2026_Mar05_TEC

ECU PLAYING AGAINST TULSA

TheEast

Carolinian

SGA Election 2026 results

The Student Government Association has announced the results of the 2026-27 election.

Just over 2,100 students voted in this election. Ryan Grant and Audrey Frank won 77 percent of the vote. They will serve as president and vice president, respectively, for the upcoming school year.

The results were announced on Monday evening after the Election Commission unanimously voted to delay the release. SGA cited a need to investigate potential violations “to ensure the integrity and fairness of the election process”.

Students also voted in support of passing motion GM 10-07. This will restructure how SGA interacts with the student assembly.

Mya Riddick is a junior studying communications. She comes from Charlotte, where concerns were recently raised at UNCC about the SGA’s ability to represent all students' interests properly, given that most of the officers

were involved in Greek life.

“I feel like Greek life has an overwhelming amount of impact on campus here at ECU,” Riddick said. “And other student organizations just have to fend for themselves.”

Grant and Frank’s campaign slogan was “Anchored in Service” and aimed to unite ECU students by listening to and understanding the student body. Their campaign also emphasized raising awareness about campus safety.

Aanshi Shah will be the representative for the sophomore class. Charles Simpson, Jr., will represent the junior class, and Devon Jones will represent the senior class. There are currently no students representing the Colleges of Engineering and Technology, the Fine Arts and Communication, Health and Human Performance, Nursing, the School of Dental Medicine, and the Honors College. These positions will be filled through an application process.

New members will take office on April 1 during the SGA banquet.

This writer can be contacted at news@theeastcarolinian.com.

ECU travels to play Coastal

The East Carolina University Baseball team (6-5-1, 0-0 American Athletic Conference) will travel to Conway, South Carolina this weekend to take on #16 ranked Coastal Carolina University (7-4, 0-0 Sun Belt Conference). Both teams came into the year with high expectations and have not met the billing yet. The Pirates and the Chanticleers alike will be looking to gain momentum as non-conference play starts to wind down.

Coastal opened the season ranked sixth in the nation and had lots of hype surrounding the team, especially the pitching staff.Junior starters Cameron Flukey and Hayden Johnson have both been sidelined for eight weeks due to rib issues and will not be able to pitch in the series against ECU. Flukey and Johnson were the Friday and Saturday starters respectively for the Chanticleers to open the season.

Coastal is coming off the Bruce Bolt College Classic where they played the University of Texas (11-0, 0-0 SEC), the University of Texas San Antonio (10-1, 0-0 AAC), the University of Mississippi (10-2, 0-0 SEC). The Chanticleers went 1-2 dropping games to Texas and UTSA and a win against Ole Miss.

The bats for Coastal have been quiet thus far with only four players batting over .230. The pitching hasn’t been phenomenal either and are lacking the star power Flukey and Johnson bring.

The Pirates are coming into the series after a solid Keith Leclair Classic last weekend where they went 2-1. ECU picked up good wins over Rutgers University (5-5, 0-0 Big Ten Conference) and Troy University (5-6, 0-0 Sun Belt Conference) but lost a bad one to Western Carolina University (8-3, 0-0 SoCon).

Sophomore first baseman Austin Irby picked up his production this weekend hitting his first homer of the year against Rutgers. The Pirates also seemed to have found their starting shortstop in junior Matt Lashley who went 5-8 in the three game stretch while also providing fantastic defense.

Pitching wise, junior Ethan Norby had his best start this season going 5.2 innings and striking out ten while giving up one earned run against Rutgers. The tandem of senior Gavin Van Kempen and sophomore Sean Jenkins shut down the Troy offense allowing just one earned run. Van Kempen picked up nine strikeouts in the outing. Freshman Colby Weber also impressed, striking out seven in 5.1 innings against Western Carolina.

Both teams will be coming into this series with extra energy given the regional matchup and the fact that the Chanticleers eliminated the Pirates in the NCAA tournament last year. All three games will be broadcast on ESPN+, radio coverage is available on 94.3 FM The Game. First pitch Friday March, 6. is at 6 p.m., Saturday March, 7. at 2 p.m., and Sunday March, 8. at 1 p.m.

Students plan for upcoming spring break

East Carolina University's spring break is approaching fast and students are preparing for a break from classes, work, and other activities, whether they’re going on a trip, heading back home, or staying in Greenville, students are ready for the rest and relaxation with friends and family this spring break.

Meredith Reames, a junior at ECU, is headed to Punta Cana, Dominican Republic for spring break. Reames is traveling for her family friend's wedding and is excited to celebrate with a fun trip.

“I can’t wait to relax in the sun and be with family and friends, and take a well deserved break from school,” Reames said.

Most students are looking forward to the break from classes that spring break provides. Reames said she has had more vigorous work

this semester but likes the routine.

“This year I have had a lot more group projects, which is a great way to prepare me for my career and to work on my team building skills,” Reames said. “As far as my classes, I will miss having a set routine and seeing my classmates,” she said.

The interruption of routine can be challenging for some students, but spring break offers chances for many memories to be made. Reames reflected on previous spring break trips and why she enjoyed it.

“My favorite spring break trip from years previous was when my family visited the Florida Keys,” She explained, “It was my last spring break trip before starting college and I loved making those memories with my family.”

Students are getting excited for the break from responsibilities, but students have said they will miss certain aspects about ECU and Greenville as a whole. Reames said she will miss hanging out with her friends, specifically the workout classes they’ve been doing together.

“I will miss my friends the most, my friends make ECU feel like a home away from home and have really made my college experience here so amazing,” Reames said.

While some students are reluctant to put distance between their friends here at ECU, some have chosen to travel with them for the break. Sophomore Isabella Turner is headed to Florida with a group.

“I plan on going to Fort Lauderdale with a group of friends,” Turner said, “I’m looking forward to going to the beach and tanning.”

Whether it be a fun trip, time spent with family, working, or simply relaxing, spring break allows students to rest, recharge, and regain energy to prepare for the rest of the semester. Students will be sure to come back refreshed from the much needed time away.

Attacks abroad spark cyber threat discussion

A tech summit was held at East Carolina University on Monday.

According to WNCT, Experts from tech companies such as Google, Microsoft, and Darktrace spoke about their career paths. A discussion about cyber threats and how they are not just happening abroad, but in America as well.

One of the cyber threats discussed was Artificial Intelligence. The rapid evolution of AI has forced experts to adapt more quickly to these potential threats. With the current attacks on Iran, international cyber threats are more likely to happen.

New area for families open at local shelter

A new family wing at the Greenville Community Shelter is currently open.

According to WITN, the new wing has six bedrooms, each with six beds. These new beds bring the total at the shelter to 52. There is also a common area for kids to do schoolwork or play games. Construction of the new wing began in July, after the shelter and donations provided funding.

Man dies after being hit by car last Wednesday

A man who was involved in a traffic incident last week has passed away. According to WITN, Willie Harris Jr. was hit by a car after trying to retrieve an item that he dropped after crossing the road previously. The accident occurred near the intersection of Kristin Drive and Greenville Boulevard.

Greenville Police said Harris succumbed to his injuries last Friday evening.

Police said the driver of the car will not be charged with a crime.

NC Governor encourages residents to check voter registration

North Carolina Gov. Josh Stein announced that over 70,000 residents were recognized as having incomplete voter registration.

In a social media post, Gov. Stein encouraged residents to check their registration status by checking an online database.

People who wish to vote but have incomplete registration, need to bring a valid drivers licence to the polls when voting.

CORRECTIONS & CLARIFICATIONS

If you feel there are any factual errors in this newspaper, please contact editor@theeastcarolinian.com.

CRIME LOGS

ECU students share their thoughts on Iran attacks

Ongoing tensions between the United States and Iran are leaving American citizens, including East Carolina University students, concerned about a looming war between the two countries.

According to The Associated Press, the U.S. and Israel began their attacks on Feb. 28, with four U.S. service members killed during the attack.

The threats to international travel, cyber security, and infrastructure are top con cerns among residents worldwide and locally, including ECU students. Lana Shafiq, Co Chair of the ECU chapter of the Young

Democratic Socialists of America, said there is nothing that warrants preparation by Amer ican citizens.

“America is in no danger of being bombed; however, Iran has been striking military bases around the region,” Shafiq said.

Shafiq said the U.S. and Israeli interven tion will not liberate Iran or any other country from an oppressive regime.

The escalation of war comes to the forefront for millions of American citizens regarding air travel surrounding Middle East ern countries, the U.S. economy, and security during spring break and upcoming festivals across the country. Shafiq said the issue of ICE raids remains a concern.

“Americans’ safety is threatened by their

own military, as we’ve been seeing ICE and CBP invade and harm cities all over the coun try,” Shafiq said.

Students at ECU are discussing their thoughts regarding the conflicts.

“I think it’s an unnecessary conflict and I don’t understand why we are getting involved,” Mike Holman, a junior finance major, said.

“I am concerned for us and everyone’s safety,” Liz Benitez, a senior biology major, said.

Turning Point USA at ECU, College Republicans, and College Democrats were contacted, but no response was given.

This writer can be contacted at news@theeastcarolinian.com.

Weapon reported in Fletcher Hall

Dulce Perez TEC STAFF

East Carolina University police are investigating a report of a weapon found on educational property, according to the ECU Police Department Crime and Fire Logs. The incident was reported at Fletcher Hall on Feb ruary 20, 2026, according to the log.

The crime log lists the incident as “weapon on educational property.” No additional details were immediately available. The case remains under investigation.

Deputy Chief Chris Sutton said, “The incident is open and currently under investi gation,” Sutton said, “until we make an arrest, I may not be able to provide many details about the case”.

Police have not announced any arrests or released other information.

This writer can be contacted at news@theeastcarolinian.com.

ECU Health launch Scholarships

Mallory Sheldon TEC STAFF

Feb, 28

ECU police cited someone for a hit and run and failure to stop at East Carolina’s Scott Residence Hall. The incident took place at 9:26 a.m. Saturday morning.

March, 1

ECU Police cited someone for first degree trespassing, possession of fraudulent identification, and underage drinking. The incident took place at East Carolina’s Clement Residence Hall around 3:02 a.m. Sunday morning.

March, 2

ECU police are investigating a potential instance of embezzlement at the Main Campus Student Center. The incident took place Feb, 24. but was reported on Monday at 9:44 a.m.

ECU Health recently launched a new schol arship program for students pursuing health science degrees at regional community colleges in eastern North Carolina.

Public Relations Specialist for ECU Health, Ashlin Elliot, said the Academic Loan Scholar

ship Program was created to address workforce shortages and financial burdens, and to attract new talent from communities where opportu nities are limited.

“The scholarship is both a recruitment strat egy and a long‑term investment in stabilizing the region’s health care workforce,” Elliot said.

If selected, each student is granted $5,000 in financial support and a one year employment

role with ECU Health, during which they will gain experience working with clinical teams, recruiters, and workforce development staff.

There are only 33 scholarship spots avail able.

“This combination of financial support, guaranteed employment, and early professional integration is designed to strengthen both the student’s career trajectory and ECU Health’s workforce stability,” Elliot said.

For eligibility, students must be enrolled in Nursing, Respiratory Therapy, Surgical Technology, Medical Laboratory Technol ogy, Radiology, Sonography, Cardiovascular Technology, CT, MRI, Diagnostic Technology, Occupational Therapy Assistant, and Physical Therapist Assistant.

“We are investing not only in future four‑year graduates but also in the local learn ers whose two‑year degrees are essential to sustaining care delivery across eastern North Carolina,” Elliot said.

Elliot added that those enrolled in the Eastern North Carolina RIBN Program are also encouraged to apply.

The application deadline is May 22, 2026.

OUR VIEW

Oscars Round Up

We at East Carolinian think that this years Oscar’s are going to be a landslide victory for Sinners. We may even see a win for Train Dreams or Del Toro’s Frankenstein. This year has been a wild one for movies with films like Weapons, One battle after another, and more.

Filmmaking as a whole is changing and it’s refreshing to see a film so rich and powerful like Sinners. With stunning music and visuals it’s hard to hate this film. The story by Ryan Coogler examines deep cultural struggle with the lense of vampires and is elevated by stellar performances by Michael B Jordan, Miles Caton, and the rest of the cast. This movie oozes style and its heart is ever present. With Weapons, you get a retelling of a story of grief and loss mixed with the horror only Zach Cregger can bring in a bombastic horror thrill ride. Del Toro’s Frankenstein is a beautifully crafted melodic masterpiece that asks you Is your dad bad? If so , kick him to the curb. It also explores the horrors of bringing a person into existence that didn’t ask to exist.

Films are the immortal language. Moving pictures are put in order to convey emotion. Each frame is there for a purpose and put together by some of the best craftsmen of generations.

PIRATE RANTS

endorse

made in Pirate Rants.

I’m in two kinds of debt as a college student. Money debt and sleep debt. I swear I am always tired.

Did every professor get together and decide to dump a bunch of work on us right before spring break?

Some people that are in the school of art and design shouldnt be in the school of art and design. In a certain number of my freshman studio classes, certain students are applying no effort and frankly do not know how to draw or apply any basic principles of design. I swear, some people think they can just fly by in art school but I assure you that this is not the case. indivduals like this are in for a rude awakening when they flunk out next semester. Art requires time and care, attention to detail and hours outside of class. Art is not an easy major.

There better not be another draft, I’m tryna get my bachelors. The Alex program for Math is just awful.

US missiles strike Iran

Candon Johnson TEC STAFF

In a move that surprised many, the US bombed Iran this past weekend. The overall sentiment is split between both government officials and other countries.

The internet is on fire, either celebrating the attack or wholly condemning it while every journalist and news outlet is covering it with their own specific lens.

On one side you have people arguing

that the attack was necessary while the other argues that it was a despicable effort at a regime change. I’m interested in the regular everyday view of it though and in my opinion and from what i’ve seen, most people agree it was a bad call. For starters I feel that this was unnecessary as we had already destroyed their nuclear program according to Trump. NBC shares the same sentiment as they released an article questioning the goal of this war. It’s hard to imagine what this

one decision might lead to as we watch the aftermath unfold before our eyes. Reports of schools being hit. The death of a controversial leader. Friendly fire. The information coming from Iran and news outlets is hard to wrap your head around. One thing is for certain though, the future is different for the world as this has lasting ramifications on our already hurting foreign policy.

This writer can be contacted at opinion@theeastcarolinian.com.

Trump’s State of the Union

Candon Johnson TEC STAFF

It’s hard to pinpoint when the concept of the State of the Union address jumped the shark. But a good starting point for discussion would be 1996, when President Bill Clinton devoted considerable time in his long-winded oration

President Donald Trump is a different animal, of course. To some extent, he has reinvigorated the tradition. Love him or hate him, he has an “it” factor that commands attention. Supporters and detractors tune in for the same reason many fans might watch the Daytona 500: Will there be a spectacular spectacle?

longest speech before a joint session of Congress, at 108 minutes. Trump should realize that brevity is a virtue. Given the country’s limited attention span, how many Americans had the stamina to watch from beginning to end?

As expected, the president emphasized the economy. It was a wise move. Economic

to championing uniforms in public schools. Since then, the events have become rather mundane affairs, often devolving into a monotonous laundry list of various policy proposals sprinkled with a few turns of phrases intended to juice the faithful.

Meanwhile, his political foes play to the cameras with their heckling and childish disruptions. It’s must-see TV.

Substantively, however, Trump broke little new ground Tuesday — other than to set the modern-day record for the

indicators are moving in a positive direction — a roaring stock market, reasonable growth, cheaper gasoline prices, lower inflation — yet polls show many Americans are frustrated with the cost of living and worried about

the future. Trump’s challenge heading into the midterms is to convince swing voters that his agenda of lower taxes and fewer regulations will create opportunity and wage growth for working Americans. He laid the groundwork Tuesday for such an approach.

“You’ve seen nothing yet,” he promised. “We’re going to do better and better and better. This is the golden age of America.” Trump also wisely pointed out the hypocrisy of Democrats who now bandy about the word “affordability” after they presided over the worst inflation in four decades.

The president emphasized a number of other accomplishments, including regaining control of our southern border and foreign policy successes such as the daring military missions in Venezuela and Iran. He cited American hockey gold medals at the recent Winter Olympics as an example of how sports can instill national pride.

“There is no challenge Americans cannot overcome, no frontier too vast for us to conquer, no dream too bold for us to chase, no horizon too distant for us to claim,” Trump said in closing. How many viewers were still around to hear him?

This writer can be contacted at opinion@theeastcarolinian.com.

Arts & Entertainment

EVENTS TODAY

North Carolina

Newmusic Initiative: Premiere Performances

ECU A. J. Fletcher Music Center, 102 A. J. Fletcher Music Center, Greenville, NC 27858

2523286851, 7:30 PM to 8:30 PM

TOMORROW

Grease on Stage at The Paramount Theater

Farmville Community Arts Council, 3723 N. Main Street, Farmville, NC 27828

2527533832, 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM

Nearly New Fish Kids’ Consignment SaleGreenville, NC Greenville Convention Center, 303 SW Greenville Blvd, Greenville, NC 27858 2523217671, 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM

Music Bingo with Wild Willy Greenville, NC

The Doghouse Tavern, 506 2nd Street, Ayden, NC 28513 2523042291, 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM

ECU’s “Breakfast on the Go” promotes healthy meals

Kelly Bullock TEC STAFF

In observance of National Nutrition Month, East Carolina University is hosting its first-ever Breakfast on the Go events, offering students, faculty, and staff fast healthy breakfast options at several locations across Main and Health Sciences campuses to help fuel their day.

National Nutrition Month is a yearly initiative celebrated every March

to encourage people to make smarter food choices and build better eating and lifestyle habits. This campaign emphasizes the importance of balanced meals and consistent nourishment of the body, which can be hard for people with demanding schedules.

“Breakfast on the Go provides an opportunity to make the topic much more approachable,” said Jodi Quemelen, Coordinator of Well-Being at ECU Campus Recreation & Wellness Center. “Nutrition is simply the process of fueling your body for nourishment, why not make it fun and easy?”

Quemelen said college students often juggle many responsibilities, whether it be academics, jobs, or other personal commitments, which can result in them choosing the most convenient option even if it’s not the healthiest. The events aim to demonstrate that healthy meals can be quick, accessible and enjoyable at the same time.

“When we fuel our bodies with whole fruits, fiber, protein, and other things of high nutritional content, it allows us to study more efficiently and better show up for ourselves and our daily responsibilities,” said Quemelen.

Beyond the nutritional benefits of the event, Quemelen said the impact it has on the community is just as meaningful as the food itself.

“The most rewarding part of working on initiatives like Breakfast on the Go is simply putting a smile on the faces of students, faculty, and staff who work hard each day,” said Quemelen. “A lot of people who stop by tell us they appreciate it because it would be their first meal and most likely only meal of the day because of how busy they were.”

Breakfast on the Go is March 3 from 9-11am at Sonic Plaza, March 5 from 9-11am at Health & Well-Being Hub @MCSC, March 17 from 9-11am at Health & Well-Being Hub @HSC, and March 18 from 9-11am at HSC West Porch.

Yoga flows into the galleries of the Greenville Museum of Art

Nuha Ahmed TEC STAFF

Inside the quiet exhibition spaces of the Greenville Museum of Art, visitors are invited to do something unexpected: roll out a yoga mat and breathe.

“Yoga in the Galleries,” a recurring program hosted on the first Saturday and third Wednesday of each month, blends movement and mindfulness with visual art, offering participants a new way to experience the museum’s space.

SATURDAY

25th Annual Shuck ‘n’ Pluck

American Legion, 403 St. Andrews Drive, Greenville, NC 27834

2527174961, 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM

Trainwreck & Afreyed Knot

The State Theatre, 110 West 5th St , Greenville, NC 27858

7:00 PM to 11:00 PM

SUNDAY

Free Art Exhibit: All the Time & Everywhere by Freddie Bell

Farmville Community Arts Council, 3723 N. Main Street, Farmville, NC 27828

2527533832, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM

PiCASO March Drag Brunch

The Scullery, 431 Evans Street , Greenville, NC 27858 2523211550, 10:30 AM to 1:30 PM

According to Collections & Exhibitions Manager, Kayla Kramb-Guy, art is created to engage the senses, tell a story, and elicit emotional reactions. The museum’s yoga sessions are designed with that same intention.

“Through offering yoga in the galleries, we seek to allow visitors to slow down and take in the space,” Kramb-Guy said. “We want to create a space that allows people to feel comfortable.”

Sessions are led by Frannie Ayers of Zen Sister Healing, whose teaching style is described as welcoming and encouraging. Whether a class draws only a few participants or fills a gallery with mats, the goal remains the same: bringing communities together through art.

“Art can inspire so many different emotions from people and yoga can do the same,” Kramb-Guy said. “By offering space within the museum, we aim to secure the connection between the community, arts, and wellness.”

Each session costs $10 for non-members, while museum members attend free of charge. A student membership is also available for $20 per year.

The program aligns closely with the museum’s mission to inspire, educate, and connect people through the visual arts. Kramb-Guy said “Yoga in the Galleries” especially fulfills the connection aspect of that mission by inviting participants to become familiar with the space in a unique way.

“Not only are we creating a wellness-based space for members of our community, but we are encouraging them to really take in the art that surrounds them,” she said.

Response to the program has been positive, with attendance varying from intimate, smallgroup sessions to larger gatherings that cultivate what Kramb-Guy described as “collaborative wellness.”

As the museum continues to explore new initiatives, Kramb-Guy said staff members remain open to expanding wellness-centered

programming.

“Art is for everyone,” she said, “the more opportunities we can offer to have people visit the museum and feel comfortable and supported, the better.”

Pitt County students competed in Science Olympiad tournament

Khyati Daggubati

for the annual Science Olympiad competition, a day-long academic tournament designed to challenge students in science, technology, engineering and mathematics. The event brought together teams who have spent months preparing for rigorous competitions that test not only

academic knowledge, but also collaboration, critical thinking and real-world application of scientific concepts. From written exams to hands-on engineering builds, classrooms and labs were transformed into competitive arenas where precision and preparation mattered.

Science Olympiad differs from traditional academic competitions because it emphasizes teamwork. Students compete in pairs or small teams across multiple events, earning points for their school based on performance. Events spanned a wide range including disciplines, including anatomy and physiology, chemistry, environmental science, engineering design and epidemiology.

One of the featured events was Disease Detectives, a partner-based test focused on epidemiology and public health investigation. Students were required to analyze data sets, interpret outbreak

by Ricky Cruz

The East Carolinian Sports experts predict this week’s events

Caleb Johnson TEC Sports Editor

ECU VS. Coastal Score Prediction?

ECU 2-1

Why?

Heading into a place like Conway I can only think that we are going to drop at least one game. Granted Coastal is missing multiple of their best arms, I think that ECU takes advantage of this through the weekend and comes out with a series win despite playing in a hospital environment. Except for the WCU game, this ECU team has been very good offensively. I’m excited to see what they can do against one of the nations top teams especially with the way last season ended in the Conway regional.

Cannon Gates WZMB Station Manager

ECU VS. Coastal Score Prediction?

ECU 2-1

Why?

Coastal is down with 3 top arms out but certainly not out as they are a top team in the country for a reason, but if the Pirates can do what they did this past weekend pitching wise, I don’t see why they can’t win at least 2 games.

Tyler Buonocore TEC Staff

ECU VS. Coastal Score Prediction?

ECU 3-0

Why?

The Pirates are coming off a weekend in which they picked up two very solid wins. Now they face a very good Coastal team that is missing two of its best starting pitchers. I think the Pirates will capitalize on this and come out of the weekend with a series sweep. It will be very interesting to see how this ECU team responds to playing Coastal.They are a top team in the nation and they also ended the Pirates season in 2025. I know the guys will be fired up for this one and will be prepared to lay it all on the line in this high stakes matchup.

ECU playing against Tulsa

Kalise Lewis TEC STAFF

East Carolina women’s basketball (21-9,13-4 Amer ican Athletic Conference) will travel to Oklahoma on Saturday for a matchup against the Univer sity of Tulsa (1810,10-6 AAC). For both teams this game will close out their regular season. ECU is look ing to extend its winning streak to two games before heading into the American Conference Tournament.

Earlier this season, the Pirates defeated the Golden Hur ricanes 79-48. Despite this being one of their largest confer ence wins of the season, the Pirates know they can’t take a minute for granted against this well rounded team.

Tulsa, coming off of a tough 105-65 loss to Rice Uni

versity (26-3, 16-0 AAC) last week, will be looking for wins against The University of Texas at San Anto (13-14, 8-8 AAC) and the Pirates. The Golden Hur ricanes will face the Roadrunners on Wednesday March, 4. at 7:30 p.m. in San Antonio prior to their matchup with East Carolina.

Tulsa brings a quick moving offense to the table, whether that’s in transition or structured plays. They look to establish their offense from the inside out, consistently attacking the rim and shooting 41.4% from the field. Drawing defenders in opens up the floor for junior guard Mady Cartwright to showcase her impressive 30.9% three point shooting average. Slowing down the transition and stopping the ball from getting inside will be key for East Carolina in this matchup.

East Carolina holds a strong rebound ing and defensive presence averaging 37.3 rebounds and 10.6 steals per game while delivering the energy, intensity, and phys icality that ECU fans love to see. The Pirates are led by senior guard Kennedy Fauntleroy on both ends of the floor. She averages 13.7 points and 2.7 steals per game. Tulsa will need to match the intensity both offensively and defensively in order to pull off the upset.

East Carolina, coming off a Senior Day win will look to carry that energy into the post-season. TEC Reporters got the chance to catch up with senior forward Anzhané Hutton with a few questions. Hutton said “Do whatever it takes to win, doesn’t matter how just get it done. One quarter, one half, one

game at a time”. Her words reinforce the team’s dominant play style, showing they’ll bring the same determination against

The game will be played in Tulsa, Oklahoma Saturday March, 7. at 3 p.m. in the Donald W. Reynolds Center. The game

ECU to take on Alabama

ECU men’s basketball (11-18, 6-10 American Athletic Conference) returns to the court on Sunday in Birmingham against the University of Alabama at Birmingham (18-11, 9-7 AAC).

This will be the final regular-season matchup for both teams. The Blazers have built a reputation for consistency and physicality within the league.

With the season coming to a close, ECU will be searching for one last win. The Pirates have shown improvement in several areas over the course of conference play, particularly in ball movement and defensive effort.

Although, maintaining that level of execution for a full 40 minutes has been a challenge.

Head coach Mike Schwartz has keyed in on the importance of valuing possessions, a focus that becomes increasingly more important in the bigger games in March. “We’ve got to do a better job of taking care of the basketball,” Mike Schwartz said earlier this week. “When we value possessions and defend the right way, we give ourselves a chance every night in this league.”

Rebounding and interior defense remain focal points for ECU heading into the matchup. The Pirates have been outre -

bounded in several AAC losses this season and UAB’s physical presence in the paint has created problems for AAC opponents throughout the season, often leading to second-chance points and high-percentage looks near the basket. UAB averages 37.8 rebounds per game, about 6.5 more than ECU so they will need to match that physicality and remain disciplined to avoid putting itself at an early disadvantage. The Blazers’ style of play is

built around controlling tempo and forcing opponents into uncomfortable situations. UAB is comfortable slowing the game down, working through halfcourt sets, and capitalizing on defensive breakdowns. That approach has made them difficult to defend, particularly late in possessions when patience and execution become critical.

On the offensive end, ECU’s success has often depended on stretches of balanced scoring and efficient shot selection. When the

Pirates are able to move the ball and create open looks, they have shown the ability to compete with teams across the conference. Against a UAB defense that consistently contests shots and disrupts passing lanes, shot selection and spacing will be key. Turnovers have also played a significant role in ECU’s conference results. Limiting mistakes and avoiding rushed decisions could allow the Pirates to stay within striking distance, especially if they are able to convert defensive stops into points. Maintaining composure against UAB’s pressure will be a key test as the game unfolds.

Matchups like this are a measuring stick for ECU’s potential. Facing an experienced and physical UAB squad offers the Pirates another opportunity to evaluate their growth while continuing to build toward the future of the program. With consistent effort, attention to detail, and improved execution, ECU will look to put together a more complete performance against one of the AAC’s tougher opponents. The game will be played Sunday March, 8. at Bartow Arena in Birmingham, Alabama, with tipoff scheduled for 7 p.m. ET and the matchup being broadcast live on ESPN+.

ECU to host underwater hockey

East Carolina Student Affairs, Campus Recreation and Wellness, and Swimming and Safety Services are now providing underwater hockey for students at the Eakin Student Rec Center’s indoor pool. This is a free event for those who are 18 and older, you can register for it on crwregistration. ecu.edu under aquatics.

Three sessions will be held, the first one will be this Friday March, 6. the second one will be Friday March, 20. and the final one

will be Friday March, 27. At the time of writing, there are 16 slots available for each session. Each session will take place from 5-6 p.m. on its given date.

Those who are planning on attending are encouraged to bring their own masks, fins, and snorkels. Sticks, gloves, and water polo caps will be provided. Beginners are encouraged and welcome to attend.

Underwater hockey is played between two teams of six, it is a co-ed noncontact sport that is played at the bottom of a pool with masks and snorkels. The goal is to get

the weighted puck into the opposing team’s goal by sliding, pushing, or flicking the puck. For questions contact Grant Hinson at (252)-737-4432 or hinsonJ22@ecu.edu. Those needing assistance under the Americans with Disabilities Act will need to contact the ADA coordinator at least 48 hours before the event. They can be reached at (252)-737-1018 or adacoordinator@ecu.edu.