UTSA basketball Juan Ramos returns with ‘Sisyphus Strut’
UT San Antonio students react to bomb threat hoax
UTSAPD evacuates multiple housing buildings in ‘swatting’ incident
By Roxanna Rodriguez Contributor
UT San Antonio students were rattled from the recent swatting attempt at Main Campus, according to housing residents.
Late Tuesday evening on Aug. 27, students were evacuated from campus housing. There were two incidents, the first by the Main Building, and the second near campus housing, according to the two alerts sent out by UT San Antonio.
Mechanical Engineering freshman Alvaro Vargas, who was studying his microeconomics textbook at the time of the second incident, described hearing notifications go off and a ruckus outside his dorm. When he looked at his phone, he noticed messages from a family member asking if he was “OK” and multiple alerts from SafeZone, UT San Antonio alerts communications.
“An active/credible bomb threat has been reported at housing buildings on Main Campus. Leave all housing buildings,” the notification read.
“What if this is real? And I’ve been in here the whole time,” Vargas said. “What if it could’ve gone off right then and there?” Vargos continued, “It gave me a little scare.”
Resident Assistant, Micaya Boyd, majoring in Psychology, says RAs felt confused and unprepared.
“I’ve never been trained for a bomb threat. No one really knew what to do — for this kind of emergency.”
Along with confusion, Boyd describes the pressure and responsibility felt by RAs to ensure the safety of their residents.
“Even if this is not a bomb, this is a serious threat,” said Boyd. “There was a lot of pressure on RAs to figure
“What if this is real ? And I’ve been in here the whole time. What if it could’ve gone off right then and there ? It gave me a little scare.”
out what to do. Battling with fight or flight reactions, we all had to maintain composure.”
This is not the first time UT San Antonio has experienced a bomb threat, which was later proven to be false. A previous instance occurred on Oct. 17, 2023.
When asked about the degree of discernment UT San Antonio Police Department uses when vetting these types of calls, Joe Izbrand, Associate Vice President for Strategic Communications and External Affairs, said, “The top priority of the UTSA Police Department is the safety of the campus community. All calls are treated seriously and officers immediately respond to assess the situation. At that point, additional actions may be warranted or an allclear communicated.”
UT San Antonio Public Safety encourages students to add or update mobile phone numbers to receive timely notifications. Parents, friends or family members can sign up to receive guest notifications through the UTSA Alerts emergency notification system by texting UTSAGuest to 59713.
Swatting is a national issue. There has been a recent surge in August, with at least 20 universities in 14 states experiencing swatting, and some receiving multiple
false reports, according to local media reports.
Psychology professor Mary McNaughton-Cassill, Ph.D., offered her expertise on how events like these affect college students.
“Students said buses weren’t running [at the time of the incident]. They didn’t feel like they could get any information. When you don’t know, the worst-case scenario plays out. It pierced everyone’s sense of safety.” McNaughton-Cassill said. “It leads to what-if thinking. What if things had turned out differently?”
McNaughton-Cassill encouraged students to prioritize sleep in times like these and offered guidance for students who may be experiencing lingering stress or anxiety about the event.
“Almost all college students are sleep-deprived. Studying is important, but there should be a balance. Do something social or fun — or something quiet and enjoyable by yourself. There are plenty of resources on campus.” McNaughton-Cassil continued. “There’s no such thing as a stress-free life. You have to figure out how to cope with the stress.”
Students can seek out services on campus such as Wellness 360 Counseling Services, or the Crisis Help Line for mental health support and well-being resources.
“Students said buses weren’t running [at the time of the incident] . They didn’t feel like they could get any information. When you don’t know, the worst case scenario plays out... ”
Labor organizers host protest against Project Marvel
By Maria Wence Staff Writer
On Monday morning, various groups of labor organizers held a protest to oppose Project Marvel — a multibilliondollar initiative that is designed to reshape the City of San Antonio’s future. Creating a constant debate between the benefits for the citizens, and the city as a whole. The spokespeople ranged from educators, hospitality workers and non-profit organizations with a shared idea on the steps of city hall.
Beginning the protest was Alejandra Lopez, President of the San Antonio Alliance, who stressed the concern for community members to be considered in the project.
“I think our message here today is that if there’s gonna be public funding for sports and entertainment complex, we should also talk about funding other critical areas that are working family needs in San Antonio, like public education, affordable housing, that kind of thing,” Lopez said.
A meeting was held last Thursday to discuss a term sheet for Project Marvel, where Mayor Gina Ortiz Jones requested to hold off considering the funding deal, to receive an independent economic impact report that was rejected.
Only two of the council members were present: District 5’s Teri Castillo and District 6’s Ric Galvan.
“Making sure we deliver economic development that means investing in our workers directly, we want to make sure this opportunity is for everyone. There’s a chance that it can. We just need to make the right investments there,” Galvan said.
Galvan expressed support for a group benefit agreement along with the concern many shared throughout the protest with the issue of money.
“I’ve had a lot of conversations about what kind of funding can go where, some of the pieces from the venue tax can only go to the stadium. My concern is why does the city and county have to be on the hook for this,” Galvan
Texas
Organizing Project, a non-profit organization that empowers Black and Latino communities, spoke out against Project Marvel. TOP’s President Cia Gibson expressed her concerns with the project.
“Our main concerns about the project is that we’re not getting what we’re due, but basically, what they’re
and
not really being accountable for it,” Gibson said. “Economically, it’s going to affect them whole-heartedly, so we have to have some hard contracts, like it has to be on writing or it shouldn’t be done.”
With no final decision for Project Marvel, the City of San Antonio and its residents will continue to see how the development and discussion of the plan will continue on to make it a fair deal for all those affected.
Marisela Cruz/The Paisano
Redistricting the State of Texas
By Alejandra Garza Staff Writer
President Donald Trump has been adamant on the redistricting of Texas since July. As of Aug. 29, Governor Greg Abbott signed a new congressional Republican-favored map for the State of Texas that would redraw 38 congressional districts. The move would result in the Republican Party acquiring five more seats. Multiple Democrats such as Rep. Trey Martinez Fischer have pushed back. They have conducted a two-week walkout, hoping to slow down the process and prepare legal challenges.
“Once again, Texas Democrats are fighting for democracy. We will never bend the knee to tyrants and MAGA extremists,” said Martinez Fischer in a video posted to social media. “We want to make sure that minorities will always have the opportunity to elect candidates of their choice.”
Upon returning to the legislative session at the capitol on Aug. 11, Democrats participating in the walkout were required to be accompanied by a police escort to leave the floor. After refusing the escort, Rep. Nicole Collier, D-Fort Worth, was confined to the Texas House floor overnight where multiple supporters stood behind her decision.
“I refuse to sign away my dignity as a duly
elected representative just so Republicans can control my movements and monitor me with police escorts,” Collier said in a statement. Civil Rights activist groups and Democrats have criticized the map plan for being racially biased, as the map will weaken the Black and Hispanic communities voting power. A lawsuit was filed by the NAACP and the Lawyers Committee for Civil Rights Under Law in quite obvious that Texas’s effort to redistrict mid-decade, before next year’s midterm elections, is racially motivated,” President and CEO of the NAACP Derrick Johnson said. affected by the redrawing of districts include the Austin, Dallas and Houston metro areas. The newly drawn map may decrease the number of seats Democrats hold in the Texas
think there will be a shift in how political parties are represented in Texas. There will definitely be a big change in the makeup of our legislature,” Regional Coordinator for San Antonio/San Marcos Texas Rising Isabella Nieto said. With Abbott signature, the new congressional districts will go into effect for the 2026 midterm elections.
School of Architecture and Planning building relocated
By Marisela Cruz News Editor
The School of Architecture + Planning
(SA+P) has relocated from the Durango Building at the UT San Antonio Downtown Campus to One Riverwalk Place. An email was sent out on Aug. 6 to inform students in the architecture, interior design and urban and regional planning programs of this new relocation, which took effect on Aug. 21.
UT San Antonio purchased One Riverwalk Place in March and is now part of the expansion of the Southwest
moving to San Antonio more appealing, according to Sabatino.
“I think now with this new opportunity to be right in the heart of the city, we can serve as a bridge between knowledge, creation, design, research and the needs of different constituencies. For example, whether it’s community members, business members or engaging with tourism in the city, there’s a series of needs that the city and the region has in terms of how to build better and how to build a more beautiful city,” Sabatino said.
With the university changing the course
UTSA launches rebrand with UT Health
By Lori Zaragoza Contributor
As of Sept. 1, UTSA rebranded to UT San Antonio. This new rebrand follows the merger of UTSA and UT Health San Antonio to form one university.
During the summer of 2024, the University of Texas Systems Board of Regents gave the green light on the merger between the two San Antonio institutions.
UTSA President Taylor Eighmy was also chosen by the board to be the president of the new university.
UT San Antonio will become the third largest public research university in the state of Texas with six comprehensive health science centers. More than 40,000 students will be attending this newly branded university, and have over 17,000 staff members. Eighmy addressed students through email on Aug. 26 announcing the merger of UTSA and UT Health as well as upcoming events about the merge and release of new merchandise.
move in general just because it’s a completely new area. Based on what I did see, there is a lot more greenery and more exposed open areas to allow ourselves to have a break, so it’s kind of nice,” Ochoa said.
University Strategic Communications Staff were unable to do an interview with The Paisano on the topic due to time constraints in the finalization of the merger.
Week of 8/26
By Atziri bermudez Staff Writer
Not subscribed to local news but still want to stay up-to-date on the happenings around town? Look no further. Highlighting notable stories from external San Antonio news sources, State of the City summarizes the most captivating news headlines of the week.
This week’s topics range from a San Antonio high school teacher arrested and charged with indecency with a child to the tallest highway ramp on the North Side opening up.
San Antonio teacher arrested
Pricilla Castro, an assistant teacher at KIPP University Prep High School, has been terminated after being linked to an indecency with a child case involving a 15-yearold student earlier this year. The affidavit states that Castro engaged in inappropriate behavior during school hours on May 23 and that Castro allegedly continued contacting the student through blocked phone numbers. An internal investigation at KIPP Texas Public Schools has been launched, and the school has terminated Castro’s employment. The San Antonio Police Department is asking anyone who may have been affected to call the SAPS Special Victims Unit office at (210) 207-2313.
During an interview with multidisciplinary studies major Madeline Smotherman she stated,
“When I was a biology major for my first year of college I was told by possibly a professor that we were merging with UT Health during orientation” and continued “I honestly didn’t know we were UT San Antonio”
With this information it appears that students that have no connections to research or medically related majors don’t receive much information about the new merger. Which the interview with Smotherman confirmed,
“In my opinion unless you are in one of the science majors at the school I don’t think students really know what the rebrand will mean or what it does for us”
With Ochoa’s experience so far, he prefers the new building. Ochoa shared what features he looks forward to the most at One Riverwalk Place. would say I like the lighting. I feel there’s a bunch more windows, so there’s more natural light. And honestly, I think that was a big issue. There wasn’t much lighting in the studios. Doing projects by hand and stuff, it gets a little hard to be able to work. I definitely love the courtyard because it has a little path that leads off to the river,” Ochoa said.
Ramos, a Masters student studying at the SA+P for more than five years explains her qualms with the new all very excited to relocate for a change, but there’s no parking. We have been struggling with finding parking around the area,
As the final steps are put into action we see the hard work of the board and university to ensure it is complete by the rebrand date. The Roadrunner traditions and spirit will remain with the university according to Eighmy’s email to students.
As the first week of classes conclude and a new era for UT San Antonio begins students and staff can see how the university changes and grows
whether it’s UTSA parking or the garage,” Ramos said.
“It’s more noisy than what it was before on the other campus. The bus route is more tricky than getting to the other downtown campus; you have to take more stops. There are also more homeless people around. For safety reasons, it is not ideal.”
As UT San Antonio adjusts for a growing student and faculty population in the SA+P, Sabatino agreed the college needed to relocate to a new building. Sabatino further explains One Riverwalk Place is “a great fit” for the SA+P.
“I see it as a kind of training to be more of an urban citizen. You know, there’s going to be, inevitably, challenges with parking and commuting, but I would hate to see those challenges get in the way of appreciating our opportunities in terms of seeing different ways of engaging with the city,” Sabatino said.
One Riverwalk Place is expected to occupy more programs and services in the future, integrating the Institute of Economic Development and a full-service food counter by spring 2026.
Key city official in Project Marvel plans to retire from the City of San Antonio
Lori Houston, an Assistant City Manager and a key architect for Project Marvel, is retiring from the City of San Antonio after 23 years. Houston was credited with spearheading the planning and development of Project Marvel, the city’s plan to create a sports and entertainment district in Hemisfair. Houston plans on spending more time with her family before working part-time as an advisor with consulting firm ULTRAte Strategy. Houston is one of five assistant city managers. She was appointed to the role in July 2015.
Tallest flyover ramp in San Antonio opens on Northwest Side
The Texas Department of Transportation says the thirteen-story ramp is the third flyover ramp to open in the past eight months in San Antonio. TxDOT opened the ramp on Thursday, which connected Westbound Loop 1604 to eastbound Interstate 10. The 13-story ramp is part of the Loop 1604 North Expansion project that allows drivers to access the ramp just past the intersection with NW Military Highway.
“This direct connector is the highest one we have, not only on this project, at about 128 feet high, but also pretty much in the San Antonio region,” TxDOT-San Antonio District Engineer Charles Benavidez explained.
The crews constructed the ramp using 10.7 million pounds of steel and over 33,000 feet of concrete beams.
Jaylee Paredes/The Paisano
OPINION
Texas continues failing its minorities
The NAACP files a lawsuit against Texas for racial gerrymandering
Editorial
The National Association for the Advancement of Colored People filed a lawsuit against the state of Texas on Aug. 29 following the release of the redrawn congressional map. Because Texas is so diverse in its geographies and demographics, this redistricting places minority groups at a further disadvantage.
This new congressional map prioritizes the Republican Party and actively dilutes the voting power of minority groups by pushing them into Republicandominant districts. Grouping areas dissimilar in population and geography dismisses the needs of communities of color. This map raises a challenge for minority groups to elect officials who will fairly represent them and puts elected officials at a disadvantage in advocating for them — that is, if they care to. Additionally, this new map opens the door to Republicans potentially holding five more GOP seats. The NAACP has partnered with the Lawyers
Committee for Civil Rights Under Law to file a lawsuit against the state. The lawsuit claims that Texas is engaging in racial gerrymandering. In a press release, NAACP President and CEO Derrick Johnson stated, “The state of Texas is only 40 percent white, but white voters
Burning down: Freedom at stake
Commentary
By Aidan Gonzalez Contributor
The U.S. was founded on the basis of personal freedom, yet free speech is now being encroached upon by one of President Donald J. Trump’s recent executive orders, which makes the burning of the flag a punishable crime.
On Aug. 25, Jay Carrey of North Carolina was arrested just hours after Trump signed the executive order into law.
Carrey was seen on video informing
do.
People opposing this executive order say that those who served this country have fought and died for this flag, and that it disrespects the sacrifice they have made. However, the veterans who gave their lives for America defended the right to live and protest.
During the Civil Rights Movement, people were accused of being unruly and acting scornfully, but in hindsight, they are remembered as heroes who fought for what was right. The same thing happened with Vietnam’s protests. People opposed
control over 73 percent of the state’s congressional seats.” “The state’s intent here is to reduce the members of Congress who represent Black communities, and that, in and of itself, is unconstitutional,” Johnson said. Texas is clearly violating the Voting Rights Act of 1965 by silencing the votes of its Black communities. It is crucial for these Texans to have a voice in the 2026 midterm elections and subsequent elections. Every day, the country’s political leaders employ a conservative and racist rhetoric, and Texas bends over backwards to fit that mold, consistently neglecting its minority communities. Communities that still have a voice must speak for those who cannot and inform all Texans on this issue. The NAACP is actively recruiting volunteers to register voters early. It is never too soon to prepare for challenges and champion democracy.
Do not repeat the sins of the past
Commentary
By Jake Mireles Editor-in-Chief
be used to wave it to express support for the government. It can be used to burn it to express opposition to the government.”
Protesting is what the American people died for.
When people see something they disagree with, regardless of political ideology, they protest. The burning of the flag is just a form of protest that conveys their patriotism. Standing up and burning a symbol is one of the many things that veterans have fought or died to be able to
Free speech was always meant to challenge people and their views. The First Amendment does not stop where people feel uncomfortable, and it never will. The very act of burning the flag is also what makes this country so great and allows those who feel unhappy with authority to express their uncertainty and anger. The American flag is a symbol, and it does not define this country; the people do.
In a blatant attempt at political retaliation, the Department of Homeland Security placed approximately 20 employees from the Federal Emergency Management Agency on administrative leave after they wrote an open letter criticizing the direction the vital agency was taking under President Donald Trump’s administration. Trump, who recently attempted to reallocate $4 billion in disaster mitigation funding, is gutting this agency — and its effects are already being felt nationwide. the historic flooding that occurred in Kerr County, Texas, residents reported that they could not contact FEMA for assistance days after the water had subsided. According to NPR, the Department of Homeland Security let funding for the agency lapse, and FEMA was unable to staff its disaster relief hotline call centers. This problem was created by bottlenecks in funding disbursement, which is largely handled by Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, who personally signs off on any aid disbursement over $100,000. hindrances are not only being seen in Texas, but all over the U.S. In an interview with PBS, Sarah Labowitz, a senior fellow at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, reported that this funding bottleneck has led to longer response times to requests for federal a disaster hits, a governor typically makes a request to the federal government for help,” Labowitz said.
“And what we’re seeing is that those requests are really stacking up, so that FEMA help is getting to places much slower than it was under the previous administration and even under the first President Trump administration.”
Labowitz also reports that the Trump administration is no longer approving requests for disaster mitigation aid, which state and local governments use to prepare for predicted disasters.
FEMA employees placed on leave warned the public that these changes to the agency could have grave consequences — consequences that echo past disasters.
In 2005, Hurricane Katrina slammed into Louisiana’s coastline, devastating New Orleans and the adjacent Plaquemines Parish. The City of New Orleans, in coordination with FEMA and other arms of the federal government, attempted a lackluster evacuation effort that was plagued with slow response times, miscommunication and incompetence. As a result, hundreds of people lost their lives and thousands of people were displaced from their homes. Scenes from this disaster were broadcast into the living rooms of millions of Americans. This tragedy shocked the nation, but when the scene cleared and the camera crews left, New Orleanians were left to pick up the pieces.
The failed response by FEMA was largely criticized at the time. Katrina was a generation-defining disaster — but if FEMA had provided a more coordinated effort, the loss of life could have been minimized. Katrina led to a comprehensive overhaul of FEMA by Congress.
The government learned from and responded to the mistakes committed by FEMA during Hurricane Katrina. This led to the agency saving countless lives in following disasters. However, if Trump’s agenda for the agency is implemented — if funding is frozen, staff is downsized and aid approvals are more selective — response times will only lengthen. Rescue operations will echo those of Katrina — lackluster, slow and incompetent. While these traits may be the reigning characteristics of Trump’s administration, these cannot be the characteristics that describe FEMA. When another disaster strikes, thousands of Americans will be in danger. There will be another disaster similar to Katrina, without aid from FEMA. This preventable calamity cannot be allowed to happen.
Yet another degree that nobody asked for
Commentary
By Jasmine Williams Managing Editor
Fifty-six years after its inception, UT San Antonio has launched a journalism major, enabling students to gain expertise and experience in the field. However, this is what The Paisano has been doing for nearly 45 years. A journalism degree is not needed when field experience can be attained for free at an independent, student-led publication.
The Paisano is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit led by UT San Antonio student volunteers. Not a single one of their current or former staff has majored in journalism at UT San Antonio, but many alumni who have worked at the publication now boast successful careers in journalism.
Amber Serio served as a News Editor for The Paisano in the spring of 2024. She graduated from UT San Antonio that same semester, majoring in English with a concentration in professional writing. Serio has since
published 185 articles at the San Antonio Business Journal after joining in September of 2024.
Mason Hickok, former Editor-in-Chief at The Paisano, graduated from UT San Antonio in the spring of 2023 with a bachelor’s degree in digital communication and a minor in film studies. He now works for KSAT as a digital journalist with 887 articles published.
Sarah Gibbens immediately got a job at the National
Journal, a newsroom under The Atlantic focused on Washington, D.C. politics, after graduating from UT San Antonio. She was laid off, but began working for National Geographic shortly after. Gibbens is now the Senior Digital Editor in the Science & Environment section of National Geographic’s Digital Editorial, with 824 articles to her name. She, like Serio, majored in English with a concentration in professional writing back in 2015, and like Hickok, served as Editor-in-Chief of The Paisano. These people, all once UT San Antonio students, did not pay a single cent to The Paisano to gain the knowledge and hands-on experience in journalism that landed them fullfledged careers in the field. They volunteered their time outside of their studies, and it has paid off immensely. With a projected 4% decline in news analyst, reporter and journalist jobs from 2024 to 2034 and a staggering 52% of college graduates working at jobs that do not need their degrees, UT San Antonio will make statistics out of its students. What the student body needs is not a journalism degree — they need to join The Paisano.
Mohitha Ravikumar /The Paisano
Sarah Quintanilla/The Paisano
Noor-E-Saher Ahmed/The Paisano
Vincent
Agquiz/The Paisano
OPINION
Wanted: Texas abortion pill manufacturers — $100,000 bounty
Commentary
By Henry Holmes Staff Writer
In Dobbs v. Jackson, the Supreme Court ruled to give states authority over abortion. In the three years since, a woman’s right to choose whether or not to bring a pregnancy to term and her right to access proper medical assistance have continuously been eroded. The ruling allowed for the legal passage of the Texas Heartbeat Act in 2021, preventing abortion procedures six weeks after conception. Instead of receiving a procedure, many turned to ordering abortion pills from out of state.
Last week, the Texas House passed House Bill 7 to be sent to the Texas Senate, where it is also expected to pass. This bill puts women attempting to seek abortion care in further peril, regardless of whether or not her pregnancy is viable or if it will put her life at risk.
The bill itself prevents the distribution of abortion-inducing medication into the state and the medication’s mailing, delivery and transportation to anyone within the state. It also notably prevents women using these medications and instate physicians from being held liable, with the main targets being manufacturers.
This is done by allowing private citizens to sue violators on behalf of the state for a minimum of $100,000 per violation. Fathers — not mothers — siblings and grandparents of the “unborn child” can sue
for full compensation; all other individuals can sue to receive $10,000 — turning family and neighbors into bounty hunters.
Restricting a woman’s right to autonomy, privacy and healthcare is oppressive. Beyond that, even women who have no hope in bringing a pregnancy to term will now face roadblocks when attempting to access necessary healthcare. Although these medications can be
manufactured so long as their use is not to terminate a pregnancy, the mere existence of a restriction in some instances acts as a barrier for all.
As seen today, the Texas Heartbeat Act allows for abortions when they are the last resort to save a woman’s life; however, this measure fails to mitigate harm in lifethreatening situations. In the real world, emergency rooms refuse treatment and doctors wait for a patient’s condition to worsen before prescribing an abortion, fearing legal consequences. The same
would apply to this bill.
The bill’s text and abortion’s history clearly outline the extra burden that will be placed on all women seeking pregnancy care. Parallel to receiving an abortion procedure, if circumstance alone separates abortion medication’s use from being a violation, then that “proper” circumstance will need to be proven.
A woman will be forced to relive what may have been one of the most tragic moments of her life or wait before receiving care, all while her health deteriorates. A woman will be forced to prove to a distributor that she did, in fact, miscarry or that she will not survive giving birth before receiving necessary care.
Worse yet, the bill prevents defendants from seeking recovery for court costs even if they are proven innocent. In essence, distributors and manufacturers can be bankrupted if someone wrongly reports a violation.
House Bill 7 continues the new Texas tradition of turning private citizens against each other. It instills fear in isolated women, noble practitioners and the manufacturers of life-saving medications alike. Texas has long turned away from its founding ideals of self-determination and personal autonomy — values that must be reclaimed so “that the general, great and essential principles of liberty and free government may be recognized.”
No cause, just flaws in firing laws
Commentary By Selasie Gifa-Johnson Staff Writer
Historically, the U.S. economy has been the most stable in the world, attributable to the strength of American democracy and nonpartisan financial regulation. The U.S. Federal Reserve is one of the greatest contributors to this stability as it controls American monetary policy, regulates banks and manages interest rates. As such, the independence of this government organization is critical for it to function effectively and for the economic stability of the country.
On Aug. 25, President Donald Trump attempted to fire Federal Reserve Governor Lisa Cook by posting her termination letter on his social media platform, Truth Social. He alleged there was “sufficient reason” to believe she had exhibited gross negligence in the form of mortgage fraud, constituting grounds for termination. This attempt to fire a highly qualified member of a politically independent government organization without due process represents a dangerous precedent that, if allowed, will permanently damage the U.S. economy.
Cook is the first Black woman to serve as the governor of USFR’s Board of Governors. She has had an extensive career in economic academia and research. Cook has two B.A. degrees in physics, philosophy, economics and politics from Spelman College and Oxford, respectively. She also has a PhD in economics from UC Berkeley. After her education, Cook’s
impressive career highlights include working as a senior economist, advising former U.S. President Barack Obama, and being a faculty member of the Harvard Kennedy School of Government, specializing in public administration and policy research. She was also a research associate with the National Bureau of Economic Research before taking office as the USFR governor in May 2022.
Every position she has held has given her the expertise and experience to effectively improve the economic health of the U.S. In a criminal referral from Bill Pulte, the Director of the Federal Housing Finance Agency, Cook is accused of claiming three properties in Massachusetts, Georgia and Michigan as her primary residence on mortgage applications. The allegations, which she has denied, suggest she did this to gain more favorable loan terms. These allegations accusing her of negligence, with respect to her current position, are incongruent with her character as established by her track record.
The political independence of the USFR is vital to the country’s economic stability because it lowers the potential for corruption within the organization and prevents politicians from changing interest rates to suit their political agendas. Without careful management of interest rates, inflation can easily spiral out of control, reflected in the economic decline during historical dictatorships like those of Nazi Germany and Venezuela under Nicholas Maduro.
The Federal Reserve Act is one of the systems that facilitates this independence,
as it protects Federal Reserve board members and executives from being fired without cause. The legislation does not explicitly define what constitutes cause, but it is generally agreed that it is a high bar to meet. Given this information, there are no legal grounds to terminate Cook since the allegations are unrelated to her position and she has not had due process to determine her innocence or guilt. Without due process, an accusation is indistinguishable from a conviction, with the accused having no opportunity to prove the allegations wrong. The danger of this situation lies in the precedent that Cook’s termination will set. Trump has been abortively pressuring Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell to lower interest rates. However, if a precedent is set that the president can fire FR board members with little cause, Trump can simply replace anyone who does not comply with his demands, potentially leading to excessive inflation.
Cook is a very accomplished economist whose career has well prepared her for the role of governor of the USFR. The allegations of mortgage fraud against her are unsupported by court findings; thus, there is no cause for her termination in accordance with the Federal Reserve Act. It would be a travesty for her to be terminated without due process or sufficient cause. Additionally, setting a standard that will erode the independence of the USFR and pave the way for cronyism within the organization and potentially leading to hyperinflation for the country.
publicity should not be good
By Christopher Delgado Arts and Life Editor
The Paisano
Editorial Board
Jake Mireles | Editor-in-Chief Editor@paisano-online.com
Jasmine Williams | Managing & Editor Manager@paisano-online.com
Marisela Cruz | News Editor News@paisano-online.com
Luna Infante | Opinion & Magazine Editor Opinion@paisano-online.com Magazine@paisano-online.com
Christopher Delgado | Arts & Life Editor Arts@paisano-online.com
Rylan Renteria | Sports Editor Sports@paisano-online.com
Diego Cisneros | Photo Editor Photo@paisano-online.com
Sarah Quintanilla | Graphic Editor Graphic@paisano-online.com
Regan Williams | Multimedia Editor Multimedia@paisano-online.com
Jaclyn
Karis Vickers | Social Media Manager Socialmedia@paisano-online.com
The Editorial is the official opinion of The Paisano editorial board. Commentaries are the opinion of the individual writer.
The Paisano is published by the Paisano Educational Trust, a non-profit, tax exempt, educational organization.The Paisano is operated by members of the Student Newspaper Association, a registered student organization. The Paisano is NOT sponsored, financed or endorsed by UTSA. New issues are published every Tuesday during the fall and spring semesters, excluding holidays and exam periods.The Paisano is distributed on the UTSA Main Campus. Additionally, Paisano publications are distributed at a variety of off-campus locations, including Tripoint and a variety of apartment complexes near the UTSA Main Campus. All revenues are generated through advertising and donations. Advertising inquiries and donations should be directed to: 14526 Roadrunner Way Suite 101 San Antonio, TX 78249 Phone: (210) 690-9301
© 2025 The Paisano
The University of Texas at San Antonio’s Handbook of Operating Procedures states in 5.03 that: The University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA) will not exercise control over the format or content of Student Publications, but will regulate distribution on campus. Student Publications will be free of censorship and advance approval of copy, and their editors and managers are solely responsible for editorial and content policies and decisions. Editors and managers of Student Publications will not be subject to arbitrary suspension/expulsion or removal from their positions within a Registered or Sponsored Student Organization (Student Organization) by the University because of student, faculty, administrative, or public disapproval of editorial policy or content. Student Organizations that distribute Student Publications are afforded the same rights and privileges as Student Organizations that do not distribute Student Publications.
Grace Robinson/The Paisano
Kyera Sapp/The Paisano
ARTS & LIFE
Juan Ramos Returns to Artpace with ‘Sisyphus Strut’
By Lourdes Czechowicz Contributor
Downtown arts hub, Artpace San Antonio, hosts Juan Ramos’ most recent exhibition
“Sisyphus Strut” until Jan. 18, 2026.
Ramos returns to Artpace after 23 years, following his 2002 Texas Artists residency with the nonprofit.
Several of his older works have been reformatted for present days, yet they stand true to the test of time and maintain relevance to San Antonio’s evolution.
His old artwork, like ‘Sofia’s Map,’ an installation piece resized from 2001, segues into his newest project seamlessly in Artpace’s second floor Hudson Showroom.
The main wall presents a collage of framed comic book covers drawn by Ramos, inviting viewers into the world of the “San Anto Sentinels.”
This latest project envisions a contemporary San Antonio as a fictitious city of superheroes, villains and underwater portals.
Ramos’ locality shines through in his
artworks with San Antonio landmarks like the San Antonio downtown skyline, UT San Antonio’s iconic staircase, the Tacoland tree and South Park mall all featured in his art. Ramos’ illustrations come straight from the heart of San Antonio’s local art and music scenes.
“Every piece is an attempt to show my view of San Antonio,” Ramos said.
The artist works to make San Antonio less of a “secret city” and to represent local landmarks and traditions that mainstream media tends to ignore.
Although the landmarks come off quite notable, the members of the San Antonio community are the true heart of Ramos’ work.
“I like to draw people,” Ramos said.
“Portraits are intended to represent the place by the people in the place.”
Ramos centers people and societal issues he encounters in his life.
He exposes viewers to issues like homophobia and the conditional nature of parental love through his art.
Artpace invites the public to their next “Sisyphus Strut” celebration on Oct. 30, where Ramos will perform with two of his bands, The Please Help and Snowbyrd.
The exhibition will be open to the public until Jan. 12, 2026, with a second celebration held on Oct. 30. Entrance is free from 10 a.m to 5 p.m. on weekdays, and 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. on weekends. The exhibition is located on Artpace’s second floor, at 445 North Main Ave.
Simple, sexy, so Sabrina
By Luna Infante Opinion Editor
Dazzling popstar Sabrina Carpenter officially released her new album
“Man’s Best Friend” on Aug. 27 — only a year and six days after the release of her Grammy-winning album, “Short n’ Sweet.” There are always high expectations for those who live in stardom, especially after such a successful year — and MBF did not fall short.
The album begins with “Manchild,” the hit single that dropped in early summer. “Manchild” is upbeat and mocking in its lyricism, which calls her past love interests dumb, incompetent “manchild.”
Complimenting Carpenter’s usual light and airy vocals, this track is very danceable with its synths, delivering a slight country-pop sound, especially during
Like most of
Carpenter’s newer music, it is a feel-good song that laughs off romantic disappointment with an extremely catchy chorus, “Manchild / Why you always come a running to me?”
This song’s sister is track nine, “Go Go Juice,” an upbeat, instrumental-based alternative where she self-mocks about drunk-calling blasts from the past.
Track two, “Tears,” lures listener into a breathy and sultry introduction. After the beat drop and eyebrow-raising first few lines, it is clear the track’s title is misleading, since the tears Carpenter mentions come from her thighs, not eyes. Unapologetic sexuality is one of Carpenter’s trademarks, and this track reminds listeners of that, as she says herself, “A little communication, yes, that’s my ideal foreplay.”
This track is a disco-tease with a vintage feel, like many of the following tracks, especially after she whispers, “Dance break.” The listener can easily groove to the smooth rhythm and effortlessly envision a dance floor accompanied by spinning party lights. Lovers of this track will likely jive to “House Tour,” which, in contrast to this 70s-esque track, screams 80s pop with its electronic claps and synthesizers but remains the same with its winks to clever double entendres.
“My Man on Willpower” has a deeper, dramatic introduction that sinks once Carpenter starts singing. This song’s chorus feels less repetitive than previous tracks and maintains its vitality. The melody is smooth and lovely like the denial stage; the words clearly paint a picture of Carpenter’s frustrations: “My man’s in touch with
Above: “Westside Loteria” infuses a loteria card with iconography of San Antonio’s Westside is a play on a popular Mexican game called “Lotería.”
Above Right: “San Anto Sentinels” transforms the streets of San Antonio into a graphic novel equipped with heroes, villains and underwater portals.
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his emotions / My man won’t touch me with a twenty foot pole / My man’s forgotten his devotion.”
Descending into a gentler, sorrowful energy, track four, “Sugar Talking,” introduces Carpenter’s lower register and soft belts against the simple rhythmic backdrop — lightly stepping into ballad territory. This track further reveals the picture the album is painting by revealing how much her love interest is hurting her — and this time, she no longer laughs it off: “You filled my whole apartment with flowers that die.”
For listeners who appreciate this song’s honesty and heartache, the next track, “We Almost Broke Up Again Last Night,” is a suitable, airier pairing that encapsulates the back-and-forth of a toxic relationship.
Track six, “Nobody’s Son,” is reminiscent of the 80s pop sound but provides a subtler alternative with Carpenter’s modern lyrics. This track is synthesizer-heavy and extremely catchy, sure to get stuck in listeners’ heads.
Transitioning into a silky sway, track seven, “Never Getting Laid,” is another disco-like song, only quieter. Carpenter’s delicate vocals make the song feel like a haze, especially during the dreamy, distinctive bridge. Track seven stands out against the danceable upbeats in the album and the heartbreak songs — but it remains forever-Sabrina in the cheeky lyrics: “I wish you a lifetime full of happiness / And a forever of never getting laid.”
Another standout is the track that follows, “When Did You Get Hot?” This song is a nod to earlier R&B. With swirling, deep electronics in the background, this track is reminiscent of Salt-N-Pepa’s “Whatta Man.” The lyrics are humorous and admirable as always: “Sorry I did not see the vision / Thank the Lord, the fine you has risen.”
Track 10, “Don’t Worry I’ll Make You Worry,” is a notable slowdown from tracks eight and nine. The song’s sadder melody and whispered “Oohs” and “Ahs” are stunning. This track waves goodbye to the album’s heartache, as the final two tracks reflect joy, triumph and pleasure. MBF’s closer, “Goodbye,” is a proud send-off to Carpenter’s romantic interest — not a bitter farewell but a proud “your loss.” The instrumentals spin listeners right back into the 70s for a final hurrah. The “uh-huhs,” “sayonaras,” chorus and cheerful bridge toss roses to ABBA, who undoubtedly inspired this track. “Did you forget that it was you who said goodbye? / So you don’t get to be the one who cries,” is beautifully catchy and rejoicing. Carpenter reminds listeners why she is a standout pop girl, with her ease in creating catchy, danceable tracks and finding humor in heartache. MBF is produced well and captures Carpenter’s modern-pop sound. To those who claim this album is boring, “Por siempre te amo, wait, no.”
By Michael Rios Staff Writer
Summer is an excting time. School is out and students can travel with family, hang out with friends or check out summer blockbusters. “Superman,” “Jurassic World Rebirth” and “Fantastic Four: First Steps” were among the most anticipated films of the summer. Here is a ranking of the blockbusters.
seventh installment of the Jurassic Park franchise follows the same formula as the previous films while still managing to feel like a fresh story. Director Gareth Edwards takes horror aspects from his previous film “Godzilla” and implements them in the Jurassic Park
making the beloved dinosaurs feel menacing compared to a spectacle like in previous
tributes to the original “Jurassic Park” sprinkled throughout the film that are a nice touch, but they sometimes take away from the aesthetic this iteration was striving for. Although “Jurassic World Rebirth” is not a film that will blow audiences
body instead of being a dark cloud like in “Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer.”
The film does a good job of shining a spotlight on Sue Storm, who is the heart of the film’s second and third act. “Fantastic Four: First Steps” is a treat for Marvel fans to enjoy, but an hour and 55-minute runtime proves short for the highly anticipated film.
“Superman,” 5/5
“Fantastic Four: First Steps” pays its dues to Marvel’s first family by giving them the story that comic book fans have been waiting for. Director Matt Shakman makes this film family-oriented, which is so refreshing to see. Pedro Pascal and Vanessa Kirby are a perfect pairing as Reed Richards and Sue Storm, while Joseph Quinn and Ebon MossBachrach have a real brotherly connection as Johnny Storm and Ben Grimm.
The first act of the film is rushed, but once the second act begins its pacing smooths out.
Julia Garner is a convincing Shalla-Bal, and Ralph Ineson steals the show as Galactus. It was exciting to see Galactus with an actual
around, fighting bad guys and saving citizens of Metropolis is inspiring.
Corenswet and Rachel Brosnahan, who portrays Lois Lane, have off-the-charts chemistry. Nicholas Hoult as Lex Luthor is one of the best performances in recent memory.
“Superman” is the perfect introduction to the new DC Universe as Gunn establishes a strong foundation with one of DC’s most iconic characters. The film inspires the audience to be kinder, and cinemagoers leave with childish grins on their faces.
Miles Jones/The Paisano
Left: A piece from Ramos’ “Virtual Tejanos” created using overlays from various photos.
ARTS & LIFE
New coursework, different name, nostalgic loves
By Diego Martinez Contributor
As classes begin, students plan out the rest of their semester and might have some courses they are very interested in. Recent buzz about the switch from UTSA to UT San Antonio brings mixed feelings to students. However, UT San Antonio is not the only thing getting attention as people debate on Belly’s choice between Jeremiah and Conrad in
further academically than last semester.
“Hopefully get a chance to apply to an internship and hopefully get accepted,” Hernandez mentions. “For cybersecurity, maybe even physics. I enjoy quantum physics and science in my free time, or any sort of tech company.”
balance between both.
Sophomore and cybersecurity major Diego Hernandez says he wishes to be better at time management and strive
“I wanted to join a lot of organizations that aligned with my major, and I also wanted to make new friends,” junior accounting major Ameerah Babs-Kazeem says. criminology major Calie Brones wants “To have insight to what the hell I’m going for in order to be
class are you most excited for?
Why?
San Antonio is a diverse campus with psychology majors taking an interest in environmental science, cybersecurity majors dabbling in physics and others taking paths more aligned with their majors.
excited for my environmental science class because I like to learn about ways to help the environment,” freshman psychology major Arely atomic mass studies. It’s because I’ve always been a huge fan of atoms and the idea that we don’t know what’s here on Earth,” Hernandez says. “We’re standing on atoms, we are atoms, they’re everywhere.”
intro to health professions class because I want to go into medicine, and I want to learn about health professions,” Marilyn Llamas, a freshman pre-med biology major, says.
are your thoughts on the switch from UTSA to UT San Antonio?
recent hot topic is the merger between UTSA and UT Health San Antonio, approved by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to form UT San Antonio. This is more than just a rebrand, merging two previously separate schools under the UT system to become one school serving the San Antonio community.
Llamas notes that it “expands the university more.” Babs-Kazeem says it is something “we have to get used to.” Students certainly agree UT San Antonio is a mouthful, and UTSA rolls off the tongue better. After all, is UTSA not still the same abbreviation?
Hernandez is a piccolo player in the Spirit of San Antonio marching band, so he is used to the allure of chanting “UTSA.”
“I did like UTSA; it had a ring to it,” Hernandez says. “I’m in SOSA so we’re always like, ‘U-T-S-A’ I feel like UT San Antonio is like UT Austin: when it comes to branding and business, it’s something more formal. When you think of ‘UTSA,’ you think it’s a college. When I think of ‘UTSA,’ I think of the marching band — more hype. UT San Antonio, it reminds me of UT Austin. You’re going there and getting a good program and good education. You’re not only going and having fun.”
Team Jeremiah or team Conrad?
As the television series “The Summer I Turned Pretty” comes to a close, the stakes are an all time high. Belly has to choose between two boys, and the viewers are divided between team Jeremiah or team Conrad.
“Conrad! He’s number one. Jeremiah, he’s kind of immature; I feel like Conrad is more mature,” Brones says.
“Team Conrad. Jeremiah is a cheater. We don’t tolerate cheaters here,” Lozano says. Although she does not watch the show, Llamas notes, “I’m team Conrad because I’ve heard the other guy is a cheater.”
“What is that? I don’t know what that is. I’ll have to say Conrad,” Hernandez says. “Conrad, just because,” BabsKazeem says.
Whether excited for upcoming classes, discussing the implications of the UT San Antonio rebrand or binging three seasons of an Amazon Prime Video series, there is space for everybody to choose what they enjoy and enter a new phase of life.
Have a question and want it answered by UT San Antonio students? Email them to the editor at arts@paisano-online. com. We want to hear from you.
San Japan brings fandom to San Antonio
By Ezequiel Pena Staff Writer
On the last weekend of August, the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center hosted San Japan for its 16th year. The convention was declared a major success online, as an estimated 32, 000 people attended over Labor Day weekend. This fan-organized convention brings together the South Texas community to celebrate manga, anime and associated forms of media, such as video games, cosplay and music. It was a truly wonderful event for most in attendance, but it especially catered to those who cherish artists.
San Japan, originally a singleday event named “San Japan: Zero Day.” was created in 2005 by a small group from Our Lady of the Lake University. Since then, the
attendance has only grown alongside public interest in anime. This growth was apparent when attending the 2025 event, as one could spend all three days walking through the convention without being able to try everything it had to offer. There is a manga library, a cosplay contest and panels with anime studios for the die-hard anime fans. For gamers, the convention has a gaming tournament and a free-toplay arcade. Those seeking a spending spree can break the bank at the artist alley, vendor alley or the new 18+ night market. There is also a car show, meet and greets with voice actors and Vtubers and a maid cafe. It is nearly impossible to explore everything the convention brings to the San Antonio community.
“I remember talking with someone who was experiencing the convention for the first time,” UT San Antonio student Alejandro Solis said. “They explained to
me that they had thought that San Japan was just anime, but they were going there particularly for the ‘Dungeons and Dragons’ groups there. That is what makes it so appealing: San Japan has something for everyone, whether it is anime, cosplay, trading card game, video games, art or even just getting the opportunity to hang out with friends.”
More information can be found on Instagram. San Japan will return in 2026. Meanwhile, check out Anime Ultra on Sep. 20 at Rolling Oaks Mall.
Spare Change: Dorm decorations on a budget
By Diego Martinez Contributor
Influencers often make content about dorm essentials every college student needs. These usually focus only on the necessities, and little attention is given to the little things that give the room personality, such as decorations for a desk or nightstand. Decoration is vital in making a dorm feel like a home away from home. Some of the most affordable places to shop for good decorations are discount stores like HomeGoods, DD’s Discounts, Burlington and Five Below.
HomeGoods offers a variety of photo frames in different shapes and sizes for cheap. The World Traveler Collection, featuring different countries every couple of months, covers a wide range of tastes. Although some items are on the more expensive end, the picture frames cost around $4.99 to $8.99, making it easy and affordable to display loved ones in a beautiful frame on a desk or
By Vincent Agquiz Graphic Artist
nightstand to add comfort to study sessions. Not all dorm decor has to be cute items, though. Functional items can be considered decor with the right color match. DD’s Discounts has various colored fans for around $16.99 and under, depending on size. These fans are good for a pop of color and cooling off after a grueling walk through campus in the Texas heat. DD’s Discounts also offers great quality twin, twin XL and full-size bedsheets. These sets come with a fitted sheet, flat sheet and two pillow cases. Although cheaper bedsheets may feel rough or damage easily in the wash, the sheets sold at DD’s Discounts, varying from about $7.99 to $14.99, offer a splendid product for about half the cost.
Burlington offers affordable bathroom essentials with full curtain sets priced around $8.99, bath mats ranging from $7.99 to $14.99 and soap dispensers at about $6.99. These accessories are stylish and can fit any dorm aesthetic without breaking the bank. For walls, the company sells weekly planner whiteboards and linen
boards to bring personality to the home. Mid-sized boards are priced around $11.99, while larger whiteboards go for approximately $17.99.
The real victor of affordable decorations is Five Below. Even with the Five Beyond section within the store, these items rarely exceed $9.99, making it easy to line a windowsill with trinkets and artificial plants. There are a variety of affordable pop culture posters compared to the dismal section at Walmart, ensuring those bare walls can join in on the festivities. Although Five Below does not have the widest range of looks, there are still great items like small lamps, pen holders, string lights, funky throw blankets and even novelties like Hello Kitty rubber duck sets.
Of course, essentials are essential for a reason, so it is worth investing some money in those items. There are many stores with a variety of decorations at affordable prices, meaning students do not have to sacrifice practicality for personal style.
Women’s basketball faces new era after historic season
By Aramis Santiago Staff Writer
After a 26-5 season that brought UTSA its first regular season conference championship since 2009 and a perfect 13-0 mark at home, the Roadrunners enter 2025–26 with higher expectations than ever. Last year set a new standard for the program, but the roster looks different now. With Jordyn Jenkins, Senior guard Nina De Leon Negrón and several other key contributors gone, UTSA turns to a mix of returners and newcomers to keep the momentum alive. There’s no replacing Jordyn Jenkins, who dominated last season en route to winning American Athletic Conference Player of the Year honors, leading the team in both scoring and rebounding. Her departure to the professional ranks leaves a major void in production and presence. De Leon Negrón, the AAC Newcomer of the Year, also exits after being the team’s lead facilitator. Just as significant is the loss of starting guard Sidney Love, who transferred to Texas Tech University after starting nearly every game over the past two seasons. She headlines a wave of transfer departures that includes junior guard Aysia Proctor, junior guard Emma Lucio and junior guard Alexis Parker.
Even so, the Roadrunners return key pieces capable of extending last year’s success. Junior forward Idara
touch and off-ball movement helped space the floor and keep UTSA’s offense fluid. She pairs well with junior guard Siena Guttadauro, who brings calmness and control to the backcourt with her ball-handling and perimeter shooting. The duo’s ability to open up driving lanes and provide floor balance will be crucial as the offense finds its new identity.
Sophomore guard Damara Allen will look to take a significant step forward after earning valuable experience last season. Despite limited minutes, she made her mark as a reliable perimeter defender and contributed in key moments both as a starter and off the bench. Sophomore forward Taylor Ross showed flashes of potential with her blend of perimeter and interior defense, strong rebounding instincts and ability to drive inside and finish through contact. Both players have the tools and system familiarity to grow into important rotation pieces this season.
To address the team’s immediate needs, head coach Karen Aston brought in graduate guard Ereauna Hardaway, a three-year starter at the University of North Texas who finished top five in career assists and helped the Mean Green share a regular-season conference title. Hardaway brings a proven scoring touch and the experience to run the offense right away. Also joining the program is junior guard Saher Alizada, a transfer from South Plains College who adds shooting and spacing.
The freshman class may also have more opportunities than usual, and each player fits well within UTSA’s up-tempo defensive identity. Freshman forward Sema Udo, a 6-foot forward, has the tools to develop into a reliable 3-and-D contributor. She showed the ability to consistently knock down three-pointers in high school while also disrupting plays on the defensive end with blocks and timely steals. Freshman guard Adriana Robles,
a confident shooter from Puerto Rico who represented the island’s U18 national team, brings scoring ability and a strong defensive motor. Freshman forward Sanaa Bean, a 6-foot-3 forward from Louisiana, adds size and effort on both ends, especially defensively, where she excels at disrupting shots, securing blocks and stripping the ball inside.
This version of UTSA is younger, less experienced and facing more questions than last year’s team, but the foundation remains the same.
Aston has already shown she can build a contender, now the challenge is sustaining that success through player development, smart rotations and team buy-in. Another 26win campaign may not seem realistic, but this group isn’t starting over. The Roadrunners are embracing new talent to remain competitive near the top of the American Conference and make the deep tournament run in March that eluded them last season.
Men’s basketball rolls out new-look squad for 2025
initiate the ‘Runner offense and put his teammates in the best position to score. Allette and his backcourt teammates will play a major role in the Roadrunners’ overall success.
Jamir Simpson transfer from Southern Utah University, Jamir Simpson is certainly one of the highlight additions for the Roadrunners this year. The guard previously averaged a team-high 16.1 points per game last year, along with 4.7 rebounds and 1.8 assists. The senior is an incredibly effective driver of the basketball and possesses an innate ability to draw contact and fouls. Alongside his driving proficiency is his ability to knock down shots from anywhere on the floor. Simpson is highly accurate from beyond the arc and is known to heat up when it matters most. The experienced guard will likely be the number one scoring option for UTSA this season, as he excels at nearly every offensive facet of the game.
Baboucarr Njie
Baboucarr Njie is one of UTSA’s four remaining players from last year. Joining the team as a freshman walk-on, B. Njie found meaningful minutes thanks to his relentless effort on both sides of the ball. The 6-foot-5 forward is long, lean and merciless on defense. He, along with fellow forward Macaleab Rich, will pose a serious threat to the opposing team’s best players. B. Njie can position one through five and will likely do so for the majority of the season. His experience under Claunch’s system will make him one of the leading voices within the locker room.
Macaleab
Rich
While it is unclear if junior forward Macaleab Rich
will start this season, he will greatly impact the team’s defensive effort. A transfer from Kansas State, Rich is an incredibly athletic two-way forward. His defensive mentality and relentless energy make him a fast-break threat every second he is on the floor. Rich, much like B. Njie, has an immense ability to defend every position. He is quick on his feet, active with his hands and can single-handedly save a possession defensively. While his offensive game will see improvement over the course of the season, his defense will undoubtedly shine bright this year.
Mo Njie
Another returning member from last year’s team is graduate center Mo Njie.
The Southern Methodist University transfer scored 3.8 points per game and snagged 4.3 rebounds in only 10 games for the Roadrunners due to nagging injuries. Now healed, the center will look to have a bounce-back year. Though he does not pose much of a threat offensively, M. Njie is a dominant defensive anchor within the paint. His size and shot-blocking ability will make him a key cog in UTSA’s defensive game plan. The graduate will likely be the team’s leading rebounder and shotblocker throughout the year.
Roadrunners swept by Ladyjacks in season opener
SAN ANTONIO — UTSA volleyball began its fall campaign with a 3-0 loss to Stephen F. Austin State University on Friday at the Convocation Center. The ‘Runners (0-1) lost the sets 25-17, 25-12, 25-16, respectively. In the first set, the Roadrunners were able to go up early, but the Ladyjacks’ (1-0) offense became too much for the ‘Runners to handle. Set two was a back-andforth contest where SFA looked more coordinated from the service line compared to UTSA, where errors led to the team’s demise. The third set was filled with errors from both teams, but the Roadrunners’ defense eventually succumbed to the Ladyjacks offensive attack once again, falling 3-0. UTSA has now lost three straight games to SFA.
UTSA set the tone early in the first set with kills from graduate opposite hitter Brooke Elliott and junior middle blocker Miranda Putnicki. Five Roadrunners recorded kills in the first set, giving UTSA a four-point cushion before SFA took the lead with five kills. The ‘Runners had four errors to the Ladyjacks’ six, but they were outplayed the rest of the set leading to a 25-17 loss. Mental and physical mistakes from UTSA allowed SFA to take the late lead. Kills from Elliott and sophomore middle blocker Caroline Tredwell put the Roadrunners within two points early in the second set. SFA took advantage of UTSA’s defensive positioning and registered multiple kills, creating a sizable lead and forcing UTSA to call a timeout. The ‘Runners found themselves in a 13-point
hole halfway through the set, managing to score eight points late before eventually dropping the set 25-12.
“Offensively, it was a little tough. We were scoring points through the middle, which is a big goal for us this year. We wanted our middles going, and I think we did that,” coach Carol Price-Torok said of the team’s offense. “Then we got killed on kills. I think a little bit of that was our passing. [We] have to be a little more consistent, so everyone’s an option. Then reach into our toolbox with the ball around the middle a little bit more.”
An attack error by outside hitter Kennedy Jones paired with an additional kill from Elliott gave the Roadrunners two points early in the third set. SFA responded with a kill of its own by setter Jayden Flynn. Two attack errors by sophomore outside hitter Ally Tribe gave the Ladyjacks a one point lead before UTSA rebounded with four points off three kills from Tribe, senior outside hitter Caroline Krueger and Tredwell — allowing seven points in the process. After a timeout, the Roadrunners scored four times to
cut the lead to 17-14 before a kill from Ilana De Assis extended their deficit 18-14. Errors from Megan Hawkins, Tredwell and Krueger along with opposing kills from Jones, De Assis and middle blocker Kyanna Creecy led to the loss of set three 25-16, ending the game in three sets.
“What things do we do well? I think [it’s] the long rallies and making sure we can work without the ball and defensive rallies. We need to put more pressure on teams from the service line. I think we have to serve a little bit tougher,” Price-Torok said when asked about the mentality facing Texas State University on Saturday. “Today, they did put pressure on us. It was just one of the keys to them being so successful. We have to answer that call and be comfortable in our own gym.”
Tredwell and Tribe led the team with six kills apiece, while freshman opposite hitter Gigi Mason, Putnicki, Krueger and Elliott had five and four respectively. UTSA gave away three service errors to SFA’s two, and the ‘Runners had 19 attack errors while the LadyJacks had 13.
Rylan Renteria/The Paisano
UTSA volleyball huddles prior to the team’s season opening matchup against Stephen F. Austin State University.
UTSA OUTMATCHED BY TEXAS A&M IN SEASON OPENER
Henry Jr. tallies 177 rushing yards in ranked loss to
Aggies
By Rylan Renteria Sports Editor
OLLEGE STATION, Texas
C— In football, David doesn’t always beat Goliath. Despite senior running back Robert Henry Jr. nearly surpassing his career-high in rushing yards and tying his career-high in rushing touchdowns, UTSA football suffered a 42-24 defeat at the hands of No. 19 Texas A&M University on Saturday at Kyle Field.
When Henry Jr. shook Aggies’ (1-0) defensive back Bryce Anderson out of his cleats and bolted 75 yards down the field for a touchdown, it seemed there was a real chance the Roadrunners (01) were about to shock the nation. A&M responded with 21 unanswered points and cruised through the remainder of the game, exiting its home field unscathed.
“We’ve got championship fiber,” coach Jeff Traylor said after the game. “We played about as good as we could have. We were really good upfront defensively; I was proud to see that. We just couldn’t last with them.”
The Aggies held a 14-3 advantage through two minutes of the second quarter, with A&M quarterback Marcel Reed’s two passing touchdowns broken up by a 36-yard field goal from UTSA sophomore kicker Michael Petro.
UTSA scored its first touchdown of the season with Henry Jr. rounding the left-side of the ‘Runners offensive line and tip-toed his way into the endzone.
“It means everything,” Henry Jr. said when asked about his performance. “[Fans] will get this from me every week. I just have to keep trusting the offensive line, keep trusting in [McCown] and continue to grind.”
Reed connected with wide receiver KC
Concepcion on the ensuing possession to put A&M up by 11 heading into halftime, with UTSA set to receive the ball coming out of the break.
Henry Jr. took the first snap of the second half 75-yards to the house, cutting the Aggies’ lead to four points with the Roadrunners in sole possession of momentum. From then on, however, UTSA was unable to establish a rhythm on offense — particularly in the passing game — leading to missed opportunities to take the lead.
It wasn’t until junior starting quarterback Owen McCown was benched with 21 seconds remaining in the game that the ‘Runners found paydirt again. Sophomore quarterback Brandon Tennison connected with transfer wide receiver AJ Wilson for a 34-yard touchdown to dress up the scoreboard before the clock hit double zeros.
“We weren’t getting much separation; those guys were doing a good job covering us,” Traylor said. “We were worried about dropping back to pass too much. We didn’t know if we could protect [McCown], didn’t give him much of a chance.”
McCown finished 19 of 32 for 121 passing yards and zero touchdowns with sophomore wide receiver David Amador II leading the way in receiving yards with 41. Henry Jr. finished the night one yard shy of tying his personal record of 178. The new-look UTSA defense that returned zero starters from 2024 looked like the inexperienced unit they were tabbed to be in the preseason, registering zero sacks and zero turnovers.
UTSA will return to San Antonio for a rematch with I-35 rival Texas State University at 2:30 p.m. Saturday at the Alamodome.
UTSA owns baseball in Texas
By Matthew Moses Staff Writer
For those who weren’t paying attention, last season, UTSA’s baseball team had one of the greatest underdog stories in school history.
Coach Pat Hallmark and his squad wrapped up the most dominant singleseason performance in program history, racking up 44 wins and bringing home UTSA’s first American Athletic Conference Championship since joining the conference back in 2023.
What made this team special wasn’t just talent, it was heart. These players embraced the “junkyard dog” mindset, wearing the mentality like a badge of honor. While other teams discussed rankings and worried about outcomes, the Roadrunners just put their heads down and worked.
The ‘Runners’ 44-13 record earned them an at-large bid to the NCAA Austin Regional championship. UTSA entered the regional with its first game against Kansas State University where the Roadrunners put up 10 runs against the Wildcats and advanced to play the No. 2 overall seed, The University of Texas at Austin. Fortunately for the Roadrunners, this wasn’t the first time they faced the Longhorns this year. In March, UTSA made the trek up to Austin and walked away with an 8-7 win over Texas. This second matchup would be no different.
The campus has seen remarkable growth over the past few years, but this baseball team achieved something no other UTSA team had ever done: put the entire country on notice. Nobody outside of San Antonio believed in them, but the student body did. More importantly, they believed in themselves.
After capturing the NCAA Austin Regional for its first NCAA Regional Championship in program history, UTSA was the No. 4 trending sports topic nationally and the No. 7 trending topic overall nationally on X.
The accolades poured in like they should have. Hallmark snagged AAC Coach of the Year honors and earned himself a contract extension through 2029. He led UTSA Baseball to its best season in program history, with a program-high 47 wins and a program-low 15 losses.
Two Roadrunner pitchers were selected in the 2025 MLB Draft: Braylon Owens to the Milwaukee Brewers and Zach Royse to the Atlanta Braves. Taussig, junior infielder Ty Hodge and senior outfielder Mason Lytle would sign Undrafted Free Agent contracts with the Chicago White Sox, Boston Red Sox and Houston Astros, respectively.
But this isn’t just about baseball, this is about what happens when a UTSA team gets the support they deserve and shows the world what the program is made of. Every time a student wears that UTSA shirt around now, people know who they are. When someone searches for UTSA on the internet, they see headlines about giant-killers and Super Regionals.
The Longhorns got off to a strong start, picking up runs in the first and third innings and establishing a 6-1 lead over the Roadrunners. In the top of the fourth, that relentless and fierce determination kicked in, and UTSA brought the score to 6-5. The Roadrunners added three more runs in the sixth and an insurance run in the 9th inning to solidify their 9-7 victory.
The Roadrunners would face the Longhorns yet again for a chance to win the Austin Regional. Senior outfielder James Taussig brought in the first run, with senior infielder Norris McClure following shortly after with his sixth homer of the season — and second of the regional — to put UTSA up 2-0. The Roadrunners continued to extend their lead in the third inning, bringing the score to 7-0. The Longhorns attempted a comeback in the top of the eight and ninth, but sophomore pitcher Robert Orloski tossed the final strikeout in the ninth to seal UTSA’s first-ever NCAA Regional Championship victory.
The Austin Regional championship launched UTSA into uncharted territory: the ‘Runners’ first ever NCAA Super Regional appearance. UCLA topped UTSA during a best of three set with 5-2 and 7-0 wins. Flying out to Los Angeles to face UCLA might have been the end of the road, but getting there was pure magic.
The Roadrunners showed everyone that teams don’t need the biggest budget or the fanciest facility to find success. They’re the baseball team that took down Texas three times in its home stadium. They proved that heart beats hype every single time.
The impacts of this win will extend far beyond the athletics brand and positions UTSA as a rising institutional force capable of competing with wellestablished programs. When a university defeats prestigious programs and advances to elite postseason play, it signals academic and athletic excellence that attracts prospective students, faculty and donors who want to be associated with a winning, upward-trajectory institution. This reputation boost for UTSA as an emerging powerhouse will fuel its long term growth and increasing prestige. When football season starts, when basketball tips off, when any of the Roadrunner teams take the field or court, remember this baseball season.
Support the athletes. Show up to games. Wear orange and blue with pride. If this season proved anything, it’s that great things happen when Roadrunners believe in Roadrunners.
UTSA senior running back Robert Henry Jr. attempts to break a tackle in the first half of the team’s season opening matchup against Texas A&M University.
Armin Suljovic/The Paisano
Rylan Renteria/The Paisano