Inside a warm gym in Thousand Oaks, California, 11-year-old Ryan “Moose” Bailey was all ears.
The most decorated coach in college basketball history – the man whose quotes adorned the walls of Bailey’s home – sat at the center of the court, drawing up a game plan on how to wear a sock.

This post was updated March 8 at 9:28 p.m.
A bright light.
The smile that illuminated every room, and a voice that uplifted and inspired.
A magnetic presence that not only drew people in but brought out the best in everyone who crossed paths with him.

This post was updated Feb. 22 at 9:50 p.m.
Linear algebra, despite its name, is not straightforward, stumping college students and graduates alike.
In the same vein, even when one’s path to sports stardom looks linear, that does not mean it is without hardship, strife and dedication.

UCLA track and field athletes typically spend the first quarter of their final collegiate season training at Drake Stadium.
But senior Shawn Toney spent it almost 6,000 miles away.

Elite athletes often face a lights-camera-action moment.
But Sydney Barros has been no stranger to creating her spotlight, even when life has tried to dim it.

Carissa Clay knew she was destined to be a Bruin at just eight years old.
Eight-year-old Clay arrived in Westwood with tears streaming down her face.

A year and a half ago, 16-year-old Tiana Sumanasekera took to the stage for her final routine at the Olympic trials, ready to cap off a breakout 2024 season.