GREENVILLE, S.C. — Raegan Beers, Oklahoma’s starting center, departed the floor to chants of “Beers! Beers! Beers!” led by the school’s enthusiastic pep band. The cheers were a recognition of her significant role in propelling the 10th-ranked Sooners to a thrilling 69-65 victory over No. 12 Kentucky in the quarterfinals of the Southeastern Conference Tournament on Friday.
Beers, who stands at 6-foot-4 and transferred from Oregon State, finds herself becoming accustomed to this lively form of support and embraces it wholeheartedly. “With a last name like mine, it’s understandable why they chant ‘Beers! Beers!’,” she mentioned with a smile, adding that it resonates well with college students.
Acknowledgment of Beers’ impact is well-deserved. She showcased her talent across two impressive performances in her inaugural SEC Tournament. Against Kentucky, she contributed 20 points and 11 rebounds, following her 20-point, eight-rebound, and three-block game against Georgia. On Friday, Beers was also selected as one of five finalists for the Lisa Leslie Center of the Year award, a testament to her prowess on the court.
This catchy chant from the pep band originally started earlier in the season during a home game and has grown into a staple sound at Sooners’ matches.
“The energy is phenomenal,” Beers explained. “Having that buzz from the band, cheer team, and fans adds to the thrill and atmosphere, which motivates us even more. With an energetic band, matched by enthusiastic fans, the environment becomes incredible to play in.”
Her teammates recognize Beers for her vibrant and infectious positivity, something that coach Jennie Baranczyk confirms is genuine. “Her vibrant personality is authentic,” Baranczyk commented.
Demonstrating true camaraderie, Beers crafted blankets for all her teammates during the holiday break and enjoys spending her leisure time at Hobby Lobby. Her devotion to the team is mirrored in her gameplay.
“As she often reminds us, fun and chemistry on the court translate into effective play, with her assertiveness driving our performance as seen today,” Baranczyk noted. “Her presence on the court is an extension of her personality.”
During her two-season tenure at Oregon State, Beers averaged 17.5 points and 10.6 rebounds. Her transition last May has been marked by impactful performances. With talent like Beers at its core, Oklahoma is setting sights on a promising March as they prepare for the SEC semifinals against No. 5 South Carolina.
Kentucky’s coach, Kenny Brooks, acknowledged Beers’ formidable presence saying, “She’s truly a talented individual both on and off the court, tough to defend yet incredibly gracious.”
