Assayer of Student Opinion.

The Prospector

Assayer of Student Opinion.

The Prospector

Assayer of Student Opinion.

The Prospector

Emmanuel Rivas Valenzuela

Emmanuel Rivas Valenzuela, Contributor/Writer

Emmanuel Rivas Valenzuela is a contributor for The Prospector. He is a senior majoring in multimedia journalism with minors in political science and Chicano studies. Emmanuel served as sports editor at The Prospector and as a writer with Minero Magazine. Now, Emmanuel is interning at El Paso Matters and is a contributor at The Prospector.

All content by Emmanuel Rivas Valenzuela
The UTEP tennis team is now 4-12 on the season and 0-3 in C-USA play.

UTEP Tennis serves 7-0 loss to junior college, falls to C-USA rival

Emmanuel Rivas Valenzuela, Contrbutor/Writer April 4, 2024

The UTEP women’s tennis team hosted two teams Easter weekend in hopes of bouncing back from a series of losses. The team is currently 4-12 and winless in conference play following the Friday and Saturday matchups at the El Paso Tennis Club.  Friday’s...

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UTEP football will kick off the Scotty Walden era and its season on the road, Aug. 31, against Nebraska. They will play their first of five home games the following week, Sept. 7, against Southern Utah. Photo courtesy of UTEP Athletics.

‘Focus on the now’ UTEP football coach Scotty Walden on upcoming season

Emmanuel Rivas Valenzuela, Contributor/Writer March 13, 2024

A brand-new staff, a historic recruiting class and new blood at the helm faces the new era of UTEP football. To open the offseason, new Head Coach Scotty Walden had a simple message for his team.  “Don’t forget, what’s in the past is in the...

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Senior forward Jane Asinde soars for a layup.

[Photo] UTEP women’s basketball falls short to Liberty University in last home game of the season

H. Catching Marginot, Contributor/Writer March 5, 2024

Senior forward Jane Asinde soars for a layup.

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UTEP men’s basketball goes winless during their two-game road stretch against WKU and Middle Tennessee.

UTEP men’s basketball drops ninth-straight road loss

Emmanuel Rivas Valenzuela, Contributor February 22, 2024

After a dominating home win versus I-10 rival New Mexico State (11-15, 5-6 C-USA), the UTEP men’s basketball team (13-13, 4-7 C-USA) hit the road for two games against the Western Kentucky University Hilltoppers (WKU) (19-7, C-USA) and the Middle Tennessee...

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UTEP falls to NMSU at the Pan Am Center on Feb. 10.

Women’s basketball loses third straight game at the hands of I-10 rivals

Emmanuel Rivas Valenzuela, Contributor February 14, 2024

The UTEP women’s basketball team (8-14, C-USA 3-6) faced its third straight loss to I-10 rival New Mexico State University Aggies (NMSU) (10-12, C-USA 4-5).   After losses to Jax State (8-12, C-USA 3-4) and Liberty University (8-13, C-USA 3-5) on...

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Junior guard Corey Camper attempts a shot against JAX State junior forward Caleb Johnson.

UTEP men’s basketball beats out Jax State Gamecocks in first-ever meeting

Emmanuel Rivas Valenzuela, Contributor February 7, 2024

Editor’s Note: This recap is not the most recent game for the UTEP Miners Men’s Basketball.  The UTEP men’s basketball team (12-10, C-USA 3-4) finally returned to the Sun City after two straight back-to-back road losses versus Conference USA...

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Junior guard Delma Zita calls out a play while being guarded by Sam Houston senior guard Shanti Henry, Jan. 27 at the Don Haskins Center.

Women’s basketball edges out Bearkats in final minutes

Emmanuel Rivas Valenzuela, Contributor January 31, 2024

After only winning two of the team’s last five matchups, the UTEP women’s basketball team (8-3, C-USA 3-3) fought for a hard-earned win over the C-USA newcomer Sam Houston University (5-13, C-USA 0-6) during “Noche Latina”.  The Sam Houston...

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UTEP will welcome its newest coach Wednesday, Dec. 6 at 2 p.m. at the Larry K. Durham Center Hall of Champions. Photo credit by Austin Peay Athletics

UTEP football hires young coach in Scotty Walden

Emmanuel Rivas Valenzuela, Sports Editor December 4, 2023

Following the firing of former head football coach Dana Dimel Sunday Nov. 26, UTEP football has found its new head coach. After a week-long effort to find a new coach, UTEP has hired Austin Peay Governors head coach Scotty Walden. Walden, along...

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Guard Tae Hardy attempts to dribble around the defender during a game against Texas A&M-CC on Nov. 29.

Texas A&M Islanders leave UTEP basketball stranded in Tuesday night loss

Emmanuel Rivas Valenzuela, Sports Editor December 1, 2023

The UTEP men’s basketball team (5-3) returned to the Don Haskins Tuesday, Nov. 28 to take on the Texas A&M University at Corpus Christi Islanders (3-4).  The Miners are coming off two straight losses, one to the Bradley Braves (6-1) at the SoCal...

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The Miners finished its regular season with 21 wins and a winning percentage of .700, the second highest percentage in the Ben Wallis era.

UTEP volleyball receives coveted NIVC postseason invitation

Emmanuel Rivas Valenzuela, Sports Editor November 28, 2023

After falling in the second round of the Conference USA Tournament, the UTEP Volleyball team has found life in another postseason tournament after receiving an invitation to play in the National Invitational Volleyball Championship (NIVC).  The Miners...

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Head Coach Dana Dimel, speaks to the team after the conclusion of the game against FIU Nov. 19.

UTEP football parts ways with Dana Dimel after six seasons with the Miners

Emmanuel Rivas Valenzuela, Sports Editor November 26, 2023

The UTEP Miners football team (3-9, C-USA 2-6) closed its disappointing season, led by Head Coach Dana Dimel, with a final loss to No. 22 ranked and undefeated Liberty University (12-0, C-USA 8-0) Saturday afternoon.  The next day, UTEP Athletics decided...

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[Video] Homecoming queen of the court

Itzel Giron, Editor-In-Chief November 9, 2023

As homecoming week ended Sunday, Nov. 5, there is one person who, although was not labelled as “Homecoming Queen”, surely wears the title.  UTEP Women’s Basketball Had Coach Keitha Adams, returned “home” to hopefully take the Miners to another...

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Guard Veonce Powell dribbles past Western New Mexico Nov. 6.

Keitha Adams led Miners to dominate season opener victory over WNMU Mustangs

Emmanuel Rivas Valenzuela, Sports Editor November 7, 2023

The UTEP women’s basketball team returned to the Don Haskins Center for its first regular season game of the season.   After a dominate exhibition win over New Mexico Highlands University Saturday, Oct. 28, the Miners hope to extend the team’s...

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The Miners would go onto win their first game ever in Florida, 27-14, Wednesday, Oct. 11 against Florida International. Photo courtesy UTEP Athletics.

Strong start grants Miners football much needed ‘electric’ win against FIU Panthers

Emmanuel Rivas Valenzuela, Sports Editor October 13, 2023

After a lackluster start to the season, UTEP football team (2-5, 1-2 C-USA) found a key win against Conference USA (C-USA) opponent the Florida International (FIU) Panthers (3-4, C-USA 0-4) on the road Wednesday, Oct.11.  Coming off a gut-wrenching...

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The UTEP Marching Miners are lead on the field by this year’s Drum Majors Ramsey Perez (left), Cassandra Gil (center) and Alexa Andrade Fuentes (right).

Behind the beat of the Marching Miners’ success

Emmanuel Rivas Valenzuela, Sports Editor October 12, 2023

Although people come to the Sun Bowl on game days to watch the UTEP football team, it can be difficult to imagine the football experience without the spectacle put on by the Marching Miners.   The UTEP Marching Miners have become a staple, performing...

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Charlie Admas attempts a free kick from outside the box to try and break open the score.

‘Fatigued’ Locomotive play leads to underwhelming draw versus San Diego Loyal SC

Emmanuel Rivas Valenzuela, Sports Editor October 7, 2023

The El Paso Locomotive FC (12-712) said goodbye to Southwest University Park Wednesday night as the team's regular season stint ended in El Paso.   In an uneventful game versus the San Diego Loyal SC (14-8-9), the Locos managed to keep the Loyal...

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[Video] Pressure mounts on Dana Dimel as UTEP football drops fourth straight game to LA Tech

Emmanuel Rivas Valenzuela, Sports Editor October 1, 2023

The UTEP Miners football team (1-5, C-USA 0-2) returned to the Sun Bowl to resume conference play versus the Louisiana Tech Bulldogs (LA TECH) (3-3, C-USA 2-0).   With losses against Northwestern, Arizona and UNLV, the Miners were desperate for a...

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Volleyball head coach Ben Wallis is entering his fifth season after leaving his position at New Mexico State. Photo courtesy UTEP Athletics

Transforming UTEP volleyball with passion and precision under Ben Wallis

Emmanuel Rivas Valenzuela, Sports Editor September 28, 2023

It was not too long ago when UTEP volleyball was a struggling program. From 2000 to 2019, UTEP only saw three seasons (2005, 2012 and 2013) with a winning percentage at or above .500 in conference play. This includes the Miners’ time with the Western...

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[Video] UTEP volleyball faces first loss at Borderland Invitational Tournament

Emmanuel Rivas Valenzuela, Sports Editor September 7, 2023

The UTEP volleyball team (4-1) finally made its way back to the Memorial Gym this past weekend for the annual Borderland Invitational Tournament, which ran from Thursday, Aug. 31 to Saturday, Sept 2.  The event hosted the Miners, the University of...

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The Locomotive’s hope to carry its momentum back to El Paso Saturday, Sept. 2 to face off against Monterey Bay FC at Southwest University Park. Photo courtesy of the Prospector archive

‘We need the best from everyone.’ Navarro, others optimistic despite El Paso Locomotive slump

Emmanuel Rivas Valenzuela, Sports Editor September 1, 2023

The beginning of the summer presented many promises for the El Paso Locomotive FC (9-10-5). Now the team has grinded to a screeching halt having not won a game since June 14.    The Locos consistently graced the top of the USL Championship rankings,...

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Freshman beach volleyball player, Sophia Sheppard (pictured in the blue UTEP shirt) poses for a photo with her family before moving into Miner Village.

UTEP housing welcomes a variety of students

Emmanuel Rivas Valenzuela, Sports Editor August 31, 2023

This past weekend, UTEP Housing and Residence welcomed students from across the world into its three housing complexes. This includes Miner Village, Miner Canyon and Miner Heights.   One of those students was Sophia Sheppard, an incoming freshman...

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UTEP now heads back to the Sun Bowl to the team’s home opener against the University of Incarnate Word Cardinals at 7 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 2. Photo courtesy of UTEP Athletics

UTEP football faulters on the road versus C-USA newcomer Jax State

Emmanuel Rivas Valenzuela, Sports Editor August 29, 2023

The much anticipated 2023-2024 football season is under way for the UTEP Miners (0-1, C-USA 0-1). Unfortunately, the team started on the wrong foot.   The Miners were favored traveling into Jacksonville, Alabama to play the Jacksonville State Gamecocks...

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My adventures with Superman review

Emmanuel Rivas Valenzuela, Contributor/Reporter July 14, 2023

As power continues to shift at Warner Bros. and DC, Adult Swim is in the midst of releasing a brand-new animated take on a classic character. “My Adventures with Superman” was released earlier this month to critical acclaim. In this video, Emmanuel...

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The Locomotive’s hope to carry its momentum back to El Paso Saturday, Sept. 2 to face off against Monterey Bay FC at Southwest University Park. Photo courtesy of the Prospector archive

New Mexico United derails El Paso Locomotive FC’s historic undefeated streak

Emmanuel Rivas Valenzuela, Contributor/Reporter July 5, 2023

After starting the season with three losses, the El Paso Locomotive FC (9-4-3) managed to turn its season around with a 12-game unbeaten streak, a franchise record. That record ended this weekend with a 0-1 loss to “Derby del Camino Real” rival New...

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Senior golfer Andrea Ostos juggles being an athlete, a student and occasionally running her small home bakery. Photo courtesy of UTEP Athletics

Andrea Ostos’ ‘fairway’ to international success

Emmanuel Rivas Valenzuela, Sports Editor May 8, 2023

Editor’s note: This is the final part of a three-part series featuring student-athletes from the Mexican State of Chihuahua.  Between playing golf, attending classes at UTEP and occasionally running her own small home bakery, senior golfer Andrea...

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Despite the language barrier, Ovalle has spent time as a kid in El Paso and loves the city and culture.

[Photo] Paving her path in the sand: Marian Ovalle

Emmanuel Rivas Valenzuela, Sports Editor April 21, 2023

UTEP beach volleyball player Marian Ovalle has seen quite a bit, thanks to her involvement in volleyball.

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Senter gives Adams a novelty UTEP Miners basketball jersey in commemoration of Adams’ return.

UTEP welcomes back head coach Keitha Adams

Emmanuel Rivas Valenzuela, Sports Editor April 18, 2023

Shortly after the departure of former women’s basketball Coach Kevin Baker, UTEP found its leader in former Head Coach Keitha Adams. Adams served as coach for the women’s basketball team from 2001 to 2017. UTEP Athletics commemorated Adams’ return...

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UTEP Athletics welcomed head coach Keitha Adams Wednesday, April, 12 at the brand-new Gordon Family Courtside Club located in the Don Haskins Center.

[Photo] Keitha Adams rehired as UTEP women’s basketball head coach

Katrina Villarreal, Multimedia Editor April 12, 2023

UTEP Athletics welcomed head coach Keitha Adams Wednesday, April, 12 at the brand-new Gordon Family Courtside Club located in the Don Haskins Center.

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What to expect when living on campus

What to expect when living on campus

Emmanuel Rivas Valenzuela, Sports Editor April 8, 2023

College offers students many new experiences. One of those experiences includes living on your own. Some students choose to live in a rented apartment in the city while others may not be quite ready to make that commitment. Living on campus is a great...

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The UTEP Dance team placed first at the National Dance Association (NDA) D1-A Spirit Rally National Championship Friday, April 7. Photo courtesy of UTEP Dance Team.

UTEP Dance ranks supreme

Emmanuel Rivas Valenzuela, Sports Editor April 7, 2023

The UTEP Dance team placed first at the National Dance Alliance (NDA) D1-A Spirit Rally National Championship Friday, April 7, 2023.  The team, who performs across various campus and athletic events, headed to Daytona, Florida. The team competed...

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[Video] A story of two cities: UTEP’s Kenneth Talavera

Emmanuel Rivas Valenzuela, Sports Editor April 7, 2023

Editor’s note: This article is a part a three-part series featuring student-athletes from the Mexican State of Chihuahua.  Kenneth Talavera is known to some across UTEP as a star track and cross-country athlete. The junior has earned All-Conference...

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What does TEA’s takeover of HISD mean for students?

What does TEA’s takeover of HISD mean for students?

Emmanuel Rivas Valenzuela, Sports Editor April 6, 2023

In early March, the Texas Education Agency (TEA) announced the state would take over the state’s largest low-income school district, the Houston Independent School District (HISD), which was justified by state officials due to low state accountability...

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The letterman has stood the test of time signifying the hard work from student-athletes.

[Photo] Lettermans last the test of time

Nicholas Maes, Contributor April 6, 2023

The letterman has stood the test of time signifying the hard work from student-athletes.

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The San Diego State Aztecs and the University of Connecticut Huskies are set to face off tonight at 6:20 p.m. in Houston, Texas. Photo courtesy of Wikipedia Commons

UConn takes home its fifth NCAA Championship

Emmanuel Rivas Valenzuela, Sports Editor April 4, 2023

In a lopsided affair, the game favorite University of Connecticut Huskies (UConn) (31-8, Mountain West 15-3) defeated the San Diego State Aztecs (32-7, Big East 13-7) 76-59 in the 2023 NCAA National Championship Monday, April 3 at NRG Stadium in Houston,...

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The San Diego State Aztecs and the University of Connecticut Huskies are set to face off tonight at 6:20 p.m. in Houston, Texas. Photo courtesy of Wikipedia Commons

What to expect from the 2023 NCAA Basketball Tournament Finals

Emmanuel Rivas Valenzuela, Sports Editor April 3, 2023

After weeks of shocking upsets and record-breaking games, two teams are left standing in this year’s March Madness Tournament. The San Diego State Aztecs (36-6, Mountain West 15-3) and the University of Connecticut Huskies (30-8, Big East 13-7) are...

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UTEP’s home opener will see a matchup between the University of Incarnate Word Cardinals Saturday, Sept. 2 at the Sun Bowl. Prospector Archive

Football team in hopes for a better season

Emmanuel Rivas Valenzuela, Sports Editor March 29, 2023

After a season that came to a heartbreaking end, the UTEP Miners are looking forward to a brand-new season with a fresh roster and new conference opponents.  Hoping to start the season strong, Head Coach Dana Dimel has hyped up the team’s spring efforts...

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The Don Haskins Stadium filled with empty seats at a women’s game during the 2022-23 season.

Women in sports continue to be overlooked

Emmanuel Rivas Valenzuela, Sports Editor March 25, 2023

In June 1972, the U.S. Congress passed the massive gender equality law Title IX, which states that, “No person in the United States shall, on the basis of sex, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination...

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Infielder Pate Cathey attempts to throw the ball towards first base during a game against WKU.

Softball drops two to Western Kentucky

Emmanuel Rivas Valenzuela, Sports Editor March 22, 2023

After closing out its three-game series with a win over the University of Texas at San Antonio (6-22, C-USA 2-4), the Miners softball team (10-16, C-USA 2-4) opened at-home conference play versus Western Kentucky University (WKU) (17-9, C-USA 2-1) Friday,...

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Photo courtesy of UTEP Athletics.

UTEP basketball legend passes at age 81

Emmanuel Rivas Valenzuela, Sports Editor March 22, 2023

Willie Cager, a team member of the 1966 NCAA Championship team, died at the age of 81.   The news broke in the late afternoon Sunday Mar. 19 after an announcement from Cager’s family.  “My dad always stayed positive in his life,” said...

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Texas State Troopers were found under the Paso del Norte Bridge awaiting orders to mobilize.

Confusion and anger engulf El Paso border bridge

Emmanuel Rivas Valenzuela, Sports Editor March 13, 2023

The story at our border added a new chapter Sunday, Mar. 12, as migrants stormed the Paso del Norte International Crossing to cross into the U.S. after months of waiting in Ciudad Juárez, Mexico.  Hundreds of migrants overwhelmed the Mexican National...

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With many sports such as NBA and NFL games being exclusively streamed on select platforms such as Amazon, Apple, and ESPN+, watching games has become more difficult and expensive for viewers. Photo courtesy of D.Reichardt/Openverse

Are sport leagues waging war on fans?

Emmanuel Rivas Valenzuela, Sports Editor March 8, 2023

There was a day, not too long ago, when fans could enjoy major sporting events like the Superbowl, the World Series and the National Basketball Association (NBA) Finals without issues. Those sporting events are now readily available as they are broadcast...

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On Friday, Feb. 10, New Mexico State University basketball announced the cease of basketball operations for the remainder of the 2022-23 season due to hazing allegations against the team. Photo courtesy of Defense Visual Information Distribution Service

NMSU basketball program is a warning sign

Emmanuel Rivas Valenzuela, Sports Editor March 8, 2023

It was announced Friday, Feb. 10,  the New Mexico State University (NMSU) basketball team would cease basketball operations for the remainder of the 2022-2023 season. The school’s chancellor Dan Arvizu, who has headed the university since 2018, wrote...

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Building my path to citizenship

Building my path to citizenship

Emmanuel Rivas Valenzuela, Sports Editor March 3, 2023

Earlier this year, I earned the great honor bestowed upon me by our democracy: citizenship. After a long and expensive journey, I finally became a naturalized citizen of the United States.  My journey began back in 2006 when my stepfather convinced...

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Diego Cocca was selected by the Mexican Soccer Federation to manage the Mexican National Soccer Team. Photo courtesy of Wikipedia Commons

Mexico hires its new Manager

Emmanuel Rivas Valenzuela, Sports Editor March 3, 2023

It was announced earlier this month that Argentinian, Diego Cocca, was selected by the Mexican Soccer Federation to manage the Mexican National Soccer Team. This is following the departure of Gerardo “El Tata” Martino after a disappointing World Cup...

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[Video] Softball closes UTEP Invitational with loss to No. 4 Oklahoma State

Emmanuel Rivas Valenzuela, Sports Editor March 1, 2023

Following a frustrating end to the Dr. Diana Natalicio Tournament over a week ago, the UTEP softball team found some success at the UTEP Invitational Tournament. UTEP hosted the Cal State-Bakersfield Roadrunners (3-12), University of Missouri at Kansas...

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UTEP hosted their 15th annual cheer championship on Sunday, Feb. 19.

UTEP Spirit hosts local cheer championship

Emmanuel Rivas Valenzuela, Sports Editor February 21, 2023

UTEP Cheerleading hosted dozens of cheer squads from all over El Paso to compete in the fifteenth annual UTEP Cheerleading Championship Sunday Feb. 19 at the Don Haskins Center. The event was managed by Director of Spirit Operations Head Cheerleading...

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UTEP Miners hosted the Buffalo University Bulls, New Mexico University Lobos, Santa Clara University Broncos and Texas Tech University Red Raiders Thursday Feb. 16 through 19. This tournament was dedicated to former UTEP President Diana Natalicio, Ph.D.

Women’s softball strikes out

Emmanuel Rivas Valenzuela, Sports Editor February 21, 2023

The UTEP Miners hosted the Buffalo University Bulls, New Mexico University Lobos, Santa Clara University Broncos and Texas Tech University Red Raiders for the first ever Dr. Diana Natalicio Memorial Tournament Thursday Feb. 16 through Sunday Feb. 19.  The...

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Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott might be in the hotseat soon despite being one of the highest paid players in his position due to his inconsistent play. Photo courtesy of All-Pro Reels

Riding the 2023 NFL quarterback carousel

Emmanuel Rivas Valenzuela, Sports Editor February 17, 2023

The 2022-2023 NFL season was one full of ups and downs for fans across the league. The record-breaking season culminated in a historic Super Bowl where two Black quarterbacks faced off for the first time since the NFL’s inception.   Not all quarterbacks...

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[Video] Rifle falls to TCU in spring opener

Emmanuel Rivas Valenzuela, Sports Editor January 31, 2023

The University of Texas at El Paso women’s rifle hosted No. 1 Texas Christian University (TCU) early Saturday morning Jan. 28 at the University of Texas at El Paso Rifle Range located in the Military Science Building.  To end the fall stretch, UTEP...

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Photo courtesy of UTEP Athletics

Track and field continue strong start at MLK meet

Emmanuel Rivas Valenzuela, Sports Editor January 25, 2023

The UTEP Men’s and Women’s track and field team had a stellar showing at the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Collegiate Invitational in Albuquerque, New Mexico. There, several athletes managed to outperform not just other competitors but also their personal...

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Former United States Attorney for the District of Maryland, Robert K. Hur, has been appointed to investigate missing documents from then missing Vice President Joe Biden’s office. Photo courtesy of Gage Skidmore/Flickr

The truth behind ‘File-gate’

Emmanuel Rivas Valenzuela, Sports Editor January 24, 2023

It was revealed Thursday Jan. 12 that United States Attorney General Merrick Garland appointed Former United States Attorney for the District of Maryland Robert K. Hur as special counsel to investigate a discrepancy at the National Archives regarding...

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Guard Jazion Jackson plays offense against Tamia Davis from Charlotte.

Miners ‘pick’ up victory against Charlotte 49ers

Emmanuel Rivas Valenzuela, Sports Editor January 17, 2023

The UTEP Miners women’s basketball team (12-4, C-USA 5-2) faced the University of North Carolina at Charlotte 49ers (7-9, C-USA 3-4) Monday, Jan. 16 at the Don Haskins Center.   The Miners entered this game second in Conference USA (C-USA) standing...

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The Atlanta Hawks are one of four teams in contention for the Eastern Conference in the playoffs. Photo courtesy of Keith Allison/Wikipedia Commons

NBA season check-up: playoffs, leaders and the MVP race

Emmanuel Rivas Valenzuela, Sports Editor January 16, 2023

With the 2022-2023 NBA regular season reaching its midpoint, the postseason picture becomes clearer with every game. It is now time to answer difficult questions like “what teams are busts,” “which players are dominating on the court” and “who...

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Calvin Solomon plays offense against UTSA player.

Men’s basketball mounts a historic comeback

Emmanuel Rivas Valenzuela, Sports Editor January 13, 2023

After losing four straight games, the UTEP men’s basketball team (9-7, C-USA 2-3) finally managed a comeback win over Conference USA (C-USA) opponent the University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA) (7-10, C-USA 1-5). The Miners came back from a 14-point...

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After the election of Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva in Brazil, many supporters of incumbent Jair Bolsonaro stormed Brazil’s congress and presidential offices after his rhetoric that mirrored former U.S President Trump’s Jan. 8. Photo by Carolina Antunes

Brazil’s democracy in jeopardy?

Emmanuel Rivas Valenzuela, Sports Editor January 8, 2023

As the United States passes the two-year anniversary of the Jan. 6 insurrection, another democracy is suffering at the hands of political extremist. Two months ago, Brazil held an election for the presidency where far-right incumbent Jair Bolsonaro lost...

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Junior guard Tae Hardy with a jumping floater over two Rice defenders.

Men’s basketball falls in dramatic overtime loss against Rice

Emmanuel Rivas Valenzuela, Sports Editor January 2, 2023

In a heartbreaking overtime loss on New Year’s Eve, the UTEP men’s basketball team (8-6, 1-2 C-USA) fell to the Rice Owls (11-3, 2-1 C-USA) 72-67. This marks the team’s third straight loss and second straight overtime loss.  The Miners started...

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Pope Benedict XVI was the first pope to step down in six centuries and has passed away at the age of 95 on Dec. 31.

The death of a pontiff

Emmanuel Rivas Valenzuela, Sports Editor December 31, 2022

The Roman Catholic Church ends the year with the loss of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI, who passed away Dec. 31 at the age of 95. In 2013, Benedict became the first pope to resign in over 600 years. Benedict only held the position for eight years, citing...

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Guard Soleil Montrose prepares to shoot a jump-shot while being closely defended.

Women’s basketball blazes past UAB

Emmanuel Rivas Valenzuela, Sports Editor December 30, 2022

The UTEP Miners (9-2, C-USA 2-0) roll past the University of Alabama-Birmingham (UAB) (8-3, C-USA 0-2) late Thursday, Dec. 30 for its second Conference USA (C-USA) win of the season. Thanks to a strong start, UTEP scored 76 points to UAB’s 58 points...

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Guard Mario McKinney Jr. Plays offense as he passes two Aggies players to the basket.

UTEP falls in a low-scoring affair at the WestStar Don Haskins Sun Bowl Invitational

Emmanuel Rivas Valenzuela, Sports Editor December 23, 2022

The Sun Bowl Association hosted its sixty-first WestStar Don Haskins Sun Bowl Invitational Dec. 21 and 22 at the Don Haskins Center. Alongside the UTEP Miners (8-4, 1-0 Conference USA), North Carolina A&T State (NC A&T) (5-8), Kent State (10-3)...

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The 2022 FIFA World Cup caused massive controversy after Qatar was named host in 2010. Photo courtesy of Wikipedia Commons

Messi leads Argentina in World Cup victory

Emmanuel Rivas Valenzuela, Sports Editor December 19, 2022

The 2022 FIFA World Cup finally ended after Argentina defeated juggernaut France in a penalty shootout. This would only be the third time in World Cup history that a match was decided in a penalty shootout. The lead up to the multibillion-dollar tournament...

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Argentinian Coach Gerardo “Tata” Martino stated “My contract ended as soon as the referee blew the final whistle and there is nothing more to be done” in reference to the Mexico 2022 Qatar World Cup game. Photo courtesy of Rubén Ortega Vega / Openverse.

Tata Martino leaves the Mexican Soccer Team after Qatar World Cup

Emmanuel Rivas Valenzuela, Sports Editor December 8, 2022

Even before the Mexican National Soccer Team was eliminated from the 2022 Qatar World Cup in the group stage, rumors and speculation of the departure of Argentinian Coach Gerardo “Tata” Martino ran wild. This was the first time Mexico was eliminated...

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Jazion Jackson drives up towards the basket to create an opportunity to score.

Women’s basketball face I-10 rival in nailbiter

Emmanuel Rivas Valenzuela, Sports Editor December 2, 2022

The UTEP women’s basketball team (6-1) took its turn against New Mexico State University (NMSU) (2-4) during the Battle of I-10, Nov. 30 at the Don Haskins Center. The NMSU Aggies are entering this matchup 2-3 after losing to Yale (4-4) 73-65 Friday,...

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Alianza Darley shines in academics as she received C-USA Commissioner’s academic medal.

Senior Spotlight: Alianza Darley

Emmanuel Rivas Valenzuela, Sports Editor December 2, 2022

Volleyball senior thrives at UTEP As the volleyball season comes to an end, senior outside hitter and middle blocker Alianza Darley contemplates what her next step will be. The Robertson High School graduate is eligible to play for the upcoming 2023...

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Miners lose bowl eligibility after game against UTSA, 34-31, Nov. 26 at the Alamodome. Photo courtesy of UTEP Athletics.

Football season ends in dramatic fashion

Emmanuel Rivas Valenzuela, Sports Editor November 27, 2022

Fans, players and students all awaited the matchup between the UTEP Miners (5-7, 3-5 Conference USA) and the No. 25 University of Texas at San Antonio Roadrunners (10-2, 8-0 Conference USA). For the Miners, a win would have pushed the team over into bowl...

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Miner lose game agains NMSU Aggies on Battle of I-10 Classic, Nov. 23 at Memorial Gym. Photo courtesy of UTEP Athletics.

Volleyball falls in a heartbreaking loss to NMSU

Emmanuel Rivas Valenzuela, Sports Editor November 26, 2022

UTEP’s volleyball team ended its season with the Battle of I-10 against rival New Mexico State University (NMSU). The Miners are coming off a devastating elimination from the Conference USA Tournament Saturday, Nov. 19 in Bowling Green, Kentucky to...

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UTEP hosted the Jim Forbes Classic at the Don Haskins. Miners win against California State University Bakersfield,

Men’s basketball flushes out competition at the Jim Forbes Classic

Emmanuel Rivas Valenzuela, Sports Editor November 26, 2022

The UTEP men’s basketball team tipped off the inaugural Jim Forbes Classic against Alcorn State (5-1) Tuesday Nov. 22 at the Don Haskins Center. The UTEP Miners will host the Alcorn State Braves (3-3), California State University-Bakersfield (CSU-Bakersfield)...

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Marvel’s “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever” was released to theaters Nov. 10 and is the last movie in phase 4 of Marvel’s Cinematic Universe. Photo courtesy of Marvel Studios.

‘Black Panther: Wakanda Forever’ celebrates life and highlights grief

Emmanuel Rivas Valenzuela, Sports Editor November 14, 2022

Editor’s Note: This review contains spoilers for Black Panther: Wakanda Forever and other phase four films.  Grief has become a major focus for the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s (MCU) phase four. From Peter Parker losing Aunt May in “Spider-Man:...

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Guard Malik Zachery plays offense against two Aggies players.

Battle of I-10 tips off at the Don Haskins Center

Emmanuel Rivas Valenzuela, Sports Editor November 13, 2022

As 11,315 fans filled the Don Haskins for the UTEP men’s basketball team’s (0-1) home opener and “915” game, New Mexico State University (NMSU) (1-0) came in ready to compete. The UTEP Miners are coming off a loss against No. 12 Texas Nov. 7...

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Is the NCAA transfer portal hurting schools?

Is the NCAA transfer portal hurting schools?

Emmanuel Rivas Valenzuela, Sports Editor November 10, 2022

This offseason was catastrophic for UTEP men’s basketball team. Nine players left UTEP after transferring out thanks to a rule change in college sports. What changes will this rule instill for college sports?  In October of 2018, the National Collegiate...

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The UTEP Miners men’s basketball team faced a 72-57 loss against the University of Texas at Austin Nov. 7 at the Moody Center in Austin, Texas. Photo courtesy of UTEP Strategic Communications.

Lone Star tipoff in Austin

Emmanuel Rivas Valenzuela, Sports Editor November 9, 2022

UTEP men’s basketball team started its long-awaited season against No. 12 University of Texas at Austin (Texas). The season opener took place Nov. 7, at the brand-new Moody Center in Austin, Texas and ended with a final score of 72-57 in favor of the...

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Guard Jazion Jackson takes a jump-shot.

Women’s basketball pivots during WNMU win

Emmanuel Rivas Valenzuela, Sports Editor November 6, 2022

The 2022-2023 basketball season is finally underway after the UTEP women’s basketball team faced Western New Mexico University (WNMU) in an exhibition game Saturday, Nov. 5 at the Don Haskins Center. The UTEP Miners are coming off an underwhelming 2021-2022...

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Gubernatorial candidate Beto O’Rourke high fives UTEP students as he makes his way to cast his vote.

O’Rourke votes with students at UTEP

Emmanuel Rivas Valenzuela, Sports Editor November 3, 2022

Five days before election day, Texas gubernatorial candidate Beto O’Rourke stopped to speak and vote with UTEP students at the school’s Union Building. O’Rourke was joined by his successor U.S. Congresswoman Veronica Escobar, El Paso County Judge...

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Governor Greg Abbott came to El Paso Nov. 1 where he held a rally behind Riviera Cocina and Cantina on 5218 Doniphan Dr.

Governor Abbott visits the borderland

Emmanuel Rivas Valenzuela, Sports Editor November 2, 2022

Governor Greg Abbott stopped by the City of El Paso only a week away from election day to gain support for his campaign. His visit out west consisted of two events in both the upper and lower valleys.  Abbott’s first stop was to the brand-new Charter...

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Mission Hills Park, Pavo Real Park, Ranchos del Sol Park, Arbor Park, and Lincoln Park are all parks found in El Paso where UTEP students can get a change of scenery.

Basketball courts in the City of El Paso for students

Emmanuel Rivas Valenzuela, Sports Editor November 1, 2022

As the weather starts to cool down and autumn brings color to El Paso, outdoor activities begin to feel more appealing. For many, playing a game of basketball can unload a lot of unwanted stress while also providing a way to meet and bond with friends....

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Men’s basketball head coach Joe Golding faces a new team this year, with only three returning players.

Basketball head coach looks to continue success after 2021 campaign

Emmanuel Rivas Valenzuela, Sports Editor November 1, 2022

As UTEP basketball ramps up for the 2022-2023 season, men’s basketball head coach Joe Golding prepares his brand-new roster to face the Texas Longhorns Nov. 7.  Golding is coming off a remarkably successful first season where his team won 20 games,...

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Kicker Gavin Baechle celebrates with his team after kicking the game winning field goal. Baechle set a UTEP record for 51 consecutive field goals made.

Miners win controversial nailbiter against Owls

Emmanuel Rivas Valenzuela, Sports Editor October 22, 2022

UTEP (4-4, 2-2 Conference USA) faced Florida Atlantic University (FAU) (3-5, 2-2 Conference USA) Oct. 22 after a week off. The Miners are coming off a difficult loss versus LA Tech. FAU led the series 2-1 prior to Saturday, having only played at the Sun...

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The UTEP Miners football team will face the Florida Atlantic Owls at 2 p.m. Saturday Oct. 22 at the Sun Bowl.

Miners looking to fly past the Owls

Emmanuel Rivas Valenzuela, Sports Editor October 21, 2022

The UTEP Miners (3-4, C-USA 1-2) return home to face off against the FAU Owls (3-4, C-USA 2-1) Oct. 22. The Miners are set to play the Owls after a disappointing loss to the LA Tech Bulldogs with a final score of 41-31.  FAU has struggled to find...

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Which alternate NFL uniforms are runway ready?

Which alternate NFL uniforms are runway ready?

Emmanuel Rivas Valenzuela, Sports Editor October 18, 2022

After the long-anticipated rule change in 2021 by the National Football League (NFL), teams around the league are ready to showcase its new alternate uniforms. Some are admittedly duds, but others offer a fresh new take on some classic uniforms. The main...

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The UTEP Miners volleyball team won against LA Tech Friday, Oct. 14 before losing against Western Kentucky University Sunday, Oct. 16. Photo courtesy of UTEP Athletics.

UTEP Volleyball struggles at home after road win

Emmanuel Rivas Valenzuela, Sports Editor October 18, 2022

The UTEP Miners (11-9, Conference USA 5-2) fell to Western Kentucky University (19-2. Conference USA 7-0) Sunday, Oct. 16, after beating LA Tech (9-13, Conference USA 2-5) on the road Friday, Oct. 14.  LA Tech Bulldogs  The UTEP Miners came out...

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The UTEP Miners lost to the LA Tech Bulldogs Saturday, Oct. 8 in Ruston, Louisiana 41-31, losing their two-game win streak. Photo courtesy of UTEP Athletics.

Bulldogs pounce on the Miners in away loss

Emmanuel Rivas Valenzuela, Sports Editor October 9, 2022

The UTEP Miners (3-4, Conference USA 1-2) faced the LA Tech Bulldogs (2-3, Conference USA 1-0) Saturday afternoon in Ruston, Louisiana. The Miners entered the match with a two-game win streak that ended after losing to the Bulldogs 41-31.  First Half  The...

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The NFL pushes LGBTQ+ inclusivity

The NFL pushes LGBTQ+ inclusivity

Emmanuel Rivas Valenzuela, Sports Editor October 4, 2022

Are all fans ready? The National Football League (NFL) has historically been hesitant toward LGBTQ+ inclusivity for their fans or their players, prime examples from past and present include former player Michael Sam and current player Carl Nassib. Granted,...

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Forward Tessa Carlin chases after a UAB defender on Sept. 30 at University Field.

UTEP Soccer loses 3 straight matches

Emmanuel Rivas Valenzuela, Sports Editor October 4, 2022

After not losing five straight matches, the UTEP Miners soccer team have lost two games on the road versus Western Kentucky University (WKU), Charlotte, and at home to the University of Alabama-Birmingham (UAB).  UTEP at WKU-Sept. 22  Before heading...

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Emmanuel Rivas Valenzuela