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 Rutgers' rich basketball legacy, adjusting to college life, and her perspective on NIL and the growth of women’s sports. Zachara’s story is one of resilience, ambition, and passion.

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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 from East Carolina to a Power 5 school. From lessons on humility to building culture in Utah, this conversation dives into resilience, personal growth, and staying true to your roots.

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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 barriers on and off the ice. They discuss everything from his deep love for R&B music and his inspirations in life, to navigating the world of collegiate hockey and the importance of representation in sports. Don’t miss this inspiring and candid conversation with a student-athlete who’s redefining what’s possible.

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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 triumphs of balancing academics with athletic excellence. Each episode highlights how these athletes navigate their demanding schedules, build resilience, and excel in their sports while pursuing their degrees. From mastering the ice to dominating the field, these stories reveal the determination and discipline behind collegiate athletic success.

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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 academics and athletics, and her future ambitions beyond sports. Sponsored by Tums Gummy Bites

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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 predictions, and unravel the captivating story of how he landed the role of LeBron James's son in 'Space Jam: A New Legacy.' Don't miss this special conversation blending sports, entertainment, and the journey of a rising star! 

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Hosted by Sports Analyst Monica McNutt, SZN Opener takes you on an exhilarating journey shining a spotlight on Black college athletes. 

This podcast is brought to you by Cassius Life & the Urban One Podcast Network

Check back every Thursday for new episodes.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 through the NFL draft and life as a professional athlete.

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SZN Opener takes you on an exhilarating journey shining a spotlight on Black college athletes. 

This podcast is brought to you by Cassius Life & the Urban One Podcast Network

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today's episode I'm sitting down with USC Basketball center Vincent Iwuchukwu. We're diving into his Nigerian roots, playing soccer in Germany and Korea, how he's handling some of the changes coming to college sports, and the wild journey back to the court after having a cardiac event during practice.

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Hosted by Sports Analyst Monica McNutt, SZN Opener takes you on an exhilarating journey shining a spotlight on Black college athletes. 

This podcast is brought to you by Cassius Life & the Urban One Podcast Network

Check back every Thursday for new episodes.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, Monica McNutt sits down with Kyren Lacey, wide receiver for LSU Tigers Football team.

They talk about how he fell in love with football, Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals,  and how he went from playing high school basketball to becoming a ranked wide receiver. out of the state of Louisiana.

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Hosted by Sports Analyst Monica McNutt, SZN Opener takes you on an exhilarating journey shining a spotlight on Black college athletes. 

This podcast is brought to you by Cassius Life & the Urban One Podcast Network

Check back every Thursday for new episodes.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, Monica McNutt sits down with Kendyl Terell, a forward for the Jackson State University Women's Soccer team.

They talk about what it's like being the only minority in a mostly white sport, her passion for supporting women in sports, how she ended up kicking for her high school football team, and the story of her dad passing away during a high stakes game

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Hosted by Sports Analyst Monica McNutt, SZN Opener takes you on an exhilarating journey shining a spotlight on Black college athletes. 

This podcast is brought to you by Cassius Life & the Urban One Podcast Network

Check back every Thursday for new episodes.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.