October 2021 Edition

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The award-winning independent student newspaper of St. John’s University

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october edition

Wheels: the New Mobility Device on Campus

No Masks for Socially Distanced Professors

Photo Credit / Engin Akyurt (Unsplash)

Vaccine Mandate Firmly Enforced, 17 Unvaccinated Dropped Torch Photo / Brenden Willsch

inside this issue

Lawsuit Against University and Head Coach Mike Anderson on page 11 Tip-Off 2021 headlined by Fivio Foreign on page 12

2 News

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RI-SE Discusses Harsh Realities of Human Rights Sophie Gangi

To coincide with the United Nations General Assembly taking place in New York City last week, a roundtable discussion was held by St. John’s department of Government and Politics to speak on human rights struggles in foreign countries. This event was held in collaboration with Reaching Independence through Social Engagement (RI-SE), a “nonprofit organization that promotes, mediates, and facilitates nonviolent movements at local and national levels around the world,” according to their website.

At this round table discussion, coined “Lessons Learned: Countering Human Rights Violations and Antidemocratic Backlash,” speakers from all different backgrounds shared their thoughts on the unfortunate struggle for human rights in foreign countries.

The event’s mediators were Fred P. Cocozzelli, Ph.D., Associate Professor and Chair, Department of Government and Politics and Hamid Lellou, RI-SE Founder and CEO. Both shared their thoughts on the crisis spreading across the country.

“20.7 million people are refugees,” said Lellou.

“In Algeria we call them hostages, kidnapped and the list goes on and on. We are here to feed your brains with this plethora of experts not only by nottage by training, but also practice.”

Other speakers included John W. Limbert, a retired Foreign Service Officer who is now an ambassador and Azzedine Layachi, Ph.D., Professor, Department of Government and Politics., St. John’s University.

“I learned two things,” said Limbert during

his time in Algeria. “One is that democracy, human rights and what we are talking about today is very hard and I don’t think anybody would argue with that. The second thing I learned was that no one was interested in hearing sermons from the United States shout human rights.” He explains that leading by example is the best way to make a strong case against such violations.

Layachi used his time to speak on the social movements in Algeria. “The government was using a language of fear mongering,” which allowed president Abdelaziz Bouteflika to remain in power past the term limit. Due to this, “the country’s economic potential was wasted away by enact policies and object corruption.” The status of the country caused people to demonstrate, and nearly 1,500 Algerians were arrested for doing so.

Elif Genc, an adjunct professor, also spoke, focusing on the Turkish-Kurdish conflict. “There [are] ongoing sponsored state racist hate crimes against Kurds in Turkey,” said Genc. “On July 30th, an armed attack was carried out against a kurdish family’s home. Seven family members were killed. Their house was set on fire and just two months prior to this the whole family had been attacked by sticks, stones and knives by a group of Turkish fascists.” She explains how the state denied this as a hate crime and allowed a brutal murder to take place, neglecting to protect it’s people.

Among the other emotional speakers was guest adjust professor from George Mason University, Pamela Kay Struss, who spoke about avenues

to change and revolution such as, advanced communication skills and remaining curious.

“Being curious prevents me from being judgemental and reaping to misguided conclusions.”

During her time in Israel, she was advised not to trust or speak to anyone who offered her help that was not Christian. Instead, a Muslim cab driver ended up escorting her for her remaining study. She explains that if she had listened to the stereotypes, her safety would have been at risk.

Organizer of the panel and general secretarycreator of RI-SE, Farida Bouattoura gave a personal account and calls herself an “accidental advocast.” It is her personal experiences that led to the creation of the organization. Rather than politics, her interest in the fight for human rights in Algeria is personal. Two of her cousins in Algeria were detained for participating in the Hirak protests. Bouattoura’s family was not even sure of the allegations and where they were being held, they found out from the media. “I felt that as a privileged American with all my privileges and my rights are guaranteed by the Constitution and Bill of Rights where even if they are infringed upon, I have a way to advocate for myself, I have a way to go about it.

There is a process, there is a chance and to many people in Algeria, this is a merage. This doesn’t exist. So I decided in essence this was my calling.

To use my privilege to help people attain their human rights.”

Upcoming Events in November Day in the Life of Advertising Professionals • Thursday, Nov. 4, 2021 • 2-3:15pm • Room 219 Peter J. Tobin College of Business • Speaker discusses careers as wealth advisor, skills, licenses to provide financial advice to clients.

Internship Panel with Haraya • • • •

Monday, Nov. 8,2021 1:50-3:15pm Location: TBA Practice interview skills and resume advisement.

Get Your Seasonal Flu Shot • • • •

Thursday, Nov. 4, 2021 10am - 4pm Marillac Terrace Book yourappointment now @stjohnsnow on Instagram

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University COVID-19 Regulation Change in October Students Warned to Get Vaccine By Oct. 6 or be Dropped From Classes Vaccination Sophie Williams & Alicia Venter

Students who do not comply with the vaccine mandate by today, Oct. 6, will be withdrawn from their classes, according to separate emails sent to unvaccinated students today and all faculty members on Tuesday, Oct. 5.

In an email sent to unvaccinated students today from the Division of Student Affairs, students who do not comply with vaccination requirements were told they “will be withdrawn from [their] in-person classes.”

Faculty received an email prior to students with a message from the Provost and the attached letter from Student Affairs that unvaccinated students would be receiving on Oct. 6. A member of faculty shared this email to an E-Board member of the Torch. The message from the Provost stated: “The attached communication has been sent to students who have not complied with the University’s COVID-19 vaccine mandate. On Wednesday, October 6, 2021 students who remain out of compliance will be withdrawn from their in-person class(es). Please check your UIS roster and only allow currently enrolled students to attend your class. If a student was withdrawn from your class due to non-compliance, you will receive an email from your dean’s office with the name of any affected student(s).”

The faculty member shared this information to ensure students vaccination information was uploaded correctly thus not facing removal from the course.

The Torch has reached out to a University spokesman for comment and to see how many unvaccinated students are impacted by this email.

A prorated refund for the classes they are withdrawn from will be issued, according to the email. It also states that these unvaccinated students should not contact Health Services, as they are “focused on attending to students who are ill.”

Some unvaccinated students have gone to their professors requesting remote access to in-person classes, according to the email that was sent to all faculty members “on

behalf of the Provost” by the Deans. The email states that these professors “are not under any obligation to grant this request.”

Additionally, the email to faculty states that if the reason for the request is due to not being vaccinated, it “will not be a successful strategy, as students who are not compliant with the vaccine policy are identified in UIS and will be dropped at a future date in the fall semester.”

Faculty was told to check their UIS roster and only allow enrolled students to attend the course going forward. Faculty will receive names from the Dean’s office of any affected students, according to the email sent to faculty.

The faculty email also reminds students and professors that masks are required in all University buildings and must fully cover the mouth and nose. If a student is not wearing a mask, they can report it to the University by following the Compliance with Public Health Guidelines.

According to the faculty email, some professors have asked about whether they are required to wear masks while at their podiums. The University plans to re-examine the mask policy in the next few weeks, but “have decided at this time to reaffirm the mask mandate until [their] records reflect full compliance with the vaccine,” according to the email.

Torch Design/ Chloe Fecci

17 students Withdrawn No Masks for Socially for No Vaccination Distant Faculty Alexandra Crespo

As explained above, students were required to get their first vacciantion shot to comply with the University requirement, or face being wthdrawn from their in-person classes. Following this announcemetn, 17 students were withdrawn from their in-person classes on Oct. 6, 2021 for not following the University’s vaccination requirement. Proof of COVID-19 vaccination for students was due Aug. 1, 2021 to attend in-person classes, visit campus and participate in campus activities.

“Across the country, we see increasing evidence that those currently unvaccinated continue to be at high risk of acquiring COVID-19 and are the overwhelming majority of new hospitalizations,” University Spokesperson Brian Browne told The Torch. “Our COVID-19 vaccine requirement will be in effect for the Spring 2022 semester.”

Alexandra Crespo

With the strict enforcement in the vaccine mandate comes a relaxation – somewhat – of the mask mandate on campus. The University is updating the mask mandate for faculty as it approaches full compliance with the vaccination requirement. Faculty no longer have to wear a mask while teaching as long as they maintain at least six feet apart to practice social distancing. Faculty, administration and staff can remove masks if alone in their work areas and must maintain a safe distance from others. ] The University will continue to require “everyone to wear masks inside of all campus buildings (unless teaching as noted previously)” according to an internal communication sent via email on Tuesday, Oct. 12.

“We hope to review the mask requirements again soon and determine whether they can be further eased depending upon conditions on campus and in our surrounding communities,” the email states.

4 Features

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St. John’s Community Responds To New Electric Bikes Alana Campbell

On Saturday, Sept. 25, there was a new addition to the St. John’s Queen Campus: Electric bikes.

Tons of them. They appeared seemingly out of nowhere on bike racks throughout campus with an unmistakable red “SJ” plastered on the side. There was no formal announcement prior to their arrival, but it didn’t take long before students started taking them on joyrides.

For a few nights, campus became chaotic. The whirring of the e-bikes and the whoops of excited students traveling upwards of 10 miles an hour could be heard from dorm windows. Everyone was talking about them, speculating about why they were here and what they were for.

By Monday, there were already rumors swirling about a bike being found in Montgoris Dining Hall, someone sneaking one into their room, students racing each other and someone trying to do wheelies.

“It’s been a disasStudents have ter in my opinion,” been incredibly said resident stuirresponsible dent and junior enwith the bikes. vironmental science I’m not exactly major Nicolas Ciawho claims sure what the ravino, to have nearly been University’s pur- run over on multiple pose was.” occasions. “Students Nicolas Ciaravino have been incredibly irresponsible with the bikes. I’m not exactly sure what the University’s purpose was.”

Student Government (SGi) President Ethan Burrell has the answers. “We were looking for ways to supplement off-campus housing,” he told the Torch via interview. Last year, the shuttle bus service, which students dorming in off-campus apartments relied on, was discontinued “due to recent budget cuts at the University,” according

“

TORCH PHOTO/ Alana Campbell

to an article by The Torch soon after its discontinuation.

Back in June, SGi members found the company Wheels through an Instagram advertisement, and they looked into it. They subsequently had a meeting with the company and Wheels agreed to partner with the school, providing the bikes to us free of cost.

“We didn’t pay a dime for these. It was a smart investment because it doesn’t affect our pockets, so we still can do programming,” Burrell said.

The rocky start happened because Wheels delivered the bikes suddenly, giving SGi little time to prepare an announcement. The bikes had already been on campus for four days before SGi sent out a campus-wide email with instructions on how to use the bikes, safety guidelines, location restrictions, costs per ride and other pertinent information.

The geo-fencing, Burrell admits, was initially glitchy, allowing students to ride freely on campus in areas that are supposed to be red zones or “No Ride Zones.” They have since fixed them, so when a student tries to ride the bikes in these areas, the bike gives them 30 seconds to return to a yellow zone before shutting off.

One hundred total bikes were given to the school.

Most of them were delivered to the Queens campus, but there are more at the Goethals apartments, Seton Complex and Henley Road.

Olivia Gittens, a sophomore legal studies major dorming at the Henley Road Complex for the first time this semester, has some reservations about this being a viable alternative to the shuttle bus service.

“I think I speak for everyone in Henley when I say the fact that St. John’s shut down the shuttle program is extremely frustrating and inconveniencing,” she said. “Many of us spent extra in order to live off-campus and it now feels like a punishment.”

Gittens occasionally takes a bus to campus or catches a ride with a friend, but for the most part, she traverses the 0.7-mile distance on foot. “The

walk is just tolerable now, but come colder weather, or even bad weather like rain, sleet and snow, the walk will be terrible.”

She has concerns about the recent robberies, and she claims that the lack of reliable transportation is a threat to student safety. “The whole point of the shuttle is a way to safely get to class and back and it seems like the bike is not an effective replacement,” she said.

Additionally, she mentioned that multiple students have gotten into accidents, sustaining injuries on the bikes.

John Breheny, Director of Public Safety, confirmed that there have been numerous injuries. He said there have been “less than half a dozen, maybe four or five,” mostly resulting from falling off of the bikes. “On two occasions, students have gone to the local emergency room for minor injuries.

They were treated and released.”

Breheny is largely optimistic about the program.

He says that his office hasn’t received any complaints, just inquiries. He emphasized the importance of students driving responsibly. Though it’s an SGi initiative, Public safety worked with them to set the speed limit on campus to 10 mph, rather than the typical 25.

“I think it’s a good thing for the school,” said Breheny. “It’s here on a trial basis. We’ll see how it goes.”

Less than a week after the bikes were introduced, representatives from Wheels came to campus and set up a tent at the Stormsburg event. Johnnie Moore, operations Manager of Wheels, answered students’ questions while his associates handed out merchandise and offered free test rides. The company’s plans are to come back periodically and do education and safety demonstrations.

“We know it’s not going to fix all of the problems,” Burrell admitted. “But it’s something convenient students can use.”

For more information about the bikes, go to www.takewheels.com/stjohns.

Features

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5

Students and Staff Take On In-Person Midterms

Ashli-Amari Bent

The halfway point of the semester has already arrived at the University. Taking midterms back in the traditional classroom setting has been the main goal that both students and staff have been reacclimating to these past few weeks. Last year all major exams, such as midterms and finals, were administered online due to the pandemic. Taking these exams online gavestudents the benefits of flexibility.

While some may or may not have enjoyed taking midterms online last year, the adjustment of being back in the classroom has been an active discussion around the University.

Hemze Khatib, a sophomore sports management major, said “you can focus more in-person than the online exams. You can engage with the professors and understand what they are saying instead of constantly emailing them for clarity.”

On the other hand, not every student had the same reaction with the return of the in-person classroom. Sameera Khan, a freshman journalism major, stated “I felt very anxious since I was out of school for a year, and didn’t know what to expect.

Although I’ve never done online midterms before, I feel as if the professors made the in-person midterms easier because of the pandemic.”

this new normal. Over the course of the pandemic, professors were tasked with moving their curriculum and midterm exams online for students.

Professor Aaishatu Glover, who teaches economics at the University told The Torch, “I think it’s good, especially with this particular course. Having in-person classes contributes to more group projects and student engagement.” When asked about whether or not in-person midterms affected her student’s grades, she continued stating “Absolutely! There was a visible difference as a result of the in-person midterms since it definitely helped contribute to the uptick of grades.”

“

Transitioning back to in-person midterms has affected not only exam formats, but also student’s study methods and preparations for these exams.

Students weren’t the only ones who were tasked with this complex transition, but the University staff also faced some difficulties in readjusting to

Preparing for midterm exams can be difficult, espeAbsolutely! There was cially with the a visible difference as recent health a result of the in-per- effects that the son midterms since it current state definitely helped con- of the world tribute to the uptick of is having on education as grades. explained by Professor Aaishatu the Human Watch Glover Rights (HRW). Every student’s coping mechanisms for dealing with midterms can vary. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, the misuse of Adderall as a study drug, officially

prescribed for ADHD, is higher among college students at 11.1% than seen in non college students at 8.1% in 2018.

St. John’s offers resources such as the University Learning Commons (ULC) to assist students with free tutoring and the Counseling and Consultation Services that cater to mental health needs. Adjusting to in-person midterms has been a task that both students and staff had to take on this semester. This year’s e midterm examinations presented benefits and pitfalls as observed by both staff and students. The observations and lessons learned can be used as a model example for all the future examinations that will take place in the University.

Photo Courtesy/ Unsplash Jeswin Thomas

Domestic Violence Awareness Month Ashli-Amari Bent

October is the month in which we observe and raise awareness of the effects of domestic violence across the nation. According to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence (NCADV), 1 in 3 women and 1 in 4 men have been victims of some form of domestic violence by their significant other. One of the biggest misconceptions about domestic violence is that it is limited only to physical assault.

Abuse can be seen in different forms––physical, emotional or verbal–– and can con- tribute to the harm of an individual’s mental health. The University has enlisted resources such as the contact information for the Campus Support Advisor for students who have fallen victim to domestic violence or sexual assault. St. John’s University has also partnered with the New York Legal Assistance Group (NYLAG) to offer a two semester clinic called the Domestic Violence Litigation Clinic for students who desire a future career in law. The conversation of domestic violence on campus had been open for discussion as a few students weighed in with their thoughts.

“I’ve never encountered anyone that has been in a domestic violence situation, but I feel as if that would be a toxic environment and anyone

placed in it would feel trapped,” said Maya Alberts, a current freshman.

Hassan Mousa, also a current freshman, weighed in by stating “I think it’s crazy that we have to be having a discussion about this. You shouldn’t be hitting your spouse or anyone!”

According to Healing Abuse Working for Change (HAWC), the statistics have shown that 70% of young adults in college have a hard time realizing that they are in a domestic violence situation. Identifying the key signs of abuse and

knowing the resources that are available around you are very instrumental to the prevention of domestic abuse. Every St. John’s University student has their rights protected under the University’s students’ Bill of Rights in relation to sexual assault and domestic violence. Having a fair opportunity to be heard, and the right to be protected against retaliation from the University or the accused are two of the eleven rights.

Domestic violence is an issue that many Americans experience, with the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence (NCADV) reporting nearly 20 people becoming victims to physical violence per minute nationwide. “Domestic violence is embarrassing. You’re hitting…someone that may not have the strength to hit you back” said Pharoah King, freshman business major.

If you or someone you may know on campus has been undergoing troublesome experiences in their relationship, regardless if it’s exclusive or not, contact the Department of Public Safety for assistance or local law enforcement for an emergency.

PHOTO COURTESY/YouTube Joy Forrest

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Opinion

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Why I have returned to pre-pandemic life in New York City to let me down. I had no hesitancy in visiting the many attractions and places I had longed to see in the city over the summer. I love seeing formerly ghost town scenes in May 13, over four months ago, the director of the Cen- Manhattan bustling with life and tourists. The tastes of the ter of Disease Control (CDC) Rochelle Walensky issued international cuisines in Queens were missed, now at full new guidance stating that fully vaccinated Americans could capacity unlike before (shoutout Birrieria Landia). Evesafely attend gatherings both indoor and out without the nings in Domino Park, Williamsburg feel alive now that use of a facemask. Within weeks, states dropped their pre- people are venturing outside. viously issued mask mandates. Live sports, concerts, malls, Although I still wear a mask on the subway and other restaurants and get togethers were now a part of our rou- mandated areas, I take full advantage of my vaccinated statines once more for the first time in over a year. tus and put it in my back pocket as I walk the streets of After a year of online class, shuttered storefronts, business New York. I harbor no judgement towards those who do curfews and strict mask and social distancing guidelines, we or do not follow my lead too. It’s a personal choice. But it’s could see a return a choice we were afto the New York forded by taking City we all know the vaccine that has and love. All we proven to save lives need to do is take with mountains of the vaccine. evidence to back that Though at first up.

I was doubtful of We’re not dealing the vaccine, I dewith the same moncided to take it ster of a virus we were last May. I placed a year’s time ago. my faith in what Don’t take my word experts informed for it. This interacus could bring us tive article, which closer to normalcy, utilizes CDC data and protect those PHOTO COURTESY/ YouTube USA TODAY on COVID clearly we love – like my father and grandmother who are dear shows that as the vaccine has rolled out, cases and deaths to me. have taken a nosedive. Even with the delta variant scare, This past summer was one of the best I’ve had because I following an increase in cases during the months of August got vaccinated. I could finally make use of my drivers license and September, they are falling once again. for more than just essential travel. I picked up friends, went This presents a clear picture for all New Yorkers to see: to parties, drove all over my home state of Texas, went to vaccines have made this city safe to roam again, and if we the gym and met with my family without fear of infecting want to see a return to normal we should all participate. each other. I, nor anyone I knew that was vaccinated, contracted coronavirus with the return to a busy lifestyle.

Returning to New York City was exciting, and has yet Sergio Padilla

Dear MTA, Give My Wallet a Break Alicia Venter My first semester as a timid American southerner, going to Manhattan on the train was a privilege I had never considered to be possible. Suddenly, I had access to transport in a way I never had before – I never usedhad not been on any public transportation until I came to the city. As a freshman, with more free time than ever, I took advantage of nearly every weekend to go explore the city. I know I am not the only college student coming into the city and suddenly giving her every extra penny I had.

Photo Courtesy/ Unsplash Asael Pe Now, as a senior, I am using the MTA for entirely different reasons than simply exploring. In lieu of better options, I take the bus to get groceries, to commute to work four days a week, to commute to go to school and come home after. This can very quickly wrack up to upwards of $10 a day on the busiest days – $10 that I, a poor college student with no financial support, really

do not have. Instead of forcing students to forgo trips to enjoy the city they already pay so much for, college students should have the opportunity to get discounted MetroCards.

Currently, a single swipe on the metro is $2.75, while the weekly unlimited is $33 a week and the monthly unlimited is $127. A person must take public transport, whether the bus or subway, 47 times in a month to make the monthly card worth the cost. While that much money may not seem too detrimental to the full-time worker in the city, it is a daunting number to me, a student taking 18 credits someone who doesn’t have the time for a full time job, as a student taking 18 credits this semestersemester, who also has a job. I have babysat some to try and supplement some of my draining bank account. However, between my groceries, rent in Brooklyn and other necessary purchases, my Chase account is not a pretty sight at the end of the month. If New York State, which manages the MTA, would drop the cost of the monthly unlimited card to just $100, or approximately 30% for college students, students would be more likely to purchase it instead of forgoing their travels or, to the dismay of the city, hopping the turnstile and paying nothing. Students K-12 get discounts on their MetroCards. It would not be that huge of a leap to extend that for four more years of undergraduate school.

When I was a freshman, with no bills to pay and $35 a week from my dad being deposited in my account, I never understood why people hopped the turnstile. Now, it makes sense. New York City is expensive enough – why not give the students who come in and feed your economy a break?

When Will it Feel Right to Fly Again?

Priyanka Gera Before the pandemic, spending time in a closed space with well over 100 people for a few hours never used to daunt me. Now, however, I am hesitant to travel long distances by plane; I prefer to drive when possible. This past weekend I flew to Detroit – a roughly one hour flight each way – which seemed more appealing than a 10 hour drive to and from Long Island. I swallowed my apprehension, convincing myself that one hour was not too bad. I was on a small plane though, so it felt extremely crowded. Before, I would have gone on and on about how cute and small the plane is, but this weekend all I could think was: “Why are there so many people? This was a terrible idea.” It felt like we were all breathing down each other’s necks and it was an uncomfortable hour.

I did appreciate that everyone at the airport and on the flight, from staff to other passengers, were wearing their masks the entire time. Thankfully, I was not on a flight with aggressive passengers refusing to wear masks and had a mostly peaceful ride, besides the mild turbulence.

However, neither vaccine cards nor COVID-19 tests were checked at security or upon checking in with my airline, Delta. I was only asked three yes-or-no questions: will you wear a mask on the flight, have you experienced symptoms of COVID-19 or been exposed to it and have you been diagnosed with COVID-19 in the past 10 days. I know that most travel restrictions have been lifted for domestic travel so it is not necessary to show proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test prior to traveling, but I do not think asking three questions is the solution. The questionnaire was similar to the Campus Pass implemented by the University in the fall of 2020 and it raises the same concern I had: are people telling the truth on the questionnaire?

I would have felt safer knowing that my fellow passengers (and classmates) were all vaccinated.

Restrictions have lightened, but the coronavirus is still a threat. I know I took my precautions when traveling: always wearing a mask, washing my hands, excessively using my hand sanitizer, wiping down common surfaces before I use them and keeping six feet away from everyone when standing in line. I can only hope that other travelers do their part as well to keep themselves and others safe in the air.

PHOTO COURTESY/ Unsplash Lukas Souza

Opinion

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Flames of the Torch 99TH MANAGING BOARD Alicia Venter/ EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Priyanka Gera/ MANAGING EDITOR Ali Crespo NEWS EDITOR Sophie Williams DIGITAL EDITOR Brady Snyder SPORTS EDITOR Francesca Fazio FEATURES EDITOR Mia Flores CULTURE EDITOR Sara Rodia OPINION EDITOR Giohvan Dejoie CHIEF COPY EDITOR

Chloe Fecci DESIGN EDITOR Alison Goldberg SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER Angelique Mevorah HUMAN RESOURCES MANAGER Shaolin Barid BUSSINESS MANAGER Sara Kiernan PHOTO EDITOR Jim Baumbach ADVISER

STAFF & CONTRIBUTORS Sergio Padilla Sophie Gangi Ashli-Amari Bent Alana Campbell Connor Richards

Maria Villorroel Danielle Louie

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ABOUT THE TORCH

EDITORIAL POLICY

Editorials are the opinions of the Editorial Board of the Torch. Columns and other content are the opinions of the author(s) and are not necessarily those of the Torch.

Opinions expressed in editorials, columns, letters or cartoons are not necessarily those of the student body, faculty or administration of St. John’s University. All contents are the sole responsibility of the editors and the editorial board and do not necessarily represent the views of the administration, faculty or students of St. John’s University unless specifically stated.

The Torch is the official, independent student newspaper of St. John’s University.

The Torch is written, edited, designed and produced by students of the University. The Torch is published on most Wednesdays, with approximately 20 issues throughout the academic year. Copies are distributed for free on campus and through mail subscriptions.

October is now coming to its end, and as the leaves disappear from the trees and the Christmas decorations begin to show up in stores, The Torch hopes its readers had a great midterm season – and that, hopefully, you are done with them. Last month, we talked about the transition to in-person learning again. Now, we see the effects of this on how students approached midterms.

Contributing Writer Ashli-Amari Bent writes on how students and professors are being affected by in-person midterms returning to most people this semester.

November is a time of celebration in New York – and spending money. Editor-in-Chief Alicia Venter writes on how the MTA should take care of its college students, which feed the economy in the city, by giving them discounted MetroCards, which will encourage them to go to the city and will alleviate their burden.

In other opinion, writers share the effects of COVID-19 in a post-quarantine world, and wonder when will it feel normal to do what were once the simple things in life, such as fly on an airplane or get the cold.

Sports was in the spotlight this week, as post-season play approaches fall sports. Conference play in the Big East is no walk in

the park, and all the teams at St. John’s must step up their game to be contenders in the post-season tournament.

Another opponent has approached Red Storm Athletics, but in the courtroom, not the field. St. John’s Athletics and Mens Basketball Head Coach Mike Anderson are being sued by ex-assistant coach Steve DeMeo for allegedly not taking COVID-19 protocals into consideration, losing control of his team and firing DeMeo without due cause.

The campus has certainly changed this October. As micro-mobility devices comes to campus and students were dropped from in-person classes for not getting their COVID-19 vaccination, St. John’s is not the same as it was in September. The Torch is excited to see what November brings our Queen’s campus, so keep an eye out for our weekly newsletter for all the news – and more – happening at St. John’s.

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No More Masks for Professors Sharmin Haque Last Tuesday, on Oct. 12, St. John’s announced that fully vaccinated professors would no longer have to wear masks in the classroom so long as they maintain a safe distance from students. This is a step forward after a year of teachers and students alike wearing masks in the classroom. There’s still a long way to go before students can remove their masks as well. But is this an appropriate action for the University to take? Is it too soon to remove masks in the classroom?

This mandate is necessary because we are gradually adjusting back to the pre-pandemic world. Many of us have transitioned from online classes to in-person classes. Since it’s been a few weeks into on-campus instruction, it makes perfect sense that certain measures would be lifted. Students can forgo their masks on campus unless they are inside a campus building. Social distancing is recommended but not strictly enforced in classrooms. Professors had to wear masks in the classroom and stay far from students which generally wasn’t difficult because of how a lecture functions.

I would prefer my professors to feel comfortable when teaching and as long as they are vaccinated, I don’t have any issues. I know my professors don’t enjoy wearing the mask and some have claimed it isn’t comfortable for them to lec-

PHOTO COURTESY/ Unsplash Christina @ wocintechchat.com

ture with it on. My healthcare ethics professor, in particular, would always be fumbling with his mask. He would mention how it is frustrating to lecture with the mask on and

how it was difficult to hear us with our masks on. I know he was pleased with the new mandate, but he did care if any of his students felt uncomfortable with the policy. My biology professor also prefers not to wear his mask. He asked his students if they were comfortable with him taking off his mask while teaching. I think if any student objects or feels uncomfortable, then a professor should continue to wear it out of obligation to that student.

Overall, I think that allowing professors to remove their masks is not a drastic action to take. Furthermore, professors would maintain the same distance they did before the mandate. While I do believe that the new mask mandate is the proper action to take, I can see that there could be concerns that would arise as a result. Other students might feel uncomfortable or unsafe with professors not wearing masks.

With the news of the delta variant, some people don’t feel safe yet while others are eager for a return to normal. I think that this mandate is moving us to a more hopeful future, a post-pandemic world. To a future where students can also take off their masks.

8

Culture

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Here’s why everyone’s talking about Squid Game Danielle Louie A mysterious, handsome young man walks up to you than leaving empty-handed, players risk their lives to take and offers you money by playing a game of ddakji, a game home a prize. played by slapping a piece of paper to flip your opponent’s Each episode of the show is filled with adrenaline, inviting paper. However, he’s unbeatable and slaps you across the the audience to think “Red Light Green Light? Marbles? I face every time you lose, until eventually you win, a face would’ve totally won!” This excitement gives the viewer a bruised and red. He then offers you an invitation to play slight nostalgic taste of playground memories with a bit of more simple games like ddakji to win money. Do you ac- rated-R content such as gore. If you’re spotted on the playcept it?

Squid Game is a Korean drama on Netflix directed

by Hwang Dong-Hyuk currently ranked No. 1 on Netflix worldwide, outranking popular shows like Lupin and Bridgerton. The South Korean show was so successful that other Asian shows on Netflix, like Alice in Borderland, have been rising in popularity since. In fact, Squid Game was named Netflix’s “biggest non-English show in the world, for sure” said co-CEO Ted Sarandos at the 2021 Code conference in Los Angeles. Netflix’s stock price even experienced an all-time high of $619 barely two weeks after Squid Game’s release.

The show is simple in theory. 456 people with mas-Photo Credit/ Youtube Netflix sive debts are given the opportunity to play games in order ground moving or unbalanced, you’re out – but in Squid to win the games prize of 45.6 billion won (3.85 million Game, you die.

USD) under three clauses: players must continue playing Squid Game’s premise is survival – play the game or die. the game at all time, if players refuse to play they will be The show presents other side plots and themes as well, such eliminated and if the majority votes, the games can be ter- as friendship, trust, betrayal, brotherhood and a wretched minated but no prize money will be distributed. Rather lesson of capitalism. The show doesn’t shy away from the

hardships and challenges of class, debt, and power. The last scenes in the show, for example, present the viewer the never-ending cycle of poverty and the main character is forced to make a decision on whether to feed into the system or make a stand. As if viewers weren’t already intrigued by the plot, the themes and side plots encourage the audience to empathize more with the characters and see who makes it out with money.

Squid Game’s nine-episode season leaves viewers wanting more with a dramatic cliffhanger, but there are no plans for a second season. Hwang stated in an interview with Variety magazine “if I were to do it, I would certainly not do it alone. I’d consider using a writers’ room and would want multiple experienced directors.”

Squid Game lovers: don’t lose too much hope, for we can potentially find the protagonist in round two of the games. Or, even in a return appearance of the mysteriously adept ddakji player explaining his involvement in Squid Game.

Adele Returns to Music After a Six-Year-Long Hiatus Maria Villarroel

English singer-songwriter Adele released her newest single, “Easy On Me,” this past Friday, Oct. 15. The record serves as the lead single for the singer’s newest album “30” which will be released on Nov. 19.

“Easy On Me” comes after a six-year-long hiatus from Adele. Since the release of her third album in 2015, “25,” the singer has gotten married and divorced to Simon Konecki and opened up about living with depression. All of these themes will be discussed in “30” as she mentioned in the prologue of the album which she released on social media.

Photo Credit/ Youtube Adele

“It was my ride or die throughout the most turbulent period of my life.” Adele said about “30” on Instagram. She builds a metaphor in which the album was a friend of hers who was always present at the time of her tumultuous divorce.

At the same time, Adele has mentioned how she wishes the album “30” will serve as a message to her young son Angelo, who lived through the divorce with her.

“I wanted to explain to him, through this record, when he’s in his twenties or thirties, who I am and why I voluntarily chose to dismantle his entire life in the pursuit of my own happiness,” Adele told British Vogue.

The only song fans have gotten so far is “Easy On Me.” The song is an ode to the “tumultuous period” of her life as she has described on Instagram. The song reflects on the end of her relationship as well as her childhood and the lessons she learnt through love and abandonment.

Lyrically, the song is gut-wrenching. Because the song relates to her agitated childhood, the lyrics at the beginning of the song seem innocent and even nostal-

gic. She knows that she will be hurt one way or another, but she is almost begging the person who is going to hurt her (whether that is her lover or anyone else) to be gentle because she is still young and it will be difficult to recover from such trauma.

At the end of the song, the singer seems more mature. She wishes the person that hurt her to have a good life and she genuinely hopes that they are doing well in their endeavors.

There is no denying that the lyrics are incredible due to their relatability. The song serves more as damage control rather than her preventing any hurt at all. I believe that at some point or another, we know that we will be hurt or heartbroken, and instead of avoiding it altogether, we simply try to lessen the pain.

Sonically however, I do wish that the song would have been mildly different. For years, almost all of what we have gotten from Adele is ballad after ballad. I was hoping that for her big return to the spotlight after six years, she would have surprised fans with some change to her genre of music so she can become a multi-faceted artist.

Granted, most people expect depressing ballads from the songwriter, and she knows that. But, I think that it would have been more interesting to see her experimenting with new genres of music as she enters a newly-divorced period of her life.

Adele is an outstanding artist and there is no denying that. Her voice and her songwriting skills are distinguishable. While “Easy on Me” was good, I do not think it was groundbreaking. I hope that for “30,” she stops playing safe and starts venturing into new areas of music.

Culture 9

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Bon retour, Wes Anderson! “The French Dispatch” arrives in theaters

The newspaper-like frame story appears poised to headline Oscar season Connor Richards

Photo Credit/ YouTube 20th Century Studios NZ

With a limited release this past week before reaching all theaters on Friday, Wes Anderson’s highly anticipated project “The French Dispatch” is finally here. Boasting a star studded cast that includes Bill Murray, Tilda Swinton, and Timothée Chalamet among others, it tells each story being published in the final edition of the titular French newspaper. Anderson’s first live action film since 2014’s “The Grand Budapest Hotel,” this uniquely formatted feature is sure to win the hearts of audiences worldwide with its

raunchy humor and gorgeous aesthetic.

Though this cast consists of several high profile names that combine for an endless number of Oscar nominations, one should not go see “The French Dispatch” specifically for their favorite actor or actress.

Much of the cast’s screen time is very evenly distributed, which I predict will damage some individual hopes for this upcoming award season.

Nonetheless, this is intentional as the film moves in and out of its frame narrative. Even without dominant lead roles, Timothée Chalamet and Jeffrey Wright stand out the most. Some critics thus far have described the cast as overstuffed, which I strongly disagree with, as that sounds like more of a problem for the film’s payroll than for the audience.

From the opening frame, one can easily tell it is a Wes Anderson project. The acclaimed direc-

tor strikes yet again with a colorful palette that compliments many of the black and white shots found throughout. Interestingly enough, I was able to find many similarities between the cinematography of “The French Dispatch” and Anderson’s animated projects “Fantastic Mr. Fox” and “Isle of Dogs.” With this being said, the film very much has the feel of a love letter to the director’s previous works. However, that is not to say it is not unique; on the contrary, the film’s structure is unlike many others. Picture this: you flip through a newspaper, where each headlining story represents a different area of interest. That is “The French Dispatch.”

So if you are a prior fan of Wes Anderson’s work, you are sure to enjoy this new film. Loaded with hilarious jokes and its own unique flavor, it is not so much about finding a segment you like, rather about picking which one is your favorite. Be sure to see “The French Dispatch” before award season rolls around, and as always, appréciez le film!

“The French Dispatch” is now playing in select theaters and will release nationwide on October 29th. If you are looking to find some of Wes Anderson’s prior projects via streaming, “Moonrise Kingdom” is available on HBO Max while “Fantastic Mr. Fox” and “Isle of Dogs” are available on Disney+.

Welcome Back Broadway

The experience of watching live theater again!

Sara Rodia

Photo Credit/Sara Rodia

Six hundred thirty-seven days. That’s how long it had been since I had sat in a theater to see a Broadway show. That is, until Sept. 18 when I was finally back in a theater among my fellow vaccinated Broadway lovers to see “Hadestown”, one of my all time favorite shows. Sitting in the Walter Kerr Theater felt surreal to me. It honestly didn’t even hit me that I was seeing a Broadway show again until André Robin De Shields (Hermes) stepped out onto that stage. Being back in that theater was an amazing experience and having the pleasure to see Hadestown again with its amazing cast and Eva Noblezada (Eurydice), who I was heartbroken

to miss the first time I saw that show over two years ago, was incredible. In fact, it was so amazing that when I went searching for “Moulin Rouge!: The Musical” tickets and saw they still had tickets available for opening night – I bought them right away.

“Moulin Rouge!” reopened on Sept. 24 and it was unlike anything I have ever witnessed. Seeing a show reopen after being closed for 561 days was an experience I will never have again in my lifetime. The energy in the crowd was something I had never encountered in a show before. The second Aaron Tveit (Christian) stepped out onto the stage, everyone was on their feet and cheering—now, in case you’ve never been to a Broadway show before, this is not typical by any means. And this was a common occurrence throughout the entire show. At the end of almost every number, everyone was on their feet cheering. As opposed to the single standing ovation that usually occurs at the conclusion of the show, “Moulin Rouge!” got probably about 10 standing ovations throughout that night.

Aside from the energy in the audience upon being back at the reopening of “Moulin Rouge!”, the actors seemed beyond happy and blessed to be back on that stage performing for an audience again. There were moments that I swore I caught Tveit holding back a smile from the pure happiness of performing for a live audience. The bows

at the end were so full of joy from a cast and crew who had finally made it to the light at the end of the tunnel, especially for Natalie Mendoza, who had made her debut as Satine in “Moulin Rouge!” that night.

After seeing “Moulin Rouge!”, I moved on to see “Little Shop of Horrors” and “Come From Away” this past week. Both were so exciting and I still feel the buzz of excitement from everyone in those theaters. I was especially excited watching Jeremy Jordan play Seymour in “Little Shop of Horrors”— half the reason I bought those tickets was just to see him! Just seeing these actors back on the stage performing was an amazing feeling. You could tell they were just so happy to be back.

The reopening of Broadway has been everything I hoped for and could have wanted. I’ve felt immense excitement and had once in a lifetime opportunities. Nothing will ever compare to the energy I felt in “Moulin Rouge!” reopening night and the excitement I felt sitting in those theaters to see “Hadestown”, my first Broadway show back, and seeing Jordan live again. I consider myself so blessed that I have been able to see so many phenomenal shows since Broadway reopened and I cannot wait to continue to see more. My next concrete stop is “Six” in December, but you can guarantee you’ll catch me at multiple shows far before that!

10 Sports

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DeMeo vs. Anderson: Ex-Basketball Coach Suing University, Head Coach

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BRADY SNYDER Former St. John’s men’s basketball coach the suit states. “Mr. Anderson lost control Steve DeMeo filed a lawsuit against the of the team and the players nearly revolted University and head coach Mike Ander- against him before the end of the season.” son last month alleging wrongful termiThis alleged turmoil centers around an nation related to a heart condition, ac- incident within the program between Isacording to court documents, obtained by ih Moore and Anderson during the final The Torch. game of the 2020-21 season on March 6, The suit, filed in federal court Sept. 2021. In the game in Queens versus Se23, claims that the men’s basketball pro- ton Hall, Moore entered in the first three gram was tumultuous behind the scenes, minutes. The forward played three minalleging that COVID-19 protocols were utes and missed two three-point jump “not being employed or enforced in any shots before he was removed from the meaningful manner” and that the pro- game. gram faced “internal turmoil.” DeMeo The suit claims that Anderson was disis represented by Wigdor LLP, who in a pleased with Moore’s shot selection and statement co-authored by David Gottli- resolved to kick him off the team at halfeb and Renan Verghese of Wigdor LLP time. When Anderson communicated told The Torch that their intentions are to this to the team, “what happened next hold the University and Anderson “fully could only be described as mutiny,” acaccountable.” cording to the suit.

The University “categorically denies It is claimed that the rest of the team reSteve DeMeo’s allegations of wrongdo- fused to return to the court for the second ing but cannot otherwise comment on half to “protest of Mr. Anderson’s unjust pending litigation,” spokesperson Brian treatment of Mr. Moore.” The team did Browne told The Torch on behalf of the return to the court and played one of their University. “Throughout the 2020-21 sea- best halves of basketball of the season, son, the Men’s Basketball team adhered to scoring 53 points enroute to a ten point all University and Big East Conference victory over Seton Hall. Moore did not COVID-19 policies and protocols.” play a single minute of the second half.

Anderson personally hired DeMeo as The filing notes that Anderson tried to assistant coach of the men’s basketball kick Moore off the team again in the days program shortly after he was named head following the game, and the team further coach prior to the 2019-20 season. At the decided to refuse to practice if Anderson’s time, Anderson referred to DeMeo as “an decision stood. important asset to the University” in a reAt this point, St. John’s had only the lease from the Athletic Department.

Big East Tournament remaining, where DeMeo was previously diagnosed with they prepared to face Seton Hall again in the heart condition Mitral Valve Prolapse the second round. Two hours before the (MVP) about two decades ago, but his game, Anderson announced that Moore condition was mild and required only reg- was unavailable because he was in contact ular checkups. In one of those checkups with a COVID-19 positive staff member, last year, doctors discovered that DeMeo’s but that no other players or staff were afMVP had caused an irregular heartbeat fected. and required surgery, according to court Senior Rasheem Dunn said that Moore’s documents. absence “hurt us a bit” in St. John’s second DeMeo notified the University of his round exit of the Big East Tournament. need for medical leave in Aug. 2020 and Dunn graduated following the season, underwent surgery to correct the irregu- and Moore and six other players on schollar heartbeat, court documents claim. The arship transferred from the program—an suit notes that other health conditions unprecedented number for a major conwere discovered in the process, and De- ference team seemingly on the rise.

Meo required additional procedures and Moore transferred to Southern Miss for recovery time. the upcoming season, and the Southern Issues began when Anderson and De- Miss Athletic Department did not reMeo met for an annual performance re- spond to a request seeking Moore’s review after the conclusion of the 2020-21 sponse to DeMeo’s characterization of basketball season. At the meeting, the suit events. asserts that Anderson praised DeMeo for Despite an invitation to the National his recruiting efforts and broad contribu- Invitation Tournament (NIT), the men’s tions to the program until DeMeo noti- basketball season ended when St. John’s fied Anderson of his need for additional announced they would not participate procedures. due to COVID-19 concerns.

“You have a job to do, you have to do “In truth, having refused to play for Mr. it,” Anderson allegedly replied, and ended Anderson twice in three days due to what the meeting, according to the lawsuit. it believed was his vindictive and unfair Months after the meeting, DeMeo was treatment of Mr. Moore,” the suit claims, informed of his termination from the “the team simply did not want to play for University on June 8, 2021. It is standard him anymore.” practice in the industry to make perforAnderson and St. John’s are now premance-based coaching changes before the paring for the first season of a six-year spring signing period. contract extension the parties agreed to DeMeo claims that his rapport with the last spring. DeMeo agreed to join East players kept the team together in the final Carolina University’s staff as an assistant days of the 2020-21 season. coach in August for the 2021-22 basket“The public success of the St. John’s ball season. men’s basketball team on the court No court date has been set for the first masked a tumultuous end to the season,” hearing in DeMeo’s lawsuit.

TORCH PHOTO / NICK BELLO

What happened next could only be described as mutiny.

Lawsuit

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Week in Review: Men’s Soccer Gains National Recognition Brady Snyder After struggling to score in multiple weeks, both Men’s and Women’s Soccer broke through to secure crucial wins against tough Big East opponents. In their only match of the week, Women’s Volleyball won convincingly and their top player received yet another conference honor.

Men’s Soccer Ranked TDS No. 25, No. 26 In The NCAA’s RPI

Against far and away the best team in the conference, and quite possibly the best team in the nation, the Johnnies once again showed their defensive prowess at No. 2 Georgetown. In the match on Wednesday, Oct. 20 the Red Storm ceded just one goal to the Hoyas, who have scored 30 goals on the season and score 2.14 per match.

Brandon Knapp scored his fourth goal of the season to tie the game after Georgetown scored in the first two minutes of play. The Red Storm defense once again had an impressive showing, taking the match to double overtime.

The Johnnies were just 38 seconds away from drawing on the road before Georgetown junior Aidan Rocha scored off of a St. John’s deflection to win the match.

Men’s soccer succeeded defensively as expected. The team leads the conference in goals against average (GAA) with a 0.57 mark, and veteran goalkeeper Luka Gavran’s nine shutouts are the most in all of Division One soccer.

The unexpected happened on Saturday, Oct. 23 versus Marquette. The Men’s Soccer team broke out offensively, scoring four goals in a rout of the Golden Eagles. It was a dominant effort from start to finish, and was the first home victory versus Marquette since 2005. St. John’s outshot Marquette by 18 to five, and each of their four goals were scored by different players.

It was just what they needed to prove they are contenders, and the national rankings agree. TopDrawerSoccer (TDS) has the Johnnies ranked No. 24 in the nation, inside the Top 25 for the first time this season. The NCAA’s rating percentage index (RPI) has the Red Storm at No. 26 and their United Soccer Coaches poll sees the Johnnies receiving votes.

The Men’s team has just two regular season games remaining, and need to capitalize on those games to earn the best possible seed in the Big East playoff tournament. They now stand at third in the conference, behind Georgetown and Providence, and are three points behind second-place.

Women’s Soccer Secures Two 1-0 Shutouts

The Women’s Soccer team broke their three-game losing streak with a pair of 1-0 shutouts in the metropolitan area last week. The Red Storm goalkeeper Naya Lipkens played hero yet again, saving eight shots on goal, cementing a career-high 64 saves through the week.

The Johnnies bent, but did not break during their senior day match with Providence on Sunday, Oct. 17th. Providence had nine shots to St. John’s five, but one of those five shots was a penalty kick that Zsani Kajan sent into the net for the Red Storm. Lipkens was forced to make five saves to fend off the offensive movement from the Friars, and secured her seventh shutout of the season in the 1-0 victory.

The Women’s team followed the solid performance with a dominant one on Thursday, Oct. 21 at Seton Hall. The Red Storm had 17 shots throughout the match, including what would be the game winning goal by Maia Cabrera in the 43rd minute. The team persevered as the Pirates saved five shots on goal in an attempt to contain the Johnnies.

Women’s Soccer now stands at 9-5-2 (5-3-1 Big East)

in fourth place in the conference, behind Xavier, Georgetown and Butler.

Volleyball’s Rastelli Named Big East Player of the Week In their only match of the week, Women’s Volleyball swept Xavier on Saturday, Oct. 23. The match was part of the University’s homecoming weekend festivities, and featured volleyball alumni in attendance, per an athletics release.

Rachele Rastelli had 16 kills in the match to lead the Red Storm, including two to end the first set by a score of 28-26. It was the closest set of the match, and the Johnnies closed out the final two sets by a score of 25-20 in each one.

Rastelli’s efforts have put her in rarefied air in both program history and conference history. She earned her third Big East Offensive Player of the Week award of the season and now ranks sixth all-time in program history with 1,308 career kills.

Looking Ahead

For the first time in conference play, St. John’s soccer and volleyball have concurrently found offensive and defensive success. The Men’s Soccer team is now gaining national recognition for their success, and the Women’s Soccer team has clinched a spot in the Big East playoff tournament. Volleyball now looks to get back to .500 this week and Rastelli hopes to cement herself as one of the greatest players in program history.

TORCHPHOTO/NICK BELLO

TORCH PHOTO / SARA KIERNAN

SPORTS OCTOBER 28, 2021 | VOLUME 99, OCTOBER ISSUE

| TORCHONLINE.COM

STUDENTS "SHOW OUT" FOR TIP-OFF

PHOTO CREDIT / DAVID BAYHA TORCH DESIGN / BRADY SNYDER

SJU'S FIRST TICKETED EVENT SINCE 2020 Torch Photo/ Sara Kiernan

Brady Snyder

St. John’s held their annual Tip-Off event on Friday, Oct. 22 in their first ticketed event at Carnesecca Arena since March 1, 2020. It was a resounding success with over 4,000 students participating in the festivities, per an athletic press release.

As the sun rose on Friday morning in Queens, hundreds of students were already lined up outside Carnesecca Arena’s ticket office for the chance to see the first Tip-Off event in two years. Students waited as long as six hours to obtain general admission tickets for the event, resulting in lines that extended from Carnesecca Arena to the law school parking lot.

Carnesecca’s doors opened at about 6:20 p.m. to a rush of students vying for the best seats in the house. Most of the lower bowl was reserved, but the upper bleachers were lined with Red Storm t-shirts and light-up wristbands for students. All fans were required to show proof of vaccination in order to enter the venue.

The lights dimmed at about 7:45 p.m. to make way for the University’s dance team, who performed a routine in the dark. They were illuminated by the light-up bracelets distributed through-

out the stadium. Following the dance team was the cheer squad, who performed a routine of their own before joining the pep band to perform the University’s fight song.

A cascade of lights and artificial smoke preceded the Men’s and Women’s basketball introductions.

Each player came out of the tunnel to their own music and fired up the crowd with dances and a t-shirt toss. The coaches followed, and Men’s basketball head coach Mike Anderson told the fans to be ready to “show up and show out” this season.

Women’s head coach Joe Tartamella and 2020-21 leading scorer Leilana Correa also asked the fans for their support in advance of their Nov. 10 season opener.

The Men’s team, split wearing home and away jerseys, then played a 16-minute scrimmage. Posh Alexander stole the show with some impressive layups and dunks throughout the game. Alexander is one of just two players returning from last season that are expected to be available on opening night.

The other, Julian Champagnie, had some impressive three-point and two-point scores of his own.

Dylan Addae-Wusu is expected to miss the

start of the season, but was seen participating in non-contact basketball activities during warmups. Addae-Wusu is the only other rostered player that has been coached by Anderson.

Other new additions to the roster impressed during the scrimmage. Stef Smith made a few three-point shots and looks to be a solid deep shooter this season. In the paint, Joel Soriano impressed with his ability to rebound and score in second-chance opportunities.

The match ended in a 50-50 tie after both teams fought hard in the final minutes of play.

New York native Fivio Foreign concluded the night with a performance that hyped the fans in attendance. Foreign routinely went across the court to challenge the volume of the fan sections.

The set highlighted Foreign’s impressive feature catalog, which included songs by Drake and the late Pop Smoke.

The official start of the Men’s and Women’s basketball seasons is on Nov. 9 and Nov. 10, respectively. It will be the program’s first official games with fans in attendance since the Big East Tournament in March 2020.