Volume 72, Issue 9

THE PAISANO

Demonstrators overflow streets at ‘ no kings ’ march

Over 1,000 people flled downtown San Antonio’s streets, chanting and marching during the nation’s third “No Kings” protest.

By Maria Wence

Assistant Multimedia Editor

Overfowing the streets with posters, fags and puppets of President Donald Trump, demonstrators united in downtown San Antonio at Travis Park for the third “No Kings” march. Organized by 50501 SATX, the protest brought thousands of demonstrators and community organizations to rally against Trump’s administration.

The Party for Socialism and Liberation, 5051 SATX and the San Antonio Democratic Socialists of America provided designated tents inside the park, as the crowd joined the demonstration on March 28. The opportunity to talk to local organizations allowed attendees to become informed on community outreach and to continue advocating for justice. Family, friends and partners alike consolidated to successfully bring over a thousand people in one of 3,000 demonstrations that took place that day nationwide.

50501 SATX mutual aid lead Jolras Ruiz expressed concerns about the White House’s economic policies, anti-immigrant actions and the Iran War.

“The actions that we’ve seen have been at the cost of the average American. We’re seeing price increases that are bankrupting people,” Ruiz explained. “We’re seeing people starving in the streets, and we’re sending $6 billion

to a war that shouldn’t have started to begin with.”

Various speakers from the different organizations present expressed their concerns with Trump and shared their messages with the crowd. Among them was PSL organizer Destiny Pena.

“I don’t know what Trump’s trying to do here besides, you know, stroke his own ego or whatever, but it’s clear to us that his priorities are not with the people that he supposedly is supposed to serve,” Pena stated. “Trump has launched eight wars since he’s gotten into offce, even though he ran on being a supposed peace president. I think people are really starting to feel the effects of the war.”

Veteran Craig Hinman, who served the U.S. Marine Corps for 48 years and was on active duty during the long-standing war in Afghanistan in 2020, also spoke during the protest.

“I’m very much opposed to what this administration is doing to our country.”

“I’m very much opposed to what this administration is doing to our country. Very much opposed to what we’re doing to immigrants and this unjust war,” Hinman said. “It’s terrible, and we really need to get out of it. I feel disgusted.”

At 5 p.m., the protesters pooled into the streets and started their march on East Martin Street, heading towards North Saint Mary’s Street.

Various signs read, “No Kings, No Dictators, No Fascists, No Kleptocrats. Only we the people”; “Of the people, by the people, for the people”; and “Hey Trump! You can’t bomb your way out of the Epstein fles.”

Protestors continued their march through central San Antonio, eventually returning to the starting location at Travis Park.

On their route, they chanted, “Show me what democracy looks like. This is what democracy looks like,” and “Say it loud. Say it clear. Immigrants are welcomed here.” Roughly 8 million people nation-wide took part in the “No Kings” protest. It has become one of the largest in recent history, with 5 million participating in the frst ‘No Kings’ back in June to then 7 million last October.

Texas bans smokeable hemp, levies $5,000 fee

By Amanda Fuentes Assistant News Editor

Texas residents will no longer be able to purchase smokable hemp products, such as pre-rolled joints and smokable fower buds, beginning March 31. Texans can still buy hemp edibles and beverages because the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission has not yet released regulations on these products.

The Texas Department of State Health Services has passed new regulations for consumable hemp-derived tetrahydrocannabinol products. These regulations will increase licensing fees from $155 to $5,000 for businesses selling hemp products and increase costs for hemp-product manufacturers from $258 to $10,000 per

facility. The regulations will also require child-resistant packaging, new labeling, testing and new bookkeeping requirements.

While marijuana is illegal in Texas, hemp has been legal since 2019 and is defned by Texas law as Cannabis sativa L. with a delta-9 THC concentration of less than 0.3%.

UT San Antonio professor and Criminology and Criminal Justice Department Executive Director Roger Enriquez commented on the matter, explaining that hemp created a loophole in Texas marijuana laws.

“You have loopholes that permit cannabis dispensaries and different [hemp] products,” Enriquez explained. “In my opinion, they probably just need to legalize it like many other states, or do something along those lines

rather than try to ‘thread the needle’ and create exceptions that then swallow up other exceptions.”

The Texas Legislature voted to ban hemp products, stating that their reason was to ensure that these products did not get into the hands of minors. Gov. Greg Abbott vetoed the ban and instead proposed a restriction on smokeable hemp products. Enriquez explained that this restriction could be a result of more than just wanting to protect minors.

“I would suspect that there is a population that is just not comfortable with the idea that cannabis should be legal, period, or accessible, period,” Enriquez said. “I’m sure they’re concerned that it could flter into the hands of young folks, but I haven’t seen anything [or] a study that demonstrates that that’s any more likely than alcohol or any other products that we only allow adults to purchase.”

Family owned vape shop manager Anwar Tahir is fearful for the future of the business.

“It’s really going to affect our small business because we will not be able to sell, and we are not going to make that much money either because the license costs $5000. It was $59 before,” Tahir shared. “There’s going to be a lot of shops that are going to be closed down, it’s also going to affect our unemployment too because a lot of people are going to lose their jobs.”

Tahir mentioned that many minors who obtain hemp products do so from a family member rather than an established smoke shop.

“The only way is to educate more people because they get it from their home, from their cousins, from their grandmas, from their parents, not from us. We don’t because a lot of authorities come and check on us,” Tahir stated.

According to The Texas Tribune, it will not be a crime to possess smokable THC products after March 31. Houston attorney Andrea Steel told the news outlet that while individuals should not get in trouble for possessing these products, she expects that law-enforcement agencies will incorrectly arrest people who are caught smoking the soon-to-be banned products.

RFK Jr.’s vaccine schedule awaits court decision from judge

By Yaretzi Medina Contributor

The American Academy of Pediatrics and other medical organizations are suing Secretary of Health and Human Services

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. for revising the Center for Disease Control and Prevention’s routine immunizations and restrictions on COVID-19 vaccine access.

Judge Brian E. Murphy blocked the government from implementing Kennedy’s schedule. He wrote in his decision that the government did not go through a careful scientifc review. In the New York Times’ post of the case ruling posted, Murphy justifes his solution by stating, “Procedure is to law what scientifc method is to science.”

“The vaccine committee has historically made decisions with careful review of scientifc evidence,” Murphy stated. “The government has disregarded those methods and thereby undermined the integrity of its actions.”

The CDC issued a directive to stop recommending the COVID-19 vaccine to pregnant women and “healthy” children, partially implementing Kennedy’s order.

The partial implementation included changes to vaccines for infuenza, rotavirus, hepatitis A, hepatitis B and respiratory syncytial virus. Kennedy did not consult with the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices before making these changes. Many ACIP members did not agree with Kennedy’s vaccine changes.

Before issuing these vaccine policy changes, Kennedy terminated all 17 members of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices, a federal committee responsible for developing recommendations for vaccine use.

According to a New York Times report, Kennedy has expressed skepticism about vaccine safety in public

hearings and interviews, stating “It is criminal medical malpractice to give a child one of these vaccines.”

The former ACIP members consisted of scientists, infectious disease specialists and practicing medical doctors.

“A clean sweep is necessary to reestablish public confdence in vaccine science,” Kennedy stated.

“The committee has been plagued with persistent conficts of interest and has become little more than a rubber stamp for any vaccine.”

From June 2025 to January 2026, Kennedy appointed all new members to the ACIP. The newly appointed members consist of doctors of philosophy, medical doctors and vaccine researchers.

The members appointed by Kennedy have a history of vaccine skepticism.

In accordance with these appointments, Kennedy also ended liaison organizations’participation.

Liaison organizations in healthcare provide information on available services to ensure that medical equipment, treatments and drugs are adequate for use. Kennedy claimed that these organizations were “special interest groups” as justifcation for their dissolution.

The American Public Health Association fled a complaint challenging the order in July 2025 after Kennedy announced the new vaccine schedule; furthermore, healthcare systems who were not named in the court documents issued several complaints towards the revised agenda.

Barshop Institute investigates medication healthspan effects

By Selasie Gifa-Johnson Staff Writer

Researchers at UT Health San Antonio, in conjunction with Sam and Ann Barshop Institute for Longevity and Aging Studies, are planning a clinical trial investigating the possibility of reducing biological aging symptoms using three drugs currently on the market. While the drugs rapamycin, dapaglifozin and semaglutide were not initially designed to slow aging, researchers believe that if used together, they could have “healthspan” effects.

The Validation and Intervention Testing for Aging, Longevity and Healthspan trial is expected to run for three years, with additional in-person check-ins every six months to periodic telemedicine evaluations. The VITAL-H trial has a sample size of 726 participants, consisting of adults between the ages of 60 and 65 who do not have serious, uncontrolled medical conditions.

Doctor Andrew Brack told Texas Public Radio the reason for the trial is to determine if the drug combination is able to prevent disease before it begins in a patient. The trial is currently waiting for the Institutional Review Board to approve its experimental methods.

In the same Texas Public Radio interview, Elena Volpi, Ph.D, explained that aging related research often does not get funded because the drugs under investigation are generic, removing the fnancial incentive for pharmaceutical companies. However, the VITAL-H trial has been able to progress due to funding from the Advanced Research Projects Agency for Health, which contributed $38 million. ARPA-H is a federal organization that funds biomedical research that would otherwise be overlooked by commercial interests.

The trial plans to use intrinsic capacity, a holistic method for evaluating health. This method of health tracking allows the research

team to monitor the various aspects of the participants’ health. These aspects include their physical mobility, cognition, nutrition, sensory sensitivity and psychological health, which will be measured through a combination of screenings, self-reports and tests.

Rapamycin is an immunosuppressant drug typically used on patients undergoing kidney or other transplants. It has also been approved for use in cases where tumors block blood vessels in the lungs. On a chemical level, it inhibits the mTOR enzyme, which plays a role in regulating cell growth and metabolism, allowing cells to spend more energy on repair processes. Previous research found that rapamycin can extend the life spans of worms, fies and mice by reducing their metabolisms and therefore reducing damaging oxidative stress.

Researchers plan to use rapamycin in low doses to take advantage of the anti-infammatory properties of the drug without the full immunosuppressant effect. GLP-1 inhibitors have signifcantly increased in popularity in recent years due to their weight loss properties. For this study, researchers will be using the GLP1 inhibitor semaglutide, which was specifcally chosen due to the wide range of areas it affects. While the full scope of GLP-1 inhibitor effects is still under investigation, their ability to improve the health of different organs has been well documented and is being leveraged in this experiment to increase healthspan.

Dapaglifozin is a diabetes medication that lowers blood sugar independent of insulin, causing excess glucose to be excreted as urine. Similar to rapamycin, research has shown that it has wide ranging effects that improve organ health and healthspan.

The researchers at the UT San Antonio Sam and Ann Barshop Institute are focusing on the ability of generic, Food and Drug Administration approved medications to extend healthspan.

Chief Executive of the American Academy of Pediatrics Mark Del Monte noted that the goal of reinstating the original routine vaccine order is to “restore science to our nation’s vaccine decision making.”

Murphy voiced concerns about Kennedy’s revised vaccine policy. In his written judicial opinion, Murphy wrote that only six of the 13 panelists that Kennedy appointed appear to have experience in vaccine research.

Kennedy’s lawyer dismissed Murphy’s statement according to a report by the New York Times, arguing that “The vaccine committee’s decisions powerfully infuence states’ vaccination requirements for entry into day care and elementary school and shape insurance coverage of the shots.”

The case resulted in Murphy issuing a preliminary injunction, a temporary ruling that pauses a policy while the case continues through the courts. The preliminary injunction provides short-term relief to the medical organizations suing Kennedy.

The court ruled that Kennedy must return to the original CDC childhood immunization schedule, and his 13-appointed panelists to the ACIP may remain in offce. Murphy’s ruling is part of an ongoing legal battle to restore public health in the U.S.

State of the City Week of 03/31

By Itzy Ruiz Sepulveda Contributor

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 the construction of a new JCB plant, an update on Christopher Preciado’s trial and the San Antonio Fire Department fnding an unidentifed body.

Trump deport s immigrants away from home countries

By Johnpaul Buwule Marketing Manager

A federal court lifted a lower court’s order that prohibited President Donald Trump from deporting individuals to countries that they are not citizens of without a chance to challenge such a measure. The Boston-based First Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals blocked Judge Brian Murphy’s ruling that Trump’s deportation tactic violates immigrants’ due process.

Murphy ruled on Feb. 25 that the Trump administration’s deportations without notice violated the due process — a right guaranteed by the Fifth Amendment — of undocumented immigrants. In the process of hearing oral arguments, the Supreme Court intervened in Murphy’s case and lifted the preliminary injunction, allowing for eight men to be deported to South Sudan. After Murphy reached his ruling, the Trump administration appealed to the Boston Court of Appeals. The court responded by lifting Murphy’s order, which invalidated Trump’s new deportation policy. However, the case remains pending in the appellate court.

The Trump administration’s new immigration policy — “third-country deportation” — allows for the deportation of undocumented immigrants to countries other than their country of origin. This form of deportation is legal under the Immigration and Nationality Act; however, the legality of deporting without asylum protection or safeguards is being challenged in court. Close to a dozen countries have agreed to take in immigrants, leaving them to be jailed or deported to their home country upon arrival, while the U.S. covers the expenses.

Critics have raised concerns about the safety and cost-effectiveness of third-country deportations.

During a visit to South Sudan, staff of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee found a

JCB plant construction is underway

JCB is building a 1 million square foot facility off Palo Alto road in the South Side of San Antonio. The project was frst introduced in 2023 and started construction in June 2024. JCB’s chairman, Lord Anthony Bamford, visited the site on March 30. According to Texas Public Radio, Bamford claims San Antonio was a good option for this project because of the business climate in Texas. Currently, they have 45 employees onboard, but Bamford believes JCB will hire 1,500 employees when the company reaches its peak.

Christopher Preciado convicted of murder

gated house with guards, which held deported immigrants, including some from Mexico and Vietnam.

Costa Rica, El Salvador, Eswatini, Mexico, Panama, Rwanda, South Sudan and Uganda are the eight countries currently accepting undocumented immigrants who have no roots within their borders. The Trump administration has sent $7.5 million, from the Migration and Refugee Assistance emergency fund, to Equatorial Guinea to take in noncitizens deported to West Africa. The MRA was created for the U.S. government to support refugees. Funding from the MRA was sent directly to the nation’s government, whose president — Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo — has been in power for 46 years and has faced accusations, along with his son, for embezzling millions.

In addition to Equatorial Guinea, the administration has sent an estimated sum of $4.57.5 million to Rwanda, El Salvador, Eswatini and Palau each. The number of immigrants each country received varied as well. El Salvador has attained 250 immigrants, while countries such as Palau have received none.

The court of appeals expedited the process and will hear oral arguments over the legality of Trump’s third-country deportation in April.

Christopher Preciado was found guilty on three counts of capital murder. Preciado was sentenced to life in prison with no possibility of parole.

During a drug deal in December 2023, Preciado murdered Savannah Soto, Matthew Guerra and their unborn child. Preciado shot the couple in the head. His parents aided him in discarding the bodies on the Northwest Side of San Antonio. Preciado’s father is being charged with connections to the case, and his mother’s charges were dropped.

SAFD fnds body during brush fre

The SAFD found a dead body as they were extinguishing a brush fre in San Antonio’s East Side near Rigsby Avenue. After the March 28 discovery, SAFD contacted the San Antonio Police Department for assistance in the case. According to the SAPD, the body was wrapped in multiple materials before being set on fre. The SAPD has not been able to identify the body and is unaware of how the body arrived at that location. The case is ongoing.

OPINION

SGA answers to none

Student

Editorial

While the White House crumples under its new-found incompetence, the UT San Antonio Student Government Association proudly emulates the quality. Propagating low voter turnout, failing to document progress and violating a constitution all point toward corruption in an ordinary democracy. Fortunately for the SGA, it has propped up a system where these mistakes do not matter — where it can ignore the 42,000 students it fails to represent and still cash a check.

The Paisano requested information from the SGA on its functions through the Public Information Act on March 6. The PIA requires government entities to publish requested public information. According to the UT San Antonio Offce of Legal Affairs, the SGA does not maintain consolidated records for committee meetings with university administration or propositions the SGA has brought to administration. Items like these are easily tracked, and it is grossly irresponsible not to monitor them. Failing to note these important meetings and progress markers makes it near-impossible for any student to know whether SGA fghts for them since its meetings are largely glorifed campus event advertisements.

The SGA has also violated its constitution twice this

semester. Its elections are supposed to occur before spring break, but only now — a month later — are applications open. After former President Brianna Miller stepped down and, then, Vice President Michael Valdez assumed her role, the SGA was required to hold a special election to fll Valdez’s role. It again neglected this responsibility.

To the SGA, these continuous violations are acceptable because it has created a cyclical system where no one

Quintanilla/ The Paisano

can hold them accountable. Afterall, inaction fuels disengagement. Once attendance fails to fll a small room in the Student Union, it does not matter how much the SGA embraces ineptitude as a core value; no one is watching. SGA then simply announces every once in a while that its leadership is trying to increase student participation to muster their dignity.

When students fnally question the SGA, their lackluster documentation dissolves students’ ability to enforce responsibility. Even if the association was affecting real change, not a single person could tell.

After The Paisano published a previous article discussing the SGA, the association removed the little information it had on its functions. Roadrunners can no longer fnd historical meeting minutes, election data and resolutions online. After a curious student fails to fnd anything online and decides to ask questions in person, they are given bureaucratic non-responses from its helicopter advisor and fumbling leadership.

The current SGA wants students to believe that the bare minimum is too much to ask for. If it ever hopes to be taken seriously, SGA cannot excuse perpetrating a system that stifes 42,000 voices and burns $47,000 annually. SGA, end the cycle of indifference.

America’s doomsday, Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s Tuesday

By Emma Cavanaugh Distribution Manager

U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy Jr., a President Donald Trump appointee, is infamous for his strong disdain for modern healthcare.

The Trump administration has disrupted health care since its arrival in offce. Kennedy and his committee have set forth disgustingly ignorant vaccine policies. Immunizations are estimated to prevent 3.5-5 million deaths every year. There is no reason anyone should die from preventable, severe illnesses; Kennedy is attempting to destroy this well-regarded practice.

U.S. District Judge Brian Murphy overturned Kennedy’s vaccine plans. The federal judge ruled that Kennedy and his committee ignored the scientifc process for developing vaccine policies, making arbitrary and capricious decisions.

“The government has disregarded those methods and thereby undermined the integrity of its actions,” Murphy declared.

Kennedy ordered the cancellation of the universal recommendation for childhood vaccination against illnesses such as fu, rotavirus and hepatitis A and B — a standard practice that has prevented diseases for decades. This judge has stepped in to halt Kennedy’s ridiculous attempt to create havoc within healthcare and irreparably damage succeeding generations.

The Trump administration has cut billions in funding from the National Institution of Health, dismantling research that could develop life-saving cures. Erasing progress fuels new outbreaks and causes unnecessary pain for the American people. Science is not a hoax. Pretending it does not exist, like Kennedy and the Trump administration have done, is ridiculous and harmful. Thankfully, Murphy had the sense to shut Kennedy down.

Murphy including the Immunization Kennedy improperly committee, likely federal law. Kennedy fred and replaced all 17 members of the panel and replaced them with more donkey-brained anti-vaxxers.

Kennedy, dead animals, creates a queasy, unsettling feeling about his idea of the sacredness of life. His daughter recalled a family vacation where they spotted a dead whale on the shore. Kennedy decapitated it, tied it to the top of their car, then drove for fve hours while “whale juice” poured into the car, causing a foul smell. Aside from being disgusting, disturbing and illegal, this incident leads as a warning to Kennedy lacking reverence for life. Disrespecting an animal and his family by tying a sawed off head to the top of their minivan is something no rational person could even conceive.

Kennedy’s willy-nilly vaccine policies show how out of his depth he is.

America already struggles healthcare, being only industrialized without universal Americans do not in and wrecking Kennedy lacks common folk, qualities needed to be the Secretary of Health and Human Services. He has no regard for health — or humanity.

Texas’ water is running out, better go catch it

By Karis Vickers Social Media Editor

It is no secret that President Donald Trump’s administration does not believe in climate change, resulting in irreversible damage to the environment. From Trump refusing to believe science is real to focusing the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency on deregulation, he is single handedly preventing the U.S. from saving itself. Texas cities are running out of water, and no one cares to help protect them.

Texas heavily relies on two main sources of water, groundwater and surface water. Groundwater is much harder to replenish, and not everyone has the same access to underground aquifers, as Texas only has nine major and 22 minor aquifers. To Texas’ detriment, groundwater and surface water sources are connected. When wells pump too much water for cities draining lakes and springs, the groundwater wells dry out in suit.

The ever-growing population in Texas is only going to accelerate the water crisis. The Texas population sits at a whopping 32 million people, and with the old, damaged pipes that leak and worsening droughts, water will run out quicker than expected.

With no one else to fght with but neighboring cities who share aquifers, rural Texas cities are forced to compete with each other to survive while their state government does not bat an eye. Three Rivers, a city northwest of Corpus Christi, is currently experiencing the reality of a water crisis. Both cities share the Choke Canyon Reservoir water source. Corpus Christi underestimated

Climate change is crippling the already weakened Texas water supply, from the growing droughts that span through South Texas.

The infrastructure that holds the water supply is at risk of being damaged from the increase in hurricanes due to the fuctuating climate, fooding and overall lack of care. The federal administration should be helping Texas battle climate change instead of focusing on getting Trump’s signature on the future bills.

With these risks front and center, artifcial intelligence data centers continue to be built in Texas. Current data centers already consume 25 billion gallons of water a year state-wide, taking water from residents who already do not have enough. Nothing will get done without regulation from the federal government.

San Antonio shares the Edwards Aquifer with the surrounding Hill Country. This aquifer reflls quickly and stores enough water to give residents peace of mind about their water supply. The aquifer fows like a river, and if there is a drought, it will naturally slow down in production. San Antonio is located near high drought areas, which could be a concern for the future, not unlike the worries small Texas cities already face.

Cutting back on AI use and emphasizing water waste consciousness are important small steps that Texas residents must start to take. Water is not some everlasting, abundant element that can not be depleted. Climate

OPINION

Talarico kills spiritual advisor with love

Commentary

By Kassandra Jaime Contributor

“Jesus Loves. Christian Nationalism kills,” James Talarico responded after U.S. Secretary of War Pete Hegseth’s closest spiritual advisor prayed for Talarico’s death. The statement given by Pilgrim Hill Fellowship Pastor Brooke Pottinger in the Reformation Red Pill Podcast spurred Talarico to respond with pure love. The tweets across the media led to the pastor back tracking his statement and Hegseth backpedaling. Talarico revealed once again religion does not belong in politics.

statement frst surfaced from his dialogue with Reformation Red Pill host, Joshua want [Talarico] crucifed with Christ,” Pottinger lambasted. Haymes then begged, “If it would not be with God’s will, stop him by any means necessary God.”

Pottinger’s statements do not surprise audiences that are familiar with him. Known for claiming that the Bible is pro-U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement raids, as well as suggesting liberalism is worse than neo-Nazism, Pottinger has expressed vastly irresponsible ideas like those against Talarico. The level Pottinger has weaponized Christianity to spew hate across social media has attracted Hegseth to come to his defense.

Representatives for Pottinger and Hegseth later clarifed that his words were being “twisted,” as his statement

Chávez, Trump: Same cloth, different wash

Commentary

By McKenzie Siller Assistant Opinion Editor

One alleged sexual predator has been disparaged for his crimes, and another runs the country into the ground. César Chávez’s previously valiant legacy has been set ablaze, but President Donald Trump remains unpunished.

Chávez was a labor worker, activist and a molester. Ana Murguia, Debra Rojas and Dolores Huerta have come forward and recounted Chávez’s abuse. These three brave women decided to show the world the monster of their lives by revealing how Chávez groomed and violated them during his activism. It is ironic that Chávez fought for worker’s rights while infringing upon those of the women around him.

The report has sent people into an outrage. Cities are taking down statues commemorating Chávez. States and cities are canceling holidays and renaming street signs that are named after the abuser. Artists are covering up works memorializing Chávez. Within days, the nation has attempted to erase all celebration and acknowledgement of Chávez, only remembering the atrocities he committed. Yet, another man perpetrating similar abominations is still sitting in the Oval Offce. The nation is quick to condemn a man of color, but a white man

gets off scot-free.

Trump was mentioned in the Epstein fles over 38,000 times, yet there has been no investigation. Trump was stated to have been on Epstein’s notorious traffcking plane eight times. In memos, Trump was alleged to have taken a liking to young girls and raping them. Trump pushed back the release of the fles until fnally signing the Epstein Files Transparency Act. Still, he is perched in the White House, playing blind chess with the military and creating a war this nation never wanted.

Three women came out and proclaimed that their stories were suppressed in Chávez’s advocacy. It only took a couple of days for his legacy to be erased. The Epstein fles have been out since December 2025, and Trump is still in the Oval Offce. He has not been silenced. He has not been imprisoned. It is demented. Thanks to the lack of legal action, Trump’s authority has eaten at his senses.

If Chávez was held accountable, Trump should be too. The president has been found with thousands of ties to similar offenses and is currently walking free. If someone is accused of horrifc crimes, they need to be investigated; they cannot be free with no trial or sentence in sight.

Clown for Clown, Jake Paul Endorsed

related to religious conversion. In addition, Pottinger insisted that Talarico failed a God-mandated task to promote righteousness and condemn wickedness as a political fgure, something Pottinger failed to do himself.

“I love you more than you could ever hate me,” relayed Talarico later that day. With few words, his message defused tensions that rose from a podcast’s hateful speech. The concept of trying to salvage oneself after such hindering words is ludicrous, especially towards a politician with little to no record of aggression towards his opponents.

For a spiritual advisor to have such deceiving thoughts where they can misconstrue a religion, it is apparent that religion has dug itself too deep into politics concerned with superiority. Religion should be protected, not enforced by the government. It should foster spiritual beliefs, not weaponized to frown upon others. “Love thy neighbor” has been one of Talrico’s ongoing phrases throughout his Texas Senate campaign. It seems that to participate in politics, religion must come into play. It is apparent that Pottinger and the Reformation Red Pill podcast targeted the wrong Christian.

Like taming a child’s tantrum with gentle parenting, Talarico silenced what he calls Christian Nationalism. Religion, while beautiful to those who practice it, has been vested into politics more than ever, causing division and imbalance of right and wrong.

Trump insults dead yet again

Commentary

By Sam Rencher Staff Writer

Robert Mueller was one of the few public political fgures with genuine bipartisan respect. Mueller was a marine combat veteran, served as the Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation for a decade and worked as special counsel during the investigation into President Donald Trump’s ties to Russia in the 2016 election. Mueller lived a respectable life in public servitude, and he died to a wave of farewells. Farewells from everyone, that is, except Trump, who offered a cruel applause at the announcement of his death.

Trump took to Truth Social not long after Mueller was reported dead, fnding it impossible to control his urge for indecency for fve whole minutes. “Robert Mueller just died,” Trump wrote. “Good, I’m glad he’s dead. He can no longer hurt innocent people!”

Trump has never had any semblance of decorum, with this incident bringing back memories of how he brashly wrote about flmmaker Rob Reiner’s death. In that case, the hate for Reiner stemmed from years of political opposition and criticism. For Mueller, it came from the previously mentioned investigation that Mueller led, during which he concluded that Russia had colluded to help Trump back in 2016. Trump claimed that the investigation was “illegal” and that Mueller’s appointment was “unconstitutional.”

THE PAISANO

Editorial Board

Jasmine Williams | Editor-in-Chief Editor@paisano-online.com

Cruz Delgado | Managing Editor Manager@paisano-online.com

Marisela Cruz | News Editor News@paisano-online.com

Henry Holmes | Opinion Editor Opinion@paisano-online.com

Audrey Villar | Arts & Life Editor Arts@paisano-online.com

Rylan Renteria | Sports & Photo Editor Sports@paisano-online.com Photo@paisano-online.com

Hallie Lott | Web Editor Web@paisano-online.com

Sarah Quintanilla | Graphic Editor Graphic@paisano-online.com

Regan Williams | Multimedia Editor Multimedia@paisano-online.com

Valentina Quintanilla | Magazine Editor Magazine@paisano-online.com

Karis Vickers | Social Media Editor Socialmedia@paisano-online.com

Jaclyn Banda | Business Manager Business@paisano-online.com

Emma Cavanaugh | Distribution Manager Distribution@paisano-online.com

Johnpaul Buwule | Marketing Manager Marketing@paisano-online.com

Cameron Carter | Copyediting Coordinator Copyediting@paisano-online.com

By Blue Mize

Assistant Photo Editor

Trump’s celebration evokes endless memories of him degrading dead oppositions: talking down to John McCain in 2018, implying that John Dingell was “looking up” from hell back in 2019, criticizing Colin Powell and calling him a “Republican in name only” in 2021 — and now, of course, cheering on

the passing of Mueller.

Trump’s celebration was met with intense backlash. Sen. Chuck Schumer wrote that the outrageous comment was deliberate “to distract you from rising gas prices, his aimless war, ICE abuses, and the Epstein fles.”

Political consultant and author Rick Wilson met Trump’s energy one-to-one.

“When you die, Americans, and people around the world, will dance in the streets for weeks because you’re a low, degenerate, criminal fraud who left a full stain on the Presidency.”

No bad deed goes unloved, especially among Trump’s grifters who will not just sink with the ship, but deny that there is even water to sink in. Laura Loomer, a diehard Trumpie, posted multiple sentiments in support.

“It’s totally healthy to be happy when your enemies die,” Loomer said. “We shouldn’t be sad when bad people die.”

Those supporting voices, loud as they are, exist in a small minority of pathetic individuals who desperately cling onto anything they can to scavenge attention. They are just like Trump. While it is unlikely that his remark will cause any current supporters to fip, at least it reminds every decent American that there are no moral qualms with contesting Trump on everything he says and does.

Staff

Te Paisano is published by the Paisano Educational Trust, a non-proft, tax exempt, educational organization. Te Paisano is operated by members of the Student Newspaper Association, a registered student organization. Te Paisano is NOT sponsored, fnanced or endorsed by UT San Antonio. New issues are published every Tuesday during the fall and spring semesters, excluding holidays and exam periods. Te Paisano is distributed on the UT San Antonio Main Campus. Additionally, Paisano publications are distributed at a variety of of-campus locations, including Tri-point and

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

ARTS & LIFE

BSU ate down

origins of iconic fashion trends have long been contested, but UT San Antonio’s Black Student Union set the record straight. At their frst annual Fashion Showcase, the BSU modeled the best looks of recent decades — all of which arose from infuential Black event’s Fashion Coordinator, junior computer science and marketing major Kaliyah Gaines, made the single model was basically my responsibility,” Gaines shared. “I helped them organize their outfts. I coordinated with them. I put together a lending closet, just in case people didn’t have what they needed, whole point was to showcase what you already in the Student Union’s Retama auditorium on March 27 were brought back to the 80s as the DJ blasted “Get Down on It” by Kool & The Gang. The decade’s models donned oversized leather coats; sharp, tailored suit jackets; and dazzling gold accessories. BSU speakers revealed that the foundational fgures who inspired exemplary 80s outfts were fashion designer Dapper Dan and

“No Scrubs” rang in the 90s. Varsity jackets, jerseys and logo-laden looks cemented urban style into the mainstream. The fnal model of the 90s boasted a simple black suit and white shirt with a popped collar, but what set her apart was her sequin-covered fedora, sky-high stilettos and staggering strut. Her walk entirely embodied Michael

TSA, horror, sports stadium

Quadballers

instead and honor them.”

Is the horror genre dead in 2026?

Cox answered with a simple “Yes,” but Orsburn disagrees, claiming that the genre “has gotten less fashy and more psychological.” Once again, Gonzalez Villaquiran and Hernandez are in agreement with Hernandez affrming that the genre has “sadly” been dying for years. Villaquiran added that his most recent horror viewing was “uninteresting.”

By Joby Albritton Assistant Business Manager

Jackson, someone she credited as a star of the 90s style. The 2000s models were nothing short of glamorous, and 2010s swag was undeniable. Rapper André 3000 and singer Rihanna set the visual standard for the decades.

However, the true standout decade of the night was the 2020s. The modern era is making waves by breaking the mold of Black fashion, allowing self-expression to thrive, regardless of mainstream aesthetics.

Senior psychology major Ciara Johnson, the fan-favorite model of the 2020s, boasted an alternative, black, pink and leopard print guise covered in sparkling silver accessories and fshnets.

“I hope to inspire a lot of Black people that lean more towards an alternative kind of look,” Johnson asserted. “I feel like it’s important to show that there isn’t just a single defnition of what it is to be Black, and how to express yourself. At the end of the day, we’re Black, but we also have other interests. I feel like it’s important to highlight those differences.”

BSU’s Fashion Showcase was not some simple show, it was Black innovation given the spotlight it deserves. To keep up with upcoming BSU events, follow their Instagram @utsa_bsu.

fly high in scrimmage

UT San Antonio Quadball is practicing for nationals this week, which will take them to Sacramento, California. Starting their practice on March 26 off strong, participants split into teams to begin their drills. The intensity of the game became apparent within the frst few minutes, showing true “Harry Potter” grit for the sport. The co-ed teams of six players put their all into their play as soon as they took to the feld. Although “Harry Potter’s” Quidditch inspired Quadball, UT San Antonio participants aim to be known for their play rather than for the book series.

As the team walked onto the feld, players began running drills to brush up on their skills. Junior public health major Paulina Dominguez explained the players’ positions to The Paisano. The Chasers whizz around the feld to score points for the team, throwing the quaffe through three elevated hoops lined up on each end of the feld. The Beaters’ main goal is to act as defense and to open up opportunities to score points. Pushing back against the chasers, Beaters use their blunt force to throw the bludgers. All players straddle a pole during gameplay, calling to mind images of wizards upon their fying broomsticks.

While many well-known sports centers play on one ball, Quadball incorporates three different balls. A volleyball replicated the quaffe, and a dodgeball was used as the bludger. The golden snitch is a small ball attached to the

Does UTSA baseball deserve a new stadium?

Hernandez and Cox believe it is time to reward the overachieving Roadrunners with a new venue, but Orsburn feels funding a new project would mean prioritizing athletics over academics. Gonzalez Villaquiran does not know if the team necessarily deserves one, but if they do get it, he just wants it to be on campus, explaining that “the Alamodome is already too far for us, like thirty minutes. Maybe just [increase] the capacity [of the old stadium].”

Have a question and want it answered by UT San Antonio students? Submit at http://bit. ly/4pdDfIP.

ARTS & LIFE

SAMA turns students into patrons of art

By Marisela Cruz News Editor

Museums have a reputation of being a bit of a snooze fest, often repelling youth. Instead of boring Greek statues blankly posing in a cold and quiet room, young adults would likely prefer to spend their time elsewhere. San Antonio’s Museum of Art decided to take down the barriers of a boring facade and instead created a night to remember by allowing university students to interact with the museum in a new way.

Students from UT San Antonio, Trinity University, San Antonio College and other local institutions flled the four-story museum. Free admission was provided exclusively to all San Antonio university students who brought their current college ID. The March 26 event was a huge success with a bustling drove of university students enjoying the exhibits and activities spanning beyond the museum hours from 6-8 p.m.

A DJ controlled a turntable with modern pop hits. Iconic beats flled the museum, creating a Saturdaynight-dance-club atmosphere. Abundant in groups, students were not just visiting SAMA but collaborating with the participation based museum visit.

Students designed buttons, made colorful prints and took part in themed tours around the museum. Attendees could even use a print machine to make a commemorative poster with the slogan “College Night at SAMA!” After collecting a souvenir print commemorating the night, attendees could design their own button-shaped pin at the next door over.

Paper cutouts of various artworks from SAMA’s 14 offered eclectic backgrounds for the button design workshop. A variety of designed stickers provide the opportunity to personalize each participant’s button to their liking.

Three types of tours were available: “When Gods Get Humbled,” “The Swifties Guide to SAMA” and “Bricks and Beer.” SAMA’s docent Felicia Esparza, who is a Taylor Swift super fan, hosted the Swiftie tours to entice young adults who like Swift and art museums.

Participants took part in a tour full of foreshadowing spanning Swift’s career as a pop star and art dating back centuries. Swift’s career connected to Sarah Cain’s “love seat” art installation; a mixture of colorful acrylic paint expressively placed on a canvas seeped into the found object of a love seat. Esparza paralleled the work to Swift’s evolutionary theme of love to heartbreak.

When explaining why she hosted Swiftie tours, Esparza explained how it was her way of inviting younger people to connect with art from a new approach.

“If [the event] is under the guise of a Taylor Swift tour, we can talk about Sarah Cain and other artists in a way that’s approachable for anyone to interact with art to help get people in the rooms of museums,” Esparza emphasized. “I am so impressed by how many people — I’ve never seen this many people here, and I love seeing young people at the museum. I think it’s really important for people to be here even if they are not engaged in the tour, but being surrounded by artwork can be really inspiring.”

To end the night on a high note, food trucks parked outside for attendees to enjoy some food rounding out their visit at SAMA with their friends. SAMA’s frst college night will not be the last, as museum staff expressed it may be an annual event. For those looking to explore more of the institution, a watercolor lotería workshop will be hosted on April 7 at the Great Hall in SAMA at 5 p.m.

Female bands just better than men

By Amanda Fuentes Assistant News Editor

Many of those who claim the title of music enthusiast are well versed in the discography of popular, malefronted bands and musicians like Radiohead and Jeff Buckley; however, female-fronted bands and musicians are often pushed to the back burner of popularity despite their superiority.

Here are fve underrated female-fronted bands and musicians that any lover of sonic waves should listen to during and after Women’s History Month.

pinkie promise

Houston-based pinkie promise describes their music as “pop punk made for & by princesses.” Their songs “i wish that you would die,” “greener” and “penny for a profle” perfectly capture the absurdity of being a teenager. UT San Antonio students who fall in love with pinkie promise are in luck because the group frequently plays in San Antonio, and tickets typically range from $10-$20. Updates can be found on their Instagram: @pinkiepromiseband.

Bettie Serveert

Nothing captures the somber yet comforting feeling of driving in the rain quite like the 1993 Bettie Serveert album “Palomine.” The Lucinda Williams-esque band has been labeled as pop-rock and indie-rock, but neither description seems to accurately capture the band’s serene atmosphere. Listeners should pay close attention to the songs “Cut ‘n Dried,” “Ray Ray Rain” and “Palomine.” The band peaked with their 1993 hit record. However, they have consistently been making music since and released a single titled “Evil Side” this year.

Amaria

Amaria is the most popular artist on this list, yet her 637,000 monthly listeners are not near the recognition she deserves. The relatively new R&B artist self-produced her frst single, “Morning,” as a teenager in 2020. Amaria’s 2023 release “All For You” is truly a no-skips-album; notable tracks from the dreamy record include “Lying To You,” “Will It Last Forever?” and “All For You.” The dreaminess continues in her transcendent 2024 album

“Free Fallin’,” featuring “Over” and “Back To Me.” Tei Shi

While Tate McRae and Sabrina Carpenter bear the standard pop sound, an alternate artist raises the bar to make something amazing. Tei Shi is a New York based independent artist who makes songs in Spanish and English. The New York artist hit the ground running in 2015 with her frst EP, “Verde,” which features addictive tracks such as “Bassically” and “Go Slow.” Her second album, “La Linda,” is perfect for summer, especially the songs “Even If It Hurts (feat. Blood Orange)” and “A Kiss Goodbye.”

Evita

Evita’s music is melancholic and distinctive. She is best known for her nostalgic 2019 single “You Already Know.” The singer is from Los Angeles and has a diverse discography, with smooth, groovy songs like “Let’s Not Say” and vivacious tunes like her single “SOMETHING TO BELIEVE IN.” Despite only being 26, Evita has been making music for 10 years and is a quadruple threat, working as a singer, songwriter, producer and director. Listeners should dive in by playing her 2025 EP “Love, Temptation.”

It is important that listeners pay attention to womenmade art year round, not just during women’s history month. Doing this will ensure exposure to the best quality music and art.

Letters from Urbino: Florence fun

By Edmond Cartagena Staff Writer

Ehi, Studenti!

This week, UT San Antonio’s College of Liberal and Fine Arts traveled to Tuscany for an unforgettable experience. After a short day trip to Siena, the group made their way to the iconic city of Florence — the birthplace of the Renaissance. Imprints of a highly artisanal era are still present all over this city. In a place with grand architectural designs, painters populating canvases on the streetsides and dramatic works of art inside of aged buildings, the artistic impact made during the 14th century still lingers in Florence to this day.

At the beginning of COLFA’s adventure, the students visited a city that never left its medieval roots behind. The city of Siena is where Catherine Benincasa, one of the patron saints of Italy, lived for most of her life. This information was shared during a presentation given by communications major Kellyn Beauchamp and English masters student Daniela Garza Martinez, students who specialized on the topic of Saint Catherine’s impact this semester. Martinez and Beauchamp guided the COLFA group through Siena, emphasizing the importance of Saint Catherine’s life. Her intimate relationship with God and her devotion to the Sienese community defned her, which is why she is honored in the Basilica of San Domenico in the city. Travelers who go to Siena can see Saint Catherine’s head, which was brought there in 1383, three years after her death.

After leaving Siena, the class arrived in Florence, better known as “Firenze” by the Italian people. After

dropping off their baggage at the hotel, COLFA’s frst mission was to climb the duomo at the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, designed by renaissance architect Fillipo Brunelleschi. Upon entering the cathedral, there is a famous painting of Dante Alighieri created by Domenico di Michelino. In this painting, Dante is comparing hell to Florence — a city from which he was exiled. Despite the scandal surrounding Dante’s exile, the Florentine government had this artwork commissioned in 1465 in an attempt to reclaim him following the success of Dante’s well known 13th century work: “The Divine Comedy.” After looking at the famous painting and climbing all 463 steps of the massive dome, the group arrived at the top as the sun set underneath the Tuscan hills. The breathtaking view shocked the class as they looked in each direction, admiring the city from its highest point.

In the days after climbing the cupola, students embarked on several other adventures. They visited the massive statue of David in the Galleria dell’Accademia di Firenze, admired the dramatic Sala del Paradiso at the Museo dell’Opera del Duomo, examined the Greek-inspired art at the Bargello and analyzed pieces such as Sandro Botticelli’s “The Birth of Venus” at the Uffzi Galleries. These experiences flled the students with excitement and inspiration, encouraging them to create their own Renaissance inspired masterpieces.

The weeks of this semester abroad are dwindling! Do not fret, there are still at least three more trips to go. Next week, COLFA will visit Ravenna, a city known for its Gothic culture. Follow the adventures of UT San Antonio’s students abroad at @lettersfromurbino on Instagram.

Daredevil plummets from paradise

By Cruz Delgado Managing Editor

“Daredevil: Born Again” returns for its second season with a disappointing premiere void of thrills and instead flled with choppy editing and corny chemistry from the series lead. While the frst season kept itself contained to a trifecta of characters — Matt Murdock who moonlights as Daredevil, Wilson Fisk also known as Kingpin and Benjamin Pointdexter otherwise known as Bullseye — the second season cannot launch itself into the excitement promised by season one’s fnale due to an excess of cast. Rather than having the seemingly found confdence of last season’s fnal episodes, “The Northern Star” occupies its runtime with a furry of genres: superhero action thriller, poorly contrived romance and ironic political commentary. The episode begins with a minor action set

“Transformers,” viewers cannot take in the acrobatic, gritty choreography that has been the character’s greatest strength in television depictions. Murdock’s brutal escapade ends in a banal shot of him grabbing a camera to emphasize the double-D on his chest — emphasizing to viewers, in case they had not already noticed, that the devil of Hell’s kitchen now dons a black suit.

The Marvel Cinematic Universe’s tired trope of underdeveloped characters then proceeds to ruin the rest of the episode. Exposition reaffrms what audiences already know: Fisk is a villain, the story is meant to be an allegory and the heroes are in danger. A search for character development or emotional stakes will result in an error code.

Amid the chaotic dullness of drab lighting — with the exception of one golden-hued scene between Karen Page and Murdock that falls fat in terms of chemistry — Matthew Lillard’s newly introduced Mr. Charles offers enough charm to warrant a further watch, if only to see how the story may unfold and connect to the larger Marvel devil’s return falls fat on its face, continuing to draw praise for its “potent political allegory,” yet the lack of nuance granted to the characters and erratic pacing makes any commentary the story may offer feel surface level. Murdock continues to lack the Catholic ethos that defnes his character, and Fisk is somehow made to look redemptive compared to the barbarous task force agents that he enables. Without characterization, Daredevil and Kingpin end up as pawns in Disney’s latest endeavour in performative morality.

UTSA basketball divided by 2 different trajectories

By Aramis Santiago Assistant Sports Editor

Over the last three seasons, UTSA women’s basketball has turned itself into one of the clearest success stories in the American Conference. The Roadrunners went 18-15 in 2023-24 and came within one point of reaching the American Conference tournament fnal while also earning a Women’s National Invitation Tournament berth. A year later, they set a program record with 26 wins and earned a trip to the Women’s Basketball Invitation Tournament.

A roster that looked vulnerable all season long, caught fre at the right time, winning four games in four days in the American Conference tournament to reach the NCAA tournament for the frst time in 17 years. During that same stretch, UTSA men’s basketball has taken the opposite trajectory entirely, stumbling through losing season after losing season and bottoming out at 5-25 in 2025-26 — the worst year the program has had in decades.

The contrast is too sharp to dismiss as luck, conference strength or NIL fallout. Both programs operate with the same university backing and the same broad institutional limitations. One has built continuity, identity and belief, while the other has slipped into instability, inconsistency and repeated regression.

Coach Karen Aston deserves most of the credit for the rise on the women’s side. This past season, UTSA fnished frst in the American in scoring defense, frst in opponent feld goal percentage and frst in rebounding margin. Even when the offense lagged behind the rest of the league, the Roadrunners had a dependable style built on physical defense, rebounding and getting the ball inside. Just as important, the players Aston brings in tend to ft that style. Jordyn Jenkins, Nina De Leon Negron, Kyra White, Idara Udo and Cheyenne Rowe all made substantial impacts in different ways, and many of the program’s best players have enjoyed growth over long tenures.

The same can not be said for the men. UTSA has had talented guards and scorers, from Jhivvan Jackson and Keaton Wallace to Jordan Ivy-Curry, Primo Spears and Jamir Simpson, but the program has not been able to hold onto momentum or build around a consistent core. NIL has made retention harder in men’s basketball the country, but that cannot explain everything. Plenty of mid-major programs have adjusted, while the Roadrunners have cycled through transfers, lost contributors and rarely looked connected on the foor. The issue is not simply that players leave. It is that too many of the replacements either do not ft or do not develop into winning pieces.

That comes back to leadership, and Aston has established authority, trust and clarity. Her players defend hard, rebound hard and generally understand where they belong within the system. Coach Austin Claunch has not been able to create the same kind of order. His teams have heavily on isolation scoring, bad shot selection and a three-point volume that has not matched the roster’s ability. Last season’s group shot poorly, defended even worse and often looked uncomfortable playing together. Transfers such as Stanley Borden, Vasean Allette and Macaleab Rich failed to shift the trajectory in any meaningful way, whether because of ft, injuries or usage. By the end of 2025-26, the men’s team looked less like a program being built and more like a collection of pieces that never formed a whole.

How UTSA can build on magical postseason run

By Aramis Santiago Assistant Sports Editor

The ending to UTSA women’s basketball’s season was harsh but did not erase what came before it. A season that drifted through inconsistency, injuries and a reshaped roster found its identity at the exact moment it needed to. The Roadrunners entered March as a middle-of-thepack team in the American Conference and left it as champions, returning to the NCAA tournament for the frst time in 17 years. The 90-52 loss to No. 1 University of Connecticut exposed the gap between a rising program and a national powerhouse. The gap also clarifed something more important: UTSA has already built a foundation strong enough to survive adversity and dangerous enough to beat anyone in its conference when everything is aligned.

That foundation now faces a test with the departures of senior forward Cheyenne Rowe and senior guard Ereauna Hardaway.

The ‘Runners will be without its most reliable scoring options and two players who controlled games late. Rowe was the anchor on both ends and served as the focal point in the halfcourt. She operated comfortably from the midrange, fnished through contact inside and cleaned the glass at a level that fueled UTSA’s rebounding advantage. Defensively, her presence helped stabilize the interior while still allowing the team to pressure the perimeter. Hardaway’s 4.7 assists per game refected her role as the primary decision-maker, but her impact went further. She created offense off the dribble, spaced the foor as one of the team’s few consistent shooters and delivered timely scoring throughout the postseason run. Together, they gave UTSA answers when possessions broke down.

The difference between the two programs is not a mystery. The women’s team has a coach with a clear philosophy, a strong eye for ft and a culture that encourages players to stay and improve. The men’s team has lacked all three. Until that changes, the gap will continue to widen, and if Claunch cannot show in 2026-27 that Athletics Director Lisa Campos made the right hire, UTSA women’s basketball will continue to outshine the men’s program.

Expansion dreams

By Adrix Tankersley Contributor

Replacing that production will not come from a single player, but there is a path forward in the returning core. Even while dealing with injuries this past season, junior forward Idara Udo averaged 9.3 points and 7.4 rebounds and was often the most physically imposing player on the foor. When UTSA leaned into its identity, everything fowed through her. Entry passes into the post, second-chance opportunities and extended possessions from offensive rebounds allowed the team to control the tempo. Udo’s ability to establish position and fnish inside gave UTSA a dependable option when perimeter shots were not falling. With a full offseason and improved touch around the rim, she is positioned to become the focal point of the offense while continuing to anchor the defense. Hammonds represents a different kind of upside. Her jump from limited minutes to a central role changed the rotation early in the year. At 6-foot-3, she handled the ball, attacked off the dribble and provided length that disrupted both guards and forwards. She covered ground on the perimeter, contested shots at the rim and allowed UTSA to switch more freely. Offensively, her ability to get downhill created scoring chances, but her perimeter shooting and strength must improve. A stronger frame and a more reliable jumper would turn her into a consistent, two-way threat. guard Adriana Robles may be the piece that ties everything together. The Puerto Rican quickly became one of the team’s most dynamic ball handlers, using a low hesitation crossover to create driving lanes and collapse defenses. Her passing fashed early and often, and her defensive energy kept her on the foor in key moments. She drew charges, pressured opposing guards and played with a level of urgency that ft the team’s identity. However, her limitations as a shooter were clear, largely attributed to a slow, low-release jumper that defenders were able to consistently contest and alter with ease. Adjustments there could open up the offense, forcing defenses to respect her on the perimeter and creating more space for UTSA’s interior scoring and

It all connects back to coach Karen Aston, who has built a program centered on defense, rebounding and physical play in the paint. UTSA fnished frst in the conference in scoring defense and rebounding margin. That identity carried the team through the conference tournament and will remain the baseline moving forward. To return to the NCAA tournament, the next step lies in complementing that identity. Ball security must improve after fnishing last in turnover margin, and perimeter shooting needs to develop to create space for post players. The transfer portal will also play a role, particularly in adding another guard capable of handling pressure and generating offense.

UTSA has already shown it can withstand roster turnover, adjust on the fy and peak when it matters. With a more stable core and a clear understanding of what wins games, the next version of the Roadrunners will not be starting from scratch but building on a team that took the program to new heights.

MLB Week 1: attention-grabbing start

By Nalani Cox Contributor

it’s miller time

Caden Miller hits series-winning walk off against East Carolina

By Rylan Renteria Sports Editor

SAN ANTONIO — Sophomore utility Caden Miller knocked a game-winning RBI single through the right side of the infeld in the bottom of the 10th inning, giving UTSA baseball a 8-7 win over East Carolina University on Sunday at Roadrunner Field.

By the time the ffth inning concluded, the Roadrunners (20-8, 4-2 AC) had amassed a 5-0 lead. The Pirates (16-12-1, 3-3 AC) stormed back to take a 7-5 lead and forced out UTSA’s stopper, junior Sam Simmons. Junior outfelder Lane Haworth sent the game to extra innings with a two-RBI single at the bottom of the ninth, and Miller’s hit sealed the series.

“I just treated it like any other at-bat,”

Miller said after the game. “It’s obviously a big moment, but at the same time, it’s ‘Go up there, be relaxed, be loose and just trust my craft.’ Everyone kind of looks at it like ‘Oh, big moment,’ and it is, but you have to stay calm, cool and collected. Trust the work you put in and be ready to hit.”

In the top of the 10th, junior pitcher Cody DeMont forced East Carolina into three groundouts.

The Pirates opened up the bottom of the inning by hitting sophomore outfelder Christian Hallmark with a pitch. Junior infelder Diego Diaz pushed Christian Hallmark to second with a sacrifce bunt before East Carolina pitcher Joseph Webb walked sophomore infelders Josh Arquette and Jordan Ballin to load the bases. Miller drove the frst pitch of his at

bat into right feld, and Christian Hallmark sprinted home uncontested for the win.

“[It was] a huge moment,” Miller said. “You walk off the Pirates at home to win the series on a Sunday. It was a hard fought game, going down in the seventh and battling our way back. It was exciting for sure.”

Ballin, who missed Saturday’s game because of strep throat, drove in the Roadrunners’ frst three scores of the game in the second and fourth. The fnal run didn’t go down as an RBI for Ballin, but he forced the Pirates into a rundown in between frst and second, allowing Diaz to score.

“Jordan fu game, I guess,” Ballin joked.

Sophomore utility Jacob Silva homered in the ffth, increasing the lead to fve.

East Carolina piled on seven runs

against senior pitchers Mike DeBattista and Simmons, but the Roadrunners prevailed, earning their second American Conference series win this season.

“I’m pleased we won,” coach Pat Hallmark said after the game. “I don’t know if we deserved to win, and I mean that with all sincerity. I hope no one takes that the wrong way. I just wish we could play cleaner baseball. Three hit by pitch, a walk and two errors just in that one inning. As a coach, you just can’t feel good about it, but God we’re tough. We have tough people and we’re mentally tough.”

UTSA will hit the road, but stay in San Antonio, for its matchup with the University of the Incarnate Word at 2 p.m. Tuesday at Sullivan Field.

UTSA on even playing field with Seminole State

By Cruz Delgado Managing Editor

SAN ANTONIO — Despite dominating possession of the ball and playing a relentlessly physical frst half, UTSA women’s soccer could not maintain momentum going into the second half,

ending their Saturday scrimmage against Seminole State College in a 0-0 draw.

The Roadrunners took four shot attempts and had two shots on goal in the frst half, as they leaned heavily on offensive pushes. UTSA could not fully capitalize on their offensive authority in the game’s frst 30 minutes, and missed opportunities winded the team before they began a meager second half effort that put them amid a defensive dogfght.

The Roadrunners had a hopeful opportunity in the 29th minute when sophomore forward Brooklyn Bailey launched a perfectly-placed pass to a heavily-guarded sophomore forward Ava Jackson. With defender Bella Mattingly in constant stride with her, Jackson tripped and sent the ball out of bounds, ending the frst period.

Matters took a turn for the worse in the second half, with Seminole State threatening to score and scattering UTSA’s defense in the 42nd minute. The Trojans drew out freshman goalkeeper Jaelyn Bracamonte, leaving the goal wide open for a score in the calamity, but their attempt was thwarted by a header from

junior defender Aaliyaiah Durden.

“In the second half, I think we did some things that were okay,” coach Derek Pittman said. “Again, as you make subs, you make some different changes. You put some different people in personnelwise. Sometimes they step up and they play well. Sometimes they struggle. At the end of the day, I think that it simply came down to Seminole was outworking us and wanted it more and played harder than we did. For that reason, that’s why we found ourselves in a dogfght today.”

UTSA’s fnal moments on the pitch fzzled out as they failed to position the ball within scoring distance. A late defensive effort from the Roadrunners pushed the ball out of bounds in the fnal seconds, leaving minimal time for Seminole State to make a shot attempt.

“We got a lot to work on,” Pittman said. “It wasn’t a great game to be honest, with full credit to Seminole. They came out with a tremendous amount of energy, and we were extremely fat. We didn’t bring the energy. We didn’t bring the enthusiasm and the intensity that normally we bring.

“If this is an indication of where we’re

By Blue Mize Assistant Photo Editor

going to be in the fall, we’re in trouble. We’ve got a lot of work to do, but I know this team is capable of it.”