UTSA junior Macaleab Rich soars over Coach Austin Claunch in the dunk contest Thursday night at Rowdy Jam. – Photo by Joe Alexander

By Jerry Briggs
Special for The JB Replay

The night started with the UTSA band rocking the Convocation Center. It continued with introductions of the men’s and women’s basketball teams, a three-point shooting exhibition and a dunk contest.

It ended with a concert by soulful R&B singer Cupid, The Linedance King, who had hundreds of students, athletes and even a few administrators dancing all together on one end of the court.

After it was over, a few of the UTSA athletes applauded the show, which served not only to bring everyone together in a party atmosphere on the floor, but also to break up the routine of preseason practices.

Asked how she thought the fans did in the dance portion of the show, UTSA women’s team center Emilia Dannebauer smiled and said she thought “everyone was amazing.”

Men’s team center Mo Njie said he thinks it was a fun event for everyone, and he hopes the fans continue to come out when the season starts.

Njie has high hopes for the Roadrunners men, especially on the defensive end of the floor.

“We want to be the best defensive team in the nation,” he said.

Freshman Adriana Robles, enjoying a moment at Rowdy Jam, is competing for playing time at point guard for the defending American Conference regular-season champion UTSA women. – Photo by Joe Alexander

Freshman Matheo Coffi. from Strasbourg, France, shows off his hops during the dunk show. – Photo by Joe Alexander

Saher Alizada is a junior from Montreal, Canada. She’s a transfer from South Plains College. – Photo by Joe Alexander

Six-foot-11 center Mo Njie, a grad student, is one of four returning players for the UTSA men.- Photo by Joe Alexander

The one and only @NEWCUPID in the house!

A night to remember on the UTSA basketball court. 🏀@UTSAMBB | @UTSAWBB pic.twitter.com/WrFNZs52VZ

— UT San Antonio (@UTSA) October 17, 2025

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