Volume 130, Issue 5

“Diversity, Equity And Inclusion Is Not Made A Priority:” BSO Holds Anti-Racist Protest At UNR

By Nick Stewart

The Black Student Organization at the University of Nevada, Reno held a protest in front of the Mathewson-IGT Knowledge Center to take a stand against repeated racist incidents that they say have not been properly addressed by the university. This protest comes after an incident in Argenta Hall on the seventh floor where a student was filmed yelling racial slurs in the early morning hours of April 5.

A large crowd gathered on the steps of the KC, many holding large signs with messages condemning racism, like: “Be a buddy, not a b—” and “Hate 4 One is Hate 4 All”. There were many loud chants and their voices could be heard across the campus.

Initially believed to be a white student, the student who yelled the slurs has since identified themselves as a person of color according to a social media post by BSO. The protest addresses not only this incident, but others that protest organizers and attendees feel have gone unaddressed.

Virchelle Banks, BSO president and an organizer of the protest, feels confident they were noticed by members of the campus community.

“I feel like we were really loud and people heard us,” said Banks. “I remember us shouting and just hearing our voices echo in the parking garage that’s right across from the KC.” Banks says the point of the protest was to make sure people hear them out.

“It’s not a black versus white issue, it’s not a race against race issue,” said Banks. “We just want people to hear where we’re coming from. We want to make this university inclusive and as diverse as they say it is.”

Many students and faculty stopped by to watch the protest. Some would walk up the steps to join them in the chants.

“I feel like people think things like this are a joke, or that it’s funny when you say the n-word,” said Daisy Partey, UNR student. “I don’t

think it’s something that we should just brush over, we’re in the day and age where people should know better.”

Evan Robinson, ASUN Advocacy Director and senator-elect for the College of Liberal Arts, was at the protest and gave a speech and organized chants for the crowd.

During his speech, Robinson emphasized that black students only make up four percent of the student body, and that they need support from not only within the black community, but support from nonblack people.

He says that many of the black students at UNR either transfer or drop out of the university, and he believes a big reason is hate speech that goes unaddressed. “When we don’t hold those folks accountable, what does that tell the campus community? What does that tell white supremacists? What does that tell people who think about hurting black or brown lives? It tells them that it’s okay and they have a pass to do it.”

Robinson wants to revisit this during his time as a new ASUN senator, and wants to use his platform to make change on campus.

“As a senator-elect for ASUN, I do plan on following up on this and really utilizing our inclusion, diversity, equity and accessibility committee to really try to create some legislation that’s going to implement training for residents,” said Robinson. “Ultimately, this is because there’s no training. Diversity, equity and inclusion is not made a priority.”

Following the protest, BSO held a post-protest workshop in the Multicultural Center in the Joe Crowley Student Union, where people could socialize, grab food and water, and reflect on the protest.

We just want people to hear where we’re coming from. We want to make this university inclusive and as diverse as they say it is.

UNR Dean of Engineering Replaced, Associate Dean Taking Place

By Jaedyn Young

Erick Jones, the dean of the College of Engineering at the University of Nevada, Reno, was replaced by Indira Chatterjee, the current associate dean of engineering after recommendation by Jeff Thompson, executive vice president and provost. Brian Sandoval, the president of the university, approved the appointment of Chatterjee as the acting dean in the “absence” of Jones, according to university officials.

Scott Walquist, director of communications at the university, told The Nevada Sagebrush in an email that he could not provide the reasoning.

“We are unable to provide additional information as this is a confidential personnel matter,” Walquist wrote. Previously, the Sagebrush reported on questionable content that arose in the research articles from the dean. A blog post was published by Andrew Gelman, a statistics and political science professor at Columbia University, who commented on the “empty jargon” present in

the studies.

Following the article, students and internet sleuths have dug up more articles with dubious content. Some found articles consisting of only seven sentences, multiple duplicates of articles published in different volumes and very short peer review processes for all articles.

Jones replied to the allegations in the comment section of Gelman’s blog post claiming Gelman’s assessment of the work was “unjust”; he said he “gave up” being editor of the journal a “few years back,” but is still the initial founder and editor of the publication, as well as an investor.

“The journal is peer reviewed and it was designed initially for more American supply chain practitioners, researchers and undergraduate students in applied application labs to publish with faculty, from internships and class papers on applied engineering activities that are related to supply chain technologies,” said Jones.

A petition was started to then call for his resignation, but also for UNR to conduct a review of their hiring processes to “ensure that senior faculty are held to at least the same standards of academic integrity as are undergraduate students.”

Jessica Lozada, a communications officer for the university told the Sagebrush that they were aware of the allegations and they would be investigating and reviewing the issue. There had been no news of this issue until today as reported by Walquist.

It was also revealed that during the university’s search for a dean in 2022, there were five finalists were presented to multiple open forums during the hiring process:

Andreas Polycarpou, the department head for the College of Mechanical Engineering at Texas A&M University from 2012 to 2021

Krishna Pagilla, a professor and chair of civil and environmental engineering at UNR

James Klausner, a foundation professor at Michigan State University in the department

of mechanical engineering and executive director for the Fraunhofer USA Center Midwest in the Coatings and Diamond Technologies Division;

Ozlem Kilic, the associate dean and professor at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, in the Tickle College of Engineering and the executive director, Intercollegiate Data Science Program

Suzanna Long, a chair and professor at Missouri University in the department of engineering management and systems engineering However, Erick Jones, the current dean, was not listed in the finalists.

Emerson Drewes contributed to this story.

Jaedyn Young can be reached at jaedynyoung@sagebrush.unr.edu or on Twitter @jaedyn_young3.

Zoe Malen / Nevada Sagebrush Protestors gathered on the front steps of the Mathewson-IGT Knowledge Center on April 16. According to organizers, there have been many racist incidents in the past that have gone unaddressed

Nick Stewart can be reached at ns@sagebrush.unr.edu or on Twitter @nickk_stewart.

VOLUME 130, ISSUE 5

Exec. Editor Emerson Drewes edrewes@sagebrush. unr.edu

News Editors: Jadeyn Young jaedynyoung@sagebrushunr.edu

Nick Stewart ns@unr.edu

A&E Editor: Emily Hess emilyhess@sagebrush.unr.edu

Opinion Editor: Gabriel Kanae gkanae@nevada.unr. edu

Sports Editor: Derek Raridon draridon@sagebrush. unr.edu

Co-copy Editors: Jessie Cabrera jessicacabrera@sagebrush.unr.edu

Aria Frey alfrey@sagebrush.unr. edu

Design Editor: Brooke Germain bgermain@unr.edu

Photo Editor: Zoe Malen zoemalen02@gmail. com

Multimedia Editor: Patrick McNabb pmcnabb@sagebrush. unr.edu

Spanish Language Editor Jaqueline Lopez jaquelinel@unr.edu

CONTRIBUTING STAFFERS

Mayumi Dimalanta, Peregrine Hart, James Wolfgang Perez

The Nevada Sagebrush is a newspaper operated by and for the students of the University of Nevada, Reno. The contents of this newspaper do not necessarily reflect those opinions of the university or its students. It is published by the students DISCLAIMER

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Want Election Day Off School? Not So Fast, NSHE Policy Says

By Emerson Drewes

After a sweeping vote on March 13 and 14 during the Associated Students of the University of Nevada election in favor of canceling classes on Election Day, students may have already been looking forward to having the country’s most consequential Tuesday to themselves. However, it is not a one-and-done deal in the eyes of the Nevada System of Higher Education Board of Regents.

Students showed their support for the idea by voting “Yes” for “Democracy Day” on Ballot Question 2 during elections for the Associated Students of the University of Nevada, with 91.15 percent in favor and just 8.85 percent opposing. But the path to a school-free Election Day is more complicated than it might seem, according to Leaf Acklin, the College of Liberal Arts senator who authored the resolution to get it on the ballot — the push to get it on the student ballot this year passed the ASUN senate unanimously on Jan. 24. ASUN only has the power to lobby for the policy, not to implement it. In order to do so, Acklin said, it’ll take the approval of the Board of Regents, the Nevada System of Higher Education’s governing body. Because they meet so rarely, once per quarter, canceling classes on Election Day 2024 is off the table.

“That would be great, but logistically, it’s not possible,” Acklin said.

“It’ll probably be something that goes into effect by 2026 or 2028 just based on the amount of time it takes to go to the Board of Regents and get it passed.”

Acklin added even before then, the measure still has hurdles to overcome. Right now, it’s being written up as a brief to send to UNR’s legal team, who’ll then review it before it can go to the vice president of student services. The matter is further complicated by the fact the university is currently undergoing a search for someone to fill the position of Vice President of Student Services.

After that, the measure will need the approval of Brian Sandoval, the university’s current president.

The last step before it can reach the docket for the December Board of Regents meeting this year is a review by the Board of Regents’ own legal team. Their verdict will decide whether canceling classes on Election Day is even within the

Board of Regents’ powers. If the Board’s legal team decides it can’t be done or the measure fails to pass the Board’s vote, it doesn’t necessarily spell the end of the measure, Acklin explained. In that case, Acklin said, “we’re going to use all of our time to start lobbying the Nevada legislature when it opens up this session.

We also have a few state assembly people in mind to introduce the bill and get support for us.”

Either way, the numbers on Ballot Question Two are a useful piece of support. Lobbying for the measure isn’t set to ramp up until the fall 2024 semester, but when it does, students who want to see the measure passed should reach out to the Board of Regents just as they would any elected official, Acklin added.

“The more people we have on our side, the more likely it is to pass. Just show up when the time is right and show the Board of Regents that students care about civic literacy, about democracy, about voting,” Acklin said.

Should the measure pass, the original resolution’s wording argues: “Democracy Day” will expand beyond giving students a day to vote.

“This resolution seeks to redefine Election Day at the University of Nevada, Reno, transforming it into a vibrant celebration of democracy, volunteerism, civic literacy and accessible voting for both students and faculty,” Acklin wrote in the resolution.

Students may be intimidated by the long road ahead, but measures like “Democracy Day” aren’t unprecedented. Schools like Stanford and the University of Michigan have already implemented a class-free Election Day for their students — and the resolution argues UNR can too.

“As much as it’d be a great thing to have this year, this is going to take time,” Acklin said. “Not just my team but ASUN as a whole is willing to commit its time, its resources and its energy to make sure that we have a chance to bring this to the Board of Regents — a chance to get it to pass.”

Peregrine Hart can be reached at jaedynyoung@sagebrush.unr. edu or on Twitter via @

“Hating One Is Hating All”: Student Filmed Saying N-Word In Argenta Hall, BSO Quick To Organize Protest

By Nick Stewart and Gabe Kanae

Editor’s Note: Readers may find some of the information disclosed in this article disturbing. Reader discretion is advised.

Students packed into the Multicultural Center in the Joe Crowley Student Union on April 11 to discuss a recent incident of racism on the University of Nevada, Reno campus. In the early morning hours of April 5 a white male student was filmed using a racial slur on the seventh floor of Argenta Hall.

The video shows a white male student shouting the n-word with a hard ‘R’ towards the Living Learning Community which primarily houses students of color.

UNR officials provided a statement to The Nevada Sagebrush saying that they are aware of the video and there are steps being taken.

“This matter has been referred to Residential Life’s On-Campus Housing Rules and Conduct, as well as the Office of Equal Opportunity and Title IX for review,” said Scott Walquist, UNR director of communications. “We will continue to encourage everyone on our campus to remember to show respect, understanding and empathy for others.”

According to student leaders in the Black Student Organization, Residential Life and Housing cannot take disciplinary measures against the use of the slur due to free speech, but will instead write them up for disrupting during quiet hours. Additionally, the student who used the slur attempted to attend the BSO meeting, but members of the organization “politely asked them to leave.”

Student leaders in the BSO quickly organized a meeting and round table on Thursday after the video started surfacing on social media. The meeting discussed plans for reform, response and plans for a protest next week.

Helen Girma and Virchelle Banks, presidents of BSO, and Krystal Watson, vice president of BSO, led the meeting and roundtable discussion which made actionable plans and recommendations for the university to handle this situation. Other leaders on campus were also present, including ASUN senators and members of the executive board, professor and Whitney Hughes, assistant dean of Student Conduct.

During the meeting, many Black students chronicled their own racist experiences, emphasizing this incident is not singular, saying the university is not going enough to protect students of color and admonish racism.

Students critiqued Brian Sandoval, UNR President, and his ways of responding to incidents on campus and feel that his responses are not genuine and do not fully acknowledge the events. “Any time we bring up a racial matter or anything of discrimination to the university, they kind of just sweep it under the rug,” said Crystal Watson, vice president of the BSO. “UNR claims to be very diverse and they claim that they want to see dif-

ferent populations of people of color on campus, but at the end of the day, I think I can speak for everyone when I say we don’t feel that support.”

Many students expressed the importance for their peers to speak up and share their own experiences within their time at the university and how it has negatively impacted them.

Sarah Jackson is a resident on the seventh floor of Argenta Hall, and she now feels uncomfortable after the recent events that took place on her floor.

“It’s supposed to be a safe space for us to live in, sleep in, dine and have fun with our friends,” said Jackson. “But now there’s people coming into our spaces saying slurs and obviously now we’re uncomfortable”

Girma, who was a resident assistant herself, said she used to see the n-word written on whiteboards, but was “not allowed” to erase it because of free speech purposes.

The situation that caused the gathering didn’t quite come as a surprise.

Many of the attendees at the meeting recall previous events in their own lives, in media coverage, on social media and also at the university where students of color were not able to feel safe but rather targeted.

A huge submission to the conversation is how important and vital it is for students to be able to feel safe in their place of living. Considering the event occurred in residence hall which is a designated safe space on campus — many interpret the intentions of the perpetrator to have a foul undertone.

There was great concern about the lack of consequences the perpetrator has received thus far and the message it shares to those who accept their viewpoint. Many feel that it is essential that the person from the video whose words have caused significant harm, suffer some form of consequence rather than a simple slap on the wrist.

A topic that drew a lot of attention and concern is how some students frequently downplay racist jokes, comments or implicit biases. There is a significant desire to call out this phenomenon so students will participate in dissolving it rather than ignoring it in the future.

White students who attended as allies the importance of potentially implementing diversity and inclusion training for those who want to work at or attend the university. The hope is that by introducing a well-structured cultural and educational framework from the beginning, it will be easier to pick and choose those more willing to be accepting to those outside of their own race in the community than those who won’t.

The Black Student Organization will be holding the protest on April 16 from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. in front of the Mathewson-IGT Knowledge Center. This is a developing story please check nevadasagebrush.com for updates.

Senate 4/10: Final Senate meeting of 91st session

By Emerson Drewes

The Associated Students of the University of Nevada, Reno met for their final senate meeting before the adjournment of the ninety-first session.

The meeting was over four hours long, as the senator tried to squeeze in all the legislation readings and final reports of the session before the Joe Crowley Student Union closed for the night.

S.R.

91: A Resolution in Support of a Day of Recognition for University Police Services

Josh Reynolds, deputy chief, spoke for himself and on the behalf of Eric James, the chief of police for this resolution.

“I can confirm that the safety of our community … is paramount, that is our commitment, chief and myself,” Reynolds said. Both Reynolds and James have children that will be or are already attending UNR.

He said safety is their top priority and discussed their 24/7 commitment to safety. They teach things like women’s self-defense classes at the university in order to help combat human trafficking and help the community. He extended his gratitude to Aween Ali, senator for the College of Engineering and Mark Meiszburger, speaker pro tempore, for putting this resolution on the table.

Madison Eifert, the community relations specialist at UNRPD, oversees social media, events and community outreach. She said she appreciates the healthy

discourse that occurred at the last meeting because it helps UNRPD help better their efforts for the students. She also added that she did research on other campuses and emphasized how safe it is on the UNR campus here.

Evan Robinson said a black student was on campus in an Argenta Hall study room with four students and many students were yelling derogatory terms — which Robinson emphasized is only one incident of many.

He said the incidents get reported, but that the university can’t do anything because of the freedom of speech. Robinson said hearing about these incidents and then promoting a resolution for police feels disheartening. He urged the table to vote ‘no’ on this piece.

Hailey Gregor, a cheerleader for UNR, supported the police resolution and thanks them for always keeping her safety a priority and for their response during the UNLV shooting.

“The increased police presence during that time … I really appreciated, because I felt like we were protected and we were safe and that they were going to take care of us,” Gregor said. “I would just like to extend a thank-you to the police department.”

Meiszburger and Ali pushed for this piece to be fasttracked because they put a lot of work in for this piece; however, Jojan argued this piece shouldn’t be fast-

tracked, and it should go through committee because it was defeated and they would’ve had to have instant turn around on the piece.

“Let’s ensure it goes to committee, and if that means it’s delayed by one session, so be it because that’s the proper way to do things,” Jojan said.

Ali and Meiszburger reached out to the senators but not one responded, and they still talked to the chief and collected the proper data to re-propose this piece. The piece was fast-tracked to second reading, where Ali and Meiszburger gave a presentation on the piece, showing the table the team, talking about the difference between campus and community police and discussing the specific statistics and progress that UNRPD has made.

According to the presentation, in the past five years, there were 12 complaints against UNRPD. Only one of them was from a UNR student in 2019, and the UNR student’s complaint was unfounded. If a complaint is sustained, there are measures taken for these issues.

The outcomes of the passage of this piece will promote educational information for students, a better connection between ASUN and UNRPD and a collaborative Instagram post on Oct. 10 with the police services to honor them. This also is an open-ended piece that Ali and Meiszburger wanted to leave it like this to encourage more collaboration beyond this piece. Ali said the chief wants to engage

with the students, continue talking about future changes and keep interactions prominent going forward.

“They want to hear from the people that they serve,” Ali said. “They know nothing about you, but they would not hesitate to stand up and risk their lives for you.”

Kelsea Frobes, senator for the School of Journalism, asked about the surveys to see if there has been change or improvements from the student body about the UNRPD services, which they said has been done; however, Ali and Meiszburger did not specify what these results were.

Tori Beaulac, senator for the College of Science stressed that this piece needed weeks of research and said that the piece should be a day of connection, rather than a day of recognition. Jojan agreed with Beaulac saying that they needed to do more outreach and take longer on this resolution. He said there’s an “institutional issue” that’s prevailing with this.

“It’s about the culture of UNRPD,” Jojan said.

@NevadaSagebrush

Nick Stewart can be reached at ns@ sagebrush.unr.edu or on X @nickk_ stewart.

Jaedyn

El Decano De Ingeniería De UNR Es Reemplazado, El Decano Asociado Toma Lugar

Erick Jones, el decano de la Facultad de Ingeniería de la Universidad de Nevada, Reno, fue reemplazado por Indira Chatterjee, la actual decana asociada de ingeniería después de la recomendación de Jeff Thompson, vicepresidente ejecutivo y rector. Brian Sandoval, el presidente de la universidad, aprobó el nombramiento de Chatterjee como decano interino en la “ausencia” de Jones, según funcionarios de la universidad. Scott Walquist, director de comunicaciones de la universidad, le dijo a Nevada Sagebrush en un correo electrónico que no podía proporcionar el razonamiento.

“No podemos proporcionar información adicional, ya que se trata de un asunto confidencial de personal”, escribió Walquist. Previamente, el Sagebrush informó sobre contenidos cuestionables que surgieron en los artículos de investigación del decano. Una publicación de blog fue publicada por Andrew Gelman, profesor de estadística y ciencias políticas en la Universidad de Columbia, quien comentó sobre la información innecesaria presente en los estudios. Después del artículo, los estudiantes y los detectives de Internet han desenterrado más artículos con contenido dudoso. Algunos encontraron

artículos que consistían en sólo siete frases, múltiples duplicados de artículos publicados en diferentes volúmenes y procesos de revisión por pares muy cortos para todos los artículos.

Jones respondió a las acusaciones en la sección de comentarios del blog de Gelman afirmando que la evaluación de Gelman del trabajo era “injusta”; dijo que “dejó de ser” editor de la revista “hace unos años”, pero sigue siendo el fundador inicial y editor de la publicación, así como un inversor.

“La revista es revisada por pares y fue diseñada inicialmente para que más profesionales estadounidenses de la cadena de suministro, investigadores y estudiantes de pregrado en laboratorios de aplicaciones aplicadas publiquen con la facultad, desde pasantías y trabajos de clase sobre actividades de ingeniería aplicada que están relacionadas con las tecnologías de la cadena de suministro”, dijo Jones. Se inició una petición para luego pedir su renuncia, pero también para que UNR lleve a cabo una revisión de sus procesos de contratación para “asegurar que los profesores superiores tengan al menos los mismos estándares de integridad académica que los estudiantes de pregrado”.

Jessica Lozada, una oficial de comunicaciones de la universidad, dijo a Sagebrush que estaban al tanto de las acusaciones y que iban a investigar y revisar el asunto. No había habido noticias de este tema hasta hoy, según lo informado por Walquist.

También se reveló que durante la búsqueda de

un decano por parte de la universidad en 2022, se presentaron cinco finalistas a múltiples foros abiertos durante el proceso de contratación:

Andreas Polycarpou, el director del departamento de la Facultad de Ingeniería Mecánica de la Universidad A&M de Texas de 2012 a 2021

Krishna Pagilla, profesor y catedrático de ingeniería civil y ambiental en UNR

James Klausner, profesor de fundación en la Universidad de Michigan State en el departamento de ingeniería mecánica y director ejecutivo para el Fraunhofer USA Center Midwest en la División de Recubrimientos y Tecnologías Diamantes;

Ozlem Kilic, decano asociado y profesor de la Universidad de Tennessee, Knoxville, en la Facultad de Ingeniería de Tickle y director ejecutivo del Programa Intercolegial de Ciencia de Datos; Suzanna Long, catedrática y profesora de la Universidad de Missouri en el departamento de gestión de ingeniería e ingeniería de sistemas Sin embargo, Erick Jones, el actual decano, no figuraba entre los finalistas.

Emerson Drewes contribuyó a este reportaje.

Se puede contactar con Jaedyn Young en jaedynyoung@sagebrush.unr.edu o en twitter @jaedyn_young3.

Estudiantes Y La Facultad De UNR Piden La Renuncia Del Decano Jones Después De Investigaciones Cuestionables

Un estudiante de ingeniería en la Universidad de Nevada, Reno inició una petición urgiendo a Erick Jones, el decano de la Facultad de Ingeniería, para renunciar de su posición actual después de que sus artículos de investigaciones fueron surgidos con contenido cuestionables.

Se llevó a cabo después de que un post de blog fue publicado por Andrew Gelman, profesor de estadística y ciencias políticas en la Universidad de Columbia, quien comentó sobre la información innecesaria presente en los estudios. Después del artículo, los estudiantes y los detectives de Internet han desenterrado más artículos con contenido dudoso. Algunos encontraron artículos que consistían de sólo siete oraciones, múltiples duplicados de artículos publicados en diferentes volúmenes y procesos de evaluación por iguales muy cortos para todos los artículos.

Jones respondió a las acusaciones enla sección de comentarios del blog de Gelman afirmando que la evaluación de Gelman del traba-

jo era “injusta”; dijo que “dejó de ser” editor de la revista “hace unos años”, pero sigue siendo el fundador inicial y editor de la publicación, así como un inversor.

“La revista es revisada por iguales y fue diseñada inicialmente para que más profesionales estadounidenses de la cadena de suministro, investigadores y estudiantes de pregrado en laboratorios de aplicaciones aplicadas publiquen con la facultad, desde pasantías y trabajos de clase sobre actividades de ingeniería aplicada que están relacionadas con las tecnologías de la cadena de suministro”, dijo Jones.

Jones respondió previamente a el Sagebrush con una versión revisada de su comentario original que publicó en respuesta al blog.

La petición no solo pide su renuncia, sino también que la Universidad de Nevada, Reno lleve a cabo una revisión de sus procesos de contratación para “garantizar que los profesores superiores tengan al menos los mismos estándares de integridad académica que los

estudiantes de pregrado”.

“Los estudiantes de la Universidad de Nevada son inteligentes y trabajadores; con razón esperan competencia y honestidad de las personas que supervisan sus estudios”, dice la petición. “Está claro sobre la base del trabajo al que voluntariamente pone su nombre qué Decano Jones carece de la competencia o la honestidad para ejecutar su oficina, así como [la Universidad de Nevada, Reno] se merece”.

Joseph Dailey, un estudiante de ingeniería graduado en la Universidad de Nevada, Reno y ex graduado en la universidad, comenzó la petición después de ver cobertura de la reciente controversia y por preocupación por la legitimidad de su título.

Es lamentable que estemos en esta posición para empezar, pero representa una oportunidad”, dijo Dailey. “Evidentemente hay puntos ciegos en la política académica, en el proceso de revisión por pares y en la implementación de la política administrativa por parte de la Universidad de Nevada, Reno. El mejor momento

para empezar a abordar estos problemas habría sido hace años; el segundo mejor momento es ahora”.

Actualmente, 196 personas han firmado la petición, incluidos estudiantes y miembros de la facultad dentro del departamento de ingeniería; La Sagebrush de Nevada ha confirmado la legitimidad de estas afirmaciones.

Se puede contactar con Jaedyn Young en jaedynyoung@sagebrush.unr.edu o en twitter @jaedyn_young3.

El Equipo De Baloncesto Masculino Consigue A Kobe Sanders De Cal Poly Desde El Portal De Transferencias

La temporada pasada, Sanders promedió 19,6 puntos por partido mientras jugaba 3,7 rebotes y 3,2 asistencias por partido. Pasó cuatro años con los Mustangs y tendrá un año con Nevada antes de que acabe su elegibilidad. Sanders tiene un estilo de juego similar al de Kenan Blackshear, ex guardia de Nevada. La mayoría de los tiros de Sanders el año pasado provinieron del aro (33 por ciento de los goles de campo intentados), en ambos codos (26 por ciento de los goles de campo intentados) y por encima de los tres de descanso en el lado izquierdo (15 por ciento de los goles de campo intentados).

Las comparaciones con Blackshear continúan cuando hablas de los mejores tipos de puntuación de Sanders. Los tres principales en los que es más eficiente son las jugadas de aislamiento (percentil 86 en la nación), las jugadas de pantalla como el manejador (percentil 74 en la nación) y el tiro al contado (percentil 64 en la nación).

Sanders jugó en la secundaria, Christian High School, en El Cajon, California, donde ganó un lugar en el primer equipo de la Liga All-Eastern después de promediar 16,7 puntos por partido y cinco rebotes por partido. Después de comprometerse con Cal Poly, Sanders no vio muchos minutos en comparación con los abridores, pero hizo un promedio de 16,2 minutos por partido fuera de la banca, mientras que obtuvo 4,2 puntos por partido.

A medida que vió más minutos a lo largo de los años, los totales de Sanders comenzaron a subir lentamente. Sanders no fue la primera opción para el equipo hasta su primer año senior, pero aún así vio aumentar sus puntos por partido en 3,5 entre su

primer y tercer año, mientras disparaba más del 35 por ciento desde el campo y promediaba alrededor de una asistencia por pérdida de balón. Luego vino el último año de Sanders. El delantero jugó 306 minutos más en com-

paración con su temporada de 2022-23, que coincidió con más intentos de gol de campo en general (386 intentos en comparación con 172). Sanders prosperó en su nuevo papel prioritario, ya que su porcentaje de tiros aumentó un 10,6 por ciento

(35,5 a 46,1 por ciento) mientras promediaba más de una asistencia por pérdida de balón.

Ahora, mientras que los números son impresionantes y muestran lo bueno que es Sanders, una gran pregunta es si será capaz de traducir esos números al oeste de la montaña. En general, el Big West se fue 2-12 contra el Mountain West durante la temporada 2023-24. Cal Poly contribuyó con una derrota contra Wyoming y una victoria contra la universidad de San Jose State. El desempeño anual del Gran Oeste tampoco es un escenario único. Durante la temporada 2022 a 2023, la conferencia jugó contra equipos de Mountain West 11 veces, ganando solo uno de esos enfrentamientos.

Por lo tanto, sabiendo que el Big West cae en comparación con el Mountain West, los fanáticos de Wolf Pack no pueden decir exactamente que Sanders será el tipo para llenar el agujero dejado por la salida de Blackshear todavía. Al transferirse a Nevada, tendrá posiblemente mejores compañeros de equipo y un equipo que tiene experiencia en ir al torneo de March Madness. El respaldo estará allí, Sanders solo tendrá que demostrar que sus habilidades se pueden traducir en una conferencia más dura y competitiva.

Traducido por Jaqueline Lopez

Traducido por Jaqueline Lopez

Traducido por Jaqueline Lopez

Zoe Malen/ Nevada Sagebrush

El equipo de baloncesto masculino de Nevada adquirió su primera transferencia fuera de temporada el 31 de marzo, siendo Kobe Sanders de la Universidad de Cal Poly.

Arts

Glitz, Glamour and Groundbreakers: UNR’s 2024 Drag Show Takes the Crown

By Emily Hess

The University of Nevada, Reno once again became the epicenter of creativity, inclusivity and vibrant celebration with its annual drag show, an event that has become a hallmark of the University’s commitment to showcasing the diversity and talent within the LGBTQ+ community.

This year’s show, held on a crisp evening that buzzed with anticipation, promised an unforgettable night of performances. It delivered spectacularly, exceeding all expectations.

The evening’s festivities commenced with a performance that set a high bar for the night. Nina West — a towering figure in the drag community known for her advocacy, humor and heart — graced the stage with an opening number that was nothing short of magical. Her medley of Disney songs, replete with elaborate costumes, “Ruveals” and theatrical flair, transported the audience to a world where dreams come to life, setting the tone for an evening that celebrated the art of transformation and self-expression.

The musical selections for the evening, curated and spun by DJ Aden Oster, general manager of Wolf Pack Radio, were a critical ingredient in the night’s success. Oster’s expertise in reading the room and selecting tracks that matched the energy and mood of the performances was evident. From pulsating beats to soulful melodies, the music kept the audience engaged and the performers electrified, creating a seamless flow that carried the event from start to finish.

The task of judging the night’s array of talent fell to Patrick Alejaga, Senior Budget Analyst in the financial aid office, Jimmy Roque Instructional Designer at the office of digital learning and Geoffrey Green, Manager at the office of financial aid and scholarship office. Each brought a unique perspective to the panel, with backgrounds spanning the arts, performance and the drag community itself. Their criteria for success were creativity and en -

tertainment, challenging the contestants to not only showcase their drag personas but also to connect with and captivate the audience.

The heart of the event was, of course, the contestants who brought a distinct style and narrative to the stage:

- Ari combined her years of experience in drag with her professional skills as a costume designer and healthcare worker, delivering a gymnastically charged performance to Madison Beer’s “BoyShit” that left the audience in awe of her agility and artistry.

- Kami Kaliente, a Reno native, demonstrated the power of musicality and stage presence with a performance to Ariana Grande’s “yes and?” that was both enchanting and commanding, emphasizing the art of performance over sheer spectacle.

- Deevina La Doll embarked on a musical odyssey, her performance a dynamic journey through a medley of songs that showcased her ability to adapt, engage and excite. Her energy never waned and her spirit was infectious.

Maria Twampson captured the crowd’s heart and imagination, her name a prelude to the charisma and allure she brought to her performance. Her chair dance in a sequin bodysuit was both a nod to classic burlesque and a testament to her prowess as a performer.

- Avon Amor traced her evolution from a bedroom queen in Texas to a seasoned performer in Reno, blending the soulful strains of Tina Turner with acrobatic prowess. Her transition from “What’s Love Got to Do with It” to “Proud Mary” a metaphor for her own journey of self-discovery and expression.

- Aphrodite’s Pearls offered a performance that was both a visual feast and a tribute to the art of drag. Her feathered outfit and fan work was an homage to the genre’s burlesque roots, while her music choices reflected a modern sensibility.

Nina West’s ability to engage the audience, transforming spectators into participants, was a highlight of the evening. Her selection of “leaders” for different sections of the audience created a sense of community and involvement that elevated the event from a series of performances to a collective experience of joy and celebration.

The culmination of the event, the announcement of Maria Twampson as the winner, was a moment of triumph not only for Twampson but for all those involved in the night’s success. Her victory was a testament to her talent, creativity and connection with the audience, embodying the spirit of drag as an art form that challenges, entertains and inspires.

As the curtain fell on the university’s annual drag show, the sense of accomplishment and camaraderie was palpable. This event was more than a competition; it was a vibrant celebration of identity, artistry and community. It showcased the transformative power of drag, not just for those on stage but for everyone who participated, reminding us that at its core, drag is about challenging norms, embracing diversity and celebrating the freedom to be oneself.

Looking forward, the anticipation for next year’s show is already building, with the promise of new talent, more extravagant performances and the continued celebration of the LGBTQ+ community’s vibrant culture. The UNR annual drag show stands as a beacon of inclusivity and creativity, a reminder of the power of art to bring people together and a vibrant highlight of the university’s cultural calendar.

emilyhess@sagebrush.unr. edu or via Twitter @emilyghess03

The Invisible Festival: How The Joe Fest Played to a NearlyBallroomVacant

The Joe Crowley Student Union’s attempt to capture the spirit of the beloved Biggest Little Festival gave rise to Joe Fest, a festival that may go down in history — not for its impact — but for its astonishing ability to convene more performers than spectators.

Before delving deeper, let’s acknowledge the commendable efforts of BenderWorld. As lone warriors in the promotional battlefield, they tirelessly alerted their followers about Joe Fest. One could argue that without BenderWorld’s social media posts, the event might have mistaken itself for a closed rehearsal rather than a public festival.

As for the performances, the lineup — Honey Plant, BenderWorld and Don Luxe — deserves high praise for their enthusiastic delivery and commitment to their craft.

Each band showcased a plethora of original songs and filled the cavernous ballroom with their creativity and passion, despite playing to a room that felt more like an echo chamber than a music venue.

The music, certainly, was a highlight. The bands strummed, drummed and sang with a vigor that deserved a far larger and more responsive audience, yet the sparse crowd in attendance seemed to be made up predominantly of event staff — easily identifiable in their fresh-off-the-press free t-shirts. This unintended uniformity among the attendees only emphasized the lack of usual festivalgoers.

These free t-shirts, which appeared to be the event’s most successful feature, seemed to bring in a few souls, hinting that perhaps Joe Fest was better at distributing apparel than vibes. It was a peculiar sight: a handful of people gathered, less for the music and more for the merchandise, within

a space echoing emptily with the sounds of what could have been.

One could argue that the minimal turnout was a silent testament to the event’s lack of proper advertising. With only about 30 people scattered across a massive ballroom, each attendee could have had their own personal concert — a silver lining if one squinted hard enough. It was almost as if the festival was an exclusive event for the few, the proud, the incredibly underinformed about the festival’s existence.

In closing, Joe Fest tried with all its might to fill the shoes of its predecessor but ended up feeling more like a private gathering than a public celebration. The bands, undeterred by the sea of empty space, played their hearts out to a virtually non-existent crowd. Here’s to the hopeful evolution of Joe Fest into a festival that can attract as many people as it does hopes and dreams. Let us not forget, when it comes to organizing future events, perhaps a bit more noise of the promotional kind might just fill those expansive, empty spaces. Cheers to the optimism that next year, the music won’t just play to the walls.

Opinions expressed in TheNevadaSagebrushare solelythoseoftheauthor anddonotnecessarilyexpresstheviewsofTheSagebrushoritsstaff.EmilyHess isastudentattheUniversity ofNevadastudyingjournalism.Shecanbereachedat emilyhess@sagebrush.unr. eduandonTwitter@emilyghess3.

The Biggest Little Racers: Inside Reno’s RC Racing World

By Emily Hess

Nestled just a stone’s throw north of the University of Nevada, Reno – amidst a cluster of nondescript business edifices – lies a hidden gem of high-octane excitement. However, the contenders here are not your typical race cars — they tip the scales at a mere four and a half pounds, and have no real drivers, just remote controls.

Welcome to Whip It: RC Raceway and Hobbies, located at 1005 Standard St., in the heart of Panther Valley. Without insider knowledge, this thrilling world would remain a secret – its existence unbeknownst to passersby.

Step through the unassuming entrance, and you’re im-

mediately transported into an electrifying realm where the air is tinged with the scent of rubber and the soundtrack is a symphony of whirring motors and the occasional thud of a racecar meeting the clay track. This is where the miniature heart of motorsport beats the loudest. Racers, each with their personalized pit stop along the perimeter of the racetrack, come prepared with an arsenal of equipment: RC stands, batteries, chargers and an array of tools essential for the fine-tuning of their machines.

The vehicles, despite their diminutive size, are marvels of engineering – delicate yet capable of breathtaking speed

and agility. It’s a rare sight to see a car cross the finish line without bearing the scars of battle, necessitating a pit stop for adjustments or repairs before the next round.

Before the official races kick off, participants are afforded a couple of warm-up laps for last-minute adjustments and strategy planning. The competition is structured into classes based on the vehicles’ specifications: 2 wheel drive and 4 wheel drive divided into expert, intermediate, sportsman, short course truck, stadium truck and novice. This ensures a level playing field, allowing for fair and fierce competition. On the track, the race is

not just against time but also a test of skill and strategy, monitored closely by marshals ready to intervene. These trackside guardians leap into action to right any vehicles that stray from their course, ensuring the race flows smoothly. At the core of Whip It: RC Raceway and Hobbies is a community that embodies the spirit of inclusivity and mutual respect. Here, age and experience level are merely numbers; what truly matters is the shared passion for RC racing. It’s a place where advice, support, and sometimes even spare parts are freely exchanged, fostering an environment where everyone,

from seasoned pros to eager novices, feels welcome.

The raceway’s calendar is meticulously organized to cater to a wide range of skill levels, ensuring that everyone — from those experts wielding 2WD buggies with expert precision to newcomers getting their bearings in the novice class — finds their stride and thrill.

The technology underpinning these miniature racers is nothing short of impressive. With advancements mirroring those of their full-sized counterparts, RC cars boast customizable components like adjustable suspensions and electronic speed controllers that

can be fine-tuned for performance. The evolution from NiCd to LiPo batteries and brushless motor technology has revolutionized the scene, offering lighter, more powerful, and longer-lasting energy sources, making the races more dynamic and strategydriven. Read the rest of the story on nevadasagebrush.com

By Emily Hess

Emily Hess can be reached at

Emily Hess can be reached at emilyhess@sagebrush.unr. edu or via Twitter @emilyghess03

Zoe Malen/Nevada Sagebrush

Zoe Malen/Nevada Sagebrush

Exploring Reno’s Rich Musical Landscape: A Guide to the City’s Best Bands

By Emily Hess

Amidst the backdrop of the Sierra Nevada and the bustling streets of the Biggest Little City, Reno’s music scene thrives, largely unsung but deeply vibrant. Far removed from the glitzy casinos and the historic charm of the University of Nevada, Reno’s campuses, there exists a dynamic and eclectic musical community. This hidden gem of the West boasts an array of talents that span across genres, from indie rock to experimental pop, offering a rich tapestry of sounds that reflect the city’s diverse and spirited culture.

This guide aims to pull back the curtain on Reno’s thriving music scene, spotlighting the bands and artists that make the city a must-listen destination for music lovers. Whether you’re drawn to the emotional depth of indie rock, the innovative beats of electronic music, or the soulstirring rhythms of folk, Reno’s music scene has something to offer for every palate. Join us as we explore the best bands this city has to offer, each contributing to the rich, sonic landscape that makes Reno uniquely captivating.

Bug Bath

Bug Bath emerges as the quintessential pick for fans of robust indie rock, blending a touch of emo with their classical indie roots and an experimental edge. The band’s lineup features Nick Meza holding down the fort on drums, Watson Meyer laying the foundation on bass, and Brigdon Markward leading with guitar and vocals. For those new to Bug Bath, the tracks “Last Time I Dreamt of You” and “I Was Wrong (But When’s That Stopped Me Before)” from their EP “World of Fools” come highly recommended. Their sound, which oscillates between emotional depth and indie experimentation, may resonate well with fans of Jimmy Eat World or Francis of Delirium, suggesting a broad appeal for listeners who appreciate a mix of introspection and innovation in their music.

Heaven 07 stands out with their transcendent electronic melodies, securing a distinctive spot in the musical landscape. Their approach to band structure is equally innovative, as they eschew traditional roles in favor of identifying as distinct musical sections, adding a layer of originality to their sound. This playful and unconventional setup shines through in their debut single “Beach Party Tonight” and follows up with their sophomore single “Johnny Baseball,” both epitomizing the unique Heaven 07 vibe. Beyond their music, the band’s marketing strategy, including their visually captivating music videos and their engaging Instagram presence, contributes to their standout identity. The group is composed of vocalist Tucker Scozzafava, lead synthesizer player Ruben Aguirre, lead rhythm specialist Noah Linker, and lead videographer Ashton Westenburg.

Fans of The Garden, Surf Cuse, or Her’s are likely to find Heaven 07’s sound appealing, thanks to its unique blend of influences and inventive presentation.

BenderWorld

Benderworld merges indie rock with an ethereal ambiance, creating a sound that’s both unique and captivating. The band is anchored by bassist Ben Luery, with Davis Dunkley and Ryan Kowlaczuck sharing guitar duties. Lauren Juillerat leads with her enchanting vocals and songwriting, while Jack Barrington rounds out the group as both drummer and producer. Benderworld has released two singles that showcase their dynamic range: “Dreams” and the standout track “Red Lipstick,” which is noted for its powerful instrumentation and Lauren’s mesmerizing vocal performance. Their music, characterized by its intensity and atmospheric qualities, is likely to appeal to fans of Paramore or The Knee-Hi’s, offering a fresh take on the indie rock genre with a touch of the ethereal.

AFTRPRTY

AFTRPRTY, an alternative duo, introduces a fresh sound with their single “better if u were here.” The band, composed of Gabriel Alec and Clay Posey, weaves a melodic pop mix that distinguishes itself within Reno’s musical landscape. With anticipation building around their future work, AFTRPRTY is a name to watch for those eager to discover new and innovative sounds in the alternative scene. Fans and new listeners alike are keenly awaiting what the duo will unveil next.

Their distinctive approach to music blends well with the tastes of listeners who lean towards the styles of Comfort Club and Malcolm Todd,

indicating a shared affinity for nuanced pop sounds.

Charity Kiss

Charity Kiss is a compelling force in the lofi indie scene, with Pat Hansen leading on vocals and guitar, Cole Hendricks weaving melodies on lead guitar and vocals, Cooper Conway holding down the bass and providing the “yelling” that adds a unique texture to their sound, and Nate Drum rounding out the rhythm on drums. Their standout tracks, “Virginia is for Lovers” and “Ur Birthday,” exemplify the band’s ability to create music that’s both introspective and relatable, resonating deeply with fans of the genre.

Drawing comparisons to bands like Dogpark and Current Joys, Charity Kiss crafts songs that capture the essence of lofi indie music with a raw, emotional edge. Their sound is a blend of melancholic melodies, thoughtful lyrics, and a laid-back, almost nostalgic vibe that invites listeners into a deeply personal space. For those who appreciate the introspective nature of lofi indie music, Charity Kiss offers a refreshing take that’s both authentic and engaging.

Worm Shot

Worm Shot, an all-girl band emerging from Reno, electrifies the rock and punk scene with their single “Dream Girl.” The ensemble, featuring Taylor Luckey on vocals and guitar, Gina Hoàng on drums, Liv Rogers also on vocals and guitar, and Cierra Randall on bass. Their music strikes a chord with a vibrant blend of ‘90s rock vibes and contemporary punk flair, setting them apart in Reno’s eclectic music landscape. This harmonious fusion resonates with fans of both classic and modern rock, showcasing a collective talent for creating music that’s both nostalgic and freshly innovative. As Worm Shot continues to carve out their space in the music world, they’re quickly becoming a must-follow for those captivated by the spirited, empowering essence of allfemale rock bands. With “Dream Girl” capturing the imagination of listeners, the anticipation for what Worm Shot will do next is palpable among both their growing fan base and newcomers eager to experience their dynamic sound.

For fans of Paramore, Hole, or Garbage, Worm Shot is a thrilling discovery. Their unique blend of rock and punk, infused with the spirit and energy of these iconic bands, makes them a perfect match for anyone who cherishes the raw, empowering sounds of the genre.

“I’m Just A Girl”:

UNR Theatre and Dance encapsulates girlhood with “Girls Like That”

“Girls Like That,” as staged by University of Nevada Reno’s Theatre and Dance department, isn’t just your run-of-the-mill production — it’s a rollercoaster ride through the highs and lows of girlhood that’ll have you laughing, crying, and everything in between. From the get-go, the show grabs your attention with a mashup of TikTok videos and a lineup of twelve pink chairs, setting the scene for a whirlwind journey that’s as modern as it is timeless.

traying her character with a grace that’s both understated and profound. Von Eberstein’s performance is like a gentle breeze, weaving through the narrative with a subtle, captivating elegance. With each measured step and whispered word, she draws the audience into her character’s world, inviting them to explore the depths of girlhood with empathy and understanding.

wwTogether, Maya Wolery, Madilyn Meyers and Alyssa von Eberstein form a constellation

At its heart, “Girls Like That” is a deep dive into the ups and downs faced by eleven young girls as they navigate the stormy seas of St. Helens Middle School. Through a series of vignettes and character-driven moments, the audience is treated to a buffet of girl power, friendship dramas, and teenage angst — all served up with a side of sass and sparkle.

The TikTok dance breaks might seem a tad out of left field at first, but they’re the cherry on top of this theatrical sundae. They’re like little bursts of girl energy, reminding us that while the world might change, the spirit of girlhood remains as vibrant as ever. There are historical snippets sprinkled throughout the show, like little Easter eggs waiting to be discovered. They’re like breadcrumbs leading us down memory lane, shedding light on the journey from Polly Pocket to TikTok and everything in between. It’s a crash course in girl history, you’re going to want to pay attention to this one.

But it’s not all fun and games — there’s some real meat to chew on here. Take, for example, the recurring chicken and hen references. They’re like the secret sauce of the production, adding layers of meaning to the already rich tapestry of girlhood. Whether it’s a metaphor for sisterhood or a nod to the pecking order of teenage social circles, these poultry puns pack a punch.

Maya Wolery’s portrayal is a kaleidoscope of emotions, capturing the essence of a young girl’s journey with a blend of vulnerability and resilience. As she navigates the complexities of identity and belonging, Wolery draws the audience into her character’s world with a magnetic presence that’s impossible to ignore. From moments of quiet introspection to fiery determination, she shines like a beacon of girl power, illuminating the stage with her authenticity and grace.

Madilyn Meyers dazzles with her tour de force performance, embodying her character with a raw intensity that’s impossible to ignore. Meyers’ portrayal is like a wildfire, consuming everything in its path with a ferocity that’s both captivating and terrifying. From moments of quiet vulnerability to explosive emotion, she commands the stage with a presence that’s as powerful as it is poignant, leaving the audience breathless in her wake.

Alyssa von Eberstein enchants with her quiet strength and unwavering resilience, por-

of talent, each shining brightly in their own unique way. Their standout performances elevate “Girls Like That” to new heights, enriching the production with depth, nuance and emotional resonance that lingers long after the final curtain falls.

In a world where the voices of young girls are often silenced, they remind us that girlhood is a force to be reckoned with — a kaleidoscope of strength, resilience and infinite possibility.

Now, I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention the British accents, but while out of left field, it was needed. It’s like adding a splash of cream to your Earl Grey — so-not-American, but oh-sodelightful.

At the end of the day, “Girls Like That” isn’t just a play — it’s a celebration of all things girl. From the highs of friendship to the lows of heartbreak, it’s a wild ride through the rollercoaster that is adolescence.

Photo Courtsey of Heaven 07/Peyton Eaton

By Emily Hess

Emily Hess can be reached at emilyhess@ sagebrush. unr.edu or on Twitter @ emilyghess03

Zoe Malen/Nevada Sagebrush

Zoe Malen/Nevada Sagebrush

Zoe Malen/Nevada Sagebrush

Zoe Malen/Nevada Sagebrush

Zoe Malen/Nevada Sagebrush

Emily Hess can be reached at emilyhess@ sagebrush. unr.edu or on Twitter @ emilyghess03

Social Media’s Challenges with Media Literacy

By Gabe Kanae

It is incredibly madcap to observe the changes that social media users have been forced to adapt to following the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly within the world of social media. From ‘Twitter’ changing its name to ‘X’ and Reddit changing disabling developers from creating their own integrated experience, it would be an understatement to say that the social media experience has been modified.

Arising from the pandemic was the social media app ‘TikTok’ that took the world by storm. Now that politicians are attempting to ban the platform, it made me consider how intensely users are interacting and interpreting the messages they are being fed.

Recently, in conversations aboutGeneration Z, I have heard a lot of talk from young adults buying into advertisements. It shocked me because I had previously been under the belief that most social media users in Generation Z had understood the toxicity, inaccuracy and dangers behind purchasing from advertisements. People have become very drawn into the concept of “fast fashion” and buying things that look trendy but also provide a cheap barrier of entry, even though these cheap prices come with economic, safety and political consequences.

In 2024, people have begun to completely rely on algorithms to be told what to believe and think. A lot of users cling to Spotify’s artificial intelligence to suggest music and without even realizing, stop developing their own music taste. Consumers today tend to not understand or even comprehend the people behind pieces of art and how they can browse their discography to find music similar to the songs they enjoy. The reliance on algorithms simply siphones your own independence of choice and your taste in music begins to alter into what a computer would think you will prefer.

Along with this, a massive issue that has begun to stir is the fact that opinions based on personal experiences are no longer driving choices for many. Due to the overabundance of social media comments, a lot of the perspectives and ideologies people follow have been crafted due to the mentions and phrasing of the situation from other people. This form of bias proves that our personalities are beginning to no longer be ours, but rather pieces of a puzzle we have read or experienced on social media platforms. A lot of people on social media are suffering from the fact that our realities and societies are

not even based on data but rather the messages from societal normalities. Unfortunately, I was under the belief that the majority of our generation was informed about that concept; however, following recent responses and societal verdicts, it appears I gave more credit than was due.

It seems the gullibility from our generation has gotten worse following the pandemic, and people have not realized how much of the social media environment is based on concepts and promises that are not kept or realistic.

We would love to believe that we are “better” than to believe misinformation; however, it would be fair to say that people who intake misinformation do not realize that it is misinformation. Misinformation is easily taken as fact due to the reality of it being believed. It is nearly impossible to understand that something you believe as fact is actually misinformation unless you dissect the layers, an action that most people on social media would rather not do.

It is much easier to intake information and absorb it as reality while lacking the nuance of the situation. If you were to understand and comprehend the nuance of situations, our world would exist in a less black-and-white ideology. The concept of good-or-bad is merely a societal construct based on lessons we are taught as humans growing up. In reality, life is just present and nuanced. People have their reasons for their actions even if they come with effects that you may disagree or agree with.

A major issue with understanding social reality is that most people cannot comprehend the two-sided perspectives. Instead, we hear a message we either agree or disagree with and respond in that way. If we begin to understand and observe the middle grounds between two sharp ends of a spectrum, we will be more grounded in the reality of situations in a way that does not invalidate any perspectives or actions of individuals who are shaped by messages they were taught.

Our society currently loves to preserve and focus on what is “right” or “positive” while negating the “wrong” or “negative.” It is essential that we begin to realize that if we want to genuinely cause change in the world, we cannot do that by pushing the agenda of what is “right” or “positive” but rather we should accept, understand and observe the “wrong” or “negative” and approach conversations with those in a way that is not biased.

If we invalidate the ideas and concepts of

those who are opposing us by pushing our agenda, we further deepen them in their ideas and reasons. If we act with genuine empathy and compassion, we can understand their perspective while also providing our own. If you accurately and responsibly have this discussion, you will likely provide a perspective that your opposer can consider without raising their own emotionally protective walls.

On social media and in society, we simply do not understand this way of communication. Due to this, conflicts continue to spur and spread. There is a lack of consideration of other perspec-

tives

because people are always sure that they are “right” or “positive” because we were also trained that being “wrong” and “negative” were incorrect emotions. In reality, the experiences we associate with “negativity” are just parts of human nature and reality. The more that we refuse to acknowledge and invalidate those emotions, the more likely we will suffer because we are neglecting a common and realistic part of humanity. Opinions expressed in The Nevada Sagebrush are solely those of the author and do not necessarily express the views of The Sagebrush or its staff. Gabriel Kanae is a student at the University of Nevada studying journalism. They can be reached at gkanae@sagebrush.unr.edu and on Twitter @NevadaSagebrush.

Why You Should Adapt to Artificial Intelligence

By Gabe Kanae

On social media platforms worldwide, there has been significant discussions and controversies about the rise of artificial intelligence and its impact on culture and our everyday lives. People raise significant concern about the new tech nology taking over and removing peoples careers and livelihoods.

With the fear of the subject reaching an all time high following the announcement of OpenAI’s Sora, an ultra-realistic video generation AI technology, I noticed the return of a conversation society has every time technology grows and adapts.

A massive argument against the new advancement is the idea of it being used in today’s world. There’s a general theory that people who use artificial intelligence wouldn’t work in the world today because we haven’t had the experiences to coexist with it yet. People find it hard to comprehend how it would fit into our current society because we have not experienced it, learned more about it or determined its practical applications.

Opponents worry about it being used in legal defenses to fake evidence, and others complain about it being used to falsify experiences and moments in strangers’ everyday lives. The reality is, a lot of these complaints aren’t anything new! It’s not the first time we’ve had this conversa tion.. People opposed the uprising of computer graphic imaging for motion picture films, smartphones, and compu ter technology possibly running the expe riences of going to libraries.

The complaints were totally valid at the time. A huge reason people couldn’t understand or see how we would adapt to these technological advance ments is because they didn’t experience it yet. ”Technological resistance” is the best phrase to describe this settlement.

its capabilities can be used. Various industries fear it growing and becoming a significant replacement for artistic creativity. Since artificial intelligence is incredibly new, it is important to theorize its impact on the world we currently live in.

Artificial intelligence with strong creative capacities are incredibly new to the world, and we have yet to adjust or understand how

As artificial intelligence becomes stronger and more advanced, more people will learn how to adapt and understand it in a way that creates its place in society. It is impossible to accurately determine its influence on the world as it exists now. When social media and mobile devices first came into the world, there were a lot of complaints about the damages and impacts it can have on people and our daily experiences.. A lot of people found it ridiculous how large mobile phones were decades ago, and a lot of people said they wouldn’t want to have a smaller phone with internet access to distract them from everyday life. As time progressed and we adapted to the new technological advancements, we quickly learned how beneficial it is for a lot of people to have access to cellular devices.

Artificial intelligence will be the same. Thinking of how it will work when the world isn’t a fair way to understand or comprehend the pros and cons to the rise of artificial intelligence. Over time, we will learn how to adjust, fit the new technology into our societal systems, cultures and find ways to coexist with it as we have with all other technological advancements since the start of humanity.

Opinions expressed in The Nevada Sagebrush are solely those of the author and do not necessarily express the views of The Sagebrush or its staff. Gabriel Kanae is a student at the University of Nevada studying journalism. They can be reached at gkanae@sagebrush.unr.edu and on Twitter @ NevadaSagebrush.

The Artificial Captures Of Time

By Gabe Kanae

When we think about capturing memories, we think of a medium where time is frozen and reproduced to share later. One of the largest ways we have achieved this medium is through photography. Photography has become a huge part of the entertainment industry, with most people always having a camera in their pockets and the ability to freeze a frame at any moment. At what point do we consider the growing phenomenon of our latest captures of time being artificially created by computer algorithms?

In 2024, we have seen the uprising of artificial intelligence and how it can be implemented into our systems of daily life. From computer algorithms taking over and structuring our social media ‘For You’ pages to music recommendations on Spotify, the use of AI is growing. Perhaps we can utilize AI to look even further and discover more about the world of photography within our camera apps.

Recently, Samsung has received backlash due to their camera technology that photographs the moon by artificially re-creating what the moon looks like when a user snaps a photo of it. This essential “enhancement” is a falsified version of the Moon and the original photo the user snapped. Along with this, many social media users have spread ‘upscaled’ images that are ‘higher in resolution’. While it is true that these upscaled images are higher in resolution, the pixels they add are not accurate to life or even existing details in real life.

Recently, I compared a version of a Taylor Swift album cover, one that was the original versus one that was upscaled by another Twitter user. I found that while the upscaled version had more resolution, when zoomed in, you can notice that genuine details in the photograph that were prominent in the original were smoothed out or removed rather than clarified. If the original image had the resolution of the upscaled version, these details would have been sharper rather than subdued or smoothened.

This brings me to the conclusion that people are beginning to prefer an altered version of images and content as long as their experience with it is better. This is a dangerous area to begin to explore because it takes the original artist and photographers intent and vision and fuses it into something completely different. These altered versions could be accidentally used by publications and other media sharing mediums which prevents the actual transfer of the original source image.

Today, it has become harder than ever to find the original source posts of content that we consume. With TikTok and social media algorithms sharing people’s reactions to content by including the media in their own posts, we are beginning to see how people take original content and post it on their own pages as if the original content creator doesn’t exist. I have spent hours in a single night trying to track down the original version of a TikTok trending video or audio, and when I finally was able to find the original source, the number of views was significantly less than the views of the post that was trending. Along with this, the resolution of the original video was significantly improved compared to that of the trending post version that could be found.

This gray area is important to consider because it is removing the original content creators credit from the video just so another consumer can benefit from the likes, followers and sharing of their version of the post.

When we think of photographing moments, it is expected that we are capturing a genuine frame of the moment, but is that really true when Samsung is using “optical quality zoom”? According to the small text at the bottom of the web page, they describe it as an ‘AI Zoom’ that is enabled by ‘Adaptive Pixel’ sensors and their ‘Super Resolution’ technologies.

If I take a photo of my best friend who died last year, I would hope that photo of them would include the accurate and honest details of what they looked like, not what an AI thought their skin was like based on using computer technology. These photographing artificial technologies are being included in most cameras. From professional DSLRs to iPhones and Samsung devices, there are very few new products that do not enhance the world we attempt to capture when we press the shutter button.

These falsified images and the concept of them enhancing fine details by creating fake versions of our realities that we assume were genuine is not only risky, but also sabotaging. Our cameras are no longer photographing real life, but rather what technology thinks is real life and when we reflect on those memories, I would rather see it in the raw form that it was instead of what artificial intelligence thought it could’ve been.

Opinions expressed in The Nevada Sagebrush are solely those of the author and do not necessarily express the views of The Sagebrush or its staff. Gabriel Kanae is a student at the University of Nevada studying journalism. They can be reached at gkanae@sagebrush. unr.edu and on Twitter @NevadaSagebrush.

Brooke Germain / Nevada Sagebrush

Mayumi Dimalanta, “Demi-Gynoid” / Nevada Sagebrush

Reaching New Peaks: Dive Into The University Of Nevada, Reno’s Climbing Club

By Emily Hess

Hidden just past the Reno arch, lies an extraordinary community of climbers, adventurers and friends. The University of Nevada, Reno’s Climbing Club, the largest club on campus, calls BaseCamp at Whitney Peak its home—a fitting venue for a group all about surpassing limits and fostering deep connections.

Under the guidance of Garrett Pettipiece and Michael Soder, co-presidents of the organization, the club has become a sanctuary for students seeking challenge, camaraderie and a sense of accomplishment.

“Climbing is a way to decompress and relax after a day of hard work,” Marc Walter, a member of the club, said. “Having friends in the club makes it so much better.”

The club gathers every Monday and Wednesday, turning these evenings into sessions of growth and support. From observing one of the practices, it’s clear this is no ordinary club activity.

Members, ranging from beginners to advanced climbers, engage in bouldering, a type of rock climbing done on small rock formations or artificial walls without ropes or harnesses; top-roping, a climbing method where the climber is secured with a rope running from a belayer at the bottom up to an anchor at the top of the climb; lead climbing, which involves the climber ascending a route while periodically attaching the rope to protection points along the way, creating potential for longer falls than in top roping — each according to their skill level and comfort.

The environment is charged

with positive energy, as shouts of encouragement and clouds of chalk fill the air, and climbers coach each other through difficult routes.

At BaseCamp, the focus is often on bouldering, a style of climbing which offers a unique blend of physical challenge and mental puzzle-solving. Newcomers to the sport quickly learn while the gear list is minimal, the requirements for success are not.

Essential equipment includes climbing shoes, designed to provide crucial grip on even the smallest holds, and chalk, to keep hands dry for optimal friction. The club ensures beginners have access to these essentials, demystifying the sport and making it accessible to all interested students.

The club also places a strong emphasis on safety, education and environmental stewardship. Through workshops and seminars, members learn about climbing ethics, conservation practices and advanced techniques, ensuring they are not only capable climbers but also responsible members of the wider climbing community.

What sets the UNR Climbing Club apart is not just the climbing, but the bonds formed between members. The club is a hub for social interaction, where friendships are forged in the crucible of shared challenges and triumphs. Events outside of climbing, including social gatherings, workshops and outdoor adventures, serve to strengthen these connections, creating a community extending beyond the walls of BaseCamp.

Dania McGinn shares her experience with the climbing club and with Base-

Camp, as she’s an employee there as well.

“Climbing club is super sick,” McGinn said, “it’s such a great opportunity to meet new people and learn new skills. Being an employee here at Basecamp, I work with them alot to teach them rope skills, bouldering, teaching them how to fall properly. It creates such a cool community to learn new things.”

Pettipiece and Soder are more than just leaders; they are the heart of the club, dedicated to creating an environment where every member feels valued and supported.

“Climbing really taught me a lot about a sense of worth,” Pettipiece said. “You get to see yourself evolve on the wall, which is pretty incredible. Plus, doing it with my friends has made it such an integral part of my life. We’re all in it together, pushing through, growing, and having a blast. It’s more than just climbing; it’s about growing together and realizing what we’re capable of.”

Soder shares this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of community and mutual growth.

“When I joined the climbing club, the officers on board were very open and welcoming to me and it catapulted my relationships in college,” Soder said. “So I just wanted to pass that on.”

To many, including Soder, climbing is a multi-faceted part of their lives and not just a workout.

“The best part about climbing is it’s an exercise regime while also getting a chance to be social,” Soder said. “So it satisfies two things at once.” The true essence of the UNR Climbing Club lies in its members’ stories and experiences.

“I love climbing club because of the community,” Hannah Jablonka, a member of the club, said. “I have met so many amazing people here and even though I’m not the best at climbing, you’ll always find the most supportive people no matter what level you’re at.”

Joshua Chinowsky explains his love for climbing comes from the problem solving aspects of climbing.

“I think of it like a puzzle,” Chinowsky said,”Once you finish a problem when everyone is cheering you on, you just get such a boost.”

These testimonies highlight the transformative impact of the club, not just in terms of climbing skills, but in life skills such as perseverance, confidence and the value of community.

Looking ahead, the UNR Climbing Club is poised for even greater heights. With an unwavering commitment to inclusivity and community, its leaders and members are eager to welcome new climbers into the fold, tackle new challenges and continue making a positive impact on the lives of its members.

Emily Hess can be reached via email at emilyhess@sagebrush. unr.edu or via Twitter @ emilyghess03

Men’s basketball nabs four transfers in offseason transfer portal period so far

By James Wolfgang Perez

The Nevada Wolf Pack men’s basketball team has been busy trying to fill in the roster spots opened up by the recent departure of seven of its players. Here are the four players that have verbally committed to the Wolf Pack during the offseason transfer portal period.

Kobe Sanders (Point Guard, Cal Poly University):

Following the departure of Nevada’s starting point guard Kenan Blackshear, the Wolf Pack faced a glaring hole at the point guard position. To address this, the team secured Kobe Sanders, former Cal Poly guard.

Sanders, a fifth-year senior, stands at 6 feet 8 inches and weighs 205 pounds. With one year of eligibility remaining, he brings a wealth of experience to the Pack, having played in 100 collegiate games for Cal Poly from 2020 to 2024 and starting in his final two seasons for the Mustangs.

Last year, the guard experienced a breakout season, averaging 19.6 points, 3.7 rebounds, and 3.2 assists per game. Sanders maintained a solid shooting percentage of 45.9 from the field, complemented by a respectable 33.9 percent accuracy from threepoint range. His proficiency extended to the free-throw line, with an 87.4 success rate on an average of 6.9 attempts per game.

Xavier DuSell (Shooting Guard, Fresno State University):

Last season, Nevada boasted the best three-point shooting percentage in the Mountain West Conference at 36.3 percent. This was largely propelled by standout guards Jarod Lucas and Hunter McIntosh. Lucas shot 39.4 percent from three, while McIntosh made 44.9 percent. However, both guards have exhausted their eligibility, leading the Wolf Pack to secure a promising player in Xavier DuSell, former Fresno State guard.

DuSell, a seasoned guard standing at 6 feet 4 inches and weighing 190 pounds, brings considerable experience to the team as a fifth-year senior with one remaining year of eligibility for the 2024-2025 season. His collegiate journey includes three productive seasons with Wyoming from 2020 to 2023, followed by a standout year with Fresno State in 2023-2024. During his time with the Bulldogs, DuSell averaged a career-best 11.5 points per game alongside 2.1 rebounds. Notably, he shot 42.3 percent from the field, with a 39.5 percent success rate from three-point range.

Brandon Love (Forward/Center, Texas State University):

Love looks to add another level of physicality to Nevada basketball after spending three seasons as a power forward for Texas State. In his breakout year, he emerged as a starter, with averages of 10.4 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 1.4 blocks per game.

Standing at 6 feet 9 inches tall and weighing 208 pounds, Love possesses the physical attributes to thrive as a center in the Mountain West Conference. Despite his lack of perimeter shooting, his ability to finish near the rim and seal defenders off for dunks adds a physical paint presence to Nevada’s offense. However, his free-throw shooting remains an area of improvement, although

he showed progress by shooting a careerbest 53 percent last season.

Chuck Bailey III (Guard, University of Evansville):

Nevada basketball continued to bolster its guard depth by adding Chuck Bailey III, former Evansville guard, to the mix. Standing at 6 feet 5 inches and weighing 185 pounds, the sophomore transfer brings an added scoring threat to the Wolf Pack’s bench. Bailey III showcased his skills across 34 appearances, including one start, during his freshman season, posting commendable averages of 8.4 points and 2.6 rebounds per game while logging 18 minutes of playtime per game.

Bailey III maintained a solid 40.9 percent field goal conversion rate, alongside a respectable 35.2 percent accuracy from beyond the arc. His 81.3 success rate from the free-throw line adds another element to his offensive skill set for a Nevada team that shot 72 percent on free-throws last season. The guard garnered notable conference recognition, earning placements on both the Missouri Valley Conference all-bench team and the all-conference freshman team. Bailey III’s standout performance was highlighted by a career-high 27-point outing on 10-17 shooting off the bench against Missouri State.

...Love possesses the physical attributes to thrive as a center in the Mountain West Conference.

Emily Hess / Nevada Sagebrush

Marc Walter, a member of the UNR Climbing Club, climbing up a 10 -foot bouldering wall at BaseCamp

Grpahic made by Zoe Malen / Nevada Sagebrush

Kobe Sanders, Xavier Dusell, Brandon Love and Chuck Bailey III playing for their former schools

Nevada Football Aims for Rushing Revival Under Coach Choate

By James Wolfgang Perez

The 2024 Nevada football team looks to hit the reset button following consecutive 2-10 seasons.

In 2023, Nevada’s offense ranked 127th overall, with their run game coming in at 104th averaging 3.4 yards per carry. Despite this, Jeff Choate, new head coach of the Nevada football team, trusts the experience of his coaching staff and leadership from veteran players to get the Pack’s rushing attack back on track.

“When this man stepped in the building, you knew he was about ball. You knew he was about aggressiveness, and had the want and will to win,” Sean Dollars, Nevada running back, said. “When you have an alpha man like that leading the Pack, you know he means business. He wants to start with a blank canvas, with this team being his picture?

During training camp, one player stood out to Choate for his play on the field and his leadership skills off of it.

“I think Sean has done a great job,” Choate said. “He’s shown a lot of maturity, it’s a hard transition for a guy who came from Oregon and has to earn his stripes again. His leadership has been outstanding, and he has the talent to be a really productive back in the Mountain West.”

While Dollars led the Pack with a career-high 527 rush yards and six touchdowns in 2023, the running back has shifted his focus to help lead and develop his teammates in the locker room.

“I’m a leader this year,” Dollars said. “After six years in college football, there’s a lot of stuff that you learn and see. I want to pour my knowledge into all the guys in the running back room. Being the veteran in this group, I can really help guide the team and not let things slide. For me it’s not about my on-field performance, it’s about helping my guys.”

Dollars also talked about how his experiences from last season will help fuel his leadership this season.

“Every time I went home after the losses last season, I wasn’t full, I felt I didn’t do enough,” Dollars said. “As long as our team performance withstands my personal goals, I’m satisfied. All those guys are my brothers. It’s competitive, and while we’re fighting every day for a number one spot, we have a lot of respect for one another.”

For Dollars, the running back position is more complex than it can seem. It has its intricacies just like every other position.

“There’s a connotation that running backs can’t be taught and that you just get the ball and go.” Dollars said. “There’s a lot of mechanics behind it. We’re the ones that are closest to the quarterback. The quarterback has to know it all and the next position that needs to know it all is the running back. There’s a lot of intelligence that comes with this game on and off-field, mainly through studying film.”

As a defensive-minded coach, Choate sought familiar faces with him to build his offense. Among them is Mike Lynch, Nevada’s new running backs coach, who has previously worked with Choate during their time at Utah State from 2002-2004 and Eastern Illinois in 2005. When Lynch got offered the job, he had no hesitation.

“It was a no-brainer,” Lynch said. “I’ve known Coach Choate for 20 years now. I’ve worked for him for two different schools, and I know what he is all about. He’s very passionate, he’s got a ton of energy, and he is a great builder of men. He teaches leadership and I know that I can grow exponentially from being around him. I wanted to be a part of it.”

In his coaching career, Lynch has had the rare opportunity to have worked with every position on the offensive side of the ball. This experience has allowed him to see what traits can elevate a team.

“It’s all about the fundamentals,” Lynch said. “If you don’t work hard and you don’t call them out on things, they’re doing wrong then that is going to be the standard. The guys that don’t get coached are the guys that slip. You need to get more out of them, than what they get out of themselves. You need to set the standard.”

With 10 running backs currently on the roster, Lynch had the challenge of seeing where each player best fits in the offense.

“Right now, we have different guys that have different roles,” Lynch said. “We’re going to use all their different skill sets. We’ll have a first and second-down back, a short yardage back, and a pass-catching back. We’re trying to figure out who they are and

what they do best. We’ve got to be able to run the ball, be efficient, and stay ahead of the chains. We need to get more than what’s blocked for every time and not turn over the football.”

While Matt Lubick , Nevada offensive coordinator, continues to recover from leukemia, Lynch has served as interim offensive coordinator over spring camp.

“In this role, you’re not just focused on one group; you’re focused on everybody,” Lynch said. “It’s nice because you get to know all the guys. You get to know the big guys, make sure the receivers are doing what they need to, quarterbacks are going through progressions, and tight ends are practicing hard.”

With the Pack completing their spring camp, Lynch has noticed steady improvement in the offense through each practice.

“We’re getting better,” Lynch said. “When we first got here, we weren’t as unified as we needed to be. That’s our culture, unified, competitive, and tough. It has gotten better through winter conditioning and practice. You need to be able to look to your left and right and know that you can trust them. We’re not where we need to be yet, but it’s getting stronger.”

As team chemistry continues to improve, Choate sees the combination of Lynch and Brian Armstrong, Nevada offensive lineman coach, as an invaluable pair.

“The one thing I’ve always appreciated about both Mike and Brian is it wasn’t just the scheme going in that worked,” Choate said. “It was their ability to adapt and adjust at halftime to take advantage of what the defenses were doing to us. They’ve had a lot of experience doing that and that’s invaluable experience.

By Derek Raridon and James Wolfgang Perez James Wolfgang Perez

Our Takeaways From Nevada Football’s Spring Game

The Nevada football team competed in their spring football game, dubbed the Silver and Blue game, on April 13. Here are our takeaways from the scrimmage.

Bianco stands out amongst the loaded QB room

A.J. Bianco, redshirt sophomore quarterback, was the one quarterback who made the best impression during the spring game. Bianco led two of the three drives where the offense put points on the board. The first ended in a field goal after he threw an over 50 yard pass to Marquis Ashley, redshirt junior wide receiver. The second was capped off with a touchdown pass to Jayden O’Rourke, sophomore tight end. The returning quarterback’s performance during the spring game should help his case when Choate and his staff begin to trim down the roster as the fall season inches closer.

Defensive prowess in the box

The Nevada defensive front dominated the pocket and relentlessly pressured quarterbacks throughout the game. Even as offense and defensive combinations rotated, the pressure persisted. Four Nevada defenders recorded sacks – even when they could not bring down the quarterback. Their presence disrupted passing lanes leading to errant throws. The highlight play came at the end of the first half when Malcolm McClure, Nevada linebacker, scooped up a fumble from Jacques Badolato-Birdsell, Nevada running back, and secured a defensive touchdown. Nevada’s defense has been the highlight of the team since the 2021 season, proven by the team’s shutout win against San Diego State in 2023. Knowing that Nevada’s defensive program is seemingly as strong, if not stronger than last year is promising. Brown made his claim for a spot on the team

With three members of Nevada’s wide receiver core out in the game, the opportunity for others to shine was available for the rest of the team. Marshaun Brown, the redshirt freshman

from Bishop Manogue High School, answered the call. Brown made several catches throughout the game, most for short or medium gains. A passing touchdown from Brandon Lewis, Nevada senior quarterback, during the first drive of the second half was the hallmark of his performance. Choate has stated previously that the receiver’s room still has a lot of work to be done before anything is solidified, but Brown may have elevated himself to the front of the group.

Tight End position shines towards the end

The Nevada tight-end group looked sharp in the Pack’s 2024 spring game. Standouts included Cameron Zeidler and O’Rourke. Both sophomores made big plays to set up the offense. Brendon Lewis, Nevada quarterback, zipped a pass to Zeidler for a 30-yard reception after breaking free from two defensive backs. Later on, O’Rourke caught a 24-yard touchdown strike from Bianco. Keleki Latu, Nevada tight-end, made his presence known following last year’s season-ending injury with several crucial receptions, aiding the quarterbacks in avoiding sacks later in the game. Tight-ends have been the one of the backbones of Nevada’s passing game over the last few seasons, and seeing all three candidates for the roster seem to be continuing that trend.

The Nevada football team had their last spring practice on April 16. The program will have summer workouts and fall camp to determine their final roster and get ready for the 2024 season.

James Wolfgang Perez can be reached via email derekraridon@nevada.unr.edu or via Twitter @ JamesWPerezUNR

Nevada’s Valorant Team Makes Conference Grand Finals

By Jesse Cabrera

The Nevada Esports collegiate Valorant team, the UNR Blue, competed in the NCAA’s Mountain West Conference’s grand finals against Boise State University on April 12 at 8 p.m and lost 0-2

Nevada Blue ranked second in the Mountain West Conference with a record of 5-2 before the finals. The team has beaten Hawaii, New Mexico, Colorado State, Air Force and UNLV. Additionally, Nevada achieved four out of five victories 2-0. By comparison, Boise State stands at 7-0 this season. This year, Nevada Blue will vie with Boise State for the chance to compete in Arlington, Texas.

Neil Khemka, the team’s coach and manager, expressed pride for the team after qualifying for grand finals.

“I’m incredibly excited for and proud of the team for making it to Grand Finals,” Khemka said. “They’ve been really working hard and they deserve this.”

This is the first season the team has competed in the Mountain West Conference. The team has previously played for College Valorant, the official collegiate league hosted by Riot Games, the developer of Valorant.

How the competition works

The tournament is run by the NCAA and includes all 11 schools in the Mountain West Conference from California, Colorado, Idaho,

Nevada, New Mexico, Utah and Wyoming. In this particular tournament, teams play in a single elimination, round-robin format – though formats may vary across different conference leagues. The top four teams entered semi-finals.The two teams who win their semi-finals match up compete in the grand finals.

Prior to each match, a pick and ban process takes place. A coin flip determines which team can choose if they are Team A or Team B. Then, the following process takes place:

Team A bans one map.

Team B bans one map.

Team A picks the first map.

Team B picks the side they want to start on (offense or defense).

Team B picks the second map.

Team A picks its starting side for the second map.

Team A bans one map.

Team B bans one map

The remaining map is selected for map 3.

Matches consist of up to three standard games of competitive Valorant. The first team to win two games wins the match and moves on.

How does Valorant work?

For those who don’t play the game, here is an explanation of how a Valorant game works: One game consists of two halves with 12 rounds. Both teams switch between defense

and offense at the half. To win a game, a team must win 13 rounds by completing their objective. For offense to win, the offense team must successfully plant a “spike,” or what would be a bomb in other games like Call of Duty or Counter Strike, or eliminate all five players on defense within one minute and 40 seconds. For defense to win, they must either eliminate all five players on offense, defuse the spike if planted or prevent the offense from planting during the round.

Who played at the Grand Finals?

The Gankster profile for the team shows UNR Blue’s average rank as mid-Ascendant to mid-Immortal, which are the third and second best rank tiers in the game. In terms of individual competitive standing, the team averages at the top two tiers of the competitive ladder.

The

Zoe Malen / Nevada Sagebrush Sean Dollars, Nevada running back, walking off the field against UNLV on Oct. 14, 2023