KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Patrick Wisdom hit a grand slam as a pinch hitter in the seventh inning, Seiya Suzuki also homered and the Chicago Cubs beat the Kansas City Royals 9-4 on Saturday night.

Wisdom hit for Pete Crow-Armstrong and laced the homer 440-feet off Sam Long into the fountains in left for a 7-4 lead.

“That was pretty cool,” Wisdom said. “I don't think it really hit me until I was rounding second base and I saw the dugout going nuts so that was pretty special for sure.”

The runners were put on base by Seth Lugo (12-5), who went 6 1/3 innings. He allowed six earned runs on five hits while walking two and striking out two.

“He gave us a really good chance to win. He is out there in the seventh after giving up three runs,” Royals manager Matt Quatraro said. “Not as many strikeouts; they did a good job of putting the ball in play and forcing some action. Lugo gave us a chance to win but you have to give them credit for putting the ball in play.”

Julian Merryweather (1-0) pitched an inning for the victory. Cubs starter Shota Imanaga went 5 2/3 innings, allowing three earned runs on six hits and three strikeouts.

“I thought Shota was good and I think they did a really good job against him,” Cubs manager Craig Counsell said. "They were really good against the high fastball and the splitter and fouled off a ton so credit to them because I thought he threw a lot of good pitches." Overall, just a good night in all phases."

Suzuki hit his 15th homer, scoring Michael Busch to make it 2-0 in the first. Hunter Renfroe his 10th homer for Kansas City in the second.

Crow-Armstrong tripled and scored in the third inning to make it 3-1.

Kansas rallied in the sixth to take a 4-3 lead. Bobby Witt Jr. doubled in Maikel Garcia, but was thrown out rounding second base. Later, Salvador Perez singled, Freddy Fermin doubled and Renfroe followed with a two-run single.

David Bote and Nico Hoerner drove in runs in the ninth for Chicago.

The Cubs acquired RHP Nate Pearson from the Toronto Blue Jays in exchange for INF Josh Rivera and OF Yohendrick Pinango. RHP Jesus Tinoco was designated for assignment.

Chicago RHP Javier Assad (4-3, 3.15 ERA) is set to face LHP Cole Ragans (7-6, 3.23) on Sunday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1717239521858.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>AVERY OSEN Associated PressKANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Patrick Wisdom hit a grand slam as a pinch hitter in the seventh inning, Seiya Suzuki also homered and the Chicago Cubs beat the Kansas City Royals 9-4 on Saturday night.Wisdom hit for Pete Crow-Armstrong and laced the homer 440-feet off Sam Long into the fountains in left for a 7-4 lead.“That was pretty cool,” Wisdom said. “I don't think it really hit me until I was rounding second base and I saw the dugout going nuts so that was pretty special for sure.”The runners were put on base by Seth Lugo (12-5), who went 6 1/3 innings. He allowed six earned runs on five hits while walking two and striking out two.“He gave us a really good chance to win. He is out there in the seventh after giving up three runs,” Royals manager Matt Quatraro said. “Not as many strikeouts; they did a good job of putting the ball in play and forcing some action. Lugo gave us a chance to win but you have to give them credit for putting the ball in play.”Julian Merryweather (1-0) pitched an inning for the victory. Cubs starter Shota Imanaga went 5 2/3 innings, allowing three earned runs on six hits and three strikeouts.“I thought Shota was good and I think they did a really good job against him,” Cubs manager Craig Counsell said. "They were really good against the high fastball and the splitter and fouled off a ton so credit to them because I thought he threw a lot of good pitches." Overall, just a good night in all phases."Suzuki hit his 15th homer, scoring Michael Busch to make it 2-0 in the first. Hunter Renfroe his 10th homer for Kansas City in the second.Crow-Armstrong tripled and scored in the third inning to make it 3-1.Kansas rallied in the sixth to take a 4-3 lead. Bobby Witt Jr. doubled in Maikel Garcia, but was thrown out rounding second base. Later, Salvador Perez singled, Freddy Fermin doubled and Renfroe followed with a two-run single.David Bote and Nico Hoerner drove in runs in the ninth for Chicago.ROSTER MOVESThe Cubs acquired RHP Nate Pearson from the Toronto Blue Jays in exchange for INF Josh Rivera and OF Yohendrick Pinango. RHP Jesus Tinoco was designated for assignment.UP NEXTChicago RHP Javier Assad (4-3, 3.15 ERA) is set to face LHP Cole Ragans (7-6, 3.23) on Sunday.

⚾ Cubs win over Royals Saturday

Here are the scores from yesterday's sports events:

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1701494597443.png" alt="Sports Headlines and News for Sunday, July 28th, 2024" />
 <figcaption>Sports Headlines and News for Sunday, July 28th, 2024</figcaption>
 </figure>AP-ScorecardHere are the scores from yesterday's sports events:___INTERLEAGUEFinal	Tampa Bay	4	Cincinnati	0	Final	San Diego	9	Baltimore	4	Final	Philadelphia	8	Cleveland	0	Final	Chicago Cubs	9	Kansas City	4	Final	Houston	7	L.A. Dodgers	6	___AMERICAN LEAGUEFinal	Toronto	7	Texas	3	Final	Detroit	7	Minnesota	2	Final	Seattle	6	Chicago White Sox	3	Final	N.Y. Yankees	11	Boston	8	Final	Oakland	3	L.A. Angels	1	___NATIONAL LEAGUEFinal	Atlanta	4	N.Y. Mets	0	Final	San Francisco	4	Colorado	1	Final	Miami	7	Milwaukee	3	Final	Washington	14	St. Louis	3	Final	Arizona	9	Pittsburgh	5	Final	San Francisco	5	Colorado	0	___TODAY'S SPORTS SCHEDULE___INTERLEAGUECincinnati	at	Tampa Bay	11:35 a.m.	Cleveland	at	Philadelphia	1:35 p.m.	San Diego	at	Baltimore	1:35 p.m.	Chi Cubs	at	Kansas City	2:10 p.m.	L-A Dodgers	at	Houston	2:10 p.m.	___AMERICAN LEAGUETexas	at	Toronto	1:37 p.m.	Minnesota	at	Detroit	1:40 p.m.	Seattle	at	Chi White Sox	2:10 p.m.	Oakland	at	L-A Angels	4:07 p.m.	N-Y Yankees	at	Boston	7:10 p.m.	___NATIONAL LEAGUEAtlanta	at	N-Y Mets	1:40 p.m.	Miami	at	Milwaukee	2:10 p.m.	Washington	at	St. Louis	2:15 p.m.	Colorado	at	San Francisco	4:05 p.m.	Pittsburgh	at	Arizona	4:10 p.m.

📢📰🎧 Sports Headlines for Sunday

WICHITA, Kan. —Tulsa Sandlot jumped on the Hutchinson Monarchs early in the first inning early Sunday morning by scoring &nbsp;five runs in the bottom of the first and eventually winning 7-6 in the second pool play game of the 90th annual NBC Tournament at Wichita State University,

Hutch fought back to regain the lead in the top of the sixth with a two RBI double by Sam Wiese and a fielder's choice to allow Wiese to score from third base to give the Monarchs the lead 6-5.

That lead lasted only one inning as Tulsa Sandlot took advantage of two Monarchs errors to plate two runs in the bottom of the seventh to lead 7-6.

Tulsa's Duncan Bowles come on in relief in the top of the ninth to shut down the Monarchs to give Tulsa the win.

Hutchinson is now 1-1 in pool play and will take on the Seattle Cheney Studs (2-0) on Monday night at 8 p.m. to wrap up pool play.

<a href="http://baseball.pointstreak.com/boxscore.html?gameid=616657">BOXSCORE</a>

<a href="https://nbcbaseball.com/tournament-central-2024/">NBC Central</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1722164592424.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Replay courtesy of NBC Baseball<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/p0dp6Ea_6Xw?si=NtejqudsV7ZtZB9b" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>
</div>WICHITA, Kan. —Tulsa Sandlot jumped on the Hutchinson Monarchs early in the first inning early Sunday morning by scoring &nbsp;five runs in the bottom of the first and eventually winning 7-6 in the second pool play game of the 90th annual NBC Tournament at Wichita State University,Hutch fought back to regain the lead in the top of the sixth with a two RBI double by Sam Wiese and a fielder's choice to allow Wiese to score from third base to give the Monarchs the lead 6-5.That lead lasted only one inning as Tulsa Sandlot took advantage of two Monarchs errors to plate two runs in the bottom of the seventh to lead 7-6.Tulsa's Duncan Bowles come on in relief in the top of the ninth to shut down the Monarchs to give Tulsa the win.Hutchinson is now 1-1 in pool play and will take on the Seattle Cheney Studs (2-0) on Monday night at 8 p.m. to wrap up pool play.<a href="http://baseball.pointstreak.com/boxscore.html?gameid=616657">BOXSCORE</a><a href="https://nbcbaseball.com/tournament-central-2024/">NBC Central</a>

⚾ Tulsa Sandlot edges Hutchinson Monarchs in NBC

(All times Eastern) Schedule subject to change and/or blackouts

8:15 a.m. USA — Women’s Team: Quarterfinals

10:10 a.m. USA — Women’s Team: Semifinal, Final

4 a.m. USA — Group Play: Singles, Doubles (Taped)

10:15 p.m. USA — Group Play: Singles, Doubles (Taped)

5:05 a.m. CNBC — Men’s Group C: South Sudan vs. Puerto Rico

11:15 a.m. NBC — Men’s Group C: Serbia vs. USA

5 p.m. USA — Men’s Group C: Serbia vs. USA (Taped)

2 a.m. USA — Women’s Pool B: USA (Nuss/Kloth) vs. CAN (Bansley/Bukovec) (Taped)

3 a.m. USA — Women’s Pool A: ITA (Gottardi/Menegatti) vs. ESP (Liliana/Paula) (Taped)

7 a.m. USA — Women’s Pool C: GER (Muller/Tillman) vs. FRA (Vieira/Chamereau) (Taped)

12:30 p.m. USA — Men’s, Women’s Pool Play (Taped)

8:30 a.m. NBC — Women’s Mountain Bike

11:35 a.m. USA — Slalom: Women’s Kayak Final

10:30 a.m. E! — Men’s Group: Italy vs. USA (Taped)

11:15 a.m. E! — Women’s Foil &amp; Men’s Epee Eliminations

3:45 p.m. CNBC — Women’s Foil &amp; Men’s Epee Bronze/Gold Finals (Taped)

4 a.m. E! — Women’s Qualifying Subdivision 1, 2 (Taped)

5:10 a.m. E! — Women’s Qualification: Subdivision 2 (Taped)

6 a.m. NBC — Women’s Qualification: Subdivision 2

8:50 a.m. E! — Women’s Qualifying Subdivision 3

12 p.m. E! — Women’s Qualifying Subdivision 4 (Taped)

3 p.m. E! — Women’s Qualifying Subdivision 5 (Taped)

5 p.m. NBC — Women’s Qualifying (taped)

10 p.m. NBC — Primetime in Paris (July 28)

5:15 p.m. CNBC — Women’s Group B: France vs. Netherlands (Taped)

2 p.m. USA — Heats: Single Sculls &amp; more (Taped)

2:30 a.m. NBC — NBC Late Night (July 27)

2:35 a.m. NBC — NBC Late Night (July 28)

6:45 a.m. CNBC — Women’s Street: Preliminary Round

Midnight USA — Men’s Group A: New Zealand vs. USA (Taped)

2:45 p.m. USA — Women’s Group B: USA vs. Germany

5 a.m. USA — Heats: Men’s &amp; Women’s 200m Free &amp; more (Taped)

7:30 a.m. NBC — Heats: Men’s &amp; Women’s 200m Free &amp; more (Taped)

10:15 a.m. NBC — Heats: Men’s &amp; Women’s 200m Free &amp; more (Taped)

2:30 p.m. NBC — Finals: Women’s 100m Fly &amp; more

10:30 a.m. E! — M&amp;W Singles: Round of 64

9:30 p.m. USA — M&amp;W Singles: Round of 64 (Taped)

7:20 a.m. E! — Women’s Pool C: Italy vs. Dominican Republic (Taped)

1:45 p.m. E! — Women’s Pool B: Poland vs. Japan (Taped)

5 p.m. E! — Men’s Pool A: France vs. Serbia (Taped)

9 a.m. USA — Men’s Group: USA vs. Italy

9:30 a.m. NBC — Men’s Group: USA vs. Italy

12:45 p.m. CNBC — Men’s Group: Croatia vs. Montenegro (Taped)

11 p.m. USA — Men’s Group: USA vs. Italy (Taped)

(All times Eastern) Schedule subject to change and/or blackoutsSunday, July 28ARCHERY4 a.m. CNBC — Team Elimination Rounds8:15 a.m. USA — Women’s Team: Quarterfinals10:10 a.m. USA — Women’s Team: Semifinal, FinalBADMINTON4 a.m. USA — Group Play: Singles, Doubles (Taped)10:15 p.m. USA — Group Play: Singles, Doubles (Taped)BASKETBALL5:05 a.m. CNBC — Men’s Group C: South Sudan vs. Puerto Rico11:15 a.m. NBC — Men’s Group C: Serbia vs. USA5 p.m. USA — Men’s Group C: Serbia vs. USA (Taped)BEACH VOLLEYBALL2 a.m. USA — Women’s Pool B: USA (Nuss/Kloth) vs. CAN (Bansley/Bukovec) (Taped)3 a.m. USA — Women’s Pool A: ITA (Gottardi/Menegatti) vs. ESP (Liliana/Paula) (Taped)7 a.m. USA — Women’s Pool C: GER (Muller/Tillman) vs. FRA (Vieira/Chamereau) (Taped)12:30 p.m. USA — Men’s, Women’s Pool Play (Taped)4:10 p.m. NBC — Pool Play (Taped)7 p.m. USA — Pool PlayBIKING8:30 a.m. NBC — Women’s Mountain BikeBOXING4:45 p.m. CNBC — Elimination BoutsCANOEING11:35 a.m. USA — Slalom: Women’s Kayak FinalCROSS COUNTRY10:30 a.m. E! — Men’s Group: Italy vs. USA (Taped)CYCLING8:30 a.m. NBC — Women’s Mountain BikeEQUESTRIAN1 p.m. NBC — Surfing &amp; EquestrianUSA — Eventing: Cross Country9 p.m. USA — Eventing: Cross CountryFENCING11:15 a.m. E! — Women’s Foil &amp; Men’s Epee Eliminations3:45 p.m. CNBC — Women’s Foil &amp; Men’s Epee Bronze/Gold Finals (Taped)GYMNASTICS4 a.m. E! — Women’s Qualifying Subdivision 1, 2 (Taped)5:10 a.m. E! — Women’s Qualification: Subdivision 2 (Taped)6 a.m. NBC — Women’s Qualification: Subdivision 28:50 a.m. E! — Women’s Qualifying Subdivision 312 p.m. E! — Women’s Qualifying Subdivision 4 (Taped)3 p.m. E! — Women’s Qualifying Subdivision 5 (Taped)5 p.m. NBC — Women’s Qualifying (taped)10 p.m. NBC — Primetime in Paris (July 28)HANDBALL5:15 p.m. CNBC — Women’s Group B: France vs. Netherlands (Taped)ROWING2 p.m. USA — Heats: Single Sculls &amp; more (Taped)RUGBY9:35 a.m. CNBC — Women’s Group Play1:30 p.m. CNBC — Rugby &amp; ShootingSKATEBOARDING2:30 a.m. NBC — NBC Late Night (July 27)2:35 a.m. NBC — NBC Late Night (July 28)6:45 a.m. CNBC — Women’s Street: Preliminary Round11 a.m. CNBC — Women’s Street: FinalSOCCERMidnight USA — Men’s Group A: New Zealand vs. USA (Taped)2:45 p.m. USA — Women’s Group B: USA vs. GermanySURFING2:30 a.m. NBC — NBC Late Night (July 27)2:35 a.m. NBC — NBC Late Night (July 28)1 p.m. NBC — Surfing &amp; EquestrianSWIMMING5 a.m. USA — Heats: Men’s &amp; Women’s 200m Free &amp; more (Taped)7:30 a.m. NBC — Heats: Men’s &amp; Women’s 200m Free &amp; more (Taped)10:15 a.m. NBC — Heats: Men’s &amp; Women’s 200m Free &amp; more (Taped)2:30 p.m. NBC — Finals: Women’s 100m Fly &amp; more10 p.m. NBC — Primetime in Paris (July 28)TABLE TENNIS10:30 a.m. E! — M&amp;W Singles: Round of 649:30 p.m. USA — M&amp;W Singles: Round of 64 (Taped)VOLLEYBALL7:20 a.m. E! — Women’s Pool C: Italy vs. Dominican Republic (Taped)1:45 p.m. E! — Women’s Pool B: Poland vs. Japan (Taped)5 p.m. E! — Men’s Pool A: France vs. Serbia (Taped)WATER POLO9 a.m. USA — Men’s Group: USA vs. Italy9:30 a.m. NBC — Men’s Group: USA vs. Italy12:45 p.m. CNBC — Men’s Group: Croatia vs. Montenegro (Taped)11 p.m. USA — Men’s Group: USA vs. Italy (Taped)

Olympics on TV for Sunday, July 28

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Salvador Perez hit a three-run homer that highlighted a six-run fifth inning and Kansas City beat the Chicago Cubs 6-0 Friday night in front of the Royals' second-largest crowd of the season.

Friday night's attendance of 36,351 at Kauffman Stadium was topped only by the 38,775 on opening day.

The Royals, in third place in the AL Central behind Cleveland and Minnesota, moved 10 games over .500 at 57-47 and eclipsed last season's win total.

“There's no significance to that to me,” manager Matt Quatraro said of surpassing last season's victory total. “This is a different team. None whatsoever. We're in a playoff race. That has absolutely nothing to do with anything I think about.”

“It's huge,” he said. “This team is incredible. We keep talking about it. Let's continue to win games and continue to fight hard.”

Singer (7-6) was nearly flawless, allowing just two hits in seven innings while striking out five and walking two. The 27-year-old right-hander combined with Will Smith and Chris Stratton to limit the Cubs to four hits.

“I think the two-seamer was really good,” Singer said. “It had a lot of movement. I was able to throw it back-door to the righties and to the front hip to the lefties. It helped me out a lot tonight.”

Kyle Hendricks (2-9) allowed six runs on eight hits in five innings in the loss.

“Honestly I made all (my) pitches,” Hendricks said. “I did everything I wanted to do. The Salvy (Perez) one was the one bad pitch. He put a good swing on that. I've just got to keep doing what I'm doing. I feel like I'm throwing the ball well and giving us a chance.”

The fifth inning was key for both pitchers.

Singer hit Mike Tauchman with a pitch leading off the fifth before Dansby Swanson's soft liner sent Tauchman to third. Swanson went to second on the throw to third. But Singer got Miles Mastrobuoni to ground out to second. Miguel Amaya hit a flyout to center, and Kyle Isbel threw out Tauchman at the plate.

“That whole inning was a swing in momentum,” Quatraro said. “Izzy (Isbel) was kicking himself for throwing to third. We get the first out on a groundout and then he makes a perfect throw and Salvy was set up perfectly. That's a gigantic swing in momentum right there.”

The Royals unloaded on Hendricks in their half of the inning. With two outs, Garrett Hampson had a hit to right, and Isbel followed with a single through the hole at short. Isbel stole second before Adam Frazier drove in both runs with another blooper to right. Bobby Witt Jr. then singled and Vinnie Pasquantino's single drove in Frazier. Perez then launched a 429-foot line drive homer down the left-field line to break open the game.

“(Hendricks) may have left a couple of pitches over the middle of home plate,” Perez said. “He knows how to pitch. He's not going to miss many pitches in the middle of home plate.”

Cubs: C Tomas Nido was placed on the 10-day injured list, retroactive to July 25, with a right knee sprain. ... C Christian Bethancourt was selected from Triple-A Iowa... P Ben Brown was transferred to the 60-day injured list.

Royals: OF MJ Melendez began a rehab assignment in Double-A Northwest Arkansas on Thursday night. He went 0 for 3 with a sacrifice fly and a run. Kansas City manager Matt Quatraro said it's possible that Melendez could join the team this weekend. He's been on the injured list since July 16, retroactive to July 15, with a sprained left ankle.

The Cubs will send LHP Shota Imanaga (8-2, 2.86 ERA) against Royals' RHP Seth Lugo (12-4, 2.38 ERA) in the second game of the three-game series Saturday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1722048716022.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Salvador Perez hit a three-run homer that highlighted a six-run fifth inning and Kansas City beat the Chicago Cubs 6-0 Friday night in front of the Royals' second-largest crowd of the season.Friday night's attendance of 36,351 at Kauffman Stadium was topped only by the 38,775 on opening day.The Royals, in third place in the AL Central behind Cleveland and Minnesota, moved 10 games over .500 at 57-47 and eclipsed last season's win total.“There's no significance to that to me,” manager Matt Quatraro said of surpassing last season's victory total. “This is a different team. None whatsoever. We're in a playoff race. That has absolutely nothing to do with anything I think about.”But Brady Singer disagreed.“It's huge,” he said. “This team is incredible. We keep talking about it. Let's continue to win games and continue to fight hard.”Singer (7-6) was nearly flawless, allowing just two hits in seven innings while striking out five and walking two. The 27-year-old right-hander combined with Will Smith and Chris Stratton to limit the Cubs to four hits.“I think the two-seamer was really good,” Singer said. “It had a lot of movement. I was able to throw it back-door to the righties and to the front hip to the lefties. It helped me out a lot tonight.”Kyle Hendricks (2-9) allowed six runs on eight hits in five innings in the loss.“Honestly I made all (my) pitches,” Hendricks said. “I did everything I wanted to do. The Salvy (Perez) one was the one bad pitch. He put a good swing on that. I've just got to keep doing what I'm doing. I feel like I'm throwing the ball well and giving us a chance.”The fifth inning was key for both pitchers.Singer hit Mike Tauchman with a pitch leading off the fifth before Dansby Swanson's soft liner sent Tauchman to third. Swanson went to second on the throw to third. But Singer got Miles Mastrobuoni to ground out to second. Miguel Amaya hit a flyout to center, and Kyle Isbel threw out Tauchman at the plate.“That whole inning was a swing in momentum,” Quatraro said. “Izzy (Isbel) was kicking himself for throwing to third. We get the first out on a groundout and then he makes a perfect throw and Salvy was set up perfectly. That's a gigantic swing in momentum right there.”The Royals unloaded on Hendricks in their half of the inning. With two outs, Garrett Hampson had a hit to right, and Isbel followed with a single through the hole at short. Isbel stole second before Adam Frazier drove in both runs with another blooper to right. Bobby Witt Jr. then singled and Vinnie Pasquantino's single drove in Frazier. Perez then launched a 429-foot line drive homer down the left-field line to break open the game.“(Hendricks) may have left a couple of pitches over the middle of home plate,” Perez said. “He knows how to pitch. He's not going to miss many pitches in the middle of home plate.”TRANSACTIONS:Cubs: C Tomas Nido was placed on the 10-day injured list, retroactive to July 25, with a right knee sprain. ... C Christian Bethancourt was selected from Triple-A Iowa... P Ben Brown was transferred to the 60-day injured list.TRAINING ROOM:Royals: OF MJ Melendez began a rehab assignment in Double-A Northwest Arkansas on Thursday night. He went 0 for 3 with a sacrifice fly and a run. Kansas City manager Matt Quatraro said it's possible that Melendez could join the team this weekend. He's been on the injured list since July 16, retroactive to July 15, with a sprained left ankle.UP NEXT:The Cubs will send LHP Shota Imanaga (8-2, 2.86 ERA) against Royals' RHP Seth Lugo (12-4, 2.38 ERA) in the second game of the three-game series Saturday.

⚾ Royals shut out Cubs

MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;– Six home games at Bramlage Coliseum, including a marquee matchup with LSU, highlight the non-conference schedule for third-year head coach&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/mens-basketball/roster/coaches/jerome-tang/2353">Jerome Tang</a>&nbsp;and his Kansas State men's basketball program announced on Friday morning (July 26).

In addition to its six home games, K-State will host reigning Missouri Valley Conference Tournament champion Drake in the Wildcat Classic at the T-Mobile Cetner in Kansas City on Tuesday, December 17.

Season tickets for the 2024-25 season are currently available, with prices starting at less than $18 per game. Fans can purchase now to see the Wildcats all year including matchups against KU, Iowa State, Houston and conference newcomer Arizona by visiting&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kstatesports.com/tickets">www.kstatesports.com/tickets</a>&nbsp;or calling (800) 221.CATS.

K-State will open its 121st&nbsp;season of men's basketball with the second of five straight home games, as the Wildcats face New Orleans on Tuesday, November 5. The contest with the Privateers is followed by matchups against Cleveland State on Saturday, November 9, LSU on Thursday, November 14 and Mississippi Valley State on Tuesday, November 19.The season-opening homestand will begin on Tuesday, October 29 with an exhibition against Fort Hays State.

In all, the Wildcats will play 16 home games in 2024-25, including 10 against Big 12 Conference foes that includes visits by NCAA Tournament participants Arizona, Colorado, Houston, Iowa State, Kansas and Texas Tech. Further details will be released at a later date.

As previously announced, K-State will play in the U.S. Virgin Islands Paradise Jam, which runs from Friday-Monday, November 22-25 at the University of Virgin Islands Sports and Fitness Center in St. Thomas, U.S.V.I. The Wildcats will play George Washington in the first round followed by either Louisiana or Liberty in round two. The field also includes NCAA Tournament participants UAB, Longwood and McNeese as well as Illinois State.

Fan travel packages are currently available via the Paradise Jam&nbsp;<a href="https://www.basketballtravelers.com/paradise-jam/">website</a>&nbsp;or by clicking&nbsp;<a href="https://checkout.eventcreate.com/2024-paradisejam-fanpackages/select-buy">here</a>. All packages include tickets, transportation to/from games, a tournament gift as well as dedicated tournament staff at The Westin Beach Resort &amp; Spa at Frenchman's Reef (can view&nbsp;<a href="https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/sttwi-the-westin-beach-resort-and-spa-at-frenchmans-reef/overview/">here</a>).

Aside from the Paradise Jam, the Wildcats will play a pair of previously announced road non-conference games with a trip to St. John's on Saturday, December 7 in the final installment of the BIG EAST/Big 12 Battle and a visit to Koch Arena in Wichita on Saturday, December 21 to take on in-state rival Wichita State. &nbsp;

K-State finished the 2023-24 season with a 19-15 record, including an 8-10 mark in Big 12 play, and advanced to the NIT. Among the Wildcats' 19 victories were 4 over Top 25 teams, including 3 in the Top 10. The team has won 45 games in Tang's first two seasons, including consecutive postseason appearances.

The Wildcats return 3 lettermen (senior&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/mens-basketball/roster/david-n-guessan/11220">David N'Guessan</a>&nbsp;and sophomores&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/mens-basketball/roster/taj-manning/11219">Taj Manning</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/mens-basketball/roster/macaleab-rich/11225">Macaleab Rich</a>) in 2024-25, along with the 10 newcomers, which includes 8 Division I transfers, a junior college All-American (<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/mens-basketball/roster/mobi-ikegwuruka/12173">Mobi Ikegwuruka</a>) and a top-50 high school prospect (<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/mens-basketball/roster/david-castillo/12174">David Castillo</a>). The transfer class is considered one of the best in the country and includes notable additions&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/mens-basketball/roster/achor-achor/12177">Achor Achor</a>&nbsp;(Samford),&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/mens-basketball/roster/coleman-hawkins/12179">Coleman Hawkins</a>&nbsp;(Illinois),&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/mens-basketball/roster/dug-mcdaniel/12170">Dug McDaniel</a>&nbsp;(Michigan) and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/mens-basketball/roster/ugonna-onyenso/12180">Ugonna Onyenso</a>&nbsp;(Kentucky) as well as&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/mens-basketball/roster/baye-fall/12178">Baye Fall</a>&nbsp;(Arkansas),&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/mens-basketball/roster/brendan-hausen/12175">Brendan Hausen</a>&nbsp;(Villanova),&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/mens-basketball/roster/c-j-jones/12181">C.J. Jones</a>&nbsp;(UIC) and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/mens-basketball/roster/max-jones/12171">Max Jones</a>&nbsp;(Cal State Fullerton).

How to follow the 'Cats:&nbsp;For complete information on K-State men's basketball, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kstatesports.com/">www.kstatesports.com</a>&nbsp;and follow the team's social media channels on&nbsp;<a href="mailto:@KStateMBB">X</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/kstatembb/?hl=en">Instagram</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/kstatembb/">Facebook</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1722026886683.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy Kansas State Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Kansas State Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas State AthleticsMANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;– Six home games at Bramlage Coliseum, including a marquee matchup with LSU, highlight the non-conference schedule for third-year head coach&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/mens-basketball/roster/coaches/jerome-tang/2353">Jerome Tang</a>&nbsp;and his Kansas State men's basketball program announced on Friday morning (July 26).In addition to its six home games, K-State will host reigning Missouri Valley Conference Tournament champion Drake in the Wildcat Classic at the T-Mobile Cetner in Kansas City on Tuesday, December 17.Season tickets for the 2024-25 season are currently available, with prices starting at less than $18 per game. Fans can purchase now to see the Wildcats all year including matchups against KU, Iowa State, Houston and conference newcomer Arizona by visiting&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kstatesports.com/tickets">www.kstatesports.com/tickets</a>&nbsp;or calling (800) 221.CATS.K-State will open its 121st&nbsp;season of men's basketball with the second of five straight home games, as the Wildcats face New Orleans on Tuesday, November 5. The contest with the Privateers is followed by matchups against Cleveland State on Saturday, November 9, LSU on Thursday, November 14 and Mississippi Valley State on Tuesday, November 19.The season-opening homestand will begin on Tuesday, October 29 with an exhibition against Fort Hays State.In all, the Wildcats will play 16 home games in 2024-25, including 10 against Big 12 Conference foes that includes visits by NCAA Tournament participants Arizona, Colorado, Houston, Iowa State, Kansas and Texas Tech. Further details will be released at a later date.As previously announced, K-State will play in the U.S. Virgin Islands Paradise Jam, which runs from Friday-Monday, November 22-25 at the University of Virgin Islands Sports and Fitness Center in St. Thomas, U.S.V.I. The Wildcats will play George Washington in the first round followed by either Louisiana or Liberty in round two. The field also includes NCAA Tournament participants UAB, Longwood and McNeese as well as Illinois State.Fan travel packages are currently available via the Paradise Jam&nbsp;<a href="https://www.basketballtravelers.com/paradise-jam/">website</a>&nbsp;or by clicking&nbsp;<a href="https://checkout.eventcreate.com/2024-paradisejam-fanpackages/select-buy">here</a>. All packages include tickets, transportation to/from games, a tournament gift as well as dedicated tournament staff at The Westin Beach Resort &amp; Spa at Frenchman's Reef (can view&nbsp;<a href="https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/sttwi-the-westin-beach-resort-and-spa-at-frenchmans-reef/overview/">here</a>).Aside from the Paradise Jam, the Wildcats will play a pair of previously announced road non-conference games with a trip to St. John's on Saturday, December 7 in the final installment of the BIG EAST/Big 12 Battle and a visit to Koch Arena in Wichita on Saturday, December 21 to take on in-state rival Wichita State. &nbsp;K-State finished the 2023-24 season with a 19-15 record, including an 8-10 mark in Big 12 play, and advanced to the NIT. Among the Wildcats' 19 victories were 4 over Top 25 teams, including 3 in the Top 10. The team has won 45 games in Tang's first two seasons, including consecutive postseason appearances.The Wildcats return 3 lettermen (senior&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/mens-basketball/roster/david-n-guessan/11220">David N'Guessan</a>&nbsp;and sophomores&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/mens-basketball/roster/taj-manning/11219">Taj Manning</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/mens-basketball/roster/macaleab-rich/11225">Macaleab Rich</a>) in 2024-25, along with the 10 newcomers, which includes 8 Division I transfers, a junior college All-American (<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/mens-basketball/roster/mobi-ikegwuruka/12173">Mobi Ikegwuruka</a>) and a top-50 high school prospect (<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/mens-basketball/roster/david-castillo/12174">David Castillo</a>). The transfer class is considered one of the best in the country and includes notable additions&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/mens-basketball/roster/achor-achor/12177">Achor Achor</a>&nbsp;(Samford),&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/mens-basketball/roster/coleman-hawkins/12179">Coleman Hawkins</a>&nbsp;(Illinois),&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/mens-basketball/roster/dug-mcdaniel/12170">Dug McDaniel</a>&nbsp;(Michigan) and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/mens-basketball/roster/ugonna-onyenso/12180">Ugonna Onyenso</a>&nbsp;(Kentucky) as well as&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/mens-basketball/roster/baye-fall/12178">Baye Fall</a>&nbsp;(Arkansas),&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/mens-basketball/roster/brendan-hausen/12175">Brendan Hausen</a>&nbsp;(Villanova),&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/mens-basketball/roster/c-j-jones/12181">C.J. Jones</a>&nbsp;(UIC) and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/mens-basketball/roster/max-jones/12171">Max Jones</a>&nbsp;(Cal State Fullerton). NOTES<ul>
 <li>K-State will open the 2024-25 season with 5 consecutive home games for the first time since 2020-21.</li><li>The Nov. 5 opener with New Orleans ties for the earliest home opener in school history and the earliest since a Nov. 5 matchup with North Dakota State in 2019… It will be the first meeting with the Privateers since the first and only matchup in 1999.</li><li>K-State is a combined 5-0 all-time against its first 3 regular-season opponents (New Orleans, Cleveland State and LSU).</li><li>The Wildcats will face at least one first-time opponent in Mississippi Valley State (Nov. 19), while it could face UAB and/or Liberty for the first time in the Paradise Jam.</li><li>LSU will visit Bramlage Coliseum for the first time on Nov. 14, as K-State attempts to sweep the 2-game series after a 75-60 win by the Wildcats in 2023-24.</li><li>In addition to UNO, K-State will face Cleveland State for the fourth time overall and the first time since 2010, while UAPB (Arkansas-Pine Bluff) visits for the sixth time and the first since 2019… The Wildcats are 8-0 all-time against the two schools (Cleveland State 3-0; UAPB 5-0).</li><li>K-State will play in the Paradise Jam for the third time (2020, 2018, 2024), winning the in-season tournament in 2018 with victories over Eastern Kentucky, Penn and Missouri.</li><li>K-State will play St. John's in the final BIG EAST/Big 12 Battle on Dec. 7… It will be the first meeting between the schools since 1965 with the series tied at 1-1… The Wildcats are 1-3 all-time in the inter-conference series, snapping a 3-game losing streak with a 72-71 overtime win over Villanova in 2023-24.</li><li>K-State will face Drake in the 13th&nbsp;Wildcat Classic at the T-Mobile Center in Kansas City… The school is 10-2 all-time in the event, which started in 2007… This will be the 28th&nbsp;meeting with Drake with K-State leading the series, 20-7, and the first not a campus site.</li><li>K-State will conclude a 4-game series with in-state rival Wichita State on Dec. 21… It is the first matchup at Koch Arena since 79-66 Wildcat win on Dec. 7, 2002.</li>
 </ul>How to follow the 'Cats:&nbsp;For complete information on K-State men's basketball, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kstatesports.com/">www.kstatesports.com</a>&nbsp;and follow the team's social media channels on&nbsp;<a href="mailto:@KStateMBB">X</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/kstatembb/?hl=en">Instagram</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/kstatembb/">Facebook</a>.

🏀 MBB: 6 home games highlight non-conference schedule for K-State

WICHITA, Kan. — The Hutchinson Community College football team is favored to win the Jayhawk Conference, the conference announced at its Media Day on Friday at Riverfront Stadium.

The Blue Dragons have now been the preseason favorite to win the title for six straight seasons.

"This conference is a gauntlet, and you've got to bring your 'A' game each and every week," HutchCC head coach Drew Dallas said.

Dallas has a record of 38-4 entering his fifth season as the Blue Dragons head coach.

"I'm really excited about the football team we have put together," Dallas said. "It all starts with our staff who's gone out and recruited a good group of guys and just continues to develop them."

Dallas spoke about the depth of this years team and how that will be a big factor entering the season.

"You're going into a new season and constantly looking at a depth chart and a roster of who you've got and trying to build a team," Dallas said. "I really like the development we've had in the weight room, on the field conditioning wise, and just the maturity this team has. I think one thing that is going to be big for us is just having good quality depth."

Hutchinson finished the 2023 season with a 10-1 record, its only loss coming in the NJCAA national semifinal to East Mississippi.

The Blue Dragons return nine overall starters and 18 overall letter winners back from last season.

One of those returners is starting quarterback and Jayhawk Conference co-Offensive Player of the Year, Samari Collier.&nbsp;

The Blue Dragons will also have the other half to the co-Offensive Player of the Year, as Benson Prosper transferred in from Highland.

The Blue Dragons open the season on Thursday, August 29 at home against New Mexico Military Institute.

HutchCC will begin practice for the 2024 season on Thursday, August 1.

2024 KJCCC Preseason Poll 1. Hutchinson 2. Garden City 3. Butler 4. Highland T5. Coffeyville T5. Independence 7. Dodge City

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1722025042647.jpeg" alt="HutchCC head football coach Drew Dallas addresses the media at Jayhawk Conference Media Day on Friday, July 26, at Riverfront Stadium in Wichita. (Hutch Post Photo/Sean Boston)." />
 <figcaption>HutchCC head football coach Drew Dallas addresses the media at Jayhawk Conference Media Day on Friday, July 26, at Riverfront Stadium in Wichita. (Hutch Post Photo/Sean Boston).</figcaption>
 </figure>SEAN BOSTON Hutch PostWICHITA, Kan. — The Hutchinson Community College football team is favored to win the Jayhawk Conference, the conference announced at its Media Day on Friday at Riverfront Stadium.The Blue Dragons have now been the preseason favorite to win the title for six straight seasons."This conference is a gauntlet, and you've got to bring your 'A' game each and every week," HutchCC head coach Drew Dallas said.Dallas has a record of 38-4 entering his fifth season as the Blue Dragons head coach."I'm really excited about the football team we have put together," Dallas said. "It all starts with our staff who's gone out and recruited a good group of guys and just continues to develop them."Dallas spoke about the depth of this years team and how that will be a big factor entering the season."You're going into a new season and constantly looking at a depth chart and a roster of who you've got and trying to build a team," Dallas said. "I really like the development we've had in the weight room, on the field conditioning wise, and just the maturity this team has. I think one thing that is going to be big for us is just having good quality depth."Hutchinson finished the 2023 season with a 10-1 record, its only loss coming in the NJCAA national semifinal to East Mississippi.The Blue Dragons return nine overall starters and 18 overall letter winners back from last season.One of those returners is starting quarterback and Jayhawk Conference co-Offensive Player of the Year, Samari Collier.&nbsp;The Blue Dragons will also have the other half to the co-Offensive Player of the Year, as Benson Prosper transferred in from Highland.The Blue Dragons open the season on Thursday, August 29 at home against New Mexico Military Institute.HutchCC will begin practice for the 2024 season on Thursday, August 1.2024 KJCCC Preseason Poll 1. Hutchinson 2. Garden City 3. Butler 4. Highland T5. Coffeyville T5. Independence 7. Dodge City<div><iframe title="2024 KJCCC Football Media Day: Drew Dallas" 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=6kj48-167ea9d-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=60a0c8&font-color=&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=ff6d00" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

🏈 Blue Dragons top KJCCC preseason poll for sixth straight year

LAWRENCE, Kan. — KU Athletic Director Travis Goff said in a meeting with local media in Lawrence Thursday that the intent is to have the first phase of renovations done at David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium in time for a week zero opener for the Jayhawks against Fresno State on August 23, 2025.

The first phase, a $450 million project, will be completed in twelve and a half months, with the second phase happening with KU playing at their home stadium in 2025.

Also Allen Fieldhouse is being renovated and capacity will actually go down to 15,300, with the top corners seeing seating reduction.

The Allen Fieldhouse renovations are slated to be completed in early October, before the unveiling to the fans at Late Night in the Phog on October 18th.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1691058172076.jpeg" alt="KU Blue.jpeg" />
 <figcaption>KU Blue.jpeg</figcaption>
 </figure>LAWRENCE, Kan. — KU Athletic Director Travis Goff said in a meeting with local media in Lawrence Thursday that the intent is to have the first phase of renovations done at David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium in time for a week zero opener for the Jayhawks against Fresno State on August 23, 2025.The first phase, a $450 million project, will be completed in twelve and a half months, with the second phase happening with KU playing at their home stadium in 2025.Also Allen Fieldhouse is being renovated and capacity will actually go down to 15,300, with the top corners seeing seating reduction.The Allen Fieldhouse renovations are slated to be completed in early October, before the unveiling to the fans at Late Night in the Phog on October 18th.

🏈 KU stadium renovations 'on budget, on schedule'

With big goals and gambles, Paris aims to reset the Olympics with audacious Games and a wow opening

PARIS (AP) — Paris has long been a city of dreamers: Just look at the Eiffel Tower, for decades the world's loftiest structure. But France's capital is aiming higher still with its first Olympic Games in a century, which open Friday. The most audacious Olympic opening ceremony ever — a gala spectacular on the River Seine that even French President Emmanuel Macron says initially felt like "a crazy and not very serious idea" — kicks off 16 days of competition that promise to be ground-breaking. Expect a heady blend of Olympic sports, iconic Paris monuments and France's famous "savoir faire" in its world-renowned capital of fashion, gastronomy and culture could help secure the Games' longer-term future. But Paris' challenges are huge, too.

Dylan Cease throws second no-hitter in San Diego Padres history, 3-0 win over Washington Nationals

WASHINGTON (AP) — Dylan Cease pitched the second no-hitter in San Diego Padres history, a 3-0 win over the Washington Nationals that completed a three-game sweep. After falling one out short of a no-hitter two years ago when he gave up a single to current teammate Luis Arráez, Cease accomplished the feat when he retired CJ Abrams on a game-ending flyout to right. Cease struck out nine and walked three in his third complete game in 145 starts. He threw a career-high 114 pitches. Joe Musgrove pitched the Padres' first no-hitter against Texas on April 9, 2021.

Argentina coach slams chaotic 'scandal' at Olympic soccer match vs Morocco

The head of Argentina's soccer federation says the chaotic ending to its Olympic soccer match against Morocco "makes no sense," and Argentina's coach called the scene "a scandal." The opening match of the men's soccer tournament was suspended for nearly two hours during added time after Morocco fans invaded the field and threw bottles in protest of a late goal by Argentina. The goal was later overturned by the video assistant referee, and Argentina lost 2-1. Paris organizers said they were trying to "understand the causes and identify appropriate actions" after the match in Saint-Etienne. Argentina's soccer federation said it issued a formal protest to world governing body FIFA and would do "what is necessary" to guarantee the safety of players.

All Aboard! US women's basketball team arrives at Olympics via train from London

VILLENEUVE-D'ASCQ, France (AP) — The U.S. women's basketball team has arrived at the Olympics via train. The U.S. had special accommodations for the 90-minute trip, just like the men's team did on Wednesday. The team arrived at the London train station an hour before departure, and the team was whisked through passport control. The players and coaches then were escorted to a private lounge area before going down to the train.

How to watch the 2024 Olympics opening ceremony

The opening ceremony for the Paris Olympics is set for Friday. Instead of a traditional march into a stadium, about 6,800 athletes will parade on more than 90 boats on the Seine River. This will start the ceremony, not mark the end of it, another break from tradition. The ceremony will air on NBC and stream on Peacock and NBC Olympic platforms. It starts at 1:30 p.m. Eastern and is expected to last more than three hours. There will be a prime-time encore at 7:30 p.m.

Oakland All-Star closer Mason Miller breaks left pinky finger pounding training table in frustration

ANAHEIM, Calif. (AP) — Oakland Athletics All-Star closer Mason Miller broke the pinky finger on his non-pitching hand when he pounded a table in frustration after he was reminded he had to do postgame lifting following Monday night's game against Houston. The 25-year-old right-hander, the hardest-throwing pitcher in the major leagues and the subject of trade speculation, was put on the 15-day injured list retroactive to Tuesday. MLB.com reported Miller was injured putting his hand down awkwardly on the training table while getting ready to do an exercise, based on what it said was information from his representative. MLB.com clarified its report after manager Mark Kotsay said that account was incorrect.

Cowboys open training camp more concerned with playoff success than contractual uncertainty

OXNARD, Calif. (AP) — The Dallas Cowboys started training camp in Oxnard, Calif., on Thursday with contractual uncertainty around quarterback Dak Prescott, wide receiver CeeDee Lamb and linebacker Micah Parsons, but owner and general manager Jerry Jones is more worried about getting over the hump in the playoffs than resolving those financials questions. The Cowboys have reached the postseason in three straight seasons, but lost 48-32 to the Green Bay Packers in an NFC wild-card game at home in January. They have not reached the NFC title game since winning the Super Bowl after the 1995 season.

Bills' Von Miller says he believes domestic assault case to be closed, with no charges filed

PITTSFORD, N.Y. (AP) — No charges have been filed, and Von Miller says he considers the case of him allegedly assaulting his pregnant girlfriend as being closed based on feedback the Buffalo Bills edge rusher got from his legal representatives. Miller says he can now solely focus on football. A message left with the Dallas district attorney's office seeking an update on the matter was not immediately returned. The NFL, which was conducting its own investigation, also did not immediately reply to a request seeking comment. Miller turned himself in to police in suburban Dallas on Nov. 30 after being accused by police of third-degree felony assault of a pregnant woman.

Bears safety Jonathan Owens taking break from camp to support wife Simone Biles at the Olympics

LAKE FOREST, Ill. (AP) — Chicago Bears safety Jonathan Owens has arranged to take leave from training camp and is heading to Paris Monday night to watch his wife Simone Biles compete for the U.S. gymnastics team. Owens, who signed with Chicago in free agency after a year in Green Bay, didn't get the chance to see Biles compete at the last Olympics due to the pandemic. He has the support of Bears coaches, players and management. The Bears had a player's relative win an Olympic medal in each of the previous two Summer Games. Owens and Biles married last year. She won three gold medals at the Rio Games in 2016.

Kershaw returns from shoulder surgery, Ohtani hits 31st homer, Dodgers beat Giants 6-4

LOS ANGELES (AP) — Clayton Kershaw allowed two runs over four innings in his return from shoulder surgery, Nick Ahmed and Shohei Ohtani homered on consecutive pitches in the eighth inning and the Los Angeles Dodgers beat the San Francisco Giants 6-4. Kershaw made his first big league appearance since last October's NL Division Series opener against Arizona, Ge had surgery on Nov. 3 to repair ligaments in his shoulder capsule. Against the Giants, the 36-year-old left-hander gave up six hits, struck out six and walked two.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1701494597443.png" alt="Sports Headlines and News for Friday, July 26th, 2024" />
 <figcaption>Sports Headlines and News for Friday, July 26th, 2024</figcaption>
 </figure>AP Sports Summary for Friday, July 26th:With big goals and gambles, Paris aims to reset the Olympics with audacious Games and a wow openingPARIS (AP) — Paris has long been a city of dreamers: Just look at the Eiffel Tower, for decades the world's loftiest structure. But France's capital is aiming higher still with its first Olympic Games in a century, which open Friday. The most audacious Olympic opening ceremony ever — a gala spectacular on the River Seine that even French President Emmanuel Macron says initially felt like "a crazy and not very serious idea" — kicks off 16 days of competition that promise to be ground-breaking. Expect a heady blend of Olympic sports, iconic Paris monuments and France's famous "savoir faire" in its world-renowned capital of fashion, gastronomy and culture could help secure the Games' longer-term future. But Paris' challenges are huge, too.Dylan Cease throws second no-hitter in San Diego Padres history, 3-0 win over Washington NationalsWASHINGTON (AP) — Dylan Cease pitched the second no-hitter in San Diego Padres history, a 3-0 win over the Washington Nationals that completed a three-game sweep. After falling one out short of a no-hitter two years ago when he gave up a single to current teammate Luis Arráez, Cease accomplished the feat when he retired CJ Abrams on a game-ending flyout to right. Cease struck out nine and walked three in his third complete game in 145 starts. He threw a career-high 114 pitches. Joe Musgrove pitched the Padres' first no-hitter against Texas on April 9, 2021.Argentina coach slams chaotic 'scandal' at Olympic soccer match vs MoroccoThe head of Argentina's soccer federation says the chaotic ending to its Olympic soccer match against Morocco "makes no sense," and Argentina's coach called the scene "a scandal." The opening match of the men's soccer tournament was suspended for nearly two hours during added time after Morocco fans invaded the field and threw bottles in protest of a late goal by Argentina. The goal was later overturned by the video assistant referee, and Argentina lost 2-1. Paris organizers said they were trying to "understand the causes and identify appropriate actions" after the match in Saint-Etienne. Argentina's soccer federation said it issued a formal protest to world governing body FIFA and would do "what is necessary" to guarantee the safety of players.All Aboard! US women's basketball team arrives at Olympics via train from LondonVILLENEUVE-D'ASCQ, France (AP) — The U.S. women's basketball team has arrived at the Olympics via train. The U.S. had special accommodations for the 90-minute trip, just like the men's team did on Wednesday. The team arrived at the London train station an hour before departure, and the team was whisked through passport control. The players and coaches then were escorted to a private lounge area before going down to the train.How to watch the 2024 Olympics opening ceremonyThe opening ceremony for the Paris Olympics is set for Friday. Instead of a traditional march into a stadium, about 6,800 athletes will parade on more than 90 boats on the Seine River. This will start the ceremony, not mark the end of it, another break from tradition. The ceremony will air on NBC and stream on Peacock and NBC Olympic platforms. It starts at 1:30 p.m. Eastern and is expected to last more than three hours. There will be a prime-time encore at 7:30 p.m.Oakland All-Star closer Mason Miller breaks left pinky finger pounding training table in frustrationANAHEIM, Calif. (AP) — Oakland Athletics All-Star closer Mason Miller broke the pinky finger on his non-pitching hand when he pounded a table in frustration after he was reminded he had to do postgame lifting following Monday night's game against Houston. The 25-year-old right-hander, the hardest-throwing pitcher in the major leagues and the subject of trade speculation, was put on the 15-day injured list retroactive to Tuesday. MLB.com reported Miller was injured putting his hand down awkwardly on the training table while getting ready to do an exercise, based on what it said was information from his representative. MLB.com clarified its report after manager Mark Kotsay said that account was incorrect.Cowboys open training camp more concerned with playoff success than contractual uncertaintyOXNARD, Calif. (AP) — The Dallas Cowboys started training camp in Oxnard, Calif., on Thursday with contractual uncertainty around quarterback Dak Prescott, wide receiver CeeDee Lamb and linebacker Micah Parsons, but owner and general manager Jerry Jones is more worried about getting over the hump in the playoffs than resolving those financials questions. The Cowboys have reached the postseason in three straight seasons, but lost 48-32 to the Green Bay Packers in an NFC wild-card game at home in January. They have not reached the NFC title game since winning the Super Bowl after the 1995 season.Bills' Von Miller says he believes domestic assault case to be closed, with no charges filedPITTSFORD, N.Y. (AP) — No charges have been filed, and Von Miller says he considers the case of him allegedly assaulting his pregnant girlfriend as being closed based on feedback the Buffalo Bills edge rusher got from his legal representatives. Miller says he can now solely focus on football. A message left with the Dallas district attorney's office seeking an update on the matter was not immediately returned. The NFL, which was conducting its own investigation, also did not immediately reply to a request seeking comment. Miller turned himself in to police in suburban Dallas on Nov. 30 after being accused by police of third-degree felony assault of a pregnant woman.Bears safety Jonathan Owens taking break from camp to support wife Simone Biles at the OlympicsLAKE FOREST, Ill. (AP) — Chicago Bears safety Jonathan Owens has arranged to take leave from training camp and is heading to Paris Monday night to watch his wife Simone Biles compete for the U.S. gymnastics team. Owens, who signed with Chicago in free agency after a year in Green Bay, didn't get the chance to see Biles compete at the last Olympics due to the pandemic. He has the support of Bears coaches, players and management. The Bears had a player's relative win an Olympic medal in each of the previous two Summer Games. Owens and Biles married last year. She won three gold medals at the Rio Games in 2016.Kershaw returns from shoulder surgery, Ohtani hits 31st homer, Dodgers beat Giants 6-4LOS ANGELES (AP) — Clayton Kershaw allowed two runs over four innings in his return from shoulder surgery, Nick Ahmed and Shohei Ohtani homered on consecutive pitches in the eighth inning and the Los Angeles Dodgers beat the San Francisco Giants 6-4. Kershaw made his first big league appearance since last October's NL Division Series opener against Arizona, Ge had surgery on Nov. 3 to repair ligaments in his shoulder capsule. Against the Giants, the 36-year-old left-hander gave up six hits, struck out six and walked two.AP-ScorecardHere are the scores from yesterday's sports events:___INTERLEAGUEFinal	Baltimore	7	Miami	6	___AMERICAN LEAGUEFinal	Detroit	3	Cleveland	0	Final	Texas	2	Chicago White Sox	1	Final	Tampa Bay	13	Toronto	0	Final	Oakland	6	L.A. Angels	5	___NATIONAL LEAGUEFinal	San Diego	3	Washington	0	Final	L.A. Dodgers	6	San Francisco	4	Final	N.Y. Mets	3	Atlanta	2	___TODAY'S SPORTS SCHEDULE___INTERLEAGUECleveland	at	Philadelphia	6:40 p.m.	Cincinnati	at	Tampa Bay	6:50 p.m.	San Diego	at	Baltimore	7:05 p.m.	Chi Cubs	at	Kansas City	8:10 p.m.	L-A Dodgers	at	Houston	8:10 p.m.	___AMERICAN LEAGUEMinnesota	at	Detroit	6:40 p.m.	Texas	at	Toronto	7:07 p.m.	N-Y Yankees	at	Boston	7:10 p.m.	Seattle	at	Chi White Sox	8:10 p.m.	Oakland	at	L-A Angels	9:38 p.m.	___NATIONAL LEAGUEAtlanta	at	N-Y Mets	7:10 p.m.	Miami	at	Milwaukee	8:10 p.m.	Washington	at	St. Louis	8:15 p.m.	Pittsburgh	at	Arizona	9:40 p.m.	Colorado	at	San Francisco	10:15 p.m.	___

📢📰🎧 Sports Headlines for Friday

AMARILLO, Texas—The Wichita Wind Surge got edged out 3-2 by the Amarillo Sod Poodles at HODGETOWN. After Amarillo hitters connected on a pair of homers in the second and third innings, the Wind Surge plated two when down to their final two outs in the ninth.

Tim Tawa pulled one to left out of the yard for his 17th home run of the season, a solo shot, to open the bottom of the second, putting him one behind his teammate, Ivan Melendez, the Texas League leader (18). A.J. Vukovich smoked a two-run blast to left-center in the next inning to put the Sod Poodles up 3-0 a third of the way through the game.

Tanner Schobel&nbsp;smoked a two-run triple, his third of the season, off the left-center wall to put Wichita on the board with the tying run 90 feet away with only one out in the top of the ninth. Kyle Amendt retired the next two batters on just four pitches to end the game.

Christian MacLeod&nbsp;earned the loss in his Double-A debut, giving up three earned runs on four hits and four walks while striking out four Soddies hitters across four and two-thirds innings pitched.

The Wind Surge continue their series with the Amarillo Sod Poodles at HODGETOWN tomorrow, Friday, July 26, at 7:05 PM. You can listen to Wind Surge games on ESPN Wichita 92.3 FM, windsurge.com, or watch them online at MiLB.TV and Bally Live. For ticket information, please visit windsurge.com.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721984759902.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy of Wichita Wind Surge" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy of Wichita Wind Surge</figcaption>
 </figure>Wichita Wind Surge AMARILLO, Texas—The Wichita Wind Surge got edged out 3-2 by the Amarillo Sod Poodles at HODGETOWN. After Amarillo hitters connected on a pair of homers in the second and third innings, the Wind Surge plated two when down to their final two outs in the ninth.Tim Tawa pulled one to left out of the yard for his 17th home run of the season, a solo shot, to open the bottom of the second, putting him one behind his teammate, Ivan Melendez, the Texas League leader (18). A.J. Vukovich smoked a two-run blast to left-center in the next inning to put the Sod Poodles up 3-0 a third of the way through the game.Tanner Schobel&nbsp;smoked a two-run triple, his third of the season, off the left-center wall to put Wichita on the board with the tying run 90 feet away with only one out in the top of the ninth. Kyle Amendt retired the next two batters on just four pitches to end the game.Christian MacLeod&nbsp;earned the loss in his Double-A debut, giving up three earned runs on four hits and four walks while striking out four Soddies hitters across four and two-thirds innings pitched.The Wind Surge continue their series with the Amarillo Sod Poodles at HODGETOWN tomorrow, Friday, July 26, at 7:05 PM. You can listen to Wind Surge games on ESPN Wichita 92.3 FM, windsurge.com, or watch them online at MiLB.TV and Bally Live. For ticket information, please visit windsurge.com.

⚾ Sod Poodles outlast Wind Surge in Amarillo

WICHITA, Kan. — The Hutchinson Monarchs quest to repeating as NBC World Series champions is off to a good start, as the Monarchs defeated TPA Texas, 5-2, on Thursday evening.

The Monarchs are now 28-7 overall and have now won seven straight games at the NBC World Series, dating back to last season. Hutchinson will play Tulsa Sandlot in the second game of pool play on Saturday night at midnight, as part of Baseball 'Round the Clock.

Hutchinson opened the scoring with an RBI single from Jarrett Flaggert in the first inning. Blake Bradford then reached on an error, scoring Will Edmunson to make it 2-0. Camden Johnson kept the scoring going with a 2-run single to left field to put the Monarchs in front, 4-0.

The Monarchs made it 5-0 with an RBI single from newcomer, Reese Ratchford, in the third inning.

TPA Texas scored a run in the fifth and one more in the sixth inning.

Ian Regal earned the win on the mound for the Monarchs, going 5 1/3 innings. Carson Cornelius tossed 2 2/3 innings of relief, while Reese Usselman closed the game out in the ninth.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721959047107.png" alt="Photo Courtesy Hutchinson Monarchs" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Hutchinson Monarchs</figcaption>
 </figure>SEAN BOSTON Hutch PostWICHITA, Kan. — The Hutchinson Monarchs quest to repeating as NBC World Series champions is off to a good start, as the Monarchs defeated TPA Texas, 5-2, on Thursday evening.The Monarchs are now 28-7 overall and have now won seven straight games at the NBC World Series, dating back to last season. Hutchinson will play Tulsa Sandlot in the second game of pool play on Saturday night at midnight, as part of Baseball 'Round the Clock.Hutchinson opened the scoring with an RBI single from Jarrett Flaggert in the first inning. Blake Bradford then reached on an error, scoring Will Edmunson to make it 2-0. Camden Johnson kept the scoring going with a 2-run single to left field to put the Monarchs in front, 4-0.The Monarchs made it 5-0 with an RBI single from newcomer, Reese Ratchford, in the third inning.TPA Texas scored a run in the fifth and one more in the sixth inning.Ian Regal earned the win on the mound for the Monarchs, going 5 1/3 innings. Carson Cornelius tossed 2 2/3 innings of relief, while Reese Usselman closed the game out in the ninth.

⚾ Monarchs open NBC World Series play with win

WICHITA, Kan. — The Hutchinson Monarchs begin play at the 90th NBC World Series this evening against TPA Texas at 6 p.m. The game will be played at Eck Stadium on the campus of Wichita State University.

The Monarchs are the defending NBC World Series champions after defeating the Santa Barbara Foresters last August.

Hutchinson enters NBC World Series pool play with a 27-7 record this summer, including a 14-2 mark in the second half of the Jayhawk Collegiate League. The Monarchs won the second half title after the Haysville Aviators won the first half.

The Monarchs will continue pool play at midnight on Saturday night/Sunday morning against Tulsa Sandlot, and then will conclude pool play on Monday evening at 6 p.m. against the Seattle Cheney Studs.

To find more information regarding the NBC World Series, click <a href="https://nbcbaseball.com/tournament-central-2024/">here</a>.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721407331249.png" alt="Photo Courtesy NBC World Series" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy NBC World Series</figcaption>
 </figure>SEAN BOSTON Hutch PostWICHITA, Kan. — The Hutchinson Monarchs begin play at the 90th NBC World Series this evening against TPA Texas at 6 p.m. The game will be played at Eck Stadium on the campus of Wichita State University.The Monarchs are the defending NBC World Series champions after defeating the Santa Barbara Foresters last August.<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Z_0xFRTwwp8?si=WpC1VZyI6pP8g5tU" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>Hutchinson enters NBC World Series pool play with a 27-7 record this summer, including a 14-2 mark in the second half of the Jayhawk Collegiate League. The Monarchs won the second half title after the Haysville Aviators won the first half.The Monarchs will continue pool play at midnight on Saturday night/Sunday morning against Tulsa Sandlot, and then will conclude pool play on Monday evening at 6 p.m. against the Seattle Cheney Studs.To find more information regarding the NBC World Series, click <a href="https://nbcbaseball.com/tournament-central-2024/">here</a>.&nbsp;

🎥⚾ WATCH: Monarchs open NBC World Series with TPA Texas

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721939826286.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy Wichita State Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Wichita State Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure><div>Wichita State Athletics
 
WICHITA, Kan. -&nbsp;Wichita State men&apos;s basketball will spend Thanksgiving participating in the 2024 ESPN Events Invitational at the Walt Disney World Resort, Nov. 28-29. The four-team field features Florida (SEC), Minnesota (Big Ten) and Wake Forest (ACC) and the Shockers out of the American Athletic Conference. The Shockers are making their third appearance in the ESPN Events Invitational and first since 2015. Wichita State will play two games -&nbsp;bracket to be announced in the coming weeks - at State Farm Field House on the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex in Kissimmee, Fla. This is the 18th&nbsp;year Walt Disney World has hosted the ESPN Events Invitational at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex, and the first time the NIT Season Tip-Off has been held at the site. All the games will once again be played at State Farm Field House&nbsp;a venue that has been the site of world-class basketball competitions including NBA&nbsp;games and elite youth tournaments. &nbsp; Fans can sign up for first access to pre-sale tickets on the&nbsp;<a href="https://espnevents.com/espn-events-invitational/" style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-size: 16px;">ESPN Events Invitational</a>&nbsp;website. Tickets will go on sale later this summer. &nbsp; The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/mcogp-gaylord-palms-resort-and-convention-center/overview/?gclid=CjwKCAjwvvmzBhA2EiwAtHVrb7cCkgnPC1kRtuM4iuTB2PpdVkjzg-7YlWQ0B8RIOJgxMFeSCo7qjBoCj-AQAvD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds&cid=PAI_GLB0004YXD_GLE000BIM5_GLF000OETA" style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-size: 16px;">Gaylord Palms Resort &amp; Convention Center</a>&nbsp;is the official tournament host property, offering fan packages which will be available this summer.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.experiencekissimmee.com/" style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-size: 16px;">Experience Kissimmee</a>&nbsp;is also offering discounted rates at nearby hotels. Both will be able to be found in the travel section of the event website. Field Highlights &nbsp; &bull; Florida&nbsp;(SEC) reached the NCAA Tournament last season, played in the event in 2016, finishing runner-up to Gonzaga. The Gators are ranked #20 in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/39895473/mens-college-basketball-way-too-early-top-25-rankings-2024-25-season" style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-size: 16px;">ESPN&apos;s Way-Too-Early Top 25</a>. Florida is coming off its highest win total (24-12) in seven years and set a program scoring record at 85.6 points per game. &bull; Minnesota&nbsp;(Big Ten) will be making its first appearance at the ESPN Events Invitational and its first trip to the state of Florida since a game at Florida State in Nov. 2016. The Gophers reached the second round of the 2023 NIT, producing a 10-win turnaround in head coach Ben Johnson&apos;s second season. &bull; Wake Forest&nbsp;(ACC) has won 10 or more ACC games in three consecutive seasons for the first time since 2005-2007. The Demon Deacons have won at least 20 games overall in two of the last three seasons, and advanced to the second round of the 2023 NIT. Wake Forest previously played in the Orlando event in 2011. &bull;&nbsp;Wichita State&nbsp;(AAC) returns seven letterwinners and three starters from a team that was playing its best basketball at the end of the season in 2023-24. Head Coach&nbsp;<dfn style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-size: 16px;"><a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/mens-basketball/roster/coaches/paul-mills/1241" rel="smarttag" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Paul Mills</a></dfn>&nbsp;will have one of the most experienced teams in all of college basketball in year two at the helm of the Shockers. About ESPN Events <a href="https://espnevents.com/" title="https://espnevents.com/" style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-size: 16px;">ESPN Events</a>, a division of ESPN, owns and operates a portfolio of collegiate sporting events nationwide. In 2024, the 34-event schedule includes four early-season college football kickoff games, 17 college bowl games, 10 college basketball events, the premier regular season college softball and gymnastics events, as well as the Band of the Year National Championship. Collectively, these events account for over 400 hours of live programming on ESPN platforms, reaching 60 million viewers and attracting more than 650,000 annual attendees. Each year, the portfolio of events features more than 20 Division I conferences and hosts over 4,000 participating student-athletes. With satellite offices in more than 10 cities across the country, ESPN Events builds relationships with conferences, schools and local communities, as well as providing unique experiences for teams and fans. Follow ESPN Events on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/ESPNEvents/" title="https://www.facebook.com/ESPNEvents/" style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-size: 16px;">Facebook</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/ESPNEvents" title="https://twitter.com/ESPNEvents" style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-size: 16px;">Twitter/X</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/@espnevents406" title="https://www.youtube.com/@espnevents406" style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-size: 16px;">YouTube</a>. &nbsp; About ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex, located at Walt Disney World Resort in Florida, is the home of Disney Soccer and Disney Spring Training and one of the premier sites for amateur sports in the nation. The complex hosts dozens of events each year and has accommodated 70 different sports featuring athletes from 70 different countries. Designed to provide professional, amateur and youth athletes with experiences synonymous with the names Disney and ESPN, the 220-acre facility features multiple competition venues, including 16 baseball/softball fields; a 9,500-seat stadium; a state-of-the-art indoor arena in addition to two field houses for basketball, volleyball, eSports and other indoor sports; and 17 multi-purpose outdoor fields for soccer, football and field hockey. The complex also contains a professional production center that produces content for the Disney family of networks for global distribution. For more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.disneysportsnews.com/" style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-size: 16px;">www.disneysportsnews.com</a>&nbsp;for news releases, photos and videos and&nbsp;<a href="http://www.espnwwos.com/" style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-size: 16px;">www.espnwwos.com</a>&nbsp;for the latest calendar of events.</div>

🏀 MBB: Shockers set for ESPN Events Invitational in November

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721938392340.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy Kansas Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Kansas Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure><div>Kansas Athletics
 
LAWRENCE, Kan. &mdash; The Beatty family has been linked with the University of Kansas and KU Athletics for seven generations and 130 years &mdash; almost as long as KU has had a football program. Obtaining a KU education and cheering on KU Athletics teams are family traditions &mdash; as are a passion for serving others and giving back.&nbsp;
Recently, the family followed decades of generosity to KU with a substantial gift for the Gateway District, prompted by a deep love of KU and the possibility of transforming not just KU Athletics, but the entire university. The project includes a new campus gateway, leading-edge facilities for athletes and fans, conference areas and more &mdash; all of which will greatly enhance KU&apos;s ability to recruit and retain students. &nbsp;
The family credits father and grandfather, Mike Beatty, who graduated with a business degree in 1960 and wife Mary Nell, who also attended KU, for fostering the family&apos;s philanthropy and love of KU sports. They ensured their three children &mdash; all KU alumni &mdash; experienced the enduring excitement of KU sports while growing up. &nbsp;&nbsp;
Mike and Mary Nell&apos;s youngest son, Pat, who earned a bachelor&apos;s degree in communications in 1992, has fond childhood memories of piling into the family station wagon to attend KU Football games with siblings Philip Beatty and Sarah (Beatty) DeVries. &nbsp;
&quot;Mom and Dad had season tickets but us kids would sit in the bleachers that were a dollar or two each,&quot; recalled Pat. &quot;They would meet some of their college friends and socialize, and we would be able to hang out on the hill and have a great time &mdash; win or lose.&quot;&nbsp;
They added a passion for KU Men&apos;s Basketball when Sarah was in college, earning a bachelor&apos;s degree in business administration in 1985. Her father&apos;s work brought him to Lawrence more often, and the family was able to attend games together. &nbsp;
&quot;I&apos;ll never forget my first time in Allen Fieldhouse,&quot; said Pat. &quot;I&apos;m hoping that with what we&apos;re doing at the football stadium, we&apos;re going to have a similar atmosphere.&quot;&nbsp;
The Beattys&apos; immense impact over the years includes support for the KU Football Indoor Practice facility and Beatty Pavilion, establishing the Beatty Athletic Scholarship Fund and leadership in providing Name, Image and Likeness support for Jayhawk student-athletes. They are also long-standing benefactors of the KU Alumni Association, of which they are members, the KU Medical Campus-Salina and the KU School of Business. Mike also served on the KU School of Business Board of Advisors, receiving the Distinguished Business Alumni Award in 2003. Family members continue to serve on numerous advisory boards and organizations in Wichita and Salina. &nbsp;
&quot;The Beatty and DeVries families have created a profound legacy at the University of Kansas, and we are honored and inspired by their generosity,&quot; said KU Director of Athletics Travis Goff. &quot;Their recent investment in the Gateway District Project will provide a transformational impact on countless future generations of student-athletes and Jayhawk fans.&quot;&nbsp;
As loyal Jayhawks and avid football and basketball fans, the family recognized the need for improvements to the stadium and were excited by the leadership behind the Gateway District, the academic and athletic impacts it will have and the opportunity for others to experience KU connections. &nbsp;
&quot;We really believed in it from the beginning,&quot; said Sarah, &quot;and as the vision for it grew, we decided to support it. We think it&apos;s necessary for the viability of KU.&quot;&nbsp;
Pat, a real estate developer and managing partner of the Salina and Leawood-based Overland Property Group, believes the innovative Gateway District will have tremendous benefits and the timing is ideal. &nbsp;
&quot;It&apos;s something the university has needed for a long time,&quot; said Pat. &quot;It&apos;s a good plan and that&apos;s why this is ultimately happening now.&quot;
He added that no matter what areas one is passionate about at KU, contributing to the Gateway District is something everyone can support, at any level. &quot;The Beattys&apos; commitment to the Gateway District is remarkable and the impact of their generosity will be felt at KU and in the region for generations,&quot; said Chancellor Douglas A. Girod. &quot;We are deeply grateful for the family&apos;s continued investment in the University of Kansas.&quot;&nbsp;
Generations of Beattys and DeVries will continue to gather at KU for games &mdash; and for commencements. Pat and his wife Stephanie, who also attended KU, have two Jayhawk sons. Luke graduated from KU in 2022 with a business degree in accounting and finance, and Austin is currently a senior studying business. Sarah and Mark DeVries&apos; sons are also Jayhawks. Jack graduated with a master&apos;s degree in civil engineering in 2019, and William earned a bachelor&apos;s degree in biochemistry in 2019 and a medical degree at the KU Medical Center this year.&nbsp;
&nbsp;</div>

🏈 Beatty family adds substantial gift for KU Gateway District project

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1699759354262.png" alt="Photo Courtesy Kansas Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Kansas Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure><div>Kansas Athletics
 
LAWRENCE, Kan.&nbsp;- Kansas Athletics has announced a number of Lawrence-based initiatives that fans and local businesses can look forward to during the 2024 Football Season. The goal of these initiatives is to continue to focus&nbsp;on and drive excitement to the city on and around football games. Watch Parties In collaboration with Explore Lawrence and The Chamber, Kansas Athletics will assist in promoting available watch parties within Lawrence for each game. If you are a local business and plan to host any watch parties throughout the year, please click&nbsp;<a href="https://nam10.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fclk.kuathletics.com%2Fe%2Fer%3Futm_medium%3Demail%26elq_cid%3D392388%26RSRC%3DEmail%26RDAT%3D2817%26ehash%3Daed62cc7768941f8aed6f4384acbdedcebaef1b532955130603635708a3cf109%26aid%3D16092%26pid%3Dkansas_email_eloqua%26rid%3D2817%26s%3D2049226%26lid%3D4261%26elqTrackId%3D0A00DF1292260CD4BC4865BAC2980B80%26elq%3Db30f0176c1ee483ab73090f3abd4ab7f%26elqaid%3D2817%26elqat%3D1&data=05%7C02%7Cmaddie.allenkasten%40ku.edu%7Cb3cd9b91a5124d4577e208dcacae9c69%7C3c176536afe643f5b96636feabbe3c1a%7C0%7C0%7C638575113170904566%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=tmxkt%2F5EOVJCXBfGgruoZAIO8ibL9X7y7JRgQdefg7I%3D&reserved=0" title="Original URL: https://clk.kuathletics.com/e/er?utm_medium=email&elq_cid=392388&RSRC=Email&RDAT=2817&ehash=aed62cc7768941f8aed6f4384acbdedcebaef1b532955130603635708a3cf109&aid=16092&pid=kansas_email_eloqua&rid=2817&s=2049226&lid=4261&elqTrackId=0A00DF1292260CD4BC4865BAC2980B80&elq=b30f0176c1ee483ab73090f3abd4ab7f&elqaid=2817&elqat=1 Click to follow link." style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 81, 186);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 16px;">here&nbsp;</a>to submit your event. After submission, the event will be promoted on the Explore Lawrence and Chamber of Commerce Website as well as be included in promotion from Kansas Athletics. The event pages will be accessible to all fans in order for them to&nbsp;select the location that works best for them if they are not able to make it to home games in Kansas City or away games. Zone Parties &quot;Zone Parties&quot; will be hosted in Lawrence the day before every home game. The goal of the zone party is to help businesses in that specific zone or area to promote deals or promotions for local fans to enjoy from 5 &ndash; 10 PM. Kansas Athletics will also be present in a pre-determined area in the parking lot of every zone from 5 &ndash; 8 PM. The setup will include music, giveaways, tailgate games, mascots and more. Fans will be encouraged to support the businesses in each zone during that specific game and create excitement for all for the game the next day. Click&nbsp;<a href="https://nam10.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fclk.kuathletics.com%2Fe%2Fer%3Futm_medium%3Demail%26elq_cid%3D392388%26RSRC%3DEmail%26RDAT%3D2817%26ehash%3Daed62cc7768941f8aed6f4384acbdedcebaef1b532955130603635708a3cf109%26aid%3D16092%26pid%3Dkansas_email_eloqua%26rid%3D2817%26s%3D2049226%26lid%3D4268%26elqTrackId%3D39F181BBF28AC94311F622CBB644B07E%26elq%3Db30f0176c1ee483ab73090f3abd4ab7f%26elqaid%3D2817%26elqat%3D1&data=05%7C02%7Cmaddie.allenkasten%40ku.edu%7Cb3cd9b91a5124d4577e208dcacae9c69%7C3c176536afe643f5b96636feabbe3c1a%7C0%7C0%7C638575113170913974%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=8vgm1ZK9f%2BX8Ad36Bh88uWLqGcz%2BX9GY4Dx1M3nuAKo%3D&reserved=0" title="https://nam10.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fclk.kuathletics.com%2Fe%2Fer%3Futm_medium%3Demail%26elq_cid%3D392388%26RSRC%3DEmail%26RDAT%3D2817%26ehash%3Daed62cc7768941f8aed6f4384acbdedcebaef1b532955130603635708a3cf109%26aid%3D16092%26pid%3Dkansas_email_eloqua%26rid%3D2817%26s%3D2049226%26lid%3D4268%26elqTrackId%3D39F181BBF28AC94311F622CBB644B07E%26elq%3Db30f0176c1ee483ab73090f3abd4ab7f%26elqaid%3D2817%26elqat%3D1&data=05%7C02%7Cmaddie.allenkasten%40ku.edu%7Cb3cd9b91a5124d4577e208dcacae9c69%7C3c176536afe643f5b96636feabbe3c1a%7C0%7C0%7C638575113170913974%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=8vgm1ZK9f%2BX8Ad36Bh88uWLqGcz%2BX9GY4Dx1M3nuAKo%3D&reserved=0" style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 81, 186);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 16px;">here</a>&nbsp;to view each planned zone throughout the year and more information will be made public before each event takes place. If you are a business that falls within a specific zone and you&apos;d like to be involved in promotion, please submit your information&nbsp;<a href="https://nam10.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fclk.kuathletics.com%2Fe%2Fer%3Futm_medium%3Demail%26elq_cid%3D392388%26RSRC%3DEmail%26RDAT%3D2817%26ehash%3Daed62cc7768941f8aed6f4384acbdedcebaef1b532955130603635708a3cf109%26aid%3D16092%26pid%3Dkansas_email_eloqua%26rid%3D2817%26s%3D2049226%26lid%3D4260%26elqTrackId%3DD02EA92A4BCEEE367762E4EEEB448BE6%26elq%3Db30f0176c1ee483ab73090f3abd4ab7f%26elqaid%3D2817%26elqat%3D1&data=05%7C02%7Cmaddie.allenkasten%40ku.edu%7Cb3cd9b91a5124d4577e208dcacae9c69%7C3c176536afe643f5b96636feabbe3c1a%7C0%7C0%7C638575113170930460%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=XH%2F%2B9rjo5huYYXMuzol2Rf808X1Rlva0OXInMBSE8c4%3D&reserved=0" title="https://nam10.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fclk.kuathletics.com%2Fe%2Fer%3Futm_medium%3Demail%26elq_cid%3D392388%26RSRC%3DEmail%26RDAT%3D2817%26ehash%3Daed62cc7768941f8aed6f4384acbdedcebaef1b532955130603635708a3cf109%26aid%3D16092%26pid%3Dkansas_email_eloqua%26rid%3D2817%26s%3D2049226%26lid%3D4260%26elqTrackId%3DD02EA92A4BCEEE367762E4EEEB448BE6%26elq%3Db30f0176c1ee483ab73090f3abd4ab7f%26elqaid%3D2817%26elqat%3D1&data=05%7C02%7Cmaddie.allenkasten%40ku.edu%7Cb3cd9b91a5124d4577e208dcacae9c69%7C3c176536afe643f5b96636feabbe3c1a%7C0%7C0%7C638575113170930460%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=XH%2F%2B9rjo5huYYXMuzol2Rf808X1Rlva0OXInMBSE8c4%3D&reserved=0" style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 81, 186);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 16px;">here&nbsp;</a>or call 785-331-6444. Big Jay&apos;s Golden Ticket Every Tuesday or Wednesday night the week of a home Kansas Football game this season, select local restaurants and businesses will be gifting a Big Jay&apos;s Golden Ticket to one lucky individual at their place of business upon check-out. Big Jay&apos;s Golden Ticket includes two tickets and two pre-game sideline passes to the next Kansas Football home game. The select businesses will be promoted leading up to the date and fans are encouraged to stop by in order to have an opportunity to win the ticket. If you are a local business and interested in getting involved in this program, please fill out this&nbsp;<a href="https://nam10.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fclk.kuathletics.com%2Fe%2Fer%3Futm_medium%3Demail%26elq_cid%3D392388%26RSRC%3DEmail%26RDAT%3D2817%26ehash%3Daed62cc7768941f8aed6f4384acbdedcebaef1b532955130603635708a3cf109%26aid%3D16092%26pid%3Dkansas_email_eloqua%26rid%3D2817%26s%3D2049226%26lid%3D4259%26elqTrackId%3D61B279224848C88F62D5ED667B8B4EB4%26elq%3Db30f0176c1ee483ab73090f3abd4ab7f%26elqaid%3D2817%26elqat%3D1&data=05%7C02%7Cmaddie.allenkasten%40ku.edu%7Cb3cd9b91a5124d4577e208dcacae9c69%7C3c176536afe643f5b96636feabbe3c1a%7C0%7C0%7C638575113170938363%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=M1MMEWuzJpJl6ffXXa6sxQZkQiRMaYxMR2nPzQE%2B5Ts%3D&reserved=0" title="https://nam10.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fclk.kuathletics.com%2Fe%2Fer%3Futm_medium%3Demail%26elq_cid%3D392388%26RSRC%3DEmail%26RDAT%3D2817%26ehash%3Daed62cc7768941f8aed6f4384acbdedcebaef1b532955130603635708a3cf109%26aid%3D16092%26pid%3Dkansas_email_eloqua%26rid%3D2817%26s%3D2049226%26lid%3D4259%26elqTrackId%3D61B279224848C88F62D5ED667B8B4EB4%26elq%3Db30f0176c1ee483ab73090f3abd4ab7f%26elqaid%3D2817%26elqat%3D1&data=05%7C02%7Cmaddie.allenkasten%40ku.edu%7Cb3cd9b91a5124d4577e208dcacae9c69%7C3c176536afe643f5b96636feabbe3c1a%7C0%7C0%7C638575113170938363%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=M1MMEWuzJpJl6ffXXa6sxQZkQiRMaYxMR2nPzQE%2B5Ts%3D&reserved=0" style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 81, 186);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 16px;">form&nbsp;</a>or call 785-331-6444. Other Community Events Other events will be hosted throughout the year in the Lawrence community, including but not limited to the following. The 2nd&nbsp;Annual Kansas Football Kickoff Party was hosted in the indoor practice facility&nbsp;last year, but this year the event will move downtown to South Park on August&nbsp;24th from 5 to 8 PM&nbsp;in conjunction with the Downtown Lawrence&nbsp;and&nbsp;Welcome Back Jayhawks Weekend initiative where fans will be able to shop inside and outside at participating stores&nbsp;and enjoy various street performers throughout the day from 10:00 a.m. &ndash; 8:00 p.m. The 3rd annual Rock Chalk Block Party will take place between 10th and 11th on Mass Street on September 27th for KU Family Weekend and feature Shaboozey who just had &quot;A Bar&nbsp;Song&quot; simultaneously hit No. 1 on the Hot 100 and Hot Country Songs Charts. It is the first song by a black male artist to ever top both charts at the same time. Lastly, the 40th annual Late Night in the Phog will take place on October 18th to kickoff Homecoming&nbsp;Weekend and feature hip hop artist and Grammy Award Winner, Nelly. For questions or more information call 800-34-HAWKS and to view all ticket options for the 2024 football season, click&nbsp;<a href="https://nam10.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fclk.kuathletics.com%2Fe%2Fer%3Futm_medium%3Demail%26elq_cid%3D392388%26RSRC%3DEmail%26RDAT%3D2817%26ehash%3Daed62cc7768941f8aed6f4384acbdedcebaef1b532955130603635708a3cf109%26aid%3D16092%26pid%3Dkansas_email_eloqua%26rid%3D2817%26s%3D2049226%26lid%3D730%26elqTrackId%3D901DC4CD2E91FE70E8FB0A2B536C05B0%26elq%3Db30f0176c1ee483ab73090f3abd4ab7f%26elqaid%3D2817%26elqat%3D1&data=05%7C02%7Cmaddie.allenkasten%40ku.edu%7Cb3cd9b91a5124d4577e208dcacae9c69%7C3c176536afe643f5b96636feabbe3c1a%7C0%7C0%7C638575113170945896%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=ETA%2BNcuVp2TyzpebwEksBSOFce0v5c6D%2FnKrFgpn3Mo%3D&reserved=0" title="https://nam10.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fclk.kuathletics.com%2Fe%2Fer%3Futm_medium%3Demail%26elq_cid%3D392388%26RSRC%3DEmail%26RDAT%3D2817%26ehash%3Daed62cc7768941f8aed6f4384acbdedcebaef1b532955130603635708a3cf109%26aid%3D16092%26pid%3Dkansas_email_eloqua%26rid%3D2817%26s%3D2049226%26lid%3D730%26elqTrackId%3D901DC4CD2E91FE70E8FB0A2B536C05B0%26elq%3Db30f0176c1ee483ab73090f3abd4ab7f%26elqaid%3D2817%26elqat%3D1&data=05%7C02%7Cmaddie.allenkasten%40ku.edu%7Cb3cd9b91a5124d4577e208dcacae9c69%7C3c176536afe643f5b96636feabbe3c1a%7C0%7C0%7C638575113170945896%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=ETA%2BNcuVp2TyzpebwEksBSOFce0v5c6D%2FnKrFgpn3Mo%3D&reserved=0" style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 81, 186);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 16px;">here</a>. </div>

🏈 KU Athletics announces community initiatives for 2024 season

All the off-field attention that Travis Kelce generated last season&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/super-bowl-travis-kelce-andy-reid-0906fba1661065186f7d9c51ae77e94b">while dating pop star Taylor Swift</a>&nbsp;may have overshadowed his ability as a football player.

But&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-city-chiefs-travis-kelce-8b6b75bd5f3fce86b6bbe7c17d011be9">Kelce still did more than enough</a>&nbsp;in his day job as Patrick Mahomes’ most trusted pass catcher for the Kansas City Chiefs to be selected as the top tight end in the NFL by The Associated Press.

A panel of eight AP Pro Football Writers ranked the top five players at tight end, basing selections on current status entering the 2024 season. First-place votes were worth 10 points. Second through fifth-place votes were worth 5, 3, 2 and 1 points.

Kelce got six of the eight first-place votes and two seconds to win the balloting. George Kittle got the other two first-place votes and six second-place votes as the only other player picked on all eight ballots to finish in second place. T.J. Hockenson, Mark Andrews and Sam LaPorta rounded out the top five.

Evan Engram and Trey McBride also got votes.

Kelce’s run of seven straight 1,000-yard seasons ended last season as he was hampered in the regular season by injuries to his knee and ankle. Kelce still finished second among all tight ends with 984 yards receiving and 93 catches.

But Kelce returned to form in the postseason, leading the league with 32 catches for 355 yards and three TDs as he helped the Chiefs win their third Super Bowl title in five seasons.

The 34-year-old Kelce ranks in the top five among all tight ends in career catches (907), yards (11,328) and touchdowns (74).

Kittle has a strong case to be considered the best all-around tight end thanks to his strong ability as a blocker in the run and pass game as well as his threat as a receiver.

The Niners’ use of Kittle as a blocker can limit his production as a receiver but he still led all tight ends last season with 1,020 yards receiving as he earned his second All-Pro selection. Kittle is especially dangerous after the catch and his 13.6 yards per reception rank third best among all tight ends with at least 400 catches.

Hockenson’s career has taken off since being traded midway through the 2022 last season from Detroit to Minnesota. Hockenson had 95 catches for 960 yards and five TDs last season before being sidelined by a season-ending knee injury in Week 16. Hockenson may miss the start of this season recovering from ACL surgery but should be back early enough to make a big impact.

Andrews was limited to 10 games last season before being sidelined by a serious ankle injury. He was productive before getting injured as Lamar Jackson’s most trusted receiving option in Baltimore. Andrews had 45 catches for 544 yards and six TDs in 10 games last season.

LaPorta had a stellar rookie season after being drafted in the second round by Detroit. LaPorta’s 86 catches were the most ever for a rookie tight end and he joined Rob Gronkowski and Mike Ditka as the only rookie tight ends with at least 10 TD catches.

His 889 yards receiving ranked fifth best among all tight ends last season.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1705900377653.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce (87) scores a touchdown against the Buffalo Bills during the second quarter of an NFL AFC division playoff football game, Sunday, Jan. 21, 2024, in Orchard Park, N.Y. (AP Photo/Adrian Kraus)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce (87) scores a touchdown against the Buffalo Bills during the second quarter of an NFL AFC division playoff football game, Sunday, Jan. 21, 2024, in Orchard Park, N.Y. (AP Photo/Adrian Kraus)</figcaption>
 </figure>JOSH DUBOW Associated PressAll the off-field attention that Travis Kelce generated last season&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/super-bowl-travis-kelce-andy-reid-0906fba1661065186f7d9c51ae77e94b">while dating pop star Taylor Swift</a>&nbsp;may have overshadowed his ability as a football player.But&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-city-chiefs-travis-kelce-8b6b75bd5f3fce86b6bbe7c17d011be9">Kelce still did more than enough</a>&nbsp;in his day job as Patrick Mahomes’ most trusted pass catcher for the Kansas City Chiefs to be selected as the top tight end in the NFL by The Associated Press.A panel of eight AP Pro Football Writers ranked the top five players at tight end, basing selections on current status entering the 2024 season. First-place votes were worth 10 points. Second through fifth-place votes were worth 5, 3, 2 and 1 points.Kelce got six of the eight first-place votes and two seconds to win the balloting. George Kittle got the other two first-place votes and six second-place votes as the only other player picked on all eight ballots to finish in second place. T.J. Hockenson, Mark Andrews and Sam LaPorta rounded out the top five.Evan Engram and Trey McBride also got votes.<h2>1. TRAVIS KELCE, Kansas City Chiefs</h2>Kelce’s run of seven straight 1,000-yard seasons ended last season as he was hampered in the regular season by injuries to his knee and ankle. Kelce still finished second among all tight ends with 984 yards receiving and 93 catches.But Kelce returned to form in the postseason, leading the league with 32 catches for 355 yards and three TDs as he helped the Chiefs win their third Super Bowl title in five seasons.The 34-year-old Kelce ranks in the top five among all tight ends in career catches (907), yards (11,328) and touchdowns (74).<h2>2. GEORGE KITTLE, San Francisco 49ers</h2>Kittle has a strong case to be considered the best all-around tight end thanks to his strong ability as a blocker in the run and pass game as well as his threat as a receiver.The Niners’ use of Kittle as a blocker can limit his production as a receiver but he still led all tight ends last season with 1,020 yards receiving as he earned his second All-Pro selection. Kittle is especially dangerous after the catch and his 13.6 yards per reception rank third best among all tight ends with at least 400 catches.<h2>3. T.J. HOCKENSON, Minnesota Vikings</h2>Hockenson’s career has taken off since being traded midway through the 2022 last season from Detroit to Minnesota. Hockenson had 95 catches for 960 yards and five TDs last season before being sidelined by a season-ending knee injury in Week 16. Hockenson may miss the start of this season recovering from ACL surgery but should be back early enough to make a big impact.<h2>4. MARK ANDREWS, Baltimore Ravens</h2>Andrews was limited to 10 games last season before being sidelined by a serious ankle injury. He was productive before getting injured as Lamar Jackson’s most trusted receiving option in Baltimore. Andrews had 45 catches for 544 yards and six TDs in 10 games last season.<h2>5. SAM LAPORTA, Detroit Lions</h2>LaPorta had a stellar rookie season after being drafted in the second round by Detroit. LaPorta’s 86 catches were the most ever for a rookie tight end and he joined Rob Gronkowski and Mike Ditka as the only rookie tight ends with at least 10 TD catches.His 889 yards receiving ranked fifth best among all tight ends last season.

🏈 Travis Kelce picked as the top tight end in the AP’s NFL Top 5 rankings

The NBA signed its 11-year media rights deal with Disney, NBC and Amazon Prime Video on Wednesday after saying it was not accepting Warner Bros. Discovery’s $1.8 billion per year offer to continue its longtime relationship with the league.

The media rights deals were approved by the league’s Board of Governors last week and will bring the league about $76 billion over those 11 years.

WBD had five days to match a part of those deals and said it was exercising its right to do so, but its offer was not considered a true match by the NBA. That means the 2024-25 season will be the last for TNT after a nearly four-decade run — though not long after the NBA signing was announced, WBD said it would take “appropriate action” and said it believes the NBA has to accept its offer.

“The digital opportunities with Amazon align perfectly with the global interest in the NBA,” Commissioner Adam Silver said in a statement. “And Prime Video’s massive subscriber base will dramatically expand our ability to reach our fans in new and innovative ways.”

Turner Sports strongly disagreed with the NBA’s move, saying it believes the league “grossly misinterpreted our contractual rights.”

“We have matched the Amazon offer, as we have a contractual right to do, and do not believe the NBA can reject it,” TNT Sports said in a statement. “In doing so, they are rejecting the many fans who continue to show their unwavering support for our best-in-class coverage, delivered through the full combined reach of WBD’s video-first distribution platforms. ... We will take appropriate action.”

TNT said it continues looking forward to the coming season, “including our iconic ‘Inside the NBA.’”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721931547008.jpeg" alt="FILE - An NBA logo is seen on an official game ball before a basketball game, Feb. 1, 2014, in New York. The NBA said Wednesday, July 24, 2024 that it is not accepting Warner Bros. Discovery’s $1.8 billion per year offer to continue its longtime relationship with the league and therefore has entered into a deal with Amazon Prime Video, a move that would mean this coming season would end a nearly four-decade run of games being on TNT. (AP Photo/Jason DeCrow, file)" />
 <figcaption>FILE - An NBA logo is seen on an official game ball before a basketball game, Feb. 1, 2014, in New York. The NBA said Wednesday, July 24, 2024 that it is not accepting Warner Bros. Discovery’s $1.8 billion per year offer to continue its longtime relationship with the league and therefore has entered into a deal with Amazon Prime Video, a move that would mean this coming season would end a nearly four-decade run of games being on TNT. (AP Photo/Jason DeCrow, file)</figcaption>
 </figure>The NBA signed its 11-year media rights deal with Disney, NBC and Amazon Prime Video on Wednesday after saying it was not accepting Warner Bros. Discovery’s $1.8 billion per year offer to continue its longtime relationship with the league.The media rights deals were approved by the league’s Board of Governors last week and will bring the league about $76 billion over those 11 years.WBD had five days to match a part of those deals and said it was exercising its right to do so, but its offer was not considered a true match by the NBA. That means the 2024-25 season will be the last for TNT after a nearly four-decade run — though not long after the NBA signing was announced, WBD said it would take “appropriate action” and said it believes the NBA has to accept its offer.“The digital opportunities with Amazon align perfectly with the global interest in the NBA,” Commissioner Adam Silver said in a statement. “And Prime Video’s massive subscriber base will dramatically expand our ability to reach our fans in new and innovative ways.”Turner Sports strongly disagreed with the NBA’s move, saying it believes the league “grossly misinterpreted our contractual rights.”“We have matched the Amazon offer, as we have a contractual right to do, and do not believe the NBA can reject it,” TNT Sports said in a statement. “In doing so, they are rejecting the many fans who continue to show their unwavering support for our best-in-class coverage, delivered through the full combined reach of WBD’s video-first distribution platforms. ... We will take appropriate action.”TNT said it continues looking forward to the coming season, “including our iconic ‘Inside the NBA.’”Under the new deal, Amazon Prime Video will carry games on Friday nights, select Saturday afternoons and Thursday night doubleheaders that will begin after the conclusion of Prime Video’s “Thursday Night Football” schedule. Prime Video will also take over the NBA League Pass package from WBD.“Warner Bros. Discovery’s most recent proposal did not match the terms of Amazon Prime Video’s offer and, therefore, we have entered into a long-term arrangement with Amazon,” the league said Wednesday. “Throughout these negotiations, our primary objective has been to maximize the reach and accessibility of our games for our fans. Our new arrangement with Amazon supports this goal by complementing the broadcast, cable and streaming packages that are already part of our new Disney and NBCUniversal arrangements. All three partners have also committed substantial resources to promote the league and enhance the fan experience.”The new package on Amazon also includes at least one game on Black Friday and the quarterfinals, semifinals and championship game of the league’s in-season tournament, the NBA Cup.“Over the past few years, we have worked hard to bring the very best of sports to Prime Video and to continue to innovate on the viewing experience,” said Jay Marine, global head of sports for Prime Video. “We’re thrilled to now add the NBA to our growing sports lineup, including the NFL, UEFA Champions League, NASCAR, NHL, WNBA, NWSL, Wimbledon, and more. We are grateful to partner with the NBA, and can’t wait to tip off in 2025.”ESPN and ABC will keep the league’s top package, which includes the NBA Finals. ABC has carried the finals since 2003.ESPN/ABC will combine for nearly 100 games during the regular season. More than 20 games will air on ABC, mainly on Saturday nights and Sunday afternoons, while ESPN will have up to 60 games, mostly on Wednesday nights with some Friday games. ABC and ESPN will also combine for five games on Christmas Day and have exclusive national coverage of the final day of the regular season.During the playoffs, ESPN and ABC will have approximately 18 games in the first two rounds each year and one of the two conference finals series in all but one year of the agreement.The return of NBC, which carried NBA games from 1990 through 2002, gives the NBA two broadcast network partners for the first time.NBC will have up to 100 regular-season games, including on Sunday night once the NFL season has ended. It will air games on Tuesdays throughout the regular season, while a Monday night doubleheader would be exclusively streamed on Peacock.NBC will also have the All-Star Game and All-Star Saturday Night. During the playoffs, NBC and/or Peacock will have up to 28 games the first two rounds, with at least half on NBC.NBC and Amazon will also carry one of the two conference finals series in six of the 11 years on a rotating basis. NBC will have a conference final in 2026-27 followed by Amazon the next season.“The return of NBA basketball to the NBC Sports family comes with enormous benefits and excitement for our fans,” Silver said. “And through its multiple platforms — especially NBC and Peacock — and its expansive resources, NBCUniversal promises to build on the deep tradition and history of the NBA on NBC.”