-game-2/): Story & Photos By Michael Kinney The Oklahoma City Thunder had two days to get over it. After falling in Game 1 of the NBA Finals on a last-second shot by Indiana’s Tyreese Haliburton on their home court, the Thunder had to read about the collapse for two days. Now, all the talk, scrutiny, and second-guessing is behind them as they enter Game 2 tonight at the Paycom Center. When they step on the court tonight, they will have an opportunity to prove Thursday was just a blip on the radar on their way to making history. If not, they […]
- [NBA Finals: Thunder stunned in series opener, again](https://michaelkinneymedia.com/nba-finals-thunder-stunned-in-series-opener-again/): Story & Photos By Michael Kinney For the Oklahoma City fans who stormed out of the Paycom Center with stunned or angry looks on their faces, it must have felt like deja vu. For the second time this postseason, they watched their home team give up a big lead in Game 1 and lose on a walk-off (almost) shot in the final seconds. While Oklahoma City was able to come back and beat Denver in a seven-game series, they will have to prove they can do it again against Indiana on a much bigger stage.
- [NBA Finals: Will power](https://michaelkinneymedia.com/nba-finals-will-power/): Story & Photos By Michael Kinney OKLAHOMA CITY– I’m feeling nostalgic right now. As someone who grew up on the NBA of the 80s and 90s when the Lakers and Celtics were handing out clotheslines, the Bad Boys were publishing the Jordan Rules and the New York Knicks tried to fight everyone, something Shai Gilgeous-Alexander said took me back.
- [NBA Finals: Indianapolis fans coming to OKC have plenty of culinary options](https://michaelkinneymedia.com/nba-finals-indianapolis-fans-coming-to-okc-have-plenty-of-culinary-options/): Story & Photos By Michael Kinney OKLAHOMA CITY– One of the best things about the NBA Finals coming to Oklahoma City is the number of visitors who will be making their first trip to the area. It is time for the Chamber of Commerce and the tourism board to shine. However, for those looking for something a little less stiff, I’m here for you.
- [NBA Finals: Loud City ready to do its part](https://michaelkinneymedia.com/nba-finals-loud-city-ready-to-do-its-part/): Story & Photos By Michael Kinney Back in 2012, Matt Westphalen could feel it in his bones. As a member of the Oklahoma City Storm Chasers, he used to walk along the catwalk in the rafters of the Chesapeake Arena to perform the parachute t-shirt drop. Standing some 90 feet above ground, Westphalen could feel the energy that reverberated from the fans during the Oklahoma City Thunder’s postseason run to the NBA Finals.
- [Thunder return to form to take 3-1 series lead in WCF](https://michaelkinneymedia.com/thunder-return-to-form-to-take-3-1-series-lead-in-wcf/): Story & Photos By Michael Kinney After getting drilled by 40 points in Game 3, the Oklahoma City Thunder had something to prove in Game 4. With a chance to take a commanding lead in the Western Conference Finals, the Thunder held off Minnesota for a 128-126 victory Monday in Minneapolis.
- [Atkinson: Bittersweet ending to record breaking prep career](https://michaelkinneymedia.com/atkinson-bittersweet-ending-to-record-breaking-prep-career/): Story & Photos By Michael Kinney Jordan Atkinson knew something was wrong. At the 70-meter mark of her 100-meter dash, Atkinson’s body was telling her something was out of order as she felt her hamstring tighten. Atkinson could have just stopped right there. Many would. Tearing a hamstring is a setback that some athletes never fully recover from.
- [Foregone conclusion: Gilgeous-Alexander adds MVP to resume](https://michaelkinneymedia.com/foregone-conclusion-gilgeous-alexander-adds-mvp-to-resume/): Story & Photos By Michael Kinney It was the worst-kept secret in the NBA. For weeks, if not months, it was a foregone conclusion that Shai Gilgeous-Alexander was going to be named MVP of the 2024-25 season.  From fans to members of the media, the question was never if Gilgeous-Alexander was going to win it. It was always when will NBA officials stop fooling around and give him the award.
- [Loud City Live: Paycom Center open for road games](https://michaelkinneymedia.com/loud-city-live-paycom-center-open-for-road-games/): Story & Photos By Michael Kinney When the Oklahoma City Thunder hit the road,  the franchise still wants you to come and watch the game. The Thunder announced it will open the Paycom Center for Loud City Live. They are describing it as an opportunity for the ‘Loud & Loyal to come together and experience a home-court atmosphere’ while viewing Western Conference finals away games.  
- [Second half surge keys Thunder victory in Game 1](https://michaelkinneymedia.com/second-half-surge-keys-thunder-victory-in-game-1/): Story & Photos By Michael Kinney OKLAHOMA CITY — At this point, it seems to be a foregone conclusion that Shai Gilgeous-Alexander will be named MVP of the NBA whenever it is announced. However, when the Thunder guard took the court Tuesday night, he continued to play as if he was still out to prove he deserved it to the rest of the non-believers.
- [Thunder rise to the moment in critical Game 7](https://michaelkinneymedia.com/thunder-rise-to-the-moment-in-critical-game-7/): Story & Photos By Michael Kinney Oklahoma City had exactly what they wanted. Winning 68 games during the regular season guaranteed that any and all Game 7s the Thunder are involved in this postseason would be played at their house in front of their fans. Despite facing a former NBA champion and a three-time MVP, the Thunder showed why they were considered the best team in the NBA with a 125-93 rout of the Denver Nuggets Sunday afternoon at the Paycom Center.
- [Thunder dig deep in Game 5 win over Nuggets](https://michaelkinneymedia.com/thunder-dig-deep-in-game-5-win-over-nuggets/): Story & Photos By Michael Kinney While technically it wasn’t a must-win, everyone who came into the Paycom Center Tuesday night knew it was one for Oklahoma City. Going down 3-2 and heading back to Denver was not a position any team wanted to be in, no matter how talented.  Yet, for 43 minutes, that appeared to be where the Thunder was headed.
- [NBA Playoffs: Thunder bring momentum back home](https://michaelkinneymedia.com/nba-playoffs-thunder-bring-momentum-back-home/): Story & Photos By Michael Kinney When the Oklahoma City Thunder left town last week, they were riding the wave of a blowout victory in Game 2 over the Denver Nuggets. It looked like the top team in the league had returned to their normal selves and were ready to run through the rest of the playoffs.
- [Nuggets stun Thunder in Game 1 thriller](https://michaelkinneymedia.com/nuggets-stun-thunder-in-game-1-thriller/): Story & Photos By Michael Kinney Oklahoma City had the game in their hands. Not only had they withstood a historic night from a three-time MVP, but they were playing in their house in front of ravenous fans and had a lead in the final minutes of a postseason contest.
- [Nuggets up next for well-rested Thunder](https://michaelkinneymedia.com/nuggets-up-next-for-well-rested-thunder/): By Michael Kinney It’s the matchup we have been waiting for. No matter what happened throughout the NBA regular season, it just always felt like Oklahoma City and Denver were going to have to face off during the postseason.
- [Best In Show: Broadie uses art to inspire & educate](https://michaelkinneymedia.com/best-in-show-broadie-uses-art-to-inspire-educate/): Story & Photos By Michael Kinney Bryane Broadie thought it was a scam. In fact, when he saw the email back in 2022, he didn’t even open it. As an IT specialist, Broadie had seen his share of online scams that had flowed to his email account. But something told him to go back and open the email and just make sure it wasn’t anything important.
- [Oklahoma City opens postseason with a Thundering message](https://michaelkinneymedia.com/oklahoma-city-opens-postseason-with-a-thundering-message/): Story & Photos By Michael Kinney OKLAHOMA CITY- If Oklahoma City had any bit of nervousness in their bodies, they sure didn’t show it. In Game 1 of their first-round series against Memphis, they came out of the gates like they were trying to end the entire postseason in one afternoon.
- [Fan experience a priority for OKC during NBA playoffs](https://michaelkinneymedia.com/fan-experience-a-priority-for-okc-during-nba-playoffs/): Story & Photos By Michael Kinney The Oklahoma City Thunder is steamrolling into the NBA Playoffs. Not only do they have the best record in the league, but they are at the top of the list as the favorite to win it all. While Game 1 of their first-round series doesn’t start until Sunday, the Thunder want to make sure its fan base doesn’t feel left out of the journey, especially those who will not be able to catch a playoff game in-person at the Paycom Center.
- [Grit and composure secure "weird" Thunder victory over Lakers](https://michaelkinneymedia.com/grit-and-composure-secures-weird-thunder-victory-over-lakers/): Story & Photos By Michael Kinney In a season full of firsts, Oklahoma City was in danger of hitting an achievement it had avoided all year.
- [Anti-Trump protests draws big crowds across the nation](https://michaelkinneymedia.com/trump-protests-draws-big-crowds-even-in-red-states/): Story & Photos By Michael Kinney OKLAHOMA CITY– In the last three presidential elections, one state went entirely red. All 77 counties in Oklahoma voted for President Donald Trump in 2016, 2020 and 2024. Regardless of what Trump has done or been accused of, the Sooner state has solidly back him under all circumstances.
- [Sooners gridiron commit finds a new home in Oklahoma](https://michaelkinneymedia.com/sooners-gridiron-commit-finds-a-new-home-in-oklahoma/): Story & Photos By Michael Kinney It seemingly came out of nowhere. One day Jaden O’Neal is a highly recruited quarterback living his best life in California. The next, he was running wind sprints in Oklahoma with his new teammates. That is how quickly the landscape of high school football changed in Oklahoma. When O’Neal, a 4-star signal caller who has committed to the University of Oklahoma, transferred to Mustang (Ok.) last month, he instantly helped raise the title contending prospects for the Broncos heading into the 2025 season.
- [Thunder wreck short-handed Pistons](https://michaelkinneymedia.com/thunder-wreck-short-handed-pistons/): Story & Photos By Michael Kinney Even though there are fewer than two left in the NBA regular season, that may feel like an eternity for the Oklahoma City Thunder. If it were up to them, the postseason would start this week. That is because the Thunder are not only playing their best basketball of the season, but they are making the games look easy. No matter who has stepped on the court with them in the past month, Oklahoma City proceeded to run roughshod over almost every opponent. Their last loss came March 10 against Denver. Their latest victim […]
- [OKC Thunder visits local food bank amid Trump budget cuts](https://michaelkinneymedia.com/okc-thunder-visit-local-food-bank-amid-budget-cut-crisis/): Story & Photos By Michael Kinney Kenrich Williams knows how tough it can be. Even though he is living his dreams, the Oklahoma City Thunder forward has seen hard times in his life.
- [Bombers' title defense comes to an end at the Big House](https://michaelkinneymedia.com/bombers-title-defense-comes-to-an-end-at-the-big-house/): Story & Photos By Michael Kinney OKLAHOMA CITY– When Midwest City met up with Booker T Washington in the 2024 state championship game, the two squads put on an epic show that came down to the final seconds. In the end, the Bombers took home the 5A title and sent the Hornets packing.
- [Timberwolves erase 25 point deficit to beat Thunder in OT](https://michaelkinneymedia.com/timberwolves-erase-25-point-deficit-to-beat-thunder-in-ot/): Story & Photos By Michael Kinney Oklahoma City’s first game back since the all-star break started well. The top team in the Western Conference jumped out to a 25-point lead and seemed destined to cruise to a third straight victory over Minnesota Monday night. However, someone forgot to tell the Timberwolves the game was over and the Thunder seemed to forget it as well. Minnesota stormed back to claim a 131-128 victory in overtime at the Paycom Center.
- [The Main Squeeze heats up frigid OKC with Panorama tour](https://michaelkinneymedia.com/the-main-squeeze-heats-up-frigid-okc-with-panorama-tour/): Story & Photos By Michael Kinney It was a Tuesday night in February and an ice storm was sweeping across the Midwest. The temperatures had already begun to plummet when I arrived at the Beer City Music Hall in downtown Oklahoma City to cover the rock & funk band The Main Squeeze and their Panorama: Tour of a Lifetime.
- [Thunder All-Star gets schooled in STEM class](https://michaelkinneymedia.com/thunder-all-star-gets-schooled-in-stem-class/): Story & Photos By Michael Kinney Jalen Williams just stood staring. Even when he bent down to take a closer look, the Oklahoma City Thunder All-Star was confused, confounded and stymied all at once. Williams wasn’t looking at an old video of 6-on-6 high school basketball in Oklahoma. No, he was focused on an educational toy that an eighth-grader was working on.
- [Top-ranked Sooners handle business at Collegiate Quad](https://michaelkinneymedia.com/top-ranked-sooners-handle-business-at-collegiate-quad/): Story & Photos By Michael Kinney For fans of women’s gymnastics, the Sprouts Farmer’s Marker collegiate Quad checked all the boxes. Not only did the field contain four of the top six teams in the nation and three of the past four national champions, it also featured a variety of Olympians and Olympic hopefuls.
- [Riding 15-game win streak, Thunder continue to prove no lead is safe](https://michaelkinneymedia.com/riding-15-game-win-streak-thunder-continue-to-prove-no-lead-is-safe/): Story & Photos By Michael Kinney It will eventually end. One day, the Oklahoma City Thunder will lose a game again (maybe). However, as of right now, the Thunder are playing like they believe they are unbeatable. The last time they felt the sting of defeat came Dec. 17 against Milwaukee in the NBA Cup Final, which for some reason doesn’t count against their losing streak. The last official defeat took place Dec. 1 in Houston. Since then, OKC has been taking care of business at home and on the road.
- [Hartenstein continues to shine in Oklahoma City](https://michaelkinneymedia.com/hartenstein-continues-to-shine-in-oklahoma-city/): Story & Photos By Michael Kinney The Oklahoma City Thunder came into this week with not only the best record in the Western Conference, but also the second-best mark in the entire league. And no matter what took place on New Year’s Eve, they were going to leave 2024 as one of the elite teams to beat in the NBA in 2025.
- [Millet Steelman throws block party at Holiday Classic to push Choctaw into semis](https://michaelkinneymedia.com/millet-steelman-throws-block-party-at-holiday-classic-to-push-choctaw-into-semis/): Story & Photos By Michael Kinney Millet Steelman looked like a cat ready to pounce. The Choctaw senior was focused on the basketball and anytime it came near the paint, he went into defense mode.
- [Despite ups and downs, Bass looking forward to continuing on the path he's started](https://michaelkinneymedia.com/despite-ups-and-downs-bass-looking-forward-to-continuing-on-the-path-hes-started/): Story & Images By Michael Kinney Keegan Bass enjoys coming home. Along with getting to spend time with his family, the former multi-sport athlete at Mustang gets to hang out with the current and next generation of Bronco standouts. While on Christmas vacation from the United States Air Force Academy, Bass took time to go through practice with the Mustang boys’ basketball team. Wearing his sleek Air Force football t-shirt, Bass had been looking forward to this time of reconnecting with some of his old coaches and teammates.
- [Bronchos end two-decade playoff drought with OT thriller](https://michaelkinneymedia.com/bronchos-end-two-decade-playoff-drought-with-ot-thriller/): Story & Photos By Michael Kinney The journey continues for the University of Central Oklahoma. But it wasn’t easy. Playing in their first round of the NCAA Division II Football Championships, the Bronchos withstood a late rally from Ouachita Baptist to prevail 38-31 in overtime at Chad Richison Stadium.“We Bought in and believed that we could win no matter what the score was, and we really just stayed together as a team,” said senior Jacob Delso. “That was very big in the end and we just allowed everybody to trust each other and that’s the main reason why we’ve made […]
- [Sooners keep family legacy alive with pair of track signings](https://michaelkinneymedia.com/sooners-keep-family-legacy-alive-with-pair-of-track-signings/): Story & Photos By Michael Kinney It was never a foregone conclusion. Even though seemingly all of her family had attended the University of Oklahoma, Jordan Atkinson said she had kept her options open when looking at where she wanted to continue her track & field career.
- [The day after](https://michaelkinneymedia.com/the-day-after/): By Michael Kinney The Oklahoma City Thunder was having the kind of start to the season they wanted. Entering their longest home stand of the season, they had the best record in the NBA at 8-1 and had already converted most of the league into believers of their title potential.
- [Big O's finds a home with the Thunder Experience](https://michaelkinneymedia.com/big-os-finds-a-home-with-the-thunder-experience/): Story & Photos By Michael Kinney When Owen Wilson first got the idea of going into the food business, the Oklahoma City Thunder was still living in Seattle. At the time, all he had was a trailer and two menu items. Since then, Wilson’s business and menu has grown, and the Thunder have become a centerpiece of Oklahoma sports and entertainment.
- [Thunder star ready for next step in evolution](https://michaelkinneymedia.com/thunder-star-ready-for-next-step-in-evolution/): Story & Photography By Michael Kinney As Shai Gilgeous-Alexander enters his seventh season in the NBA, he is at the point in his career where most superstars enter their prime. They have enough experience under their belt to know what they can do and how to make others better.
- [Lackluster effort puts Pokes' future under the microscope](https://michaelkinneymedia.com/lackluster-effort-puts-pokes-future-under-the-microscope/): Photos & Story By Michael Kinney As the Oklahoma State football team heads into its bye week, they have some serious questions that need to be answered. After being dismantled 38-14 Saturday at the hands of West Virginia, the program appears to be in vacation mode already.
- [Process over expectations continues to be the Thunder mindset](https://michaelkinneymedia.com/process-over-expectations-continues-to-be-the-thunder-mindset/): Story & Photos By Michael Kinney OKLAHOMA CITY– Shai Gilgeous-Alexander knows what everyone is saying. Oklahoma City’s All-Star guard and MVP candidate from a year ago has heard the analysts and fans say this is the year of the Thunder.
- [FX master at a career crossroads in the world of AI](https://michaelkinneymedia.com/fx-master-finds-himself-at-a-career-crossroads-in-the-world-of-ai/): Story & Main Photo By Michael Kinney When the film “Labyrinth” came out in movie theaters in 1986, Nathan Bright was nowhere to be found. The six-year-old, at the time, wasn’t one of those who stood in line to watch the Sci-Fi fantasy adventure with stars such as David Bowie and Jennifer Connelly.
- [Utes shutdown Pokes in Big 12 opener](https://michaelkinneymedia.com/utes-shutdown-pokes-in-big-12-opener/): Story & Photos By Michael Kinney STILLWATER– After more than three and a half quarters of almost nonexistent offense, Oklahoma State waited until the final minutes Saturday to wake up against Utah. However, despite a late fourth-quarter surge, the Cowboys lost 22-19 to the Utes at Boone Pickens Stadium. The defeat was the first of the year for the Pokes while Utah kept their record unblemished at 4-0.
- [NBA player's trip to Science Museum highlights importance of STEM](https://michaelkinneymedia.com/nba-players-trip-to-science-museum-highlights-importance-of-stem/): Story & Photos By Michael Kinney When Adam Flagler stretched out his dripping wet left hand, the apprehension was visible on his face. The Oklahoma City Thunder guard had been asked to trust a man with a blowtorch he had just met five minutes earlier with his career and livelihood.
- [Finding life in art](https://michaelkinneymedia.com/finding-life-in-art/): By Michael Kinney Story & Photos With Tribe Called Quest playing in the background at his studio, it is easy for Dustin Caballero to get lost in the music. Even though the 37-year-old has eclectic taste and listens to other musicians and genres of music, when he really wants to buckle down and get to work on painting, he throws on a mix of Tribe songs and lets the New York City hip-hop group guide his Oklahoma-born hands.
- [Brandon Noriega is just looking for a good fight](https://michaelkinneymedia.com/brandon-noriega-is-just-looking-for-a-good-fight/): By Michael Kinney Click here for Photo Gallery Brandon Noriega has a problem. Despite being only 15 years old, the boxing phenom has gained a reputation in his backyard of Oklahoma City. For the past three years, Noriega had been looking to showcase his boxing skills in front of his home fans. Unfortunately, finding someone to step into the square ringed with him has been difficult.
- [Prep stars close out careers at All-State](https://michaelkinneymedia.com/prep-stars-close-out-careers-at-all-state/): By Michael Kinney Click here for Photo Gallery Two weeks before the start of the 2024 football season, the official end of the 2023 campaign took place with the All-State Game. Held at Oklahoma Baptist University, the contest featured players from across the state who are closing out their high school careers. That includes Guthrie’s Nate Benford, who started at cornerback for the West All-Staters.
- [Wildcatters ready for PBR debut in Oklahoma City](https://michaelkinneymedia.com/wildcatters-ready-for-pbr-debut-in-oklahoma-city/): By Michael Kinney Ahead of the third season PBR (Professional Bull Riders) Teams league, the Oklahoma Wildcatters found an intriguing way to bring attention to the Sooner state’s newest team.
- [Did the Thunder find its missing piece?](https://michaelkinneymedia.com/did-the-thunder-finding-its-missing-piece/): By Michael Kinney The minute former New York Knick Isaiah Hartenstein signed his multi-year free agent contract with the Oklahoma City Thunder, he may have made team history. In some people’s estimations, the 26-year-old immediately became the biggest free agent signing since the Thunder relocated from Seattle in 2008.
- [Supreme Court will decide if new Oklahoma law criminalizes being homeless](https://michaelkinneymedia.com/supreme-court-will-decide-if-new-oklahoma-law-criminalizes-being-homeless/): By Michael Kinney It didn’t take long for it to happen. One day Jacqueline Rich was gainfully employed; weeks later the Bethany native found herself jobless and living on the streets in 2023.
- [Competition and fun remain the focus at Oklahoma's Endeavor Games](https://michaelkinneymedia.com/competition-and-fun-remains-the-focus-at-oklahomas-endeavor-games/): By Michael Kinney Click Here for Photo Gallery In 2019, Brenden Butler discovered he had bone cancer in his foot. After completing 10 months of chemotherapy, his right leg had to be amputated to get rid of the cancer completely.
- [Thunder take high aspirations and questions into offseason](https://michaelkinneymedia.com/thunder-take-high-aspirations-and-questions-into-offseason/): By Michael Kinney It was not the way the Oklahoma City Thunder envisioned their season coming to an end. Giving up a 17-point halftime lead and their best player (Shai Gilgeous-Alexander) being called for a last-second foul that helped seal a victory for the Dallas Mavericks was not on the Thunder itinerary last week.
- [A refocused Luka is a problem for the Thunder](https://michaelkinneymedia.com/a-refocused-doncic-is-a-problem-for-the-thunder/): By Michael Kinney It didn’t take long for Oklahoma City Thunder fans to latch on to Luka Doncic. Early in Game 1 of the Western Conference Semifinal matchup between Oklahoma City and Dallas, the Mavericks, guard was being called everything from Fat Luka to a crybaby.
- [Q&A with Thunder sparkplug Kendrich Williams](https://michaelkinneymedia.com/qa-with-thunder-sparkplug-kendrich-williams/): By Michael Kinney While the players won’t admit it, Monday’s 100-96 victory for the Oklahoma City Thunder was a must-win. A loss to the Dallas Mavericks would have put the youthful squad down 3-1 and needing to win three straight to come back and take the series.
- [Branding Profile: Attorney finds his calling after exhausting all other options](https://michaelkinneymedia.com/business-profile-attorney-finds-his-calling-after-exhausting-all-other-options/): Words & Photography by Michael Kinney When career-minded professionals are asked how they got started in their life’s work, many will say they’ve known since they were kids what they wanted to do. Eric Urbach is not one of them. The Edmond (Okla.) based attorney admits he sort of just fell into the law profession almost by happenstance.
- [From Japan to Oklahoma, Thunder fan discovers whole new world](https://michaelkinneymedia.com/from-japan-to-oklahoma-thunder-fan-discovers-whole-new-world/): Words & Photography by Michael Kinney OKLAHOMA CITY– The first thing anyone needs to know about Nanae Yamano is that she doesn’t like the term “Super Fan.” Even though that title has been bestowed upon her by the same Oklahoma City Thunder franchise she has spurred on for more than a decade from thousands of miles away, the Japan native cringes when she hears it applied to her name.
- [NBA writer turns passion project into business venture](https://michaelkinneymedia.com/nba-writer-turns-passion-project-into-business-venture/): Words & Photography By Michael Kinney Darnell Mayberry has never been afraid to change directions when it comes to his career. Whether it was relocating from Ohio back to his home state of Oklahoma to become an NBA beat writer or when he left that same newspaper to join The Athletic, a fledgling digital start-up with an uncertain future, Mayberry didn’t flinch at the opportunity.
- [Thunder put Pelicans in a 2-0 stranglehold](https://michaelkinneymedia.com/thunder-put-pelicans-in-a-2-0-stranglehold/): By Michael Kinney OKLAHOMA CITY– It didn’t take long for Oklahoma City to learn its lesson. After allowing a shorthanded New Orleans squad to hang around before winning in Game 1 of their first-round series at the buzzer, the Thunder jumped on top of the Pelicans in Game 2 and never stopped stomping.
- [NBA playoffs not on the minds of local protesters](https://michaelkinneymedia.com/gaza-war-protesters-use-okc-playoff-venue-to-send-messages/): By Michael Kinney OKLAHOMA CITY– By the time Game 1 of the Oklahoma City Thunder postseason tips off Sunday night, hundreds if not thousands of fans may have made their way through Scissortail Park. Situated right across the street from the Paycom Center, it was the perfect place for the team and city officials to set up their event center that will introduce fans to the Thunder and NBA playoffs. However, Saturday evening, it also became the temporary command center for a group who used the venue to protest the war in Gaza and the treatment of the Palestine people.
- [Dort excited about second shot at NBA playoffs](https://michaelkinneymedia.com/dort-excited-about-second-shot-at-nba-playoffs/): By Michael Kinney With their win Friday night in the play-in game against Sacramento, the shorthanded New Orleans Pelicans (49-33) secured an official spot in the 2024 NBA playoffs. Their prize is a trip to Oklahoma City to face the top seed in the West, the Oklahoma City Thunder (57-25).
- [Thunder preparing for playoffs on and off the court](https://michaelkinneymedia.com/thunder-preparing-for-playoffs-on-and-off-the-court/): By Michael Kinney The Oklahoma City Thunder will tip off the 2024 NBA Playoffs Sunday night at the Paycom Center.  They won’t know until late Friday night who they will face in the opening round.
- [Thunder skipper takes home coach of the year honors](https://michaelkinneymedia.com/thunder-skipper-takes-home-coach-of-the-year-honors/): By Michael Kinney A day after the regular season came to an end, the first NBA award was announced. And for Oklahoma City Thunder fans, it could be the first of several the franchise racks up this postseason. Thunder Coach Mark Daigneault was named the Michael H. Goldberg NBCA Coach of the Year, it was announced today by the National Basketball Coaches Association Monday.
- [Thunder head into playoffs as best in the West](https://michaelkinneymedia.com/thunder-head-into-playoffs-as-best-in-the-west/): By Michael Kinney OKLAHOMA CITY– Before the Oklahoma City Thunder took the court Sunday afternoon, they knew they had done their part. Facing a Dallas Mavericks squad that had decided to rest its starters, the Thunder knew they had a victory wrapped up before tip-off.
- [Photo Gallery: Eclipse at the Oklahoma City National Memorial](https://michaelkinneymedia.com/photo-gallery-eclipse-at-the-oklahoma-city-national-memorial/): By Michael Kinney Photo Gallery Link In a celestial phenomenon captivating millions around the world, the highly anticipated total solar eclipse of 2024 painted a mesmerizing arc across the skies, offering a rare spectacle for eager onlookers.
- [Photo Gallery: Fordson Hotel Grand Opening](https://michaelkinneymedia.com/photo-gallery-fordson-hotel-grand-opening/): By Michael Kinney I was asked to cover the Grand Opening of the Fordson Hotel in downtown Oklahoma City Thursday night. It used to be the 21C Museum Hotel, but it has now been rebranded and now is part of The Unbound Collection by Hyatt.
- [Kash Ferris: 'I pitch better when I'm angry'](https://michaelkinneymedia.com/kash-ferris-i-pitch-better-when-im-angry/): By Michael Kinney The first thing to know about Carl Albert’s Kash Ferris is that Kash is not his real name. Despite having been called one of the most baseball-sounding names since birth, his real first name is Beau.
- [Mural of Thunder star created to inspire youth in his hometown](https://michaelkinneymedia.com/mural-of-thunder-star-created-to-inspire-youth-in-his-hometown/): By Michael Kinney Johnathan “JK” Burchett didn’t have to look too far for inspiration. When the Fort Smith (Ark.) artist was asked to paint a of mural Oklahoma City Thunder forward Jaylin Williams at a Boys and Girls Club , an image seemed to immediately pop into his head.
- [Heritage Hall showcasing artists with HeART Gallery](https://michaelkinneymedia.com/heritage-hall-showcasing-artists-in-bi-annual-fundraiser/): By Michael Kinney OKLAHOMA CITY—It’s that time of the year again for the annual HeART of Gold Gallery at Heritage Hall. The bi-annual fundraiser kicked off its online bidding March 27 and will run through April 7 at 6 p.m.
- [Doran wanted to be of service to others](https://michaelkinneymedia.com/doran-wanted-to-be-of-service-to-others/): When i met Mustang’s Zach Doran in 2021, he was a young football player just at the start of what appeared to promising future. Even at 15 years old, he seemed to already know where he was headed and what he wanted to do in life. So when his father, Jason Doran, posted on social media that Zach had passed away March 13, it shocking to say the least. My prayers go out to Doran’s family. Below is the article I wrote about that 15-year-old who jus wanted to be of service to others. By Michael Kinney As a safety […]
- [Oklahoma Wildcatters bring in bull riding legend to lead new franchise](https://michaelkinneymedia.com/oklahoma-wildcatters-bring-in-bull-riding-legend-to-lead-new-franchise/): By Michael Kinney J.B. Mauney’s life has centered around bull riding. Some of the North Carolina native’s earliest memories were of him studying the sport. “From the time I was old enough to put a tape in the VCR, all I watched was bull riding. That’s all I watched,” Mauney said. “When I came home from school, the rule of thumb was I had to do my homework before I could watch bull riding. And it was eating and sleep bull riding every day in my life.”
- [Chet Holmgren unveils newly refurbished court in Spencer](https://michaelkinneymedia.com/chet-holmgren-unveils-newly-refurbished-court-in-spencer/): By Michael Kinney Oklahoma City’s Chet Holmgren unveiled a new community basketball court at Kringlen Park in Spencer Saturday. Built in partnership with JD Sports and the Chet Holmgren Foundation, the new, double basketball court features a unique design celebrating Holmgren’s commitment to the community.
- [Keeley Parks ready to take next step on recruiting journey](https://michaelkinneymedia.com/keeley-parks-ready-to-take-next-step-on-recruiting-journey/): By Michael Kinney Keeley Parks kind of knew what to expect. After watching her older sister Mikayla Parks (Kansas State) go through the recruiting process, the Norman High (OK.) junior knew that June 1 could be a little bit hectic for her.
- [Les Misérables: A Tale of Redemption and Revolution](https://michaelkinneymedia.com/les-miserables-a-tale-of-redemption-and-revolution/): By Michael Kinney At its core, Les Misérables revolves around the themes of redemption, love, and the relentless pursuit of justice. Victor Hugo’s classic novel, upon which the musical is based, serves as a source material that delves into the complexities of morality and societal injustice. 
- [Europeans love their soccer. Travel writer wanted to find out why](https://michaelkinneymedia.com/travel-writer-gets-first-taste-of-euro-soccer-fervor/): By Michael Kinney During my time as a sports journalist, I have covered many athletic competitions. Everything from the NBA championships to Yacht racing is somewhere on my resume. However, during that time, one of the few events I had yet to check off my list was European soccer. And truthfully, it wasn’t I really had any interest in taking in.
- [Thunder hold off Celtics to kick off 2024](https://michaelkinneymedia.com/thunder-hold-off-celtics-to-kick-off-2024/): By Michael Kinney OKLAHOMA CITY– Most observers thought it would take another year or two. By that time the core of the Oklahoma City Thunder would have played more than 200 games together and have a good sense of what they can do and the rest of the NBA.
- [Lady Huskies show they are still the team to beat](https://michaelkinneymedia.com/lady-huskies-show-they-are-still-the-team-to-beat/): By Michael Kinney MJUSTANG–  Coach Pete Papahronis knew what to expect. The veteran Edmond North skipper had led his team into too many big games and Friday’s matchup with No. 1 Bethany (4A) was just going to be the next challenge his two-time defending champions would have to face. In a hard-fought battle between two of the top teams in the state, the Huskies prevailed 60-55 in the semifinals of Mustang’s Bank 7 Holiday Classic.
- [Travel Story: Porto's iconic dish left writer confused, but full](https://michaelkinneymedia.com/travel-story-portos-iconic-dish-left-writer-confused-but-full/): By Michael Kinney One of the great things about being able to travel and see different parts of the world is feasting on local cuisine.
- [Is the future of the NBA in Oklahoma at stake with upcoming vote?](https://michaelkinneymedia.com/is-the-future-of-the-nba-in-oklahoma-at-stake-with-upcoming-vote/): By Michael Kinney Muhammed Ali vs Jerry Cooney. The 1985 Chicago Bears vs the New England Patriots. Cotton vs Polyester. NSYNC vs 98 Degrees. These are some of the most lopsided battles in the history of competition. Everyone knew they were going to be ugly from the start and that is the way they ended. 
- [Dynasty continues as Titans earn 18th title](https://michaelkinneymedia.com/dynasty-continues-as-titans-earn-18th-title/): By Michael Kinney EDMOND- When the 2023 season started, Carl Albert already knew the deal. As the defending 5A state champions, the Titans knew they would be a marked squad as every team they faced would be looking to knock their crown off.
- [Rod Wave gets Nostalgic in OKC](https://michaelkinneymedia.com/rod-wave-gets-nostalgic-in-okc/): By Michael Kinney Photos: Torrey Purvey OKLAHOMA CITY– Earlier this year there may not have been any entertainer in the country with a brighter spotlight on them than Rod Wave. The 25-year-old Florida native had seemingly burst onto the scene with his combination of Southern Rap and R&B melodies and was on the tip of everyone’s tongue as one of the leaders of the new school.
- [Sooners keep Big 12 title hopes alive with big play defense](https://michaelkinneymedia.com/sooners-keep-big-12-title-hopes-alive-with-big-play-defense/): By Michael Kinney Oklahoma’s fading Big 12 title hopes were on the line Saturday when they went on the road to Utah to take on BYU in their first-ever matchup as conference foes.  Needing a win to just stay in contention to earn a spot in the conference championship game, the Sooners were going to have to do it without their record-setting quarterback for half the game.
- [Douglass coach seeking a return to glory](https://michaelkinneymedia.com/douglass-coach-seeking-a-return-to-glory/): By Michael Kinney OKLAHOMA CITY– Damon Turner knew what he was stepping into. When he accepted the head coaching job at Frederick Douglass High in Oklahoma City, the assistant Edmond Santa Fe coach (2016-22) had no illusions about just how difficult his task was going to be.  
- [True mastery on display](https://michaelkinneymedia.com/true-mastery-on-display/): By Michael Kinney  Story originally ran in Luxiere Magazine The art could be broken down into two periods in many respects: Before and after Auguste Rodin.   When French sculpture burst onto the scene in the late 19th century, sculptures were seen more as thematic and decorative. But Rodin was more interested in a raw, unfiltered style that drew praise and criticism.  
- [Sooners close out Bedlam rivalry with emotional loss to Pokes](https://michaelkinneymedia.com/sooners-close-out-bedlam-rivalry-with-emotional-loss-to-pokes/): By Michael Kinney Photo: OSU Athletics The University of Oklahoma closed out its long history of dominance over Oklahoma State with what could be classified as one of the program’s worst defeats. In the final Bedlam for the foreseeable future, the Sooners fell 27-24 to the Cowboys Saturday at Boone Pickens Stadium.
- [Thunder prepare for start of new in-season tourney](https://michaelkinneymedia.com/thunder-prepare-for-start-of-new-in-season-tourney/): By Michael Kinney After starting the NBA season 2-0, the Oklahoma City Thunder home Sunday to start a six game home stand at the Paycom Center. Unfortunately for the Thunder, it didn’t get off to the bang they had hoped for. In front of a sold-out crowd, they were blown out 128-95 by the defending NBA champion Denver Nuggets.
- [Running with purpose](https://michaelkinneymedia.com/running-with-purpose/): By Michael Kinney It has been a tough year for Lasiera Laviolette. The Midwest City tailback suffered a loss right as his senior season started and he has been dealing with that pain ever since. However, when Laviolette gets on the football field, he isn’t playing just for himself anymore.
- [Senior back behind the plate where she belongs](https://michaelkinneymedia.com/senior-back-behind-the-plate-where-she-belongs/): By Michael Kinney It was a tough question for Arionna ‘Onna’ McElroy. When the Mustang catcher was asked to choose between hitting a homerun or throwing out a baserunner, the senior went back and forth on which she preferred.
- [Thunder big man makes NBA debut](https://michaelkinneymedia.com/thunder-big-man-makes-nba-debut/): By Michael Kinney The Oklahoma City Thunder opened up training camp last week as they prepare for the upcoming NBA season. It is the first camp as a full participant for Chet Holmgren, who was the No. 2 pick in the 2022 draft. Holmgren injured himself last summer and missed the entire 2022-23 season. However, after a productive offseason, he heads into this year carrying high expectations for himself and the team.
- [Sooners find redemption in dramatic win over Texas](https://michaelkinneymedia.com/sooners-find-redemption-in-dramatic-win-over-texas/): By Michael Kinney Oklahoma went into the 119th Red River Rivalry carrying a chip on its shoulders. After being lambasted 49-0 the year before, getting revenge against Texas had been on the team’s mind for a full year.

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