(AP) — The one main constant on Kansas City’s defense during a run of seven straight appearances in the AFC title game has been defensive tackle Chris Jones.

While Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce have carried the offense, Jones has done the same on the defensive end for the Chiefs with his knack of creating pressure at key moments playing a crucial role in Kansas City’s success.

That helped Jones win the honor of being voted the top interior defensive lineman in the league by The Associated Press.

A panel of eight AP Pro Football Writers ranked the top five players at interior defensive line, basing selections on current status entering the 2025 season. First-place votes were worth 10 points. Second through fifth-place votes were worth 5, 3, 2 and 1 points.

Jones got seven of the eight first-place votes to go with one second to win the voting easily. Two other players were on all eight ballots with Dexter Lawrence of the New York Giants getting the other first-place vote to come in second and Philadelphia’s Jalen Carter finishing third.

Pittsburgh’s Cam Heyward finished fourth and Quinnen Williams of the Jets came in fifth.

Seattle’s Leonard Williams, Tennessee’s Jeffery Simmons, Denver’s Zach Allen and Carolina’s Derrick Brown also received votes.

Jones’ sack total of five last season was his lowest since his rookie season in 2016 but he still earned his third straight All-Pro selection after finishing second among all interior defensive linemen with 74 pressures in the regular season, according to Pro Football Focus. Jones’ 72 sacks over the past seven seasons rank tied for fifth overall in that span and tied with Aaron Donald for the most among interior linemen.

While most of the other players who got votes at interior defensive line are “3 technique” tackles who line up on the outside shoulder of the guards, Lawrence mostly plays nose tackle directly over the center. Those players are typically run stoppers since it is easier to double-team them in the pass game but Lawrence thrives at both. He had a career-high nine sacks in 12 games last season and his 103 pressures when lined up as a nose tackle the past three seasons are 80 more than any other player, according to PFF.

Carter was the anchor of Philadelphia’s Super Bowl-winning defense last season. He has 10 1/2 sacks and 102 total pressures in the regular season in his first two years, according to PFF, and helps free up the edge rushers for the Eagles because he warrants so many double teams.

Heyward has shown no signs of aging as heads into this season at age 36. He had eight sacks last season when he earned his fourth first-team All-Pro selection. He has 63 1/2 sacks and 91 tackles for loss in the past eight seasons, earning Pro Bowl bids in seven of them.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1704683730718.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Chiefs defensive tackle Chris Jones, left, celebrates with teammates after sacking Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Easton Stick during the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Jan. 7, 2024, in Inglewood, Calif. The sack earned Jones a $1.25 million contract incentive. (AP Photo/Ashley Landis)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Chiefs defensive tackle Chris Jones, left, celebrates with teammates after sacking Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Easton Stick during the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Jan. 7, 2024, in Inglewood, Calif. The sack earned Jones a $1.25 million contract incentive. (AP Photo/Ashley Landis)</figcaption>
 </figure>(AP) — The one main constant on Kansas City’s defense during a run of seven straight appearances in the AFC title game has been defensive tackle Chris Jones.While Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce have carried the offense, Jones has done the same on the defensive end for the Chiefs with his knack of creating pressure at key moments playing a crucial role in Kansas City’s success.That helped Jones win the honor of being voted the top interior defensive lineman in the league by The Associated Press.A panel of eight AP Pro Football Writers ranked the top five players at interior defensive line, basing selections on current status entering the 2025 season. First-place votes were worth 10 points. Second through fifth-place votes were worth 5, 3, 2 and 1 points.Jones got seven of the eight first-place votes to go with one second to win the voting easily. Two other players were on all eight ballots with Dexter Lawrence of the New York Giants getting the other first-place vote to come in second and Philadelphia’s Jalen Carter finishing third.Pittsburgh’s Cam Heyward finished fourth and Quinnen Williams of the Jets came in fifth.Seattle’s Leonard Williams, Tennessee’s Jeffery Simmons, Denver’s Zach Allen and Carolina’s Derrick Brown also received votes.<h2>1. CHRIS JONES, Kansas City Chiefs</h2>Jones’ sack total of five last season was his lowest since his rookie season in 2016 but he still earned his third straight All-Pro selection after finishing second among all interior defensive linemen with 74 pressures in the regular season, according to Pro Football Focus. Jones’ 72 sacks over the past seven seasons rank tied for fifth overall in that span and tied with Aaron Donald for the most among interior linemen.<h2>2. DEXTER LAWRENCE, New York Giants</h2>While most of the other players who got votes at interior defensive line are “3 technique” tackles who line up on the outside shoulder of the guards, Lawrence mostly plays nose tackle directly over the center. Those players are typically run stoppers since it is easier to double-team them in the pass game but Lawrence thrives at both. He had a career-high nine sacks in 12 games last season and his 103 pressures when lined up as a nose tackle the past three seasons are 80 more than any other player, according to PFF.<h2>3. JALEN CARTER, Philadelphia Eagles</h2>Carter was the anchor of Philadelphia’s Super Bowl-winning defense last season. He has 10 1/2 sacks and 102 total pressures in the regular season in his first two years, according to PFF, and helps free up the edge rushers for the Eagles because he warrants so many double teams.<h2>4. CAM HEYWARD, Pittsburgh Steelers</h2>Heyward has shown no signs of aging as heads into this season at age 36. He had eight sacks last season when he earned his fourth first-team All-Pro selection. He has 63 1/2 sacks and 91 tackles for loss in the past eight seasons, earning Pro Bowl bids in seven of them.<h2>5. QUINNEN WILLIAMS, New York Jets</h2>

🏈 Chiefs’ Chris Jones voted top interior defensive lineman

<a href="https://thetournament.com/tbt/2025-bracket/">TBT Bracket</a>&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;|&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;<a href="https://thetournament.com/tbt/2025-schedule/">TBT Schedule</a>&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;|&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;<a href="https://tbthoops.com/teams/">TBT Teams</a>

The Basketball Tournament (TBT) – the $1 million, winner-take-all 64-team summer basketball event tips off Friday with action in eight regional sites, including Wichita and Kansas City.&nbsp;

The Wichita region tips off at 3 p.m. from Charles Koch Arena, on the campus of Wichita State University. Fire Family will face Run DFW, that will be followed by Challenge ALS against Austin's Own (Texas alumni team) at 6 p.m. and then to close out the day, it's&nbsp;the <a href="https://tbthoops.com/teams/aftershocks/">Aftershocks</a> (Wichita State alumni) facing No Excuses at 8 p.m. All three games will be streamed on <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@The.Tournament/streams">YouTube</a>.

The action continues in Wichita on Sunday with Round of 32 action. The 6 p.m. game will be between the winner of Fire Family/Run DFW against No. 1-seed Forever Coogs. The other game Sunday will be between the winners of Challenge ALS/Austin's Own and AfterShocks/No Excuses at 8 p.m. Those two games will be nationally televised, the first being on FS2 and the second on FS1.

The Kansas City regional has both the Kansas and Kansas State alumni teams competing at Municipal Arena.

Saturday at 1 p.m. it's <a href="https://tbthoops.com/teams/purple-reign-kansas-state-alumni-2/">Purple Reign</a> (Kansas State alumni) facing The Shine, then at 3 p.m. it's <a href="https://tbthoops.com/teams/jhx-hoops-kansas-alumni/">JHX Hoops</a> (Kansas alumni) against OffDaHook. The day concludes with Sheffield Sharks and DaGuys STL at 5 p.m. All three games streaming on <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@The.Tournament/streams">YouTube</a>.

The Round of 32 games in Kansas City will take place Monday. The top-seed, Heartfire will face the winner of Purple Reign/The Shine at 6 p.m. and the winners of JHX Hoops/OffDaHook and Sheffield Sharks/DaGuys STL playing at 8 p.m. with both games steaming on <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@The.Tournament/streams">YouTube</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689777038708.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy Wichita State Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Wichita State Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://thetournament.com/tbt/2025-bracket/">TBT Bracket</a>&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;|&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;<a href="https://thetournament.com/tbt/2025-schedule/">TBT Schedule</a>&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;|&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;<a href="https://tbthoops.com/teams/">TBT Teams</a>The Basketball Tournament (TBT) – the $1 million, winner-take-all 64-team summer basketball event tips off Friday with action in eight regional sites, including Wichita and Kansas City.&nbsp;The Wichita region tips off at 3 p.m. from Charles Koch Arena, on the campus of Wichita State University. Fire Family will face Run DFW, that will be followed by Challenge ALS against Austin's Own (Texas alumni team) at 6 p.m. and then to close out the day, it's&nbsp;the <a href="https://tbthoops.com/teams/aftershocks/">Aftershocks</a> (Wichita State alumni) facing No Excuses at 8 p.m. All three games will be streamed on <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@The.Tournament/streams">YouTube</a>.The action continues in Wichita on Sunday with Round of 32 action. The 6 p.m. game will be between the winner of Fire Family/Run DFW against No. 1-seed Forever Coogs. The other game Sunday will be between the winners of Challenge ALS/Austin's Own and AfterShocks/No Excuses at 8 p.m. Those two games will be nationally televised, the first being on FS2 and the second on FS1.The Kansas City regional has both the Kansas and Kansas State alumni teams competing at Municipal Arena.Saturday at 1 p.m. it's <a href="https://tbthoops.com/teams/purple-reign-kansas-state-alumni-2/">Purple Reign</a> (Kansas State alumni) facing The Shine, then at 3 p.m. it's <a href="https://tbthoops.com/teams/jhx-hoops-kansas-alumni/">JHX Hoops</a> (Kansas alumni) against OffDaHook. The day concludes with Sheffield Sharks and DaGuys STL at 5 p.m. All three games streaming on <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@The.Tournament/streams">YouTube</a>.The Round of 32 games in Kansas City will take place Monday. The top-seed, Heartfire will face the winner of Purple Reign/The Shine at 6 p.m. and the winners of JHX Hoops/OffDaHook and Sheffield Sharks/DaGuys STL playing at 8 p.m. with both games steaming on <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@The.Tournament/streams">YouTube</a>.

🏀 TBT tips off in Wichita and Kansas City

Pretty Prairie Rodeo results through Night 2

WICHITA, Kan. — The countdown is on. The 2025 NBC World Series is just under a week away, with Opening Night set for Thursday, July 24, at Eck Stadium in Wichita. While several teams have already punched their tickets to one of the nation’s premier summer baseball tournaments, others are still in the heat of competition, battling for a coveted postseason berth.

The CenTex League could be decided tonight as GPS Legends Baseball faces Lonestar Baseball Club-North in a crucial doubleheader last night. The Legends need just one win to secure the league’s second NBC bid. A sweep by Lonestar-North would force a one-game playoff Saturday.&nbsp;

In Oklahoma, the winner of Saturday’s Stan Musial AABC World Series presented by D-BAT will clinch their spot in Wichita.

The Jayhawk Collegiate League continues to provide drama as Junction City Brigade and Derby Twins vie for the league’s second NBC berth. The Hutchinson Monarchs have already clinched the league championship, but the runner-up spot remains very much in play.

Several teams secured their spots this week:

They join a growing list of NBC World Series qualifiers:

The final list of teams and full tournament schedule will be released Sunday, ahead of Thursday’s opening ceremonies and first pitch at Eck Stadium. Fans are encouraged to purchase tickets early and track updates as more berths are clinched at <a href="https://nbcbaseball.com/tournament-central-2025">nbcbaseball.com/tournament-central-2025</a>.

The 2025 NBC World Series promises another thrilling showcase of elite summer collegiate and semi-pro baseball—don’t miss it.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724333219963.jpeg" alt="NBC World Series starts on July 24th." />
 <figcaption>NBC World Series starts on July 24th.</figcaption>
 </figure>WICHITA, Kan. — The countdown is on. The 2025 NBC World Series is just under a week away, with Opening Night set for Thursday, July 24, at Eck Stadium in Wichita. While several teams have already punched their tickets to one of the nation’s premier summer baseball tournaments, others are still in the heat of competition, battling for a coveted postseason berth.<h2>Matchups to Watch</h2>The CenTex League could be decided tonight as GPS Legends Baseball faces Lonestar Baseball Club-North in a crucial doubleheader last night. The Legends need just one win to secure the league’s second NBC bid. A sweep by Lonestar-North would force a one-game playoff Saturday.&nbsp;In Oklahoma, the winner of Saturday’s Stan Musial AABC World Series presented by D-BAT will clinch their spot in Wichita.The Jayhawk Collegiate League continues to provide drama as Junction City Brigade and Derby Twins vie for the league’s second NBC berth. The Hutchinson Monarchs have already clinched the league championship, but the runner-up spot remains very much in play.<h2>Teams That Have Clinched</h2>Several teams secured their spots this week:<ul>
 <li>Lonestar Baseball Club-North (CenTex League champions)
</li><li>Top Prospects Academy Texas (Stan Musial AABC Texas regional champs)
</li><li>Dodge City A’s (Rocky Mountain Baseball League champions)
</li>
 </ul>They join a growing list of NBC World Series qualifiers:<ul>
 <li>Hays Larks
</li><li>Hutchinson Monarchs
</li><li>Santa Barbara Foresters
</li><li>Seattle Studs
</li><li>Seattle Blackfins
</li><li>San Diego Stars
</li><li>Alaska Goldpanners
</li><li>Lonestar Kraken (Five Tool Texas)
</li><li>BTL Hornets (BTL Kansas City)
</li>
 </ul><h2>What’s Next</h2>The final list of teams and full tournament schedule will be released Sunday, ahead of Thursday’s opening ceremonies and first pitch at Eck Stadium. Fans are encouraged to purchase tickets early and track updates as more berths are clinched at <a href="https://nbcbaseball.com/tournament-central-2025">nbcbaseball.com/tournament-central-2025</a>.The 2025 NBC World Series promises another thrilling showcase of elite summer collegiate and semi-pro baseball—don’t miss it.

⚾ NBC World Series berths on the line as tournament nears opening day at Eck Stadium in Wichita

ROSE HILL, Kan. — Behind a dominant pitching performance and late offensive burst, the Hutchinson Monarchs shut out the Wichita Wildcats 6-0 Thursday night to set the stage for their regular season finale on Friday at Hobart-Detter Field.

Hutchinson's pitching staff was lights out, with starter Pryce Bender tossing seven scoreless innings while striking out 10 and allowing just four hits. Whit Rhodes and Brayden Henry closed the door with a pair of clean relief innings to preserve the shutout.

The Monarchs scratched across their first run in the fifth inning when Keegan Demmer reached on an error, stole two bases, and scored on a strikeout-wild pitch sequence. Hutchinson then broke the game open in the eighth with a five-run outburst, highlighted by a solo home run from Blake Bradford and RBI contributions from Jackson Legg, Joey Senstock, and Dylan Bell. A steal of home by Senstock capped the scoring.

Bradford finished 2-for-5 with a homer and two runs scored. Gutierrez added a hit, was hit by a pitch, and scored twice.

Bender struck out 10 Wildcats across his seven innings of work, while Parker Clubb took the loss for Wichita despite striking out eight through six frames.

The Monarchs will wrap up the regular season Friday night back at Hobart-Detter against these same Wildcats. First pitch is scheduled for 7 p.m. The game will also serve as Reno County Food Bank Night at the ballpark—fans are encouraged to bring non-perishable food items to donate.

The Monarchs will also host the Jayhawk Collegiate League All-Star Game on Saturday night at Hobart-Detter Field.

Both games will be streamed live on HutchPost.com and MonarchsLive.tv.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1752835305945.png" alt="Final - Monarchs shut out Wildcats 6-0 Thursday night in Rose Hill." />
 <figcaption>Final - Monarchs shut out Wildcats 6-0 Thursday night in Rose Hill.</figcaption>
 </figure>ROSE HILL, Kan. — Behind a dominant pitching performance and late offensive burst, the Hutchinson Monarchs shut out the Wichita Wildcats 6-0 Thursday night to set the stage for their regular season finale on Friday at Hobart-Detter Field.Hutchinson's pitching staff was lights out, with starter Pryce Bender tossing seven scoreless innings while striking out 10 and allowing just four hits. Whit Rhodes and Brayden Henry closed the door with a pair of clean relief innings to preserve the shutout.The Monarchs scratched across their first run in the fifth inning when Keegan Demmer reached on an error, stole two bases, and scored on a strikeout-wild pitch sequence. Hutchinson then broke the game open in the eighth with a five-run outburst, highlighted by a solo home run from Blake Bradford and RBI contributions from Jackson Legg, Joey Senstock, and Dylan Bell. A steal of home by Senstock capped the scoring.Bradford finished 2-for-5 with a homer and two runs scored. Gutierrez added a hit, was hit by a pitch, and scored twice.Bender struck out 10 Wildcats across his seven innings of work, while Parker Clubb took the loss for Wichita despite striking out eight through six frames.The Monarchs will wrap up the regular season Friday night back at Hobart-Detter against these same Wildcats. First pitch is scheduled for 7 p.m. The game will also serve as Reno County Food Bank Night at the ballpark—fans are encouraged to bring non-perishable food items to donate.The Monarchs will also host the Jayhawk Collegiate League All-Star Game on Saturday night at Hobart-Detter Field.Both games will be streamed live on HutchPost.com and MonarchsLive.tv.

⚾ Hutchinson Monarchs stifle Wichita Wildcats in shutout win

DALLAS (AP) — Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Rashee Rice was sentenced to 30 days in jail on Thursday after authorities said he and another speeding driver caused a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/rashee-rice-sports-car-crash-24b9e3281d0bca8c0c13a0cedda57b93">chain-reaction crash</a>&nbsp;that left multiple people injured on a Dallas highway last year.

The Dallas County District Attorney’s Office said Rice pleaded 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, Rice was sentenced to five years of deferred probation and 30 days in jail as a condition of his probation, prosecutors said.

Prosecutors said he was also required to pay the victims for their out-of-pocket medical expenses, which totaled about $115,000.

Rice was driving a Lamborghini Urus SUV at 119 mph (191 kph) when he made “multiple aggressive maneuvers around traffic” and struck other vehicles, prosecutors said. Prosecutors said that after the crash, Rice failed to check on the welfare of those in the other vehicles and fled on foot.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1702851920621.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Rashee Rice (4) enters the end zone for a touchdown as wide receiver Justin Watson (84) celebrates during the first half of an NFL football game against the New England Patriots, Sunday, Dec. 17, 2023, in Foxborough, Mass. (AP Photo/Michael Dwyer)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Rashee Rice (4) enters the end zone for a touchdown as wide receiver Justin Watson (84) celebrates during the first half of an NFL football game against the New England Patriots, Sunday, Dec. 17, 2023, in Foxborough, Mass. (AP Photo/Michael Dwyer)</figcaption>
 </figure>DALLAS (AP) — Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Rashee Rice was sentenced to 30 days in jail on Thursday after authorities said he and another speeding driver caused a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/rashee-rice-sports-car-crash-24b9e3281d0bca8c0c13a0cedda57b93">chain-reaction crash</a>&nbsp;that left multiple people injured on a Dallas highway last year.The Dallas County District Attorney’s Office said Rice pleaded 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, Rice was sentenced to five years of deferred probation and 30 days in jail as a condition of his probation, prosecutors said.Prosecutors said he was also required to pay the victims for their out-of-pocket medical expenses, which totaled about $115,000.Rice was driving a Lamborghini Urus SUV at 119 mph (191 kph) when he made “multiple aggressive maneuvers around traffic” and struck other vehicles, prosecutors said. Prosecutors said that after the crash, Rice failed to check on the welfare of those in the other vehicles and fled on foot.The news release from prosecutors included a statement from Rice that was released by his attorney. Rice said in the statement that he’s had “a lot of sleepless nights thinking about the damages that my actions caused, and I will continue working within my means to make sure that everyone impacted will be made whole.”

🏈 Chiefs WR Rashee Rice sentenced to 30 days in jail over Dallas high-speed crash

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

NICKERSON, Kan. — When Trish Wade got the call, she didn’t know if she had another season in her.

After 17 years of building one of Kansas’ most consistent small-school volleyball powerhouses at St. John-Hudson, Wade was unexpectedly let go from the program she’d poured her heart and soul into. The separation came with little warning and plenty of emotion, a jarring end to a chapter defined by discipline, intensity and winning.

“I was still finishing the school year, still processing everything,” Wade said. “It was hard. I felt like I still had more to give, but I didn’t know what the next step would be.”

Then Nickerson High School Athletic Director Devin Maxwell came calling, and kept calling.

Nickerson-South Hutchinson USD 309 officially approved Wade’s hiring as the Panthers’ new head volleyball coach at its July board meeting earlier this week, welcoming in one of the state’s most decorated coaches and a fierce competitor known for turning potential into championships. She replaces Hannah Schrag.

“Coach Wade knows what it takes to compete at the highest level,” Maxwell said. “She’s dedicated to instilling that same drive and excellence in her athletes.”

That drive defined Wade’s 17-year run at St. John, where she compiled more than 420 career victories and guided the Tigers to three Class 1A state championships. Under her leadership, St. John claimed its first volleyball title in her first season in 2008 with a 43-2 record, then followed with back-to-back Class 1A Division I crowns in 2010 and 2011. Her teams advanced to the state semifinals 10 times, including a return trip last fall to the state tournament with a 29-15 finish.

Wade built more than a trophy case, she built belief.

“I’ve always been high energy,” she said. “I coach with passion, and I expect a lot. But what I’ve learned over the years is how important it is to build a culture, one where kids believe they can do hard things.”

Now she’s taking that mindset to Nickerson, where the Panthers are looking to bounce back after an 12-25 season in 2024. Wade believes they have the talent, and the hunger, to do just that.

“We’ve got good pieces,” Wade said. “Delaney Childs and Denae Engelland are two athletes who stand out. They’re leaders, and they’re coachable. The whole group has responded with a willingness to learn, and that’s where it all starts.”

Wade’s belief in hard work and hustle traces back to her own upbringing. A Haviland native and graduate of Haviland High School, she grew up in a tight-knit community where sports were a way of life and character mattered as much as talent.

She carried those values into her playing career, becoming a standout at Barton Community College, where she led the Cougars to a 111-10 record and two Top-4 NJCAA National Tournament finishes from 1985 to 1986. A two-time NJCAA All-American, she was inducted into Barton’s Sports Hall of Fame in 2011.

Wade then transferred to Florida Southern College, where she earned AVCA Second Team All-America honors in 1987 and was twice named First Team All-Sunshine State Conference. She still holds school records for solo blocks in a match (11), season (99) and career (182), and remains among the program’s all-time leaders in multiple statistical categories.

After college, Wade returned to Kansas and eventually began her coaching career with club teams in Wichita. But it wasn’t until she took the job at St. John that she truly found her calling.

“I walked into a good situation with great kids,” she said. “But we had to learn how to win, not just physically, but mentally. That’s what I love about coaching. Teaching that mindset. Helping athletes realize what they’re capable of.”

When Wade was released from her duties at St. John this spring, she initially considered stepping away from coaching altogether. But Maxwell’s persistence, and the support of her family, ultimately helped her say yes to one more chapter. Wade already has ties to Reno County, with family in Hutchinson, Pretty Prairie and just outside of Nickerson.

“I didn’t want to be done,” she said. "I'm a huge believer, and I do believe this is a God thing. I'm not saying he took my job away, but he made a way for me to continue coaching and doing what I love. I just didn’t want my story to end that way.”

Though the transition to the new group of players in Nickerson is ongoing, she’s already seeing buy-in from her new team.

“I told the girls, we’re not just going to lose anymore,” she said. “That kind of mindset doesn’t belong in our gym. If we’re going to change the culture, it starts with believing we can win again. I believe that you can build a program off of discipline, heart, hustle and the mindset of a competitor.”

Helping drive that transformation are two new assistant coaches. Her daughter, Teresa Rush, a former standout at St. John, where she was coached by her mom. She then went onto be a two-time NJCAA All-American at Hutchinson Community College and former member of the Kansas State volleyball support staff under longtime head coach Suzie Fritz, joins the bench with a decorated playing and coaching background. The other assistant, Allie Frederick, brings multi-sport athletic experience and the same competitive edge Wade demands.

“It was such an honor to coach Teresa while she was at St. John and now have her on my staff is a whole new privilege that I am extremely thankful for," Wade said. "Teresa said she’d do anything for me, and now here we are, coaching side by side. She’s young, smart, and has a great understanding of what it takes to compete at a high level. And Allie brings a ton of energy and drive. Our chemistry as a staff has been immediate, and that will show up in how we coach our kids.”

The new job also means stepping into one of the toughest leagues in Kansas, the Central Kansas League, home to the defending Class 3A state champions, Halstead. That program is led by Wade’s longtime friend and coaching peer, Diana Schutte, adding another layer of intensity and excitement to her new role.

“I sent Diana a message and said, ‘Girl, I get to see you more than once a year now!’” Wade said with a laugh. “I love coaching against her. The energy, the competitiveness, it just brings out the best in everyone. And being in a league like this? It forces you to get better every day.”

Wade isn’t promising state titles overnight. She’s promising effort, intensity, and steady growth, the kind of change that builds real foundations.

“This program used to be respected,” she said. “And there’s no reason it can’t be again. We’ve got the athletes, we’ve got the work ethic. Now it’s about building belief, day by day.”

That belief isn’t just about wins and losses, she said. It’s about buying into a new culture, one that values preparation, toughness and togetherness.

“If we get beat, we’ll know why, and we’ll fix it,” Wade said. “We’re going to be a team that competes every night, that never gives in, and that grows into something we can all be proud of.”

Beyond the court, Wade hopes to energize the community and re-establish Nickerson volleyball as a point of pride. She’s been blown away by the local support and says she’s “exactly where I’m supposed to be.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1752717878655.png" alt="Photo Courtesy Trish Wade" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Trish Wade</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="mailto:sean.boston@eaglemedia.com">SEAN BOSTON </a>Hutch PostNICKERSON, Kan. — When Trish Wade got the call, she didn’t know if she had another season in her.After 17 years of building one of Kansas’ most consistent small-school volleyball powerhouses at St. John-Hudson, Wade was unexpectedly let go from the program she’d poured her heart and soul into. The separation came with little warning and plenty of emotion, a jarring end to a chapter defined by discipline, intensity and winning.“I was still finishing the school year, still processing everything,” Wade said. “It was hard. I felt like I still had more to give, but I didn’t know what the next step would be.”Then Nickerson High School Athletic Director Devin Maxwell came calling, and kept calling.Nickerson-South Hutchinson USD 309 officially approved Wade’s hiring as the Panthers’ new head volleyball coach at its July board meeting earlier this week, welcoming in one of the state’s most decorated coaches and a fierce competitor known for turning potential into championships. She replaces Hannah Schrag.“Coach Wade knows what it takes to compete at the highest level,” Maxwell said. “She’s dedicated to instilling that same drive and excellence in her athletes.”That drive defined Wade’s 17-year run at St. John, where she compiled more than 420 career victories and guided the Tigers to three Class 1A state championships. Under her leadership, St. John claimed its first volleyball title in her first season in 2008 with a 43-2 record, then followed with back-to-back Class 1A Division I crowns in 2010 and 2011. Her teams advanced to the state semifinals 10 times, including a return trip last fall to the state tournament with a 29-15 finish.Wade built more than a trophy case, she built belief.“I’ve always been high energy,” she said. “I coach with passion, and I expect a lot. But what I’ve learned over the years is how important it is to build a culture, one where kids believe they can do hard things.”Now she’s taking that mindset to Nickerson, where the Panthers are looking to bounce back after an 12-25 season in 2024. Wade believes they have the talent, and the hunger, to do just that.“We’ve got good pieces,” Wade said. “Delaney Childs and Denae Engelland are two athletes who stand out. They’re leaders, and they’re coachable. The whole group has responded with a willingness to learn, and that’s where it all starts.”Wade’s belief in hard work and hustle traces back to her own upbringing. A Haviland native and graduate of Haviland High School, she grew up in a tight-knit community where sports were a way of life and character mattered as much as talent.She carried those values into her playing career, becoming a standout at Barton Community College, where she led the Cougars to a 111-10 record and two Top-4 NJCAA National Tournament finishes from 1985 to 1986. A two-time NJCAA All-American, she was inducted into Barton’s Sports Hall of Fame in 2011.Wade then transferred to Florida Southern College, where she earned AVCA Second Team All-America honors in 1987 and was twice named First Team All-Sunshine State Conference. She still holds school records for solo blocks in a match (11), season (99) and career (182), and remains among the program’s all-time leaders in multiple statistical categories.After college, Wade returned to Kansas and eventually began her coaching career with club teams in Wichita. But it wasn’t until she took the job at St. John that she truly found her calling.“I walked into a good situation with great kids,” she said. “But we had to learn how to win, not just physically, but mentally. That’s what I love about coaching. Teaching that mindset. Helping athletes realize what they’re capable of.”When Wade was released from her duties at St. John this spring, she initially considered stepping away from coaching altogether. But Maxwell’s persistence, and the support of her family, ultimately helped her say yes to one more chapter. Wade already has ties to Reno County, with family in Hutchinson, Pretty Prairie and just outside of Nickerson.“I didn’t want to be done,” she said. "I'm a huge believer, and I do believe this is a God thing. I'm not saying he took my job away, but he made a way for me to continue coaching and doing what I love. I just didn’t want my story to end that way.”Though the transition to the new group of players in Nickerson is ongoing, she’s already seeing buy-in from her new team.“I told the girls, we’re not just going to lose anymore,” she said. “That kind of mindset doesn’t belong in our gym. If we’re going to change the culture, it starts with believing we can win again. I believe that you can build a program off of discipline, heart, hustle and the mindset of a competitor.”Helping drive that transformation are two new assistant coaches. Her daughter, Teresa Rush, a former standout at St. John, where she was coached by her mom. She then went onto be a two-time NJCAA All-American at Hutchinson Community College and former member of the Kansas State volleyball support staff under longtime head coach Suzie Fritz, joins the bench with a decorated playing and coaching background. The other assistant, Allie Frederick, brings multi-sport athletic experience and the same competitive edge Wade demands.“It was such an honor to coach Teresa while she was at St. John and now have her on my staff is a whole new privilege that I am extremely thankful for," Wade said. "Teresa said she’d do anything for me, and now here we are, coaching side by side. She’s young, smart, and has a great understanding of what it takes to compete at a high level. And Allie brings a ton of energy and drive. Our chemistry as a staff has been immediate, and that will show up in how we coach our kids.”The new job also means stepping into one of the toughest leagues in Kansas, the Central Kansas League, home to the defending Class 3A state champions, Halstead. That program is led by Wade’s longtime friend and coaching peer, Diana Schutte, adding another layer of intensity and excitement to her new role.“I sent Diana a message and said, ‘Girl, I get to see you more than once a year now!’” Wade said with a laugh. “I love coaching against her. The energy, the competitiveness, it just brings out the best in everyone. And being in a league like this? It forces you to get better every day.”Wade isn’t promising state titles overnight. She’s promising effort, intensity, and steady growth, the kind of change that builds real foundations.“This program used to be respected,” she said. “And there’s no reason it can’t be again. We’ve got the athletes, we’ve got the work ethic. Now it’s about building belief, day by day.”That belief isn’t just about wins and losses, she said. It’s about buying into a new culture, one that values preparation, toughness and togetherness.“If we get beat, we’ll know why, and we’ll fix it,” Wade said. “We’re going to be a team that competes every night, that never gives in, and that grows into something we can all be proud of.”Beyond the court, Wade hopes to energize the community and re-establish Nickerson volleyball as a point of pride. She’s been blown away by the local support and says she’s “exactly where I’m supposed to be.”<div><iframe title="Trish Wade Interview - New Nickerson head VB coach" 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=urrbq-190a132-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>

🏐 After championship legacy at St. John, Trish Wade ready to build a new era at Nickerson

<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 Thursday, July 17, 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=bkyvn-190a039-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 reunite with Frazier; ⚾ Monarchs place 13 on ASG roster; 🥎 HutchCC's Aguirre earns national award

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Monarchs will be well represented in Saturday night’s Jayhawk Collegiate League All-Star Game, placing a league-high 13 players on the roster. First pitch is set for 7 p.m. at Hobart-Detter Field in Hutchinson. The game will be streamed live on&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.hutchpost.com/">HutchPost.com</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.monarchslive.tv/">MonarchsLive.TV</a>.

Monarchs Place 13 on Jayhawk League All-Star Roster. Named to the 2025 All-Star team include utility players: Jeter Worthley, Jackson Legg, AJ Mustow, Tyson Vassart, Joey Senstock, Jacob Gutierrez, Blake Bradford, Drew Bugner. Pitchers: Daegan Vinduska, Bradyn McClure, Carson Gonzalez, Ethan Giesbrecht and Riley Dickey.

The game showcases the top talent from the Jayhawk Collegiate League and serves as a key highlight ahead of the NBC World Series, now in its 91st year. The Monarchs, who recently clinched the Jayhawk League Championship, await their seeding in the tournament, which begins July 24 at Eck Stadium in Wichita.

Hutchinson’s All-Star hosting duties offer fans one more look at the dominant Monarchs squad before they begin their postseason run.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1752751028226.png" alt="Jayhawk Collegiate League All-Star game will be played at Hobart-Detter Field on Saturday." />
 <figcaption>Jayhawk Collegiate League All-Star game will be played at Hobart-Detter Field on Saturday.</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Monarchs will be well represented in Saturday night’s Jayhawk Collegiate League All-Star Game, placing a league-high 13 players on the roster. First pitch is set for 7 p.m. at Hobart-Detter Field in Hutchinson. The game will be streamed live on&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.hutchpost.com/">HutchPost.com</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.monarchslive.tv/">MonarchsLive.TV</a>.Monarchs Place 13 on Jayhawk League All-Star Roster. Named to the 2025 All-Star team include utility players: Jeter Worthley, Jackson Legg, AJ Mustow, Tyson Vassart, Joey Senstock, Jacob Gutierrez, Blake Bradford, Drew Bugner. Pitchers: Daegan Vinduska, Bradyn McClure, Carson Gonzalez, Ethan Giesbrecht and Riley Dickey.The game showcases the top talent from the Jayhawk Collegiate League and serves as a key highlight ahead of the NBC World Series, now in its 91st year. The Monarchs, who recently clinched the Jayhawk League Championship, await their seeding in the tournament, which begins July 24 at Eck Stadium in Wichita.Hutchinson’s All-Star hosting duties offer fans one more look at the dominant Monarchs squad before they begin their postseason run.

⚾ Hutchinson Monarchs to host Jayhawk Collegiate League All-Star game Saturday

PRETTY PRAIRIE, Kan. — The 88th annual Pretty Prairie Rodeo opened Wednesday night at the Booster Club Arena with strong early performances across multiple events, including a standout ride from Tennessee’s Connor Griffith in bareback riding.

Griffith earned 74 points on Beutler &amp; Son Rodeo’s Blue Moon to take the early lead in bareback riding. Nebraska’s Tanner Drueke followed with a 69-point ride, while no other contestants recorded qualified scores.

In steer wrestling, Tyler Scheevel of Lester Prairie, Minnesota, leads the average with a 4.0-second run in the first round, which also topped the payout list at $1,090. Rhett Witt (4.1) and Adam Musil (4.2) rounded out the top three. In the second round, Gary Gilbert of Paradise, Texas, posted the fastest time at 4.5 seconds to lead a tight leaderboard.

The team roping duo of Marcus Marriott and Jarrett Peek set the bar in the first round with a 5.4-second run, earning $1,211 apiece. Bubba Buckaloo and Joseph Harrison took second with a 5.6, while two teams tied for third at 5.9 seconds.

Weston Patterson’s 82.5-point effort on Beutler &amp; Son’s Fortune Hunter gave him the lead in saddle bronc riding. Blake Steuck followed closely with 80 points, while John Allen and Cauy Pennington also turned in solid rides.

In tie-down roping, Trent Creager of Stillwater, Oklahoma, leads after stopping the clock in 10.8 seconds. Jared Turner sits second at 11.6.

Alicia Kilgus of Stephenville, Texas, posted a 17.15-second run to top the barrel racing standings. Lauren England (17.39) and Jennifer Baker (17.59) sit in second and third, respectively.

Only one bull rider posted a qualified score, as Canton, Kansas, cowboy Cash Toews earned 58 points on Beutler &amp; Son’s Priceline to take the early lead.

Night 2 of the Pretty Prairie Rodeo begins at 8 p.m. Thursday at Booster Club Arena. For ticket information, visit <a href="http://pprodeo.com">pprodeo.com</a>.

Stock contractor:&nbsp;Beutler &amp; Son Rodeo.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<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>PRETTY PRAIRIE, Kan. — The 88th annual Pretty Prairie Rodeo opened Wednesday night at the Booster Club Arena with strong early performances across multiple events, including a standout ride from Tennessee’s Connor Griffith in bareback riding.Griffith earned 74 points on Beutler &amp; Son Rodeo’s Blue Moon to take the early lead in bareback riding. Nebraska’s Tanner Drueke followed with a 69-point ride, while no other contestants recorded qualified scores.In steer wrestling, Tyler Scheevel of Lester Prairie, Minnesota, leads the average with a 4.0-second run in the first round, which also topped the payout list at $1,090. Rhett Witt (4.1) and Adam Musil (4.2) rounded out the top three. In the second round, Gary Gilbert of Paradise, Texas, posted the fastest time at 4.5 seconds to lead a tight leaderboard.The team roping duo of Marcus Marriott and Jarrett Peek set the bar in the first round with a 5.4-second run, earning $1,211 apiece. Bubba Buckaloo and Joseph Harrison took second with a 5.6, while two teams tied for third at 5.9 seconds.Weston Patterson’s 82.5-point effort on Beutler &amp; Son’s Fortune Hunter gave him the lead in saddle bronc riding. Blake Steuck followed closely with 80 points, while John Allen and Cauy Pennington also turned in solid rides.In tie-down roping, Trent Creager of Stillwater, Oklahoma, leads after stopping the clock in 10.8 seconds. Jared Turner sits second at 11.6.Alicia Kilgus of Stephenville, Texas, posted a 17.15-second run to top the barrel racing standings. Lauren England (17.39) and Jennifer Baker (17.59) sit in second and third, respectively.Only one bull rider posted a qualified score, as Canton, Kansas, cowboy Cash Toews earned 58 points on Beutler &amp; Son’s Priceline to take the early lead.Night 2 of the Pretty Prairie Rodeo begins at 8 p.m. Thursday at Booster Club Arena. For ticket information, visit <a href="http://pprodeo.com">pprodeo.com</a>.<h2>Thursday's Daysheet</h2>Bareback Riding<ul>
 <li>Colt Eck, Redfield, Kan., on Shame On You (BU)</li><li>Quintonn Lunsford, McCune, Kan., on Nutrena’s Electi (BU)
</li><li>Karson Harris, Hepler, Kan., on Witchcraft (BU)
</li><li>Owen Brouillette, St. Francisville, La., on Dangerous Doug (BU)
</li><li>Brayze Schill, West Columbia, Texas, on Oddly Real (BU)
</li><li>Cole Hollen, Liberty Hill, Texas, on Quite Fancy (BU)
</li>
 </ul>Steer Wrestling<ul>
 <li>Adam Musil, Crescent, Okla.
</li><li>Shawn Musil, Crescent, Okla.
</li><li>Tyler Scheevel, Lester Prairie, Minn.
</li><li>Gus Franzen, Kearney, Neb.
</li><li>Mason Couch, Bronaugh, Mo.
</li><li>Isaiah Naauao-Asing, Haiku, Hawaii
</li><li>Juddsen Napier, Sallisaw, Okla.
</li><li>Tucker Ravenscroft, Nenzel, Neb.
</li><li>Coy Johnston, Stapleton, Neb.
</li><li>Sam Daly, Tryon, Neb.
</li><li>Paul Melvin, Paradise, Texas
</li>
 </ul>Team Roping<ul>
 <li>Boogie Ray, Mabank, Texas, and Zach Kilgus, Stephenville, Texas
</li><li>Billie Saebens, Nowata, Okla., and Jaxson Tucker, Statesville, N.C.
</li><li>Blake Barnes and Latham Dickson, Chelsea, Okla.
</li><li>Zane Thompson, Cheyenne, Wyo., and Chad Mathes, Montalba, Texas
</li><li>Kingston Chang, Makawao, Hawaii, and Mason Stueve, Newton, Kan.
</li><li>Shannon Frascht, Alva, Okla., and Tyler Hobert, Clearwater, Kan.
</li><li>Bubba Buckaloo, Kingston, Okla., and Joseph Harrison, Marietta, Okla.
</li><li>Jessen James, Moyers, Okla., and Jaxon Hill, Antlers, Okla.
</li><li>Wade Perry, Wellsville, Kan., and Jason Arndt, Fort Scott, Kan.
</li><li>McCoy Profili, Roans Prairie, Texas, and McCray Profili, Bedias, Texas
</li>
 </ul>Saddle Bronc Riding<ul>
 <li>Korben Baker, Marlow, Okla., on Regulator (BU)
</li><li>Michael Johnston, Weatherford, Texas, on Grizzly (BU)
</li><li>Bryan Huey, Corona, N.M., on Red Eclipse (BU)
</li><li>Levi Mines, Elfrida, Ariz., on Revolving Door (BU)
</li><li>Tejay Angland, Wantabadgery, Australia, on Mean Dream (BU)
</li><li>Mitchell Story, Bayfield, Colo., on High Tech (BU)
</li><li>Jase Stout, Bayfield, Colo., on Roan Ranger (BU)
</li><li>Smiley Hay, Taroom, Australia, on Cat Scratch (BU)
</li><li>Luke Price, Pryor, Okla., on Tune Up (BU)
</li><li>Trent Burd, Madison, Kan., on Bad Religion (BU)
</li><li>Garrett Long, Valentine, Neb., on River Monster (BU)
</li><li>Waitley Sharon, Ordway, Colo., on Buckaroo (BU)
</li>
 </ul>Tie-down Roping<ul>
 <li>Ethan Hill, South Coffeyville, Okla.
</li><li>Tylen Layton, Copan, Okla.
</li><li>Glenn Jackson, Okmulgee, Okla.
</li><li>Cade Swor, Winnie, Texas
</li><li>Tate Jordan, Wichita Falls, Texas
</li><li>Kyan Wilhite, Clovis, N.M.
</li><li>Haze Wright, Ozark, Mo.
</li><li>Lane Watson, Fort Scott, Kan.
</li><li>Wade Perry, Wellsville, Kan.
</li><li>Ryan Belew, Raton, N.M.
</li>
 </ul>Barrel Racing<ul>
 <li>Melanie McKay, Tonganoxie, Kan.
</li><li>Kappie Bryant, Hico, Texas
</li><li>Megan Albrecht, Deming, N.M.
</li><li>Tracy Nowlin, Nowata, Okla.
</li><li>Ivy Hurst, Springer, Okla.
</li><li>Diana Shoop, Inola, Okla.
</li><li>Angela Bartley, Chouteau, Okla.
</li><li>Jesse Harris, Itasca, Texas
</li><li>Sandy McElreath, Cimarron, Kan.
</li><li>Kara Kreder, Bluff Dale, Texas
</li><li>Sadie Troyer, Weatherford, Okla.
</li>
 </ul>Bull Riding<ul>
 <li>Coy Pollmeier, Fort Scott, Kan., on Dracula (BU)
</li><li>Tate Pollmeier, Fort Scott, Kan., on Bomb Squad (BU)
</li><li>Brayden Lamb, Fort Scott, Kan., on Record Rack’s Ov (BU)
</li><li>Thaddeus Towns, Palco, Kan., on Fake Friend (BU)
</li><li>Jesse Hopper, Mangum, Okla., on Yellowfin (BU)</li>
 </ul>Stock contractor:&nbsp;Beutler &amp; Son Rodeo.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Pretty Prairie Rodeo: Night 1 results

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1752691552845.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy Kansas Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Kansas Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure><div>Kansas Athletics
&nbsp;
&nbsp;
LAWRENCE, Kan. &ndash;&nbsp;Kansas head coach&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/womens-basketball/roster/coaches/brandon-schneider/927" rel="smarttag" rev="927">Brandon Schneider</a></dfn>&nbsp;has announced a challenging, 12-game non-conference schedule that awaits the Jayhawks during the upcoming 2025-26 season. The Jayhawks will face three power conference opponents prior to league play, beginning with the previously announced StorageMart Border Showdown against Missouri on Nov. 15 at the T-Mobile Center in Kansas City, Missouri. KU will then host Minnesota on Nov. 19 and travel to Northwestern on Dec. 3 after playing two games at the Fort Myers Tip-Off on Nov. 28-29 in Florida. Kansas will play seven non-conference games at home, with three at a neutral site and two true road games. "We feel very good about the quality of our non-conference schedule," Schneider said. "The strength and mixture of home, away, and neutral site games will prepare us for the always challenging Big 12 slate." After hosting Fort Hays State for an exhibition contest on Oct. 29, Kansas opens the regular season with three straight home games, hosting Kansas City (Nov. 5), Northwestern State (Nov. 9) and Lamar (Nov. 12). The Jayhawks then head to Kansas City to face Missouri before returning home to host Minnesota (Nov. 19) and Oral Roberts (Nov. 23). Thanksgiving week will be spent in Florida as the Jayhawks compete at the Fort Myers Tip-Off on Nov. 28-29. Matchups and game times for the event are expected to be announced soon. The Jayhawks then play consecutive road games at Northwestern (Dec. 3) and Missouri State (Dec. 7) before closing out the non-conference portion of the schedule at home against Denver (Dec. 14) and Haskell (Dec. 17). Kansas will face Haskell, a crosstown foe, for the first time in a regular season contest since 1974. The Jayhawks hold a 4-1 all-time advantage in the series. "Over the past few years, we have been able to build a connection off the court with the Haskell women's basketball program that we hope has been mutually beneficial for both teams," Schneider said. "I have tremendous respect for Coach Adam Strom and the loyalty he displayed for his young women last spring. Coach Strom and I believe that it is time for our programs to connect on the court. Games like these produce tremendous memories for all involved.&nbsp; We feel that the game will be strongly supported by both institutions and the Lawrence community." On June 12, The Big 12 Conference announced conference matchups for the 2025-26 season. Kansas will host BYU, Cincinnati, Colorado, Houston, Utah and West Virginia and travel to Arizona, Arizona State, Baylor, Iowa State, TCU and UCF. The Jayhawks will also play home-and-home contests against Kansas State, Oklahoma State and Texas Tech. Season tickets for the 2025-26 Kansas women's basketball campaign are now on sale. For as low as $110, fans can reserve their seat at historic Allen Fieldhouse for the upcoming season. To learn more about ticket options, fans are encouraged to visit KUAthletics.com or call 800-34-HAWKS. 2025-26 Kansas Women's Basketball Non-Conference Schedule:&nbsp;
<table border="0" width="776" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td nowrap="nowrap">Date</td>
<td nowrap="nowrap">Opponent</td>
<td nowrap="nowrap">Location</td>
<td nowrap="nowrap">Series History</td>
<td nowrap="nowrap">Last Meeting</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td nowrap="nowrap">Oct. 29</td>
<td nowrap="nowrap">Fort Hays State (exh)</td>
<td nowrap="nowrap">Lawrence, Kan. (Allen Fieldhouse)</td>
<td nowrap="nowrap">--</td>
<td nowrap="nowrap">--</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td nowrap="nowrap">Nov. 5</td>
<td nowrap="nowrap">Kansas City</td>
<td nowrap="nowrap">Lawrence, Kan. (Allen Fieldhouse)</td>
<td nowrap="nowrap">KU Leads 19-4</td>
<td nowrap="nowrap">2024</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td nowrap="nowrap">Nov. 9</td>
<td nowrap="nowrap">Northwestern State</td>
<td nowrap="nowrap">Lawrence, Kan. (Allen Fieldhouse)</td>
<td nowrap="nowrap">KU Leads 2-1</td>
<td nowrap="nowrap">2024</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td nowrap="nowrap">Nov. 12</td>
<td nowrap="nowrap">Lamar</td>
<td nowrap="nowrap">Lawrence, Kan. (Allen Fieldhouse)</td>
<td nowrap="nowrap">KU Leads 2-1</td>
<td nowrap="nowrap">2011</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td nowrap="nowrap">Nov. 15</td>
<td nowrap="nowrap">Missouri</td>
<td nowrap="nowrap">Kansas City, Mo. (T-Mobile Center)</td>
<td nowrap="nowrap">KU Leads 45-38</td>
<td nowrap="nowrap">2023</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td nowrap="nowrap">Nov. 19</td>
<td nowrap="nowrap">Minnesota</td>
<td nowrap="nowrap">Lawrence, Kan. (Allen Fieldhouse)</td>
<td nowrap="nowrap">KU Leads 14-4</td>
<td nowrap="nowrap">2013</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td nowrap="nowrap">Nov. 23</td>
<td nowrap="nowrap">Oral Roberts</td>
<td nowrap="nowrap">Lawrence, Kan. (Allen Fieldhouse)</td>
<td nowrap="nowrap">KU Leads 15-1</td>
<td nowrap="nowrap">2020</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td nowrap="nowrap">Nov. 28-29</td>
<td nowrap="nowrap">Fort Myers Tip-Off</td>
<td nowrap="nowrap">Fort Myers, Fla. (Suncoast Credit Union Arena)</td>
<td nowrap="nowrap">--</td>
<td nowrap="nowrap">--</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td nowrap="nowrap">Dec. 3</td>
<td nowrap="nowrap">Northwestern</td>
<td nowrap="nowrap">Evanston, Ill. (Welsh-Ryan Arena)</td>
<td nowrap="nowrap">NU Leads 3-1</td>
<td nowrap="nowrap">2018</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td nowrap="nowrap">Dec. 7</td>
<td nowrap="nowrap">Missouri State</td>
<td nowrap="nowrap">Springfield, Mo. (Great Southern Bank Arena)</td>
<td nowrap="nowrap">KU Leads 9-6</td>
<td nowrap="nowrap">2016</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td nowrap="nowrap">Dec. 14</td>
<td nowrap="nowrap">Denver</td>
<td nowrap="nowrap">Lawrence, Kan. (Allen Fieldhouse)</td>
<td nowrap="nowrap">KU Leads 2-1</td>
<td nowrap="nowrap">2004</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td nowrap="nowrap">Dec. 17</td>
<td nowrap="nowrap">Haskell</td>
<td nowrap="nowrap">Lawrence, Kan. (Allen Fieldhouse)</td>
<td nowrap="nowrap">KU Leads 4-1</td>
<td nowrap="nowrap">1974</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
 Big 12 Scheduling Opponent Matrix (18-game schedule) Home and Away: Kansas State, Oklahoma State, Texas Tech Home Only: BYU, Cincinnati, Colorado, Houston, Utah, West Virginia Away Only: Arizona, Arizona State, Baylor, Iowa State, TCU, UCF</div>

🏀 KU unveils non-conference women's hoops schedule

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1752691670940.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy Wichita State Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Wichita State Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure><div>Wichita State Athletics
&nbsp;
&nbsp;
WICHITA, Kan. -&nbsp;Wichita State head softball coach&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/coaches/kristi-bredbenner/1271" rel="smarttag" rev="1271">Kristi Bredbenner</a></dfn>&nbsp;has added three graduate assistants to her staff, all three former All-Americans for the Shockers during their playing days. Sydney McKinney,&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/lauren-lucas/9314" rel="smarttag" rev="9314">Lauren Lucas</a></dfn>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/cc-wong/8967" rel="smarttag" rev="8967">CC Wong</a></dfn>&nbsp;will all make their return to the Shocker softball program after highly decorated playing careers in the Black and Yellow. "We are ecstatic to have Sydney, Lauren and CC back," Bredbenner said. "Their willingness to want to stay and give back to Shocker Softball says a lot about their experience. Most importantly, their knowledge, passion and desire to develop the next generation of Shocker is evident. All three of them continue to represent Wichita State at the highest level. We are proud of their accomplishments, and we are so excited to have them share their experiences with our program." McKinney, the former No. 1 overall draft pick is in her first season with the Bandits, the inaugural season of the AUSL (Athletes Unlimited Softball League).&nbsp;She is wrapping up her third professional season overall with Athletes Unlimited. McKinney is the most decorated softball player in program history, earning All-America honors three times and a two-time American Athletic Conference Player of the Year. Lucas just completed her eligibility this past season at Wichita State, picking up First Team All-Conference honors for the third time in her career. Fresh out of college, Lucas is nearing the end of her first season as a professional with the New York Rise. Wong made the most of her lone season in uniform for Wichita State, earning All-America honors and ranking 2nd nationally in batting average. She was a student assistant on the softball team in 2024-25 while finishing her bachelor's degree. Wong is currently representing her home country on the Canadian National Team.</div>

🥎 Bredbenner adds trio of former players to coaching staff at WSU

Hutchinson Community College assistant softball coach Ray Aguirre earned a national honor on Wednesday being named the Easton/National Fastpitch Coaches Association (NFCA) NJCAA Division I National Assistant Coach of the Year.

Aguirre has been with the Blue Dragon softball program for since 2017. He became a full-time assistant coach in 2021. Over that span, the Blue Dragons have won 198 games, two Jayhawk Conference titles, a Region 6/Plains District championship and was part of Hutchinson's first-ever appearance in the NJCAA Softball World Series.

Aguirre serves as the Blue Dragons' pitching coach, first-base coach and Recruiting Coordinator. He is also in charge of field maintenance.

"Ray is a tireless worker and recruiter," Blue Dragon head coach Jaime Rose said. "His compassion for the players in unmatched."

As the Blue Dragon pitching coach, Hutchinson's average staff ERA has been 3.60 since 2021.

Aguirre's 2022, 2023 and 2024 pitching staffs all rank in the Top 5 in program single-game history. The 2024 Region 6 champion's team ERA is second all-time at 2.75. The 2023 team is fourth at 2.80 and the 2022 team is fifth at 2.89.

The 2025 pitching staff endured injuries throughout the season and under Aguirre's tutelage, the Blue Dragons still posted a 3.59 team ERA en route to a conference title. Pitcher&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2024-25/bios/tomlinson_morgan_0v0v">Morgan Tomlinson</a>, a two-time 20-win pitcher at Hutchinson, was a first-team All-KJCCC selection,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2024-25/bios/schmidt_jessica_edec">Jessica Schmidt</a>&nbsp;was a second team selection and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2024-25/bios/thomas_aubree_o0p2">Aubree Thomas</a>&nbsp;as an honorable mention all-conference player.

Aguirre has coached two All-American pitchers in his tenure: Dakota Lake (2024/NFCA) and Riley Wertz (2022/NJCAA).

Aguirre's overall recruiting as netted the Blue Dragons 34 all-KJCCC selections and eight All-America awards.

Before coming to Hutchinson, Aguirre was the pitching coach for Friends University in Wichita for 11 seasons.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1752690172096.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy HutchCC Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy HutchCC Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>Hutchinson CC Sports InformationHutchinson Community College assistant softball coach Ray Aguirre earned a national honor on Wednesday being named the Easton/National Fastpitch Coaches Association (NFCA) NJCAA Division I National Assistant Coach of the Year.Aguirre has been with the Blue Dragon softball program for since 2017. He became a full-time assistant coach in 2021. Over that span, the Blue Dragons have won 198 games, two Jayhawk Conference titles, a Region 6/Plains District championship and was part of Hutchinson's first-ever appearance in the NJCAA Softball World Series.Aguirre serves as the Blue Dragons' pitching coach, first-base coach and Recruiting Coordinator. He is also in charge of field maintenance."Ray is a tireless worker and recruiter," Blue Dragon head coach Jaime Rose said. "His compassion for the players in unmatched."As the Blue Dragon pitching coach, Hutchinson's average staff ERA has been 3.60 since 2021.Aguirre's 2022, 2023 and 2024 pitching staffs all rank in the Top 5 in program single-game history. The 2024 Region 6 champion's team ERA is second all-time at 2.75. The 2023 team is fourth at 2.80 and the 2022 team is fifth at 2.89.The 2025 pitching staff endured injuries throughout the season and under Aguirre's tutelage, the Blue Dragons still posted a 3.59 team ERA en route to a conference title. Pitcher&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2024-25/bios/tomlinson_morgan_0v0v">Morgan Tomlinson</a>, a two-time 20-win pitcher at Hutchinson, was a first-team All-KJCCC selection,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2024-25/bios/schmidt_jessica_edec">Jessica Schmidt</a>&nbsp;was a second team selection and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2024-25/bios/thomas_aubree_o0p2">Aubree Thomas</a>&nbsp;as an honorable mention all-conference player.Aguirre has coached two All-American pitchers in his tenure: Dakota Lake (2024/NFCA) and Riley Wertz (2022/NJCAA).Aguirre's overall recruiting as netted the Blue Dragons 34 all-KJCCC selections and eight All-America awards.Before coming to Hutchinson, Aguirre was the pitching coach for Friends University in Wichita for 11 seasons.

🥎 HutchCC's Ray Aguirre named NFCA's NJCAA DI Assistant Coach of the Year

CLEVELAND, Ohio — Hutchinson Community College earned national recognition for overall athletic excellence in the 2024-25 Ron Case Cup presented by Daktronics, finishing 13th in the country among two-year colleges.

The Blue Dragons totaled 97.5 points in the annual competition, which ranks the top athletic programs in the National Alliance of Two-Year College Athletic Administrators (NATYCAA) Scholarship Division. Hutchinson was one of three Kansas Jayhawk Community College Conference (KJCCC) schools to place in the top 15, joining fourth-place Barton Community College (163 points) and eighth-place Cowley College (129.5 points).

Two additional KJCCC schools, Johnson County (17th, 80.5 points) and Butler (26th, 62.5 points), also cracked the top 30.

The Ron Case Cup, formerly known as the NATYCAA Cup, awards points based on a college’s top five team finishes per gender at the highest level of postseason competition. First-place finishes earn 20 points, with a sliding scale down to one point.

This marks the seventh year the award has been sponsored by Daktronics and the first under its new name, honoring former NATYCAA president Ron Case, who led the organization’s Cup initiative from its creation in 2004 until his retirement in June 2024.

Iowa Western claimed the top spot with 179.5 points, followed by College of Dupage (165 points) and Iowa Central (164.5 points) to round out the top three.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1752681677383.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy NACDA" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy NACDA</figcaption>
 </figure>CLEVELAND, Ohio — Hutchinson Community College earned national recognition for overall athletic excellence in the 2024-25 Ron Case Cup presented by Daktronics, finishing 13th in the country among two-year colleges.The Blue Dragons totaled 97.5 points in the annual competition, which ranks the top athletic programs in the National Alliance of Two-Year College Athletic Administrators (NATYCAA) Scholarship Division. Hutchinson was one of three Kansas Jayhawk Community College Conference (KJCCC) schools to place in the top 15, joining fourth-place Barton Community College (163 points) and eighth-place Cowley College (129.5 points).Two additional KJCCC schools, Johnson County (17th, 80.5 points) and Butler (26th, 62.5 points), also cracked the top 30.The Ron Case Cup, formerly known as the NATYCAA Cup, awards points based on a college’s top five team finishes per gender at the highest level of postseason competition. First-place finishes earn 20 points, with a sliding scale down to one point.This marks the seventh year the award has been sponsored by Daktronics and the first under its new name, honoring former NATYCAA president Ron Case, who led the organization’s Cup initiative from its creation in 2004 until his retirement in June 2024.Iowa Western claimed the top spot with 179.5 points, followed by College of Dupage (165 points) and Iowa Central (164.5 points) to round out the top three.&nbsp;

HutchCC finishes 13th nationally in 2024-25 Ron Case Cup standings

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — The Royals have brought back a familiar face, acquiring veteran utility man Adam Frazier from the Pittsburgh Pirates in exchange for infielder Cam Devanney, according to a report from FanSided’s Robert Murray.

Frazier, 33, was batting .255 with a .318 on-base percentage, three home runs and seven stolen bases in 78 games this season for Pittsburgh. He played for Kansas City in 2024, hitting just .202 over 104 games, but remains valued for his leadership and versatility. A left-handed hitter, Frazier has posted a .267 average against right-handed pitching this year and can slot in at second base or the corner outfield.

Despite his experience, Frazier's overall production remains below league average with an OPS+ of 83, an upgrade at best for a Royals lineup that has struggled offensively.

Devanney, 28, was recently called up from Triple-A Omaha but did not appear in a game for the Royals. He was acquired from Milwaukee in the offseason trade that sent reliever Taylor Clarke to the Brewers. At the time of the trade, Devanney was hitting .272 with 18 homers and a .931 OPS in Triple-A.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1752677778554.png" alt="Kansas City Royals' Adam Frazier in action during a baseball game against the Washington Nationals, Sept. 26, 2024, in Washington. (AP Photo/Nick Wass, File)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Royals' Adam Frazier in action during a baseball game against the Washington Nationals, Sept. 26, 2024, in Washington. (AP Photo/Nick Wass, File)</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. — The Royals have brought back a familiar face, acquiring veteran utility man Adam Frazier from the Pittsburgh Pirates in exchange for infielder Cam Devanney, according to a report from FanSided’s Robert Murray.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Trade: The Kansas City Royals are acquiring infielder Adam Frazier from the Pittsburgh Pirates, according to sources familiar with the deal. Cam Devanney is going to the Pirates.&mdash; Robert Murray (@ByRobertMurray) <a href="https://twitter.com/ByRobertMurray/status/1945489594062954598?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 16, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Frazier, 33, was batting .255 with a .318 on-base percentage, three home runs and seven stolen bases in 78 games this season for Pittsburgh. He played for Kansas City in 2024, hitting just .202 over 104 games, but remains valued for his leadership and versatility. A left-handed hitter, Frazier has posted a .267 average against right-handed pitching this year and can slot in at second base or the corner outfield.Despite his experience, Frazier's overall production remains below league average with an OPS+ of 83, an upgrade at best for a Royals lineup that has struggled offensively.Devanney, 28, was recently called up from Triple-A Omaha but did not appear in a game for the Royals. He was acquired from Milwaukee in the offseason trade that sent reliever Taylor Clarke to the Brewers. At the time of the trade, Devanney was hitting .272 with 18 homers and a .931 OPS in Triple-A.

⚾ Royals acquiring Adam Frazier from Pirates

<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 Wednesday, July 16, 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=7ynur-19088c7-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>

🎧⚾ NL wins ASG in swing-off; ⚾ Monarchs drop second straight; 🏐 Nickerson hires Trish Wade as head coach

JUNCTION CITY, Kan. — The Hutchinson Monarchs suffered their second consecutive run-rule loss Tuesday night, falling to the Junction City Brigade 13-3 in seven innings in Junction City.

The loss marks back-to-back games in which the Monarchs have been run-ruled in seven innings, and it came in similar fashion to Monday night’s defeat, with Junction City breaking the game open early.

Hutchinson (25-7) struck first when Keegan Demmer scored on a sacrifice fly by Omare Cross in the top of the second. But the Brigade quickly turned the tide in the bottom half of the inning, plating six runs on three hits and a pair of free passes. Gannon White delivered the key hit of the inning with a two-RBI single.

The Brigade continued to pour it on in the third, scoring three more on RBI singles from Ian Luce, White, and Chad Pantuso to push the lead to 9-1.

Bradyn McClure started for Hutchinson and was charged with the loss. He allowed eight runs—only two earned—on four hits over 2.2 innings while striking out four and walking three. Defensive miscues again proved costly, as the Monarchs committed two errors behind him.

Jackson Gowan earned the win for Junction City, tossing 6.1 innings while giving up five hits and three runs (two earned), striking out four and walking just one.

Offensively, Dylan Bell led the Monarchs with two hits, including a seventh-inning double. Jarrett Herrmann added an RBI double, and Cross and Herrmann each drove in a run.

Junction City (19-11) compiled 10 hits and ran wild on the base paths with six stolen bases. White and Sawyer Tolk drove in three runs apiece. The Brigade played clean defensively with no errors and turned three double plays.

Hutchinson will try to regroup Thursday night when they travel to face the Wichita Wildcats in their final regular season road game before a rematch with the Wildcats Friday night at Hobart-Detter Field to wrap up the regular season.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1752651363357.png" alt="Final- Junction City defeats the Hutchinson Monarchs on back-to-back nights." />
 <figcaption>Final- Junction City defeats the Hutchinson Monarchs on back-to-back nights.</figcaption>
 </figure>JUNCTION CITY, Kan. — The Hutchinson Monarchs suffered their second consecutive run-rule loss Tuesday night, falling to the Junction City Brigade 13-3 in seven innings in Junction City.The loss marks back-to-back games in which the Monarchs have been run-ruled in seven innings, and it came in similar fashion to Monday night’s defeat, with Junction City breaking the game open early.Hutchinson (25-7) struck first when Keegan Demmer scored on a sacrifice fly by Omare Cross in the top of the second. But the Brigade quickly turned the tide in the bottom half of the inning, plating six runs on three hits and a pair of free passes. Gannon White delivered the key hit of the inning with a two-RBI single.The Brigade continued to pour it on in the third, scoring three more on RBI singles from Ian Luce, White, and Chad Pantuso to push the lead to 9-1.Bradyn McClure started for Hutchinson and was charged with the loss. He allowed eight runs—only two earned—on four hits over 2.2 innings while striking out four and walking three. Defensive miscues again proved costly, as the Monarchs committed two errors behind him.Jackson Gowan earned the win for Junction City, tossing 6.1 innings while giving up five hits and three runs (two earned), striking out four and walking just one.Offensively, Dylan Bell led the Monarchs with two hits, including a seventh-inning double. Jarrett Herrmann added an RBI double, and Cross and Herrmann each drove in a run.Junction City (19-11) compiled 10 hits and ran wild on the base paths with six stolen bases. White and Sawyer Tolk drove in three runs apiece. The Brigade played clean defensively with no errors and turned three double plays.Hutchinson will try to regroup Thursday night when they travel to face the Wichita Wildcats in their final regular season road game before a rematch with the Wildcats Friday night at Hobart-Detter Field to wrap up the regular season.First pitch Thursday is set for 7 p.m.

⚾ Brigade defeats Monarchs for second straight night

ATLANTA (AP) — Kyle Schwarber went 3 for 3 to put the National League ahead as they won the first All-Star Game home run swing-off 4-3 following a 6-6 tie in which the American League rallied from a six-run deficit on Tuesday night.

In baseball’s equivalent of soccer’s penalty-kicks shootout, the game was decided by having three batters from each league take three swings each off coaches. The change was agreed to in 2022 to alleviate the concern of teams running out of pitchers.

Schwarber was named All-Star MVP after going 0 for 2 with a walk in the game.

Brent Rooker put the AL ahead by homering on his last two swings, and Kyle Stowers — subbing for Eugenio Suárez — hit one.

Randy Arozarena boosted the AL lead to 3-1, and Schwarber was successful on all three tries, going down to a knee as he sent the one into the Chop House seats in right.

Jonathan Aranda failed on all three tries, hitting the right-field wall with his second, and the NL didn’t have to use its last batter, two-time Home Run Derby champion Pete Alonso, as it won for just the second time in the last 12 All-Star Games. The AL leads 48-45 with two ties.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1752638555921.png" alt="Philadelphia Phillies Kyle Schwarber celebrates after winning the tiebreaker at the MLB baseball All-Star game between the American League and National League, Tuesday, July 15, 2025, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Brynn Anderson)" />
 <figcaption>Philadelphia Phillies Kyle Schwarber celebrates after winning the tiebreaker at the MLB baseball All-Star game between the American League and National League, Tuesday, July 15, 2025, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Brynn Anderson)</figcaption>
 </figure>ATLANTA (AP) — Kyle Schwarber went 3 for 3 to put the National League ahead as they won the first All-Star Game home run swing-off 4-3 following a 6-6 tie in which the American League rallied from a six-run deficit on Tuesday night.In baseball’s equivalent of soccer’s penalty-kicks shootout, the game was decided by having three batters from each league take three swings each off coaches. The change was agreed to in 2022 to alleviate the concern of teams running out of pitchers.Schwarber was named All-Star MVP after going 0 for 2 with a walk in the game.Brent Rooker put the AL ahead by homering on his last two swings, and Kyle Stowers — subbing for Eugenio Suárez — hit one.Randy Arozarena boosted the AL lead to 3-1, and Schwarber was successful on all three tries, going down to a knee as he sent the one into the Chop House seats in right.Jonathan Aranda failed on all three tries, hitting the right-field wall with his second, and the NL didn’t have to use its last batter, two-time Home Run Derby champion Pete Alonso, as it won for just the second time in the last 12 All-Star Games. The AL leads 48-45 with two ties.

⚾ Kyle Schwarber’s 3 homers in All-Star Game’s first tiebreaking swing-off lift NL over AL

ATLANTA (AP) — Major League Baseball honored&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/hank-aaron-dead-0fa32aff826d18bbeb9efedd42cd81a2">late Hall of Famer Hank Aaron</a>&nbsp;by recreating his record-breaking 715th home run through the use of projection mapping and pyrotechnics.

The lights went down at Truist Park and fans stood holding their cell phone lights following the sixth inning of Tuesday night’s All-Star Game. The scene from April 8, 1974 at old Atlanta-Fulton County Stadium was projected on the infield and also shown on the video board.

The high-tech images of Aaron and other players were seen on the Truist Park infield before a blaze of a fireball launched from home plate to signify the homer that pushed Aaron past Babe Ruth’s record of 714 homers.

Aaron’s widow, Billye Aaron, stood and waved as the cheers from the sellout crowd of 41,702 grew louder.

NL players warmed up for the game in batting practice jerseys with Aaron’s No. 44 on the back.

One year ago, MLB celebrated the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/hank-aaron-715-anniversary-e64c8134cf4de655088d8a83078b053d">50th anniversary</a>&nbsp;of Aaron’s homer with announcements for a new statue at Baseball’s Hall of Fame and a commemorative stamp from the U.S. Postal Service.

Also, Commissioner Rob Manfred helped honor Aaron in Atlanta last year by joining the Braves in announcing the $100,000 endowment of a scholarship at Tuskegee University, a historically Black university in Aaron’s home state of Alabama.

Manfred noted the Henry Louis Aaron Fund, launched by the Braves following Aaron’s death in 2021, and the Chasing the Dream Foundation, created by Aaron and his wife were designed to clear paths for minorities in baseball and to encourage educational opportunities.

Aaron hit 755 home runs from 1954-76, a mark that stood until Barry Bonds reached 762 in 2007 during baseball’s steroid era.

Aaron was elected to the Hall in 1982. A 25-time All-Star, he set a record with 2,297 RBIs. He continues to hold the records of 1,477 extra-base hits and 6,856 total bases.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1752637136054.png" alt="Billye Aaron, wife of baseball great Hank Aaron waves during at the MLB baseball All-Star game between the American League and National League, Tuesday, July 15, 2025, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Mike Stewart)" />
 <figcaption>Billye Aaron, wife of baseball great Hank Aaron waves during at the MLB baseball All-Star game between the American League and National League, Tuesday, July 15, 2025, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Mike Stewart)</figcaption>
 </figure>ATLANTA (AP) — Major League Baseball honored&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/hank-aaron-dead-0fa32aff826d18bbeb9efedd42cd81a2">late Hall of Famer Hank Aaron</a>&nbsp;by recreating his record-breaking 715th home run through the use of projection mapping and pyrotechnics.The lights went down at Truist Park and fans stood holding their cell phone lights following the sixth inning of Tuesday night’s All-Star Game. The scene from April 8, 1974 at old Atlanta-Fulton County Stadium was projected on the infield and also shown on the video board.The high-tech images of Aaron and other players were seen on the Truist Park infield before a blaze of a fireball launched from home plate to signify the homer that pushed Aaron past Babe Ruth’s record of 714 homers.Aaron’s widow, Billye Aaron, stood and waved as the cheers from the sellout crowd of 41,702 grew louder.NL players warmed up for the game in batting practice jerseys with Aaron’s No. 44 on the back.One year ago, MLB celebrated the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/hank-aaron-715-anniversary-e64c8134cf4de655088d8a83078b053d">50th anniversary</a>&nbsp;of Aaron’s homer with announcements for a new statue at Baseball’s Hall of Fame and a commemorative stamp from the U.S. Postal Service.Also, Commissioner Rob Manfred helped honor Aaron in Atlanta last year by joining the Braves in announcing the $100,000 endowment of a scholarship at Tuskegee University, a historically Black university in Aaron’s home state of Alabama.Manfred noted the Henry Louis Aaron Fund, launched by the Braves following Aaron’s death in 2021, and the Chasing the Dream Foundation, created by Aaron and his wife were designed to clear paths for minorities in baseball and to encourage educational opportunities.Aaron hit 755 home runs from 1954-76, a mark that stood until Barry Bonds reached 762 in 2007 during baseball’s steroid era.Aaron was elected to the Hall in 1982. A 25-time All-Star, he set a record with 2,297 RBIs. He continues to hold the records of 1,477 extra-base hits and 6,856 total bases.

⚾ MLB honors Hank Aaron with recreation of record 715th homer during All-Star Game

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — The Kansas City Chiefs have locked up a key piece of their offensive line, signing right guard Trey Smith to a four-year, $94 million contract extension just ahead of Tuesday’s 3 p.m. CT deadline for franchise-tagged players to reach long-term deals.

Smith, 26, had been franchise-tagged by the team in March. According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, the new deal includes $70 million in guaranteed money, making him the highest-paid guard in the NFL. Alongside center Creed Humphrey, the Chiefs now feature the league’s top-paid interior offensive line duo.

A sixth-round pick out of Tennessee in 2021, Smith slid in the draft due to medical concerns but quickly became a mainstay in Kansas City. He’s started 67 games over the past four seasons, earned a Pro Bowl nod in 2024, and helped anchor the offensive front for two Super Bowl-winning teams.

Smith played on a rookie deal worth $6.5 million over four years. Had he played on the franchise tag in 2025, he would have made a record $23.4 million for a guard.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1641507090892.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. — The Kansas City Chiefs have locked up a key piece of their offensive line, signing right guard Trey Smith to a four-year, $94 million contract extension just ahead of Tuesday’s 3 p.m. CT deadline for franchise-tagged players to reach long-term deals.Smith, 26, had been franchise-tagged by the team in March. According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, the new deal includes $70 million in guaranteed money, making him the highest-paid guard in the NFL. Alongside center Creed Humphrey, the Chiefs now feature the league’s top-paid interior offensive line duo.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Pro-Bowl guard Trey Smith and the Chiefs reached agreement just ahead of today’s franchise-tag deadline on a four-year, $94 million deal that includes $70 million guaranteed and makes him the highest-paid guard in NFL history, ESPN’s sources tell me and <a href="https://twitter.com/ByNateTaylor?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ByNateTaylor</a>. It’s the…&mdash; Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) <a href="https://twitter.com/AdamSchefter/status/1945178397816111176?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 15, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>A sixth-round pick out of Tennessee in 2021, Smith slid in the draft due to medical concerns but quickly became a mainstay in Kansas City. He’s started 67 games over the past four seasons, earned a Pro Bowl nod in 2024, and helped anchor the offensive front for two Super Bowl-winning teams.Smith played on a rookie deal worth $6.5 million over four years. Had he played on the franchise tag in 2025, he would have made a record $23.4 million for a guard.

🏈 Chiefs sign Trey Smith to four-year, $94 million extension

HALSTEAD, Kan. — Halstead High School has named Chandler Henkelman as its new head baseball coach.

Henkelman is a former first baseman and pitcher at Tabor College under longtime head coach Mark Standiford.

After graduating, Henkelman began his teaching and coaching career in Quinter, where he spent one year before returning to south-central Kansas. He has since served as a special education teacher and assistant baseball coach at Halstead High School.

Henkelman is a third-generation head baseball coach, continuing a proud family tradition.&nbsp;

In addition to his role at Halstead, Henkelman also coaches summer baseball for the Kansas Curve. He is known for his compassion, competitiveness and commitment to mentoring student-athletes on and off the field.

Henkelman is married to Kylie Henkelman, a third-grade teacher at Bentley Primary School and an assistant girls basketball coach at Halstead Middle School.

Halstead High School Athletic Director Nick Barnes said they are excited for the future of the school’s baseball program under Henkelman’s leadership.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1752601452879.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>HALSTEAD, Kan. — Halstead High School has named Chandler Henkelman as its new head baseball coach.Henkelman is a former first baseman and pitcher at Tabor College under longtime head coach Mark Standiford.After graduating, Henkelman began his teaching and coaching career in Quinter, where he spent one year before returning to south-central Kansas. He has since served as a special education teacher and assistant baseball coach at Halstead High School.Henkelman is a third-generation head baseball coach, continuing a proud family tradition.&nbsp;In addition to his role at Halstead, Henkelman also coaches summer baseball for the Kansas Curve. He is known for his compassion, competitiveness and commitment to mentoring student-athletes on and off the field.Henkelman is married to Kylie Henkelman, a third-grade teacher at Bentley Primary School and an assistant girls basketball coach at Halstead Middle School.Halstead High School Athletic Director Nick Barnes said they are excited for the future of the school’s baseball program under Henkelman’s leadership.

⚾ Halstead hires Henkelman as new head baseball coach

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Kamden Edge, a former pitcher for the Hutchinson Monarchs, was selected with the 608th pick by the Kansas City Royals in the 20th round of the 2025 MLB Draft.

Edge, a native of Soper, Oklahoma, recently completed his freshman season at Northern Oklahoma College-Tonkawa, where he went 12-0 with a 3.25 ERA in 14 appearances, 13 of them in relief. The right-hander struck out 74 batters in 52.2 innings and posted a 1.25 WHIP.

This summer, Edge has been pitching for the Mahoning Valley Scrappers of the MLB Draft League. Based in Niles, Ohio, the Scrappers are part of a collegiate summer league designed to showcase draft-eligible players. Edge has made two appearances, going 1-0 with a 2.25 ERA over four innings. He has struck out seven batters and has not issued a walk.

Edge pitched for the Monarchs in the summer of 2024, going 3-1 with a 2.70 ERA in nine regular season appearances, including two starts. He struck out 37 batters over 20 innings while allowing just nine hits. He also made one appearance in the NBC World Series, striking out four in 2.1 innings against the Liberal Bee Jays.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1752588136694.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Kamden Edge, a former pitcher for the Hutchinson Monarchs, was selected with the 608th pick by the Kansas City Royals in the 20th round of the 2025 MLB Draft.Edge, a native of Soper, Oklahoma, recently completed his freshman season at Northern Oklahoma College-Tonkawa, where he went 12-0 with a 3.25 ERA in 14 appearances, 13 of them in relief. The right-hander struck out 74 batters in 52.2 innings and posted a 1.25 WHIP.This summer, Edge has been pitching for the Mahoning Valley Scrappers of the MLB Draft League. Based in Niles, Ohio, the Scrappers are part of a collegiate summer league designed to showcase draft-eligible players. Edge has made two appearances, going 1-0 with a 2.25 ERA over four innings. He has struck out seven batters and has not issued a walk.Edge pitched for the Monarchs in the summer of 2024, going 3-1 with a 2.70 ERA in nine regular season appearances, including two starts. He struck out 37 batters over 20 innings while allowing just nine hits. He also made one appearance in the NBC World Series, striking out four in 2.1 innings against the Liberal Bee Jays.

⚾ Former Monarch Kamden Edge drafted by Kansas City Royals

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Nickerson-South Hutchinson USD 309 has hired Trish Wade as the next head volleyball coach at Nickerson High School.

The USD 309 Board of Education approved the hiring during its regularly scheduled meeting Monday night.

"Coach Wade knows what it takes to compete at the highest level," Nickerson Athletic Director Devin Maxwell said. "She’s dedicated to instilling that same drive and excellence in her athletes."

Wade brings an accomplished resume to Nickerson after a standout 17-year tenure at St. John High School, where she compiled more than 420 career victories and guided the Tigers to three Class 1A state championships. St. John captured the state title in 2008 with a 43-2 record, followed by back-to-back 1A Division I championships in 2010 and 2011 with records of 41-4 and 43-2, respectively. Under her leadership, St. John advanced to the state semifinals in 10 of her 17 seasons and finished 29-15 last fall with a return trip to the 1A Division I state tournament.

A decorated athlete in her own right, Wade was inducted into the Barton Community College Sports Hall of Fame in 2011. She was a two-time All-American for the Cougars from 1985-86, helping the volleyball team to a 111-10 record and two Top 4 finishes at the NJCAA National Tournament. She went on to play at Florida Southern, where she earned AVCA Second Team All-America honors in 1987 and was twice named First Team All-Sunshine State Conference. Wade still holds the school records for solo blocks in a match (11), season (99) and career (182), and remains ranked in several career and single-season statistical categories.

Wade is also the mother of Cleveland Cavaliers forward Dean Wade, a former Kansas State standout and the only player in Wildcat history to record at least 1,000 points, 100 3-pointers, 500 rebounds, 200 assists and 100 steals.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1752525658331.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy Nickerson-South Hutchinson USD 309" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Nickerson-South Hutchinson USD 309</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="mailto:sean.boston@eaglemedia.com">SEAN BOSTON </a>Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Nickerson-South Hutchinson USD 309 has hired Trish Wade as the next head volleyball coach at Nickerson High School.The USD 309 Board of Education approved the hiring during its regularly scheduled meeting Monday night."Coach Wade knows what it takes to compete at the highest level," Nickerson Athletic Director Devin Maxwell said. "She’s dedicated to instilling that same drive and excellence in her athletes."Wade brings an accomplished resume to Nickerson after a standout 17-year tenure at St. John High School, where she compiled more than 420 career victories and guided the Tigers to three Class 1A state championships. St. John captured the state title in 2008 with a 43-2 record, followed by back-to-back 1A Division I championships in 2010 and 2011 with records of 41-4 and 43-2, respectively. Under her leadership, St. John advanced to the state semifinals in 10 of her 17 seasons and finished 29-15 last fall with a return trip to the 1A Division I state tournament.A decorated athlete in her own right, Wade was inducted into the Barton Community College Sports Hall of Fame in 2011. She was a two-time All-American for the Cougars from 1985-86, helping the volleyball team to a 111-10 record and two Top 4 finishes at the NJCAA National Tournament. She went on to play at Florida Southern, where she earned AVCA Second Team All-America honors in 1987 and was twice named First Team All-Sunshine State Conference. Wade still holds the school records for solo blocks in a match (11), season (99) and career (182), and remains ranked in several career and single-season statistical categories.Wade is also the mother of Cleveland Cavaliers forward Dean Wade, a former Kansas State standout and the only player in Wildcat history to record at least 1,000 points, 100 3-pointers, 500 rebounds, 200 assists and 100 steals.

🏐 Nickerson hires Trish Wade as new head volleyball coach

<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 Tuesday, July 15, 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=fs5r5-1906f6b-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>

🎧⚾ Monarchs' win-streak halted; ⚾ Royals wrap up MLB Draft; ⚾ 'Big Dumper' wins Home Run Derby

ATLANTA (AP) — Cal Raleigh approached the All-Star Home Run Derby like a day on the lawn. Dad was on the mound and baby brother was behind the plate.

Only this time, there were tens of thousands looking on at Truist Park and a $1 million prize.

“It goes all the way back to him coming home and me forcing him to throw me a ball and hit it in the backyard or in the house or something probably shouldn’t be doing,” a beaming Cal said, flanked by Todd and Todd Jr. after defeating Tampa Bay’s Junior Caminero 18-15 in the final round Monday night.

Todd Raleigh, former coach of Tennessee and Western Carolina, threw the pitches and Cal’s 15-year-old brother, Todd Raleigh Jr., did the catching. A first-time All-Star at age 28, Cal became the first switch-hitter and first catcher to win the title. He’s the second Mariners player to take the title after three-time winner Ken Griffey Jr., who was on the field, snapping photos.

“Anybody that’s ever played baseball as a kid dreams of stuff like this,” Cal’s dad said. “I dreamed of it. He dreamed of it. When you’re a parent, you look at it differently because you want your kids to be happy.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1752582448615.jpeg" alt="Seattle Mariners' Cal Raleigh celebrates after winning the MLB baseball Home Run Derby, Monday, July 14, 2025, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Mike Stewart)" />
 <figcaption>Seattle Mariners' Cal Raleigh celebrates after winning the MLB baseball Home Run Derby, Monday, July 14, 2025, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Mike Stewart)</figcaption>
 </figure>ATLANTA (AP) — Cal Raleigh approached the All-Star Home Run Derby like a day on the lawn. Dad was on the mound and baby brother was behind the plate.Only this time, there were tens of thousands looking on at Truist Park and a $1 million prize.“It goes all the way back to him coming home and me forcing him to throw me a ball and hit it in the backyard or in the house or something probably shouldn’t be doing,” a beaming Cal said, flanked by Todd and Todd Jr. after defeating Tampa Bay’s Junior Caminero 18-15 in the final round Monday night.Todd Raleigh, former coach of Tennessee and Western Carolina, threw the pitches and Cal’s 15-year-old brother, Todd Raleigh Jr., did the catching. A first-time All-Star at age 28, Cal became the first switch-hitter and first catcher to win the title. He’s the second Mariners player to take the title after three-time winner Ken Griffey Jr., who was on the field, snapping photos.“Anybody that’s ever played baseball as a kid dreams of stuff like this,” Cal’s dad said. “I dreamed of it. He dreamed of it. When you’re a parent, you look at it differently because you want your kids to be happy.”Leading the major leagues with 38 home runs at the All-Star break, Cal almost didn’t make it past the first round. The Mariners’ breakout slugger nicknamed Big Dumper and the Athletics’ Brent Rooker each hit 17 homers, and Raleigh advanced on a tiebreaker for longest long ball: 470.61 feet to 470.53 — or 0.96 inches. At first, Cal wasn’t aware whether there would be a swing-off.“An inch off, and I’m not even in the final four, which is amazing,” Cal said. “So I guess I got lucky there. One extra biscuit.”Raleigh totaled 54 homers. He won his semifinal 19-13 over Pittsburgh’s Oneil Cruz, whose 513-foot first-round drive over the right-center field seats was the longest of the night.Cal’s brother, nicknamed T, kept yelling encouragement to the brother he so admires.“His swag, the way he plays, the way he hustles,” T said.Hitting second in the final round, the 22-year-old Caminero closed within three dingers — MLB counted one that a fan outfielder caught with an over-the-wall grab. Using a multicolored bat and down to his last out, Caminero took three pitches and hit a liner to left.“I didn’t think I was going to hit as many home runs or make it to the finals,” Caminero said through a translator.Cal was just the second Derby switch-hitter after Baltimore’s Adley Rutschman in 2023. His dad was a righty and wanted both his sons to hit from both sides.“Did it from the first day, when he was in diapers, literally,” Todd Sr. said. “I would take that big ball and he had a big red bat. I’d throw it slow and he’d hit it. Then I’d say stay there, pick him up, turn him around, switch his hands and do it again. I was a catcher. I played a little bit, and I just knew what a premium it was. I didn’t want either one of my boys to ever say, am I right-handed or left-handed?”There was a downside.“I don’t recommend it if you have two kids, they’re both switch hitters, if you want to save your arm, because that’s a lot of throwing,” said dad, who had rotator cuff surgery.Raleigh hit his first eight homers left-handed, took a timeout, then hit seven right-handed. Going back to lefty, he hit two more in the bonus round and stayed lefty for the rest of the night.“Was grooving a little bit more lefty so we were like, since we have a chance to win, we might as well stick to the side that’s working a little better,” Cal said.Caminero beat Minnesota’s Byron Buxton 8-7 in the other semifinal. Atlanta’s Matt Olson, Washington’s James Wood, the New York Yankees’ Jazz Chisholm Jr. and Rooker were eliminated in the first round of the annual power show.Cruz’s long drive was the hardest-hit at 118 mph.Wood hit 16 homers, including one that landed on the roof of the Chop House behind the right-field wall. Olson, disappointing his hometown fans, did not go deep on his first nine swings and finished with 15, Chisholm hit just three homers, the fewest since the timer format started in 2015.After it was all over, the Raleighs headed out. Stephanie, the boys’ mom and Todd Sr.'s wife, is surrounded by baseball.