The NBA preseason is over and the regular season is coming with a full head of steam. Teams have made alterations to their respective lineups and look to put their best foot forward to hoist the Larry O’Brien Trophy come late June.
This offseason was the most heartbreaking one for me. My Chicago Bulls decided to part ways with one of our top scorers, DeMar DeRozan.
As a long-time Bulls fan, this hurt me. I was not expecting the Bulls to make such a huge move to their roster. What surprised me about this was that we were so indecisive about making the trade and then out of nowhere I got a notification from ESPN that exclaimed, “Breaking News: The Chicago Bulls have traded Demar DeRozan to the Sacramento Kings.”
The trade wasn’t even good. We didn’t get anything of value that could help prepare us for the upcoming season. We obtained Chris Duarte whose production has faltered every year.
Granted, we still have Zach Lavine and Nikola Vucevic, but that just isn’t enough. I believe our record will tank to at least 39-43. One sports publication was giving out projections and they said that we would be lower than 39-43.
Another thing is that we have Lonzo Ball, who, defensively, will bring some spark to the Bulls. We also have a more improved Coby White, who can score with the best of them. He could be the second option and gain a starting position this season.
A team that has caught my attention is the Sacramento Kings. They are in an interesting situation. With a “Big 3” in Demar DeRozan, Domantas Sabonis, and De’Aaron Fox, three scorers who can produce at any given point.
The addition of DeRozan is good because he can score at a high clip, especially at the elbow which is his spot. DeRozan can elevate an offense that previously had six double-digit scorers and four that were over 15 points.
The only downside of this DeRozan trade is that the 2nd option will have to take a slight hit on their scoring.
Now with this current team, the Kings can make a deep playoff run. I have them going at least to the Western Conference Finals simply off the fact that they can do it They are a team that isn’t far from that feat, especially under Mike Brown who has done wonders for this team since his hiring in 2022.
I believe that the Kings will have a record of 50-32 with the added production of DeRozan.
Another team that I am looking forward to this season is the Dallas Mavericks. Their deep run to the Finals was a run that I did not expect. It was great seeing the talent that the Mavericks front office was able to assemble.
The Mavericks acquired Klay Thompson in the first-ever six-team trade which included the Minnesota Timberwolves, Dallas Mavericks, Denver Nuggets, Philadelphia 76ers, and the Golden State Warriors.
With this trade, I am not sure what will be the outcome for the Dallas Mavericks. They are a very unpredictable team that can be bad and then flourish into a team that can make the finals.
These teams are the ones to watch out for. I don’t think any of them will be in the Finals. My prediction is that the Boston Celtics will tear up the East and make another Finals appearance. It’s tough to say if they will win the Finals at the moment but they have the team and coaching staff to do so.
The Western Conference has a large variety of talent as well but the team that will come out victorious and make it to the Finals is the Los Angeles Lakers. I just have a feeling that in his 22nd year, Lebron James and the Lakers are going to make this season special.
The NBA season starts on Oct, 22. Who do you have winning the Larry O’Brien Trophy?
]]>Cameron Adams
Editor-In-Chief
Saying goodbye is always the most difficult part of being introduced to something new. So I won’t be saying goodbye. I will be saying hello to a new era of The Blue and White Flash.
As I reflect on my two years at Jackson State University, on paper it seems like I have been here since I was a freshman.
Coming from a community college to a university was by far one of the most difficult transitions I have ever made in my life. Although I finished two years of my college journey, I felt as if I was starting all over again.
I was stepping foot into unfamiliar territory. A place that was close to home, with me being a Mississippi native, but very new to me.
With all of my prerequisite classes out of the way, I was forced to hit the ground running at Jackson State. I had to find a way to get some real work experience under my belt, but I had no idea where to start.
That was until I met Ms. Tatum.
In my junior year, Ms. Tatum visited my class looking for a Sports section editor to join The Blue and White Flash. As an aspiring sports journalist, this opportunity seemed too good to be true.
I immediately followed up with her and the rest was history.
Within that same year, I was promoted from a Sports Editor, running a four to five-writer section, to the Editor-In-Chief. I immediately started having several doubts about my promotion, but not the doubts you think.
I did not doubt if I would be able to fulfill the role that Ms. Tatum appointed me to. I doubted if it would take a few weeks or a few months before I completely turned the organization around.
My priority was to appoint new members who I believed would help my vision come to life. I was able to nearly triple the number of members from when we started.
Though some members decided to pursue other interests, the ones that stuck with the organization deserve all the credit for the achievements The Flash has and will accomplish in the future.
If it wasn’t for the members who sacrificed their time and dedicated it to the Flash, everything I have done would mean nothing.
Whether it’s delivering papers to different locations or turning in a story, I want to personally thank everyone who contributed during my time as Editor-In-Chief.
Because of The Flash, I have gained experiences that I would’ve never imagined. From interviewing Charlamagne Tha God to being featured on Amazon Prime Video’s ‘The College Tour’ to working with ESPN and Channel 16 WAPT, none of this would have been possible without The Blue and White Flash on my resume.
To future members, these opportunities are in the palms of your hands. As long as you are a member of The Flash and fully take advantage of the platform you are given, you will unlock new opportunities that others dream about.
To current members, I know that you are in good hands with the editors who are in place for next year. I truly thank you for everything that you have done for me. Your contributions to this organization have never gone unnoticed.
To my current editors, the keys to The Blue and White Flash are yours. I have full confidence that you will not only meet the expectations of Ms. Tatum but also blow them out of the water. You were selected to lead this organization for a reason, so show Jackson State University students that they have a voice on this campus.
To the future Editor-In-Chief, I know you will do everything in your power to ensure that the Flash continues to be the voice of the voiceless. I know that you are destined for your definition of greatness. This is your opportunity to find it and define it.
To Ms. Tatum and Doc, thank you. You have seen me at my lowest and still saw someone who was destined to make it to the top. Without you, I would still be the scared transfer student struggling to find a purpose on this campus.
And finally, Jackson State University, I would not have done this any other way. I will never forget the culture, life, and authenticity of this campus. No matter who I become in the future, one thing is for certain: I will always be a Jackson State Tiger.
Signing out, CTA.
]]>By: Zhane McCorvey
Staff Writer
Mississippi Gov. Tate Reeves’ recent proclamation declaring April as Confederate Heritage Month has once again thrust the debate over the role of Confederate symbols into the spotlight. This proclamation, continuing a 31-year-old tradition, reflects Reeves’ commitment to perpetuating a version of history that many argue whitewashes the Confederacy’s racist past and minimizes the role of slavery in the Civil War.
It’s worth noting that the proclamation originated from Beauvoir, the historic home of Confederate President Jefferson Davis, operated by the Sons of Confederate Veterans (SCV). This organization has been criticized for promoting the “Lost Cause” ideology, a revisionist history that attempts to glorify the Confederacy while downplaying its role in perpetuating slavery and white supremacy.
Reeves defends his decision by pointing out that this tradition has been upheld by governors from both parties for the past 30 years. While this may be true, it doesn’t necessarily make it right. Former Gov. Ronnie Musgrove, who signed a similar proclamation during his term, later admitted that Confederate Heritage Month is “something that should not continue in today’s world.”
The roots of this tradition trace back to Mississippi’s first Republican governor in a century, Kirk Fordice, who courted support from white supremacist groups. This association with groups promoting white supremacy casts a shadow over the entire concept of Confederate Heritage Month.
Reeves’ ties to the SCV, including his 2013 speech at their national gathering, raise questions about his objectivity on this issue. His past association with a fraternity known for Confederate-themed parties, as well as the controversy surrounding blackface during his 2019 campaign, further complicates his stance.
While Reeves did sign a bill retiring the state’s Confederate-themed flag in 2020, his subsequent denial of systemic racism and signing of a “critical race theory ban” in 2022 indicates a contradictory approach to addressing racial issues in Mississippi. His claims that critical race theory is being used to “humiliate” white people demonstrate a fundamental misunderstanding of the academic theory, which aims to examine systemic racial inequalities.
Gov. Reeves has been issuing proclamations in favor of Confederate Heritage Month for years, and every April, it feels like a repetitive cycle of the same old rhetoric. It’s become a predictable yet disheartening annual event that divides rather than unites us. While some may argue it’s just a nod to history, the timing, context, and implications are clear. By continuously endorsing this tradition, Gov. Reeves perpetuates a divisive narrative that doesn’t reflect the inclusive and progressive Mississippi we should be striving for. It’s time to break this cycle and let go of these outdated proclamations that serve no purpose other than to fuel controversy and deepen historical wounds.
Now, let’s put this into perspective with a bit of humor and irony. According to a TikTok video (https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZTLmu6rW5/), here’s a list of things that have lasted longer than the Confederacy, which took place from 1861-1865:
The Confederacy wasn’t a tradition, it was a phase in the 1800s, and I think it’s time to move on. Instead of clinging to symbols of division and oppression, let’s embrace a future where all Mississippians can feel included and valued. It’s time for Gov. Reeves and all leaders to prioritize unity over division and to work towards creating a state where everyone’s heritage is respected and celebrated.
Let’s advocate for a Mississippi that looks forward, not backward, and leaves the relics of the past where they belong: in history books, not proclamations.
]]>By Jazmine Moering
Photography Editor
It’s hard for me to believe that the time has come for me to say goodbye. The last week has truly been bittersweet as I look back and marvel at all the opportunities that I have been afforded as a student at this extraordinary university. I began this journey in 2011 as a graduate of Jim Hill High School, ready to meet the world with my arms wide open. I was focused on obtaining my college degree and going forth to make a difference in the world. Little did I know at that time that life would bring many challenges and some of them I would not meet. However, it is truly heartwarming to reflect on the incredible journey I have had since I walked on the campus so many years ago.
Life came with its ups and downs, and upon the death of my father, I stepped away from pursuing a college degree and it wasn’t until 2022 that I decided to finish what I had started. I was met with new challenges as a readmitted student, but this time, I was ready, and I must say it was perfect timing. From that first media design and production class, I knew that I had found my niche, and there was no turning back. I had stumbled upon my life’s purpose, and I can truly say that my life has not been the same. The accomplishments that I have been able to achieve have been mind-blowing and were made possible by the Jackson State University faculty and staff.
Journalism and media studies has ignited a new passion within me, and being a part of The Blue and White Flash team has felt like home. This newspaper has provided me with countless opportunities to tap into my creativity and discover talents I didn’t know I possessed. I’ve had the privilege to tell stories, not just with words, but with pictures. It is said that a picture can paint a thousand words, and The Blue & White Flash has shown me the truth in that. Every picture I captured or story I collaborated on has taught me the power of inspiring while informing and serving while sharing. The camaraderie and sense of belonging I felt with the team has been invaluable, and I am grateful for the role they played in my journey.
I’ve worked with the team to meet deadlines and brainstorm ideas while always remaining true to our purpose. Sharing perspectives and experiences on important issues was always the goal. The Blue & White Flash showed me a glimpse of my future, and I’m ready and willing to take the next step in my career. As I get ready for the next chapter in this adventure called life, I want to express my gratitude to JSU, faculty and staff, The Blue and White Flash, and Tiger Report. The first time I tried to navigate college life, I was not prepared, but this time, everything and everyone I needed to complete my goal was in place. You have been a part of my success and will definitely be a part of my future. It is true together, everyone accomplishes more, and we have seen that firsthand in our collaborative work.
I am grateful for the opportunities we have shared, and I want to say thank you. Though my time at JSU is coming to an end, the memories and life lessons will forever be with me. I am proud of all that we have accomplished, and I’m honored to have been a part of the team. As I look ahead to the future, I know that it is going to be exceedingly bright, for you have prepared me to do great things. I know that you will have continued success within the JSU community. I leave you with this closing thought that I have found true while being at JSU, “It’s all in God’s timing.” Peace and blessings.
]]>Shakell James
2024 Managing Editor
As we all know, mental health is an essential part of our lives. The only thing about mental health is, there are many different ways to prioritize it, but some ways are more preferred than others.
Some ways include taking care of your health, spending time outside, journaling, surrounding yourself around positive people, and taking mental health screenings.
My personal favorite would have to be sleeping. It may sound cliche, but sleep is one of the most overlooked steps. When I can’t go to sleep instantly, I watch ASMR videos.
ASMR (autonomous sensory meridian response) in shorter terms, are relaxation tactics, or triggers. This tingly feeling travels from your head downward, which I love.
My favorite triggers would have to be tapping and whispering. Of course, there are many other triggers, but those two triggers hit differently for me.
Proper sleep for students is important because sometimes we forget to put ourselves first. Whether that be assignments, organizations that we are involved in, or anything else that’s productive.
An article from sleepfoundation.org reports that sleep is connected to depression and anxiety. There’s a reason it’s said that someone in a bad mood “woke up on the wrong side of the bed”.
Your brain activity plays a crucial part during sleep, each stage depending on the fluency. The various stages are the light sleep stage (n1 & n2), the deep sleep stage (n3), and vivid dreaming (REM).
I discovered that sleep is a crucial part of your health in high school when someone told me rain sounds help them sleep. Rain sounds weren’t really doing the trick for me, which is where the ASMR videos came in.
Each stage plays a role in brain health, allowing activity in different parts of the brain to ramp up or down and enabling better thinking, learning, and memory. The article stated the REM stage helps establish emotional information.
The brain functions in order to evaluate and remember thoughts and memories, and it appears that a lack of sleep is especially harmful to the consolidation of positive emotional content. This can influence mood and emotional reactivity and is tied to mental health disorders and their severity, including the risk of suicidal ideas or behaviors.
I can admit that I’ve felt my best after watching those videos. It’s like you get a newfound energy about yourself. Suddenly, anything can be achieved and you wouldn’t have to stress about it.
That indicates sleep problems were a symptom of mental health disorders, and are increasingly being called into question. Instead, it is becoming clear that there is a relationship between sleep and mental health in which sleeping problems may be both a cause and consequence of mental health problems.
Without proper rest, sleep apnea can occur. This condition pauses breathing, reducing sleep and body oxygen levels.
According to the article, depression is one of the downfalls from inadequate sleep. Over 300 million people have depression. Seventy-five percent of that portion show symptoms of insomnia. While getting enough sleep is important, getting too much sleep also isn’t sufficient. Either way, sleep is nothing to neglect.
Sleep is so important that the article reports that anxiety and sleep go hand-in-hand, making the atmosphere intolerable. PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder) also has a strong connection towards sleep.
It is clear that getting enough sleep is important to your mental health. This is why I recommend that as you prioritize what is important in your life, make sure sleep is among the most important. A lack of it, could mess everything up.
]]>Anicia Dixon
Staff Writer
On April 8 approximately 31.6 million people were expected to be in the path of totality of a solar eclipse that moved across the U.S., leaving many people with a complete or partial view. Unfortunately, some states, like Mississippi had clouds in their forecast during the eclipse and did not get to experience the phenomenon.
Around 2 p.m. on the Jackson State University Plaza, students were handed eclipse viewing glasses and all gathered to watch the galactic show together.
The eclipse entered the U.S., crossing states such as Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine.
The days prior to the arrival of the eclipse, safety precautions were stressed. On Texas highways there were signs stating, NO STOPPING ON HIGHWAY TO VIEW ECLIPSE, The Hill News reported.
Travel tips and precautions that Texas implemented during the brief darkness that took over the U.S. were also implemented in several other states such as Arkansas, Illinois, and Missouri.
People across the U.S. that were in the solar eclipse’s path of totality were excited for the four minutes of darkness. Others, not so much.
Viral TikTok’s from numerous creators about the solar eclipse spread on social media and concerned the public. Several warnings spread from social media via users who were cautious about this particular eclipse. The conspiracy led people to believe that this eclipse was going to be damaging to people’s livelihoods if they did not share the same concern as others.
Warnings included having a full tank of gas in your vehicle, and stocking up on non-perishable food, water, and other essential supplies.
Some TikTokers also claimed that it would be bad luck to look at the solar eclipse and to stay inside. Others users brushed it off by making jokes. One user wrote, “If the government says not to watch it, I’m watching.”
Another user wrote, followed by a meme, “Me when the solar eclipse is over and I still don’t have superpowers.”
Regardless of the social media warnings, conspiracies, or jokes about the solar eclipse, people still looked forward to getting a live look at the solar eclipse’s passing.
Treniti Smith, a senior social science major from Danville, Ill., really enjoyed this opportunity to see the eclipse.
“I thought the eclipse was really cool. I did look at it without the glasses for a little bit because I am dangerous and I just couldn’t help myself but to peek,” Smith said.
Smith also leaned into the fun conspiracies traveling through the internet. With her interest in astrology, she applies more spiritual meanings towards phenomenon like an eclipse.
“I have been feeling kind of crazy lately- but nevertheless I do feel like everybody is going to get their superpowers at midnight because of the eclipse. I also feel like some really freaky-deaky things are going to happen. I’m into astrology. Things coming to light, relationships changing and people entering new phases in their life is a very real thing and I definitely think it’s going to happen,” Smith said.
Derrick Brooks, a senior healthcare administration major from Memphis, Tenn. was another student among the masses who gathered on the plaza for the view.
“I thought the solar eclipse was very pretty. I looked at the solar eclipse with my regular glasses and then I got the other glasses and it was pretty. It was really scary. I feel that I am a conspiracy theorist, so I feel like everything comes true spiritually but maybe not physically,” said Brooks.
The eclipse had many people worried, confused, or excited. Nonetheless, it sparked interest across the world, bringing together millions. The next total solar eclipse in the U.S. is not scheduled to happen until 2044.
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