LAWRENCE, Kan. (AP) — Hunter Dickinson scored 20 points, KJ Adams had 16 and No. 9 Kansas beat Texas 86-67 on Saturday night.

All five Kansas starters scored in double figures as Johnny Furphy contributed 16, Dajuan Harris had 14 and Nicolas Timberlake scored 13.

Kansas (21-6, 9-5 Big 12) separated midway through the first half with a 12-0 run to take a 28-15 lead which was highlighted by two jams. Furphy back cut on a defender and threw it down between two Longhorns which started the run.

Two minutes later, Timberlake leaped over Dylan Disu for an alley-oop slam from Harris on a two-on-one fast break. The crowd erupted and Kansas used that momentum to distance themselves and take a 45-25 lead at halftime.

The Jayhawks outscored Texas 52-34 in the paint, which led to Kansas shooting 32 of 52 or 62% from the field. Texas shot 26 of 62 or 42% from the field.

Texas (17-10, 6-8) was led by Tyrese Hunter and Dillon Mitchell with 12 points each.

The Jayhawks' Kevin McCullar Jr. missed the game due to a lingering knee injury. Before the game, Kansas coach Bill Self said he is considered “week to week.” He has missed four Big 12 games this season.

Texas: Poor shooting early haunted the Longhorns and they are now in a tie for ninth in the Big 12.

Kansas: Several dunks and a behind-the-back pass for a layup by Elmarko Jackson showcased an impressive first half from the Jayhawks. They showed that when they are hitting on all cylinders, they are as good as anyone in the country.

Texas: Travels to No. 23 Texas Tech on Tuesday night.

Kansas: Hosts No. 25 BYU on Tuesday night.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708824847902.png" alt="Photo Kansas Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Kansas Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>LAWRENCE, Kan. (AP) — Hunter Dickinson scored 20 points, KJ Adams had 16 and No. 9 Kansas beat Texas 86-67 on Saturday night.All five Kansas starters scored in double figures as Johnny Furphy contributed 16, Dajuan Harris had 14 and Nicolas Timberlake scored 13.Kansas (21-6, 9-5 Big 12) separated midway through the first half with a 12-0 run to take a 28-15 lead which was highlighted by two jams. Furphy back cut on a defender and threw it down between two Longhorns which started the run.Two minutes later, Timberlake leaped over Dylan Disu for an alley-oop slam from Harris on a two-on-one fast break. The crowd erupted and Kansas used that momentum to distance themselves and take a 45-25 lead at halftime.The Jayhawks outscored Texas 52-34 in the paint, which led to Kansas shooting 32 of 52 or 62% from the field. Texas shot 26 of 62 or 42% from the field.Texas (17-10, 6-8) was led by Tyrese Hunter and Dillon Mitchell with 12 points each.The Jayhawks' Kevin McCullar Jr. missed the game due to a lingering knee injury. Before the game, Kansas coach Bill Self said he is considered “week to week.” He has missed four Big 12 games this season.BIG PICTURETexas: Poor shooting early haunted the Longhorns and they are now in a tie for ninth in the Big 12.Kansas: Several dunks and a behind-the-back pass for a layup by Elmarko Jackson showcased an impressive first half from the Jayhawks. They showed that when they are hitting on all cylinders, they are as good as anyone in the country.UP NEXTTexas: Travels to No. 23 Texas Tech on Tuesday night.Kansas: Hosts No. 25 BYU on Tuesday night.

🏀 Dickinson scores 20 to lead Kansas past Texas

MANHATTAN, Kan. (AP) — Arthur Kaluma had a career-high 28 points and 10 rebounds as Kansas State beat No. 25 BYU 84-74 on Saturday.

Kaluma was one of five players to score in double-figure for Kansas State (15-11, 5-8 Big 12), which had lost seven of its last eight games. Tylor Perry scored 16 points, David N'Guessan and Cam Carter each had 12, and Will McNair 11.

Jaxson Robinson scored 15 points to lead BYU (19-7, 7-6), which has gone 3-3 in its last six games. Noah Waterman and Spencer Johnson each scored 12 points, and Foussey Traore added 10.

The Wildcats started the second half with a run to retake a double-digit lead. They built a 61-47 advantage with 12:47 left in the game and extended their lead to as many as 16 points before BYU tried to rally late.

Kansas State scored the first eight points of the game and led 12-2 with 16:44 left in the first half. Kansas State extended its lead to 16-4 before BYU used a 10-0 run to close the gap.

The Cougars managed to tie the game at 28 with 6:35 left in the half, but never took a lead. The Wildcats led 42-38 at the break, helped by Kaluma's 16 points and six rebounds. Perry added 10 points.

BYU was slowed by 40.8% (29 for 71) shooting overall, including 20% (6 for 30) from 3-point distance.

BYU: Like a lot of teams in the Big 12, BYU struggles on the road. The Cougars fell to 2-6 in conference road games.

Kansas State: Even with the victory, the Wildcats need a late-season run to earn a return to the NCAA Tournament.

Kansas State: Host West Virginia on Monday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708811476592.png" alt="Photo K-State Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo K-State Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>MANHATTAN, Kan. (AP) — Arthur Kaluma had a career-high 28 points and 10 rebounds as Kansas State beat No. 25 BYU 84-74 on Saturday.Kaluma was one of five players to score in double-figure for Kansas State (15-11, 5-8 Big 12), which had lost seven of its last eight games. Tylor Perry scored 16 points, David N'Guessan and Cam Carter each had 12, and Will McNair 11.Jaxson Robinson scored 15 points to lead BYU (19-7, 7-6), which has gone 3-3 in its last six games. Noah Waterman and Spencer Johnson each scored 12 points, and Foussey Traore added 10.The Wildcats started the second half with a run to retake a double-digit lead. They built a 61-47 advantage with 12:47 left in the game and extended their lead to as many as 16 points before BYU tried to rally late.Kansas State scored the first eight points of the game and led 12-2 with 16:44 left in the first half. Kansas State extended its lead to 16-4 before BYU used a 10-0 run to close the gap.The Cougars managed to tie the game at 28 with 6:35 left in the half, but never took a lead. The Wildcats led 42-38 at the break, helped by Kaluma's 16 points and six rebounds. Perry added 10 points.BYU was slowed by 40.8% (29 for 71) shooting overall, including 20% (6 for 30) from 3-point distance.THE TAKEAWAY:BYU: Like a lot of teams in the Big 12, BYU struggles on the road. The Cougars fell to 2-6 in conference road games.Kansas State: Even with the victory, the Wildcats need a late-season run to earn a return to the NCAA Tournament.UP NEXT:BYU: At No. 9 Kansas on Tuesday.Kansas State: Host West Virginia on Monday.___

🏀 Kaluma scores career-high 28 points, lifting K-State past BYU

NEWTON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Salthawk basketball teams wrapped up the regular season Friday night with two easy wins over the Newton Railers.

The Salthawk girls got off to a great start and cruised to a 63-28 victory while the Salthawk boys struggled early but then got rolling to win 73-36.

Kaia Smith earning high-point honors with 18 followed by Grace Posch with 15. Smith hit four treys in the game while Posch connect on three from long distance. Kolbie Craft came off the bench to score eight, Azariah Dawes nine, Rachal Tomac six, Lily Rodriguez four and Henley Keeton added three.

Newton Amari Henderson led the Railers with 10.

Hutchinson (12-8) draws the 9-seed in the class 5A sub-state and will travel to Kapaun Mt. Carmel on Wednesday night to open Sub-State play at 7 p.m.

Newton (2-18) season comes to an end as they finished in the bottom of class 5A and cannot advance to sub-state.

The Newton Railers played inspired, nothing to lose basketball at least for the first 10 minutes of the game Friday night before the Salthawks finally got the wakeup call and turning off their alarm to come away with a 73-36 victory.

Leading by only two points at the end of the first quarter 15-13, Hutch kicked it into gear and got their transition game going to take a 32-22 lead in at the half.

The Salthawks responded to a stern talk at Halftime to erupt for 28-third quarter points while holding Newton to only seven points to end up winning going away 73- 36.

Hutch was led in scoring by Julian Smith who had 18 points in three quarters of play. Jax Heneha also had 18 with 10 in the first half. Terrell King added 12, Tai Clark nine, Baylee VanSycle six, Devon Spiller four and Danny Boone, Jay Lewis, and Taishaun Govain each had two points.

Hutch High (14-6) enters class 5A sub-state as the 5-seed and will host Goddard Eisenhower at 7 p.m. on Tuesday at the SAC.

Newton (2-18) season comes to an end and will not advance in this years Sub-State.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708780720918.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>NEWTON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Salthawk basketball teams wrapped up the regular season Friday night with two easy wins over the Newton Railers.The Salthawk girls got off to a great start and cruised to a 63-28 victory while the Salthawk boys struggled early but then got rolling to win 73-36.GIRLS GAME RECAP:Kaia Smith earning high-point honors with 18 followed by Grace Posch with 15. Smith hit four treys in the game while Posch connect on three from long distance. Kolbie Craft came off the bench to score eight, Azariah Dawes nine, Rachal Tomac six, Lily Rodriguez four and Henley Keeton added three.Newton Amari Henderson led the Railers with 10.Hutchinson (12-8) draws the 9-seed in the class 5A sub-state and will travel to Kapaun Mt. Carmel on Wednesday night to open Sub-State play at 7 p.m.Newton (2-18) season comes to an end as they finished in the bottom of class 5A and cannot advance to sub-state.BOYS GAME RECAP:The Newton Railers played inspired, nothing to lose basketball at least for the first 10 minutes of the game Friday night before the Salthawks finally got the wakeup call and turning off their alarm to come away with a 73-36 victory.Leading by only two points at the end of the first quarter 15-13, Hutch kicked it into gear and got their transition game going to take a 32-22 lead in at the half.The Salthawks responded to a stern talk at Halftime to erupt for 28-third quarter points while holding Newton to only seven points to end up winning going away 73- 36.Hutch was led in scoring by Julian Smith who had 18 points in three quarters of play. Jax Heneha also had 18 with 10 in the first half. Terrell King added 12, Tai Clark nine, Baylee VanSycle six, Devon Spiller four and Danny Boone, Jay Lewis, and Taishaun Govain each had two points.Hutch High (14-6) enters class 5A sub-state as the 5-seed and will host Goddard Eisenhower at 7 p.m. on Tuesday at the SAC.Newton (2-18) season comes to an end and will not advance in this years Sub-State.

🏀 Salthawks derail Railers in regular season finale 

The Hutch High Salthawk girls will travel to Wichita on Wednesday evening to open Sub-State against Kapaun Mount Carmel at 7 p.m.

Both teams are 12-8 on the season. Other teams in the bracket are undefeated Andover at 20-0 and Goddard Eisenhower at 6-12.

<a href="https://www.kshsaa.org/Public/ScoreCenter/Brackets/Basketball/5ASub-State.cfm?Activity=2&amp;Class=2&amp;WeekID=5728">GIRLS 5A SUB-STATE BRACKET (CLICK HERE)</a>

<a href="https://www.kshsaa.org/Public/Basketball/GirlsSSAssignments.cfm">KSHSAA GIRLS BASKETBALL SUB-STATE ASSIGNMENTS&nbsp;(CLICK HERE)</a>

Hutchinson High boys drew the 5-seed and will be at home for the first game of postseason play, hosting &nbsp;Goddard Eisenhower on Tuesday at 7 p.m. in the Salthawk Activity Center.&nbsp;

Hutchinson is 14-6 while Eisenhower is 8-12. Other teams in the bracket are Great Bend (15-5) and Bishop Carroll (7-13).&nbsp;

Hutch High finished 4th in the 5A state last season.

<a href="https://www.kshsaa.org/Public/ScoreCenter/Brackets/Basketball/5ASub-State.cfm?Activity=2&amp;Class=2&amp;WeekID=5678">BOYS 5A SUB-STATE BRACKET (CLICK HERE)</a>

<a href="https://www.kshsaa.org/Public/Basketball/BoysSSAssignments.cfm">KSHSAA BOYS BASKETBALL SUB-STATE ASSIGNMENTS&nbsp;(CLICK HERE)</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708777549653.jpeg" alt="KSHSAA Sub-State&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>KSHSAA Sub-State&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>The Hutch High Salthawk girls will travel to Wichita on Wednesday evening to open Sub-State against Kapaun Mount Carmel at 7 p.m.Both teams are 12-8 on the season. Other teams in the bracket are undefeated Andover at 20-0 and Goddard Eisenhower at 6-12.<a href="https://www.kshsaa.org/Public/ScoreCenter/Brackets/Basketball/5ASub-State.cfm?Activity=2&amp;Class=2&amp;WeekID=5728">GIRLS 5A SUB-STATE BRACKET (CLICK HERE)</a><a href="https://www.kshsaa.org/Public/Basketball/GirlsSSAssignments.cfm">KSHSAA GIRLS BASKETBALL SUB-STATE ASSIGNMENTS&nbsp;(CLICK HERE)</a>Hutchinson High boys drew the 5-seed and will be at home for the first game of postseason play, hosting &nbsp;Goddard Eisenhower on Tuesday at 7 p.m. in the Salthawk Activity Center.&nbsp;Hutchinson is 14-6 while Eisenhower is 8-12. Other teams in the bracket are Great Bend (15-5) and Bishop Carroll (7-13).&nbsp;Hutch High finished 4th in the 5A state last season.<a href="https://www.kshsaa.org/Public/ScoreCenter/Brackets/Basketball/5ASub-State.cfm?Activity=2&amp;Class=2&amp;WeekID=5678">BOYS 5A SUB-STATE BRACKET (CLICK HERE)</a><a href="https://www.kshsaa.org/Public/Basketball/BoysSSAssignments.cfm">KSHSAA BOYS BASKETBALL SUB-STATE ASSIGNMENTS&nbsp;(CLICK HERE)</a>

🏀 Salthawks 5A Sub-State brackets released

(AP) — The bronze Jackie Robinson cleats that were left behind when a statue of the first player to break Major League Baseball’s color barrier was stolen from a Kansas park are being donated to the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum.

Thieves cut the statue off at its ankles&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/jackie-robinson-baseball-statue-stolen-beea370b17079ad30092affe6aaea3c1" target="_blank">last month,</a>&nbsp;leaving only the feet behind at McAdams Park in Wichita. About 600 children play there in a youth baseball league called League 42. It is named after&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/jackie-robinson" target="_blank">Robinson’</a>&nbsp;s uniform number with the Brooklyn Dodgers, with whom he broke the major leagues’ color barrier in 1947.

Bob Lutz, executive director of the Little League nonprofit that commissioned the sculpture, said the museum in Kansas City, Missouri, was “enthusiastic” about incorporating the cleats into its display on Robinson. 

The display also includes a damaged&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/mlb-sports-travel-georgia-baseball-29523970d7e8dfeedd87aa468b614c49" target="_blank">plaque</a>&nbsp;honoring Robinson. The sign was erected in 2001 outside the birthplace of Robinson near Cairo, Georgia. Community members there discovered last year that someone had shot the plaque multiple times.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“It’s kind of sad in its own way, that we’re building this little shrine of Jackie Robinson stuff that has been defaced or damaged,” said Bob Kendrick, the president of the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum. “But it gives us an opportunity to speak to who he was, the characteristics and value of what he represented, even in the face of adversity. And that message really never goes out of style.”

Robinson played for the Kansas City Monarchs of the Negro Leagues before joining the Brooklyn Dodgers, paving the way for generations of Black American ballplayers. He’s considered not only a sports legend but also&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/mlb-entertainment-sports-los-angeles-baseball-d73b75a6965310bfd087c165e93dc0c6" target="_blank">a civil rights icon</a>. Robinson died in 1972.

Fire crews found burned remnants of his statue five days&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/jackie-robinson-baseball-statue-stolen-45c08bbbd29322c05e6136a67f687459" target="_blank">after the theft</a>&nbsp;while responding to a trash can fire at another park about 7 miles (11.27 kilometers) away. One man was charged this month in the theft. Police said there was no evidence it was a hate-motivated crime, but rather the intent was to sell the metal for scrap.

Donations poured in after the theft, totaling around $300,000, Lutz said. The amount includes a $100,000 gift from Major League Baseball.

Lutz, whose friend, the artist John Parsons, made the statue before his death, said the mold is still viable and anticipated that a replacement can be erected within a matter of months. He estimated it would cost around $45,000 to replace the statue itself. While there also will be security and lighting expenses, that leaves lots of extra money that can be used to enhance some of the league’s programming and facilities, Lutz said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708748350654.png" alt="FILE - A bronze statue of legendary baseball pioneer Jackie Robinson was stolen from a park in Wichita, Kan., during the early morning hours of Thursday, Jan. 25, 2024. The bronze Jackie Robinson cleats that were left behind when a statue of the first player to break Major League Baseball’s color barrier was stolen from a Kansas park are being donated to the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum. (Travis Heying/The Wichita Eagle via AP, File)" />
 <figcaption>FILE - A bronze statue of legendary baseball pioneer Jackie Robinson was stolen from a park in Wichita, Kan., during the early morning hours of Thursday, Jan. 25, 2024. The bronze Jackie Robinson cleats that were left behind when a statue of the first player to break Major League Baseball’s color barrier was stolen from a Kansas park are being donated to the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum. (Travis Heying/The Wichita Eagle via AP, File)</figcaption>
 </figure>(AP) — The bronze Jackie Robinson cleats that were left behind when a statue of the first player to break Major League Baseball’s color barrier was stolen from a Kansas park are being donated to the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum.Thieves cut the statue off at its ankles&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/jackie-robinson-baseball-statue-stolen-beea370b17079ad30092affe6aaea3c1" target="_blank">last month,</a>&nbsp;leaving only the feet behind at McAdams Park in Wichita. About 600 children play there in a youth baseball league called League 42. It is named after&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/jackie-robinson" target="_blank">Robinson’</a>&nbsp;s uniform number with the Brooklyn Dodgers, with whom he broke the major leagues’ color barrier in 1947.Bob Lutz, executive director of the Little League nonprofit that commissioned the sculpture, said the museum in Kansas City, Missouri, was “enthusiastic” about incorporating the cleats into its display on Robinson. The display also includes a damaged&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/mlb-sports-travel-georgia-baseball-29523970d7e8dfeedd87aa468b614c49" target="_blank">plaque</a>&nbsp;honoring Robinson. The sign was erected in 2001 outside the birthplace of Robinson near Cairo, Georgia. Community members there discovered last year that someone had shot the plaque multiple times.&nbsp;&nbsp;“It’s kind of sad in its own way, that we’re building this little shrine of Jackie Robinson stuff that has been defaced or damaged,” said Bob Kendrick, the president of the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum. “But it gives us an opportunity to speak to who he was, the characteristics and value of what he represented, even in the face of adversity. And that message really never goes out of style.”Robinson played for the Kansas City Monarchs of the Negro Leagues before joining the Brooklyn Dodgers, paving the way for generations of Black American ballplayers. He’s considered not only a sports legend but also&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/mlb-entertainment-sports-los-angeles-baseball-d73b75a6965310bfd087c165e93dc0c6" target="_blank">a civil rights icon</a>. Robinson died in 1972.Fire crews found burned remnants of his statue five days&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/jackie-robinson-baseball-statue-stolen-45c08bbbd29322c05e6136a67f687459" target="_blank">after the theft</a>&nbsp;while responding to a trash can fire at another park about 7 miles (11.27 kilometers) away. One man was charged this month in the theft. Police said there was no evidence it was a hate-motivated crime, but rather the intent was to sell the metal for scrap.Donations poured in after the theft, totaling around $300,000, Lutz said. The amount includes a $100,000 gift from Major League Baseball.Lutz, whose friend, the artist John Parsons, made the statue before his death, said the mold is still viable and anticipated that a replacement can be erected within a matter of months. He estimated it would cost around $45,000 to replace the statue itself. While there also will be security and lighting expenses, that leaves lots of extra money that can be used to enhance some of the league’s programming and facilities, Lutz said.

⚾ Cleats left behind after Jackie Robinson statue was stolen to be donated to Negro League Museum

Judge hands NCAA another loss, says compensation rules likely violate antitrust law, harm athletes

A federal judge has barred the NCAA from enforcing its rules prohibiting name, image and likeness compensation from being used to recruit athletes. The judge granted a preliminary injunction requested by the states of Tennessee and Virginia. The ruling undercuts what has been a fundamental principle of the NCAA's model of amateurism for decades: Third parties cannot pay recruits to attend a particular school. The judge wrote the NCAA's prohibition likely violates federal antitrust law and harms athletes.

NCAA president says Congress must act to preserve sports at colleges that can't pay athletes

WASHINGTON (AP) — NCAA President Charlie Baker says action by Congress was needed to protect what he described as the "95 percent" of athletes whose ability to play college sports would be endangered by a court ruling or regulatory decision declaring them as employees of their schools. Baker spoke to a small group of reporters in Washington on Friday and was hopeful about the prospect of Congress granting the NCAA a limited antitrust exemption that would protect it from litigation. The NCAA is facing several lawsuits that could result in athletes being classified as employees. But Baker says the vast majority of schools lose money on sports and could not afford to pay athletes.

Russian Olympic Committee loses appeal against suspension by the IOC

LAUSANNE, Switzerland (AP) — The Russian Olympic Committee has lost an appeal against its suspension by the International Olympic Committee. The Court of Arbitration for Sport says it dismissed the ROC's appeal against the suspension imposed in October. The IOC objected to the ROC incorporating four sports bodies representing regions of eastern Ukraine. CAS says it found the IOC's suspension "did not breach the principles of legality, equality, predictability or proportionality." The suspension removed the ROC's right to receive funding from the IOC but has not affected any Russians who are competing in international sports as neutral athletes.

Bucks overtake Timberwolves 112-107 behind 33 points from Antetokounmpo

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Giannis Antetokounmpo had 33 points and 13 rebounds to help the Milwaukee Bucks surge out of the All-Star break with a 112-107 victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves. Minnesota dropped into a tie with Oklahoma City for the Western Conference lead at 39-17. Anthony Edwards made three 3-pointers in the final 1:58 to give the Wolves a late chance, but Damian Lillard iced it for the Bucks with a 21-footer with 10.3 seconds left. Lillard had 21 points, 10 assists and nine rebounds to overshadow an 8-for-23 shooting night and help the Bucks improve to 4-7 under new coach Doc Rivers.

Heat's Jimmy Butler, 3 others, ejected after scuffle with Pelicans

NEW ORLEANS (AP) — Miami's Jimmy Butler was among four players ejected after a scuffle early in the fourth quarter in the Heat's 106-95 victory over the New Orleans Pelicans on Friday night. Heat reserve Thomas Bryant and two Pelicans — Jose Alvarado and Naji Marshall, also were ejected after fisticuffs erupted with 11:19 left and Miami leading 84-81. The scuffle began after Pelicans star forward Zion Williamson stole the ball from Butler, and Kevin Love grabbed Williamson to prevent an uncontested layup. As Love was whistled for a foul, Williamson fell to the court and Marshall rushed in to object to the way Williamson was fouled. Butler engaged Marshall and they briefly grabbed each other by the neck as teammates and coaches animatedly swarmed around them.

Why is there a pants problem in Major League Baseball during spring training?

MESA, Ariz. (AP) — Major League Baseball is showing off its new uniforms during this year's spring training. The biggest problem is they might be showing too much. A series of pictures have shown a slightly embarrassing problem with MLB's new look: At least a handful of teams have pants that are relatively see-through, making for some less-than-ideal pictures throughout the league. Nike has been designing MLB uniforms since 2020 and Fanatics has been manufacturing them since 2017, but this is the first year for the Nike Vapor Premier jerseys.

NFL's salary cap skyrockets to $255.4 million, up a record $30.6 million

NEW YORK (AP) — The NFL's salary cap for 2024 will be $255.4 million, up a record $30.6 million from last year. The cap number has gone from $198.2 million in 2020 to $182.5 million in 2021 following the COVID-19 pandemic. It increased to $208.2 million in 2022 and $224.8 million last year. Teams are heading into next week's NFL combine and preparing for the free agency period to open March 13 with an opportunity to spend more freely. The increased cap total could impact how teams use the franchise tag. The 15-day window to apply the tag to impending free agents began on Feb. 20.

Steve Kerr, Golden State agree to $35 million, 2-year extension, AP sources say

SAN FRANCISCO (AP) — Golden State Warriors coach Steve Kerr has agreed to a two-year contract extension for $35 million, according to two people with direct knowledge of the negotiations. The people spoke on condition of anonymity because Kerr hasn't signed his new contract. ESPN first reported the new pact, attributing that to Kerr's agents at Priority Sports. It would be a record for annual value. In his 10th season, Kerr's current deal was set to expire after this season — and he hadn't been in a rush, with the season his top priority and him being clear he always planned on returning.

Former Cowboys receiver Golden Richards, known for famous Super Bowl catch, dies at 73

MURRAY, Utah (AP) — Golden Richards, the former Dallas Cowboys receiver known for his flowing blond hair who famously caught a touchdown pass off a gadget play in the 1978 Super Bowl, died Friday of congestive heart failure at his home in Murray, Utah. He was 73. Richards' nephew, Lance Richards, confirmed the death in a Facebook post. The former BYU star spent seven seasons in the NFL with Dallas, Chicago and Denver, and is best known for his five-plus seasons as a deep-play threat with the Cowboys. That was especially evident in the 1978 Super Bowl against Denver. With the Cowboys ahead 20-10 in the fourth quarter, fullback Robert Newhouse threw a 29-yard touchdown pass to Richards to all but assure the Cowboys of their second championship.

3 University of Wyoming swimmers killed in highway crash in Colorado

CHEYENNE, Wyo. (AP) — Three members of the University of Wyoming swimming and diving team were killed in a highway crash in northern Colorado. The crash happened Thursday afternoon on U.S. 287 about 10 miles south of the Wyoming-Colorado line between Laramie, Wyoming, and Fort Collins, Colorado. A University of Wyoming statement says the crash injured two other team members who are expected to survive. The crash happened when the driver swerved off the road and the SUV rolled over multiple times. Eight University of Wyoming cross-country runners died in a head-on crash with a drunk driver on the same highway in 2001.

Here are the scores from yesterday's sports events:

		San Diego	at	(18)Saint Mary's (Cal.)	10 p.m.	

		(19)San Diego St.	at	Fresno St.	10 p.m.	

		(20)South Carolina	at	Mississippi	3:30 p.m.	

		(21)Washington St.	at	Arizona St.	8 p.m.	

		New York City FC	at	Charlotte FC	7:30 p.m.	

		CF Montréal	at	Orlando City	7:30 p.m.	

		Sporting Kansas City	at	Houston	8:30 p.m.	

		Real Salt Lake	at	St Louis City	8:30 p.m.	

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1701494597443.png" alt="Sports Headlines and News for Saturday, February 24th, 2024." />
 <figcaption>Sports Headlines and News for Saturday, February 24th, 2024.</figcaption>
 </figure>AP Sports SummaryBrief at 2:05 a.m. ESTJudge hands NCAA another loss, says compensation rules likely violate antitrust law, harm athletesA federal judge has barred the NCAA from enforcing its rules prohibiting name, image and likeness compensation from being used to recruit athletes. The judge granted a preliminary injunction requested by the states of Tennessee and Virginia. The ruling undercuts what has been a fundamental principle of the NCAA's model of amateurism for decades: Third parties cannot pay recruits to attend a particular school. The judge wrote the NCAA's prohibition likely violates federal antitrust law and harms athletes.NCAA president says Congress must act to preserve sports at colleges that can't pay athletesWASHINGTON (AP) — NCAA President Charlie Baker says action by Congress was needed to protect what he described as the "95 percent" of athletes whose ability to play college sports would be endangered by a court ruling or regulatory decision declaring them as employees of their schools. Baker spoke to a small group of reporters in Washington on Friday and was hopeful about the prospect of Congress granting the NCAA a limited antitrust exemption that would protect it from litigation. The NCAA is facing several lawsuits that could result in athletes being classified as employees. But Baker says the vast majority of schools lose money on sports and could not afford to pay athletes.Russian Olympic Committee loses appeal against suspension by the IOCLAUSANNE, Switzerland (AP) — The Russian Olympic Committee has lost an appeal against its suspension by the International Olympic Committee. The Court of Arbitration for Sport says it dismissed the ROC's appeal against the suspension imposed in October. The IOC objected to the ROC incorporating four sports bodies representing regions of eastern Ukraine. CAS says it found the IOC's suspension "did not breach the principles of legality, equality, predictability or proportionality." The suspension removed the ROC's right to receive funding from the IOC but has not affected any Russians who are competing in international sports as neutral athletes.Bucks overtake Timberwolves 112-107 behind 33 points from AntetokounmpoMINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Giannis Antetokounmpo had 33 points and 13 rebounds to help the Milwaukee Bucks surge out of the All-Star break with a 112-107 victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves. Minnesota dropped into a tie with Oklahoma City for the Western Conference lead at 39-17. Anthony Edwards made three 3-pointers in the final 1:58 to give the Wolves a late chance, but Damian Lillard iced it for the Bucks with a 21-footer with 10.3 seconds left. Lillard had 21 points, 10 assists and nine rebounds to overshadow an 8-for-23 shooting night and help the Bucks improve to 4-7 under new coach Doc Rivers.Heat's Jimmy Butler, 3 others, ejected after scuffle with PelicansNEW ORLEANS (AP) — Miami's Jimmy Butler was among four players ejected after a scuffle early in the fourth quarter in the Heat's 106-95 victory over the New Orleans Pelicans on Friday night. Heat reserve Thomas Bryant and two Pelicans — Jose Alvarado and Naji Marshall, also were ejected after fisticuffs erupted with 11:19 left and Miami leading 84-81. The scuffle began after Pelicans star forward Zion Williamson stole the ball from Butler, and Kevin Love grabbed Williamson to prevent an uncontested layup. As Love was whistled for a foul, Williamson fell to the court and Marshall rushed in to object to the way Williamson was fouled. Butler engaged Marshall and they briefly grabbed each other by the neck as teammates and coaches animatedly swarmed around them.Why is there a pants problem in Major League Baseball during spring training?MESA, Ariz. (AP) — Major League Baseball is showing off its new uniforms during this year's spring training. The biggest problem is they might be showing too much. A series of pictures have shown a slightly embarrassing problem with MLB's new look: At least a handful of teams have pants that are relatively see-through, making for some less-than-ideal pictures throughout the league. Nike has been designing MLB uniforms since 2020 and Fanatics has been manufacturing them since 2017, but this is the first year for the Nike Vapor Premier jerseys.NFL's salary cap skyrockets to $255.4 million, up a record $30.6 millionNEW YORK (AP) — The NFL's salary cap for 2024 will be $255.4 million, up a record $30.6 million from last year. The cap number has gone from $198.2 million in 2020 to $182.5 million in 2021 following the COVID-19 pandemic. It increased to $208.2 million in 2022 and $224.8 million last year. Teams are heading into next week's NFL combine and preparing for the free agency period to open March 13 with an opportunity to spend more freely. The increased cap total could impact how teams use the franchise tag. The 15-day window to apply the tag to impending free agents began on Feb. 20.Steve Kerr, Golden State agree to $35 million, 2-year extension, AP sources saySAN FRANCISCO (AP) — Golden State Warriors coach Steve Kerr has agreed to a two-year contract extension for $35 million, according to two people with direct knowledge of the negotiations. The people spoke on condition of anonymity because Kerr hasn't signed his new contract. ESPN first reported the new pact, attributing that to Kerr's agents at Priority Sports. It would be a record for annual value. In his 10th season, Kerr's current deal was set to expire after this season — and he hadn't been in a rush, with the season his top priority and him being clear he always planned on returning.Former Cowboys receiver Golden Richards, known for famous Super Bowl catch, dies at 73MURRAY, Utah (AP) — Golden Richards, the former Dallas Cowboys receiver known for his flowing blond hair who famously caught a touchdown pass off a gadget play in the 1978 Super Bowl, died Friday of congestive heart failure at his home in Murray, Utah. He was 73. Richards' nephew, Lance Richards, confirmed the death in a Facebook post. The former BYU star spent seven seasons in the NFL with Dallas, Chicago and Denver, and is best known for his five-plus seasons as a deep-play threat with the Cowboys. That was especially evident in the 1978 Super Bowl against Denver. With the Cowboys ahead 20-10 in the fourth quarter, fullback Robert Newhouse threw a 29-yard touchdown pass to Richards to all but assure the Cowboys of their second championship.3 University of Wyoming swimmers killed in highway crash in ColoradoCHEYENNE, Wyo. (AP) — Three members of the University of Wyoming swimming and diving team were killed in a highway crash in northern Colorado. The crash happened Thursday afternoon on U.S. 287 about 10 miles south of the Wyoming-Colorado line between Laramie, Wyoming, and Fort Collins, Colorado. A University of Wyoming statement says the crash injured two other team members who are expected to survive. The crash happened when the driver swerved off the road and the SUV rolled over multiple times. Eight University of Wyoming cross-country runners died in a head-on crash with a drunk driver on the same highway in 2001.AP-ScorecardHere are the scores from yesterday's sports events:___NATIONAL BASKETBALL ASSOCIATIONFinal	Toronto	123	Atlanta	121	Final	Philadelphia	104	Cleveland	97	Final	Oklahoma City	147	Washington	106	Final	L.A. Clippers	101	Memphis	95	Final	Miami	106	New Orleans	95	Final	Houston	114	Phoenix	110	Final	Denver	127	Portland	112	Final	Golden State	97	Charlotte	84	Final	Milwaukee	112	Minnesota	107	Final	L.A. Lakers	123	San Antonio	118	___NATIONAL HOCKEY LEAGUEFinal	Buffalo	2	Columbus	1	Final OT	Winnipeg	3	Chicago	2	Final	Minnesota	4	Edmonton	2	___TODAY'S SPORTS SCHEDULE___NATIONAL BASKETBALL ASSOCIATION		Orlando	at	Detroit	8 p.m.			Boston	at	New York	8:30 p.m.			Brooklyn	at	Minnesota	9 p.m.	___NATIONAL HOCKEY LEAGUE		St. Louis	at	Detroit	12 p.m.			Montreal	at	New Jersey	2 p.m.			Tampa Bay	at	N-Y Islanders	2 p.m.			N-Y Rangers	at	Philadelphia	3 p.m.			Washington	at	Florida	6 p.m.			Boston	at	Vancouver	7 p.m.			Toronto	at	Colorado	7 p.m.			Vegas	at	Ottawa	7 p.m.			Dallas	at	Carolina	8 p.m.			Calgary	at	Edmonton	10 p.m.			Minnesota	at	Seattle	10 p.m.			Nashville	at	San Jose	10 p.m.			Anaheim	at	Los Angeles	10:30 p.m.	___TOP-25 COLLEGE BASKETBALL		Villanova	at	(1)UConn	8 p.m.			(2)Houston	at	(11)Baylor	12 p.m.			Washington	at	(4)Arizona	2 p.m.			Texas A&amp;M	at	(5)Tennessee	8 p.m.			West Virginia	at	(6)Iowa St.	2 p.m.			(8)Duke	at	Wake Forest	2 p.m.			Texas	at	(9)Kansas	6 p.m.			(10)North Carolina	at	Virginia	4 p.m.			Iowa	at	(12)Illinois	2:15 p.m.			(13)Alabama	at	(17)Kentucky	4 p.m.			(14)Auburn	at	Georgia	6 p.m.			San Diego	at	(18)Saint Mary's (Cal.)	10 p.m.			(19)San Diego St.	at	Fresno St.	10 p.m.			(20)South Carolina	at	Mississippi	3:30 p.m.			(21)Washington St.	at	Arizona St.	8 p.m.			(22)Colorado St.	at	UNLV	8 p.m.			(23)Texas Tech	at	UCF	4 p.m.			Vanderbilt	at	(24)Florida	1 p.m.			(25)BYU	at	Kansas St.	2 p.m.	___MAJOR LEAGUE SOCCER		Atlanta	at	Columbus	2 p.m.			Seattle	at	Los Angeles FC	4:30 p.m.			New York City FC	at	Charlotte FC	7:30 p.m.			New England	at	D.C. United	7:30 p.m.			CF Montréal	at	Orlando City	7:30 p.m.			Chicago	at	Philadelphia	7:30 p.m.			Minnesota	at	Austin FC	8:30 p.m.			San Jose	at	FC Dallas	8:30 p.m.			Sporting Kansas City	at	Houston	8:30 p.m.			Real Salt Lake	at	St Louis City	8:30 p.m.			Colorado	at	Portland	10:30 p.m.

📢📰 Sports Headlines for Saturday

Andover Central 63, Goddard-Eisenhower 44

Wichita Campus 81, Salina Central 63

Andover Central 36, Goddard-Eisenhower 32

Pretty Prairie 42, Burden Central 19

South Central 46, Pratt Skyline 23

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1701785757574.png" alt="Eagle Media HS Basketball Scoreboard from Friday, February 23rd, 2024." />
 <figcaption>Eagle Media HS Basketball Scoreboard from Friday, February 23rd, 2024.</figcaption>
 </figure>Friday's ScoresThe Associated Press<h2>BOYS PREP BASKETBALL=</h2>Andover 66, Valley Center 53Andover Central 63, Goddard-Eisenhower 44Atchison 56, KC Schlagle 34BV Southwest 74, BV North 65Baldwin 70, Bonner Springs 43Blue Valley 58, Bishop Miege 47Coffeyville 50, Labette County 49De Soto 64, Basehor-Linwood 42Derby 57, Maize 53Eudora 58, Topeka Hayden 56Fort Scott 58, Independence 45Great Bend 67, Hays 54Highland Park 67, KC Washington 43Hutchinson 73, Newton 36KC Turner 50, Lansing 44KC Wyandotte 70, KC Harmon 37Lawrence 69, Gardner-Edgerton 51Maize South 76, Salina South 53Mill Valley 68, Lawrence Free State 50Olathe East 64, Olathe West 63Olathe North 69, Olathe Northwest 58Ottawa 46, Spring Hill 33Parsons 50, Chanute 41SM North 61, SM West 42SM Northwest 81, Olathe South 67SM South 32, SM East 31Shawnee Heights 68, KC Piper 64St. Thomas Aquinas 75, BV West 58Topeka West 68, Leavenworth 35Wichita Campus 81, Salina Central 63Friday's ScoresThe Associated Press<h2>GIRLS PREP BASKETBALL=</h2>Andover 47, Valley Center 29Andover Central 36, Goddard-Eisenhower 32BV North 68, BV Southwest 42Baldwin 49, Bonner Springs 38Bishop Miege 57, Blue Valley 37De Soto 56, Basehor-Linwood 40Derby 51, Maize 28Emporia 39, Washburn Rural 31Eudora 45, Topeka Hayden 39Fort Scott 35, Independence 28Goddard 47, Arkansas City 30Hays 42, Great Bend 36Highland Park 63, KC Washington 42Hutchinson 63, Newton 28KC Piper 54, Shawnee Heights 50KC Wyandotte 27, KC Harmon 16Lawrence 54, Gardner-Edgerton 51Maize South 43, Salina South 19Olathe East 64, Olathe West 63Olathe Northwest 54, Olathe North 50SM Northwest 48, Olathe South 40SM South 63, SM East 35SM West 37, SM North 34Salina Central 55, Wichita Campus 18Silver Lake 58, Wabaunsee 36Spring Hill 48, Ottawa 41St. James Academy 62, BV Northwest 42St. Thomas Aquinas 71, BV West 33Topeka Seaman 73, KC Turner 13Topeka West 41, Leavenworth 15KSHSAA Sub-State=Quarterfinal=Class 1A, Div. 1=Central=Pretty Prairie 42, Burden Central 19Udall 57, Fairfield 44Decatur=Oberlin-Decatur 52, Ness City 25St Francis 47, Stockton 39Doniphan West=Doniphan West 47, Northern Heights 13Troy 60, Onaga 33Flinthills=Madison 62, Yates Center 21Olpe 95, Oswego 16Rock Hills=Clifton-Clyde 66, Lakeside 21Washington County 53, Rock Hills 40Skyline=Ashland 40, Kiowa County 38Elkhart 53, Minneola 50South Central 46, Pratt Skyline 23Solomon=Canton-Galva 49, Wakefield 23Goessel 60, Solomon 23Sylvan-Lucas 73, Rural Vista 25St. John=Central Plains 54, La Crosse 42Hodgeman County 58, Macksville 41Spearville 48, Kinsley 13Class 1A, Div. 2=Blue Valley=Linn 63, Blue Valley Randolph 51Bucklin=Deerfield 43, Rolla 36Ingalls 51, Satanta 21Golden Plains=Cheylin 56, Logan 40Northern Valley 45, Golden Plains 29Thunder Ridge 42, Natoma 32Lebo=Elyria Christian 60, Peabody-Burns 6Hartford 48, Centre 19South Haven=Cunningham 31, South Barber 27Stafford=Otis-Bison 40, Tescott 29Victoria 48, Stafford 17

🏀 EAGLE Media Scoreboard from Friday games

WACO, Texas – The Hutchinson Community College baseball team saw its eight-game winning streak to start the season come to an end as the No. 11 McLennan Highlanders swept the first two games of a weekend three-game set at Bosque River Ballpark.

McLennan ended the Blue Dragons' third-longest win streak to start a season in team history with victories of 4-1 and 6-1 on Friday in Games 1 and 2.

Now 8-2 for the season, the Blue Dragons will complete the three-game series with McLennan at Noon on Saturday in the series finale.

GAME 1 RECAP – McLennan 4, Hutchinson 1 The Blue Dragons were limited to a season-low two hits and were out-hit 8-2.

<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2023-24/bios/babin_kael_g1ow">Kael Babin</a>&nbsp;had a single in the third inning.&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2023-24/bios/gunderson_cody_npi8">Cody Gunderson</a>&nbsp;led off the sixth with a solo home run for his third home run of the season.

The Blue Dragons loaded the bases in the fourth with an error and two hit batsmen, but were unable to score. The Dragons stranded seven runners on base.

<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2023-24/bios/giesbrecht_ethan_qz2n">Ethan Giesbrecht</a>&nbsp;(1-1) was the losing pitcher, working 5 1-3 innings. Giesbrecht allowed eight hits and four earned runs with six strikeouts and one walk.&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2023-24/bios/hadden_jacob_atac">Jacob Hadden</a>&nbsp;retired both batters he faces with one strikeout.

McLennan scored single runs in the second and fourth innings and two runs in the sixth.

GAME 2 RECAP – McLennan 6, Hutchinson 1 Three McLennan pitchers combined for 10 strikeouts and allowed five hits to the Blue Dragons in the second game.

<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2023-24/bios/pimental-guerrero_luis_ubag">Luis Pimentel-Guerrero</a>&nbsp;went 2 for 4 with a double and a run scored to lead Hutchinson offensively. Pimentel-Guerrero doubled in the seventh and singled in the ninth. He scored Hutchinson's lone run in the ninth when he moved up to second on balk and scored on a throwing error by the Highlanders.

<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2023-24/bios/cymbalista_colin_rw61">Colin Cymbalista</a>&nbsp;had a triple while Gunderson and&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2023-24/bios/wesslund_cooper_2jkh">Cooper Wesslund</a>&nbsp;both had singles.

<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2023-24/bios/ojeda_sam_kyqt">Sam Ojeda</a>&nbsp;(1-1) started and suffered his first loss of the season Ojeda worked 4 2-3 innings and allowed three earned runs and six hits with five strikeouts.&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2023-24/bios/wandless_caden_3vbw">Caden Wanless</a>&nbsp;finished out the sixth inning.&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2023-24/bios/mckay_gus_ihyq">Gus McKay</a>&nbsp;struck out two in two scoreless innings.

Combined in the doubleheader, seven Blue Dragon batters were hit with pitches, brining Hutchinson's season total to 43 in the first 10 games of the season.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708748155658.jpeg" alt="Blue Dragon baseball dropped games of 4-1 and 6-1 on Friday against No. 11 McLennan College at Bosque River Ballpark in Waco, Texas. (McKenzie Franklin/Blue Dragon Sports Information)." />
 <figcaption>Blue Dragon baseball dropped games of 4-1 and 6-1 on Friday against No. 11 McLennan College at Bosque River Ballpark in Waco, Texas. (McKenzie Franklin/Blue Dragon Sports Information).</figcaption>
 </figure>Courtesy of HutchCC AthleticsWACO, Texas – The Hutchinson Community College baseball team saw its eight-game winning streak to start the season come to an end as the No. 11 McLennan Highlanders swept the first two games of a weekend three-game set at Bosque River Ballpark.McLennan ended the Blue Dragons' third-longest win streak to start a season in team history with victories of 4-1 and 6-1 on Friday in Games 1 and 2.Now 8-2 for the season, the Blue Dragons will complete the three-game series with McLennan at Noon on Saturday in the series finale.GAME 1 RECAP – McLennan 4, Hutchinson 1 The Blue Dragons were limited to a season-low two hits and were out-hit 8-2.<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2023-24/bios/babin_kael_g1ow">Kael Babin</a>&nbsp;had a single in the third inning.&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2023-24/bios/gunderson_cody_npi8">Cody Gunderson</a>&nbsp;led off the sixth with a solo home run for his third home run of the season.The Blue Dragons loaded the bases in the fourth with an error and two hit batsmen, but were unable to score. The Dragons stranded seven runners on base.<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2023-24/bios/giesbrecht_ethan_qz2n">Ethan Giesbrecht</a>&nbsp;(1-1) was the losing pitcher, working 5 1-3 innings. Giesbrecht allowed eight hits and four earned runs with six strikeouts and one walk.&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2023-24/bios/hadden_jacob_atac">Jacob Hadden</a>&nbsp;retired both batters he faces with one strikeout.McLennan scored single runs in the second and fourth innings and two runs in the sixth.GAME 2 RECAP – McLennan 6, Hutchinson 1 Three McLennan pitchers combined for 10 strikeouts and allowed five hits to the Blue Dragons in the second game.<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2023-24/bios/pimental-guerrero_luis_ubag">Luis Pimentel-Guerrero</a>&nbsp;went 2 for 4 with a double and a run scored to lead Hutchinson offensively. Pimentel-Guerrero doubled in the seventh and singled in the ninth. He scored Hutchinson's lone run in the ninth when he moved up to second on balk and scored on a throwing error by the Highlanders.<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2023-24/bios/cymbalista_colin_rw61">Colin Cymbalista</a>&nbsp;had a triple while Gunderson and&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2023-24/bios/wesslund_cooper_2jkh">Cooper Wesslund</a>&nbsp;both had singles.<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2023-24/bios/ojeda_sam_kyqt">Sam Ojeda</a>&nbsp;(1-1) started and suffered his first loss of the season Ojeda worked 4 2-3 innings and allowed three earned runs and six hits with five strikeouts.&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2023-24/bios/wandless_caden_3vbw">Caden Wanless</a>&nbsp;finished out the sixth inning.&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2023-24/bios/mckay_gus_ihyq">Gus McKay</a>&nbsp;struck out two in two scoreless innings.Combined in the doubleheader, seven Blue Dragon batters were hit with pitches, brining Hutchinson's season total to 43 in the first 10 games of the season.

⚾ Dragons lose two at No. 11 McLennan

SURPRISE, ARIZONA -The Texas Rangers opened their Cactus League spring training schedule with a&nbsp;5-4 win&nbsp;against the Kansas City Royals Friday afternoon at Surprise Stadium. The Rangers only had four hits but walked seven times against a Royals staff struggling with its control.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1597524997031.jpeg" alt="Royals drop Cactus League opener to Texas Rangers." />
 <figcaption>Royals drop Cactus League opener to Texas Rangers.</figcaption>
 </figure>SURPRISE, ARIZONA -The Texas Rangers opened their Cactus League spring training schedule with a&nbsp;5-4 win&nbsp;against the Kansas City Royals Friday afternoon at Surprise Stadium. The Rangers only had four hits but walked seven times against a Royals staff struggling with its control.<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/1KAwH185qZs?si=8Ily6_gyBGFa3Qc5" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>

⚾ Royals drop Cactus League opener to World Champion Rangers on opening day

DUE TO POOR BROAD BAND CONNECTION WE ARE UNABLE TO STREAM TONIGHT 

NEWTON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Salthawk basketball teams travel to Newton &nbsp;tonight for the last regular season games prior to sub-state..

Catch all the action on KWBW Radio 1450-AM/98.5-FM with the award winning EAGLE Media sportscast crew, consisting of Glen Grunwald with the play-by-play call and Dan "Coach Nac" Naccarato.&nbsp;

The broadcast is available and archived on the Hutch High&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nfhsnetwork.com/">NFHS Video Stream</a>. The stream&nbsp;is free but you must register to watch if you don't have a NFHS Network account.&nbsp;

Here is a "How to Video" to assist you in setting up your NFHS Network account. &nbsp;<a href="https://youtu.be/yzsjAoVP5Ts">CLICK HERE</a>

The girls game will tip at 6 p.m. followed by boys action at 7:30 p.m.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708690186877.png" alt="Gameday @ Newton - February 23rd, 2024_Final Regular Season Game" />
 <figcaption>Gameday @ Newton - February 23rd, 2024_Final Regular Season Game</figcaption>
 </figure>DUE TO POOR BROAD BAND CONNECTION WE ARE UNABLE TO STREAM TONIGHT NEWTON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Salthawk basketball teams travel to Newton &nbsp;tonight for the last regular season games prior to sub-state..Catch all the action on KWBW Radio 1450-AM/98.5-FM with the award winning EAGLE Media sportscast crew, consisting of Glen Grunwald with the play-by-play call and Dan "Coach Nac" Naccarato.&nbsp;The broadcast is available and archived on the Hutch High&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nfhsnetwork.com/">NFHS Video Stream</a>. The stream&nbsp;is free but you must register to watch if you don't have a NFHS Network account.&nbsp;

Here is a "How to Video" to assist you in setting up your NFHS Network account. &nbsp;<a href="https://youtu.be/yzsjAoVP5Ts">CLICK HERE</a>The girls game will tip at 6 p.m. followed by boys action at 7:30 p.m.<div><iframe src="https://player.nfhsnetwork.com/#/events/hutchinson-high-school-hutchinson-ks/gam4051933416" allowfullscreen="true" frameborder="0" width="640" height="360"></iframe>
</div>

🎧🏀 Hutch High wrap up regular season at Newton

PEORIA, Ariz. (AP) — MLB's new uniform reveal hasn't gone very well. Now some of the rampant criticism has moved below the belt.

Major League Baseball Players Association deputy executive director Bruce Meyer confirmed on Thursday that the organization is relaying concerns from players to MLB about the new pants, which are somewhat see-through. The complaints — first reported by ESPN — are part of broader scorn for the new uniforms, which are designed by Nike and manufactured by Fanatics.

“I know everyone hates them,” Phillies shortstop Trea Turner said last week. “We all liked what we had. We understand business, but I think everyone wanted to keep it the same way, for the most part, with some tweaks here or there.”

MLB officials say the new uniforms improve mobility by providing 25% more stretch and also will dry 28% faster. The lettering, sleeve emblems and numbering are less bulky in an attempt to make uniforms more breathable and comfortable.

Commissioner Rob Manfred previously said he expects criticism to fade, but that was before the below-the-belt complaints.

Some MLB players don't know if they like the new pants — because they don't have them yet. The San Diego Padres played their first spring training game against the Los Angeles Dodgers on Thursday in last year's pants.

Veteran pitcher Joe Musgrove wasn't sure when the Padres were supposed to get their new pants.

“Hopefully by Opening Day,” Musgrove said. “We tried stuff on last year, we tried stuff on again in spring, but the samples they gave us, they didn't have the proper length for anybody, so it's hard to gauge if they fit right or not.”

Musgrove shrugged off the controversy, saying that it was far from the most important thing he's worried about this spring, even if it's a little annoying.

PEORIA, Ariz. (AP) — MLB's new uniform reveal hasn't gone very well. Now some of the rampant criticism has moved below the belt.Major League Baseball Players Association deputy executive director Bruce Meyer confirmed on Thursday that the organization is relaying concerns from players to MLB about the new pants, which are somewhat see-through. The complaints — first reported by ESPN — are part of broader scorn for the new uniforms, which are designed by Nike and manufactured by Fanatics.“I know everyone hates them,” Phillies shortstop Trea Turner said last week. “We all liked what we had. We understand business, but I think everyone wanted to keep it the same way, for the most part, with some tweaks here or there.”MLB officials say the new uniforms improve mobility by providing 25% more stretch and also will dry 28% faster. The lettering, sleeve emblems and numbering are less bulky in an attempt to make uniforms more breathable and comfortable.Commissioner Rob Manfred previously said he expects criticism to fade, but that was before the below-the-belt complaints.Some MLB players don't know if they like the new pants — because they don't have them yet. The San Diego Padres played their first spring training game against the Los Angeles Dodgers on Thursday in last year's pants.Veteran pitcher Joe Musgrove wasn't sure when the Padres were supposed to get their new pants.“Hopefully by Opening Day,” Musgrove said. “We tried stuff on last year, we tried stuff on again in spring, but the samples they gave us, they didn't have the proper length for anybody, so it's hard to gauge if they fit right or not.”Musgrove shrugged off the controversy, saying that it was far from the most important thing he's worried about this spring, even if it's a little annoying.

MLB players miffed at sport's new see-through pants

Courtesy of the Kansas City Royals

SURPRISE, Ariz.—The Kansas City Royals announced this morning that they have signed catcher&nbsp;Austin Nola&nbsp;to a Major League contract. Per club policy, terms of the deal were not disclosed.

In a corresponding move, left-handed pitcher&nbsp;Kris Bubic&nbsp;was placed on the 60-day Injured List.

Nola, 34, is a five-year Major League veteran with Seattle (2019-20) and San Diego (2020-23). He played in 54 games last season with San Diego, one year after setting career highs in 2022 in games (110), runs (40), hits (87), doubles (15), RBI (40), walks (34) and total bases (114). Nola also caught a career-best 834.2 innings behind the plate in 2022, when he ranked 6th among National League catchers in innings, total chances (865), and putouts (833).

He made his Major League debut at the age of 29 in 2019, following parts of eight seasons in the minors. Nola has played in 18 postseason games, including 6 during the 2020 postseason with San Diego and 12 games in 2022.

The Royals will be his fourth organization after he was selected by Miami in the 5th round of the 2012 Draft out of Louisiana State University. In 2020, he was traded from Seattle to San Diego in a seven-player deal that included teammate&nbsp;Dan Altavilla, who is a non-roster invite with Kansas City this season.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694083714074.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Courtesy of the Kansas City RoyalsSURPRISE, Ariz.—The Kansas City Royals announced this morning that they have signed catcher&nbsp;Austin Nola&nbsp;to a Major League contract. Per club policy, terms of the deal were not disclosed.In a corresponding move, left-handed pitcher&nbsp;Kris Bubic&nbsp;was placed on the 60-day Injured List.Nola, 34, is a five-year Major League veteran with Seattle (2019-20) and San Diego (2020-23). He played in 54 games last season with San Diego, one year after setting career highs in 2022 in games (110), runs (40), hits (87), doubles (15), RBI (40), walks (34) and total bases (114). Nola also caught a career-best 834.2 innings behind the plate in 2022, when he ranked 6th among National League catchers in innings, total chances (865), and putouts (833).He made his Major League debut at the age of 29 in 2019, following parts of eight seasons in the minors. Nola has played in 18 postseason games, including 6 during the 2020 postseason with San Diego and 12 games in 2022.The Royals will be his fourth organization after he was selected by Miami in the 5th round of the 2012 Draft out of Louisiana State University. In 2020, he was traded from Seattle to San Diego in a seven-player deal that included teammate&nbsp;Dan Altavilla, who is a non-roster invite with Kansas City this season.

⚾ Royals sign catcher Austin Nola

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1701263164849.png" alt="Early Morning Sports with Rob Dreher for Friday, February 23rd, 2024." />
 <figcaption>Early Morning Sports with Rob Dreher for Friday, February 23rd, 2024.</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="February 23rd, 2024 Early Morning Sports" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=3x2rn-158ea40-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: 🏀 Salthawks wrap up regular season vs Newton; 🏀 Area basketball results

Faith Christian, Mo. 68, Veritas Christian 38

Wichita Bishop Carroll 54, Wichita South 51, OT

Wichita Heights 60, Kapaun Mount Carmel 49

Wichita Southeast 66, Wichita East 57, OT

Wichita Central Christian 44, Fairfield 34

Hutchinson Central Christian 56, Centre 26

Wichita Bishop Carroll 57, Wichita South 45

Wichita Heights 33, Kapaun Mount&nbsp;Carmel 24

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1701785757574.png" alt="Eagle Media HS Basketball Scoreboard from Thursday" />
 <figcaption>Eagle Media HS Basketball Scoreboard from Thursday</figcaption>
 </figure>Thursday's ScoresThe Associated Press<h2>BOYS PREP BASKETBALL=</h2>Abilene 75, Clay Center 72, OTAndale 69, Wellington 56Augusta 65, Winfield 52Burlington 55, Anderson County 46Circle 59, Buhler 37Dodge City 54, Liberal 35Douglass 47, Belle Plaine 38Emporia 83, Paola 36Faith Christian, Mo. 68, Veritas Christian 38Harrisonville, Mo. 57, Louisburg 52KC Bishop Ward 72, Maranatha 64McPherson 79, Mulvane 46Rose Hill 39, El Dorado 37Santa Fe Trail 65, Iola 48Silver Lake 58, Wabaunsee 43St Marys 74, Riley County 52Topeka Seaman 73, KC Turner 57Wamego 52, Concordia 41Wichita Bishop Carroll 54, Wichita South 51, OTWichita Collegiate 73, Clearwater 26Wichita Heights 60, Kapaun Mount Carmel 49Wichita Southeast 66, Wichita East 57, OTWichita West 67, Wichita North 33KSHSAA Sub-State=Quarterfinal=Class 1A, Div. 1=Central=Udall 60, Pretty Prairie 57Wichita Central Christian 44, Fairfield 34Decatur=Oberlin-Decatur 72, Stockton 25Rawlins County 54, St Francis 23Doniphan West=Bishop Seabury 78, Onaga 26Burlingame 67, Northern Heights 22Troy 68, Doniphan West 43Flinthills=Madison 58, Yates Center 17Oswego 44, Flinthills 42Rock Hills=Frankfort 44, Washington County 19Rock Hills 46, Lakeside 44Skyline=Kiowa County 80, Minneola 53Pratt Skyline 64, Elkhart 49South Central 54, Ashland 26Solomon=Canton-Galva 45, Rural Vista 41Little River 40, Goessel 27Sylvan-Lucas 52, Wakefield 16St. John=Hodgeman County 57, Spearville 55Macksville 52, St John 44Class 1A, Div. 2=Blue Valley=Blue Valley Randolph 64, Pike Valley 47Hanover 78, Junction City 32Bucklin=Ingalls 59, Rolla 17Satanta 56, Moscow 25Golden Plains=Cheylin 63, Wheatland-Grinnell 32Golden Plains 63, Thunder Ridge 62Logan 84, Natoma 10Lebo=Hartford 80, Peabody-Burns 48Hutchinson Central Christian 56, Centre 26South Haven=Caldwell 40, Argonia 33South Haven 60, Attica 42Stafford=Otis-Bison 53, Stafford 44Pawnee Heights 63, Tescott 51Victoria 73, Chase 7Thursday's ScoresThe Associated Press<h2>GIRLS PREP BASKETBALL=</h2>Augusta 35, Winfield 30Buhler 55, Circle 45Clay Center 57, Abilene 33Clearwater 62, Wichita Collegiate 17Emporia 55, Paola 21Eudora 45, Topeka Hayden 39, OTLiberal 49, Dodge City 35Louisburg 40, Harrisonville, Mo. 33Maranatha 45, KC Bishop Ward 16McPherson 56, Mulvane 37Riley County 25, St Marys 24Rose Hill 56, El Dorado 29Santa Fe Trail 50, Iola 34Silver Lake 59, Wabaunsee 36Topeka Seaman 73, KC Turner 13Wamego 40, Concordia 39Wellington 63, Andale 28Wichita Bishop Carroll 57, Wichita South 45Wichita Heights 33, Kapaun Mount&nbsp;Carmel 24Wichita North 57, Wichita West 29Wichita Southeast 46, Wichita East 35

🏀 EAGLE Media Scoreboard from Thursday games

PHOENIX (AP) — Selection Sunday also happens to be the biggest complaint day on the sports calendar. Right after the bracket for March Madness is revealed, college basketball fans across the country complain about teams that were left out, received a low seed or have to travel across the country. But the process for determining the field is rooted in methods developed through years of building brackets. The 12-person selection committee spends the season monitoring teams across the country before gathering five days before Selection Sunday to being building the bracket. They are guided by a detailed set of rules that make sure the best 68 teams in the country get the chance to play.

AUSTIN, Texas (AP) — Steve Sarkisian is college football’s latest $10 million man. The University of Texas System Board of Regents on Thursday approved a raise and contract extension for the Longhorns coach to boosts his guaranteed salary to $10.3 million this year and sign him through the 2030 season. The four-year extension makes Sarkisian one of the highest paid coaches in the country. Texas won the Big 12 last season and made the College Football Playoff. Sarkisian's original contract paid him $5.8 million this year. The board's approval was expected. The extension was announced in January. The board published financial details last week.

AMES, Iowa (AP) — Jake Waters has been promoted to Iowa State running backs coach after working as a senior offensive quality control staff member the past three years. Waters was an ISU graduate assistant in 2017 and coached tight ends, fullbacks and wide receivers at UTEP over three seasons before he returned to Ames in 2021. Waters was national junior college offensive player of the year for Iowa Western Community College in 2012 and a two-year starting quarterback at Kansas State. He returned to Iowa Western as volunteer quarterbacks coach for two years before his first stint at Iowa State.

UNDATED (AP) — Gamers will be blocked from manually adding players to EA Sports’ new college football game who decide not to accept an offer to have their name, image and likeness used in it. EA Sports revealed the safeguard Thursday in its announcement that it has begun reaching out to athletes to pay them to be featured in the game that’s set to launch this summer. EA Sports said players who opt in to the game will receive a minimum of $600 and a copy of EA Sports College Football 25. EA Sports didn’t say how it plans to prevent people from adding the opt-outs.

UNDATED (AP) — The 12-team College Football Playoff is 10 months away from kicking off. The format is finally locked in. University presidents have unanimously approved one last tweak to increase the number of at-large bids from six to seven. The change reserves five spots for conference champions instead of six. The move was prompted by conference realignment and the demise of the Pac-12. The process of expanding the CFP from four to 12 teams began in 2019. The new system finally arrives during the upcoming 2024 season. The next two seasons are expected to be something of a test drive.

MIAMI (AP) — A person with knowledge of the decision tells The Associated Press that former AL batting champion Tim Anderson has agreed to a one-year contact with the Miami Marlins. The deal for the shortstop is pending a physical, the person said, speaking on condition of anonymity because the deal was not yet announced. The agreement is worth $5 million, according to ESPN. Anderson is Miami’s first big free agent addition of the offseason. The two-time All-Star became a free agent in November after the Chicago White Sox declined a $14 million option, completing a $25 million, six-year contract.

UNDATED (AP) — One National League All-Star right-hander is getting the largest contract ever for a Pittsburgh Pirates pitcher. Another All-Star pitcher is expected to miss the start of the season for the New York Mets. A person with knowledge of the deal tells The Associated Press that Mitch Keller and the Pirates have agreed to a new $77 million, five-year contract. Meanwhile, the Mets are shutting down Kodai Senga because of a shoulder strain. Their All-Star right-hander will likely start the season on the injured list. Senga is going into the second year of a $75 million, five-year deal in New York after pitching 11 seasons in Japan.

PEORIA, Ariz. (AP) — MLB’s new uniform reveal hasn’t gone very well. Now the rampant criticism has moved below the belt. Major League Baseball Players Association deputy executive director Bruce Meyer confirmed on Thursday that the organization is relaying concerns from players to MLB about the new pants, which are somewhat see-through. The complaints — first reported by ESPN — are part of broader scorn for the new uniforms, which are designed by Nike and manufactured by Fanatics. Commissioner Rob Manfred previously said he expects criticism to fade, but that was before the below-the-belt criticisms.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Kansas City Chiefs are signing punter Matt Araiza, who was dropped from a lawsuit in December that had been filed by a woman who alleged she was raped by San Diego State football players in 2021. The signing was announced by Araiza’s agent, Joe Linta, and confirmed a short while later by the Super Bowl champions. The lawsuit filed by the woman came after a party in 2021 in which she claimed Araiza had sex with her in a side yard, then brought her inside a house where a group of men took turns raping her. She agreed to drop Araiza from the lawsuit when prosecutors concluded he was no longer at the party when the alleged raped occurred, and he agreed to drop a defamation countersuit against her.

HOBE SOUND, Fla. (AP) — The 15-year-old son of Tiger Woods had a rough welcome in his first attempt at playing a PGA Tour event. Charlie Woods shot an 86 at a pre-qualifier for the Cognizant Classic. That's one of four pre-qualifiers from which a total of about two dozen players advance to the main Monday qualifier for next week's PGA Tour stop. Woods didn't make a birdie at Lost Lake Golf Club. His round came undone with a 12 on the par-4 seventh hole. The leading score was 65. Woods tied for 110th out of 112 players who turned in a score.

VALLARTA, Mexico (AP) — Erik van Rooyen of South Africa is feeling right at home in Mexico. Van Rooyen began the Mexico Open at Vidanta with a 63 for a one-shot lead over Sami Valimaki of Finland. Van Rooyen is trying to win a PGA Tour title for the second time in four months in Mexico. He won the World Wide Technology Championship last November. Van Rooyen had a pair of eagles at the Vallarta Vidanta course. Among those two behind was Cristobal Del Solar. He shot 57 two weeks ago on the Korn Ferry Tour in Bogota.

BLOOMINGTON, Ind. (AP) — Sara Scalia scored 25 points, All-America center Mackenzie Holmes had 24 points and nine rebounds, and No. 14 Indiana frustrated Iowa superstar Caitlin Clark in an 86-69 win over the fourth-ranked Hawkeyes. Playing for the first time since she broke the NCAA women’s career scoring record, Clark finished with 24 points, 10 assists and nine rebounds but struggled from the field. She was 8 of 26 overall and 3 of 16 on 3-pointers while scoring just four points in the second half.

Final (21)Washington St. 77 (4)Arizona 74

Final Oklahoma City 129 L.A. Clippers 107

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1701494597443.png" alt="Sports Headlines and News for Friday, February 23rd, 2024." />
 <figcaption>Sports Headlines and News for Friday, February 23rd, 2024.</figcaption>
 </figure>PHOENIX (AP) — Selection Sunday also happens to be the biggest complaint day on the sports calendar. Right after the bracket for March Madness is revealed, college basketball fans across the country complain about teams that were left out, received a low seed or have to travel across the country. But the process for determining the field is rooted in methods developed through years of building brackets. The 12-person selection committee spends the season monitoring teams across the country before gathering five days before Selection Sunday to being building the bracket. They are guided by a detailed set of rules that make sure the best 68 teams in the country get the chance to play.AUSTIN, Texas (AP) — Steve Sarkisian is college football’s latest $10 million man. The University of Texas System Board of Regents on Thursday approved a raise and contract extension for the Longhorns coach to boosts his guaranteed salary to $10.3 million this year and sign him through the 2030 season. The four-year extension makes Sarkisian one of the highest paid coaches in the country. Texas won the Big 12 last season and made the College Football Playoff. Sarkisian's original contract paid him $5.8 million this year. The board's approval was expected. The extension was announced in January. The board published financial details last week.AMES, Iowa (AP) — Jake Waters has been promoted to Iowa State running backs coach after working as a senior offensive quality control staff member the past three years. Waters was an ISU graduate assistant in 2017 and coached tight ends, fullbacks and wide receivers at UTEP over three seasons before he returned to Ames in 2021. Waters was national junior college offensive player of the year for Iowa Western Community College in 2012 and a two-year starting quarterback at Kansas State. He returned to Iowa Western as volunteer quarterbacks coach for two years before his first stint at Iowa State.UNDATED (AP) — Gamers will be blocked from manually adding players to EA Sports’ new college football game who decide not to accept an offer to have their name, image and likeness used in it. EA Sports revealed the safeguard Thursday in its announcement that it has begun reaching out to athletes to pay them to be featured in the game that’s set to launch this summer. EA Sports said players who opt in to the game will receive a minimum of $600 and a copy of EA Sports College Football 25. EA Sports didn’t say how it plans to prevent people from adding the opt-outs.UNDATED (AP) — The 12-team College Football Playoff is 10 months away from kicking off. The format is finally locked in. University presidents have unanimously approved one last tweak to increase the number of at-large bids from six to seven. The change reserves five spots for conference champions instead of six. The move was prompted by conference realignment and the demise of the Pac-12. The process of expanding the CFP from four to 12 teams began in 2019. The new system finally arrives during the upcoming 2024 season. The next two seasons are expected to be something of a test drive.MIAMI (AP) — A person with knowledge of the decision tells The Associated Press that former AL batting champion Tim Anderson has agreed to a one-year contact with the Miami Marlins. The deal for the shortstop is pending a physical, the person said, speaking on condition of anonymity because the deal was not yet announced. The agreement is worth $5 million, according to ESPN. Anderson is Miami’s first big free agent addition of the offseason. The two-time All-Star became a free agent in November after the Chicago White Sox declined a $14 million option, completing a $25 million, six-year contract.UNDATED (AP) — One National League All-Star right-hander is getting the largest contract ever for a Pittsburgh Pirates pitcher. Another All-Star pitcher is expected to miss the start of the season for the New York Mets. A person with knowledge of the deal tells The Associated Press that Mitch Keller and the Pirates have agreed to a new $77 million, five-year contract. Meanwhile, the Mets are shutting down Kodai Senga because of a shoulder strain. Their All-Star right-hander will likely start the season on the injured list. Senga is going into the second year of a $75 million, five-year deal in New York after pitching 11 seasons in Japan.PEORIA, Ariz. (AP) — MLB’s new uniform reveal hasn’t gone very well. Now the rampant criticism has moved below the belt. Major League Baseball Players Association deputy executive director Bruce Meyer confirmed on Thursday that the organization is relaying concerns from players to MLB about the new pants, which are somewhat see-through. The complaints — first reported by ESPN — are part of broader scorn for the new uniforms, which are designed by Nike and manufactured by Fanatics. Commissioner Rob Manfred previously said he expects criticism to fade, but that was before the below-the-belt criticisms.KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Kansas City Chiefs are signing punter Matt Araiza, who was dropped from a lawsuit in December that had been filed by a woman who alleged she was raped by San Diego State football players in 2021. The signing was announced by Araiza’s agent, Joe Linta, and confirmed a short while later by the Super Bowl champions. The lawsuit filed by the woman came after a party in 2021 in which she claimed Araiza had sex with her in a side yard, then brought her inside a house where a group of men took turns raping her. She agreed to drop Araiza from the lawsuit when prosecutors concluded he was no longer at the party when the alleged raped occurred, and he agreed to drop a defamation countersuit against her.HOBE SOUND, Fla. (AP) — The 15-year-old son of Tiger Woods had a rough welcome in his first attempt at playing a PGA Tour event. Charlie Woods shot an 86 at a pre-qualifier for the Cognizant Classic. That's one of four pre-qualifiers from which a total of about two dozen players advance to the main Monday qualifier for next week's PGA Tour stop. Woods didn't make a birdie at Lost Lake Golf Club. His round came undone with a 12 on the par-4 seventh hole. The leading score was 65. Woods tied for 110th out of 112 players who turned in a score.VALLARTA, Mexico (AP) — Erik van Rooyen of South Africa is feeling right at home in Mexico. Van Rooyen began the Mexico Open at Vidanta with a 63 for a one-shot lead over Sami Valimaki of Finland. Van Rooyen is trying to win a PGA Tour title for the second time in four months in Mexico. He won the World Wide Technology Championship last November. Van Rooyen had a pair of eagles at the Vallarta Vidanta course. Among those two behind was Cristobal Del Solar. He shot 57 two weeks ago on the Korn Ferry Tour in Bogota.BLOOMINGTON, Ind. (AP) — Sara Scalia scored 25 points, All-America center Mackenzie Holmes had 24 points and nine rebounds, and No. 14 Indiana frustrated Iowa superstar Caitlin Clark in an 86-69 win over the fourth-ranked Hawkeyes. Playing for the first time since she broke the NCAA women’s career scoring record, Clark finished with 24 points, 10 assists and nine rebounds but struggled from the field. She was 8 of 26 overall and 3 of 16 on 3-pointers while scoring just four points in the second half.THURSDAY SCORESTOP-25 COLLEGE BASKETBALLFinal (3)Purdue 96 Rutgers 68Final (21)Washington St. 77 (4)Arizona 74NATIONAL BASKETBALL ASSOCIATIONFinal Indiana 129 Detroit 115Final New York 110 Philadelphia 96Final Toronto 121 Brooklyn 93Final Orlando 116 Cleveland 109Final Dallas 123 Phoenix 113Final Oklahoma City 129 L.A. Clippers 107Final Boston 129 Chicago 112Final New Orleans 127 Houston 105Final Denver 130 Washington 110Final Charlotte 115 Utah 107Final Sacramento 127 San Antonio 122Final Golden State 128 L.A. Lakers 110NATIONAL HOCKEY LEAGUEFinal Ottawa 4 Dallas 1Final Pittsburgh 4 Montreal 1Final Carolina 1 Florida 0Final OT Detroit 2 Colorado 1Final Washington 5 Tampa Bay 3Final N-Y Rangers 5 New Jersey 1Final St. Louis 4 N-Y Islanders 0Final OT Calgary 3 Boston 2Final Toronto 7 Vegas 3

📢📰 Sports Headlines for Friday

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Kansas City Chiefs are signing punter Matt Araiza, who was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/matt-araiza-rape-lawsuit-dismissed-ba34b821c0e5ff59268c6ae0c7b2842f" target="_blank">dropped from a lawsuit in December</a>&nbsp;that had been filed by a woman who alleged she was raped by San Diego State football players in 2021.

The signing was announced by Araiza’s agent, Joe Linta, and confirmed a short while later by the team.

“I am proud and honored to sign a contract with the Chiefs,” Araiza said in a statement. “I am thrilled to be able to continue my NFL career. I want to thank my family, who have been my rock and my many friends who have been unwavering in their support. I am excited to begin the next phase of my career with the Super Bowl champs!”

Araiza earned the nickname the “Punt God” at San Diego State while earning All-America honors during the 2021 season, when his massive kicks helped the Aztecs go a school-best 12-2 his senior season. He was drafted by the Buffalo Bills in the sixth round of the 2022 NFL draft, but he was released two days after the woman filed her lawsuit.

She alleged that she was 17 and attending an off-campus party in October 2021 when Araiza, then 21, had sex with her in a side yard at an off-campus house. The woman then claimed he brought her to a bedroom, where a group of men took turns raping her, but Araiza has said he never entered the home during the party and left before the alleged rape occurred.

The woman reported the alleged assault to San Diego police the following day, and her lawsuit was filed in August 2022.

Araiza and most of the other players named in the lawsuit claimed that their encounters with her were consensual.

After a month-long investigation, the San Diego County District Attorney’s Office said in December it&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/buffalo-bills-college-football-sports-san-diego-matt-araiza-76d2ff963ac11c28ed741851f9a710fa" target="_blank">would not file criminal charges</a>. An audio recording was released of a meeting between prosecutors and the woman in which deputy District Attorney Trisha Amador said she concluded, based on a witness statement, that Araiza “wasn’t even at the party anymore” when the alleged rape could have occurred and he wasn’t visible in videos that were recovered.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The woman agreed to dismiss Araiza from the lawsuit, and he agreed to dismiss a defamation countersuit against her.

“Matt has been forced to defend himself for the last 16 months against false accusations and a campaign to ruin his career in the NFL. He will never get this time in his life back,” Araiza’s attorneys, Dick Semerdjian and Kristen Bush, said at the time.

Last year, the New York Jets hosted Araiza for a workout at the team’s facility, six days after a San Diego State investigation&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/matt-araiza-bills-no-charges-feb9c3c5d67d0230c118746288a552ce" target="_blank">found no wrongdoing by him</a>&nbsp;in connection with the alleged rape. He did not sign with the team.

Araiza now appears to be getting his long-awaited shot in the NFL with a team coming off back-to-back Super Bowl titles.

Tommy Townsend, a first-team All-Pro in 2022, will be a free agent next month. The Chiefs are hard-pressed for salary cap space, and it appears they have decided they can save money by signing Araiza to replace their punter from the past four years.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707336003255.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Kansas City Chiefs are signing punter Matt Araiza, who was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/matt-araiza-rape-lawsuit-dismissed-ba34b821c0e5ff59268c6ae0c7b2842f" target="_blank">dropped from a lawsuit in December</a>&nbsp;that had been filed by a woman who alleged she was raped by San Diego State football players in 2021.The signing was announced by Araiza’s agent, Joe Linta, and confirmed a short while later by the team.“I am proud and honored to sign a contract with the Chiefs,” Araiza said in a statement. “I am thrilled to be able to continue my NFL career. I want to thank my family, who have been my rock and my many friends who have been unwavering in their support. I am excited to begin the next phase of my career with the Super Bowl champs!”Araiza earned the nickname the “Punt God” at San Diego State while earning All-America honors during the 2021 season, when his massive kicks helped the Aztecs go a school-best 12-2 his senior season. He was drafted by the Buffalo Bills in the sixth round of the 2022 NFL draft, but he was released two days after the woman filed her lawsuit.She alleged that she was 17 and attending an off-campus party in October 2021 when Araiza, then 21, had sex with her in a side yard at an off-campus house. The woman then claimed he brought her to a bedroom, where a group of men took turns raping her, but Araiza has said he never entered the home during the party and left before the alleged rape occurred.The woman reported the alleged assault to San Diego police the following day, and her lawsuit was filed in August 2022.Araiza and most of the other players named in the lawsuit claimed that their encounters with her were consensual.After a month-long investigation, the San Diego County District Attorney’s Office said in December it&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/buffalo-bills-college-football-sports-san-diego-matt-araiza-76d2ff963ac11c28ed741851f9a710fa" target="_blank">would not file criminal charges</a>. An audio recording was released of a meeting between prosecutors and the woman in which deputy District Attorney Trisha Amador said she concluded, based on a witness statement, that Araiza “wasn’t even at the party anymore” when the alleged rape could have occurred and he wasn’t visible in videos that were recovered.&nbsp;&nbsp;The woman agreed to dismiss Araiza from the lawsuit, and he agreed to dismiss a defamation countersuit against her.“Matt has been forced to defend himself for the last 16 months against false accusations and a campaign to ruin his career in the NFL. He will never get this time in his life back,” Araiza’s attorneys, Dick Semerdjian and Kristen Bush, said at the time.Last year, the New York Jets hosted Araiza for a workout at the team’s facility, six days after a San Diego State investigation&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/matt-araiza-bills-no-charges-feb9c3c5d67d0230c118746288a552ce" target="_blank">found no wrongdoing by him</a>&nbsp;in connection with the alleged rape. He did not sign with the team.Araiza now appears to be getting his long-awaited shot in the NFL with a team coming off back-to-back Super Bowl titles.Tommy Townsend, a first-team All-Pro in 2022, will be a free agent next month. The Chiefs are hard-pressed for salary cap space, and it appears they have decided they can save money by signing Araiza to replace their punter from the past four years.

🏈 Chiefs sign punter Matt Araiza

Below are results from area student-athletes after Day 1 of the 2024 KSHSAA boys wrestling championship. Day 2 will take place on Friday, and Day 3 on Saturday. Class 6A and 5A will be held at Hartman Arena in Park City, while Class 4A and 3-1A will be held at the Tony's Pizza Events Center in Salina.

More information can be found on the KSHSAA website <a href="https://kshsaa.org/Public/Wrestling/State.cfm">here</a>.

BUHLER 126 - Sammy Hershberger, 1-1, consolation bracket on Friday 144 - Cruz Hershberger, 2-0, winners bracket semifinal on Friday 165 - Dawsyn Valdois, 0-2, eliminated

HALSTEAD 126 - Clayton Considine, 1-1, consolation bracket on Friday 285 - Connor Herman, 1-1, consolation bracket on Friday

HAVEN 120 - Tanner Loughrie,&nbsp;1-1, consolation bracket on Friday 126 - Jacob Moore, Jr.,&nbsp;1-1, consolation bracket on Friday 144 - Dustin Loughrie, 2-0, winners bracket semifinal on Friday 150 - Ty Lastinger, 1-1, consolation bracket on Friday

HUTCHINSON 106 - Cruz Cannon, 2-0, winners bracket semifinal on Friday 120 - Jair Maciel, 0-2, eliminated 144 - Max Harris, 1-1, consolation bracket on Friday 150 - Jackson Anderson, 0-2, eliminated 157 - Kade Smith,&nbsp;2-0, winners bracket semifinal on Friday 190 - Skyler Ray, 0-2, eliminated 285 - Camden Jensen, 2-0, winners bracket semifinal on Friday

KINGMAN 144 - Kade Osborn, Jr., 1-1, consolation bracket on Friday 175 - Collin Schreiner, 1-1, consolation bracket on Friday

LYONS 106 - Easton Benavidez, 1-1, consolation bracket on Friday 113 - AJ Almanza, 1-1, consolation bracket on Friday 120 - Jace Grizzle, 1-1, consolation bracket on Friday 132 - Isaac Fall, 1-1, consolation bracket on Friday 157 - Nate Dold, 1-1, consolation bracket on Friday 215 - Elijah Martinez, 1-1, consolation bracket on Friday

McPHERSON 106 - John Robben, 1-1, consolation bracket on Friday 157 - Hayden Farley, 2-0, winners bracket semifinal on Friday 165 - Landon Thompson, 1-1, consolation bracket on Friday 175 - Jase Fitzmorris, 1-1, consolation bracket on Friday 190 - Brock Richardson, 1-1, consolation bracket on Friday 285 - Carter Spotted-Elk, 1-1, consolation bracket on Friday

NICKERSON 150 - Kristopher Monroe, 1-1, consolation bracket on Friday

PRATT 106 - Alex Chavez, 0-2, eliminated 138 - Brandon Western, 0-2, eliminated 144 - Trace Mehlhorn, 1-1, consolation bracket on Friday 150 - Blake Winsor, 1-1, consolation bracket on Friday 157 - Wyatt Lovell, 1-1, consolation bracket on Friday 165 - Taye Wilson, 2-0, winners bracket semifinal on Friday

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708223941153.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Below are results from area student-athletes after Day 1 of the 2024 KSHSAA boys wrestling championship. Day 2 will take place on Friday, and Day 3 on Saturday. Class 6A and 5A will be held at Hartman Arena in Park City, while Class 4A and 3-1A will be held at the Tony's Pizza Events Center in Salina.More information can be found on the KSHSAA website <a href="https://kshsaa.org/Public/Wrestling/State.cfm">here</a>.BUHLER 126 - Sammy Hershberger, 1-1, consolation bracket on Friday 144 - Cruz Hershberger, 2-0, winners bracket semifinal on Friday 165 - Dawsyn Valdois, 0-2, eliminatedHALSTEAD 126 - Clayton Considine, 1-1, consolation bracket on Friday 285 - Connor Herman, 1-1, consolation bracket on FridayHAVEN 120 - Tanner Loughrie,&nbsp;1-1, consolation bracket on Friday 126 - Jacob Moore, Jr.,&nbsp;1-1, consolation bracket on Friday 144 - Dustin Loughrie, 2-0, winners bracket semifinal on Friday 150 - Ty Lastinger, 1-1, consolation bracket on FridayHUTCHINSON 106 - Cruz Cannon, 2-0, winners bracket semifinal on Friday 120 - Jair Maciel, 0-2, eliminated 144 - Max Harris, 1-1, consolation bracket on Friday 150 - Jackson Anderson, 0-2, eliminated 157 - Kade Smith,&nbsp;2-0, winners bracket semifinal on Friday 190 - Skyler Ray, 0-2, eliminated 285 - Camden Jensen, 2-0, winners bracket semifinal on FridayKINGMAN 144 - Kade Osborn, Jr., 1-1, consolation bracket on Friday 175 - Collin Schreiner, 1-1, consolation bracket on FridayLYONS 106 - Easton Benavidez, 1-1, consolation bracket on Friday 113 - AJ Almanza, 1-1, consolation bracket on Friday 120 - Jace Grizzle, 1-1, consolation bracket on Friday 132 - Isaac Fall, 1-1, consolation bracket on Friday 157 - Nate Dold, 1-1, consolation bracket on Friday 215 - Elijah Martinez, 1-1, consolation bracket on FridayMcPHERSON 106 - John Robben, 1-1, consolation bracket on Friday 157 - Hayden Farley, 2-0, winners bracket semifinal on Friday 165 - Landon Thompson, 1-1, consolation bracket on Friday 175 - Jase Fitzmorris, 1-1, consolation bracket on Friday 190 - Brock Richardson, 1-1, consolation bracket on Friday 285 - Carter Spotted-Elk, 1-1, consolation bracket on FridayNICKERSON 150 - Kristopher Monroe, 1-1, consolation bracket on FridayPRATT 106 - Alex Chavez, 0-2, eliminated 138 - Brandon Western, 0-2, eliminated 144 - Trace Mehlhorn, 1-1, consolation bracket on Friday 150 - Blake Winsor, 1-1, consolation bracket on Friday 157 - Wyatt Lovell, 1-1, consolation bracket on Friday 165 - Taye Wilson, 2-0, winners bracket semifinal on Friday

🤼‍♂️ Area boys results from Day 1 of state tournament

Below are results from area student-athletes after Day 1 of the 2024 KSHSAA&nbsp;girls wrestling championship. Day 2 will take place on Friday, and Day 3 on Saturday.&nbsp;Class 6-5A will be held at Hartman Arena in Park City, while Class 4-1A will be held at the Tony's Pizza Events Center in Salina.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707627210911.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Below are results from area student-athletes after Day 1 of the 2024 KSHSAA&nbsp;girls wrestling championship. Day 2 will take place on Friday, and Day 3 on Saturday.&nbsp;Class 6-5A will be held at Hartman Arena in Park City, while Class 4-1A will be held at the Tony's Pizza Events Center in Salina.More information can be found on the KSHSAA website <a href="https://kshsaa.org/Public/Wrestling/StateGirls.cfm">here</a>.BUHLER 105 - Kimber Crabbs, 1-1, consolation bracket on Friday 145 - Macey Parks, 1-1, consolation bracket on FridayHALSTEAD 125 - Kahlyn Davis, 1-1, consolation bracket on Friday 130 - Callyn Divine, 2-0, winners bracket semifinal on Friday 235 - Zandri Watkins, 1-1, consolation bracket on FridayHAVEN 155 - Trista Rogers,&nbsp;2-0, winners bracket semifinal on FridayKINGMAN 190 - Taylor McGowne, 0-2, eliminatedLYONS 105 - Krysten Young, 0-2, eliminated 110 - Kennedy Grizzle, 1-1, consolation bracket on Friday 130 - Alexa Guzman, 1-1, consolation bracket on FridayMcPHERSON 155 - Hunter Wilson, 1-1, consolation bracket on Friday 235 - Ciara Rawson, 2-0, winners bracket semifinal on FridayNICKERSON 235 - Elizabeth Dick, 1-1, consolation bracket on FridayPRATT 115 - Taylor Creadick, 1-1, consolation bracket on Friday 120 - Miranda Webb, 1-1, consolation bracket on Friday 125 - Gracelyn Hembree, 1-1, consolation bracket on Friday 130 - Wendy Candia, 1-1, consolation bracket on Friday 135 - Keimarla Thompson, 1-1, consolation bracket on Friday 140 - Brylee Richardson, 0-2, eliminated 145 - Gloria Webb, 1-1, consolation bracket on Friday 155 - Emmaline Primrose, 1-1, consolation bracket on Friday