<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1719954684628.png" alt="Photo Courtesy Kansas State Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Kansas State Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure><div>Kansas State Athletics
 
MANHATTAN, Kan. &ndash; The Kansas State men&rsquo;s basketball team will play host to Missouri Valley Conference Tournament champion Drake in the Wildcat Classic on Tuesday, December 17 at the T-Mobile Center in Kansas City.
&nbsp;
Season ticket holders can now request tickets for the game during the current ordering and renewal process. Tickets for the public will go on sale this fall.
&nbsp;
The matchup will mark the 13th Wildcat Classic game at the T-Mobile Center with K-State winning 10 of the 12 previous Classics, including victories over Nebraska in 2022 and Wichita State last season. The Wildcat Classic dates to 2007 and has included such notable opponents as Alabama, Florida, Texas A&amp;M, UNLV and Vanderbilt.
&nbsp;
This will be the 28th meeting between K-State and Drake with 26 of the last 27 matchups coming between 1918 and 1956. The Bulldogs won the most recent meeting, 80-70, at Bramlage Coliseum on Nov. 25, 2020.
&nbsp;
Drake posted a 28-7 record in 2023-24, including a second-place finish in the MVC standings with a 16-4 mark, and earned the league&rsquo;s automatic bid to the NCAA Tournament with an 84-80 win over top-seed Indiana State in the championship game. The Bulldogs will have a new head coach in former Northwest Missouri State coach Ben McCollum, who won 394 games and 4 NCAA Division II Championships (2017, 2019, 2021, 2022) in building the Bearcats into a national powerhouse.
&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&rsquo; 19 victories were 4 over Top 25 teams, including 3 in the Top 10. The team has won 45 games in head coach Jerome Tang&rsquo;s tenure, including consecutive postseason appearances.
&nbsp;
The Wildcats return 3 lettermen (senior David N&rsquo;Guessan and sophomores Taj Manning and Macaleab Rich) in 2024-25, along with the 10 newcomers, which includes 8 Division I transfers, a junior college All-American (Mobi Ikegwuruka) and a top-50 high school prospect (David Castillo).
&nbsp;
The transfer class is considered one of the best in the country and includes notable additions Achor Achor (Samford), Coleman Hawkins (Illinois), Dug McDaniel (Michigan) and Ugonna Onyenso (Kentucky) as well as Baye Fall (Arkansas), Brendan Hausen (Villanova), C.J. Jones (UIC) and Max Jones (Cal State Fullerton).
&nbsp;
The rest of the non-conference schedule is still being finalized, but the Wildcats will play a 20-game Big 12 schedule that includes 10 home games with NCAA Tournament teams Arizona, Colorado, Houston, Iowa State, Kansas and Texas Tech as well as Arizona State, Cincinnati, Oklahoma State and West Virginia.
&nbsp;
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 <a href="http://www.kstatesports.com/tickets" style="color: rgb(70, 120, 134);border: 0px;">www.kstatesports.com/tickets</a> or calling (800) 221.CATS.</div>

🏀 MBB: K-State to face Drake in Kansas City in December

LOGAN, Utah (AP) — Utah State announced Tuesday it’s firing football coach Blake Anderson after an external review of allegations that he hadn’t complied with Title IX policies regarding the reporting of sexual misconduct cases.

Nate Dreiling, who had been Utah State’s defensive coordinator and defensive ends coach, will be Utah State’s interim coach during the upcoming season. Athletic director Diana Sabau met players and staff Tuesday to inform them of the move, the university said in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.usu.edu/today/story/usu-makes-significant-changes-in-football-program" target="_blank">a news release</a>.

Utah State also said associate vice president/deputy athletic director of external affairs Jerry Bovee and football director of player development and community Austin Albrecht were fired “for violations of university policies related to the reporting of sexual and domestic violence and failures of professional responsibilities.”

Bovee was Utah State’s interim athletic director in 2023. Utah State said Anderson was being fired for actions that took place in the spring of 2023.

Utah State noted that Title IX policies “require full and timely reporting of disclosures of sexual misconduct — including domestic violence — and prohibit employees from investigating disclosures of sexual misconduct themselves.”

“As leaders, we are responsible for ensuring allegations of USU policy violations are investigated,” Sabau and Utah State President Elizabeth Cantwell said in an email they sent to faculty and staff. “Today’s actions are the result of a thorough external investigation, and we believe the evidence demands immediate action. Our job is to fearlessly hold ourselves and others accountable for their conduct and to make sure that, for the sake of our students and our community, we are living the values of our university.

“While recognizing the impact of these decisions on our student athletes and football program, we will continue to take the steps necessary to deliver a respectful, transparent and winning culture at Utah State University.”

School officials noted that Anderson has 14 days to respond to the university’s decision under terms of his employment agreement. School officials said they couldn‘t release any additional information until all opportunities to respond or appeal to the decision have expired.

Anderson posted a 23-17 record in three seasons at Utah State, with the Aggies reaching bowl games each of those years. He went&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/college-football-sports-utah-deven-thompkins-andrew-peasley-a06e6fda70eeb9625a9c497570a9d4d5">11-3 in 2021</a>&nbsp;before going 6-7 each of the last two years.

He came to Utah State after going 51-37 at Arkansas State from 2014-20. He took a leave of absence prior to the 2019 season just before his wife,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/general-news-0076f849b4f64c2fb1745d73d283aca5">Wendy Anderson,</a>&nbsp;died after a two-year fight with breast cancer. He returned for the second game of that season and helped Arkansas State go 8-5.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1719948437405.png" alt="Nate Dreiling" />
 <figcaption>Nate Dreiling</figcaption>
 </figure>LOGAN, Utah (AP) — Utah State announced Tuesday it’s firing football coach Blake Anderson after an external review of allegations that he hadn’t complied with Title IX policies regarding the reporting of sexual misconduct cases.Nate Dreiling, who had been Utah State’s defensive coordinator and defensive ends coach, will be Utah State’s interim coach during the upcoming season. Athletic director Diana Sabau met players and staff Tuesday to inform them of the move, the university said in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.usu.edu/today/story/usu-makes-significant-changes-in-football-program" target="_blank">a news release</a>.Utah State also said associate vice president/deputy athletic director of external affairs Jerry Bovee and football director of player development and community Austin Albrecht were fired “for violations of university policies related to the reporting of sexual and domestic violence and failures of professional responsibilities.”Bovee was Utah State’s interim athletic director in 2023. Utah State said Anderson was being fired for actions that took place in the spring of 2023.Utah State noted that Title IX policies “require full and timely reporting of disclosures of sexual misconduct — including domestic violence — and prohibit employees from investigating disclosures of sexual misconduct themselves.”“As leaders, we are responsible for ensuring allegations of USU policy violations are investigated,” Sabau and Utah State President Elizabeth Cantwell said in an email they sent to faculty and staff. “Today’s actions are the result of a thorough external investigation, and we believe the evidence demands immediate action. Our job is to fearlessly hold ourselves and others accountable for their conduct and to make sure that, for the sake of our students and our community, we are living the values of our university.“While recognizing the impact of these decisions on our student athletes and football program, we will continue to take the steps necessary to deliver a respectful, transparent and winning culture at Utah State University.”School officials noted that Anderson has 14 days to respond to the university’s decision under terms of his employment agreement. School officials said they couldn‘t release any additional information until all opportunities to respond or appeal to the decision have expired.Anderson posted a 23-17 record in three seasons at Utah State, with the Aggies reaching bowl games each of those years. He went&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/college-football-sports-utah-deven-thompkins-andrew-peasley-a06e6fda70eeb9625a9c497570a9d4d5">11-3 in 2021</a>&nbsp;before going 6-7 each of the last two years.He came to Utah State after going 51-37 at Arkansas State from 2014-20. He took a leave of absence prior to the 2019 season just before his wife,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/general-news-0076f849b4f64c2fb1745d73d283aca5">Wendy Anderson,</a>&nbsp;died after a two-year fight with breast cancer. He returned for the second game of that season and helped Arkansas State go 8-5.

🏈 Hutch High alum named interim head coach at Utah State

<a href="https://big12sports.com/documents/2024/7/2//2024_Big_12_Preseason_Team.pdf">Click on the link</a> for the entire team.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1719936474572.jpeg" alt="Big 12 Conference" />
 <figcaption>Big 12 Conference</figcaption>
 </figure><div>Big 12 Conference
 
The Big 12 Conference has announced its 2024 Preseason All-Big 12 Football Team and individual awards, chosen by media representatives who cover the league. 2024 Preseason All-Big 12 Individual Honors Offensive Player of the Year:&nbsp;Ollie Gordon II, Oklahoma State, RB, 6-2, 215, Jr., Fort Worth, Texas &nbsp; &nbsp; Defensive Player of the Year:&nbsp;Travis Hunter, Colorado,DB, 6-1, 185, Jr., Suwanee, Ga. &nbsp; &nbsp; Newcomer of the Year:&nbsp;KJ Jefferson, UCF, QB, 6-3, 247, Sr., Sardis, Miss.</div><a href="https://big12sports.com/documents/2024/7/2//2024_Big_12_Preseason_Team.pdf">Click on the link</a> for the entire team.

🏈 Big 12 announces media preseason team

ARLINGTON, Tex. — Minor League Baseball revealed its rosters for the upcoming All-Star Futures Game, which will be played on Saturday, July 13 at Globe Life Field.

The game features the top Minor League prospects in baseball competing in a seven-inning contest.

The Kansas City Royals will have two prospects playing in the game for the American League Team. Right handed pitcher Ben Kudrna and outfielder Gavin Cross will each represent the Royals.

According to MLB.com, Kudrna is the No. 3 best prospect in the Royals organization. The Shawnee Mission native is currently in High-A, Quad Cities. The 6-foot-3 Kudrna is currently 4-4 with a 3.14 ERA in 12 appearances.

Cross is the No. 7 best prospect in the Royals system and is currently in Double-A, Northwest Arkansas. Cross is hitting .279 with eight home runs and 39 RBI in 62 games.&nbsp;

You can find the complete rosters for the American League and National League teams <a href="https://www.mlb.com/all-star/saturday/futures-game/roster">here</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1719945096431.png" alt="Photo Courtesy MLB" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy MLB</figcaption>
 </figure>ARLINGTON, Tex. — Minor League Baseball revealed its rosters for the upcoming All-Star Futures Game, which will be played on Saturday, July 13 at Globe Life Field.The game features the top Minor League prospects in baseball competing in a seven-inning contest.The Kansas City Royals will have two prospects playing in the game for the American League Team. Right handed pitcher Ben Kudrna and outfielder Gavin Cross will each represent the Royals.According to MLB.com, Kudrna is the No. 3 best prospect in the Royals organization. The Shawnee Mission native is currently in High-A, Quad Cities. The 6-foot-3 Kudrna is currently 4-4 with a 3.14 ERA in 12 appearances.Cross is the No. 7 best prospect in the Royals system and is currently in Double-A, Northwest Arkansas. Cross is hitting .279 with eight home runs and 39 RBI in 62 games.&nbsp;You can find the complete rosters for the American League and National League teams <a href="https://www.mlb.com/all-star/saturday/futures-game/roster">here</a>.

⚾ 2 Royals prospects to play in All-Star Futures Game

KANSAS CITY, Mo.—The Kansas City Royals announced this afternoon that infielder&nbsp;Vinnie Pasquantino&nbsp;and right-handed pitcher&nbsp;Seth Lugo&nbsp;have been named Royals Player and Pitcher of the Month, respectively, for June. The awards are determined by a local media vote.

Pasquantino led all Royals with 19 RBI in the month of June, while slashing .276/.342/.490 (27-for-98). He matched&nbsp;Bobby Witt Jr.&nbsp;for the team lead with 12 extra-base hits, as he tallied 7 doubles, 1 triple and 4 home runs. His 19 RBI last month were tied for the 10th most in the American League, trailing leader&nbsp;Aaron Judge&nbsp;(37), and they were the most by a Royal in the month of June in seven years, since&nbsp;Mike Moustakas&nbsp;recorded 22 RBI in June 2017. Pasquantino’s 8 go-ahead RBI in June led the American League and were just 1 behind the Major League leaders,&nbsp;Ketel Marte,&nbsp;Shohei Ohtani&nbsp;and&nbsp;Alec Burleson. He finished the month with an active 7-game streak with an RBI, which is the longest such streak of his career, and he has an active 9-game RBI streak&nbsp;at Kauffman Stadium, which is the longest such streak at home by a Royal in a single season since&nbsp;Eric Hosmer’s&nbsp;club-record 12-game streak from Aug. 7-25, 2015. He homered in consecutive plate appearances against the division-rival Guardians, hitting a 2-run shot in the 8th inning on June 28, followed by his game-tying solo home run in the 1st inning on June 29. Overall this season, Pasquantino is tied for 6th in the American League with 55 RBI and his 18 go-ahead RBI are tied for the 3rd most in the Majors, behind only Judge (21) and Philadelphia’s&nbsp;Alec Bohm&nbsp;(19). This marks Pasquantino’s first monthly honor of the season and third of his career, after winning back-to-back awards in September/October 2022 and March/April 2023.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695315090950.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy Kansas City Royals" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Kansas City Royals</figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas City RoyalsKANSAS CITY, Mo.—The Kansas City Royals announced this afternoon that infielder&nbsp;Vinnie Pasquantino&nbsp;and right-handed pitcher&nbsp;Seth Lugo&nbsp;have been named Royals Player and Pitcher of the Month, respectively, for June. The awards are determined by a local media vote.Pasquantino led all Royals with 19 RBI in the month of June, while slashing .276/.342/.490 (27-for-98). He matched&nbsp;Bobby Witt Jr.&nbsp;for the team lead with 12 extra-base hits, as he tallied 7 doubles, 1 triple and 4 home runs. His 19 RBI last month were tied for the 10th most in the American League, trailing leader&nbsp;Aaron Judge&nbsp;(37), and they were the most by a Royal in the month of June in seven years, since&nbsp;Mike Moustakas&nbsp;recorded 22 RBI in June 2017. Pasquantino’s 8 go-ahead RBI in June led the American League and were just 1 behind the Major League leaders,&nbsp;Ketel Marte,&nbsp;Shohei Ohtani&nbsp;and&nbsp;Alec Burleson. He finished the month with an active 7-game streak with an RBI, which is the longest such streak of his career, and he has an active 9-game RBI streak&nbsp;at Kauffman Stadium, which is the longest such streak at home by a Royal in a single season since&nbsp;Eric Hosmer’s&nbsp;club-record 12-game streak from Aug. 7-25, 2015. He homered in consecutive plate appearances against the division-rival Guardians, hitting a 2-run shot in the 8th inning on June 28, followed by his game-tying solo home run in the 1st inning on June 29. Overall this season, Pasquantino is tied for 6th in the American League with 55 RBI and his 18 go-ahead RBI are tied for the 3rd most in the Majors, behind only Judge (21) and Philadelphia’s&nbsp;Alec Bohm&nbsp;(19). This marks Pasquantino’s first monthly honor of the season and third of his career, after winning back-to-back awards in September/October 2022 and March/April 2023.

⚾ Pasquantino, Lugo named Royals Player/Pitcher of the Month for June

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1719936474572.jpeg" alt="Big 12 Conference" />
 <figcaption>Big 12 Conference</figcaption>
 </figure><div>Big 12 Conference
 
In its debut season as a member of the Big 12, Utah was chosen to finish first in the Conference&rsquo;s 2024 football preseason poll as voted on by media representatives.
The Utes claimed 20 first-place votes and totaled 906 points, edging out Kansas State in second with 19 first-place ballots and 889 points. Oklahoma State placed third with 14 first-place votes and 829 points after playing in the 2023 Dr Pepper Big 12 Football Championship. Kansas came in fourth with five first-place nods and 772 points while Arizona notched fifth with three first-place votes and 762 points.
The remaining preseason rankings include 6. Iowa State (661 points), 7. West Virginia (581 points), 8. UCF (551 points), 9. Texas Tech (532 points), 10. TCU (436 points), 11. Colorado (400 points), 12. Baylor (268 points), 13. BYU (215 points), 14. Cincinnati (196 points), 15. Houston (157 points) and 16. Arizona State (141 points).
Big 12 Football Media Days, Presented by Totino&rsquo;s will be conducted next Tuesday and Wednesday, July 9-10. Coverage from both days will be provided on ESPNU and Big 12 Now on ESPN+. For additional information, follow Big12Sports.com and the Conference&rsquo;s official social media platforms. 2024 Big 12 Football Media Preseason Poll
<table border="1" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="1" style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-size: 16px;border-collapse: collapse;">
 <tbody>
 <tr>
 <td>1. Utah (20)</td>
 <td>906</td>
 <td> </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
 <td>2. Kansas State (19)</td>
 <td>889</td>
 <td> </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
 <td>3. Oklahoma State (14)</td>
 <td>829</td>
 <td> </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
 <td>4. Kansas (5)</td>
 <td>772</td>
 <td> </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
 <td>5. Arizona (3)</td>
 <td>762</td>
 <td> </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
 <td>6. Iowa State</td>
 <td>661</td>
 <td> </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
 <td>7. West Virginia</td>
 <td>581</td>
 <td> </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
 <td>8. UCF</td>
 <td>551</td>
 <td> </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
 <td>9. Texas Tech</td>
 <td>532</td>
 <td> </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
 <td>10. TCU</td>
 <td>436</td>
 <td> </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
 <td>11. Colorado</td>
 <td>400</td>
 <td> </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
 <td>12. Baylor</td>
 <td>268</td>
 <td> </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
 <td>13. BYU</td>
 <td>215</td>
 <td> </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
 <td>14. Cincinnati</td>
 <td>196</td>
 <td> </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
 <td>15. Houston</td>
 <td>157</td>
 <td> </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
 <td>16. Arizona State</td>
 <td>141</td>
 <td> </td>
 </tr>
 </tbody>
</table>
First-place votes in parenthesis.</div>

🏈 K-State 2nd, KU 4th in Big 12 media preseason poll

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1719926779048.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy NBC World Series" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy NBC World Series</figcaption>
 </figure><div>National Baseball Congress World Series
 
WICHITA, Kansas -&nbsp;The NBC Baseball Foundation and The Kansas African American Museum (TKAAM) are partnering to celebrate the contributions of Satchel Paige and other black baseball players throughout the month of July. Starting July 1st, TKAAM showcases a new National Baseball Congress baseball exhibit showcasing Bobby Boyd, Ozzie Smith and Satchel Paige, with a ticket giveaway in conjunction with the 90th NBC World Series this month.
&nbsp;
&ldquo;We are proud to serve as a community partner for an event that celebrates the life and legacy of a baseball legend like Leroy Satchel Paige,&rdquo; said TKAAM Education Manager Brad Richards, &ldquo;This partnership allows us to combine our core&nbsp;pillars of history, education, and culture to engage with NBC supporters and the overall Wichita community&rdquo;
&nbsp;
Paige&rsquo;s appearance and victory with the Bismarck Churchills in the first National Baseball Congress Semi-Pro Invitational in Wichita in 1935, more than a decade before Jackie Robinson broke the color barrier in Major League Baseball, was a main catalyst for the NBC World Series&rsquo; success.
&nbsp;
&ldquo;Satchel Paige&rsquo;s life and legacy is one of immense talent, determination, joy, and breaking down barriers,&rdquo; said NBC Director Katie Woods, &ldquo;The opportunity to showcase his contributions here in Wichita, which many may not know about, and give a new generation the chance to learn about him, is very special.&rdquo;
&rdquo;
&nbsp;
TKAAM x NBC World Series Events:
<ul type="disc" style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 15px;">
 <li style="color: black !important;">Month of July:
 <ul type="circle">
 <li style="color: black !important;">All guests who visit TKAAM prior to July 25 receive a free ticket to Satchel Paige Night at the NBC World Series on July 25.</li>
 <li style="color: black !important;">TKAAM will display information on the contributions and careers of black baseball players in Wichita and with the National Baseball Congress</li>
 </ul>
 </li>
 <li style="color: black !important;">July 25:
 <ul type="circle">
 <li style="color: black !important;">NBC World Series Opening Night at Eck Stadium
 <ul type="square">
 <li style="color: black !important;">Gates open at 5:00pm</li>
 <li style="color: black !important;">Satchel Paige bobblehead giveaway for the first 1,000 fans</li>
 <li style="color: black !important;">Pre-Game Ceremony &amp; First Pitch from members of the Paige family</li>
 <li style="color: black !important;">Games at 6:00 pm and 8:30 pm to kick off the 90th NBC World Series</li>
 <li style="color: black !important;">Tickets start at $12</li>
 </ul>
 </li>
 <li style="color: black !important;">Satchel Paige Family Reception at Eck Stadium&rsquo;s All-American Club
 <ul type="square">
 <li style="color: black !important;">Opportunity to hear from the Paige family about his life &amp; legacy</li>
 <li style="color: black !important;">Tickets are $50 and include dinner, game ticket, and reception</li>
 </ul>
 </li>
 <li style="color: black !important;">Several local organizations including Heroes Academy and Equity Initiative will receive tickets to the event courtesy of community partners Evergy, Capitol Federal Foundation and INTRUST Bank.</li>
 </ul>
 </li>
 <li style="color: black !important;">July 31:
 <ul type="circle">
 <li style="color: black !important;">Senior Wednesday at TKAAM featuring Negro League baseball teacher, author and historian Phil Dixon
 <ul type="square">
 <li style="color: black !important;">Event runs from 10:00-11:30</li>
 <li style="color: black !important;">Free Admission</li>
 </ul>
 </li>
 </ul>
 </li>
</ul>
&nbsp;
About the NBC Baseball Foundation:&nbsp;The National Baseball Congress World Series has been a cornerstone of summer collegiate and independent baseball for over 89 years, providing a platform for players to showcase their talents and fostering a sense of community among baseball enthusiasts. The NBC Baseball Foundation 501c3 strives to connect communities through baseball, and foster a love for the game while celebrating the history. The NBC World Series, powered by Evergy, will be held July 25-August 3 at Eck Stadium in Wichita.
For more information about the National Baseball Congress, please contact: Katie Woods, Tournament Director at <a href="mailto:katie@nbcbaseball.com" style="color: rgb(70, 120, 134);border: 0px;">katie@nbcbaseball.com</a> or 316-265-6236 or visit nbcbaseball.com.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
About The Kansas African American Museum:&nbsp;The Kansas African American Museum (TKAAM) endeavors to make the Kansas African American experience resonant with every Kansan. The vision of the Kansas African American Museum is to be the premier place where the communities come to learn about or tell the Kansas African American story. To serve as the cultural hub for innovative collaboration, familial and historic storytelling, thought provoking exhibits, highly sought-after collections and interactive continuous learning centered around the African American experience, TKAAM focuses on history, education, art, and culture for unique cultural experiences. TKAAM is proud to be a community partner for the Satchell Paige Celebration game of the National Baseball Congress Tournament on July 25th!&nbsp;
For more information about The Kansas African American Museum, please contact: Brad Richards, Community Outreach Coordinator at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:tkaamcommunityoutreach@tkaamuseum.org" style="color: rgb(70, 120, 134);border: 0px;">tkaamcommunityoutreach@tkaamuseum.org</a>&nbsp;or 316-262-7651 or visit tkaamuseum.org</div><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1719926734166.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy NBC World Series" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy NBC World Series</figcaption>
 </figure>

⚾ NBC World Series & TKAAM partner to celebrate Satchel Paige

HOISINGTON - Life, as recent Hoisington High graduate Josiah Ball says, is about getting better for yourself and God.

“I am a person who would do anything to see a teammate or classmate succeed. I’m always there to assist and help others achieve their goals,” Ball said. “Every day, I strive to get at least 1% better as a person, athlete and man of God.”

That man of God will continue the sports excellence his older brothers established. He signed a track scholarship with Fort Hays State.

“Fort Hays is getting a good athlete and a great student. My approach to athletics is hard work and dedication,” Ball said. “Simple commitments such as showing up to practice, working hard while at practice, and taking care of the body and soul in the interim are some of my crucial elements to my success.”

Ball will take his pole vault talents to the next level. He may possibly compete in the 110 and 60-meter hurdles.

“As a student, I am respectful in the classroom. I work hard to understand and comprehend the curriculum, and I am willing to take steps outside of the classroom to ensure my success,” Ball said. “I am also actively involved in my local church. I have gone on several mission trips and camps geared toward serving others and serving God. I understand that life is more than sports, education and entertainment. As such, I want to give back to others and build up my community.”

“He’s a really hard worker and is very consistent,” classmate Tony Moore said.

The Tigers are getting the latest Ball brother as the family that prays together, wins together.

“I am the youngest of five brothers, three of whom were college athletes at Fort Hays (I will be the fourth),” Ball said. “My oldest brother was particularly good at wrestling. He became a three-time All-American in college and broke the FHSU win-to-loss rate. My brothers were also grateful students, all doing very well in high school and college.”

Similarly, Josiah is a successful student with a 3.8 GPA and involvement in National Honor society, Scholars Bowl, vocal music, FBLA and the mental health club called Zero Reasons Why.

Ball won state in pole vault his junior and senior years and finished sixth his freshman season. He placed third in the 110 meter high hurdles the past two years and fourth his sophomore year. He added a fourth place finish in the 300 meter hurdles the past two seasons after qualifying for state the first two years.

His well-rounded contributions as a student carried over to his musical talents where he medaled for a solo at state vocal his senior year and went to state for a solo junior year. Ball took first at state wrestling his senior year, second as a junior and fifth as a freshman.

“Winning state this past year has been my lifelong goal,” said Ball, who was 23-1 at 138 pounds after a 30-5 mark as a junior at 132. “I started wrestling when I was three. And have been trying to keep up with my brothers ever since. I watched my brothers win numerous state titles, learning what I needed to do if I wanted to reach my goal of winning one for myself.”

That goal that was spurred from watching oldest brother Brandon compete with some of the best wrestlers in the nation.

“My brother took fourth at nationals, not quite reaching the big goal of being a national champion,” Josiah said. “I saw him come back from competing to instantly training for his senior year in college to reach his big goal. That year was covid, he was ranked #1 in the nation for D2 and they canceled nationals on him and countless other wrestlers. I learned that day that it’s hard to get a second chance.”

Pole vault is his favorite sport and will be the one he’s focused at Hays.

“It's an event like no other. I get to fly in the air, experiencing one of the best thrills anyone could ever dream of,” Josiah said. “I also get the opportunity to learn hundreds of life lessons. Some of which include being patient, understanding that you're never going to be perfect but that you can get back up and try again and again. Always knowing in the back of your head that you could get seriously hurt if you don't keep a focused mind. In many ways, I feel like this sport has provided me with a strong outlook on life. This outlook will help me continue my career as an athlete, work hard as a student, and reach others with the gospel.”

His gold medal vaults at state have been 14 feet (junior) and 15 feet (senior). His career best leap is&nbsp;15-7 1/2.

“When I won pole vault for my second time jumping 15ft to capture state, it became another blessing God gave me,” Josiah said.

Track, Josiah said, is important to him in two different ways.&nbsp;

“First, it allows me to continue the goals I set for myself when I was younger. This occurred when I saw my oldest brother, Brandon Ball, win state four times in wrestling and once in pole vault and then continue his career, still being incredibly successful in college,” Josiah said. “Second, it's going to allow me to have an outreach to others so I can share the gospel with them. I believe God has provided this platform for me so I can point others toward Him, so I am very mindful of how I conduct myself in public and private.”

“I see how far he has come and how he continues to live up to the expectations put in place by his 4 older brothers,” Cardinal teammate Ethan Grubb said. “I’m just proud to say I know him and his family is some of the nicest people I have ever met.”

“I participated in track, cross country and wrestling with Josiah, and through all three of them he was a leader,” teammate Eli Lewis said. “He naturally leads people to become the best they can be in a sport, whether it benefits him personally or not. A big part of his leadership comes from his faith, which he puts second to nothing. Pointing people towards athletic excellence and toward God are the two biggest things that impressed me about Josiah's athletic career that I saw.”

Josiah fielded offers in all divisions, including schools from California, Missouri, Iowa, New Mexico and South Dakota.&nbsp;

“I wasn't very proactive in my search for colleges because I knew what I was looking for,” he said. “FHSU effectively offered all the things I cared about. I have had three of my four older brothers pursue sports in college and they all chose Fort Hays. I chose Fort Hays&nbsp;because it's close to home, affordable and the environment is awesome.&nbsp;I feel like it will give me great opportunities in the workplace, provide an avenue to get an affordable education, and all for plenty positive interactions with family and friends.”

It also continues what his brothers started in their Tiger careers.

“To me, it gives me the opportunity to try and keep up with my older brothers' accomplishments and continue the name on the back of our shirts in college,” Josiah said. “Also, this is another platform for me to speak the truth of Christ's life to others.”

“Josiah is a born leader and has a work ethic that is unmatched by anyone I’ve met,” Wichita State vaulter Shellamae Farmer said. “He’s done an outstanding job leading this team and being a role model for the younger athletes on our team. Josiah has been my training partner since the beginning and has been one of my biggest supporters and inspirations.”

How does he want to be remembered at Hoisington?

“The last of the Ball’s, also some of Coach Schmidt's work. As well as the accomplishments we had as a family and individually,” Josiah said. “I also want to be remembered as a good teammate, truthful friend, someone respectable, hardworking, and accomplished, serving and loving others.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1719926409520.jpeg" alt="Josiah Ball headed to Fort Hays" />
 <figcaption>Josiah Ball headed to Fort Hays</figcaption>
 </figure>By Gary Van Cleave&nbsp;Special to Hutch PostHOISINGTON - Life, as recent Hoisington High graduate Josiah Ball says, is about getting better for yourself and God.“I am a person who would do anything to see a teammate or classmate succeed. I’m always there to assist and help others achieve their goals,” Ball said. “Every day, I strive to get at least 1% better as a person, athlete and man of God.”That man of God will continue the sports excellence his older brothers established. He signed a track scholarship with Fort Hays State.“Fort Hays is getting a good athlete and a great student. My approach to athletics is hard work and dedication,” Ball said. “Simple commitments such as showing up to practice, working hard while at practice, and taking care of the body and soul in the interim are some of my crucial elements to my success.”Ball will take his pole vault talents to the next level. He may possibly compete in the 110 and 60-meter hurdles.“As a student, I am respectful in the classroom. I work hard to understand and comprehend the curriculum, and I am willing to take steps outside of the classroom to ensure my success,” Ball said. “I am also actively involved in my local church. I have gone on several mission trips and camps geared toward serving others and serving God. I understand that life is more than sports, education and entertainment. As such, I want to give back to others and build up my community.”“He’s a really hard worker and is very consistent,” classmate Tony Moore said.The Tigers are getting the latest Ball brother as the family that prays together, wins together.“I am the youngest of five brothers, three of whom were college athletes at Fort Hays (I will be the fourth),” Ball said. “My oldest brother was particularly good at wrestling. He became a three-time All-American in college and broke the FHSU win-to-loss rate. My brothers were also grateful students, all doing very well in high school and college.”Similarly, Josiah is a successful student with a 3.8 GPA and involvement in National Honor society, Scholars Bowl, vocal music, FBLA and the mental health club called Zero Reasons Why.Ball won state in pole vault his junior and senior years and finished sixth his freshman season. He placed third in the 110 meter high hurdles the past two years and fourth his sophomore year. He added a fourth place finish in the 300 meter hurdles the past two seasons after qualifying for state the first two years.His well-rounded contributions as a student carried over to his musical talents where he medaled for a solo at state vocal his senior year and went to state for a solo junior year. Ball took first at state wrestling his senior year, second as a junior and fifth as a freshman.“Winning state this past year has been my lifelong goal,” said Ball, who was 23-1 at 138 pounds after a 30-5 mark as a junior at 132. “I started wrestling when I was three. And have been trying to keep up with my brothers ever since. I watched my brothers win numerous state titles, learning what I needed to do if I wanted to reach my goal of winning one for myself.”That goal that was spurred from watching oldest brother Brandon compete with some of the best wrestlers in the nation.“My brother took fourth at nationals, not quite reaching the big goal of being a national champion,” Josiah said. “I saw him come back from competing to instantly training for his senior year in college to reach his big goal. That year was covid, he was ranked #1 in the nation for D2 and they canceled nationals on him and countless other wrestlers. I learned that day that it’s hard to get a second chance.”Pole vault is his favorite sport and will be the one he’s focused at Hays.“It's an event like no other. I get to fly in the air, experiencing one of the best thrills anyone could ever dream of,” Josiah said. “I also get the opportunity to learn hundreds of life lessons. Some of which include being patient, understanding that you're never going to be perfect but that you can get back up and try again and again. Always knowing in the back of your head that you could get seriously hurt if you don't keep a focused mind. In many ways, I feel like this sport has provided me with a strong outlook on life. This outlook will help me continue my career as an athlete, work hard as a student, and reach others with the gospel.”His gold medal vaults at state have been 14 feet (junior) and 15 feet (senior). His career best leap is&nbsp;15-7 1/2.“When I won pole vault for my second time jumping 15ft to capture state, it became another blessing God gave me,” Josiah said.Track, Josiah said, is important to him in two different ways.&nbsp;“First, it allows me to continue the goals I set for myself when I was younger. This occurred when I saw my oldest brother, Brandon Ball, win state four times in wrestling and once in pole vault and then continue his career, still being incredibly successful in college,” Josiah said. “Second, it's going to allow me to have an outreach to others so I can share the gospel with them. I believe God has provided this platform for me so I can point others toward Him, so I am very mindful of how I conduct myself in public and private.”“I see how far he has come and how he continues to live up to the expectations put in place by his 4 older brothers,” Cardinal teammate Ethan Grubb said. “I’m just proud to say I know him and his family is some of the nicest people I have ever met.”“I participated in track, cross country and wrestling with Josiah, and through all three of them he was a leader,” teammate Eli Lewis said. “He naturally leads people to become the best they can be in a sport, whether it benefits him personally or not. A big part of his leadership comes from his faith, which he puts second to nothing. Pointing people towards athletic excellence and toward God are the two biggest things that impressed me about Josiah's athletic career that I saw.”Josiah fielded offers in all divisions, including schools from California, Missouri, Iowa, New Mexico and South Dakota.&nbsp;“I wasn't very proactive in my search for colleges because I knew what I was looking for,” he said. “FHSU effectively offered all the things I cared about. I have had three of my four older brothers pursue sports in college and they all chose Fort Hays. I chose Fort Hays&nbsp;because it's close to home, affordable and the environment is awesome.&nbsp;I feel like it will give me great opportunities in the workplace, provide an avenue to get an affordable education, and all for plenty positive interactions with family and friends.”It also continues what his brothers started in their Tiger careers.“To me, it gives me the opportunity to try and keep up with my older brothers' accomplishments and continue the name on the back of our shirts in college,” Josiah said. “Also, this is another platform for me to speak the truth of Christ's life to others.”“Josiah is a born leader and has a work ethic that is unmatched by anyone I’ve met,” Wichita State vaulter Shellamae Farmer said. “He’s done an outstanding job leading this team and being a role model for the younger athletes on our team. Josiah has been my training partner since the beginning and has been one of my biggest supporters and inspirations.”How does he want to be remembered at Hoisington?“The last of the Ball’s, also some of Coach Schmidt's work. As well as the accomplishments we had as a family and individually,” Josiah said. “I also want to be remembered as a good teammate, truthful friend, someone respectable, hardworking, and accomplished, serving and loving others.”

Hoisington pole vault star headed to Fort Hays

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1701263164849.png" alt="Early Morning Sports with Rob Dreher for Tuesday, July 2nd." />
 <figcaption>Early Morning Sports with Rob Dreher for Tuesday, July 2nd.</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="July 2nd, 2024 Early Morning Sports" 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=m7u7w-16596d4-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=60a0c8&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=ff6d00" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

🎧 LISTEN: ⚾ Wichita Wind Surge blows out Tulsa; ⚾ Monarchs host Derby 

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The United States was eliminated from the Copa America with a 1-0 loss to Uruguay on a questionable second-half goal by Mathías Olivera, a defeat that will increase pressure on the U.S. Soccer Federation to remove coach Gregg Berhalter before the 2026 World Cup. Uruguay scored when Nicolas De La Cruz swung a free kick in front of the U.S. goal. Matt Turner parried a header by Ronald Araújo, who outjumped defender Tim Ream, but the rebound went right to Mathias Olivera and he tapped the ball in with his left foot. Olivera appeared to be offside on the initial header.

DALLAS (AP) — Klay Thompson is moving on from the Golden State Warriors, with the four-time league champion agreeing to join the Western Conference champion Dallas Mavericks and change franchises for the first time in his 13-year NBA career, according to two people with knowledge of the decision. ESPN and The Athletic first reported the multiteam deal, which as currently constructed will be executed as the sign-and-trade of a three-year, $50 million contract involving the Warriors, Mavericks and Charlotte Hornets, according to people who spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because the agreement has not been publicly announced. Thompson is sixth on the NBA’s all-time 3-pointers made list with 2,481.

UNDATED (AP) — Jayson Tatum has agreed to a five-year, $314 million contract extension to remain with the Boston Celtics, a person with knowledge of the situation told The Associated Press. The new pact will begin with the 2025-26 season and keep the five-time All-Star in Boston through 2029-30 season, according to the person who spoke on the condition of anonymity because it has not been announced. When completed Tatum’s new, “supermax” contract will become the largest in NBA history, supplanting the one signed last offseason by teammate Jaylen Brown, when he inked a five-year deal that will pay him up to $304 million.

NORMAN, Okla. (AP) — Bye-bye Big 12, hello SEC. Texas and Oklahoma finally made their long-awaited conference switch. Which meant it's time to party with campus carnivals and concerts The three-years-in-the-making switch to the Southeastern Conference for both programs became official Monday. And for their move to a league where “It Just Means More,” Texas and Oklahoma held big campus celebrations Sunday and Monday with carnivals, live music and fireworks. Oklahoma’s events even stretched statewide.

SALT LAKE CITY (AP) — Utah has designated longtime defensive coordinator Morgan Scalley as the “head coach in waiting” who will take over whenever Kyle Whittingham steps down. Athletic director Mark Harlan announced the succession plan on Monday. Scalley is entering his 17th year on Whittingham’s Utah staff and his ninth season as defensive coordinator. The 64-year-old Whittingham is entering his 20th season as Utah’s head coach as the Utes move from the Pac-12 to the Big 12. He owns a 162-79 record and holds the school record for career coaching victories.

LAS VEGAS (AP) — Former NFL coach Jon Gruden has lost a bid for three Nevada Supreme Court justices to reconsider whether a lawsuit he filed against the NFL after he resigned from the Las Vegas Raiders in 2021 should be heard in courts or in private arbitration. It wasn’t immediately clear whether Gruden will seek a hearing before the full state high court. Monday's decision was by three justices who previously heard the case. Attorneys for Gruden, the league and an NFL spokesman didn't respond to messages. Gruden sought a rehearing after justices split 2-1 in a May ruling that said the league can move the civil case into arbitration that might be overseen by a defendant, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1701494597443.png" alt="Sports Headlines and News for Tuesday, July 2nd, 2024." />
 <figcaption>Sports Headlines and News for Tuesday, July 2nd, 2024.</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="AP Sports Summary for July 2nd, 2024" 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=33325-165962d-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=60a0c8&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=ff6d00" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The United States was eliminated from the Copa America with a 1-0 loss to Uruguay on a questionable second-half goal by Mathías Olivera, a defeat that will increase pressure on the U.S. Soccer Federation to remove coach Gregg Berhalter before the 2026 World Cup. Uruguay scored when Nicolas De La Cruz swung a free kick in front of the U.S. goal. Matt Turner parried a header by Ronald Araújo, who outjumped defender Tim Ream, but the rebound went right to Mathias Olivera and he tapped the ball in with his left foot. Olivera appeared to be offside on the initial header.DALLAS (AP) — Klay Thompson is moving on from the Golden State Warriors, with the four-time league champion agreeing to join the Western Conference champion Dallas Mavericks and change franchises for the first time in his 13-year NBA career, according to two people with knowledge of the decision. ESPN and The Athletic first reported the multiteam deal, which as currently constructed will be executed as the sign-and-trade of a three-year, $50 million contract involving the Warriors, Mavericks and Charlotte Hornets, according to people who spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because the agreement has not been publicly announced. Thompson is sixth on the NBA’s all-time 3-pointers made list with 2,481.UNDATED (AP) — Jayson Tatum has agreed to a five-year, $314 million contract extension to remain with the Boston Celtics, a person with knowledge of the situation told The Associated Press. The new pact will begin with the 2025-26 season and keep the five-time All-Star in Boston through 2029-30 season, according to the person who spoke on the condition of anonymity because it has not been announced. When completed Tatum’s new, “supermax” contract will become the largest in NBA history, supplanting the one signed last offseason by teammate Jaylen Brown, when he inked a five-year deal that will pay him up to $304 million.NORMAN, Okla. (AP) — Bye-bye Big 12, hello SEC. Texas and Oklahoma finally made their long-awaited conference switch. Which meant it's time to party with campus carnivals and concerts The three-years-in-the-making switch to the Southeastern Conference for both programs became official Monday. And for their move to a league where “It Just Means More,” Texas and Oklahoma held big campus celebrations Sunday and Monday with carnivals, live music and fireworks. Oklahoma’s events even stretched statewide.SALT LAKE CITY (AP) — Utah has designated longtime defensive coordinator Morgan Scalley as the “head coach in waiting” who will take over whenever Kyle Whittingham steps down. Athletic director Mark Harlan announced the succession plan on Monday. Scalley is entering his 17th year on Whittingham’s Utah staff and his ninth season as defensive coordinator. The 64-year-old Whittingham is entering his 20th season as Utah’s head coach as the Utes move from the Pac-12 to the Big 12. He owns a 162-79 record and holds the school record for career coaching victories.LAS VEGAS (AP) — Former NFL coach Jon Gruden has lost a bid for three Nevada Supreme Court justices to reconsider whether a lawsuit he filed against the NFL after he resigned from the Las Vegas Raiders in 2021 should be heard in courts or in private arbitration. It wasn’t immediately clear whether Gruden will seek a hearing before the full state high court. Monday's decision was by three justices who previously heard the case. Attorneys for Gruden, the league and an NFL spokesman didn't respond to messages. Gruden sought a rehearing after justices split 2-1 in a May ruling that said the league can move the civil case into arbitration that might be overseen by a defendant, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell.MONDAY SCORESMAJOR LEAGUE BASEBALLAMERICAN LEAGUEFinal Houston 3 Toronto 1NATIONAL LEAGUEFinal N.Y. Mets 9 Washington 7

📢📰🎧 Sports Headlines for Tuesday

WICHITA, Kan.—The Wichita Wind Surge popped up in July and won 12-5 in the split series opener at Riverfront Stadium over the Tulsa Drillers. Wichita scored multiple runs in four different innings, including a six-run eighth that provided more than enough distance for the victory.

Jeferson Morales&nbsp;rocketed a double just out of reach of Jose Ramos near the center field wall to score&nbsp;Jake Rucker&nbsp;all the way from first in the bottom of the first. Morales would later score on a balk call in the following at-bat. Yeiner Fernandez responded for the Drillers in the next frame on a sacrifice fly to right field, cutting the lead in half to 2-1 Wind Surge.

Although Rucker and&nbsp;Aaron Sabato&nbsp;would string together a single and a double out of the infield in the bottom of the third,&nbsp;Carson McCusker&nbsp;brought both of them home on a ground-rule double that bounced over the wall in deep center to give Wichita a 4-1 advantage on his eighth and ninth RBIs across the seventh game of the current homestand, which takes the lead of the longest such stretch in team history.

Ben Ross&nbsp;and&nbsp;Luke Keaschall&nbsp;would combine to plate two more in the home half of the sixth on an error and a knock, neither of which left the infield. Six more runs for the Wind Surge came across in the bottom of the eighth on three hits, an error, and a groundout, combining to increase the lead up to 11. While Tulsa tallied four runs when down to their final outs in the ninth, the relief came too little too late as&nbsp;Miguel Rodriguez&nbsp;snagged a comebacker to secure the victory in the series opener.

Aaron Rozek&nbsp;is back with a positive record at 4-3 after the win. He threw for five innings and gave up an earned run on three hits and three walks while striking out six batters over 95 pitches.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1719918859402.jpeg" alt="Wind Surge beat Tulsa (photo courtesy of Wichita Wind Surge)" />
 <figcaption>Wind Surge beat Tulsa (photo courtesy of Wichita Wind Surge)</figcaption>
 </figure>WICHITA, Kan.—The Wichita Wind Surge popped up in July and won 12-5 in the split series opener at Riverfront Stadium over the Tulsa Drillers. Wichita scored multiple runs in four different innings, including a six-run eighth that provided more than enough distance for the victory.Jeferson Morales&nbsp;rocketed a double just out of reach of Jose Ramos near the center field wall to score&nbsp;Jake Rucker&nbsp;all the way from first in the bottom of the first. Morales would later score on a balk call in the following at-bat. Yeiner Fernandez responded for the Drillers in the next frame on a sacrifice fly to right field, cutting the lead in half to 2-1 Wind Surge.Although Rucker and&nbsp;Aaron Sabato&nbsp;would string together a single and a double out of the infield in the bottom of the third,&nbsp;Carson McCusker&nbsp;brought both of them home on a ground-rule double that bounced over the wall in deep center to give Wichita a 4-1 advantage on his eighth and ninth RBIs across the seventh game of the current homestand, which takes the lead of the longest such stretch in team history.Ben Ross&nbsp;and&nbsp;Luke Keaschall&nbsp;would combine to plate two more in the home half of the sixth on an error and a knock, neither of which left the infield. Six more runs for the Wind Surge came across in the bottom of the eighth on three hits, an error, and a groundout, combining to increase the lead up to 11. While Tulsa tallied four runs when down to their final outs in the ninth, the relief came too little too late as&nbsp;Miguel Rodriguez&nbsp;snagged a comebacker to secure the victory in the series opener.Aaron Rozek&nbsp;is back with a positive record at 4-3 after the win. He threw for five innings and gave up an earned run on three hits and three walks while striking out six batters over 95 pitches.

⚾ Wind Surge blows out Tulsa

HUTCHINSON, Kan. —The defending NBC World Series champion Hutchinson Monarchs will host the Derby Twins at Hobart-Detter Field in Carey Park Tuesday night with the first pitch scheduled for 7 p.m.

The Monarchs are slated for 20 home games with all 20 games set to be video streamed on <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/8dc5bdf3-e9a7-4011-9b4a-2b453688d13f">hutchpost.com</a> as well as on the <a href="http://www.monarchslive.tv">monarchslive.tv</a> channel. Sean Boston will have the play-by-play call with Matt Peterson providing the video stream sponsored by Mid-Way Motors.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1719826743004.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. —The defending NBC World Series champion Hutchinson Monarchs will host the Derby Twins at Hobart-Detter Field in Carey Park Tuesday night with the first pitch scheduled for 7 p.m.The Monarchs are slated for 20 home games with all 20 games set to be video streamed on <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/8dc5bdf3-e9a7-4011-9b4a-2b453688d13f">hutchpost.com</a> as well as on the <a href="http://www.monarchslive.tv">monarchslive.tv</a> channel. Sean Boston will have the play-by-play call with Matt Peterson providing the video stream sponsored by Mid-Way Motors.&nbsp;<div><iframe src="https://vcloud.hudl.com/broadcast/embed/1112188?autoplay=1" width="640" height="360" allow="fullscreen;" style="border:0;overflow:hidden;"></iframe></div>

⚾ WATCH LIVE! Hutch Monarchs host Derby Twins after all-star break

The Kansas City Chiefs are up for three ESPY Awards.

The ESPYs will be broadcast live at 8 p.m. ET/PT on July 11 from Los Angeles.

The Kansas City Chiefs are up for three ESPY Awards.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">The Chiefs are up for three awards at this year&#39;s ESPYs: 🏆 Best Team 🏆 Best Male Athlete (Patrick Mahomes) 🏆 Best NFL Player (Patrick Mahomes) Cast your vote here! ➡️ <a href="https://t.co/Ach8rIQNBq">https://t.co/Ach8rIQNBq</a> <a href="https://t.co/kmXv6Og8OD">pic.twitter.com/kmXv6Og8OD</a>&mdash; Matt McMullen (@KCChiefs_Matt) <a href="https://twitter.com/KCChiefs_Matt/status/1806354953092379064?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 27, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The ESPYs will be broadcast live at 8 p.m. ET/PT on July 11 from Los Angeles.

🏈 Chiefs up for three ESPYs

Goodland High School Tight End Linkon Cure has committed to the Kansas State Wildcats.

Cure is the highest rated recruit ever to commit to K-State out of high school.

Goodland High School Tight End Linkon Cure has committed to the Kansas State Wildcats.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Linkon Cure (Goodland HS ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ TE 2025) making his commitment to Kansas State. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/sportsinkansas?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#sportsinkansas</a> <a href="https://t.co/fyuX4Onc4z">pic.twitter.com/fyuX4Onc4z</a>&mdash; Sports in Kansas (@sportsinkansas) <a href="https://twitter.com/sportsinkansas/status/1807914268349575483?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 1, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Cure is the highest rated recruit ever to commit to K-State out of high school.

🏈 K-State lands Cure at TE

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1719858404654.png" alt="Photo Courtesy Kansas Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Kansas Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure><div>Kansas Athletics
 
EUGENE, Ore.&nbsp;- Former Kansas Track and Field standout Bryce Hoppel took the gold medal at the 2024 US Olympic Track and Field Trials, qualifying for the 2024 Paris Olympics with his victory. Hoppel, the Midland, Texas native, ran a 1:42.77 in the men&apos;s 800m final, which was good for first place overall and a new US Olympic Trials event record.&nbsp; Current Jayhawk Distance Coach Michael Whittlesey coached Hoppel while he was running at Kansas, and continues to coach the now-professional adidas runner. Whittlesey and Hoppel will join Head Coach&nbsp;<dfn style="text-align: start;color: rgb(73, 73, 73);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 16px;"><a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/track-and-field/roster/coaches/stanley-redwine/197" rel="smarttag" style="color: rgb(0, 81, 186);">Stanley Redwine</a></dfn>, who was named the Team USA Olympic Men&apos;s Track and Field Head Coach, in Paris starting on July 26.&nbsp; Other Olympic-bound Jayhawks include&nbsp;<dfn style="text-align: start;color: rgb(73, 73, 73);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 16px;"><a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/track-and-field/roster/michael-joseph/4018" rel="smarttag" style="color: rgb(0, 81, 186);">Michael Joseph</a></dfn>, a current member of the Kansas Track and Field team who will be representing his home country of Saint Lucia in the men&apos;s 400m. Recently-graduated&nbsp;<dfn style="text-align: start;color: rgb(73, 73, 73);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 16px;"><a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/track-and-field/roster/yoveinny-mota/12630" rel="smarttag" style="color: rgb(0, 81, 186);">Yoveinny Mota</a></dfn>&nbsp;will also be in Paris, running the women&apos;s 100m hurdles for Venezuela.&nbsp;</div>

👟 KU's Hoppel wins U.S. Olympic Trials, qualifies for Paris 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1719856142919.png" alt="Photo Courtesy Kansas Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Kansas Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure><div>Kansas Athletics
 
LAWRENCE, Kan. --&nbsp;Kansas football head coach&nbsp;<dfn style="text-align: start;color: rgb(73, 73, 73);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 16px;"><a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/football/roster/coaches/lance-leipold/116" rel="smarttag" style="color: rgb(0, 81, 186);">Lance Leipold</a></dfn>, quarterback&nbsp;<dfn style="text-align: start;color: rgb(73, 73, 73);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 16px;"><a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/football/roster/jalon-daniels/1362" rel="smarttag" style="color: rgb(0, 81, 186);">Jalon Daniels</a></dfn>, running back&nbsp;<dfn style="text-align: start;color: rgb(73, 73, 73);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 16px;"><a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/football/roster/devin-neal/1356" rel="smarttag" style="color: rgb(0, 81, 186);">Devin Neal</a></dfn>, cornerback&nbsp;<dfn style="text-align: start;color: rgb(73, 73, 73);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 16px;"><a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/football/roster/mello-dotson/1352" rel="smarttag" style="color: rgb(0, 81, 186);">Mello Dotson</a></dfn>&nbsp;and defensive end&nbsp;<dfn style="text-align: start;color: rgb(73, 73, 73);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 16px;"><a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/football/roster/jereme-robinson/1545" rel="smarttag" style="color: rgb(0, 81, 186);">Jereme Robinson</a></dfn>&nbsp;will preview the 2024 football season at Big 12 Big 12 Media Days at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, Nevada on July 10. &nbsp; Big 12 Media Days is a two-day event, beginning on Tuesday, July 9 with portions streaming live on ESPN+ and televised on ESPNU. Kansas will participate in Big 12 Media Days on Wednesday, July 10, along with Arizona, Baylor, BYU, Colorado, Houston, UCF and West Virginia. &nbsp; Arizona State, Cincinnati, Iowa State, Kansas State, Oklahoma State, TCU, Texas Tech and Utah will take the state on July 9. &nbsp; Leipold, Daniels, Neal, Dotson and Robinson will meet with the media in various capacities throughout the day on Wednesday, including appearances on ESPNU at 1:05 p.m. CT while Leipold will hold his press conference at 1:20 p.m. Leipold&apos;s press conference will stream live on Big 12 Now on ESPN+. &nbsp; Kansas enters the 2024 season following back-to-back bowl appearances for the second time in program history and the first time since 2007-08. The Jayhawks finished the season at 9-4, the most wins by a Kansas team since 2007, and return a star-studded roster entering the 2024 season. &nbsp; The Jayhawks will play all six home games in the Kansas City Metro area as work continues on the University of Kansas Gateway District. Fans can purchase the 2024 Kansas Football 4-game season ticket package that includes all home games at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. The season ticket package features prices starting as low as $230 for general stadium seating. &nbsp; Other ticket options include the popular Family Zone as well as available Premium Seating opportunities. Purchasing a 4-game season ticket package also continues to enhance your priority to pick seats in the reimagined David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium for the 2025 season. 6-game season ticket packages which include the first two games at Children&apos;s Mercy Park are sold out. &nbsp; Single game tickets to the contest played at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium will become available early-August. For those interested in getting more information from the Kansas Athletics Ticket Office on ticket options for the 2024 season, please click&nbsp;<a href="https://nam10.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fforms.fanthreesixty.com%2F2024_ticket_interest_form_waitlist%3Fmnemonic%3Dku&data=05%7C02%7Caeisch%40ku.edu%7Cd748b4c1c5bf4bfddc8c08dc80be5e45%7C3c176536afe643f5b96636feabbe3c1a%7C0%7C0%7C638526802323652401%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=IdmPDEfO8pri9eSwmXh2B6pP0QLQw5lDg%2BiuLOvRaeA%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 announces representatives for Big 12 Media Days in Vegas

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1719845873630.png" alt="Photo Courtesy Wichita State Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Wichita State Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure><div>Wichita State Athletics
 
WICHITA, Kan. --&nbsp;The Wichita State women&apos;s bowling program officially became an NCAA Division 1 program on Monday, joining Conference USA as an affiliate member for the 2024-25 season. The NCAA does not sponsor men&apos;s bowling as a sport, so the Wichita State men&apos;s bowling program will continue to compete as normal with support from the Rhatigan Student Center. The addition of Wichita State increases current league membership to 10 schools, as the Shockers join Arkansas State, Jacksonville State, Louisiana Tech, Sam Houston, Stephen F. Austin, Tulane, Valparaiso, Vanderbilt and Youngstown State as members of Conference USA. Though only officially joining the NCAA ranks in 2024, the Wichita State women&apos;s bowling program has been a national powerhouse in collegiate bowling for more than four decades. The Shockers have won a record 11 Intercollegiate Team Championship (ITC) national titles, most recently in 2024 when WSU defeated NCAA champion Jacksonville State. Wichita State also won&nbsp;national titles in 1975, 1977, 1978, 1986, 1990, 1994, 2005, 2007, 2009, and 2021.&nbsp;As part of the transition to an NCAA sport, Wichita State will no longer take part in ITC competition.&nbsp;The WSU&nbsp;women&apos;s team is the only squad&nbsp;in intercollegiate bowling history to be ranked in the International Bowling Media Association (IBMA) top 10 in&nbsp;every poll since the poll&apos;s inception. Individually, six Shockers have won Intercollegiate Singles Championships: Sara Duque (2024),&nbsp;<dfn style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-size: 16px;"><a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/womens-bowling/roster/paige-wagner/9008" rel="smarttag" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Paige Wagner</a></dfn>&nbsp;(2023), Sydney Brummett (2017), Daniela Alvarado (2009), Elysia Current (2007) and Olivia Sandham (2006). The Shockers also boast a long list of alums who have gone on to professional success internationally and on the PWBA circuit, including Dasha Kovalova, Rocio Restrepo, Clara Guerrero, Elysia Current, Sandara Gongora and Jazreel Tan. Former Shocker All-American&nbsp;<dfn style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-size: 16px;"><a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/womens-bowling/roster/coaches/holly-harris/1235" rel="smarttag" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Holly Harris</a></dfn>&nbsp;will continue as head coach of the program as she transitions it into NCAA Division I. She has served as head coach of the club program since June of 2019 and is a four-time National Collegiate Bowling Coaches Association Coach of the Year finalist. Before becoming head coach, Harris served as assistant coach of the program from August of 2016-June of 2019 and helped lead the team to a third-place finish at the 2017 National Tournament and a ninth-place finish in 2018. Harris competed for the Shockers from 2010-14, including three collegiate national championship appearances and two final four finishes. She was a two-time NCBCA All-American, two-time member of Junior Team USA, a 2014 Team USA member and earned four gold medals at the 2012 Tournament of Americas.</div>

🎳 WSU women's team becomes NCAA DI program

Rusty Laverentz is the new assistant athletic director at Hutchinson Community College.

Laverentz’s main duties will be NJCAA compliance as well as game-operations and concessions at Gowans Stadium and the Hutchinson Sports Arena.

“I am excited to add Rusty Laverentz to our Athletic Administrative team,” Blue Dragon Athletic Director Josh Gooch said. “His extensive background as a coach and then his experience in administration will be an asset to the Blue Dragon Athletic Department.”

Laverentz came to Hutchinson after serving two years as the athletic director at Missouri State University-West Plains in West Plains, Missouri. Before West Plains, Laverentz was the assistant athletic director at Pratt Community College.

Before getting fully into athletic administration, Laverentz held several different positions at schools at the NCAA and NJCAA levels.

Before Pratt, Laverentz served as the director of basketball operations for the University of Texas-Rio Grande Valley women’s basketball team. Laverentz also served in the same capacity for the University of Houston’s women’s basketball team.

Laverentz has also been a head basketball coach at the NJCAA level, most recently at Connors State College in 2014-15. He was also the head coach at New Mexico Junior College from 2005-07 following five seasons as an assistant coach.

Laverentz began his coaching career as a student assistant with the women’s basketball team at Missouri Western State while playing baseball from 1993-96.

After earning his Bachelor of Science in Physical Education, Laverentz became a graduate assistant at Arkansas State. He earned his Master of Science in Physical Education in 1998 and then stayed on one more season as a volunteer assistant coach.

Laverentz takes over for Steve Kappenman, who is now the Activities Director at Hutchinson High School.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1719845707519.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy HutchCC Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy HutchCC Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>HutchCCRusty Laverentz is the new assistant athletic director at Hutchinson Community College.Laverentz’s main duties will be NJCAA compliance as well as game-operations and concessions at Gowans Stadium and the Hutchinson Sports Arena.“I am excited to add Rusty Laverentz to our Athletic Administrative team,” Blue Dragon Athletic Director Josh Gooch said. “His extensive background as a coach and then his experience in administration will be an asset to the Blue Dragon Athletic Department.”Laverentz came to Hutchinson after serving two years as the athletic director at Missouri State University-West Plains in West Plains, Missouri. Before West Plains, Laverentz was the assistant athletic director at Pratt Community College.Before getting fully into athletic administration, Laverentz held several different positions at schools at the NCAA and NJCAA levels.Before Pratt, Laverentz served as the director of basketball operations for the University of Texas-Rio Grande Valley women’s basketball team. Laverentz also served in the same capacity for the University of Houston’s women’s basketball team.Laverentz has also been a head basketball coach at the NJCAA level, most recently at Connors State College in 2014-15. He was also the head coach at New Mexico Junior College from 2005-07 following five seasons as an assistant coach.Laverentz began his coaching career as a student assistant with the women’s basketball team at Missouri Western State while playing baseball from 1993-96.After earning his Bachelor of Science in Physical Education, Laverentz became a graduate assistant at Arkansas State. He earned his Master of Science in Physical Education in 1998 and then stayed on one more season as a volunteer assistant coach.Laverentz takes over for Steve Kappenman, who is now the Activities Director at Hutchinson High School.

HutchCC names Laverentz new assistant athletic director

KSHOF announces 2024 induction class

By MIKE COURSON Great Bend Post

A few things usually have to happen to make the U.S. track and field team for the Olympic games. Athletes must hit a standard to qualify for the U.S. team trials, which were held at the University of Oregon's Hayward Field through Sunday. Athletes must finish in the top three of their event to make the U.S. Olympic team. To actually compete in Paris later this summer, athletes must also meet an Olympic standard. The latter will cost Sterling's Tyus Wilson the opportunity to compete in Paris. According to <a href="https://www.sportingnews.com/us/olympics/news/usa-olympic-track-and-field-team-2024-roster-paris/a282be8d34b1ff9d3210b39e">Sporting News</a>, the U.S. will take just two high jumpers to France, including JuVaughn Harrison, the fourth-place finisher at the trials.

Wilson, a three-time state champion while at Sterling High School, surpassed the U.S. trials "A" Standard of 2.23m at the Drake Relays in Des Moines, Iowa on April 26. He again cleared 7 feet, 5 inches (2.26m) at the Shocker Open in Wichita on May 3. He went even higher to 7-6 (2.29m) to win the Big 10 championship in Michigan on May 12. Wilson cleared 2.23m to finish second at the NCAA National Championships in Oregon on June 7. Entering the trials in Oregon, however, he was still just shy of the Olympic "A" standard of 2.33m (7-7.75).

Just two American high jumpers had met the Olympic standard heading into Thursday's first round in Oregon. With a miss at 7-2.25 (2.19m), Wilson still made the finals alongside fellow Kansas-native Devin Loudermilk, a former West Elk standout now competing at the University of Kansas.

During Sunday's Olympic trial finals, Wilson was perfect on three attempts through 2.24m. He missed three tries at 2.27m (7-5.25). Arkansas-Pine Bluff's Caleb Snowden set a personal best by clearing 2.27m on his final attempt to move past Wilson into second. Shelby McEwen, already with the Olympic standard, was perfect through 7-6.5, passed at 7-7.5, and missed three attempts at 7-8.75. Harrison, the only other jumper with the Olympic standard, missed his first attempt at 2.24m to finish fourth behind Wilson.

Because only one of the top three finishers Sunday had the Olympic standard, the conversation turned to world rankings. There were 33 high jumpers in the 2020 Olympic Games in Tokyo. Wilson is currently ranked No. 49 in the world.&nbsp;

The move to include Harrison on the U.S. Olympic team is a slight departure from what track fans saw with an earlier race. On June 21, reigning Olympic champion Athing Mu posted a 2.01.73 in the women's 800m race to qualify for the trial semifinals. She ran a 1:58.84 to win her semifinal heat on Sunday. She tripped in Monday's finale to place ninth in 2:19.69. Despite an appeal, she was excluded from this year's U.S. Olympic team. She is ranked No. 8 in the world.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1719842803044.jpeg" alt="Sterling's Tyus Wilson finished third at the U.S. Track and Field Olympic Trials in Eugene, Ore. Sunday but was not named to the U.S. Olympic team." />
 <figcaption>Sterling's Tyus Wilson finished third at the U.S. Track and Field Olympic Trials in Eugene, Ore. Sunday but was not named to the U.S. Olympic team.</figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostA few things usually have to happen to make the U.S. track and field team for the Olympic games. Athletes must hit a standard to qualify for the U.S. team trials, which were held at the University of Oregon's Hayward Field through Sunday. Athletes must finish in the top three of their event to make the U.S. Olympic team. To actually compete in Paris later this summer, athletes must also meet an Olympic standard. The latter will cost Sterling's Tyus Wilson the opportunity to compete in Paris. According to <a href="https://www.sportingnews.com/us/olympics/news/usa-olympic-track-and-field-team-2024-roster-paris/a282be8d34b1ff9d3210b39e">Sporting News</a>, the U.S. will take just two high jumpers to France, including JuVaughn Harrison, the fourth-place finisher at the trials.Wilson, a three-time state champion while at Sterling High School, surpassed the U.S. trials "A" Standard of 2.23m at the Drake Relays in Des Moines, Iowa on April 26. He again cleared 7 feet, 5 inches (2.26m) at the Shocker Open in Wichita on May 3. He went even higher to 7-6 (2.29m) to win the Big 10 championship in Michigan on May 12. Wilson cleared 2.23m to finish second at the NCAA National Championships in Oregon on June 7. Entering the trials in Oregon, however, he was still just shy of the Olympic "A" standard of 2.33m (7-7.75).Just two American high jumpers had met the Olympic standard heading into Thursday's first round in Oregon. With a miss at 7-2.25 (2.19m), Wilson still made the finals alongside fellow Kansas-native Devin Loudermilk, a former West Elk standout now competing at the University of Kansas.During Sunday's Olympic trial finals, Wilson was perfect on three attempts through 2.24m. He missed three tries at 2.27m (7-5.25). Arkansas-Pine Bluff's Caleb Snowden set a personal best by clearing 2.27m on his final attempt to move past Wilson into second. Shelby McEwen, already with the Olympic standard, was perfect through 7-6.5, passed at 7-7.5, and missed three attempts at 7-8.75. Harrison, the only other jumper with the Olympic standard, missed his first attempt at 2.24m to finish fourth behind Wilson.Because only one of the top three finishers Sunday had the Olympic standard, the conversation turned to world rankings. There were 33 high jumpers in the 2020 Olympic Games in Tokyo. Wilson is currently ranked No. 49 in the world.&nbsp;The move to include Harrison on the U.S. Olympic team is a slight departure from what track fans saw with an earlier race. On June 21, reigning Olympic champion Athing Mu posted a 2.01.73 in the women's 800m race to qualify for the trial semifinals. She ran a 1:58.84 to win her semifinal heat on Sunday. She tripped in Monday's finale to place ninth in 2:19.69. Despite an appeal, she was excluded from this year's U.S. Olympic team. She is ranked No. 8 in the world.

Sterling's Wilson not headed to Olympics in high jump

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1701263164849.png" alt="Early Morning Sports with Rob Dreher for Monday, July 1st, 2024" />
 <figcaption>Early Morning Sports with Rob Dreher for Monday, July 1st, 2024</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="July 1st, 2024 Early Morning Sports" 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=m7jq8-165724c-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=60a0c8&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=ff6d00" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

🎧 LISTEN: ⚾ Royals take 3 of 4 from Guardians; ⚾  Wichita Winds Surge win over Northwest Arkansas

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Seth Lugo struck out 10 in six shutout innings to earn his major league-high 11th win, and Salvador Perez hit a two-run homer as the Kansas City Royals beat the Cleveland Guardians 6-2 on Sunday.

Bobby Witt Jr. had a run-scoring triple among his three hits for the Royals, who took three of four from the AL Central leaders. Vinnie Pasquantino also had three hits and an RBI.

Lugo (11-2) allowed four hits and one walk in his third straight start with eight or more strikeouts. It was his third double-digit strikeout game of the season.

“I thought it went pretty well,” Lugo said. “I was able to keep them off balance. ... Was able to stay focused and make the right pitches."

Perez had an RBI groundout in the first inning and added a two-run shot to left field that made it 6-0 in the seventh. He leads the Royals with 14 home runs.

“We need to do that kind of offense regularly against every type of team,” Kansas City manager Matt Quatraro said. “To get the early lead was nice and the two in the middle innings was nice, but the Perez home run was huge to expand the lead there."

Logan Allen (8-4) lasted 4 1/3 innings for the Guardians, giving up three runs and six hits with three strikeouts.

“I thought Allen battled today,” Guardians manager Stephen Vogt said. “Early in the game he was getting in tough counts, but he made pitches when he needed to and gave us a chance.”

Witt had his ninth three-hit game of the season. This one came after he went 0 for 4 on Saturday, which snapped a 23-game home hitting streak.

Garrett Hampson doubled home an early run for the Royals. Pasquantino finished the series with six RBIs.

Jose Ramírez put Cleveland on the board with a two-out RBI double in the eighth. That tied him with Hall of Fame slugger Jim Thome for third in franchise history with 620 extra-base hits. Josh Naylor followed with an RBI single.

Bo Naylor had three hits for the Guardians, who finished 14-11 in June.

Kansas City went 12-15 in June, its first losing month this season. But it was the most wins in June for the club since racking up 17 in 2017.

Cleveland activated RHP Gavin Williams from the 60-day injured list and optioned struggling RHP Triston McKenzie to Triple-A Columbus. RHP Darren McCaughan was designated for assignment.

“It was a tough day for all of us,” Vogt said. “We love Triston. We need him here; we want him to be here. He is ready to go down, put his head down and work.”

Guardians: Carlos Carrasco (3-6, 5.27 ERA) pitches Tuesday at home against the Chicago White Sox.

Royals: Continue a 10-game homestand Tuesday against Tampa Bay. Kansas City had not announced a scheduled starter.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1717239521858.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Seth Lugo struck out 10 in six shutout innings to earn his major league-high 11th win, and Salvador Perez hit a two-run homer as the Kansas City Royals beat the Cleveland Guardians 6-2 on Sunday.Bobby Witt Jr. had a run-scoring triple among his three hits for the Royals, who took three of four from the AL Central leaders. Vinnie Pasquantino also had three hits and an RBI.Lugo (11-2) allowed four hits and one walk in his third straight start with eight or more strikeouts. It was his third double-digit strikeout game of the season.“I thought it went pretty well,” Lugo said. “I was able to keep them off balance. ... Was able to stay focused and make the right pitches."Perez had an RBI groundout in the first inning and added a two-run shot to left field that made it 6-0 in the seventh. He leads the Royals with 14 home runs.“We need to do that kind of offense regularly against every type of team,” Kansas City manager Matt Quatraro said. “To get the early lead was nice and the two in the middle innings was nice, but the Perez home run was huge to expand the lead there."Logan Allen (8-4) lasted 4 1/3 innings for the Guardians, giving up three runs and six hits with three strikeouts.“I thought Allen battled today,” Guardians manager Stephen Vogt said. “Early in the game he was getting in tough counts, but he made pitches when he needed to and gave us a chance.”Witt had his ninth three-hit game of the season. This one came after he went 0 for 4 on Saturday, which snapped a 23-game home hitting streak.Garrett Hampson doubled home an early run for the Royals. Pasquantino finished the series with six RBIs.Jose Ramírez put Cleveland on the board with a two-out RBI double in the eighth. That tied him with Hall of Fame slugger Jim Thome for third in franchise history with 620 extra-base hits. Josh Naylor followed with an RBI single.Bo Naylor had three hits for the Guardians, who finished 14-11 in June.Kansas City went 12-15 in June, its first losing month this season. But it was the most wins in June for the club since racking up 17 in 2017.ROSTER MOVESCleveland activated RHP Gavin Williams from the 60-day injured list and optioned struggling RHP Triston McKenzie to Triple-A Columbus. RHP Darren McCaughan was designated for assignment.“It was a tough day for all of us,” Vogt said. “We love Triston. We need him here; we want him to be here. He is ready to go down, put his head down and work.”UP NEXTGuardians: Carlos Carrasco (3-6, 5.27 ERA) pitches Tuesday at home against the Chicago White Sox.Royals: Continue a 10-game homestand Tuesday against Tampa Bay. Kansas City had not announced a scheduled starter.

⚾ Lugo gets MLB-high 11th win Sunday for Royals

Simone Biles headlines a U.S. women's gymnastics team eyeing redemption at the Paris Olympics

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Simone Biles is heading back to the Olympics. The gymnastics star clinched an automatic spot on the five-woman U.S. team by breezing to victory at the Olympic trials. Biles posted a two-day total of 117.225 in what was essentially a tuneup before the games. The 2016 Olympic champion appears as good as ever at age 27. Biles is returning to the spotlight three years after pulling herself out of multiple finals at the 2020 Games to focus on her mental health. Biles says she isn't worried about history repeating itself in Paris.

Paul George will leave the Clippers. Also, Caldwell-Pope to Magic, CP3 to Spurs, AP sources say

Paul George is leaving the Los Angeles Clippers, his now-former team announced Sunday night, with all signs pointing to the nine-time All-Star perhaps returning to the Eastern Conference and joining the Philadelphia 76ers. George could command more than $200 million over four years if his next contract is for max value. Also, Chris Paul is headed to San Antonio to team up with rookie of the year Victor Wembanyama, James Harden is staying with the Clippers, Kevin Love remains in Miami and Kentavious Caldwell-Pope is off to Orlando.

Texas Rangers rookie Wyatt Langford becomes the 1st major leaguer to hit for the cycle in 2024

BALTIMORE (AP) — Texas Rangers rookie Wyatt Langford has hit for the cycle in Baltimore, completing the feat with a three-run homer down the left-field line in the eighth inning. It was the first career four-hit game for the 22-year-old Langford, who was drafted last year by the Rangers with the No. 4 overall pick and made a swift rise to the majors to make Texas' opening-day roster this season. It was the first cycle in the major leagues in 2024. Langford tripled in the fourth, doubled in the fifth and singled in the sixth.

McLaughlin-Levrone sends pre-Olympic jolt running 50.65 to break world record (again) in 400 hurdles

EUGENE, Ore. (AP) — Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone lowered her world record once again, running the 400-meter hurdles in 50.65 seconds Sunday to win the U.S. Olympic trials. In only her fourth race of the season, the 24-year-old defending Olympic champion cleared all 10 barriers with ease, then went on a dead sprint to the line to break the record for the fifth time, four of which have now come on track at University of Oregon's Hayward Field. She held her hand over her mouth and stared in amazement when she saw the time. The mark was .03 seconds better than her run in the 2022 world championships.

All-Star Paul George set to join 76ers on a $212 million free-agent deal, AP source says

PHILADELPHIA (AP) — Paul George and the Philadelphia 76ers have agreed to a four-year, $212 million free-agent deal, a person with knowledge of the deal said Monday. George intends to sign the contract shortly after the league's moratorium on signings is lifted July 6, said the person, who spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because the deal cannot be announced until that time. George picked Philadelphia after he spurned the Los Angeles Clippers and declined a player option in his contract for $48.7 million for 2024-205. That ended a five-year stretch with the team, where he averaged at least 21.5 points each season. George has averaged 20.8 points over a 14-year career spent with Indiana, Oklahoma City and the Clippers.

Joey Logano wins at Nashville in record 5th overtime for 1st NASCAR Cup Series victory of year

LEBANON, Tenn. (AP) — Joey Logano won the rain-delayed race at Nashville Superspeedway in a NASCAR Cup Series-record fifth overtime Sunday night, stretching his fuel enough to hold off a group of pursuers at the finish line. Logano held off a charge by Tyler Reddick, then beat Zane Smith, Reddick, Ryan Preece and Chris Buescher to the line in the race that started nearly six hours earlier and went 31 laps longer than the 300 that were scheduled. The fuel light in Logano's Ford came on going into Turn 3, and Logano — who ran the last 110 laps without stopping on the 1.33-mile concrete oval — said it stumbled across the line. Logano won for the first time this year, pushing his career tital to 33.

Wimbledon is set to start with Carlos Alcaraz, Emma Raducanu and Coco Gauff on the schedule

WIMBLEDON, England (AP) — The 2024 edition of Wimbledon is scheduled to start with defending champion Carlos Alcaraz and past Grand Slam title winners Coco Gauff and Emma Raducanu involved in matches at Centre Court. Alcaraz just won his third major championship at the French Open three weeks ago. He defeated Novak Djokovic in last year's final at Wimbledon. Alcaraz faces qualifier Mark Lajal of Estonia on Monday at the All England Club. Raducanu won the 2021 U.S. Open at age 18, but she has been dealing with various injuries since then. She meets No. 22 seed Ekaterina Alexandrova on Day 1. Gauff closes out the day's schedule in the main stadium against Caroline Dolehide in an all-American matchup.

With England survival at stake, Jude Bellingham creates one of the great moments of Euro 2024

GELSENKIRCHEN, Germany (AP) — England has advanced to the quarterfinals of the European Championship after Jude Bellingham scored a stunning overhead kick in the fifth minute of stoppage time to spark a 2-1 comeback win after extra time against Slovakia. Bellingham's overhead kick leveled the round-of-16 game at 1-1 with seconds remaining at the Veltins Arena. Harry Kane headed in the winner in the first minute of extra time as England avoided one of the biggest shocks in the history of the Euros. Ivan Schranz scored in the first half for Slovakia and his goal looked like being enough to eliminate England, which was one of the pre-tournament favorites and runner-up at the last Euros. England will play Switzerland in the quarterfinals.

Pistons and coach J.B. Bickerstaff agree on 4-year contract with team option for 5th, AP source says

DETROIT (AP) — The Detroit Pistons have agreed to a four-year contract with coach J.B. Bickerstaff with a team option for a fifth season, according to a person familiar with the situation. The person spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity Sunday because the agreement had not been announced. The Cleveland Cavaliers fired Bickerstaff in May after they lost to Boston in the Eastern Conference semifinals despite them winning 99 games over two years. The Pistons fired coach Monty Williams one season into a six-year, $78.5 million contract after they had the NBA's worst record for a second straight year.

American winger Tim Weah's suspension extended to 2 games for red card against Panama

NEW YORK (AP) — The suspension of American winger Tim Weah was extended to two games by South American soccer's governing body for punching Panama's Roderick Miller during their Copa American group stage match Thursday. Weah received a red card in the 18th minute of the United States' 2-1 loss, resulting in an automatic one-game suspension. The Confederation of South American Football says Weah been suspended for a second game and fined $3,000 by a judge of its disciplinary commission. The money is to be deducted from the U.S. Soccer Federation's payment from CONMEBOL for television, participation and/or prize money.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1701494597443.png" alt="Sports Headlines and News for Monday, July 1st, 2024" />
 <figcaption>Sports Headlines and News for Monday, July 1st, 2024</figcaption>
 </figure>AP Sports Summary for July 1st, 2024:<div><iframe title="AP Sports in a Minute for July 1st, 2024" 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=e9tyy-1657007-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=60a0c8&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=ff6d00" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>Simone Biles headlines a U.S. women's gymnastics team eyeing redemption at the Paris OlympicsMINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Simone Biles is heading back to the Olympics. The gymnastics star clinched an automatic spot on the five-woman U.S. team by breezing to victory at the Olympic trials. Biles posted a two-day total of 117.225 in what was essentially a tuneup before the games. The 2016 Olympic champion appears as good as ever at age 27. Biles is returning to the spotlight three years after pulling herself out of multiple finals at the 2020 Games to focus on her mental health. Biles says she isn't worried about history repeating itself in Paris.Paul George will leave the Clippers. Also, Caldwell-Pope to Magic, CP3 to Spurs, AP sources sayPaul George is leaving the Los Angeles Clippers, his now-former team announced Sunday night, with all signs pointing to the nine-time All-Star perhaps returning to the Eastern Conference and joining the Philadelphia 76ers. George could command more than $200 million over four years if his next contract is for max value. Also, Chris Paul is headed to San Antonio to team up with rookie of the year Victor Wembanyama, James Harden is staying with the Clippers, Kevin Love remains in Miami and Kentavious Caldwell-Pope is off to Orlando.Texas Rangers rookie Wyatt Langford becomes the 1st major leaguer to hit for the cycle in 2024BALTIMORE (AP) — Texas Rangers rookie Wyatt Langford has hit for the cycle in Baltimore, completing the feat with a three-run homer down the left-field line in the eighth inning. It was the first career four-hit game for the 22-year-old Langford, who was drafted last year by the Rangers with the No. 4 overall pick and made a swift rise to the majors to make Texas' opening-day roster this season. It was the first cycle in the major leagues in 2024. Langford tripled in the fourth, doubled in the fifth and singled in the sixth.McLaughlin-Levrone sends pre-Olympic jolt running 50.65 to break world record (again) in 400 hurdlesEUGENE, Ore. (AP) — Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone lowered her world record once again, running the 400-meter hurdles in 50.65 seconds Sunday to win the U.S. Olympic trials. In only her fourth race of the season, the 24-year-old defending Olympic champion cleared all 10 barriers with ease, then went on a dead sprint to the line to break the record for the fifth time, four of which have now come on track at University of Oregon's Hayward Field. She held her hand over her mouth and stared in amazement when she saw the time. The mark was .03 seconds better than her run in the 2022 world championships.All-Star Paul George set to join 76ers on a $212 million free-agent deal, AP source saysPHILADELPHIA (AP) — Paul George and the Philadelphia 76ers have agreed to a four-year, $212 million free-agent deal, a person with knowledge of the deal said Monday. George intends to sign the contract shortly after the league's moratorium on signings is lifted July 6, said the person, who spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because the deal cannot be announced until that time. George picked Philadelphia after he spurned the Los Angeles Clippers and declined a player option in his contract for $48.7 million for 2024-205. That ended a five-year stretch with the team, where he averaged at least 21.5 points each season. George has averaged 20.8 points over a 14-year career spent with Indiana, Oklahoma City and the Clippers.Joey Logano wins at Nashville in record 5th overtime for 1st NASCAR Cup Series victory of yearLEBANON, Tenn. (AP) — Joey Logano won the rain-delayed race at Nashville Superspeedway in a NASCAR Cup Series-record fifth overtime Sunday night, stretching his fuel enough to hold off a group of pursuers at the finish line. Logano held off a charge by Tyler Reddick, then beat Zane Smith, Reddick, Ryan Preece and Chris Buescher to the line in the race that started nearly six hours earlier and went 31 laps longer than the 300 that were scheduled. The fuel light in Logano's Ford came on going into Turn 3, and Logano — who ran the last 110 laps without stopping on the 1.33-mile concrete oval — said it stumbled across the line. Logano won for the first time this year, pushing his career tital to 33.Wimbledon is set to start with Carlos Alcaraz, Emma Raducanu and Coco Gauff on the scheduleWIMBLEDON, England (AP) — The 2024 edition of Wimbledon is scheduled to start with defending champion Carlos Alcaraz and past Grand Slam title winners Coco Gauff and Emma Raducanu involved in matches at Centre Court. Alcaraz just won his third major championship at the French Open three weeks ago. He defeated Novak Djokovic in last year's final at Wimbledon. Alcaraz faces qualifier Mark Lajal of Estonia on Monday at the All England Club. Raducanu won the 2021 U.S. Open at age 18, but she has been dealing with various injuries since then. She meets No. 22 seed Ekaterina Alexandrova on Day 1. Gauff closes out the day's schedule in the main stadium against Caroline Dolehide in an all-American matchup.With England survival at stake, Jude Bellingham creates one of the great moments of Euro 2024GELSENKIRCHEN, Germany (AP) — England has advanced to the quarterfinals of the European Championship after Jude Bellingham scored a stunning overhead kick in the fifth minute of stoppage time to spark a 2-1 comeback win after extra time against Slovakia. Bellingham's overhead kick leveled the round-of-16 game at 1-1 with seconds remaining at the Veltins Arena. Harry Kane headed in the winner in the first minute of extra time as England avoided one of the biggest shocks in the history of the Euros. Ivan Schranz scored in the first half for Slovakia and his goal looked like being enough to eliminate England, which was one of the pre-tournament favorites and runner-up at the last Euros. England will play Switzerland in the quarterfinals.Pistons and coach J.B. Bickerstaff agree on 4-year contract with team option for 5th, AP source saysDETROIT (AP) — The Detroit Pistons have agreed to a four-year contract with coach J.B. Bickerstaff with a team option for a fifth season, according to a person familiar with the situation. The person spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity Sunday because the agreement had not been announced. The Cleveland Cavaliers fired Bickerstaff in May after they lost to Boston in the Eastern Conference semifinals despite them winning 99 games over two years. The Pistons fired coach Monty Williams one season into a six-year, $78.5 million contract after they had the NBA's worst record for a second straight year.American winger Tim Weah's suspension extended to 2 games for red card against PanamaNEW YORK (AP) — The suspension of American winger Tim Weah was extended to two games by South American soccer's governing body for punching Panama's Roderick Miller during their Copa American group stage match Thursday. Weah received a red card in the 18th minute of the United States' 2-1 loss, resulting in an automatic one-game suspension. The Confederation of South American Football says Weah been suspended for a second game and fined $3,000 by a judge of its disciplinary commission. The money is to be deducted from the U.S. Soccer Federation's payment from CONMEBOL for television, participation and/or prize money.AP-ScorecardTODAY'S SPORTS SCHEDULE___INTERLEAGUEFinal	Tampa Bay	5	Washington	0	Final	Boston	4	San Diego	1	Final	Houston	10	N.Y. Mets	5	Final	Colorado	5	Chicago White Sox	4	Final	Arizona	5	Oakland	1	___AMERICAN LEAGUEFinal	N.Y. Yankees	8	Toronto	1	Final	Kansas City	6	Cleveland	2	Final	Detroit	7	L.A. Angels	6	Final	Minnesota	5	Seattle	3	Final	Texas	11	Baltimore	2	___NATIONAL LEAGUEFinal	Pittsburgh	4	Atlanta	2	Final	Milwaukee	7	Chicago Cubs	1	Final	St. Louis	2	Cincinnati	0	Final	Philadelphia	7	Miami	6	Final	San Francisco	10	L.A. Dodgers	4	___WOMEN'S NATIONAL BASKETBALL ASSOCIATIONFinal	New York	81	Atlanta	75	Final	Minnesota	70	Chicago	62	Final	Indiana	88	Phoenix	82	___

📢📰🎧 Sports Headlines for Monday

WICHITA, Kan.—The Wichita Wind Surge relied on clutch hitting in a 7-3 victory in the series finale over the Northwest Arkansas Naturals at Riverfront Stadium. Despite the game going back and forth in the middle innings, a five-run Wichita seventh provided the difference in this one, with all five runs coming across with two outs.

Tyler Tolbert hit a one-out double and swiped third before being stranded 90 feet away on back-to-back strikeouts by&nbsp;Cory Lewis. Runners would be in scoring position for both teams across the following three innings before Luca Tresh hit a two-run home run onto the left field berm in the top of the fifth to break the scoreless deadlock.

Jake Rucker&nbsp;improved his team-leading RBI number to 41 after pushing a single through the right side to score&nbsp;Dalton Shuffield&nbsp;from third in the bottom of the fifth when the Wind Surge had two outs. After loading the bases on three singles in the home half of the sixth,&nbsp;Noah Cardenas&nbsp;worked a seven-pitch walk to tie the game 2-2.

Dillan Shrum doubled home Peyton Wilson to put Northwest Arkansas ahead in the top of the seventh before a five-run Wichita seventh followed after the stretch.&nbsp;Carson McCusker&nbsp;smoked a double to the corner for the first two to come home;&nbsp;Tanner Schobel&nbsp;singled in another, and then&nbsp;Jorel Ortega&nbsp;tripled to the left-center alley for the final pair of tallies that the Wind Surge needed before&nbsp;Jared Solomon&nbsp;pitched a 1-2-3 inning in the top of the ninth to give Wichita a win in the series finale.

Cody Laweryson&nbsp;pitched two innings of relief en route to the victory in his first decision of the season. The 6-4 righty gave up an earned run on two hits and a walk while striking out two Naturals hitters.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719803692773.jpeg" alt="Wind Surge plate five in the 7th." />
 <figcaption>Wind Surge plate five in the 7th.</figcaption>
 </figure>WICHITA, Kan.—The Wichita Wind Surge relied on clutch hitting in a 7-3 victory in the series finale over the Northwest Arkansas Naturals at Riverfront Stadium. Despite the game going back and forth in the middle innings, a five-run Wichita seventh provided the difference in this one, with all five runs coming across with two outs.Tyler Tolbert hit a one-out double and swiped third before being stranded 90 feet away on back-to-back strikeouts by&nbsp;Cory Lewis. Runners would be in scoring position for both teams across the following three innings before Luca Tresh hit a two-run home run onto the left field berm in the top of the fifth to break the scoreless deadlock.Jake Rucker&nbsp;improved his team-leading RBI number to 41 after pushing a single through the right side to score&nbsp;Dalton Shuffield&nbsp;from third in the bottom of the fifth when the Wind Surge had two outs. After loading the bases on three singles in the home half of the sixth,&nbsp;Noah Cardenas&nbsp;worked a seven-pitch walk to tie the game 2-2.Dillan Shrum doubled home Peyton Wilson to put Northwest Arkansas ahead in the top of the seventh before a five-run Wichita seventh followed after the stretch.&nbsp;Carson McCusker&nbsp;smoked a double to the corner for the first two to come home;&nbsp;Tanner Schobel&nbsp;singled in another, and then&nbsp;Jorel Ortega&nbsp;tripled to the left-center alley for the final pair of tallies that the Wind Surge needed before&nbsp;Jared Solomon&nbsp;pitched a 1-2-3 inning in the top of the ninth to give Wichita a win in the series finale.Cody Laweryson&nbsp;pitched two innings of relief en route to the victory in his first decision of the season. The 6-4 righty gave up an earned run on two hits and a walk while striking out two Naturals hitters.

⚾ Wind Surge use big inning to win over Northwest Arkansas

Lyles pushed hard by Bednarek but wins 200 to keep hope of Olympic sprint double alive for Paris

EUGENE, Ore. (AP) — Noah Lyles kept his hopes for the sprint double at the Olympics alive Saturday night, coming from behind to win the 200 meters at the U.S. track trials in 19.53 seconds, the fastest time in the world this year. Lyles added the 200, his signature race and the distance at which he is a three-time world champion, to the 100 he won last weekend. It was no blowout, as Lyles had to race to the line to pass Kenny Bednarek with about 10 meters left and beat him by .06 seconds. Erriyon Knighton, racing for the first time this year at trials after being cleared after an investigation about eating drug-tainted meat, finished third and made his second Olympic team.

Germany beats Denmark 2-0 to advance to Euro 2024 quarterfinals after storm stops play

DORTMUND, Germany (AP) — Germany went from despair to delight in the space of a minute as a couple of big video review calls set the host nation on its way to a 2-0 win over Denmark and a place in the European Championship quarterfinals. Denmark defender Joachim Andersen had a goal disallowed for the narrowest of offside decisions in the 50th minute before giving away a penalty for handball on Germany's very next attack. Kai Havertz converted the spot kick and Jamal Musiala added a second goal in the 68th. The match was suspended for about 25 minutes in the first half because of a thunderstorm.

Switzerland knocks out defending champion Italy and advances to the Euro 2024 quarterfinals

BERLIN (AP) — Defending champion Italy has crashed out of the European Championship with a 2-0 defeat to Switzerland in Berlin. Goals in each half from Remo Freuler and Ruben Vargas gave the Swiss their first win over their southern neighbor for 31 years and set up a quarterfinal against England or Slovakia in Düsseldorf on July 6. Switzerland dominated in terms of possession, shots, attacks and passes. By the time Italy responded in the second half, the aggressive Swiss defense was able to deal with it, Coach Murat Yakin's game plan worked to perfection.

LeBron James intends to sign a new deal with the Lakers, AP source says

LeBron James is not opting into what would have been a $51.4 million contract for this coming season and will instead seek a new deal with the Los Angeles Lakers, according to a person with knowledge of the decision. The person spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity Saturday because neither James nor the Lakers revealed the decision publicly. The move is among those coming just ahead of the NBA's free agency period, which formally opens at 6 p.m. Eastern on Sunday, though at least $1.2 billion in contracts have already been agreed upon because of new rules that allowed teams to speak with their own players earlier than usual.

Ige called in hours before UFC 303 to replace ill fighter before close loss co-main event

LAS VEGAS (AP) — An illness forced Brian Ortega to withdraw Saturday hours before his scheduled fight with Diego Lopes in the co-main event at UFC 303. Dan Ige was called in as a replacement and narrowly loss by decision.. UFC President Dana White said the bout likely would have been called off if Ige hadn't been available. The match is the warm-up bout to the main event between light heavyweight champion Alex Pereira and top-ranked challenger Jiri Prochazka.

Novak Djokovic says his knee feels good and he wants to 'go for the title' at Wimbledon

WIMBLEDON, England (AP) — Novak Djokovic says his right knee has responded well after surgery to repair a torn meniscus less than a month ago and he considers himself ready to contend at Wimbledon. The grass-court Grand Slam tournament begins Monday, and Djokovic's first-round match is scheduled for Tuesday. Djokovic said Saturday that while he was very much in doubt of making it to Wimbledon after getting injured at the French Open on June 3, he is far more optimistic after a week of practices at the All England Club. He has won seven of his 24 Grand Slam trophies at Wimbledon.

Akshay Bhatia and Aaron Rai share lead for 2nd straight day at Rocket Mortgage Classic

DETROIT (AP) — Akshay Bhatia and Aaron Rai each shot 4-under 68 on Saturday to reach 17 under through three rounds and share the lead for the second straight day at the Rocket Mortgage Classic. Cam Davis and Cameron Young were a shot back at Detroit Golf Club. Sam Stevens and Erik van Rooyen were another stroke back. Amateur Luke Clanton, Min Woo Lee and Joel Dahmen were three shots behind the leaders, entering the final round Sunday. The round started a couple hours later than scheduled after more than an inch of rain soaked the course. The soggy conditions allowed players to lift, clean and place their golf balls in the fairways.

Utah Hockey Club makes NHL draft splashes by trading for Sergachev and Marino

LAS VEGAS (AP) — The Utah Hockey Club stole the show on the second day of the NHL draft by making two big trades in a matter of minutes. Utah acquired two-time Stanley Cup champion Mikhail Sergachev from Tampa Bay in a blockbuster and got fellow defenseman John Marino from New Jersey. The team formerly known as the Arizona Coyotes and relocated to Salt Lake City had more than $40 million of salary cap space to use before playing its first game in Utah. Owner Ryan Smith and general manager Bill Armstrong cautioned that the team would not spend wastefully in free agency, but making a splash means winning could come sooner than later.

Steven Stamkos remains on course to become a free agent, Lightning GM and agent confirm

Steven Stamkos is still on course to become a free agent even after the Tampa Bay Lightning cleared significant salary cap space with trades made at the NHL draft. General manager Julien BriseBois and agent Don Meehan independently confirmed their stances have not changed with respect to Stamkos signing a new contract with the club before free agency opens Monday. BriseBois said he did not increase his previous offer to Stamkos after trading two-time Stanley Cup-winning defenseman Mikhail Sergachev and depth forward Tanner Jeannot on Saturday. Stamkos at 34 becomes one of the top players available to the league's other 31 teams.

India wins the T20 World Cup after holding off South Africa by 7 runs in a gripping final

BRIDGETOWN, Barbados (AP) — India pulled off a sensational seven-run win against South Africa in a gripping final of the Twenty20 World Cup on Saturday. South Africa, playing its first ever final of an ICC tournament, needed a run-a-ball 30 to win on the back of Heinrich Klaasen's belligerent 52 off 27 balls. But Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh and Hardik Pandya, who shared seven wickets in between them, roared back in the death overs to restrict South Africa at 169-8. Kohli's first half-century at tournament, which he later revealed was his last T20 international game, anchored India to 176-7 after captain Rohit Sharma won the toss and elected to bat. India won its second T20 World Cup but its first world title in 13 years.

Here are the scores from yesterday's sports events:

Final	Sporting Kansas City	2	Austin FC	0	

		L-A Dodgers	at	San Francisco	4:05 p.m.	

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1701494597443.png" alt="Sports Headlines and News for Sunday, June 30th, 2024" />
 <figcaption>Sports Headlines and News for Sunday, June 30th, 2024</figcaption>
 </figure>AP Sports Summary for June 30th, 2024:Lyles pushed hard by Bednarek but wins 200 to keep hope of Olympic sprint double alive for ParisEUGENE, Ore. (AP) — Noah Lyles kept his hopes for the sprint double at the Olympics alive Saturday night, coming from behind to win the 200 meters at the U.S. track trials in 19.53 seconds, the fastest time in the world this year. Lyles added the 200, his signature race and the distance at which he is a three-time world champion, to the 100 he won last weekend. It was no blowout, as Lyles had to race to the line to pass Kenny Bednarek with about 10 meters left and beat him by .06 seconds. Erriyon Knighton, racing for the first time this year at trials after being cleared after an investigation about eating drug-tainted meat, finished third and made his second Olympic team.Germany beats Denmark 2-0 to advance to Euro 2024 quarterfinals after storm stops playDORTMUND, Germany (AP) — Germany went from despair to delight in the space of a minute as a couple of big video review calls set the host nation on its way to a 2-0 win over Denmark and a place in the European Championship quarterfinals. Denmark defender Joachim Andersen had a goal disallowed for the narrowest of offside decisions in the 50th minute before giving away a penalty for handball on Germany's very next attack. Kai Havertz converted the spot kick and Jamal Musiala added a second goal in the 68th. The match was suspended for about 25 minutes in the first half because of a thunderstorm.Switzerland knocks out defending champion Italy and advances to the Euro 2024 quarterfinalsBERLIN (AP) — Defending champion Italy has crashed out of the European Championship with a 2-0 defeat to Switzerland in Berlin. Goals in each half from Remo Freuler and Ruben Vargas gave the Swiss their first win over their southern neighbor for 31 years and set up a quarterfinal against England or Slovakia in Düsseldorf on July 6. Switzerland dominated in terms of possession, shots, attacks and passes. By the time Italy responded in the second half, the aggressive Swiss defense was able to deal with it, Coach Murat Yakin's game plan worked to perfection.LeBron James intends to sign a new deal with the Lakers, AP source saysLeBron James is not opting into what would have been a $51.4 million contract for this coming season and will instead seek a new deal with the Los Angeles Lakers, according to a person with knowledge of the decision. The person spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity Saturday because neither James nor the Lakers revealed the decision publicly. The move is among those coming just ahead of the NBA's free agency period, which formally opens at 6 p.m. Eastern on Sunday, though at least $1.2 billion in contracts have already been agreed upon because of new rules that allowed teams to speak with their own players earlier than usual.Ige called in hours before UFC 303 to replace ill fighter before close loss co-main eventLAS VEGAS (AP) — An illness forced Brian Ortega to withdraw Saturday hours before his scheduled fight with Diego Lopes in the co-main event at UFC 303. Dan Ige was called in as a replacement and narrowly loss by decision.. UFC President Dana White said the bout likely would have been called off if Ige hadn't been available. The match is the warm-up bout to the main event between light heavyweight champion Alex Pereira and top-ranked challenger Jiri Prochazka.Novak Djokovic says his knee feels good and he wants to 'go for the title' at WimbledonWIMBLEDON, England (AP) — Novak Djokovic says his right knee has responded well after surgery to repair a torn meniscus less than a month ago and he considers himself ready to contend at Wimbledon. The grass-court Grand Slam tournament begins Monday, and Djokovic's first-round match is scheduled for Tuesday. Djokovic said Saturday that while he was very much in doubt of making it to Wimbledon after getting injured at the French Open on June 3, he is far more optimistic after a week of practices at the All England Club. He has won seven of his 24 Grand Slam trophies at Wimbledon.Akshay Bhatia and Aaron Rai share lead for 2nd straight day at Rocket Mortgage ClassicDETROIT (AP) — Akshay Bhatia and Aaron Rai each shot 4-under 68 on Saturday to reach 17 under through three rounds and share the lead for the second straight day at the Rocket Mortgage Classic. Cam Davis and Cameron Young were a shot back at Detroit Golf Club. Sam Stevens and Erik van Rooyen were another stroke back. Amateur Luke Clanton, Min Woo Lee and Joel Dahmen were three shots behind the leaders, entering the final round Sunday. The round started a couple hours later than scheduled after more than an inch of rain soaked the course. The soggy conditions allowed players to lift, clean and place their golf balls in the fairways.Utah Hockey Club makes NHL draft splashes by trading for Sergachev and MarinoLAS VEGAS (AP) — The Utah Hockey Club stole the show on the second day of the NHL draft by making two big trades in a matter of minutes. Utah acquired two-time Stanley Cup champion Mikhail Sergachev from Tampa Bay in a blockbuster and got fellow defenseman John Marino from New Jersey. The team formerly known as the Arizona Coyotes and relocated to Salt Lake City had more than $40 million of salary cap space to use before playing its first game in Utah. Owner Ryan Smith and general manager Bill Armstrong cautioned that the team would not spend wastefully in free agency, but making a splash means winning could come sooner than later.Steven Stamkos remains on course to become a free agent, Lightning GM and agent confirmSteven Stamkos is still on course to become a free agent even after the Tampa Bay Lightning cleared significant salary cap space with trades made at the NHL draft. General manager Julien BriseBois and agent Don Meehan independently confirmed their stances have not changed with respect to Stamkos signing a new contract with the club before free agency opens Monday. BriseBois said he did not increase his previous offer to Stamkos after trading two-time Stanley Cup-winning defenseman Mikhail Sergachev and depth forward Tanner Jeannot on Saturday. Stamkos at 34 becomes one of the top players available to the league's other 31 teams.India wins the T20 World Cup after holding off South Africa by 7 runs in a gripping finalBRIDGETOWN, Barbados (AP) — India pulled off a sensational seven-run win against South Africa in a gripping final of the Twenty20 World Cup on Saturday. South Africa, playing its first ever final of an ICC tournament, needed a run-a-ball 30 to win on the back of Heinrich Klaasen's belligerent 52 off 27 balls. But Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh and Hardik Pandya, who shared seven wickets in between them, roared back in the death overs to restrict South Africa at 169-8. Kohli's first half-century at tournament, which he later revealed was his last T20 international game, anchored India to 176-7 after captain Rohit Sharma won the toss and elected to bat. India won its second T20 World Cup but its first world title in 13 years.AP-ScorecardHere are the scores from yesterday's sports events:___INTERLEAGUEFinal	Chicago White Sox	11	Colorado	3	Final	Arizona	3	Oakland	0	Final	Washington	8	Tampa Bay	1	Final	San Diego	11	Boston	1	Final	Houston	9	N.Y. Mets	6	___AMERICAN LEAGUEFinal	Toronto	9	N.Y. Yankees	3	Final	Cleveland	7	Kansas City	2	Final	Baltimore	6	Texas	5	Final	L.A. Angels	6	Detroit	5	Final	Minnesota	5	Seattle	1	___NATIONAL LEAGUEFinal	Cincinnati	9	St. Louis	4	Final	Chicago Cubs	5	Milwaukee	3	Final	Miami	3	Philadelphia	2	Final	Atlanta	2	Pittsburgh	1	Final	L.A. Dodgers	14	San Francisco	7	___WOMEN'S NATIONAL BASKETBALL ASSOCIATIONFinal	Las Vegas	88	Washington	77	Final	Seattle	97	Dallas	76	___MAJOR LEAGUE SOCCERFinal	Atlanta	2	Toronto FC	1	Final	CF Montréal	4	Philadelphia	2	Final	Columbus	5	New England	1	Final tie	D.C. United	2	New York	2	Final	Cincinnati	1	FC Dallas	0	Final	Houston	1	Charlotte FC	0	Final	Sporting Kansas City	2	Austin FC	0	Final	Miami	2	Nashville	1	Final	Vancouver	4	St Louis City	3	Final	Los Angeles FC	3	Colorado	0	Final	Portland	3	Minnesota	2	Final	LA Galaxy	3	San Jose	0	Final	Seattle	2	Chicago	1	___TODAY'S SPORTS SCHEDULE___INTERLEAGUE		San Diego	at	Boston	1:35 p.m.			Houston	at	N-Y Mets	1:40 p.m.			Washington	at	Tampa Bay	1:40 p.m.			Colorado	at	Chi White Sox	2:10 p.m.			Oakland	at	Arizona	4:10 p.m.	___AMERICAN LEAGUE		N-Y Yankees	at	Toronto	1:37 p.m.			Cleveland	at	Kansas City	2:10 p.m.			Detroit	at	L-A Angels	4:07 p.m.			Minnesota	at	Seattle	4:10 p.m.			Texas	at	Baltimore	7:10 p.m.	___NATIONAL LEAGUE		Pittsburgh	at	Atlanta	11:35 a.m.			Miami	at	Philadelphia	1:35 p.m.			Chi Cubs	at	Milwaukee	2:10 p.m.			Cincinnati	at	St. Louis	2:15 p.m.			L-A Dodgers	at	San Francisco	4:05 p.m.	___WOMEN'S NATIONAL BASKETBALL ASSOCIATION		Atlanta	at	New York	1 p.m.			Indiana	at	Phoenix	3 p.m.			Minnesota	at	Chicago	3 p.m.	___