Home Blog Page 206

UM breaks the trend as antisemitism rises on college campuses

Alice Reich
-
0
UM breaks the trend as antisemitism rises on college campuses

October 7, 2023, was supposed to be a day of celebration for the Jewish people. Instead, one of the most sacred Jewish holidays became a day of indescribable horror as Hamas terrorists launched a surprise attack on Israel massacring children, raping women and kidnapping innocent civilians.

Even before the Israeli military invaded Gaza, the deadliest day for the Jews since the Holocaust triggered an outbreak of antisemitism, notably at many colleges throughout the U.S.

A new study from the Anti-Defamation League and Hillel International found that 73% of Jewish college students have experienced or witnessed antisemitism on campus since the start of the 2023-2024 school year. That’s more than double what a study of prior years showed.

The consequence, according to the ADL study, is a sharp decline in the number of Jewish students who feel safe, physically and emotionally, on campus. Before Oct. 7, 67% of Jewish students felt safe physically, and 66% emotionally. Those percentages have plunged to 46% and 33%, respectively.

In testimony before Congress on Dec. 5, 2023, FBI Director Christopher Wray confirmed that hate crimes have soared by 60% across the U.S. since the Hamas massacre, with “the biggest chunk of those” being antisemitic. In October, Wray told lawmakers that antisemitism was reaching “historic levels” as “the Jewish community is uniquely targeted” by terrorists. He added that Jews, who account for only 2.4% of the U.S. population, account for about 60% of all religious-based hate crimes.

The University of Miami has proven to be a notable exception among college campuses with Jewish students feeling comfortable walking to class as their University administration spoke out against the Hamas attack and antisemitism. On Oct. 9, two days after the attack, Hillel arranged a vigil in support of Israel.

“It had over 600 people. I felt extremely safe. I felt unity within the Jewish community and the greater Miami community,” said Sofia Bronstein, a freshman majoring in legal studies and finance.

In the months following the attack, student organizations such as Chabad, Hillel, and Students Supporting Israel have held multiple pro-Israel events.

Joia Intrator, a sophomore majoring in computer science, spoke on her experience as a board member of SSI. “I’m proud to be part of SSI. We have done so many amazing things as an organization since October 7th.”

In addition to the student-led groups being quick to respond, UM’s leaders showed support for Israel early on.

“I think the University has responded amazingly, a few days after Julio Frenk sent out such a supportive email that condemned Hamas and supported Israel and made it clear that he was there for his Jewish students,” Intrator said.

President Frenk and his administration went even further. In late November at an event at UM Hillel, he addressed antisemitism on campuses today.

“The attack and targeting of innocent civilians by a terrorist organization violated a foundational value of universities everywhere: to promote knowledge and understanding as a way of resolving complex issues,” Frenk said.

The immediate and absolute condemnation that Frenk displayed is in stark contrast with many leaders at elite universities who were slow to denounce Hamas and antisemitism forcefully.

Two weeks ago, at a congressional hearing, the presidents of Harvard University, the University of Pennsylvania and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology refused to give straightforward answers to questions when asked if they would discipline students who called on campus for the genocide of the Jews. The commotion that followed has already led to the resignation of Penn’s president.

“The Brown [University] administration has been better than the other elite universities we have seen in the news,” Gabriel Burstyn, a freshman at Brown University, told The Miami Hurricane. “However, this is not a high bar and Brown could do better. The university has done nothing to stem the growth of anti-semitic rhetoric on campus.”

Brown has faced a series of antisemitic incidents in recent years, including swastikas carved into desks and a note at the Brown Hillel calling for the gassing of Jews and praising Hitler.

Columbia University has faced a series of antisemitic incidents since the start of the Gaza war. Manhattan’s district attorney has charged a suspect in the assault of an Israeli student on campus, a swastika was found on a bathroom wall, and students say they’ve been subjected to antisemitic slurs. Columbia is among a half dozen colleges now under investigation by the federal government. In response, the university has created a task force on antisemitism and suspended some anti-Israel groups.

“Directly following the horrific terrorist attacks on Israel on October 7th, prior to any IDF retaliation, many groups at Columbia posted statements that blamed Israel for October 7th,” said Shmuel, a Columbia Law student who prefers to be identified solely by his first name. “An event last week took place in the School of Social Work that was titled ‘Significance of the October 7th Palestinian Counteroffensive,’ with a gun on the flyer.”

While the FBI has indicated that antisemitic incidents are greater in number, Islamaphobic incidents are also on the rise, with students who are Muslim and Palestinian reporting increased harassment.

“We at the Department of Education, like the nation, see the fear students and school communities experience as hate proliferates in schools,” Catherine E. Lhamon, assistant secretary of civil rights for the department, told the Associated Press.

The department says it is taking “aggressive action” against discrimination and that schools that have violated civil rights laws could face penalties.

Miami lands its new center in Indiana’s Zach Carpenter

Luke Sims
-
0
Miami lands its new center in Indiana’s Zach Carpenter

As Matt Lee did before him, Zach Carpenter commits to the Miami Hurricanes to fill the void at center.

Carpenter comes from the University of Indiana, where he played four seasons for the Hoosiers. The Cincinnati, Ohio native picked Miami over offers from North Carolina and Maryland. The redshirt junior will have one year of eligibility remaining. Head coach Mario Cristobal had contact with Carpenter very early on and was in constant contact with him throughout the transfer process.

Last season, Carpenter earned a 71.8 pass-blocking grade and a 61.0 run-blocking grade from Pro Football Focus (PFF). Carpenter also allowed eight pressures and three sacks as a fifth-year redshirt junior in the Big Ten.

At 6-foot-5 and 295 pounds, Carpenter is considered a high three-star transfer by 247Sports. Carpenter is the third transfer this cycle. Cristobal and the ‘Canes have also added N.C. State defensive lineman C.J. Clark and Vanderbilt safety Savion Riley in the past week.

With Miami left tackle Jalen Rivers announcing that he will return for another year, there are fewer question marks with the ‘Canes offensive line. Miami will have the right side of the offensive line back in guard Anez Cooper and tackle Francis Mauigoa. Now, with Carpenter in the fold, only the left guard spot remains void. Expect freshman Matthew McCoy to get an extended look in that spot during the bowl game.

The New “Tomorrowland”: School of Architecture to develop Silica City in Guyana

Caroline Val
-
0
The New “Tomorrowland”: School of Architecture to develop Silica City in Guyana

The idea of “Tomorrowland” has traditionally been one of sci-fi novels – a futuristic city that serves as a hub of technology, commerce and sustainability. This era of smart cities may now finally take place, and the University of Miami’s School of Architecture is already charting the course in Guyana.

The roots of Silica City, the name of this soon-to-be village, were planted over nine months ago through a dialogue with the government of Guyana and UM’s administration. The plan aims to prioritize the integration of industrial, digital, biomedical and AI sectors within its urban fabric, all within an 11,000-acre area near the Guyana International Airport.

As recently as Nov. 22, President Julio Frenk met with President of Guyana Irfaan Ali alongside other UM colleagues and officials to refine the goals of the project ahead and sign an agreement for the collaboration.

School of Architecture Dean Rodolphe el-Khoury, one of the main leaders behind this endeavor who also attended this meeting, shared insights into the origins and unique opportunities presented by the avant-garde project.

“Cities around the world are being transformed by the introduction of new technology. They are becoming more responsive and resilient, with a capacity to respond to data collected in real time,” said el-Khoury. “The difference here is the potential for integrating new technology and best practices in sustainable and resilient design into the plan of the city from the outset. So we are not retrofitting, but rather building in this new functionality and capacity into the very foundations of the city.”

Professor Jose Gelabert-Navia, leading an exploratory design studio course, also played a pivotal role in initiating this vision. His specialties in Latin American architecture as well as architectural history, world art, and globalization each aligned with the project’s overall niche.

“When the dean asked me to help lead the effort, I thought it was an extraordinary opportunity because this project has allowed us to introduce ourselves to the government of Guyana,” said Gelabert-Navia. “If all goes well, there is an opportunity for really developing long-term relationships and collaborating on more meaningful projects.”

The Guyana Innovation Group acted as the catalyst for this collaboration, with one of its members, Rodrigo Arboleda, on the Dean’s Advisory Committee of the School of Architecture. The partnership reflects the University’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of architectural exploration and fostering sustainable development on a global scale.

Guyana is also home to the fastest-growing economy globally according to the BBC, with over 11 billion barrels of oil being found within the region in the past decade. It has also gained the attention of many Fortune 500 companies with the development of another, smaller smart neighborhood, Innovation Village.

However, there are some concerns that pose obstacles ahead as Guyana continues to develop its newfound wealth. The country’s oil-rich neighbor, Venezuela, has begun initiatives attempting to exploit Essequibo, the Guyana region where its oil and gas mines are located.

The global trend to turn away from fossil fuels and achieve “net zero” greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, in accordance with the Paris Agreement, is also a concern for the Guyana government hoping to capitalize on this newly discovered resource.

But despite these concerns, UM and the government of Guyana are excited for what the development of Silica City means in terms of being one of the first hubs in the world to prioritize the industrialization of AI and sustainability, both of which are rapidly-advancing sectors in the global economy.

“What is interesting to us is, like a lot of the oil rich countries in the Middle East, they already have realized that eventually these fossil fuels are not exactly the best things,” said Gelabert-Navia.

“And the fact that they have the riches, but they also have the danger of actually doing more damage to the planet is an interesting line to walk. So they want to do this city as a model city, and that’s where we come in. There’s no equivalent to this anywhere else, and we have a unique opportunity to help them with this initial effort.”

According to el-Khoury, UM aspires to go beyond simple innovation, instead becoming a leading contributor to global advancements. By building a city designed for the future, the University positions itself at the forefront of urban development at a level usually reserved for other national governments.

Within the ambitious framework of Silica City, the School of Architecture has several ideas aimed at reshaping fundamental aspects of urban living, extending into housing, education and healthcare.

“Silica City allows us to rethink healthcare on a vast scale, optimizing the built environment for sustaining health and well-being,” el-Khoury said. “You can sense the swelling wave and it’s a pleasure to be part of it, especially given the attention of the government to issues of social and environmental justice. There is a great deal to be done during this period of growth, and it’s important that we do it right.”

As Silica City’s design process begins, the interdisciplinary team is being assembled, featuring students, faculty, research staff, and external consultants. Dean el-Khoury anticipates the involvement of various UM units, drawing on expertise from civil engineering to public health.

Professor Gelabert-Navia argues that as the dream of Silica City begins to materialize, it symbolizes not only architectural innovation, but a testament to the fusion of academia, sustainability and global cooperation.

“The unique opportunity we have is coming in as a mindful collaborator,” said Gelabert-Navia. “Because we’re an educational institution, we’re not there to make money off of them. We’re offering them what they want, which is ultimately a collaboration where they can move forward. I’m hoping it’s a win-win for everyone involved.”

“Land is Medicine”: How indigenous practices shape modern healing

Rachel Petrovich
-
0
“Land is Medicine”: How indigenous practices shape modern healing

Society continues to emerge at the end of various global health crises with improved approaches to medicine that have revolutionized our health and well-being. Yet, the Native American influence on the origins of modern medicine is often overlooked.

Indigenous culture traditionally holds a deep respect for nature, and the use of medicinal plants has a centuries-long history within many indigenous communities.

Dr. John C. Burnett, an associate professor of microbiology and immunology at the Miller School of Medicine and a citizen of the Muscogee Nation, discusses how deeply ingrained this natural approach to medicine is within indigenous roots like his own.

“In our tribe, medicines are considered sacred and should only be shared with fellow citizens — in some cases, exclusively with citizens from the same tribal towns or clans,” Burnett said. “I have a Muscogee friend who is a PhD ecologist, and she says, ‘Land is medicine.’ I think this is a common attitude of Native people, especially those who grew up on reservations or in rural areas.”

The natural world and its resources have been the foundation for various life-saving medical advancements. Medicinal plants, which contain natural therapeutic properties when properly harvested, have been used as remedies all over the planet.

According to Frontiers in Pharmacology, over 80% of people around the world rely on an aspect of medicinal plants within primary care, and roughly 40% of pharmaceutical drugs found in Western medicine derive from these plants.

For instance, salicin, most often found as salicylic-acid in face wash or Aspirins, is one of the most common ingredients used today that originates from a medicinal plant. Salicin has traditionally been extracted using the Native practice of chewing on willow bark for pain relief.

The development of baby formula, which serves as a replacement for breast milk for mothers, can be attributed to the Iroquois tribe. This ancient formula used the crushed natural ingredients of corn, water and nuts to feed infants.

Perhaps the most critical medical creation by Native Americans is the syringe, which was originally constructed with hollow bird bones and animal bladders for the injection of natural remedies.

Indigenous practices also place a large emphasis on achieving balance in life through a harmonious relationship between the body and mind. The belief that healing physically can be done by way of spiritual healing is a pioneering factor of mental health.

Various Native tribes around America take part in traditional healing ceremonies, which promote this sentiment and reinforce the unified approach of healing in a community setting.

Dr. Raymond I. Orr is a professor of political science at UM and the co-director of the Native American and Global Indigenous Studies Program (NAGIS). He is also a citizen of the Potawatomi Nation, and reflected upon the Native belief of community healing as opposed to isolation.

“A body of compelling research shows that meaningful and regular social ties are protective factors against many of our widespread maladies and early death,” Orr said. “These connections will likely generate a richer existence.”

Without actively searching for where modern medicine originated, Native assistance in Western medical development falls unseen.

“Native peoples are rarely acknowledged as contributing to our contemporary world,” Orr said.

The overshadowing of their ancestral contributions, paired with a systemic undervaluing of Native peoples within the U.S. healthcare system, reflects a failure to uphold the obligation that the federal government has for the Native American population and its descendants.

“This is called ‘the trust responsibility’ and goes back nearly two hundred years when Native lands were taken without equal compensation,” said Orr. “Health is a key part of this.”

A 2022 data release by the National Center for Health Diseases stated the life expectancy of American Indian and Alaska Native people is over 10 years shorter than the national average. Alcohol-induced deaths remain among the most frequent, and indigenous communities experienced the largest uptick in suicide rates from 1999 to 2017.

These rates can be attributed to a history of lost community ties and land as a result of European colonization, as prior to their forced removal from their land, alcohol was primarily used in a ceremonial and sacred context. Suicide rates have increased due to social detriments, such as pressure to assimilate and grow further from their heritage.

Accessible health clinics remain underfunded within Native communities as well, and they are often hard to find in proximity to reservations, pushing Native residents to move to urban areas in order to find support.

“It’s no surprise that physicians aren’t lining up to work on reservations, but there is also a failure to get tribal citizens into the healthcare workforce,” Burnett said. “The only way to reach Native communities is to improve the numbers of Native students in the biosciences and healthcare.”

Despite the COVID-19 pandemic having a disproportionate and heighented impact on Native communities, their sense of community allowed for a strong response to the virus.

“My parents were able to get the vaccine at a Muscogee Tribal clinic before they could have elsewhere in Oklahoma, simply because the tribes acted quickly and efficiently to distribute their inventories, while the same states, particularly with COVID-denying governors, dragged their feet,” said Burnett.

Barriers to health and medical resources – such as underfunding and scarce access to health clinics in tribal communities – prevent Native citizens from experiencing their ancestral contributions to modern medicine.

Recent pushes for improved care of Native Americans have been made, with national advocacy reflected in the Biden-Harris Administration’s efforts for better overall resources in these communities. Although there is still work to be done, these recent strides are paving the way for a more accessible future for Native communities to reclaim their place in the medical field.

Skin to Skin: Getting to know UM’s new dermatology club

Isabella Martinez
-
0
Skin to Skin: Getting to know UM’s new dermatology club

Despite the allure of year-long summers and poolside views, ‘Canes often overlook the harmful effects of the damaging rays they soak up. Even more concerning, late-night junk food and unremoved makeup after a long night out contribute to the skin damage that comes with a typical college lifestyle.

Yet Skin to Skin, one of the newest clubs at the University of Miami, focuses on creating a space for students to gain a deeper understanding of their skins’ needs.

Through speaker events and workshops, the organization focuses on educating its members on the importance of daily rituals and updated skin care practices, as well as educating the future generation of dermatologists on how to develop a successful career path.

Julia Sarama, the president of Skin to Skin, started the club as early as January of this year as a result of her own skin concerns as a college student.

“My journey with my skin has been one of the largest influences on the person I’ve become,” said Sarama. “Growing up I was really insecure, and now it’s what has given me purpose to create Skin to Skin.”

Sarama also emphasized the importance of bringing attention to skin care, especially living in Florida, where sun exposure is constant.

“Experiencing a year-round summer at the University of Miami is easily one of the most loved aspects of being a student here,” Sarama said. “And while every person experiences UV rays regardless of the season or their location on the map, living in Florida does put you at an increased risk for developing skin cancer. Florida’s low latitude contributes to us getting more UV radiation than the rest of the US, and therefore, without proper protection, it is easy to put yourself in harm’s way.”

Many students are known for focusing on aesthetics and beauty standards, whether online or in their daily habits, and tanning is a particularly important part of this culture.

However, according to the City of Hope Cancer Center, about one in five Americans will develop skin cancer in their lifetime. The increased melanin produced by the skin when tanning is often the body’s protective response to UVA radiation, and too much exposure to these UV rays put many at a greater risk of the deadly disease.

“From my understanding, there are two major reasons why skin cancer is an issue: lack of education and societal beauty standards,” Sarama said. “And some refuse to take it seriously because they feel more confident with a tan. I have felt the latter before and once I became more educated on the matter, I understood that serious health concerns outweighed any sort of aesthetic pressures I felt.”

In order to bring awareness to topics such as skin cancer prevention and overall skin health, local dermatologists are often invited by the new student organization to speak on these issues.

For instance, during a club meeting on Nov. 6, board-certified dermatologist Dr. Barry Resnik spoke with Skin to Skin members and debunked common skin care myths, specifically in regards to sunscreen, skin cancer and aging. Having completed his residency at UM and serving as the medical director for the Resnik Skin Institute in Aventura, Resnik also gave some general advice to prospective dermatology students as to how to proceed in their career.

“My dad was a dermatologist and I would go around and do his rounds with him. I learned how to take warts off of him in high school and I read lots of articles about dermatology. Dermatology is a wonderful profession, I get to deal with very sick people and I get to help people and make a difference. But, if you’re gonna be a physician you are gonna have to work for a really long time and have to work even more to get into residency, the idea of work-life balance isn’t realistic if you want to be a doctor,” said Resnik.

Skin to Skin also hopes to get the UM community at large more involved in the practice of protecting their skin. According to Sarama, one of the ways the new club hopes to promote better skin care practices among students is with their latest fundraiser to implement sunscreen dispensers on campus.

“On campus would be the place to start in order for more students to gain awareness of the daily exposure we face,” said Sarama. “It may not seem like you are affected now, but skin damage sneaks up on us and shows with time.”

With successful fundraising, this new program will target a major point for most dermatologists: reapplying sunscreen. Not only would the implementation of these dispensers put skin care at the forefront of most students’ minds, according to Sarama, but it would also begin to help students start thinking about how to better take care of their skin in additional ways.

Skin to Skin is especially dedicated to disproving other common myths and harmful stereotypes that sometimes come with certain skin concerns and practices. For instance, according to a study published in the National Library of Medicine, the lack of skin cancer education has disproportionately impacted many people of color, with the estimated five-year melanoma survival rate being 70% for Black patients and 94% for white patients.

“There is a misconception that exists that people of color are immune to skin cancer,” said Sarama. “Because of a lack of skin cancer education, more minorities die of skin cancer than white people as a result of the delays in detection. Stigma and lack of education kills people and it’s our responsibility to make sure people are aware of this.”

As seen with Skin to Skin’s mission, students like Sarama hope to go far beyond the superficial allure of skincare trends and aesthetically-pleasing products. It’s a dedicated pursuit of a greater cause—one that confronts harmful stigmas, educates others on cancer-preventing practices and prioritizes holistic skin health for the student community.

Poplar scores career-high 25 to lead Miami past La Salle

Chris Damond
-
0
Poplar scores career-high 25 to lead Miami past La Salle

Guard Wooga Poplar scored a career-high 25 points as No. 24 Miami stopped a late La Salle comeback for an 84-77 win on Saturday afternoon at the Watsco Center.

The Hurricanes went up 18 points in the second half and led for all but 23 seconds of the game, but the Explorers clawed their way back. With less than five minutes remaining, Miami’s lead had evaporated to four.

The ‘Canes relied on free throws, making 11 down the stretch, to secure the win. Poplar also hit a crucial three-pointer at the 6:27 mark after La Salle had cut it to six.

“[La Salle] got up by 18, and not only didn’t they put their heads down, they kept fighting and coming back … and then we showed some resilience,” Miami head coach Jim Larrañaga said. “And Wooga’s 3 was the dagger.”

Poplar, originally from Philadelphia, went 9 of 16 from the field against his hometown school, and forward Norchad Omier added 23 points. Guard Matthew Cleveland contributed a team-high nine rebounds. The ‘Canes shot 57.1% from the field as a whole and outrebounded the Explorers 39-25.

During the winter break game against La Salle, freshman Kyshawn George contests a shot by guard Khalil Brantley in the first half of the 84-77 win at the Watsco Center.
During the winter break game against La Salle, freshman Kyshawn George contests a shot by guard Khalil Brantley in the first half of the 84-77 win at the Watsco Center. Photo credit: Charisma Jones

But most importantly, Miami had only 10 turnovers.

“From a practical standpoint, we need to continue to build on this,” Larrañaga said. “Do a better job of rebounding, do a better job of taking care of the basketball and certainly do a better job defensively.”

Miami played a complete first half with only four turnovers, and the Hurricanes took an early double-digit lead as a result. Cleveland led the charge with tough fadeaway jumpers and exceptional rebounding. He had 10 points and six rebounds by halftime.

However, La Salle fought back and used two three-pointers in 39 seconds to cut the deficit to four.

Poplar responded with a spectacular transition alley-oop from Pack to jumpstart another offensive run, and Miami took a 45-33 lead into halftime thanks to just four turnovers and 57.6% shooting from the field.

That lead ballooned to 18 after Poplar’s layup at 16:57, but then the Hurricanes went cold. A three-minute scoring drought — part of a stretch where Miami made 2 of 12 shots — helped the Explorers storm back.

La Salle shot 55.2% after halftime, more than 15 percentage points better than the first half. Larrañaga attributed that to Miami’s inconsistent defense.

In the middle of the second half of the win against La Salle, junior Bensley Joseph keeps an eye on the court while being tightly defended during the 84–77 win.
In the middle of the second half of the win against La Salle, junior Bensley Joseph keeps an eye on the court while being tightly defended during the 84–77 win. Photo credit: Charisma Jones

“They started making 3’s,” Larrañaga said. “And when they do that, our defense gets extended and then they can drive. We had a period where they drove to the basket, and they scored and got fouled or just got fouled and went to the free throw line.”

The Explorers eventually cut the deficit to four with a 3-pointer, but a 6-0 Miami run ended any hopes of a comeback. Guard Khalil Brantley led La Salle with 23 points, and guard Daeshon Shepherd added 15.

Miami returns to the Watsco Center on Thursday, Dec. 21, at 8 p.m. against Stonehill, which has only one win on the season.

Miami lands first transfer portal addition in defensive lineman C.J. Clark

Luke Sims
-
0
Miami lands first transfer portal addition in defensive lineman C.J. Clark

Miami football received its first addition via the transfer portal on Friday night with defensive lineman C.J. Clark from North Carolina State. The redshirt junior will have one year of eligibility remaining with the ‘Canes.

Clark, a North Carolina native, recorded 42 career pressures and generated 7.5 tackles for loss and four sacks over the past two seasons for the Wolfpack. The 6-foot-3, 305-pounder is considered the No. 13 defensive lineman in the transfer portal, according to 247Sports. Clark is a former four-star, top-200 prospect.

A plug-and-play starter for defensive coordinator Lance Guidry and the ‘Canes defense, Clark will be incredibly useful on early downs and in obvious running situations. Clark will help to supplement the loss of Branson Deen and Leonard Taylor II on the interior for the ‘Canes.

Clark is another one of the trench players that head coach Mario Cristobal has made such a focal point of this recruiting cycle.

‘Canes disappoint in Brooklyn as they fall to Colorado

Luke Sims
-
0
‘Canes disappoint in Brooklyn as they fall to Colorado

When it rains, it pours for the Miami Hurricanes. But not in a good way.

After playing a tightly contested first half of basketball, the ‘Canes were outscored 53-27 in the second half to drop their second game of the season, 90-63, to the Colorado Buffaloes.

Miami was able to keep it close in the first, only trailing by one to Colorado at halftime. Junior guard Matthew Cleveland led the ‘Canes with 13 points in the first half, en route to leading the team with 17. Outside of Cleveland, no Miami starter played particularly well. Colorado held the rebounding advantage, 22-9, after the first half and was dominating in the paint on both ends of the floor.

A 10-3 scoring run at the end of the first provided some optimism heading into the second half for Miami, but that was quickly squashed by the Buffs. Colorado went on a 9-0 run to start the second frame and never looked back.

Colorado pushed the pace against Miami and forced 14 of Miami’s 20 turnovers in the second half. The Buffs were led by senior forward Tristan da Silva, who was one assist away from a triple-double with 22 points, 10 rebounds and nine assists. The veteran leader was aided by junior guard KJ Simpson, who added 20 points on 8-of-13 shooting.

Colorado was also without one of its leading scorers in freshman forward Cody Williams, which makes their win over a top-15 team more impressive. The Buffs had six players score in double figures and shot a stellar 59% from the field.

Miami, on the other hand, put forth a disappointing effort in almost every single statistical category. Norchad Omier fouled out in a game where Miami played a much bigger opponent. With just over seven minutes to play, Omier picked up his fifth foul and exited the game with 12 points and five rebounds.

The ‘Canes displayed many of the same things that plagued them in their loss to Kentucky. They failed to shoot the ball well when faced with perimeter pressure, as Wooga Poplar had another off night shooting the basketball. The team struggled with cuts and ball movement from its opponent, as Colorado capitalized on its open looks.

Miami also failed to punch back. When Colorado came out swinging after the second half started, Miami had no answer to the Buffs’ attack. Instead, just like in the game against Kentucky,

Miami returns home to play the La Salle Explorers at the Watsco Center next Saturday. The tip-off for this game is scheduled for noon. and will be cast on the CW network. This will provide the ‘Canes with a good chance to reset and fine-tune before ACC play gets underway in a few short weeks.

Frat Flu: The 0.1% of bacteria that Clorox can’t kill

V'S Take
-
0
Frat Flu: The 0.1% of bacteria that Clorox can’t kill

The frats on campus are known for many things, one of them being the germs inside. No, we’re not talking about the brothers (for once), but the place they live in. Taking a page from Sue Sylvester, they’ve created an environment so toxic that it created its own disease. The infamous frat flu.

The sickness has afflicted students all over since the dawn of frats. Nothing good happens at a frat house, and apparently that extends to a chemical level. It just seems that it’s a law of nature that if the letters are Greek, you’ll be sick for a week.

The mere air in a frat house is laced with so many scents it is nauseating. The cloud of AXE body spray and every possible vape flavor creates an atmosphere unlivable to man, and especially to women. Mixed with the humidity of Florida weather, it is a breeding ground of sickness. It doesn’t help that each pledge class brings in their own new strain of bacteria, adding to the already chaotic microbiome.

Whether it was from a tailgate, tent party or after you “just went over to study” there is no escape. The virus thrives on a potent cocktail of crappy beer, half-eaten pizza and Zynns. It seems just breathing in a frat’s air exposes you to the disease.

Everyone’s experience with frat flu is a little different, but it always starts the same, with nausea. Oh nausea, the most confusing symptom a woman can feel. Is it morning sickness? A sign of the time of the month? Or was it what you drank from a pong cup shared with 150 other people?

The confusion gives the frat flu time to spread, and before you know it, your immune system is overcome by foreign bacteria.

Its basic symptoms are as follows: chills that make you shiver even in the Miami heat, a nose running like a leaky faucet and a cough that sounds like a chainsmokers’.

It’s not a “two days of rest” ordeal. You get it and you’re out for a week – minimum. (If only the brothers were that committed). Soup and a sweet treat can minimize the struggle, but at the end of the day you have to let it run its course.

The thing about the frat flu is that it cannot be cured while on campus. It is not until you crawl home at the end of the semester that you will feel any relief.

Snuggle up in bed, play some Tinder and rewatch the same show you’ve cycled through since high-school. Let’s be honest, you weren’t going to those classes anyway.

Center Matt Lee declares for 2024 NFL Draft

Chris Damond
-
0
Center Matt Lee declares for 2024 NFL Draft

Center Matt Lee, the five-year college football veteran who made his mark in only one year at Miami, declared for the 2024 NFL Draft on Saturday afternoon.

“Thank you University of Miami and UCF for an awesome five years,” Lee said on X, formerly known as Twitter. “I am declaring for the 2024 NFL Draft. #GoCanes #ChargeOn.”

Lee, originally from Oviedo, Florida, spent his first four seasons at the University of Central Florida, where he was a three-year starter after redshirting his freshman year in 2019. His last season with the Knights, Lee was rated the third-highest center nationally by Pro Football Focus.

Lee started every game for the Hurricanes in 2023 and was part of an offensive line that allowed just 14 sacks on the year — the best mark in the ACC and tied for 14th best in the NCAA. Lee also paved the way for Miami’s rushing attack, which eclipsed 200 yards five times in 2023, including a season-high 323 rushing yards against Temple.

But Lee’s lone season in Coral Gables didn’t come without disappointment. The ‘Canes offense struggled mightily at times during their 7-5 campaign, scoring a season-low six points against NC State.

Still, Lee earned an 89.1 pass-blocking grade in 2023, fourth-best among centers, and a 70.3 run-blocking rate according to PFF. He’s only allowed one sack the past three seasons.

Lee is the fourth Hurricane to declare for the 2024 NFL Draft — where he’s ranked the fifth-best available center according to ESPN’s Mel Kiper Jr. — joining teammates James Williams, Leonard Taylor and Javion Cohen. Additionally, eight Hurricanes have entered the transfer portal so far, including starting quarterback Tyler Van Dyke and wide receiver Colbie Young.

Miami ends its season against Rutgers in the 2023 Bad Boy Mowers Pinstripe Bowl on Thursday, Dec. 28, at 2:15 p.m. on ESPN.

Gallery: USWNT vs China PR

Jared Lennon
-
0
Gallery: USWNT vs China PR

The U.S. Women’s National Team bested China Pr 3-0 in their Dec. 2 friendly match at DRV PNK Stadium. Here’s a look back at the action:

A fan holds up a sign in support of US forward Trinity Rodman ahead of the USWNT match versus China PR at DRV PNK Stadium on Dec. 2, 2023.
A fan holds up a sign in support of US forward Trinity Rodman ahead of the USWNT match versus China PR at DRV PNK Stadium on Dec. 2, 2023.
Players and mascots stand for the national anthem ahead of the USWNT match versus China PR at DRV PNK Stadium on Dec. 2, 2023.
Players and mascots stand for the national anthem ahead of the USWNT match versus China PR at DRV PNK Stadium on Dec. 2, 2023.
Players and mascots stand for the national anthem ahead of the USWNT match versus China PR at DRV PNK Stadium on Dec. 2, 2023.
Players and mascots stand for the national anthem ahead of the USWNT match versus China PR at DRV PNK Stadium on Dec. 2, 2023.
A father and son show their support for China ahead of the USWNT match versus China PR at DRV PNK Stadium on Dec. 2, 2023.
A father and son show their support for China ahead of the USWNT match versus China PR at DRV PNK Stadium on Dec. 2, 2023.
Midfielder Lindsey Horan fights for possession in the first half of the USWNT match versus China PR at DRV PNK Stadium on Dec. 2, 2023.
Midfielder Lindsey Horan fights for possession in the first half of the USWNT match versus China PR at DRV PNK Stadium on Dec. 2, 2023.
Defender Wang Siqian in the first half of the USWNT match versus China PR at DRV PNK Stadium on Dec. 2, 2023.
Defender Wang Siqian in the first half of the USWNT match versus China PR at DRV PNK Stadium on Dec. 2, 2023. Photo credit: Jared Lennon
Midfielder Lindsey Horan is fouled in the first half of the USWNT match versus China PR at DRV PNK Stadium on Dec. 2, 2023.
Midfielder Lindsey Horan is fouled in the first half of the USWNT match versus China PR at DRV PNK Stadium on Dec. 2, 2023.
Defender Abby Dahlkemper dribbles downfield in the first half of the USWNT match versus China PR at DRV PNK Stadium on Dec. 2, 2023.
Defender Abby Dahlkemper dribbles downfield in the first half of the USWNT match versus China PR at DRV PNK Stadium on Dec. 2, 2023.
Fans cheer in the first half of the USWNT match versus China PR at DRV PNK Stadium on Dec. 2, 2023.
Fans cheer in the first half of the USWNT match versus China PR at DRV PNK Stadium on Dec. 2, 2023. Photo credit: Jared Lennon
Defenders Wang Siqian and Don Jiaxing discuss strategy in the first half of the USWNT match versus China PR at DRV PNK Stadium on Dec. 2, 2023.
Defenders Wang Siqian and Don Jiaxing discuss strategy in the first half of the USWNT match versus China PR at DRV PNK Stadium on Dec. 2, 2023. Photo credit: Jared Lennon
Defender Abby Dahlkemper passes in the first half of the USWNT match versus China PR at DRV PNK Stadium on Dec. 2, 2023.
Defender Abby Dahlkemper passes in the first half of the USWNT match versus China PR at DRV PNK Stadium on Dec. 2, 2023. Photo credit: Jared Lennon
Forward Rose LaVelle dribbles towards goal in the first half of the USWNT match versus China PR at DRV PNK Stadium on Dec. 2, 2023.
Forward Rose LaVelle dribbles towards goal in the first half of the USWNT match versus China PR at DRV PNK Stadium on Dec. 2, 2023.
Forward Trinity Rodman goes for a header in the second half of the USWNT match versus China PR at DRV PNK Stadium on Dec. 2, 2023.
Forward Trinity Rodman goes for a header in the second half of the USWNT match versus China PR at DRV PNK Stadium on Dec. 2, 2023.
Forward Midge Purce evades defenders in the second half of the USWNT match versus China PR at DRV PNK Stadium on Dec. 2, 2023.
Forward Midge Purce evades defenders in the second half of the USWNT match versus China PR at DRV PNK Stadium on Dec. 2, 2023. Photo credit: Jared Lennon
Fans watch the second half action of the USWNT match versus China PR at DRV PNK Stadium on Dec. 2, 2023.
Fans watch the second half action of the USWNT match versus China PR at DRV PNK Stadium on Dec. 2, 2023. Photo credit: Jared Lennon
Midfielder Yan Jinjin races towards the ball in the second half of the USWNT match versus China PR at DRV PNK Stadium on Dec. 2, 2023.
Midfielder Yan Jinjin races towards the ball in the second half of the USWNT match versus China PR at DRV PNK Stadium on Dec. 2, 2023.
Fans show their support after the USWNT match versus China PR at DRV PNK Stadium on Dec. 2, 2023.
Fans show their support after the USWNT match versus China PR at DRV PNK Stadium on Dec. 2, 2023.
Forward Midge Purce lifts midfielder Jenna Nighswonger in celebration of her first appearance after the USWNT’s 3-0 win over China PR at DRV PNK Stadium on Dec. 2, 2023.
Forward Midge Purce lifts midfielder Jenna Nighswonger in celebration of her first appearance after the USWNT’s 3-0 win over China PR at DRV PNK Stadium on Dec. 2, 2023. Photo credit: Jared Lennon

Miami standout receiver Colbie Young enters transfer portal

Luke Sims
-
0
Miami standout receiver Colbie Young enters transfer portal

The Miami Hurricanes received some unexpected news Saturday afternoon as wide receiver Colbie Young announced he is entering his name into the transfer portal. Young was originally a JUCO transfer from Lackawanna College and played two seasons for the Hurricanes. Young will have one year of eligibility remaining in his college football career.

During his time in Miami, Young collected 79 catches for 930 yards and ten touchdowns in 22 games. This past season, he was the team’s third-leading receiver behind Xavier Restrepo and Jacolby George. Young was the team’s primary jump-ball receiver, often using his 6’5″, 215-pound frame to beat defenders.

The New York native saw his receptions go to George and Restrepo more and more as the season ran its course. The ‘Canes also have a trio of highly regarded receivers in the 2024 recruiting class, such as JoJo Trader, Chance Robinson, and Ny Carr, who will look to get reps as freshmen.

Young will not play in the Pinstripe Bowl versus Rutgers, and the ‘Canes will involve Brashard Smith and Ray Ray Joseph more as receivers for the season’s final game. The decisions on whether or not George and Restrepo will go to the NFL are still up in the air.

Young’s contributions will be missed by the Miami offensive coordinator Shannon Dawson and the rest of the offense. However, Miami still has the depth to absorb the loss of Young. While his play style is not easily matched, his spot on the team was slipping, and he’ll have more opportunities to play elsewhere.

1...205206207...2,127Page 206 of 2,127