AP Sports Summary for Wednesday, March 27th, 2024.

NFL owners approve a radical overhaul to kickoff rules, adopting setup used in XFL

ORLANDO, Fla. (AP) — Kickoff returns are returning to the NFL. Team owners have approved a new rule that will take what essentially had become "a dead play" and make it an integral part of the game again. The major overhaul to special teams has been in the works for years. It takes elements of the kickoff rules used in the XFL and tweaks them for use in the NFL beginning in 2024. There were 1,970 touchbacks on kickoffs last season that now could be returns. There were 92 fair catches last season that are no longer allowed. Any ball caught in the field of play must be returned.

Utah coach says team was shaken after experiencing racist hate during NCAA Tournament

SPOKANE, Wash. (AP) — Utah coach Lynne Roberts says her team experienced a series of "racial hate crimes" after arriving at its first women's NCAA Tournament hotel in Idaho last week.. She revealed what happened after Utah lost to Gonzaga in the second round on Monday night. Roberts says there were concerns about safety among the traveling party. Utah was staying about 30 miles away in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, and was relocated to a different hotel on Friday. Authorities say they are looking into what happened.

Diamondbacks add LHP Jordan Montgomery on $25 million, 1-year deal, according to AP source

PHOENIX (AP) — The Arizona Diamondbacks and pitcher Jordan Montgomery have agreed on a $25 million, one-year contract with a vesting option for 2025, according to a person familiar with the deal. The person spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity Tuesday night because the agreement was subject to a successful physical. If Montgomery makes at least 10 starts this season, the option would become guaranteed at $20 million and the left-hander also would gain the right to opt out. The option price would escalate to $22.5 million if he makes 18 starts and to $25 million if he makes 23 starts — a figure he has reached in three straight seasons. The addition bulks up the defending National League champions' rotation just days before the regular season begins.

Shohei Ohtani could be more open with teammates without 'buffer' Mizuhara, Dodgers manager says

ANAHEIM, Calif. (AP) — Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts is optimistic Shohei Ohtani will become closer with his teammates in the absence of former interpreter and constant companion Ippei Mizuhara. Ohtani and Mizuhara were practically inseparable at Angel Stadium during his six years with the Angels, and they spent ample time together away from the ballpark. The changes caused by Mizuhara's firing amid allegations of gambling and theft could be jarring to a baseball star who thrives on routine. But Roberts says he has already seen Ohtani engaging more openly with his teammates in the past few days without Mizuhara around to help.

Be like Caitlin: Iowa's Caitlin Clark is inspiring a younger generation of players

CHANDLER, Ariz. (AP) — Caitlin Clark has reshaped women's college basketball and the perception of it. The Iowa star has made a name for herself by breaking records and stretching the range of shooting possibilities to the midcourt logo. Up-and-coming players have taken notice, working to extend their range to be like Caitlin. Clark also has a superb all-around game and deep work ethic, something coaches can harp on with young players. Clark also has opened the door to what's possible financially through NIL deals through hard work and projecting the right image.

Rangers become 1st NHL team to clinch playoff berth, beat Flyers 6-5 on Fox's quick goal in OT

NEW YORK (AP) — Adam Fox scored 36 seconds into overtime and the New York Rangers became the first NHL team to clinch a playoff spot this season, beating the Philadelphia Flyers 6-5 following a wild third period. Alexis Lafreniere had two goals and Igor Shesterkin made 36 saves for the Rangers, who lead the league with 100 points after giving coach Peter Laviolette his 800th career win. New York technically secured its third consecutive playoff berth just by getting to overtime and earning one point after Detroit lost to Washington in OT. But after the teams traded seven goals in a frenetic third period, it didn't take long for Fox to finish the night in style with a pinpoint wrist shot from the high slot for his career-best 15th goal.

Reaves' triple-double, tiebreaking 3 helps rally Lakers past Bucks in 2OTs without LeBron James

MILWAUKEE (AP) — Austin Reaves had a triple-double and made a tiebreaking 3-pointer with 38.6 seconds left in the second overtime as the Los Angeles Lakers overcame the absence of LeBron James and rallied to beat the Milwaukee Bucks 128-124. Reaves had 29 points, 14 rebounds and 10 assists in 47 minutes as the Lakers opened a six-game trip by winning their fourth straight despite trailing by 19 points in the fourth quarter and never leading in regulation time. Anthony Davis provided 34 points and 23 rebounds while playing 52 minutes. James didn't play due to an issue with his left ankle.

Why did the NFL change the kickoff rule and how will it be implemented?

NFL owners were busy this week, approving a series of rule changes that address player safety, overhaul the kickoff and expanding the use of instant replay. The changes were all overwhelmingly approved but they don't come without some level of controversy, with many players opposing the ban on the use of the "swivel hip-drop" tackle and many questions about how the rules will be enforced and the impact they will have on games.

Djokovic splits with Ivanisevic after winning 12 Grand Slam titles during their partnership

LONDON (AP) — Top-ranked Novak Djokovic has split with his coach Goran Ivanisevic to end an association that began in 2018 and included 12 Grand Slams for the Serbian tennis player. Djokovic writes on Instagram that he stopped working with Ivanisevic "a few days ago." He says "our on-court chemistry had its ups and downs but our friendship was always rock solid." Djokovic took his total to a record 24 men's Grand Slam titles during his partnership with Ivanisevic. Djokovic has yet to win a title in 2024. He lost in the semifinals of the Australian Open in January and the third round in Indian Wells this month.

Top women's college players like Clark and Reese expect NIL deals to stay with them in the pros

Women's college athletes across the United States no longer have to count on a professional contract to earn real money. Basketball players like Caitlin Clark of Iowa and Angel Reese of LSU having some of the top endorsement valuations in college. Both expect their sponsors to stay with them when they turn pro. The perennially popular U.S. women's soccer team, the growth of women's professional soccer and hockey, the wild popularity of volleyball and college softball — and simply more exposure on TV — have all laid a foundation for fans to find what they want to see.

Here are the scores from yesterday's sports events:

		L.A. Clippers	at	Philadelphia	7:30 p.m.	

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1701494597443.png" alt="Sports Headlines and News for Wednesday, March 27th, 2024." />
 <figcaption>Sports Headlines and News for Wednesday, March 27th, 2024.</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="March 27th, 2024 Early Morning Sports" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=mibw7-15c4372-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=60a0c8&font-color=&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=ff6d00" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>AP Sports Summary for Wednesday, March 27th, 2024.NFL owners approve a radical overhaul to kickoff rules, adopting setup used in XFLORLANDO, Fla. (AP) — Kickoff returns are returning to the NFL. Team owners have approved a new rule that will take what essentially had become "a dead play" and make it an integral part of the game again. The major overhaul to special teams has been in the works for years. It takes elements of the kickoff rules used in the XFL and tweaks them for use in the NFL beginning in 2024. There were 1,970 touchbacks on kickoffs last season that now could be returns. There were 92 fair catches last season that are no longer allowed. Any ball caught in the field of play must be returned.Utah coach says team was shaken after experiencing racist hate during NCAA TournamentSPOKANE, Wash. (AP) — Utah coach Lynne Roberts says her team experienced a series of "racial hate crimes" after arriving at its first women's NCAA Tournament hotel in Idaho last week.. She revealed what happened after Utah lost to Gonzaga in the second round on Monday night. Roberts says there were concerns about safety among the traveling party. Utah was staying about 30 miles away in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, and was relocated to a different hotel on Friday. Authorities say they are looking into what happened.Diamondbacks add LHP Jordan Montgomery on $25 million, 1-year deal, according to AP sourcePHOENIX (AP) — The Arizona Diamondbacks and pitcher Jordan Montgomery have agreed on a $25 million, one-year contract with a vesting option for 2025, according to a person familiar with the deal. The person spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity Tuesday night because the agreement was subject to a successful physical. If Montgomery makes at least 10 starts this season, the option would become guaranteed at $20 million and the left-hander also would gain the right to opt out. The option price would escalate to $22.5 million if he makes 18 starts and to $25 million if he makes 23 starts — a figure he has reached in three straight seasons. The addition bulks up the defending National League champions' rotation just days before the regular season begins.Shohei Ohtani could be more open with teammates without 'buffer' Mizuhara, Dodgers manager saysANAHEIM, Calif. (AP) — Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts is optimistic Shohei Ohtani will become closer with his teammates in the absence of former interpreter and constant companion Ippei Mizuhara. Ohtani and Mizuhara were practically inseparable at Angel Stadium during his six years with the Angels, and they spent ample time together away from the ballpark. The changes caused by Mizuhara's firing amid allegations of gambling and theft could be jarring to a baseball star who thrives on routine. But Roberts says he has already seen Ohtani engaging more openly with his teammates in the past few days without Mizuhara around to help.Be like Caitlin: Iowa's Caitlin Clark is inspiring a younger generation of playersCHANDLER, Ariz. (AP) — Caitlin Clark has reshaped women's college basketball and the perception of it. The Iowa star has made a name for herself by breaking records and stretching the range of shooting possibilities to the midcourt logo. Up-and-coming players have taken notice, working to extend their range to be like Caitlin. Clark also has a superb all-around game and deep work ethic, something coaches can harp on with young players. Clark also has opened the door to what's possible financially through NIL deals through hard work and projecting the right image.Rangers become 1st NHL team to clinch playoff berth, beat Flyers 6-5 on Fox's quick goal in OTNEW YORK (AP) — Adam Fox scored 36 seconds into overtime and the New York Rangers became the first NHL team to clinch a playoff spot this season, beating the Philadelphia Flyers 6-5 following a wild third period. Alexis Lafreniere had two goals and Igor Shesterkin made 36 saves for the Rangers, who lead the league with 100 points after giving coach Peter Laviolette his 800th career win. New York technically secured its third consecutive playoff berth just by getting to overtime and earning one point after Detroit lost to Washington in OT. But after the teams traded seven goals in a frenetic third period, it didn't take long for Fox to finish the night in style with a pinpoint wrist shot from the high slot for his career-best 15th goal.Reaves' triple-double, tiebreaking 3 helps rally Lakers past Bucks in 2OTs without LeBron JamesMILWAUKEE (AP) — Austin Reaves had a triple-double and made a tiebreaking 3-pointer with 38.6 seconds left in the second overtime as the Los Angeles Lakers overcame the absence of LeBron James and rallied to beat the Milwaukee Bucks 128-124. Reaves had 29 points, 14 rebounds and 10 assists in 47 minutes as the Lakers opened a six-game trip by winning their fourth straight despite trailing by 19 points in the fourth quarter and never leading in regulation time. Anthony Davis provided 34 points and 23 rebounds while playing 52 minutes. James didn't play due to an issue with his left ankle.Why did the NFL change the kickoff rule and how will it be implemented?NFL owners were busy this week, approving a series of rule changes that address player safety, overhaul the kickoff and expanding the use of instant replay. The changes were all overwhelmingly approved but they don't come without some level of controversy, with many players opposing the ban on the use of the "swivel hip-drop" tackle and many questions about how the rules will be enforced and the impact they will have on games.Djokovic splits with Ivanisevic after winning 12 Grand Slam titles during their partnershipLONDON (AP) — Top-ranked Novak Djokovic has split with his coach Goran Ivanisevic to end an association that began in 2018 and included 12 Grand Slams for the Serbian tennis player. Djokovic writes on Instagram that he stopped working with Ivanisevic "a few days ago." He says "our on-court chemistry had its ups and downs but our friendship was always rock solid." Djokovic took his total to a record 24 men's Grand Slam titles during his partnership with Ivanisevic. Djokovic has yet to win a title in 2024. He lost in the semifinals of the Australian Open in January and the third round in Indian Wells this month.Top women's college players like Clark and Reese expect NIL deals to stay with them in the prosWomen's college athletes across the United States no longer have to count on a professional contract to earn real money. Basketball players like Caitlin Clark of Iowa and Angel Reese of LSU having some of the top endorsement valuations in college. Both expect their sponsors to stay with them when they turn pro. The perennially popular U.S. women's soccer team, the growth of women's professional soccer and hockey, the wild popularity of volleyball and college softball — and simply more exposure on TV — have all laid a foundation for fans to find what they want to see.AP-ScorecardHere are the scores from yesterday's sports events:___NATIONAL BASKETBALL ASSOCIATIONFinal	Golden State	113	Miami	92	Final	Oklahoma City	119	New Orleans	112	Final 2OT	L.A. Lakers	128	Milwaukee	124	Final	Dallas	132	Sacramento	96	___NATIONAL HOCKEY LEAGUEFinal	Boston	4	Florida	3	Final	Pittsburgh	4	Carolina	1	Final OT	Washington	4	Detroit	3	Final OT	N-Y Rangers	6	Philadelphia	5	Final	New Jersey	6	Toronto	3	Final OT	Nashville	5	Vegas	4	Final OT	Edmonton	4	Winnipeg	3	Final	Chicago	3	Calgary	1	Final	Montreal	2	Colorado	1	Final	Seattle	4	Anaheim	0	Final	Arizona	6	Columbus	2	Final	Dallas	6	San Jose	3	___TODAY'S SPORTS SCHEDULE___NATIONAL BASKETBALL ASSOCIATION		Brooklyn	at	Washington	7 p.m.			Cleveland	at	Charlotte	7 p.m.			Golden State	at	Orlando	7 p.m.			L.A. Clippers	at	Philadelphia	7:30 p.m.			New York	at	Toronto	7:30 p.m.			Portland	at	Atlanta	7:30 p.m.			Detroit	at	Minnesota	8 p.m.			Houston	at	Oklahoma City	8 p.m.			Indiana	at	Chicago	8 p.m.			L.A. Lakers	at	Memphis	8 p.m.			San Antonio	at	Utah	9 p.m.			Phoenix	at	Denver	10 p.m.	___NATIONAL HOCKEY LEAGUE		Ottawa	at	Buffalo	7 p.m.			Boston	at	Tampa Bay	7:30 p.m.

📢📰 Sports Headlines for Wednesday

HUTCHINSON, Kan.&nbsp;— The Blue Dragons knocked off&nbsp; Chipola College in front of a packed crowd or as Head Coach Tommy Desalme calls it, "The sixth man." The Blue Dragons beat Chipola 78-71 on Tuesday night.

"These kids, man they balled tonight," Desalme said. "They had confidence and I'm wanting them to shoot it more. They were locked in today and I thought that was really really special."

&nbsp;Desalme said his team needed to come out "ready to play with intensity" against Chipola. The Blue Dragons did just that by jumping on Chipola early with a 23-9 lead at the 7:23 mark in the first half.&nbsp;

"When you make shots early, I think it really frees up your team," Desalme said. "It really frees up your players."&nbsp;&nbsp;

Hutch led 37-26 at halftime. Sophomore guard Landon Wagler and sophomore guard Kamryn Thomas iced several threes in the first to help Hutch get ahead. Wagler was 3-5 from the field in the first half and 1-3 from the 3-point line. He finished the night with a career high 20 points.&nbsp;

"It's on me," Desalme said. "He (Wagler) should have been playing more earlier. He always had my back and he always had his teammates back. He's not pouting over there. He's not doing anything. He's just all about Hutch and he's got a lot of bloodlines at Hutch."&nbsp;

&nbsp;Hutch's quick offensive transition led to baskets. Sophomore guard J.P. Ricks set a career high of 10 assists against Chipola and&nbsp; freshman guard Kobe Smith had 6.&nbsp;

"You know and then you are looking up there in the second half and you are like come on there clock run," Desalme said. "We had just a moment there where we weren't getting aggressive. They got a steal. They trapped Kobe in the corner and then from that point on we were really staying aggressive against their trap. Anytime you make Chipola leave their zone, that's a good day," Desalme said.&nbsp;

Wagler said he and his teammates felt confident about being able to attack the rim after watching film on Chipola.&nbsp;

"They are good defensively, but there's some major gaps that you can fill in there," Wagler said.&nbsp;

Defensively, Hutch recorded six steals, 24 defensive rebounds and eight blocks. Desalme said sophomore guard Kernan Bundy did a great job of coming off the bench and locking in on Chipola's sophomore guard Joshua "Greedy" Williams in the last several minutes of the game. Williams led Chipola with 22 points.&nbsp;

"He wasn't letting him catch it and if he did catch it, it was catching it out there 30 feet from the basket and that's what sophomores do," Desalme said.&nbsp;

The Blue Dragons will play Connors State in the quarterfinals tomorrow night at 7:15 p.m. The Cowboys are led by Veteran coach Bill Muse who has been with Connors for 32 seasons.&nbsp;

"He's an old school ball coach you know and they run a great high-low (offense)," Desalme said. "It's old school but we can do some things if we bring our pressure and things like that."&nbsp;

Tomorrow night's play-by-play will be taken care of&nbsp; by Glen Grunwald and Rick Kraus on Country 102.9 and KWBW 1450 AM/98.5 FM.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1711545394104.jpeg" alt="Sophomore forward Valentino Simon dunks in the final seconds of the Blue Dragons second round tournament game. Hutch beat Chipola 78-71 on Tuesday, March 26, 2024. Photo by Emmie Boese." />
 <figcaption>Sophomore forward Valentino Simon dunks in the final seconds of the Blue Dragons second round tournament game. Hutch beat Chipola 78-71 on Tuesday, March 26, 2024. Photo by Emmie Boese.</figcaption>
 </figure>EMMIE BOESE Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan.&nbsp;— The Blue Dragons knocked off&nbsp; Chipola College in front of a packed crowd or as Head Coach Tommy Desalme calls it, "The sixth man." The Blue Dragons beat Chipola 78-71 on Tuesday night."These kids, man they balled tonight," Desalme said. "They had confidence and I'm wanting them to shoot it more. They were locked in today and I thought that was really really special."&nbsp;Desalme said his team needed to come out "ready to play with intensity" against Chipola. The Blue Dragons did just that by jumping on Chipola early with a 23-9 lead at the 7:23 mark in the first half.&nbsp;"When you make shots early, I think it really frees up your team," Desalme said. "It really frees up your players."&nbsp;&nbsp;Hutch led 37-26 at halftime. Sophomore guard Landon Wagler and sophomore guard Kamryn Thomas iced several threes in the first to help Hutch get ahead. Wagler was 3-5 from the field in the first half and 1-3 from the 3-point line. He finished the night with a career high 20 points.&nbsp;"It's on me," Desalme said. "He (Wagler) should have been playing more earlier. He always had my back and he always had his teammates back. He's not pouting over there. He's not doing anything. He's just all about Hutch and he's got a lot of bloodlines at Hutch."&nbsp;&nbsp;Hutch's quick offensive transition led to baskets. Sophomore guard J.P. Ricks set a career high of 10 assists against Chipola and&nbsp; freshman guard Kobe Smith had 6.&nbsp;"You know and then you are looking up there in the second half and you are like come on there clock run," Desalme said. "We had just a moment there where we weren't getting aggressive. They got a steal. They trapped Kobe in the corner and then from that point on we were really staying aggressive against their trap. Anytime you make Chipola leave their zone, that's a good day," Desalme said.&nbsp;Wagler said he and his teammates felt confident about being able to attack the rim after watching film on Chipola.&nbsp;"They are good defensively, but there's some major gaps that you can fill in there," Wagler said.&nbsp;Defensively, Hutch recorded six steals, 24 defensive rebounds and eight blocks. Desalme said sophomore guard Kernan Bundy did a great job of coming off the bench and locking in on Chipola's sophomore guard Joshua "Greedy" Williams in the last several minutes of the game. Williams led Chipola with 22 points.&nbsp;"He wasn't letting him catch it and if he did catch it, it was catching it out there 30 feet from the basket and that's what sophomores do," Desalme said.&nbsp;The Blue Dragons will play Connors State in the quarterfinals tomorrow night at 7:15 p.m. The Cowboys are led by Veteran coach Bill Muse who has been with Connors for 32 seasons.&nbsp;"He's an old school ball coach you know and they run a great high-low (offense)," Desalme said. "It's old school but we can do some things if we bring our pressure and things like that."&nbsp;Tomorrow night's play-by-play will be taken care of&nbsp; by Glen Grunwald and Rick Kraus on Country 102.9 and KWBW 1450 AM/98.5 FM.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=314&href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fggrunwald1%2Fvideos%2F1345770886110848%2F&show_text=false&width=560&t=0" width="560" height="314" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div>

🏀 NJCAA Tourney: 'Man, they balled'; Hutch upsets Chipola

HUTCHINSON, Kan.&nbsp;— No depth, no problem for Connors State. Once again, the No. 19&nbsp; Cowboys knock off the higher seed. This time it was the No. 3 Salt Lake CC Bruins in a 67-61 win Tuesday at the Sports Arena.&nbsp;

Connors State played the entire game with Salt Lake with two subs off the bench. The Bruins scored 20 bench points to Connors State's two.&nbsp;

At halftime, Connors&nbsp; led 29-22. With about 12 minutes left in the second, Salt Lake took the advantage and then led down the stretch with Connors close behind.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Cowboys started to inch closer to a comeback with nine minutes left in the game. Sophomore forward Brayden Hubbard hit a&nbsp; 3-point jumper to make it a two point game at 45-43.&nbsp;

Connors took the lead with just 3:20 left to go in the game with a layup from sophomore guard Donyae May.&nbsp;

Freshman forward Buddy Hammer Jr. led Connors State with 22 points. Hubbard had 18 and recorded four steals. Sophomore guard CJ Luster led Salt Lake with 17 points.&nbsp;

Connors State will play the winner of No. 11 Hutchinson CC and No.6 Chipola in the quarterfinals on Wednesday, March 27 at 7:15 p.m.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1711501855713.jpeg" alt="Sophomore guard Donyae May dribbles the ball down the court for Connors State. Connors State beat Salt Lake 67-61 on Tuesday, March 26, 2024. Photo by Emmie Boese" />
 <figcaption>Sophomore guard Donyae May dribbles the ball down the court for Connors State. Connors State beat Salt Lake 67-61 on Tuesday, March 26, 2024. Photo by Emmie Boese</figcaption>
 </figure>EMMIE BOESE&nbsp; Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan.&nbsp;— No depth, no problem for Connors State. Once again, the No. 19&nbsp; Cowboys knock off the higher seed. This time it was the No. 3 Salt Lake CC Bruins in a 67-61 win Tuesday at the Sports Arena.&nbsp;Connors State played the entire game with Salt Lake with two subs off the bench. The Bruins scored 20 bench points to Connors State's two.&nbsp;At halftime, Connors&nbsp; led 29-22. With about 12 minutes left in the second, Salt Lake took the advantage and then led down the stretch with Connors close behind.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Cowboys started to inch closer to a comeback with nine minutes left in the game. Sophomore forward Brayden Hubbard hit a&nbsp; 3-point jumper to make it a two point game at 45-43.&nbsp;Connors took the lead with just 3:20 left to go in the game with a layup from sophomore guard Donyae May.&nbsp;Freshman forward Buddy Hammer Jr. led Connors State with 22 points. Hubbard had 18 and recorded four steals. Sophomore guard CJ Luster led Salt Lake with 17 points.&nbsp;Connors State will play the winner of No. 11 Hutchinson CC and No.6 Chipola in the quarterfinals on Wednesday, March 27 at 7:15 p.m.&nbsp;

🏀 NJCAA Tourney: Connors State continues run

LAWRENCE, Kan. –&nbsp;The third annual Buck O’Neil Classic is set to return this year, with the venue changing to Hoglund Ballpark this season. The game will be played on April 9 against Nebraska at 6 p.m. CT. Kansas will also continue its partnership with the Kansas City Monarchs and play at Legends Field on May 7 against Omaha at 6 p.m. CT.

“We are excited to be hosting this year’s Buck O’Neil Classic in Lawrence,” Head Coach Dan Fitzgerald said. “We are honored to be a small piece of celebrating Buck’s life, legacy, and incredible impact. It’s going to be a great night.”

This year’s Buck O’Neil Classic will celebrate the first night game the Kansas City Monarchs ever played, which came in early March 1930 in Lawrence.

Buck O’Neil was a first baseman and played a majority of his career for the Kansas City Monarchs. He later would be a player-manager for the Monarchs. Upon the conclusion of his time in the Negro Leagues in 1955, O’Neil was hired by the Chicago Cubs as a scout. In 1962, the Cubs promoted O’Neil to their major league coaching staff, making him the first African American coach in Major League Baseball history. O’Neil, who died in 2006, was inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in July 2022 for his contributions to the game as a player, scout and manager.

“Buck O’Neil was one of baseball’s greatest ambassadors,” Negro Leagues Baseball Museum President Bob Kendrick said. “He promoted the game and its rich history tirelessly and I know he would be deeply honored to know these student-athletes are remembering him and celebrating the winning spirit of the great Kansas City Monarchs.”

O’Neil helped establish the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum (NLBM). After starting the NLBM in a tiny, one-room office in 1990, the NLBM moved into a 10,000-square-foot home in Kansas City in 1997. O’Neil’s idea was to build it into a museum, rather than a Hall of Fame, that would pay tribute to the Negro Leagues and their legendary players. O’Neil served as the chairman of the museum and helped the NLBM gain National Designation in 2006 after testifying before Congress on the museum’s importance.

Kansas is 2-0 in the annual Buck O’Neil Classic, with both games being played against Texas Southern the previous two seasons. In 2023, Kansas slugged its way to an 8-5 victory that featured three home runs, including long balls from Chase Jans and Kodey Shojinaga. The season before Kansas won a 7-6 thriller that had the Jayhawks come from behind to win late in the game.

The Jayhawks are taking on the Cornhuskers for only the second time since Nebraska left the Big 12 in 2011. The last time the teams played was in 2016 at Kauffman Stadium in the College Baseball Hall of Fame Game. Kansas will also play at Nebraska on April 23.

LEGENDS FIELDFor a third straight year, Kansas will play at Legends Field, the home of the Kansas City Monarchs. The game will take place on May 7 against Omaha at 6 p.m. CT.

“We are all very excited that Legends Field and Kansas City, Kansas, will host the Kansas Jayhawks for a third consecutive year,” Kansas City Monarchs President and General Manager Jay Hinrichs said. “With a premier venue like Legends Field which hosts great events like the American Association Championship Series, 20 seasons of professional baseball and amazing concerts like Tacos and Tequilla, our venue is part of a safe, family friendly, active entertainment and sports destination.”

Kansas has an 11-3 advantage in the all-time series with Omaha. The Jayhawks will play at Omaha prior to the game at Legends Field on April 16.

Tickets for the Buck O’Neil Classic at Hoglund Ballpark can be purchased by clicking&nbsp;<a href="https://kuathletics.evenue.net/cgi-bin/ncommerce3/SEGetGroupList?groupCode=BSB&amp;linkID=kansas&amp;shopperContext=&amp;caller=&amp;appCode=&amp;utm_source=navbar&amp;utm_medium=website&amp;utm_campaign=navbar_website">here</a>. Tickets for the game at Legends Field will go on sale at a later date. Fans who purchased season tickets will receive admission to the game at Legends Field as part of their season ticket package.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1711536305750.png" alt="KU Baseball vs Nebraska in 3rd Annual Buck O'Neil Classic" />
 <figcaption>KU Baseball vs Nebraska in 3rd Annual Buck O'Neil Classic</figcaption>
 </figure>LAWRENCE, Kan. –&nbsp;The third annual Buck O’Neil Classic is set to return this year, with the venue changing to Hoglund Ballpark this season. The game will be played on April 9 against Nebraska at 6 p.m. CT. Kansas will also continue its partnership with the Kansas City Monarchs and play at Legends Field on May 7 against Omaha at 6 p.m. CT.“We are excited to be hosting this year’s Buck O’Neil Classic in Lawrence,” Head Coach Dan Fitzgerald said. “We are honored to be a small piece of celebrating Buck’s life, legacy, and incredible impact. It’s going to be a great night.”This year’s Buck O’Neil Classic will celebrate the first night game the Kansas City Monarchs ever played, which came in early March 1930 in Lawrence.Buck O’Neil was a first baseman and played a majority of his career for the Kansas City Monarchs. He later would be a player-manager for the Monarchs. Upon the conclusion of his time in the Negro Leagues in 1955, O’Neil was hired by the Chicago Cubs as a scout. In 1962, the Cubs promoted O’Neil to their major league coaching staff, making him the first African American coach in Major League Baseball history. O’Neil, who died in 2006, was inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in July 2022 for his contributions to the game as a player, scout and manager.“Buck O’Neil was one of baseball’s greatest ambassadors,” Negro Leagues Baseball Museum President Bob Kendrick said. “He promoted the game and its rich history tirelessly and I know he would be deeply honored to know these student-athletes are remembering him and celebrating the winning spirit of the great Kansas City Monarchs.”O’Neil helped establish the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum (NLBM). After starting the NLBM in a tiny, one-room office in 1990, the NLBM moved into a 10,000-square-foot home in Kansas City in 1997. O’Neil’s idea was to build it into a museum, rather than a Hall of Fame, that would pay tribute to the Negro Leagues and their legendary players. O’Neil served as the chairman of the museum and helped the NLBM gain National Designation in 2006 after testifying before Congress on the museum’s importance.Kansas is 2-0 in the annual Buck O’Neil Classic, with both games being played against Texas Southern the previous two seasons. In 2023, Kansas slugged its way to an 8-5 victory that featured three home runs, including long balls from Chase Jans and Kodey Shojinaga. The season before Kansas won a 7-6 thriller that had the Jayhawks come from behind to win late in the game.The Jayhawks are taking on the Cornhuskers for only the second time since Nebraska left the Big 12 in 2011. The last time the teams played was in 2016 at Kauffman Stadium in the College Baseball Hall of Fame Game. Kansas will also play at Nebraska on April 23.LEGENDS FIELDFor a third straight year, Kansas will play at Legends Field, the home of the Kansas City Monarchs. The game will take place on May 7 against Omaha at 6 p.m. CT.“We are all very excited that Legends Field and Kansas City, Kansas, will host the Kansas Jayhawks for a third consecutive year,” Kansas City Monarchs President and General Manager Jay Hinrichs said. “With a premier venue like Legends Field which hosts great events like the American Association Championship Series, 20 seasons of professional baseball and amazing concerts like Tacos and Tequilla, our venue is part of a safe, family friendly, active entertainment and sports destination.”Kansas has an 11-3 advantage in the all-time series with Omaha. The Jayhawks will play at Omaha prior to the game at Legends Field on April 16.Tickets for the Buck O’Neil Classic at Hoglund Ballpark can be purchased by clicking&nbsp;<a href="https://kuathletics.evenue.net/cgi-bin/ncommerce3/SEGetGroupList?groupCode=BSB&amp;linkID=kansas&amp;shopperContext=&amp;caller=&amp;appCode=&amp;utm_source=navbar&amp;utm_medium=website&amp;utm_campaign=navbar_website">here</a>. Tickets for the game at Legends Field will go on sale at a later date. Fans who purchased season tickets will receive admission to the game at Legends Field as part of their season ticket package.

⚾ Buck O’Neil Classic moving to Lawrence; Jayhawks to still play at Legends Field

HUTCHINSON, Kan.&nbsp;— No. 21 Wallace State upset No. 11 Lee College in the first round of the tournament on Monday but came up short Tuesday afternoon against the Indian Hills CC Warriors.

No.5 Indian Hills CC beat Wallace State 63-58. Sophomore forward Trevion LaBeaux led the Warriors with 15 points. Freshman guard Jalen Carruth led the Wallace State Lions with 15 points.&nbsp;

Wallace State led Indian Hills 26-18 at halftime. At about the 12:22 mark in the second, sophomore guard Braden Sparks hit a 3-point jumper to make it a tie game for Indian Hills (37-37). Wallace State took back the lead only for Indian Hills to tie it up again (41-41) at the 9:38 mark.&nbsp;

Baskets and leads were changed back and forth a few more times but Indian Hills started to put the game away with about four minutes left to go.&nbsp;

Wallace State's sophomore guard Jalen Anglin made a layup with about 32 seconds left on the clock (62-58). This is the closest the Lions got to mounting a comeback.&nbsp;

Indian Hills made it a 63-58 game on a made free throw. Freshman guard Jimmie Williams shot three free throws with seconds remaining but missed all three of them.&nbsp;

Indian Hills will meet No. 13 Odessa College on Wednesday, March 27 in the quarterfinals at 5 p.m.&nbsp;

Glen Grunwald and Rick Kraus will have the game play-by-play on Country 102.9 and KWBW 1450 AM/98.5 FM.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1711489740165.jpeg" alt="Indian Hills ended Wallace State's time at the NJCAA Tournament Tuesday. Photo by Emmie Boese." />
 <figcaption>Indian Hills ended Wallace State's time at the NJCAA Tournament Tuesday. Photo by Emmie Boese.</figcaption>
 </figure>EMMIE BOESE Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan.&nbsp;— No. 21 Wallace State upset No. 11 Lee College in the first round of the tournament on Monday but came up short Tuesday afternoon against the Indian Hills CC Warriors.No.5 Indian Hills CC beat Wallace State 63-58. Sophomore forward Trevion LaBeaux led the Warriors with 15 points. Freshman guard Jalen Carruth led the Wallace State Lions with 15 points.&nbsp;Wallace State led Indian Hills 26-18 at halftime. At about the 12:22 mark in the second, sophomore guard Braden Sparks hit a 3-point jumper to make it a tie game for Indian Hills (37-37). Wallace State took back the lead only for Indian Hills to tie it up again (41-41) at the 9:38 mark.&nbsp;Baskets and leads were changed back and forth a few more times but Indian Hills started to put the game away with about four minutes left to go.&nbsp;Wallace State's sophomore guard Jalen Anglin made a layup with about 32 seconds left on the clock (62-58). This is the closest the Lions got to mounting a comeback.&nbsp;Indian Hills made it a 63-58 game on a made free throw. Freshman guard Jimmie Williams shot three free throws with seconds remaining but missed all three of them.&nbsp;Indian Hills will meet No. 13 Odessa College on Wednesday, March 27 in the quarterfinals at 5 p.m.&nbsp;Glen Grunwald and Rick Kraus will have the game play-by-play on Country 102.9 and KWBW 1450 AM/98.5 FM.&nbsp;

🏀 NJCAA Tourney: Indian Hills set to meet Odessa in quarterfinals

The Hutchinson Community College men's basketball team looks for a little NJCAA Tournament revenge on Tuesday night when the No. 11-seeded Blue Dragons meet the No. 6-seed Chipola Indians.

The 16th-ranked Blue Dragons (28-6) meet the No. 12-ranked Indians (29-4) in a second-round matchup at 7:15 p.m. on Tuesday night at the Hutchinson Sports Arena.

The game will be broadcast live on Blue Dragon flagship station KHUT-FM (102.9) at Noon with Glen Grunwald (play-by-play) and Dan Naccarato (color) calling the action beginning approximately at 7:00 p.m. All NJCAA Tournament games are being streamed on ESPN+.

Since going to the 24-team format in 2013 the Blue Dragons are 3-4 in second-round games. The Blue Dragons have lost their last three second-round games in 2018, 2021 and 2022. The 2022 loss came at the hands of Chipola, which defeated Tommy DeSalme's first Blue Dragon team 82-65.

The Blue Dragons advanced to the second round by winning its seventh-straight NJCAA Tournament opening-round game on Monday defeating USC Salkehatchie 98-82.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/mbkb/2023-24/bios/thomas_kamryn_j9zm">Kamryn Thomas</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/mbkb/2023-24/bios/bundy_kernan_hvu2">Kernan Bundy</a>&nbsp;scored 20 points each and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/mbkb/2023-24/bios/branch_russell_x8m5">Russell Branch</a>&nbsp;came off the bench to provide a first-half spark after the Blue Dragons trailed twice by 11 points. Branch had 10 of his 12 points in the opening 20 minutes as Hutchinson rallied to lead 50-43 at halftime.

The Blue Dragons hit 11 3-pointers against USC Salkehatchie, which moved the 2023-24 Blue Dragons into third place on Hutchinson's all-time team 3-point list.

Going 10-2 in league play, Chipola won the Region 8 Tournament championship defeating Indian River State 93-80 in the quarterfinals, Tallahassee 83-68 in the semifinals and Northwest Florida State - an NJCAA Tournament at-large selection - 50-48 in the title game.

This will be the third all-time NJCAA Tournament matchup between the Blue Dragons and Indians. The first came in 1988 when Hutchinson topped Chipola in the opening round 70-64, which started the Blue Dragons' run to a first national championship.

The Blue Dragons' Jayhawk Conference-leading offense, which averages 82.5 points per game will be tested by Chipola's No. 7-ranked nationally ranked defense, which allows 63.0 points per game.

The Blue Dragons are making their 24th all-time tournament appearance. The Blue Dragons have an all-time NJCAA Tournament record of 52-27.

The Hutchinson/Chipola winner advances to the quarterfinal round and will play the Salt Lake/Connors State winner at 7:15 p.m. on Wednesday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1711484740585.jpeg" alt="Kernan Bundy and the Blue Dragon men's basketball team plays Chipola in the second round of the NJCAA Tournament at 7:15 p.m. on Tuesday at the Sports Arena. (Andrew Carpenter/Digital Fox Photography)" />
 <figcaption>Kernan Bundy and the Blue Dragon men's basketball team plays Chipola in the second round of the NJCAA Tournament at 7:15 p.m. on Tuesday at the Sports Arena. (Andrew Carpenter/Digital Fox Photography)</figcaption>
 </figure>HutchCC Sports InformationThe Hutchinson Community College men's basketball team looks for a little NJCAA Tournament revenge on Tuesday night when the No. 11-seeded Blue Dragons meet the No. 6-seed Chipola Indians.The 16th-ranked Blue Dragons (28-6) meet the No. 12-ranked Indians (29-4) in a second-round matchup at 7:15 p.m. on Tuesday night at the Hutchinson Sports Arena.The game will be broadcast live on Blue Dragon flagship station KHUT-FM (102.9) at Noon with Glen Grunwald (play-by-play) and Dan Naccarato (color) calling the action beginning approximately at 7:00 p.m. All NJCAA Tournament games are being streamed on ESPN+.Since going to the 24-team format in 2013 the Blue Dragons are 3-4 in second-round games. The Blue Dragons have lost their last three second-round games in 2018, 2021 and 2022. The 2022 loss came at the hands of Chipola, which defeated Tommy DeSalme's first Blue Dragon team 82-65.The Blue Dragons advanced to the second round by winning its seventh-straight NJCAA Tournament opening-round game on Monday defeating USC Salkehatchie 98-82.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/mbkb/2023-24/bios/thomas_kamryn_j9zm">Kamryn Thomas</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/mbkb/2023-24/bios/bundy_kernan_hvu2">Kernan Bundy</a>&nbsp;scored 20 points each and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/mbkb/2023-24/bios/branch_russell_x8m5">Russell Branch</a>&nbsp;came off the bench to provide a first-half spark after the Blue Dragons trailed twice by 11 points. Branch had 10 of his 12 points in the opening 20 minutes as Hutchinson rallied to lead 50-43 at halftime.The Blue Dragons hit 11 3-pointers against USC Salkehatchie, which moved the 2023-24 Blue Dragons into third place on Hutchinson's all-time team 3-point list.Going 10-2 in league play, Chipola won the Region 8 Tournament championship defeating Indian River State 93-80 in the quarterfinals, Tallahassee 83-68 in the semifinals and Northwest Florida State - an NJCAA Tournament at-large selection - 50-48 in the title game.This will be the third all-time NJCAA Tournament matchup between the Blue Dragons and Indians. The first came in 1988 when Hutchinson topped Chipola in the opening round 70-64, which started the Blue Dragons' run to a first national championship.The Blue Dragons' Jayhawk Conference-leading offense, which averages 82.5 points per game will be tested by Chipola's No. 7-ranked nationally ranked defense, which allows 63.0 points per game.The Blue Dragons are making their 24th all-time tournament appearance. The Blue Dragons have an all-time NJCAA Tournament record of 52-27.The Hutchinson/Chipola winner advances to the quarterfinal round and will play the Salt Lake/Connors State winner at 7:15 p.m. on Wednesday.

🏀 MBB: Dragons to duel Chipola Tuesday in NJCAA 2nd Round

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Sophomore forward Ray Jordan only scored four points for Odessa College this afternoon but he capitalized when it mattered most. Jordan scored the game winning basket for Odessa with 20 seconds left on the clock against No.4 Vincennes. The No. 13 Wranglers beat the Vincennes University Trailblazers 58-56 Tuesday.&nbsp;

Odessa and Vincennes traded baskets back and forth in the first half. Both teams even had similar stat lines. Vincennes led after the first half by one, 28-27, and scored four points off of turnovers compared to Odessa who scored zero off of turnovers.&nbsp;

Sophomore guard Willie Lightfoot hit the first shot of the second on a 3-point jumper to give Odessa a 30-28 lead. Freshman forward for Vincennes, Damarien Yates matched with a 3-point jumper which put Vincennes back in the lead 31-30. Sophomore guard Kent King set the pace for Vincennes to extend the lead on a dunk 33-30 .&nbsp;

However, Odessa answered from there and took the lead for the rest of the game. Lightfoot contributed greatly for Odessa by knocking down 12-15 free throws overall.&nbsp; Several free throws were down the stretch in the second.&nbsp;

With 50 seconds left in the game, a foul was called on Odessa's freshman guard Esyah Pippa-White and the Trailblazers knocked down a free throw to make it a three point game.&nbsp;Vincenne's sophomore forward Michael Osei-Bonsu scored on a layup to put them down by one (56-55) with 48 seconds to go and then hit a free throw a second later to make it a 56-56 tie.&nbsp;

Odessa took the ball down the floor with 21 seconds left. Lightfoot missed on a layup and Jordan grabbed the rebound and dunked it to seal the win. Vincennes had one more possession but the game ended there.&nbsp;

The Trailblazers have the most victories in NJCAA Division I Men's Basketball Championship history as of last year. Their season ends at 30-4.

Lightfoot led both teams in scoring with 25 points. Sophomore guard Brandon Maclin had 12 for Odessa. Yates led Vincennes with 22 points and King had 12.&nbsp;

Odessa will play the winner of No.5 Indian Hills and No.21 Wallace State on Wednesday, March 27 at 5 p.m. in the quarterfinals.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1711479650362.jpeg" alt="Sophomore forward Ray Jordan celebrates after Odessa College knocks No. 4 Vincennes at the 2024 NJCAA Division I&nbsp; Men's Basketball Championship. Jordan scored the game winning basket for&nbsp; Odessa in a 58-56 win on Tuesday, March 26, 2024. Photo by Emmie Boese." />
 <figcaption>Sophomore forward Ray Jordan celebrates after Odessa College knocks No. 4 Vincennes at the 2024 NJCAA Division I&nbsp; Men's Basketball Championship. Jordan scored the game winning basket for&nbsp; Odessa in a 58-56 win on Tuesday, March 26, 2024. Photo by Emmie Boese.</figcaption>
 </figure>EMMIE BOESE Hutch Post&nbsp;HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Sophomore forward Ray Jordan only scored four points for Odessa College this afternoon but he capitalized when it mattered most. Jordan scored the game winning basket for Odessa with 20 seconds left on the clock against No.4 Vincennes. The No. 13 Wranglers beat the Vincennes University Trailblazers 58-56 Tuesday.&nbsp;Odessa and Vincennes traded baskets back and forth in the first half. Both teams even had similar stat lines. Vincennes led after the first half by one, 28-27, and scored four points off of turnovers compared to Odessa who scored zero off of turnovers.&nbsp;Sophomore guard Willie Lightfoot hit the first shot of the second on a 3-point jumper to give Odessa a 30-28 lead. Freshman forward for Vincennes, Damarien Yates matched with a 3-point jumper which put Vincennes back in the lead 31-30. Sophomore guard Kent King set the pace for Vincennes to extend the lead on a dunk 33-30 .&nbsp;However, Odessa answered from there and took the lead for the rest of the game. Lightfoot contributed greatly for Odessa by knocking down 12-15 free throws overall.&nbsp; Several free throws were down the stretch in the second.&nbsp;With 50 seconds left in the game, a foul was called on Odessa's freshman guard Esyah Pippa-White and the Trailblazers knocked down a free throw to make it a three point game.&nbsp;Vincenne's sophomore forward Michael Osei-Bonsu scored on a layup to put them down by one (56-55) with 48 seconds to go and then hit a free throw a second later to make it a 56-56 tie.&nbsp;Odessa took the ball down the floor with 21 seconds left. Lightfoot missed on a layup and Jordan grabbed the rebound and dunked it to seal the win. Vincennes had one more possession but the game ended there.&nbsp;The Trailblazers have the most victories in NJCAA Division I Men's Basketball Championship history as of last year. Their season ends at 30-4.Lightfoot led both teams in scoring with 25 points. Sophomore guard Brandon Maclin had 12 for Odessa. Yates led Vincennes with 22 points and King had 12.&nbsp;Odessa will play the winner of No.5 Indian Hills and No.21 Wallace State on Wednesday, March 27 at 5 p.m. in the quarterfinals.&nbsp;Glen Grunwald and Rick Kraus will have the game play-by-play on Country 102.9 and KWBW 1450 AM/98.5 FM.&nbsp;

🏀 NJCAA Tourney: Late game dunk sends Odessa to quarterfinals

CASPER, Wyo. — The No. 1 Hutchinson Community College women's basketball team will open play at the NJCAA DI Women's Basketball National Tournament on Wednesday at 3:30 p.m. CT/2:30 p.m. MT against No. 16 Cochise (AZ).

Cochise (26-7) defeated No. 17 Chattanooga State, 72-43 in the first round of the tournament on Tuesday morning.

The Blue Dragons and Apaches have never faced each other in the national tournament.

Hutchinson (33-0) will be making its 12th appearance in the national tournament and have a record of 20-12.

Cochise is coached by Dighton, Kansas native, Misty Opat. Opat played in the Jayhawk Conference at Garden City and then finished her playing career at Bethany College in Lindsborg. She then obtained her masters degree from Fort Hays State University.

The Blue Dragons' entire NJCAA Tournament run can be heard locally on My 93-1 (KHMY-FM) with Sean Boston on the call in the Cowboy State. The games will also be streamed live on ESPN+.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1711477619305.jpeg" alt="Ford Wyoming Center/Photo Sean Boston" />
 <figcaption>Ford Wyoming Center/Photo Sean Boston</figcaption>
 </figure>CASPER, Wyo. — The No. 1 Hutchinson Community College women's basketball team will open play at the NJCAA DI Women's Basketball National Tournament on Wednesday at 3:30 p.m. CT/2:30 p.m. MT against No. 16 Cochise (AZ).Cochise (26-7) defeated No. 17 Chattanooga State, 72-43 in the first round of the tournament on Tuesday morning.The Blue Dragons and Apaches have never faced each other in the national tournament.Hutchinson (33-0) will be making its 12th appearance in the national tournament and have a record of 20-12.Cochise is coached by Dighton, Kansas native, Misty Opat. Opat played in the Jayhawk Conference at Garden City and then finished her playing career at Bethany College in Lindsborg. She then obtained her masters degree from Fort Hays State University.The Blue Dragons' entire NJCAA Tournament run can be heard locally on My 93-1 (KHMY-FM) with Sean Boston on the call in the Cowboy State. The games will also be streamed live on ESPN+.

🏀 WBB: No. 1 HutchCC opens NJCAA National Tournament Wednesday with No. 16 Cochise 

<a href="https://goshockers.com/news/2024/3/25/softball-wong-tabbed-aac-player-of-the-week-for-second-time.aspx">Via Wichita State Athletics</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;

For a second time this season the American Athletic Conference has named CC Wong its Player of the Week, it was announced Monday afternoon.

In the series vs. UTSA, Wong was 5-for-8 (.625) at the plate with four home runs, 11 RBI and five runs scored. She had an incredible slugging percentage of 2.125. The highlight of the weekend came in the finale on Saturday where she crushed three home runs and drove in six runs. She became just the third Shocker in program history to hit three home runs in a single game. Wong hit a pair of solo home runs and then belted a grand slam in her final at bat. In the opening game of the series, Wong was 2-for-3 with a home run and four RBI.

Her 3-for-3 day on Saturday raised her season batting average to .500, good for Top-5 nationally. She leads the team in hits (43), RBI (29) and is tied for the team lead in home runs (10).

Lauren Howell was named to the American Athletic Conference Weekly Honor Roll after tossing a complete game shutout in the Shockers' 12-0 win on Saturday. She allowed just one hit and two walks, while striking out a career-high nine.

Wong and the Shockers have a crucial weekend series at Charlotte this weekend, March 28-30.

Kiley Channell, Fr., INF, Florida Atlantic

Trinity Schlotterbeck, Gr., P, Florida Atlantic

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1711477364436.jpeg" alt="For a second time this season the American Athletic Conference has named CC Wong its Player of the Week. Image Courtesy Wichita State University." />
 <figcaption>For a second time this season the American Athletic Conference has named CC Wong its Player of the Week. Image Courtesy Wichita State University.</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://goshockers.com/news/2024/3/25/softball-wong-tabbed-aac-player-of-the-week-for-second-time.aspx">Via Wichita State Athletics</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;For a second time this season the American Athletic Conference has named CC Wong its Player of the Week, it was announced Monday afternoon.In the series vs. UTSA, Wong was 5-for-8 (.625) at the plate with four home runs, 11 RBI and five runs scored. She had an incredible slugging percentage of 2.125. The highlight of the weekend came in the finale on Saturday where she crushed three home runs and drove in six runs. She became just the third Shocker in program history to hit three home runs in a single game. Wong hit a pair of solo home runs and then belted a grand slam in her final at bat. In the opening game of the series, Wong was 2-for-3 with a home run and four RBI.Her 3-for-3 day on Saturday raised her season batting average to .500, good for Top-5 nationally. She leads the team in hits (43), RBI (29) and is tied for the team lead in home runs (10).Lauren Howell was named to the American Athletic Conference Weekly Honor Roll after tossing a complete game shutout in the Shockers' 12-0 win on Saturday. She allowed just one hit and two walks, while striking out a career-high nine.Wong and the Shockers have a crucial weekend series at Charlotte this weekend, March 28-30.Player of the WeekCC Wong, Sr., INF, Wichita StatePitcher of the WeekSkylar Savage, Jr., North TexasHonor RollTaylor Apple, Fr., P, East CarolinaKiley Channell, Fr., INF, Florida AtlanticTrinity Schlotterbeck, Gr., P, Florida AtlanticMaura Moore, Jr. P, TulsaLauren Howell, Sr., P, Wichita State

Wong Tabbed AAC Player of the Week for Second Time

<a href="https://kuathletics.com/trojans-top-jayhawks-in-second-round-of-ncaa-tournament/">Via KU Athletics</a>

LOS ANGELES — S’Mya Nichols scored 22 points and Taiyanna Jackson set a program NCAA Tournament record with 18 rebounds on Monday night, but the Jayhawks fell to No. 1 seed USC 73-55 in the second round of the NCAA Tournament at the Galen Center.

Nichols capped her brilliant freshman season topping the 500-point mark with her 22 points on Monday, while Jackson notched the 41st double-double of her career for second-most in program history.

Kansas got the USC lead down to one in the third quarter, but the Trojans went on a 24-6 run over the end of the third and start of the fourth to get the lead to 19 and secure the win for the hosts. National Freshman of the Year JuJu Watkins led USC with 28 points and 11 rebounds in their win.

The Jayhawks finished their 2023-24 campaign at 20-13, while USC, ranked No. 3 in the nation, moved to 28-5.

“I’m really proud of what this group has become and the development of our team&nbsp;this year, but also proud of the progress that our program has made over the last three years,” Kansas coach Brandon Schneider said following the game. “Tonight we played an exceptionally good team. I thought the difference in the game&nbsp;tonight was points off turnovers. We turned the ball over quite a bit early in the game and that enabled them to get off to a fast start.”

Watkins started hot from the floor, hitting three of her first four shots and scoring seven of the team’s first nine points. On the heels of Watkins’ start, the Trojans started 5 of 10 from the floor and 2 of 2 from deep to open up an early 12-7 lead at&nbsp;the game’s first media timeout. Jackson also had a strong start, posting four&nbsp;points and four rebounds in the game’s first five minutes to keep the Jayhawks hanging around.

&nbsp;Zakiyah Franklin hit a jumper out of the timeout to close the deficit to three at 12-9. But the Jayhawks didn’t score over the final four-plus minutes of the quarter and USC went on a mini 5-0 run to close the quarter with a 17-9 lead. Watkins picked up her second foul of the game with 2:02 left in the frame and headed to the bench.

&nbsp;USC extended its lead into double digits early in the second quarter. The Trojans got their lead up to 15 at the 8:07 mark of the quarter when Kayla Padilla knocked down a 3-pointer to make it 27-12. Kansas then held USC scoreless for more than four minutes and used five straight points from Nichols to cut the lead to 10 at 27-17, forcing a USC timeout.

&nbsp;The Trojans responded to the break and built the lead back to 14 at 33-19 when McKenzie Forbes knocked down a 3-pointer with 2:11 to play in the half. But Kansas finished the half strong, scoring the final five points of the half. First, Jackson scored a fast break layup off a pass from Holly Kersgieter to cut it to 33-21. Nichols then finished the half with an and-one, making a layup with four seconds left in the half and converting the free throw to make it 33-24 at the break.

&nbsp;Kansas shot 34.6 percent from the floor in the first half and converted 12 turnovers, which USC converted into 16 points and outscoring Kansas 16-0 in points off turnovers in the first half. Nichols led the way for Kansas in the first with 11 points, while Jackson had 11 boards and six points.

&nbsp;Both teams came out in the second half hot from the field. Kansas hit five of its first seven shots, while USC knocked down four of its first five over the first 4:10 of the second half. During that stretch, USC got its lead up to 12 at 43-31 after Forbes knocked down a 3-pointer. Kansas then answered back with three straight buckets, getting one apiece from Franklin, Nichols and Kersgieter. A Watkins free throw made it 44-37 with 4:55 left in the third at the media timeout.

&nbsp;After another 3-pointer from Forbes to make the lead 10, the Jayhawks answered back with a 9-0 run to cut the lead to one at 47-46 with 1:20 remaining in the third quarter. Kersgieter and Nichols combined for all nine points on the run with Kersgieter hitting two baskets and Nichols scoring five points off two buckets and a free throw. But Watkins, the first-team All-American, scored five straight points and Clarice Akunwafo hit one of two free throws to extend the lead back to seven at the end of the third at 53-46.

The Trojans continued to build their lead to start the fourth quarter and took a 62-48 lead with 6:12 to play in the final quarter on the heels of a 15-2 run to answer the 9-0 spurt from Kansas.&nbsp;

Jackson had 10 points and 18 rebounds, along with five assists in the loss, while, Kersgieter had nine points and seven rebounds.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1711459223225.jpeg" alt="Image Courtesy KU Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Image Courtesy KU Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://kuathletics.com/trojans-top-jayhawks-in-second-round-of-ncaa-tournament/">Via KU Athletics</a>LOS ANGELES — S’Mya Nichols scored 22 points and Taiyanna Jackson set a program NCAA Tournament record with 18 rebounds on Monday night, but the Jayhawks fell to No. 1 seed USC 73-55 in the second round of the NCAA Tournament at the Galen Center.Nichols capped her brilliant freshman season topping the 500-point mark with her 22 points on Monday, while Jackson notched the 41st double-double of her career for second-most in program history.Kansas got the USC lead down to one in the third quarter, but the Trojans went on a 24-6 run over the end of the third and start of the fourth to get the lead to 19 and secure the win for the hosts. National Freshman of the Year JuJu Watkins led USC with 28 points and 11 rebounds in their win.The Jayhawks finished their 2023-24 campaign at 20-13, while USC, ranked No. 3 in the nation, moved to 28-5.“I’m really proud of what this group has become and the development of our team&nbsp;this year, but also proud of the progress that our program has made over the last three years,” Kansas coach Brandon Schneider said following the game. “Tonight we played an exceptionally good team. I thought the difference in the game&nbsp;tonight was points off turnovers. We turned the ball over quite a bit early in the game and that enabled them to get off to a fast start.”Watkins started hot from the floor, hitting three of her first four shots and scoring seven of the team’s first nine points. On the heels of Watkins’ start, the Trojans started 5 of 10 from the floor and 2 of 2 from deep to open up an early 12-7 lead at&nbsp;the game’s first media timeout. Jackson also had a strong start, posting four&nbsp;points and four rebounds in the game’s first five minutes to keep the Jayhawks hanging around.&nbsp;Zakiyah Franklin hit a jumper out of the timeout to close the deficit to three at 12-9. But the Jayhawks didn’t score over the final four-plus minutes of the quarter and USC went on a mini 5-0 run to close the quarter with a 17-9 lead. Watkins picked up her second foul of the game with 2:02 left in the frame and headed to the bench.&nbsp;USC extended its lead into double digits early in the second quarter. The Trojans got their lead up to 15 at the 8:07 mark of the quarter when Kayla Padilla knocked down a 3-pointer to make it 27-12. Kansas then held USC scoreless for more than four minutes and used five straight points from Nichols to cut the lead to 10 at 27-17, forcing a USC timeout.&nbsp;The Trojans responded to the break and built the lead back to 14 at 33-19 when McKenzie Forbes knocked down a 3-pointer with 2:11 to play in the half. But Kansas finished the half strong, scoring the final five points of the half. First, Jackson scored a fast break layup off a pass from Holly Kersgieter to cut it to 33-21. Nichols then finished the half with an and-one, making a layup with four seconds left in the half and converting the free throw to make it 33-24 at the break.&nbsp;Kansas shot 34.6 percent from the floor in the first half and converted 12 turnovers, which USC converted into 16 points and outscoring Kansas 16-0 in points off turnovers in the first half. Nichols led the way for Kansas in the first with 11 points, while Jackson had 11 boards and six points.&nbsp;Both teams came out in the second half hot from the field. Kansas hit five of its first seven shots, while USC knocked down four of its first five over the first 4:10 of the second half. During that stretch, USC got its lead up to 12 at 43-31 after Forbes knocked down a 3-pointer. Kansas then answered back with three straight buckets, getting one apiece from Franklin, Nichols and Kersgieter. A Watkins free throw made it 44-37 with 4:55 left in the third at the media timeout.&nbsp;After another 3-pointer from Forbes to make the lead 10, the Jayhawks answered back with a 9-0 run to cut the lead to one at 47-46 with 1:20 remaining in the third quarter. Kersgieter and Nichols combined for all nine points on the run with Kersgieter hitting two baskets and Nichols scoring five points off two buckets and a free throw. But Watkins, the first-team All-American, scored five straight points and Clarice Akunwafo hit one of two free throws to extend the lead back to seven at the end of the third at 53-46.The Trojans continued to build their lead to start the fourth quarter and took a 62-48 lead with 6:12 to play in the final quarter on the heels of a 15-2 run to answer the 9-0 spurt from Kansas.&nbsp;Jackson had 10 points and 18 rebounds, along with five assists in the loss, while, Kersgieter had nine points and seven rebounds.

🏀 Trojans top Jayhawks in Second Round of NCAA Tournament

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1701263164849.png" alt="Early Morning Sports with Rob Dreher for Tuesday, March 26th, 2024" />
 <figcaption>Early Morning Sports with Rob Dreher for Tuesday, March 26th, 2024</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="March 26th, 2024 Early Morning Sports" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=6xzyn-15c235e-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=60a0c8&font-color=&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=ff6d00" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

🎧 LISTEN: 🏀 Day 2 NJCAA results 🏀 WBB: KU eliminated 

LOS ANGELES (AP) — JuJu Watkins had 28 points, 11 rebounds and five assists and top-seeded Southern California beat Kansas 73-55 to reach the Sweet 16 of the women's NCAA Tournament. McKenzie Forbes hit a career-high six 3-pointers and scored 20 points for the Trojans. They will face fifth-seeded Baylor in the Portland Region 3 in Oregon. Kansas was led by freshman S'Mya Nichols with 22 points. The Jayhawks fell to 0-6 all-time when facing a No. 1 seed in the tournament. Taiyanna Jackson added 10 points and 18 rebounds for the Jayhawks.

UNDATED (AP) — March Madness arrived with visions of chaos. The only surprise so far has been the lack of pandemonium. The top two seeds from each region are still alive. One double-digit seed will join them in the Sweet 16. Top seeds UConn, North Carolina, Houston and Purdue advanced. So did No. 2 seeds Arizona, Tennessee, Marquette and Iowa State also advanced. It is just the fifth time that has happened since the start of seeding in 1979.

UNDATED (AP) — Reigning national champion Connecticut has rolled through the regular season, the Big East Tournament and now two rounds of the NCAA Tournament. The Huskies entered March Madness with top-tier efficiency ratings on both sides of the ball from KenPom. Those figures align with profiles of past champions and Final Four teams. The Huskies are one of seven teams in the top 25 in both adjusted offensive and defensive efficiency. That applies to 15 of the last 22 NCAA champions going back to 2001. The list includes fellow No. 1 seeds Houston, Purdue and North Carolina. There's also a strong candidate in second-seeded Arizona.

LAS VEGAS (AP) — Three contestants in the ESPN Tournament Challenge went through the first two rounds of women’s NCAA Tournament without any misses. Those were the only ones of 3.25 million brackets to accomplish that feat through Monday night’s action. The tournament resumes Friday with the Sweet 16. There are 16 winless ESPN brackets that will stay that way the rest of the tournament. Just .0003% were perfect on CBS’ site through Sunday. There was no update Monday. CBS does not release totals.

UNDATED (AP) — The NCAA Tournament could be heading toward expansion. The tournament field is currently set at 68. That number could bump up to 72 or 76 schools in the coming years. There are several factors at play, including how to divide up the increased number of at-large bids in an expanded field. There's a concern that expansion would lean heavily toward awarding teams from power conferences and not deserving schools from mid-major conferences. Oakland coach Greg Kampe says he's OK with the tournament growing provided it doesn't turn its back on small schools that he believes help make the tournament special.

LOS ANGELES (AP) — Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani says he never bet on sports and interpreter Ippei Mizuhara stole money from him and told lies. Ohtani held a news conference at Dodger Stadium, five days after Mizuhara was fired by the Dodgers following reports from the Los Angeles Times and ESPN about his alleged ties to an illegal bookmaker and debts well over $1 million. Ohtani spoke for nearly 12 minutes, referring to a document in front of him. He did not take questions.

CLEARWATER, Fla. (AP) — Trea Turner’s speed and instincts helped him go perfect on the bases. The Philadelphia Phillies’ star shortstop set a major league record for most steals in a season without getting caught, going 30-for-30 on the basepaths last year. He wasn’t the only player who had a lot of success. Thanks to several rules changes, runners swiped bags more proficiently and stolen bases across the majors increased 41% from 2,486 in 2022 to 3,503 in 2023. That was the most in a season since 1987. Overall, basestealers had a success rate of 80.2%, up from 75.4% in 2022. Turner is one of only six players in MLB history to steal at least 20 bases in a season at a 100% rate.

ORLANDO, Fla. (AP) — The NFL is eliminating the hip-drop tackle. NFL team owners on Monday unanimously approved a rule that bans players from using a swivel technique to tackle an opponent. A violation will result in a 15-yard penalty and could ultimately result in fines for players. NFL executive Jeff Miller said the hip-drop tackle was used 230 times last season and resulted in 15 players missing time with injuries. The NFL Players Association has opposed the rule.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1701494597443.png" alt="Sports Headlines and News for Tuesday, March 26th, 2024" />
 <figcaption>Sports Headlines and News for Tuesday, March 26th, 2024</figcaption>
 </figure>LOS ANGELES (AP) — JuJu Watkins had 28 points, 11 rebounds and five assists and top-seeded Southern California beat Kansas 73-55 to reach the Sweet 16 of the women's NCAA Tournament. McKenzie Forbes hit a career-high six 3-pointers and scored 20 points for the Trojans. They will face fifth-seeded Baylor in the Portland Region 3 in Oregon. Kansas was led by freshman S'Mya Nichols with 22 points. The Jayhawks fell to 0-6 all-time when facing a No. 1 seed in the tournament. Taiyanna Jackson added 10 points and 18 rebounds for the Jayhawks.UNDATED (AP) — March Madness arrived with visions of chaos. The only surprise so far has been the lack of pandemonium. The top two seeds from each region are still alive. One double-digit seed will join them in the Sweet 16. Top seeds UConn, North Carolina, Houston and Purdue advanced. So did No. 2 seeds Arizona, Tennessee, Marquette and Iowa State also advanced. It is just the fifth time that has happened since the start of seeding in 1979.UNDATED (AP) — Reigning national champion Connecticut has rolled through the regular season, the Big East Tournament and now two rounds of the NCAA Tournament. The Huskies entered March Madness with top-tier efficiency ratings on both sides of the ball from KenPom. Those figures align with profiles of past champions and Final Four teams. The Huskies are one of seven teams in the top 25 in both adjusted offensive and defensive efficiency. That applies to 15 of the last 22 NCAA champions going back to 2001. The list includes fellow No. 1 seeds Houston, Purdue and North Carolina. There's also a strong candidate in second-seeded Arizona.LAS VEGAS (AP) — Three contestants in the ESPN Tournament Challenge went through the first two rounds of women’s NCAA Tournament without any misses. Those were the only ones of 3.25 million brackets to accomplish that feat through Monday night’s action. The tournament resumes Friday with the Sweet 16. There are 16 winless ESPN brackets that will stay that way the rest of the tournament. Just .0003% were perfect on CBS’ site through Sunday. There was no update Monday. CBS does not release totals.UNDATED (AP) — The NCAA Tournament could be heading toward expansion. The tournament field is currently set at 68. That number could bump up to 72 or 76 schools in the coming years. There are several factors at play, including how to divide up the increased number of at-large bids in an expanded field. There's a concern that expansion would lean heavily toward awarding teams from power conferences and not deserving schools from mid-major conferences. Oakland coach Greg Kampe says he's OK with the tournament growing provided it doesn't turn its back on small schools that he believes help make the tournament special.LOS ANGELES (AP) — Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani says he never bet on sports and interpreter Ippei Mizuhara stole money from him and told lies. Ohtani held a news conference at Dodger Stadium, five days after Mizuhara was fired by the Dodgers following reports from the Los Angeles Times and ESPN about his alleged ties to an illegal bookmaker and debts well over $1 million. Ohtani spoke for nearly 12 minutes, referring to a document in front of him. He did not take questions.CLEARWATER, Fla. (AP) — Trea Turner’s speed and instincts helped him go perfect on the bases. The Philadelphia Phillies’ star shortstop set a major league record for most steals in a season without getting caught, going 30-for-30 on the basepaths last year. He wasn’t the only player who had a lot of success. Thanks to several rules changes, runners swiped bags more proficiently and stolen bases across the majors increased 41% from 2,486 in 2022 to 3,503 in 2023. That was the most in a season since 1987. Overall, basestealers had a success rate of 80.2%, up from 75.4% in 2022. Turner is one of only six players in MLB history to steal at least 20 bases in a season at a 100% rate.ORLANDO, Fla. (AP) — The NFL is eliminating the hip-drop tackle. NFL team owners on Monday unanimously approved a rule that bans players from using a swivel technique to tackle an opponent. A violation will result in a 15-yard penalty and could ultimately result in fines for players. NFL executive Jeff Miller said the hip-drop tackle was used 230 times last season and resulted in 15 players missing time with injuries. The NFL Players Association has opposed the rule.TUESDAY SCORESMEN'S COLLEGE BASKETBALLCIT Round 3Final Fort Wayne 73 Tarleton St. 72CBI QuarterfinalsFinal High Point 93 Cleveland St. 74Final Arkansas St. 74 Montana 61Final Fairfield 77 Chicago St. 74Final Seattle 71 Evansville 57NATIONAL BASKETBALL ASSOCIATIONFinal Cleveland 115 Charlotte 92Final Brooklyn 96 Toronto 88Final Atlanta 120 Boston 118Final New York 124 Detroit 99Final San Antonio 104 Phoenix 102Final Houston 110 Portland 92Final Washington 107 Chicago 105Final Dallas 115 Utah 105Final Denver 128 Memphis 103Final Sacramento 108 Philadelphia 96Final Indiana 133 L.A. Clippers 116NATIONAL HOCKEY LEAGUEFinal OT Vegas 2 St. Louis 1

📢📰 Sports Headlines for Tuesday

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Triton College scored a tournament high 107 points on Monday night. The No. 7 Trojans beat the No. 10 Trinity Valley Cardinals 105-87.

Sophomore guard&nbsp;Amar Aguillard also scored a tournament high 35 points in a single game. Sophomore guard Dylan Williams scored 21. Freshman guard AJ Dixon recorded a double-double with 16 points and 15 rebounds.&nbsp; Sophomore guard Ahamad Bynum scored 27 points for the Cardinals and sophomore guard Denim Johnson scored 14.&nbsp; The halftime score was 45-37 with Triton in the lead.&nbsp; Triton will play No. 2 South Plains in the quarterfinals on Wednesday, March 27 at 3:15 p.m.&nbsp;

Glen Grunwald and Dan Naccarato will have the game play-by-play on Wednesday afternoon on KWBW 1450 AM/98.5 FM.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1711431295615.jpeg" alt="Triton shooting layups in warmups before their game against Trinity Valley. Triton will move on to the quarterfinals of the tournament after beating Trinity Valley 105-87 on Monday, March 25, 2024. Photo by Emmie Boese.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Triton shooting layups in warmups before their game against Trinity Valley. Triton will move on to the quarterfinals of the tournament after beating Trinity Valley 105-87 on Monday, March 25, 2024. Photo by Emmie Boese.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>EMMIE BOESE&nbsp; Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Triton College scored a tournament high 107 points on Monday night. The No. 7 Trojans beat the No. 10 Trinity Valley Cardinals 105-87.Sophomore guard&nbsp;Amar Aguillard also scored a tournament high 35 points in a single game. Sophomore guard Dylan Williams scored 21. Freshman guard AJ Dixon recorded a double-double with 16 points and 15 rebounds.&nbsp; Sophomore guard Ahamad Bynum scored 27 points for the Cardinals and sophomore guard Denim Johnson scored 14.&nbsp; The halftime score was 45-37 with Triton in the lead.&nbsp; Triton will play No. 2 South Plains in the quarterfinals on Wednesday, March 27 at 3:15 p.m.&nbsp;Glen Grunwald and Dan Naccarato will have the game play-by-play on Wednesday afternoon on KWBW 1450 AM/98.5 FM.

🏀 NJCAA Tourney: Triton scores over 100 in win 

HUTCHINSON, Kan.&nbsp;— The No. 15 Panola College Ponies ended their season in the second round of the tournament to the No.2 South Plains College Texans Monday night. South Plains beat Panola 80-76.&nbsp;

Panola led at halftime 49-36. South Plains drew even with about 14 minutes left in the game. From there it was a back and forth game. Overall, there were seven tied scores and five lead changes.&nbsp;

South Plains Jabori McGhee led the Texans in scoring with 22 points and Sophomore forward Malique Ewin scored 21. Freshman guard Jonah Hinton led the Ponies in scoring with 17 points and sophomore guard Christian Henry scored 16.&nbsp;

Sophomore guard Hugo Mattioli recorded four steals for the Ponies and Sophomore guard Jermahri Hill recorded four steals as well for the Texans. Panola won the rebound battle slightly 38-37.&nbsp;

South Plains out-shot Panola from the 3-point line by going 60.0% to Panola's 42.9%.&nbsp;

South Plains will play the winner of No. 10 Trinity Valley Community College and No. 7 Triton College in the quarterfinals on Wednesday, March 27 at 2:15 p.m.

Glen Grunwald and Dan Naccarato will have the game play-by-play on Wednesday afternoon on Country 102.9 FM and KWBW 1450 AM/98.5 FM.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1711421885418.jpeg" alt="No.2 seed South Plains College players looking to snag a rebound. The Texans beat the No.15 seed Panola Ponies 80-76 in the second round of the tournament on Monday, March 25, 2024. Photo by Emmie Boese." />
 <figcaption>No.2 seed South Plains College players looking to snag a rebound. The Texans beat the No.15 seed Panola Ponies 80-76 in the second round of the tournament on Monday, March 25, 2024. Photo by Emmie Boese.</figcaption>
 </figure>EMMIE BOESE&nbsp; Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan.&nbsp;— The No. 15 Panola College Ponies ended their season in the second round of the tournament to the No.2 South Plains College Texans Monday night. South Plains beat Panola 80-76.&nbsp;Panola led at halftime 49-36. South Plains drew even with about 14 minutes left in the game. From there it was a back and forth game. Overall, there were seven tied scores and five lead changes.&nbsp;South Plains Jabori McGhee led the Texans in scoring with 22 points and Sophomore forward Malique Ewin scored 21. Freshman guard Jonah Hinton led the Ponies in scoring with 17 points and sophomore guard Christian Henry scored 16.&nbsp;Sophomore guard Hugo Mattioli recorded four steals for the Ponies and Sophomore guard Jermahri Hill recorded four steals as well for the Texans. Panola won the rebound battle slightly 38-37.&nbsp;South Plains out-shot Panola from the 3-point line by going 60.0% to Panola's 42.9%.&nbsp;South Plains will play the winner of No. 10 Trinity Valley Community College and No. 7 Triton College in the quarterfinals on Wednesday, March 27 at 2:15 p.m.Glen Grunwald and Dan Naccarato will have the game play-by-play on Wednesday afternoon on Country 102.9 FM and KWBW 1450 AM/98.5 FM.

🏀 NJCAA Tourney: South Plains comeback in second half successful 

HUTCHINSON, Kan.&nbsp;— Just two Kansas teams remain in the tournament. The No. 8 Northwest Florida State Raiders beat the No. 9 Cowley College Tigers 85-70 on Monday night.&nbsp;

Cowley was down 36-28 towards the end of the first half. Cowley made it a tie ball game (39-39) at halftime.&nbsp;

Sophomore guard Tyrese Elliot led Northwest Florida in scoring with 19 points. Two from the Raiders roster recorded a double-double.&nbsp; Sophomore guard/forward Tavion Banks scored 14 points and grabbed 12 rebounds. Freshman Jamal Sumlin scored 15 points and grabbed 11 rebounds.&nbsp;

Sophomore forward Corey Thomas led Cowley in scoring with 20 points. Sophomore forward Jeff Nwankwo scored 15.&nbsp;

Northwest Florida gained momentum though in the second and finished with 56.1% from the field, 46.2% from the 3-point line and 83.3% from the free throw line. Cowley shot 32.9% from the field, 24.0% from the 3-point line and 59.3% from the free throw line.&nbsp;

Northwest Florida State will play No. 1 Barton in the quarterfinals on Wednesday, March 27 at noon. Daren Dunn and Rob Dreher will have the game play-by-play tomorrow on Country 102.9 FM and KWBW 1450 AM/98.5 FM.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1711413021045.jpeg" alt="Photo by Kristy Ehart NJCAA Tournament Photographer " />
 <figcaption>Photo by Kristy Ehart NJCAA Tournament Photographer </figcaption>
 </figure>EMMIE BOESE&nbsp; Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan.&nbsp;— Just two Kansas teams remain in the tournament. The No. 8 Northwest Florida State Raiders beat the No. 9 Cowley College Tigers 85-70 on Monday night.&nbsp;Cowley was down 36-28 towards the end of the first half. Cowley made it a tie ball game (39-39) at halftime.&nbsp;Sophomore guard Tyrese Elliot led Northwest Florida in scoring with 19 points. Two from the Raiders roster recorded a double-double.&nbsp; Sophomore guard/forward Tavion Banks scored 14 points and grabbed 12 rebounds. Freshman Jamal Sumlin scored 15 points and grabbed 11 rebounds.&nbsp;Sophomore forward Corey Thomas led Cowley in scoring with 20 points. Sophomore forward Jeff Nwankwo scored 15.&nbsp;Northwest Florida gained momentum though in the second and finished with 56.1% from the field, 46.2% from the 3-point line and 83.3% from the free throw line. Cowley shot 32.9% from the field, 24.0% from the 3-point line and 59.3% from the free throw line.&nbsp;Northwest Florida State will play No. 1 Barton in the quarterfinals on Wednesday, March 27 at noon. Daren Dunn and Rob Dreher will have the game play-by-play tomorrow on Country 102.9 FM and KWBW 1450 AM/98.5 FM.

🏀 NJCAA Tourney: Northwest Florida State defeats Cowley

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The No. 1 team in the tournament opened its play with a double digit win on Monday at the Sports Arena, as the Barton County Cougars beat No. 17 &nbsp;Walters State 83-68.&nbsp;

Sophomore forward Myles Thompson led Barton County with 22 points. Sophomore guard Lajae Jones had 18. Sophomore forward Ramondo Battle led Walters with 17 points.&nbsp;

The Cougars led Walters at halftime 42-30.&nbsp;

Barton out-rebounded Walters 42-30. &nbsp;The Cougars shot 50.0% from the field, 31.6% from the 3-point line and 62.2% from the free throw line.&nbsp;

Barton County will play the winter of No. 9 Cowley and No. 8 Northwest Florida State on Thursday, March 27 at noon.&nbsp;

Daren Dunn and Rob Dreher will have the game play-by-play on Tuesday. Tune in to KWBW 1450 AM/98.5 FM.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1711406339645.jpeg" alt="Barton County warming up before their first game of the tournament. The No. 1 Cougars knocked Wallace State of the tournament in a 83-68 win on Monday, March 25, 2024. Photo by Emmie Boese." />
 <figcaption>Barton County warming up before their first game of the tournament. The No. 1 Cougars knocked Wallace State of the tournament in a 83-68 win on Monday, March 25, 2024. Photo by Emmie Boese.</figcaption>
 </figure>EMMIE BOESE&nbsp; Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — The No. 1 team in the tournament opened its play with a double digit win on Monday at the Sports Arena, as the Barton County Cougars beat No. 17 &nbsp;Walters State 83-68.&nbsp; Sophomore forward Myles Thompson led Barton County with 22 points. Sophomore guard Lajae Jones had 18. Sophomore forward Ramondo Battle led Walters with 17 points.&nbsp; The Cougars led Walters at halftime 42-30.&nbsp; Barton out-rebounded Walters 42-30. &nbsp;The Cougars shot 50.0% from the field, 31.6% from the 3-point line and 62.2% from the free throw line.&nbsp; Barton County will play the winter of No. 9 Cowley and No. 8 Northwest Florida State on Thursday, March 27 at noon.&nbsp; Daren Dunn and Rob Dreher will have the game play-by-play on Tuesday. Tune in to KWBW 1450 AM/98.5 FM.&nbsp;

🏀 NJCAA Tourney: No. 1 Barton moves on

HUTCHINSON, Kan.&nbsp;— They've won on their home court&nbsp; often, but a first round national tournament win for the Blue Dragon's men's basketball team this year was special. Hutch beat USC Salkehatchie 96-82 on Monday afternoon.&nbsp;

"That's the thing about being in Hutch," Head Coach Tommy Desalme saud. "I mean you still gotta qualify. Its not like they give us a host spot. You know these guys earn their spot in this tournament and that may be harder to do than anybody else that earns a spot.

Last season, Hutch did not qualify for the national tournament.&nbsp; Sophomore guard Kernan Bundy said a tournament win solidifies why he and his teammates come to HutchCC to play.&nbsp;

"We come here to play here and we come here to play in March," Bundy said. "I think that's kind of our whole goal and has been our whole goal this whole season."

Hutch led 50-43 at halftime. Desalme said he thought his team struggled at the start of the game but recovered on defense.&nbsp;

"Russ (Russell Branch) and Kobe (Smith) I thought really helped us there and really settled us down defensively," Desalme said. "They got after the ball. We just needed something easy out of our defense."

In total, the Blue Dragons scored 33 points off of turnovers and recorded 13 steals.&nbsp;

"That's what we are built on but this team is a little different," Desalme said. "But when we are good we are forcing turnovers and scoring because we need to get easy points out of our defense and I think that settles us down and we've been better since the Barton game in practice. We've been better defensively and that's the only way we can survive is dictating the ball. I mean that's where it all starts for us. When we are not guarding the ball, we are bad and there's still streaks out there where we didn't guard it well and we just let the guy go get something easy but when we are hooked up off the court and make everything hard on the other team and take them out of what they want to do, that's when we are at our best."&nbsp;

&nbsp;Bundy and sophomore Kamryn Thomas led Hutch in scoring with 20 points each. Bundy also recorded three steals.&nbsp;

"We are going to have to lock in on (defensive) tendencies and just keep going," Bundy said.&nbsp;

The No. 11 Blue Dragons will play No. 6 seed Chipola tomorrow night at 7:15 p.m. Desalme said his team will need to put a full 4o minutes together of intense play to beat Chipola. He said starting to make a run in the second half like the Blue Dragons did at the Region VI championship game against Barton is not enough.&nbsp;

"I'm hoping that we learn from that Barton night because it took us so long to get going," Desalme said.&nbsp;

Glen Grunwald and Dan Naccarato will have the game play-by-play tomorrow night on Country 102.9 FM and KWBW 1450 AM/98.5 FM.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1711400745747.jpeg" alt="Sophomore guard Kernan Bundy looks to pass on offense. Bundy scored 20 points in the Blue Dragons 96-82 win in the first round of the 2024 NJCAA Division I Men's Basketball tournament on Monday, March 25, 2024. Photo by Emmie Boese.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Sophomore guard Kernan Bundy looks to pass on offense. Bundy scored 20 points in the Blue Dragons 96-82 win in the first round of the 2024 NJCAA Division I Men's Basketball tournament on Monday, March 25, 2024. Photo by Emmie Boese.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>EMMIE BOESE&nbsp; Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan.&nbsp;— They've won on their home court&nbsp; often, but a first round national tournament win for the Blue Dragon's men's basketball team this year was special. Hutch beat USC Salkehatchie 96-82 on Monday afternoon.&nbsp;"That's the thing about being in Hutch," Head Coach Tommy Desalme saud. "I mean you still gotta qualify. Its not like they give us a host spot. You know these guys earn their spot in this tournament and that may be harder to do than anybody else that earns a spot.Last season, Hutch did not qualify for the national tournament.&nbsp; Sophomore guard Kernan Bundy said a tournament win solidifies why he and his teammates come to HutchCC to play.&nbsp;"We come here to play here and we come here to play in March," Bundy said. "I think that's kind of our whole goal and has been our whole goal this whole season."Hutch led 50-43 at halftime. Desalme said he thought his team struggled at the start of the game but recovered on defense.&nbsp;"Russ (Russell Branch) and Kobe (Smith) I thought really helped us there and really settled us down defensively," Desalme said. "They got after the ball. We just needed something easy out of our defense."In total, the Blue Dragons scored 33 points off of turnovers and recorded 13 steals.&nbsp;"That's what we are built on but this team is a little different," Desalme said. "But when we are good we are forcing turnovers and scoring because we need to get easy points out of our defense and I think that settles us down and we've been better since the Barton game in practice. We've been better defensively and that's the only way we can survive is dictating the ball. I mean that's where it all starts for us. When we are not guarding the ball, we are bad and there's still streaks out there where we didn't guard it well and we just let the guy go get something easy but when we are hooked up off the court and make everything hard on the other team and take them out of what they want to do, that's when we are at our best."&nbsp;&nbsp;Bundy and sophomore Kamryn Thomas led Hutch in scoring with 20 points each. Bundy also recorded three steals.&nbsp;"We are going to have to lock in on (defensive) tendencies and just keep going," Bundy said.&nbsp;The No. 11 Blue Dragons will play No. 6 seed Chipola tomorrow night at 7:15 p.m. Desalme said his team will need to put a full 4o minutes together of intense play to beat Chipola. He said starting to make a run in the second half like the Blue Dragons did at the Region VI championship game against Barton is not enough.&nbsp;"I'm hoping that we learn from that Barton night because it took us so long to get going," Desalme said.&nbsp;Glen Grunwald and Dan Naccarato will have the game play-by-play tomorrow night on Country 102.9 FM and KWBW 1450 AM/98.5 FM.

🏀 NJCAA Tourney: Defensive stops propel Hutch to first round win

HUTCHINSON, Kan.&nbsp;— Freshman guard Khamni Cooper scored a tournament high 29 points for No. 19 Connors State to open up day two of the&nbsp;2024 NJCAA Division I Men's Basketball Tournament.&nbsp; 

The Cowboys beat the No. 14 Moberly Aera CC Greyhounds 86-77.&nbsp;

Four players from Connors State's roster scored in double figures. In addition to Cooper's 29 points, sophomore forward Bradyn Hubbard recorded a double-double with 22 points and 12 rebounds. The Cowboys scored zero bench points.&nbsp;

Sophomore guard Akli Evans led Moberly with 20 points. Freshman gaurd Javaris Moye scored 16.&nbsp;

Connors State led 43-22 at halftime. The Cowboys shot 60.0% from the field and 50.0% from the 3-point line in the first half. 

Moberly finished the first with 34.4% of shooting from the field and 30.8% from the 3-point line.&nbsp;

On the boards, Connors State outrebounded Moberly 21-12 in the first.&nbsp;

Moberly got within an eight point difference in the second once, but Connors State held them off.&nbsp;

To finish the game, Connors State shot 55.6% from the field, 44.4% from the 3-point line and 69.2% from the free throw line. Moberly's final averages were 41.9% from the field, 30.3% from the 3-point line and 45.5% from the free throw line.&nbsp;

Connors State finished the game with 42 rebounds to Moberly's 29.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1711390255010.jpeg" alt="Connors State won its first round matchup over Moberly Area at the NJCAA Tournament on Tuesday, March 25. Freshman forward Buddy Hammer Jr. had 16 points in the win. Photo by Emmie Boese." />
 <figcaption>Connors State won its first round matchup over Moberly Area at the NJCAA Tournament on Tuesday, March 25. Freshman forward Buddy Hammer Jr. had 16 points in the win. Photo by Emmie Boese.</figcaption>
 </figure>EMMIE BOESE&nbsp; Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan.&nbsp;— Freshman guard Khamni Cooper scored a tournament high 29 points for No. 19 Connors State to open up day two of the&nbsp;2024 NJCAA Division I Men's Basketball Tournament.&nbsp; The Cowboys beat the No. 14 Moberly Aera CC Greyhounds 86-77.&nbsp;Four players from Connors State's roster scored in double figures. In addition to Cooper's 29 points, sophomore forward Bradyn Hubbard recorded a double-double with 22 points and 12 rebounds. The Cowboys scored zero bench points.&nbsp;Sophomore guard Akli Evans led Moberly with 20 points. Freshman gaurd Javaris Moye scored 16.&nbsp;Connors State led 43-22 at halftime. The Cowboys shot 60.0% from the field and 50.0% from the 3-point line in the first half. Moberly finished the first with 34.4% of shooting from the field and 30.8% from the 3-point line.&nbsp;On the boards, Connors State outrebounded Moberly 21-12 in the first.&nbsp;Moberly got within an eight point difference in the second once, but Connors State held them off.&nbsp;To finish the game, Connors State shot 55.6% from the field, 44.4% from the 3-point line and 69.2% from the free throw line. Moberly's final averages were 41.9% from the field, 30.3% from the 3-point line and 45.5% from the free throw line.&nbsp;Connors State finished the game with 42 rebounds to Moberly's 29.&nbsp;Connors State will play No.3 seed Salt Lake tomorrow at 5 p.m. Glen Grunwald and Rick Kraus will have the game play-by-play tomorrow night on Country 102.9 FM and KWBW 1450 AM/98.5 FM.