HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Region VI Women's and Men's Basketball Tournament semifinals and championship games will be played on Friday and Saturday at the Hutchinson Sports Arena.

Friday, March 15 Game Schedule 1 p.m. - [1] Hutchinson women vs. [4] Barton 3 p.m. - [1] Barton men vs. [4] Butler 5:30 p.m. - [2] Dodge City women vs. [3] Butler 7:30 p.m. - [2] Cowley men vs. [3] Hutchinson

Saturday, March 16 Game Schedule 3 p.m. - Women's championship game 5 p.m. - Men's championship game

Region VI semifinals are Friday, March 15 Region VI championship games are Saturday, March 16 Hutchinson Sports Arena, Hutchinson, KS All Seats are General Admission - $10 per session. There will be no presales in the Sports Arena Athletic Office. All sales will be on line until Noon on Friday and 2 p.m. on Saturday

Call Julie Reneau at 620-665-3530 for more information.

<a href="https://www.etix.com/ticket/p/98394182/kjccc-reg-vi-semifinals-hutchinson-hutchinson-sports-arena-basketball">CLICK TO PURCHASE TICKETS FOR FRIDAY'S WOMEN'S AND MEN'S SEMIFINALS</a>

<a href="https://www.etix.com/ticket/p/67125590/kjccc-region-vi-finals-hutchinson-hutchinson-sports-arena-basketball">CLICK TO PURCHASE TICKETS FOR SATURDAY'S WOMEN'S AND MEN'S CHAMPIONSHIP GAMES</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710341792334.png" alt="Region VI logo" />
 <figcaption>Region VI logo</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Region VI Women's and Men's Basketball Tournament semifinals and championship games will be played on Friday and Saturday at the Hutchinson Sports Arena.Friday, March 15 Game Schedule 1 p.m. - [1] Hutchinson women vs. [4] Barton 3 p.m. - [1] Barton men vs. [4] Butler 5:30 p.m. - [2] Dodge City women vs. [3] Butler 7:30 p.m. - [2] Cowley men vs. [3] HutchinsonSaturday, March 16 Game Schedule 3 p.m. - Women's championship game 5 p.m. - Men's championship gameCourtesy of HutchCC AthleticsRegion VI semifinals are Friday, March 15 Region VI championship games are Saturday, March 16 Hutchinson Sports Arena, Hutchinson, KS All Seats are General Admission - $10 per session. There will be no presales in the Sports Arena Athletic Office. All sales will be on line until Noon on Friday and 2 p.m. on SaturdayCall Julie Reneau at 620-665-3530 for more information.<a href="https://www.etix.com/ticket/p/98394182/kjccc-reg-vi-semifinals-hutchinson-hutchinson-sports-arena-basketball">CLICK TO PURCHASE TICKETS FOR FRIDAY'S WOMEN'S AND MEN'S SEMIFINALS</a><a href="https://www.etix.com/ticket/p/67125590/kjccc-region-vi-finals-hutchinson-hutchinson-sports-arena-basketball">CLICK TO PURCHASE TICKETS FOR SATURDAY'S WOMEN'S AND MEN'S CHAMPIONSHIP GAMES</a>

🏀 Region VI semifinal and championship tickets available

Courtesy of the Kansas City Royals

KANSAS CITY, Mo.—The Kansas City Royals today announced that All-Star outfielder&nbsp;Bo Jackson&nbsp;has been elected into the Royals Hall of Fame. Jackson will be inducted during an on-field ceremony on Saturday, June 29 prior to the Royals game that afternoon vs. the Cleveland Guardians.

Jackson was placed on the ballot by the Royals Hall of Fame Executive Board and elected through the Royals Hall of Fame Veterans Committee voting process. The veterans committee vote considers the candidacy of non-field personnel in addition to players and managers no longer eligible for election by Regular Phase Royals Hall of Fame Voting. The committee consists of 16 voting members selected by the board, comprised of Royals Hall of Fame Members, Royals Club Executives and media members. Candidates must be named on at least 75% of all ballots cast to be elected.

Jackson, the 1985 Heisman Trophy winner at Auburn University, shocked the sports world by initially spurning pro football to instead sign with the Royals in 1986. Kansas City had selected Jackson in the 4th round of the 1986 First Year Player Draft, a signing which resulted from the determined commitment of scout&nbsp;Ken Gonzales. On his official scouting report, Gonzales summarized Jackson as the “greatest pure athlete in America today.” The then-Royals Director of Scouting,&nbsp;Art Stewart, said, “It was Kenny’s relationship with the family that resulted in our signing Bo.”

Once signed, Jackson was a phenomenon unlike any player before. He made his Major League debut on Sept. 2, 1986, and recorded his 1st career hit. His 1st home run on Sept. 14, 1986 traveled an estimated 475 feet, which at the time was the longest ever hit at Royals Stadium. It was just the start of a string of near-superhuman athletic feats that made Bo not just a star for the Royals, but a cultural sensation.

Jackson scaled walls and launched throws like a superhero. His remarkable Most Valuable Player performance at the 1989 MLB All-Star Game, which included a memorable leadoff home run, cemented his status as a star among stars. Bo led the Royals with a career-best 32 home runs and 105 RBI during that 1989 season, then led the club again with 28 home runs in 1990.

“I’m so happy for my friend Bobo to get that call” said Hall of Famer and 13-time All-Star&nbsp;George Brett. “He was a great teammate and probably the most exciting player I ever played with. You’d see things that no other human could do on a baseball field or a football field. He’s one of the greatest athletes of our time, and it’s an honor to welcome him to the Royals Hall of Fame, where he belongs.”

Jackson suffered a hip injury playing for the Los Angeles Raiders in an NFL playoff game in January of 1991 which soon ended his Royals career. But where injury may have robbed Jackson’s playing days of longevity, he and his supreme talent delivered moments and memories few athletes will ever match.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695315090950.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy Kansas City Royals" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Kansas City Royals</figcaption>
 </figure>Courtesy of the Kansas City RoyalsKANSAS CITY, Mo.—The Kansas City Royals today announced that All-Star outfielder&nbsp;Bo Jackson&nbsp;has been elected into the Royals Hall of Fame. Jackson will be inducted during an on-field ceremony on Saturday, June 29 prior to the Royals game that afternoon vs. the Cleveland Guardians.Jackson was placed on the ballot by the Royals Hall of Fame Executive Board and elected through the Royals Hall of Fame Veterans Committee voting process. The veterans committee vote considers the candidacy of non-field personnel in addition to players and managers no longer eligible for election by Regular Phase Royals Hall of Fame Voting. The committee consists of 16 voting members selected by the board, comprised of Royals Hall of Fame Members, Royals Club Executives and media members. Candidates must be named on at least 75% of all ballots cast to be elected.Jackson, the 1985 Heisman Trophy winner at Auburn University, shocked the sports world by initially spurning pro football to instead sign with the Royals in 1986. Kansas City had selected Jackson in the 4th round of the 1986 First Year Player Draft, a signing which resulted from the determined commitment of scout&nbsp;Ken Gonzales. On his official scouting report, Gonzales summarized Jackson as the “greatest pure athlete in America today.” The then-Royals Director of Scouting,&nbsp;Art Stewart, said, “It was Kenny’s relationship with the family that resulted in our signing Bo.”Once signed, Jackson was a phenomenon unlike any player before. He made his Major League debut on Sept. 2, 1986, and recorded his 1st career hit. His 1st home run on Sept. 14, 1986 traveled an estimated 475 feet, which at the time was the longest ever hit at Royals Stadium. It was just the start of a string of near-superhuman athletic feats that made Bo not just a star for the Royals, but a cultural sensation.Jackson scaled walls and launched throws like a superhero. His remarkable Most Valuable Player performance at the 1989 MLB All-Star Game, which included a memorable leadoff home run, cemented his status as a star among stars. Bo led the Royals with a career-best 32 home runs and 105 RBI during that 1989 season, then led the club again with 28 home runs in 1990.“I’m so happy for my friend Bobo to get that call” said Hall of Famer and 13-time All-Star&nbsp;George Brett. “He was a great teammate and probably the most exciting player I ever played with. You’d see things that no other human could do on a baseball field or a football field. He’s one of the greatest athletes of our time, and it’s an honor to welcome him to the Royals Hall of Fame, where he belongs.”Jackson suffered a hip injury playing for the Los Angeles Raiders in an NFL playoff game in January of 1991 which soon ended his Royals career. But where injury may have robbed Jackson’s playing days of longevity, he and his supreme talent delivered moments and memories few athletes will ever match.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710338765994.png" alt="Courtesy Kansas City Royals" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy Kansas City Royals</figcaption>
 </figure>

⚾ Bo Jackson elected to Royals Hall of Fame

Cincinnati Bearcats (19-13, 8-11 Big 12) vs. Kansas Jayhawks (22-9, 10-8 Big 12)

Kansas City, Missouri; Wednesday, 9:30 p.m. EDT

<a href="http://sportsbook.fanduel.com/" target="_blank">FANDUEL SPORTSBOOK</a>&nbsp;LINE: Bearcats -2; over/under is 137.5

BOTTOM LINE: No. 16 Kansas plays in the Big 12 Tournament against Cincinnati.

The Jayhawks are 10-8 against Big 12 opponents and 12-1 in non-conference play. Kansas is sixth in the Big 12 in team defense, allowing 68.6 points while holding opponents to 40.5% shooting.

The Bearcats are 8-11 against Big 12 teams. Cincinnati is 9-4 when it has fewer turnovers than its opponents and averages 11.4 turnovers per game.

Kansas scores 76.0 points, 7.6 more per game than the 68.4 Cincinnati allows. Cincinnati has shot at a 44.5% clip from the field this season, 4.0 percentage points above the 40.5% shooting opponents of Kansas have averaged.

TOP PERFORMERS: Dajuan Harris is averaging 8.3 points, 6.3 assists and 1.5 steals for the Jayhawks. Hunter Dickinson is averaging 16.4 points over the last 10 games.

Day Day Thomas is averaging 10.8 points, 3.2 assists and 1.8 steals for the Bearcats. Simas Lukosius is averaging 13.6 points over the last 10 games.

LAST 10 GAMES: Jayhawks: 5-5, averaging 69.3 points, 33.2 rebounds, 15.4 assists, 7.2 steals and 3.0 blocks per game while shooting 46.0% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 70.6 points per game.

Bearcats: 4-6, averaging 71.6 points, 35.8 rebounds, 13.3 assists, 7.2 steals and 4.4 blocks per game while shooting 44.1% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 71.8 points.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1706702195392.png" alt="Kansas forward K.J. Adams Jr. (24) reacts after making a basket during the first half of an NCAA college basketball game against Oklahoma State, Tuesday, Jan. 30, 2024, in Lawrence, Kan. (Kansas Athletics photo)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas forward K.J. Adams Jr. (24) reacts after making a basket during the first half of an NCAA college basketball game against Oklahoma State, Tuesday, Jan. 30, 2024, in Lawrence, Kan. (Kansas Athletics photo)</figcaption>
 </figure>Cincinnati Bearcats (19-13, 8-11 Big 12) vs. Kansas Jayhawks (22-9, 10-8 Big 12)Kansas City, Missouri; Wednesday, 9:30 p.m. EDT<a href="http://sportsbook.fanduel.com/" target="_blank">FANDUEL SPORTSBOOK</a>&nbsp;LINE: Bearcats -2; over/under is 137.5BOTTOM LINE: No. 16 Kansas plays in the Big 12 Tournament against Cincinnati.The Jayhawks are 10-8 against Big 12 opponents and 12-1 in non-conference play. Kansas is sixth in the Big 12 in team defense, allowing 68.6 points while holding opponents to 40.5% shooting.The Bearcats are 8-11 against Big 12 teams. Cincinnati is 9-4 when it has fewer turnovers than its opponents and averages 11.4 turnovers per game.Kansas scores 76.0 points, 7.6 more per game than the 68.4 Cincinnati allows. Cincinnati has shot at a 44.5% clip from the field this season, 4.0 percentage points above the 40.5% shooting opponents of Kansas have averaged.TOP PERFORMERS: Dajuan Harris is averaging 8.3 points, 6.3 assists and 1.5 steals for the Jayhawks. Hunter Dickinson is averaging 16.4 points over the last 10 games.Day Day Thomas is averaging 10.8 points, 3.2 assists and 1.8 steals for the Bearcats. Simas Lukosius is averaging 13.6 points over the last 10 games.LAST 10 GAMES: Jayhawks: 5-5, averaging 69.3 points, 33.2 rebounds, 15.4 assists, 7.2 steals and 3.0 blocks per game while shooting 46.0% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 70.6 points per game.Bearcats: 4-6, averaging 71.6 points, 35.8 rebounds, 13.3 assists, 7.2 steals and 4.4 blocks per game while shooting 44.1% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 71.8 points.

🏀 MBB: Kansas faces Cincinnati in Big 12 Tournament

Rice Owls (11-20, 5-13 AAC) vs. Wichita State Shockers (13-18, 5-13 AAC)

<a href="http://sportsbook.fanduel.com/" target="_blank">FANDUEL SPORTSBOOK</a>&nbsp;LINE: Shockers -3.5; over/under is 140

BOTTOM LINE: Wichita State takes on Rice in the AAC Tournament.

The Shockers have gone 5-13 against AAC opponents, with an 8-5 record in non-conference play. Wichita State has a 1-2 record in one-possession games.

The Owls are 5-13 against AAC opponents. Rice is ninth in the AAC with 23.6 defensive rebounds per game led by Max Fiedler averaging 5.5.

Wichita State’s average of 6.4 made 3-pointers per game is 2.3 fewer made shots on average than the 8.7 per game Rice gives up. Rice averages 71.7 points per game, 1.4 fewer than the 73.1 Wichita State allows to opponents.

TOP PERFORMERS: Colby Rogers is shooting 41.2% from beyond the arc with 2.9 made 3-pointers per game for the Shockers, while averaging 16.5 points. Harlond Beverly is shooting 45.0% and averaging 11.4 points over the past 10 games.

Travis Evee is shooting 41.6% and averaging 16.5 points for the Owls. Alem Huseinovic is averaging 1.5 made 3-pointers over the last 10 games.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710000184810.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy Wichita State Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Wichita State Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>Rice Owls (11-20, 5-13 AAC) vs. Wichita State Shockers (13-18, 5-13 AAC)Fort Worth, Texas; Wednesday, 1 p.m. EDT<a href="http://sportsbook.fanduel.com/" target="_blank">FANDUEL SPORTSBOOK</a>&nbsp;LINE: Shockers -3.5; over/under is 140BOTTOM LINE: Wichita State takes on Rice in the AAC Tournament.The Shockers have gone 5-13 against AAC opponents, with an 8-5 record in non-conference play. Wichita State has a 1-2 record in one-possession games.The Owls are 5-13 against AAC opponents. Rice is ninth in the AAC with 23.6 defensive rebounds per game led by Max Fiedler averaging 5.5.Wichita State’s average of 6.4 made 3-pointers per game is 2.3 fewer made shots on average than the 8.7 per game Rice gives up. Rice averages 71.7 points per game, 1.4 fewer than the 73.1 Wichita State allows to opponents.TOP PERFORMERS: Colby Rogers is shooting 41.2% from beyond the arc with 2.9 made 3-pointers per game for the Shockers, while averaging 16.5 points. Harlond Beverly is shooting 45.0% and averaging 11.4 points over the past 10 games.Travis Evee is shooting 41.6% and averaging 16.5 points for the Owls. Alem Huseinovic is averaging 1.5 made 3-pointers over the last 10 games.

🏀 MBB: Wichita State squares off against Rice in AAC Tournament

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1701263164849.png" alt="Early Morning Sports with Rob Dreher for Wednesday, March 13th, 2024." />
 <figcaption>Early Morning Sports with Rob Dreher for Wednesday, March 13th, 2024.</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="March 13th, 2024 Eagle Media 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=skcev-15ab4d5-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=60a0c8&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=ff6d00" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

🎧 LISTEN: 🏀 HutchCC WBB still undefeated 🏀 HutchCC MBB wins buzzer beater in OT  🏈 Chiefs lose Gay to New Oleans, add Smith to roster

HUTCHINSON, Kan. -&nbsp;The 2024 Region 6 men’s and women’s basketball tournaments will take place at the fabled Sports Arena in Hutchinson KS for the semifinals and the finals on March 15 and 16.

“With the NJCAA D1 National Tournaments moving back a week, it created a situation that opened up many venues that we couldn’t use in the past because they hosted KSHSAA state tournaments,” said Mike Saddler, KJCCC commissioner and NJCAA Region 6 director. “A couple years ago the Region voted to hold our tournament in Hutchinson in the years when our tournament wasn’t the same weekend as high school State.”

The Sports Arena was opened in 1951, and is home to the NJCAA Division 1 men’s basketball championship tournament. The Arena underwent a major renovation through 2016 and 2017, and now boasts three practice courts, fresh locker rooms, a weight room, and new offices, as well as mechanical and cosmetic improvements. This years’ men’s national tourney takes place March 24-30.

Saddler noted the uniqueness of the Sports Arena.

“The Sports Arena is one of the best junior college basketball venues in the country. It is as good of a championship-caliber venue as there is nationally, so for us to get to host our region championship there is wonderful,” said Saddler. “It also provides the men’s teams in our region the opportunity to have played multiple games where the national tournament will be in a couple of weeks, which is a huge advantage for whoever advances from Kansas.”

Second round (quarterfinal) games of the Region 6 tournament are on Tuesday, March 12, with winners advancing to Hutchinson for Friday semifinals.

Saddler and the rest of the staff of the Region 6 tournament are looking forward to being in Hutchinson come Friday.

“The city of Hutchinson is a great basketball community, so they are excited to have the Region 6 Tournament. They put on great tournaments all throughout the year, whether it’s the NJCAA Men’s D1 National Tournament, NJCAA D1 Volleyball Tournament, or the many KSHSAA State events they host,” said Saddler. “The Hutchinson community does a wonderful job supporting the events they host, and they put on a first- class experience every time.”

<a href="https://kjccc.prestosports.com/sports/wbkb/2023-24/basketball_postseason_tournaments/D1_WBB_tourney" target="_blank">2023-24 NJCAA Region VI Women's Basketball Division I Playoffs</a><a href="https://kjccc.prestosports.com/sports/wbkb/2023-24/div1/Reg_VI_WBB_D1_brkt_2024_4.pdf" target="_blank">2024 Region VI DI Bracket</a>

<a href="https://kjccc.prestosports.com/sports/mbkb/2023-24/basketball_postseason_tournaments/D1_MBB_tourney" target="_blank">2023-24 NJCAA Region VI Men's Basketball Division I Playoffs</a><a href="https://kjccc.prestosports.com/sports/mbkb/2023-24/div1/Reg_VI_MBB_D1_brkt_2024_44.pdf" target="_blank">2024 Region VI DI Bracket</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710327927689.jpeg" alt="Reg VI D1 BB 2024 has moved to Hutchinson March 15-16." />
 <figcaption>Reg VI D1 BB 2024 has moved to Hutchinson March 15-16.</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. -&nbsp;The 2024 Region 6 men’s and women’s basketball tournaments will take place at the fabled Sports Arena in Hutchinson KS for the semifinals and the finals on March 15 and 16.“With the NJCAA D1 National Tournaments moving back a week, it created a situation that opened up many venues that we couldn’t use in the past because they hosted KSHSAA state tournaments,” said Mike Saddler, KJCCC commissioner and NJCAA Region 6 director. “A couple years ago the Region voted to hold our tournament in Hutchinson in the years when our tournament wasn’t the same weekend as high school State.”The Sports Arena was opened in 1951, and is home to the NJCAA Division 1 men’s basketball championship tournament. The Arena underwent a major renovation through 2016 and 2017, and now boasts three practice courts, fresh locker rooms, a weight room, and new offices, as well as mechanical and cosmetic improvements. This years’ men’s national tourney takes place March 24-30.Saddler noted the uniqueness of the Sports Arena.“The Sports Arena is one of the best junior college basketball venues in the country. It is as good of a championship-caliber venue as there is nationally, so for us to get to host our region championship there is wonderful,” said Saddler. “It also provides the men’s teams in our region the opportunity to have played multiple games where the national tournament will be in a couple of weeks, which is a huge advantage for whoever advances from Kansas.”Second round (quarterfinal) games of the Region 6 tournament are on Tuesday, March 12, with winners advancing to Hutchinson for Friday semifinals.Saddler and the rest of the staff of the Region 6 tournament are looking forward to being in Hutchinson come Friday.“The city of Hutchinson is a great basketball community, so they are excited to have the Region 6 Tournament. They put on great tournaments all throughout the year, whether it’s the NJCAA Men’s D1 National Tournament, NJCAA D1 Volleyball Tournament, or the many KSHSAA State events they host,” said Saddler. “The Hutchinson community does a wonderful job supporting the events they host, and they put on a first- class experience every time.”<a href="https://kjccc.prestosports.com/sports/wbkb/2023-24/basketball_postseason_tournaments/D1_WBB_tourney" target="_blank">2023-24 NJCAA Region VI Women's Basketball Division I Playoffs</a><a href="https://kjccc.prestosports.com/sports/wbkb/2023-24/div1/Reg_VI_WBB_D1_brkt_2024_4.pdf" target="_blank">2024 Region VI DI Bracket</a><a href="https://kjccc.prestosports.com/sports/mbkb/2023-24/basketball_postseason_tournaments/D1_MBB_tourney" target="_blank">2023-24 NJCAA Region VI Men's Basketball Division I Playoffs</a><a href="https://kjccc.prestosports.com/sports/mbkb/2023-24/div1/Reg_VI_MBB_D1_brkt_2024_44.pdf" target="_blank">2024 Region VI DI Bracket</a>

🏀 2024 Region 6 basketball tournaments at the Sports Arena March 15-16

PARSONS – Sophomore&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2023-24/bios/darnell_jaeleigh_5kwl">Jaeleigh Darnell</a>&nbsp;combined for three home runs and six RBIs while pitchers&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2023-24/bios/blakesley_delaney_cwfy">Delaney Blakesley</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2023-24/bios/tomlinson_morgan_sq65">Morgan Tomlinson</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2023-24/bios/lake_dakota_j57w">Dakota Lake</a>&nbsp;teamed up to control the Labette offense as the Hutchinson Community College softball team completed a doubleheader sweep of the Cardinals on Tuesday at the LCC Softball Field.

<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2023-24/bios/sandoval_olivia_ydnf">Olivia Sandoval</a>&nbsp;had the go-ahead RBI and Darnell homered while Blakesley and Lake limited Labette to three hits in a 4-2 victory in Game 1 on Tuesday. Darnell hit two home runs and drove in five runs as Tomlinson and Lake combined for a three-hit shutout in a 6-0 victory.

The Blue Dragons improved to 18-6 overall. The Dragons, now in a three-way tie for first place in the Jayhawk Conference at 7-1, play the two teams they are tied with – Seward County on Saturday in Liberal and Butler on Monday in El Dorado.

GAME 1 RECAP – Hutchinson 4, Labette 2 Hutchinson led 2-0 in the second inning, but Labette scored single runs in the second and third to tie the game at 2-all. The Dragons immediately grabbed the lead right back in the top of the fourth. With runners on first and third with one out, Sandoval grounded out to second, which allowed&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2023-24/bios/brawner_brie_9nkv">Brie Brawner</a>&nbsp;to score the go-ahead run for a 3-2 lead.

Darnell then homered to center to lead off the fourth inning as Hutchinson built a 4-2 lead.

From that point, Lake went into pitcher her fourth save of the season. She pitched the final three innings with one walk and four strikeouts with no runs or hits allowed.

Brawner led the Blue Dragons going 2 or 3 with two runs scored. Sandoval drove in two runs with a double and groundout. Darnell hit her fifth home run of the season.

The Blue Dragons had seven total hits in the opening game.

Blakesley (5-0) worked the first four innings to earn the pitching victory. She allowed three hits and two runs, only one earned, with two strikeouts and two walks.

GAME 2 RECAP – Hutchinson 6, Labette 0 Both Darnell and Sandoval each went 4 for 4 to led the Blue Dragons' nine-hit attack. Sandoval set the battle for Darnell's huge game.

Sandoval gave the Dragons a 1-0 lead when her third-inning RBI single scored&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2023-24/bios/backhaus_bailey_6uk7">Bailey Backhaus</a>. After Sandoval led off the fifth with a single, Darnell homered to left-center field for a 3-0 lead. Then in the sixth, Sandoval tripled to lead off the inning and&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2023-24/bios/kealey_annie_xr9m">Annie Kealey</a>&nbsp;was walked ahead of Darnell's second homer of the game, a three-run shot to left center for a 6-0 lead.

With her sixth and seventh home runs of the season, Darnell was 4 for 4 with a single-game high five RBIs. Darnell also doubled in the second inning.

Sandoval had a triple in her 4 for 4 performance. She scored two runs.

Tomlinson and Lake then combined for a three-hit shutout. Tomlinson allowed two hits and three walks with a pair of strikeouts in 3 2/3 innings. Lake earned her second save of the day and fifth of the season with 3 1-3 innings of scoreless relief. Lake struck out six and walked one with one hit allowed.

Lake entered the game in the bottom of the fourth after Labette had two runners on. Lake pitched out of the jam with a pop up in foul territory caught by catcher&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2023-24/bios/mastin_alexis_jxjs">Alexis Mastin</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710344921910.jpeg" alt="Jaeleigh Darnell hit three home runs and drove in six as the Blue Dragon softball team defeated Labette 4-2 and 6-0 on Tuedsay in Parsons. (Photo by Michelle Darnell)" />
 <figcaption>Jaeleigh Darnell hit three home runs and drove in six as the Blue Dragon softball team defeated Labette 4-2 and 6-0 on Tuedsay in Parsons. (Photo by Michelle Darnell)</figcaption>
 </figure>Courtesy of HutchCC AthleticsPARSONS – Sophomore&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2023-24/bios/darnell_jaeleigh_5kwl">Jaeleigh Darnell</a>&nbsp;combined for three home runs and six RBIs while pitchers&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2023-24/bios/blakesley_delaney_cwfy">Delaney Blakesley</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2023-24/bios/tomlinson_morgan_sq65">Morgan Tomlinson</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2023-24/bios/lake_dakota_j57w">Dakota Lake</a>&nbsp;teamed up to control the Labette offense as the Hutchinson Community College softball team completed a doubleheader sweep of the Cardinals on Tuesday at the LCC Softball Field.<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2023-24/bios/sandoval_olivia_ydnf">Olivia Sandoval</a>&nbsp;had the go-ahead RBI and Darnell homered while Blakesley and Lake limited Labette to three hits in a 4-2 victory in Game 1 on Tuesday. Darnell hit two home runs and drove in five runs as Tomlinson and Lake combined for a three-hit shutout in a 6-0 victory.The Blue Dragons improved to 18-6 overall. The Dragons, now in a three-way tie for first place in the Jayhawk Conference at 7-1, play the two teams they are tied with – Seward County on Saturday in Liberal and Butler on Monday in El Dorado.GAME 1 RECAP – Hutchinson 4, Labette 2 Hutchinson led 2-0 in the second inning, but Labette scored single runs in the second and third to tie the game at 2-all. The Dragons immediately grabbed the lead right back in the top of the fourth. With runners on first and third with one out, Sandoval grounded out to second, which allowed&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2023-24/bios/brawner_brie_9nkv">Brie Brawner</a>&nbsp;to score the go-ahead run for a 3-2 lead.Darnell then homered to center to lead off the fourth inning as Hutchinson built a 4-2 lead.From that point, Lake went into pitcher her fourth save of the season. She pitched the final three innings with one walk and four strikeouts with no runs or hits allowed.Brawner led the Blue Dragons going 2 or 3 with two runs scored. Sandoval drove in two runs with a double and groundout. Darnell hit her fifth home run of the season.The Blue Dragons had seven total hits in the opening game.Blakesley (5-0) worked the first four innings to earn the pitching victory. She allowed three hits and two runs, only one earned, with two strikeouts and two walks.GAME 2 RECAP – Hutchinson 6, Labette 0 Both Darnell and Sandoval each went 4 for 4 to led the Blue Dragons' nine-hit attack. Sandoval set the battle for Darnell's huge game.Sandoval gave the Dragons a 1-0 lead when her third-inning RBI single scored&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2023-24/bios/backhaus_bailey_6uk7">Bailey Backhaus</a>. After Sandoval led off the fifth with a single, Darnell homered to left-center field for a 3-0 lead. Then in the sixth, Sandoval tripled to lead off the inning and&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2023-24/bios/kealey_annie_xr9m">Annie Kealey</a>&nbsp;was walked ahead of Darnell's second homer of the game, a three-run shot to left center for a 6-0 lead.With her sixth and seventh home runs of the season, Darnell was 4 for 4 with a single-game high five RBIs. Darnell also doubled in the second inning.Sandoval had a triple in her 4 for 4 performance. She scored two runs.Tomlinson and Lake then combined for a three-hit shutout. Tomlinson allowed two hits and three walks with a pair of strikeouts in 3 2/3 innings. Lake earned her second save of the day and fifth of the season with 3 1-3 innings of scoreless relief. Lake struck out six and walked one with one hit allowed.Lake entered the game in the bottom of the fourth after Labette had two runners on. Lake pitched out of the jam with a pop up in foul territory caught by catcher&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2023-24/bios/mastin_alexis_jxjs">Alexis Mastin</a>.

🥎 Blue Dragons sweep Labette in midweek tilt

From an offensive standout, the Hutchinson Community College baseball team tied for the 11th-most runs scored in a single game on Tuesday at Hobart-Detter Field. From the defensive/pitching perspective, the Cowley Tigers had one of the biggest days by an opponent in Blue Dragon history.

The Tigers outlasted the Blue Dragons 23-22 in the first of two meetings this season between Cowley and Hutchinson.

The Blue Dragons are now 16-5 overall. Hutchinson returns to Jayhawk Conference play on Thursday at Butler. Cowley is now 12-7.

The final numbers – Cowley 23 runs on 21 hits and Hutchinson 22 runs on 21 hits – rank among the biggest single-game numbers in program history:

+ The combined 45 runs ties for second most in team history, matching the 45 combined runs scored between Hutchinson and Cowley on April 12, 2022 at Hobart-Detter Field.

+ Hutchinson's 22 runs scored tied for the 11th-most scored in Blue Dragon single-game history.

+ Cowley's 23 runs are the third-most runs scored by a Blue Dragon opponent in Blue Dragon single-game history.

The Blue Dragons were on the cusp of completing the largest comeback in program history. Twice the Blue Dragons scored by 12 runs and trailed 23-14 at the seventh-inning stretch.

Trailing 16-4 entering the bottom of the sixth, the Blue Dragons exploded for 10 runs in the inning to pull within 16-14. Hutchinson sent 15 batters to the plate in the inning and pulled within two on&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2023-24/bios/cymbalista_colin_rw61">Colin Cymbalista</a>'s sacrifice fly that scored&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2023-24/bios/tucker_jordan_v8wz">Jordan Tucker</a>.

Cowley immediately answered back with a seven-run seven inning to claim a 23-14 lead.

The Blue Dragons kept battling back, posting an eight-run seventh inning to pull within 23-22.&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2023-24/bios/gunderson_cody_npi8">Cody Gunderson</a>&nbsp;homers to right to lead off the inning.&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2023-24/bios/summers_jackson_drux">Jackson Summers</a>&nbsp;then added a two-run single to pull within six runs. Cymbalista followed with an RBI single,&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2023-24/bios/pimental-guerrero_luis_ubag">Luis Pimentel-Guerrero</a>&nbsp;drew a bases-loaded walk,&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2023-24/bios/davis_jon_e1bh">Jon Davis</a>&nbsp;scored on a wild pitch, Gunderson singled home Cymbalista and&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2023-24/bios/maher_quinn_h0lr">Quinn Maher</a>'s RBI single drove in Pimentel-Guerrero to complete the eight-run inning and pull the Dragons within 23-22.

Neither team scored in the eighth or ninth innings, but the Blue Dragons stranded the potential tying run at second base in the bottom of the ninth inning.

Gunderson paced the Blue Dragon offensive onslaught going 4 for 6 with two home runs – he hit a two-run home run in the bottom of the first to tie the game at 2-all. Gunderson had five RBIs and scored three runs.

Maher had his first career four-hit game going 4 for 4 with two runs, two RBIs and two walks.

Cymbalista was 3 for 5 with a triple, three runs scored and two RBIs.&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2023-24/bios/bowie_mac_309y">Mac Bowie</a>, Tucker and Summers had two hits each. Bowie had a double and three runs scored. Tucker tripled and scored three runs. Summers had a season-high three RBIs.

Pimentel-Guerrero homered and drove in four runs.

The Blue Dragons six walks off eight different Cowley pitchers, which combined for 14 strikeouts. Seven Blue Dragon batters were hit with pitches. Six Cowley batters were plunked with pitches.

Hutchinson used nine different pitchers.&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2023-24/bios/mckay_gus_ihyq">Gus McKay</a>&nbsp;was tagged with the loss. Blue Dragon pitchers allowed seven combined walks and the Blue Dragons committed seven errors, which tied for the fifth most in single-game history, matching seven errors against Independence in a Region VI Tournament game on May 8, 2015.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710344843470.jpeg" alt="The Blue Dragon Baseball team had 22 runs on 21 hits, but the Cowley Tigers won the non-conference battle on Tuesday at Hobart-Detter Field, defeating Hutchinson 23-22. (Billy Watson/Blue Dragon Sports Information)" />
 <figcaption>The Blue Dragon Baseball team had 22 runs on 21 hits, but the Cowley Tigers won the non-conference battle on Tuesday at Hobart-Detter Field, defeating Hutchinson 23-22. (Billy Watson/Blue Dragon Sports Information)</figcaption>
 </figure>Courtesy of HutchCC AthleticsFrom an offensive standout, the Hutchinson Community College baseball team tied for the 11th-most runs scored in a single game on Tuesday at Hobart-Detter Field. From the defensive/pitching perspective, the Cowley Tigers had one of the biggest days by an opponent in Blue Dragon history.The Tigers outlasted the Blue Dragons 23-22 in the first of two meetings this season between Cowley and Hutchinson.The Blue Dragons are now 16-5 overall. Hutchinson returns to Jayhawk Conference play on Thursday at Butler. Cowley is now 12-7.The final numbers – Cowley 23 runs on 21 hits and Hutchinson 22 runs on 21 hits – rank among the biggest single-game numbers in program history:+ The combined 45 runs ties for second most in team history, matching the 45 combined runs scored between Hutchinson and Cowley on April 12, 2022 at Hobart-Detter Field.+ Hutchinson's 22 runs scored tied for the 11th-most scored in Blue Dragon single-game history.+ Cowley's 23 runs are the third-most runs scored by a Blue Dragon opponent in Blue Dragon single-game history.The Blue Dragons were on the cusp of completing the largest comeback in program history. Twice the Blue Dragons scored by 12 runs and trailed 23-14 at the seventh-inning stretch.Trailing 16-4 entering the bottom of the sixth, the Blue Dragons exploded for 10 runs in the inning to pull within 16-14. Hutchinson sent 15 batters to the plate in the inning and pulled within two on&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2023-24/bios/cymbalista_colin_rw61">Colin Cymbalista</a>'s sacrifice fly that scored&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2023-24/bios/tucker_jordan_v8wz">Jordan Tucker</a>.Cowley immediately answered back with a seven-run seven inning to claim a 23-14 lead.The Blue Dragons kept battling back, posting an eight-run seventh inning to pull within 23-22.&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2023-24/bios/gunderson_cody_npi8">Cody Gunderson</a>&nbsp;homers to right to lead off the inning.&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2023-24/bios/summers_jackson_drux">Jackson Summers</a>&nbsp;then added a two-run single to pull within six runs. Cymbalista followed with an RBI single,&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2023-24/bios/pimental-guerrero_luis_ubag">Luis Pimentel-Guerrero</a>&nbsp;drew a bases-loaded walk,&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2023-24/bios/davis_jon_e1bh">Jon Davis</a>&nbsp;scored on a wild pitch, Gunderson singled home Cymbalista and&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2023-24/bios/maher_quinn_h0lr">Quinn Maher</a>'s RBI single drove in Pimentel-Guerrero to complete the eight-run inning and pull the Dragons within 23-22.Neither team scored in the eighth or ninth innings, but the Blue Dragons stranded the potential tying run at second base in the bottom of the ninth inning.Gunderson paced the Blue Dragon offensive onslaught going 4 for 6 with two home runs – he hit a two-run home run in the bottom of the first to tie the game at 2-all. Gunderson had five RBIs and scored three runs.Maher had his first career four-hit game going 4 for 4 with two runs, two RBIs and two walks.Cymbalista was 3 for 5 with a triple, three runs scored and two RBIs.&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2023-24/bios/bowie_mac_309y">Mac Bowie</a>, Tucker and Summers had two hits each. Bowie had a double and three runs scored. Tucker tripled and scored three runs. Summers had a season-high three RBIs.Pimentel-Guerrero homered and drove in four runs.The Blue Dragons six walks off eight different Cowley pitchers, which combined for 14 strikeouts. Seven Blue Dragon batters were hit with pitches. Six Cowley batters were plunked with pitches.Hutchinson used nine different pitchers.&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2023-24/bios/mckay_gus_ihyq">Gus McKay</a>&nbsp;was tagged with the loss. Blue Dragon pitchers allowed seven combined walks and the Blue Dragons committed seven errors, which tied for the fifth most in single-game history, matching seven errors against Independence in a Region VI Tournament game on May 8, 2015.

⚾ Blue Dragons fall in high scoring affair with Cowley

Derrick Henry heading to Ravens is another sign that running backs are valued -- at the right price

Derrick Henry is leaving the Tennessee Titans to team up with MVP Lamar Jackson and the Baltimore Ravens with a two-year deal worth up to $20 million, a person with knowledge of the deal tells The Associated Press. Henry's deal follows several others for running backs during the NFL's two-day legal tampering period. The position has been devalued in recent years, but this year's run shows teams will go after running backs at the right price. At least a dozen running backs are switching teams along with at least 10 quarterbacks, including Kirk Cousins and Russell Wilson.

Sen. Ted Cruz says there's a 50-50 chance of Congress passing college sports legislation this year

WASHINGTON (AP) — U.S. Senator Ted Cruz says there's a 50-50 chance of Congress passing legislation regulating college athletics by the end of the year. Cruz lowed his estimate of a bill getting through by the end of this session and said he and his counterparts are running out of time. The senator from Texas believes something will get done to standardize name, image and likeness and other financial aspects of college sports in the country. His comments came after Cruz oversaw a roundtable discussion on the topic with former Alabama football coach Nick Saban, Alabama athletic director Greg Byrne, ACC commissioner Jim Phillips and others.

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is considering Aaron Rodgers or Jesse Ventura for a 2024 running mate

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is having conversations with vice presidential candidates as he gets closer to announcing his running mate for his independent presidential bid. Kennedy told The New York Times that NFL quarterback Aaron Rodgers and former Minnesota Gov. Jesse Ventura are at the top of his list. Stefanie Spear, a campaign spokesperson, confirmed the Times report and said there are other names on Kennedy's short list. Kennedy has focused on getting access to the ballot across the country. Many states require him to name a running mate before he can begin the process of qualifying for the ballot.

Louisville coach Kenny Payne to be fired after going 12-52 in two seasons, AP source says

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (AP) — Louisville plans to fire men's basketball coach Kenny Payne after he went 12-52 in two seasons. That's according to a person with direct knowledge of the situation who spoke to The Associated Press late Tuesday night. The person spoke on condition of anonymity because Louisville officials had not yet met with Payne. The coach said after the Cardinals' 94-85 first-round loss to North Carolina State in the Atlantic Coast Conference Tournament on Tuesday that he had not been informed of his status with the program. Louisville is 1-28 away from home under the former Cardinals player and has just five wins in ACC play.

No. 21 Saint Mary's ends No. 17 Gonzaga's monopoly of WCC Tournament championship with 69-60 win

LAS VEGAS (AP) — Aidan Mahaney scored 23 points, Mitchell Saxen had 19 points and 15 rebounds and No. 21 Saint Mary's led nearly the entire way beat No. 17 Gonzaga 69-60 on Tuesday night and interrupt the Bulldogs' stranglehold on the West Coast Conference Tournament title. Gonzaga had won four WCC championships in a row and 10 of 11. Saint Mary's in 2019 was the one year the Bulldogs didn't claim the trophy over that span. Also for Saint Mary's, WCC player of the year Augustas Marciulionis scored 13 points. Anton Watson led the Zags with 18 points,

Monahan confident in his job and hopeful PGA Tour can strike a deal with Saudis

PONTE VEDRA BEACH, Fla. (AP) — PGA Tour Commissioner Jay Monahan isn't offering any details on negotiations with the Saudi backers of LIV Golf. But he expresses confidence the tour can strike a deal with the Public Investment Fund and that golf's fractured landscape can be repaired. He also sounded a confident tone that he's the best person to lead the way. Monahan held a news conference Tuesday for the first time in nearly seven months. Since then, the tour got a minority investor pumping up to $3 billion into golf. And LIV persuaded Masters champion Jon Rahm to join. Monahan did not set a timetable for an outcome.

Browns are adding Jameis Winston to back up Deshaun Watson, AP source says

A person with knowledge of the negotiations says the Cleveland Browns have agreed to sign quarterback Jameis Winston as a backup for Deshaun Watson. The person says Winston is getting a one-year deal worth up to $8.7 million. The person spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because the move can't become official until the new league year begins Wednesday. And Joe Flacco's agent, Joe Linta, tells the AP that his client didn't receive an offer from the Browns to stay in Cleveland. Flacco went 4-1 last season in place of an injured Watson to help the Browns reach the playoffs.

Atlanta has lost two NHL teams. Former player Anson Carter leads one of two groups seeking a third

ATLANTA (AP) — Atlanta is making a third bid to land an NHL team after losing both the Flames and the Thrashers. Former player Anson Carter heads a group that has made a formal request to the league to begin the process of adding an expansion team in the Atlanta area. Carter's group is the second to express serious interest in bringing another team to Georgia. It was home to the Flames from 1972-80 and the Thrashers from 1999-2011. Both teams moved to Canadian cities because of ownership issues and slumping attendance. Salt Lake City also has formally requested an expansion team through owner Ryan Smith of the NBA's Utah Jazz.

Stephen Curry cleared to resume on-court work as he recovers from right ankle sprain

SAN FRANCISCO (AP) — Stephen Curry has been cleared to resume on-court activity as he recovers from his latest right ankle sprain, and if all goes well could rejoin the Golden State Warriors for practice Friday in Los Angeles. The team provided an update on Curry's health after he was re-evaluated Tuesday and determined to be making "good progress." He is scheduled to be examined again after the Friday workout. He will train in the Bay Area until then, missing Wednesday's game at Dallas. The Warriors play at the Lakers on Saturday night.

The Lionheart: Dan Wheldon documentary covers grief, loss, love and familial legacy

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. (AP) — It's been nearly 13 years since two-time Indianapolis 500 winner Dan Wheldon was killed in a crash at Las Vegas Motor Speedway. Although the grieving process has not stopped for his widow, Susie Wheldon gave unprecedented access to filmmaker Laura Brownson. Together they made the move "The Lionheart," which airs Tuesday night on HBO and MAX and chronicles the life of the late Wheldon and Susie's life as a single mother who allowed her two teenage sons to follow in their father's footsteps as budding young racers.

Here are the scores from yesterday's sports events:

Final	(21)Saint Mary's (Cal.)	69	(17)Gonzaga	60	

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1701494597443.png" alt="Sports Headlines and News for Wednesday, March 13th, 2024." />
 <figcaption>Sports Headlines and News for Wednesday, March 13th, 2024.</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="March 13th, 2024 Eagle Media 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=skcev-15ab4d5-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=60a0c8&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=ff6d00" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>AP Sports Summary for March 13th, 2024.Derrick Henry heading to Ravens is another sign that running backs are valued -- at the right priceDerrick Henry is leaving the Tennessee Titans to team up with MVP Lamar Jackson and the Baltimore Ravens with a two-year deal worth up to $20 million, a person with knowledge of the deal tells The Associated Press. Henry's deal follows several others for running backs during the NFL's two-day legal tampering period. The position has been devalued in recent years, but this year's run shows teams will go after running backs at the right price. At least a dozen running backs are switching teams along with at least 10 quarterbacks, including Kirk Cousins and Russell Wilson.Sen. Ted Cruz says there's a 50-50 chance of Congress passing college sports legislation this yearWASHINGTON (AP) — U.S. Senator Ted Cruz says there's a 50-50 chance of Congress passing legislation regulating college athletics by the end of the year. Cruz lowed his estimate of a bill getting through by the end of this session and said he and his counterparts are running out of time. The senator from Texas believes something will get done to standardize name, image and likeness and other financial aspects of college sports in the country. His comments came after Cruz oversaw a roundtable discussion on the topic with former Alabama football coach Nick Saban, Alabama athletic director Greg Byrne, ACC commissioner Jim Phillips and others.Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is considering Aaron Rodgers or Jesse Ventura for a 2024 running mateRobert F. Kennedy Jr. is having conversations with vice presidential candidates as he gets closer to announcing his running mate for his independent presidential bid. Kennedy told The New York Times that NFL quarterback Aaron Rodgers and former Minnesota Gov. Jesse Ventura are at the top of his list. Stefanie Spear, a campaign spokesperson, confirmed the Times report and said there are other names on Kennedy's short list. Kennedy has focused on getting access to the ballot across the country. Many states require him to name a running mate before he can begin the process of qualifying for the ballot.Louisville coach Kenny Payne to be fired after going 12-52 in two seasons, AP source saysLOUISVILLE, Ky. (AP) — Louisville plans to fire men's basketball coach Kenny Payne after he went 12-52 in two seasons. That's according to a person with direct knowledge of the situation who spoke to The Associated Press late Tuesday night. The person spoke on condition of anonymity because Louisville officials had not yet met with Payne. The coach said after the Cardinals' 94-85 first-round loss to North Carolina State in the Atlantic Coast Conference Tournament on Tuesday that he had not been informed of his status with the program. Louisville is 1-28 away from home under the former Cardinals player and has just five wins in ACC play.No. 21 Saint Mary's ends No. 17 Gonzaga's monopoly of WCC Tournament championship with 69-60 winLAS VEGAS (AP) — Aidan Mahaney scored 23 points, Mitchell Saxen had 19 points and 15 rebounds and No. 21 Saint Mary's led nearly the entire way beat No. 17 Gonzaga 69-60 on Tuesday night and interrupt the Bulldogs' stranglehold on the West Coast Conference Tournament title. Gonzaga had won four WCC championships in a row and 10 of 11. Saint Mary's in 2019 was the one year the Bulldogs didn't claim the trophy over that span. Also for Saint Mary's, WCC player of the year Augustas Marciulionis scored 13 points. Anton Watson led the Zags with 18 points,Monahan confident in his job and hopeful PGA Tour can strike a deal with SaudisPONTE VEDRA BEACH, Fla. (AP) — PGA Tour Commissioner Jay Monahan isn't offering any details on negotiations with the Saudi backers of LIV Golf. But he expresses confidence the tour can strike a deal with the Public Investment Fund and that golf's fractured landscape can be repaired. He also sounded a confident tone that he's the best person to lead the way. Monahan held a news conference Tuesday for the first time in nearly seven months. Since then, the tour got a minority investor pumping up to $3 billion into golf. And LIV persuaded Masters champion Jon Rahm to join. Monahan did not set a timetable for an outcome.Browns are adding Jameis Winston to back up Deshaun Watson, AP source saysA person with knowledge of the negotiations says the Cleveland Browns have agreed to sign quarterback Jameis Winston as a backup for Deshaun Watson. The person says Winston is getting a one-year deal worth up to $8.7 million. The person spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because the move can't become official until the new league year begins Wednesday. And Joe Flacco's agent, Joe Linta, tells the AP that his client didn't receive an offer from the Browns to stay in Cleveland. Flacco went 4-1 last season in place of an injured Watson to help the Browns reach the playoffs.Atlanta has lost two NHL teams. Former player Anson Carter leads one of two groups seeking a thirdATLANTA (AP) — Atlanta is making a third bid to land an NHL team after losing both the Flames and the Thrashers. Former player Anson Carter heads a group that has made a formal request to the league to begin the process of adding an expansion team in the Atlanta area. Carter's group is the second to express serious interest in bringing another team to Georgia. It was home to the Flames from 1972-80 and the Thrashers from 1999-2011. Both teams moved to Canadian cities because of ownership issues and slumping attendance. Salt Lake City also has formally requested an expansion team through owner Ryan Smith of the NBA's Utah Jazz.Stephen Curry cleared to resume on-court work as he recovers from right ankle sprainSAN FRANCISCO (AP) — Stephen Curry has been cleared to resume on-court activity as he recovers from his latest right ankle sprain, and if all goes well could rejoin the Golden State Warriors for practice Friday in Los Angeles. The team provided an update on Curry's health after he was re-evaluated Tuesday and determined to be making "good progress." He is scheduled to be examined again after the Friday workout. He will train in the Bay Area until then, missing Wednesday's game at Dallas. The Warriors play at the Lakers on Saturday night.The Lionheart: Dan Wheldon documentary covers grief, loss, love and familial legacyST. PETERSBURG, Fla. (AP) — It's been nearly 13 years since two-time Indianapolis 500 winner Dan Wheldon was killed in a crash at Las Vegas Motor Speedway. Although the grieving process has not stopped for his widow, Susie Wheldon gave unprecedented access to filmmaker Laura Brownson. Together they made the move "The Lionheart," which airs Tuesday night on HBO and MAX and chronicles the life of the late Wheldon and Susie's life as a single mother who allowed her two teenage sons to follow in their father's footsteps as budding young racers.AP-ScorecardHere are the scores from yesterday's sports events:___INTERLEAGUEFinal	St. Louis	8	Boston	6	Final	Houston	9	Miami	1	Final	Colorado	4	Kansas City	2	Final	Chicago White Sox	14	Cincinnati	1	___AMERICAN LEAGUEFinal	Detroit	1	Minnesota	0	Final	Baltimore	12	Tampa Bay	8	Final	Toronto	8	N.Y. Yankees	1	Final	Cleveland	3	Texas	0	Final	Oakland	4	Seattle	2	___NATIONAL LEAGUEFinal	Pittsburgh	5	Atlanta	1	Final	L.A. Dodgers	6	San Francisco	4	Final	Washington	4	N.Y. Mets	1	Final	Chicago Cubs	6	Milwaukee	5	Final	Arizona	2	San Diego	2	___NATIONAL BASKETBALL ASSOCIATIONFinal	New York	106	Philadelphia	79	Final	Indiana	121	Oklahoma City	111	Final	Memphis	109	Washington	97	Final	Houston	103	San Antonio	101	Final	Boston	123	Utah	107	Final	Minnesota	118	L.A. Clippers	100	Final	Sacramento	129	Milwaukee	94	___NATIONAL HOCKEY LEAGUEFinal	N-Y Rangers	1	Carolina	0	Final	Montreal	3	Columbus	0	Final	Buffalo	7	Detroit	3	Final OT	Ottawa	2	Pittsburgh	1	Final	Philadelphia	3	San Jose	2	Final	Minnesota	4	Arizona	1	Final	Florida	4	Dallas	3	Final	Chicago	7	Anaheim	2	Final	Colorado	6	Calgary	2	Final OT	Vegas	5	Seattle	4	___TOP-25 COLLEGE BASKETBALLFinal	(21)Saint Mary's (Cal.)	69	(17)Gonzaga	60	___TODAY'S SPORTS SCHEDULE___INTERLEAGUE		St. Louis	at	Minnesota	1:05 p.m.			Detroit	at	Philadelphia	1:05 p.m.			Pittsburgh	at	Toronto	1:07 p.m.			Chi Cubs	at	Cleveland	4:05 p.m.			Seattle	at	L-A Dodgers	4:05 p.m.			Chi White Sox	at	Milwaukee	4:10 p.m.			Oakland	at	San Diego	4:10 p.m.			Atlanta	at	Baltimore	6:05 p.m.			Houston	at	N-Y Mets	6:10 p.m.	___AMERICAN LEAGUE		Boston	at	N-Y Yankees	1:05 p.m.			Minnesota	at	Tampa Bay	1:05 p.m.			L-A Angels	at	Kansas City	4:05 p.m.	___NATIONAL LEAGUE		Washington	at	Miami	1:10 p.m.			Cincinnati	at	San Francisco	4:05 p.m.			Colorado	at	Arizona	4:10 p.m.	___NATIONAL BASKETBALL ASSOCIATION		Brooklyn	at	Orlando	7 p.m.			Toronto	at	Detroit	7 p.m.			Chicago	at	Indiana	7:30 p.m.			Denver	at	Miami	7:30 p.m.			Charlotte	at	Memphis	8 p.m.			Cleveland	at	New Orleans	8 p.m.			Golden State	at	Dallas	8:30 p.m.			Atlanta	at	Portland	10 p.m.			L.A. Lakers	at	Sacramento	10 p.m.	___NATIONAL HOCKEY LEAGUE		Los Angeles	at	St. Louis	7:30 p.m.			Nashville	at	Winnipeg	7:30 p.m.			Washington	at	Edmonton	10 p.m.			Colorado	at	Vancouver	10:30 p.m.	___TOP-25 COLLEGE BASKETBALL		Cincinnati	at	(16)Kansas	9:30 p.m.			UCF	at	(20)BYU	12:30 p.m.	___

📢📰 Sports Headlines for Wednesday

ST. CHARLES, Missouri – The No. 5-ranked Hutchinson Community College men's golf team opened the 2024 spring season on Monday and Tuesday with a third-place finish at the Lindenwood Invitational played at Missouri Bluffs Country Club.

The Blue Dragons finished with a 54-hole team score of 857 (+5). The Dragons were 18 strokes behind team champion Lindenwood and three strokes behind second-place and District III rival Indian Hills. The Blue Dragons shot rounds of 284 and 288 on Monday and closed the tournament with a 1-over 285 on Tuesday.

Hutchinson had two Top 10 individual finishers on Tuesday.

<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/mgolf/2023-24/files/Spring_1_-_Lindenwood_team.pdf">FINAL LINDENWOOD INVITATIONAL TEAM RESULTS</a><a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/mgolf/2023-24/files/Spring_1_-_Lindenwood_player.pdf">FINAL LINDENWOOD INVITATIONAL PLAYER RESULTS</a>

Freshman&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/mgolf/2023-24/bios/box_charlie_jgcb">Charlie Box</a>&nbsp;placed ninth overall at 1-under 212. Box was leading the tournament after 36 holes at 5-under par. Box shot a 4-over 75 on Tuesday to fall to ninth place.

Freshman&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/mgolf/2023-24/bios/razinskas_david_7wz3">David Razinskas</a>&nbsp;tied for 10th overall after shooting an even-par 213 over 54 holes. Razinskas scored better each round opening with Monday rounds of 73 and 72 before closing Tuesday with a team-low round of 3-under 68 on Tuesday.

Sophomore&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/mgolf/2023-24/bios/anderson_marco_qoi7">Marco Anderson</a>&nbsp;tied for 23rd place at 6-over 219. Anderson opened the tournament with a 72, but slipped in the Monday afternoon round to 75. He closed on Tuesday with a 72.

<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/mgolf/2023-24/bios/ross_louis_dfpl">Louis Ross</a>&nbsp;tied for 34th at 9-over 222. Ross had rounds of 78, 72 and 72.

<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/mgolf/2023-24/bios/thissen_kenton_qoy2">Keaton Thissen</a>&nbsp;tied for 38th at 10-over 233. Thissen carded rounds of 71, 79 and 73.

Sophomore&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/mgolf/2023-24/bios/sauder_brooks_jmni">Brooks Sauder</a>, playing as an individual player tied for 59th with a 54-hole total of 232. Sauder had Monday rounds of 77 and 72 before posting an 83 on Tuesday.

The Blue Dragons will play at the Oakwood Intercollegiate next Monday and Tuesday in Enid, Oklahoma.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710345031105.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy HutchCC Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy HutchCC Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>Courtesy of HutchCC AthleticsST. CHARLES, Missouri – The No. 5-ranked Hutchinson Community College men's golf team opened the 2024 spring season on Monday and Tuesday with a third-place finish at the Lindenwood Invitational played at Missouri Bluffs Country Club.The Blue Dragons finished with a 54-hole team score of 857 (+5). The Dragons were 18 strokes behind team champion Lindenwood and three strokes behind second-place and District III rival Indian Hills. The Blue Dragons shot rounds of 284 and 288 on Monday and closed the tournament with a 1-over 285 on Tuesday.Hutchinson had two Top 10 individual finishers on Tuesday.<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/mgolf/2023-24/files/Spring_1_-_Lindenwood_team.pdf">FINAL LINDENWOOD INVITATIONAL TEAM RESULTS</a><a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/mgolf/2023-24/files/Spring_1_-_Lindenwood_player.pdf">FINAL LINDENWOOD INVITATIONAL PLAYER RESULTS</a>Freshman&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/mgolf/2023-24/bios/box_charlie_jgcb">Charlie Box</a>&nbsp;placed ninth overall at 1-under 212. Box was leading the tournament after 36 holes at 5-under par. Box shot a 4-over 75 on Tuesday to fall to ninth place.Freshman&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/mgolf/2023-24/bios/razinskas_david_7wz3">David Razinskas</a>&nbsp;tied for 10th overall after shooting an even-par 213 over 54 holes. Razinskas scored better each round opening with Monday rounds of 73 and 72 before closing Tuesday with a team-low round of 3-under 68 on Tuesday.Sophomore&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/mgolf/2023-24/bios/anderson_marco_qoi7">Marco Anderson</a>&nbsp;tied for 23rd place at 6-over 219. Anderson opened the tournament with a 72, but slipped in the Monday afternoon round to 75. He closed on Tuesday with a 72.<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/mgolf/2023-24/bios/ross_louis_dfpl">Louis Ross</a>&nbsp;tied for 34th at 9-over 222. Ross had rounds of 78, 72 and 72.<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/mgolf/2023-24/bios/thissen_kenton_qoy2">Keaton Thissen</a>&nbsp;tied for 38th at 10-over 233. Thissen carded rounds of 71, 79 and 73.Sophomore&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/mgolf/2023-24/bios/sauder_brooks_jmni">Brooks Sauder</a>, playing as an individual player tied for 59th with a 54-hole total of 232. Sauder had Monday rounds of 77 and 72 before posting an 83 on Tuesday.The Blue Dragons will play at the Oakwood Intercollegiate next Monday and Tuesday in Enid, Oklahoma.

⛳ HutchCC golfers 3rd at Lindenwood University Invitational

<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/mbkb/2023-24/boxscores/20240312_vwlg.xml?view=boxscore">BOX SCORE</a>

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Kam Thomas missed the final two games of the regular season, but returned for the postseason, and boy did he step up on Tuesday evening. The sophomore buried a long basket to give No. 16 Hutchinson an 88-87 overtime win over Garden City in the Region VI Tournament quarterfinal at the Sports Arena.

The Blue Dragons improve to 26-5 overall and will play No. 11 Cowley on Friday in the semifinal at 7:30 p.m. inside the Sports Arena.

Hutchinson jumped out to a 14-1 lead early in the first half. Garden City didn't score their first field goal of the game until just over the 14-minute mark.

The Broncbusters started chipping away at the Hutchinson lead and pulled within 22-21 at the under-8 minute media timeout. Garden City went on a 17-3 run to build a 38-25 lead with just under three minutes to go in the first half.&nbsp;

Garden City took a 41-33 lead into the halftime break.

Hutchinson continued to trail through most of the second half, but continued to fight. Landon Wagler helped pull Hutchinson within one with just over eight minutes to play.&nbsp;

The Broncbusters led 72-67 at the final media timeout with 3:04 to play in regulation.

Kernan Bundy then stepped up, knocking down a runner to pull within three with 1:34 to play. Bundy then scored another basket to pull Hutch within 74-71 with 32 seconds to play.

That is when Bundy stepped up with the biggest shot of his Blue Dragon career, draining a 3-pointer from 25-plus feet out to tie the game at 74 with six seconds to play.

Garden City had a chance out of the timeout, but a missed layup by Thomas Tut sent the game to overtime.

The two teams shared leads back-and-forth in the overtime period, with neither team able to create any separation.

Thomas hit a layup to pull the Blue Dragons within one with 18 seconds left in the extra period, before hitting the game-winner 17 seconds later.

Thomas finished with 20 points and nine rebounds. J.P. Ricks added 12 points, while Valentino Simon, Wagler and Bundy all finished with 11 points.

Garden City was led by Tut and Brody Robinson with 22 points each.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710297040323.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/mbkb/2023-24/boxscores/20240312_vwlg.xml?view=boxscore">BOX SCORE</a>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Kam Thomas missed the final two games of the regular season, but returned for the postseason, and boy did he step up on Tuesday evening. The sophomore buried a long basket to give No. 16 Hutchinson an 88-87 overtime win over Garden City in the Region VI Tournament quarterfinal at the Sports Arena.The Blue Dragons improve to 26-5 overall and will play No. 11 Cowley on Friday in the semifinal at 7:30 p.m. inside the Sports Arena.Hutchinson jumped out to a 14-1 lead early in the first half. Garden City didn't score their first field goal of the game until just over the 14-minute mark.The Broncbusters started chipping away at the Hutchinson lead and pulled within 22-21 at the under-8 minute media timeout. Garden City went on a 17-3 run to build a 38-25 lead with just under three minutes to go in the first half.&nbsp;Garden City took a 41-33 lead into the halftime break.Hutchinson continued to trail through most of the second half, but continued to fight. Landon Wagler helped pull Hutchinson within one with just over eight minutes to play.&nbsp;The Broncbusters led 72-67 at the final media timeout with 3:04 to play in regulation.Kernan Bundy then stepped up, knocking down a runner to pull within three with 1:34 to play. Bundy then scored another basket to pull Hutch within 74-71 with 32 seconds to play.That is when Bundy stepped up with the biggest shot of his Blue Dragon career, draining a 3-pointer from 25-plus feet out to tie the game at 74 with six seconds to play.Garden City had a chance out of the timeout, but a missed layup by Thomas Tut sent the game to overtime.The two teams shared leads back-and-forth in the overtime period, with neither team able to create any separation.Thomas hit a layup to pull the Blue Dragons within one with 18 seconds left in the extra period, before hitting the game-winner 17 seconds later.Thomas finished with 20 points and nine rebounds. J.P. Ricks added 12 points, while Valentino Simon, Wagler and Bundy all finished with 11 points.Garden City was led by Tut and Brody Robinson with 22 points each.

🏀 MBB: Thomas buzzer-beater gives Hutchinson OT winner in Region VI Tournament

<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/wbkb/2023-24/boxscores/20240312_oxvc.xml?view=boxscore">BOX SCORE</a>

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The No. 1 Hutchinson Community College women's basketball team cruised to a 90-56 Region VI quarterfinal win over Cloud County on Tuesday at the Sports Arena.

The Blue Dragons improve to 31-0 overall and will play Barton on Friday at 1 p.m. in the Region VI semifinal at the Sports Arena.

Cloud County (15-16) took a 2-0 lead early in the first quarter, but that would be their only lead of the game. Hutchinson scored the games next 14 points to lead 14-2 midway through the first period.&nbsp;

The Blue Dragons never looked back, leading 32-10 after the first quarter. The 32 points scored were the most points scored by HutchCC in the first quarter of a game this season. Hutchinson shot 66 percent from the floor in the period and knocked down four-of-five 3-point shots.

Hutchinson continued to grow its lead in the second quarter, building a 50-21 lead at halftime. The Blue Dragons knocked down four more 3-pointers in the second quarter to finish the half with eight made threes.

Cloud County outscored the Blue Dragons by two in the third period, but Hutchinson still held a comfortable 65-38 lead going into the fourth quarter.

Hutchinson shot 60 percent from the floor and knocked down three 3-pointers in the final frame to coast to the 34-point victory.

Five Blue Dragons scored in double figures, led by Hailey Jackson with 16 points. Kiki Smith finished with 15, Monae Duffy 12, Akaysha Muggeridge 12 and Journey Armstead with 10. 

HutchCC finished 49.3 percent from the floor shooting and knocked down 12 3-pointers. The Blue Dragons finished plus-1 in rebounding and turned the ball over just six times.&nbsp;

Cloud County was led in scoring by Bailey Burns with 18 points, while Maimouna Sissoko finished with a double-double, 17 points and 11 rebounds.

The Blue Dragons are now 67-38 all-time in Region VI Tournament games, and advance to their 21st semifinal game in program history.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710295940067.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/wbkb/2023-24/boxscores/20240312_oxvc.xml?view=boxscore">BOX SCORE</a>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The No. 1 Hutchinson Community College women's basketball team cruised to a 90-56 Region VI quarterfinal win over Cloud County on Tuesday at the Sports Arena.The Blue Dragons improve to 31-0 overall and will play Barton on Friday at 1 p.m. in the Region VI semifinal at the Sports Arena.Cloud County (15-16) took a 2-0 lead early in the first quarter, but that would be their only lead of the game. Hutchinson scored the games next 14 points to lead 14-2 midway through the first period.&nbsp;The Blue Dragons never looked back, leading 32-10 after the first quarter. The 32 points scored were the most points scored by HutchCC in the first quarter of a game this season. Hutchinson shot 66 percent from the floor in the period and knocked down four-of-five 3-point shots.Hutchinson continued to grow its lead in the second quarter, building a 50-21 lead at halftime. The Blue Dragons knocked down four more 3-pointers in the second quarter to finish the half with eight made threes.Cloud County outscored the Blue Dragons by two in the third period, but Hutchinson still held a comfortable 65-38 lead going into the fourth quarter.Hutchinson shot 60 percent from the floor and knocked down three 3-pointers in the final frame to coast to the 34-point victory.Five Blue Dragons scored in double figures, led by Hailey Jackson with 16 points. Kiki Smith finished with 15, Monae Duffy 12, Akaysha Muggeridge 12 and Journey Armstead with 10. HutchCC finished 49.3 percent from the floor shooting and knocked down 12 3-pointers. The Blue Dragons finished plus-1 in rebounding and turned the ball over just six times.&nbsp;Cloud County was led in scoring by Bailey Burns with 18 points, while Maimouna Sissoko finished with a double-double, 17 points and 11 rebounds.The Blue Dragons are now 67-38 all-time in Region VI Tournament games, and advance to their 21st semifinal game in program history.

🏀 WBB: Hutchinson routs Cloud County, advances to Region VI semifinal

Courtesy of Wichita State Athletics&nbsp;

WICHITA, Kan. --&nbsp;Wichita State rallied from a 7-1 deficit to put the tying runs on base in the eighth inning but could not complete the comeback as Nebraska held on for an 8-6 win on Tuesday night at Eck Stadium.

The Shockers (9-6) grabbed the game's first lead when&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/dayvin-johnson/7596">Dayvin Johnson</a>&nbsp;bounced a single through the middle in the bottom of the first, scoring&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/camden-johnson/7605">Camden Johnson</a>&nbsp;who had been hit by a pitch. But Nebraska (10-4) responded by scoring the next seven runs, striking for four in the third and three in the fourth with the help of two Wichita State errors. Tyler Stone put the Huskers in front with a two-run homer in the third against WSU starter&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/brady-hamilton/7614">Brady Hamilton</a>&nbsp;(0-2) and later in the inning Ben Columbus rapped a two-out, two-run single that increased the Nebraska lead to 4-1.

Three unearned runs crossed the plate for the Huskers in the fourth, scoring on a Wichita State throwing error, a Garrett Anglim sacrifice fly and a Columbus bases-loaded walk.

From there the Shocker bullpen held the fort, allowing just one run over the final five innings while the offense settled in.&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/jordan-rogers/7538">Jordan Rogers</a>&nbsp;pulled the Shockers to within 7-3 with a long two-run homer to left field, his fourth round-tripper of the season. After the Huskers answered with a run of their own in the seventh to make it 8-3, Wichita State got three consecutive two-out RBI singles from&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/ryan-callahan/7594">Ryan Callahan</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/josh-livingston/7602">Josh Livingston</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/jaden-gustafson/7525">Jaden Gustafson</a>&nbsp;to claw within 8-6 in the bottom of the eighth. The Huskers summoned closer Casey Daiss, who retired pinch-hitter&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/seth-stroh/7543">Seth Stroh</a>&nbsp;on a grounder to first to preserve the lead.

Daiss&nbsp;pitched around a two-out single in the ninth to record his third save.

Nebraska starter Will Walsh (1-0) earned the win, allowing six hits and three runs over six innings. Hamilton was saddled with the loss, allowing seven hits and six runs (four earned) over three frames. The combination of&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/ryan-geraghty/7613">Ryan Geraghty</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/ronald-zayas/8975">Ronald Zayas</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/drew-iverson/7618">Drew Iverson</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/jeremiah-arnett/7612">Jeremiah Arnett</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/mason-munz/7619">Mason Munz</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/hunter-holmes/8976">Hunter Holmes</a>&nbsp;allowed just one earned run; as a team, the Shockers struck out 14 Huskers on the evening.

<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/derek-williams/7627">Derek Williams</a>&nbsp;led the Shockers with three hits on the night, while Callahan recorded a pair of knocks.

The Shockers and Huskers conclude the midweek series on Wednesday evening. First pitch from Eck Stadium is scheduled for 6:00 pm.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710299198595.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Courtesy of Wichita State Athletics&nbsp;WICHITA, Kan. --&nbsp;Wichita State rallied from a 7-1 deficit to put the tying runs on base in the eighth inning but could not complete the comeback as Nebraska held on for an 8-6 win on Tuesday night at Eck Stadium.The Shockers (9-6) grabbed the game's first lead when&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/dayvin-johnson/7596">Dayvin Johnson</a>&nbsp;bounced a single through the middle in the bottom of the first, scoring&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/camden-johnson/7605">Camden Johnson</a>&nbsp;who had been hit by a pitch. But Nebraska (10-4) responded by scoring the next seven runs, striking for four in the third and three in the fourth with the help of two Wichita State errors. Tyler Stone put the Huskers in front with a two-run homer in the third against WSU starter&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/brady-hamilton/7614">Brady Hamilton</a>&nbsp;(0-2) and later in the inning Ben Columbus rapped a two-out, two-run single that increased the Nebraska lead to 4-1.Three unearned runs crossed the plate for the Huskers in the fourth, scoring on a Wichita State throwing error, a Garrett Anglim sacrifice fly and a Columbus bases-loaded walk.From there the Shocker bullpen held the fort, allowing just one run over the final five innings while the offense settled in.&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/jordan-rogers/7538">Jordan Rogers</a>&nbsp;pulled the Shockers to within 7-3 with a long two-run homer to left field, his fourth round-tripper of the season. After the Huskers answered with a run of their own in the seventh to make it 8-3, Wichita State got three consecutive two-out RBI singles from&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/ryan-callahan/7594">Ryan Callahan</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/josh-livingston/7602">Josh Livingston</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/jaden-gustafson/7525">Jaden Gustafson</a>&nbsp;to claw within 8-6 in the bottom of the eighth. The Huskers summoned closer Casey Daiss, who retired pinch-hitter&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/seth-stroh/7543">Seth Stroh</a>&nbsp;on a grounder to first to preserve the lead.Daiss&nbsp;pitched around a two-out single in the ninth to record his third save.Nebraska starter Will Walsh (1-0) earned the win, allowing six hits and three runs over six innings. Hamilton was saddled with the loss, allowing seven hits and six runs (four earned) over three frames. The combination of&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/ryan-geraghty/7613">Ryan Geraghty</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/ronald-zayas/8975">Ronald Zayas</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/drew-iverson/7618">Drew Iverson</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/jeremiah-arnett/7612">Jeremiah Arnett</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/mason-munz/7619">Mason Munz</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/hunter-holmes/8976">Hunter Holmes</a>&nbsp;allowed just one earned run; as a team, the Shockers struck out 14 Huskers on the evening.<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/derek-williams/7627">Derek Williams</a>&nbsp;led the Shockers with three hits on the night, while Callahan recorded a pair of knocks.The Shockers and Huskers conclude the midweek series on Wednesday evening. First pitch from Eck Stadium is scheduled for 6:00 pm.&nbsp;&nbsp;

⚾ Shockers rally falls short against Huskers

LAWRENCE, Kan. –&nbsp;Wichita State dropped a pair of games at Kansas Tuesday, falling 6-3 in game one and walk-off fashion, 6-5, in extra innings of the nightcap.

Wichita State fell to 10-10 on the season and has lost three straight to the Jayhawks.

Game 1 | Wichita State 3, Kansas 6 <a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/cc-wong/8967">CC Wong</a>&nbsp;went 2-for-4 with a triple and two runs scored.&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/addison-barnard/7558">Addison Barnard</a>&nbsp;singled and walked three times.&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/bailey-urban/7572">Bailey Urban</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/jessica-garcia/7563">Jessica Garcia</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/krystin-nelson/7568">Krystin Nelson</a>&nbsp;all had a hit apiece.

<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/alex-aguilar/7557">Alex Aguilar</a>&nbsp;(3-2) went 4.0 innings in the loss, allowing five runs on six hits.&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/chloe-barber/7573">Chloe Barber</a>&nbsp;threw the final 2.0 innings, giving up a run on two hits. Free passes had been an issue coming into the game, but the Shockers didn't allow a single walk in the game.

After Wichita State left the bases loaded to end the top of the first, Kansas wasted little time plating a run. A leadoff single, followed by a hit by pitch led to an RBI double to give the Jayhawks an early 1-0 lead. Aguilar would limit the damage to just one run in the frame, stranding a pair in scoring position.

The Shockers loaded the bases again in the third, but could only score one run on a&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/lainee-brown/7559">Lainee Brown</a>&nbsp;fielder's choice.Kansas broke it open in the bottom of the fifth, scoring five runs on four hits and a Wichita State error.

Wichita State had one last comeback attempt in the seventh. The Shockers quickly loaded the bases on a Nelson double, Wong single and Barnard walk.&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/taylor-sedlacek/7570">Taylor Sedlacek</a>&nbsp;worked another walk to make it 6-2. Urban manufactured another run on an RBI groundout, but that would be it for the Shockers in the seventh. They left the bases loaded for a third time to end the game.

Game 2 | Wichita State 5, Kansas 6 (8) Kansas scored five runs in the bottom of the first, four of them coming on a grand slam, but didn't score again until the winning run crossed the plate in the bottom of the eighth. The Jayhawks put two on base in the bottom of the eighth via single and a two-base throwing error. The game winning run came in the next at bat when Angela Price hit a grounder to&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/cc-wong/8967">CC Wong</a>&nbsp;at second. Wong fired a throw home to cut down the winning run, but&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/lainee-brown/7559">Lainee Brown</a>&nbsp;was called for obstruction at the plate, erasing the second out and giving KU the walk-off win.

Wong had a career high four hits, including a home run, two runs scored and two RBI.&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/addison-barnard/7558">Addison Barnard</a>&nbsp;had just one hit, but it was a big one. Her three-run homer tied the game in the top of the seventh to send the game to extra innings.&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/lainee-brown/7559">Lainee Brown</a>&nbsp;had a pair of hits, while&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/jessica-garcia/7563">Jessica Garcia</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/krystin-nelson/7568">Krystin Nelson</a>&nbsp;both had a hit apiece.

<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/lauren-howell/7566">Lauren Howell</a>&nbsp;had a rough go in the start. She recorded only two outs before being pulled in the first inning. She allowed five runs on three hits and two walks.&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/alison-cooper/7561">Alison Cooper</a>&nbsp;(2-4) was saddled with the loss even though she was superb in relief. She allowed only two hits through the first 6.0 innings.

Wichita State scored a single run in the third and fifth innings, both off the bat of Wong. The first an RBI single and the second a solo home run to center.

Down to their final three outs entering the top of the seventh, the Shockers put two on base with a&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/krystin-nelson/7568">Krystin Nelson</a>&nbsp;walk and Wong's fourth hit of the night. Barnard then launced a 2-2 pitch over the wall in left-center to tie the game at 5-5.

Wichita State was unable to score in the top of the eighth and was set to have the top of the order come to bat in the ninth.

Up Next Wichita State continues conference play this weekend at East Carolina, March 15-17.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710299376177.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy Wichita State Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Wichita State Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>Courtesy of Wichita State Athletics&nbsp;LAWRENCE, Kan. –&nbsp;Wichita State dropped a pair of games at Kansas Tuesday, falling 6-3 in game one and walk-off fashion, 6-5, in extra innings of the nightcap.Wichita State fell to 10-10 on the season and has lost three straight to the Jayhawks.Game 1 | Wichita State 3, Kansas 6 <a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/cc-wong/8967">CC Wong</a>&nbsp;went 2-for-4 with a triple and two runs scored.&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/addison-barnard/7558">Addison Barnard</a>&nbsp;singled and walked three times.&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/bailey-urban/7572">Bailey Urban</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/jessica-garcia/7563">Jessica Garcia</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/krystin-nelson/7568">Krystin Nelson</a>&nbsp;all had a hit apiece.<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/alex-aguilar/7557">Alex Aguilar</a>&nbsp;(3-2) went 4.0 innings in the loss, allowing five runs on six hits.&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/chloe-barber/7573">Chloe Barber</a>&nbsp;threw the final 2.0 innings, giving up a run on two hits. Free passes had been an issue coming into the game, but the Shockers didn't allow a single walk in the game.After Wichita State left the bases loaded to end the top of the first, Kansas wasted little time plating a run. A leadoff single, followed by a hit by pitch led to an RBI double to give the Jayhawks an early 1-0 lead. Aguilar would limit the damage to just one run in the frame, stranding a pair in scoring position.The Shockers loaded the bases again in the third, but could only score one run on a&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/lainee-brown/7559">Lainee Brown</a>&nbsp;fielder's choice.Kansas broke it open in the bottom of the fifth, scoring five runs on four hits and a Wichita State error.Wichita State had one last comeback attempt in the seventh. The Shockers quickly loaded the bases on a Nelson double, Wong single and Barnard walk.&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/taylor-sedlacek/7570">Taylor Sedlacek</a>&nbsp;worked another walk to make it 6-2. Urban manufactured another run on an RBI groundout, but that would be it for the Shockers in the seventh. They left the bases loaded for a third time to end the game.Game 2 | Wichita State 5, Kansas 6 (8) Kansas scored five runs in the bottom of the first, four of them coming on a grand slam, but didn't score again until the winning run crossed the plate in the bottom of the eighth. The Jayhawks put two on base in the bottom of the eighth via single and a two-base throwing error. The game winning run came in the next at bat when Angela Price hit a grounder to&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/cc-wong/8967">CC Wong</a>&nbsp;at second. Wong fired a throw home to cut down the winning run, but&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/lainee-brown/7559">Lainee Brown</a>&nbsp;was called for obstruction at the plate, erasing the second out and giving KU the walk-off win.Wong had a career high four hits, including a home run, two runs scored and two RBI.&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/addison-barnard/7558">Addison Barnard</a>&nbsp;had just one hit, but it was a big one. Her three-run homer tied the game in the top of the seventh to send the game to extra innings.&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/lainee-brown/7559">Lainee Brown</a>&nbsp;had a pair of hits, while&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/jessica-garcia/7563">Jessica Garcia</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/krystin-nelson/7568">Krystin Nelson</a>&nbsp;both had a hit apiece.<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/lauren-howell/7566">Lauren Howell</a>&nbsp;had a rough go in the start. She recorded only two outs before being pulled in the first inning. She allowed five runs on three hits and two walks.&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/alison-cooper/7561">Alison Cooper</a>&nbsp;(2-4) was saddled with the loss even though she was superb in relief. She allowed only two hits through the first 6.0 innings.Wichita State scored a single run in the third and fifth innings, both off the bat of Wong. The first an RBI single and the second a solo home run to center.Down to their final three outs entering the top of the seventh, the Shockers put two on base with a&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/krystin-nelson/7568">Krystin Nelson</a>&nbsp;walk and Wong's fourth hit of the night. Barnard then launced a 2-2 pitch over the wall in left-center to tie the game at 5-5.Wichita State was unable to score in the top of the eighth and was set to have the top of the order come to bat in the ninth.Up Next Wichita State continues conference play this weekend at East Carolina, March 15-17.&nbsp;&nbsp;

🥎 Shockers drop midweek doubleheader at KU

KANSAS CITY (AP) — The Big 12 men's and women's basketball tournaments will remain at T-Mobile Center through 2031, commissioner Brett Yormark said Tuesday night, shortly before Texas and Iowa State played for the women's title in the building for the first time.

The women's tournament had long been played down the street from the glitzy downtown arena at Municipal Auditorium, which has tremendous history as one of the homes of early NCAA championship games but has grown antiquated over time.

One of Yormark's priorities after taking over leadership of the Big 12 was to raise the profile of the women's tournament, and that meant moving it to the T-Mobile Center. That also required moving the dates of the championship, with early-round games occurring last week and the title game Tuesday night following the first two games of the men's tournament.

“I think I said to many last year, when I came here the first time to the community, met with many of the leaders, it was a real easy decision when I went back to Dallas that we needed to double down on this community,” Yormark said. “It feels like a Super Bowl each time we're here. The fan support is tremendous. The community is tremendous.”

The men's and women's tournaments were scheduled to be played in Kansas City through 2027, so the extension amounts to four years. But it also comes as the league expands its footprint west with Arizona, Arizona State, Colorado and Utah replacing Oklahoma and Texas in the league, and that gave the Big 12 other hosting options such as Las Vegas and Phoenix.

In fact, the Big 12 will be holding its football media days in Las Vegas later this year.

“We are a national conference now. We're in 10 states, four time zones,” Yormark said. “When it comes to men's and women's basketball, and women's soccer, this needed to be our home. We're going to football media day in Vegas, which we are excited about, and there will be other opportunities to move closer to that footprint, but we needed to be in Kansas City.”

Along with the basketball tournaments, Yormark announced that the Big 12 women's soccer championship was moving to CPKC Stadium. The first stadium facility built for a women's professional soccer club in the U.S. — in this case, the Kansas City Current of the National Women's Soccer League — is scheduled to open Saturday when the Current plays Portland.

“It's an amazing time to be in Kansas City, and it's an amazing time to invest in Kansas City,” said Mayor Quinton Lucas, who has been supportive of an April ballot issue to renew a sales tax that would help fund renovations to Arrowhead Stadium, the home of the Super Bowl champion Chiefs, along with a new downtown ballpark for the Royals.

“The Big 12 Conference is part of Kansas City's DNA. We all have stories about the Big 12, or if we're old enough, the Big Eight here in Kansas City," Lucas said. "We're excited to continue to share the story in Kansas City.”

In other news, Yormark said the lame-duck status of Oklahoma and Texas, which are departing for the SEC after this season, has not created any challenges even as the Big 12 looks toward the future as a revamped 16-team league.

“Texas and Oklahoma, great contributors to the conference. Been here since Day 1,” Yormark said. “They're finishing strong, obviously, and when the time comes, we'll wish them well. But there's never been a better time to be part of this conference.”

Yormark also indicated that he would be in favor of expanding the NCAA Tournament.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710290857109.jpeg" alt="Photo Big 12 Conference" />
 <figcaption>Photo Big 12 Conference</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY (AP) — The Big 12 men's and women's basketball tournaments will remain at T-Mobile Center through 2031, commissioner Brett Yormark said Tuesday night, shortly before Texas and Iowa State played for the women's title in the building for the first time.The women's tournament had long been played down the street from the glitzy downtown arena at Municipal Auditorium, which has tremendous history as one of the homes of early NCAA championship games but has grown antiquated over time.One of Yormark's priorities after taking over leadership of the Big 12 was to raise the profile of the women's tournament, and that meant moving it to the T-Mobile Center. That also required moving the dates of the championship, with early-round games occurring last week and the title game Tuesday night following the first two games of the men's tournament.“I think I said to many last year, when I came here the first time to the community, met with many of the leaders, it was a real easy decision when I went back to Dallas that we needed to double down on this community,” Yormark said. “It feels like a Super Bowl each time we're here. The fan support is tremendous. The community is tremendous.”The men's and women's tournaments were scheduled to be played in Kansas City through 2027, so the extension amounts to four years. But it also comes as the league expands its footprint west with Arizona, Arizona State, Colorado and Utah replacing Oklahoma and Texas in the league, and that gave the Big 12 other hosting options such as Las Vegas and Phoenix.In fact, the Big 12 will be holding its football media days in Las Vegas later this year.“We are a national conference now. We're in 10 states, four time zones,” Yormark said. “When it comes to men's and women's basketball, and women's soccer, this needed to be our home. We're going to football media day in Vegas, which we are excited about, and there will be other opportunities to move closer to that footprint, but we needed to be in Kansas City.”Along with the basketball tournaments, Yormark announced that the Big 12 women's soccer championship was moving to CPKC Stadium. The first stadium facility built for a women's professional soccer club in the U.S. — in this case, the Kansas City Current of the National Women's Soccer League — is scheduled to open Saturday when the Current plays Portland.“It's an amazing time to be in Kansas City, and it's an amazing time to invest in Kansas City,” said Mayor Quinton Lucas, who has been supportive of an April ballot issue to renew a sales tax that would help fund renovations to Arrowhead Stadium, the home of the Super Bowl champion Chiefs, along with a new downtown ballpark for the Royals.“The Big 12 Conference is part of Kansas City's DNA. We all have stories about the Big 12, or if we're old enough, the Big Eight here in Kansas City," Lucas said. "We're excited to continue to share the story in Kansas City.”In other news, Yormark said the lame-duck status of Oklahoma and Texas, which are departing for the SEC after this season, has not created any challenges even as the Big 12 looks toward the future as a revamped 16-team league.“Texas and Oklahoma, great contributors to the conference. Been here since Day 1,” Yormark said. “They're finishing strong, obviously, and when the time comes, we'll wish them well. But there's never been a better time to be part of this conference.”Yormark also indicated that he would be in favor of expanding the NCAA Tournament."I read what you read, and from what I've been told, and what I'm reading, there could be modest expansion. I think 76 is the number that has been out there," he said. “The data shows if you expand to 76, the power-four conferences will benefit mostly, and that includes the Big 12. I'm all about access. We have the deepest conference in America.”___