Zohran Mamdani’s Summer Surge Reshapes NYC Mayoral Race
The Queens lawmaker continues to build momentum before the November election.
Isabella
athanasIou | sept. 8, 2025
Democratic Socialist Assemblymember Zohran Mamdani is entering the final weeks of the New York City mayoral race after a summer that shifted the contest and raised his profile. Mamdani, who represents Astoria in the New York State Assembly, won the Democratic Primary in June and is now competing in a four-way general election.
On Sept. 4, former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo challenged Mamdani to five debates, one in each borough, as part of the general election campaign. A day later, Mamdani denied Cuomo’s request and turned his attention to President Donald Trump, who had previously urged candidates to drop out of the race.
“Let’s cut out the middleman,” Mamdani said.
“Why should I debate Donald Trump’s puppet when I can debate
Donald Trump himself.
Sanders referred to Mamdani as “the future of the Democratic Party,” noting he finds it “hard to understand how the major Democratic leaders in New York State are not supporting the Democratic candidate.”
Mamdani has faced scrutiny on several fronts. Critics have questioned whether he qualifies for a rent-stabilized apartment given his Assembly salary. Cuomo has criticized Mamdani’s housing situation, suggesting that he no longer qualifies for rent-stabilized housing and that his tenancy could be keeping others from accessing affordable housing.
If Donald Trump is serious about this, he should come to New York City.” Mamdani continued, “We can have as many debates as you want about why he is cutting SNAP [Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program] benefits for hungry New Yorkers just to fund tax cuts for his billionaire donors.”
The exchange came as the campaign moved into a new phase following Mamdani’s primary victory over Cuomo. The win gave him the Democratic nomination and drew endorsements from progressive groups and unions, shifting the dynamics of the four-way race.
On Sept. 6, Mamdani joined Senator Bernie Sanders at Brooklyn College as part of Sanders’ “Fighting Oligarchy” tour. The town hall, attended by more than 1,700 people, focused on housing costs, health care and corporate influence.
Critics have also raised concerns about Mamdani’s proposal to implement a four-year rent freeze for New York City’s one million rent-regulated apartments. Housing economists warn that the policy could decrease housing construction and reduce the supply of homes. Looking forward,
Mamdani will face Cuomo and Republican candidate Curtis Sliwa The New York City Campaign Finance Board has scheduled two official debates for October, in which Mamdani will attend. He did note that he will skip additional events proposed by his opponents.
His campaign has focused on housing affordability, public transportation and tax policy as core issues. Volunteers and organizers have continued neighborhood outreach, wanting to expand support beyond his already established base.
As Election Day comes closer, Mamdani’s challenge will be translating his summer momentum and progressive message into votes across a competitive field.
Eric Adams Drops Out of NYC Mayoral Race
Adams ends reelection bid, leaving the race open for Mamdani.
New York City Mayor Eric Adams announced his exit from the city’s mayoral race on Sept. 28, concluding his re-election campaign just five weeks before Election Day.
Adams announced his decision in a nine minute X post, where he spoke highly of his tenure as mayor but noted the “constant media speculation” about his future that made it hard to run a serious campaign.
“It has been an honor to be your mayor,” Adams said. “Despite all we’ve achieved, I can not continue my re-election campaign.”
He did not endorse any of the remaining candidates, but urged New Yorkers to “choose leaders not by what they promise, but by what they have delivered.”
His withdrawal could potentially lift the campaign of former Gov.
Andrew Cuomo, who has displayed himself as the only candidate able to beat the Democratic Party’s nominee Zohran Mamdani, who now has an 84% chance of winning the race.
In a statement after Adams’ announcement, Mamdani took aim at Cuomo, who is trying to make a political comeback after resigning as governor following multiple sexual harassment allegations.
“New York deserves better than trading in one disgraced, corrupt politician for another,” Mamdani said. On Nov. 4, we are going to turn the page on the politics of big money and small ideas and deliver a government every New Yorker can be proud of.
If Mamdani prevails on Nov. 4, he would become the youngest and most progressive mayor in New York City’s modern history.
Photo Courtesy / YouTube New York Post
Isabella athanasIou | sept. 30, 2025
The Three Biggest Political Events of Summer
2025 has been consumed by political turmoil, ranging from the NYC mayoral election to humanitarian crises across the globe.
CatharIne pasCal | sept. 16, 2025
As summer comes to a close, the current political scene has been a dominant force in national and international conversation. From a controversial mayoral race,some of the world’s most urgent humanitarian crises and questions of executive power to clashes over immigration enforcement, the recent political climate of the United States is impossible to ignore.
While these topics are complex and multifaceted, exploring them allows us to better understand the forces shaping our present and influencing our future. Here are the four biggest political events that have left a lasting mark on the political environment.
Humanitarian Defiance in Gaza
As tensions in Gaza reached a peak, an international flotilla of more than 50 vessels set sail from Barcelona to challenge the Israeli blockade and deliver urgent humanitarian aid.
In spite of weather delays, activists and hundreds of supporters remain determined to reach Gaza’s shores. Previous aid ships have faced drone attacks and seizures, underscoring the dangerous stakes of maritime diplomacy and human rights advocacy.
The urgency is amplified by the devastating human cost of the conflict, with the death toll surpassing 40,000 people —including countless civilians— highlighting the desperate need for international intervention.
Trump,
Sanctions, and the Shifting Front in Ukraine
As the war in Ukraine escalates, President Trump indicated readiness to impose a “second phase” of sanctions on Russia. Trump confirmed plans to intensify economic measures on Sept. 7, following Russia’s largest airstrike on Ukraine since the conflict began, which killed at least twenty-one civilians and injured more than forty-one others.
Earlier in the conflict, Trump attempted to mediate peace talks between Putin and Zelenskyy, but these efforts faced skepticism and limited progress. The recent escalation has shifted his approach toward punitive measures while maintaining a commitment to eventual negotiations.
Raids and Resistance
Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids have intensified nationwide, becoming a cornerstone of federal immigration
enforcement. Operations like Patriot 2.0 in Massachusetts and a massive factory raid in Georgia, which apprehended 475 workers, including many South Korean nationals, sparked widespread protests and legal challenges. New York City Comptroller Brad Lander, who went to court in August 2023 to oppose the use of local resources in support of ICE operations, has been vocal in his opposition to these raids, calling for a more humane and just approach to immigration enforcement.
Cities in New York and California have seen heightened ICE activity, prompting strong pushback from sanctuary city officials, local leaders and activists. The ongoing conflict over immigration enforcement remains one of the nation’s most polarizing political battlegrounds.
All of these major political events have altered the course of domestic and global politics, ushering in issues against free speech and civil rights. Though it’s almost impossible to predict what may come next, there is no doubt that the foundation of global politics has irreversibly changed.
L.I.R.R. Strike on Hold Amid Federal Mediation
The nation’s busiest commuter rail service avoided a crisis, for now.
A strike by Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) workers that would have started Sept. 18 was postponed on Sept. 15. giving commuters, including students traveling from Long Island, temporary relief.
Several unions, which had threatened a work stoppage, requested federal intervention to continue negotiations and avoid immediate disruptions. President Donald Trump responded by establishing a Presidential Emergency Board to mediate the dispute, temporarily stopping any strike action until May.
The unions are seeking higher wages, but the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) argues that they have not made real efforts to negotiate in recent months.
The MTA previously offered a 9.5% raise over four years for select workers. The unions, such as the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen (BLET), insisted on receiving a 16% raise in the same amount of time.
On Sept. 15, BLET Vice President James Louis stated that unions turned to the White House after contract talks stalled.
“This is why the five unions decided to be
the grown-ups in the room and request President Trump to appoint a Presidential Emergency Board per the Railway Labor Act and allow both sides to present the proposals to the board,” Louis said.
MTA Chief of Policy and External Relations John McCarthy argued that the leaders were dragging out the dispute instead of working towards a deal.
“If these unions wanted to put riders first, they would either settle or agree to binding arbitration,” McCarthy said. “And if they don’t want to strike, they should say so — and finally show up to the negotiating table. This cynical delay serves no one.”
The MTA has continuously urged a compromise with the unions, asserting that the LIRR has the highest-paid railroad force in the country. Engineers typically average $160,000 per year with overtime.
New York Governor Kathy Hochul criticized the unions on Sept.15, saying they had “greedy asks,” calling on the Trump Administration to help keep them from walking out.
“We have to get away from the strike language. The White House and others should be
using their power to say, ‘You’re not allowed to strike, you cannot strike.’ Work it out at the table,” Hochul said, adding “I do not want to see this happen.”
A strike would affect about 300,000 daily riders who depend on the LIRR for travel between Long Island and New York City, including students, workers and other commuters.
The Presidential Emergency Board is expected to present its recommendations within the next couple of months, and if there is no compromise, it can extend to as far as May 2026.
Photo Courtesy / YouTube Eyewitness News ABC7NY
Student Leaders Honored and Blessed at Founder’s Week Mass
University Student Leaders Celebrate the Feast of St. Vincent de Paul.
On Sept. 26, St. John’s University paid tribute to its Vincentian heritage at St. Thomas More Church, celebrating the feast day of its patron St. Vincent de Paul, which is on Sept. 27 at 12:15 Mass. This was a part of the Founder’s Week festivities.
In addition to celebrating the University’s spiritual mission, the Mass also recognized student leaders from a variety of organizations, highlighting the connection between Vincentian values and leadership.
Fr. Richard Rock, Campus Minister for Athletics, believes that St. Vincent de Paul can inspire students. “He is the patron saint of charity, and today in our world we need a lot of charity. Hopefully he can energize and move people,” he said.
According to the email invitation that students received, they were personally invited to the Mass by University President Fr. Brian Shanley due to their exceptional service.
Hundreds of students from organizations such as Catholic Scholars, SGI, Ozanam
AlexAndrA Prettitore | SePt. 27, 2025
Scholars and student-athletes attended the celebration. They were greeted at the door with pins that read “Ministrare non ministari,” a Latin phrase that translates to “to serve not to be served.”
Junior and music ministry member Gianna Pasqualicchio was one of the attendees. She explained that “it’s important to celebrate student leaders because it gives them recognition and helps them realize that they’ve done something important.”
Fr. Aidan Rooney, Executive Vice President for Mission, was the main celebrant and homilist. He was joined by Fr. Shanley and several other Vincentian priests who reside on campus.
The Mass opened with a call to worship from the President of St. Vincent de Paul Society, Briana Tola. Tola emphasized to the congregation the importance of service in their roles as student leaders.
Fr. Rooney shared a similar sentiment in his homily, urging students to implement princi-
ples such as simplicity and humility in their leadership.
High school students from Xavierian High School joined St. John’s chorus members, creating melodious harmonies throughout the liturgy.
At the end of Mass, Fr. Shanley offered a blessing of the pins that students received as they entered the church. He then called upon them to exchange pins with their neighbors, symbolizing community.
Following Mass, all were invited to enjoy lunch, consisting of hero sandwiches and a variety of snacks and beverages. Students and faculty gathered and reflected on their status as role models on campus.
When asked what it means to be recognized as a student leader, Sarah Rao, President of Women in Sports Association and Catholic Scholar, responded “It means a lot to be a leader in a highly male-dominated field. This was a great event and I’m very happy to be here.”
New York Sirens Unveil New No. 1 Overall Draft Pick at Meet and Greet
SebAStiAn
With the first pick of the third annual Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL) Draft, the New York Sirens selected Kristýna Kaltounková, a 23-year-old Czech forward from Colgate University. She entered the draft as the No. 1-ranked prospect, according to The Hockey News, after impressive seasons in the NCAA and IIHL World Championship.
To build excitement around their new talent, the Sirens hosted a meet and greet on Sept. 28 at Redd’s Biergarten, located across from the Prudential Center in Newark, NJ. Fans were treated to a Q&A with Kaltounková as well as General Manager Pascal Daoust, a raffle, a signing, photo booth and other activities.
The Q&A started with Daoust reflecting on the club’s third year in the league, in addition to the thought process during draft night.
“We’re writing our own story. We started our own book two years ago already. This year, it’s page three,” he said. “It’s a new start, it’s a new page, new character, new challenge, new opportunities definitely, and we’re gonna have a new start here at Prudential.”
After bouncing around stadiums in Bridgeport, CT and Long Island, NY, the Sirens found a per-
manent home in Newark with the New Jersey Devils.
Daoust also expanded on the challenges the team faced with losing players to the expansion draft in June.
“We had to be creative and ask ourselves, ‘How are we supposed to use the same recipe and hope it is different?’ and we decided to add some salt here and pepper there, but we didn’t need to throw the whole meal in the garbage. We had something great on the table and now we’re just adding some spices here and there so it tastes better.”
Following this, Kaltounková began her segment of the Q&A, going in depth on her early life in Czechia, her experience with the draft and her hopes going into the season.
The rookie forward is known for her fearless and physical play style, which she attributes to playing with boys growing up.
“It was tough because we didn’t have women’s leagues, so I grew up playing with boys until I went to the U.S. at 15 to play high school, and it wasn’t always easy. There was a lot of belief from guys to girls, no one wanted to have girls on their team because it was embarrassing,” she said. “A lot of guys from the opposing team would intentionally
go and try to hit us because we were girls, I think that made me stronger mentally and physically.”
Kaltounková will start her rookie year under Head Coach Greg Fargo, who coached the forward during her time at Colgate. She expressed excitement over playing under Fargo, stating comfort and confidence as her main feelings.
“I feel like I can really be confident and play my game under him, so that’s really positive for me,” Kaltounková said.
With her final remarks, Kaltounková sent a powerful message to all young girls aspiring to be professional athletes in the future, encouraging them to keep going no matter what.
“Just keep going, just keep playing. If you think it’s unrealistic, just don’t think about that. Don’t let people discourage you. Women’s sports are growing and it’s for everyone,” she said. “It’s empowering to be a woman and play a sport. It’s such a great fanbase, a lot of support around you, so if you ever feel alone, you’re not.”
The morning of festivities ended with a raffle for game tickets, a booth where fans got to meet Kaltounková, get signed memorabilia and take photos with the star rookie.
ZelAyA | SePt. 29, 2025
A Hidden Dining Option: Behind the Closure of the On-Campus Taco Bell
Students expressed disappointment about Taco Bell’s closing.
To the shock of many students, the on-campus Taco Bell that was located on the first floor of the D’Angelo Center (DAC) was quietly closed at the beginning of the semester. There were no large-scale announcements of its closure, leaving many confused when they realized it was no longer available for order on their Boost apps.
The only online indication of Taco Bell’s closure is its removal from the Dine On Campus website. It is unclear if this is a permanent shutdown.
“I didn’t go there a lot. I didn’t know it closed,” sophomore Matthew Yang said, demonstrating just how under-the-radar the Taco Bell was.
Sophomore Nicholas Keefer agreed, sharing that he “didn’t visit it often, and was unaware of its closure.” Although the semester began more than two weeks ago, many students did not realize that Taco Bell was not in operation.
This can largely be attributed to its rather inconvenient and largely hidden location. Other on-campus dining locations like Einstein Bagels — located on the way to the library in St. Augustine Hall — and Dunkin, which is attached to the busy Marillac Hall, are in high-traffic areas, making them easily accessible.
Taco Bell suffered because it did not share this convenience. The first floor of DAC is typically empty and at most sparsely populated unless there is an event taking place. This left Taco Bell as a less popular and less profitable on-campus restaurant.
Despite its lower notoriety, the closure of Taco Bell results in a gap in University dining options on two levels: affordability and late-night hours. The menu offered several meals that were less than three dollars,
allowing students on a budget to purchase food on campus.
Keefer noted this absence, adding that he hopes “they replace it with another affordable option soon.” Other than Dunkin, most other substantial dining items are over ten dollars, leaving students to spend more when purchasing food on campus now that Taco Bell has closed.
Additionally, Taco Bell was one of the only eateries on-campus that was open in the evening, as it previously remained open until 7:00 pm. The majority of dining locations close by 3:30 pm, with the exception of Burger King, Subway and Dunkin – located in Marillac Hall, Starbucks and Montgoris Dining Hall, which is primarily geared towards resident students. This leaves students, especially commuters, with limited dinner options.
Tiffany Chan, a junior who is commuting for the first time this semester, feels restricted with the current restaurants on-campus now that Taco Bell is closed.
“There’s now less options on campus for commuters and only certain places are open later,” Chan said. “Many students are going to have to go off-campus to eat now since Taco Bell was an affordable option with later hours.”
The next on-campus dining location will need to be more visible to the average student, or at least have stronger marketing in order to be more successful. It is clear affordable food spots with evening hours are necessary parts of the campus dining experience in order to fulfill the needs of the student body.
AlexAndrA Prettitore | SePt. 22. 2025
Photo Courtesy / Briana Tola
Photo Courtesy/ YouTube Mashed
Five Fall Date Ideas
Take your date beyond the pumpkin patch this year.
Carlyann Carey | Sept. 29, 2025
Autumn is the perfect time to enjoy everything New York has to offer. From the food to the holidays, the change from summer into fall brings a whole new atmosphere to the city. Here are all the ways you can enjoy the season with someone you love.
Candlelit Concert
There is nothing more romantic than a night out surrounded by warm light and classical music. New York hosts many candlelit concerts paying tribute to artists from Bad Bunny to Adele. The renditions use classical music to set the mood and enjoy a night out with your partner.
Whether you love rap, ultra-pop or traditional music, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. There are a number of locations around the city where the two of you can have dinner at an Italian restaurant before seeing and listening to a show. Tickets start at around $26 with a range of dates for each show.
Jack O’Lantern Blaze
New York is hosting a light festival in the Hudson Valley from Sept. 12 to Nov. 16. The Jack O’Lantern Blaze includes over 7,000 handcarved pumpkins illuminating in the night.
Ticket pricing starts at $24 that can be upgraded to include experiences such as a tavern dinner with gratuities and a keepsake given to you at the end of the dinner. A timed entry into an event involving a pumpkin trail and cocktails is also a perk.
Blood Manor
There cannot be a fall date list without tying in a haunted attraction.
Blood Manor is set in Downtown Manhattan and has been labeled as New York’s scariest experience. It begins on Oct. 3 and runs through Halloween. There are over 10,000 square feet of corridors and rooms full of “blood” gore and actors who are paid to make you scream.
“The haunted experience is designed to be the most intense, creepy, and nerve-plucking event in the tri-state area—and it delivers,” the website writes.
Ticket prices are starting at $46 for a night full of horror and fun with your partner!
Fall Festivals
New York is hosting a number of fall festivals throughout September and October. These festivals have different themes that range from fam-
A Heavenly Father’s Love
Sofia Guastella, Contributing Writer
ily-friendly pumpkin painting to cultural events like India’s Diwali and Italian festivals all throughout New York’s boroughs.
Whatever you feel like doing with your date this fall, there are a number of festivals selling food, drinks and fun for an easy and relaxed day out where the two of you can experience everything the season has to offer.
Horror Bookstores
The Twisted Spine, New York City’s first horror-themed bookshop, opened in Williamsburg on Sept. 6.
The bookstore has over 5,000 horror books to offer and has plans to host a number of events for readers and horror enthusiasts alike. It also has an espresso bar that transforms into a cocktail aid Enjoy a cozy date surrounded by good drinks and books with your partner this fall in a space coupled with armchairs, a fireplace and good literature.
Whether you’re a horror junkie or someone who prefers the relaxed vibe fall brings, there’s something for you and your date to enjoy this season. This list compiles everything great the city has to offer during one of the best times of the year.
Depressed, lonely, angry and hopeless, but never suicidal. For about seven years of my adolescence I never saw any hope in my future and said, “Well, if I were to die now, I wouldn’t care because there’s nothing going for me in the future.” I grew up religious, but never truly practiced my relationship with God as I was taught. When I needed a saving grace the most, He threw a life jacket and saved His daughter from drowning. I instantly found purpose and gained all the love and hope I thought was lost for good back into my life.
Photo Courtesy / Youtube Mimi
Torch Illustration / Megan Chapman
Photo Courtesy / Unsplash David Menidrey
Five Tips to Start a Successful Semester
Begin the academic year on the right foot by establishing these habits.
AlexAndrA Prettitore | SePt. 13, 2025
St. John’s University kicked off the Fall 2025 semester on Sept. 3, welcoming over 15,000 undergraduate students back to its Queens campus — from overwhelmed freshmen to experienced seniors.
It can be challenging to adjust to a busy college schedule, balancing academics, work, social life and family obligations. Implementing healthy habits at the start of the semester can make this adjustment more manageable, setting you up for success this fall.
Create a Study Schedule
Acclimating to a full-time student course load can be daunting, especially when you are taking rigorous classes. It can feel overwhelming when you have reading for every class, multiple papers and exams to study for.
There are countless study strategies online, such as the Pomodoro technique, but it is important to have time carved out to actually implement these tactics.
Simple time management is the best way to combat this stress. Although procrastination is tempting, you will have a massive weight lifted when you establish a consistent study schedule. Use an online or physical calendar, and decide on a designated time slot to do homework or study for each class.
Having a recurring and specific window for your coursework helps prevent procrastination and make your academic responsibilities more manageable.
Make a Friend in Each Class
Awkward icebreakers during the first few weeks of classes may seem painful, but they may actually work to your advantage. Connecting with your classmates will be helpful if you are ever absent from class since they can provide notes and important announcements. Additionally, being friendly with your classmates can lead to fruitful study group sessions. Studying with others allows for new ideas to be shared, motivation and improved communication between students. On top of academic benefits, talking with your classmates can result in friendships outside of the classroom.
The person sitting in front of you in a lecture could be your next close friend.
Connect with Your Professors
College professors may seem like intimidating authority figures, but most of them are eager to bond with and assist their students. If you have time after class, introduce yourself
to your professors, and share a little about your academic interests and goals. Taking initiative to talk with them will help you stand out amongst other students.
Building a strong rapport with your professors can benefit you in their classes and potentially beyond them. Having a cordial relationship with your professors will make them more likely to be understanding if you need an extension for an assignment or miss a class in the future.
Additionally, if they are in your major’s department, they can provide mentorship and even connect you with research, internship and job opportunities. Plus, you can learn many enlightening life lessons from these knowledgeable figures.
Eat Three Healthy Meals Each Day
As self-explanatory as it sounds, it is crucial to eat nutritious meals during the semester.
Even though it might be more convenient to skip breakfast or eat a granola bar for dinner, taking the time to properly nourish yourself is a worthy investment. Having a healthy diet can improve mental health, in turn leading to more success in academics. For example, a nutritious diet can boost your memory and concentration.
There is a registered dietician on-campus to help you plan a meal schedule if you find it challenging to consistently eat healthily. Studies also show that having friends and family hold you accountable for your food choices can motivate more nutritious eating. Nourishing your body with fueling and enjoyable meals can be a true game-changer.
Find Your Relaxation Hub
Amidst your hectic schedule, it is just as important to make time to relax and give yourself a break. Look for a peaceful location on campus where you can unwind and destress. There are many quiet scenic spots —- such as the Great Lawn and the 9/11 memorial —that you can visit in between classes to ground yourself and reflect on your day.
Having a few minutes during the day to take a breather from classes and work will help you stay refreshed and ready to take on the stresses of college life. If you need further mental health support, there are additional counseling resources on campus.
Being a college student requires trial and error, and you will encounter setbacks along the way. However, establishing these habits early in the semester will allow you to limit unnecessary stress, making your experience more enjoyable and less overwhelming.
Torch Design / Megan Chapman
Hosting ‘WrestleMania 43’ in Saudi Arabia will be one of WWE’s Biggest Mistakes
WWE sided against fans to do “what’s best for business.”
Dean
Koutouratsas | sept 18, 2025
More than four months after Las Vegas hosted Showcase of the Immortals, WWE announced that in two years, WrestleMania 43 will be held outside the U.S. for the first time since 2002, when it took place in (Toronto, Canada).
The location: Riyadh, Saudi Arabia professional wrestling’s most prominent event is officially headed to the Gulf Arab nation.
The announcement was made on Sept. 12 during a joint press conference featuring WWE Chief Content Officer Triple H and Saudi Arabian sports promoter Turki Al-Sheikh, with wrestling legends like The Undertaker and Shawn Michaels also in attendance.
“WrestleMania is already the biggest date on the wrestling calendar, and this announcement marks a significant moment in our partnership with WWE,” Al-Sheikh, the chairman of Saudi Arabia’s General Entertainment Authority (GEA) said.
“We deeply respect the legacy of WrestleMania and the global prestige it holds among wrestling fans worldwide,” he added.
But that’s not all. In January of next year, Riyadh will be home to one of professional wrestling’s biggest pay-per-views, The Royal Rumble. This decision follows WWE’s 2018 agreement to a ten-year partnership with Saudi Arabia’s GEA for multiple annual events.
The deal was subsequently extended through 2027, ensuring Saudi Arabia would host two “large-scale events” annually. Some think this is a good idea because it puts professional wrestling on the global stage, and gives Saudi Arabia more revenue due to tickets and merchandise sales.
However, as a lifelong WWE fan, I completely disagree. Fans have wanted WrestleMania to be held overseas for some time now, but not in Saudi Arabia.
While not intended to disrespect Saudi Arabian wrestling fans, I contend that if WWE truly sought to host its trademark event outside
of North America, locations like England or France would have been more appropriate.
France hosted the Clash in Paris pay-per-view on Aug. 31 and the Sept. 1 episode of Monday Night Raw, drawing a strong turnout largely due to the enthusiastic atmosphere fans created. Alternatively, if WrestleMania was hosted in England, the event could take place in Wembley Stadium.
Wembley Stadium has historically produced multiple sell-out crowds, and could have added professional wrestling’s biggest night to that list. A real concern is that WWE shows are directed toward families because of their affordable prices. However, hosting WrestleMania in Saudi Arabia will remove that aspect because tickets will become more expensive.
Furthermore, American and European fans who plan on attending the event will have to pay for air travel and a hotel in addition to buying tickets to the show. Events in Saudi Arabia are considered moderately expensive for tourists, meaning fans will have to pay a high price if they want to purchase multiple tickets.
Another talking point that comes with hosting the event in Saudi Arabia is one of the supposed proposals, to have WrestleMania happen twice a year, with one being held in Saudi Arabia. I disagree with this idea and never will agree, because being a weekend-long event is what makes WrestleMania the spectacle it’s known for.
Hosting it twice annually, takes all the excitement and enjoyment out of it, as fans watch the yearly Road to WrestleMania narrative that traditionally begins after the Royal Rumble and culminates at the Showcase of the Immortals.
Therefore, if WWE truly intends to make a decision that is “best for business,” they should reconsider hosting WrestleMania 43 in Saudi Arabia before it’s too late.
Photo Courtesy / YouTube Warner Bros.
Photo Courtesy/ YouTube WWE
Nintendo Has a Lot of Problems Right Now
The company I grew up loving has become overly money-hungry in recent years.
Grayson | sept. 19, 2025
Nintendo has always been a part of who I am. The first video game I ever played, Mario Kart Wii, is one of the most iconic titles in its unrivaled catalog.
However, lately, I have felt jaded. It may be due to my age and growing responsibilities, but the growing discontent across the Nintendo fan base as a whole indicates a larger issue that is at play.
An issue that boils down to one word: greed. The most prominent controversy they’ve faced in over a decade is the price of the signature launch title for their new console, the Nintendo Switch 2, Mario Kart World. Despite the industry standard being at around $70 for only a few years, the company charged a hefty $80 for a standalone copy of the game.
We live in a time of significant economic insecurity, and video games remain a relatively cheap distraction from the problems in our lives. Maybe in a different time, Nintendo would’ve understood this and possibly relied on a large enough sale of the game to make a profit. But that company is long gone, and this one created yet another industry-wide price hike, as Sony increased the PS5 price in response.
However, just one instance of stinginess doesn’t explain the whole story. This is what brings forward their long, tumultuous relationship with their most active fanbase, the Super Smash Bros. competitive community. Since the popularization of the series, the vast majority of major tournaments have been grassroots-run, meaning Nintendo itself has no involvement besides having ownership of the game. This opened the door for tournaments to not only feature the latest game in the series, but arguably the most revered game in the franchise, Super Smash Bros. Melee.
all high-profile melee tournaments started using modified versions of the game that allowed for online play. This even continued after the pandemic, as the easy access made joining a tournament a much less costly endeavor. Well… that is until Nintendo stepped in.
In October 2023, Nintendo issued an all-out ban on every modified version of any competitive game in its catalog. In addition, they also placed restrictions on other aspects of grassroots Nintendo tournaments, including sponsorship arrangements, the number of entrants and how large a prize pool can be.
In turn, these competitions have become much less lucrative, making it more difficult to
has rectified that issue to an extent, the price of membership, along with its sparse release schedule, has barely done anything to write the wrongs of the past.
This brings us to the final nail in the coffin, the games themselves.
Besides Mario Kart World, there won’t be another major mainline series Switch 2 exclusive coming out until at least the middle of 2026.
Donkey Kong Bananza, Kirby Air Ride, Metroid Prime 4 and Yoshi and Mysterious Book have already come out or are set to release before then. Still, none of those hold a candle to some of the other top-notch series fans universally enjoy.
earn money as a Smash pro or as someone who plays a role in organizing tournaments.
All for what? A minute percentage of people opting to fork over hundreds of dollars for travel purposes?
Nintendo is perfectly within its legal right to go after emulators, but doing so has alienated millions of its loyal followers who simply want to further engage with franchises that mean something to them.
However, as COVID-19 became a global pandemic in 2020, the lack of an online play option—due to the game being released in 2001 on the GameCube—made tournaments on the original hardware virtually impossible. This is where emulation, a free way to play and modify games online, came in. Virtually
It’s the reason why taking this approach is considered taboo by comparable companies in the industry, with companies such as SEGA taking a more laissez-faire approach. Not to mention the fact that a large reason why emulation is so prevalent to begin with is that Nintendo itself has refused to re-release many of its classic titles.
While the Nintendo Switch Online service
This is astonishingly disappointing, considering the Switch 2 is only three months old.
In comparison, the launch year of the first system had two of the most critically acclaimed games of the year, The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Super Mario, both released within the first seven months.
The games that are on the market for Switch haven’t been received in nearly the same capacity, either. Mario Kart World has received very mixed opinions, and games such as Mario Party Jamboree + Jamboree TV have been exposed for blatant false advertising.
With the exception of the PS5 and Xbox Series consoles, which were both released during the COVID-19 pandemic, a launch year for a system is rarely ever this barren in terms of high-profile, first-party titles. It’s staggering.
This piece is not supposed to be some call to action for a boycott of Nintendo. Most, if not all, video game companies have their issues, with some going even beyond displeasing their fan base.
The issue here is that most of the issues mentioned are unique to this one company.
Nintendo stands above all other video game companies in terms of its history and fan base. It’s high time those in charge realize who’s at the core of what they do. Not their shareholders, their consumers.
Photo Courtesy / YouTube POLITICO
Micah
Photo Courtesy/ YouTube SURGE
103RD EDITORIAL BOARD
James Williams EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Celina Mullady MANAGING EDITOR
niCholas st. Cyr
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Carlyann Carey
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The Joy in Being Bad at Things
When I was 17, I went out on a first date. I don’t know why I thought it was important to mention, but I remember telling him that I have never been naturally good at anything.
It’s true. As a runner for most of my life, I spent my early track years coming in last at every race. As an English major, I was the slowest reader out of all my friends. As someone learning a second language, I was told I wasn’t good enough for an A.P. level class in high school. I draw— sometimes poorly and sometimes decently.
There’s freedom in starting off horrible at something and doing it anyway. I’m the worst cook in my family, and I laugh when my dad walks in the house asking what I’ve burnt this time.
There’s no pressure to do anything great. The only thing you need to do is experience pure enjoyment.
Studies show there are significant mental health benefits to being a beginner at something. Believe it or not, learning something new can actually boost your self-esteem rather than deflate it.
The long-term benefits alone are enough of an incentive to keep trying, but they are far from the only ones. Not only does being a beginner reduce anxiety and depression, but it also helps reduce the effects of aging. This
is because a new hobby requires a certain level of mindfulness closely resembling meditation. It’s especially important to keep this in mind when considering how short our attention spans are thanks to phones and constant sources of entertainment. We no longer give ourselves permission to be bored or to do something not requiring the constant influx of others’ thoughts, opinions and lives.
Beginning something is creating quality time with yourself. It is doing something without needing others to entertain you.
In such a fast-paced world, with constant noise from news sources, classrooms and screens, giving yourself the space to be bad at something might quiet those sources of pressure in your head. Imagine how many more Picassos and Mozarts we would have if more people allowed themselves to start something new. We think that because we’re at a certain point in our lives, we’re too old to be beginners. There is never an age limit on new experiences and connecting with a part of yourself that just wants to try something. Be the least flexible person in your yoga class. Take blurry pictures in Manhattan. Sing off-key. Don’t be surprised when these little habits become true and genuine skills instead of just talent.
Carlyann Carey | Sept. 25, 2025
Photo Courtesy / Carlyann Carey
2025 Was a Rap Summer
There wasn’t a clear song of the summer, but there was a genre of the summer.
Parker Songco | SePt. 10, 2025
The summer of 2024 was undeniably a “brat” one, with Charli XCX’s album dominating both the internet and club scene. Even beyond the memorable cultural phenomenon, the charts of summer 2024 were topped by then-new hits from stars like Sabrina Carpenter, Kendrick Lamar, Benson Boone and more.
But the summer of 2025 didn’t have as much of a distinctly defined sound. The charts were still mostly ruled by songs released in the previous year.
Drake’s “NOKIA,” Morgan Wallen’s “I’m the Problem” and Alex Warren’s “Ordinary” were the only three songs released in 2025 that were part of this year’s top 10 most-streamed songs in the US, according to Luminate’s midyear report.
This uncertainty around deciding a set sound for the summer left publications in disarray. The Guardian wrote that the song of the summer was “nothing,” and called the 2025 charts “so stale.” WIRED Magazine even claimed that the very idea of a song of the summer has become “dead” entirely.
While pop music’s reputation might have taken a hit this summer, there was one genre that remained constant throughout the blistering music season: the sheer amount of high-quality hip-hop albums that were released.
From surprise releases to highly anticipated sequel albums to long-awaited reunions from rap legends, the past few months have been nothing short of Christmas in hot weather for hip-hop fans. Here are some of the best rap albums that have been released during this time, in case you missed them.
On July 14 at Madison Square Garden—with Clipse in attendance— Tyler, The Creator paid homage to the duo during his “CHROMAKOPIA” tour and explained that their 2002 album “Lord Willin’” is the “DNA… the base, the core of how I rap.”
“Summertime Butch 2” by Benny The Butcher
The Butcher does his thing once again, proving that he can spit about pushing snow even in the summer.
Released on July 16, “Summertime Butch 2” is the fifth project the Buffalo-based rapper has released in the last two years, showing why he and Griselda are some of the most consistent artists in the game.
Benny The Butcher delivers quality songs that span across multiple rap subgenres, from familiar coke-rap with Westside Gunn to trap tracks with G Herbo.
“black british music (2025)” by Jim Legxacy Jim Legxacy has quickly made a name for himself coming from the U.K. underground rap scene, with his single “father” gaining quite a bit of traction before the release of “black british music.”
“Blush” by Kevin Abstract
Released on June 27, “Blush” marks Kevin Abstract’s second solo project since the disbanding of hip-hop boy band BROCKHAMPTON in 2022. Created in the midst of a breakup, Abstract left Los Angeles and returned to his roots in Texas, reconnecting with old friends with the focus to “just work on music.”
With appearances from both longtime collaborators (Ameer Vann, Dominic Fike, Danny Brown) and newer ones (Quadeca, Love Spells), “Blush” forms a sound reminiscent of BROCKHAMPTON’s early “SATURATION” days. It’s an infusion of rap and R&B that lets multiple artists leave their mark on the project, but without the boy band feel.
Instead, it’s more akin to a sound that pays homage to his hometown. In an interview with Complex Music, Abstract said he “was inspired by Kendrick with ‘GNX’ and like, the regional thing,” working alongside smaller Texas-based artists and giving them the spotlight.
“Let God Sort Em Out” by Clipse
The legendary hip-hop pair of brothers, Pusha T and Malice, collectively known as Clipse, made their return to the rap game with their first full-length project as a duo in 16 years.
Released on July 11 and executively produced by Pharrell Williams, “Let God Sort Em Out” is a masterful blend of production and veteran verses that deal with issues of loss, fame and wealth, showing why they’re a major inspiration to multiple generations of rappers, with a stacked feature list that includes Tyler, The Creator, Kendrick Lamar, Nas and more.
Released on July 18, the Black British artist puts his versatility on display throughout the project, delivering new-age rap verses over sample-heavy production that sounds both nostalgic and innovative. Legxacy explores beyond the rap genre as well, with pop-rock sounding tracks like “‘06 wayne rooney” and slower cuts such as “dexters phone call.”
“DON’T TAP THE GLASS” by Tyler, The Creator
Starting with a rare, unexpected rollout from Tyler, The Creator while on tour, “DON’T TAP THE GLASS” felt more like an experience in the middle of the summer rather than just another album. With $10 shows in LA and Brooklyn, Tyler perfectly capitalized on the traction he created during his tour while promoting this new project.
Released on July 21, “DON’T TAP THE GLASS” is more of a dance album first and a rap album second. While Tyler has rap verses across several tracks, each one is made to get you moving and grooving. It’s a fresh blend of retro R&B and rap influences, a bit of an outlier compared to the rest of his catalog.
“God Does Like Ugly” by JID
Atlanta-based Dreamville rapper JID returned with his first fulllength release in three years since his critically acclaimed album “The Forever Story.”
Released on Aug. 8, “God Does Like Ugly” is another exhibition of JID’s skill in carefully crafting a quality project. From traditional rap tracks with Westside Gunn to R&B cuts with Jessie Reyez, JID proves that he’s one of the best in the game due to his versatility. “God Does Like Ugly” features countless memorable verses, even earning Genius’s Verse of the Month for August 2025 for his work on “K-Word.”
“Live Laugh Love” by Earl Sweatshirt
The second addition on this list from a former Odd Future member, rapper Earl Sweatshirt released “Live Laugh Love” on Aug. 22, two years after his collaboration “VOIR DIRE” with The Alchemist.
Earl Sweatshirt’s style is one of the most captivating in the scene, with poetic verses filled with pop-culture references that feel super introspective. On “Live Laugh Love,” Earl Sweatshirt layers his style on top of earworm-like sample-heavy production.
Torch Design / Parker Songco
Chappell Roan Reigns at Forest Hills Stadium
A night of damsels, dark fantasy and serious stage presence.
Chappel Roan’s pop-up tour, “Visions of Damsels & Other Dangerous Things,”took to the Forest Hills Stadium stage from Sept 20-24. Roan’s limited-run concert was a sought-after event, showing in just three cities nationwide. With high attendance expectancy, fans had to register in advance and be randomly selected for tickets. The result was four sold-out shows and an electric crowd of devoted listeners who felt like they’d won a prize just by being there. Before the show, fans could stop by mer-
chandise tables, merch customization tables, various photo-op stations and grab some food. From the moment you walked into the queue and entered the venue, you could see that fans went all out for the show with their colorful, themed outfits.
Starting the show with a bang, Roan had local drag queens take the stage to warm up the crowd. The queens brought the energy up in the pit with dancing and commentary. The opening singer, Hemlocke Springs, perfectly fit the vibe of the fantasy-themed pop-up and officially opened the show for the Midwest Princess.
By 8:30 p.m., Roan took to the stage. Her setlist included well-known pop hits, such as “Hot to Go” and “Red Wine Supernova,” as well as her lesser-known songs like “Love Me Anyways” and “California.”
Some of the night’s highlights included her cover of “Barracuda” by Heart, and her songs “Hot to Go” and “Coffee.” During “Hot to Go,” there were pyrotechnics, and Roan taught the crowd the infamous dance that accompa-
nies the song. This was by far the most energetic song of the night.
“Coffee” was a personal favorite and was one of the more serious moments of the night. Roan sat down and sang while the audience swayed back and forth with their phone flashlights, creating an intimate atmosphere for both Roan and the crowd.
Roan noticeably left out one song in particular. “Kaleidoscope,” is a fan favorite and was sorely missed during the show.
“I figured if she played every other song off of the album, she might as well do them all. I know Kaleidoscope is an underrated song, but it’s one of my favorites, and I think it should’ve gotten justice,” said Gabriela Heigel, 19, who had been in the pit for three hours prior to Roan’s set.
Even without “Kaleidoscope,” Roan gave fans a night they’ll never forget. Between the drag openers, the costumes and the music, the show felt less like a concert and more like a community, one that fans were lucky to be a part of.
Pharrell Williams and Andrea Bocelli Present First Vatican Concert
The pair co-directed the “Grace for the World” show to promote global unity. Nicholas st cyr
St. Peter’s Square was host to a historic night filled with appearances from an array of influential figures on Sept. 13. The concert was held to bring a close to the World Meeting on Human Fraternity and to mark the 2025 Jubilee Year. The event was also available to watch live for free on various platforms.
Pope Leo XIV opened the doors of the Vatican to global superstars Maestro Andrea Bocelli, Pharrell Williams, Karol G, John Legend, Jennifer Hudson, Clipse, Jelly Roll, BamBam, Angelique Kidjo and Teddy Swims. These esteemed musicians were accompanied by the Voices of Fire of Gospel Choir, the Choir of the Diocese of Rome and an international choir specially assembled for this event.
Hundreds of thousands of people filled the Vatican in anticipation of the performances. Doors opened at 6 p.m. Central European Summer Time (CEST), and attendees waited in what seemed to be endless lines as they made their way to the square.
The show opened with Bocelli singing religious classics like “Amazing Grace” and “Ave Maria.” Bocelli wowed the crowd with his amazing vocals, but also shared the attention
with a beautiful drone show, which displayed illuminated visuals like recently deceased Pope Francis and recreations of famous artworks the “Creation of Adam” and “Pietà.”
John Legend performed “Glory” while giving appreciation to Martin Luther King Jr. Legend then brought acclaimed Virginia rap duo Clipse onstage, and they performed “Birds Don’t Sing” from their recent album “Let God Sort ‘Em Out.” The group, famous for their narcotic lyrics, was a surprise at the center of the Catholic World.
This performance adds to an impressive year for Clipse, whose album peaked in the Billboard top five following the group’s reunion.
The audience featured a major turnout from the Latin community, with Colombian jerseys and flags scattered throughout the crowd. Their presence was felt when Colombian singer Karol G took the stage and performed “Mientras Me Curo Del Cora.” This was followed by Kidjo’s “La Vida Es Un Carnaval,” which got the crowd dancing and enjoying themselves.
One of the highlights of the show was Jennifer Hudson’s amazing vocal performance throughout the night. She showed her techni-
cal ability with a powerful rendition of “Hallelujah.”
Another highlight was the crossover between multiple generations. Bocelli shared the stage with many artists, including Karol G and Hudson, to deliver spectacular collaborative performances.
The collection of performances was a special moment in history, bringing people together from around the world, celebrating the talent of superstars from different genres and generations in one big movement to promote harmony across borders.
samaNtha agoursalidis | sept. 30, 2025
Torch Photo / Samantha Agoursalidis
Torch Photo / Nicholas St. Cyr
Freddie Gibbs & The Alchemist Chef Up in Brooklyn for ‘Alfredo: The Tour’
The rapper-producer duo took their album series to the Brooklyn Paramount.
The recently renovated Brooklyn Paramount, located on Long Island University’s (LIU) Brooklyn campus, was host to the first night of a sold-out two-night stay from Freddie Gibbs and The Alchemist for “Alfredo: The Tour” on Sept. 21.
The Brooklyn Paramount, known for its high ornate ceilings and French baroque-style, was then home to the Tokyo-style “Alfredo’s” restaurant. The façade of a restaurant storefront was set up on stage, with a banner translating to “Alfredo” in Japanese and a neon “Alfredo’s” sign stamped on the door.
If you’re a fan of Freddie Gibbs’ raps and The Alchemist’s production, you’re most likely appreciative of how their work blends hip-hop with soulful, jazz-inspired samples. This tour’s lineup of openers adhered to all spheres of the average “Alfredo” listener, with support from Sven Wunder, Mavi and Jalen Ngonda. North Carolina-born artist MAVI appealed to the hip-hop sphere of the average “Alfredo” listener. A once underground rapper who’s been gaining traction over the past two years, MAVI had a rather short but still captivating and energetic set, performing fan-favorites such as “Self Love” and The Alchemist-produced “Miracle Baby.”
He took his time on stage to bring attention to issues such as police brutality and the Palestine-Israel conflict, chanting “Free Palestine,” while waving the keffiyeh of Isra Hirsi, co-founder of the U.S. Youth Climate Strike and daughter of U.S. Representative Ilhan Omar.
Washington, D.C.-born singer-songwriter and guitarist Jalen Ngonda was the final addition to the stacked list of openers. An insane vocal talent to listen to live, Ngonda’s soulful voice brings you back to another time, with a sound that reminds you of the Motown era. He played tracks off his 2023 album “Come Around and Love Me,” ending his set with the viral hit, “If You Don’t Want My Love.”
Parker Songco | SePt. 26, 2025
Once 9:30 p.m. hit, The Alchemist took the stage, spinning “1985,” the intro to their 2020 Grammy-nominated album “Alfredo.” The track begins with a soundbite from the late comedian Bernie Mac. Mac says to “take the garbage out,” and once the guitar sample kicks in, so does Gibbs. Dressed in a Gi sporting an “Alfredo” logo on the back, he knocked down the door to the restaurant and was welcomed to an erupting crowd.
The duo started the show off playing hits from the first “Alfredo,” including “God Is Perfect” and “Scottie Beam.” Gibbs acknowledged that they dropped their first project during the pandemic, meaning that they never got the chance to tour the album.
They started their “Alfredo 2” run by performing “1995,” “Mar-A-Lago” and “Lemon Pepper Steppers.” They alternated between both albums, playing “Baby $hit,” “Gold Feet,” “Babies & Fools,” “Look At Me” and “Feeling.” The duo even went back to their 2018 collaboration with Curren$y, playing “Now & Later Gators” from their album “Fetti.”
Gibbs opened the door and went back into “Alfredo’s” restaurant, leaving The Alchemist solo to play a mini DJ set. He spun self-produced hits such as “Life is Beautiful” by Larry June and 2 Chainz, “Tick Tock” featuring Nas and Prodigy, and the iconic “We Gonna Make It” by Jadakiss and Styles P.
Gibbs emerged in a new Gi, changing from black to blue. This marked the beginning of a six-song “Alfredo 2” run, including “Skinny Suge II,” “Lavish Habits,” “Empanadas,” “I Still Love H.E.R.,” “Shangri La” and “Gas Station Sushi.”
After the six-song streak, Gibbs took a back-
seat and handed the mic to The Alchemist, who returned to his roots by rapping his verse live on “Ferraris in the Rain Part 2,” the first single off his 2024 release “The Genuine Articulate,” a project where the usual producer lays verses on every song. Gibbs got back up to perform his feature on the track, and he was up for the rest of the night.
Gibbs chose five different songs from five separate projects to close out the show, starting with the fan-favorite “Something to Rap About” off “Alfredo.” They followed this up with two songs from two different Freddie Gibbs and Madlib collabs.
First, “Crime Pays” off their 2019 release “Bandana” and “Thuggin’” off their 2018 release “Piñata.” Originally released as a single and then added to the “$oul $old $eparately” Bonus Edition, Gibbs performed the upbeat “Gang Signs” for the final non- “Alfredo” track. Gibbs brought his daughter onstage to perform the final song of the night, “Ensalada.” Calling it his “favorite song” off “Alfredo 2,” Gibbs rapped his verses as he carried his daughter and the crowd filled in to sing the catchy Anderson .Paak chorus.
The lights dimmed and the duo went back into “Alfredo’s” restaurant to close out the night. Not long after the lights went out, The Alchemist returned to his DJ booth and Gibbs came back to the stage shortly after for an encore. The two closed the show out for real this time, playing outro tracks “Jean Claude” and “A Thousand Mountains,” fitting songs that sound like the end-credits to an old fighter game.
After selling out two nights in a row in Brooklyn, Freddie Gibbs and The Alchemist will be traveling down south for their next leg of “Alfredo: The Tour,” continuing to serve fresh bars and beats to crowds in Texas, Florida and Georgia.
Torch Photo / Parker Songco
Torch Photo / Parker Songco
Torch Photo / Parker Songco
SPORTS PHOTOS
Torch Photo / Cassandra Casiero
Men’s Soccer huddles up before their match with No. 2 Marshall Sept. 5
Torch Photo / Sebastian Zelya
Kristýna Kaltounková shares a laugh with Pascal Daoust during a Q&A Sept. 28
Volleyball hold a tribute for DJ Southerland before the Villanova game Sept. 26
Torch Photo / Cassandra Casiero
Julian Jakopovic makes a run down the wing against Xavier Sept. 19
Torch Photo / Luis Barrett
Torch Photo / Luis Barrett
Antonio Biggs controls a long pass against Xavier Sept. 19
Martina Capponcelli starts a rally against Villanova Sept. 26
Torch Photo / Cassandra Casiero
Women’s Soccer Draw Big East Home Opener
St. John’s (2-4-3, 0-1-1 Big East) earned a 1-1 draw against Providence (3-2-2, 0-01 Big East) in their conference home opener on Sept. 24. The Red Storm’s lone goal came from a penalty kick by sophomore Telma Steindórsdóttir.
The Red Storm were looking to bounce back following a tough 2-0 loss at the hands of UConn on Sept. 20. Meanwhile, the Providence Friars had yet to kick off their conference schedule prior to the match.
The intensity of Big East conference play was evident throughout the physical matchup. Fouls accumulated on both sides, with Providence tallying 11 to St. John’s 10, highlighting the physical nature of the game.
The Friars jumped out to an early 1-0 lead after redshirt junior midfielder Theaea Mouratidis took advantage of a crucial Red Storm turnover and netted an unassisted goal. Mouratidis drilled a left-footed top-left corner chip shot just out of the reach of opposing goalkeeper, Kayla Bower. Bower went to the apex of her leap to try and deny the chip, but couldn’t quite reach it.
Despite conceding an early goal, Bower was lights out for the rest of the contest. Racking up six total saves, she was St. John’s most valuable player. Without Bower’s exceptional play in the net, this game ending in a draw was unlikely.
The senior will be bidding for Big East goalkeeper of the week once again following this strong performance. An honor that Bower previously took home this season for her strong performance against Youngstown State.
In that match, Bower posted five saves and only conceded a penalty.
The first half was all Friars up until a crucial mistake committed by redshirt sophomore defender Naiya McFarlane. A handball with two seconds remaining in the first half inside of her own box led to a penalty shot.
Red Storm head coach Ian Stone chose Steindórsdóttir to step up to the penalty hash with a chance to even the score heading into the half. Steindórsdóttir did just that, choosing to shoot in the bottom right corner knotting the score up at 1-1.
St. John’s let UConn score multiple goals late in the first half in their previous game, which ultimately cost them the match.
On Wednesday night, the Johnnies reversed the trend by netting a key goal with time expiring in the half.
By learning from their crucial mistake against UConn, it demonstrates how this St. John’s team is improving as the season moves along.
Despite the fortunate penalty goal, the Red Storm were outplayed in the first half. Providence played stifling defense and out-shot them seven to three.
Every time St. John’s was able to clear the ball out of their end, the Friar defenders were always ready to boot it right back in.
The beginning of the second half was more of the same; Providence was firmly in the driver’s seat. A clutch save from Bower began to swing the momentum back into St. John’s favor. She left her net, sprinting full speed right at an oncoming attacker and leaped onto the ball like it was a loose fumble.
On top of Bower continuing to shine in the net, St. John’s played much more aggressively in the second half. The Johnnies matched the Friars’ intensity every step of the way in the final forty-five minutes.
In the final 20 minutes of play, St. John’s dominated possession, flipping the script on Providence. Unfortunately for the Red Storm, three offside penalties killed any chance they had at taking the lead. The Red Storm wingers seemingly could not hold their run on potential through balls.
In the very late stages of the match, Providence had a chance to make something happen. A free kick was awarded to the Friars, and the referee stopped the clock with 25.5 ticks to play. The free kick was not a great one— Red Storm defenders came up to play the ball at the top of the box and quickly won possession.
A clutch clearance from the Red Storm defense shut down any chance of a Providence miracle, and the match ended in a 1-1 draw.
After being dominated early, St. John’s will live with a draw against a tough Providence side. If it was not for the multitude of costly offside calls against the Red Storm in the second half, this game could have looked different in the end.
The Red Storm earned a hardfought first point of the season with a draw. They will be back in action on Sept. 27, hitting the road for South Orange, New Jersey, where they have a date with the 0-2-0 Seton Hall Pirates.
Giants to Start Jaxson Dart
Facing a 0-3 start, the New York Giants are turning to a rookie quarterback for the first time since starting Daniel Jones in 2019.
ESPN broke the news on Sept. 23 that the Giants have decided to bench veteran Russell Wilson in favor of Jaxson Dart. Dart, the 25th overall pick out of Ole Miss in this year’s NFL draft, is set to make his highly anticipated first start on Sept. 28 in Week 4 against the Los Angeles Chargers.
His debut will be in front of a home crowd at MetLife Stadium after receiving three snaps against the Dallas Cowboys in Week 2. In that limited amount of action, Dart was given three quarterback run design plays, which resulted in him rushing for -3 yards.
The decision follows Head Coach Brian Daboll’s statement that he was “evaluating everything” and considering all possibilities. His decision makes Wilson, a Super Bowl XLVIII champion and nine-time Pro Bowler, the new backup, with Jameis Winston retaining his role as the third-stringer.
“In terms of the quarterback situation I’ve met with both [Wilson] and [Dart],” Daboll said during a press conference on Sept. 23. “It’s my decision to go with Jaxson and we’re going to get him ready to play this week and the remainder of the season.”
Wilson’s tenure as the starter concluded after he struggled in the Giants’ home opener against the Kansas City Chiefs on Sept. 21. The veteran threw for 160 yards and two interceptions, while New York fell 22-9 to the Chiefs. Dart also benefited from Ole Miss’ offense, which provided isolated quarterback friendly reads, not a prostyle scheme.
Despite his pitfalls, Dart can show what he’s made of on Sept. 28 when New York takes on the Chargers at MetLife Stadium.
Joe Browne | Sept. 26, 2025
Photo Courtsey / Sebastian Zelaya
SPORTS
Men's Basketball
Unveils 2025-26 Schedule
The St. John’s Men’s basketball team now knows all of its opponents for the highly anticipated 2025-26 season.
Last year, the Red Storm captured national attention by tying their franchise record for wins from the 1999-2000 season with a 31-5 record, claiming their first Big East trophy since that same season. Rick Pitino earned National Coach of the Year honors and RJ Luis Jr. was named Big East Player of the Year.
The Red Storm first made headlines by acquiring North Carolina guard Ian Jackson and then turning former conference foe Bryce Hopkins into a Johnnie. For the fifth straight year, the Red Storm will open Big East play at Carnesecca Arena, hosting DePaul on December 16, in a matchup they dominated last season with an 89-61 win. Early games also include New Year’s Eve against
Georgetown, followed by Butler and Providence, teams St. John’s swept in 2024.
The matchup against Providence (Jan 3) will also serve as a “homecoming” for St. John’s transfer Bryce Hopkins. The forward spent three seasons with the Friars, averaging 15 points in 34 minutes per game.
February brings one of the toughest stretches of the season. Pitino’s squad will host UConn on Feb. 6 and travel to Hartford three weeks later for the rematch. During this stretch, the Red Storm will also be on the road for two toughtough matchups with Providence (Feb 14) and Marquette (Feb 18), then returning home for a contest against Creighton (Feb 21).
A marquee matchup arrives on Feb. 9, when Pitino will face his son Richard Pitino’s Xavier team at Madison Square Garden, a Big
East rivalry that already saw the Red Storm visit the Musketeers on Jan. 24.
The closing stretch looks more favorable for the Johnnies. Three of their last five games will be played at MSG, including their season finale on a Friday against Seton Hall on March 6.
This season, St. John’s will play 13 games at MSG, the most ever in a single campaign. Not only will all of their Big East home games take place at the Garden, but their non-conference schedule features marquee matchups as well.. Welcoming Alabama, Iona, and Ole Miss to the Garden in to the Garden in all potential “mustwatch” contests.
Last season, the Red Storm played just one non-conference game at MSG, a showdown against New Mexico where the two Pitinos faced off and St. John’s won 85-71.
St. John’s and MSG have had a long-standing relationship. Since 1931, the world-famous arena has rented its space to the University for basketball games. With the program’s recent rise in popularity, discussions have emerged about moving beyond a rental agreement, per Zach Braziller of the New York Post. While MSG will always prioritize the schedules of the New York Knicks and Rangers, could the Red Storm one day make the Garden their permanent home?
Pitino came close to realizing that dream this season. Nine of the team’s 10 Big East home games will be played in New York City, just shy of the full slate, but still, a monumental step in the right direction as St. John’s continues its rapid ascent into the conversation as one of the nation’s elite programs.
Jason Petrucci | sePt. 13, 2025
Torch Photo / James Williams