THURSDAY, NOV. 6 - SUNDAY, NOV. 9, 2014 • VOLUME 101 • ISSUE 26

PR

INT

ED

ITIO

N

SEASON PREVIEW P 5 • ZABO FEATURE P 6 • BRYAN MAIN P 10 • DEBATING THE HYPE P 11 • WOMEN’S BASKETBALL P 12-13 • TICKET SALES P 14 • SEASON SCHEDULE P 15

cover design concept by jenna mackey and kate leonard

nov. 6 - 9, 2014 • THE DAILY AZTECEDITor: kristian ibarra • sports@thedailyaztec.com2

FACEBOOK /HOBSANDIEGO TWITTER @HOBSANDIEGO

H O U S E O F B L U E S . C O M / S A N D I E G O

1055 F I F T H AV E N U E S A N D I E G O, C A 92101FOR INFO & TIX 619.299.2583 | RESTAURANT OPEN DAILY AT 4PM!Shows are all ages and standing room only unless otherwise noted. Show dates and times are subject to change. Tickets

subject to all applicable facility fees and service charges. Applicable fees and charges apply to all ticket sales.

hoping for some hoops?

kristian ibarra sports editor______________________________

A good portion of the nation’s eyes are

currently directed at Steve Fisher and his No. 16 men’s basketball team as they embark on the season sequel to their 2013-14 Sweet Sixteen campaign.

The team has expressed its ability to handle the pressure; and readers can rest assured that The Daily Aztec will handle the pressure of covering the nationally recognized program.

Check out page 5 to read our season preview on the men’s program. Flip over to page 6 to read about just one of

the four highly touted freshmen basketball players and his journey to the Mesa. Pages 12 and 13 offer some insight on what Stacie Terry and the women’s basketball team are up to as they try to bounce back from a lackluster 2013-14 season.

Be sure to head over to page 10 to read about Bryan Main, the public address announcer inside of Viejas Arena, and his progression as the voice of the Aztecs.

Our sports writers and columnist will be with the men’s and women’s basketball teams through all the ups and downs of the coming season and check out our online edition for this week’s regular content.

THE bAskETbALL IssuE

Junior forward skylar spencer attempts to get possession during tip-off last season in las Vegas. MonICA LInZMEIEr, EDITor In CHIEf

nov. 6 - 9, 2014 • THE DAILY AZTECEDITor: DAVID HERnAnDEZ • nEws@tHEDAIlyAZtEc.com4news

#DIspEnsArIEs

#vIoLEnCE

prof. to open weed joint

Panel speaks domestic violence

Who’sWho?EDItoR In cHIEfMonica Linzmeier

mAnAgIng EDItoRMadison Hopkins

nEws EDItoRDavid Hernandez

Asst. nEws EDItoRCamille Lozano

spoRts EDItoRKristian Ibarra

Asst. spoRts EDItoRTerence Chin

opInIon EDItoRElpin Keshishzadeh

Asst. opInIon EDItoRKC stanfield

EntERtAInmEnt EDItoRnick Knott

Asst. EntERtAInmEnt EDItoRryo Miyauchi

fEAtuREs EDItoRKelly Hillock

Asst. fEAtuREs EDItoRChelsea Baer

pHoto EDItoRJenna Mackey

VIDEo EDItoRWesley Beights

DIgItAl contEnt EDItoRKelly Gardner

ARt DIREctoRKate Leonard

pRoDuctIon DEsIgnERMark Anthony santos

VoluntEER wRItERsMatthew Bain

Colleen LarsonJamie Ballard

rafael Avitabilepatrick Carr

Anthony reclusadoryan posnerEthan BaileyMike Heral

Cameron salce

VoluntEER pHotogRApHERsKristian Carreon

Kelly smileypatrick Carr

__________________________________

ADVERtIsIng DIREctoRTony Disarufino

sAlEs mAnAgERAdam Zabel

sEnIoR Account ExEcutIVEradbeh rabaz

Account ExEcutIVEsAlfonso Barajas

sarah richardsonKamila sikorski

Teak switzer

AccountIng & contRActsMichael Bratt

Kim Le__________________________________

stREEt tEAmEmily Alvarengashelby snyder

Conor nordbergpaige plassmeyer

__________________________________

gEnERAl mAnAgERJay Harn

gRApHIcs spEcIAlIstChris Blakemore

__________________________________

What’sWhat?ADvErTIsInG619.594.6977

advertising@thedailyaztec.com

EDITorIAL InquIrIEs619.594.4190

editor@thedailyaztec.com

prInTthe Daily Aztec publishes 5,000 copies

twice a week on monday & thursday during the school year, and 3,000 copies every other monday during the summer.

WEBour website, thedailyaztec.com,

publishes daily content & breaking news.

MoBILEour mobile app, the Aztec App, is

available for the iphone and Android.

Colleen larsonContributor____________________________________

A professor at San Diego State recently received a permit to open a medicinal marijuana dispensary in San Diego. Business management professor David Blair’s A Green Alternative will be the first dispensary in the city of San Diego to operate with a permit under new zoning laws.

Despite approval of a conditional-use permit, the dispensary still faces local opposition.

Scott Chipman, chair of San Diegans for Safe Neighborhoods, is against the opening of medical marijuana dispensaries.

“We intend to continue to work with the (Drug Enforcement Administration) and U.S. Attorney Laura Duffy to encourage raids and arrests of the operators at every pot shop that opens,” Chipman said. “We have already had huge negative impacts by allowing pot shops to proliferate.”

Duffy has received Department of Justice Awards for her work, which includes 2008 drug cartel cases.

There have been more than 200 dispensaries shut down in San Diego in the last four years because they were operating illegally, according to the Office of the City Attorney.

Lance Rogers, attorney for A Green Alternative, plans to make sure the

dispensary follows all legal requirements to ensure it does not get shut down.

“There was a group that did file an appeal, so unfortunately we have to wait to litigate that appeal,” Rogers said. “As the attorney for this dispensary, I will make sure that this dispensary follows all state and local laws with regard to their business practices.”

There are laws in place that do not allow dispensaries to operate in a certain distance from houses, schools, churches, parks and daycare centers. A Green Alternative was allotted a 1,400-square-foot space in Otay Mesa near Brown Field.

Rogers recognizes that there is a commonly negative notion in regard to medicinal dispensaries, but he believes A Green Alternative will actually have a positive impact on the San Diego community and give patients a secure place to go.

“Historically, there has been a stigma attached to this sort of business,” Rogers said. “The clinic will finally answer the

question of where lawful marijuana patients are supposed to buy from, because up until now it has really been unregulated.”

But Chipman is against laws that would encourage the use of marijuana.

“We are opposed to any policy that would give people the idea that marijuana is not harmful or give them an excuse to try it or use it regularly,” Chipman said. “It is unsafe for the user and unsafe for those around the user.”

Marijuana use still remains illegal under federal law; however, in 1996, California passed Proposition 215, the Compassionate Use Act, which approved medicinal marijuana use. There is a legal gray area for the practice of dispensaries in the San Diego.

“This dispensary still does not change federal law,” Rogers said. “We still have a lot of work to do to legalize marijuana but it is a step in the right direction.”

Blair could not be reached for comment.

Jamie Ballardstaff writer____________________________________

The second annual Diversity Takes Action Conference, presented by Break the Silence Against Domestic Violence took place on Nov. 1.

Hosted at San Diego State’s Parma Payne Goodall Alumni Center, the conference featured a number of workshops and lectures to help raise awareness about issues of domestic violence. Several SDSU students attended the event, either as volunteers or participants.

The workshops covered numerous topics, from describing what an abusive relationship is to explaining financial and legal concerns related to domestic violence. Some workshops focused on a specific demographic in particular, such as the LGBTQ community, American Indians or immigrants living in the country illegally.

Miss America 2015 Kira Kazantsev was the keynote speaker. Her presentation, “Love Shouldn’t Hurt: Protecting Women Against Domestic Violence,” addressed the causes and signs of an abusive relationship and how to resolve the issues.

“The justice system is driving the getaway car for abusers,” Kazantsev said. “It’s not proactive, and we need to

change that.”She opened her presentation by

speaking about why women stay in abusive relationships.

“It’s not that she’s an idiot, saying, ‘Oh, but I love my boyfriend,’” she said. “In many cases, the abuse has been going on for so long that she is psychologically warped. There’s also the issues of money or financial dependence, drugs and alcohol, children, her family life or any number of factors that might be keeping her trapped.”

Kazantsev said in order for there to be a significant change, men need to be part of the solution.

“I truly believe that men will lead this crusade,” she said. “This is everyone’s problem. And I have faith in there being a resolution.”

Communication major Diedra Lewis attended the event as part of an ethnography and domestic violence project she is working on for one of her classes. She is researching women who leave their abusers and what makes them do so.

“I wanted to dig into what is it that triggers that call to action for a person who has been abused,” Lewis said. “What sets the stage for them to sit up and say, ‘I’m done with this’? What is it in a conversation that gets someone to take further action?”

So far she’s found different answers.

“For some, it only happens one time, for some there may be multiple instances before they try to leave,” she said. “For some, it might be a near-death experience.”

Part of what inspired her to explore this topic was her personal experiences.

“My mom was a victim of abuse, my mother-in-law was a victim of abuse, and they were victims back in the day when there was no such thing as a shelter, no counseling, no resources.” Lewis said. “I also had a friend who was victimized that I lost, and she left behind two kids.”

Lewis was also one of the participants in the candlelight vigil during the conference. At the candlelight vigil, all participants were given an LED candle with a purple light to signify domestic abuse awareness.

Musicians Terry Josiah, Joshua Sharpe and Amy Monzon performed at the conference. Following the music, there was a special dedication ceremony in which individuals shared a picture of a victim and read their story aloud. The pictures and stories were submitted to Break The Silence from families of victims across the country.

Break the Silence Against Domestic Violence will be hosting a gala and auction on Feb. 7 to fund services the organization provides, such as community workshops and mentorship programs.

thinkstock

CourTEsY of BrEAK THE sILEnCE AGAInsT DoMEsTIC vIoLEnCE

5THE BASKETBALL ISSUENOV. 6 - 9, 2014 • THE DAILY AZTECEDITOR: KRISTIAN IBARRA • SPORTS@THEDAILYAZTEC.COM

#AZTECMBB

Fisher shooting for stars in 2014-15RAFAEL AVITABILESTAFF WRITER____________________________________

The San Diego State men’s basketball team is entering one of the most anticipated seasons in program history. After a Sweet Sixteen run in 2014, head coach Steve Fisher and the Aztecs believe they are a team with Final Four talent.

Showered with preseason accolades, SDSU’s preseason rankings of 16th and 17th respectively in the Associated Press Top 25 and the USA Today Coaches Poll are certainly the most notable. In fact, 16th is the highest preseason ranking in any poll that SDSU has earned in the history of the program.

The Aztecs are the lone representative of both the Mountain West Conference and the great state of California in either poll. In addition to the national recognition, 34 of 35 Mountain West Conference media voters tabbed the Aztecs as their first place team on their preseason ballot. Conference media also named senior Dwayne Polee II and

junior Winston Shepard to the preseason all-conference team.

The program has played itself into the Top-25 conversation multiple times in recent years, but it has never garnered this level of respect before the start of a season.

“Pressure is good if you know how to manage it,” Fisher said at the season-opening press conference in late September. “We’re moving past the stage where we get a hall pass saying ‘Well, wait until next year.’”

There will be no shortage of interest this time around, as “next year” has arrived for the team that won the conference title in 2014 despite being picked to finish fourth. Leading scorer Xavier Thames and leading rebounder Josh Davis have since moved on to professional basketball careers, leaving behind many questions on the offensive side of the ball.

Seniors J.J. O’Brien, Polee and Aqeel Quinn have returned to lead this Aztec team in what will be the last hoorah of their collegiate careers. Other familiar faces include some key contributors

J.J. O’Brien was an All-Mountain West Honorable Mention performer in 2013-14.WESLEY BEIGHTS, VIDEO EDITOR

from last season’s tournament run such as juniors Skylar Spencer and Shepard and sophomore Matt Shrigley.

As far as new faces go, the fruits of ESPN’s No. 17-ranked 2014 recruiting class have arrived on Montezuma Mesa in freshmen Zylan Cheatham, Trey Kell, Malik Pope and Kevin Zabo. Aztec fans will have to wait some time before they see all four in action, as Cheatham and Pope work to return from injury. Cheatham isn’t expected back until January after having surgery to repair a break in his foot in early September. Pope, who broke his leg twice in high school and hasn’t played a game of competitive basketball in more than 18 months, has a “floating” timetable and is slowly being eased into full speed, coach Fisher said.

Not many people have had the privilege of watching Kell and Zabo in practice this fall, but they have

thoroughly impressed their teammates and coaching staff.

“Trey Kell and (Kevin) Zabo are a lot better than people think,” Shepard said at the Mountain West Digital Tip-Off.

“Zabo and Trey have been amazing so far,” O’Brien added. “They’re going to

be big parts of this team. I know they had high rankings coming in, but their ability to play is something else.”

Junior forward Angelo Chol, who transferred to SDSU from the University of Arizona in 2013, will make his Aztec debut this season after sitting out in last year due to NCAA transfer rules.

SDSU’s medley of veterans and young talent will be working together toward achieving their

team goal of a Final Four appearance. The Aztecs will begin their quest for a sixth consecutive tournament appearance on Nov. 14 when they welcome California State University, Northridge into the unfriendly confines of Viejas Arena.

“PRESSURE IS GOOD IF YOU KNOW HOW TO MANAGE IT ... WE’RE MOVING PAST THE STAGE WHERE WE GET A HALL PASS SAYING ‘WELL, WAIT ‘TIL NEXT YEAR.’”

- Steve Fisher,Men’s Basketball Head

Coach

WE BELIEVE

In Liberty Station next to Ace Hardware

2750 Dewey Rd.

slaters5050.com619.398.2600

NOV. 6 - 9, 2014 • THE DAILY AZTECEDITOR: KRISTIAN IBARRA • SPORTS@THEDAILYAZTEC.COM6

MATTHEW BAINSENIOR STAFF WRITER____________________________________

Kevin Zabo and his high school teammate Nik Stauskas got off the plane at the Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport. They grabbed their luggage, walked outside and waited in the Phoenix heat for their ride.

Eventually their ride came: a little Range Rover with two-time NBA MVP Steve Nash behind the wheel. He welcomed the awe-struck boys into the car and drove them to the Phoenix Suns’ practice facility.

That’s how 14-year-old Zabo, now a freshman guard at San Diego State, started his three days with the future Hall of Fame point guard.

“I can definitely say only those three days I spent with him definitely changed a lot of my game,” Zabo said last Thursday in the Fowler Athletic Center.

Zabo grew up in Gatineau, Quebec, Canada watching Nash school guys twice his size on a nightly basis. He believes Nash inspired many kids above the northern border to pick up a basketball, leading to the recent wave of Canadian basketball players joining the college and NBA ranks.

“We look at Steve Nash and it’s not like he’s quicker than anyone else, bigger than anyone else,” Zabo said. “(Nash) gave (Canadian kids) motivation that it’s possible.”

Zabo learned he was going to play with his childhood hero during the summer after his freshman year at St. Marks School in Boston. He played a tournament with Grassroots Canada Elite Basketball, a youth basketball club based in Toronto, and impressed the club presidents — who just so happened to know Nash.

The club presidents asked Nash to meet with Zabo and Stauskas, and according to Zabo, Nash said yes immediately.

“When my dad gave me the news, at first I couldn’t believe it,” Zabo said with a smile. “I was just so excited. He’s so busy and he made time for me and Nik (Stauskas), that was awesome.”

The awe-struck boys sitting in Nash’s Range Rover had only a little time to pick their jaws up off the ground, as Nash led them through two intense hour-long

Zabo to make most of MVP tips

workouts soon after picking them up from the airport.

In between the workouts, Zabo said he and Stauskas went out to grab something to eat.

But not Nash.Nash skipped grub time, Zabo said,

and continued sweating away in the gym.“He was (in the gym) the whole time,”

he said. “I was like, ‘How does he do that?’ You’ve got to be really strong mentally for that.”

The following day, Nash brought Zabo and Stauskas to Phoenix’s home stadium to work out. Standing on an NBA court for the first time, Zabo couldn’t help but imagine NBA games he’d seen on TV happening all around him in between workouts.

“I’m a huge Kobe (Bryant) fan, and I remember back then the Lakers and Phoenix had a big rivalry,” he said. “I was just looking at all those spots where things happened (in the rivalry games). Me and Nik (Stauskas) were just amazed by the experience.”

Nash spent most of the next couple days drilling Zabo and Stauskas on basketball fundamentals and preaching the importance of hard work and persistence, Zabo said.

“You always have to make sure you outwork people — that was the biggest thing I got out of Steve Nash,” he said. “Always make sure you put in the extra effort, be first in the gym and be last to leave.”

Nash also gave the boys some drills to keep working on when they got home, and Zabo said he and Stauskas would go to school early every day during the next season to do the drills over and over again.

Well, it appears those drills have worked so far.

Three years later, Nash’s former pupils find themselves in pretty good situations. Stauskas plays for the Sacramento Kings and Zabo could potentially start for the Associated Press No. 16 team in the country — a team with big-time goals.

“Every time we huddle up we say, ‘Final Four,’” Zabo said. “Final Four is the goal and every day we just remind ourselves, even when we’re tired. We look at Kansas and Kentucky and the big programs and they never take a day off, so we have to be at the same level.”

Freshman guard Kevin Zabo was a three-star recruit, according to ESPN.KRISTIAN CARREON, SENIOR STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

“ALWAYS MAKE SURE YOU PUT IN THE EXTRA EFFORT, BE FIRST IN THE GYM AND BE LAST TO LEAVE.”

- Kevin Zabo,Freshman Guard

#AZTECMBB

SWEET SIXTEEN APPEARANCES IN FOUR YEARS

MOUNTAIN WEST CONFERENCE TITLES

FOUR-STAR RECRUITS IN 2014-15

CONSECUTIVE NCAA TOURNAMENT APPEARANCES

CONSECUTIVE POSTSEASON APPEARANCES

CONSECUTIVE 20 WIN SEASONS

NBA FINALS MVP - KAWHI LEONARD

WINS UNDER COACH STEVE FISHER

2

TOTAL NCAA TOURNAMENT APPEARANCES8

4

3

5

8

8

1

312

AZTECS BY THE NUMBERSCAMERON SALCESTAFF WRITER

SWEET SIXTEEN APPEARANCES IN FOUR YEARS

MOUNTAIN WEST CONFERENCE TITLES

FOUR-STAR RECRUITS IN 2014-15

CONSECUTIVE NCAA TOURNAMENT APPEARANCES

CONSECUTIVE POSTSEASON APPEARANCES

CONSECUTIVE 20 WIN SEASONS

NBA FINALS MVP - KAWHI LEONARD

WINS UNDER COACH STEVE FISHER

2

TOTAL NCAA TOURNAMENT APPEARANCES

4

3

1

AZTECS BY THE NUMBERS

NOV. 6 - 9, 2014 • THE DAILY AZTECEDITOR: KRISTIAN IBARRA • SPORTS@THEDAILYAZTEC.COM10 THE BASKETBALL ISSUE

Bryan Main enters his 14th year as the public address announcer for men’s basketball at San Diego State.COURTESY OF ERNIE ANDERSON, SDSU ATHLETICS

The Main voice inside Viejas ArenaKRISTIAN IBARRASPORTS EDITOR_____________________________________

Back when he first started as the public address announcer of the Aztecs in 2001, Bryan Main colored himself fortunate to have 2,500 people inside Viejas Arena hear him announce a San Diego State men’s basketball game.

About a decade and some change later, the San Diego native still considers himself lucky to hear his own voice over the deafening “I Believe” chants echoing in support of Steve Fisher and his troops.

“It’s magic in there,” Main said. “The atmosphere and the way ‘The Show’ and the student section has progressed along with the team; now San Diego State’s on the map. There’s guys turning down scholarships to big schools to come here and that says something about the program.”

Main’s journey as the voice of the Aztecs began around the time Fisher was hired on as the head coach on Montezuma Mesa. As the legendary tale goes, Fisher would take to the campus grounds and pass out free tickets in hopes of creating some Aztec faithful.

Things are a bit different now, not only for the team, but for Main as well.

“I’ve progressed too, not only has the team progressed,” Main said. “I had to up my game as the team upped its game. There’s been a definite metamorphosis

#AZTECMBB

from the first (game) to where we are now.”

With such a natural flair and ability to call the game, it’d be somewhat safe to assume Main grew up a fan of ankle-breaking crossovers and Jordan-esque slam dunks. But you all know what they say about assuming.

“Hockey’s my first love because I played hockey,” Main said of his days on the ice at Northern Arizona University in the ‘70s. “I love doing hockey. There was no replacing hockey.”

“I can tell you now, since I’ve been

doing basketball, that’s my number one sport. I’ve got to put hockey behind it right now because of the excitement and just because of the whole feeling in that arena.”

That “excitement” doesn’t just happen overnight. For as much as a tide-shifting 3-pointer can shake an entire arena, Main is there to play a pivotal role too. His calls, his excitement and his emphasis can help an otherwise lackluster crowd of 12,414 grow tired of sitting. He knows this; but he also recognizes the bigger picture.

He’s a support system, he’s there to be part of the action. He can feel when the

crowd feeds off of him, as well as when he feeds off of the crowd. It’s about as give and take as a Thames-to-Polee fast break. As things start to happen and the tempo of the game increases, Main is always there to match that tempo.

Through a successful 14-year career as the voice that echoed inside of Rocky Long’s contests at Qualcomm Stadium and Fisher’s conquests at Viejas Arena, Main’s support for the Aztecs has grown. It’s grown so much that most wouldn’t have thought anything of his announcements during the football team’s home opener against his alma mater. It was the first time he’d called a football game against his former team.

He was teased inside of the booth prior to the game to not show any favoritism toward the Lumberjacks. He brushed the jokes aside, stating that his tenure with SDSU has since motivated him to shave his proverbial beard and trade in his axe for a spear.

“NAU is a distant memory, they’re good memories, they’re fun memories but I’m an Aztec,” he said. “My allegiance is to San Diego State, through the good and the bad.”

As he gears up for his 15th year behind the microphone inside of Viejas Arena, Main can only be thankful to the powers that be at SDSU for giving him the opportunity to showcase his God-given talent. But with a voice like his, it’s a safe bet that they’re thankful, too.

11THE BASKETBALL ISSUENOV. 6 - 9, 2014 • THE DAILY AZTECEDITOR: KRISTIAN IBARRA • SPORTS@THEDAILYAZTEC.COM

TERENCE CHINASST. SPORTS EDITOR____________________________________

Mark my words, this season’s team will

go down as one of the best teams ever in San Diego State men’s basketball history.

No one should have been surprised to see students lined up Monday for tickets to see the Aztecs in action for the first time this year as they host Division II opponent, Point Loma Nazarene University on Friday.

If you were one of the first 2,500 students in line for a ticket, consider yourself lucky.

Although it’s just an exhibition game and won’t be televised, fans will get a first look at the No. 16 team in the country, and two of the four freshmen from the highly touted 2014 recruiting class.

Before “The Show” starts jumping up and down once again, I’ll be blunt in saying that yes, the hype surrounding this basketball team is real. As SDSU begins the preseason with its highest ranking in school history, the national media has started to recognize the best men’s basketball program in California.

Take note of this year’s incoming freshmen class. According to ESPN and Rivals.com, the Aztecs have a Top-20 recruiting class, the highest ever in the school’s history. This year’s class is even ranked higher than 2009’s, when last year’s NBA Finals MVP Kawhi Leonard made his way onto campus.

There may not be a timetable for five-star freshman Malik Pope to return while he rehabs a broken leg, but there’s hope the Aztecs could get their next-highest recruit, Zylan Cheatham back in late December or early January in time for conference play.

You can argue all you want and say that this year’s team doesn’t have a point guard to rely on. Plenty of questions are looming around head coach Steve Fisher and how he’ll manage playing time. Particularly, with last year’s conference MVP Xavier Thames gone now, who’s going to pick up where he left off?

For those who followed SDSU’s second Sweet Sixteen team last season, fans might speculate that senior guard Aqeel Quinn might be the one to take over after being last year’s backup point guard to Thames. However, the Aztecs have options with sophomore guard D’Erryl Williams.

They could also opt in playing an all-natural point guard that they recruited, and word from junior forward Winston Shepard is he’s pretty good. If this freshman class is going to be as good as advertised, don’t be surprised to see Fisher go with freshman guard Kevin

Zabo calling the plays.Aztec fans should have

no fear in losing last year’s leading rebounder Josh Davis to graduation. That’s what junior forward Angelo Chol is there for. As Chol lost his spot in the rotation at University of Arizona two seasons ago, the

San Diego native decided to come back home for an opportunity. You’d better believe there’s no one else more anxious to prove himself than Chol is after sitting out all of last season due to transfer restrictions.

So is all the hype surrounding this team truly justified? With three starters returning from last season and MW Sixth Man of the Year Dwayne Polee II looming as the fourth starter, rest assured in knowing this team will be great. The Aztecs may not go 34-3, but there’s no reason to believe they can’t match last season’s 31-5 record.

Sit back and enjoy our No. 16 preseason ranking. Likely headed for another NCAA tournament appearance, I’ve learned to appreciate going to a school with a nationally ranked men’s basketball team.

PATRICK CARRSENIOR STAFF COLUMNIST _____________________________________

Let me clarify something before I starting

spewing sheer blasphemy to the Aztec faithful: I am not in any way saying this team is going to be awful, I’m just

erring on the side of caution before I get my hopes up.

People are excited before of one of the most anticipated San Diego State men’s basketball seasons in recent history. Hundreds of students lined up Monday morning for the first student tickets release of the season — and that was for a game that won’t even count toward the team’s record.

SDSU has also been the subject of round-the-clock media coverage this year after announcing itself as a national powerhouse last year.

Some are predicting the Aztecs to breeze through the Mountain West, sweep through the MW Tournament and make the NCAA Elite Eight at the very least.

Basketball bedlam is back, bringing with it the inevitable salivating slew of praise. But here’s why people need to hold onto their horses for a second:

SDSU hasn’t even played a minute of meaningful basketball and people are already jumping out of their pants and on board the hype train with one-way tickets to the NCAA Final Four in Indianapolis.

There’s a lot of optimism this year with three experienced returning starters, the best recruiting class in program history and the highest preseason Associated Press ranking in school history at No. 16.

How will anyone, except the coaches, know what this team can do until it plays its first game on Friday? Even then, it’s an exhibition against NCAA Division II Point Loma Nazarene University.

Who will replace the productivity of departed leading scorer Xavier Thames? Junior forward Winston Shepard is a likely candidate as he was second leading scorer last year, but his team-high 80 turnovers and .412 shooting percentage are concerns that need to be remedied first.

Also, half of SDSU’s highly touted recruiting class is injured. According to head coach Steve Fisher and other reports, freshman forward Zylan Cheatham is out until January after foot surgery.

At that same press conference, Fisher said that freshman forward Malik Pope is slowly being brought along with non-contact drills after breaking his leg twice in high school.

People aren’t giving the MW enough credit. Colorado State University has added a boatload of new players including transfers and freshmen. The Rams have depth and experience and bring back two dangerous players in redshirt seniors J.J.

Avila and Daniel Bejarano.University of Wyoming

welcomes back preseason conference player of the year Larry Nance Jr., who tore his ACL last season. Remember what happened last year when the Aztecs went to Laramie, Wyoming? That was when

SDSU’s 20-game win streak was snapped.Boise State University isn’t a slouch

either. The Broncos return three of their four highest scorers from last season: senior guards Anthony Drmic, Derrick Marks and junior guard Mikey Thompson.

SDSU also has a target on its back after last year’s magical 31-5 season that included a regular-season Mountain West title.

They crept under the radar because they were picked to finish fourth in the conference. This year they were almost unanimously picked to win the conference.

On Nov. 18, the Aztecs will host No. 25 University of Utah, which was picked to finish second in the Pacific-12 Conference.That game could be when we find out how good this team is. Until then, it’s best to wait.

#AZTECMBB

Junior forward Skylar Spencer ranked third in blocked shots in the Mountain West for the 2013-14 season.FILE PHOTO

All aboard the Aztec hype train?

YES NO

The No. 16 San Diego State men’s basketball program is receiving a lot of preseason recognition. But is SDSU deserving of the buildup? The Daily Aztec sports section debates.

NOV. 6 - 9, 2014 • THE DAILY AZTECEDITOR: KRISTIAN IBARRA • SPORTS@THEDAILYAZTEC.COM12 THE BASKETBALL ISSUE

#AZTECWBB

Aztecs to court another tough yearANTHONY RECLUSADOSTAFF WRITER____________________________________

It’s safe to say that last season was a tumultuous year in head coach Stacie Terry’s inaugural season at the helm of the San Diego State women’s basketball program. She faced the task of replacing four senior starters that accounted for 64 percent of the team’s scoring from a season prior and had to overcome losing two key players to season-ending injuries early in the year.

Coach Terry, unfortunately, faces a similar situation to start this season, as she has to replace two senior starters, center Cierra Warren and guard Danesha Long, who scored 40 percent of the points last season. However, the Aztecs are heading into this campaign with excitement and a positive outlook.

“I’m excited to start our second season here at San Diego State,” Terry said in her Oct. 21 press conference. “This team has worked extremely hard in the offseason, summer and in the preseason to really put us in a very good position. We will be

a much better team this season and we’re excited about that.”

FRESHMENThe Aztecs bring in an athletically

gifted freshmen class, with the core group of point guard McKynzie Fort, guard Cheyenne Greenhouse and forward Lexy Thorderson all having the ability to make their impact felt early in the season.

Fort, who is a four-star recruit by ESPN and ranked 95th overall on the site, will have to compete with redshirt junior Ahjalee Harvey for the starting role at the point guard position. However, her explosive athleticism makes her far too talented to not put on the court and will see time at the off guard position. The rest of the conference has recognized Fort’s talent, as she was named preseason Mountain West Freshman of the Year.

Greenhouse, standing at 5-foot-11, comes to Montezuma Mesa with the ability to rebound and score. In her senior season she averaged 21.4 points and 5.9 rebounds per game.

Finally, Thorderson provides both length and above-average range,

finishing with the most 3-pointers in the state of Colorado during the 2013-14 season.

Even before having an opportunity to step on the court during competition, these three freshmen have already left and impression on the coaching staff.

“All three of our freshmen are phenomenal athletes, people and players,” Terry said. “We’re really looking forward to seeing them on the court. They bring a different level of athleticism that we didn’t have last year.”

HEALTHA key to this season for SDSU is to

stay healthy, as last season saw two starters go down with injuries before conference play. One of those players is still rehabbing an injury.

Starting point guard Harvey went down last season with only eight games under her belt before she injured her knee and was sidelined for the remainder of the year. She left last season as the leader in assists and steals.

Redshirt junior Erimma Amarikwa, with her wealth of talent and athleticism,

was sorely missed last season, for her nose for the ball and intensity.

“She’s just a tough kid and when she turns it on, she’s hard to stop,” Terry said. “She’s going to make a huge impact on the team this year.”

Sophomore Ariell Bostick stepped up last season to fill Harvey’s shoes at the one, but injured her knee to miss the last seven games of the season.

EXPECTATIONSWith a full season under her belt as a

head coach, Terry has built chemistry with this team and knows what it takes to get the most out of them.

Women’s basketball fans should not be worried if SDSU gets off to a slow start, as this is a young team that will take its time before it can find its identity. Not to mention that four of its first six games will be on the road, where it will also have to face No. 2 University of South Carolina.

However, with the extended amount of practice time, healthy roster and firepower across the roster, this Aztec team isn’t too far from returning to MW prominence.

Forward Chairese Cuberson is one of just two seniors returning to the team this year.KELLY SMILEY, STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

13THE BASKETBALL ISSUENOV. 6 - 9, 2014 • THE DAILY AZTECEDITOR: KRISTIAN IBARRA • SPORTS@THEDAILYAZTEC.COM

More surf breaks, scholarships, and support programs.

cwsl.edu/diversity

Joinour DIVERSECOMMUNITY

SDSU_CWSL_2014_01_Spot.indd 4 10/31/14 1:55 PM

Don’t miss our

Coming 11/20/14

BARGAINS& DEALS

ISSUE

#AZTECWBB

A year later, Terry remains hopeful RYAN POSNERSTAFF WRITER____________________________________

Stacie Terry’s history in San Diego started long before she stepped on the Mesa as the San Diego State women’s basketball head coach in 2013.

Terry grew up in San Diego and went to El Capitan High in Lakeside. When SDSU came calling offering Terry her first head coaching job, it was a homecoming and dream come true all at once.

“I was extremely blessed, coaching basketball has given me so many opportunities, but most of them have been outside of (California),” Terry said. “For my first head (coaching) job to be in my home city, at an institution I was so envious at growing up, it’s an honor.”

The location of the job was a dream come true for Terry, but the situation she was dropped into was not as favorable. Before the season she was down four starters who had graduated, and during the season she dealt with a multitude of injuries.

After all was said and done, the team finished the season 13-17, and went 9-9 in the Mountain West.

“When things are thrown at you, you have to make the best of it, you can’t make excuses,” Terry said. “When you start making excuses you’re going to find reasons to be OK with failure.”

Another challenging aspect of Terry’s

first season was the fact that she was replacing long-time head coach Beth Burns who was dismissed in 2012. After the Burns era, the players wanted a more family-oriented coach to help bring them together, and Terry was just the person.

“The first time we all met her she had her family and her baby with her,” senior forward Khristina Hunter said. “We just knew she was the right coach, we love that kind of environment.”

That sort of appreciation doesn’t stop with the players.

“First and foremost, she cares about people,” assistant coach Jesse Clark said. “As a staff we know that’s the most important thing on her mind. We always have a feeling of loving to come to the office, because it’s a great place, with

great energy.”That family-oriented approach made

a transition between head coaches much smoother for players, most of whom were recruited by Burns.

“I told my student-athletes when I first met them that change is not always a bad thing, there are many ways to get things done,” Terry said. “From day one I told them I would give them everything I got, and I expected the same from them.”

Transition is also made easier when you share a court with one of the most recognized coaches in men’s college basketball: Steve Fisher.

“He’s an amazing man,” Terry said. “We all know what he can do as a basketball coach, but he is such a caring and giving person. Coach Fisher has so much wisdom in what he does, we’ll

go and watch his practices and learn something new every day.”

While Terry is constantly learning, she also wants to place her own stamp on this program. She has already done that through recruiting.

“(Recruiting) is one of her best assets, she has an ability to communicate and make people feel important,” Clark said. “What you see is what you get, she carries the same persona everywhere she goes, and people really respect that.”

Terry knows first-hand how long it’s been since SDSU made an appearance in the NCAA Tournament. As an assistant coach for Louisiana State University in 2011, she watched the Aztecs fall to LSU in the tournament.

“The funny thing is, I tell my kids all the time now, that if they would have made some free throws they would have beaten us,” Terry said.

It’s going to take more than free throws to get the team back there, but she knows what it takes to get a team to that height. She wants success not for herself, but for the players she loves so much.

“I know what it looks and feels like to make it to Sweet Sixteen games, and win those games, and I want them to experience that,” Terry said. “That’s what I promised them.”

It would be tough to write a better intro to Terry’s story, coming back to her hometown for her first NCAA head coaching job — now it’s her job to write the ending.

Stacie Terry’s team went 13-17 during first year as head coach in 2013-14.KELLY SMILEY, STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

NOV. 6 - 9, 2014 • THE DAILY AZTECEDITOR: KRISTIAN IBARRA • SPORTS@THEDAILYAZTEC.COM14 THE BASKETBALL ISSUE

#AZTECMBB

Time to net funds with ticket salesMIKE HERAL SENIOR STAFF COLUMNIST_____________________________________

Students lining up for free San Diego State

men’s basketball tickets capture local TV news cameras. And for some Aztecs, it’s the reason they chose to attend this

university. But free tickets need to end because college athletics is becoming more costly, and SDSU isn’t positioned to keep winning without drastically increasing its revenue.

SDSU reserves approximately 2,500 student tickets for each game, according to the athletics department. Those tickets are free, regardless of whether the opponent is a preseason scrub or a MWC rival. Giving it away for free makes SDSU unique among universities that either have big time sports programs, or want to have them.

California State University, Fresno is one Mountain West school already charging students. So far, it charges only for football — $60 for a season pass, or the equivalent of $10 per home game. With 4,000 student tickets per game, according to its website, that’s more free money for the program than SDSU receives charging nothing. And the

COMMENTARY

Power Five teams make more. University of California, Los Angeles charges its students $15 per game for both football and men’s basketball. This is part of the price for sports notoriety in this century.

All that said, SDSU won’t be able to charge for football. Despite football being the show pony for most universities, Aztec football isn’t. The small crowd it regularly draws now will shrink further if SDSU starts charging students to watch a program mired in the inconsequential world of Potato Bowls.

But men’s basketball is hot. Sports networks love showing the feverous atmosphere inside Viejas Arena, and that’s completely due to “The Show.”

Charging them won’t clear out the arena. In fact, it’ll increase the passion. While every student paying tuition and fees is augmenting Aztec athletics, not paying for a ticket leaves the impression that SDSU devalues student investment. If the game is free, it can’t be that important.

The math is simple. With 2,500 tickets per game, and 18 home games in 2015, SDSU would make $450,000 by charging only $10 per ticket per game. But it could make more by applying sound business strategies. Professional sports teams now structure ticket prices by demand. For example, the San Diego Padres charge more for games against the Los Angeles Dodgers than it does for the Florida

Marlins. Dodgers games continue to sell out, Marlins games don’t. Therefore, the Padres could — and probably will — charge more for future games against the Dodgers.

Charging students will allow SDSU to understand demand, and that education will only help fund the athletics department for when it needs money to pay for the type of top-shelf talent that men’s basketball coach Steve Fisher now gets by reputation. Ultimately, it’ll help fund a new football stadium once the San Diego Chargers leave Qualcomm Stadium and the city levels it for retail and business properties.

No one likes the idea of paying more. A state school such as SDSU has students with greater economic needs than a private school such as Stanford University. However, SDSU seems serious about becoming a major player in college athletics.

That means more money has to come in to properly position it when the Power Five starts paying players. If it isn’t going to come from charging the students who go to the games, then it’s going to come from the entire student body through tuition hikes. Those hikes are coming either way, but my proposal offsets that hike by adding revenue from student tickets.

In the bad business model that sports often are, it’s the best way to hurt the student body less.

Hundreds of students lined up outside the Viejas Arena box office to secure men’s basketball tickets Monday.PATRICK CARR, SENIOR STAFF WRITER

15THE BASKETBALL ISSUENOV. 6 - 9, 2014 • THE DAILY AZTECEDITOR: KRISTIAN IBARRA • SPORTS@THEDAILYAZTEC.COM

CROSSWORDSACROSS1 Actor who spoke the line, “I’d show him who was king of the forest!”5 Sharing word11 Newborn nurturer14 Northern terminus of I-7915 Frank quality16 Andean tuber17 Scoop a major news magazine?19 Install, as tiles20 It often gets blown off21 Subscriber’s gift22 WWII battleground23 Cyberchats, briefly25 Running wild27 Sheriff of Nottingham’s plan?32 Bag-screening org.33 Dent, say34 “The Magnificent Ambersons” director37 Pioneering computer

40 Pony up42 Wool source43 Purse counterpart45 __ bath47 Gusto48 Hearst Castle?52 Anxious place to be54 Watering hole55 Wind quintet member56 Ignoring, with “to”59 Greek restaurant offerings63 Title for Sean Connery64 Banner advertising overstocked shelves?66 President pro __67 Release payment68 Corrida critter69 Intractable beast70 Sacks out71 Fume

DOWN1 Not as expensive2 In __: stuck

3 Bring in4 Get to work again5 Window units, briefly6 Over7 Fascinated by8 Text __9 “You can’t be serious”10 Lyrical “before”11 Eruption output12 City west of Daytona Beach13 City boss18 A few rounds, e.g.22 Moonshine source24 Dim __26 Son of Adam27 Mushroom part28 Annapolis inst.29 Reasons to pull out the tarp30 Rest of the afternoon?31 Emmy category35 Give off36 54-Across reorder, with “the”

38 Take unfair advantage of, as a privilege39 Attention to detail41 Actor Brynner44 Slow and steady46 Cotillion honoree49 Everlasting, to the bard50 Yields to gravity51 Hush-hush hookups52 Shade-loving plant53 Village Voice awards57 Sanctuary section58 Probably not a really good show60 Laugh-a-minute type61 Big brute62 Put one over on64 Many AARP members: Abbr.65 Hesitant sounds

#BBALLTICKETS

2014-15 SDSU MEN’S BASKETBALL STUDENT TICKET DISTRIBUTION SCHEDULE

GAME DATE OPPONENT PICK-UP DATE (TIME)

NOV. 7 POINT LOMA NOV. 3 (10 A.M.)

NOV. 14 CSUN NOV. 3 (10 A.M.)

NOV. 18 UTAH NOV. 12 (10 A.M.)

NOV. 20 BAKERSFIELD NOV. 12 (10 A.M.)

DEC. 4 SAN DIEGO DEC. 1 (10 A.M.)

DEC. 10 LONG BEACH STATE DEC. 5 (10 A.M.)

DEC. 20 BALL STATE DEC. 15 (10 A.M.)

DEC. 22 UC RIVERSIDE DEC. 15 (10 A.M.)

DEC. 27 SAN DIEGO CHRISTIAN DEC. 15 (10 A.M.)

DEC. 31 AIR FORCE DEC. 15 (10 A.M.)

JAN. 6 NEW MEXICO DEC. 31 (10 A.M.)

JAN. 17 UNLV JAN. 12 (10 A.M.)

JAN. 27 FRESNO STATE JAN. 21 (10 A.M.)

JAN. 31 UTAH STATE JAN. 21 (10 A.M.)

FEB. 11 WYOMING FEB. 5 (10 A.M.)

FEB. 14 COLORADO STATE FEB. 5 (10 A.M.)

FEB. 28 BOISE STATE FEB. 23 (10 A.M.)

MARCH 7 NEVADA MARCH 2 (10 A.M.)

2014-15 SDSU WOMEN’S BASKETBALL STUDENT TICKET DISTRIBUTION SCHEDULE

GAME DATE OPPONENT PICK-UP DATE (TIME)

NOV. 8 POINT LOMA NOV. 8 (12 A.M.)

NOV. 14 SACRAMENTO STATE NOV. 14 (2 P.M.)

NOV. 16 LONG BEACH STATE NOV. 16 (12 P.M.)

DEC. 7 UC SANTA BARBARA DEC. 7 (2 P.M.)

DEC. 18 WASHINGTON DEC. 18 (6 P.M.)

DEC. 20 CSU NORTHRIDGE DEC. 20 (2 P.M.)

JAN. 3 FRESNO STATE JAN. 3 (2 P.M.)

JAN. 14 WYOMING JAN. 14 (6 P.M.)

JAN. 21 AIR FORCE JAN 21 (6 P.M.)

JAN. 24 COLORADO STATE JAN 24 (2 P.M.)

FEB. 4 NEVADA FEB 4 (6 P.M.)

FEB. 7 BOISE STATE FEB 7 (2 P.M.)

FEB. 18 NEW MEXICO FEB 18 (6 P.M.)

FEB. 21 SAN JOSE STATE FEB 21 (2 P.M.)

MARCH 3 UNLV MARCH 3 (6 P.M.)

San Diego State students are admitted free for all regular season Aztec athletic events with a valid SDSU Student RED ID card.

One free ticket per valid SDSU Student RED ID.

HOROSCOPEHAPPY BIRTHDAY (11/6/14) - Long-term creative goals are within reach this year, propelling your career. Discover something new about yourself, opening unconsidered options. Hone in on passions at work and watch your efforts flower. The game sparkles after 3/20, and romance peaks to a fever pitch. Tone it down after 4/4, as peaceful organization and introspection soothes.

HOW IT WORKS: 10 is good, 1 is bad.

ARIES (March 21 - April 19) - Today is a 9 - The Full Moon brings a turning point in your finances and income. Friends offer good advice. A fantastic idea could work. Set priorities. Pay bills before spending on frills. A celebratory dinner may be in order.TAURUS (April 20 - May 20) - Today is a 9 - Imagine yourself pushing a boundary, with the Full Moon as impetus. Venture farther than ever. Wear your power suit. Finish an old job, and use the best parts from different options. Get persuaded by a stranger.GEMINI (May 21 - June 21) - Today is an 8 - Reach a personal turning point with this Full Moon. A brilliant insight illuminates a new road with new options. Balance new work with old responsibilities. Prioritize plumbing. Accept assistance. Don't pay more than you can afford.CANCER (June 22 - July 22) - Today is a 9 - If you're not getting paid, make sure you're appreciated. It's okay to invest in a future. A new opportunity for fun with friends beckons with the Full Moon. Get stylish and go play with interesting people.LEO (July 23 - Aug. 22) - Today is a 9 - Discover a delightful truth, and make an important connection. Put down roots. Results look better than expected. Streamline your routine. A Full Moon turning point dawns regarding your career priorities. A touch of mystery doesn't hurt.VIRGO (Aug. 23 - Sept. 22) - Today is a 9 - A new phase in your education, explorations and travels develops with the Full Moon. Get something you've always wanted, or find a way to get those tickets. Register for an opportunity. Consider your long-term plans.LIBRA (Sept. 23 - Oct. 22) - Today is a 9 - A busy phase has you raking in the dough with this Full Moon. Creativity blossoms, and collaboration flourishes. You and another are bonded by a shared dream. Keep your objective in mind. Clean up messes as they arise.SCORPIO (Oct. 23 - Nov. 21) - Today is a 9 - A partnership takes a new direction under this Full Moon. Confide a dream, and be inspired by others. What would it take to realize? Plot a course in simple steps. Take turns, and delegate.SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22 - Dec. 21) - Today is a 9 - The Taurus Full Moon inspires a new phase at work. Balance intensity with peace. Ease into a bubble bath or hot shower. Emotional release provides freedom. Trust a hunch. Take time for ritual and symbolism. Keep the faith.CAPRICORN (Dec. 22 - Jan. 19) - Today is a 9 - Appreciate partners, and celebrate an accomplishment. Step into a new game with this Full Moon. Pursue what you've been practicing, and hone your talents. Get organized, and find quality supplies. Add music.AQUARIUS (Jan. 20 - Feb. 18) - Today is an 8 - Make your home cozier with this new Full Moon domestic phase. Delight senses with color, scent, flavor, mood and beauty. Include a water element. Get dreamy. Invite someone you'd like to know better to play.PISCES (Feb. 19 - March 20) - Today is a 9 - A new creative opportunity arises with this Taurus Full Moon. Write, sing out, and broadcast your message. Wax philosophical as you experiment with new concepts. Abundance is available. Talk about your dreams for the future.

Experience It.

Students $10 | Affiliates $15Community $20

GET FITHALF OFF

Introductory Offerfor three months of membership

NOV3-14

arc.sdsu.edu619-594-7529

16THE BACK PAGE NOV. 6 - 9, 2014 • THE DAILY AZTECEDITOR: KELLY HILLOCK • FEATURES@THEDAILYAZTEC.COM

HOW TO PLAY: Complete the grid so each row, column and 3-by-3 box contains every digit 1 to 9.

DIFFICULTY LEVEL: 2 / 4

CROSSWORDS, SUDOKU, AND HOROSCOPES COURTESY OFTRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES INC., ©2014.

GAME SOLUTIONS AVAILABLE ONLINE ATTHEDAILYAZTEC.COM

SUDOKU

PLEASE NOTE: The views expressed in this issue do not necessarily reflect those of The Daily Aztec. Express your concerns by emailing letters@thedailyaztec.com

#DASNAPSHOTS

'THE SHOW' BEHIND THE SHOWVideo Editor Wesley Beights snapped this shot of "The Show" getting pumped up before an Aztec men's basketball game.

ETHAN BAILEYSENIOR STAFF COLUMNIST____________________________________

The San Diego State Aztecs.

Champs of the Mountain West where they cut down the nets.

Welcome to the most hostile nest in the west.

There's a show in town and it's not on the court.

It's like no other, scarlet and black.It roots for the Aztecs — and that's a

fact.Make no mistake, it's not for the faint.The students' faces smeared with

black and red war paint. In San Diego, the weather is sunny.But this section’s attitude? It's not even funny. It's a student section so far and

beyond.It tells opposing teams to get off its

lawn. Welcome to “The Show.”Those 100 words of poetry go out to

maybe the most unique and fiercest student section in the country. Ever since I transferred to San Diego State, “The Show” has been a fixture of Aztec athletics — especially when it comes to

'The Show' takes spotlight#HUMOR

the basketball team. In the handful of times I've attended

men's basketball games at Viejas Arena, it was the x-factor in both the games and the atmosphere. From tip-off to the final whistle, the intensity from the student section rippled through the rest of the crowd to help scream its team to victory.

But “The Show” is only one piece of the puzzle. Viejas Arena is special, and the Aztecs thrive when they have home-court advantage. Since the 2012 season, the Aztecs are 29-2 when they play at home.

I've always thought the architecture of Viejas Arena fit the Aztec mold nicely. Fans enter at the top of the arena and begin a steep descent into their seating sections. The steepness of the stairs reminds me somewhat of an inverted Aztec temple where spectators may have looked down at a sacrifice.

Sadistic? A little bit, but I'll be damned if the Aztecs don't full-on slaughter a few teams in that arena this season. If you didn't notice, the team is ranked No. 16 in the preseason and has a real shot to get to the Final Four. One could even say an appearance in the Final Four is expected.

But enough of that — this issue of The Daily Aztec is already packed with stuff about the actual team. Let's get back to its natural habitat.

The Aztecs feed, if you will, on hype; the game-time atmosphere at Viejas Arena provides plenty of it. Being at a game is an experience I'll likely remember for the rest of my life. As an Aztec-for-life, you owe it to yourself to go to a game or two even if you don't like basketball.

And don't forget the crucial chant. It goes like

this: I Believe That We Will Win.