HIGHLIGHTED ARTICLES
Millbury’s own Jayden Delaleu is making school history on the track and field stage. This Saturday, June 12, Jayden will compete in the High Jump at the All-New England State Championship, becoming the first Millbury athlete to reach this prestigious meet since 2013. He earned his spot after an incredible third-place finish at the All-State Championship last weekend, where he jumped against top competitors from Divisions 1 through 6. Jayden’s historic postseason run won't stop there, either, next Saturday, he will travel to U Penn to compete in the New Balance National Championship, marking the first time a Millbury athlete has ever competed at the High School National Level. Let's wish Jayden the best of luck!
It has been an incredible few days of celebration here at MHS. From honoring the hard work of our freshmen, sophomores, and juniors at the Underclassman Awards, to watching the Class of 2026 walk across the stage at Graduation, we could not be prouder of our students.
Whether you missed the live events or just want to relive the best moments, we have you covered. Click the links below to watch the full recordings of both ceremonies and celebrate all of this year's amazing achievements.
By LeeAnn Narkawicz (2026)
Millbury High School already has a Unified Basketball program, which shows that the school is already committed to inclusion and bringing students together through sports. Expanding that into a Unified Cheerleading program would be a logical next step because it would directly support Unified Basketball, increase school spirit, and give more students a way to participate in something meaningful.
Unified Cheerleading is part of the broader Unified Sports movement created by the Special Olympics, where students with and without disabilities participate together in sports or support roles to build inclusion and school connection. Research and school program data show that Unified Sports does not just improve athletic participation, but also improves school climate, reduces bullying, and increases friendships across different groups of students. (“Special Olympics Unified Champion Schools®”)
Unified programs help create school environments where students feel included, supported, and more connected to their peers. Schools that use Unified Sports often report stronger school culture and more positive relationships between students. (Gresham)
At Millbury High School, a Unified Cheerleading program would directly connect to Unified Basketball. Cheerleaders would attend games, support athletes, and help create a more energetic and welcoming environment. Instead of games feeling small or inconsistent in attendance, cheerleaders would make them feel like full school events. This matters because Unified Sports are built around inclusion and visibility, and cheer adds a public and structured way to show support.
A major benefit is that it would increase student participation. Not every student wants to play basketball, but many would still want to be involved in a team setting. Unified Cheer would allow students to participate through performance, leadership, and support rather than competition. It would also give students with different abilities the chance to work together in a shared activity, which is one of the main goals of Unified programming.
In terms of logistics, this program is realistic for Millbury High School because it does not require new facilities or expensive changes. The school already has a gym used for Unified Basketball, so practices could be scheduled around existing team times. The gym could be split when needed, with one side used for basketball and the other for cheer practice. When the gym is unavailable, Shaw could be used as an alternative practice space depending on scheduling approval. This makes the program practical and easy to integrate into the current school structure.
Uniforms for the Unified Cheer team could also be simple and affordable while still creating a strong sense of identity. A realistic option would be black shirts with “Woolies” on them, representing school spirit and keeping everyone unified in appearance. For boys on the team, the same Woolies shirts could be paired with black pants to keep the uniform consistent and comfortable for movement. This approach avoids expensive custom cheer uniforms and makes it easier for more students to join without financial pressure. The focus would be on unity and inclusion rather than appearance or cost.
Another major benefit is the impact on school spirit and Unified Basketball games. Right now, support at games can vary depending on attendance. A Unified Cheer team would create consistent energy, lead chants, and encourage athletes throughout the entire game. This improves the experience for players, families, and the school community. Unified Sports are designed to build connection and celebration, and cheer would make that more visible and consistent.
Schools that already use Unified programs show clear results. Research from Special Olympics Unified Champion Schools shows improvements in school climate, increased empathy among students, and reduced social isolation for students with disabilities. One report even notes that schools implementing Unified programs see stronger engagement across the entire student body, not just athletes. (“Unified Champion Schools® Work Proven to Increase Inclusion”)
These findings support the idea that expanding Unified programs leads to real, measurable improvements in how students interact and how schools function socially.
A Unified Cheer program would also help develop important life skills. Students would learn teamwork, communication, responsibility, and leadership. They would also learn how to represent their school in a positive and structured way. These skills are valuable beyond school, especially in leadership roles, jobs, and future group environments.
Overall, adding Unified Cheerleading at Millbury High School would not replace anything that already exists. It would strengthen what is already working. It would support Unified Basketball, increase student involvement, improve school spirit, and reinforce inclusion in a visible and structured way. It is practical, low-cost, and aligned with national Unified Sports programs that are already being used successfully in schools across the country.
Citations:
Gresham, Brian. “Social Inclusion of Students With Intellectual Disabilities: Global Evidence From Special Olympics Unified Schools.” Special Olympics Resources, https://resources.specialolympics.org/community-building/youth-and-school/unified-champion-schools/social-inclusion-of-students-with-intellectual-disabilities-global-evidence-from-special-olympics-unified-schools?
“Special Olympics Unified Champion Schools®.” Special Olympics, https://www.specialolympics.org/what-we-do/youth-and-schools/unified-champion-schools.
“Unified Champion Schools® Work Proven to Increase Inclusion.” Special Olympics, https://www.specialolympics.org/stories/impact/unified-champion-schools-work-proven-to-increase-inclusion?
1st Down: Drake Maye will NOT be a top 5 QB in 2026 - SELL: He got weapons and upgraded offensive line this offseason. He is going to improve over last year/get better in year 3.
2nd Down: Patriots will finish 2nd in the AFC East Division: BUY: The Bills will be #1. The Patriots have a tough schedule. I have the Patriots at 11-6.
3rd Down: AJ Brown will have over 1,200 yards receiving and 9+ touchdowns : SELL: He will have just under 1,200 yards (1000-1100) and 7TD on the season. That's my predition. He is still going to have a really good season. The runnning back will be getting the TDs at the goal line this season.
4th Down: Christian Gonzalez will have a new contract before Week 1: BUY: They will sign him to a new contract. It will be higher than PS2's contract. He will be the highest paid CB after his new contract.
2 Point Conversion: Last 3 years #1 overall picks - Fernando Mendoza, Cam Ward, Bryce Young - Who will have the better 2026: BRYCE YOUNG is my pick, he has a good team behind him with more talented players. Mendoza will not be a starter to start the year and Cam Ward is terrible and the Titans are not that good.
Contributor: Angelo Spencer (2028)
By LeeAnn Narkawicz (2026)
My 2026–2027 NFL predictions are based on how unpredictable the league looks right now. There are a lot of good teams, and injuries, coaching, or inconsistent play could change everything, so these are just some quick thoughts on what might happen.
Number 1
Drake Maye wins MVP and the New England Patriots become an elite AFC contender New England Patriots and Drake Maye Drake Maye
Why? The idea here is that New England takes a major step forward because of rapid quarterback development rather than slow team building.
Number 2
One of the Pittsburgh Steelers or Green Bay Packers misses the playoffs unexpectedly Pittsburgh Steelers and Green Bay Packers
Why? At least one traditionally stable franchise drops out of the postseason picture completely.
Number 3
The Cincinnati Bengals are either a top two AFC team or miss the playoffs entirely Cincinnati Bengals with Joe Burrow Joe Burrow leading the offense
Why? Cincinnati has one of the widest outcome ranges in the league.
Number 4
The Atlanta Falcons win the NFC South while the Tampa Bay Buccaneers fall to the bottom of the division Atlanta Falcons and Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Why? The Falcons remain the strongest team in their division while Tampa Bay declines significantly.
Number 5
The Los Angeles Chargers are a clear playoff team while the Las Vegas Raiders underperform expectations Los Angeles Chargers and Las Vegas Raiders
Why? The Chargers are reliable postseason participants, while the Raiders fail to meet projected performance levels.
What a Monday for Millbury sports; both the baseball and softball teams kicked off their postseason in dominant fashion. On the softball diamond, the sixth-seeded Woolies completely shut out Notre Dame (Tyngsborough) with a commanding 10-0 victory. Brielle Brothers continued to dominate from the circle, racking up 14 strikeouts and allowing just four hits. The offense backed her up, led by multi-hit games and RBIs from Gianna Cappoli, Hailey Delaney, and Addie Canney to lock in the win.
Over on the baseball field the boys continued their winning ways as the fourth-seeded Woolies blanked Lowell Catholic 7-0. Pitcher Ryan Nikiforow threw an incredible perfect game, striking out eight batters and not allowing a single runner on base all night. Nolan Orzechowski led the offense, going 2-for-2 with a triple and three RBIs, while Jimmer Donnelly crushed a solo home run to help seal the victory. Both teams now advance to the next round at home this Thursday: softball hosts East Bridgewater at 4:30 p.m., followed by the baseball team taking on Wahconah under the lights at 7:00 p.m.
Our talented student artists are making headlines this summer. Several of our students have had their artwork selected for Framingham State University’s very first High School Student Show, now on display at the Mazmanian Gallery. We are incredibly proud to see their creativity recognized by a university gallery. If you see any of these artists, please congratulate them on this awesome accomplishment and if you are in the area before July 16th, be sure to stop by the Framingham State campus to check out the amazing show in person.
Masters of the Universe (June 5)
Toy Story 5 (June 19)
Supergirl (June 26)
Minions & Monsters (July 1)
Moana (July 10)
Spider-Man: Brand New Day (July 31)
Flowervale Street (August 14)
Coyote vs. Acme (August 28)
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On May 20th Matt Shearer (@reportermatt) from WBZ-TV came to school to talk to the freshman class and help them kick off their end of year interdisciplinary project.
The upcoming assignment is a mix of Biology and ELA. Students are teaming up to research a local environmental issue and look at how humans impact our local environment.
Freshmen will be using social media to tell their stories. The goal is to create buzz online and teach people how to make better, greener choices for our environment.
Having a pro reporter like Matt stop by was the perfect way to get inspired. He gave students some great insight into how to grab people's attention and tell a story that actually matters. It's the story that people are interested in.
Keep an eye on your social feeds over the next few weeks for their stories.
Boston Celtics ‘25-26 Recap
Written By Sam Murray ‘28
It’s been a few weeks since the Celtics lost in the first round of playoffs to the 76ers. I’ve sat with it, marinated in it, and thought about it ever since then. I have reached the final stage of grief, acceptance. I have accepted that this is one of our best seasons of the last 10 years. To put this in perspective, let’s go back to the way we ended last year. We lose in the second round to a very beatable Knicks team who hadn’t fully found their footing. We had an old roster, many expiring deals, and worst of all, Jayson Tatum, our golden goose, had torn his achilles tendon. Tearing your achilles is one of the worse injuries in sports, on Tommy John level. You typically miss a full season, and in many cases, there’s a good chance you never return to the player you once were. Over the offseason, there were a lot of huge decisions to make, and we seemingly got the short end of the stick on all of them. Trading Jrue Holiday for Anfernee Simons, a young, athletic guard who just hadn’t seemed to bloom, trading Kristaps Porzingis for Georges Niang, whom we thankfully cut almost immediately (Good Riddance). The saddest move to me though was not signing Al Horford back. I know it had to happen, but he was with us the whole ride, and it felt like George having to shoot Lennie in Of Mice and Men. Going into the season full of doubts, people were expecting us to have a lottery pick. The fans were upset, the media shut us down, and we felt hopeless. But there was one man who rewrote the story of the season, and his name is Jaylen Brown.
In the past 5 years, I fully believe that Jaylen Brown has been the most disrespected star in the league. He’s always overlooked, apart of mock trades that diminish his value, and is always talked about being, “Tatums sidekick”. He has taken in all of this slander, and used it as his fuel to shut down the league. Jaylen Brown was the biggest factor in this shocker of a season. He was dominant on both sides of the ball, averaging 30 while shutting down your star player, 1-5. He was easily the most impressive player of this season, but thats not to overshadow the work that everybody else put in. Derrick White and Payton Pritchard absolutely filled in there much needed role of second and third option scoring wise, to take the weight off of JB. Those two have perfectly adapted to the Mazzula style of hoops, and it shows. On top of that, Neemias Queta is the most surprising part of this season, consistently showing a talent that hadn’t been seem from him really ever. He looked very dominant, and I feel like with a veteran there to unlock his full potential, he could look like a smaller Ralph Sampson. With our bench unit, much like our starters, they have learned and almost mastered Mazzula Ball, which means whatever you’re doing, do 100% of it. Players like Hauser and Garza are playing in ways they’ve never played before, and younger guys like Baylor Schierman and Hugo Gonzales (my favorite player) have perfectly fit into the necessary role of “do whatever it takes to help us win”, whether that’s diving for a loose ball, being a pest in a full court trap, or making the extra pass, it’s winning basketball. We were shocking everyone who watches/knows about basketball, and the crazy thing is, is that we have been consistent winners over the years. This was gonna be the leagues break from Boston domination, but it hurt them even more.
And then on March 6, 2026, Jayson Tatum defied the odds by coming back 10 months after tearing his achilles. It was something never seen before, and it was legendary. We end the season as the 2nd seed, going up against the 76ers. They’ve made some noise against us in the past, but never made it over the hump. I don’t understand what happened during this series, but we were just off. Shots weren’t falling, the defense wasn’t working, and that big baby Joel Embiid was able to have his way against us. We ended up losing in 7 games, which caused a lot of drastic reactions on the internet. “Fire Joe Mazzula”, “Trade Jaylen Brown, he can’t work in the system”. My take on all of this is that nothing big needs to happen. We could use a good veteran big maybe, but this team just had a historic season and people want to blow it up. Although this season didn’t have a storybook ending, it was one hell of a story.
1st Down: NFL Team that did not make the 2025 playoffs but will make the playoffs this year: Kansas City Chiefs: they had a good draft and Mahomes will be back.
2nd Down: NFL Team that made the 2025 playoffs but will miss the playoffs this year: LA Chargers: This year they have a harder schedule than last year and I don't think Hebert is a good quarterback.
3rd Down: Young QB that will improve in 2026 : Bryce Young is a young QB that I believe will take a big jump forward this year. He is undersized but had a good 2nd half of the year in 2025 so I think he has a good chance to take the next step.
4th Down: Young QB that will regress in 2026: CJ Stroud He regressed a little last year and will continue to regress next year. He had a terrible playoff in the most important game of his life vs the Patriots. That's going to linger until next year.
2 Point Conversion: Surprise team that could make the Super Bowl: Detroit Lions (NFC) Cincinnati Bengals (AFC)
Contributor: Angelo Spencer (2028)
Spring of 1926 saw MHS baseball earn a 6-2 win over previously undegeated and first in the division Northbridge. MHS improved their record to 7-3 which was good for second in the division at that time. It's always interesting to look back on 100 year old memories and see that sometimes things don't change that much... MHS vs. Northbridge.
It was big week for the Millbury track and field program, as both the boys and girls teams captured the CMAC-C league championship titles.
The victory was especially sweet for the boys team, marking their first league championship title since 2021. The championship meet was packed with incredible individual and team performances. A couple highlights from the boys and girls were:
The boys 4x100m relay team - consisting of Michael McDaniel, Jacob Day, Zavier Turizo, and Anthony Hernandez broke the school record with a time of 45.20 seconds. On the girls' side, Freshmen Mari Nikiforow reached a personal milestone breaking the 12-minute barrier in the 2-mile run for the very first time.
Congratulations to both teams. Next up is the district meet this Saturday at Gardner.
Photos courtesy: millburyboystf Instagram
On May 11th Peer Ed hosted the 6th grade students for an end of year field day. This was the culmination to the Peer Ed program where the peer ed students visits the 6th grade class at Shaw school to discuss vaping, alcohol, and mental health, and making good decisions.
The field day give the 6th graders to visit the high school, have some fun as a whole class, and wrap up the peer ed program for the year.
contributors: Grace Gustafson Albino (2026) & Nahya Bichotte (2026)
Photo credit: Adri Armendo (2028) & Sadie Warren (2026)
Congratulations to the new members of Millbury Memorial Jr. Sr. High School’s Junior National Honor Society. These students have successfully demonstrated the core values of scholarship, service, leadership, character, and citizenship. We commend their hard work and look forward to seeing the positive impact they will continue to make through their upcoming volunteer and community activities.
Sarafina Bennes
Adeline Blais
Gianna Cappoli
Ava Chierus
Michael Colorio
Liam Conlon
Lola Crandell
Wes DeVault
Caroline Dixon
Alena Do
Hayle Fair
Eva Ferreira
Michela Fortunato
Estela Garcia Cezar
Aydn Gelinas
Tyler Gerardi
Devyn Greiner
Miranda Hill
Sophia Huerta
Sasha Jaquith
Juniper Johnson
Meghan Jones
Brendan Kennedy
Liam Lawson
Carly Lawton
Catherine Lego
Evan Maguire
Blaise Maselli
Kylie Mulhern
Evan Naro-Spain
Annabel Narrow
Lydia Orsi
Anthony Peloquin
Kayla Piscitelli
Jacob Rose
Abigail Roy
Avery Shamoian
Logan Skarin
Olivia Sousa
Grace Tarka
Haven Van Ness
Juliana Verdolino
Katelyn Wiltshire
Aili Yaskis
Photos by: Emeliene Moroney (2027)
By LeeAnn Narkawicz (2026)
Most Overrated: Ja Morant Morant is undeniably one of the most explosive, highlight-generating guards in basketball, capable of taking over games single-handedly. However, his full-season impact occasionally struggles to match the extreme hype. Due to various absences and occasional fluctuations in game-to-game production, his steady, long-term impact can be more uneven than expected for a consensus top-tier superstar.
Most Underrated: Santi Aldama Aldama is the epitome of quiet efficiency off the bench. He provides steady rebounding, smart floor-spacing, and reliable scoring without needing the offense to revolve around him. While nothing about his game screams for attention, his ability to stabilize the second unit is vital to the team's overall depth.
Most Overrated: Rudy Gobert Gobert’s paint defense and rim protection are undeniably elite, completely altering how opponents attack the basket. The critique, however, lies on the offensive end, where his limited skillset allows disciplined teams to scheme around him in high-stakes playoff matchups. This creates a disconnect between his massive regular-season praise and his situational utility when matchups dictate a smaller, faster game.
Most Underrated: Jaden McDaniels McDaniels is quietly establishing himself as one of the premier perimeter defenders in the NBA, capable of locking down multiple positions entirely on an island. While his offensive game is still a work in progress, his steady improvement as a spot-up shooter and cutter makes him a foundational piece whose structural value is rarely fully appreciated in casual conversations.
Most Overrated: Zion Williamson When healthy, Williamson is an absolute force of nature, physically overwhelming defenses and collapsing paint coverage at will. The glaring issue, however, remains his durability. Because injuries have consistently disrupted his availability, the reality of his season-long impact rarely aligns with the expectations placed on him as a franchise-altering centerpiece.
Most Underrated: Trey Murphy III Murphy III is an essential component of modern offensive spacing. He is a lethal, high-volume shooter who moves intelligently without the ball and slots seamlessly into virtually any lineup. He doesn't require heavy touches to alter the geometry of the court, making his quiet role incredibly valuable to the team's offensive efficiency.
Most Overrated: Russell Westbrook (Historical Context) Looking back at the Thunder's history, Westbrook remains a polarizing figure. His historic statistical output, relentless energy, and sheer intensity are undisputed, but his high-usage style has always sparked debate. The disconnect lies between his monumental individual triple-double seasons and the lingering questions surrounding his efficiency and how his style translated to deep postseason success.
Most Underrated: Isaiah Hartenstein Hartenstein is a master of doing the heavy lifting that doesn't show up in traditional scoring columns. He provides elite screen-setting, interior defense, and superb short-roll decision-making. The team's overall structure and stability noticeably elevate whenever he is on the floor, making him a premium glue guy.
Most Overrated: Bradley Beal Beal still possesses elite scoring talent and can heat up in a hurry, but injuries and a lack of role consistency have hampered his time in Phoenix. Given his massive contract, the expectations are sky-high, but defensive limitations and missing time mean his all-around impact doesn't always justify the star-level reputation.
Most Underrated: Royce O'Neale O'Neale is a smart, low-usage wing who specializes in making the right basketball play. He spaces the floor efficiently, defends multiple positions, and acts as a connector within the offense. He doesn't force shots or hunt statistics, but his presence ensures the lineup runs smoothly and stays balanced.
Most Overrated: Deandre Ayton Ayton possesses undeniable physical tools and talent, occasionally looking like a dominant, paint-controlling center. However, his performance is often marred by inconsistency and questions regarding sustained motor. It frequently feels like public perception is holding onto his theoretical ceiling rather than the fluctuating production he delivers on a nightly basis.
Most Underrated: Toumani Camara Camara deserves significantly more attention for the competitive edge he brings to the roster. He is a tenacious defender who willingly takes on the toughest perimeter assignments while bringing high-level hustle every night. He thrives in the shadows of the spotlight, making him the exact type of structural piece a rebuilding team needs.
Most Overrated: Domantas Sabonis Sabonis posts spectacular regular-season numbers as an elite rebounding and playmaking hub. However, the narrative around him shifts under postseason scrutiny. Elite teams have historically exposed his defensive limitations and limited his scoring space in tight, half-court playoff environments, raising questions about whether his regular-season production inflates his status as a true playoff centerpiece.
Most Underrated: Keegan Murray While the star guards get the headlines, Murray’s steady evolution into a legitimate two-way weapon is vital. He offers excellent floor-spacing, highly efficient scoring, and has quietly grown into one of the team's most reliable defenders. Because of his stoic demeanor, his crucial night-to-night impact is frequently overlooked.
Most Overrated: Victor Wembanyama (Hype vs. Current Résumé) This critique is strictly about the unprecedented media expectations versus his current career stage. Wembanyama's generational talent, defensive instincts, and physical tools are entirely real. However, the public discourse treats him as a finished, championship-driving superstar right now, ignoring the natural developmental curve and adjustments required as he learns to anchor a team over a full 82-game schedule.
Most Underrated: Harrison Barnes As a young roster develops, Barnes provides the essential veteran ballast. He rarely makes the highlight reels, but he delivers immense value through efficient scoring, mistake-free decision-making, and a calming locker room presence. He is the quiet professional responsible for keeping chaotic stretches organized.
Most Overrated: Lauri Markkanen Markkanen is an incredibly versatile, smooth-scoring big man whose numbers look exceptional on paper. However, questions remain regarding how effectively his individual production scales to winning at the highest level. He can occasionally fade into the background during crucial stretches, leaving fans wanting more late-game control from a player designated as a franchise cornerstone.
Most Underrated: Keyonte George Though early in his professional career, George is showcasing the foundational traits of a high-level playmaker. He isn't just looking for his own shot; he actively reads defensive coverages, commands the offense, and plays with a maturity beyond his years. As his efficiency catches up to his confidence, his status as an underrated prospect won't last long.
Looking to get a head start on your future? Worcester State University is offering high school students the chance to take free college classes this summer! It’s a great way to earn real college credit, test out a new subject, and see what a college-level workload is actually like, all without spending a dime. WSU will be hosting two Zoom info sessions soon for students and parents to meet the instructors and check out the schedule. Keep an eye out for the dates, and don't miss out on this chance to beef up your transcript for free.
Lots of new books in the library from sports to mystery and more inbetween. Stop by during flex to see what's new. Ms. Flaherty is willing to help you find a book that peaks your interest for school or pleasure.
May is the final month of school for the Class of 2026. Here are a few important dates to note in your callendar. Make sure you check your email for end of year and graduation updates from your advisors.
Saturday, May 9 – Junior/Senior Prom Pleasant Valley Country Club from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM Arrive by 6:30 PM and plan to stay until at least 9:30 PM.
Friday, May 22 – Last Day of Classes & Woolie Represent Day Llast full day of high school for the Class of 2026. Wear a shirt representing your next step: college, the military, or the workforce.
Tuesday, May 26 – Music Awards Night Celebrate our musicians in the High School Auditorium starting at 6:30 PM.
Friday, May 29 – Senior Class Trip Six Flags New England. Class dues must be paid to attend.
MHS varsity softball team earned another win yesterday with an 11-8 victory over the visiting Oxford Pirates in a high-scoring matchup. With this win, the Woolies improved to 9-4 record overall (6-1 CMAC B).
Millbury’s bats were hot from the opening pitch scoring 6 runs in the first two innings and racking up an impressive 17 hits in the game. Brielle Brothers led the charge on both sides of the plate, striking out 12 batters while going 3-for-4 with two RBIs and two runs scored. She was backed up by her battery mate, Valerie Allain, who also had a big day at the plate with three hits and four RBIs. Kendal Hargrave went 3-for-4 with an RBI and three runs scored.
Although Millbury jumped out to an early 6-0 lead by the end of the second inning, Oxford refused to go down without a fight. Going into the 7th inning MHS was up 11-4. Oxford’s offense scored four runs in the top of the sixth inning to put the pressure on but Millbury was able to hold on and close out the inning to secure the win.
Aaliyah Bolduc (2026) & Tyler Dupre (2027)
Aaliyah and Tyler rank the popular dining spots at Blackstone Shoppes. Both students recognized 110 Grill and Panera as top choices, though they had slightly different preferences. Where do your loyalties lie? Are you team steak, team sushi, or is everyone sleeping on the underrated greatness of a Qdoba burrito?
By LeeAnn Narkawicz (2026)
Fast food places are everywhere, but in my opinion, not all of them are worth our time or money. With so many options competing for attention, it’s easy to fall into the same routine without realizing there are better choices out there. From quick snacks to full meals, some places consistently stand out for their taste, value, and overall experience. In this article, I’m breaking down my top 10 fast food spots—the ones that actually live up to the hype and that actually taste good.
10. Sonic Drive-In Sonic is last on my list, not because it’s horrible, but because it doesn’t really compete with the other places. The main reason people go to Sonic is for the drinks. They have a huge variety, and you can mix flavors and get slushes that you really can’t get anywhere else. That part actually makes it fun, especially if you’re going with friends and trying different combinations. The drive-in style is also different, which makes it feel more like an experience instead of just grabbing food. But when it comes to the actual food, it’s kind of average. The burgers, fries, and other items don’t really stand out or taste better than other fast food places. It feels like they focus more on having a big menu instead of making a few things really good. Because of that, the quality can be inconsistent depending on what you order. Compared to every other place on this list, it just doesn’t have the same level of flavor. I wouldn’t go there if I actually wanted a really good meal; I’d mostly go there for drinks or something small. That’s why it ends up at number ten.
9. Shake Shack Shake Shack is good, but it’s honestly kind of overrated. The burgers do taste fresh, and you can tell the ingredients are better than a lot of other fast food places. It feels more like a “higher quality” version of fast food, which is probably why people like it so much. The shakes are also really good and probably one of the best things on the menu. But the biggest problem is the price. It’s a lot more expensive than places like Wendy’s, and it doesn’t always feel worth it. The portions are also smaller, which makes it worse because you’re paying more for less food. Compared to other places on this list, it just doesn’t give the same value. It also doesn’t have a huge menu, so it can get kind of repetitive. It’s still a good place, just not one I would go to all the time. That’s why it’s near the bottom of my list.
8. Chipotle Chipotle is number eight because it’s different from most fast food places. Instead of burgers and fries, you can build your own bowl or burrito, which is a big reason why people like it. Being able to pick exactly what you want makes it feel more personal. The ingredients also feel fresher compared to a lot of other fast food. It can also be really filling, especially if you get a bowl with a lot of toppings. Another reason people like it is because it can feel healthier depending on what you choose. But it’s not perfect. Sometimes the portions are really good, and other times they feel way smaller than they should be. That inconsistency is a big problem. The price has also gone up, so when you get a small portion, it feels even worse. Compared to higher-ranked places, it’s just not as reliable. It’s still a good option when you want something different, but it doesn’t stand out enough to be higher on the list.
7. Dairy Queen Dairy Queen is mostly on this list because of the desserts. The Blizzards are one of the best fast food desserts, and that’s the main reason people go there. There are so many different flavors, and they’re usually always good no matter what you get. It’s the kind of place you think of when you want something sweet instead of an actual meal. The food is okay, but it’s not the reason it stands out. Compared to other places, it doesn’t really compete when it comes to meals. But it’s still better than Sonic because it actually has something it does really well. It’s also a place people go to more in the summer. Even though it’s not amazing overall, it still deserves a spot. That’s why it’s number seven.
6. Panda Express Panda Express is a good option when you want something different from typical fast food. It stands out because it’s not just burgers and fries. The orange chicken is probably the most popular item, and it’s really good. The portions are also usually pretty big, which makes it feel like you’re getting your money’s worth. It’s also quick, which makes it convenient. But sometimes the food can be kind of greasy or heavy. It’s also not always consistent depending on the location. Compared to higher-ranked places, it doesn’t feel as fresh. It’s still a solid choice, just not one of the best. That’s why it’s number six.
5. PDQ PDQ is honestly underrated. Not a lot of people talk about it, but it’s actually really good. The chicken tastes fresh and not overly processed, which makes a big difference. It feels like they actually care about the quality of the food. That’s why it ranks higher than some more popular places. But it’s not as well known or easy to find as other fast food chains. Compared to Chick-fil-A, it doesn’t have the same level of popularity or consistency. Still, the food itself is really solid. It’s better than a lot of places below it. That’s why it’s number five.
4. Wendy's Wendy’s is one of the best burger places in fast food. The food tastes more real compared to some other chains, which makes it stand out. The square burgers also make it different from other places. The fries are good, and the Frosty is one of the best desserts. It’s also not too expensive, which makes it a good value. Compared to places below it, it’s more reliable and consistent. But at the end of the day, it’s still just a burger place. It’s not as exciting as the top three. Still, it’s really solid overall. That’s why it’s number four.
3. Chick-fil-A Chick-fil-A is really good and one of the most consistent fast food places. The food is almost always good no matter where you go. The employees are also really nice, which makes the experience better. The chicken sandwiches and waffle fries are some of the best fast food items. It’s a place you can always count on. But I ranked it below Raising Cane’s because I go there less. Even though it has more options, I like Cane’s chicken better. Still, it’s easily one of the best places overall. That’s why it’s number three.
2. Raising Cane's Raising Cane’s is one of my favorites because it focuses on doing one thing really well. The chicken tenders are so good and taste better than Chick-fil-A in my opinion. The Cane’s sauce is also a huge reason why it’s so popular. Even though the menu is small, that actually helps keep the quality high. Everything is simple but really good. I also go there more often than Chick-fil-A. Compared to other places, the flavor stands out more. That’s why it’s number two.
1. Subway Subway is my number one because it’s the place I enjoy the most overall. I feel like I could eat it all the time and not get tired of it. One of the biggest reasons is that you can customize everything. You can make your sandwich exactly how you want it, which makes it better than most fast food places. It also feels healthier compared to burgers and fried food. I also like that they have pizzas, which gives more options. The environment is something I enjoy too, which makes the experience better. Compared to everything else on this list, it’s the place I would choose the most. That’s why it’s number one.
By LeeAnn Narkawicz (2026)
Most Overrated: Andrew Wiggins Wiggins is often evaluated as a consistent, high-level two-way wing, but his production tends to fluctuate. His scoring impact can vanish when he isn't in an offensive rhythm, and while he is a solid defender, he isn't always as disruptive as his reputation suggests. His contract level further inflates expectations that he doesn't consistently meet.
Most Underrated: Jaime Jaquez Jr. Jaquez Jr. is frequently overlooked because he lacks a "flashy" highlight reel. However, his value lies in his efficiency, toughness, and high basketball IQ. He contributes across multiple categories without requiring high usage, making his actual role value much higher than his public recognition.
Most Overrated: Desmond Bane Bane is often treated as a premier two-way star, but his game-to-game impact can be inconsistent. While he is an elite shooter, his offensive contribution drops sharply when his shots aren't falling. Defensively, he is serviceable but rarely a game-changer against elite perimeter scorers, leading to a gap between his reputation and his all-around influence.
Most Underrated: Jonathan Isaac When healthy, Isaac is one of the most disruptive defensive forces in the league. His length and timing allow him to ruin offensive sets and protect the rim at an elite level. Despite his limited availability, his defensive impact per minute is staggering, making him far more valuable than the average fan realizes.
Most Overrated: Trae Young Young is viewed as a superstar due to his elite scoring and playmaking, but his defensive impact is consistently among the weakest for high-usage guards. His value is highly dependent on shooting efficiency and drawing fouls; when those aren't working, his two-way utility drops significantly. The "franchise-carrying" label often outweighs his actual impact on winning.
Most Underrated: Anthony Davis While Davis is recognized as a dominant force, he remains underrated when factoring in his pure peak impact. He can single-handedly change a game defensively as a rim protector and switch defender. While durability remains a concern that affects his value perception, a healthy Davis provides a level of two-way play that few in history can match.
Most Overrated: Dereck Lively II Lively is a promising young center, but the current discourse often treats him as a finished product defensively. While he brings great energy and rim protection, he still deals with the typical inconsistencies of a developing player. The hype surrounding his current game seems to be slightly ahead of his actual on-court development.
Most Underrated: Naji Marshall Marshall is a versatile "gap-filler" who consistently brings effort and smart play to the floor. He excels at the small, non-statistical things that help a team function. Because he isn't a flashy player, he rarely makes headlines, but his impact is undeniable to those who watch closely.
Most Overrated: Jamal Murray Murray has proven he can take over games—especially in the playoffs—and those peaks have defined his reputation. However, that elite production doesn't always stay consistent across a full 82-game season. His tendency to have stretches where his impact dips makes his overall standing a bit more uneven than his "superstar" status suggests.
Most Underrated: Aaron Gordon Gordon is the ultimate role player for a championship system. He doesn't need high scoring totals or headlines to be effective; instead, he focuses on physical defense, cutting, and hustle. His ability to stay locked into his role without needing the spotlight is a primary reason the Nuggets' system functions so effectively.
Most Overrated: Draymond Green Green’s leadership and defensive IQ are legendary, but his overall production doesn't always align with the way he is discussed compared to other impact players. Given his role and contract, there are nights where his impact feels much more limited than his reputation would suggest, especially as the league continues to evolve.
Most Underrated: Kevon Looney Looney is the unsung hero of the Warriors' system. He is never the focus of the offense, but he masters the "dirty work": rebounding, setting screens, and perfect positioning. His reliability and willingness to do the things that don't show up in highlight clips make him an essential part of the team's success.
Most Overrated: Kawhi Leonard The talent is unquestionable—when Kawhi is on the floor, he is a top-tier two-way player. However, the best ability is availability. Because he has missed significant time over the years, the perception of him as a "constant" elite presence doesn't always match the reality of his total impact over the course of a full season.
Most Underrated: Ivica Zubac Zubac is a consistent double-double threat who anchors the paint without needing many touches. He does the routine but vital work—protecting the rim and keeping possessions alive—that rarely makes it into a highlight reel. He is the quiet engine that keeps the Clippers' interior functioning.
Most Overrated: Austin Reaves Reaves is a very solid role player who fits well as a secondary creator. However, the massive hype surrounding him often suggests he is closer to a top-level star than he actually is. While reliable and skilled, he remains firmly in the "strong role player" category rather than being the superstar the media occasionally portrays him to be.
Most Underrated: Jaxson Hayes Hayes doesn't put up massive stat lines, but he provides a very specific and necessary spark. His athleticism, ability to run the floor, and vertical gravity at the rim give the Lakers a dimension of size and energy that helps bridge the gap during crucial minutes.
If you’ve walked through a store lately, you’ve likely seen big, colorful squares making a major comeback. Vinyl records are officially trendy again, and they aren’t just for old people. While having millions of songs on your phone is convenient, many students are finding that the physical experience of owning a record is actually worth the effort.
Unlike streaming, vinyl forces you to slow down and truly appreciate an album from start to finish. From the large-scale artwork to the unique sound, it turns listening into an activity rather than just background noise. Whether you want to support your favorite artist or just need a break from your screen, vinyl offers listeners a special way to connect with music.
Are you ready to join the revival, or are you sticking with your earbuds? Check out the current top-selling records below to see where to start your collection.
According to Luminate and Billboard data
Taylor Swift – Midnights
Harry Styles – Harry’s House
Fleetwood Mac – Rumours
Pink Floyd – The Dark Side of the Moon
Olivia Rodrigo – Sour
Michael Jackson – Thriller
The Beatles – Abbey Road
Kendrick Lamar – Good Kid, M.A.A.D City
Lana Del Rey – Born to Die
Tyler, The Creator – Call Me If You Get Lost
Aesthetic: Many of these albums (like Lana or Taylor) come in multiple colors (blue, pink, clear), which makes fans want to collect them all.
The "Vibe": Classic albums like Rumours or Abbey Road are seen as "essentials"; the kind of music that sounds better with a bit of needle crackle.
Ownership: In a world of streaming where you don't "own" your music, these physical records give fans a way to support their favorite artists directly.