SZN Opener

Sports Analysts take you on an exhilarating journey shining a spotlight on Black college athletes. From USC to the HBCU powerhouse Grambling State University, join us on a captivating exploration of t…

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24 clip(s) in playlist

Southern Spirit: Karli-Brooklyn LaFleur’s Cheer Journey
In this episode of SZN Opener, host Rodney Rikai interviews Karli-Brooklyn LaFleur, a cheerleader and backspot for Southern University. Karli shares her journey from gymnastics to competitive cheerleading, the challenges of balancing academics and athletics, and the pride of representing Southern a…
34:36
Swinging for Greatness: Marcus Smith Jr.’s Journey in Golf and Life
In this episode of SZN Opener, host Rodney Rikai sits down with Marcus Smith Jr., a standout golfer at Howard University. Marcus reflects on his unique path, from his early love for golf inspired by family, to transitioning from Eastern Michigan to the prestigious Howard University. He discusses th…
36:09
Blocking, Balancing, and Breaking Barriers: Mariana Singletary's Volleyball Journey
In this episode of SZN Opener, host Rodney Rikai sits down with Mariana Singletary, a middle blocker for the University of Texas volleyball team. From her early beginnings in South Carolina to becoming a two-time NCAA champion, Mariana shares her incredible journey through the sport. She dives into…
45:19
Zachara Perkins on The State Of Women's Basketball and Playing For Rutgers University
In this episode of SZN Opener, Rodney Rikai chats with Rutgers basketball standout Zachara Perkins. From living abroad as the daughter of retired WNBA player DeMya Walker-Wheatfall, to balancing pre-vet studies with D1 basketball, Zachara shares her unique journey. She opens up about embracing Rutg…
33:16
Ezra Ausar, a Basketball player from The University of Utah
In this episode of SZN Opener, Rodney Rikai chats with Utah Utes basketball player Ezra Ausar about his journey from Georgia to collegiate basketball. Ezra shares how his family shaped his character, the challenges of being a young father while excelling as a student-athlete, and his transition fro…
36:33
Mekhi Ashford, A Hockey Player From The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
In this SZN Opener episode, host Rodney Rikai welcomes Mekhi Ashford, a standout hockey player at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. From being one of the few Black athletes in the sport to balancing academics, athletics, and a job, Mekhi shares his journey and how he's breaking barri…
35:51
Welcome To Season 3 of SZN Opener Featuring Rodney Rikai
In Season 3 of SZN Opener, new host Rodney Rikai brings fresh energy and insight as we explore the journeys of an even more diverse range of collegiate athletes. This season dives into the lives of standout students from sports like football, hockey and gymnastics, uncovering the challenges and tri…
00:35
Monica McNutt Speaks to Jordyn Dorsey From North Carolina A&T University Sponsored By Tums
In the Season 3 premiere episode of SZN Opener, special guest host Monica McNutt sits down with North Carolina A&T University student-athlete Jordyn Dorsey. They discuss Jordyn's inspiring journey from high school valedictorian to standout leader on the basketball court, the challenges of balancing…
39:02
Ceyair Wright from University of Southern California
In this exclusive episode brought to you by Prime Video, join Monica McNutt as she dives into the dynamic life of Ceyair Wright, a four-star cornerback for USC. Discover the fascinating balance between his roles as an actor and collegiate football player, get insights on his 2024 Super Bowl predic…
31:07
NY Giants Linebacker Kayvon Thibodeaux Sits Down With Jaylin Simpson From Auburn University - Bonus Episode
Kayvon Thibodeaux, Linebacker for the New York Giants steps into the host seat for this special episode of SZN Opener to chop it up with Auburn University Safety Jaylin Simpson. We get into Simpson's humble beginnings, getting invited to the 2024 Senior Bowl, and Kayvon shares his story of going th…
26:11