WICHITA, Kan. -- Wichita State was picked third in the American Conference preseason poll announced Tuesday. Redshirt senior right side/outside hitter Brooklyn Leggett was named to the preseason all-conference team.

Rice snagged the top spot on the preseason poll, garnering nine first place votes and 141 total points. South Florida was picked second with four first place votes and 136 points, while the Shockers finished third with 120 points.

Leggett earned preseason all-conference honors after a breakout season in 2024 splitting time both on the left and right side for the Shockers. She played in 30 matches and finished third on the team with 266 kills and second with 2.44 kills per set. She posted 10 matches with double-digit kills and had a career-high 22 kills against Tulsa on November 3. She starred in Wichita State's American Conference Championship win against Florida Atlantic on November 24 racking up a match-high 13 kills.

South Florida senior outside hitter Maria Clara Andrade was named the American Preseason Player of the Year.

Wichita State is coming off an 18-14 season in 2024, including a 10-6 mark in conference play. The Shockers swept through the American Championship last season and secured the automatic bid to the NCAA Tournament. WSU opens the 2025 regular season at home against Kennesaw State and Arkansas in the Shocker Volleyball Classic, Aug. 29-31, at Charles Koch Arena. Fans can get a look at the 2025 team on Sat., Aug. 23 at the Black and Yellow Scrimmage at 3 p.m. at Charles Koch Arena. It is free to attend.

Season tickets and single match tickets are available by calling the Shocker Ticket Office at (316) 978-FANS or by going online at GoShockers.com/tickets.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1755624207734.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy Wichita State Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Wichita State Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>Wichita State AthleticsWICHITA, Kan. -- Wichita State was picked third in the American Conference preseason poll announced Tuesday. Redshirt senior right side/outside hitter Brooklyn Leggett was named to the preseason all-conference team.Rice snagged the top spot on the preseason poll, garnering nine first place votes and 141 total points. South Florida was picked second with four first place votes and 136 points, while the Shockers finished third with 120 points.Leggett earned preseason all-conference honors after a breakout season in 2024 splitting time both on the left and right side for the Shockers. She played in 30 matches and finished third on the team with 266 kills and second with 2.44 kills per set. She posted 10 matches with double-digit kills and had a career-high 22 kills against Tulsa on November 3. She starred in Wichita State's American Conference Championship win against Florida Atlantic on November 24 racking up a match-high 13 kills.South Florida senior outside hitter Maria Clara Andrade was named the American Preseason Player of the Year.Wichita State is coming off an 18-14 season in 2024, including a 10-6 mark in conference play. The Shockers swept through the American Championship last season and secured the automatic bid to the NCAA Tournament. WSU opens the 2025 regular season at home against Kennesaw State and Arkansas in the Shocker Volleyball Classic, Aug. 29-31, at Charles Koch Arena. Fans can get a look at the 2025 team on Sat., Aug. 23 at the Black and Yellow Scrimmage at 3 p.m. at Charles Koch Arena. It is free to attend.Season tickets and single match tickets are available by calling the Shocker Ticket Office at (316) 978-FANS or by going online at GoShockers.com/tickets.<div>American Conference Preseason Coaches' Poll Rice (9) 141 South Florida (4) 136 Wichita State 120 East Carolina 106 Florida Atlantic 100 Tulsa 91 UAB 63 Tulane 62 UTSA 46 Temple 43 Charlotte 39 North Texas 39 Memphis 28 (#) denotes first place votes
&nbsp;
Preseason Player of the Year Maria Clara Andrade, Sr., OH, South Florida
&nbsp;
Preseason All-Conference Team Jorda Crook, Jr., OPP, UAB* Kristen Birmingham, Gr., OH, Charlotte Kai Bailey, Jr., MB, East Carolina Taryn Gilreath, So., S, East Carolina Ellie Pate, Jr., OH, East Carolina Victoria Hensley, Sr., S, Florida Atlantic Ryann Vik, So., MB, North Texas Lademi Ogunlana, Sr., MB, Rice Taylor Preston, Sr., OH, Rice Savannah Skopal, So., S, Rice Cindy Tchouangwa, Jr., OH, Rice Ally Cavanaugh, R-So., OH, South Florida Maria Clara Andrade, Sr., OH, South Florida* Avery Burks, Jr., OH, Tulane Brayden Hipp, Sr., S, Tulsa Brooklyn Leggett, R-Sr., RS/OH, Wichita State *denotes unanimous selection</div>

🏐 Shockers picked 3rd in American Conference preseason poll

Kansas men’s basketball coach Bill Self has added veteran assistant Tony Bland to his coaching staff, ESPN’s Pete Thamel reported Tuesday.

Bland, a longtime presence in West Coast basketball, comes to Lawrence after spending the 2023-24 season as an assistant under Danny Sprinkle at Washington. Before that, he was the head coach at St. Bernard High School in Los Angeles and previously served as associate head coach at USC from 2013-17 under Andy Enfield.

He began his college coaching career at his alma mater, San Diego State, where he helped guide the Aztecs to back-to-back NCAA Tournament appearances in 2012 and 2013.

As a player, Bland suited up for two Hall of Fame coaches: Jim Boeheim at Syracuse and Steve Fisher at San Diego State. He totaled 1,368 points, 331 rebounds and 319 assists across 127 career games, helping lead teams to three NCAA Tournaments and an NIT appearance. He was twice named All-Mountain West and captained the Aztecs in 2003, when they earned their first Division I postseason win.

Following college, Bland was invited to the Indiana Pacers’ training camp, signed a preseason deal with the Sacramento Kings and played professionally in the NBA Development League, Russia and Europe.

A Los Angeles native, Bland was a high school All-American at Westchester High before moving on to a collegiate and coaching career that now brings him to one of the nation’s premier programs at Kansas.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749754839888.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy Kansas Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Kansas Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas men’s basketball coach Bill Self has added veteran assistant Tony Bland to his coaching staff, ESPN’s Pete Thamel reported Tuesday.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Sources: Kansas is expected to hire veteran college basketball assistant Tony Bland as an assistant coach. Bland spent last year at the University of Washington. He&#39;s a veteran West Coast coach who worked earlier in his career as an assistant at San Diego State and USC. <a href="https://t.co/UgpiskNwhV">pic.twitter.com/UgpiskNwhV</a>&mdash; Pete Thamel (@PeteThamel) <a href="https://twitter.com/PeteThamel/status/1957848748538613884?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 19, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Bland, a longtime presence in West Coast basketball, comes to Lawrence after spending the 2023-24 season as an assistant under Danny Sprinkle at Washington. Before that, he was the head coach at St. Bernard High School in Los Angeles and previously served as associate head coach at USC from 2013-17 under Andy Enfield.He began his college coaching career at his alma mater, San Diego State, where he helped guide the Aztecs to back-to-back NCAA Tournament appearances in 2012 and 2013.As a player, Bland suited up for two Hall of Fame coaches: Jim Boeheim at Syracuse and Steve Fisher at San Diego State. He totaled 1,368 points, 331 rebounds and 319 assists across 127 career games, helping lead teams to three NCAA Tournaments and an NIT appearance. He was twice named All-Mountain West and captained the Aztecs in 2003, when they earned their first Division I postseason win.Following college, Bland was invited to the Indiana Pacers’ training camp, signed a preseason deal with the Sacramento Kings and played professionally in the NBA Development League, Russia and Europe.A Los Angeles native, Bland was a high school All-American at Westchester High before moving on to a collegiate and coaching career that now brings him to one of the nation’s premier programs at Kansas.

🏀 KU adds veteran assistant Tony Bland to Bill Self’s coaching staff, per reports

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The defending national champion Hutchinson Community College football team will open the 2025 season with more preseason recognition than any program in the country.

JCGridiron released its preseason All-America teams, and the Blue Dragons led the way with 23 total selections, including 10 on the prestigious first team, six more than any other school.

Running back Titus Petteway, wide receiver Derrick Salley Jr., center Mason Thrush, guard Dylan Johnson, and defensive tackle Jeffrey Manns II highlighted Hutchinson’s first-team honorees. They were joined by defensive end Demarcus Johnson, defensive end J’Lynn Allen, linebacker Tyler Lassiter, and defensive backs David Jester and Da’Mun Allen.

The Blue Dragons added four second-team picks, quarterback Christian Johnson, defensive tackle TaVeon Robinson, defensive end Darius Wiley, and cornerback Rayshawn Reynolds. Three more were honored on the third team, including offensive tackle Dylan Nolan-Cook, defensive tackle K.J. Henson, and cornerback Nireek Sharpe.

Six others rounded out the fourth team: guards Rashad Smith and Darian Melendez, tackle Shayd Johnson, defensive tackle Elijah Jackson, and cornerbacks Earl Parker and LaMar Lynch.

No other program came close to Hutchinson’s national-best total. Trinity Valley, Butler, Iowa Central, Gulf Coast and East Mississippi each placed multiple players across the four teams, but none matched the Blue Dragons’ depth and balance.

The preseason honors come on the heels of Hutchinson’s 2024 NJCAA national championship, its second in program history. The Blue Dragons enter the fall ranked No. 1 in the NJCAA preseason poll and open their title defense Sept. 6 at New Mexico Military Institute.

Hutchinson CC JCGridiron Preseason All-Americans (23)

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729854373924.jpeg" alt="(Paityn Kaminkow/Blue Dragon Sports Information)" />
 <figcaption>(Paityn Kaminkow/Blue Dragon Sports Information)</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The defending national champion Hutchinson Community College football team will open the 2025 season with more preseason recognition than any program in the country.JCGridiron released its preseason All-America teams, and the Blue Dragons led the way with 23 total selections, including 10 on the prestigious first team, six more than any other school.Running back Titus Petteway, wide receiver Derrick Salley Jr., center Mason Thrush, guard Dylan Johnson, and defensive tackle Jeffrey Manns II highlighted Hutchinson’s first-team honorees. They were joined by defensive end Demarcus Johnson, defensive end J’Lynn Allen, linebacker Tyler Lassiter, and defensive backs David Jester and Da’Mun Allen.The Blue Dragons added four second-team picks, quarterback Christian Johnson, defensive tackle TaVeon Robinson, defensive end Darius Wiley, and cornerback Rayshawn Reynolds. Three more were honored on the third team, including offensive tackle Dylan Nolan-Cook, defensive tackle K.J. Henson, and cornerback Nireek Sharpe.Six others rounded out the fourth team: guards Rashad Smith and Darian Melendez, tackle Shayd Johnson, defensive tackle Elijah Jackson, and cornerbacks Earl Parker and LaMar Lynch.No other program came close to Hutchinson’s national-best total. Trinity Valley, Butler, Iowa Central, Gulf Coast and East Mississippi each placed multiple players across the four teams, but none matched the Blue Dragons’ depth and balance.The preseason honors come on the heels of Hutchinson’s 2024 NJCAA national championship, its second in program history. The Blue Dragons enter the fall ranked No. 1 in the NJCAA preseason poll and open their title defense Sept. 6 at New Mexico Military Institute.<h2>Hutchinson CC JCGridiron Preseason All-Americans (23)</h2>First Team (10)<ul>
 <li>RB Titus Petteway
</li><li>WR Derrick Salley
</li><li>C Mason Thrush
</li><li>G Dylan Johnson
</li><li>DT Jeffrey Manns
</li><li>SDE Demarcus Johnson
</li><li>WDE J’Lynn Allen
</li><li>ILB Tyler Lassiter
</li><li>CB David Jester
</li><li>CB Da’Mun Allen
</li>
 </ul>Second Team (4)<ul>
 <li>QB Christian Johnson
</li><li>DT TaVeon Robinson
</li><li>WDE Darius Wiley
</li><li>CB Rayshawn Reynolds
</li>
 </ul>Third Team (3)<ul>
 <li>OT Dylan Nolan-Cook
</li><li>DT K.J. Henson
</li><li>CB Nireek Sharpe
</li>
 </ul>Fourth Team (6)<ul>
 <li>G Rashad Smith
</li><li>G Darian Melendez
</li><li>OT Shayd Johnson
</li><li>DT Elijah Jackson
</li><li>CB Earl Parker
</li><li>CB LaMar Lynch</li>
 </ul>

🏈 HutchCC dominates JCGridiron preseason All-America teams with 23 selections

MANHATTAN, Kan. — K-State’s men’s basketball roster continues to grow, as the Wildcats have added Italian center Dorin Buca has committed to join K-State for the 2025-26 season.

The 6-foot-10 big man most recently played professionally for Akern Libertas Livorno in Italy’s Serie A2 League, where he averaged 5.6 points, 5.3 rebounds and just over a block per game in 43 appearances. Buca twice collected 12 rebounds in a game and posted seven double-digit scoring efforts, including a season-high 15 points against Piacenza. He also had a five-block performance against the same opponent.

Buca previously spent the 2023-24 season with Livorno in the Serie A3 League, averaging 3.6 points and 3.4 rebounds in 30 games.

K-State has made the frontcourt a point of emphasis this offseason. The Wildcats signed UNC Wilmington transfer Khamari McGriff earlier this summer, while the eligibility status of Memphis transfer Tyreek Smith remains undecided as he awaits an NCAA waiver ruling.

Buca is the latest in a series of international additions for head coach Jerome Tang’s program. Serbian guard Andrej Kostic and German wing Elias Rapieque also committed to the Wildcats this summer and are expected to arrive in Manhattan soon.

Buca becomes the 15th player on K-State’s roster for 2025, pending the outcome of Smith’s appeal, and is the 12th newcomer added during the offseason.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1755613155638.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>MANHATTAN, Kan. — K-State’s men’s basketball roster continues to grow, as the Wildcats have added Italian center Dorin Buca has committed to join K-State for the 2025-26 season.The 6-foot-10 big man most recently played professionally for Akern Libertas Livorno in Italy’s Serie A2 League, where he averaged 5.6 points, 5.3 rebounds and just over a block per game in 43 appearances. Buca twice collected 12 rebounds in a game and posted seven double-digit scoring efforts, including a season-high 15 points against Piacenza. He also had a five-block performance against the same opponent.Buca previously spent the 2023-24 season with Livorno in the Serie A3 League, averaging 3.6 points and 3.4 rebounds in 30 games.K-State has made the frontcourt a point of emphasis this offseason. The Wildcats signed UNC Wilmington transfer Khamari McGriff earlier this summer, while the eligibility status of Memphis transfer Tyreek Smith remains undecided as he awaits an NCAA waiver ruling.Buca is the latest in a series of international additions for head coach Jerome Tang’s program. Serbian guard Andrej Kostic and German wing Elias Rapieque also committed to the Wildcats this summer and are expected to arrive in Manhattan soon.Buca becomes the 15th player on K-State’s roster for 2025, pending the outcome of Smith’s appeal, and is the 12th newcomer added during the offseason.

🏀 K-State adds Italian center to 2025 men's roster

🎧⚾ Royals win 4th straight; 🏈 HutchCC opens season ranked No. 1

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Mike Yastrzemski, Vinnie Pasquantino and Maikel Garcia homered to power the Kansas City Royals past the Texas Rangers 4-3 on Monday night.

Michael Wacha (8-9) allowed two runs and nine hits in 5 2/3 innings for the win. He struck out three, walked none and permitted two earned runs or fewer for the seventh straight start.

Carlos Estévez set a career high with his American League-leading 32nd save.

Yastrzemski's shot to right-center was the 10th leadoff homer of his career and third with the Royals, matching a franchise record for any month. Kansas City acquired Yastrzemski from San Francisco at the July 31 trade deadline.

Pasquantino hit a two-run drive over the right-field wall to give the Royals a 3-1 lead in the third. Bobby Witt Jr. was aboard on a leadoff walk.

Garcia's homer in the fifth went over the left-field wall, just inside the foul pole. Kansas City has homered in eight consecutive games, tying a season high.

The Rangers scored on RBI singles by Jonah Heim in the second and Evan Carter in the sixth. Rowdy Tellez had an RBI groundout in the eighth.

Jack Leiter (7-7) gave up three runs and six hits in 3 2/3 innings. He struck out five and walked three.

Royals catcher Luke Maile tagged out Joc Pederson at home plate as part of a double play off a throw from right fielder John Rave. The Rangers challenged the call and lost, keeping the score tied 1-all in the second inning.

Texas went 2 for 8 with runners in scoring position and finished with 11 hits — 10 singles.

The teams play the second game of their series Tuesday night. Texas will start Merrill Kelly (9-7, 3.36 ERA) against Seth Lugo (8-6, 3.77).

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1755571505480.jpeg" alt="Photo Kansas City Royals" />
 <figcaption>Photo Kansas City Royals</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Mike Yastrzemski, Vinnie Pasquantino and Maikel Garcia homered to power the Kansas City Royals past the Texas Rangers 4-3 on Monday night.Michael Wacha (8-9) allowed two runs and nine hits in 5 2/3 innings for the win. He struck out three, walked none and permitted two earned runs or fewer for the seventh straight start.Carlos Estévez set a career high with his American League-leading 32nd save.Yastrzemski's shot to right-center was the 10th leadoff homer of his career and third with the Royals, matching a franchise record for any month. Kansas City acquired Yastrzemski from San Francisco at the July 31 trade deadline.Pasquantino hit a two-run drive over the right-field wall to give the Royals a 3-1 lead in the third. Bobby Witt Jr. was aboard on a leadoff walk.Garcia's homer in the fifth went over the left-field wall, just inside the foul pole. Kansas City has homered in eight consecutive games, tying a season high.The Rangers scored on RBI singles by Jonah Heim in the second and Evan Carter in the sixth. Rowdy Tellez had an RBI groundout in the eighth.Jack Leiter (7-7) gave up three runs and six hits in 3 2/3 innings. He struck out five and walked three.<h2>Key moment</h2>Royals catcher Luke Maile tagged out Joc Pederson at home plate as part of a double play off a throw from right fielder John Rave. The Rangers challenged the call and lost, keeping the score tied 1-all in the second inning.<h2>Key stat</h2>Texas went 2 for 8 with runners in scoring position and finished with 11 hits — 10 singles.<h2>Up next</h2>The teams play the second game of their series Tuesday night. Texas will start Merrill Kelly (9-7, 3.36 ERA) against Seth Lugo (8-6, 3.77).___

⚾ Royals hit three home runs in win over Rangers

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Kansas City Chiefs placed defensive end Felix Anudike-Uzomah on injured reserve Monday, ending the season for the 2023 first-round pick, who has struggled to live up to expectations following a standout career at Kansas State.

The Chiefs also waived running back Elijah Young and signed defensive end Owen Carney and linebacker Xander Mueller.

Anudike-Uzomah came out of high school in the Kansas City suburb of Lee's Summit, Missouri, and he was a popular pick when the Chiefs selected him 32nd overall in a draft they hosted in 2023. But he has just three sacks and eight tackles for loss over 34 games his first two seasons in the league, and now he will miss the upcoming season altogether.

“That's a tough thing,” Chiefs coach Andy Reid said. “I mean, he's worked hard. We'll see where it goes. I can't tell you how long it's going to be. It's disappointing for him because he's worked so stinking hard.”

Anudike-Uzomah had been buried on the depth chart behind starting defensive ends George Karlaftis and Mike Danna, veteran pass rusher Charles Omenihu and Ashton Gillotte, a third-round pick out of Louisville in April's draft.

The Chiefs returned to their practice facility Monday following a preseason loss in Seattle last Friday night.

Among those missing the workout were defensive tackle Omarr Norman-Lott (ankle), defensive backs Mike Edwards (hamstring) and Nazeeh Johnson (shoulder), linebacker Jack Cochrane (knee) and wide receiver Jalen Royals (knee).

In a bit of positive injury news, Marquise Brown returned to the field Monday after dealing with an ankle that has sidelined him for much of training camp. Brown has sat out both of the Chiefs' preseason games, and Reid declined to say whether he would be on the field for their final exhibition game against the Bears on Friday night.

Kansas City opens the regular season against the Chargers on Sept. 5 in Sao Paulo, Brazil.

“Hollywood (Brown) did a little work yesterday, which was good. He'll get a little more today and then we'll see,” Reid said. “We'll see how he progresses through this thing. But it's not a matter of wanting to be out there. He wants to do it. We're just taking it slow. We don't want any setbacks with this going forward here.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1755554871173.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Chiefs defensive end Felix Anudike-Uzomah (91) is helped off the field after a play during the second half of an NFL preseason football game against the Seattle Seahawks, Friday, Aug. 15, 2025, in Seattle. (AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Chiefs defensive end Felix Anudike-Uzomah (91) is helped off the field after a play during the second half of an NFL preseason football game against the Seattle Seahawks, Friday, Aug. 15, 2025, in Seattle. (AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson)</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Kansas City Chiefs placed defensive end Felix Anudike-Uzomah on injured reserve Monday, ending the season for the 2023 first-round pick, who has struggled to live up to expectations following a standout career at Kansas State.The Chiefs also waived running back Elijah Young and signed defensive end Owen Carney and linebacker Xander Mueller.Anudike-Uzomah came out of high school in the Kansas City suburb of Lee's Summit, Missouri, and he was a popular pick when the Chiefs selected him 32nd overall in a draft they hosted in 2023. But he has just three sacks and eight tackles for loss over 34 games his first two seasons in the league, and now he will miss the upcoming season altogether.“That's a tough thing,” Chiefs coach Andy Reid said. “I mean, he's worked hard. We'll see where it goes. I can't tell you how long it's going to be. It's disappointing for him because he's worked so stinking hard.”Anudike-Uzomah had been buried on the depth chart behind starting defensive ends George Karlaftis and Mike Danna, veteran pass rusher Charles Omenihu and Ashton Gillotte, a third-round pick out of Louisville in April's draft.The Chiefs returned to their practice facility Monday following a preseason loss in Seattle last Friday night.Among those missing the workout were defensive tackle Omarr Norman-Lott (ankle), defensive backs Mike Edwards (hamstring) and Nazeeh Johnson (shoulder), linebacker Jack Cochrane (knee) and wide receiver Jalen Royals (knee).In a bit of positive injury news, Marquise Brown returned to the field Monday after dealing with an ankle that has sidelined him for much of training camp. Brown has sat out both of the Chiefs' preseason games, and Reid declined to say whether he would be on the field for their final exhibition game against the Bears on Friday night.Kansas City opens the regular season against the Chargers on Sept. 5 in Sao Paulo, Brazil.“Hollywood (Brown) did a little work yesterday, which was good. He'll get a little more today and then we'll see,” Reid said. “We'll see how he progresses through this thing. But it's not a matter of wanting to be out there. He wants to do it. We're just taking it slow. We don't want any setbacks with this going forward here.”

🏈 Chiefs place Felix Anudike-Uzomah on injured reserve, ending the 2023 first-round pick's season

Brian Martin, a former Hutchinson Community College basketball player who went on to play at Kansas and in the NBA, died Friday. He was 62.

Martin, a 6-foot-9 forward from Fort Smith, Arkansas, played one season for the Blue Dragons in 1980-81 under coach Gary Bargen. He helped lead HutchCC to a 24-8 record, including a 6-4 mark in the Jayhawk Conference to finish second. The Blue Dragons were dominant at home with a 13-3 record, went 3-5 on the road and were perfect in neutral-site contests at 8-0. That season ended with Hutchinson capturing the program’s 11th Region VI championship before falling in the NJCAA Bi-District game.

From HutchCC, Martin transferred to Kansas, where he played three seasons from 1981-84 under coaches Ted Owens and Larry Brown. He averaged 3.6 points and 3.2 rebounds as a sophomore, improving to 5.1 points and 5.1 rebounds as a senior captain during Brown’s first year. The Jayhawks won the Big Eight tournament that season and advanced to the NCAA Tournament.

Martin was selected in the ninth round of the 1984 NBA Draft by the Indiana Pacers and split the 1985-86 season with Portland and Seattle. He later played six years in the Continental Basketball Association, winning a title with Tampa Bay in 1985, and also competed professionally in Belgium, Germany, Spain and Italy.

After retiring from basketball, Martin returned to Wichita in 2002 and built a career in insurance and banking while remaining active in civic and faith organizations.

A memorial service is scheduled for 11 a.m. Friday at Ridgepoint Church in Wichita.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1755554905648.png" alt="Photo Courtesy @jay_hawk45 on X" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy @jay_hawk45 on X</figcaption>
 </figure>Brian Martin, a former Hutchinson Community College basketball player who went on to play at Kansas and in the NBA, died Friday. He was 62.Martin, a 6-foot-9 forward from Fort Smith, Arkansas, played one season for the Blue Dragons in 1980-81 under coach Gary Bargen. He helped lead HutchCC to a 24-8 record, including a 6-4 mark in the Jayhawk Conference to finish second. The Blue Dragons were dominant at home with a 13-3 record, went 3-5 on the road and were perfect in neutral-site contests at 8-0. That season ended with Hutchinson capturing the program’s 11th Region VI championship before falling in the NJCAA Bi-District game.From HutchCC, Martin transferred to Kansas, where he played three seasons from 1981-84 under coaches Ted Owens and Larry Brown. He averaged 3.6 points and 3.2 rebounds as a sophomore, improving to 5.1 points and 5.1 rebounds as a senior captain during Brown’s first year. The Jayhawks won the Big Eight tournament that season and advanced to the NCAA Tournament.Martin was selected in the ninth round of the 1984 NBA Draft by the Indiana Pacers and split the 1985-86 season with Portland and Seattle. He later played six years in the Continental Basketball Association, winning a title with Tampa Bay in 1985, and also competed professionally in Belgium, Germany, Spain and Italy.After retiring from basketball, Martin returned to Wichita in 2002 and built a career in insurance and banking while remaining active in civic and faith organizations.A memorial service is scheduled for 11 a.m. Friday at Ridgepoint Church in Wichita.

🏀 Brian Martin, former HutchCC, KU and NBA player, dies at 62

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Kansas City Royals scratched catcher Salvador Perez from the starting lineup of their series opener against the Texas Rangers on Monday night because of an illness.

Perez was supposed to catch for starter Michael Wacha and bat fifth in the opener of an important four-game set between teams clinging to wild-card hope. Luke Maile will be behind the plate instead and bat eight in the lineup.

Perez, a nine-time All-Star, is hitting .244 with 22 homers and 70 RBIs this season.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Kansas City Royals scratched catcher Salvador Perez from the starting lineup of their series opener against the Texas Rangers on Monday night because of an illness.Perez was supposed to catch for starter Michael Wacha and bat fifth in the opener of an important four-game set between teams clinging to wild-card hope. Luke Maile will be behind the plate instead and bat eight in the lineup.Perez, a nine-time All-Star, is hitting .244 with 22 homers and 70 RBIs this season.

⚾ Royals' Salvador Perez out with illness in series opener against Rangers

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The defending national champion Hutchinson Community College football team will open the 2025 season where it left off last December, on top of the NJCAA rankings.

The Blue Dragons were voted the unanimous No. 1 team in the NJCAA Division I preseason poll released Monday, receiving all 12 first-place votes. Hutchinson finished the 2024 season 11-1 and captured the program’s second national championship with a 28-23 victory over Iowa Western in Canyon, Texas.

Last fall, the Blue Dragons climbed to No. 1 by the third week of the season and remained in the top three for the remainder of the year. They dominated No. 2 Georgia Military 63-21 in the semifinals before outlasting Iowa Western in the title game.

The poll marks the seventh consecutive season Hutchinson has opened with a national ranking. Under head coach Drew Dallas, the Blue Dragons have been ranked in 62 of the 68 polls released during his tenure, holding the No. 1 position 36 times. Hutchinson has now appeared in 49 straight national polls dating back to 2021.

The preseason Top 5 features Hutchinson, Iowa Western, Northwest Mississippi, Navarro and Georgia Military. Garden City, another member of the Kansas Jayhawk Community College Conference, checked in at No. 7, while Butler was ranked No. 13.&nbsp; Coffeyville and Dodge City each received votes.

Hutchinson, which also won the 2021 national championship under Dallas, will try to add a third title to its resume this fall.

NJCAA Division I Football Preseason Top 15

Receiving votes: Coffeyville (Kan.), East Mississippi, East Central (Miss.), Dodge City (Kan.), Holmes (Miss.), Cisco (Texas), Itawamba (Miss.)

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1755545632040.jpeg" alt="Graphic courtesy NJCAA" />
 <figcaption>Graphic courtesy NJCAA</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The defending national champion Hutchinson Community College football team will open the 2025 season where it left off last December, on top of the NJCAA rankings.The Blue Dragons were voted the unanimous No. 1 team in the NJCAA Division I preseason poll released Monday, receiving all 12 first-place votes. Hutchinson finished the 2024 season 11-1 and captured the program’s second national championship with a 28-23 victory over Iowa Western in Canyon, Texas.Last fall, the Blue Dragons climbed to No. 1 by the third week of the season and remained in the top three for the remainder of the year. They dominated No. 2 Georgia Military 63-21 in the semifinals before outlasting Iowa Western in the title game.The poll marks the seventh consecutive season Hutchinson has opened with a national ranking. Under head coach Drew Dallas, the Blue Dragons have been ranked in 62 of the 68 polls released during his tenure, holding the No. 1 position 36 times. Hutchinson has now appeared in 49 straight national polls dating back to 2021.The preseason Top 5 features Hutchinson, Iowa Western, Northwest Mississippi, Navarro and Georgia Military. Garden City, another member of the Kansas Jayhawk Community College Conference, checked in at No. 7, while Butler was ranked No. 13.&nbsp; Coffeyville and Dodge City each received votes.Hutchinson, which also won the 2021 national championship under Dallas, will try to add a third title to its resume this fall.NJCAA Division I Football Preseason Top 15<ol>
 <li>Hutchinson (Kan.) – 150 (12)
</li><li>Iowa Western – 140
</li><li>Northwest Mississippi – 122
</li><li>Navarro (Texas) – 117
</li><li>Georgia Military – 106
</li><li>Snow (Utah) – 105
</li><li>Garden City (Kan.) – 87
</li><li>Copiah-Lincoln (Miss.) – 68
</li><li>Tyler (Texas) – 64
</li><li>Mississippi Gulf Coast – 47
</li><li>Kilgore (Texas) – 46
</li><li>Lackawanna (Pa.) – 41
</li><li>Butler (Kan.) – 30
</li><li>Trinity Valley (Texas) – 26
</li><li>Iowa Central – 23
</li>
 </ol>Receiving votes: Coffeyville (Kan.), East Mississippi, East Central (Miss.), Dodge City (Kan.), Holmes (Miss.), Cisco (Texas), Itawamba (Miss.)(First-place votes in parentheses)

🏈 HutchCC enters 2025 season as unanimous No. 1 in NJCAA preseason poll

<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/documents/2025/8/18/Game_1_-_Iowa_State.pdf">GAME NOTES</a>&nbsp; &nbsp;|&nbsp; &nbsp;<a href="https://www.espn.com/watch/player/_/id/304fb7d7-e85c-43f1-aa2d-4bcbdb1a99f3">WATCH</a>&nbsp; &nbsp;|&nbsp; &nbsp; <a href="https://thevarsitynetwork.com/feed/source/oas-1358?audioPlayer=kstate:allaccess-Live-5598">LISTEN</a>&nbsp; &nbsp;|&nbsp; <a href="https://stats.statbroadcast.com/broadcast/?id=593799">LIVE STATS</a>

🏈 K-State opens season with Iowa State in Aer Lingus College Football Classic

<a href="https://kuathletics.com/documents/2025/8/18/01_Kansas_Game_Notes_vs._Fresno_State.pdf">GAME NOTES</a>&nbsp; &nbsp;|&nbsp; &nbsp;<a href="https://www.foxsports.com/live">WATCH</a>&nbsp; &nbsp;|&nbsp; &nbsp;<a href="https://kuathletics.leanplayer.com/">LISTEN</a>&nbsp; &nbsp;|&nbsp; &nbsp;<a href="https://stats.statbroadcast.com/broadcast/?id=604522">LIVE STATS</a>&nbsp; &nbsp;|&nbsp; &nbsp;<a href="https://kuathletics.com/feature/the-booth">STADIUM GUIDE</a>

LAWRENCE, Kan. –&nbsp;Kansas football enters its 134th&nbsp;season of football and its first game at the Reimagined David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium when the Jayhawks take on the Fresno State Bulldogs on Saturday, Aug. 23 at 5:30 p.m. CT. The game will air nationally on FOX with Tim Brando (play-by-play), Devin Gardner (analyst) and Josh Sims (sideline) on the call.

David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium has undergone an ambitious transformation as part of phase one of the University of Kansas' Gateway District, including a complete rebuild of the west and north side of David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium, a conference center on the north end of the stadium (to open October 2025) and significant changes to Anderson Family Football Complex.

Among the changes fans can expect on gameday include a restricted seating bowl with improved sightlines and increased fan proximity to the field, along with expanded concourse circulation, upgraded accessibility, diverse new premium seating options and an overall more comfortable gameday experience.

Phase two of the University of Kansas Gateway District will then focus on the east portion of the stadium as well as the entertainment, dining, retail and other potential aspects of the Gateway District.

The Jayhawks enter the 2025 season under fifth-year head coach&nbsp;<a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/football/roster/coaches/lance-leipold/879">Lance Leipold</a>, who has led the program to new heights with 22 wins over the past four seasons, which is the most over a four-year stretch at Kansas since 2007-10 (25). Leipold led Kansas to back-to-back bowl games in 2022 (AutoZone Liberty Bowl) and 2023 (Guaranteed Rate Bowl) for just the second time in program history.

Kansas is led by returning standouts in quarterback&nbsp;<a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/football/roster/jalon-daniels/16182">Jalon Daniels</a>, running back&nbsp;<a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/football/roster/daniel-hishaw-jr-/16202">Daniel Hishaw Jr.</a>, center&nbsp;<a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/football/roster/bryce-foster/16194">Bryce Foster</a>, and defensive end&nbsp;<a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/football/roster/dean-miller/16215">Dean Miller</a>, along with several playmaking newcomers. Under Leipold, the Jayhawks had the second-highest 3rd down conversion percentage (51%) and sixth-fewest penalties (54) in all of college football in 2024.

Fresno State enters its season-opener following a 6-7 (4-3 MWC) season in 2024, as the Bulldogs begin their first season under head coach Matt Entz. Kansas and Fresno State are meeting on the gridiron for the first time, in what will be Kansas' first week 0 game and earliest season-opener in program history. Kansas is 57-26-2 in home season openers all-time, including winners of its last four season openers (2024 vs. Lindenwood, 2023 vs. Missouri State, 2022 vs. Tennessee Tech, 2021 vs. South Dakota).

Saturday's season opener vs. Fresno State is the first of seven games to be played at David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium this fall. For Kansas' full schedule, tickets and more,&nbsp;<a href="https://kuathletics.com/feature/the-booth">click here</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1755539863803.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy Kansas Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Kansas Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://kuathletics.com/documents/2025/8/18/01_Kansas_Game_Notes_vs._Fresno_State.pdf">GAME NOTES</a>&nbsp; &nbsp;|&nbsp; &nbsp;<a href="https://www.foxsports.com/live">WATCH</a>&nbsp; &nbsp;|&nbsp; &nbsp;<a href="https://kuathletics.leanplayer.com/">LISTEN</a>&nbsp; &nbsp;|&nbsp; &nbsp;<a href="https://stats.statbroadcast.com/broadcast/?id=604522">LIVE STATS</a>&nbsp; &nbsp;|&nbsp; &nbsp;<a href="https://kuathletics.com/feature/the-booth">STADIUM GUIDE</a>LAWRENCE, Kan. –&nbsp;Kansas football enters its 134th&nbsp;season of football and its first game at the Reimagined David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium when the Jayhawks take on the Fresno State Bulldogs on Saturday, Aug. 23 at 5:30 p.m. CT. The game will air nationally on FOX with Tim Brando (play-by-play), Devin Gardner (analyst) and Josh Sims (sideline) on the call.David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium has undergone an ambitious transformation as part of phase one of the University of Kansas' Gateway District, including a complete rebuild of the west and north side of David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium, a conference center on the north end of the stadium (to open October 2025) and significant changes to Anderson Family Football Complex.Among the changes fans can expect on gameday include a restricted seating bowl with improved sightlines and increased fan proximity to the field, along with expanded concourse circulation, upgraded accessibility, diverse new premium seating options and an overall more comfortable gameday experience.Phase two of the University of Kansas Gateway District will then focus on the east portion of the stadium as well as the entertainment, dining, retail and other potential aspects of the Gateway District.The Jayhawks enter the 2025 season under fifth-year head coach&nbsp;<a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/football/roster/coaches/lance-leipold/879">Lance Leipold</a>, who has led the program to new heights with 22 wins over the past four seasons, which is the most over a four-year stretch at Kansas since 2007-10 (25). Leipold led Kansas to back-to-back bowl games in 2022 (AutoZone Liberty Bowl) and 2023 (Guaranteed Rate Bowl) for just the second time in program history.Kansas is led by returning standouts in quarterback&nbsp;<a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/football/roster/jalon-daniels/16182">Jalon Daniels</a>, running back&nbsp;<a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/football/roster/daniel-hishaw-jr-/16202">Daniel Hishaw Jr.</a>, center&nbsp;<a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/football/roster/bryce-foster/16194">Bryce Foster</a>, and defensive end&nbsp;<a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/football/roster/dean-miller/16215">Dean Miller</a>, along with several playmaking newcomers. Under Leipold, the Jayhawks had the second-highest 3rd down conversion percentage (51%) and sixth-fewest penalties (54) in all of college football in 2024.Fresno State enters its season-opener following a 6-7 (4-3 MWC) season in 2024, as the Bulldogs begin their first season under head coach Matt Entz. Kansas and Fresno State are meeting on the gridiron for the first time, in what will be Kansas' first week 0 game and earliest season-opener in program history. Kansas is 57-26-2 in home season openers all-time, including winners of its last four season openers (2024 vs. Lindenwood, 2023 vs. Missouri State, 2022 vs. Tennessee Tech, 2021 vs. South Dakota).Saturday's season opener vs. Fresno State is the first of seven games to be played at David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium this fall. For Kansas' full schedule, tickets and more,&nbsp;<a href="https://kuathletics.com/feature/the-booth">click here</a>.

🏈 KU opens season vs. Fresno State at new David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium

MANHATTAN, Kan. (AP) — Kansas State fans placed quarterback Avery Johnson on a pedestal before he arrived on campus. He was the top recruit who decided to stay home and play for the in-state school, and he was expected to lead the Wildcats to Big 12 greatness.

There were games last year in which he did exactly that. There also were games in which he fell right off that pedestal.

The question now, as the No. 17 Wildcats prepare to open the season against No. 22 Iowa State on Saturday in Dublin, Ireland, is whether the junior QB can play consistently at an elite level. Whether coach Chris Klieman wants to acknowledge it or not, the chances of Kansas State playing for a conference title this season rest largely on Johnson’s shoulders.

“He’s doing a really good job of holding other people accountable. Holding himself accountable,” Klieman said. “He’s saying, ‘I’ve got to continue to improve that relationship with these wideouts, or other tight ends or running backs.’ He’s never satisfied, and that is something that I really appreciate about Avery.”

To be clear: Johnson had an excellent first season as a starter. He threw for 2,712 yards with 25 touchdowns and 10 interceptions, and he ran for another 605 yards and seven scores. And he led the Wildcats to a 9-4 finish, which included a bowl win over Rutgers — the fourth straight season Kansas State has finished with at least eight wins.

Yet among those losses was a 38-9 rout at BYU in which he threw a pair of picks, a loss to Houston in which he threw two more, and a late-season loss to the Cyclones that allowed them — rather than Kansas State — to play for a Big 12 championship.

The experience that Johnson gained from those setbacks has proven to be invaluable, though.

“I think he’s probably more comfortable in his own skin, in his own ability,” Kansas State offensive coordinator Matt Wells said. “‘I don’t have to be this certain type of player. I don’t need to listen to the media or somebody ask me about being a certain prototypical blank-kind of quarterback. I’m good when I run. I’m good when I throw it.’ I think he’s further along in coverage recognition. I think he’s further along in his ability to dissect what a defense is doing. That takes time.”

The time has come to put it to the test. The Wildcats open against Iowa State in a Top 25 showdown in Ireland that could play a big factor in deciding who plays for the Big 12 title come the end of the season.

Kansas State lost running back D.J. Giddens to the NFL, but Dylan Edwards is back, and he showed last season the kind of game-breaking speed and ability that made him a four-star recruit. He had 224 yards total and three touchdowns in the Rate Bowl.

Jayce Brown is back after catching 47 passes for 823 yards and five touchdowns, but the Wildcats seldom got production from the rest of their wide receivers last year. Purdue transfer Jaron Tibbs and Boston College transfer Jerand Bradley should help.

The school that produced second-round draft pick Ben Sinnott two years keeps churning out tight ends. Garrett Oakley, Will Swanson and Will Anciaux combined to catch 11 TD passes last season, and now they will be joined by Linkon Cure, who many recruiting services labeled the best tight end in this year’s recruiting class.

Austin Romaine was largely overlooked coming out of high school, but the middle linebacker has emerged as one of the best in the nation. He was second-team All-Big 12 last year and is on the watch list for the Butkus and Nagurski awards this year.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1755521273725.jpeg" alt="Kansas State quarterback Avery Johnson throws a pass during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Iowa State on Nov. 30, 2024, in Ames, Iowa. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall, File)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas State quarterback Avery Johnson throws a pass during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Iowa State on Nov. 30, 2024, in Ames, Iowa. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall, File)</figcaption>
 </figure>MANHATTAN, Kan. (AP) — Kansas State fans placed quarterback Avery Johnson on a pedestal before he arrived on campus. He was the top recruit who decided to stay home and play for the in-state school, and he was expected to lead the Wildcats to Big 12 greatness.There were games last year in which he did exactly that. There also were games in which he fell right off that pedestal.The question now, as the No. 17 Wildcats prepare to open the season against No. 22 Iowa State on Saturday in Dublin, Ireland, is whether the junior QB can play consistently at an elite level. Whether coach Chris Klieman wants to acknowledge it or not, the chances of Kansas State playing for a conference title this season rest largely on Johnson’s shoulders.“He’s doing a really good job of holding other people accountable. Holding himself accountable,” Klieman said. “He’s saying, ‘I’ve got to continue to improve that relationship with these wideouts, or other tight ends or running backs.’ He’s never satisfied, and that is something that I really appreciate about Avery.”To be clear: Johnson had an excellent first season as a starter. He threw for 2,712 yards with 25 touchdowns and 10 interceptions, and he ran for another 605 yards and seven scores. And he led the Wildcats to a 9-4 finish, which included a bowl win over Rutgers — the fourth straight season Kansas State has finished with at least eight wins.Yet among those losses was a 38-9 rout at BYU in which he threw a pair of picks, a loss to Houston in which he threw two more, and a late-season loss to the Cyclones that allowed them — rather than Kansas State — to play for a Big 12 championship.The experience that Johnson gained from those setbacks has proven to be invaluable, though.“I think he’s probably more comfortable in his own skin, in his own ability,” Kansas State offensive coordinator Matt Wells said. “‘I don’t have to be this certain type of player. I don’t need to listen to the media or somebody ask me about being a certain prototypical blank-kind of quarterback. I’m good when I run. I’m good when I throw it.’ I think he’s further along in coverage recognition. I think he’s further along in his ability to dissect what a defense is doing. That takes time.”The time has come to put it to the test. The Wildcats open against Iowa State in a Top 25 showdown in Ireland that could play a big factor in deciding who plays for the Big 12 title come the end of the season.<h2>Backfield star</h2>Kansas State lost running back D.J. Giddens to the NFL, but Dylan Edwards is back, and he showed last season the kind of game-breaking speed and ability that made him a four-star recruit. He had 224 yards total and three touchdowns in the Rate Bowl.<h2>Help at wideout</h2>Jayce Brown is back after catching 47 passes for 823 yards and five touchdowns, but the Wildcats seldom got production from the rest of their wide receivers last year. Purdue transfer Jaron Tibbs and Boston College transfer Jerand Bradley should help.<h2>Tight end U</h2>The school that produced second-round draft pick Ben Sinnott two years keeps churning out tight ends. Garrett Oakley, Will Swanson and Will Anciaux combined to catch 11 TD passes last season, and now they will be joined by Linkon Cure, who many recruiting services labeled the best tight end in this year’s recruiting class.<h2>Middle of the defense</h2>Austin Romaine was largely overlooked coming out of high school, but the middle linebacker has emerged as one of the best in the nation. He was second-team All-Big 12 last year and is on the watch list for the Butkus and Nagurski awards this year.<h2>Schedule situation</h2>

🏈 K-State’s Avery Johnson faces high expectations as Wildcats open season in Ireland

LAWRENCE, Kan. (AP) — The construction cranes that have been working on a new stadium for the Kansas Jayhawks the past two years might just as well be emblematic of the program as a whole.

No longer a downtrodden eyesore, the Jayhawks are suddenly competitive again, even if they remain a work in progress.

The vast majority of David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium has been finished, including the east side and end zones, though the west side stands from the old facility will remain until the next offseason. In much the same way, the Jayhawks have become Big 12 contenders under Lance Leipold, though they showed during a 5-7 finish last year that they are still building.

“As we come into this stadium,” Leipold said ahead of Saturday night’s opener against Fresno State, “we need our fanbase to be there as well, to truly make it impactful. We need people there to do it.

“Now, on the flip side, it’s our responsibility to play a brand — a style — of effective football that people want to come and see,” Leipold continued, “and create a game-day environment that is special, that people want to partake in.”

After back-to-back bowl games, and going 9-4 two years ago, Kansas slid a bit last year, a season of high expectations that was sullied by a spectacularly poor start. The Jayhawks lost five of their first six games while playing home games at Children’s Mercy Park, the home of MLS club Sporting Kansas City, and Arrowhead Stadium, the home of the Kansas City Chiefs — which is just across the state line in Missouri, adding to the homeless feeling Kansas no doubt felt.

But the Jayhawks finished with a flurry, beating ranked foes Iowa State, Colorado and BYU in consecutive weeks. And while they failed to make a bowl game, they have not only confidence but momentum as they head into a new season.

“This program is now relevant,” Leipold said.

The Jayhawks have a stadium to reflect it, too.

Kansas quarterback Jalon Daniels has been labeled a Heisman Trophy candidate and a bust, a spectacular athlete who is capable of doing just about anything and an injury-prone QB who struggles with his decision-making. The reality is probably somewhere in between, but one thing is certain: If Daniels has a big final season in Lawrence, so will the Jayhawks.

Daniel Hishaw Jr. is first in line to replace Devin Neal, the school’s departed career rushing record-holder, but he has dealt with injuries throughout his career. Iowa transfer Leshon Williams, who only played three games last season because of his own injury troubles, will also get plenty of reps in the backfield.

One of the big unknowns in Lawrence is who will replace the top four wide receivers from last year. Alabama transfer Emmanuel Henderson Jr. and Albany transfer Levi Wentz have gotten rave reviews from Kansas wide receivers coach Terrence Samuel, while Columbia transfer Bryson Canty and Ball State transfer Cam Pickett could start games as well.

Jim Zebrowski was promoted to offensive coordinator after Jeff Grimes left for the same job at Wisconsin, while D.K. McDonald has taken over the defense following the retirement of longtime coordinator Brian Borland.

After opening with Fresno State and Wagner, the Jayhawks head to Missouri for a matchup with their most bitter rival. If they get through those three games, their first two Big 12 games against West Virginia and Cincinnati are at home. There are road trips to Texas Tech and Iowa State on the schedule but the Jayhawks host rival Kansas State on Oct. 25.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1755521746240.jpeg" alt="Kansas head coach Lance Leipold stands with his players before running onto the field before an NCAA college football game against Houston on Oct. 19, 2024, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel, File)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas head coach Lance Leipold stands with his players before running onto the field before an NCAA college football game against Houston on Oct. 19, 2024, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel, File)</figcaption>
 </figure>LAWRENCE, Kan. (AP) — The construction cranes that have been working on a new stadium for the Kansas Jayhawks the past two years might just as well be emblematic of the program as a whole.No longer a downtrodden eyesore, the Jayhawks are suddenly competitive again, even if they remain a work in progress.Just like the stadium.The vast majority of David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium has been finished, including the east side and end zones, though the west side stands from the old facility will remain until the next offseason. In much the same way, the Jayhawks have become Big 12 contenders under Lance Leipold, though they showed during a 5-7 finish last year that they are still building.“As we come into this stadium,” Leipold said ahead of Saturday night’s opener against Fresno State, “we need our fanbase to be there as well, to truly make it impactful. We need people there to do it.“Now, on the flip side, it’s our responsibility to play a brand — a style — of effective football that people want to come and see,” Leipold continued, “and create a game-day environment that is special, that people want to partake in.”After back-to-back bowl games, and going 9-4 two years ago, Kansas slid a bit last year, a season of high expectations that was sullied by a spectacularly poor start. The Jayhawks lost five of their first six games while playing home games at Children’s Mercy Park, the home of MLS club Sporting Kansas City, and Arrowhead Stadium, the home of the Kansas City Chiefs — which is just across the state line in Missouri, adding to the homeless feeling Kansas no doubt felt.But the Jayhawks finished with a flurry, beating ranked foes Iowa State, Colorado and BYU in consecutive weeks. And while they failed to make a bowl game, they have not only confidence but momentum as they head into a new season.“This program is now relevant,” Leipold said.The Jayhawks have a stadium to reflect it, too.<h2>JD6 is back</h2>Kansas quarterback Jalon Daniels has been labeled a Heisman Trophy candidate and a bust, a spectacular athlete who is capable of doing just about anything and an injury-prone QB who struggles with his decision-making. The reality is probably somewhere in between, but one thing is certain: If Daniels has a big final season in Lawrence, so will the Jayhawks.<h2>Running back room</h2>Daniel Hishaw Jr. is first in line to replace Devin Neal, the school’s departed career rushing record-holder, but he has dealt with injuries throughout his career. Iowa transfer Leshon Williams, who only played three games last season because of his own injury troubles, will also get plenty of reps in the backfield.<h2>What about the wideouts</h2>One of the big unknowns in Lawrence is who will replace the top four wide receivers from last year. Alabama transfer Emmanuel Henderson Jr. and Albany transfer Levi Wentz have gotten rave reviews from Kansas wide receivers coach Terrence Samuel, while Columbia transfer Bryson Canty and Ball State transfer Cam Pickett could start games as well.<h2>Coaching turnover</h2>Jim Zebrowski was promoted to offensive coordinator after Jeff Grimes left for the same job at Wisconsin, while D.K. McDonald has taken over the defense following the retirement of longtime coordinator Brian Borland.<h2>Schedule situation</h2>After opening with Fresno State and Wagner, the Jayhawks head to Missouri for a matchup with their most bitter rival. If they get through those three games, their first two Big 12 games against West Virginia and Cincinnati are at home. There are road trips to Texas Tech and Iowa State on the schedule but the Jayhawks host rival Kansas State on Oct. 25.

🏈 KU's new stadium symbolizes program’s resurgence, though work on both still remains

🎧⚾ Royals sweep White Sox; ⚾ Wind Surge win final 3 in Springfield; ⛳ Hague wins City Stroke Play title

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Nick Hague left little doubt Sunday in securing another Hutchinson City Stroke Play championship.

After carrying a one-shot lead into the final round at Crazy Horse Golf Course, Hague surged away from the field with a 5-under-par 67 that featured two eagles and just one bogey. Combined with his 71 at Carey Park in Saturday’s opening round, Hague finished with a two-day total of 134, 12 strokes clear of the field.

Defending champion Jason Odell was the only other player to break 80 in the final round, carding a 74 to finish runner-up at 146. Hogan Smith placed third with a 148, while Jake Winchester’s 157 earned him fourth.

Winners were also crowned in three additional flights. Kirk Holmberg took the First Flight title with a 160, edging Ryan Allan (161), Korey Holmberg (164) and Josh Gooch (165). In the Second Flight, Kevin Rogg fired a two-round 166 to finish atop Doug Christman (168), Greg Flores (170) and Konner Harms (171). Dustin Anderson claimed the Third Flight with a 177, followed by Joe Palacioz (179), Jeff Schrock (180) and Marc Ahrens (186).

Tournament organizers thanked all participants and noted the next event, the Hutchinson City Team Championship, is scheduled for Sept. 20-21.

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Nick Hague left little doubt Sunday in securing another Hutchinson City Stroke Play championship.After carrying a one-shot lead into the final round at Crazy Horse Golf Course, Hague surged away from the field with a 5-under-par 67 that featured two eagles and just one bogey. Combined with his 71 at Carey Park in Saturday’s opening round, Hague finished with a two-day total of 134, 12 strokes clear of the field.Defending champion Jason Odell was the only other player to break 80 in the final round, carding a 74 to finish runner-up at 146. Hogan Smith placed third with a 148, while Jake Winchester’s 157 earned him fourth.Winners were also crowned in three additional flights. Kirk Holmberg took the First Flight title with a 160, edging Ryan Allan (161), Korey Holmberg (164) and Josh Gooch (165). In the Second Flight, Kevin Rogg fired a two-round 166 to finish atop Doug Christman (168), Greg Flores (170) and Konner Harms (171). Dustin Anderson claimed the Third Flight with a 177, followed by Joe Palacioz (179), Jeff Schrock (180) and Marc Ahrens (186).Tournament organizers thanked all participants and noted the next event, the Hutchinson City Team Championship, is scheduled for Sept. 20-21.

⛳ Hague claims Hutchinson City Stroke Play title

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/564fba9d-1d8f-4f77-89c6-91ed0ce78e11">Click here</a> to read the full story on Women in Sports Broadcasting Day, being celebrated in Kansas, August 18.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1755029796536.jpeg" alt="From left, Asia Cymone Smith, KSN-TV sports anchor/reporter; Micaela Dea, KAKE-TV sports director; and Rachel Hallam, KWCH-TV multimedia journalist, pose in the KWBW Radio studio in Hutchinson, Kan., on Monday, Aug. 18, 2025, during an interview marking the first Women in Sports Broadcasting Day in Kansas." />
 <figcaption>From left, Asia Cymone Smith, KSN-TV sports anchor/reporter; Micaela Dea, KAKE-TV sports director; and Rachel Hallam, KWCH-TV multimedia journalist, pose in the KWBW Radio studio in Hutchinson, Kan., on Monday, Aug. 18, 2025, during an interview marking the first Women in Sports Broadcasting Day in Kansas.</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/564fba9d-1d8f-4f77-89c6-91ed0ce78e11">Click here</a> to read the full story on Women in Sports Broadcasting Day, being celebrated in Kansas, August 18.<div><iframe title="Women in Sports Broadcasting Day" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=7xx84-19309b5-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=60a0c8&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=ff6d00" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

🎧 BW Morning Show Interview: Asia Cymone Smith, Micaela Dea, Rachel Hallam, Women in Sports Broadcasting Day

By <a href="mailto:sean.boston@eaglemedia.com">SEAN BOSTON</a> Hutch Post

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Kansas is making history today, honoring the voices, vision, and impact of women in sports media with the first-ever observance of Women in Sports Broadcasting Day.&nbsp;

The day was proclaimed by Gov. Laura Kelly at the urging of KSN-TV sports anchor and reporter Asia Cymone Smith, whose advocacy turned a personal mission into a statewide recognition. For Smith, the proclamation is more than a ceremonial gesture, it’s a statement of value in an industry where women still make up just 38% of sports broadcasting roles in Kansas, according to a review of recent staff directories from stations in Wichita, Topeka, and Kansas City.&nbsp;

“It’s something that felt surreal, something that I’d been thinking about for a long time,” Smith said. “I wanted to make sure that women, us hard-working women who are also putting in work here, are recognized. This is a testament to the recognition and the work we’ve put in. And it highlights contributions of the former women in sports broadcasting and the ones to come.”&nbsp;

Smith, who also serves as Miss Kansas USA, has made women in sports broadcasting a central part of her public platform. She operates a mentorship initiative called Girls Talk Game, aimed at uplifting young girls who aspire to careers in the field through school visits, group sessions and one-on-one coaching. “I want to be the help that I always wish I had when I first got started,” she said. “I want to be that person that teaches them the ropes so they don’t have to struggle and so they have the same opportunities to learn and get the knowledge they need to succeed.”&nbsp;

That desire was shaped by her own experiences. Early in her career, she was once told, “We’re not here to hold your hand or teach you the ropes.” 

It was a moment that stayed with her, and one she vowed not to repeat with the next generation. 

“For every little girl who really is watching the TV news and sees us, I want them to know that it’s possible, no matter what other people tell you, when they tell you, you don’t belong in the industry,” Smith said. “Those are comments we get all the time. And I want them to know those people can’t define your success.”&nbsp;

The proclamation also honors the women who have inspired others on the national stage. It names Kansas-connected journalists such as Becky Dixon, the first woman to co-host ABC’s Wide World of Sports; Aminia Smith, a former sports journalist in Lawrence now hosting ESPN’s SportsCenter; and Kendra Douglas, a former Wichita sports anchor now working as an NBA sideline reporter. Smith said seeing them succeed at such high levels serves as proof of what’s possible. “They’re inspirations to us who are sitting here today,” she said.&nbsp;

Joining Smith in celebrating the day are KAKE-TV sports director Micaela Dea and KWCH-TV multimedia journalist Rachel Hallam. Though they work at competing stations, the three regularly cross paths on the sidelines, at press conferences and in locker rooms, and have forged a bond over shared experiences. 

“We see each other all the time,” Dea said. “I knew from the onset of joining this career I wanted to be one of those women that helped other women. If I could have my small part in making that easier for the next woman, that’s amazing. And of course, I want to pay tribute to all the other women before us that have literally trailblazed the way.”&nbsp;

Dea, who became KAKE’s first female sports director last year, said she is encouraged by how far the industry has come. “I can’t imagine where it will be in the next twenty years or the next couple of decades,” she said. “But I definitely am proud to be one of those women in sports that loves to empower other women.”&nbsp;

Hallam said the observance is a meaningful acknowledgment of both the progress made and the challenges that remain. “It means everything,” Hallam said. “It’s hard to be in this industry in the first place, and then how hard it is to be a woman in this industry. Just for everybody to finally recognize that, not just ourselves and not just the other women that are in this industry, but to know that it is still a growing industry and we still have opportunities laid out in front of us.”&nbsp;

Smith said she hopes today’s recognition sparks more opportunities for women in leadership roles, production and high-profile analyst positions in men’s sports. “There’s a lot of leadership positions I think can still be filled,” she said. “Women have completely trailblazed and transformed the sideline reporter role. But why not have those same broadcasters be analysts for the NBA and for the NFL? Our perspective is important and should be shown, too.” She pointed to growing momentum in women’s sports coverage, from WNBA expansion to record-breaking college softball and volleyball crowds, as proof that the appetite is there for more women’s voices. “I think it’s continuing to grow, and that’s great to see,” she said.&nbsp;

While Women in Sports Broadcasting Day is new, those celebrating it hope it becomes an annual touchpoint for progress. “I hope every girl watching sees this and thinks, ‘That can be me,’” Smith said. “Because it absolutely can.”&nbsp;

The proclamation urges Kansans to join in recognizing the achievements of women in sports media and to support ongoing efforts toward equality in the profession. For Smith, Dea and Hallam, that means continuing to show up for each other, and for the young women they hope will follow in their footsteps.&nbsp;

“We’re supposed to be competitors,” Hallam said, “but we’re constantly having each other’s backs. That’s what makes this day so important, it’s a reminder that we’re here, we can do our job, and we’re not going anywhere.”&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1755029604394.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy Asia Cymone Smith" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Asia Cymone Smith</figcaption>
 </figure>By <a href="mailto:sean.boston@eaglemedia.com">SEAN BOSTON</a> Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Kansas is making history today, honoring the voices, vision, and impact of women in sports media with the first-ever observance of Women in Sports Broadcasting Day.&nbsp;The day was proclaimed by Gov. Laura Kelly at the urging of KSN-TV sports anchor and reporter Asia Cymone Smith, whose advocacy turned a personal mission into a statewide recognition. For Smith, the proclamation is more than a ceremonial gesture, it’s a statement of value in an industry where women still make up just 38% of sports broadcasting roles in Kansas, according to a review of recent staff directories from stations in Wichita, Topeka, and Kansas City.&nbsp;“It’s something that felt surreal, something that I’d been thinking about for a long time,” Smith said. “I wanted to make sure that women, us hard-working women who are also putting in work here, are recognized. This is a testament to the recognition and the work we’ve put in. And it highlights contributions of the former women in sports broadcasting and the ones to come.”&nbsp;Smith, who also serves as Miss Kansas USA, has made women in sports broadcasting a central part of her public platform. She operates a mentorship initiative called Girls Talk Game, aimed at uplifting young girls who aspire to careers in the field through school visits, group sessions and one-on-one coaching. “I want to be the help that I always wish I had when I first got started,” she said. “I want to be that person that teaches them the ropes so they don’t have to struggle and so they have the same opportunities to learn and get the knowledge they need to succeed.”&nbsp;That desire was shaped by her own experiences. Early in her career, she was once told, “We’re not here to hold your hand or teach you the ropes.” It was a moment that stayed with her, and one she vowed not to repeat with the next generation. “For every little girl who really is watching the TV news and sees us, I want them to know that it’s possible, no matter what other people tell you, when they tell you, you don’t belong in the industry,” Smith said. “Those are comments we get all the time. And I want them to know those people can’t define your success.”&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1755029796536.jpeg" alt="From left, Asia Cymone Smith, KSN-TV sports anchor/reporter; Micaela Dea, KAKE-TV sports director; and Rachel Hallam, KWCH-TV multimedia journalist, pose in the KWBW Radio studio in Hutchinson, Kan., on Monday, Aug. 18, 2025, during an interview marking the first Women in Sports Broadcasting Day in Kansas." />
 <figcaption>From left, Asia Cymone Smith, KSN-TV sports anchor/reporter; Micaela Dea, KAKE-TV sports director; and Rachel Hallam, KWCH-TV multimedia journalist, pose in the KWBW Radio studio in Hutchinson, Kan., on Monday, Aug. 18, 2025, during an interview marking the first Women in Sports Broadcasting Day in Kansas.</figcaption>
 </figure>The proclamation also honors the women who have inspired others on the national stage. It names Kansas-connected journalists such as Becky Dixon, the first woman to co-host ABC’s Wide World of Sports; Aminia Smith, a former sports journalist in Lawrence now hosting ESPN’s SportsCenter; and Kendra Douglas, a former Wichita sports anchor now working as an NBA sideline reporter. Smith said seeing them succeed at such high levels serves as proof of what’s possible. “They’re inspirations to us who are sitting here today,” she said.&nbsp;Joining Smith in celebrating the day are KAKE-TV sports director Micaela Dea and KWCH-TV multimedia journalist Rachel Hallam. Though they work at competing stations, the three regularly cross paths on the sidelines, at press conferences and in locker rooms, and have forged a bond over shared experiences. “We see each other all the time,” Dea said. “I knew from the onset of joining this career I wanted to be one of those women that helped other women. If I could have my small part in making that easier for the next woman, that’s amazing. And of course, I want to pay tribute to all the other women before us that have literally trailblazed the way.”&nbsp;Dea, who became KAKE’s first female sports director last year, said she is encouraged by how far the industry has come. “I can’t imagine where it will be in the next twenty years or the next couple of decades,” she said. “But I definitely am proud to be one of those women in sports that loves to empower other women.”&nbsp;Hallam said the observance is a meaningful acknowledgment of both the progress made and the challenges that remain. “It means everything,” Hallam said. “It’s hard to be in this industry in the first place, and then how hard it is to be a woman in this industry. Just for everybody to finally recognize that, not just ourselves and not just the other women that are in this industry, but to know that it is still a growing industry and we still have opportunities laid out in front of us.”&nbsp;Smith said she hopes today’s recognition sparks more opportunities for women in leadership roles, production and high-profile analyst positions in men’s sports. “There’s a lot of leadership positions I think can still be filled,” she said. “Women have completely trailblazed and transformed the sideline reporter role. But why not have those same broadcasters be analysts for the NBA and for the NFL? Our perspective is important and should be shown, too.” She pointed to growing momentum in women’s sports coverage, from WNBA expansion to record-breaking college softball and volleyball crowds, as proof that the appetite is there for more women’s voices. “I think it’s continuing to grow, and that’s great to see,” she said.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1755029846575.jpeg" alt="From left, Rachel Hallam, KWCH-TV multimedia journalist; Asia Cymone Smith, KSN-TV sports anchor/reporter; Sean Boston, Eagle Media sports director; and Micaela Dea, KAKE-TV sports director, are pictured in the KWBW Radio studio in Hutchinson, Kan., on Monday, Aug. 18, 2025, during an interview marking the first Women in Sports Broadcasting Day in Kansas." />
 <figcaption>From left, Rachel Hallam, KWCH-TV multimedia journalist; Asia Cymone Smith, KSN-TV sports anchor/reporter; Sean Boston, Eagle Media sports director; and Micaela Dea, KAKE-TV sports director, are pictured in the KWBW Radio studio in Hutchinson, Kan., on Monday, Aug. 18, 2025, during an interview marking the first Women in Sports Broadcasting Day in Kansas.</figcaption>
 </figure>While Women in Sports Broadcasting Day is new, those celebrating it hope it becomes an annual touchpoint for progress. “I hope every girl watching sees this and thinks, ‘That can be me,’” Smith said. “Because it absolutely can.”&nbsp;The proclamation urges Kansans to join in recognizing the achievements of women in sports media and to support ongoing efforts toward equality in the profession. For Smith, Dea and Hallam, that means continuing to show up for each other, and for the young women they hope will follow in their footsteps.&nbsp;“We’re supposed to be competitors,” Hallam said, “but we’re constantly having each other’s backs. That’s what makes this day so important, it’s a reminder that we’re here, we can do our job, and we’re not going anywhere.”&nbsp;<div><iframe title="Women in Sports Broadcasting Day" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=7xx84-19309b5-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=60a0c8&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=ff6d00" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

Kansas marks first Women in Sports Broadcasting Day

Monday marked the official start of practice for high school fall sports across Kansas, with athletes in sports ranging from football to debate taking the first steps toward the new season.

The Kansas State High School Activities Association (KSHSAA) recognizes 10 activities that open practice in mid-August: football, volleyball, boys soccer, girls golf, girls tennis, gymnastics, girls cross country, boys cross country, debate and scholars bowl.

Several schools across the state, including many in Reno County and surrounding areas, began practices early Monday morning in an effort to beat the afternoon heat. Temperatures are forecast to climb into the low to mid-90s later in the day.

Athlete safety in hot weather has been a point of emphasis for KSHSAA since April 2018, when the association adopted new heat acclimatization rules. Those regulations officially took effect on Aug. 13, 2018, the first day of practice that fall.

The guidelines limit the length and intensity of early-season practices and ban two-a-days in the opening week. They also gradually phase in the use of helmets and pads, cap single practices at three hours, and stress the importance of consistent hydration.

More recently, KSHSAA encouraged schools to use Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT) readings, a measure that factors in temperature, humidity, wind speed and sunlight, to determine heat risk and adjust practice schedules accordingly.

As schools prepare for the upcoming competition season, the focus on safety remains as strong as the excitement. For athletes, Monday’s first whistle marked the beginning of months of preparation, and for communities across Kansas, the first sign that fall sports have officially arrived.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1582400720570.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Monday marked the official start of practice for high school fall sports across Kansas, with athletes in sports ranging from football to debate taking the first steps toward the new season.The Kansas State High School Activities Association (KSHSAA) recognizes 10 activities that open practice in mid-August: football, volleyball, boys soccer, girls golf, girls tennis, gymnastics, girls cross country, boys cross country, debate and scholars bowl.Several schools across the state, including many in Reno County and surrounding areas, began practices early Monday morning in an effort to beat the afternoon heat. Temperatures are forecast to climb into the low to mid-90s later in the day.Athlete safety in hot weather has been a point of emphasis for KSHSAA since April 2018, when the association adopted new heat acclimatization rules. Those regulations officially took effect on Aug. 13, 2018, the first day of practice that fall.The guidelines limit the length and intensity of early-season practices and ban two-a-days in the opening week. They also gradually phase in the use of helmets and pads, cap single practices at three hours, and stress the importance of consistent hydration.More recently, KSHSAA encouraged schools to use Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT) readings, a measure that factors in temperature, humidity, wind speed and sunlight, to determine heat risk and adjust practice schedules accordingly.As schools prepare for the upcoming competition season, the focus on safety remains as strong as the excitement. For athletes, Monday’s first whistle marked the beginning of months of preparation, and for communities across Kansas, the first sign that fall sports have officially arrived.

First day of practice kicks off for Kansas fall sports

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1755479086554.png" alt="Photo Courtesy Wichita Wind Surge" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Wichita Wind Surge</figcaption>
 </figure><div>Wichita Wind Surge
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SPRINGFIELD, Mo. (August 17, 2025)&mdash;<a href="https://www.milb.com/player/jose-salas-691191">Jose Salas</a>&nbsp;homered twice in the 7-4 win for the Wichita Wind Surge against the Springfield Cardinals at Hammons Field. The win splits the series, and the Wind Surge take the season series over the Cardinals in the 2025 regular season.
After no score through three innings with&nbsp;<a href="https://www.milb.com/player/c-j-culpepper-690217">C.J. Culpepper</a>&nbsp;dueling against a pair of arms out of Springfield&rsquo;s bullpen, the Cardinals opened the home half of the fourth by loading the bases and scoring the game&rsquo;s first run on a double play.
Salas responded with a two-run home run out toward right field to put Wichita ahead 2-1 in the top of the fifth.
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Springfield got a pair of runs in the bottom of the fifth inning on an infield error and another double play to retake the lead.
Salas hit another homer, a solo shot, out to right field in the top of the sixth. Dakota Harris then singled to the left side to bring in Joshua Baez in the next half inning to give the Cardinals a 4-3 lead after six frames.
Four runs came across to score for the Wind Surge in the top of the ninth on a pair of RBI doubles from&nbsp;<a href="https://www.milb.com/player/nate-baez-686960">Nate Baez</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.milb.com/player/rubel-cespedes-686438">Rubel Cespedes</a>, taking a 7-4 advantage. Wichita stranded a man on base in the bottom of the ninth and took the series finale, giving the Wind Surge the season series over Springfield.
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<a href="https://www.milb.com/player/michael-martinez-681597">Michael Martinez</a>&nbsp;earned the win and improved to 3-2 on the season after striking a man out over an inning of relief.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.milb.com/player/hunter-hoopes-804592">Hunter Hoopes</a>&nbsp;maneuvered around a walk to record his first save with Wichita.
POSTGAME NOTES
<ul>
<li>Kala&rsquo;i Rosario has a 15 Game On Base Streak.</li>
<li>Jose Salas hits his second multi-home run game of his professional career.</li>
<li>C.J. Culpepper throws five innings for the first time this season.</li>
<li>After dropping the first three games of the week, Wichita outscores the Cardinals 20-6 and takes the final three games of the series over the weekend.</li>
<li>The Wind Surge take the season series 13-11 over Springfield, becoming the first team to win a season series against the Cardinals in 2025.</li>
</ul>
Wichita travels down to Texas to start a series with the Midland RockHounds on August 19 at 6:30 PM at Momentum Bank Ballpark. The Wind Surge return to Equity Bank Park for their final homestand of the season, starting with the Arkansas Travelers on August 26. You can listen to Wind Surge games on ESPN Wichita 92.3 FM and&nbsp;<a href="http://windsurge.com/">windsurge.com</a>&nbsp;or watch online at&nbsp;<a href="http://milb.tv/">MiLB.TV</a>&nbsp;and Bally Sports Live. For ticket information, please visit&nbsp;<a href="http://windsurge.com/tickets">windsurge.com/tickets</a>.</div>

⚾ Wind Surge victorious Sunday in Springfield

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Jonathan India and Adam Frazier hit two-run homers, rallying the Kansas City Royals to a 6-2 victory over the Chicago White Sox on Sunday for a series sweep.

The White Sox led 2-0 before India tied it in the seventh with his 451-foot shot, tying his longest.

Run-scoring singles by Maikel Garcia and Salvador Perez gave the Royals a 4-2 lead in the eighth before Frazier's fifth homer of the season made it 6-2.

White Sox starter Davis Martin allowed one hit in seven innings before Steven Wilson, Grant Taylor (0-3) and Jordan Leasure yielded six runs and seven hits in two innings.

Lenyn Sosa hit his 16th home run of the season with one out in the first and Andrew Benintendi scored on Edgar Quero's RBI single in the sixth to make it 2-0.

Lucas Erceg (5-3), the fourth Kansas City pitcher, earned the win with one scoreless inning.

Taylor pitched one inning and gave up three hits and three runs, including Frazier's homer.

The Royals have won 14 straight at home against the White Sox, tying a franchise record for most wins against one opponent at home.

The White Sox will head to Atlanta to play the Braves on Monday night. Yoendrys Gomez (2-1, 5.56 ERA) will start for Chicago and Spencer Strider (5-10, 4.69 ERA) will start for Atlanta. The Royals will host the Texas Rangers on Monday night. Kansas City will start Michael Wacha (7-9, 3.35 ERA). Texas will start Jack Leiter (7-6, 3.94 ERA)

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1755466421436.jpeg" alt="Photo Kansas City Royals" />
 <figcaption>Photo Kansas City Royals</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Jonathan India and Adam Frazier hit two-run homers, rallying the Kansas City Royals to a 6-2 victory over the Chicago White Sox on Sunday for a series sweep.The White Sox led 2-0 before India tied it in the seventh with his 451-foot shot, tying his longest.Run-scoring singles by Maikel Garcia and Salvador Perez gave the Royals a 4-2 lead in the eighth before Frazier's fifth homer of the season made it 6-2.White Sox starter Davis Martin allowed one hit in seven innings before Steven Wilson, Grant Taylor (0-3) and Jordan Leasure yielded six runs and seven hits in two innings.Lenyn Sosa hit his 16th home run of the season with one out in the first and Andrew Benintendi scored on Edgar Quero's RBI single in the sixth to make it 2-0.Lucas Erceg (5-3), the fourth Kansas City pitcher, earned the win with one scoreless inning.<h2>Key moment</h2>Taylor pitched one inning and gave up three hits and three runs, including Frazier's homer.<h2>Key stat</h2>The Royals have won 14 straight at home against the White Sox, tying a franchise record for most wins against one opponent at home.<h2>Up next</h2>The White Sox will head to Atlanta to play the Braves on Monday night. Yoendrys Gomez (2-1, 5.56 ERA) will start for Chicago and Spencer Strider (5-10, 4.69 ERA) will start for Atlanta. The Royals will host the Texas Rangers on Monday night. Kansas City will start Michael Wacha (7-9, 3.35 ERA). Texas will start Jack Leiter (7-6, 3.94 ERA)

⚾ India and Frazier homer to rally Royals over the White Sox

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — John Rave homered playing in place of the ailing Vinnie Pasquantino and the Kansas City Royals beat Chicago White Sox 6-2 on Saturday night to move above .500 for the first time since June 10.

Pasquantino left in the first inning because of heat-related illness. The game-time temperature was 94 degrees, with the humidity above 50%. Nick Loftin moved to first base, and Rave took over for Loftin in left.

Michael Lorenzen made his first start for Kansas City since July 6. He allowed three hits in four scoreless innings. Daniel Lynch IV (5-2) was the winner.

Mike Yastrzemski led off the first with a homer off Sean Burke (4-10). The Royals added an unearned run in the second, and Rave made it 3-0 in the third with his fourth home.

In the fifth, Rave singled and scored on Maikel Garcia's two-run double. Loftin had an RBI single in the sixth.

Andrew Benintendi doubled in two runs for Chicago in the eighth.

The Royals (62-61) had lost in their last five chances to move above .500.

Chicago RHP Davis Martin (4-9, 4.17 ERA) was set to start opposite RHP Ryan Bergert (1-1, 2.87) on Sunday in the series finale.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1755398683364.png" alt="Photo Kansas City Royals" />
 <figcaption>Photo Kansas City Royals</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — John Rave homered playing in place of the ailing Vinnie Pasquantino and the Kansas City Royals beat Chicago White Sox 6-2 on Saturday night to move above .500 for the first time since June 10.Pasquantino left in the first inning because of heat-related illness. The game-time temperature was 94 degrees, with the humidity above 50%. Nick Loftin moved to first base, and Rave took over for Loftin in left.Michael Lorenzen made his first start for Kansas City since July 6. He allowed three hits in four scoreless innings. Daniel Lynch IV (5-2) was the winner.Mike Yastrzemski led off the first with a homer off Sean Burke (4-10). The Royals added an unearned run in the second, and Rave made it 3-0 in the third with his fourth home.In the fifth, Rave singled and scored on Maikel Garcia's two-run double. Loftin had an RBI single in the sixth.Andrew Benintendi doubled in two runs for Chicago in the eighth.<h2>Key moment</h2>Rave's homer in his first at-bat.<h2>Key stat</h2>The Royals (62-61) had lost in their last five chances to move above .500.<h2>Up next</h2>Chicago RHP Davis Martin (4-9, 4.17 ERA) was set to start opposite RHP Ryan Bergert (1-1, 2.87) on Sunday in the series finale.

⚾ Rave fills in nicely for Pasquantino in Royals victory over the White Sox

SEATTLE (AP) — Sam Darnold looked the part of a franchise quarterback in his first appearance at Lumen Field as the Seattle Seahawks beat the Kansas City Chiefs 33-16 in a preseason game on Friday night.

Darnold,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/raiders-seahawks-score-carroll-edf384e650581062397c8dfdb83211f0">who did not appear in the Seattle Seahawks’ preseason opener against the Las Vegas Raiders</a>, completed 4 of 4 passes for 34 yards on the opening drive.

Darnold, who signed to a three-year, $100.5 million contract with Seattle in the offseason, made good use of both his legs and his tight ends during his sole series. He had no issues rolling out to either his left or right, locating tight ends AJ Barner and Elijah Arroyo for short passes, as well as fullback Robbie Ouzts and wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba for deeper completions.

The Chiefs did not play quarterback Patrick Mahomes, tight end Travis Kelce and other starters from the team that fell to the Philadelphia Eagles in last season’s Super Bowl.

Backup quarterback Gardner Minshew found tight end Robert Tonyan for a 1-yard touchdown catch in the second quarter.

The Seahawks’ defense in large part held strong, limiting the Chiefs’ reserves to three points in the second half. Kansas City wide receiver Skyy Moore, though, did return a punt for a touchdown late in the fourth quarter.

The Chiefs host the Chicago Bears on Aug. 22.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1755334694664.png" alt="Chiefs" />
 <figcaption>Chiefs</figcaption>
 </figure>SEATTLE (AP) — Sam Darnold looked the part of a franchise quarterback in his first appearance at Lumen Field as the Seattle Seahawks beat the Kansas City Chiefs 33-16 in a preseason game on Friday night.Darnold,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/raiders-seahawks-score-carroll-edf384e650581062397c8dfdb83211f0">who did not appear in the Seattle Seahawks’ preseason opener against the Las Vegas Raiders</a>, completed 4 of 4 passes for 34 yards on the opening drive.Darnold, who signed to a three-year, $100.5 million contract with Seattle in the offseason, made good use of both his legs and his tight ends during his sole series. He had no issues rolling out to either his left or right, locating tight ends AJ Barner and Elijah Arroyo for short passes, as well as fullback Robbie Ouzts and wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba for deeper completions.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1755342121610.jpeg" alt="Seattle Seahawks wide receiver Jake Bobo (19) makes a touchdown catch as Kansas City Chiefs cornerback Joshua Williams (2) defends during the first half of an NFL preseason football game Friday, Aug. 15, 2025, in Seattle. (AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson)" />
 <figcaption>Seattle Seahawks wide receiver Jake Bobo (19) makes a touchdown catch as Kansas City Chiefs cornerback Joshua Williams (2) defends during the first half of an NFL preseason football game Friday, Aug. 15, 2025, in Seattle. (AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson)</figcaption>
 </figure>The Chiefs did not play quarterback Patrick Mahomes, tight end Travis Kelce and other starters from the team that fell to the Philadelphia Eagles in last season’s Super Bowl.Backup quarterback Gardner Minshew found tight end Robert Tonyan for a 1-yard touchdown catch in the second quarter.The Seahawks’ defense in large part held strong, limiting the Chiefs’ reserves to three points in the second half. Kansas City wide receiver Skyy Moore, though, did return a punt for a touchdown late in the fourth quarter.The Chiefs host the Chicago Bears on Aug. 22.

🏈 Seahawks drop Chiefs in Friday night preseason game

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Noah Cameron pitched into the sixth inning, Salvador Perez hit a go-ahead homer, and the Kansas City Royals beat the Chicago White Sox 3-1 on Friday night to continue their mastery of their AL Central rivals over the past couple of years.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1755313126115.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Royals' Salvador Perez celebrates in the dugout after hitting a solo home run during the fourth inning of a baseball game against the Chicago White Sox, Friday, Aug. 15, 2025, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Royals' Salvador Perez celebrates in the dugout after hitting a solo home run during the fourth inning of a baseball game against the Chicago White Sox, Friday, Aug. 15, 2025, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Noah Cameron pitched into the sixth inning, Salvador Perez hit a go-ahead homer, and the Kansas City Royals beat the Chicago White Sox 3-1 on Friday night to continue their mastery of their AL Central rivals over the past couple of years.The Royals are 18-3 against the White Sox since the start of last season, including a four-game sweep of Chicago n May.Cameron (7-5) set the Royals rookie record at Kauffman Stadium by running his scoreless streak to 19 1/3 innings early on. And when Lenyn Sosa homered off him with two outs in the fourth, Cameron set down the next four batters.Cameron loaded the bases with one out in the fifth, but John Schreiber came in and got Sosa to line into an inning-ending double play.Carlos Estévez struck out the side in the ninth, finishing 3 2/3 scoreless innings by the Royals bullpen and earning his 31st save.Aaron Civale (3-8) gave up three straight singles in the first as Kansas City took a 1-0 lead. He allowed one more hit until the fourth, when Perez sent a 1-0 pitch over the right-field wall to make it 2-1.KC's Adam Frazier hit a two-out RBI double in the sixth.<h2>Key moment</h2>Royals manager Matt Quatraro was ejected by second base umpire Tom Hanahan in the fifth after Kyle Isbel was thrown out trying to steal second. Quatraro was angry that the White Sox were not called for blocking the bag. It took crew chief Todd Tichenor to get the skipper back to the dugout.<h2>Key stat</h2>The White Sox have lost nine of their last 11.<h2>Up next</h2>RHP Sean Burke (4-9, 4.26 ERA) starts Saturday night for Chicago. RHP Michael Lorenzen (5-8, 4.61) makes his first start for Kansas City since July 6, when he pitched well before landing on the injured list with a left oblique strain.