General | 2/18/2026 2:16:00 PM

WBB Senior Day Program | MBB Senior Day Program | Donate to Autism Speaks

GOODWELL, Okla. — The Oklahoma Panhandle State men's and women's basketball teams are set to participate in "Coaches for Autism Awareness" benefiting Autism Speaks during the Senior Day games versus Science & Arts on Saturday, Feb. 21. The campaign is set to run during basketball games nationwide from Feb. 21-28.
 
Head OPSU women's and men's basketball coaches Maria Belt and Charles Belt, along with other gameday personnel, will be wearing an Autism Speaks-branded pin during the contests in support of Coaches for Autism Awareness.
 
Fans attending the Senior Day games will hear public address announcements concerning the initiative, and QR codes will be present in the front lobby of Anchor D Arena where fans can learn more about the mission of Autism Speaks and donate to the cause.  
 
About Coaches for Autism Awareness: Coaches for Autism Awareness (formerly Coaches Powering Forward) is an annual initiative bringing the collegiate and high school basketball communities together to champion the mission of Autism Speaks. The refreshed name reflects feedback from participants and supporters, clarifying the purpose of the program while continuing to celebrate its impact. Since 2014, Autism Speaks has distributed over 9,000 puzzle piece pins to more than 450 colleges and high schools, giving coaches, staff and broadcasters a way to promote inclusivity at games.
 
Those wishing to learn more about the mission of Autism Speaks or make a donation can head to Autism support, resources & advocacy | Autism Speaks.
 
Senior Day Festivities ~ 3:40 PM: The Senior Day ceremonies for the cheer, women's basketball and men's basketball teams are set to commence immediately following the women's game (approximately 3:40 p.m.) versus USAO. The following seniors will be honored …
 
Cheer Seniors: Jair Cruz, Aracely Duran
Women's Basketball Seniors: Carolyn Olvera
Men's Basketball Seniors: Mike Carter, Jibril Ndiaye, Jacob Taitte, Ja'Vian Baker, Aaron Williams Jr.