5 | Arts & Life 7 | Sports Latinx Experiences 2017 C-USA Football Visualized at Preview Guadalupe Arts Center

Vol. 56, Issue 2 Est. 1981 August 29 - September 5, 2017 The Paisano Independent Student Newspaper for the University of at Community

/PaisanoOnline /ThePaisano @PaisanoMedia @ThePaisano www.Paisano-Online.com DROPPED

Graphic by Chase Otero, The Paisano Instructor-initiated drop policy may cost students money and course credit

By Samuel De Leon severity of the consequences for students were officially dropped (students) should attend and tending school. Co-News Editor not attending class. from their courses. participate in all scheduled class “I am wary of the possible In the spring of 2017, 13 “Students have a responsibility meetings.” unintended side effects that this COLFA instructors piloted a to help UTSA maintain top-tier UTSA policy requires students may cause,” sophomore biol- Beginning this semester, any program in which they could status by achieving and maintain- to attend class as scheduled, but ogy major Lee Gonzalez said. UTSA faculty can drop students drop students from their courses ing high academic standards. If student reactions vary on the new “(The policy) may unfairly affect from a course for non-attendance for non-attendance. This program students attend classes regularly enforcement. non-traditional students that as long as drop requirements are spanned over 22 courses with as required, then the instructor Some students believe the have obligations outside of the clearly stated in the syllabus at- a total enrollment of 1,708 stu- drop policy should be of no im- policy is unfair, noting that every classroom.” tendance policy. dents. Currently, the program has pact on them,” Levitt said. “The student has different needs and For professors to institute this The instructor-initiated drop is rolled into more classes, and is instructor drop policy is simply should therefore not be required policy, it must be clearly writ- an effort to curve low attendance set to take a larger, more detailed another way to enforce existing to attend class. ten in their syllabi. Faculty were in classes with high rates of analysis of an instructor-initiated policy.” “I have mixed feelings about given notice that any professor drops, failing grades and with- drop. The policy Levitt refers to is it,” senior physics major Gil- looking to include the policy in drawals (DFW). According to Dr. The pilot program for the the class participation policy in berto Garcia said. “On one hand, their syllabus had to submit the Steven Levitt associate dean of instructor-initiated drop had a the Catalog Information Bul- professors are given more control written portion in which the in- the College of Liberal and Fine positive impact on attendance letin and Section 5.09 of the over who passes and who fails structor-initiated drop was men- Arts (COLFA), class attendance for the classes. Of the 13 original UTSA Handbook of Operating their course. On the other hand, tioned to their department chairs is positively correlated with the COLFA instructors, only six procedures. The Catalog Infor- students who enroll and pay for prior to the start of Fall classes. grade a student receives in a dropped students from their mation Bulletin states, “Students the course have less freedoms If students are dropped by their course, meaning the less often courses. According to Levitt, are expected to regularly attend concerning their decisions to instructors for non-attendance, a student attends class they are 196 warnings were sent out to and participate in all meetings participate in a way of their students must still pay for the more likely to earn a lower grade students not attending classes. Of of courses for which they are choosing.” course; however, students can ap- for the course. Some professors those warnings, only 46 students registered.” The UTSA Hand- Some students are concerned peal to financial services and ask encourage attendance in their were dropped from the courses book says, “Unless otherwise about this policy affecting non- for the money back. If students classes by making participation by their instructors. Respectively, stated in the instructor’s syllabus, traditional students, including choose to appeal, Fiscal Services impact students’ grades which is 11.4 percent of students were or unless an absence is excused students who must work or take require professor approval for a a new initiative to increase the sent warnings and 2.7 percent of in accordance with this policy, care of their families while at- student refund of any kind. UTSA attempts to improve graduation rates with CLASS initiative Programs aimed at incoming freshman and transfer student success

By Vivian Guillen and Financial Aid. Of the six “Now, there are ten academic Contributing Writer elements, three will have direct pathways ranging from architec- impact on freshman and first-year ture, social sciences, to arts and transfer students. One priority humanities. However, UTSA of the CLASS initiatives is re- plans on expanding in the near This is the first article of a two-part working the first-year experience future.” series on UTSA’s initiative to address for UTSA’s students. To better assist FYE, AIS is be- graduation and retention rates. Complaints about the Academ- ing revised to create a “signature ic Inquiry and Scholarship(AIS) experience.” AIS will tailor stu- In 2016, UTSA’s overall course were frequently heard dents’ education in critical think- six-year graduation rate was 35 from those who enrolled via ing, communication, leadership percent, according to a report by course evaluations. AIS was in- and career exploration, based on the Office of Institutional Re- tended to give first-year students that student’s academic pathway. search. According to the National an introduction into research One example is the business Center of Education Statistics, the writing. To address the AIS com- studies pathway. In this pathway, national six-year graduation rate plaints, the First Year Experience students will compete against was 59 percent, based on students (FYE) looked outward to other other business studies section for enrolling in 2009 and graduating universities with similar demo- a booth at Best Fest. However, in 2015. First year student reten- graphics to UTSA. Georgia State the competition will require tion rates at UTSA were around mirrored UTSA most similarly; students to create a marketable 76 percent and ranked from aver- through its minority-majority idea and explore the items needed age to below average. campus and socioeconomic chal- in sustaining its “business.” Peer mentor meeting with first-year students. The Coordinated and Linked lenged student body, the demo- Students in these sections will Approaches to Student Success graphics of UTSA and Georgia fall into marketing teams, finance Initiative (CLASS), was an- State clicked. teams, management teams and nounced by Dr. Mauli Agrawal, UTSA is currently trying Geor- other categories of study in the vice president of academic af- gia State’s “meta-major” system College of Business. fairs, set to evaluate and resolve to improve UTSA’s first-year ex- Aside from the first year issues of overall student success. perience, or an academic path for experience, the CLASS initia- “We measure student success students that permits flexibility in tives will also focus on leadership in terms of how many students core courses, while ensuring their and professional preparation. To we retain every year and ensure early course credits will count enhance this key element, Dr. they graduate successfully so towards their final majors. Rhonda Gonzales, along with they can go get jobs,” Agrawal “What we are working towards other key faculty and administra- said. over this next year is trying to tors, focused on “onboarding.” The CLASS initiative is modi- identify curriculum that would A plan to help students suc- fying and implementing six key apply to all or most majors within cessfully navigate the university. elements that Agrawal believes that academic pathway,” Dr. One key component is LEAD are essential to raising retention Tammy Wyatt, associate vice and graduation rates as well as to provost of student success, said. achieve “student success focus.” “While there is still a choice, These are: Advising, First Year it helps to focus the choice for Continued on page 2 Experience, Onboarding, Focused the student so they aren’t taking See ‘CLASS program’ Academic Support, Leadership classes that won’t be applicable Photos courtesy of UTSA First-Year Experience and Professional Preparation to their major. Student signs up for mentor meeting. 2 AUGUST 29 - SEPTEMBER 5, 2017 UTSA Groundbreaking will UTSA is not a sanctuary campus begin on a new large-scale testing facility on UTSA’s Designation uncertainty in lieu of SB 4 becoming law main campus Wednesday, August 30th. The 15,000 Joe Izbrand, associate vice square feet facility will By Benjamin Sharini president for communications feature a floor with the Staff Writer and marketing, notes that UTSA capacity to test loads up to is not a sanctuary campus, as one million pounds and up protections for student infor- to four million pounds in Sanctuary campuses are uni- mation exist under the Family thicker regions of the floor, versities which abide by similar Educational Rights and Privacy providing researchers the rules as sanctuary cities; on sanc- Act (FERPA) which prohibits ability to test large-scale tuary campuses, students rights disclosure of student information systems and full-scale are prioritized over the desire in many cases. buildings. This building of federal agencies like ICE to “We have not identified UTSA addition to the College of query the immigration status of as a sanctuary campus because Engineering will allow detainees. there is no legal standing or researchers to simulate a The “#SanctuaryCampus” protection that comes from that wide range of problems campaign is in large part a result designation,” he said. “In fact, it including high cycle of the efforts of The Cosecha could draw unwanted attention to fatigue, earthquake, and Movement: a national initia- the university. Instead, we have blast loads. tive “working to win permanent focused on who we are and what protection, dignity, and respect we stand for. Two core values of for the 11 million undocumented UTSA are inclusiveness and re- Texas people living in the United spect. We are committed to a safe States,” and a driving force be- and welcoming environment for Cities along the Coastal Bend hind the “Sanctuary Campus” or all our students, where they can region and Houston have “#SanctuaryCampus” campaign. achieve educational excellence, experienced catastrophic The UTSA Student Govern- and we are enriched by diversity. damage and flooding over ment Association’s 40th General “The university does not the weekend, as Hurricane Assembly met during fiscal year release personal information that Harvey (eventually 2016-2017 and raised the ques- is protected under the Family downgraded to a tropical tion of the university’s sanctuary Educational Rights and Privacy storm) made landfall in status. Act.” Texas. In warnings issued During SGA’s 40th General Since president Trump was by The National Weather Assembly no measure was passed elected, several bills, includ- Service, the storm was to make UTSA a sanctuary ing H.R.483, and H.R.6530, considered “unprecedented.” campus. have been introduced into the According to a representative House which would terminate or from the UTSA SGA, “Resolu- prohibit funding to “sanctuary U.S. tion GA 103 regarding UTSA as campuses.” a sanctuary campus was consid- “This bill amends Title IV U.S. Border Patrol agents ered during the 40th General As- (Student Aid) of the Higher discovered a tunnel near sembly, however, the sponsoring Education Act of 1965 to make the Mexican border near senator has rescinded his support, an institution of higher education San Diego that was used and the resolution has not come (IHE) that is a sanctuary campus to smuggle people into the to a vote. Therefore, at this time, ineligible for funds under Title country, U.S. Customs and SGA does not have an official IV.” Border Protection said. stance on this issue.” The pending legislation has The discovery was made Dr. Francine S. Romero, as- not deterred students from voic- after CBP agents arrested sociate dean of the College of ing their opinion about protec- 30 people who were in the Public Policy, believes the status tions for students. Abakar Baraka, U.S. illegally near the “Otay might not be entirely relevant, in a UTSA student and recently Mesa” port of entry. accordance to state and federal naturalized American Citizen regulations. from Sudan, believes some stu- Graphic by Chase Otero, The Paisano “Keep in mind that some of dents within the university would World the things UTSA does or does not benefit from a sanctuary campus mistake that they make then they to violate student privacy laws: do are already governed by state status. won’t have time to focus on the “Someone that works as hard as North Korea’s military fired and federal law.” Romero said. “A college student already has classes and their jobs,” Baraka everyone else, has to be scared three short-range ballistic “It is more constructive to under- so much to worry about. They said. about every move that they missiles in response to U.S. stand choices we make within our have a job, and then classes to go Nigerian UTSA student Nnen- make?” and South Korean military areas of discretion then to talk to, if they have to worry about na Akabogu echoed Baraka’s exercises. Two missiles failed about labels.” getting deported for every single sentiments, questioning decisions mid-flight, and the other exploded before flight. North Korea recently claimed they CLASS program had upgraded their weapon capabilities, prompting increased surveillance from Continued from page 1 a work study job should the United States. be more than just a pay- check for students. “The skills students Science Academy, a program need when they leave with two subsets, each the university can be University of Florida targeted towards a spe- interwoven into jobs researchers calculated that cific group of students, on campus. Students from 2011 to 2015, the sea with the common goal should leave with an level along the American of improving retention understanding that they coastline south of Cape and achieving student are employable and Hatteras rose six times faster success. This program their skills are market- than the long-term global is targeted towards able,” Gonzales says. increase rate. The researchers incoming freshmen, She believes giving claim that two large-scale and providing these student employees the atmospheric patterns had students with academic skills recruiters are intersected to push up the and financial advising, looking for is a large water off the Southeast coast as well as a group learn- piece of increasing the causing the sea-level rise. ing experience. Each professional preparation This new mechanism might student is enrolled in a at UTSA. give researchers the ability blocked schedule which CLASS’s purpose to predict tidal flooding includes two core cur- is to increase first- more accurately and warn riculum courses. Lead year retention rates communities what to expect I was implemented of students from 76 months in advance. this summer yielding percent to 85 percent promising results, as within five years, and students earned 6 hours to improve graduation Technology of college credit and rates from 38 percent to participated on campus. 60 percent, within ten Facebook unveiled the only Lead I received more years. With over $3.6 Latin American training than $635,000 funding million worth of UT center for coders and from the UT System. System funding, and entrepreneurs. The facility LEAD II sum- “steady success” from opened in Sao Paulo and mer program targets reforms, administrators encourages young Brazilians students who end of CLASS such as Wy- to fight the most recent their freshman year in att are optimistic about economic crisis through the academic distress. Lead reaching their goal: development of a healthy II provides academic, expanding to further tech-centered atmosphere. financial, and peer ad- assist student success The 1,000 square meter space vising to these students, and establishing a is set to open in December attending a 3-hour family-oriented culture and will offer free coding course set to improve at UTSA. courses, career guidance, overall student success “To date, we have entrepreneur training and and GPA. Lead II will the highest enrollment digital marketing workshops begin its pilot in sum- we’ve seen, last year’s for those willing to learn mer 2018. students have retained these skills. Gonzales worked a much larger number,” with faculty and admin- Wyatt said. “We started istrators to improve the to see that immediately Leadership and Profes- after these advising sional Preparation outreaches were going aspect of the CLASS on.” initiatives. She believes AUGUST 29 - SEPTEMBER 5, 2017 3 opinion

The monumental debate of erecting statues Photo poll Editorial “If UTSA were to erect a statue of someone,

Overnight, the confeder- young university grows into admires most; that is what a who should it be?” ate statues at the University its identity; erecting a statue statue should mean and what of Texas Austin disappeared can spur UTSA’s growth in a UTSA should seek. Chyna Francis Senior from campus. In light of a monumental way. Before we set forth on wave of protests against me- This past summer, parents our search for a figure that “Maya Angelou. She was a writer, poet, civil morials to the failed confed- and incoming freshmen captures the Roadrunner rights activist, motivator, and she has inspired so erate state, citizens in cities were charmed by our young spirit, we need to grapple many across the world to have faith and believe in across the nation are fighting university’s atmosphere with what that is. Much of themselves.” to cast the spotlight of honor and opted into our com- our welcoming and engag- away from the United States’ munity. As they toured our ing atmosphere is in thanks dark history. halls and met our members, to our city—we should start Agustin B. Pena Junior Included in that wave are they began to understand there. San Antonio’s demonstra- what makes this university San Antonio is often “Two people graduating (male and female) hand- tions in , but special. described as a big-little city, in-hand because graduating feels far away, yet it’s UTSA’s campus is not part Our ‘Runners take pride and UTSA captures that de- so close. One African American girl and one Asian of the equation. Our lack of in UTSA’s modern archi- scription. We have the sheer man to show that anybody can do it.” such memorials represent a tecture, paired with art numbers of a major city’s clear slate. installations like the “border university, with our largest UTSA does not yet have crossing” statue by re- incoming class yet, but we Natalie Guzman a statue of a historical figure. nowned artist Luis Jimenez also promote a welcoming Senior Therefore, we have the and our iron Roadrunner environment that you typi- opportunity to memorialize by artist R.G. Box. What cally find in smaller sides of “Another Roadrunner to add to our school spirit and someone, and we ought to. incoming students don’t see town. UTSA has character pride.” A statue erected on is a statue memorializing a that deserves to be charac- campus says more about the figure in our history. Some- terized. Who can accomplish university than it does about one who embodies what that? whom it’s in memory of. A this university aspires for or

Cole Curtis Freshman

“I think UTSA should erect a statue of Plank.” Sheriff Arpaio: Take control ‘America’s toughest sheriff ’ of your living situation probably wouldn’t have said sex crimes from 2004 to traveling to our country by apartment in the backyard. Commentary such hurtful things to each Satire 2007 on the back burner to putting more officers on the They frequently used the other. All people are entitled focus on the real threat of streets of Maricopa county. house kitchen because their to some degree of respect, illegal immigration. Unfortunately, this was kitchen was “too small.” In - even if you don’t like them. He has put so-called found to be illegal as some addition to my five room mates, we also had a guest Plus, disrespecting others is “minimum security” inmates of these funds were used to room that was a popular at- not attractive. in his now infamous (but pay for trips to Alaska, the traction among our frequent If you want to live peace- sadly soon to be closed) Disney World Yacht Club visitors. fully with roommates, “Tent City” to endure tem- Resort, upgraded flight My roommates and I had you should never disclose peratures regularly exceed- seats, upgraded rooms in ho- By Vincent Valdez By Cade Brashear ing 120 degrees Fahrenheit, tels and the alleged political Contributing Writer a lot of dirty dishes and your pet-peeves with them Contributing Writer - reaching the point of melting surveillance of the Sheriff’s plenty of disagreements. because they may eventu ally use them against you. their shoes. This pet project rivals. What the fake news The household-rules posted Beware of free-loaders; they of Arpaio’s is an outdoor fails to mention, but we Imagine stepping outside in the front hall eventually President Trump has - will thrive and survive off of extension of Maricopa must remember, is that these one morning with a cup- became a futile wall orna delivered on few promises ment and opposition fueled your hard work if you allow County Jail, in which he trips and amenities were of-joe in hand, only to see spoken on the campaign trail a repulsive dissolution. It’s them to cajole you. served molded, expired, and used to boost the morale of your neighbor watering your and in his short yet glorious not that we weren’t capable If you can’t trust your otherwise deteriorating food Sheriff Arpaio’s officers so grass in his underwear— tenure as our Commander of living together, what roommates don’t let it keep to detainees, reflecting their they could better identify, that’s what living with in Chief, but on Friday he drove us apart is that we lost you up at night, but be true character. profile and subdue illegal roommates is like. has finally come through. respect for one another. It mindful about the things you While many left-wing immigrants while on duty. Living with people can be President Trump has of- doesn’t have to be the same choose to share. You don’t extremist groups including For all of Sheriff Joe’s stressful, especially if you ficially pardoned one of his for you. want your roommates to the United States Depart- hard work and dedication to prefer clean kitchens over earliest, outspoken and patri- Dealing with vexatious suspect you don’t trust them ment of Justice, Amnesty his county, he was awarded roommates that manufacture otic supporters - ex-Sheriff people is an inevitable part because it could lead to an International and the Ameri- with an assasination attempt dirty dishes in their spare Joe Arpaio, clearing him of of life. Sooner or later some- awkward conversation. can Civil Liberties Union at the hands of assailant time. Nothing is worse than criminal contempt in regards one will test your patience If you have a set of have all condemned and James Saville for simply trying to study for a test to following the orders of and how you respond could household-rules expect them even tried to stop the heroic doing his duties to main- amidst a black light beer the alt-left Federal District determine your future. Bill actions of Sheriff Arpaio, tain the peace. Of course, pong challenge conveniently to be violated, but continue Judge G. Murray Snow Gates, co-founder of Micro- he has continuously ignored Mr. Saville has since been located in your dining room. to reinforce them. Clean up to stop racially profiling soft, once said, “Be nice to their advances, instead released on the grounds that My time with roommates after yourself and always likely illegal immigrants in nerds. Chances are you’ll - choosing to ensure the safety the entire thing was a hoax was short-lived, and I’ll wash your dishes. Be mind Arizona. end up working for one.” ful of your roommates even of the United States. Safety, to get Arpaio re-elected, but never forget the unpleas- The pardon came as a re- There’s a chance you might if they are not mindful of as all Americans know, is of this does not change the fact ant experience. One of my lief to many Americans who end up working for one of you. Never let your room- utmost importance. that this Sheriff has put his roommates, John, showered were hoping for the pardon your smelly roommates, so mates take advantage of In the defense of his coun- life on the line. irregularly and slept on a of this 50 year veteran to our you should be nice to them, you, but it’s always good to try, Sheriff Joe has shifted at I believe all of us, espe- sheetless mattress; he also nation. Throughout Arpaio’s lend a helping hand. If you least $50 million over five cially in the vibrant culture had a cat named Patrick. His too. 24 years as the safeguard years away from the “Re- and community of San An- room had a lingering stench. I’m not suggesting that don’t have anything nice to Maricopa county, he has - stricted Detention Fund,” tonio, can rest a little easier Then, there was Jason, you should be fake or deceit to say, it’s better not to say made tremendous strides in ful. I’m simply proposing which is used specifically knowing that this American the party-animal who loved anything at all. And perhaps the defense of our nation. for rewarded luxuries such hero will continue to risk his to host social gatherings. that you should practice most importantly, if you ever Such accommodations to his self-control because it could as food, clothes and deten- life repressing immigrants Brittany, Jason’s girlfriend, come across your roommate illustrious and often awe- come in handy the day tion officer salaries. This because of the efforts of had a poodle named Ramona watering the grass in his inspiring resume include your roommate, or anyone was done in attempt to crack President Trump in ensuring who was rarely remonstrated underwear, let it go. putting over 400 reported for that matter, pushes you down on hopeful immigrants a safe and unified America. for her “accidents” on the carpet. to the limit. If my former There was also a couple roommates and I would have who lived in the studio practiced self-control we 4 AUGUST 29 - SEPTEMBER 5, 2017 The Paisano Editor in Chief: Who should be able to drop Isaac Serna Managing Editor: Ethan Pham News Editors: students from the class? GaigeDavila Samuel De Leon Arts & Life Editor: Point Counterpoint Enrique Bonilla The instructor-initiated drop policy allows faculty Sports Editor: to drop students who exceed the absence or missed Frankie Leal assignment limit in their classes. Some students Web Editor: find this practice unfair, while others believe it isa Ricardo Rodriguez requirement for students to participate in their education Photography Editor: by attending class. This point-counterpoint explores the Chase Otero two perspectives of the issue. Magazine Editor: By Isaac Serna By Ethan Pham Samantha Ceballos Editor-in-Chief Managing Editor Multimedia Editor: Kat Joseph Senior Copy Editor: A new policy found its way into A professor’s performance is UTSA’s has new policy for the should they suffer? Why shouldn’t Jessica Salinas many UTSA students’ syllabi this measured by the university in a va- fall semester—the instructor-ini- students be able to allot that time Business Manager: fall semester—the instructor-initi- riety of ways. There are the student tiated drop—has found its way to to other aspects of their crazy col- Will Stransky ated drop. We students have ample course evaluations we all ignore some classes. This policy will not lege lives? Whatever the reason Marketing Director: reason to gripe over inconvenient (unless rewarded with extra credit) foster a better education for stu- is for the student’s attendance (or Valery Assad policies, but the instructor-initiated and there is also a measure of how dents. In fact, it has the potential to lack of), they should be able to Social Media Coordinator: drop is not one of them. many students dropped, withdrew hinder an education. decide the route they take towards Kristy Olson Behind every rule, there is or failed a professor’s course (the The drop can be initiated for a their degrees. Advertising Marketing reason. A problem faced our DFW rate). variety of reasons, but I have only Just forcing students to attend Liaison: instructors; students failed courses This measurement is one indica- seen it used to reinforce attendance does not guarantee their success in Jenelle Duff they should have withdrawn from. tor of a professor’s success, but if and participation policies. I under- the classroom. Students may attend Whether one is overwhelmed by a student is failing due to lack of stand that instructors want to see class, but they may not focus if

STAFF new subject matter or struck by attendance rather than from poor students succeed and grow, but an they’re not interested. The instruc- Aidan Watson-Morris, tragedy, students with a potential F teaching practices, one can antici- instructor-initiated drop may not be tor should work to make their class Benjamin Shirani, Carlos on their transcript would be better pate skewed results. Therefore, the the answer. worth attending, not a class that Hughes, Danielle Throneberry, off with an instructor-initiated W. punitive actions that follow are The instructor-initiated drop is students are attending because Justice Lovin, Helen Stransky, The argument for the drop can unfounded. used to reinforce mandatory atten- it’s required. Dropping a student Wylie Kurkendall, Raquel be as simple as that, but of course The new policy can reconcile dance. For example, I used to suf- from a course due to momentary Zuniga, Sofia Trevino, Ryan there is more. university wide issues with student fer from insomnia and depression. shortfalls can destroy the student’s Thompson What are the consequences for success. An instructor-initiated I tried to attend all my classes, but ability to make-up dips in their — MARKETING TEAM — not having the drop? It depends drop can serve as a viable substi- showing up was almost impossible performance. on who you ask. I’ll reveal my tute to the “weed out” strategies on certain days because of my lack If an instructor-initiated drop Ethan Pham, Will Stransky, past foolishness and admit that I professors use to ensure they have of sleep or mental state. When my policy is to work, it should be used Jenelle Duff, Ray Hagimoto, am guilty of taking an F over a W. meaningful participation once the body decided it was finally able in ways that help students, not hold Mikayla Cooper, Kat Joseph My mistake has no justification, semester is underway. Instead of to sleep or needed a mental break, them back. It shouldn’t be used to CONTRIBUTORS I registered for a Spanish course scaring inept students away with a class was not a priority; my health reinforce mandatory attendance. and discovered how little I retained strenuous opening to the semes- was at risk. That is not to say that Students are adults and should de- Josh Zollicoffer, Jess Thomas, from my high school courses. I ter, professor’s may drop those my education isn’t important, but cide for themselves how they learn Diego Lopez, Kenyatta Battle, gave the class some effort, but students who won’t attend class being forced to attend class to save best. For some, attending class Eric Pitty, Cade Brashear, Vincent Valdez, Vivian Guillen, eventually I stopped going. Now, until it’s too late. The students’ me from a drop would have been every day is not the answer. That Ricky Galindo, Connor I’m paying for it. time and the professor’s time won’t a nightmare for my sleep-deprived doesn’t mean class time is not im- Zimmerlee, Karen Gracia An F doesn’t go away. Sure, be wasted, leaving both parties body or depressed mind. Instead, portant—it very much is. However, you may pay to retake the same better off. I made up the lost days with extra instructors should advise students ADVISOR course when it’s available again, More importantly, the instructor- study. It would’ve been much more on whether they should drop a Diane Abdo but even after all that effort, you’ll initiated drop may boost what difficult to make up a dropped course, not make the decision for notice on your full transcript the UTSA lacks most—a high gradua- class. the student. We should be given the ADVISORY BOARD poor mark you retook is still in full tion rate. My F is a burden I must I’ve had to drop classes before, opportunity to navigate our own Steven Kellman, Jack view. Lingering poor marks aren’t bear, and for many, it’s burden- but it was a decision I made for education. Having important deci- Himelblau, Sandy Norman, received favorably no matter your some enough to make a student myself after thinking about what sions made for the student will not Stefanie Arias, Diane Abdo, Red GPA; recovering is an uphill battle. drop out of school altogether. Law was best for me. It serves no help them grow; it is a glorified, Madden Addendums, advisory visits and school, medical school, graduate purpose to strip important choices unsolicited hand-holding. an urgency to raise one’s marks degrees and other opportunities away from students. Give students the chance to The Paisano is published by the lie ahead for anyone who wishes are much farther from reach with That is my personal experi- think and decide if they should Paisano Educational Trust, a non-profit, tax exempt, educational to keep options open. Internships, every F accumulated. When hope ence with class attendance. Some remove themselves from a class. organization. The Paisano is scholarships, graduate school, for more is stripped away, so can students feel that because they are If education is truly important to operated by members of the Student Newspaper Association, law school and others are at stake the will to continue a pursuit of paying for their education, they students, they will decide if they a registered student organization. and it all can be avoided with the higher education. should decide how they will go should drop the class. The Paisano is NOT sponsored, instructor-initiated drop. I know Any measure to prevent students about earning their grades. If a stu- financed or endorsed by UTSA. New issues are published every firsthand. from suffering the consequences dent is succeeding in class without Tuesday during the fall and spring If you ask a professor what the of a failing grade is welcome in needing to attend regularly, why semesters, excluding holidays consequences are, you’ll receive my opinion. I certainly would have and exam periods. The Paisano is distributed on all three UTSA a different answer. No professor benefitted, and I know I’m not campuses — Main, Downtown enjoys dropping a student, because alone. and the Institute of Texan Cultures. no matter how insufferable some Additionally, Paisano publications are distributed at a variety of students may be, any drop, with- off-campus locations, including Tri- drawal or fail counts against an point and a variety of apartment instructor’s DFW rate. complexes near the UTSA Main Campus. All revenues are generated through advertising and donations. Advertising inquiries and donations should be directed to: 14526 Roadrunner Way Suite 101 Avoid the instructor-initiated drop: San Antonio, TX 78249 Phone: (210)-690-9301

© 2017, The Paisano The University of Texas at San Don’t be late to class Antonio's Handbook of Operating Procedures states in 5.03 that: The University of Texas at San By Karen Gracia Antonio (UTSA) will not exercise Contributing Staff control over the format or content of Student Publications, but will regulate distribution on campus. Student Publications will be free of censorship and advance approval of copy, and their editors and managers are solely responsible for editorial and content policies and decisions. Editors and managers of Student Publications will not be subject to arbitrary suspension/expulsion or removal from their positions within a Registered or Sponsored Student Organization (Student Organiza- tion) by the University because of student, faculty, administrative, or public disapproval of editorial policy or content. Student Organizations that distribute Student Publications are afforded the same rights and privileges as Student Organiza- tions that do not distribute Student Publications. AUGUST 29 - SEPTEMBER 5, 2017 5 ARts & Life Latinx experiences visualized Artists define communal experience for latinx families through the ‘Eastside West- side’ and ‘Narratives Invented’ exhibits at the Guadalupe Cultural Arts Center.

By Ryan Thompson and Raquel Zuniga Staff Writers

hat hap- pens when two women inspired by the strength and complexity of their community’s narra- tiveW collide? An instillation of spirit and untold narratives of truth and complexity through a bicultural lens. Two local Latino artists, Ana Fernandez and Ruth Buentello, have collaborated on an installation that in- cludes Fernandez’s “Eastside Westside” exhibit, and Buentello’s “Domestic Narratives” exhibit at San Antonio’s Guadalupe Cultural Arts Center. Both Ana and Ruth are hard-working, sought-after artists with strong voices that come through in their works,” said Courtesy of Ruth Buentello Cristina Ballí, executive director of the Ruth Buentello, “The Last Supper” Guadalupe Cultural Arts Center. “What we consider mundane, every- “What we consider mundane, everyday occurrences are brilliantly day occurrences are brilliantly captured in still life through their Latina perspec- captured in still life through their Latina perspectives.” - Cristina Balli, tives.” Fernandez was born in Corpus executive director of the Guadalupe Cultural Arts Center Christi, but grew up in San Antonio After completing her education, Fernandez the coming months. murals with other artists. where her passion for art started. returned to the Alamo City where her im- Fernandez is also the founder and owner of Now, she is on the brink of what she calls Fernandez began her visual studies mediate surroundings inspired her to create Chamoy City Limits. One of her pieces can “one of her first true breakthroughs throughout education at and streetscapes in paintings and works on paper. be found on the second floor of UTSA’s Rec her art career.” went on to receive her BFA from The Fernandez has been exhibited at the Center. School of the Art Institute of Chicago Institute of Texas Cultures, the McNay Art Buentello, a high school art teacher, began Continued on page 6 and her MFA from the University of Museum, Women and Their Work Gallery and her career as an artist at the San Antonio See “Latinx” California Los Angeles. will also be exhibiting in Los Angeles within Cultural Arts Center as an apprentice, painting See you space cowboy Carmens de la Calle’s programming merges jazz with anime as San Japan approaches By Justice Lovin Staff Writer

utwardly their respective trades. said owner Paula Sullivan. unassuming, There is also a bring your “This event was not only a Carmens de own vinyl night on the third way to connect with anime fans la Calle is a Thursday of every month that about our jazz venue but also a downtown fosters music discussion and way to hip the jazz musicians Courtesy of Carmens de la Calle jazz club that’s as cool and laid discovery within jazz and blues about another genre featuring back as jazz has ever been. history. the music they love.” Carmens de la Calle boasts a globally inspired menu alongside an impressive O programming schedule ranging from jazz and flamenco to spoken word poetry. Inside, you’ll find an envi- While Carmens makes space Carmens is a place with a ronment that is simultaneously for history, it is by no means sense of community. It’s also eclectic and complete. stuck in the past. a great place to go with a date. Red Christmas lights, hang- On Thursday, Aug. 31, it It’s the sort of place that as Student Services Fee ing lanterns and various lamps will be hosting a contemporary soon as you step out of the door about the inside provide an jazz event featuring music you want to go back again. intimate light to see by, while inspired by the anime Cowboy This sense of community Advisory Committee Meeting long curtains cover the front Bebop—a space western that can be intimidating, but have windows, keeping the hot Texas integrates music and plot. no fear; it is a welcoming and sun and the outside world at This anime themed jazz show inclusive environment. August 31, 2017 11:30 am bay. happens in anticipation of San The venue is located at 320 There is a well-supplied bar Antonio’s , North Flores Street and is open at the front door, along with a San Japan, this weekend. Thursday from five p.m. to 11 UC 2.01.20 (Oak Room) regularly updated menu of reci- The show produced a p.m. and Friday and Saturday pes from around the world. popular soundtrack, which was from five p.m. until midnight. In the other section of recorded by The Seatbelts. The The Cowboy Bebop event Carmens, tables and chairs song “Tank” is probably their is on Aug. 31; it begins at 7:30 The SSF Advisory Committee established by the Texas Education Code surround a low stage where, de- most well-known. and continues until 11. chapter 54.503 shall conduct meetings with a quorum present in a manner pending on the night, there are “We’re always looking for that is open to the public to review general expenditures and make recommendations on the type and amount of fee to be charged the jazz combos, flamenco dancers creative ways to keep jazz rel- following year. and spoken word poets plying evant to younger generations,” 6 AUGUST 29 - SEPTEMBER 5, 2017 This week on stage: Vol II Shameless? Ambitious? Lacking in ability, but still hungry for power?

By Eric Pitty Contributing Writer

or just meld into a convincing way or Chris Rodriguez himself: $20, portrayal of a gaudy and way, it just depends on “You see, Wally, even you, dear intimidating 1960’s New what path you choose.” though we’re all part of student, York City. But for this critic, the cold corporate setup can learn But apart from its spec- understanding “How to … deep down under our to manipulate your way tacle, this critic recom- Succeed” as the can-do, skins there is flesh and to Fthe top as the Pulitzer- mends “How to Succeed” American-made fairytale blood. We’re all broth- winning musical “How as a way to meditate it purports to be means ers.” to Succeed in Business on how American civic falling into the same trap So maybe corporations Without Really Trying” culture has devolved into that we as a nation fell are people after all. busts onto the Woodlawn what was considered into last November. Maybe American Theatre mainstage from absurd in 1961. Last November, Don- civic culture and the Aug. 25 to Sept. 17. I quote from the play’s ald Trump convinced mil- global corporations it The story orbits two final moments: lions of Americans that he champions—companies rivals, J. Pierrepont Finch FINCH: was just like them—that like Ford, McDonald’s, and Bud Frump, as they Rosemary, I’ve got he was a fallible outsider, Apple, Microsoft, Nestle, jockey for position atop a big decision to make. an underdog chasing a Walmart, Coca-Cola— the World Wide Wicket They want to make me dream. have at last, perhaps Company’s corporate lad- chairman of the board. But of course, Trump permanently, become der. Frump is related to What do you think? isn’t like any of us. He indistinguishable. J.B. Biggley, the Wicket ROSEMARY: isn’t an outsider. He has But I think not. Company president. Darling, I don’t care if moved in both Democrat- Rather than affirming But Finch, a former you work in the mailroom ic and Republican circles notions of the American window-washer, has an or you’re chairman of the for decades. dream, “How to Succeed” Courtesy of The ace up his sleeve. board or you’re president He isn’t an underdog. confronts audiences with Unlike Frump, Finch’s of the United States, I From left to right: Crystal Vera as Hedy; Brian Hodges as Finch; Mark He is the billionaire an opposite, even un- ambition is tempered love you. McCarver as Frump; Kate Ragan as Rosemary heir of a billionaire father. American moral. by the wise if cynical […] the production’s connection to Indeed, Rodriguez’s boot-strap But Trump is like the By refusing us a proper advice of his eponymous BIGGLEY: current political events, director biography parallels the drama his rest of us in one very feel-good, rags-to-riches guidebook, “How to Suc- Miss Jones… take a Christopher Rodriguez suggested cast and crew have brought to the important way. hero, “How to Succeed” ceed in Business Without wire to the White House: the play’s mid-century setting veils stage. He is chasing a dream challenges Americans Really Trying.” “Watch out!” contemporary significance. “I started working in a box office of success in anything, no to stand against the cul- Over two acts, Direc- From the perspective of “(Today) the jokes have a differ- volunteering, and started here (at matter the cost. tural crisis it predicted 50 tor/Choreographer Chris- 2017, the rise to power of ent meaning than they did in 1961,” the Woodlawn) in the kid’s pro- The uncanny paral- years ago in the fictional topher Rodriguez lines a manipulative business- said Rodriguez. gram, and now I’m in charge of the lels between the fictional presidency of a corporate this meat-and-potatoes man to public office is no “And I think a lot of people will company,” said Rodriguez. ascendancy of a char- man like Finch. comedy with impressive longer absurd. connect to that more because of “I kind of look at it like I’m acter like J. Pierrepont Simply put, go see song and dance numbers Evidenced by the rise Trump, because of the way he has Finch. I’m living my dream. Finch and the real-life “How to Succeed in executed by an able of Donald Trump to risen from reality star to now presi- “Ultimately I feel like (the play) ascendancy of a man like Business Without Really chorus. leader of the free world dent of the United States.” is about the American Dream. You Donald J. Trump faces Trying” because it chal- A live orchestra led by last November, what was Rodriguez, a graduate of San start with nothing but you can Americans with the grim lenges us to worry less Musical Director Josh laughable in 1961 has Antonio’s North East School of the become something,” Rodriguez possibility that things are about success and more Pepper scores the piece. today become a painful Arts, took over as executive and continued. going according to plan. about what it means to Costume, scene, light- reality. artistic director of the Woodlawn “How you do that, whether you Or, in the words of succeed. ing and sound designs When asked about Theatre in 2012. are more of a Trump way or Finch Finch, the protagonist

ContinuedLatinx from page 5

Buentello received her Bachelors of Fine Arts at the Art Institute of Chicago in 2008. Since graduating she has exhib- ited her work in group exhibitions at the Art Institute of Chicago; Mexic-Arte Museum in Austin, Texas; in San Antonio, Texas; Self Help Graphics in Los Angeles, Calif.; Slanguage Studio in Los Angeles, Calif.; Unit B Gallery in San Antonio, and University of Texas at San Antonio Fine Arts Gallery. In 2009, Buentello founded the Más Rudas art collective with like- minded Chicana artists whose work explores the socio-cultural exami- nations of Chicanx identity and the cultural representations of gender through the creation of installations and murals. This installation was birthed to Photo courtesy of Ana Fernandez give viewers an inside look into the Latino experience on both the Ana Fernandez, “Claudia’s” East side and the West side of San She set out to coping mechanisms Latino households. Antonio. illustrate the process of Chicano house- It was an exhibit Both women created their exhib- of coping that her holds. that took a lot for its separately, but their ties to their family endured. Looking deeper Buentello to create, community are the strings that hold The painting into the painting, however, throughout the two exhibits together. depicts a couch, viewers can see her career she plans Buentello wanted viewers to see lined with members the house lined to continue on a path just how complex these commu- of her family all with paintings and toward unapologetic nities are from the eyes of a San strategically facing candles that one vulnerability. Antonio native. the right. would find in her Viewers will In her instillation, Buentello She places special grandmother’s house finally get the takes you inside a traditional Chi- emphasis on the in the most spot-on chance to view the cano household. foods her family has Chicano household instillation during its In her most inspired piece, “The chosen to indulge in, that Ruth could’ve first Friday opening, Last Supper,” she illustrates her some of which she dreamed. September 1 until very own family, whom she feels feels contributed to In her instillation, October 6th, 2017 sometimes don’t understand her art. her parent’s illness. she uses both small at the Guadalupe This piece was first imagined Photo courtesy of Ana Fernandez Buentello de- scale and large-scale Cultural Arts Center two years ago after the diagnosis of scribes it as her own scenes to show the for free admission. Ana Fernandez, “The Party,” on display on the 2nd floor of the UTSA Rec. both of her parent’s sickness. way of critiquing the tension within these AUGUST 29 - SEPTEMBER 5, 2017 7 Sports

2017 Conference-USA football preview Where UTSA football stands in the C-USA West Division

UTSA celebrates after scoring a touchdown on Southern Miss. David Guel, The Paisano

By Connor Zimmerlee and Jalen Rhodes, who rushed for a quarterbacks Mason Fine and Alec Morris, 93 tackles. Coming off their 2016 season, Contributing Writer combined 1,727 yards and 17 touchdowns who threw for a combined 2,698 yards, 15 UTEP has nowhere to go but up, so Miner last season. The ‘Runners defense will be touchdowns and 12 interceptions. fans must remain optimistic for the 2017 Louisiana Tech: led by Josiah Tauaefa, who led the team Elsewhere, kicker Trevor Moore comes season. 2016 record: 9-5 (6-2 C-USA) with 115 total tackles. UTSA is a team to into the 2017 season having made 99 Rice Coming off a strong 2016 campaign, watch this year, and they are a dark horse consecutive extra points. 2016 record: 3-9 (2-6) Louisiana Tech looks to follow up with pick to win the C-USA West Division over North Texas may not contend for the After a lackluster 2016 season, Rice another West Division crown. However, LA Tech. C-USA title this year, but they will make will be looking to bounce back in 2017. they will have to accomplish this with Southern Miss definite improvements. However, the chance of Rice being a threat new quarterback J’Mar Smith. Smith 2016 record: 7-6 (4-4 C-USA) UTEP in C-USA is extremely low. They will be started only one game last season, before Coming off a solid 2016 season, the 2016 record: 4-8 (2-6 C-USA) led on offense by a new face in quarterback handing the reigns over to senior Ryan Golden Eagles made yet another bowl It is no secret that UTEP is not a football Jackson Tyner, who saw limited playing Higgins. Because of this, the Bulldogs game. They will be led by sophomore powerhouse and will more than likely not time during the 2016 season and threw will rely heavily on senior running back quarterback Keon Howard, who put up contend for a C-USA title in 2017. One of for 318 yards and a 48 percent completion Jarred Craft. During the 2016 campaign, mediocre numbers in the limited playing the lone bright spots will be quarterback rate. Craft rushed for 1,074 yards and nine time he saw. Howard completed 22 of 50 Ryan Metz, who last season threw for One of the lone bright spots for Rice this touchdowns. attempted passes, a 44 percent completion 1,375 yards, 14 touchdowns and a 64.7 upcoming season may be their defense, On the defensive side of the ball, LA rate for 365 yards and threw one percent completion rate. that return with eight starters. Amongst Tech is led by Jaylen Ferguson, who touchdown to four interceptions. Keeping Metz safe will be offensive those returning is Emmanuel Ellerbee, totaled an impressive 14.5 sacks, along Howard will have two reliable weapons lineman Will Fernandez, who helped the who led the team with 118 total tackles. with 49 total tackles, 16 of which were for returning; running back Ito Smith and wide offensive line give up only 22 sacks all Nonetheless, Rice is likely to finish last a loss. receiver Allenzae Staggers. Smith rushed season. On the defensive side of the ball, in the West Division once again and is Overall, Louisiana Tech looks like the for 1,459 yards and 17 touchdowns, while the Miners will rely on linebacker Alvin still years away from being a legitimate favorite to repeat as the Western Division Staggers had 63 receptions for 1,165 yards Jones, who finished the 2016 season with contender. champs in C-USA. If they can get solid and seven touchdowns. play from Smith at quarterback, it will Defensively, the Golden Eagles must free up Craft to be explosive out of the replace six starters and will rely heavily on backfield. This, paired with a stout defense, Picasso Nelson Jr. to be a vocal leader on has to have Bulldog fans excited for the defense. Along with Nelson, Southern football season this year. Miss. will count on Cornell Armstrong. UTSA: The duo finished 2016 with a combined 2016 record: 6-7 (5-3 C-USA) 95 tackles, and they will seek to anchor For the first time in the history of the defense. Southern Miss. is in a strong the program, the Roadrunners made position to make another bowl game, but a bowl game in 2016. Despite losing with a new quarterback and losing half their inaugural bowl game, UTSA has a of their starters on defense, it does not promising season to look forward to this seem to be a year they will contend for the fall. C-USA crown. On the offensive side of the ball, the North Texas Roadrunners have plenty of weapons to 2016 record: 5-8 (3-5 C-USA) choose from. Dalton Sturm will be taking 2016 was a poor season for North Texas, the snaps this season, coming off a 2016 as they finished their season with a losing season in which he completed 169 of record. Despite this, the Mean Green has 299 passes for a 56 percent completion reason to be optimistic. They return 15 of rate, 2,170 yards and 20 touchdowns to 22 starters from last year’s team who will six interceptions. Next to Sturm in the only be better than they were last year. backfield will be backs Jarveon Williams Offensively, they’ll be led by 8 AUGUST 29 - SEPTEMBER 5, 2017

UTSA women’s soccer falls to SFA to start the season 1-2

By Frank Leal Sports Editor

With Hurricane Harvey bearing down on the Texas coast, UTSA women’s soccer faced off against the Stephen F. Austin Ladyjacks on Aug. 23, a day earlier than scheduled, to avoid the impend- ing storm conditions. After a victory in the regular season opener, UTSA came up short with a score of 5-0 in their second game of the season at TCU. The ‘Runners entered the game with a regular season record of 1-1. Stephen F. Austin is coming off a phenomenal 2016 campaign Ladyjack defenders scramble to clear the ball as UTSA threatens. Photo Courtesy of Kevin Meyer/SFA Athletics in which they took home the on the ground, Harper fired a shot session of the ball outside the somehow able to get a shot off. the score still knotted at one, Southland conference title. How- that was miraculously saved by right corner of the box and fired The ball got through a couple of SFA’s Hannah Barker struck ever, they have had a rough 0-2 a desperate Ladyjack defender. a beautiful hooking shot towards UTSA defenders and went up and again. Barker got the ball and fed start after a tight 3-2 loss against The unlikely save drew groans of the top left corner of the goal. over goalie Gabriella Mariello for a nice pass to Katelyn Termini Southern Mississippi. disbelief throughout the stadium This time, Smith couldn’t do the score. Just like that, it was a just in front of the goal. Termini Both the Roadrunners and SFA and a few stray cheers from the anything about it. The ball sailed brand-new match with the score put it in easily, and the Ladyjacks came into the game looking to SFA fans that had made the trip to over the outstretched hands of at 1-1. took a 2-1 lead with just ten min- bounce back from a loss. San Antonio. a diving Smith, and UTSA fans In the 63rd minute of the game, utes to go. Early on, both defenses looked The Roadrunners’ defense from around the stadium erupted UTSA’s Olivia Nicholls threaded Patterson had an opportunity aggressive, and neither team continued to look stellar; In the in cheers as the ball hit the back the needle on a pass to freshman to tie the game in the 89th minute could possess the ball for long, let 37th minute, UTSA got another of the net. The ‘Runners took a Ellis Patterson who quickly took with a header, but her valiant alone get off a shot. With neither golden opportunity. Forward 1-0 lead and would hold onto that the shot and came painfully close effort was squandered by SFA’s team giving an inch of ground, Olivia Nicholls dribbled between lead heading into halftime. to a goal. The ball rattled off the goalie Madeline Talbot as she the opportunities to do something two defenders and suddenly had Once the second half got un- post and bounced right back into corralled the ball. with the ball were few and far the goalie one-on-one. However, derway, Stephen F. Austin wasted the goalie’s arms. Shortly after, Despite countless opportuni- between. Smith won the battle and made a no time getting even. Before two another opportunity arose as ties, UTSA fell to Stephen F. UTSA saw an opportunity in diving stop on Nicholl’s shot. The minutes had passed in the second sophomore Katieann Lochte had Austin by a tight score of 2-1. the 19th minute of the game when score remained deadlocked at half, Madison Hall gained pos- the ball in close to the goal. Once The loss is no doubt frustrating a shot saved by SFA’s goalie Al- zero. However, that wouldn’t be session of the ball on the right again, it was inches away from a for the ‘Runners, but they’ll look lyson Smith, bounced right back the case for much longer. side of the penalty box. Hall score as the ball sailed just over to bounce back on Friday Sept. 1 into the possession of UTSA’s Just two minutes later, UTSA’s lobbed a pass into a crowded area the crossbar. when they travel to Waco to take Harper Luczka. With Smith still Channing Machen gained pos- where SFA’s Hannah Barker was With time winding down and on Baylor.

Shocking moves and trades continue throughout 2017 NBA offseason

By Ricky Galindo Contributing Writer Although this trade has yet to go through due to Thomas’ lingering hip This past NBA season, we witnessed injury, many aspects of this trade make it the Golden State Warriors and the Cleve- one of the more intriguing moves. land Cavaliers clash in the NBA Finals Surprisingly, Kyrie Irving was the one for the third year in a row. The Warriors who initiated the trade-talks by requesting came out on top by winning the series the trade. What is even more surprising is four games to one. Many believed that that the Cavaliers agreed to a trade with the Warriors were a lock to win the finals their new rival Boston Celtics after the since the beginning of the season with the Celtics had acquired the top seed in the signing of former Oklahoma City Thunder East this past season while the Cavs took small forward Kevin Durant in last year’s second. Even though the trade has yet to offseason. go through, fans will no doubt be keeping This NBA off-season was one for the an eye on the situation. books as we saw many star players go to While many teams were stressing on different teams. Chris Paul teamed up with acquiring new players to develop, the San James Harden in Houston, while Gordon Antonio Spurs remained quiet through Hayward chose to play for his former col- the off-season process while making lege coach Brad Stevens in Boston. some moves of their own under the radar. The Oklahoma City Thunder acquired The Spurs brought back Patty Mills for some help for MVP Russell Westbrook by another four years, and also convinced trading away Victor Oladipo and second Manu Ginobili to return for another two year big man Damontas Sabonis to the years. The Spurs also acquired a new face Indiana Pacers for all-star Paul George. in free agency — Rudy Gay. All-star Jimmy Butler was also traded to The Eastern Conference invested in the Minnesota Timberwolves for a couple their future by picking up young tal- of young players and draft picks. ent, whereas the Western Conference is One of the most surprising moves cur- fostering a “win now” mentality. For the rently on hold is the swap of two all-star 2017-2018 NBA season, the Golden State point guards in Kyrie Irving and Isaiah Warriors are still the team to beat. Thomas. This blockbuster trade would also send small forward Jae Crowder to the Cleveland Cavaliers.