sports Houston headed to first Final Four since 2021
CAMRYN ALBERIGO SPORTS EDITOR
@CAMRYN.ALBERIGO
INDIANAPOLIS — Graduate forward J’Wan Roberts and graduate guard L.J. Cryer are the only Cougars with Final Four experience — but not for long. The veteran duo will lead the charge as Houston eyes its first elusive national title.
The pair secured top-seeded Houston a ticket to continue its mission with a 69-50 win over No. 2 seed Tennessee at Lucas Oil Stadium on Sunday, clinching Houston’s seventh-ever trip to the Final Four and first since 2021.
“To be able to do it in my last year is definitely special,” Cryer said. “Going out with a bang.”
The 2021 Final Four included Cryer and Roberts’ clash in the national semifinals, where Cryer’s Baylor squad eliminated Houston before claiming the title at the very site where red and white confetti fell this year. Now, they return to the Final Four, this time on the same side.
Their leadership is just one of
the team’s strengths. Behind them is a united group ready to fight for a shared goal.
The Cougars were tested, taking the toughest road to the Final Four and becoming the first team since the 2017 national champion North Carolina to face the highest possible seed in each round.
“It’s special because you’re doing it with guys that you love, and it’s always good being on the right side of history,” Cryer said.
It isn’t just about talent. It’s about the countless Cougars who buy into the program and choose to stay rather than flee to the transfer portal. Thanks to extended eligibility and the “Run It Back” campaign, the Cougars retained Roberts, Cryer and graduate guard Mylik Wilson after injuries derailed their 2024 run in the Sweet 16 vs. Duke.
Only two players moved through Houston’s transfer portal after the season: junior guard Milos Uzan arrived, while graduate guard Damian Dunn departed.
With nearly the same cast, aside from former guard Jamal Shead, who left for the NBA.
Houston got a rare shot at redemption.
“We are the most committed team in college basketball,” legendary broadcaster and UH alum Jim Nantz said. “People don’t want to leave Camp Sampson.”
Coach Kelvin Sampson’s leadership established the framework for Houston’s success, but the players bring that foundation to life, embodying a relentless commitment to defense, discipline and selflessness.
That commitment to excellence was on full display as Houston dominated Tennessee in what many thought was going to be an even match.
The Cougars’ relentless defense set the tone early on, crushing the Vols’ dreams of advancing to their first-ever Final Four.
The Cougars, who earned their 34th win to set a school singleseason record, held Tennessee to 15 points in the first half. Houston became the first team in history to hold a No. 2 seed to fewer than 16 points in a half.
The Cougars led by as much as 22, but the Vols cut it to 10 after going on a 10-4 run late in the second half. Still, they never cracked 30% from the field.
Redshirt junior guard
Emanuel Sharp, named the Most Outstanding Player of the Midwest Region, finished with 16 points and nailed back-to-back Houston scores from 3-point range.
Wilson, a game-time decision, then hit a three for his first points to push the lead to 17.
“I came back for these moments,” Wilson said. “We were so close last year. We have the opportunity again to be a national champion.”
The Midwest Regional champion Cougars played more than 1,000 miles from home.
Now, they will travel just under 200 miles to San Antonio to face the East Region’s No. 1 seed Duke in Saturday’s national semifinal at 7:49 p.m.
“We’ll jump on the interstate and head down to San Antonio,” Sampson said. “That’s why you don’t complain because it can flip the other way.”
The Cougars, who have won 30 of their last 31 games, aim to bring home a championship trophy on the return trip.
That trophy would be a gift for generations.
“It’s been building for decades,” Nantz said. “Some year for all those players for Guy v. (Lewis)... some year we are going to win that championship. And you know what? It might be this year.” sports@thedailycougar.com
Previewing Houston’s seventh Final Four in program history
ASHTON GRISSOM
ASSISTANT
@ASHTONAGRISSOM8
With top seeded Houston’s dominant 69-50 victory over the No. 2 seed Tennessee Volunteers in the Elite Eight, the Cougars advanced to their seventh Final Four, seeking their first-ever national title.
“We started the first week of June running 100-yard dashes on the baseball field at six in the morning when nobody was
around,” coach Kelvin Sampson said. “We always say prepare for the big moments when nobody is around. Now everybody knows about Houston basketball.”
This is Houston’s second trip to the Final Four under Sampson, with the last being during the 2021 season, where Houston lost 78-59 to Baylor.
The Bears went on to win the National Championship game against Gonzaga.
Houston’s leadership
“The maturity of our leaders is what makes this team special,” Sampson said. “They care about winning more than they do statistics.”
Houston’s leaders are graduate guard L.J. Cryer and graduate forward J’Wan Roberts.
Cryer has experience winning on the biggest stage and was a part of the 2021 Baylor team that
defeated Houston and won the National Championship.
Earlier this season, Houston had a 4-3 record with three early losses to Auburn, Alabama and San Diego State, and Sampson needed L.J. to take over the Cougars program.
“L.J. had to get out of his comfort zone,” Sampson said.
“When he stepped up and became the leader, I can’t tell you how proud I am of him.”
Cryer has stepped up exactly like Sampson asked him to and leads the team with 15.4 points per game.
The 6-foot-1 guard has been vital for the Cougars’ success as he’s averaged just under 17 points per game in the tournament and hit several clutch shots in big moments.
FINAL FOUR PREVIEW Continues on next page
Top to bottom: Houston coach Kelvin Sampson embraces forward J’Wan Roberts (13) after the team advances to the Final Four, Houston forward Joseph Tugler poses with the Midwest Regional trophy Sunday, March 30, 2025, in Indianapolis | Raphael Fernandez/The Cougar
Roberts is Houston’s other leader and is in his sixth and final season in a Cougar uniform.
He’s played for Sampson six out of his 11 years he’s been coaching.
“How he performs is how I want the game to be played,” Sampson said. “J’wan has developed into a winner, a leader and a player his teammates and coaches respect.”
Earlier this season, Roberts achieved two significant milestones. He became the first Cougar to play 150 games and the 52nd player in school history to score 1,000 career points.
Roberts also became the winningest player in Fertitta Center history, earning his 63rd win against Jackson State in the season opener.
This season, he averages 10.7 points, 6.3 rebounds and one steal per game.
“I felt like I had a lot of guys here that helped me grow and become the player that I am today,” Roberts said. “Now, I feel that it is my time to carry the throne.”
Final Four is set
With Auburn’s 70-64 victory over Michigan State, the stage is set for the Final Four.
This is the first time since 2008 that four No. 1 seeds made the Final Four.
Florida, Duke, Houston and Auburn are the last teams standing and will compete in San Antonio inside the Alamodome.
Auburn will face Florida on Saturday, April 5, at 5:09 p.m. CT. Houston will play Duke after and is set to start at 7:49 p.m. CT.
Houston vs. Duke’s first matchup
Last season, Houston and Duke matched up for the first time in program history.
The Blue Devils defeated the Cougars 54-51 in the Sweet 16 in a hard-fought battle.
In the previous matchup, Houston had several injuries that left them short-handed for the tournament.
Redshirt sophomore guard Terrance Arceneaux was out most of the season with a torn Achilles that he suffered earlier in the year against Texas A&M.
Sophomore guard Joseph Tugler was also ruled out for the rest of the season with a broken foot before the tournament.
Finally, former guard Jamal Shead was injured early in the Duke game, and Houston struggled without their leader. Duke’s dominance
This season, both teams are healthy and are set for a highstakes rematch.
Duke enters the game as the favorite and has been dominant this season.
The Blue Devils have a 35-3
record this season, with two of their losses being in November to No. 19 Kentucky and No. 1 Kansas.
Their other loss came from a road battle against Clemson on Feb. 20, where the Tigers prevailed in a 77-71 upset victory.
Since then, Duke has been firing on all cylinders and is currently on a 15-game winning streak.
Duke has also made a statement in the tournament by averaging 92 points per game while only allowing an average of just 68 points.
The Blue Devils defeated No. 16 seed Mount St. Mary’s 93-49 in the first round and No. 9 seed Baylor in the second round 89-66 in Lenovo Center.
Duke went on to defeat No. 4 seed Arizona in an offensive shootout 100-93 in the Sweet 16.
In the Elite Eight, they defeated No. 2 seed Alabama 85-65 and handed the Crimson Tide their second-worst loss of the season.
The Blue Devils are led by freshman forward Cooper Flagg.
He averages 18.9 points, 7.5 rebounds, 4.2 assists, 1.3 blocks and 1.4 steals per game.
Flagg was named the ACC Player of the Year and is a Naismith Men’s Player of the Year finalist.
He is also the No. 1 projected pick in this year’s NBA draft.
Junior guard Tyrese Proctor brings experience to this young team and is a leader of this Duke squad.
He averages 12.5 points, 3.1 rebounds and 2.2 assists per
game and is a threat from behind the arc, where he shoots 41.2% on the season.
Duke also has a pair of sharpshooters in freshman guard Kon Knuepple and senior guard Sion James.
Knuepple shoots 40.1% from behind the arc and averages 14.4 points, 3.9 rebounds and 2.8 assists per game.
James shoots 41.7% from behind the arc and averages 8.7 points, 4.2 rebounds and 3.0 assists per game.
Freshman forward Khaman Maluach rounds out the starting lineup for the Blue Devils and averages 8.7 points and 6.8 rebounds per game.
He stands at 7-foot-2 and is a rim protector, averaging 1.3 blocks per game.
Duke also rotates several players off of their bench and is overall a very deep team.
Houston’s key players
While Cryer and Roberts do most of the scoring for the Cougars, UH has depth at every position, and a lot of other players contribute.
Junior point guard Milos Uzan has flipped a switch in the second half of the season and has become one of the best point guards in the country.
“He’s his own player and is writing his own story,” Shead said. “It is his turn and I’m his biggest fan.”
The Oklahoma transfer has been a key piece that the Cougars needed.
Uzan has averaged 12.8 points, 5.0 assists and 2.8 rebounds in the tournament, including a gamewinning layup to defeat Purdue in the Sweet 16.
Uzan also broke his career-high 3-pointers made in a game with six against Purdue.
“This team has so much belief in me, and I feel like I can knock down any shot during the game,” Uzan said.
The Cougars have another experienced guard in redshirt junior Emanuel Sharp.
The Tampa, Fla. native has taken a huge step this season and is one of the best 3-point shooters in the country.
Sharp has shot 41.6% from behind the arc this season and averages 12.7 points, 3.0 rebounds and 1.4 steals per game.
He also iced the game against Tennessee with three late 3-point jumpers and was named the NCAA Midwest Regional Most Outstanding Player.
The Cougars also rank first in defensive efficiency in the country, and their big men are a huge part of it.
Houston’s duo of senior forward Ja’Vier Francis and Tugler are both elite rim protectors and do the dirty work for the Cougars’ defense.
Francis comes off of the bench and averages 5.1 points, 4.4 rebounds and a block per game.
Tugler is a starter and averages 5.5 points, 5.9 rebounds and 1.9 blocks per game.
He was also named the Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year.
Houston also gets big minutes off the bench with two scrappy guards in graduate Mylik Wilson and Arceneaux.
“Mylik has great intangibles, and it seems like he gets every rebound,” Sampson said. “He is very athletic and quick twitch, and off the court, he is a sweet kid.”
Wilson has provided Houston with a spark off the bench this season and has hit several clutch shots this season.
He averages 5.6 points, 4.1 rebounds, 1.1 steals per game and is a strong defender.
Arceneaux is a taller guard standing at 6-foot-6 and is a talented jump shooter and rebounder.
He had the hot hand early in the victory against Tennessee, splashing a pair of 3-pointers and a step-back jump shot.
Arceneaux averages 6.8 points, 2.7 rebounds per game this season.
Both programs have very deep teams this season and have won their respective conference.
With a high-powered Duke offense against a top Houston defense, the rematch between these two teams should be just as advertised.
“When we recruit these young men, we tell them it is not going to be easy,” Sampson said. “It’s going to be hard, and you have to choose hard, and that’s what these kids do and why I love them.”
sports@thedailycougar.com
Houston guard Emanuel Sharp (21) walks onto the court with back-up during the first half of the Elite Eight, Sunday, March 30, 2025, in Indianapolis. | Raphael Fernandez/The Cougar
STUDENT GOVERNMENT
“Beaten, battered, bruised”: SGA officially shuts down
CHRISTOPHER GEE SENIOR STAFF WRITER
@CHRISTOPH.3R
Wednesday, Mar. 26, the Student Government Association convened for their last Senate meeting. As of now, the 61st administration ceases to exist.
SGA needed to pass their new constitution with the student body in order to continue operating as an organization. However, despite holding two student referendums, the constitution failed to pass.
“No constitution, no organization,” said former Speaker of the Senate Tav Cockrell. “March 31, the executive offices will be locked. We’re starting the process of clearing our offices out.”
What led to the end of 61st Administration
The SGA was put under a mandate by Student Affairs on Nov. 6, 2024, upon receiving a letter authored by Vice President for Student Affairs Paul Kittle.
This mandate required the organization to create and pass a new set of bylaws and constitution in order to operate as an organization.
The mandate was a result of weakened checks and balances in SGA bylaws and the failure to fill vacant positions in a timely manner.
SGA lifted their mandate on Feb. 12, after 98 days of deliberation, by passing the new bylaws and constitution. However, despite this, the organization still required the student body to approve the constitution.
“I feel beaten, battered and bruised,” said former Vice President Austin Craig. “I hope the organization can continue to grow, and will get where it needs to be in providing for the student body.”
COMMUNITY
New future of SGA moving forward
SGA’s Executive branch and Senate will remain vacant for the rest of the spring semester and the upcoming summer.
“This is what you would say is f—- around and finding out. We f—- around, and now we’re finding out,” Cockrell said. “There’s nothing any of us up here or any of you out there can do about it.”
Elections for the 62nd administration will take place in fall 2025, which will then fill the vacant positions.
Ten external consultants from similar SGAs of other public colleges will be brought in to give recommendations and advise UH’s SGA on how best to move forward.
“We are looking for advisors at similar types of public sized schools that have a similar SGA structure,” said Legislative branch advisor and Student Center Executive Director Eve Esch. “They’ll review all previous documents, meetings and things like that so we can get everything started back up again in the fall.”
Not all SGA members will be leaving the organization as Judicial branch members
and SGA committee representatives will continue to serve.
Because of this, former SGA President Diego Arriaga will continue to serve in the SGA as the student representative on the President’s Task Force.
Student Ambassadors will be selected by administration and be present at orientations to encourage involvement in the fall when the organization resumes normal operations.
Final legislation, bills, decisions
The SGA passed four bills in their last two meetings before the dissolution.
“We had a good run, let’s wrap it up and hope for the best,” Cockrell said at a previous meeting on Mar. 19. “We can lay down and die, or try again.”
The Improving Visibility and Lighting of Emergency Poles on Campus Act was passed. The University will re-wrap the poles in a red color which will turn pink in order to increase visibility of emergency poles on campus.
The UHPD Transparency and Accountability Act was passed as well, which
requires a UHPD report in the first 3 months of every semester regarding crime and how the department plans to address it.
The third bill was The SGA Sexual Emergency Preparedness Act, which would make emergency contraception such as Plan B and condoms available in the SGA offices.
The SGA would maintain a discreet and accessible system for students to obtain these resources.
The fourth bill passed was the SGA Unlocked Podcast. This will enable the organization to create video podcasts to provide an accessible platform for all members to communicate directly with students.
The bill was passed to provide transparency, insights into ongoing SGA projects and discuss key on-campus issues.
“It’s been a great run. It’s truly been an honor to serve and represent, and I mean that, even if things got cloudy,” Cockrell said. “Maybe more like a thunderstorm.”
Final reports
“I’ve had great times, I’ve had horrible times, but I’m here at the end of it which is something I’m proud of,” Craig said. “At the end of the day, I was here for the students. I wish I could have done ten times more things despite those obstacles.”
Cockrell addressed the Senate at the end of the meeting, congratulating SGA members who stayed throughout the administration.
“Everybody hears a plethora of things about SGA, some good, some bad,” Cockrell said. “I want you all to leave this administration and really think that no matter what hardships we faced, you were still here and you were able to represent.” news@thedailycougar.com
Ramadan tent supports Muslim community this festive season
JOSHUA VASQUEZ
NEWS ASSISTANT WRITER
@JOSHUAVASQUEZNEWS
UH Muslim Student Association, in collaboration with Islamic Relief USA, UH Faces of African Muslims and Houston Community College’s Muslim Student Association organized the annual Ramadan Tent to support the Muslim student community on campus.
The Tent served over 300 students every night for Iftar.
“It’s like a sanctuary,” said management information systems and finance sophomore Yusuf Anwar. “We have Wi-Fi, people do their schoolwork here, and even if someone isn’t on the volunteer list, they still jump in to help. It’s really become everyone’s project.”
The organization created a safe space not just for students, but also catered to supporting the vulnerable parts of the city.
Volunteers came together to prepare thousands of meal packages consisting of rice, beans, carrots and seasoning. Similar to last year, the organization
packaged about 20,000 meals that were later delivered to those in need.
The organization partnered with Outreach in the Barrio, a local nonprofit that supports homeless individuals.
For most of the volunteers, the act of giving and volunteering at the event carries a deep personal meaning, especially considering the state of the world.
“We’re fasting from sunrise to sunset, but some people are essentially fasting yearround because they have no access to food or water,” said biology junior Esa Mohammed. “Helping them makes me feel like I’m doing my part.”
Ramadan is a time for spiritual growth, but also a reminder to give back, Mohammed said. It’s also about getting closer to God and practicing charity.
Anwar leads the Tent team as MSA’s Brothers’ Fajr Officer and emphasizes the spiritual significance of Ramadan.
For him, Ramadan is a chance to break bad habits and build good ones, and deepen trust
in God, especially in uncertain times.
“I think the initiative has grown,” said computer engineering junior Ayah Elkaissi.
“It’s always more fun with friends, and just knowing our work is going toward a good cause makes it worth it.”
Volunteers and attendees have seen more engagement with the Tent this year, especially from non-Muslim students who stop by with questions or curiosity.
“We’ve improved a lot this year, meal
distribution is more efficient, and we’re seeing higher turnout,” Anwar said. “The tent has become a space not just for Muslims, but for anyone who wants to learn or connect.”
However, with the growing attendance, the demand for meals and resources has also increased. Last year’s fundraising goal of $65,000 grew to $80,000 this year. But, along with that, the community also stepped up in response and met their goal. news@thedailycougar.com
Jose Gonzalez-Campelo/The Cougar
Ramadan Tent outside the A.D. Bruce Religion Center on Thursday, March 20, 2025, in Houston, Texas. | Gauraangi Gupta/The Cougar
Sugar Land shuttle services to reduce the number of buses next fall
GAURAANGI GUPTA
NEWS EDITOR
@GAURAANGIGUPTA
UH Sugar Land shuttles have undergone constant changes. Continuing the trend, students will witness another change coming to the shuttles this fall.
The University plans to reduce the number of shuttles that run between Sugar Land and UH Main. They will also expand the routes within the Fort Bend County Transit Service.
“We are planning to optimize the shuttle service and adjust service levels to accommodate the need for Technology Division students to travel between UH at Sugar Land and UH,” said Director of Media Relations Bryan Luhn.
Because of this new change, only one shuttle will operate from 8 a.m. till 10 p.m. from Monday through Thursday, and from 8 a.m. till 12 p.m. on Fridays.
UH will provide an additional bus during peak hours from Monday through Thursday and adjust the schedule as needed to support students, Luhn said.
“This is about cost avoidance and allows us to stabilize reserves for unforeseen needs as this service is offered complimentary to this cohort of students,” Luhn said.
Frustration regarding no communication
Students are frustrated that no communication about this change has been made yet, and users of the services are finding out from professors in their classes.
“I’m kinda pissed I found out in my Intro to Digital Media lecture and not an email from the University,” said pre-business and incoming digital media junior Sattwik Padhi.
Many students have been hearing about the decision from their peers rather than the University themselves. As of now, the
EVENTS
UHSL website isn’t updated with the recent information as well.
“The way I figured out was out of the blue, no email or outreach,” said biotechnology freshman AbdurRahman Khan. “This is outrageous and very inconsiderate of UH to do this to students who use it on a daily basis.”
At the time when this article was written, UH had not sent any communications regarding the decision until March 31.
Outrage because of no accommodation
Most students who use these services are technology majors and are either commuting to UHSL or staying on the main campus.
This is because the Sugar Land campus doesn’t have living accommodations for students. Students believe UH is slowly shifting their technology division entirely to the Sugar Land campus without suitable living amenities.
Padhi is a resident of Austin and is going to UH for his studies. This decision frustrates him because he feels he’s being forced to comply with UH’s uncomfortable changes.
Many students purposefully decided to stay on the main campus and opted for housing so that they could use the shuttle services.
“It’s terrible because if they require you to take classes, there should be appropriate housing as well,” Padhi said.
Current unsatisfactory experience
Considering past experiences with the shuttle system, students are neither confident nor happy with this upcoming change.
“The delays already make me very mad. Once, I had two buses pass right in front of me, saying they are out of order,” Khan said.
“My class ended at 2:30 p.m. and I reached my
home by 5:00 p.m., only because of the delays. It’s getting out of hand.”
With the reduced number of shuttles, students fear they will be missing classes or will have to leave early for school.
“Given that peak hours are typically in the mornings, I feel that this would affect me badly in the fall semester since I have 8:30 a.m. classes at UHSL,” said mechanical engineering technology sophomore Denise Gonzalez. “If buses are reduced, I will risk missing shuttle rides.”
Khan feels that instead of increasing the number of shuttles because of the already increasing wait time, it’s upsetting that they are reducing it instead.
However, contrary to students’ doubts, the University made this decision based on current ridership numbers and class schedules.
“The changes are due to current and projected ridership for the fall, based on discussions with the Technology Division,” Luhn said. “We anticipate this service will be able to accommodate all students who meet criteria and have a shuttle permit.”
Students are also upset with the condition of the shuttles and are unsatisfied
with the amount of money Parking and Transportation is charging them.
“Please fix the shuttle,” Khan said. “Students in the back are literally flying to the front of the bus.”
Possible solutions
Fort Bend which began in Fall 2024 is adding at least four routes from the UH Welcome Center to Fort Bend AMC due to demand and ridership, for a total of seven routes between Fort Bend AMC and UH, Luhn said.
However, students believe that a better solution would be to stop shifting technology students to UHSL and improve the carpool system by making it more accessible.
Gonzalez even suggested making a similar app like the shuttle tracker for carpooling to make it easier for other commuters to connect.
“A better solution would be to stop shipping the technology students to another city to take their classes,” Padhi said. “I would like to tell UH to please stop making it harder to get to UHSL.”
news@thedailycougar.com
Former Black Panther member uplifts Black youth at UH
WENDOLEE T. GARCIA MARTINEZ
NEWS ASSISTANT WRITER
@WENDOLEEGARCIAMTZ
March 20, the Houston Organization for Political Education hosted former Black Panther member Veronza Bowers who was recently released after spending 51 years in prison. Bowers held his innocence the entire time he was incarcerated after being convicted by a jury on the charge of firstdegree murder.
HOPE is a Black political education club that aims to educate, equip and empower the Black student body through events such as workshops, book clubs and open mic nights.
They frequently collaborate with other organizations on campus like the R.E.D. Poets Society, DeedsNotWords and Students for Justice in Palestine.
In a time where the topic of Black history is marginalized, it is critical for students to speak out and create communities to ensure the voices of the Black student body are heard and recognized.
“I think it’s important at this time to maintain and make sure that we’re still teaching Black history,” said the external
coordinator of HOPE Saron Regassa.
“Especially since a lot of it is being shut down, repressed and pushed out of the University and public education in general.”
The event began with an open mic where students and members of the community spoke up. They shared poetry and opinions about various topics such as the Black experience, self-love and current political events.
“This event is very insightful. I feel like I’m diving into history and hearing people’s minds on how they feel about what’s going on in the world and within the black community,” said psychology sophomore
A’Joy Benn.“I’m seeing how we can liberate each other through words, poetry and music.”
Bowers has dedicated himself to practicing healing techniques and was able to expand this expertise while incarcerated by aiding fellow inmates with healing music.
Bowers was introduced on stage by the chair of the Malcolm X Commemoration committee and leader of the Sekou Odinga defense committee Dequi Kioni-sadiki who successfully campaigned for the release of her husband.
“I think it’s really amazing that we still have people from the Black Panther Party speaking to us to tell us their story and how they were treated in America,” said nursing sophomore Victoria Macharia.
Macharia mentioned how a lot of people died in the Black Panther Party and suffered because they were a part of it, making it important to hear these stories.
“I really think it’s amazing that former
members are able to come here and give us some words of encouragement as the Black youth,” Macharia said.
The gathering was concluded with a guided meditation, led by Bowers.
Through their efforts, HOPE was also featured at a Rice research symposium, Dark Matter: Stem & The Arts in Black Houston on March 27.
news@thedailycougar.com
UH shuttle at the Sugar Land campus on Nov. 27, 2023, Sugar Land , Texas. | Robert De La Garza/ The Cougar
Former Black Panther Veronza Bowers speaks at Lynn Eusan Park during HOPE’s outdoor event, on Thursday, March 20, 2025, in Houston, Texas. | Joshua Vasquez/The Cougar
POLITICS
The left have lost their footing, fighting a losing battle
PARKER HODGES-BEGGS
OPINION EDITOR @ALASTFAIR
The results of the 47th presidential election left many Americans, particularly those left-leaning, blindsided. Months later, contention remains, sparking heated conversations online.
These conversations have taken an unfortunate turn at points, with some liberal users proposing various forms of voter suppression, not even realizing they’re suggesting fascist ideas. This is part of a larger issue among leftists, with division growing among them by the day.
The growing divide between political parties within recent years has kept tensions high as radicalism has grown among both sides of the spectrum. It’s nearly impossible to scroll social media without encountering a heated debate, whether it sparks meaningful conversations or not.
Within these debates, some have suggested that only those with a college education be allowed to vote.
Though sometimes said as a joke, this idea comes from studies showing that Republican voters are less likely to have a college degree than their Democratic counterparts.
According to the Pew Research Center, those with a bachelor’s
SOCIAL
degree or more are 13% more likely to lean Democratic as of 2023. This disparity grows when considering postgraduate degrees.
Naturally, this has sparked hostility between parties, as many disparities do. Thus, social media users began to suggest that only those with formal education should be allowed to vote, or that their votes are more valuable.
The unfortunate reality of this idea is that it fails to acknowledge more than the general public. High education is entirely inaccessible to many, and barring the uneducated from voting would end up hurting minorities and working-class people.
While exact percentages vary by study, the racial makeup of college students in the U.S. is largely white. And sure, there has been an increase in enrollment by students of color over the years, but that doesn’t change the fact that as of now, the amount of white students is larger in comparison to any other race.
If only the college-educated were permitted to vote, people of color would ultimately be stuck with the short end of the stick.
The same applies to lower-income households that simply can’t afford college.
Sure, these frustrations being put out into the masses may not be serious. One can say they’re tired
of the dissenting party and wish to discard their votes without truly meaning it.
However, when leftist ideas are already so often disregarded as unreasonable and naive, it seems counterproductive to make such insensitive “jokes” when they’re bordering on fascism.
It’s also important to keep in mind that while leftists on X are dunking on conservatives for being uneducated, those same conservatives are actively trying to dismantle the Department of Education.
Given this, it’s no wonder
sometimes that progressive ideas aren’t taken seriously. While we laugh over photoshopped images of J.D. Vance and shame Elon Musk for his poor attempts at making himself sound like a gamer, the current Republican majority is getting rid of valued education.
The reality is this: Donald Trump is currently in office, signing executive orders left and right that are much more impactful than a post online. DEI programs and the “woke left” are under fire and will continue to be until any sort of tangible change is made.
Considering this, is it really
worth it to make a mockery of these pressing issues by simply laughing at conservatives online?
There is no perfect answer to political discussions. It’s impossible to appeal to everyone, especially for leftists as they attempt to break into the media sphere.
However, it is clear that the left needs to find its footing, and not in fascist ideas. No matter how many digs one makes at Donald Trump, real change will not come from tongue-in-cheek posts and ignorant comments.
opinion@thedailycougar.com
The pursuit of intellectualism is diminishing individuality
ANAYA BAXTER
OPINION ASSIST
@ANAYABAX
At this point in the technological timeline, the effects of phone addictions, excessive social media use and reduced attention spans are well documented. What was once new and exciting is now being turned against.
Nearly 50% of social media users are expected to abandon or
significantly reduce their usage this year, as a result of the decreasing quality on platforms. Deleting harmful accounts and reducing screen time is not bad, but the replacements are lackluster.
Substack, Pinterest and other “peaceful” apps are being pointed at as better alternatives to Instagram and Tiktok. There are no 15 second videos or mindless debates, instead timelines are curated with
aesthetically pleasing images, quotes from respected creatives and pieces written from those hoping to follow in their footsteps.
The content is meant to be enjoyed slowly, as opposed to the frantic consumption of Instagram reels. However, they are just as repetitive as any other app. People are pursuing intellectualism in a cookie cutter way that makes them boring.
Where there was once a new influencer, there is now an up and coming author. A trending audio is replaced by a jazz record.
People are unable to be unique not because of what they consume but because they are not living or thinking for themselves. Social media sabbaticals and niche interests are authentic when they are discovered, not sold.
In a time where uninformed
individuals are causing irreversible harm, there is a pressure to appear intelligent to be set apart. Knowledge equates to empathy, and thus appearing well informed defends one’s character. Consistent defense, however, is a performance. The cycle nearly half of internet users are trying to escape from is being rebranded. People are rejecting Instagram, Tiktok and X because they perceive creators and their posts to be lackluster. Further, they believe the consumption is interfering with their critical thinking. Unfortunately, they are not analyzing or deeply reflecting on the articles they read, either. Users would find the most success by changing their audience behavior, not necessarily their content consumption. Without doing so, apps will continue to face the shunning their predecessors have.
opinion@thedailycougar.com
Jose Gonzalez-Campelo/The Cougar
Eman Ghacham/The Cougar
life and arts
April’s Angle: Get ready for Frontier Fiesta
APRIL BADMUS
SENIOR STAFF WRITER
@ITZ_APRULLL
Hi, and welcome back to another issue of April’s Angle, where I share my thoughts on everything from college life and beyond. You can submit questions or opinions through the link in the April’s Angle highlight on @thedailycougar or message me personally.
Q: What should I wear to fiesta?
I am not one to pass up on an opportunity to dress up, especially a festival. For a first timer, I’ve done lots of research on the best and most comfortable outfits for all fiesta activities. I recommend something light and comfortable, a colorful chiffon dress paired with
well broken in boots for a fashion statement, bootcut jeans and a cute top for versatility, or keep it simple with shorts and a tank top.
Prioritize comfortable shoes! No new boots that’ll blister your feet in an hour and no high top sneakers, try to find something that will keep your feet the most comfortable and allow you to walk as many miles as needed.
A very important safety tip is to make sure you are well equipped with sunscreen and water, it can get very hot out and the heat can make for a miserable day, making it difficult to enjoy the festival.
I wish you an amazing Fiesta season!
news@thedailycougar.com
Attitude and gratitude will set the tone this year. A healthy outlook and routine will help you build strength and confidence to advance your long-term plans. Call on people who owe you favors and utilize all your outlets to ensure success and emotional and financial well-being. Explore the possibilities. The places you visit will shape your future. Put your energy to good use. Pent-up anger will be your downfall. Keep busy; an outlet with positive results will help you reach your goal.
ARIES (March 21-April 19)
-- Set yourself up for success. Take charge, be part of the team and remain focused on your objective. Ask like-minded people to join you in physical and mental activities.
TAURUS (April 20-May 20) -- Take care of personal paperwork, expiration dates and investments. How you handle your affairs will affect your lifestyle. Adopt change
and turn it into something that benefits you. Keep your motives to yourself, and concentrate on your target.
GEMINI (May 21-June 20) -An inquisitive approach will help you make better choices. Be wary of inflated or misleading claims. Trust verified information that fits into your lifestyle.
CANCER (June 21-July 22) -- Concentrate on your finances, reputation and meaningful relationships. Refuse to let temptation lead to excessive behavior. Trust what you see, not what you hear.
LEO (July 23-Aug. 22) -- Let your creativity flow, and you’ll develop a plan that attracts attention. Emotional issues are best dealt with swiftly to avoid unnecessary anxiety and an inflated self-assessment.
VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) -Lend a helping hand, but don’t let anyone take advantage of your kindness and consideration. Suggest alternatives and
encouragement, but don’t take the lead. Moderation and an empathetic attitude are your best choices.
LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23) -- Get firsthand information. Engage with your community and the issues that concern you. Your input can make a difference that influences your life, environment and safety.
SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 22) -Set a budget, cap your spending and be cognizant of expenses that can set you back. Look for new outlets for your skills, experience and knowledge.
SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23-Dec. 21) -- Focus on being creative and rearranging your living space to better suit your needs. Say no to temptation and excessive behavior. Examine what and who matters most to you.
CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19)
-- Pay attention to detail. Joint ventures can be beneficial if solid agreements and designated
EDITORIAL BOARD
plans are in place. Put time aside for someone you love or want to spend more time with. Put greater emphasis on relationships, equality and the time you want to spend with others.
AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 19)
-- Take time to reorganize your space. The more efficient you are, the easier it will be to get things done. Let your imagination explore new ventures that can help you bring in extra cash. Be a leader, not a follower.
PISCES (Feb. 20-March 20)
-- Be moderate, stick to a budget and surround yourself with those offering support instead of temptation. A social event catered toward sports, the arts or cultural events will be entertaining and enlightening. Don’t sit back when you should be moving forward. Take what’s yours and follow your heart.
TO THE EDITOR
The Cougar welcomes letters to the editor from any member of the UH community. Letters should be no more than 250 words and signed, including the author’s full name, phone number or e-mail address and affiliation with the University, including classification and major. Anonymous letters will not be published. Deliver letters to N221, University Center; e-mail them to letters@thedailycougar.com; send them via campus mail to STP 4015; or fax to (713) 743-5384. Letters are subject to editing.
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