KANSAS CITY, Mo. — In a battle of in-state rivals, the Kansas alumni team JHX Hoops edged out Kansas State’s Purple Reign in dramatic fashion, 59-57, on Monday night in the second round of The Basketball Tournament at Municipal Auditorium.

With a trip to the Sweet 16 on the line, former Jayhawk LaGerald Vick delivered the decisive blow, intercepting a crosscourt pass and racing coast-to-coast for the game-winning layup under TBT’s Elam Ending format.

“It just felt like the right opportunity,” Vick said after the win. “I was in the right position and ready to make a play. My team needed it, so it was big time.”

Purple Reign had multiple chances to seal the game, including an open layup and a pair of free throws by Shaun Williams. But the Wildcats alumni squad couldn’t convert, leaving the door open for Vick and JHX Hoops.

With the win, JHX advances to face top-seeded Heartfire in the Kansas City regional final Wednesday at 6 p.m. The game will be streamed live on <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@The.Tournament/streams">TBT’s YouTube channel</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753192622884.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy TBT" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy TBT</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. — In a battle of in-state rivals, the Kansas alumni team JHX Hoops edged out Kansas State’s Purple Reign in dramatic fashion, 59-57, on Monday night in the second round of The Basketball Tournament at Municipal Auditorium.With a trip to the Sweet 16 on the line, former Jayhawk LaGerald Vick delivered the decisive blow, intercepting a crosscourt pass and racing coast-to-coast for the game-winning layup under TBT’s Elam Ending format.“It just felt like the right opportunity,” Vick said after the win. “I was in the right position and ready to make a play. My team needed it, so it was big time.”Purple Reign had multiple chances to seal the game, including an open layup and a pair of free throws by Shaun Williams. But the Wildcats alumni squad couldn’t convert, leaving the door open for Vick and JHX Hoops.With the win, JHX advances to face top-seeded Heartfire in the Kansas City regional final Wednesday at 6 p.m. The game will be streamed live on <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@The.Tournament/streams">TBT’s YouTube channel</a>.

🏀 Kansas alumni squad JHX Hoops stuns Purple Reign, advances to TBT Sweet 16

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1701263164849.png" alt="Early Morning Sports with Rob Dreher" />
 <figcaption>Early Morning Sports with Rob Dreher</figcaption>
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🎧⚾ Royals win opener in Chicago; 🏀 JHX Hoops wins thriller in TBT

<a href="https://nbcbaseball.com/tickets/">TICKETS</a>&nbsp; &nbsp;|&nbsp; &nbsp;<a href="https://nbcbaseball.com/fan-hub/">FAN HUB&nbsp;</a> &nbsp;|&nbsp; &nbsp;<a href="https://nbcbaseball.com/tournament-central-2025/">TOURNAMENT CENTRAL</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753114906517.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy NBC World Series" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy NBC World Series</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://nbcbaseball.com/tickets/">TICKETS</a>&nbsp; &nbsp;|&nbsp; &nbsp;<a href="https://nbcbaseball.com/fan-hub/">FAN HUB&nbsp;</a> &nbsp;|&nbsp; &nbsp;<a href="https://nbcbaseball.com/tournament-central-2025/">TOURNAMENT CENTRAL</a><div>NBC World Series
&nbsp;
Wichita, Kansas - The 2025 NBC World Series, powered by Evergy, kicks off at Eck Stadium on Thursday Night, with 16 teams from across the country competing for a National Championship. The tournament runs from July 24-August 1st at Eck Stadium at Wichita State University, with Championship Night returning to historic downtown Wichita at Equity Bank Park on Saturday, August 2nd.
This year&rsquo;s NBC World Series will have a summer travels &amp; summer camp theme, as the tournament celebrates the thousands of people who travel from across Kansas, and across the country, to be a part of the NBC every summer. Fans will have opportunities to make arts &amp; crafts, grill in the outfield at Eck Stadium, and participate in games and giveaways throughout the 10 days.
&nbsp;
<h2>Featured Teams</h2>
Sixteen teams have secured their spots in this year's tournament, representing some of the nation's premier summer collegiate and amateur baseball leagues:
<ul>
<li>Alaska Goldpanners - Independent</li>
<li>BTL Hornets - KC Collegiate Baseball League</li>
<li>Derby Twins - Jayhawk League</li>
<li>Dodge City A&rsquo;s - Rocky Mountain Baseball League</li>
<li>GPS Legends - CenTex Collegiate Baseball League</li>
<li>Hays Larks - Rocky Mountain Baseball League</li>
<li>Hutchinson Monarchs - Jayhawk League</li>
<li>Junction City Brigade - Jayhawk League</li>
<li>Lonestar Baseball Club - CenTex League</li>
<li>Lonestar Kraken - Five Tool Baseball</li>
<li>Oklahoma MVP - AABC Oklahoma Champions</li>
<li>San Diego Stars - Western Baseball Association</li>
<li>Santa Barbara Foresters - California Collegiate League</li>
<li>Seattle Blackfins - Pacific International League</li>
<li>Seattle Cheney Studs - Pacific International League</li>
<li>TPA Texas - AABC Texas Champions</li>
</ul>
&nbsp;
<h2>Special Promotions and Events</h2>
The NBC World Series is known for its exciting promotional nights and fan experiences throughout the tournament. This year's lineup includes:
<ul>
<li>Opening Night (July 24th)</li>
<li class="x_indent-1">Presented by HANK FM and FOX TV</li>
<li>Military Appreciation Day (July 25th) with free admission for active and retired military members.</li>
<li class="x_indent-1">Presented by Davis Moore Auto Group, Professional Engineering Consultants, KFDI, and KWCH</li>
<li>Baseball &lsquo;Round the Clock - the ultimate baseball marathon (July 26-27th) featuring 11 continuous games in 33 hours</li>
<li class="x_indent-1">Presented by Scheels, Midwest Ford Dealers, KRBB, KSN, and KFXJ 104.5,</li>
<li>The NBC World Series has also announced that buyout nights have returned offering complimentary tickets at select locations:</li>
<li class="x_indent-1">Pizza Hut &amp; Taco Bell (July 28th)</li>
<li class="x_indent-2">Presented by Pizza Hut, Taco Bell, KEYN, and KSN</li>
<li class="x_indent-1">Sonic (July 29th)</li>
<li class="x_indent-2">Presented by Sonic, T-95, and KWCH</li>
<li class="x_indent-1">Midwest Ford Dealers (July 30th)</li>
<li class="x_indent-2">Presented by Midwest Ford Dealers, LA RAZA, and FOX TV</li>
<li>Heartland Heroes Day (July 31st), honoring first responders, educators, and medical professionals with free admission when they show their work ID or badge.</li>
<li class="x_indent-1">Presented by KZSN and KWCH</li>
<li>Alumni Weekend (August 1st and 2nd)</li>
<li>Aviation Night celebrating Wichita's aviation heritage (August 1st)</li>
<li class="x_indent-1">Presented by Kansas Aviation Museum, NIAR, Yingling Aviation, KFH, and FOX TV</li>
<li>Championship Night featuring Little League Night and post-game fireworks (August 2nd)</li>
<li class="x_indent-1">Presented by Black Hills Energy, Victory Pyrotechnics, and IdeaTek</li>
</ul>
The complete schedule of special events and themed nights can be found at<a title="https://cx9rgluab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001LDsVGs3BOQDfUNVn0yRzQybbhGl5YVvVhrRcexmmXf4oYF6-IvrPlxCPwxFqzbamyu0QNyggTiGYidhksCiBL9qt2MX1xYsd2zn65PPfVSY7cksluZwRvO0su0Vjj3JNczuRDS0dnn_Yg1obrtYMbKvfH-TqqvFZ4Zu2Lc5kuxU=&amp;c=FUGl0PhkRABirQED3pp4_mVufc3YzT3L4VmgJrxQZ5rkJIzFljY2bw==&amp;ch=4lBPhtHLVbp4RZ02gVuDXlLEsqC1IA3meVu7lfghAIc8lCgLeCOj9w==" href="https://cx9rgluab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001LDsVGs3BOQDfUNVn0yRzQybbhGl5YVvVhrRcexmmXf4oYF6-IvrPlxCPwxFqzbamyu0QNyggTiGYidhksCiBL9qt2MX1xYsd2zn65PPfVSY7cksluZwRvO0su0Vjj3JNczuRDS0dnn_Yg1obrtYMbKvfH-TqqvFZ4Zu2Lc5kuxU=&amp;c=FUGl0PhkRABirQED3pp4_mVufc3YzT3L4VmgJrxQZ5rkJIzFljY2bw==&amp;ch=4lBPhtHLVbp4RZ02gVuDXlLEsqC1IA3meVu7lfghAIc8lCgLeCOj9w==" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-auth="NotApplicable" data-linkindex="1">&nbsp;</a><a title="https://cx9rgluab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001LDsVGs3BOQDfUNVn0yRzQybbhGl5YVvVhrRcexmmXf4oYF6-IvrPlxCPwxFqzbamyu0QNyggTiGYidhksCiBL9qt2MX1xYsd2zn65PPfVSY7cksluZwRvO0su0Vjj3JNczuRDS0dnn_Yg1obrtYMbJPUIDzcSBVFUhrQKXlfJ1o=&amp;c=FUGl0PhkRABirQED3pp4_mVufc3YzT3L4VmgJrxQZ5rkJIzFljY2bw==&amp;ch=4lBPhtHLVbp4RZ02gVuDXlLEsqC1IA3meVu7lfghAIc8lCgLeCOj9w==" href="https://cx9rgluab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001LDsVGs3BOQDfUNVn0yRzQybbhGl5YVvVhrRcexmmXf4oYF6-IvrPlxCPwxFqzbamyu0QNyggTiGYidhksCiBL9qt2MX1xYsd2zn65PPfVSY7cksluZwRvO0su0Vjj3JNczuRDS0dnn_Yg1obrtYMbJPUIDzcSBVFUhrQKXlfJ1o=&amp;c=FUGl0PhkRABirQED3pp4_mVufc3YzT3L4VmgJrxQZ5rkJIzFljY2bw==&amp;ch=4lBPhtHLVbp4RZ02gVuDXlLEsqC1IA3meVu7lfghAIc8lCgLeCOj9w==" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-auth="NotApplicable" data-linkindex="2">nbcbaseball.com/promos/</a>.
&nbsp;
<h2>Tournament &amp; Coverage Information</h2>
The NBC World Series has been held in Wichita every year since 1935, making it one of the longest continuously running sporting events in the nation. Known for its unique promotions and high-quality baseball, the National Baseball Congress has had more than 900 former players go on to play Major League Baseball, including Roger Clemens, Satchel Paige, Ozzie Smith, Barry Bonds, and modern stars such as the Texas Rangers' Josh Jung and the St. Louis Cardinals' Ryan Helsley.
&nbsp;
Tickets to the 91st NBC World Series are on sale now. For tickets and general tournament information, visit<a title="https://cx9rgluab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001LDsVGs3BOQDfUNVn0yRzQybbhGl5YVvVhrRcexmmXf4oYF6-IvrPl1Oub8HMVfOEbFhsryLR2w7qPTEUXwMKz1jjMmN9HP9mf5Dl4G5fzLcYiT3zanGLs05aeK0o-J-lWY_6NI5C3umz5F83ylJVZFOGV5yKL2Pq&amp;c=FUGl0PhkRABirQED3pp4_mVufc3YzT3L4VmgJrxQZ5rkJIzFljY2bw==&amp;ch=4lBPhtHLVbp4RZ02gVuDXlLEsqC1IA3meVu7lfghAIc8lCgLeCOj9w==" href="https://cx9rgluab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001LDsVGs3BOQDfUNVn0yRzQybbhGl5YVvVhrRcexmmXf4oYF6-IvrPl1Oub8HMVfOEbFhsryLR2w7qPTEUXwMKz1jjMmN9HP9mf5Dl4G5fzLcYiT3zanGLs05aeK0o-J-lWY_6NI5C3umz5F83ylJVZFOGV5yKL2Pq&amp;c=FUGl0PhkRABirQED3pp4_mVufc3YzT3L4VmgJrxQZ5rkJIzFljY2bw==&amp;ch=4lBPhtHLVbp4RZ02gVuDXlLEsqC1IA3meVu7lfghAIc8lCgLeCOj9w==" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-auth="NotApplicable" data-linkindex="3">&nbsp;</a><a title="https://cx9rgluab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001LDsVGs3BOQDfUNVn0yRzQybbhGl5YVvVhrRcexmmXf4oYF6-IvrPl1Oub8HMVfOEbFhsryLR2w7qPTEUXwMKz1jjMmN9HP9mf5Dl4G5fzLcYiT3zanGLs05aeK0o-J-lWY_6NI5C3uknTv3zI607ZHPb-YQMfqcR&amp;c=FUGl0PhkRABirQED3pp4_mVufc3YzT3L4VmgJrxQZ5rkJIzFljY2bw==&amp;ch=4lBPhtHLVbp4RZ02gVuDXlLEsqC1IA3meVu7lfghAIc8lCgLeCOj9w==" href="https://cx9rgluab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001LDsVGs3BOQDfUNVn0yRzQybbhGl5YVvVhrRcexmmXf4oYF6-IvrPl1Oub8HMVfOEbFhsryLR2w7qPTEUXwMKz1jjMmN9HP9mf5Dl4G5fzLcYiT3zanGLs05aeK0o-J-lWY_6NI5C3uknTv3zI607ZHPb-YQMfqcR&amp;c=FUGl0PhkRABirQED3pp4_mVufc3YzT3L4VmgJrxQZ5rkJIzFljY2bw==&amp;ch=4lBPhtHLVbp4RZ02gVuDXlLEsqC1IA3meVu7lfghAIc8lCgLeCOj9w==" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-auth="NotApplicable" data-linkindex="4">nbcbaseball.com</a>.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
For detailed team information, statistics, pool play schedules, bracket play, and box scores, visit<a title="https://cx9rgluab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001LDsVGs3BOQDfUNVn0yRzQybbhGl5YVvVhrRcexmmXf4oYF6-IvrPl0OkDcYAlbgu6MjdoLGi-UWYVHNmsMXCQntoacA9B_F_EgnBS-rb6inkIGPSv73_vFrTT-jabBroVrmcGeX4Ld4jMOfgE6G3lj4pcdYHnRRrsrBTvrlNBmM_4Znyhoe2f8zBwOT6o-qB&amp;c=FUGl0PhkRABirQED3pp4_mVufc3YzT3L4VmgJrxQZ5rkJIzFljY2bw==&amp;ch=4lBPhtHLVbp4RZ02gVuDXlLEsqC1IA3meVu7lfghAIc8lCgLeCOj9w==" href="https://cx9rgluab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001LDsVGs3BOQDfUNVn0yRzQybbhGl5YVvVhrRcexmmXf4oYF6-IvrPl0OkDcYAlbgu6MjdoLGi-UWYVHNmsMXCQntoacA9B_F_EgnBS-rb6inkIGPSv73_vFrTT-jabBroVrmcGeX4Ld4jMOfgE6G3lj4pcdYHnRRrsrBTvrlNBmM_4Znyhoe2f8zBwOT6o-qB&amp;c=FUGl0PhkRABirQED3pp4_mVufc3YzT3L4VmgJrxQZ5rkJIzFljY2bw==&amp;ch=4lBPhtHLVbp4RZ02gVuDXlLEsqC1IA3meVu7lfghAIc8lCgLeCOj9w==" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-auth="NotApplicable" data-linkindex="5">&nbsp;</a><a title="https://cx9rgluab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001LDsVGs3BOQDfUNVn0yRzQybbhGl5YVvVhrRcexmmXf4oYF6-IvrPl0OkDcYAlbgu6MjdoLGi-UWYVHNmsMXCQntoacA9B_F_EgnBS-rb6inkIGPSv73_vFrTT-jabBroVrmcGeX4Ld4jMOfgE6G3lj4pcdYHnRRrsrBTvrlNBmMrRlTw1RUgw-a64cJ7bOCB&amp;c=FUGl0PhkRABirQED3pp4_mVufc3YzT3L4VmgJrxQZ5rkJIzFljY2bw==&amp;ch=4lBPhtHLVbp4RZ02gVuDXlLEsqC1IA3meVu7lfghAIc8lCgLeCOj9w==" href="https://cx9rgluab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001LDsVGs3BOQDfUNVn0yRzQybbhGl5YVvVhrRcexmmXf4oYF6-IvrPl0OkDcYAlbgu6MjdoLGi-UWYVHNmsMXCQntoacA9B_F_EgnBS-rb6inkIGPSv73_vFrTT-jabBroVrmcGeX4Ld4jMOfgE6G3lj4pcdYHnRRrsrBTvrlNBmMrRlTw1RUgw-a64cJ7bOCB&amp;c=FUGl0PhkRABirQED3pp4_mVufc3YzT3L4VmgJrxQZ5rkJIzFljY2bw==&amp;ch=4lBPhtHLVbp4RZ02gVuDXlLEsqC1IA3meVu7lfghAIc8lCgLeCOj9w==" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-auth="NotApplicable" data-linkindex="6">nbcbaseball.com/tournament-central-2025/</a>.
&nbsp;
Follow the tournament on social media at @NBCBaseball for the latest updates and highlights.
&nbsp;
Don&rsquo;t miss a game!&nbsp;Catch all the baseball action and watch live on YouTube @nbcws.
&nbsp;
The NBC World Series is operated by the NBC Baseball Foundation, a 501c3 nonprofit organization supporting amateur baseball and connecting communities across the country.
The National Baseball Congress has been part of the fabric of America's Pastime since the NBC World Series began in 1935. The NBC's goal is to drive innovation, expand opportunities for young athletes, and keep the spirit of grassroots baseball alive, through both youth programming and historical preservation in addition to the NBC World Series. (EIN 46-3773723)</div>

⚾ NBC World Series opens Thursday in Wichita

CHICAGO (AP) — Salvador Perez homered twice and drove in four runs, Jac Caglianone and John Rave added solo shots and the Kansas City Royals beat the Chicago Cubs 12-4 on Monday night.

Chicago’s Matt Shaw and Carson Kelly went deep off Noah Cameron (4-4) in the second, but the rookie lefthander was in control for most of the first six innings. He allowed all four Cubs runs and seven hits while striking out six to help the Royals win their second straight.

Ben Brown (4-7), recalled earlier in the day from Triple-A Iowa, replaced opener Ryan Brasier in the second and gave up six earned runs and seven hits while striking out four over the next four innings. Caglianone had a solo shot off Brown in the second and Perez added a two-run homer in the fourth.

Kansas City got RBI hits from Jonathan India and Bobby Witt Jr. to start a four-run fifth. The two scored on a throwing error and wild pitch, respectively.

Rave homered in the seventh off Chris Flexen, who gave up Perez’s two-run shot in a four-run eighth that ensured the Cubs’ second straight loss. Relievers John Schreiber and Andrew Hoffman kept Chicago scoreless, and Witt and Rave each finished with a pair of RBIs.

Shaw drove in three runs for the Cubs, who gave All-Star centerfielder Pete Crow-Armstrong the night off due to knee soreness.

Witt made the most of his at-bat in the fifth inning. He drove in Kyle Isbel with a single to put the Royals in front for good, stole second and went to third on Kelly’s errant pickoff throw, then scored on Brown’s wild pitch for the final run of the inning.

The top third of the Cubs’ order — Nico Hoerner, Kyle Tucker and Seiya Suzuki — was a combined 0 for 11.

Cubs LHP Matthew Boyd (10-3, 2.34 ERA) makes his first post-All Star break appearance Tuesday. Kansas City has not named a starter.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753154061646.jpeg" alt="Photo Kansas City Royals" />
 <figcaption>Photo Kansas City Royals</figcaption>
 </figure>CHICAGO (AP) — Salvador Perez homered twice and drove in four runs, Jac Caglianone and John Rave added solo shots and the Kansas City Royals beat the Chicago Cubs 12-4 on Monday night.Chicago’s Matt Shaw and Carson Kelly went deep off Noah Cameron (4-4) in the second, but the rookie lefthander was in control for most of the first six innings. He allowed all four Cubs runs and seven hits while striking out six to help the Royals win their second straight.Ben Brown (4-7), recalled earlier in the day from Triple-A Iowa, replaced opener Ryan Brasier in the second and gave up six earned runs and seven hits while striking out four over the next four innings. Caglianone had a solo shot off Brown in the second and Perez added a two-run homer in the fourth.Kansas City got RBI hits from Jonathan India and Bobby Witt Jr. to start a four-run fifth. The two scored on a throwing error and wild pitch, respectively.Rave homered in the seventh off Chris Flexen, who gave up Perez’s two-run shot in a four-run eighth that ensured the Cubs’ second straight loss. Relievers John Schreiber and Andrew Hoffman kept Chicago scoreless, and Witt and Rave each finished with a pair of RBIs.Shaw drove in three runs for the Cubs, who gave All-Star centerfielder Pete Crow-Armstrong the night off due to knee soreness.<h2>Key moment</h2>Witt made the most of his at-bat in the fifth inning. He drove in Kyle Isbel with a single to put the Royals in front for good, stole second and went to third on Kelly’s errant pickoff throw, then scored on Brown’s wild pitch for the final run of the inning.<h2>Key stat</h2>The top third of the Cubs’ order — Nico Hoerner, Kyle Tucker and Seiya Suzuki — was a combined 0 for 11.Up nextCubs LHP Matthew Boyd (10-3, 2.34 ERA) makes his first post-All Star break appearance Tuesday. Kansas City has not named a starter.

⚾ Perez, Caglianone and Rave homers power Royals over the Cubs

BRISTOL, Conn. — A new ESPN Original Series chronicling the Kansas City Chiefs' storied history and extraordinary 2024 season will debut Aug. 14 across ESPN platforms and Disney+. Titled The Kingdom, the six-part documentary was produced in partnership with State Farm, Disney+, Skydance Sports, and several acclaimed sports media teams including Words + Pictures, NFL Films, 2PM Productions, and Foolish Club Studios.

Directed by Kristen Lappas (Giannis: The Marvelous Journey, Dream On), the series offers an inside look at the Chiefs’ rise to NFL dominance — both past and present — through unprecedented access and behind-the-scenes storytelling.

“This series is a tribute to everyone who has helped shape the Kansas City Chiefs over the past six decades,” said Chiefs chairman and CEO Clark Hunt. “We opened our doors to show the full scope of what Chiefs Kingdom means — on the field and beyond.”

Episodes will be available for streaming on ESPN+ and Disney+ starting Aug. 14. The first two episodes will also air on ESPN that evening beginning at 9 p.m. ET.

The Kingdom follows the Chiefs through their record-setting 15-win regular season, a third straight AFC title, and a return to the Super Bowl, while also reflecting on the franchise’s 65-year journey from its roots in Dallas to becoming a modern-day dynasty. Interviews with players, coaches and executives are paired with rare archival footage to reveal the heart and history of the organization.

Lappas, who directed the series, said the project was a unique chance to capture the team’s evolution and the personalities behind its success.

“Getting the chance to embed with the team while exploring its full history — the euphoric highs and devastating lows — was a tremendous opportunity,” Lappas said.

Each episode blends present-day access with historic reflection, showcasing the Chiefs’ enduring legacy from Lamar Hunt’s founding vision to the team’s transformation into one of the NFL’s most successful franchises.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1748263709817.png" alt="GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium, home of the Kansas City Chiefs, is pictured on Sat. Feb. 8 (Anna Spoerre/The Missouri Independent)." />
 <figcaption>GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium, home of the Kansas City Chiefs, is pictured on Sat. Feb. 8 (Anna Spoerre/The Missouri Independent).</figcaption>
 </figure>BRISTOL, Conn. — A new ESPN Original Series chronicling the Kansas City Chiefs' storied history and extraordinary 2024 season will debut Aug. 14 across ESPN platforms and Disney+. Titled The Kingdom, the six-part documentary was produced in partnership with State Farm, Disney+, Skydance Sports, and several acclaimed sports media teams including Words + Pictures, NFL Films, 2PM Productions, and Foolish Club Studios.Directed by Kristen Lappas (Giannis: The Marvelous Journey, Dream On), the series offers an inside look at the Chiefs’ rise to NFL dominance — both past and present — through unprecedented access and behind-the-scenes storytelling.“This series is a tribute to everyone who has helped shape the Kansas City Chiefs over the past six decades,” said Chiefs chairman and CEO Clark Hunt. “We opened our doors to show the full scope of what Chiefs Kingdom means — on the field and beyond.”Episodes will be available for streaming on ESPN+ and Disney+ starting Aug. 14. The first two episodes will also air on ESPN that evening beginning at 9 p.m. ET.The Kingdom follows the Chiefs through their record-setting 15-win regular season, a third straight AFC title, and a return to the Super Bowl, while also reflecting on the franchise’s 65-year journey from its roots in Dallas to becoming a modern-day dynasty. Interviews with players, coaches and executives are paired with rare archival footage to reveal the heart and history of the organization.Lappas, who directed the series, said the project was a unique chance to capture the team’s evolution and the personalities behind its success.“Getting the chance to embed with the team while exploring its full history — the euphoric highs and devastating lows — was a tremendous opportunity,” Lappas said.<h2>Episode Schedule:</h2><ul>
 <li>Episode 1: Family Business (Aug. 14, 9 p.m. ET, ESPN)
The Chiefs begin their campaign for a three-peat as injuries test early momentum.
</li><li>Episode 2: Don’t Judge (Aug. 14, 10 p.m. ET, ESPN)
Andy Reid’s personal and professional journey highlights the power of second chances.
</li><li>Episode 3: In Our Chiefs Era (Aug. 19, 9 p.m. ET, ESPN)
A clash with the Bills and a look at the global spotlight surrounding the team.
</li><li>Episode 4: The Formula (Aug. 19, 10 p.m. ET, ESPN)
Mahomes’ injury places pressure on the defense ahead of a key holiday showdown.
</li><li>Episode 5: Heartland (Aug. 20, 9 p.m. ET, ESPN)
Kansas City reaches the AFC Championship after a playoff win over Houston.
</li><li>Episode 6: The Pursuit (Aug. 20, 10 p.m. ET, ESPN)
The Chiefs arrive in New Orleans, seeking a third straight Super Bowl title against Philadelphia.
</li>
 </ul>Each episode blends present-day access with historic reflection, showcasing the Chiefs’ enduring legacy from Lamar Hunt’s founding vision to the team’s transformation into one of the NFL’s most successful franchises.

🏈 ESPN’s ‘The Kingdom’ Chiefs Docuseries to Premiere Aug. 14

MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;–&nbsp;C.J. Jones&nbsp;will return to K-State for his senior season in 2025-26 after withdrawing from the transfer portal.

The East St. Louis, Ill., native was one of four players who played in all 33 games in 2024-25, earning 9 starts, after two seasons (2022-24) at UIC. He averaged 5.7 points on 40.7 percent (70-of-172) shooting, including 30.9 percent (17-of-55) from 3-point range, with 1.7 rebounds, 1.5 assists and 0.5 steals in 18.9 minutes per game as a junior.

Jones scored in double figures in 5 games in his first season as a Wildcat, including a season-high 12 points vs. Mississippi Valley State on Nov. 19 and at UCF on Feb. 26.

Jones has seen action in 95 games with 59 starts in his college career, including 62 games with 50 starts at UIC. He has scored 744 points during his college career on 39.7 percent (286-of-720) shooting from the field, including 34.6 percent (71-of-205) from 3-point range and 64.7 percent (101-of-156) from the free throw line.

Jones has 31 career double-digit scoring games, including three 20-point performances. His career-high of 25 points came against Bradley on Jan. 13, 2024, while at UIC. He led the Flames in assists (159) and minutes played (1,102) as a sophomore in 2023-24, while he was second in scoring (11.4 ppg.) and steals (1.0 spg.).

Jones is one of four players who are returning to K-State in 2025-26, joining rising juniors&nbsp;Mobi Ikegwuruka&nbsp;and&nbsp;Taj Manning&nbsp;and sophomore&nbsp;David Castillo.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753114658358.jpeg" alt="Kansas State's C.J. Jones drives to the basket against New Orleans on Tuesday, Nov. 5, 2024 at Bramlage Coliseum in Manhattan, Kan. (Kansas State Athletics photo)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas State's C.J. Jones drives to the basket against New Orleans on Tuesday, Nov. 5, 2024 at Bramlage Coliseum in Manhattan, Kan. (Kansas State Athletics photo)</figcaption>
 </figure>MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;–&nbsp;C.J. Jones&nbsp;will return to K-State for his senior season in 2025-26 after withdrawing from the transfer portal.The East St. Louis, Ill., native was one of four players who played in all 33 games in 2024-25, earning 9 starts, after two seasons (2022-24) at UIC. He averaged 5.7 points on 40.7 percent (70-of-172) shooting, including 30.9 percent (17-of-55) from 3-point range, with 1.7 rebounds, 1.5 assists and 0.5 steals in 18.9 minutes per game as a junior.Jones scored in double figures in 5 games in his first season as a Wildcat, including a season-high 12 points vs. Mississippi Valley State on Nov. 19 and at UCF on Feb. 26.Jones has seen action in 95 games with 59 starts in his college career, including 62 games with 50 starts at UIC. He has scored 744 points during his college career on 39.7 percent (286-of-720) shooting from the field, including 34.6 percent (71-of-205) from 3-point range and 64.7 percent (101-of-156) from the free throw line.Jones has 31 career double-digit scoring games, including three 20-point performances. His career-high of 25 points came against Bradley on Jan. 13, 2024, while at UIC. He led the Flames in assists (159) and minutes played (1,102) as a sophomore in 2023-24, while he was second in scoring (11.4 ppg.) and steals (1.0 spg.).Jones is one of four players who are returning to K-State in 2025-26, joining rising juniors&nbsp;Mobi Ikegwuruka&nbsp;and&nbsp;Taj Manning&nbsp;and sophomore&nbsp;David Castillo.&nbsp;&nbsp;

🏀 K-State's Jones to return for senior season

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753110586773.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy KCAC" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy KCAC</figcaption>
 </figure><div>KANSAS &mdash;&nbsp;The Dr. Ted Kessinger and Franklin "Gene" Bissell Divisions have been set for the 2025 football season, the Kansas Collegiate Athletic Conference (KCAC) announced Monday. This is the first reset of the divisions since their inception in 2023. Currently, divisional makeup is scheduled to be reset every two years, with the goal of maintaining a competitive balance within and between each division. However, KCAC football head coaches are discussing changes to their sport guidelines regarding division structure, so divisions may be reset for the 2026 season, as well. To set the 2025 divisions, the KCAC utilized total conference wins over the 2022 and 2023 seasons by all KCAC programs. Institutions were then placed into divisions using a snaking method to competitively balance the divisions, based on their overall conference wins. &nbsp;
<hr />
 The divisions are set for the 2025 season. The divisions for that season is as follows:
<ul>
<li>Franklin "Gene" Bissell Division
<ul>
<li>Avila University</li>
<li>Bethany College</li>
<li>Bethel&nbsp;College</li>
<li>Evangel&nbsp;University</li>
<li>Ottawa&nbsp;University</li>
<li>Tabor&nbsp;College</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>Dr. Ted Kessinger Division
<ul>
<li>Friends&nbsp;University</li>
<li>Kansas Wesleyan&nbsp;University</li>
<li>McPherson&nbsp;College</li>
<li>Southwestern&nbsp;College</li>
<li>Sterling&nbsp;College</li>
<li>University of Saint Mary</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
&nbsp;
<hr />
 Each team will play all 11 conference opponents each season. In the 2025 season, cross-division play will begin on August 30 (Week 1), followed by a uniform bye week. Division play will then begin on October 18.&nbsp; &nbsp;
<hr />
 ABOUT DR. TED KESSINGER Dr. Kessinger coached at Bethany College for 28 seasons (1976-2003), winning 219 games, 16 conference championships, and 10 appearances in the NAIA Playoffs. His 219 wins rank No. 7 all-time in the NAIA. Kessinger was the KCAC Coach of the Year 11 times, and never suffered a losing season while at the helm of the Swedes. Kessinger was inducted into the Bethany College Athletics Hall of Honor in 1999, the NAIA Hall of Fame in 2003, the Kansas Sports Hall of Fame in 2005, and the National Football Foundation and College Hall of Fame in 2010. ABOUT FRANKLIN "GENE" BISSELL Bissell was the head coach at Kansas Wesleyan University for 26 years, winning 116 games. The Coyotes won the KCAC Football conference title four times in his time as the head coach. Bissell was inducted into the Kansas Wesleyan Coyote Hall of Fame in 1986, the NAIA Hall of Fame in 1991, and the Kansas Sports Hall of Fame in 2019. Coach Bissell passed away in 2016.</div>

🏈 KCAC football divisions set for 2025 season

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753107700746.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy Kansas City Royals" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Kansas City Royals</figcaption>
 </figure><div>Kansas City Royals
&nbsp;
KANSAS CITY, Mo.&mdash;The Kansas City Royals announced today that they have signed 20 of the 22 selections made in the 2025 First-Year Player Draft, including all picks from rounds 1-17, and 20. The Royals have also agreed to terms with four undrafted free agents, including outfielder Hunter Ensley, right-handed pitcher Max Poirier and left-handed pitchers Cory Ronan and Ryan Ure.
&nbsp;
Ensley, 23, played in parts of five seasons at the University of Tennessee and slashed .303/.399/.495 (202-for-667, .894 OPS) with 29 home runs, 141 RBI, 133 runs scored, 41 doubles and 85 walks. During his time with the Volunteers, he was teammates with 2024 Royals draftees Drew Beam (3rd Round) and A.J. Causey (5th Round).
&nbsp;
Poirier, 18, graduated from Foothills Composite High School in Okotoks, Alberta, Canada, and he pitched for the Canadian Junior National Team in 2024. Prior to signing with the Royals, he was committed to play baseball at the University of Miami (Fla.).
&nbsp;
Ronan, 23, appeared in 35 games (10 starts) across three seasons at the University of Hawai&rsquo;i, striking out 64 batters in 57.1 innings with a 4.87 ERA (31 ER). He appeared for West Virginia (2024) and Mahoning Valley (2025) in the MLB Draft League, striking out 33 combined batters in 33.0 innings.
&nbsp;
Ure, 22, pitched in 41 games (5 starts) for the Oklahoma State University Cowboys, logging 50 strikeouts in 37.2 innings over three seasons. Despite going undrafted in the 2025 Draft, he was previously selected by San Francisco in the 19th round of the 2024 Draft, and by Texas in the 16th round of the 2021 Draft, but chose to not sign with either club. He was born in Garden City, Kan.</div><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753107752850.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy Kansas City Royals" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Kansas City Royals</figcaption>
 </figure>

⚾ Royals sign 20 selections from 2025 Draft

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1751382227741.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy Wichita State Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Wichita State Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure><div>Wichita State Athletics
&nbsp;
WICHITA, Kan.&nbsp;- Wichita State Athletics is accepting public nominations for the 2026 Pizza Hut Shocker Sports Hall of Fame induction, Associate AD for Strategic Communications&nbsp;<a href="http://goshockers.com/staff.aspx?staff=28">Tami Cutler</a>&nbsp;announced today. Former student-athletes are not eligible for induction until nine years after their initial enrollment at Wichita State University. This year's class must have an initial enrollment of Fall, 2017, or before. Submit nominations, along with support materials to&nbsp;<a href="http://goshockers.com/staff.aspx?staff=28">Tami Cutler</a>, Associate AD/Strategic Communications, Charles Koch Arena, 1845 Fairmount, Wichita, Kansas, 67260-0018 or email at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:tcutler@goshockers.com">tcutler@goshockers.com</a>.</div>

Nominations open for WSU Shocker Hall of Fame

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753105761793.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy American Conference" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy American Conference</figcaption>
 </figure><div>American Conference
&nbsp;
&nbsp;
IRVING, Texas&nbsp;&ndash;&nbsp;The American Conference today officially launched a dynamic modernization of its brand identity, marking a new era for the league and the communities it serves. Each aspect of the brand evolution, from naming conventions to creative assets and applications, was designed to elevate how the American shows up: boldly, consistently, and with purpose across every platform. 
<div><iframe src="https://theamerican.org/showcase/embed.aspx?Archive=10287&amp;autoplay=false" width="300" height="150" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></div>
&nbsp;
&ldquo;The American has built a brand that differentiates us in a crowded collegiate landscape by establishing and elevating what makes us distinctive,&rdquo; said Commissioner Tim Pernetti. &ldquo;This modernization is rooted in who we are and where we&rsquo;re headed. It&nbsp;prioritizes clarity, momentum, and the competitive advantage&nbsp;driving every part of our conference forward.&rdquo; &nbsp; The announcement comes ahead of the conference&rsquo;s Football Media Days and represents a strategic and holistic approach. Here is what is new:&nbsp; &nbsp;
<blockquote>
<a href="https://theamerican.org/sports/2025/7/16/bold%20name.aspx">A Clear Name</a>&nbsp; The conference has retired the names &ldquo;American Athletic Conference&rdquo; and &ldquo;AAC.&rdquo; The league will now be referred to as &ldquo;American Conference&rdquo; on first reference and simply &ldquo;American&rdquo; thereafter.&nbsp; <a href="https://theamerican.org/sports/2025/7/16/rallycall.aspx">Rally Call&nbsp;</a> The league has a new tagline, &ldquo;Built to Rise,&rdquo;&nbsp;which is resilient by design, purpose-driven in action, and constantly innovating across collegiate athletics. <a href="https://theamerican.org/sports/2025/7/16/branddna.aspx">Grounded in a Clear Brand Ethos &amp; Core Pillars</a> The American is now guided by a focused brand ethos with a new mission, vision, and purpose, and powered by three core pillars: Innovation, Grit, and Service. <a href="https://theamerican.org/sports/2025/7/16/creative%20materials.aspx">A Bold New Visual Identity</a> A new wordmark logo reflects the conference&rsquo;s legacy and progression, starting with the iconic primary angular mark &ldquo;A,&rdquo; which now leads the word &ldquo;American.&rdquo; <a href="https://theamerican.org/sports/2025/7/16/soartheeagle.aspx">Soar the Eagle: A First-of-Its-Kind Conference Brand Ambassador</a> The American is the first collegiate conference to have a full-fledged brand ambassador. Soar is a multi-platform, purpose-driven brand symbol and commercialized IP, one that personifies the DNA of the American.&nbsp; Built to Rise: A National PSA&nbsp;The conference will unveil a high-impact, 30-second national PSA titled&nbsp;&ldquo;Built to Rise.&rdquo;&nbsp;The national spot is voiced by Commissioner Pernetti. Revitalized Digital Experience&nbsp;From a reimagined website (launching July 24) to dynamic content and social media, the conference&rsquo;s digital presence has been revitalized, streamlined, and tailored to reflect its brand ethos and DNA, built to connect, engage, and serve its fans.
</blockquote>
&nbsp; &ldquo;A brand is more than a name. Over the past year, we stepped back, listened, and involved our community.&rdquo; Pernetti said. &ldquo;That&rsquo;s how real, lasting identity is built. We&rsquo;re not slick, we&rsquo;re strong. This brand defines who we are, service and mission-driven institutions of higher learning with highly competitive athletics and deeply committed leaders. The student-athletes and their experience will always be our north star.&rdquo;&nbsp; &nbsp;
<div><iframe src="https://theamerican.org/showcase/embed.aspx?Archive=10288&amp;autoplay=false" width="300" height="150" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></div>
&nbsp;
Background and Due Diligence A deep and deliberate process guided the brand modernization under the leadership of Commissioner Pernetti. The American partnered with&nbsp;ANACHEL, an award-winning integrated brand and communications firm led by CEO Carrie Cecil, to conduct a comprehensive, five-phase evaluation that combined quantitative research, qualitative insights, and stakeholder input, while also guiding the implementation of the new brand. &nbsp; The conference officially unveiled its new branding on July 21, with its new website going live on July 24, coinciding with Football Media Days.&nbsp;</div>

AAC rebrands to American Conference

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753104051662.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy Wichita State Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Wichita State Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure><div>Wichita State Athletics
&nbsp;
&nbsp;
AfterShocks 85, Challenge ALS 68 Leading scorers AfterShocks:&nbsp;Nike Sibande 25, Leyton Hammonds 16 Challenge ALS:&nbsp;DJ Horne 16 What's next:&nbsp;The second-seeded AfterShocks play top-seeded Forever Coogs at 8 p.m. Tuesday (TBT YouTube) at Koch Arena in the Wichita Regional of The Basketball Tournament. Forever Coogs, a team of Houston alums, defeated Fire Family 82-69 on Sunday. 
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<a href="https://goshockers.evenue.net/list/TBT" target="_blank">Tickets</a> Recap:&nbsp;The AfterShocks advanced to the final 16 of the 61-team tournament for a fourth time in six TBT appearances. They last advanced to the final eight in 2023. The AfterShocks improved to 14-5 in TBT. Sibande and Hammonds came off the bench to lead the offense with three-point shooting. Sibande, who finished his college career at Pitsburgh, made 5 of 6 threes. Hammonds, from Oklahoma State, made 4 of 7. The AfterShocks hit 13 of 37 threes (35.1 percent) and outscored Challege ALS by 13 points at the foul line. Markis McDuffie grabbed five offensive rebounds to help the AfterShocks to a 15-4 edge in that category. The AfterShocks pulled away with a 20-11 edge in the second quarter with McDuffie scoring seven points. They led 46-29 at halftime. 
<div class="twitter-tweet twitter-tweet-rendered"><iframe id="twitter-widget-1" class="" title="X Post" src="https://platform.twitter.com/embed/Tweet.html?creatorScreenName=AfterShocksTBT&amp;dnt=false&amp;embedId=twitter-widget-1&amp;features=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%3D%3D&amp;frame=false&amp;hideCard=false&amp;hideThread=false&amp;id=1947128840783851878&amp;lang=en&amp;maxWidth=560px&amp;origin=https%3A%2F%2Fgoshockers.com%2Fnews%2F2025%2F7%2F20%2Fbench-scoring-leads-aftershocks-into-round-of-16.aspx&amp;sessionId=00f9f37da61033f8c7d987756a5bd3a351dba5cc&amp;theme=light&amp;widgetsVersion=2615f7e52b7e0%3A1702314776716&amp;width=550px" width="300" height="150" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" data-tweet-id="1947128840783851878"></iframe></div></div>

🏀 AfterShocks advance to Round of 16 in TBT

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1701263164849.png" alt="Early Morning Sports with Rob Dreher" />
 <figcaption>Early Morning Sports with Rob Dreher</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="Early Morning Sports for Monday, July 21, 2025" 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=tiden-190f0e4-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>

🎧⚾ Royals salvage finale; ⚾ Monarchs open Pool Play Friday

WICHITA, Kan. — The Hutchinson Monarchs, fresh off a championship run in the Jayhawk Collegiate League, will open their pursuit of a national title in the 2025 NBC World Series on Friday, July 25, at Wichita State’s Eck Stadium.

Hutchinson (27-7), making its return to the national spotlight, has been slotted into Pool B and will open pool play against the San Diego Stars at 6 p.m. Friday. The Monarchs are joined in Pool B by the Dodge City A’s, Seattle Cheney Studs, and San Diego.

The 16-team field features a mix of league champions and perennial contenders, including the Alaska Goldpanners, Santa Barbara Foresters, and Hays Larks. The Monarchs are one of three Jayhawk League teams in the tournament, joined by the Derby Twins and Junction City Brigade.

The NBC World Series, one of the premier summer collegiate baseball tournaments in the country, features 16 teams split across four pools. Pool play runs from July 24–29, with each team playing three games. The top three teams from each pool will advance to a single-elimination bracket, which begins July 30. The top team in each pool receives a first-round bye.

The Monarchs’ complete pool play schedule is:

Led by a balanced roster and a dominant pitching staff, Hutchinson has surged through the summer behind standout performances and a 27-win regular season. This year’s Monarchs team has its eyes set on capturing the program’s first NBC World Series title since their magical run in 2013 and runner-up finish last year to the Hays Larks.

The top prize in the tournament includes an $18,000 championship payout, with $15,000 awarded to the runner-up and $9,000 for each semifinalist. The championship game is scheduled for Saturday, August 2.

Fans can follow all Monarchs games streamed live at the NBC World Series <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQe07OrvTlufPU4VpWuzWCg">YouTube Channel</a>.

Tournament Central for Schedule, Scores &amp; Stats: <a href="https://nbcbaseball.com/tournament-central-2025/?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExVE9ET1pVVjYxY3ZHMW40WgEeZzPeJ5x-kPp2TPdZ5SCcfJH2cvEuHFPfWhImgJqk0YrliOq7maLs5AOaNHY_aem_azkZ1B-pukpWLeKPbpc7kA" target="_blank">https://nbcbaseball.com/tournament-central-2025/</a>Tickets: <a href="http://nbcbaseball.com/tickets?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExVE9ET1pVVjYxY3ZHMW40WgEeqgh9TeNbJD-Sfmmm3VYx2crl9FFHu-3tXrP1Ms3zrCm81IJYFGo3HAY97x0_aem_LL1dZf-uWNgyT0svU0cSYw" target="_blank">nbcbaseball.com/tickets</a>

As a reminder, this year’s World Series will be happening from&nbsp;July 24th&nbsp;through August 2nd. Note that all games&nbsp;EXCEPT&nbsp;Championship Night will be played at Wichita State University’s&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/2015/5/26/Eck_Stadium.aspx" target="_blank">Eck Stadium</a>.&nbsp;Championship Night, which starts at 7 PM CDT on Saturday, August 2, will be played at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.milb.com/wichita/ballpark" target="_blank">Equity Bank Park</a>, home of the Wichita Wind Surge.

Everything you’ll need to know, from tickets and bags to parking and stadium policies, is available at the NBC World Series site listed below to ensure your NBC World Series experience is as smooth and enjoyable as possible.

For full schedules and tournament details, visit NBCWorldSeries.com.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753073009219.jpeg" alt="2025 NBC World Series Pool Play schedule." />
 <figcaption>2025 NBC World Series Pool Play schedule.</figcaption>
 </figure>WICHITA, Kan. — The Hutchinson Monarchs, fresh off a championship run in the Jayhawk Collegiate League, will open their pursuit of a national title in the 2025 NBC World Series on Friday, July 25, at Wichita State’s Eck Stadium.Hutchinson (27-7), making its return to the national spotlight, has been slotted into Pool B and will open pool play against the San Diego Stars at 6 p.m. Friday. The Monarchs are joined in Pool B by the Dodge City A’s, Seattle Cheney Studs, and San Diego.The 16-team field features a mix of league champions and perennial contenders, including the Alaska Goldpanners, Santa Barbara Foresters, and Hays Larks. The Monarchs are one of three Jayhawk League teams in the tournament, joined by the Derby Twins and Junction City Brigade.The NBC World Series, one of the premier summer collegiate baseball tournaments in the country, features 16 teams split across four pools. Pool play runs from July 24–29, with each team playing three games. The top three teams from each pool will advance to a single-elimination bracket, which begins July 30. The top team in each pool receives a first-round bye.The Monarchs’ complete pool play schedule is:<ul>
 <li>Friday, July 25 – 6:00 p.m. vs. San Diego Stars
</li><li>Sunday, July 27 – 12:00 p.m. vs. Dodge City A’s
</li><li>Monday, July 28 – 6:00 p.m. vs. Seattle Cheney Studs
</li>
 </ul>Led by a balanced roster and a dominant pitching staff, Hutchinson has surged through the summer behind standout performances and a 27-win regular season. This year’s Monarchs team has its eyes set on capturing the program’s first NBC World Series title since their magical run in 2013 and runner-up finish last year to the Hays Larks.The other pools include:<ul>
 <li>Pool A: Hays Larks, Lonestar Kraken, Oklahoma MVP, Seattle Blackfins
</li><li>Pool C: BTL Hornets, Derby Twins, Lonestar Baseball Club, Santa Barbara Foresters
</li><li>Pool D: Alaska Goldpanners, Junction City Brigade, GPS Legends, TPA Texas
</li>
 </ul>The top prize in the tournament includes an $18,000 championship payout, with $15,000 awarded to the runner-up and $9,000 for each semifinalist. The championship game is scheduled for Saturday, August 2.Fans can follow all Monarchs games streamed live at the NBC World Series <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQe07OrvTlufPU4VpWuzWCg">YouTube Channel</a>.Tournament Central for Schedule, Scores &amp; Stats: <a href="https://nbcbaseball.com/tournament-central-2025/?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExVE9ET1pVVjYxY3ZHMW40WgEeZzPeJ5x-kPp2TPdZ5SCcfJH2cvEuHFPfWhImgJqk0YrliOq7maLs5AOaNHY_aem_azkZ1B-pukpWLeKPbpc7kA" target="_blank">https://nbcbaseball.com/tournament-central-2025/</a>Tickets: <a href="http://nbcbaseball.com/tickets?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExVE9ET1pVVjYxY3ZHMW40WgEeqgh9TeNbJD-Sfmmm3VYx2crl9FFHu-3tXrP1Ms3zrCm81IJYFGo3HAY97x0_aem_LL1dZf-uWNgyT0svU0cSYw" target="_blank">nbcbaseball.com/tickets</a>As a reminder, this year’s World Series will be happening from&nbsp;July 24th&nbsp;through August 2nd. Note that all games&nbsp;EXCEPT&nbsp;Championship Night will be played at Wichita State University’s&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/2015/5/26/Eck_Stadium.aspx" target="_blank">Eck Stadium</a>.&nbsp;Championship Night, which starts at 7 PM CDT on Saturday, August 2, will be played at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.milb.com/wichita/ballpark" target="_blank">Equity Bank Park</a>, home of the Wichita Wind Surge.Everything you’ll need to know, from tickets and bags to parking and stadium policies, is available at the NBC World Series site listed below to ensure your NBC World Series experience is as smooth and enjoyable as possible.For full schedules and tournament details, visit NBCWorldSeries.com.

⚾ Hutchinson Monarchs set to begin pool play at 2025 NBC World Series Friday

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (AP) — Rashee Rice will be a full participant in training camp, Chiefs coach Andy Reid said Sunday, three days after the standout wide receiver was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/rashee-rice-kansas-city-chiefs-crash-jail-454eb8f9ee467628ee8258fe8ae5cc0c">sentenced to 30 days in jail</a>&nbsp;after authorities said he and another speeding driver caused a chain-reaction crash that left multiple people injured on a Dallas highway last year.

Whether he will be able to fully participate in the regular season remains to be seen.

Reid said on the eve of camp beginning that he has not been told by the NFL whether Rice will serve a suspension, though it is widely expected. NFL spokesman Brian McCarthy acknowledged last week “we have been closely monitoring all developments in the matter which remains under review.”

“We’re going to progress as normal with him,” Reid said on the campus of Missouri Western State University. “He’ll go in and take all the reps that he’ll normally take. We always rotate that position. Depending on what happens here with the future — whoever needs to play will step in and know what they are doing and be in good shape to do it.”

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/rashee-rice-charges-dallas-crash-kansas-city-chiefs-d71cfd66fabfc151111d67ea1bfa0f74">Rice pleaded</a>&nbsp;guilty to two third-degree felony charges of collision involving serious bodily injury and racing on a highway causing bodily injury in the March 30, 2024, crash. As part of a plea agreement, prosecutors said, Rice was sentenced to five years of deferred probation and 30 days in jail as a condition of his probation.

The Dallas County District Attorney’s Office said that the 25-year-old Rice, who will have some flexibility in when he must serve the jail time, also was required to pay the victims for their out-of-pocket medical expenses, which totaled about $115,000.

Rice was driving a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/rashee-rice-corvette-lamborghini-crash-dallas-2f3ac72c23b1d9ca4860f8cacc8b173e">Lamborghini Urus SUV</a>&nbsp;at 119 mph (191 kph) when he made “multiple aggressive maneuvers around traffic” and struck other vehicles, prosecutors said. After the crash on North Central Expressway, prosecutors said, Rice failed to check on the welfare of those in the other vehicles and fled on foot.

Rice said in a statement issued by his attorney that he’s had “a lot of sleepless nights thinking about the damages my actions caused, and I will continue working within my means to make sure that everyone impacted will be made whole.”

Rice got off to a flying start to his second NFL season last year, catching 24 passes for 288 yards and two touchdowns in his first three games. But in Week 4, after Patrick Mahomes had thrown an interception, the quarterback accidentally dived into Rice’s leg as they were trying to make the tackle, tearing the lateral collateral ligament in his knee.

Rice wound up&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/chiefs-kansas-city-rashee-rice-8bf46efe2fe8a336bbc751de9121c17b">missing the rest of the season</a>, which culminated in a loss to Philadelphia in the Super Bowl.

After spending the season rehabbing the injury, Rice was able to participate in the Chiefs’ offseason program, and Reid said he&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-city-chiefs-0fb0078ed2171c5447352202c2dacbcd">would not be limited by the injury</a>&nbsp;in training camp. That begins with testing and meetings on Tuesday, followed by the first full-squad workout on Wednesday, when temperatures are expected to hit triple digits.

“We’ll keep an eye on that,” Reid said of Rice’s knee injury. “As far as pulling back because of suspensions or whatever, you know, we’re going forward. And then we’ll monitor him as far as (the injury) goes.”

In other news, Reid said that cornerback Kristian Fulton and right tackle Jawaan Taylor — who are dealing with their own knee injuries — would begin the season alongside tight end Tre Watson on the physically unable-to-perform list.

Fulton&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-city-chiefs-free-agency-8e45db176efa969678349245fe428e91">signed a two-year, $20 million contract</a>&nbsp;to solidify the secondary while Taylor is expected to start at right tackle.

Reid also said&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/nfl-draft-kansas-city-chiefs-466de8bc6d14bf4192111f5a9100147b">first-round pick Josh Simmons</a>, who is coming off a torn patellar tendon at Ohio State, would not be limited at the start of training camp. The Chiefs hope that Simmons is able to prove he can handle the job at left tackle, where a rotating cast of characters was unable to protect Mahomes’ blind side last season.

With Taylor on the PUP list, the Chiefs will start with Simmons at left tackle and Jaylon Moore — who&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-city-chiefs-nfl-free-agency-b92a917954161183f270d3deaf33f4eb">signed a two-year, $30 million deal</a>&nbsp;in free agency — at right tackle. But it’s possible that Moore could push Simmons for the starting job on the left side during training camp in what could be the biggest position battle for the defending AFC champions.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1752846756340.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Rashee Rice carries after a catch during warmups before an NFL football game against the Cincinnati Bengals, Sept. 15, 2024, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Reed Hoffmann, File)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Rashee Rice carries after a catch during warmups before an NFL football game against the Cincinnati Bengals, Sept. 15, 2024, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Reed Hoffmann, File)</figcaption>
 </figure>ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (AP) — Rashee Rice will be a full participant in training camp, Chiefs coach Andy Reid said Sunday, three days after the standout wide receiver was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/rashee-rice-kansas-city-chiefs-crash-jail-454eb8f9ee467628ee8258fe8ae5cc0c">sentenced to 30 days in jail</a>&nbsp;after authorities said he and another speeding driver caused a chain-reaction crash that left multiple people injured on a Dallas highway last year.Whether he will be able to fully participate in the regular season remains to be seen.Reid said on the eve of camp beginning that he has not been told by the NFL whether Rice will serve a suspension, though it is widely expected. NFL spokesman Brian McCarthy acknowledged last week “we have been closely monitoring all developments in the matter which remains under review.”“We’re going to progress as normal with him,” Reid said on the campus of Missouri Western State University. “He’ll go in and take all the reps that he’ll normally take. We always rotate that position. Depending on what happens here with the future — whoever needs to play will step in and know what they are doing and be in good shape to do it.”<a href="https://apnews.com/article/rashee-rice-charges-dallas-crash-kansas-city-chiefs-d71cfd66fabfc151111d67ea1bfa0f74">Rice pleaded</a>&nbsp;guilty to two third-degree felony charges of collision involving serious bodily injury and racing on a highway causing bodily injury in the March 30, 2024, crash. As part of a plea agreement, prosecutors said, Rice was sentenced to five years of deferred probation and 30 days in jail as a condition of his probation.The Dallas County District Attorney’s Office said that the 25-year-old Rice, who will have some flexibility in when he must serve the jail time, also was required to pay the victims for their out-of-pocket medical expenses, which totaled about $115,000.Rice was driving a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/rashee-rice-corvette-lamborghini-crash-dallas-2f3ac72c23b1d9ca4860f8cacc8b173e">Lamborghini Urus SUV</a>&nbsp;at 119 mph (191 kph) when he made “multiple aggressive maneuvers around traffic” and struck other vehicles, prosecutors said. After the crash on North Central Expressway, prosecutors said, Rice failed to check on the welfare of those in the other vehicles and fled on foot.Rice said in a statement issued by his attorney that he’s had “a lot of sleepless nights thinking about the damages my actions caused, and I will continue working within my means to make sure that everyone impacted will be made whole.”Rice got off to a flying start to his second NFL season last year, catching 24 passes for 288 yards and two touchdowns in his first three games. But in Week 4, after Patrick Mahomes had thrown an interception, the quarterback accidentally dived into Rice’s leg as they were trying to make the tackle, tearing the lateral collateral ligament in his knee.Rice wound up&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/chiefs-kansas-city-rashee-rice-8bf46efe2fe8a336bbc751de9121c17b">missing the rest of the season</a>, which culminated in a loss to Philadelphia in the Super Bowl.After spending the season rehabbing the injury, Rice was able to participate in the Chiefs’ offseason program, and Reid said he&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-city-chiefs-0fb0078ed2171c5447352202c2dacbcd">would not be limited by the injury</a>&nbsp;in training camp. That begins with testing and meetings on Tuesday, followed by the first full-squad workout on Wednesday, when temperatures are expected to hit triple digits.“We’ll keep an eye on that,” Reid said of Rice’s knee injury. “As far as pulling back because of suspensions or whatever, you know, we’re going forward. And then we’ll monitor him as far as (the injury) goes.”In other news, Reid said that cornerback Kristian Fulton and right tackle Jawaan Taylor — who are dealing with their own knee injuries — would begin the season alongside tight end Tre Watson on the physically unable-to-perform list.Fulton&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-city-chiefs-free-agency-8e45db176efa969678349245fe428e91">signed a two-year, $20 million contract</a>&nbsp;to solidify the secondary while Taylor is expected to start at right tackle.Reid also said&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/nfl-draft-kansas-city-chiefs-466de8bc6d14bf4192111f5a9100147b">first-round pick Josh Simmons</a>, who is coming off a torn patellar tendon at Ohio State, would not be limited at the start of training camp. The Chiefs hope that Simmons is able to prove he can handle the job at left tackle, where a rotating cast of characters was unable to protect Mahomes’ blind side last season.With Taylor on the PUP list, the Chiefs will start with Simmons at left tackle and Jaylon Moore — who&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-city-chiefs-nfl-free-agency-b92a917954161183f270d3deaf33f4eb">signed a two-year, $30 million deal</a>&nbsp;in free agency — at right tackle. But it’s possible that Moore could push Simmons for the starting job on the left side during training camp in what could be the biggest position battle for the defending AFC champions.

🏈 Chiefs’ Rashee Rice to participate in training camp despite jail sentence

MIAMI (AP) — Kris Bubic pitched five shutout innings, Salvador Perez homered and doubled and the Kansas City Royals beat Miami 7-4 on Sunday to avoid a three-game sweep and end the Marlins' winning streak at four.

Bubic (8-6) gave up three hits and a walk. Andrew Hoffmann came on in the ninth and gave up four runs — none earned — in two-thirds of an inning before Carlos Estévez got the final out for his 26th save.

Perez hit his 15th homer of the season in the eighth.

Kansas City took a 3-0 lead in the fourth, and made it 6-0 in the fifth.

In the fourth, Bobby Witt Jr. scored on Maikel Garcia's sacrifice fly, Perez hit a ground-rule double and Jac Caglianone followed with a two-run double off starter Janson Junk (4-2). In the fifth, Jonathan India had a two-run double and Vinnie Pasquantino added an RBI sacrifice fly.

Xavier Edwards and Agustín Ramírez each had two RBIs for Miami.

After India popped out to open the fourth, Witt hit his major league-leading 33 double of the season and moved to third on a single by Pasquantino to spark Kansas City's three-run fourth inning.

The Royals, who went into the game with the fourth-most doubles (172) in the major leagues behind the Boston Red Sox (202), Arizona Diamondbacks (178) and New York Yankees (175), had five doubles by five players.

Miami's Eury Pérez (3-2, 3.18 ERA) was scheduled to start Monday night at home against San Diego. Noah Cameron (3-4, 2.31) was set to start for Kansas City on Monday night in Chicago against the Cubs.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753051874824.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Royals' Salvador Perez (13) gestures as he scores after hitting a solo home run during the eighth inning of a baseball game against the Miami Marlins, Sunday, July 20, 2025, in Miami. (AP Photo/Lynne Sladky)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Royals' Salvador Perez (13) gestures as he scores after hitting a solo home run during the eighth inning of a baseball game against the Miami Marlins, Sunday, July 20, 2025, in Miami. (AP Photo/Lynne Sladky)</figcaption>
 </figure>MIAMI (AP) — Kris Bubic pitched five shutout innings, Salvador Perez homered and doubled and the Kansas City Royals beat Miami 7-4 on Sunday to avoid a three-game sweep and end the Marlins' winning streak at four.Bubic (8-6) gave up three hits and a walk. Andrew Hoffmann came on in the ninth and gave up four runs — none earned — in two-thirds of an inning before Carlos Estévez got the final out for his 26th save.Perez hit his 15th homer of the season in the eighth.Kansas City took a 3-0 lead in the fourth, and made it 6-0 in the fifth.In the fourth, Bobby Witt Jr. scored on Maikel Garcia's sacrifice fly, Perez hit a ground-rule double and Jac Caglianone followed with a two-run double off starter Janson Junk (4-2). In the fifth, Jonathan India had a two-run double and Vinnie Pasquantino added an RBI sacrifice fly.Xavier Edwards and Agustín Ramírez each had two RBIs for Miami.<h2>Key moment</h2>After India popped out to open the fourth, Witt hit his major league-leading 33 double of the season and moved to third on a single by Pasquantino to spark Kansas City's three-run fourth inning.<h2>Key stat</h2>The Royals, who went into the game with the fourth-most doubles (172) in the major leagues behind the Boston Red Sox (202), Arizona Diamondbacks (178) and New York Yankees (175), had five doubles by five players.<h2>Up next</h2>Miami's Eury Pérez (3-2, 3.18 ERA) was scheduled to start Monday night at home against San Diego. Noah Cameron (3-4, 2.31) was set to start for Kansas City on Monday night in Chicago against the Cubs.

⚾ Bubic pitches 5 scoreless innings, Perez homers to help the Royals beat the Marlins

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (AP) — The Kansas City Chiefs and defensive end George Karlaftis agreed to a four-year, $93 million contract that includes $62 million guaranteed, a person familiar with the negotiations told The Associated Press on Sunday, keeping one of the best young players on the roster through the 2030 season.

The person spoke on condition of anonymity because the deal, which was agreed to the same day that the players reported to training camp at Missouri Western State University, is still pending a physical.

“He’s a heck of a player and he’s done a great job here, and he’s profiting from that,” Chiefs coach Andy Reid said. “And our team has profited from him being around. So it’s a win-win.”

It is the second high-profile contract that Chiefs general manager Brett Veach has finished in the past week. The Chiefs&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/chiefs-trey-smith-contract-e5eb206475631a54933a321f6271478b">signed Pro Bowl right guard Trey Smith</a>&nbsp;to a four-year, $94 million extension on Tuesday, setting the market for his position.

Karlaftis, the second of two first-round picks by the Chiefs in the 2022 draft, has started 44 of his 49 regular-season games for them. His best season came two years ago, when he had 10 1/2 sacks while starting every game, while he had eight sacks in 16 games last season, helping the Chiefs to reach a third consecutive Super Bowl.

Karlaftis has rings from the first two of them. The Chiefs lost to the Eagles in their latest Super Bowl in February.

“I mean, he’s always been a consistent player. Always a relentless player,” Reid said. “You know what you’re going to get with George. He’s smart. Relentless. You can trust him. You can trust that he’s going to be there and do the right things.”

Karlaftis is the first of a heralded 2022 draft class in Kansas City to sign a new contract, though he’s not expected to be the last.

The Chiefs are interested in signing their initial first-round pick that year, Trent McDuffie, to a long-term deal. The cornerback was a first-team All-Pro two years ago and a second-team pick last year, and he has emerged as not only one of the premier slot defenders in the NFL but a versatile, capable defensive back who can player just about anywhere on the team.

What could complicate the negotiations is the fact that the Jets recently&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/jets-sauce-gardner-contract-e11d183c65c44ced4a3ce9d5bcdf5f95">signed cornerback Sauce Gardner</a>&nbsp;to a record-setting four-year, $120.4 million extension. McDuffie is likely to demand a contract that meets or potentially exceeds that deal.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1660844565911.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (AP) — The Kansas City Chiefs and defensive end George Karlaftis agreed to a four-year, $93 million contract that includes $62 million guaranteed, a person familiar with the negotiations told The Associated Press on Sunday, keeping one of the best young players on the roster through the 2030 season.The person spoke on condition of anonymity because the deal, which was agreed to the same day that the players reported to training camp at Missouri Western State University, is still pending a physical.“He’s a heck of a player and he’s done a great job here, and he’s profiting from that,” Chiefs coach Andy Reid said. “And our team has profited from him being around. So it’s a win-win.”It is the second high-profile contract that Chiefs general manager Brett Veach has finished in the past week. The Chiefs&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/chiefs-trey-smith-contract-e5eb206475631a54933a321f6271478b">signed Pro Bowl right guard Trey Smith</a>&nbsp;to a four-year, $94 million extension on Tuesday, setting the market for his position.Karlaftis, the second of two first-round picks by the Chiefs in the 2022 draft, has started 44 of his 49 regular-season games for them. His best season came two years ago, when he had 10 1/2 sacks while starting every game, while he had eight sacks in 16 games last season, helping the Chiefs to reach a third consecutive Super Bowl.Karlaftis has rings from the first two of them. The Chiefs lost to the Eagles in their latest Super Bowl in February.“I mean, he’s always been a consistent player. Always a relentless player,” Reid said. “You know what you’re going to get with George. He’s smart. Relentless. You can trust him. You can trust that he’s going to be there and do the right things.”Karlaftis is the first of a heralded 2022 draft class in Kansas City to sign a new contract, though he’s not expected to be the last.The Chiefs are interested in signing their initial first-round pick that year, Trent McDuffie, to a long-term deal. The cornerback was a first-team All-Pro two years ago and a second-team pick last year, and he has emerged as not only one of the premier slot defenders in the NFL but a versatile, capable defensive back who can player just about anywhere on the team.What could complicate the negotiations is the fact that the Jets recently&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/jets-sauce-gardner-contract-e11d183c65c44ced4a3ce9d5bcdf5f95">signed cornerback Sauce Gardner</a>&nbsp;to a record-setting four-year, $120.4 million extension. McDuffie is likely to demand a contract that meets or potentially exceeds that deal.

🏈 Chiefs and defensive end George Karlaftis agree to 4-year, $93M contract

PORTRUSH, Northern Ireland (AP) — The enormous yellow scoreboard above the 18th green at Royal Portrush perfectly illustrated the state of golf these days. Scottie Scheffler’s name was at the top. No one was close.

That’s how it was in the British Open on Sunday, when Scheffler never gave anyone a chance from the time&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/TheOpen/status/1946929395177803856" target="_blank">his 9-iron settled a foot away for birdie on the first hole</a>&nbsp;until he tapped in for a 3-under 68 and a four-shot victory over Harris English.

That’s how it is in the sport, a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/scheffler-british-open-ffae3ed5e0456ac8cd9df6de5de84d56">level of dominance not seen since Tiger Woods</a>.

“He is the bar that we’re all trying to get to,” Masters champion Rory McIlroy said. “In a historical context, you could argue that there’s only maybe two or three players in the history of the game that have been on a run the one that Scottie’s been on here for the last 24 to 36 months. Incredibly impressive.”

Scheffler not only won his second major this year — and fourth in the last three years — he captured the third leg of the career Grand Slam, now missing only the U.S. Open.

He became the first player in more than a century to win his first fourth major title by at least three shots, and if not for his lone blunder from a bunker on the eighth hole when he had a seven-shot lead, he would have played bogey-free on the weekend.

“Being able to walk up 18 with the tournament in hand is a really tough thing to describe. It’s a really cool feeling. I have a lot of gratitude towards being able to accomplish something like this,” Scheffler said, the silver claret jug on the table next to him.

“It’s taken a lot of work — not only a lot of work, but it takes a lot of patience,” he said. “It’s a high level of focus over 72 holes of a tournament. This was, I felt like, one of my best performances mentally.”

Until he had his name etched on golf’s oldest trophy, Scheffler had a week marked by his extraordinary insight on how he views winning. He said celebrations last only a few minutes. He has wondered, “What’s the point?”

He loves the work required to be the best. He thrives on competition. But in terms of fulfillment,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/scottie-scheffler-british-open-royal-portrush-1ae549fd5b0fd51663ed756784bf2bca">he often questions why he wants to win so badly when the thrill of winning is fleeting</a>.

On the golf course, his biggest fist pump was for a par on the sixth hole. As he crouched to line up his birdie putt on the 18th, he rested his head on his hand with a slight smile of deep satisfaction. When he tapped in the final putt, he plucked the ball from the cup and put it in his pocket as if he had just won a regular PGA Tour event.

But when he finally found his family — wife Meredith, 15-month-old son Bennett, and his parents — Scheffler went crazy. He thrust both arms in the air, pumped both arms, screamed and threw his cap in the air. That’s what it’s all about for the 29-year-old from Texas.

“She’s always the first person I want to celebrate with,” he said. “She knows me better than anybody. That’s my best friend. It takes a lot of work to be able to become good at this game, and I wouldn’t be able to do it without her support.”

McIlroy had referred to the outcome as “inevitable” when Scheffler built a four-shot lead going into the final round, and it was every bit of that.

The tap-in birdie on the first hole. A brilliant approach between two knobs to 7 feet for birdie on the fourth. A 15-foot birdie on No. 5. Most telling was his biggest celebration, a powerful fist pump when he made a 15-foot par putt on No. 6.

It was reminiscent of when Woods saved his biggest fist pump for a par on the 16th hole of his historic 15-shot victory at Pebble Beach in the 2000 U.S. Open, when it was clear Woods was competing mainly against himself.

That’s what it felt like until Scheffler’s one wobble a double bogey on No. 8 when it took two shots to get out of a fairway bunker.

That ended his streak of 32 consecutive holes without a bogey. The lead was down to four shots when Scottish Open winner Chris Gotterup birdied the ninth. And then Scheffler birdied the next hole. He played the back nine with eight pars&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/TheOpen/status/1946971626391716179" target="_blank">and a birdie</a>&nbsp;because that’s all he needed. No one could catch him.

“I played with him the first two days, and honestly I thought he was going to birdie every hole. It was incredible to watch,” Shane Lowry said. “If Scottie’s feet stayed stable and his swing looked like Adam Scott’s, we’d be talking about him in the same words as Tiger Woods. ... His bad shots are really good. That’s when you know he’s really good.”

Scheffler, who finished at 17-under 267, won for the fourth time this year. He now has won 20 times worldwide in the last 30 months. This was the 11th straight time he turned a 54-hole lead into a victory.

“I don’t think we thought the golfing world would see someone as dominant as Tiger come through so soon, and here’s Scottie sort of taking that throne of dominance,” said Xander Schauffele, the defending champion who tied for seventh.

“You can’t even say he’s on a run. He’s just been killing it for over two years now,” he said. “He’s a tough man to beat, and when you see his name up on the leaderboard, it sucks for us.”

English capped off a memorable two weeks in the United Kingdom.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/harris-english-caddie-harrington-glover-campbell-8d588b8dd8615522fb7c53cb91e5f17c">His caddie of eight years couldn’t get a new travel visa</a>&nbsp;because of a 10-year prison term he served two decades ago. English had a replacement last week at the Scottish Open and another this week.

It didn’t stop him. English closed with a 66 and was runner-up in a major for the second time this year — both times to Scheffler — as he strengthened his case for the Ryder Cup team.

“The only guy to beat me at the PGA and this week. I’m playing some good golf,” English said. “I wasn’t playing professional golf when Tiger was at his peak. But it’s pretty incredible, just how good of a front-runner he is.”

Li Haotong of China (70), Matt Fitzpatrick (69) and Wyndham Clark (65) tied for fourth. That gets Li into the Masters next year.

As for McIlroy, there were few complaints. He needed an electric start like he had Saturday and was eight shots behind an hour into the final round. No matter. The Masters champion soaked up adulation across Royal Portrush,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/rory-mcilroy-british-open-df4d83120a6ff4879ad03bd3568b75b3">closing with a 69 to tie for seventh</a>.

“I wish I had have been closer to Scottie going into today and been able to make a real push,” McIlroy said. “But he’s been on a different level all week and he’s been on a different level for the last two years to the rest of us. He is the bar that we’re all trying to get to at this point.

“But for me to be in front of everyone here at home and to get that reception up the last, absolutely incredible. I’ll remember that for a long time.”

The only stumble from Scheffler came from his 15-month-old son, who tried to walk up a slope to the 18th green toward his dad and the claret jug, only to face-plant.

“I don’t think he’s ever been up a hill that big before,” Scheffler said with a laugh.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753064076114.png" alt="(AP Photo/Francisco Seco)" />
 <figcaption>(AP Photo/Francisco Seco)</figcaption>
 </figure>PORTRUSH, Northern Ireland (AP) — The enormous yellow scoreboard above the 18th green at Royal Portrush perfectly illustrated the state of golf these days. Scottie Scheffler’s name was at the top. No one was close.That’s how it was in the British Open on Sunday, when Scheffler never gave anyone a chance from the time&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/TheOpen/status/1946929395177803856" target="_blank">his 9-iron settled a foot away for birdie on the first hole</a>&nbsp;until he tapped in for a 3-under 68 and a four-shot victory over Harris English.That’s how it is in the sport, a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/scheffler-british-open-ffae3ed5e0456ac8cd9df6de5de84d56">level of dominance not seen since Tiger Woods</a>.“He is the bar that we’re all trying to get to,” Masters champion Rory McIlroy said. “In a historical context, you could argue that there’s only maybe two or three players in the history of the game that have been on a run the one that Scottie’s been on here for the last 24 to 36 months. Incredibly impressive.”Scheffler not only won his second major this year — and fourth in the last three years — he captured the third leg of the career Grand Slam, now missing only the U.S. Open.He became the first player in more than a century to win his first fourth major title by at least three shots, and if not for his lone blunder from a bunker on the eighth hole when he had a seven-shot lead, he would have played bogey-free on the weekend.“Being able to walk up 18 with the tournament in hand is a really tough thing to describe. It’s a really cool feeling. I have a lot of gratitude towards being able to accomplish something like this,” Scheffler said, the silver claret jug on the table next to him.“It’s taken a lot of work — not only a lot of work, but it takes a lot of patience,” he said. “It’s a high level of focus over 72 holes of a tournament. This was, I felt like, one of my best performances mentally.”The emotions he showed were telling.Until he had his name etched on golf’s oldest trophy, Scheffler had a week marked by his extraordinary insight on how he views winning. He said celebrations last only a few minutes. He has wondered, “What’s the point?”He loves the work required to be the best. He thrives on competition. But in terms of fulfillment,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/scottie-scheffler-british-open-royal-portrush-1ae549fd5b0fd51663ed756784bf2bca">he often questions why he wants to win so badly when the thrill of winning is fleeting</a>.On the golf course, his biggest fist pump was for a par on the sixth hole. As he crouched to line up his birdie putt on the 18th, he rested his head on his hand with a slight smile of deep satisfaction. When he tapped in the final putt, he plucked the ball from the cup and put it in his pocket as if he had just won a regular PGA Tour event.But when he finally found his family — wife Meredith, 15-month-old son Bennett, and his parents — Scheffler went crazy. He thrust both arms in the air, pumped both arms, screamed and threw his cap in the air. That’s what it’s all about for the 29-year-old from Texas.“She’s always the first person I want to celebrate with,” he said. “She knows me better than anybody. That’s my best friend. It takes a lot of work to be able to become good at this game, and I wouldn’t be able to do it without her support.”McIlroy had referred to the outcome as “inevitable” when Scheffler built a four-shot lead going into the final round, and it was every bit of that.The tap-in birdie on the first hole. A brilliant approach between two knobs to 7 feet for birdie on the fourth. A 15-foot birdie on No. 5. Most telling was his biggest celebration, a powerful fist pump when he made a 15-foot par putt on No. 6.It was reminiscent of when Woods saved his biggest fist pump for a par on the 16th hole of his historic 15-shot victory at Pebble Beach in the 2000 U.S. Open, when it was clear Woods was competing mainly against himself.That’s what it felt like until Scheffler’s one wobble a double bogey on No. 8 when it took two shots to get out of a fairway bunker.That ended his streak of 32 consecutive holes without a bogey. The lead was down to four shots when Scottish Open winner Chris Gotterup birdied the ninth. And then Scheffler birdied the next hole. He played the back nine with eight pars&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/TheOpen/status/1946971626391716179" target="_blank">and a birdie</a>&nbsp;because that’s all he needed. No one could catch him.“I played with him the first two days, and honestly I thought he was going to birdie every hole. It was incredible to watch,” Shane Lowry said. “If Scottie’s feet stayed stable and his swing looked like Adam Scott’s, we’d be talking about him in the same words as Tiger Woods. ... His bad shots are really good. That’s when you know he’s really good.”Scheffler, who finished at 17-under 267, won for the fourth time this year. He now has won 20 times worldwide in the last 30 months. This was the 11th straight time he turned a 54-hole lead into a victory.“I don’t think we thought the golfing world would see someone as dominant as Tiger come through so soon, and here’s Scottie sort of taking that throne of dominance,” said Xander Schauffele, the defending champion who tied for seventh.“You can’t even say he’s on a run. He’s just been killing it for over two years now,” he said. “He’s a tough man to beat, and when you see his name up on the leaderboard, it sucks for us.”English capped off a memorable two weeks in the United Kingdom.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/harris-english-caddie-harrington-glover-campbell-8d588b8dd8615522fb7c53cb91e5f17c">His caddie of eight years couldn’t get a new travel visa</a>&nbsp;because of a 10-year prison term he served two decades ago. English had a replacement last week at the Scottish Open and another this week.It didn’t stop him. English closed with a 66 and was runner-up in a major for the second time this year — both times to Scheffler — as he strengthened his case for the Ryder Cup team.“The only guy to beat me at the PGA and this week. I’m playing some good golf,” English said. “I wasn’t playing professional golf when Tiger was at his peak. But it’s pretty incredible, just how good of a front-runner he is.”Li Haotong of China (70), Matt Fitzpatrick (69) and Wyndham Clark (65) tied for fourth. That gets Li into the Masters next year.As for McIlroy, there were few complaints. He needed an electric start like he had Saturday and was eight shots behind an hour into the final round. No matter. The Masters champion soaked up adulation across Royal Portrush,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/rory-mcilroy-british-open-df4d83120a6ff4879ad03bd3568b75b3">closing with a 69 to tie for seventh</a>.“I wish I had have been closer to Scottie going into today and been able to make a real push,” McIlroy said. “But he’s been on a different level all week and he’s been on a different level for the last two years to the rest of us. He is the bar that we’re all trying to get to at this point.“But for me to be in front of everyone here at home and to get that reception up the last, absolutely incredible. I’ll remember that for a long time.”The only stumble from Scheffler came from his 15-month-old son, who tried to walk up a slope to the 18th green toward his dad and the claret jug, only to face-plant.“I don’t think he’s ever been up a hill that big before,” Scheffler said with a laugh.

⛳ Scottie Scheffler dominates in British Open victory for his 2nd major title this year

More than 3,000 race fans were on their feet Saturday night as Briggs Danner captured his first career USAC Silver Crown victory in dramatic fashion at the Salt City Speedway.

Danner, who spent much of the race battling between third and fourth place, made a decisive move beginning on lap 77 of the 100-lap feature. In just three laps, he surged to the front of the pack and held off a strong field to win the Salt City 100.

Finishing behind Danner were C.J. Leary in second and Chase Stockon in third. Matt Westfall came in fourth, followed by Kip Hughes in fifth.

The action didn’t stop with the Silver Crown race. In the IMCA RaceSaver Sprint Car division, Ty Williams took the win, while Jeremy Campbell of Wichita and Jeremy Hutch of Jetmore completed the podium.

Jake Nightingale of Hutchinson took the checkered flag in the IMCA Modified feature, with William Nusser of Larned finishing second and Casey Joe Gemmill third.

The next event at the historic half-mile Kansas State Fairgrounds track is scheduled for August 22 and 23. The two-day program will feature IMCA Stock Cars, IMCA Modifieds, IMCA Hobby Stocks, IMCA Northern SportMods, and Dirt Super Late Models. Gates open at 5 p.m., hot laps begin at 6:30 p.m., and racing starts at 7 p.m. each night.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753035979510.png" alt="Briggs Danner scores his first career USAC Silver Crown victory in the Salt City 100 (Photo courtesy USAC Rarcing)" />
 <figcaption>Briggs Danner scores his first career USAC Silver Crown victory in the Salt City 100 (Photo courtesy USAC Rarcing)</figcaption>
 </figure>More than 3,000 race fans were on their feet Saturday night as Briggs Danner captured his first career USAC Silver Crown victory in dramatic fashion at the Salt City Speedway.Danner, who spent much of the race battling between third and fourth place, made a decisive move beginning on lap 77 of the 100-lap feature. In just three laps, he surged to the front of the pack and held off a strong field to win the Salt City 100.Finishing behind Danner were C.J. Leary in second and Chase Stockon in third. Matt Westfall came in fourth, followed by Kip Hughes in fifth.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fsaltcityspeedway%2Fposts%2Fpfbid0zsJHtN8snF2FDTyuT86QLfdNhuvXaKiUPmcnw2wWyx4XPwTRMttui7wU11zBkqGZl&show_text=true&width=500" width="500" height="281" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></div>The action didn’t stop with the Silver Crown race. In the IMCA RaceSaver Sprint Car division, Ty Williams took the win, while Jeremy Campbell of Wichita and Jeremy Hutch of Jetmore completed the podium.Jake Nightingale of Hutchinson took the checkered flag in the IMCA Modified feature, with William Nusser of Larned finishing second and Casey Joe Gemmill third.The next event at the historic half-mile Kansas State Fairgrounds track is scheduled for August 22 and 23. The two-day program will feature IMCA Stock Cars, IMCA Modifieds, IMCA Hobby Stocks, IMCA Northern SportMods, and Dirt Super Late Models. Gates open at 5 p.m., hot laps begin at 6:30 p.m., and racing starts at 7 p.m. each night.

Danner gets first career USAC Silver Crown victory in Salt City 100

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1752719899354.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy Pretty Prairie Rodeo" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Pretty Prairie Rodeo</figcaption>
 </figure><div>All-around cowboy:&nbsp;Mason Stueve, $2,821, tie-down roping and team roping.
&nbsp;
Bareback riding:&nbsp;1. (tie) Colt Eck, on Beutler &amp; Son Rodeo's Shame On You, and Gauge McBride, on Beutler &amp; Son Rodeo's Hell Of A Night, 79 points, $1,604 each; 3. (tie) Jence Griffith and Karson Harris, 76, $848 each; 5. Quintonn Lunsford, 75, $424; 6. Connor Griffith, 74, $303; 7. Cole Hollen, 73, $242; 8. Tanner Drueke, 69, $182.
&nbsp;
Steer wrestling:&nbsp;First round:&nbsp;1. Tyler Scheevel, 4.0 seconds, $1,090; 2. Rhett Witt, 4.1, $902; 3. Adam Musil, 4.2, $714; 4. Jeff Miller, 4.3, $526; 5. Riley Duvall, 4.5, $338; 6. Mason Couch, 4.6, $188.&nbsp;Second round:&nbsp;1. Paul Melvin, 4.1 seconds, $1,090; 2. Quade Potter, 4.2, $902; 3. Wade Steffen, 4.3, $714; 4. Gary Gilbert, 4.5, $526; 5. Rhett Witt, 4.6, $338; 6. (tie) Tanner Brunner and Boyd Hanagriff, 4.7, $94 each.&nbsp;Average:&nbsp;1. Rhett Witt, 8.7 seconds on two head, $1,636; 2. (tie) Gary Gilbert and Quade Potter, 9.4, $1,213 each; 4. Tyler Scheevel, 9.5, $790; 5. (tie) Jeff Miller and Paul Melvin, 9.6, $395 each.
&nbsp;
Team roping:&nbsp;First round:&nbsp;1. Marcus Marriott/Jarrett Peek, 5.4 seconds, $1,211 each; 2. Bubba Buckaloo/Joseph Harrison, 5.6, $1,002; 3. (tie) McCray Profili/McCoy Profili and Jet Toberer/Catcher Gasperson, 5.9, $689 each; 5. Klay Yaussi/Kash Yaussi, 6.0, $376; 6. Zach Kilgus/Boogie Ray, 6.3, $209.&nbsp;Second round:&nbsp;1. Blake Hughes/Daniel Reed, 5.7 seconds, $1,211 each; 2. (tie) Zane Thompson/Chad Mathes and Klay Yaussi/Kash Yaussi, 6.3, $898 each; 4. Zach Kilgus/Boogie Ray, 6.5, $585; 5. Cam Hoelting/Dawson McMaster, 6.8, $376; 6. Brandon Farris/Braden Harmon, 8.0, $209.&nbsp;Average:&nbsp;1. Klay Yaussi/Kash Yaussi, 12.3 seconds on two head, $1,817 each; 2. Zach Kilgus/Boogie Ray, 12.8, $1,503; 3. Blake Hughes/Daniel Reed, 13.3, $1,190; 4. Brandon Farris/Braden Harmon, 14.4, $877; 5. McCray Profili/McCoy Profili, 16.9, $564; 6. Jason Arndt/Wade Perry, 21.1, $313.
&nbsp;
Saddle bronc riding:&nbsp;No qualified rides.
&nbsp;
Tie-down roping:&nbsp;1. Mason Stueve, 8.8 seconds, $2,821; 2. Cash Fuesz, 9.4, $2,453; 3. Glenn Jackson, 9.6, $2,085; 4. Travis Staley, 9.7, $1,717; 5. (tie) Nolan Richie and Levi Sechrist, 10.1, $1,165 each; 7. (tie) Trent Creager, Pax Vogel and McKade Wickett, 10.8, $286 each.
&nbsp;
Barrel racing:&nbsp;1. Tana Renick, 16.67 seconds, $1,830; 2. Emily Beisel, 16.81, $1,568; 3. Deb Guelly, 16.95, $1,307; 4. Alicia Kilgus, 17.15, $1,133; 5. Lanita Peirce, 17.25, $871; 6. Kara Kreder, 17.26, $697; 7. Jordan Swan, 17.30, $523; 8. Lauren England, 17.39, $349; 9. (tie) Jesse Harris and Carol Waters, 17.41, $218 each.
&nbsp;
Bull riding:&nbsp;*&nbsp;1. Tate Pollmeier, 76 points on Beutler &amp; Son Rodeo's Bomb Squad, $4,854; 2. Cash Toews, 58, $4,684; no other qualified rides. *(all totals include ground money).
&nbsp;
Breakaway roping:&nbsp;1. Brandi McDowell, 3.0 seconds, $1,673; 2. Jessica Koppitz, 3.2, $1,455; 3. Ally Brennaman, 3.3, $1,237; 4. Jessica McMaster, 3.4, $1,019; 5. (tie) Neelley Armes, Lindsey Hughes and Alli Nippert, 3.5, $582 each; 8. Christi Braudrick, 3.7, $146.
&nbsp;
Total payoff:&nbsp;$7,276.&nbsp;Stock contractor:&nbsp;Various.&nbsp;Rodeo Secretary:&nbsp;Dollie Riddle.&nbsp;Officials:&nbsp;Joe Bob Locke, Dewitt Forrest Jr and Royd Doyal.&nbsp;Timers:&nbsp;Dollie Riddle and Michelle Corley.&nbsp;Announcer:&nbsp;Randy Corley.&nbsp;Chute Boss:&nbsp;Bronc Rumford.&nbsp;Music Director:&nbsp;Jersey Jake Ostrum Iii.&nbsp;Photographer:&nbsp;Kent Kerschner.
&nbsp;
Total payoff:&nbsp;$78,966.&nbsp;Stock contractor:&nbsp;Beutler &amp; Son Rodeo.&nbsp;Rodeo Secretary:&nbsp;Dollie Riddle.&nbsp;Officials:&nbsp;Joe Bob Locke, Dewitt Forrest Jr and Royd Doyal.&nbsp;Timers:&nbsp;Dollie Riddle and Michelle Corley.&nbsp;Announcer:&nbsp;Randy Corley.&nbsp;Specialty Acts:&nbsp;Mark Decoudres and Justin Rumford.&nbsp;Bullfighters:&nbsp;Wacey Munsell and Ryan Dahl.&nbsp;Clown/Barrelman:&nbsp;Justin Rumford.&nbsp;Flankmen:&nbsp;Chuck Kite and Rhett Beutler.&nbsp;Chute Bosses:&nbsp;Rhett Beutler and Bronc Rumford.&nbsp;Pickup Men:&nbsp;James Rogers and Matt Scott.&nbsp;Music Director:&nbsp;Jersey Jake Ostrum Iii.&nbsp;Photographer:&nbsp;Kent Kerschner.</div>

Results from 88th Annual Pretty Prairie Rodeo

MIAMI (AP) — Otto López hit a go-ahead two-run double in the eighth inning and the Miami Marlins beat the Kansas City Royals 3-1 on Saturday.

Xavier Edwards tripled and doubled for the Marlins, who won their fourth straight and are 21-10 since June 13. Miami’s Kyle Stowers doubled and had two walks after hitting five homers in the last two games.

Salvador Pérez homered for the Royals’ run.

Graham Pauley drew a leadoff walk against Kansas City reliever Lucas Erceg (4-3) in the eighth before he advanced two bases on Edwards’ double. After Jesús Sánchez was intentionally walked, López hit a drive over left-fielder Nick Loftin to score Pauley and Edwards.

Anthony Bender closed with a perfect ninth for his third save.

Pérez hit a leadoff blast against Miami reliever Ronny Henriquez (6-1) in the eighth to tie it at 1-all. Pérez drove Henriquez’s fastball over the wall in center for his 14th homer of the season.

Miami starter Cal Quantrill allowed two hits and struck out three over six scoreless innings. Quantrill retired the last 10 batters he faced and was lifted after 69 pitches. He remains winless since May 18.

The Marlins struck quickly against Royals starter Michael Wacha on López’s RBI groundout in the first. Edwards tripled and sprinted home on López’s dribbler to third.

Wacha scattered three hits and struck out one in six innings.

Edwards had an automatic strike called against him for a clock violation before his double in the eighth.

Royals shortstop Bobby Witt Jr. was hitless in four at-bats, ending his road hitting streak at 27 games.

LHP Kris Bubic (7-6, 2.48) will start the series finale for the Royals on Sunday against Marlins RHP Janson Junk (4-1, 2.68).

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1752969360314.jpeg" alt="Miami Marlins' Otto Lopez hits a double to bring in two runs in the eighth inning of a baseball game against the Kansas City Royals, Saturday, July 19, 2025, in Miami. (AP Photo/Rebecca Blackwell)" />
 <figcaption>Miami Marlins' Otto Lopez hits a double to bring in two runs in the eighth inning of a baseball game against the Kansas City Royals, Saturday, July 19, 2025, in Miami. (AP Photo/Rebecca Blackwell)</figcaption>
 </figure>MIAMI (AP) — Otto López hit a go-ahead two-run double in the eighth inning and the Miami Marlins beat the Kansas City Royals 3-1 on Saturday.Xavier Edwards tripled and doubled for the Marlins, who won their fourth straight and are 21-10 since June 13. Miami’s Kyle Stowers doubled and had two walks after hitting five homers in the last two games.Salvador Pérez homered for the Royals’ run.Graham Pauley drew a leadoff walk against Kansas City reliever Lucas Erceg (4-3) in the eighth before he advanced two bases on Edwards’ double. After Jesús Sánchez was intentionally walked, López hit a drive over left-fielder Nick Loftin to score Pauley and Edwards.Anthony Bender closed with a perfect ninth for his third save.Pérez hit a leadoff blast against Miami reliever Ronny Henriquez (6-1) in the eighth to tie it at 1-all. Pérez drove Henriquez’s fastball over the wall in center for his 14th homer of the season.Miami starter Cal Quantrill allowed two hits and struck out three over six scoreless innings. Quantrill retired the last 10 batters he faced and was lifted after 69 pitches. He remains winless since May 18.The Marlins struck quickly against Royals starter Michael Wacha on López’s RBI groundout in the first. Edwards tripled and sprinted home on López’s dribbler to third.Wacha scattered three hits and struck out one in six innings.Key momentEdwards had an automatic strike called against him for a clock violation before his double in the eighth.Key statRoyals shortstop Bobby Witt Jr. was hitless in four at-bats, ending his road hitting streak at 27 games.Up nextLHP Kris Bubic (7-6, 2.48) will start the series finale for the Royals on Sunday against Marlins RHP Janson Junk (4-1, 2.68).

⚾ Otto López's tie-breaking two-run double in 8th lifts Marlins to win over Royals

Former NASCAR driver Ken Schrader thrilled a crowd of more than 2,500 fans Friday night by winning the IMCA Modified feature at the Kansas State Fairgrounds racetrack. Schrader took the checkered flag ahead of William Nusser of Larned and Jake Nightingale of Hutchinson, who rounded out the top three.

In other feature races, Mike Petersilie of Hoisington captured the IMCA Stock Car win, with Hutchinson’s Scott Miller finishing second and Brandon Massey of Valley Center taking third.

Wichita’s Jeremy Campbell claimed victory in the IMCA RaceSaver Sprint Cars, edging out Jordan Knight of Wright and Brian Herbert of Kinsley. In the IMCA Northern SportMods class, Salina’s Warren Huffman took the win, followed by Kely Weins of Newton and Stacey Huffman, also from Salina.

Fans will have another chance to meet Schrader on Saturday from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the soft opening of 25 Steak &amp; Social, located at 25 East 30th Avenue in Hutchinson. A $5 donation at the event will benefit the Cancer Council of Reno County and includes a pulled pork sandwich, chips, and drink.

Racing continues Saturday night with a packed schedule featuring the 100-lap Silver Crown main event, sprint car races, and additional IMCA Modified features. Gates open at 5 p.m. with races set to begin at 7:30 p.m.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1752931093430.jpeg" alt="Former NASCAR driver Ken Schrader won the IMCA Modified race at the State Fairgrounds on Friday July 18. (Photo courtesy of Salt City Racing)" />
 <figcaption>Former NASCAR driver Ken Schrader won the IMCA Modified race at the State Fairgrounds on Friday July 18. (Photo courtesy of Salt City Racing)</figcaption>
 </figure>MARC JACOBS Hutch Post&nbsp;Former NASCAR driver Ken Schrader thrilled a crowd of more than 2,500 fans Friday night by winning the IMCA Modified feature at the Kansas State Fairgrounds racetrack. Schrader took the checkered flag ahead of William Nusser of Larned and Jake Nightingale of Hutchinson, who rounded out the top three.In other feature races, Mike Petersilie of Hoisington captured the IMCA Stock Car win, with Hutchinson’s Scott Miller finishing second and Brandon Massey of Valley Center taking third.Wichita’s Jeremy Campbell claimed victory in the IMCA RaceSaver Sprint Cars, edging out Jordan Knight of Wright and Brian Herbert of Kinsley. In the IMCA Northern SportMods class, Salina’s Warren Huffman took the win, followed by Kely Weins of Newton and Stacey Huffman, also from Salina.Fans will have another chance to meet Schrader on Saturday from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the soft opening of 25 Steak &amp; Social, located at 25 East 30th Avenue in Hutchinson. A $5 donation at the event will benefit the Cancer Council of Reno County and includes a pulled pork sandwich, chips, and drink.Racing continues Saturday night with a packed schedule featuring the 100-lap Silver Crown main event, sprint car races, and additional IMCA Modified features. Gates open at 5 p.m. with races set to begin at 7:30 p.m.

Schrader gets win on Friday night, more races today

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1752922971278.png" alt="Game Day - Jayhawk Collegiate League All-Star game is tonight at Hobart-Detter Field in Hutchinson, Kansas." />
 <figcaption>Game Day - Jayhawk Collegiate League All-Star game is tonight at Hobart-Detter Field in Hutchinson, Kansas.</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe src="https://vcloud.hudl.com/broadcast/embed/2495721?autoplay=1" width="640" height="360" allow="fullscreen;" style="border:0;overflow:hidden;"></iframe></div><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1752923363244.jpeg" alt="Jayhawk Collegiate league All-Star Game at 7pm, Hobart-Detter Field in Hutchinson, Kansas." />
 <figcaption>Jayhawk Collegiate league All-Star Game at 7pm, Hobart-Detter Field in Hutchinson, Kansas.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1752923420814.jpeg" alt="Jayhawk Collegiate league Blue All-Star Roster" />
 <figcaption>Jayhawk Collegiate league Blue All-Star Roster</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1752923449058.jpeg" alt="Jayhawk Collegiate league Red All-Star Roster" />
 <figcaption>Jayhawk Collegiate league Red All-Star Roster</figcaption>
 </figure>

⚾ Hutchinson to host 2025 Jayhawk Collegiate League All-Star game tonight

HUTCHINSON, Kan. —&nbsp;The Hutchinson Monarchs closed out their 2025 regular season in style Saturday night, defeating the Wichita Wildcats 6-1 in front of a record-setting crowd at Hobart-Detter Field.

Right-hander Cole Toureau was dominant on the mound, striking out nine over five innings while allowing one run on just two hits. Toureau set the tone early, striking out the side in both the first and second innings as the Monarchs surged to an early lead they never relinquished.

The win capped a historic regular season at the gate for Hutchinson, drawing a capacity crowd of 353 and pushing their season total to 6,346 fans—a new franchise attendance record. The previous mark of 6,210 was set in 2012.

“Tonight was a great way to finish the regular season,” said Monarchs manager Casey Lippoldt. “Cole gave us a big lift early, and the fans have just been unbelievable all summer.”

The Monarchs jumped on Wichita starter Maxwell White for four runs in the first inning, aided by four consecutive walks and RBI singles from Jacob Gutierrez and Blake Bradford. They added two more in the third, highlighted by a run-scoring double from Jackson Legg and an RBI single from Keegan Demmer.

Wichita’s lone run came in the fifth on a steal of third and a throwing error that allowed Austin Selenke to score.

Hutchinson’s bullpen was lights out behind Toureau, as Brady Pacha, Riley Dickey, and Mitchell Johnson combined for four scoreless innings, striking out eight and allowing just one hit.

Demmer led the Monarchs at the plate, going 2-for-3 with a double, a single, and an RBI. Legg reached base three times and drove in a run.

The Monarchs now shift their focus to the postseason, starting by hosting the Jayhawk Collegiate League All-Star Game Saturday at 7 p.m. at Hobart-Detter. Seeding for the NBC World Series will be announced Sunday. 

<a href="https://nbcbaseball.com/tournament-central-2025/">NBC World Series Information</a>

Hutchinson closes the regular season at 27-7, having already clinched the Jayhawk Collegiate League title.

—
Streaming coverage of the All-Star Game will be available at HutchPost.com and MonarchsLive.tv.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1752920110411.png" alt="Final - Hutchinson Monarchs show strong pitching with 2 hit gem." />
 <figcaption>Final - Hutchinson Monarchs show strong pitching with 2 hit gem.</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. —&nbsp;The Hutchinson Monarchs closed out their 2025 regular season in style Saturday night, defeating the Wichita Wildcats 6-1 in front of a record-setting crowd at Hobart-Detter Field.Right-hander Cole Toureau was dominant on the mound, striking out nine over five innings while allowing one run on just two hits. Toureau set the tone early, striking out the side in both the first and second innings as the Monarchs surged to an early lead they never relinquished.The win capped a historic regular season at the gate for Hutchinson, drawing a capacity crowd of 353 and pushing their season total to 6,346 fans—a new franchise attendance record. The previous mark of 6,210 was set in 2012.“Tonight was a great way to finish the regular season,” said Monarchs manager Casey Lippoldt. “Cole gave us a big lift early, and the fans have just been unbelievable all summer.”The Monarchs jumped on Wichita starter Maxwell White for four runs in the first inning, aided by four consecutive walks and RBI singles from Jacob Gutierrez and Blake Bradford. They added two more in the third, highlighted by a run-scoring double from Jackson Legg and an RBI single from Keegan Demmer.Wichita’s lone run came in the fifth on a steal of third and a throwing error that allowed Austin Selenke to score.Hutchinson’s bullpen was lights out behind Toureau, as Brady Pacha, Riley Dickey, and Mitchell Johnson combined for four scoreless innings, striking out eight and allowing just one hit.Demmer led the Monarchs at the plate, going 2-for-3 with a double, a single, and an RBI. Legg reached base three times and drove in a run.The Monarchs now shift their focus to the postseason, starting by hosting the Jayhawk Collegiate League All-Star Game Saturday at 7 p.m. at Hobart-Detter. Seeding for the NBC World Series will be announced Sunday. <a href="https://nbcbaseball.com/tournament-central-2025/">NBC World Series Information</a>Hutchinson closes the regular season at 27-7, having already clinched the Jayhawk Collegiate League title.—
Streaming coverage of the All-Star Game will be available at HutchPost.com and MonarchsLive.tv.

⚾ Hutchinson Monarchs close regular season with record-breaking win over Wildcats

MIAMI (AP) — Kyle Stowers hit a two-run walk-off homer in the 10th inning and finished with three hits as the Miami Marlins defeated the Kansas City Royals 8-7 on Friday night.

Stowers had already tied a Marlins franchise record with his fourth home run in two games when he hit a three-run shot in the first inning. After Miami had built — then squandered — a 5-0 lead, the first-time All-Star followed with the biggest swing of the game against Carlos Estévez (4-3) that sent the winning shot 394 feet to right field.

Stowers went 3 for 5 and reached base in his first two at-bats to extend his on-base streak to 10 plate appearances, also tying a club record.

Adam Frazier entered as a pinch-hitter in the 10th and drove in automatic runner Jonathan India and Bobby Witt Jr, who had reached on an infield single. Frazier doubled to right off Lake Bachar (5-0) to give Kansas City the lead entering the bottom half.

In the Marlins’ 10th, Agustín Ramírez drove in automatic runner Derek Hill with a single before Stowers’ walk-off.

Kansas City had erased a five-run deficit with a four-run fourth against Sandy Alcantara, the 2022 Cy Young Award winner who hasn’t quite returned to form since missing the 2024 season due to Tommy John surgery.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1752948483531.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Royals pitcher Seth Lugo pitches during the second inning of a baseball game against the Miami Marlins, Friday, July 18, 2025, in Miami. (AP Photo/Rebecca Blackwell)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Royals pitcher Seth Lugo pitches during the second inning of a baseball game against the Miami Marlins, Friday, July 18, 2025, in Miami. (AP Photo/Rebecca Blackwell)</figcaption>
 </figure>MIAMI (AP) — Kyle Stowers hit a two-run walk-off homer in the 10th inning and finished with three hits as the Miami Marlins defeated the Kansas City Royals 8-7 on Friday night.Stowers had already tied a Marlins franchise record with his fourth home run in two games when he hit a three-run shot in the first inning. After Miami had built — then squandered — a 5-0 lead, the first-time All-Star followed with the biggest swing of the game against Carlos Estévez (4-3) that sent the winning shot 394 feet to right field.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1752948446845.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Royals John Rave runs after hitting his second home run, in the ninth inning of a baseball game against the Miami Marlins, Friday, July 18, 2025, in Miami. (AP Photo/Rebecca Blackwell)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Royals John Rave runs after hitting his second home run, in the ninth inning of a baseball game against the Miami Marlins, Friday, July 18, 2025, in Miami. (AP Photo/Rebecca Blackwell)</figcaption>
 </figure>Stowers went 3 for 5 and reached base in his first two at-bats to extend his on-base streak to 10 plate appearances, also tying a club record.Adam Frazier entered as a pinch-hitter in the 10th and drove in automatic runner Jonathan India and Bobby Witt Jr, who had reached on an infield single. Frazier doubled to right off Lake Bachar (5-0) to give Kansas City the lead entering the bottom half.In the Marlins’ 10th, Agustín Ramírez drove in automatic runner Derek Hill with a single before Stowers’ walk-off.Kansas City had erased a five-run deficit with a four-run fourth against Sandy Alcantara, the 2022 Cy Young Award winner who hasn’t quite returned to form since missing the 2024 season due to Tommy John surgery.

⚾️ Royals drop series opener to Marlins in 10

HUTCHINSON, Kan.  — The Hutchinson Monarchs (26-7) will pay host to the Wichita Wildcats tonight at Hobart-Detter Field in Carey Park. First pitch is set for 7 p.m.&nbsp; This is the final regular season game for the Monarchs for the 2025 season. The NBC World Series will begin on July 24th at Eck Stadium in Wichita.

Tonight's game will be streamed live on HutchPost.com and the MonarchsLive.tv channel. Glen Grunwald of Eagle Media will handle the play-by-play tonight, with Matt Peterson on the video stream.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1752867750393.png" alt="Game Day - Hutchinson Monarchs close out the regular season tonight at Hobart-Detter Field versus the Wichita Wildcats." />
 <figcaption>Game Day - Hutchinson Monarchs close out the regular season tonight at Hobart-Detter Field versus the Wichita Wildcats.</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe src="https://vcloud.hudl.com/broadcast/embed/2491141?autoplay=1" width="640" height="360" allow="fullscreen;" style="border:0;overflow:hidden;"></iframe></div>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Monarchs (26-7) will pay host to the Wichita Wildcats tonight at Hobart-Detter Field in Carey Park. First pitch is set for 7 p.m.&nbsp; This is the final regular season game for the Monarchs for the 2025 season. The NBC World Series will begin on July 24th at Eck Stadium in Wichita.Tonight's game will be streamed live on HutchPost.com and the MonarchsLive.tv channel. Glen Grunwald of Eagle Media will handle the play-by-play tonight, with Matt Peterson on the video stream.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1751389681632.png" alt="AudioFetch App is available either on your Android Device or Apple Device" />
 <figcaption>AudioFetch App is available either on your Android Device or Apple Device</figcaption>
 </figure>