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Students walk through South Quad for dinner in South Quad Dining on EIU's campus Monday. This semester, there are 438 less students on campus than last spring.
EIU spring on-campus enrollment down 9.77%
A police car parked in the station lot Sunday evening. An Illinois state task force recently began considering changes to qualified imunity for Illinois law enforcement officers.
Mattoon High School employee charged with criminal sexual abuse charges from 2017
Vice President for Business Affairs Matt Bierman discusses updated fees for the 2025-26 school year with the EIU student senate at its weekly meeting in the 1895 room of the Martin Luther King Jr student union on Wednesday.
Student senate reviews 2.75% tuition increase for 2026
Events and Exhibit Coordinator Diane Highland show directions on where to find the Jane Addams exhibit to the audience at Booth Library for Women’s History Month on March 13.
Booth Library honors Jane Addams for Women’s History Month
Partygoers dance and listen to music at the second house on First Street at Unofficial on March 8.
Crime rates remain similar to last year at Unofficial
Eastern Illinois men's golfers, juniors Cole Jaworski (back) and Trey Oswald (front) practice in the new golf simulator on Monday.
New golf simulator opens in Lantz Complex for team
Eastern Illinois University baseball redshirt sophomore utility player number three Eli Hill jumps up and celebrates with his team after hitting a grand slam to cut Northern Illinois University’s lead to 5-4 in the bottom of the first inning during Eastern’s game against Northern Illinois at Coaches stadium on March 25.
Eastern baseball falls to NIU in high-scoring game
[Thumbnail Edition] Eastern Illinois University baseball senior utility player Tyler Castro fields a ground ball during the team's first intrasquad scrimmage of the season on Jan. 31.
EIU baseball takeaways after opening OVC series
Eastern redshirt junior guard Obadiah Curtis cuts to the basket as Little Rock senior guard Jordan Jefferson guards him during the first half Eastern basketball’s win against Little Rock 71-60 at Groniger Arena on Thursday.
EIU men’s basketball players that entered the transfer portal
[Thumbnail Edition] Senior tennis player Luisa Renovales Salazar hits the tennis ball with her racket at the Darling Courts at the Eastern Illinois University campus in Charleston, ILL.
Panthers of the Week: Luisa Renovales Salazar, Jake Ferguson
Eastern Illinois University baseball redshirt sophomore utility player number three Eli Hill jumps up and celebrates with his team after hitting a grand slam to cut Northern Illinois University’s lead to 5-4 in the bottom of the first inning during Eastern’s game against Northern Illinois at Coaches stadium on March 25.
Eastern baseball falls to NIU in high-scoring game
[Thumbnail Edition] Eastern Illinois University baseball senior utility player Tyler Castro fields a ground ball during the team's first intrasquad scrimmage of the season on Jan. 31.
EIU baseball takeaways after opening OVC series
[Thumbnail Edition] Senior tennis player Luisa Renovales Salazar hits the tennis ball with her racket at the Darling Courts at the Eastern Illinois University campus in Charleston, ILL.
Panthers of the Week: Luisa Renovales Salazar, Jake Ferguson
Sophomore Aleyla Wooten bites her lip while hitting the ball over to the other team during the doubles match against Southeast Missouri State University Redhawks at Atkins Tennis Center.
Panthers of the Week: Aleyla Wooten, Zak Goodwin
Charleston High School baseball manager Daniel Bennett speaks with his team before a practice at Baker Field on Wednesday in Charleston, Illinois. 
CHS baseball leans on experience ahead of new season
Eastern redshirt junior guard Obadiah Curtis cuts to the basket as Little Rock senior guard Jordan Jefferson guards him during the first half Eastern basketball’s win against Little Rock 71-60 at Groniger Arena on Thursday.
EIU men’s basketball players that entered the transfer portal
Fans of Meridian High School watch as St. Anthony High School has the ball near the end of the first quarter of the Illinois High School Association Class 1A Super sectional game at Groniger Arena on Monday.
What does Eastern get from hosting high school sports events?
Fifth year, forward Jayda Johnston carries senior guard Kiyley Flowers off the court during the first quarter of the game against Tennessee State Tigers in Groniger Arena on the Eastern Illinois University on Feb. 13.
The journey from registered nurse to EIU forward
Senior Foward Macy McGlone gets pulled to the floor with the ball in hand, Eastern Illinois University lost to Western Illinois University Thursday March 6 20205, 78-75 EIU lost
Panthers lose tournament thriller against Leathernecks
Western Illinois University's head women's basketball coach J.D. Gravina (middle), junior forward Mia Nicastro (left) and sophomore guard Reagan McCowan answer questions during the press conference after a win over UT Martin 78-72 in the first round of the Ohio Valley Conference Tournament Wednesday at the Ford Center in Evansville, Ind. The Leathernecks will play Eastern tomorrow.
EIU faces in-state rivals Western Illinois in quarterfinals
Drew Farrell
COLUMN: The NFL should adopt the fourth-and-20 play
Cameron Thomas
COLUMN: Why the NBA ratings are down
Emerson Reynolds
COLUMN: Sports media must be more positive
Zaria Flippin, senior, sports media relations
COLUMN: Start paying student athletes to help them live
Patrick Schmitz Sophomore, Sports media Relations
COLUMN: Paying athletes could lead to roster cuts for EIU athletics
Fans of Meridian High School watch as St. Anthony High School has the ball near the end of the first quarter of the Illinois High School Association Class 1A Super sectional game at Groniger Arena on Monday.
What does Eastern get from hosting high school sports events?
Forward senior Macy McGlone plays defences ready for the ball, during the game Thursday Feb 20,2025 in Evansville Indiana against Souther Indiana Screaming Eagles, panthers lost 66-46. at Liberty Arena.
Panthers of the Week: Abraham Johnson, Macy McGlone
(Thumbnail Edition) Ramsey Hunt competes in the men's long jump category for the second day of EIU Big Blue Classic. Hunt finishes first in the finals with a mark of 7.35m at the O’Brien Field Saturday afternoon.
Graduate jumper looks to make big leap in final year at EIU
Sophomore multi track and field athlete Ben Jessup stretches and prepares to compete in the John Craft Invite on Saturday.
Eastern track and field athlete returns after injury setback
Freshman Joe Stoddard (117) runs at the 2023 EIU Walt Crawford open.
Panthers of the Week: Joe Stoddard, Alex Tetteh
(Thumbnail Edition) SUBMITTED PHOTO | BLAINEY DOWLING From left to right: senior safety Tienne Fridge, junior forward Katiebeth May, redshirt sophomore defender Elizabeth Galvin and redshirt sophomore quarterback Blainey Dowling at the Uplifting Athletes Conference Saturday Feb 1 2025, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
Uplifting Athletes conference teaches EIU athletes fundraising, leadership
Football is back at O'Brien Stadium
STAFF PICKS: Who will win the Super Bowl?
Former Eastern quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo and the Eastern football team celebrate, winning the Ohio Valley Conference title for the second straight year with a 52-14 win over Jacksonville State at O'Brien Field on Sept. 16, 2013.
Former EIU quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo wears custom cleats before postseason run
Eastern redshirt sophomore running back MJ Flowers carries the ball across the goal line during the football game Saturday at O'Brien Stadium. The Panthers won 16-13.
Flowers said God saved him
Safety NiJhay Burt (34), intercepts the ball for a 67 yard return touchdown. The Panthers won 27-0 against the Sycamores Thursday night.
Starting defender announces decision to enter NCAA transfer portal
(Thumbnail Edition) SUBMITTED PHOTO | BLAINEY DOWLING From left to right: senior safety Tienne Fridge, junior forward Katiebeth May, redshirt sophomore defender Elizabeth Galvin and redshirt sophomore quarterback Blainey Dowling at the Uplifting Athletes Conference Saturday Feb 1 2025, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
Uplifting Athletes conference teaches EIU athletes fundraising, leadership
Josh Oakley has left the Eastern men's soccer program after two years as head coach.
Men’s soccer head coach leaves Eastern
Centerback Sarah Hagg, then a sophomore, playing in a game against Purdue Fort Wayne on August 21, 2022 . Eastern won the game 2-0. at Lakeside Field on the Eastern Illinois University campus, Charleston Ill.
Past EIU defender signs for professional soccer club
Goal Keeper Sophomore Ella Kratochvil of the women's soccer team, in the beginning of the game jumps up to bump team mate during the introduction of the game during the Eastern Illinois University Panther game vs Tennessee Teach Golden Eagles
Women’s soccer could see extended season
Eastern graduate quarterback Pierce Holley (3) and redshirt sophomore Jay Pearson (21) line up behind the line before the snap during the football game against Charleston Southern University Saturday at O'Brien Stadium. The Panthers won 16-13.
Panthers of the Semester: Pierce Holley, Abby Reinl, Dirk Bennett
The Trojans are set to play their first home game on March 25 against Cumberland at Karch Field.
CHS softball looks to keep success going ahead of new season
[Thumbnail Edition] Senior right-handed pitcher Tyler Conklin pitching in the Eastern Illinois University baseball team's intrasquad scrimmage at O'Brien Field in Charleston, Illinois on Jan. 31.
Panthers of the Week: Tyler Conklin, McKenzie Oslanzi
E[Thumbnail Edition] Eastern Illinois softball freshman utility player Abbi Hatton deciding to throw the softball to home plate in a fielding drill during softball practice at the field house in Groniger arena on Tuesday Feb. 11.
High school softball record setter explains why she came to Eastern in Q&A
Freshman pitcher McKenzie Oslanzi throwing a pitch on April Saturday 20, 2024 against Tennessee Tech University.
Panthers of the Week: NaKyel Shelton, McKenzie Oslanzi
Softball co-head coaches Kristi and Dan Paulson talk with the infielders about how to improve after a fielding drill at practice on Tuesday.
Co-head softball coaches caught feelings
Redshirt junior guard Obadiah Curtis drives to the basket against Graduate student forward Jack Mielke during the second half of Eastern’s lost to Southern Indiana 64-60 on Saturday
Panthers of the Week: Obadiah Curtis, Autumn Grinter
Members of the EIU women's basketball game rush to the student section to celebrate a 51-49 win over the University of Southern Indiana Groniger Arena Saturday. The Panthers won 51-49 in a late game layup and free throw with 13 seconds left allowing the Panthers to continue on a 10-0 win streak in the Ohio Valley Conference.
Panther Roundup: Women’s basketball undefeated in OVC, men’s swim wins almost every event
Senior Freestyle swimmer Conner Colston reacting to getting fourth place in the 50-yard freestyle with a time of 22.26 during the Eastern Illinois men’s loss against Lewis University 152-110 on Friday evening.
EIU swim celebrates seniors against Lewis
Senior midfielder Avery Richardson stands still during a break in the game for a green carding during the Eastern Illinois University Panther game vs Tennessee Teach Golden Eagles at Lakeside Field on the Eastern Illinois University campus, Charleston, Ill. EIU won 2-1.
Panthers of the Week: Avery Richardson, Conner Colston
Through 40 years of coaching: Scott Teeters
Freshman Eastern Illinois tennis player Duarte Trocado readies to backhand the ball during Eastern’s Horizon League conference opener against Tennessee State University as Eastern lost 5-2 on Saturday.
Men’s tennis loses home conference opener against TSU
Freshman tennis player Fabien Planchard backhands the ball during the Eastern Illinois Fall Invitational Friday at the Darling Courts.
EIU tennis prepares for weekend games
Members of the EIU women's basketball game rush to the student section to celebrate a 51-49 win over the University of Southern Indiana Groniger Arena Saturday. The Panthers won 51-49 in a late game layup and free throw with 13 seconds left allowing the Panthers to continue on a 10-0 win streak in the Ohio Valley Conference.
Panther Roundup: Women’s basketball undefeated in OVC, men’s swim wins almost every event
Players of the Eastern Illinois University women's basketball team cheer on teammates during their game against the Indiana State Sycamores on Friday, Dec. 6, 2024 in Groniger Arena.
Panther Sports Roundup: What you missed over the weekend
Freshman tennis player Ludolph Wiggett tries to hit the ball during the Eastern Illinois Fall Invitational Friday at the Darling Courts.
Freshman tennis player shares COVID-19 experience in Australia in Q&A
Head Volleyball Coach Sara Thomas high fives her players before the volleyball game against the University of Missouri Tigers Friday afternoon at Lantz Aren. The Panthers lost 3-1.
Head EIU volleyball coach resigns
(Thumbnail Edition) Associate Head Coach Manolo Concepcion talks to the Volleyball team from the side lines during the game against Tennessee State at the Groniger Arena on the Eastern Illinois University campus, Nov 20,2024. Charleston ILL.
EIU volleyball coach contract not renewed
Eastern Illinois Volleyball team won 3-1 the game against Tennessee State at the Groniger Arena on the Eastern Illinois University campus, Nov 20,2024. Charleston ILL.
EIU volleyball triumphs over TSU in season finale
The head coach of the Panthers calls for a quick team discussion at the end of tonight’s game against Tennessee Tech
EIU volleyball gets swept by Tennessee State; loses tournament hopes
The EIU volleyball team cheers during the Eastern Illinois University against Southern Illinois University Evansville, on Tuesday Oct 15. 2024. at Groniger Arena
What EIU volleyball needs to do to make the OVC Tournament
The Weeklings lead guitarist John Merjave [Left] and guitarist Bob Burger [Right] perform "I Am the Walrus" at The Weeklings Beatles Bash concert in the Dvorak Concert Hall on Saturday.
Beatles tribute band rocks out at Doudna
The team listens as its captain Patience Cox [Number 25] lectures to them about what's appropriate to talk about through practice during "The Wolves" on Thursday, March 6, in the Black Box Theatre in the Doudna Fine Arts Center in Charleston, Ill.
‘The Wolves’ premieres at Doudna Fine Arts Center
A family shows how proud they are as their child excitedly points to his name on the art exhibit wall in the Tarble Arts Center on Friday.
K-12 students show art at Tarble Arts Center
Andrea Leege and Jerry Ittamore observe the work of late EIU art professor Carl Wilen Friday in the Tarble Arts Center.
Fall exhibitions close at Tarble Arts Center
SUBMITTED PHOTO | THE DOUNDA FINE ARTS CENTER Jack Fry first came to EIU in 2012 where he performed in the Black Box in the Doudna Fine Arts Center.
‘Einstein!’ star returns to Eastern 13 years later
Cam'ron Hardy
“The Batman:” a new perspective three years later 
Rob Le Cates
COLUMN: I went to Unofficial sober so you don’t have to
Jacob Hamm
COLUMN: ‘Children of Jihad:’ captivating, thrilling, chilling
Michelle Doty
COLUMN: Physical books are way better than e-books
Luke Brewer
COLUMN: ‘Anora’ is deeper than you think 
Two Dudes Talk Movies logo
Two Dudes Talk Movies Ep. 86: Is ‘A Real Pain’ Painful to Watch?
Coles County Chronicle
Coles County Chronicles Ep. 1: Brian Deadmond
Two Dudes Talk Movies logo
Two Dudes Talk Movies Ep. 85: North By Northwest: Featuring the President of Our University
Two Dudes Talk Movies logo
Two Dudes Talk Movies Ep. 84: Harriet: A Good Adaptation?
In attempt to advertise Eastern's Early Bird Housing Contract, students were able to come to the Cyber Lounge Thursday afternoon to play video games and potentially file for the contract.
The Gamer’s Pod Ep. 1: Super Mario Galaxy
Saxophonist Chad LB solos on a jazz chart with the Eastern Illinois Jazz Ensemble during the first song of Eastern Jazz Festival.
THROUGH THE LENS: Award-winning saxophonist Chad LB plays at EIU
Redshirt junior running back Jay Pearson throws a cream pie into the face of a faculty member in the Grand Ballroom in the Martin Luther King Jr. Union.
THROUGH THE LENS: Jock-N-Roll raises $1,500 for veteran
Students hug at the candlelight vigil for Eastern student Yahacov Dennis who died last Saturday, January 25 at Amoco.
THROUGH THE LENS: Vigil commemorated to Eastern student death
The cheering grows louder as players for the Eastern Illinois University women's basketball team get closer to 100 points. Macy McGlone said the team was counting down the points to 100 from the slide lines.
THROUGH THE LENS: Women’s basketball score 100 points for first time since 2018
The EIU Reserve Officers' Training Corps loads the first group of cadets onto the Chinook aircraft for a ride around Charleston before landing back to the ground on Thursday. The ride was part of an aviation lab for cadets to learn what it was like to be on an aircraft.
THROUGH THE LENS: ROTC brings Chinook to EIU’s campus
The student news site of Eastern Illinois University in Charleston, Illinois.

The Daily Eastern News
The student news site of Eastern Illinois University in Charleston, Illinois.

The Daily Eastern News
Zaria Flippin

Zaria Flippin, Sports Editor

Zaria Flippin is a senior sports media relations major and can be reached at 581-2812 or at zhflippin@eiu.edu.

All content by Zaria Flippin
Eastern redshirt junior guard Obadiah Curtis cuts to the basket as Little Rock senior guard Jordan Jefferson guards him during the first half Eastern basketball’s win against Little Rock 71-60 at Groniger Arena on Thursday.

EIU men’s basketball players that entered the transfer portal

Zaria Flippin, Sports Editor
March 24, 2025
[Thumbnail Edition] Senior tennis player Luisa Renovales Salazar hits the tennis ball with her racket at the Darling Courts at the Eastern Illinois University campus in Charleston, ILL.

Panthers of the Week: Luisa Renovales Salazar, Jake Ferguson

Zaria Flippin, Sports Editor
March 23, 2025
Sophomore Aleyla Wooten bites her lip while hitting the ball over to the other team during the doubles match against Southeast Missouri State University Redhawks at Atkins Tennis Center.

Panthers of the Week: Aleyla Wooten, Zak Goodwin

Zaria Flippin, Sports Editor
March 17, 2025
[Thumbnail Edition] Senior tennis player Luisa Renovales Salazar hits the tennis ball with her racket at the Darling Courts at the Eastern Illinois University campus in Charleston, ILL.

Senior tennis player discusses team memories in Q&A

Zaria Flippin, Sports Editor
March 12, 2025
(From Left to Right) Rachel Koon (12), Kylie Decker (11), Kathryn Cichon (3) and Brenda Torres (2) vie for positioning at the beginning of the mile run at track meet.

EIU track closes indoor season, preps for outdoor events

Zaria Flippin, Sports Editor
March 11, 2025
[Thumbnail Edition] Senior right-handed pitcher Tyler Conklin pitching in the Eastern Illinois University baseball team's intrasquad scrimmage at O'Brien Field in Charleston, Illinois on Jan. 31.

Panthers of the Week: Tyler Conklin, McKenzie Oslanzi

Zaria Flippin, Sports Editor
March 9, 2025
Fifth year, forward Jayda Johnston carries senior guard Kiyley Flowers off the court during the first quarter of the game against Tennessee State Tigers in Groniger Arena on the Eastern Illinois University on Feb. 13.

The journey from registered nurse to EIU forward

Zaria Flippin, Sports Editor
March 9, 2025
[Thumbnail Edition] Senior, forward Macy McGlone finds an open teammate to pass the ball too during the game against the Tennessee State Tigers 69-49, in Groniger Arena on the Eastern Illinois University campus, Charleston Ill.

McGlone, Flowers, Shelton win OVC awards

Zaria Flippin and Patrick Schmitz
March 5, 2025
E[Thumbnail Edition] Eastern Illinois softball freshman utility player Abbi Hatton deciding to throw the softball to home plate in a fielding drill during softball practice at the field house in Groniger arena on Tuesday Feb. 11.

High school softball record setter explains why she came to Eastern in Q&A

Zaria Flippin, Sports Editor
March 5, 2025
Forward senior Macy McGlone plays defences ready for the ball, during the game Thursday Feb 20,2025 in Evansville Indiana against Souther Indiana Screaming Eagles, panthers lost 66-46. at Liberty Arena.

Panthers of the Week: Abraham Johnson, Macy McGlone

Zaria Flippin, Sports Editor
March 2, 2025
Eastern graduate student guard Artese Stapleton tries to go up for a shot while Little Rock sophomore guard Isaiah Lewis puts his arm up to stop the shot during the first half Eastern basketball’s win against Little Rock 71-60 at Groniger Arena on Thursday.

EIU picks up third straight win against Little Rock

Zaria Flippin, Sports Editor
February 28, 2025
Redshirt freshman guard Malik Olafioye dribbles the ball during Thursday’s game on Feb. 20, 2025, in Evansville, Indiana against the Southern Indiana Screaming Eagles.

Multi-sport athlete explains why he stuck with basketball in Q&A

Zaria Flippin, Sports Editor
February 25, 2025
Number 23 on the Eastern Illinois university mens basketball team senior forward Rodolfo Bolis, gets blocked by Indiana forward/center junior Jadyn Shider at Thursday game Feb 20,2025 in Evansville Indiana against Souther Indiana Screaming Eagles, at Liberty Arena.

How the EIU Panthers can shake up the OVC Tournament

Zaria Flippin, Sports Editor
February 25, 2025
Freshman pitcher McKenzie Oslanzi throwing a pitch on April Saturday 20, 2024 against Tennessee Tech University.

Panthers of the Week: NaKyel Shelton, McKenzie Oslanzi

Zaria Flippin, Sports Editor
February 23, 2025
The Eastern Illinois University, Mens basketball , Senior Guard NaKyel Shelton 18 points and three steals, Thursday night Feb 20,2025, EIU Panthers won 63-54, in Southern Indiana Evansville, , at Liberty Arena in Indiana.

EIU picks up road win, eliminated from OVC tournament contention

Zaria Flippin, Sports Editor
February 21, 2025
The Eastern Illinois University, Womens Basketball team faces Southern Indiana, The team rasie there hands before going back into the game during a time out called by EIU, in Souther Indiana, at Liberty Arena in Indiana.

Panthers lose fourth conference game of the season

Zaria Flippin, Sports Editor
February 20, 2025
Strength and conditioning coach for Men's basketball Eric Williams Jr. helps stretch out senior guard Corey Sawyer Jr. before sending him back to the bench on Feb. 13 in Groniger Arena.

From intern to full-time coach: Eric Williams Jr.

Zaria Flippin, Sports Editor
February 19, 2025
EIU junior guard Tiny Lewis runs the ball down court to score two points for the Panthers during women's basketball team against the UT Martin Skyhawks Saturday at Groniger Arena.

Panthers of the Week: Sam Bradbury, Tiny Lewis

Zaria Flippin, Sports Editor
February 16, 2025
The softball team cheers after a player gets a double at Williams Field Tuesday afternoon.

Softball reflects on first tournament of season

Zaria Flippin, Sports Editor
February 12, 2025
Freshman Joe Stoddard (117) runs at the 2023 EIU Walt Crawford open.

Panthers of the Week: Joe Stoddard, Kira Manganello

Zaria Flippin, Sports Editor
February 9, 2025
(Thumbnail Edition) Eastern redshirt sophomore Kam O’Connor takes the ball down the court during Eastern’s win against Calumet College of St. Joseph 87-57 at the Kid’s Day Game on Friday.

Sophomore guard discusses transfer to EIU in Q&A

Zaria Flippin, Sports Editor
February 4, 2025
Redshirt junior guard Obadiah Curtis drives to the basket against Graduate student forward Jack Mielke during the second half of Eastern’s lost to Southern Indiana 64-60 on Saturday

Panthers of the Week: Obadiah Curtis, Autumn Grinter

Zaria Flippin, Sports Editor
February 2, 2025
Sophomore forward Ella Lune stands on the side box for an EIU free throw during the first half of the game against Morehead State.

EIU forward talks about student athlete balance in Q&A

Zaria Flippin, Sports Editor
January 29, 2025
Senior guard NaKyel Shelton (left) talks to senior guard Corey Sawyer Jr, during the game against Morehead State, Eastern Illinois men's basketball lost 73-66 to Morehead state Thursday Jan 23,2025. in the Groniger Arena on the Eastern Illinois University campus, Charleston Ill.

Three takeaways from EIU’s past three games

Zaria Flippin, Sports Editor
January 28, 2025
Members of the EIU women's basketball game rush to the student section to celebrate a 51-49 win over the University of Southern Indiana Groniger Arena Saturday. The Panthers won 51-49 in a late game layup and free throw with 13 seconds left allowing the Panthers to continue on a 10-0 win streak in the Ohio Valley Conference.

Panther Roundup: Women’s basketball undefeated in OVC, men’s swim wins almost every event

Zaria Flippin and Payton Liggins
January 27, 2025
Redshirt freshman forward Georgia Cox scored 18 points while going 5-for-5 from three-point range during the game against Morehead State Thursday.

Panthers of the Week: Georgia Cox, Lalani Ellis

Zaria Flippin, Sports Editor
January 27, 2025
Freshman pitcher McKenzie Oslanzi throwing a pitch on April Saturday 20, 2024 against Tennessee Tech University.

Spring semester athletes to watch

Zaria Flippin, Sports Editor
January 23, 2025
Eastern pitcher Hayden Birdsong releases a pitch against Murray State on April 22 at Laker Baseball Field in Mattoon. Birdsong pitched five innings of relief, allowing just one run while striking out a season-high nine batters. Eastern lost the game 17-10.

Former EIU pitcher reflects on first season in MLB

Zaria Flippin, Sports Editor
January 22, 2025
(Thumbnail Edition) Ramsey Hunt competes in the men's long jump category for the second day of EIU Big Blue Classic. Hunt finishes first in the finals with a mark of 7.35m at the O’Brien Field Saturday afternoon.

Panthers of the Week: Ramsey Hunt, Macy McGlone

Zaria Flippin, Sports Editor
January 19, 2025
(Thumbnail Edition) Redshirt junior guard Obadiah Curtis try to make a jump shot and makes it in with a dunk shot, during The Eastern Illinois University against Earlham Quakers

EIU guard speaks on LeBron James, family inspiration in Q&A

Zaria Flippin, Sports Editor
January 16, 2025
Former Eastern quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo and the Eastern football team celebrate, winning the Ohio Valley Conference title for the second straight year with a 52-14 win over Jacksonville State at O'Brien Field on Sept. 16, 2013.

Former EIU quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo wears custom cleats before postseason run

Zaria Flippin, Sports Editor
January 9, 2025
Senior guard Alex Rouse stands during the Eastern Illinois University women's basketball game against Indiana State Sycamores at Groniger Arena on Friday, Dec. 6, 2024.

Panthers of the Week: Zion Fruster, Alex Rouse

Zaria Flippin, Sports Editor
December 8, 2024
Safety NiJhay Burt (34), intercepts the ball for a 67 yard return touchdown. The Panthers won 27-0 against the Sycamores Thursday night.

Starting defender announces decision to enter NCAA transfer portal

Zaria Flippin, Sports Editor
December 8, 2024
Redshirt freshman running back MJ Flowers (20) scores a touchdown vs. the Tennessee State Tigers Saturday afternoon. The Panthers won 30-17.

All-American running back announces departure from football program

Zaria Flippin, Sports Editor
December 6, 2024
Football is back at O'Brien Stadium

Linebacker enters transfer portal after two seasons with Panthers

Zaria Flippin, Sports Editor
December 5, 2024
Nick Coates, a junior defensive back, prepares to tackle a teammate during a drill at O‘Brien Field Wednesday Evening.

Senior safety will enter transfer portal

Zaria Flippin, Sports Editor
December 5, 2024
Redshirt Sophomore, runningback, Jay Pearson (21) (left) and defensive back, Junior, NiJhay Burt (3) (right) talk on the sideline during practice, on O'Brien Field on Wed, Oct 30,

Injuries hurt Panthers in 2024 football season

Zaria Flippin, Sports Editor
December 4, 2024
Eastern graduate quarterback Pierce Holley (3) and redshirt sophomore Jay Pearson (21) line up behind the line before the snap during the football game against Charleston Southern University Saturday at O'Brien Stadium. The Panthers won 16-13.

Panthers of the Semester: Pierce Holley, Abby Reinl, Dirk Bennett

Zaria Flippin, Sports Editor
December 4, 2024
Redshirt junior offensive lineman Drew Wilder props the ball up during football practice drills at O'Brien Field Wednesday afternoon.

Two linemen announce their decisions to transfer

Zaria Flippin, Sports Editor
December 2, 2024
Safety redshirt sophomore Kaelin Drakeford (22) tackles wide receiver redshirt sophomore Karate Brenson (0) at the Panthers vs. Tennessee State Tigers game.

EIU football loses starting safety to transfer portal

Zaria Flippin, Sports Editor
December 2, 2024
Guard Senior Kiyley Flowers, runs around the court and all the players to pass the ball as much as she can during the game against the University Of Illinois. The Womens Basketball team lost too the Univerisity of Illinois, in the State farm center on the U of I campus on Nov 14, 2024 in Champaign Ill.

Panthers of the Week: Kiyley Flowers, Kooper Jacobi

Zaria Flippin, Sports Editor
December 2, 2024
Forward senior Macy McGlone, back shoots the ball but miss and gets blocked by the University Of Illinois, The Womens Basketball team lost too the University of Illinois, in the State farm center on the U of I campus on Nov 14, 2024 in Champaign Ill.

Panthers of the Week: Pierce Holley, Macy McGlone

Zaria Flippin, Sports Editor
November 24, 2024
Eastern graduate quarterback Pierce Holley (3) and redshirt sophomore Jay Pearson (21) line up behind the line before the snap during the football game against Charleston Southern University Saturday at O'Brien Stadium. The Panthers won 16-13.

EIU football to play last game of the season, hope to shake up conference standings

Zaria Flippin, Sports Editor
November 22, 2024
Quarterback Redshirt Freshman, Blainey Dowling, prepares to throw the ball while doing a scrimmage drill on O'Brien Field

EIU quarterback shares experience at Chicago Mount Carmel in Q&A

Zaria Flippin, Sports Editor
November 22, 2024
Freshman tennis player Ludolph Wiggett tries to hit the ball during the Eastern Illinois Fall Invitational Friday at the Darling Courts.

Freshman tennis player shares COVID-19 experience in Australia in Q&A

Zaria Flippin, Sports Editor
November 18, 2024
Men's basketball junior guard Nakyel Shelton, makes his way across court during the game against Southern Illinois University Edwardsville on Wednesday night. Panthers lost 68-57

Panthers of the Week: Julian Patino, NaKyel Shelton

Zaria Flippin, Sports Editor
November 17, 2024
Senior kicker Julian Patino gets ready for a kickoff return against the Charleston Southern Buccaneers on Saturday afternoon in O’Brien Stadium. The Panthers beat the Buccaneers 16-13.

Senior kicker secures win in Panthers’ last home game of the season

Zaria Flippin, Sports Editor
November 16, 2024
Wide receivers coach Tino Smith II instructs players after a play during football practice at O'Brien Field Wednesday afternoon.

Former EIU wide receiver connects ties for new position

Zaria Flippin, Sports Editor
November 14, 2024
Zaria Flippin, senior, sports media relations

COLUMN: Start paying student athletes to help them live

Zaria Flippin, Sports Editor
November 13, 2024
Senior forward Macy McGlone becomes the fourth player in program history to record 1,000 points, 600 rebounds and 100 blocks.

Panthers of the Week: Macy McGlone, Cooper Willman

Zaria Flippin, Sports Editor
November 10, 2024
Graduate student forward Kooper Jacobi gets the shot in, during The Eastern Illinois University against Earlham Quakers men basketball game at Groniger Arena

EIU basketball produce strong first half in loss against No. 17 Indiana

Zaria Flippin, Sports Editor
November 10, 2024
Destiny Walker (6) ready's up her serve towards the Tennessee Tech this evening in the Lantz Arena

EIU volleyball comes back over Little Rock in fifth set for win

Zaria Flippin, Sports Editor
November 8, 2024
Tight end Senior, Jordan Sprycha (88), Practices with the football team on catching, on O'Brien Field on Wed, Oct 30, 2024, on the Eastern Illinois University campus

EIU tight end shares love for family in Q&A

Zaria Flippin, Sports Editor
November 8, 2024
Gradute student Guard Artese Stapleton takes the ball to the rim on the other side of the court, during The Eastern Illinois University against Earlham Quakers men basketball game

Six Panthers score double digits in men’s basketball home opener win

Zaria Flippin, Sports Editor
November 7, 2024
Number 11 Adam Boykin a forward freshman for Eastern Illinois University keeps the ball away from Middle field 21 Timothy Ospina player for University of Incarnate word, at the Lakeside Field on the Eastern Illinois University campus,

Freshman forward shares experience training with professional soccer players in Q&A

Zaria Flippin, Sports Editor
November 5, 2024
Senior guard NaKyel Shelton guards the University of Illinois from the ball during the game Monday.

EIU men’s basketball records 45-point deficit against UofI in season opener

Zaria Flippin, Sports Editor
November 4, 2024
Running back Redshirt Sophomore MJ Flowers, Gets the ball during practices and holds is form before throwing it back. on O'Brien Field

Panthers of the Week: Pierce Holley, MJ Flowers

Zaria Flippin, Sports Editor
November 3, 2024
Pierce Holley, a junior quarterback, stiff arms a Bryant University Bulldogs defender at O‘Brien Field saturday afternoon.

Panther football gets ready for rivalry against Leathernecks

Zaria Flippin, Sports Editor
November 1, 2024
Redshirt sophomore forward Kooper Jacobi puts the ball up in the paint during the Panther's first men's basketball game of the season against the Fighting Illini in the State Farm Center Monday night. Jacobi led the Panthers by scoring 10 points and rebounding 11 shots.

EIU men’s basketball prepares for 2024 season with multiple new players

Zaria Flippin and Cameron Thomas
October 31, 2024
EIU football's Director of Football Performance, Jacob Hillmann, leads a stretch and warmups for the team to get started for practice.

[Video] EIU football players connect to energy from first year coach

Payton Liggins, Sports Reporter
October 28, 2024
Forward Casey Welage (8) and midfielder Jake Pollock (25) chase after the ball at men's soccer practice at Lakeside Field on Thursday.

Panthers of the Week: Jake Pollock, David Brown

Zaria Flippin, Sports Editor
October 28, 2024
Senior wide receiver Jamal Jeffers observes his teammates during practice at O'Brien Field on Wednesday, at Eastern Illinois University, Charleston Ill.

EIU wide receiver talks transfer process in Q&A

Zaria Flippin, Sports Editor
October 25, 2024
The EIU football team switches players in between plays in the football game against the Lindenwood Lion's Saturday afternoon at O'Brien Field. The Panthers lost 28-25.

Panthers hope to beat Skyhawks for first time since 2018

Zaria Flippin, Sports Editor
October 25, 2024
Senior midfielder Avery Richardson stands still during a break in the game for a green carding during the Eastern Illinois University Panther game vs Tennessee Teach Golden Eagles at Lakeside Field on the Eastern Illinois University campus, Charleston, Ill. EIU won 2-1.

Panthers of the Week: Avery Richardson, Conner Colston

Zaria Flippin, Sports Editor
October 20, 2024
Junior outside hitter Matilda Dahlström, supports the volleyball team from the sideline during the matchup between Eastern Illinois University and Southern Illinois University Edwardsville.

Junior outside hitter talks about support system in Sweden in Q&A

Zaria Flippin, Sports Editor
October 16, 2024
Freshman Forward Alex Tetteh dribbles the soccerball pass MoreHead St. defenders at Eastern Illinois University Lakeside Field Thursday afternoon.

Panthers of the Week: Alex Tetteh, Abby Reinl

Zaria Flippin, Sports Editor
October 13, 2024

Panthers of the Week: Abby Reinl, Quenton Rogers

Zaria Flippin, Sports Editor
October 6, 2024
The EIU football team switches players in between plays in the football game against the Lindenwood Lion's Saturday afternoon at O'Brien Field. The Panthers lost 28-25.

EIU football to play homecoming game against nationally-ranked SEMO

Zaria Flippin, Sports Editor
October 4, 2024
Eastern Illinois’ volleyball team huddles up before playing in the fifth set against Southern Indiana Thursday evening in Groniger Arena. The Panthers lost to the Screaming Eagles 3-2.

EIU volleyball loses close match against Southern Indiana

Zaria Flippin, Sports Editor
October 3, 2024
Tight ends coach Cole Hoover practices blocking players during football practice drills at O'Brien Field Wednesday afternoon.

Tight end coach talks about history with EIU program

Zaria Flippin, Sports Editor
October 3, 2024

Panthers of the Week: Abby Reinl, Ella Kratochvil

Zaria Flippin, Sports Editor
September 29, 2024
Head Football Coach, Chris Wilkerson waits with the football team to run on the hancock field before the Illinois State University, vs Eastern Illinois University

Lindenwood upsets Eastern football in comeback victory

Zaria Flippin, Sports Editor
September 28, 2024
Graduate quarterback Pierce Holley throws the ball forward during football practice at O'Brien Field Wednesday afternoon.

Panthers prepare for first conference game at home

Zaria Flippin, Sports Editor
September 27, 2024

EIU football starts conference play against two worthy opponents

Zaria Flippin, Sports Editor
September 24, 2024
Senior Sylvia Hasz (23), talks with the rest of her team during a timeout at their game against Valparaiso.

Panthers of the Week: Kaelin Drakeford, Sylvia Hasz

Zaria Flippin, Sports Editor
September 22, 2024
Redshirt junior offensive lineman Drew Wilder props the ball up during football practice drills at O'Brien Field Wednesday afternoon.

Panthers prepare to defend Mid-American Classic trophy against Redbirds

Zaria Flippin, Sports Editor
September 19, 2024
Tre'Jon Lewis, a junior defensive line practices with blocking dummy at O'Brien Field on Wednesday afternoon.

Panthers of the Week: Tre’Jon Lewis, Ashlyn Hoover

Zaria Flippin, Sports Editor
September 15, 2024
Graduate quarterback Pierce Holley gets tackled by two Northwestern defenders. The Panthers lost to the Wildcats 31-7 Saturday evening at the Northwestern Medicine Field at Martin Stadium in Evanston, Illinois.

EIU football faces second loss after shaky second half

Zaria Flippin, Sports Editor
September 14, 2024
Running back shares favorite memory with EIU in Q&A

Running back shares favorite memory with EIU in Q&A

Zaria Flippin, Sports Editor
September 14, 2024

Wilkerson hopes for growth against Northwestern

Zaria Flippin, Sports Editor
September 13, 2024
Zaria Flippin, senior, sports media relations

COLUMN: It’s ok to not be ok

Zaria Flippin, Sports Editor
September 10, 2024
Redshirt freshman running back MJ Flowers (20) walks off the field at the end of the game after scoring four touchdowns which helped the panthers win over Tennessee State Tigers saturday afternoon.

‘Pinkies up’ with the EIU wide receivers

Zaria Flippin, Sports Editor
September 9, 2024
Offensive Line sophomore, (77) Sandro Malicevic picks up wide receiver senior Cooper Willman after a touch down in the end zone, at the Eastern Illinois Panthers vs Indiana State Sycamore, at O'Brien Field. Saturday night. Panthers won 27-20.

Panthers of the Week: Kaitlyn Flynn, Cooper Willman

Zaria Flippin, Sports Editor
September 8, 2024
Wide receiver, senior, Cooper Willman catches the ball during the third quarter before getting push out of bounds at the Eastern Illinois Panthers vs Indiana State Sycamores, at the O'Brien Field on Saturday night

EIU football records three interceptions, wins home opener

Zaria Flippin, Sports Editor
September 7, 2024
Junior outside hitter Kaitlyn Flynn, attempts to spike the ball over the net but is blocked by the Marquette University Golden Eagles. The Panthers were swept 3-0 for the first time this season. Flynn had seven kills and points.

Outside hitter speaks on EIU volleyball program in Q&A

Zaria Flippin, Sports Editor
September 3, 2024
Freshman Joe Stoddard (117) runs at the 2023 EIU Walt Crawford open.

Panthers of the Week: Joe Stoddard, Alex Tetteh

Zaria Flippin, Sports Editor
September 1, 2024
EIU assistant coach Andrew Strobel directs players after the the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign score a touchdown during the team's season opener at Memorial Stadium Thursday night. The Panthers were shut out 45-0 against the Fighting Illini.

EIU football takeaways by the numbers

Zaria Flippin, Sports Editor
September 1, 2024
Eastern Illinois University’s volleyball team huddle in a circle after losing to the Marquette Golden Eagles 3-0 in Groniger Arena Friday evening on August 30, 2024.

Marquette volleyball sweeps Eastern in NCAA rematch

Zaria Flippin, Sports Editor
August 30, 2024
Eastern Football Team runs out of their tunnel against Bryant University Bulldogs at O‘Brien Field saturday afternoon.

Season three of ‘The Wilkerson Era’

Zaria Flippin, Sports Editor
August 27, 2024
Defender Kya Trejo attempts a long pass on Lakeside Field. The Panthers lost 1-0 against the ISU Redbirds Thursday afternoon.

Panthers of the Week: Kya Trejo, Jackson Liley

Zaria Flippin, Sports Editor
August 25, 2024
Pierce Holley, a junior quarterback (3), looks to throw the ball to a teammate during their homecoming game against UT Martin at O‘Brien Field Saturday afternoon.

Fall 2024 athletes to watch

Zaria Flippin, Sports Editor
August 24, 2024
Redshirt sophomore Jay Pearson getting the catch during the scrimmage game, on the O'Brain field on the Eastern Illinios Campus August 20,2024.

Running back speaks on position change, injury battle

Zaria Flippin, Sports Editor
August 21, 2024
Pierce Holley, a junior quarterback, stiff arms a Bryant University Bulldogs defender at O‘Brien Field saturday afternoon.

Holley, Panthers receive preseason recognition

Zaria Flippin, Sports Editor
July 18, 2024
Football season starts in the spring.

Football defensive captains speak on offseason

Zaria Flippin, Sports Editor
June 21, 2024
Pierce Holley, a junior quarter back practice throwing the ball at O'Brien Field wednesday afternoon.

Holley speaks on summer training in Q&A

Zaria Flippin, Sports Editor
June 14, 2024
Matt Bollant yelling at the referee during the women basketball game against UT Martin thursday night in Groniger Arena

Bollant leaves EIU basketball program

Zaria Flippin, Sports Editor
May 20, 2024
Sophomore infielder, Kendall Grover swings and misses the ball during the Eastern Illinois University softball game against Tennessee State.

Grover, Oslanzi, Archibald win OVC Awards

Zaria Flippin, Sports Editor
May 8, 2024
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