The student news site of Sacramento State University

The State Hornet

Student news without fear or favor
The student news site of Sacramento State University

The State Hornet

The student news site of Sacramento State University

The State Hornet

Student news without fear or favor
Brandon Bailey

Brandon Bailey, sports editor

Brandon Bailey is a sports beat writer for The State Hornet. He is a senior who joined The State Hornet in fall 2020. He has previously worked as a general rotation writer for The State Hornet and is majoring in journalism.
All content by Brandon Bailey
Dawson Bacho slides safely into base during a game against Seattle University. The Hornets played the Redhawks in a three-game series in Sacramento from Apr.15-17. (Photo by Dominique Williams. Graphic made in Canva by Mack Ervin III)

Sac State softball flies high into conference tourney, baseball looks to bounce back: SWARM REPORT PODCAST

Jordan Latimore and Brandon Bailey
May 12, 2022
Sports co-editor Jordan Latimore runs down the current state of the Sac State softball and baseball teams. He is later joined by co-editor Brandon Bailey to discuss the sports journalism experience.

Best of Sac State 2022: Jake Dunniway wins best male athlete of the year

In this year’s Best of Sac State competition where students vote on their favorite teams, majors, and athletes on campus. Sac State football quarterback Jake Dunniway was voted male athlete of the year....

Best of Sac State 2022: Sac State football wins best male sports team

Sacramento State football has turned the corner in its last two seasons winning back-to-back Big Sky titles and has secured their second consecutive victory as the school’s favorite sports team in the...

Marissa Bertuccio pitches against the University of Montana on Saturday, April 23, 2022 at Shea Stadium. The softball team currently sits with a 25-20 record after winning three straight against Montana last weekend. (Photo by Spencer Fielding. Graphic made in Canva by Mack Ervin III)

Baseball and softball keep rolling with key series wins, tennis teams prepare for Big Sky tournament: SWARM REPORT PODCAST

Brandon Bailey and Spencer Fielding
April 27, 2022
Brandon Bailey interviews softball beat writer Spencer Fielding about the team's current status and then gives a rundown of the spring sports going on around campus on another episode of the Swarm Report.
The RingCentral Coliseum during a game on August 7, 2021. The stadium only drew 2,703 attendees for the Oakland A’s game against the Baltimore Orioles on April 20, 2022, the lowest total since 1980. (Photo by Chris6d / CC BY-SA 4.0. Graphic made in Canva by Mack Ervin III.)

Deebo Samuel trade drama, NBA playoffs breakdown and Oakland A’s debacle: TAKE YOUR SHOT PODCAST

Jordan Parker and Brandon Bailey
April 22, 2022
Jordan and Brandon discuss the updates in each NBA playoff series and talk about the reality of Deebo Samuel being traded away from the 49ers.
Frank Vogel became the latest head coach to be fired in the NBA after being relived of duties following the Lakers 33-49 season in 2021-22. (Photo by All-Pro Reels / CC BY-SA 2.0. Graphic made in Canva by Mack Ervin III)

Dissecting Frank Vogel’s firing and round one of the NBA Playoffs: TAKE YOUR SHOT PODCAST

Jordan Parker and Brandon Bailey
April 16, 2022
Jordan and Brandon select their picks in the first round of the NBA playoffs and pay homage to Jackie Robinson on this episode of Take Your Shot.
David Patrick coaching with Oklahoma Sooners in a photo sent by Hornet Athletics Tuesday, April 5th, 2022. Patrick gave remarks during his introductory press conference on April 12. (Photo Courtesy of Sac State Athletics. Graphic made in Canva by Mack Ervin III)

David Patrick press conference and updates on softball and baseball: SWARM REPORT PODCAST

Brandon Bailey
April 15, 2022
Sports co-editor Brandon Bailey hosts this episode of the Swarm Report and talks about the weekly recaps of Sac State baseball and softball and then discusses new men’s basketball coach David Patrick’s introductory press conference.
A recap of March Madness and NBA MVP Picks: TAKE YOUR SHOT PODCAST

A recap of March Madness and NBA MVP Picks: TAKE YOUR SHOT PODCAST

Brandon Bailey and Jordan Parker
April 7, 2022

On this week’s episode of Take Your Shot, co-hosts Brandon Bailey and Jordan Parker recap the results of the March Madness tournament, then transition into their debate on the NBA MVP conversation, the...

Former interim head coach Brandon Laird, standing on the sideline during a game against Portland State Saturday, Jan. 26th, 2022 at the Nest. Laird was left frustrated by a lack of communication and clarity from Sac State Athletics. (Photo by Jordan Latimore. Graphic made in Photoshop by Mack Ervin III)

The messy departure of Coach Laird and bounce back wins for baseball and softball: SWARM REPORT PODCAST

Jordan Latimore and Brandon Bailey
April 6, 2022
Latimore is joined by sports co-editor Brandon Bailey to talk about Brandon Laird’s departure from Sac State men’s basketball.
The search for Sac State men’s basketball’s next head coach and the beginning of spring football: SWARM REPORT PODCAST

The search for Sac State men’s basketball’s next head coach and the beginning of spring football: SWARM REPORT PODCAST

Brandon Bailey and Jordan Latimore
March 31, 2022
This week on the Swarm Report, sports co-editor Brandon Bailey talks about how Sac State baseball and softball is faring in conference play, the state of the men’s basketball team’s head coaching search and the beginning of spring football.
Brady fools the world, MLB lockout ends, NFL Free Agency and more: TAKE YOUR SHOT PODCAST

Brady fools the world, MLB lockout ends, NFL Free Agency and more: TAKE YOUR SHOT PODCAST

Editor in Chief Jordan Parker and sports co-editor Brandon Bailey are joined by sports beat writer Dylan McNeill to discuss the latest in the NFL, MLB and NBA.
(Left-Right) Thomas Parker (Far left), Josiah Erickson (Left), Kooper Richardson (Right) and Taylor Powell (Far right) pose for photos after pro day workouts March 15, 2022. In the last five years, the Hornets have had three players who have made it to an NFL roster.

Sac State hosts pro day for Hornets seeking professional football opportunities

Seven players participate in evaluation showcase
Brandon Bailey
March 17, 2022
Sac State football athletes participated in pro-day workouts to showcase their abilities to professional scouts from the NFL and CFL.
Big Sky basketball tournament updates, baseball slumps and softball sweeps: SWARM REPORT PODCAST

Big Sky basketball tournament updates, baseball slumps and softball sweeps: SWARM REPORT PODCAST

Brandon Bailey and Spencer Fielding
March 10, 2022
On this week's episode of the Swarm Report, sports co-editor Brandon Bailey talks about Sac State’s men's basketball team's recent first-round victory, the ending of the women’s basketball team’s season, softball sweeping the competition in the capital classic and more.

Take Your Shot: Super Bowl review and the questionable Sacramento Kings trade

Jordan Parker and Brandon Bailey
March 7, 2022
This week, Jordan Parker and Brandon Bailey sit down with SacBee sports writer Cameron Salerno to discuss the Super Bowl, the future of the Rams and Bengals, and the trades made around the NBA.
Baseball opener, men’s basketball losing streak ends and softball’s rough start: SWARM REPORT PODCAST

Baseball opener, men’s basketball losing streak ends and softball’s rough start: SWARM REPORT PODCAST

Brandon Bailey
February 23, 2022
On this week's Swarm Report, sports co-editor Brandon Bailey talks about Sac State’s baseball season debut and freshman pitcher Colin Hunter's seven-inning no-hitter, softball’s rough season start after they lost four of five games in the UC San Diego tournament, men’s basketball snapping their six-game losing streak and more.
Super Bowl recap, NBA championship predictions and the Sacramento Kings (Ft. Cameron Salerno) TAKE YOUR SHOT PODCAST

Super Bowl recap, NBA championship predictions and the Sacramento Kings (Ft. Cameron Salerno) TAKE YOUR SHOT PODCAST

Brandon Bailey and Jordan Parker
February 23, 2022
On episode two of Take Your Shot, Brandon and Jordan bring on Sacramento Bee reporter Cameron Salerno to talk about his journalism career and give insight on the sports teams he’s covered before transitioning into debates about the Super Bowl, NBA championship predictions, and the future of the Sacramento Kings.
The Hornets celebrating after a dismount during the vault event against Air Force Saturday, Feb. 5, 2022. The Hornets defeated the Falcons 194.225 to 194.000 in the team’s first match in the Nest in over two years.

Sac State Gymnastics soars to victory over Air Force in home opener

Hornets return to the Nest for their first home competition since 2020
Brandon Bailey and Jordan Latimore
February 11, 2022
Sac State Gymnastics succeeds in their first home matchup in almost two years on Saturday with a win against Air Force.
Tom Brady Retirement, Brian Flores and Super Bowl Predictions (ft. Brooke Uhlenhop): TAKE YOUR SHOT

Tom Brady Retirement, Brian Flores and Super Bowl Predictions (ft. Brooke Uhlenhop): TAKE YOUR SHOT

Brandon Bailey and Jordan Parker
February 11, 2022
Sports co-editor Brandon Bailey and Editor in Chief Jordan Parker are joined by State Hornet alumna Brooke Uhlenhop on the first ever episode of their First Take style debate podcast, Take Your Shot.
Women’s basketball looks to extend win streak, softball kicks off season: STATE HORNET SWARM REPORT

Women’s basketball looks to extend win streak, softball kicks off season: STATE HORNET SWARM REPORT

Brandon Bailey
February 11, 2022
This week’s Swarm Report hosted by sports editor Brandon Bailey focuses on the women's basketball winning streak, softball kicking off their season on friday, men’s basketball losing streak, and gymnastics returning home and winning over Air Force after almost two years without playing in the Nest.
Women’s Basketball soaring, Men’s sinking and more: STATE HORNET SWARM REPORT

Women’s Basketball soaring, Men’s sinking and more: STATE HORNET SWARM REPORT

Brandon Bailey
January 26, 2022
In the first episode of The State Hornet Swarm Report, sports editor Brandon Bailey sums up recent Sacramento State sports news, such as the ongoing success of the women’s basketball team, the shortcomings of the men’s basketball team, and new COVID-19 vaccine policies.
Photo of Sac State sophomore running back Marcus Fulcher (9) taken by Ayaana Williams. Graphic made in Canva by Alex Muegge & Mercy Sosa

Recap of Sac State’s season after playoff loss to South Dakota State: 4TH AND GOAL PODCAST

“4th and Goal'' is The State Hornet’s newest podcast and features former football beat writer and current podcast editor Mack Ervin III alongside current football beat writer Brandon Bailey breaking...

Junior quarterback Jake Dunniway (12) and senior wide receiver Isaiah Gable (4) embrace after losing to South Dakota State on Saturday, Dec. 4, 2021. The Hornets hosted a second-round playoff game against the Jackrabbits.

Sac State football falls to South Dakota State in 24-19 second round loss

Jackrabbits pounded their way into the third round with 205 rushing yards
Brandon Bailey
December 4, 2021
Sac State football lost 24-19 after scoring 19 unanswered points and coming up short against South Dakota State. The Jackrabbits sealed the game on a fourth and inches rushing attempt.
Sophomore running back Marcus Fulcher (9) finds the edge versus UC Davis’ sophomore linebacker Calvin Mouisset (46) for a first down on November 20th 2021at UC Davis Health Stadium.The Hornets will face-off against the Jackrabbits for their most important game of the season on Saturday at Hornet Stadium.

Preview: Sac State football begins chase for national championship

No. 4 seed Hornets host home playoff game
Brandon Bailey
December 3, 2021
Sac State is set to take on South Dakota State for their first matchup in the playoffs as they chase a national championship.
Photo of Sac State sophomore running back Marcus Fulcher (9) taken by Ayaana Williams. Graphic made in Canva by Alex Muegge & Mercy Sosa

No. 4 seed Sac State to face South Dakota State in FCS playoffs: 4TH AND GOAL PODCAST

Mack Ervin III and Brandon Bailey
November 30, 2021

“4th and Goal'' is The State Hornet’s newest podcast and features former football beat writer and current podcast editor Mack Ervin III alongside current football beat writer Brandon Bailey breaking...

Photo of Sac State sophomore running back Marcus Fulcher (9) taken by Ayaana Williams. Graphic made in Canva by Alex Muegge & Mercy Sosa

Sac State football earns outright Big Sky title, No. 4 seed in FCS playoffs: 4TH AND GOAL PODCAST

Mack Ervin III and Brandon Bailey
November 27, 2021

“4th And Goal'' is The State Hornet’s newest podcast and features former football beat writer and current podcast editor Mack Ervin III alongside current football beat writer Brandon Bailey breaking...

Freshman offensive lineman Ivan Garza (52), defensive linemen Brandon Knott (56) and Tyler Hardeman (93) pose with the Causeway Trophy after winning the Causeway Classic against UC Davis at UC Davis Health Stadium on Nov. 20th, 2021. The Hornets beat the Aggies 27-7 to become undisputed Big Sky Conference champions.

Sac State football crowned Big Sky champions after 27-7 victory over UC Davis

Hornets win second consecutive Causeway Classic
Brandon Bailey
November 20, 2021
Sac State was crowned Big Sky champions after another strong defensive effort that resulted in a 27-7 victory. It was the team’s second consecutive Causeway Classic victory.
Sacramento State quarterback Asher O’Hara runs behind blockers in search of a hole to run through against Portland State at Hornet Stadium on Saturday, Nov. 13, 2021. O’Hara leads the team in total touchdowns this season with 14.

PREVIEW: Sac State football prepares for 67th Causeway Classic Showdown, one win away from Big Sky title

Brandon Bailey
November 19, 2021
Sac State will travel to Davis on Saturday for the 67th Causeway Classic bout against UC Davis. The last time these two teams played Sac State came out with a victory and a share of the Big Sky title, and they will have the chance to do it again this weekend.
Photo of Sac State sophomore running back Marcus Fulcher (9) taken by Ayaana Williams. Graphic made in Canva by Alex Muegge & Mercy Sosa

Sac State football faces Causeway Classic with Big Sky title on the line: 4TH AND GOAL PODCAST

Mack Ervin III and Brandon Bailey
November 17, 2021

“4th And Goal'' is The State Hornet’s newest podcast and features former football beat writer and current podcast editor Mack Ervin III alongside current football beat writer Brandon Bailey breaking...

Sacramento State defensive backs Marte Mapu (15) Malik Jeter (10) walk on the field to prepare for their next defensive possession against Cal Poly on Saturday, Nov. 6, 2021, at Hornet Stadium. The secondary has amounted 10 interceptions so far this season.

Sac State football: Secondary maintains mentality of a shark

‘You’re going to be swimming all alone’
Brandon Bailey
November 15, 2021
Sac State football’s defense has amounted the second-most interceptions in the Big Sky, and it all comes from the secondary’s “shark mentality,” according to defensive back coach Cherokee Valeria.
Junior quarterback Jake Dunniway (12) throws to his right with freshman running back Cameron Skattebo (32) blocking in front at Hornet Stadium on Nov. 13, 2021. The Hornets beat the Portland State Vikings 49-20 for their seventh consecutive win.

Sac State crushes Portland State 49-20, team closer to Big Sky title

Hornet defense forced four turnovers
Brandon Bailey
November 13, 2021
Sac State dominated Portland State in a 49-20 victory to move them one game closer to a Big Sky title. The Hornets were led by the defense as they forced four interceptions on the night
Junior quarterback Jake Dunniway drops back for a pass against Cal Poly. Sac State beat Cal Poly 41-9 on Nov. 6 at Hornet Stadium.

Preview: Sac State football faces Portland State in final home game

Hornets need No. 3 ranked pass defense to stop a hot Viking offense
Brandon Bailey
November 12, 2021
Web: Sac State’s football team prepares for their last home game of the season against Portland State. Url: sac-state-football-preview-portland-state
Photo of Sac State sophomore running back Marcus Fulcher (9) taken by Ayaana Williams. Graphic made in Canva by Alex Muegge & Mercy Sosa

Sac State football win over Cal Poly sets up closing stretch: 4TH AND GOAL

Mack Ervin III and Brandon Bailey
November 9, 2021

“4th And Goal'' is The State Hornet’s newest podcast and features former football beat writer and current podcast editor, Mack Ervin III, alongside current football beat writer Brandon Bailey breaking...

Senior wideout Isaiah Gable (4) charges up the middle behind freshman running back Cameron Skattebo (32) for a big gain at Hornet Stadium on Nov. 6, 2021. The Hornets’ offense netted 195 rush yards in their 41-9 win against the Cal Poly Mustangs.

Sac State football cruises to 41-9 victory over Cal Poly

Hornets remain undefeated in conference play with two games left in season
Brandon Bailey
November 6, 2021
Sac State crushed Cal Poly 41-9 to remain undefeated in conference play with two games remaining in the season. The Hornets dominated with a rushing game led by Cameron Skattebo, and their defense stood tall shutting Cal Poly out in the second half.
Freshman wide receiver Chris Miller (3) finishes off a catch at practice on Oct. 19, 2021, at Hornet Stadium. Miller scored his first touchdown of the season and his career as a Hornet on Oct. 16 against Montana.

Preview: Sac State football returns home to face winless Cal Poly

‘We control our own destiny’
Brandon Bailey
November 5, 2021
Sac State football returns home for the start of a two-game homestand against Cal Poly. The Hornets will look to stay undefeated and make a run for the Big Sky title.

Family ties: Sac State football welcomes five sets of brothers to the team

“My brother taught me just keep pushing”
Brandon Bailey
November 3, 2021
Sac State football has five sets of siblings on the roster this season, and The State Hornet had the opportunity to talk to three of the brothers on their decisions to join each other at Sac State.
Photo of Sac State sophomore running back Marcus Fulcher (9) taken by Ayaana Williams. Graphic made in Canva by Alex Muegge & Mercy Sosa

Close win against Northern Colorado a wake up call for the Hornets?: 4TH AND GOAL

Mack Ervin III and Brandon Bailey
November 2, 2021

“4th And Goal'' is The State Hornet’s newest podcast and features former football beat writer and current podcast editor, Mack Ervin III, alongside current football beat writer Brandon Bailey breaking...

Sophomore nickelback Jace O’Hara (right) and freshman safety Cameron Broussard (left) track the ball carrier down against Northern Arizona University on Oct. 23, 2021. The Hornets are 5-0 in Big Sky conference play after a close 27-24 victory against Northern Colorado.

Sac State football escapes Northern Colorado with a 27-24 victory

Strong defensive play late in the game leads the Hornets to victory
Brandon Bailey
October 30, 2021
Sac State prevailed with a 27-24 victory against Northern Colorado to stay undefeated in conference play. The Hornets totaled 217 total rushing yards
Photo of Sac State sophomore running back Marcus Fulcher (9) taken by Ayaana Williams. Graphic made in Canva by Alex Muegge & Mercy Sosa

Does shutout win over Northern Arizona make the Hornets championship contenders? : 4TH AND GOAL

Mack Ervin III and Brandon Bailey
October 29, 2021

On the newest episode of “4th and Goal,” podcast editor Mack Ervin III and football beat writer Brandon Bailey break down the dominant Sacramento State football team performance against Northern Arizona...

Junior quarterback Asher O’Hara  looks to throw the ball to freshman running back Elijah Tau-Tolliiver at practice on Oct. 19, 2021, at Hornet Stadium. O’Hara leads the team in Rushing yards and touchdowns this season.

Sac State football hopes to keep Big Sky title hopes alive against Northern Colorado

‘We're in the race for the Big Sky title’
Brandon Bailey
October 28, 2021
The Hornets travel to Greeley, Colorado to face the University of Northern Colorado this weekend. Sac State will attempt to stay unbeaten in conference play as they pursue another Big Sky title. Read the preview here:
 Sophomore tight end Marshel Martin (16) cuts upfield behind sophomore wide receiver Parker Clayton (11) at Hornet Stadium on Oct. 23, 2021. The Hornets shut out the Lumberjacks 44-0 on Saturday.

Sac State football routs Northern Arizona in 44-0 blowout victory

The Hornets shut out NAU and amassed 657 yards of total offense
Brandon Bailey
October 23, 2021
Sac State won a 44-0 shutout against Northern Arizona. The Hornets put on a clinic on both sides of the ball
On Monday Sacramento State announced that they will require proof of vaccination or negative COVID-19 test results 72 hours before kickoff from all guests attending football games starting with the homecoming game on Saturday. Students who do not show proof or test results prior to events will not be allowed to attend football games or any on-campus gathering with an attendance of 10,000 or more for the rest of the year or until further notice. (Photo in background taken by Shaun Holkko. Graphic made in Canva by Ayaana Williams.)

Sac State students react to updated vaccination policy upon homecoming football game

Attendees must prove vaccination or negative COVID-19 test results
Brandon Bailey
October 23, 2021
Sac State students discuss their thoughts about the new vaccine mandate for all football games beginning on Saturday. Students will not be allowed to participate unless they show proof of vaccination or a negative test result
Senior linebacker Taylor Powell (4) and senior linebacker Marcus Hawkins (5) communicate in between plays on Oct. 19, 2021, at Hornet Stadium. Hawkins and Powell have combined for 82 total tackles on the season.

Preview: Sac State football stands at No. 3 seed in the Big Sky conference after Montana victory

Brandon Bailey
October 22, 2021

Senior linebacker Taylor Powell (4) and senior linebacker Marcus Hawkins (5) communicate in between plays on Oct. 19, 2021, at Hornet Stadium. Hawkins and Powell have combined for 82 total tackles on the...

Photo of Sac State sophomore running back Marcus Fulcher (9) taken by Ayaana Williams. Graphic made in Canva by Alex Muegge & Mercy Sosa

State of Sac State’s football team, upset win over Montana and more: 4TH AND GOAL

Mack Ervin III and Brandon Bailey
October 19, 2021

In the first episode of “4th and Goal,” podcast editor Mack Ervin III and football beat writer Brandon Bailey introduce themselves and discuss Sac State football, starting with a recap of the Hornets'...

Sac State freshman linebacker Mitchell Wolfe (58) gets stiff-armed as he attempts to tackle Montana sophomore safety Garrett Graves (5) on Oct. 16, 2021, at Washington-Grizzly Stadium. The Hornets pulled off the upset and beat the #5 ranked Grizzlies for the first time in Missoula by a score of 28-21.

Sac State football upsets #5 University of Montana 28-21

The Hornets win on the road in Montana for the first time in school history
Brandon Bailey
October 16, 2021
The Hornets won 28-21 against Montana to stay undefeated in Big Sky play. It was the first time in school history that the Hornets won on the road against the Grizzlies.
 Junior quarterback Asher O’Hara (left, 10) drops back for a pass against the University of Northern Iowa and senior running back BJ Perkinson (right, 21) looks for a hole to open as he rushes the ball against Dixie State. The Hornets play the University Of Montana on Saturday at 12:00 p.m. Graphic created on Canva by Brandon Bailey.

Preview: Sac State football prepares for a battle against University of Montana

The Hornets look to stay undefeated in conference play as they face the #5 ranked Grizzlies
Brandon Bailey
October 15, 2021
Sac State football prepares for a challenge against #5 ranked Montana. The Hornets hope they can stay undefeated in conference play as they face one of their toughest opponents this season
Hornet sophomore running back Marcus Fulcher (9) sheds off a tackle from Southern Utah’s redshirt junior cornerback Alonzo Davis (17) for a first down on Saturday, Oct. 9, 2021, at Hornet Stadium. The Hornets crushed the Southern Utah Thunderbirds 41-20.

Sac State football steamrolls Southern Utah 41-20

Hornets remain undefeated in Big Sky Conference
Brandon Bailey
October 9, 2021
Sacramento State proved to be too much for the Thunderbirds on both sides of the ball as they steamrolled their way to a 41-20 victory.
Pierre Williams (84) attempts to elude Cal defenders (left) and Marcus Fulcher (9) receiving a handoff (right). The Hornets face off against Southern Utah on Saturday at 6 p.m.

Sac State comes home for a showdown against Southern Utah

Hornets return from a bye week following their latest victory against Idaho State
Brandon Bailey
October 8, 2021
Following its bye week, Sac State prepares for their showdown against Southern Utah and looks to keep things rolling after coming away with a victory against Idaho State in their last matchup.
Munchie Filer III poses for photo in front of scoreboard at Hornet stadium Wednesday, Sept. 29, 2021. Filer leads the team with two interceptions in the first four games.

Against all odds Sac State football player bounces back from injury and shines early

After transfering from Montana State, cornerback Munchie Filer III continues his pursuit to play in the NFL
Brandon Bailey
October 7, 2021
Sac State cornerback and transfer Munchie Filer III bounces back from injury with a chip on his shoulder this season. He hopes to earn an opportunity to play alongside his brother John Ross III in the NFL.
 Junior quarterback Jake Dunniway (12) and junior wide receiver Pierre Willams (84) stand side by side walking off the field at California Memorial Stadium on Sept.18, 2021. The Hornets pulled out a slim 23-21 victory in their game against Idaho State on Saturday.

Sac State squeezes out victory against Idaho State with second half shutout

Hornet secondary led defensive charge with two interceptions
Brandon Bailey
September 25, 2021
The Hornets squeaked out a 23-21 victory on the road against Idaho State. Sac State’s secondary led the way with a game-sealing interception from junior nickelback Marte Mapu.
Sophomore safety Davion Ross (24) closes in on a tackle against Cameron Broussard during practice on Sept. 23, 2021. The Hornets prepare for their first Big Sky match of the season against Idaho State.

Preview: Hornets seek to bounce back on the road against Idaho State

Sac State football stopping the run will be key to victory
Brandon Bailey
September 23, 2021
The Hornets are traveling to Idaho State this weekend to begin Big Sky conference play. Sac State will be looking to secure a win after dropping their final two games of non-conference play.
Sac State wide receiver Dewey Cotton (17) looks for a running lane in between his linemen Brandon Weldon (78) and Thomas Parker (79) against Cal in the first half at California Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Sept. 18, 2021. The Hornets fell to the Bears 42-30, dropping their record on the season to 1-2.

Cal’s offensive attack too much for Sac State football to overcome in second consecutive loss

Hornets yield over 500 yards to Golden Bears in defeat
Brandon Bailey
September 18, 2021
The Hornets lose for the second straight week as they fail to stop a balanced Cal offense in a 42-30 loss.
The Hornets face off against Cal for the first time since 2014 on Saturday, Sept. 18, 2021. This will be their third matchup in school history; Cal leads the series against the Hornet 2-0. Graphic made in Canva by Brandon Bailey.

PREVIEW: Sac State football prepares for a win against Cal

Hornets ready to show resilience after loss in home opener
Brandon Bailey
September 15, 2021
Sac State football plays the University Of California, Berkeley this Saturday after dropping their first loss of the season to the University of Northern Iowa. The Hornets intend to respond with an upset win against the Golden Bears, read more here:
Sac State quarterback Asher OHara (10) looks to throw a pass during the home opener against the University of Northern Iowa on Saturday, Sept. 11, 2021. The Hornets lost the game 34-16 after turning the ball over six times.

Sac State football loses home opener after offensive struggles

UNI wins 34-16 as Hornets turn the ball over six times.
Brandon Bailey
September 11, 2021
Sacramento State loses in their home opener against Northern Iowa 34-16 as the Hornets turn the ball over six times.
Sacramento State freshman wide receiver Devin Gandy (5) walking back to the huddle while he looks at the sidelines. The Hornets beat Dixie State University 19-7 on Saturday, Sept. 4, 2021.

PREVIEW: Hornets ready themselves for first home game since 2019

Sacramento State prepares for a battle in their home opener against Northern Iowa
Brandon Bailey
September 8, 2021
Sac State football gears up for its first home game in two years against the University of Northern Iowa on Saturday. UNI is hungry for a win after narrowly losing 16-10 to #7 ranked Iowa State last week.
Sacramento State Tight End Marshel Martin (16), helps his quarterback Asher OHara up at end of the play. OHara connected with Martin twice to give the Hornets their only two touchdowns of the game against Dixie State University Saturday, Sept. 4, 2021.

Sac State begins title defense with victory against Dixie State

Hornets win first game of season with 19-7 score
Brandon Bailey
September 4, 2021
Sacramento State won 19-7 against Dixie State in their first game of the season on Saturday.
Sacramento State senior wide receiver Dewey Cotton catches a pass as he attempts to score against the opposing defense in practice. The Hornets prepare for their season debut against Dixie State this Saturday, Sept. 4, 2021.

PREVIEW: How Sac State’s football team is preparing for the 2021 season

The team talks to The State Hornet about the pressure to defend its 2019 Big Sky title
Brandon Bailey
September 2, 2021
Sacramento State football returns after not playing in 2020 due to COVID-19. They face Dixie State this Saturday as they prepare to defend their Big Sky title.
Sac State freshman Jennifer Koga practices putting at Haggin Oaks Golf Complex on March 17, 2020. Koga was +18 for the Big Sky Tournament but had a much-improved final round, shooting a 4-over 76 and helping the Hornets clinch the Big Sky Conference Championship.

Sac State women’s golf team ranked as 17th seed in NCAA regional tournament

Regionals will be played at Stanford on May 10
Brandon Bailey
May 10, 2021
Sac State women's golf has been ranked as the 17th seed in the upcoming NCAA regionals. “You want to get out in front, it’s hard to chase when you’re going against a good team,” said coach David Sutherland.
Sac State students Nahom & Ayra on getting “Mic’d Up”: STATE HORNET SPOTLIGHT

Sac State students Nahom & Ayra on getting “Mic’d Up”: STATE HORNET SPOTLIGHT

Brandon Bailey and Garry Singh
May 6, 2021
Nahom Semere and Ayra Nuñez, two of the hosts of the podcast Mic’d Up Students, joined State Hornet podcasters Brandon Bailey and Garry Singh to discuss how their podcast came to be and what brought them to Sac State.
CSU Students for Quality Education intern Alejandro Bupara voices his frustration with police being on campus and calls for their removal at a May Day Car Caravan in support of defunding university police at Sacramento State’s police department Saturday, May 1, 2021. Bupara, one of the speakers at the caravan, is a student at California Polytechnic San Luis Obispo.

[Photo] Sac State community calls for CSU to defund university police at caravan

Tara Gnewikow
May 1, 2021

CSU Students for Quality Education intern Alejandro Bupara voices his frustration with police being on campus and calls for their removal at a May Day Car Caravan in support of defunding university police...

Freshman golfer Jennifer Koga poses for a photo at Haggin Oaks Golf Complex on Wednesday, March 17, 2021. Koga tied for fifth at the Gunrock Invitational after scoring a 68.

Swinging in the right direction: Sac State freshman golfer shines early

Jennifer Koga off to a fast start in her first season
Brandon Bailey
March 30, 2021
Sac State freshman golfer Jennifer Koga continues to shine early, finishing in top five individually in the last three tournaments.
What to watch for this week in Hornet Sports. The baseball team faces Tarleton State in hope of bouncing back from last week’s loss, and the women’s volleyball team hopes to stay undefeated on its homecourt against Portland State.
Graphic by Max Connor

Hornet Sports weekly preview: 5 Sac State matches to keep your eye on

Softball takes on a Pac-12 powerhouse
Brandon Bailey
March 12, 2021
The softball team looks to get an upset against Pac-12 powerhouse Oregon State, the women’s tennis team is still searching for its first win of the season, and the volleyball team looks to stay undefeated in the Nest.
The Sac State men’s basketball team gathers during a timeout in the second half of the conference game against Montana State at The Nest at Sac State on Jan. 23, 2021. The Hornets are entering the Big Sky Tournament after winning their last game against Montana State 74-73 on Saturday.

Sac State men’s basketball season turns in opposite direction after hot start

Hornets look back on the season and ahead to Big Sky Tournament
Brandon Bailey
March 7, 2021
The Sac State men’s basketball team started the season with a 4-2 record but since then they have struggled to maintain that hot start, losing six out of their last eight games as they head into the Big Sky Tournament.
Sacramento State’s Jabari Reynolds II walks back to drill following 10x10 100-meter warm-up on the track at Sac State on Thursday, Feb. 18, 2021. Jabari has the fifth fastest 200-meter time in Sac State history at 21.81 seconds in 2020.

High school ultimatum leads Sac State track star to scholarship

Brandon Bailey
March 1, 2021

Sacramento State’s Jabari Reynolds II walks back to drill following 10x10 100-meter warm-up on the track at Sac State on Thursday, Feb. 18, 2021. Jabari has the fifth fastest 200-meter time in Sac State...

Swarm Report Feb. 26: men’s tennis team and women’s volleyball team lose nail biters

Swarm Report Feb. 26: men’s tennis team and women’s volleyball team lose nail biters

Brandon Bailey
February 27, 2021
Sac State women’s volleyball lost to Weber State in dramatic fashion, and men’s tennis suffered its fourth loss in five matches.
PODCAST: Updates given on police budget, Black students react to talent show incident

PODCAST: Updates given on police budget, Black students react to talent show incident

Robbie Pierce, Max Connor, Madeleine Beck, Michael Pacheco, Nijzel Dotson, and Brandon Bailey
December 14, 2020
On the final episode of The State Hornet Podcast for this semester, investigative reporter Michael Pacheco shares details and updates on a story posted about the Sac State Police Department’s budget for this semester and the next, arts and entertainment editor Nijzel Dotson and staff writer Brandon Bailey discuss their story about Black students’ reactions to anti-Black racial slurs sent by ‘Zoombombers’ during UNIQUE’s talent show and more.
Sac State officials claim an investigation into the racial slurs in the Zoom chat of the UNIQUE talent show Thursday, Dec. 3, 2020 found the users were not local and could not be tied to the university. “What I’ve noticed when it comes to these incidents, there’s not really a valid response or action being taken, we’re allowing this to become normal,” said child development major Kameya Turner.

Black students react to racial slurs at UNIQUE talent show and following investigation

Black students lobby for sincere action from administration
Nijzel Dotson and Brandon Bailey
December 11, 2020
Sac State students call on administration to address anti-racism after racial slurs interrupted a talent show hosted by UNIQUE Programs.
Cleo Cartel, owner of Mommas Market, sells her specialty goods from all over the world at the Sankofa Market in Sacramento on Sunday, Nov. 15, 2020. Cartel mainly caters her products to people of color and said she understands and values this market because it gives entrepreneurs an opportunity to profile and sell their products.

Sankofa Market: A farmers market addressing the food deserts in Sacramento

Organizers develop a farmers market inclusive of Black vendors
Brandon Bailey
November 24, 2020
Sac State student Greo the Storyteller and business partner Deborah Armstrong launched the second Sankofa Market in an effort to provide fresh produce and natural products to the Black community.
Jakira Wilson lays the ball up during the Sac State women’s basketball team practice at The Nest at Sacramento State Tuesday, Oct. 27, 2020. Wilson played in 22 out of 30 games last season.

Sac State women’s basketball team prepares for 2020-21 season

Team cleared for 5-on-5 practice with masks
Brandon Bailey
November 6, 2020
Despite the challenges raised by the pandemic, Coach Harkleroad said the objective is still the same: “The goal is always to win the Big Sky Championship.”
Student safety ambassador, Ryan Dolan, walks through his daily routine of disinfecting surfaces on Sept. 22, 2020. Dolan said excitement is far and few in-between, but when he is needed, he will ensure surfaces are sterilized.

Q&A with a student safety ambassador: COVID-19 protocol on campus

‘I've passed out one mask, and that was to a teacher’
Brandon Bailey
October 2, 2020
Sacramento State’s student safety ambassadors enforce COVID-19 protocol on campus, and student safety ambassador Ryan Dolan shares his experience on the job.
The Career Center held a preparation workshop to provide tips to succeed at its upcoming virtual career fair Oct. 6-7. Graphic made in Canva.

Sac State Career Center gives tips to prepare for virtual career fair

Brandon Bailey
October 1, 2020
The Career Center at Sacramento State held a workshop on Zoom Wednesday to prepare students for the school’s first virtual career fair.
Load More Stories
Donate to The State Hornet
$700
$1000
Contributed
Our Goal