HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The actions of two Hutchinson citizens saved a man's life and, for that, they were honored Thursday afternoon.

For Tim Herrman, Oct. 2 probably seemed like a typical fall day when he arrived at Midwest Superstore in Hutchinson, not knowing he would soon experience a life-threatening medical emergency.&nbsp;

Herrman was enjoying the day when he went into cardiac arrest. Midwest Superstore staff promptly summoned 911, but there is even more to this story. Britnea Weaver, a nurse with the Hutchinson Clinic, was at the business and Greg Flores, an employee of Midwest Superstore, stepped forward to perform CPR. Soon, EMS personnel were on the scene and Herrman was transported to Hutchinson Regional Medical Center where he was treated and made a full recovery.&nbsp;

“I was talking to my manager and his wife came in and was really calm, and said, 'somebody needs to call 911,'” Flores said. “I walked out there to find him not breathing. He was blue and he didn’t have a heartbeat.”

Weaver and Flores traded off providing CPR until EMS arrived 10 minutes later, although both said it felt like forever. Flores learned CPR at Hutchinson High School and Weaver, who was actually there to buy Herrman's pickup that he was trading in, is certified because of her profession. Weaver says CPR is not as easy as it looks, but is easy to learn and stressed that it's a skill everyone should have.

“There is skill that goes into it,” Weaver said. “The depth you need to go (compression) . . . the speed, if you need to be giving breaths, there’s a lot that goes into it.”&nbsp;

Dave Johnston, director of Reno County EMS, says the action of Weaver and Flores made all of the difference in saving Herrman.

“Because these citizens were there and were able to start CPR right away, they had this patient ready to receive all the treatment they needed,” Johnston said. “It’s just really exciting.”

Johnston hopes getting the word out about the action of Weaver and Flores will get more people to learn the skill of CPR.

“Our hope is that this will inspire more people to go out and learn CPR,” Johnston said. “So they are ready to respond whether it’s a family member, or a citizen, or someone in their church or school that goes down.”

Weaver and Flores both received the Citizen Lifesaving Award presented by Reno County EMS and the Hutchinson Regional Medical Center in a ceremony at 1 p.m. Thursday at Midwest Superstore. While they were being honored, Flores said he wanted to stress that EMS and first responders do this every day and they are the real heroes.

The EMS crew that responded to the scene that day were also on-hand to see Weaver and Flores get their awards.

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Weaver and Flores receive Citizen Lifesaving Award

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson police continue an investigation into a shooting that occurred Thursday morning.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Just before 1:30 a.m., officers responded to the alley behind the 320 Landing Apartments, 322 E. 1st Ave., and found 38-year-old Michael Pena of Hutchinson with several gunshot wounds to the abdomen. Pena was transported to an area hospital, underwent surgery and is now in recovery. As of now, no arrests have been made and the incident is still under investigation.

The Reno County Sheriff's Office, the South Hutchinson Police Department, Hutchinson Fire Department and Reno County EMS also responded to the shooting.&nbsp;

Anyone who has information about the shooting is asked to call Crime Stoppers of Reno County at 1-800-222-TIPS, the Hutchinson Police Department at 620-694-2816, or use the P3Tips App on your smartphone.

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One person injured in shooting

WASHINGTON, D.C. - First District Congressman Tracey Mann&nbsp; and representative Jimmy Panetta announced the establishment of the Congressional FFA Caucus in the U.S. House of Representatives.

"I'm really excited about this," Mann said Thursday. "Congress has caucuses, groups of members that come together and form little groups on certain topics. I'm delighted to form the FFA Caucus. It never existed before and it's important to bring members from both sides of the aisle across the political spectrum and across the country and really be able to focus on ag education in our schools and promote the FFA in the process."

The FFA Caucus will serve as an informal group of U.S. Representatives dedicated to issues related to the next generation of agriculture leaders and students pursuing careers in agriculture, food, natural resources, and related sciences.

"At Quinter High School, I was actually our FFA president," Mann said. "I learned a ton. Giving reasons after judging livestock. That's a great skill to learn how to do. Parliamentary procedure, I use that every day. It's amazing how many FFA members there are in Congress. Forming this caucus helps us to identify them. Really, then we can kind of have the go-to group to work to promote ag education, as things come up."

&nbsp;The National FFA Organization is a congressionally chartered school-based national youth leadership development organization of more than 735,000 student members as part of 8,817 local FFA chapters in all 50 states, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

Rod Zook and Michaela Todd from Rep. Mann's office contributed to this report.

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Mann announces establishment of Congressional FFA Caucus


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Reno County Administrator Randy Partington notes that the sales tax for the county has been strong this year and that has helped the county budget.

"This year, we're going to bring in close to $5 million in sales tax revenues for the general fund," Partington said. "That's a good portion of our general fund budget."

That's well above what the county planned for in 2021.

"The revenue side, when we budget, we underestimate, especially with sales tax," Partington said. "For example, for 2021, we budgeted $3.8 million in sales tax revenues and we're at about $4.8 million right now. We're already at about $1 million more than what we budgeted."

The county is keeping that money in savings for now, though, because they don't know what the ongoing impact of COVID or other unforeseen events might be on future budgets.&nbsp;

Partington: Sales tax is giving county some cushion

NEWTON, Kan. — Harvey County residents are encouraged to attend any of a set of three public meetings scheduled in January to provide feedback and discuss information to go toward the creation of the County’s next comprehensive plan.

The comprehensive plan is a guiding document used as a decision-making tool by the Harvey County Planning and Zoning Advisory Board and the Harvey County Commission for determinations on land development for the next several years.

The public meetings will be set in different locations throughout the county:

· Jan. 11: Harvey County West Park community building, 2733 West Park Rd., Burrton, KS

· Jan. 12: Meridian Center, 1420 E. Broadway Ct., Newton, KS

· Jan. 13: Harvey County Camp Hawk shelter, 1801 SW. 36th St., Newton, KS

Each meeting will be held from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., and residents can come and go throughout the meeting. Residents are invited to attend any meeting of their choosing. Each meeting will generally follow the same format and discussion topics.

Those not able to attend a meeting can complete an online survey for the comprehensive plan by visiting <a href="http://www.surveymonkey.com/r/harveycocompplan">www.surveymonkey.com/r/harveycocompplan.</a> Physical copies of the survey are also available in the Harvey County Planning, Zoning and Environmental office at the Harvey County Courthouse, as well as local city offices.

The County’s current comprehensive plan was completed in 2001, and prior to that, 1975.

Harvey County looking for input on comprehensive plan

HUTCHINSON, Kan. —Heartland Credit Union is expanding. The Hutchinson-based financial institution announced that they have reached an agreement to merge with Farmers Credit Union of Hays.

The merger would create a credit union with just over $500 million in assets and 33,000 members. One branch in Hays will join the eight HCU branches in Hutchinson, Haven, Newton and Wichita, including the Salthawk Center Branch inside Hutchinson High School. The combined credit unions will operate under the Heartland Credit Union name and leadership team.

Initial discussions regarding a potential merger started after Farmers President Guy Forell announced his intention to leave the credit union later in 2021. All other Farmers Credit Union employees will be retained. Farmers Credit Union will be entering into a management agreement with Heartland to ensure a smooth transition for members and employees.

“Our goal at Farmers Credit Union has always been to do what is right for our members,” Darren Walters, Board Chair of Farmers Credit Union said. “After evaluating several options and having extensive discussions regarding the future of the credit union, the decision to partner with Heartland Credit Union became clear. Their culture and commitment to excellent member service and superior products assures us this is the right move for our members. We are excited for the opportunity to welcome Farmers Credit Union members to Heartland,”

Dan Springer, Heartland Credit Union President/CEO said. “Our wide range of financial products, along with market leading rates, will provide excellent value to their members. It will also provide HCU the opportunity to expand our coverage area, better serving the growing number of Heartland members in central Kansas.”

The merger is contingent on final due diligence, regulatory approval, and a vote of the membership. Once regulatory approval is received, a merger packet and ballot will be made available to all members in good-standing. This should take place in the first quarter of 2022.

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Heartland Credit Union announces merger


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
With a recall going on since earlier this year for all CPAP machines from Phillips Respironics, it is important for those who have those machines to talk to their doctor.

"There's this foam inside these machines that help absorb the sound and make the machines a little bit quieter," said Health E-Quip Respiratory Therapist Kristen Yoder. "They have found that, in certain situations, sometimes high heat and humidity or with the use of the ozone cleaners, the foam can break down and potentially make its way to the patient. It has also been found to release some carcinogenic gas, that can also make its way to the patient. All of that is just not good."

There are supply issues with machines from the only other company that makes them, though, so its a risk-benefit analysis for you and your doctor as to whether or not to use the machine anyway.

"Whether you stop using it or not is up to you," Yoder said. "Respironics stance on it, and we follow their recommendation, is that you contact your doctor and you talk to them about the issue and whether or not the continued use of your machine outweighs any potential risk to your health and your body. I will say, ultimately, most of Health Equip's patients have continued to use their machine."

The cost to one's health of not being able to breathe while you're sleeping could outweigh any risk of additional issues coming from the CPAP depending on your personal age and health situation. 

"We are months into a waiting list at this point," Yoder said. "If they're a new patient, it would be February or March, if they're lucky."

The CPAP machines are just one example of supply chain issues for durable medical equipment generally. Health E-Quip orders as much of everything as they can, but amounts alloted to them are limited.

CPAP patients should talk to their doctor in light of recall

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Kroger reported non-fuel sales rose 3.1% in the third quarter as the parent company of Dillons released its third quarter earnings report Thursday morning.&nbsp;

Kroger’s&nbsp; adjusted earnings for the three months ending in October, totaled $0.78 cents per share, up 9.9% from the same period last year and firmly ahead of Wall Street’s forecast of 66 cents per share. Revenue jumped 7.4% to $31.9 billion, again topping analysts' estimates. The company also continued to increase its digital footprint, Digital sales rose 103% from 2019 levels.

"Kroger's strategy to lead with fresh and accelerate with digital continues to connect with our customers,” Kroger CEO Rodney McMullen said. “Our agility, and the commitment from our amazing associates, is allowing us to navigate current labor and supply chain conditions and provide the freshest food at affordable prices across our store and digital ecosystem.”

Kroger is forecasting stronger full-year profits as sales get a boost from the highest levels of food price inflation in more than a decade and the ongoing boom in pandemic-era grocery demand.

Kroger releases third quarter earnings

MANHATTAN, Kansas — The Kansas State Board of Agriculture will meet for its regular quarterly board meeting on Wednesday, December 8, from 9:00 a.m. to noon at the Kansas Department of Agriculture, 1320 Research Park Dr. in Manhattan.

The meeting is open to the public. This meeting will be held in person only. Due to space limitations for adequate social distancing, guests are asked to RSVP to Brittney Grother at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:Brittney.Grother@ks.gov" target="_blank">Brittney.Grother@ks.gov</a>&nbsp;or 785-564-6797 by Monday, December 6. Persons who require special accommodations must make their needs known at least two days prior to the meeting.

State Board of Agriculture to Meet December 8


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Allen Samuels CDJR November Teacher of the Month, Plum Creek Elementary 2nd grade teacher Morgan Starkweather, is committed to her kids and to their families.

"One of the coolest things about education is getting to know each kid individually," Starkweather said. "The longer I've taught, the more leniency we have to integrate the curriculum and make it projects that the students are passionate about."

This year's class is a good example of that.

"Right now, my class is really into rocks," Starkweather said. "Rocks is not part of my curriculum, but if it's what they are into and we can learn about geology and earth and the world and places around the world with different rocks and they are reading about it and writing about it, then we are going to study rocks."

COVID continues to create daily challenges.

"Quite honestly, I don't know what I'm going to encounter from day to day," Starkweather said. "I don't know which family has been impacted or which staff member has been impacted. Fortunately, I think teachers are extremely resilient and passionate about what they do and so we will do it no matter what the situation is that we're walking into, because we'll do it for the kids."

Teachers are committed to making sure that the things their kids can't control won't keep them from learning, but Starkweather worries about newer teachers that have never seen normal.

"They don't realize that what we're going through is hopefully temporary in life," Starkweather said. "There will be smoother days ahead. For them, this is all they know. We're extremely short staffed. We're covering classes, covering para jobs, covering lunch duties, recess duties, we do not have custodians. We clean at night. I do not think people realize the stress that's been put on teachers."

At the end of the day, it's all about the kids.

"It's pushing me to extra lengths, because I'm not going to let these kids walk out of here not learning something because of COVID, or because they were quarantined," Starkweather said. "We're still going to learn it and we're going to master it. I just might have to be more creative in the way I do it or perservere a little bit more."

Starkweather has been teaching for 18 years.

Teacher of the month: Resilience and passion drive Starkweather

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Recent obituaries

🎙 Eagle Radio Sports for Thursday Morning

Here is the latest Mid-America sports news from The Associated Press

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Chiefs activated veteran offensive lineman Kyle Long from the physically unable to perform list this week and he could be on the field Sunday night against Denver. The Chiefs signed him after a year-long retirement in the hopes that he could compete for a starting job in training camp. But those plans were shelved when Long fractured what's called the tibial plateau in his knee during a June workout. He was designated to return to practice Nov. 9 and was added to the active roster just before the three-week window closed. The Chiefs created space for him by putting running back Jerick McKinnon and defensive tackle Khalen Saunders on injured reserve.

AMES, Iowa (AP) — Izaiah Brockington had 23 points and 10 rebounds for his third double-double of the season, and No. 19 Iowa State overcame a slow start and beat Arkansas-Pine Bluff 83-64. The Cyclones improved to 7-0, extending their best start since 2015-16. Tre Jackson scored 12 points and George Conditt added 11 points and seven rebounds for Iowa State. Shawn Williams was 4 for 7 from 3-point range and scored 21 points to lead Arkansas-Pine Bluff. Trey Sampson scored 16 points and Kylen Milton 13 for the Golden Lions.

RALEIGH, N.C. (AP) — Dereon Seabron scored a career-high 39 points with 18 rebounds and N.C. State defeated Nebraska 104-100 in a marathon, four-overtime Big Ten-ACC Challenge. The 39 points were also a record for the Big Ten-ACC Challenge. Ebenezer Dowuona scored four points for the Wolfpack but blocked a career-high eight shots. N.C. State had 11 blocks in all. Alonzo Verge scored 25 points for Nebraska (5-3) before fouling out in the final seconds. He had traded big, last-minute baskets with Seabron throughout the game's six periods. Freshman Bryce McGowens added 24 points and nine rebounds for the Huskers.

STILLWATER, Okla. (AP) — Ricky Council IV scored 17 points, Morris Udeze added 13 points and Wichita State beat Oklahoma State 60-51 for the Shockers third straight win at Gallagher-Iba Arena. Wichita State also defeated OSU on its home floor in December of 2017 and 2019. Prior to that, the Shockers were a combined 2-17 in Stillwater. The Shockers are the third nonconference team to win three straight at GIA, joining Tulsa (1979, 81, 83, 85) and DePaul (1945, 49, 50). Clarence Jackson chipped in with 10 points for Wichita State. Anderson led Oklahoma State with 17 points.

MANHATTAN, Kan. (AP) — Nijel Pack scored 17 points and Mark Smith scored 14 with 10 rebounds and Kansas State opened it up in the second half and beat Albany 71-43. Smith's dunk with 14:52 remaining made it a 42-24 contest in favor of Kansas State which emerged from the break with a 13-4 scoring outburst to take control. Davion Bradford's dunk gave Kansas State its first 20-point lead (47-27), and it pushed the margin as high as 66-38 with 4:18 left on a pair of foul shots from Smith. Devondre Perry scored 11 points for Albany.

AMES, Iowa (AP) — Iowa State University Athletic Director Jamie Pollard has announced in an open letter to Cyclones fans his diagnosis of testicular cancer. In the letter released on the school's website, Pollard said his diagnosis began with groin pain about four weeks ago. After finding a lump and going to a doctor, Pollard said he underwent surgery last week to have the mass removed and learned a day later it was cancerous. Addition tests showed the cancer had not spread. Pollard decided to reveal the diagnosis after having to cancel a speaking engagement last week for 500 guests.

IOWA CITY, Iowa (AP) — The ninth-ranked Iowa women's basketball team returns to action on Thursday night at Duke after missing three games while the program was in a pause because of a COVID-19 outbreak. The Hawkeyes had to cancel their Thanksgiving trip to Cancun and did not practice as a full squad for nearly two weeks. The Hawkeyes are entering a stretch that includes their Big Ten opener against Michigan State and a road game against No. 14 Iowa State next week.

NORMAL, Ill. (AP) — Antonio Reeves scored 22 points as Illinois State narrowly defeated Missouri State 79-74 in overtime. Josiah Strong added 21 points for the Redbirds. Gaige Prim led the Bears with 27 points and 12 rebounds.

Blocked shot at buzzer gives Celtics 1-point win over 76ers, 88-87 

UNDATED (AP) — Jayson Tatum scored 26 points with a career-high 16 rebounds, shaking off a hard fourth-quarter fall to lead the Boston Celtics to a 88-87 victory over the Philadelphia 76ers. Tatum scored 11 points in the fourth. Robert Williams III blocked Georges Niang's shot at the buzzer to give the Celtics the victory. 

It was their first game this season against their longtime Eastern Conference rivals and former coach Doc Rivers.

 Joel Embiid had 18 rebounds for Philadelphia, adding 13 points on 3 for 17 shooting. Seth Curry had 17 points and Shake Milton came off the bench to score 16.

— De'Aaron Fox scored 24 points and Terence Davis added 23 in the Sacramento Kings' 124-115 victory over the shorthanded Los Angeles Clippers on Wednesday night. Richaun Holmes had 16 points and 11 rebounds as the Kings snapped a two-game skid and improved to 3-3 under interim coach Alvin Gentry. Paul George sat out to rest for the Clippers, while Luke Kennard and Terance Mann both scored 19 points and Ivica Zubac added 17 points and seven rebounds. Rookie Davion Mitchell scored 20 points for Sacramento, while Tyrese Haliburton had 12 points and 11 assists.

— Montrezl Harrell scored 27 points and Bradley Beal added 19 to lift the Washington Wizards to a 115-107 victory over Minnesota. Timberwolves star Karl-Anthony Towns left the game with 2:14 remaining after injuring himself on a dunk. Towns scored only two of his 34 points in the final period — and that was when he got free along the baseline for a dunk. After slamming the ball through, his momentum caused his body to fall horizontally and he appeared to land on his tailbone. Minnesota lost for just the second time in nine games.

— Giannis Antetokounmpo (YAH'-nihs an-teh-toh-KOON'-poh scored on a driving layup with two seconds left to give Milwaukee a 127-125 victory over the Charlotte Hornets on Wednesday night. It was the Bucks' eighth consecutive victory. Antetokounmpo had 40 points and 12 rebounds and Khris Middleton added 21 points. LaMelo Ball had a career-high 36 points for the Hornets, followed by Kelly Oubre Jr. with 25 and Miles Bridges with 22 points. Ball made a fadeaway 3-pointer with 5.9 seconds left to pull the Hornets even at 125. After a timeout, Jru Holliday fed Antetokounmpo near the top of the lane for the layup. 

— Luka Doncic scored 18 of his team-high 28 points in the first quarter and dished out 14 assists in 27 minutes to power the Dallas Mavericks to a 139-107 win over the New Orleans Pelicans on Wednesday. Doncic went 7 of 8 from the floor in the Mavericks' 41-point first quarter — their highest-scoring period of the season. Dallas set a franchise record by shooting 57 of 83 from the floor or 68.7%, beating the previous high of 67.7% from March 24, 1983.

— Cole Anthony scored 24 points, Wendell Carter Jr. added 18 points and the Orlando Magic rallied from an early 16-point deficit to defeat the Denver Nuggets 108-103 ending their seven-game losing streak. The Magic took their first lead of the night at 106-103 when rookie Franz Wagner drilled a step-back 3-pointer with 1:45 to play. The Magic's rally ruined the return of Nuggets' forward Aaron Gordon, who played at the Amway Center for the first time since Orlando traded him to Denver on March 28. Gordon scored 17 points, grabbed eight rebounds and had three thunderous dunks.

— Jae'Sean Tate scored a career-high 32 points and added 10 rebounds, seven assists and five blocked shots, sparking a fourth-quarter rally to lead the short-handed Houston Rockets to a 114-110 victory over the Oklahoma City Thunder. The Rockets won their fourth straight and the Thunder dropped their seventh in a row. After Tate's bucket gave the Rockets a 111-108 lead with 26 seconds left, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (shay GIHL'-juhs) had his potential game-tying 3-pointer rim out.

— Trae Young made two crucial free throws in the final seconds of the game to help the Atlanta Hawks fend off the Indiana Pacers 114-111 on Wednesday night. Pacers rookie Chris Duarte came up with a steal late in the game, but was unable to convert a contested layup. Young was fouled and made the final two of his 33 points. 

— Kevin Love scored 22 points and the Cleveland Cavaliers snapped a 20-game losing streak in Miami, beating the Heat 111-85 on Wednesday night. Jarrett Allen added 19 points and 11 rebounds and Darius Garland finished with 16 points for the Cavaliers, who had not won on the Heat's home court since Jan. 25, 2010. The Cavaliers also got a double-double from Evan Mobley with his 17-point, 11-rebound outing. Tyler Herro scored 21 points for Miami. 

Utah Valley stuns BYU in OT, Abdur-Rahim's 3 helps Georgia shock No. 18 Memphis 82-79

UNDATED (AP) — Fardaws Aimaq had 24 points and 22 rebounds, Justin Harmon also scored 24 points and Utah Valley stunned No. 12 BYU 72-65 in overtime. 

Connor Harding added 10 points for the Wolverines, who beat the Cougars for the second time in school history. Alex Barcello led BYU with 17 points and 11 rebounds, Spencer Johnson added 15 points and nine rebounds, and Seneca Knight and Te'Jon Lucas scored 10 points apiece. 

After Johnson sent the game to overtime with a layup just before the buzzer, Utah Valley took control in the extra period.

Another upset saw Jabri Abdur-Rahim's 3-pointer with less than 2 minutes remaining gave Georgia the lead, and the Bulldogs snapped their four-game losing streak by beating No. 18 Memphis 82-79. T

he 3-pointer by Abdur-Rahim, who scored 15 points, gave the Bulldogs a 78-77 lead over the Tigers, who led most of the second half.

Kario Oquendo, who scored a game-high 24 points, followed with a steal and jam that extended the lead to three points.

Memphis suffered its second consecutive defeat, following Friday's 78-59 loss to Iowa State that caused the Tigers to drop from No. 9 in the AP Top 25.

— Isaiah Mobley scored 21 points and tied a career high with 13 rebounds, Boogie Ellis added 19 points, and No. 20 Southern California opened Pac-12 play by rolling to a 93-73 victory over Utah. It is the second straight game that Mobley has had a double-double. He had 18 points and 12 rebounds in Friday's win over San Diego State in the final of the Wooden Legacy. Utah's Both Gach tied a career high with 28 points and David Jenkins Jr. added 21.

— Caleb Love scored 22 points to help North Carolina take control after halftime, and the Tar Heels handled No. 24 Michigan 72-51 in the ACC/Big Ten Challenge. North Carolina led 29-27 at the half but shot 58% after the break to turn the game into a surprising rout. Dawson Garcia added 14 points while Armando Bacot had 11 points and 14 rebounds. Michigan big man Hunter Dickinson fouled Bacot twice in a span of 12 seconds early in the second half and headed to the bench with four fouls. UNC took advantage while Dickinson sat for more than 10 minutes.

— Tanner Groves scored 20 points, and Oklahoma beat No. 14 Florida 74-67. Groves shot 8 of 11 and had eight rebounds. Jalen Hill scored 18 points and Umoja Gibson added 15 for Oklahoma. It was the Sooners' biggest win yet under new coach Porter Moser. He earned his 300th career coaching win after previous stops at Arkansas-Little Rock, Illinois State and Loyola Chicago. Phlandrous Fleming Jr. scored 17 points and Colin Castleton added 14 points, 11 rebounds and four blocks for Florida.

— Tyger Campbell scored 21 points and No. 5 UCLA recovered after blowing most of a 17-point, first-half lead to beat Colorado 73-61 in the Bruins' Pac-12 opener. Johnny Juzang added 15 points and Myles Johnson had 12 points and 10 rebounds for the Bruins. UCLA improved to 7-1 overall and 1-0 in the Pac-12. Jaime Jaquez Jr. was lost to UCLA midway through the first half when he went down hard on his back. Jabari Walker had 22 points and 11 rebounds to lead the Buffaloes. Colorado fell to 6-2 overall and 1-1 in the league. Evan Battey was held to four points before fouling out. 

 — Collin Gillespie scored 26 points, Brandon Slater had 16 and No. 6 Villanova avoided a second straight court-storming at Penn with a 71-56 win. Jordan Dingle led the Quakers with 21 points. Penn did make 13 3-pointers. Gillespie hit four 3-pointers and went 9 for 15 overall from the floor.

— Stanley Umude scored 17 points off the bench and No. 10 Arkansas won its seventh straight game to start the season, beating Central Arkansas 97-60. Central Arkansas made nine 3-pointers, including 7 of 10 in the first half, and trailed by six at halftime. The Razorbacks outscored the Bears 56-25 in the second half.

— Izaiah Brockington had 23 points and 10 rebounds for his third double-double of the season, and No. 19 Iowa State overcame a slow start and beat Arkansas-Pine Bluff 83-64. The Cyclones improved to 7-0, extending their best start since 2015-16. Tre Jackson scored 12 points and George Conditt added 11 points and seven rebounds for Iowa State.

— Walker Kessler had 17 points, a career-high 14 rebounds and six blocks to lead No. 21 Auburn to an 85-68 victory over UCF. The Tigers held the Knights without a field goal for nearly nine minutes to take control in the second half. Freshman Jabari Smith scored 20 points for Auburn. Darius Perry led UCF with 18 points but also committed eight turnovers.

— Malik Hall scored eight of his 15 points in a 1:34 stretch early in the second half, helping No. 22 Michigan State build a big lead it needed to hold off Louisville 73-64 in the Big Ten/ACC Challenge. The Spartans overcame 19 turnovers by playing well in spurts and making 10 of 18 3-pointers. 

— Brad Davison scored nine straight points midway through the second half and finished with 27, leading No. 23 Wisconsin to a 70-66 win over Georgia Tech. The Badgers carried a one-point lead into halftime before building a 10-point advantage in the second half behind the play of Davison. Michael DeVoe scored 33 points for Georgia Tech, which had its five-game winning streak halted. The Yellow Jackets forced a tie at 61-all on a three-point play by DeVoe with 5:27 remaining. DeVoe scored 17 of his points in the first half. 

— Jared Rhoden had 15 points and 11 rebounds, and Kadary Richmond added 10 points, leading No. 25 Seton Hall to an 85-63 victory over Wagner. Richmond also added nine assists, six rebounds, four steals, and a blocked shot as Seton Hall won its third straight game. 

Matthews nets hat trick, surging Maple Leafs thrash Avs 8-3 

UNDATED (AP) — Auston Matthews scored three goals for his fourth career hat trick and the streaking Toronto Maple Leafs thumped the Colorado Avalanche 8-3. John Tavares had a goal and two assists for Toronto, while William Nylander scored one and set up another. Jack Campbell made 28 saves. 

Jason Spezza, Travis Dermott and Pierre Engvall had the other goals for the Maple Leafs, who have won five straight games and are 15-2-0 over their last 17. Michael Bunting added three assists, while Mitch Marner and Alexander Kerfoot had two each. Nazem Kadri had two goals and Samuel Girard also scored for Colorado. 

Jonas Johansson stopped 33 shots as the Avalanche lost for the second time in three games after winning six in a row.

— Connor McDavid had a goal and three assists, Zach Hyman scored twice and the Edmonton Oilers defeated the Pittsburgh Penguins 5-2. Kailer Yamamoto and Evan Bouchard also scored for the Oilers, who won their third game in a row and improved to 9-1-0 on home ice despite getting outshot 34-22. Jake Guentzel and Teddy Blueger each had a goal for the Penguins, who have lost three straight. Pittsburgh was 15-0-4 in its previous 19 games against the Oilers.

— Troy Terry scored his 15th goal during Anaheim's four-goal second period, and Trevor Zegras and Sonny Milano had three assists apiece in the Ducks' 6-5 victory over the Vegas Golden Knights. Rickard Rakell, Josh Manson and Hampus Lindholm also scored in the second period for the Ducks, who have won 11 of 15 after back-to-back victories over Pacific Division rivals Los Angeles and Vegas. Max Pacioretty and Mattias Janmark had a goal and an assist apiece for the Golden Knights, who have lost three of four. Zach Whitecloud and Janmark scored shorthanded goals for Vegas after the Ducks had taken a three-goal lead.

— Chris Kreider scored again and Igor Shesterkin (shehs-TUR'-kihn) stopped 33 shots to help the New York Rangers beat the Philadelphia Flyers 4-1 for their fourth straight win. Artemi Panarin (ahr-TEH'-mee pah-NAH'-rihn) had a goal and an assist, Jacob Trouba and Dryden Hunt also scored and Kaapo Kakko (KAH'-poh KA'-koh) had two assists as the Rangers won for the eighth time in nine games. New York has won six in a row at home.

Shesterkin made 11 saves in the first period, 15 in the second and seven in the third to improve to 12-3-2 with a 2.15 goals-against average this season. Morgan Frost scored and Carter Hart had 24 saves for Philadelphia, which lost its seventh straight.

— Auston Matthews scored three goals for his fourth career hat trick and the streaking Toronto Maple Leafs thumped the Colorado Avalanche 8-3. John Tavares had a goal and two assists for Toronto, while William Nylander scored one and set up another. Jack Campbell made 28 saves. Jason Spezza, Travis Dermott and Pierre Engvall had the other goals for the Maple Leafs, who have won five straight games and are 15-2-0 over their last 17. Michael Bunting added three assists, while Mitch Marner and Alexander Kerfoot had two each. Nazem Kadri had two goals and Samuel Girard also scored for Colorado. Jonas Johansson stopped 33 shots as the Avalanche lost for the second time in three games after winning six in a row.

— J.T Miller scored and added two assists to lead the Vancouver Canucks to a 6-2 win over the Ottawa Senators on Wednesday night. Luke Schenn, Tyler Motte, Tanner Pearson, Bo Horvat, and Alex Chiasson chipped in for the Canucks, who finished their five-game road trip with a 2-3-0 record. Quinn Hughes had four assists, and Thatcher Demko made 19 saves in net. Adam Gaudette scored in his debut with the Senators after being claimed on waivers from the Chicago Blackhawks. Brady Tkachuk (kah-CHUHK') also scored for Ottawa, and Filip Gustavsson stopped 29 shots.

— Adam Erne scored the decisive goal in a shootout and the Detroit Red Wings won their fourth straight game by beating the Seattle Kraken 4-3. Detroit won the shootout 2-1, with Dylan Larkin also converting. Robby Fabbri (FAB'-ree), Vladislav Namestnikov (nah-MEHST'-nih-kahv) and Lucas Raymond scored in regulation for the Red Wings. Ryan Donato had two goals and Vince Dunn scored the other for the Kraken. Thomas Greiss (grys) made 21 saves for Detroit in his 150th career victory. Seattle goalie Philipp Grubauer stopped 23 shots.

MLB owners lock out players, 1st work stoppage since 1995

IRVING, Texas (AP) — Major League Baseball plunged into its first work stoppage in a quarter-century when the sport's collective bargaining agreement expired and owners immediately locked out players in a move that threatens spring training and opening day.

The strategy, management's equivalent of a strike under federal labor law, ended the sport's labor peace after 9,740 days over 26 1/2 years. Teams decided to force the long-anticipated confrontation during an offseason rather than risk players walking out during the summer, as they did in 1994. Players and owners had successfully reached four consecutive agreements without a stoppage.

— NEW YORK (AP) — The New York Mets and Max Scherzer have finalized a $130 million, three-year deal, a contract that shattered baseball's record for highest average salary and forms a historically impressive 1-2 atop New York's rotation with Jacob deGrom. The 37-year-old Scherzer will earn $43.33 million per year, 20% higher than the previous mark, the $36 million that Yankees pitcher Gerrit Cole is averaging in his $324 million, nine-year contract signed prior to the 2020 season. Scherzer has the right to opt out after the 2023 season and become a free agent again.

— Pitcher Kevin Gausman and the Blue Jays finalized a five-year, $110 million contract. The right-hander was 14-6 with a 2.81 ERA and 227 strikeouts in 192 innings for San Francisco last season. He has a 64-72 record and 4.02 ERA in his career with Baltimore, Atlanta and the Giants.

— The Chicago Cubs have landed one of the top remaining free agent starting pitchers. Chicago agreed to a $71 million, three-year contract with right-hander Marcus Stroman. Stroman gets $25 million in each of the next two seasons and has a $21 million player option for 2024. His option price could increase by $2 million each for 160 innings in 2022 and '23. 

— Closer Raisel Iglesias agreed to a four-year, $58 million deal to return to the Los Angeles Angels. Iglesias was outstanding in his first season with the Angels after they acquired him in a trade with Cincinnati a year ago. The Cuban right-hander had 34 saves while going 7-5 with a 2.57 ERA and 103 strikeouts with only 12 walks in 65 appearances.

— The Los Angeles Dodgers are bringing back versatile All-Star Chris Taylor, agreeing to a $60 million, four-year deal with a club option. The 31-year-old Taylor was an All-Star for the first time in 2021, when he hit .254 with 20 homers and set career highs with 92 runs and 73 RBIs. He hit a game-ending homer in the NL wild-card game against St. Louis, then batted .476 in the NL Championship Series against Atlanta, with three homers in Game 5. Taylor has played every position except catcher, first base and pitcher, and is a career .261 hitter with 79 homers. 

 — The Atlanta Braves have tendered a contract to slugger Adam Duvall, ensuring the National League RBI leader returns to the World Series-winning club for another season., and with bench players Orlando Arcia and Guillermo Heredia (hur-AY'-dee-uh). Pitcher Richard Rodriguez and infielder Johan Camargo will be free agents. Still no word on re-signing Freddie Freeman.

— Left-hander Alex Wood is staying with the San Francisco Giants, reaching agreement Wednesday on a $25 million, two-year contract. He gives manager Gabe Kapler two starters named Alex in the rotation after Tuesday's addition of right-hander Alex Cobb on a $20 million, two-year contract with a club option for 2024. 

- The Arizona Diamondbacks have made a move to solidify the back end of their bullpen, adding four-time All-Star Mark Melancon on a $14 million, two-year deal. He had a 4-3 record and 2.23 ERA to earn his fourth All-Star appearance and first since 2016. He'll be 37 years old on opening day. 

— Two-time Cy Young Award winner Corey Kluber (KLOO'-bur) and the Tampa Bay Rays have finalized an $8 million, one-year free-agent contract. The deal also includes an additional $5 million in incentives. The 35-year-old Kluber went through his third consecutive injury-impacted season in 2021, going 5-3 with a 3.83 ERA in 16 starts for the New York Yankees. 

— The Minnesota Twins have signed right-hander Dylan Bundy to a $5 million, one-year contract. This was there first step toward rebuilding a depleted rotation. Bundy will make $4 million in 2022. His deal comes with a club option for 2023 or a $1 million buyout.

— The Philadelphia Phillies signed right-handed reliever Corey Knebel to a $10 million, one-year contract. The 30-year-old Knebel posted a 2.45 ERA and had three saves in 27 total appearances for the Los Angeles Dodgers in 2021. Knebel was named to his first National League All-Star team in 2017 and led all NL pitchers with 76 appearances.

Murray and D-Hop practice, game status uncertain

UNDATED (AP) — Quarterback Kyler Murray and All-Pro receiver DeAndre Hopkins were both at practice for the Arizona Cardinals Wednesday in a sign the team's top two playmakers might be ready to return after a three-game absence.

Murray is dealing with a sprained ankle while Hopkins has a hamstring injury. Coach Kliff Kingsbury said Murray and Hopkins were both "limited" during Wednesday's workout. 

—The New York Giants' quarterback Daniel Jones status is iffy after sustaining a neck injury. If Jones cannot play, veteran Mike Glennon will start for New York, which signed Jake Fromm off the Bills practice squad as an insurance policy.

— The Chiefs activated veteran offensive lineman Kyle Long from the physically unable to perform list this week and he could be on the field Sunday night against Denver. Long fractured what's called the tibial plateau in his knee during a June workout. The Chiefs created space for him by putting running back Jerick McKinnon and defensive tackle Khalen Saunders on injured reserve. 

 — While Justin Fields returned to practice for the Chicago Bears, Andy Dalton got the first-team snaps today. Whether the prized rookie or veteran will start at quarterback Sunday when the NFC West-leading Arizona Cardinals visit Soldier Field remains to be seen. 

— Jalen Hurts said he's "ready to go" and his ankle injury won't affect his performance. The second-year quarterback is coming off his worst game as a pro. He threw three interceptions in a 13-7 loss to the Giants. Former Jaguars quarterback Gardner Minshew is Hurts' backup but hasn't taken a snap this season.

Heat center Bam Adebayo needs thumb surgery, will miss weeks

MIAMI (AP) — Miami Heat star Bam Adebayo (ad-ah-BAY'-oh) needs surgery to repair a torn ligament in his right thumb and is likely out until at least mid-January.

It's the first major injury of Adebayo's five pro seasons. He's averaging a career-best 18.7 points for Miami this season, along with 10.2 rebounds per game.

College Football Playoff expansion talks inch forward

DALLAS (AP) — The latest meeting on expanding the College Football Playoff has wrapped up in Dallas without any announcement. Big 12 Commissioner Bob Bowlsby says the CFP management committee made good progress but works remains. The next meeting could come in January. 

A proposed 12-team model unveiled in June is still at the heart of the discussions. There is still hope it can be implemented for the 2024 season.

— Notre Dame is working on a deal to promote defensive coordinator Marcus Freeman to head coach to replace Brian Kelly. That's according to a person with knowledge of the situation who spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because nothing has been finalized. The 35-year-old Freeman would become the first Black head football coach at Notre Dame. Kelly left for LSU earlier this week.

Women's tennis tour suspends China events over Peng concerns

UNDATED (AP) — The head of the women's professional tennis tour says all WTA tournaments will be suspended in China because of concerns about the safety of Peng Shuai, and, that the suspension could extend beyond 2022.

The Grand Slam doubles champion has accused a former high-ranking government official in that country of sexual assault. She posted her allegations on social media last month.

WTA President and CEO Steve Simon is repeating his call for a "full and transparent investigation" into Peng's accusations.

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Sports Headlines for Thursday

Charlotte, NC - The NJCAA has announced seven individuals and one national championship team as the latest honorees into the NJCAA Football Coaches Association Hall of Fame. Due to COVID-19, the 2020 hall of fame class announcement has been postponed until now. Read below for more on each coach, student-athlete, and team that have contributed and continue to contribute to football at the two-year college level.  

2020 NJCAA FOOTBALL COACHES ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME INDUCTEES

1960 National Championship Team | TYLER (TX)

Tyler's 1960-61 football team, led by head coach Floyd Wagstaff and Assistant Coach "Babe" Hallmark, had an unforgettable season, going 12-0 before punching a ticket to the Junior Rose Bowl in Pasadena, CA. The Apaches finished the season as national champions over Cameron State (OK). Known as the "winningest football team in America" at the time, Tyler's team was exciting to watch and highly favored. Even though the Apaches were defeated by the Long Beach City College Vikings that season in the bowl game, they continue to be remembered for their stellar athletic achievements and sportsmanship to this day.

Wagstaff was a beloved coach from 1946–75 and served as athletic director until retiring in 1984. Wagstaff was the inaugural football and basketball coach for the Apaches and was inducted into various prestigious hall of fame classes: Stephen F Austin University Lettermans Hall of Fame (1974), Texas Sports Hall of Fame as the only two-year college coach inductee (1979), NJCAA Basketball Hall of Fame Inaugural Class (1984). The victorious squad was recognized by the college's alumni association in 2018 for their outstanding professional achievements, contributions to society, and/or service to their community thus bringing honor to the college.

The members of the 1960 National Championship Football Team include: Tom Anderson, halfback; Dwain Bean, fullback; Henry Boxley, halfback; James Braswell; Frank Brewer, fullback; Patrick Brinkley, guard; Tommy Brown, guard; Mack Cope, center; W.A. Dempsey; Timothy Falgout; Richard Farris, tackle; Larry Harwood, guard; Robert Hillis; Paul Isbell, center; Frank Jackson, center; Kenneth Jones, halfback; Gary Kinne, tackle; James Lyons, quarterback; Carlee Manchester; Rusty Owens, fullback; Eugene Patterson, tackle; Harold Price, end; Robert Price, tackle; Ronald Pritchard, end; Donald Pritchard, end; Aubrey Rawls, tackle; James Robinson; Robert Sanders; Conny Seal, guard; Gene Staples, end; Anthony Tremont, quarterback; Robert Tucker; Joseph Turney, tackle; Donnie Wallace, halfback; Wally Whitley, tackle; and James Wright, halfback.

Damien Williams, Student-Athlete | Arizona Western 

Damien Williams achieved the ultimate goal of any NJCAA student-athlete when he reached the NFL level, getting signed by the Miami Dolphins after going undrafted in the 2014 NFL Draft. The San Diego area prep initially committed to Arizona State for college but decided to attend Arizona Western in 2010 to finetune his skills and education. In his first season, Williams rushed 95 times for 723 yards (7.6-yard average) and 10 touchdowns. Additionally, he caught seven passes for 183 yards (18.3) and two scores and returned nine kickoffs for 323 yards (35.9) and one touchdown. Williams earned NJCAA First-Team All-America status in 2011 after dominating the field, rushing 259 times for 1,931 yards (7.5) and 26 touchdowns, catching 20 passes for 317 yards, and four TDs in 12 games. 

In 2012, Williams joined Oklahoma, leading the Sooners in rushing with 176 carries for 946 yards (5.4) and 11 TDs, posting 34 catches for 320 yards and a TD in 13 games (nine starts). In 2013, limited by an ankle injury, the running back had 114 rushes for 553 yards (4.9) and seven TDs and nine catches for 90 yards. Williams spent four seasons with the Miami Dolphins (2014-17), before joining the Kansas City Chiefs for three seasons (2018-20, 2020 Super Bowl LIV Champions). 

Williams joined the Chicago Bears in 2021 as an eighth year running back after sitting out 2020. He has appeared in 85 games with 13 starts over six NFL seasons, has rushed for 1,355 yards and 14 touchdowns on 306 carries, while catching 142 passes for 1,136 yards and 10 touchdowns. Williams possesses 251 career postseason rushing yards, the second-most in Chiefs history.

Zackary Bowman, Student-Athlete | New Mexico Military Institute

Zackary Bowman started his football career at New Mexico Military Institute before attending the University of Nebraska–Lincoln for two years. With the Broncos, Bowman earned NJCAA All-American status in 2005 and helped his team capture critical wins. Following success there, Bowman shined with the Huskers from 2006-08, tallying 56 tackles, 20 pass break ups, three interceptions, with 22 game appearances and nine starts.

In 2008, the cornerback was selected 142 overall by the Chicago Bears in the fifth round of the NFL Draft. Bowman played for the Bears from 2008-13, then joined the New York Giants for the 2014 campaign, and the Miami Dolphins for the 2015 season. Bowman was waived later that year, completing his memorable playing time in the NFL.  In his career, Bowman had 205 tackles, two forced fumbles, six fumble recoveries, 29 pass deflections, 13 interceptions, and three defensive touchdowns.

Scott Strohmeier, Coach | Iowa Western, North Iowa Area

A player himself, Scott Strohmeier played football at then Fergus Falls (MN), known today as Minnesota State Community and Technical College, and then at the University of Minnesota at Crookston. The coach enters the 2021 season as the only head coach at the helm of the Reivers' 13 seasons. 'Coach Stroh' has guided Iowa Western to a national power in his time in Council Bluffs and the Minnesota native, entering his 22nd season in college football, hit the century mark for career wins with a 36-19 victory over Northwest Mississippi in the 2017 Graphic Edge Bowl and won his 100th game with the Reivers in a 31-10 victory at Ft. Scott Community College in October of 2019. Since the beginning of the football program in 2009, the Reivers have appeared in two NJCAA National Championship games.

The Reivers have accounted for the most wins by any NJCAA football program since 2010, winning the NJCAA Football National Championship in 2012 after going 12-0. Strohmeier has collected many accolades throughout his career. In 2017 and in 2018, the coach was named NJCAA Region 11 Coach of the Year. In 2012 and in 2017, Strohmeier earned ACCFAC Coach of the Year. Strohmeier is currently No. 2 on the NJCAA Football active coaches list with the most victories at 128. Prior to coaching with the Reivers, Strohmeier coached at North Iowa Area for three seasons, helping the Trojans to postseason play in years two and three at the helm. Most recently, Strohmeier led the 9-0 Reivers to the association's first-ever NJCAA Division I Football Playoffs.

George Hawthorne, Student-Athlete | DuPage (IL)

Offensive lineman George Hawthorne made the most of his two-year college athletics career from the moment he stepped on DuPage's campus. The Chicago native played football for legendary head coach Bob MacDougall in 1985-86, while also wrestling for the Chaparrals. Success on and off the field led to 1986 NJCAA First Team Offense Football All-American honors. 

Hawthorne earned a full-ride scholarship to continue his academic and athletic career at Big-Ten member Iowa, where he played for two seasons after redshirting the 1987 season. He also earned an MBA from Western International University. Hawthorne started in 10 of 11 games his senior year at Iowa before he joined the Cleveland Browns' preseason teams in 1990-91. Hawthorne also spent one season (1995) in the Arena Football League, playing for the Arizona Rattlers under former Dallas Cowboys quarterback Danny White.

Time in Arizona allowed Hawthorne to become a member of the Maricopa County Sheriff's Department, where he was for 25 years. At the time of his retirement, Hawthorne was the first sworn African American deputy to make captain in the department's history. Since retirement from law enforcement, Hawthorne has continued his love of football through coaching at the high school and community college levels. 

2021 NJCAA FOOTBALL COACHES ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME INDUCTEES

Kwamie Lassiter, Student-Athlete | Butler (KS)

Born in Hampton, VA, Kwamie Lassiter was an American football safety who played two years at Butler (1989-90) before transferring to the University of Kansas (1992-94). With the Grizzlies, Lassiter was a two-year starter where his team went 18-6 and was named champions of the RC Cola Bowl and the East Bowl. In 1990, he collected KJCCC First Team All-Conference and 1990 NJCAA and JC Gridwire All-American honors. With the Jayhawks, Lassiter was a two-year starter and ended his career with 7 total interceptions and 1994 NCAA Second Team All-Big 8. 

In 1995, Lassiter was drafted by the Arizona Cardinals and became a starter during the 1998 season, when he led the team with eight interceptions. In the Cardinals' final regular-season game that year, Lassiter helped Arizona secure a three-point win over the Chargers to pick up a spot in the playoffs for the first time in 15 seasons. Following a decorative career with the Cardinals from 1995-2002, Lassiter played for the Chargers (2003) and ultimately the St. Louis Rams (2004). Lassiter was a 2002 Pro-Bowl alternate and finished his career with 413 tackles, 25 interceptions with 2 of those returned for touchdowns.

Lassiter established the Lassiter T.A.C.K.L.E. (Teaching All Children to Kickoff Leadership in Education) Foundation in 1999 to provide books for college students, school, and physical education supplies for Title I students. In 2012, he established the Kwamie Lassiter Foundation to raise awareness of Sickle Cell Anemia and childhood cancer. This annual fundraiser is a charity sponsored bowling event and has allowed his organization to make countless contributions to different charities.

Tom Minnick, Coach | DuPage (IL), Joliet (IL), Arizona Western, Garden City (KS)

In 25 years of service, coach Tom Minnick has made history across the NJCAA. The current head football coach at Garden City, Minnick had coaching stops at DuPage, Joliet, and Arizona Western. With the Chaparrals, a team that Minnick played for as a star quarterback up until 1991, he joined forces with NJCAA household name Bob MacDougall. DuPage played in a bowl game every year during his campaign, and in 1994 they went 11-0, being named Midwest Bowl Champions. 

In 2002 Minnick followed MacDougall to Joliet, where the Wolves became the first non-scholarship program in the NJCAA to win a national championship. Following MacDougall's retirement, Minnick stepped up, winning 10 games in 2007 and winning the Graphic Edge Bowl. The coach was named NJCAA Region 4 Coach of the Year following the season's success. At the 2007 season end, the Fort Wayne, IN native took the head coach position at Arizona Western, a job he held for eleven seasons. 

In the saddle, Minnick was the only coach in program history to lead the team to multiple NJCAA Football Championship games (2011, 2016, 2017) and is also the only coach in program history to lead the Matadors to nine straight bowl appearances, to win back-to-back-to-back conference titles (2009-11, 2016-17) and to win a WSFL Championship. Minnick's teams finished in the top-20 eight out of eleven seasons. Minnick left Yuma, AZ as the all-time winningest coach and is now in his third season at the helm of the Broncbusters program. Minnick holds the third highest winning percentage among active NJCAA coaches.

Gene Murphy spent 38 years serving at Hinds as the football coach and then the school's athletic director before retiring last year. Upon retiring as head coach in 2017, the school named the football field after the coach and at that time, he was the winningest current active coach in the NJCAA, tallying 172 wins. Murphy's extended coaching career began in 1983 when the Eagles hired him as defensive coordinator.  

Murphy led the Eagles to a four-peat in MACJC state championships from 1994-199 and he also hoisted the state honor in 1988 and in 2000. In his time at the helm, Hinds went to the state playoffs 14 times to also accompany eight bowl game appearances. Under Murphy's leadership, he has guided the Eagles to six NJCAA Region 23 Championships, six MACJC State Championships, six Region 23 Coach of the Year, eight NJCAA Bowl Game Appearances, over 75 current and or former NFL players, two first round NFL Draft Picks, and nine NFL players that participated in the Super Bowls.

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