&nbsp;Courtesy of Wichita State Athletics TAMPA, Fla. — Wichita State scored four of its five runs on one swing of the bat in a 5-3 win at South Florida Friday night in the series opener.

Wichita State (19-15, 10-6) finished with just five hits on the night, none bigger than&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/cc-wong/8967">CC Wong's</a>&nbsp;grand slam. The home run was her 12th and second grand slam of the season.

<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/lainee-brown/7559">Lainee Brown</a>&nbsp;broke out of a slump with a pair of singles.&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/addison-barnard/7558">Addison Barnard</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/krystin-nelson/7568">Krystin Nelson</a>&nbsp;recorded the only other hits on the night, while Nelson added an RBI.

<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/alison-cooper/7561">Alison Cooper</a>&nbsp;(5-5) was solid through 5.0 innings in the start. She allowed only two earned runs on seven hits and three walks.&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/lauren-howell/7566">Lauren Howell</a>&nbsp;recorded a two-inning save, allowing just one hit to go with a strikeout and a walk.&nbsp; After three scoreless innings Wichita State finally broke through in the top of the fourth. With the bases loaded, Nelson dropped a bloop single into left to make it 1-0. The very next batter, Wong, delivered a monster grand slam over the wall in center to give the Shockers a 5-0 lead.

The Bulls broke up the shutout in the bottom of the fifth on an RBI single with the bases loaded, but Cooper limited the damage to just a single run.

South Florida crept closer in the sixth on a two-run double, cutting the lead to 5-3.

Howell allowed just one baserunner in the bottom of the seventh on a walk, but retired the next hitter to end the game.

Wichita State and South Florida take the field for Game 2 of the series on Saturday at 3 p.m. CT on ESPN+.

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712974101659.jpeg" alt="Photo courtesy of Wichita State Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy of Wichita State Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;Courtesy of Wichita State Athletics TAMPA, Fla. — Wichita State scored four of its five runs on one swing of the bat in a 5-3 win at South Florida Friday night in the series opener.Wichita State (19-15, 10-6) finished with just five hits on the night, none bigger than&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/cc-wong/8967">CC Wong's</a>&nbsp;grand slam. The home run was her 12th and second grand slam of the season.<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/lainee-brown/7559">Lainee Brown</a>&nbsp;broke out of a slump with a pair of singles.&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/addison-barnard/7558">Addison Barnard</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/krystin-nelson/7568">Krystin Nelson</a>&nbsp;recorded the only other hits on the night, while Nelson added an RBI.<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/alison-cooper/7561">Alison Cooper</a>&nbsp;(5-5) was solid through 5.0 innings in the start. She allowed only two earned runs on seven hits and three walks.&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/lauren-howell/7566">Lauren Howell</a>&nbsp;recorded a two-inning save, allowing just one hit to go with a strikeout and a walk.&nbsp; After three scoreless innings Wichita State finally broke through in the top of the fourth. With the bases loaded, Nelson dropped a bloop single into left to make it 1-0. The very next batter, Wong, delivered a monster grand slam over the wall in center to give the Shockers a 5-0 lead.The Bulls broke up the shutout in the bottom of the fifth on an RBI single with the bases loaded, but Cooper limited the damage to just a single run.South Florida crept closer in the sixth on a two-run double, cutting the lead to 5-3.Howell allowed just one baserunner in the bottom of the seventh on a walk, but retired the next hitter to end the game.Wichita State and South Florida take the field for Game 2 of the series on Saturday at 3 p.m. CT on ESPN+.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.

🥎 Wong’s grand slam lifts Shockers to series opening win at USF

HAYSVILLE, Kan. — The Hutchinson High School baseball team picked up two wins on the road on Friday over the Campus Colts, 19-3 and 10-6 over the Campus Colts at Vulcan Field.

Hutchinson scored 29 runs and pounded 24 hits between the two games.

GAME 1 (4 Innings): Hutchinson 19, Campus 3 The Salthawks sent 18 to the plate as part of a 13-run fourth inning to break game one open. The Salthawks scored the 13 runs on nine hits in the inning. Cole Bleything doubled and singled in the inning, scoring two runs. Lakin Franz singled and then tripled, scoring three runs. Gabe Valadez also had a big hit in the inning, driving in two with a double to left field.

Franz drove in a team-high four runs on two hits. Carter Morgan collected two hits and drove in two, while Valadez and Landon Parks each did, as well.

The Salthawks had six different players collect a multi-hit game. Hutchinson also walked a total of seven times and did not strike out in the game, the first time that has happened this season.

Jack Davis earned the win on the mound, his first of the season. Davis tossed three innings, allowing three hits, three runs, two earned. Davis also struck out four batters and walked one.

Camden Schroeder suffered the loss on the bump for the Colts, going three-plus innings, allowing eight hits, nine runs, five earned, with no strikeouts and three walks.

Hutchinson - 141 13xx x - 19 14 1 Campus - 030 0xx x - 3 3 9 W: Jack Davis. L: Camden Schroeder. Time: 1:43.

GAME 2: Hutchinson 10, Campus 6 The Salthawks struck first in game two and never looked back. Bleything found the gap with a two-out double, followed by an RBI double by Parks to put the Salthawks in front, 1-0.

Hutchinson scored four in the second inning on three hits to go in front 5-0. Campus countered with five of their own in the bottom of the inning to tie the game at five apiece.

The Salthawks didn't let the tie last long, scoring three in the third on an RBI single by Davis, as well as a sacrifice fly from Gabe Valadez. Hutchinson led 8-5 after three complete.

Hutch added its final two runs in the fifth inning on an RBI single by Yoder and on a Campus error, one of their seven committed in game two.

JuJu Lyons earned the win on the mound for the Salthawks, going four innings. Lyons had a rough second inning, allowing five runs on four hits, but was dominant besides that. He finished with five strikeouts and two walks.&nbsp;

Carter Morgan tossed three innings in relief on the mound, allowing one run in the fifth.&nbsp;

Yoder and Parks each finished had a multi-hit game for the Salthawks, while eight different batters recorded a hit.

Hutchinson - 143 020 0 - 10 10 2 Campus - 050 001 0 - 6 6 8 W: JuJu Lyons. L: Aidan West. Time: 2:07.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712962720480.jpeg" alt="Hutchinson starting pitcher Jack Davis delivers a pitch home in the second inning of game one at Campus on Friday, April 12 at Vulcan Field. (Hutch Post Photo/Sean Boston)" />
 <figcaption>Hutchinson starting pitcher Jack Davis delivers a pitch home in the second inning of game one at Campus on Friday, April 12 at Vulcan Field. (Hutch Post Photo/Sean Boston)</figcaption>
 </figure>HAYSVILLE, Kan. — The Hutchinson High School baseball team picked up two wins on the road on Friday over the Campus Colts, 19-3 and 10-6 over the Campus Colts at Vulcan Field.Hutchinson scored 29 runs and pounded 24 hits between the two games.GAME 1 (4 Innings): Hutchinson 19, Campus 3 The Salthawks sent 18 to the plate as part of a 13-run fourth inning to break game one open. The Salthawks scored the 13 runs on nine hits in the inning. Cole Bleything doubled and singled in the inning, scoring two runs. Lakin Franz singled and then tripled, scoring three runs. Gabe Valadez also had a big hit in the inning, driving in two with a double to left field.Franz drove in a team-high four runs on two hits. Carter Morgan collected two hits and drove in two, while Valadez and Landon Parks each did, as well.The Salthawks had six different players collect a multi-hit game. Hutchinson also walked a total of seven times and did not strike out in the game, the first time that has happened this season.Jack Davis earned the win on the mound, his first of the season. Davis tossed three innings, allowing three hits, three runs, two earned. Davis also struck out four batters and walked one.Camden Schroeder suffered the loss on the bump for the Colts, going three-plus innings, allowing eight hits, nine runs, five earned, with no strikeouts and three walks.Hutchinson - 141 13xx x - 19 14 1 Campus - 030 0xx x - 3 3 9 W: Jack Davis. L: Camden Schroeder. Time: 1:43.GAME 2: Hutchinson 10, Campus 6 The Salthawks struck first in game two and never looked back. Bleything found the gap with a two-out double, followed by an RBI double by Parks to put the Salthawks in front, 1-0.Hutchinson scored four in the second inning on three hits to go in front 5-0. Campus countered with five of their own in the bottom of the inning to tie the game at five apiece.The Salthawks didn't let the tie last long, scoring three in the third on an RBI single by Davis, as well as a sacrifice fly from Gabe Valadez. Hutchinson led 8-5 after three complete.Hutch added its final two runs in the fifth inning on an RBI single by Yoder and on a Campus error, one of their seven committed in game two.JuJu Lyons earned the win on the mound for the Salthawks, going four innings. Lyons had a rough second inning, allowing five runs on four hits, but was dominant besides that. He finished with five strikeouts and two walks.&nbsp;Carter Morgan tossed three innings in relief on the mound, allowing one run in the fifth.&nbsp;Yoder and Parks each finished had a multi-hit game for the Salthawks, while eight different batters recorded a hit.Hutchinson - 143 020 0 - 10 10 2 Campus - 050 001 0 - 6 6 8 W: JuJu Lyons. L: Aidan West. Time: 2:07.

⚾ Salthawk offense pours on in sweep of Campus

HAYSVILLE, Kan. — The Hutchinson High School Salthawks make the trip south of Wichita for an AVCTL-I doubleheader against the Campus Colts this afternoon at Plagens-Carpenter Stadium.&nbsp; First pitch of game one is scheduled for 4 p.m. with game two starting 25 minutes following the conclusion of the first game.&nbsp; Hutchinson is 4-7 overall, while Campus is 5-5. Catch the audio only broadcast below with Sean Boston on the call.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712857031884.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>HAYSVILLE, Kan. — The Hutchinson High School Salthawks make the trip south of Wichita for an AVCTL-I doubleheader against the Campus Colts this afternoon at Plagens-Carpenter Stadium.&nbsp; First pitch of game one is scheduled for 4 p.m. with game two starting 25 minutes following the conclusion of the first game.&nbsp; Hutchinson is 4-7 overall, while Campus is 5-5. Catch the audio only broadcast below with Sean Boston on the call.&nbsp;<div><iframe src="https://eagle-media-sports-hutch.mixlr.com/embed" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" height="200px" width="100%"></iframe><a href="https://mixlr.com/" style="color:#1a1a1a;display:block;font-family:Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:11px;text-align:left;padding: 4px 0;">Eagle Media Sports - Hutchpost Sports is on Mixlr</a></div>

🎧⚾ Hutch High travels to Campus today

DODGE CITY, Kan. — The HutchCC Blue Dragon baseball uses stellar pitching from starters Ethan Giesbrecht and Jacob Hadden to lead the sweep over Dodge City.

They'll conclude the series with a doubleheader Saturday beginning at 1 p.m. at Hobart-Detter Field.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712921461448.jpeg" alt="HutchCC sweeps Dodge" />
 <figcaption>HutchCC sweeps Dodge</figcaption>
 </figure>DODGE CITY, Kan. — The HutchCC Blue Dragon baseball uses stellar pitching from starters Ethan Giesbrecht and Jacob Hadden to lead the sweep over Dodge City.They'll conclude the series with a doubleheader Saturday beginning at 1 p.m. at Hobart-Detter Field.

⚾ HutchCC gets stellar pitching in win over Conquistadors

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The HutchCC Blue Dragon softball swept Dodge City on Wednesday afternoon at Fun Valley to reach 13 wins in a row.&nbsp; Alexis Mastin homers three times in the doubleheader and Olivia Sandoval ties the career doubles record with 42.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712921298616.jpeg" alt="Blue Dragons on fire!" />
 <figcaption>Blue Dragons on fire!</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The HutchCC Blue Dragon softball swept Dodge City on Wednesday afternoon at Fun Valley to reach 13 wins in a row.&nbsp; Alexis Mastin homers three times in the doubleheader and Olivia Sandoval ties the career doubles record with 42.

🥎 Blue Dragons sweep Dodge

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1701263164849.png" alt="Early Morning Sports with Rob Dreher for Friday, April 12th, 2024" />
 <figcaption>Early Morning Sports with Rob Dreher for Friday, April 12th, 2024</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="April 12th, 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=uuv8v-15dc536-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: ⚾ Royals sweep Astros 🥎 HutchCC remains hot

SPRINGFIELD, Mo.—The Wichita Wind Surge dropped to 1-4 after a 7-6 extra-inning loss in 10 to the Springfield Cardinals. Chandler Redmond singled to right field to score the extra-runner R.J. Yeager from second and cap off a wild night at Hammons Field.

Carson McCusker&nbsp;chopped a single to right field in the top of the first inning.&nbsp;Andrew Cossetti&nbsp;came around to cross home plate, and&nbsp;Kala’i Rosario&nbsp;moved over to third after a Cardinals error in the outfield.

Four innings later, in a tied-up ballgame, Cossetti smoked his first home run in a Wind Surge uniform to left field, putting the Wind Surge ahead 3-1 off a two-run shot.

However, the designated hitter’s night was not over as Cossetti brought in&nbsp;Emmanuel Rodriguez&nbsp;on a run-scoring single up the middle to cut a newer Wichita three-run deficit to a 6-4 score in the top of the seventh

As the outs dwindled for the Wind Surge,&nbsp;Noah Cardenas&nbsp;lined his second home run of the season to left field an inning later in the eighth.

Rodriguez clobbered a baseball 109 miles per hour off the bat to lead off the top of the ninth to tie the ballgame 6-6. Wichita failed to score in the tenth and Springfield delivered its first walk-off win of the season to improve to 5-0.

The Wind Surge will face the Cardinals in a doubleheader at Hammons Field tomorrow night on Friday, April 12, with the first pitch time for Game 1 set for 5:05 PM. Game 2 follows shortly afterward. You can listen to Wind Surge games on ESPN Wichita 92.3 and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.milb.com/windsurge.com">windsurge.com</a>&nbsp;or watch online at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.milb.com/MiLB.TV">MiLB.TV</a>&nbsp;and Bally Live. For ticket information, please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.milb.com/windsurge.com/tickets">windsurge.com/tickets</a>&nbsp;to view the upcoming 2024 MiLB schedule.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712920302027.jpeg" alt="Wind Surge come up short despite trio home runs" />
 <figcaption>Wind Surge come up short despite trio home runs</figcaption>
 </figure>SPRINGFIELD, Mo.—The Wichita Wind Surge dropped to 1-4 after a 7-6 extra-inning loss in 10 to the Springfield Cardinals. Chandler Redmond singled to right field to score the extra-runner R.J. Yeager from second and cap off a wild night at Hammons Field.Carson McCusker&nbsp;chopped a single to right field in the top of the first inning.&nbsp;Andrew Cossetti&nbsp;came around to cross home plate, and&nbsp;Kala’i Rosario&nbsp;moved over to third after a Cardinals error in the outfield.Four innings later, in a tied-up ballgame, Cossetti smoked his first home run in a Wind Surge uniform to left field, putting the Wind Surge ahead 3-1 off a two-run shot.However, the designated hitter’s night was not over as Cossetti brought in&nbsp;Emmanuel Rodriguez&nbsp;on a run-scoring single up the middle to cut a newer Wichita three-run deficit to a 6-4 score in the top of the seventhAs the outs dwindled for the Wind Surge,&nbsp;Noah Cardenas&nbsp;lined his second home run of the season to left field an inning later in the eighth.Rodriguez clobbered a baseball 109 miles per hour off the bat to lead off the top of the ninth to tie the ballgame 6-6. Wichita failed to score in the tenth and Springfield delivered its first walk-off win of the season to improve to 5-0.The Wind Surge will face the Cardinals in a doubleheader at Hammons Field tomorrow night on Friday, April 12, with the first pitch time for Game 1 set for 5:05 PM. Game 2 follows shortly afterward. You can listen to Wind Surge games on ESPN Wichita 92.3 and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.milb.com/windsurge.com">windsurge.com</a>&nbsp;or watch online at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.milb.com/MiLB.TV">MiLB.TV</a>&nbsp;and Bally Live. For ticket information, please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.milb.com/windsurge.com/tickets">windsurge.com/tickets</a>&nbsp;to view the upcoming 2024 MiLB schedule.

⚾ Wind Surge fall In extras despite comeback

O.J. Simpson, legendary football player and actor brought down by his murder trial, dies at 76

LAS VEGAS (AP) — O.J. Simpson has died. The decorated football star who was acquitted of charges he killed his former wife and her friend but wound up in prison years later in an unrelated case died Wednesday. He was 76. His family made an announcement Thursday in a statement on Simpson's X account. Simpson said last year that he was battling prostate cancer. Simpson's gridiron legacy was forever overshadowed by the 1994 knife slayings of Nicole Brown Simpson and Ronald Goldman. A criminal court jury found him not guilty of murder, but a separate civil trial jury found him liable. Simpson's nine-year prison stint in Nevada was for the armed robbery of two sports memorabilia dealers.

Bryson DeChambeau puts on a Masters clinic and takes a 1-shot lead over Scottie Scheffler

AUGUSTA, Ga. (AP) — Bryson DeChambeau was the mad scientist. Then he was the incredible bulk. This next iteration might be really daunting. DeChambeau says this is his golf phase, and it was impressive in the wind-blown opening round of the Masters. He opened with a 65 for his best start in a major and leads by one shot over world No. 1 Scottie Scheffler. The round couldn't be completed because of a two-and-a-half hour weather delay. The greens were soft, but the wind was raging. Gusts were close to 40 mph. Tiger Woods was holding steady at 1 under through 13 holes.

Shohei Ohtani's ex-interpreter charged with stealing $16M from baseball star in sports betting case

LOS ANGELES (AP) — Federal authorities have charged the former longtime interpreter for Los Angeles Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani with federal bank fraud. Prosecutors allege that interpreter Ippei Mizuhara stole more than $16 million from the Japanese sensation to cover gambling bets and debts. U.S. Attorney Martin Estrada announced the charges Thursday at a press conference in Los Angeles. Mizuhara was abruptly fired by the team after the scandal surfaced last month and Major League Baseball opened a separate investigation. Prosecutors say Ohtani was the victim in the case. Mizuhara's attorney declined to comment Thursday.

BYU coach Mark Pope in talks with Kentucky to succeed John Calipari, reports say

LEXINGTON, Ky. (AP) — BYU basketball coach Mark Pope is negotiating with Kentucky to succeed John Calipari, according to multiple reports. Pope was a member of Kentucky's 1996 NCAA championship team. CBS and ESPN both reported Thursday night that a deal between Pope and Kentucky was imminent. Earlier Thursday, Baylor's Scott Drew announced on social media that he was staying with the school, eliminating one potential candidate for the Wildcats job. Calipari stepped down on Tuesday after 15 years. The Hall of Famer was hired the next day as Arkansas' coach.

Kansas City Chiefs' Rashee Rice surrenders to police on assault charge after high-speed crash

GLENN HEIGHTS, Texas (AP) — Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Rashee Rice has surrendered to police on charges including aggravated assault after he and another driver of a speeding sports car allegedly caused a crash on a Dallas highway last month. A spokeswoman for Rice's attorney confirmed to The Associated Press in the evening that Rice turned himself in at the Glenn Heights Police Department. Rice is being represented by Texas state Sen. Royce West. Rice was booked into the Regional Jail in DeSoto and released on bond. Police said Wednesday that arrest warrants had been issued for the 23-year-old Rice for one count of aggravated assault, one count of collision involving serious bodily injury and six counts of collision involving injury.

Atalanta stuns Liverpool 3-0 at Anfield, Leverkusen beats West Ham 2-0 in the Europa League

Gianluca Scamacca struck twice as visiting Atalanta upset Liverpool 3-0 in the first leg of the Europa League quarterfinals. The loss damages Liverpool's hopes of a treble of trophies in manager Jurgen Klopp's final season at Anfield. Scamacca scored before halftime, again at the hour mark and Mario Pašalić finished it off. Bayer Leverkusen got late goals from substitutes Jonas Hofmann and Victor Boniface to top West Ham 2-0 and extend its unbeaten streak to 42 games in a season that can also end up with a treble of trophies. Roma beat AC Milan 1-0 at San Siro while Benfica defeated Marseille 2-1 in Lisbon. The second-leg games will be played next week.

Before murder charges tarnished his legacy, O.J. Simpson was one of the NFL's greatest running backs

Long before the Bronco chase gripped a national television audience and the "Trial of the Century" captivated the country, O.J. Simpson made his mark on the football field. The Juice was the best running back of his era during an 11-year NFL career mostly played with the Buffalo Bills. He won a national championship and a Heisman Trophy in college and set records in the NFL. But Simpson's image was forever ruined by charges that he killed his former wife and her male friend in 1994. He was eventually acquitted of murder but Simpson was later found liable for the deaths in a separate civil case.

Here's how investigators allege Ippei Mizuhara stole $16 million from Shohei Ohtani

LOS ANGELES (AP) — Federal authorities allege Ippei Mizuhara, the former longtime interpreter for Los Angeles Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani, stole more than $16 million from the two-way baseball sensation to cover his gambling debts. The charges were outlined in a complaint filed with the United States District Court for the Central District of California on Thursday. The complaint, written by IRS senior special agent Chris Seymour, cites wire transfers, text messages, phone records and interviews in alleging that Mizuhara exploited his position of trust with Ohtani to fund his frequent and illegal sports betting.

Tiger Woods off to rousing start in pursuit of more Masters history, maybe another green jacket

AUGUSTA, Ga. (AP) — Tiger Woods is off to a rousing start in his pursuit of more Masters history. And maybe an improbable run at a sixth green jacket. Woods wasn't able to complete the rain-delayed opening round at Augusta National, getting in 13 holes before sundown. But he was 1-under and looking fitter than he has in years, drawing huge cheers from a massive gallery that hung on his every swing. It was an extremely encouraging start for the five-time champion, who is currently tied with Gary Player and Fred Couples with 23 consecutive times making the cut. Of course, Woods has his sights on an even bigger goal — pulling even with Jack Nicklaus for the most Masters titles.

Grand Slam quest: Rory McIlroy staying positive, in contention at Masters after first-round 71

AUGUSTA, Ga. (AP) — Rory McIlroy caught a break when his tee shot hit a tree on the ninth hole at Augusta National and kicked out into the middle of fairway, giving him a workable second shot. McIlroy saved par and used that momentum to shoot 71, his first sub-par opening round at the Masters since 2018. That leaves the No. 2 player in the world six shots behind leader Bryson DeChambeau in his quest to win his first green jacket. McIlroy is hoping to join Tiger Woods, Gene Sarazen, Ben Hogan, Jack Nicklaus and Gary Player as the only players to complete the modern Grand Slam by winning all four majors.

		Minnesota	at	Detroit	5:40 p.m.	(Postponed)

		Milwaukee	at	Cincinnati	12:40 p.m.	(Postponed)

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1701494597443.png" alt="Sports Headlines and News for Friday, April 12th, 2024." />
 <figcaption>Sports Headlines and News for Friday, April 12th, 2024.</figcaption>
 </figure>AP Sports SummaryBrief at 1:08 a.m. EDTO.J. Simpson, legendary football player and actor brought down by his murder trial, dies at 76LAS VEGAS (AP) — O.J. Simpson has died. The decorated football star who was acquitted of charges he killed his former wife and her friend but wound up in prison years later in an unrelated case died Wednesday. He was 76. His family made an announcement Thursday in a statement on Simpson's X account. Simpson said last year that he was battling prostate cancer. Simpson's gridiron legacy was forever overshadowed by the 1994 knife slayings of Nicole Brown Simpson and Ronald Goldman. A criminal court jury found him not guilty of murder, but a separate civil trial jury found him liable. Simpson's nine-year prison stint in Nevada was for the armed robbery of two sports memorabilia dealers.Bryson DeChambeau puts on a Masters clinic and takes a 1-shot lead over Scottie SchefflerAUGUSTA, Ga. (AP) — Bryson DeChambeau was the mad scientist. Then he was the incredible bulk. This next iteration might be really daunting. DeChambeau says this is his golf phase, and it was impressive in the wind-blown opening round of the Masters. He opened with a 65 for his best start in a major and leads by one shot over world No. 1 Scottie Scheffler. The round couldn't be completed because of a two-and-a-half hour weather delay. The greens were soft, but the wind was raging. Gusts were close to 40 mph. Tiger Woods was holding steady at 1 under through 13 holes.Shohei Ohtani's ex-interpreter charged with stealing $16M from baseball star in sports betting caseLOS ANGELES (AP) — Federal authorities have charged the former longtime interpreter for Los Angeles Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani with federal bank fraud. Prosecutors allege that interpreter Ippei Mizuhara stole more than $16 million from the Japanese sensation to cover gambling bets and debts. U.S. Attorney Martin Estrada announced the charges Thursday at a press conference in Los Angeles. Mizuhara was abruptly fired by the team after the scandal surfaced last month and Major League Baseball opened a separate investigation. Prosecutors say Ohtani was the victim in the case. Mizuhara's attorney declined to comment Thursday.BYU coach Mark Pope in talks with Kentucky to succeed John Calipari, reports sayLEXINGTON, Ky. (AP) — BYU basketball coach Mark Pope is negotiating with Kentucky to succeed John Calipari, according to multiple reports. Pope was a member of Kentucky's 1996 NCAA championship team. CBS and ESPN both reported Thursday night that a deal between Pope and Kentucky was imminent. Earlier Thursday, Baylor's Scott Drew announced on social media that he was staying with the school, eliminating one potential candidate for the Wildcats job. Calipari stepped down on Tuesday after 15 years. The Hall of Famer was hired the next day as Arkansas' coach.Kansas City Chiefs' Rashee Rice surrenders to police on assault charge after high-speed crashGLENN HEIGHTS, Texas (AP) — Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Rashee Rice has surrendered to police on charges including aggravated assault after he and another driver of a speeding sports car allegedly caused a crash on a Dallas highway last month. A spokeswoman for Rice's attorney confirmed to The Associated Press in the evening that Rice turned himself in at the Glenn Heights Police Department. Rice is being represented by Texas state Sen. Royce West. Rice was booked into the Regional Jail in DeSoto and released on bond. Police said Wednesday that arrest warrants had been issued for the 23-year-old Rice for one count of aggravated assault, one count of collision involving serious bodily injury and six counts of collision involving injury.Atalanta stuns Liverpool 3-0 at Anfield, Leverkusen beats West Ham 2-0 in the Europa LeagueGianluca Scamacca struck twice as visiting Atalanta upset Liverpool 3-0 in the first leg of the Europa League quarterfinals. The loss damages Liverpool's hopes of a treble of trophies in manager Jurgen Klopp's final season at Anfield. Scamacca scored before halftime, again at the hour mark and Mario Pašalić finished it off. Bayer Leverkusen got late goals from substitutes Jonas Hofmann and Victor Boniface to top West Ham 2-0 and extend its unbeaten streak to 42 games in a season that can also end up with a treble of trophies. Roma beat AC Milan 1-0 at San Siro while Benfica defeated Marseille 2-1 in Lisbon. The second-leg games will be played next week.Before murder charges tarnished his legacy, O.J. Simpson was one of the NFL's greatest running backsLong before the Bronco chase gripped a national television audience and the "Trial of the Century" captivated the country, O.J. Simpson made his mark on the football field. The Juice was the best running back of his era during an 11-year NFL career mostly played with the Buffalo Bills. He won a national championship and a Heisman Trophy in college and set records in the NFL. But Simpson's image was forever ruined by charges that he killed his former wife and her male friend in 1994. He was eventually acquitted of murder but Simpson was later found liable for the deaths in a separate civil case.Here's how investigators allege Ippei Mizuhara stole $16 million from Shohei OhtaniLOS ANGELES (AP) — Federal authorities allege Ippei Mizuhara, the former longtime interpreter for Los Angeles Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani, stole more than $16 million from the two-way baseball sensation to cover his gambling debts. The charges were outlined in a complaint filed with the United States District Court for the Central District of California on Thursday. The complaint, written by IRS senior special agent Chris Seymour, cites wire transfers, text messages, phone records and interviews in alleging that Mizuhara exploited his position of trust with Ohtani to fund his frequent and illegal sports betting.Tiger Woods off to rousing start in pursuit of more Masters history, maybe another green jacketAUGUSTA, Ga. (AP) — Tiger Woods is off to a rousing start in his pursuit of more Masters history. And maybe an improbable run at a sixth green jacket. Woods wasn't able to complete the rain-delayed opening round at Augusta National, getting in 13 holes before sundown. But he was 1-under and looking fitter than he has in years, drawing huge cheers from a massive gallery that hung on his every swing. It was an extremely encouraging start for the five-time champion, who is currently tied with Gary Player and Fred Couples with 23 consecutive times making the cut. Of course, Woods has his sights on an even bigger goal — pulling even with Jack Nicklaus for the most Masters titles.Grand Slam quest: Rory McIlroy staying positive, in contention at Masters after first-round 71AUGUSTA, Ga. (AP) — Rory McIlroy caught a break when his tee shot hit a tree on the ninth hole at Augusta National and kicked out into the middle of fairway, giving him a workable second shot. McIlroy saved par and used that momentum to shoot 71, his first sub-par opening round at the Masters since 2018. That leaves the No. 2 player in the world six shots behind leader Bryson DeChambeau in his quest to win his first green jacket. McIlroy is hoping to join Tiger Woods, Gene Sarazen, Ben Hogan, Jack Nicklaus and Gary Player as the only players to complete the modern Grand Slam by winning all four majors.AP-ScorecardTODAY'S SPORTS SCHEDULE___AMERICAN LEAGUE		Minnesota	at	Detroit	5:40 p.m.	(Postponed)Final	Kansas City	13	Houston	3	Final	Oakland	1	Texas	0	Final	Baltimore	9	Boston	4	___NATIONAL LEAGUE		Milwaukee	at	Cincinnati	12:40 p.m.	(Postponed)Final	N.Y. Mets	16	Atlanta	4	Final	Philadelphia	5	Pittsburgh	1	___NATIONAL BASKETBALL ASSOCIATIONFinal	Chicago	127	Detroit	105	Final	New York	118	Boston	109	Final	Utah	124	Houston	121	Final	Golden State	100	Portland	92	Final	New Orleans	135	Sacramento	123	___NATIONAL HOCKEY LEAGUEFinal	Florida	4	Columbus	0	Final	Buffalo	4	Washington	2	Final	Philadelphia	4	N-Y Rangers	1	Final	New Jersey	6	Toronto	5	Final OT	Pittsburgh	6	Detroit	5	Final SO	Ottawa	3	Tampa Bay	2	Final OT	N-Y Islanders	3	Montreal	2	Final	Winnipeg	3	Dallas	0	Final	San Jose	3	Seattle	1	Final	Los Angeles	4	Calgary	1

📢📰 Sports Headlines for Friday

GLENN HEIGHTS, Texas (AP) — Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Rashee Rice surrendered to police Thursday on charges including aggravated assault after he and another driver of a speeding sports car allegedly caused a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/rashee-rice-sports-car-crash-24b9e3281d0bca8c0c13a0cedda57b93">crash involving a half-dozen vehicles</a>&nbsp;on a Dallas highway last month.

A spokeswoman for Rice’s attorney confirmed to The Associated Press that Rice turned himself in at the Glenn Heights Police Department. Rice is being represented by Texas state Sen. Royce West.

Rice was booked into the Regional Jail in DeSoto, and West said he was released on bond Thursday night.

In an emailed statement, West emphasized what he called Rice's “continued cooperation with law enforcement.”

“Mr. Rice acknowledges his actions and feels deeply for those injured as a result of this accident,” the lawyer said.

Rice said last week on Instagram that he was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/chiefs-kansas-city-rashee-rice-car-crash-dallas-bbc86e5cccc79d7bbce5103070995994">taking “full responsibility”</a>&nbsp;for his part in the wreck.

On Wednesday, Dallas police said arrest warrants had been issued for Rice, 23, for one count of aggravated assault, one count of collision involving serious bodily injury and six counts of collision involving injury.

West said previously that Rice was driving a Lamborghini sport utility vehicle when the crash happened March 30.

Theodore Knox, 21, was driving the other speeding sports car, a Corvette, police said, and arrest warrants were issued for Knox on the same range of counts as for Rice. Dallas police said Thursday night that Knox was not currently in custody.

Southern Methodist University said earlier in the day that, after learning of the arrest warrant,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/dallas-car-crash-smu-8a4258a3af7c064df1925bc65aa15ceb">Knox had been suspended</a>&nbsp;from its football team. Knox’s attorney, Deandra Grant, said her client was cooperating with law enforcement.

Police have alleged that Rice and Knox were speeding in the far left lane when they lost control, and the Lamborghini traveled onto the shoulder and hit the center median wall, causing a chain collision.

Rice and Knox allegedly left following the crash without determining whether anyone needed medical attention or providing their information, according to police. Four people involved in the crash had minor injuries, police said.

Rice grew up in the Fort Worth suburb of North Richland Hills and played college football at nearby Southern Methodist, where a breakout senior season in 2022 put him on the radar of NFL teams.

The Chiefs selected him in the second round of last year’s draft, and he became one of the few dependable options in their passing game.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712017870514.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>GLENN HEIGHTS, Texas (AP) — Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Rashee Rice surrendered to police Thursday on charges including aggravated assault after he and another driver of a speeding sports car allegedly caused a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/rashee-rice-sports-car-crash-24b9e3281d0bca8c0c13a0cedda57b93">crash involving a half-dozen vehicles</a>&nbsp;on a Dallas highway last month.A spokeswoman for Rice’s attorney confirmed to The Associated Press that Rice turned himself in at the Glenn Heights Police Department. Rice is being represented by Texas state Sen. Royce West.Rice was booked into the Regional Jail in DeSoto, and West said he was released on bond Thursday night.In an emailed statement, West emphasized what he called Rice's “continued cooperation with law enforcement.”“Mr. Rice acknowledges his actions and feels deeply for those injured as a result of this accident,” the lawyer said.Rice said last week on Instagram that he was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/chiefs-kansas-city-rashee-rice-car-crash-dallas-bbc86e5cccc79d7bbce5103070995994">taking “full responsibility”</a>&nbsp;for his part in the wreck.On Wednesday, Dallas police said arrest warrants had been issued for Rice, 23, for one count of aggravated assault, one count of collision involving serious bodily injury and six counts of collision involving injury.West said previously that Rice was driving a Lamborghini sport utility vehicle when the crash happened March 30.Theodore Knox, 21, was driving the other speeding sports car, a Corvette, police said, and arrest warrants were issued for Knox on the same range of counts as for Rice. Dallas police said Thursday night that Knox was not currently in custody.Southern Methodist University said earlier in the day that, after learning of the arrest warrant,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/dallas-car-crash-smu-8a4258a3af7c064df1925bc65aa15ceb">Knox had been suspended</a>&nbsp;from its football team. Knox’s attorney, Deandra Grant, said her client was cooperating with law enforcement.Police have alleged that Rice and Knox were speeding in the far left lane when they lost control, and the Lamborghini traveled onto the shoulder and hit the center median wall, causing a chain collision.Rice and Knox allegedly left following the crash without determining whether anyone needed medical attention or providing their information, according to police. Four people involved in the crash had minor injuries, police said.Rice grew up in the Fort Worth suburb of North Richland Hills and played college football at nearby Southern Methodist, where a breakout senior season in 2022 put him on the radar of NFL teams.The Chiefs selected him in the second round of last year’s draft, and he became one of the few dependable options in their passing game.

Rice turns himself in on accident charges

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Bobby Witt Jr. had four hits, including two home runs, and five RBIs and the Kansas City Royals used a nine-run first inning to defeat the Houston Astros 13-3 Thursday to complete a three-game sweep and extend their winning streak to seven games.

Vinnie Pasquantino, who came into Wednesday's game hitting .108 with no RBIs, was 3-for-5 with three RBIs and now is hitting .222 with eight RBIs.

“To go from zero to eight in two days is pretty good,” Pasquantino said. “Hopefully we keep it up. If I could stay at this pace, we’d be in a really good spot.

"It feels good to be a part of the winning.”

The Royals completed a perfect seven-game homestand against the White Sox and Astros. It's just the third time in franchise history they've played at least seven games on a homestand without a loss. The other two: seven games in 1988 and eight games in 1985, the year they won their first World Series.

“It’s a great feeling,” Royals manager Matt Quatraro said. “I’m really happy for those guys. They’ve put in a ton of work. And to get off to that kind of start and sustain it for a full week is really challenging and really rewarding.”

Brady Singer (2-0) allowed one run and five hits in five innings.

Hunter Brown (0-2) got only two outs, but allowed nine runs and 11 hits.

“For the most part, I was generally over the middle of the dish,” Brown said. “I’m definitely not happy about it. I gotta look into it deeper. I've got to sit down with the staff and see what I can do.”

The Royals sent 15 men to the plate in the first inning, tying a club record with 11 hits in the inning (also set in 1986 and 2006). It was the second straight game they've batted around in an inning, sending 11 men to the plate in a seven-run inning Wednesday night.

“As a team we're just coming into the clubhouse each and every day having that feeling of, ‘We’re gonna win,’" Witt said.

The feeling was more demure in the other clubhouse.

“We’ve been tested early, and this team has been tested before,” Houston manager Joe Espada said. “This is going to make us better. It’s hard to swallow those losses, but (I have) faith in that group in there. We’ll figure it out. When things are just not going your way, that’s the stuff that happens.”

Maikel Garcia (two singles), Witt (a single and a homer) and Pasquantino (two singles) each had two hits and two RBIs in the first inning. Everyone in the starting lineup had at least one hit in the inning except Kyle Isbel.

The Astros had baserunners in nearly every inning, but got only a solo home run in the fourth from Yainer Diaz and a pair of runs in the sixth, snapping a 19 1/3-inning scoreless streak by the Royals bullpen.

Astros: RHP Justin Verlander is scheduled for another rehab start this weekend prior to his potential return to the rotation. He's been on the injured list with a right shoulder issue. ... Manager Joe Espada said LHP Framber Valdez averted the worst-case scenario with elbow soreness that put him on the IL on Monday. “The soreness is pretty much all gone,” Espada said. “Now it’s time to let him play catch in the next few days and get him built up.”

Astros: return to Houston for a six-game homestand against Texas and Atlanta. RHP J.P. Franco (0-1, 4.78 ERA) will take the mound Friday against RHP Dane Dunning (1-1, 4.15 ERA) for Texas.

Royals: go on a six-game road trip to New York and Chicago. RHP Michael Wacha (1-0, 2.25 ERA) will start Friday against the Mets' RHP Luis Severino (0-1, 3.60 ERA).

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708710110872.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>DAVID SMALE Associated PressKANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Bobby Witt Jr. had four hits, including two home runs, and five RBIs and the Kansas City Royals used a nine-run first inning to defeat the Houston Astros 13-3 Thursday to complete a three-game sweep and extend their winning streak to seven games.Vinnie Pasquantino, who came into Wednesday's game hitting .108 with no RBIs, was 3-for-5 with three RBIs and now is hitting .222 with eight RBIs.“To go from zero to eight in two days is pretty good,” Pasquantino said. “Hopefully we keep it up. If I could stay at this pace, we’d be in a really good spot."It feels good to be a part of the winning.”The Royals completed a perfect seven-game homestand against the White Sox and Astros. It's just the third time in franchise history they've played at least seven games on a homestand without a loss. The other two: seven games in 1988 and eight games in 1985, the year they won their first World Series.“It’s a great feeling,” Royals manager Matt Quatraro said. “I’m really happy for those guys. They’ve put in a ton of work. And to get off to that kind of start and sustain it for a full week is really challenging and really rewarding.”Brady Singer (2-0) allowed one run and five hits in five innings.Hunter Brown (0-2) got only two outs, but allowed nine runs and 11 hits.“For the most part, I was generally over the middle of the dish,” Brown said. “I’m definitely not happy about it. I gotta look into it deeper. I've got to sit down with the staff and see what I can do.”The Royals sent 15 men to the plate in the first inning, tying a club record with 11 hits in the inning (also set in 1986 and 2006). It was the second straight game they've batted around in an inning, sending 11 men to the plate in a seven-run inning Wednesday night.“As a team we're just coming into the clubhouse each and every day having that feeling of, ‘We’re gonna win,’" Witt said.The feeling was more demure in the other clubhouse.“We’ve been tested early, and this team has been tested before,” Houston manager Joe Espada said. “This is going to make us better. It’s hard to swallow those losses, but (I have) faith in that group in there. We’ll figure it out. When things are just not going your way, that’s the stuff that happens.”Maikel Garcia (two singles), Witt (a single and a homer) and Pasquantino (two singles) each had two hits and two RBIs in the first inning. Everyone in the starting lineup had at least one hit in the inning except Kyle Isbel.The Astros had baserunners in nearly every inning, but got only a solo home run in the fourth from Yainer Diaz and a pair of runs in the sixth, snapping a 19 1/3-inning scoreless streak by the Royals bullpen.TRAINING ROOMAstros: RHP Justin Verlander is scheduled for another rehab start this weekend prior to his potential return to the rotation. He's been on the injured list with a right shoulder issue. ... Manager Joe Espada said LHP Framber Valdez averted the worst-case scenario with elbow soreness that put him on the IL on Monday. “The soreness is pretty much all gone,” Espada said. “Now it’s time to let him play catch in the next few days and get him built up.”UP NEXTAstros: return to Houston for a six-game homestand against Texas and Atlanta. RHP J.P. Franco (0-1, 4.78 ERA) will take the mound Friday against RHP Dane Dunning (1-1, 4.15 ERA) for Texas.Royals: go on a six-game road trip to New York and Chicago. RHP Michael Wacha (1-0, 2.25 ERA) will start Friday against the Mets' RHP Luis Severino (0-1, 3.60 ERA).

⚾️ Royals win seven straight

BUHLER, Kan. — USD 313 announced via social media Thursday that Eric Tate has been named head boys basketball coach.

Tate will also be teaching social studies at Buhler High School.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1696683579907.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>BUHLER, Kan. — USD 313 announced via social media Thursday that Eric Tate has been named head boys basketball coach.Tate will also be teaching social studies at Buhler High School.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712898644286.jpeg" alt=" " />
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 </figure>

🏀 BBB: Eric Tate named head coach at Buhler

LAWRENCE, Kan. –&nbsp;The University of Kansas announced Thursday it has embarked on a groundbreaking partnership with Oak View Group (OVG), a leader in global sports and entertainment, as the stadium operator for the Gateway District and reimagined David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium. Oak View Group will also manage food and beverage services and suite catering for all Kansas Athletics venues.

In its new partnership with KU, Oak View Group will oversee the day-to-day operations of both the football stadium and conference center when Phase I of the Gateway District opens in August 2025. The group will lead the bookings of conference events, special events and concerts, while operating a membership-only dining club in one of the club levels of the stadium. OVG will also play an integral role in the current Allen Fieldhouse upgrades, managing all food and beverage and hospitality in the world-famous arena. Allen Fieldhouse began the first phase of upgrades prior to the 2023-24 season, and is currently undergoing a second phase that will be unveiled prior to the 2024-25 season.

In its role as the new food and beverage provider for Kansas Athletics, OVG Hospitality will bring a reimagined customer service focused approach to all venues.

“We are thrilled to partner with such a proven and innovative team in OVG,” Kansas Director of Athletics Travis Goff said. “A generational project like this requires best-in-class partnerships, and that is what this relationship reflects. The Gateway District and David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium, along with a transformed Allen Fieldhouse, will have an everlasting impact on KU and the Lawrence community, and OVG will be at the center of a world-class fan experience. We are incredibly excited about what this partnership means for our season ticket holders, donors, students, and campus community.”

OVG has several other successful partnerships in the Big 12 and college athletics, and will look to transform the Gateway District and David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium into a destination for events through their emphasis on stadium and conference center bookings. The group will work closely with Jayhawk Hospitality, the KU office that currently manages full-service events and conference rentals on campus, to book events that draw tourism to Lawrence that benefit campus and community partners.

“The Gateway District represents a once-in-a-generation opportunity to transform our campus in a way that benefits students, faculty, staff and the broader region,” said Chancellor Douglas A. Girod. “In particular, this project will create a new gathering place for our campus community, enable us to host conferences and events, and provide Kansas Football the facilities it needs to compete at the highest level. We are excited to be partnering with OVG to move this project forward.”

Beyond the Gateway District, OVG will have a major impact on all KU gameday experiences with its industry-leading food and beverage services being incorporated into all athletic venues, providing fans and guests with high-quality options, while making it a priority to work with partners on a variety of items that will reflect the local culture.

“We are excited to partner with one of the most respected college athletic programs in the nation,” said Chris Granger, President, OVG360. “We look forward to collaborating with the University of Kansas in setting a new standard that redefines the game-day experience for Jayhawk fans. Our joint dedication to culinary excellence and community impact will be showcased through elevated food &amp; beverage offerings, an array of special events, world-class premium hospitality, and thoughtful local partnerships. We are honored and humbled to be a part of the Jayhawk family, and ready to get to work.”

Leveraging its experience as the premier venue management company and largest developer of live event venues in the world, OVG will assist KU in the development of the transformative Gateway District – the future home of Kansas Football and convention center events and conferences in the future. The partnership between the University of Kansas and Oak View Group represents a commitment to excellence and innovation in sports and entertainment, benefiting fans, the community, and campus partners.

Oak View Group (OVG) is the global leader in live experience venue development, management, premium hospitality services, and 360-degree solutions for a collection of world-class owned venues and a client roster of arenas, convention centers, music festivals, performing arts centers, and cultural institutions. Founded by Tim Leiweke and Irving Azoff in 2015, OVG is the leading developer of major new venues either open or under development across four continents. Visit OakViewGroup.com, and follow OVG on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and X.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712861672460.png" alt="Photo Courtesy Kansas Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Kansas Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>Courtesy of Kansas AthleticsLAWRENCE, Kan. –&nbsp;The University of Kansas announced Thursday it has embarked on a groundbreaking partnership with Oak View Group (OVG), a leader in global sports and entertainment, as the stadium operator for the Gateway District and reimagined David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium. Oak View Group will also manage food and beverage services and suite catering for all Kansas Athletics venues.In its new partnership with KU, Oak View Group will oversee the day-to-day operations of both the football stadium and conference center when Phase I of the Gateway District opens in August 2025. The group will lead the bookings of conference events, special events and concerts, while operating a membership-only dining club in one of the club levels of the stadium. OVG will also play an integral role in the current Allen Fieldhouse upgrades, managing all food and beverage and hospitality in the world-famous arena. Allen Fieldhouse began the first phase of upgrades prior to the 2023-24 season, and is currently undergoing a second phase that will be unveiled prior to the 2024-25 season.In its role as the new food and beverage provider for Kansas Athletics, OVG Hospitality will bring a reimagined customer service focused approach to all venues.“We are thrilled to partner with such a proven and innovative team in OVG,” Kansas Director of Athletics Travis Goff said. “A generational project like this requires best-in-class partnerships, and that is what this relationship reflects. The Gateway District and David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium, along with a transformed Allen Fieldhouse, will have an everlasting impact on KU and the Lawrence community, and OVG will be at the center of a world-class fan experience. We are incredibly excited about what this partnership means for our season ticket holders, donors, students, and campus community.”OVG has several other successful partnerships in the Big 12 and college athletics, and will look to transform the Gateway District and David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium into a destination for events through their emphasis on stadium and conference center bookings. The group will work closely with Jayhawk Hospitality, the KU office that currently manages full-service events and conference rentals on campus, to book events that draw tourism to Lawrence that benefit campus and community partners.“The Gateway District represents a once-in-a-generation opportunity to transform our campus in a way that benefits students, faculty, staff and the broader region,” said Chancellor Douglas A. Girod. “In particular, this project will create a new gathering place for our campus community, enable us to host conferences and events, and provide Kansas Football the facilities it needs to compete at the highest level. We are excited to be partnering with OVG to move this project forward.”Beyond the Gateway District, OVG will have a major impact on all KU gameday experiences with its industry-leading food and beverage services being incorporated into all athletic venues, providing fans and guests with high-quality options, while making it a priority to work with partners on a variety of items that will reflect the local culture.“We are excited to partner with one of the most respected college athletic programs in the nation,” said Chris Granger, President, OVG360. “We look forward to collaborating with the University of Kansas in setting a new standard that redefines the game-day experience for Jayhawk fans. Our joint dedication to culinary excellence and community impact will be showcased through elevated food &amp; beverage offerings, an array of special events, world-class premium hospitality, and thoughtful local partnerships. We are honored and humbled to be a part of the Jayhawk family, and ready to get to work.”Leveraging its experience as the premier venue management company and largest developer of live event venues in the world, OVG will assist KU in the development of the transformative Gateway District – the future home of Kansas Football and convention center events and conferences in the future. The partnership between the University of Kansas and Oak View Group represents a commitment to excellence and innovation in sports and entertainment, benefiting fans, the community, and campus partners.About Oak View Group (OVG)Oak View Group (OVG) is the global leader in live experience venue development, management, premium hospitality services, and 360-degree solutions for a collection of world-class owned venues and a client roster of arenas, convention centers, music festivals, performing arts centers, and cultural institutions. Founded by Tim Leiweke and Irving Azoff in 2015, OVG is the leading developer of major new venues either open or under development across four continents. Visit OakViewGroup.com, and follow OVG on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and X.About Kansas Athletics

🏈 KU, Oak View Group enter into partnership to elevate stadium and venue experience

LAWRENCE, Kan.&nbsp;–&nbsp;Kansas freshman guard Johnny Furphy has been named to the Australian Boomers team for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, Basketball Australia announced April 11.

In early July, the 22-member Boomers team will be cut down to 12 to represent Australia at the Olympics, July 26 – August 11 in Paris. Ten members from Australia’s 2020 bronze medal team at the Tokyo Olympics are also vying to make the 2024 squad.

A 2024 Big 12 All-Freshman and All-Big 12 Honorable Mention selection, Furphy averaged 9.0 points and 4.9 rebounds for Kansas this past season. The 6-foot-9, 202-pound, Melbourne, Australia, native started 19 games, including 18 of the last 19 contests, for KU and averaged 11.4 points and 6.1 rebounds in Big 12 play. Furphy led Kansas with 44 three-point field goals made last season.

Prior to Kansas, Furphy played prep basketball for Centre of Excellence (CoE) – Australia’s development program hosted at the Australian Institute of Sport alongside NBA Global Academy. He reclassified for the 2023 class and garnered attention when he participated in various NBA Academy events in the United States. Additionally, Furphy played for Victoria at the 2023 Australia-U20 Championship.

Furphy is vying to become the first Kansas player since Sasha Kaun to participate in the Olympic Games. Kaun won a bronze medal while representing Russia in the 2012 Olympics in London.

For more information on the Boomers team, one can go&nbsp;<a href="https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/icvx09ty0fpmd2qmq4wu7/EMBARGOED-Boomers-Olympic-Squad-Announce-Media-Release.pdf?rlkey=lkek44ndajoaiwgp0elz4mvej&amp;dl=0">here</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712854067824.png" alt="Photo Courtesy Kansas Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Kansas Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>Courtesy Kansas AthleticsLAWRENCE, Kan.&nbsp;–&nbsp;Kansas freshman guard Johnny Furphy has been named to the Australian Boomers team for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, Basketball Australia announced April 11.In early July, the 22-member Boomers team will be cut down to 12 to represent Australia at the Olympics, July 26 – August 11 in Paris. Ten members from Australia’s 2020 bronze medal team at the Tokyo Olympics are also vying to make the 2024 squad.A 2024 Big 12 All-Freshman and All-Big 12 Honorable Mention selection, Furphy averaged 9.0 points and 4.9 rebounds for Kansas this past season. The 6-foot-9, 202-pound, Melbourne, Australia, native started 19 games, including 18 of the last 19 contests, for KU and averaged 11.4 points and 6.1 rebounds in Big 12 play. Furphy led Kansas with 44 three-point field goals made last season.Prior to Kansas, Furphy played prep basketball for Centre of Excellence (CoE) – Australia’s development program hosted at the Australian Institute of Sport alongside NBA Global Academy. He reclassified for the 2023 class and garnered attention when he participated in various NBA Academy events in the United States. Additionally, Furphy played for Victoria at the 2023 Australia-U20 Championship.Furphy is vying to become the first Kansas player since Sasha Kaun to participate in the Olympic Games. Kaun won a bronze medal while representing Russia in the 2012 Olympics in London.For more information on the Boomers team, one can go&nbsp;<a href="https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/icvx09ty0fpmd2qmq4wu7/EMBARGOED-Boomers-Olympic-Squad-Announce-Media-Release.pdf?rlkey=lkek44ndajoaiwgp0elz4mvej&amp;dl=0">here</a>.

🏀 MBB: Furphy named to Boomers Squad to vie for the Australian Olympic Team

Charlotte, NC -&nbsp;Hutchinson's Kiki Smith has been named the 2024 NJCAA DI Women's Basketball Player of the Year.

The freshman guard out of Topeka, Kansas posted 652 points, 117 rebounds, 84 steals, 82 assists, and 20 blocks in 37 games played and started. Smith's 652 points aided in the Blue Dragons being third in the nation in scoring with a total of 2874 points. In the national tournament alone, she totaled 68 points, 14 rebounds, 9 steals, 6 assists, and 3 blocks. In the national title game, Smith was the third leading scorer on offense with 23 points and 4 steals on defense.

John Ontjes, Head Coach- "Kiki had one of the most epic seasons in blue dragon history.&nbsp; She is a player that always made plays within the system but in every big moment elevated her game and produced winning plays. Kiki is one of the most unselfish and competitive players that I have ever coached.&nbsp; She is a player who is very driven and works extremely hard.&nbsp; Kiki will be remembered as one of the best players in Blue Dragon history!"&nbsp;&nbsp;

On top of being Hutchinson's leading scorer this season, Smith set the Hutchinson Community College freshman scoring record. Her 652 points also landed her second in points scored in a single season for the Blue Dragons while her 96 three-pointers landed her fifth in a single season.

Smith was originally committed to the University of Evansville before flipping her commitment to Hutchinson. On top of ending her first season with the Blue Dragons as an NJCAA National Champion, Smith was named as the National Tournament MVP and was named to the 2024 NJCAA DI Women's Basketball First-Team All-America team.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712852394874.png" alt="Photo Courtesy NJCAA" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy NJCAA</figcaption>
 </figure>Courtesy of the NJCAACharlotte, NC -&nbsp;Hutchinson's Kiki Smith has been named the 2024 NJCAA DI Women's Basketball Player of the Year.The freshman guard out of Topeka, Kansas posted 652 points, 117 rebounds, 84 steals, 82 assists, and 20 blocks in 37 games played and started. Smith's 652 points aided in the Blue Dragons being third in the nation in scoring with a total of 2874 points. In the national tournament alone, she totaled 68 points, 14 rebounds, 9 steals, 6 assists, and 3 blocks. In the national title game, Smith was the third leading scorer on offense with 23 points and 4 steals on defense.John Ontjes, Head Coach- "Kiki had one of the most epic seasons in blue dragon history.&nbsp; She is a player that always made plays within the system but in every big moment elevated her game and produced winning plays. Kiki is one of the most unselfish and competitive players that I have ever coached.&nbsp; She is a player who is very driven and works extremely hard.&nbsp; Kiki will be remembered as one of the best players in Blue Dragon history!"&nbsp;&nbsp;On top of being Hutchinson's leading scorer this season, Smith set the Hutchinson Community College freshman scoring record. Her 652 points also landed her second in points scored in a single season for the Blue Dragons while her 96 three-pointers landed her fifth in a single season.Smith was originally committed to the University of Evansville before flipping her commitment to Hutchinson. On top of ending her first season with the Blue Dragons as an NJCAA National Champion, Smith was named as the National Tournament MVP and was named to the 2024 NJCAA DI Women's Basketball First-Team All-America team.Player Profile<ul>
 <li>Position: Guard</li><li>Height: 5'7"</li><li>Class: Freshman</li><li>Hometown: Topeka, KS</li>
 </ul>2023-24 Statistics<ul>
 <li>37 games played</li><li>37 games started</li><li>652 points</li><li>117 rebounds</li><li>84 steals</li><li>82 assists</li><li>20 blocks</li>
 </ul>2023-24 Accomplishments:<ul>
 <li>NJCAA DI National Champion</li><li>NJCAA DI First-Team All-American</li><li>NJCAA DI Women's Championship MVP</li><li>KJCCC Player of the Year</li><li>KJCCC Freshman of the Year</li><li>Region 6 DI Tournament MVP</li>
 </ul>

🏀 WBB: HutchCC's Kiki Smith named NJCAA National Player of the Year

Courtesy of Wichita State Athletics MANHATTAN, Kan. —Wichita State grabbed an early 3-0 lead and led 3-2 entering the bottom of the eighth, but Kansas State scored four times in the inning to rally for a 6-3 win on Wednesday night at Tointon Family Stadium.

The Shockers (19-15) struck for a run in the second and two in the third against Kansas State starter Mason Buss, getting a sacrifice fly from&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/camden-johnson/7605">Camden Johnson</a>, an RBI fielder's choice from&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/kam-durnin/7604">Kam Durnin</a>&nbsp;and a run-scoring double from&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/dayvin-johnson/7596">Dayvin Johnson</a>&nbsp;that made it 3-0. But Wichita State did not score over the next six innings against the Kansas State bullpen.

<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/caleb-anderson/8973">Caleb Anderson</a>&nbsp;held the Wildcats to two runs over 3.2 innings in his first start of the season, and reliever&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/jack-mount/7599">Jack Mount</a>&nbsp;turned in 2.1 scoreless innings to get the Shockers to the seventh with a 3-2 lead.&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/hunter-holmes/8976">Hunter Holmes</a>&nbsp;was able to pitch out of a bases loaded jam in the seventh, but the Wildcats (21-10) surged in front in the eighth on four singles, an error, and a sacrifice fly that turned the 3-2 deficit into a 6-3 lead. Jackson Wentworth closed out the win with a 1-2-3 ninth for his sixth save.

<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/brady-hamilton/7614">Brady Hamilton</a>&nbsp;(1-3) took the loss for Wichita State, allowing two runs without recording an out in the eighth. Jacob Frost (3-1) picked up the win for Kansas State with a scoreless eighth.

Four Shockers finished with two hits on the evening:&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/lane-haworth/7609">Lane Haworth</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/dayvin-johnson/7596">Dayvin Johnson</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/jordan-rogers/7538">Jordan Rogers</a>, and&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/camden-johnson/7605">Camden Johnson</a>.Wichita State returns to conference play on Friday night against Florida Atlantic. First pitch from Eck Stadium is scheduled for 6:00 pm.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712844918006.png" alt="Photo courtesy of Wichita State Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy of Wichita State Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>Courtesy of Wichita State Athletics MANHATTAN, Kan. —Wichita State grabbed an early 3-0 lead and led 3-2 entering the bottom of the eighth, but Kansas State scored four times in the inning to rally for a 6-3 win on Wednesday night at Tointon Family Stadium.The Shockers (19-15) struck for a run in the second and two in the third against Kansas State starter Mason Buss, getting a sacrifice fly from&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/camden-johnson/7605">Camden Johnson</a>, an RBI fielder's choice from&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/kam-durnin/7604">Kam Durnin</a>&nbsp;and a run-scoring double from&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/dayvin-johnson/7596">Dayvin Johnson</a>&nbsp;that made it 3-0. But Wichita State did not score over the next six innings against the Kansas State bullpen.<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/caleb-anderson/8973">Caleb Anderson</a>&nbsp;held the Wildcats to two runs over 3.2 innings in his first start of the season, and reliever&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/jack-mount/7599">Jack Mount</a>&nbsp;turned in 2.1 scoreless innings to get the Shockers to the seventh with a 3-2 lead.&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/hunter-holmes/8976">Hunter Holmes</a>&nbsp;was able to pitch out of a bases loaded jam in the seventh, but the Wildcats (21-10) surged in front in the eighth on four singles, an error, and a sacrifice fly that turned the 3-2 deficit into a 6-3 lead. Jackson Wentworth closed out the win with a 1-2-3 ninth for his sixth save.<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/brady-hamilton/7614">Brady Hamilton</a>&nbsp;(1-3) took the loss for Wichita State, allowing two runs without recording an out in the eighth. Jacob Frost (3-1) picked up the win for Kansas State with a scoreless eighth.Four Shockers finished with two hits on the evening:&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/lane-haworth/7609">Lane Haworth</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/dayvin-johnson/7596">Dayvin Johnson</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/jordan-rogers/7538">Jordan Rogers</a>, and&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/camden-johnson/7605">Camden Johnson</a>.Wichita State returns to conference play on Friday night against Florida Atlantic. First pitch from Eck Stadium is scheduled for 6:00 pm.

⚾️ Shockers unable to hold late lead against Wildcats

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1701263164849.png" alt="Early Morning Sports with Rob Dreher for Thursday, April 11th, 2024." />
 <figcaption>Early Morning Sports with Rob Dreher for Thursday, April 11th, 2024.</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="April 11th, 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=5b2g7-15daffb-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=60a0c8&font-color=&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=ff6d00" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

🎧 LISTEN: ⚾ Royals edge Astros 🏀 WBB: HutchCC celebration

Release from Lake Oswego, Oregon Police

LAKE OSWEGO, Ore. — On April 9, 2024, 31-year-old Ben McLemore was arrested at the Portland International Airport on an outstanding felony warrant for the following charges:

The charges stem from a reported sexual assault that occurred in the City of Lake Oswego on October 3, 2021. When the crime was reported, police collected available evidence and information and connected the survivor with a Victim’s Advocate.&nbsp; While the survivor was able to connect with an advocate, the criminal investigation was assigned to detectives for follow-up.&nbsp; The survivor has been cooperative in the investigation.

In the investigation, detectives learned that she reported she was assaulted at a home in the 1200 block of Cherry Lane in Lake Oswego, and the suspect was identified as McLemore, who was a Portland Trailblazer at the time of the incident. Mr. McLemore moved out of state during the investigation and frequently traveled overseas for his employment, resulting in delays in the investigation, while detectives continued to gather evidence.

In February of this year, a Clackamas County Grand Jury heard evidence in the case, including testimony from the survivor, and issued an indictment against Mr. McLemore and an arrest warrant for the listed charges.

We applaud the courage of the survivor to come forward and put herself through this arduous process, and we will continue to support her in any way we can. &nbsp;

Mr. McLemore was arraigned in Clackamas County Circuit Court Tuesday, April 10, 2024, at 2:00 P.M.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712833305174.jpeg" alt="Ben McLemore-Photo from Wikipedia" />
 <figcaption>Ben McLemore-Photo from Wikipedia</figcaption>
 </figure>Release from Lake Oswego, Oregon PoliceLAKE OSWEGO, Ore. — On April 9, 2024, 31-year-old Ben McLemore was arrested at the Portland International Airport on an outstanding felony warrant for the following charges:<ul>
 <li>Rape 1</li><li>Unlawful Sexual Penetration 1</li><li>Sex Abuse 2 (2 counts)</li>
 </ul>The charges stem from a reported sexual assault that occurred in the City of Lake Oswego on October 3, 2021. When the crime was reported, police collected available evidence and information and connected the survivor with a Victim’s Advocate.&nbsp; While the survivor was able to connect with an advocate, the criminal investigation was assigned to detectives for follow-up.&nbsp; The survivor has been cooperative in the investigation.In the investigation, detectives learned that she reported she was assaulted at a home in the 1200 block of Cherry Lane in Lake Oswego, and the suspect was identified as McLemore, who was a Portland Trailblazer at the time of the incident. Mr. McLemore moved out of state during the investigation and frequently traveled overseas for his employment, resulting in delays in the investigation, while detectives continued to gather evidence.In February of this year, a Clackamas County Grand Jury heard evidence in the case, including testimony from the survivor, and issued an indictment against Mr. McLemore and an arrest warrant for the listed charges.We applaud the courage of the survivor to come forward and put herself through this arduous process, and we will continue to support her in any way we can. &nbsp;Mr. McLemore was arraigned in Clackamas County Circuit Court Tuesday, April 10, 2024, at 2:00 P.M.

Former Jayhawk McLemore arrested on sex crime charges

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Vinnie Pasquantino broke out of an early season slump with a home run and a career-high five RBIs to lead the Kansas City Royals to an 11-2 win over the Houston Astros on Wednesday night for their sixth straight victory.

Pasquantino went 3 for 3 with a single, double, homer and a walk with two runs scored after entering the game 4 for 37 with four singles and no RBIs.

“I try not to consider it slumps or highs and lows,” he said. “I just try to consider it that you’re riding this roller coaster and you try to keep it as as much of a kiddie ride as you can. Obviously, the first week and a half wasn’t what I wanted statistically, but tonight felt good.

"The happiest person is probably going to be my wife because I probably won’t be tossing and turning all night. I imagine I’ll sleep a little bit better tonight. Some frustration set in for me. The beautiful thing is when you’re winning, it doesn’t matter.”

The Royals scored seven times in the third inning, jumpstarted by Pasquantino's two-run double. Kansas City, which had eight runs in the seventh against the Chicago White Sox on April 4, have multiple innings of seven or more runs in April for the first time since 2000.

Seth Lugo (2-0) allowed two runs and seven hits in six innings. It was the Royals’ ninth quality start in 12 games, the most in the majors.

“If we keep the right mindset, we could do it all season,” Lugo said of the success of the starting pitching. “There’s no reason not to. Just make sure after a good game (or) a bad game flush it and move on (and) keep working.”

The Royals' six-game winning streak is their longest since last September, when they also won six straight — including a three-game sweep of the Astros in Houston. The Royals will go for a 7-0 homestand in Thursday's finale.

The Royals are 7-1 in their last eight games against the Astros.

Royals manager Matt Quatraro said he had seen Pasquantino pressing this season, but he had confidence his slugging first baseman would come around.

“We really feel Vinnie is a really quality major league hitter,” he said. “He’s played in 10 games or whatever prior to tonight. That’s a really small sample. He’s done it at this level before. We know he’s going to continue to do it.”

Spencer Arrighetti (0-1) made his big league debut and worked around trouble in his first two innings before giving up seven runs in his third and final inning. The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/astros-arrighetti-debut-fee6ba28349803b56215e689a45d7cb3">Astros' top pitching prospect</a>&nbsp;said his nerves and emotions were part of his struggle.

“When you want something that bad your whole life, you want it to be perfect," Arrighetti said. "You want it to go really smoothly and you want everything to feel good.

"But the reality is before the game I was a little bit of an anxious mess. I feel like I had to work harder to get my emotions down.”

The Royals batted around in the third. Pasquantino recorded his first extra-base hit and first two RBIs of the season with a two-run double. Salvador Perez single and MJ Melendez walked to load the bases before Nelson Velázquez stroked a two-run single to right.

Adam Frazier drove in Melendez with a single. Hunter Renfroe capped the scoring with a two-run double.

The Astros got a pair of runs in the fourth on a double by Yainer Diaz and a sacrifice fly by José Abreu.

But Pasquantino answered with his first homer of the season in the bottom of the fourth and drove in his fourth run on a sacrifice fly in the sixth. The Royals added two runs in the eighth, including an RBI single by Pasquantino.

Astros: RHP Wander Suero was optioned to Triple-A Sugar Land to make room for Arrighetti.

The Astros will send RHP Hunter Brown (0-1, 6.43 ERA) to the mound to face RHP Brady Singer (1-0, 0.68).

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712806261281.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Royals' Vinnie Pasquantino (9) is congratulated after he scored in the third inning of the team's baseball against the Houston Astros, Wednesday, April 10, 2024, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Ed Zurga)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Royals' Vinnie Pasquantino (9) is congratulated after he scored in the third inning of the team's baseball against the Houston Astros, Wednesday, April 10, 2024, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Ed Zurga)</figcaption>
 </figure>DAVID SMALE Associated PressKANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Vinnie Pasquantino broke out of an early season slump with a home run and a career-high five RBIs to lead the Kansas City Royals to an 11-2 win over the Houston Astros on Wednesday night for their sixth straight victory.Pasquantino went 3 for 3 with a single, double, homer and a walk with two runs scored after entering the game 4 for 37 with four singles and no RBIs.“I try not to consider it slumps or highs and lows,” he said. “I just try to consider it that you’re riding this roller coaster and you try to keep it as as much of a kiddie ride as you can. Obviously, the first week and a half wasn’t what I wanted statistically, but tonight felt good."The happiest person is probably going to be my wife because I probably won’t be tossing and turning all night. I imagine I’ll sleep a little bit better tonight. Some frustration set in for me. The beautiful thing is when you’re winning, it doesn’t matter.”The Royals scored seven times in the third inning, jumpstarted by Pasquantino's two-run double. Kansas City, which had eight runs in the seventh against the Chicago White Sox on April 4, have multiple innings of seven or more runs in April for the first time since 2000.Seth Lugo (2-0) allowed two runs and seven hits in six innings. It was the Royals’ ninth quality start in 12 games, the most in the majors.“If we keep the right mindset, we could do it all season,” Lugo said of the success of the starting pitching. “There’s no reason not to. Just make sure after a good game (or) a bad game flush it and move on (and) keep working.”The Royals' six-game winning streak is their longest since last September, when they also won six straight — including a three-game sweep of the Astros in Houston. The Royals will go for a 7-0 homestand in Thursday's finale.The Royals are 7-1 in their last eight games against the Astros.Royals manager Matt Quatraro said he had seen Pasquantino pressing this season, but he had confidence his slugging first baseman would come around.“We really feel Vinnie is a really quality major league hitter,” he said. “He’s played in 10 games or whatever prior to tonight. That’s a really small sample. He’s done it at this level before. We know he’s going to continue to do it.”Spencer Arrighetti (0-1) made his big league debut and worked around trouble in his first two innings before giving up seven runs in his third and final inning. The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/astros-arrighetti-debut-fee6ba28349803b56215e689a45d7cb3">Astros' top pitching prospect</a>&nbsp;said his nerves and emotions were part of his struggle.“When you want something that bad your whole life, you want it to be perfect," Arrighetti said. "You want it to go really smoothly and you want everything to feel good."But the reality is before the game I was a little bit of an anxious mess. I feel like I had to work harder to get my emotions down.”The Royals batted around in the third. Pasquantino recorded his first extra-base hit and first two RBIs of the season with a two-run double. Salvador Perez single and MJ Melendez walked to load the bases before Nelson Velázquez stroked a two-run single to right.Adam Frazier drove in Melendez with a single. Hunter Renfroe capped the scoring with a two-run double.The Astros got a pair of runs in the fourth on a double by Yainer Diaz and a sacrifice fly by José Abreu.But Pasquantino answered with his first homer of the season in the bottom of the fourth and drove in his fourth run on a sacrifice fly in the sixth. The Royals added two runs in the eighth, including an RBI single by Pasquantino.TRANSACTIONSAstros: RHP Wander Suero was optioned to Triple-A Sugar Land to make room for Arrighetti.UP NEXTThe Astros will send RHP Hunter Brown (0-1, 6.43 ERA) to the mound to face RHP Brady Singer (1-0, 0.68).

⚾ Pasquantino breaks out, Royals win over Astros

Masters a reunion of the world's best players. But the numbers are shrinking

AUGUSTA, Ga. (AP) — The Masters is more than just the first major of the year. It's the first time the whole gang is back together. The question is for how much longer. The 13 players from LIV Golf join the rest of the players in an 89-man field at Augusta National. Masters Chairman Fred Ridley is leaning on invitations in his belief they can get the right players. He believes the Official World Golf Ranking is legitimate. The Masters always reviews the criteria. Ridley did not announce any changes in his news conference. For now, the focus is on winning a green jacket.

Caitlin Clark tells fans 'this place will always be home to me' as she bids farewell to Iowa

IOWA CITY, Iowa (AP) — Caitlin Clark got a final chance to say goodbye to Iowa fans on Wednesday, and of course there was a big crowd waiting. Clark, who became major college basketball's all-time leading scorer this season on the way to being the consensus national player of the year, was honored along with her teammates in a celebration at Iowa's home arena commemorating the Hawkeyes' second consecutive national runner-up finish in the NCAA tournament. "I would say you've all inspired me as much as I inspired you," Clark said to the approximately 8,000 fans at Iowa's Carver-Hawkeye Arena.

Adam Silver says gambling probe of Toronto's Jontay Porter could lead to banishment from league

NEW YORK (AP) — Toronto's Jontay Porter could face expulsion from the league if the gambling-related accusations against him are found to be true, NBA Commissioner Adam Silver said Wednesday. Silver, speaking after a two-day meeting of the league's Board of Governors, did not reveal any specifics about the investigation surrounding Porter, other than saying the probe is ongoing. Porter has not played since the league said it was looking into betting patterns surrounding his on-court performance.

Jokic scores 41 points and leads Nuggets past Timberwolves 116-107 to take lead in West

DENVER (AP) — Nikola Jokic scored 41 points and powered the Denver Nuggets past Minnesota and into sole possession of first place in the tight Western Conference playoff race with a 116-107 win over the Timberwolves. Jokic made 16 of 20 shots against the NBA's best defense while being guarded most of the night by the league's top defender, Rudy Gobert. Jamal Murray added 20 points in 27 minutes and Michael Porter Jr. scored 18. Anthony Edwards led Minnesota with 25 points but was a non-factor in the fourth quarter as Denver pulled away.

Jackson Holliday, baseball's top-rated prospect, makes MLB debut for Orioles at Fenway Park

BOSTON (AP) — After his rapid rise to the majors, Jackson Holliday was given a particularly meaningful number with the Baltimore Orioles. Baseball's top-ranked prospect made his big league debut Wednesday night at Fenway Park, starting at second base and batting ninth against the Boston Red Sox. He struck out his first time up. The 20-year-old infielder, selected first in the 2022 amateur draft out of high school in Oklahoma, is a son of Matt Holliday, a seven-time All-Star and the 2007 NL batting champion. Holliday will wear No. 7 for Baltimore. His father wore that number during seven seasons with St. Louis and one with Colorado. But it hadn't been worn by a member of the Orioles since former manager Cal Ripken Sr. was still coaching in 1992.

Former NFL linebacker Terrell Suggs faces charges from Starbucks drive-thru incident

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. (AP) — Former NFL linebacker Terrell Suggs has been arrested after allegedly threatening another man and showing a handgun during a dispute in a Starbucks drive-thru line. Scottsdale Police arrested Suggs and charged the former Baltimore Ravens player with threatening and intimidating and disorderly conduct with a weapon. The incident on March 10 began after a black Range Rover driven by Suggs passed the ordering speaker at Starbucks and had to back up to place his order, backing into the other vehicle.

Hawaii-born sumo champion Akebono Taro dies of heart failure at the age of 54 in Japan

TOKYO (AP) — Hawaii-born Akebono Taro, one of the greats of sumo wrestling and a former grand champion, has died. He was 54. He was the first foreign-born wrestler to reach the level of "yokozuna" — or grand champion — in Japan. At the prime of his career he was a real giant, reported at the time to weigh 500 pounds and standing 6-feet-8. He was born Chad Rowan and moved to Tokyo in the late 1980s and won his first grand championship in 1993. Akebono was an 11-time grand tournament winner and he retired in 2001.

Jets' Aaron Rodgers briefly thought playing career could be over after tearing his Achilles tendon

Aaron Rodgers acknowledged during a podcast appearance this week he briefly thought his playing career could be over after he tore his left Achilles tendon in the New York Jets' season opener. The 40-year-old quarterback said during a wide-ranging 2 1/2-hour interview on the "I Can Fly" podcast that he feared for his playing career immediately after he was hurt just four snaps into his Jets debut on Sept. 11. Rodgers was traded to the Jets last offseason after 18 years with the Green Bay Packers. He said his life has changed for the better since the injury and is excited about playing again.

Monterrey beats Messi and Inter Miami to advance to the CONCACAF semifinals

MONTERREY, Mexico (AP) — Brandon Vazquez, German Berterame and Jesus Gallardo scored goals and Monterrey beat Inter Miami 3-1 to secure a spot in the CONCACAF Champions Cup semifinals. Vazquez opened the scoring in the 31st minute, Berterame added a goal in 58th and Gallardo sealed the win in the 64th for Monterrey, which progressed to the next round with a 5-2 aggregate score. Monterrey, the team with the highest payroll in the Mexican league, will take on the Columbus Crew in one of the semifinals. America, the reining champion in Mexico, will play against Pachuca in the other.

Fixture pileup a concern as Premier League title contenders look to juggle European commitments

Any dropped points from this stage could be fatal for the three contenders in the Premier League title race. The danger could be greater than ever for Arsenal, Liverpool and Manchester City this weekend. The games don't appear too difficult on the face of it. Arsenal, the leader on goal difference, is at home to an Aston Villa team in fifth place but going through a difficult spell. Second-place Liverpool hosts a Crystal Palace team with just one win since January. Third-place Manchester City is a point further back and is also at home to third-to-last Luton. The peril is present because this weekend's schedule comes in between two-legged quarterfinals in the Champions League and Europa League.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1701494597443.png" alt="Sports Headlines and News for Thursday, April 11th, 2024." />
 <figcaption>Sports Headlines and News for Thursday, April 11th, 2024.</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="April 11th, 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=5b2g7-15daffb-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=60a0c8&font-color=&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=ff6d00" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>AP Sports Summary for April 11th, 2024.Masters a reunion of the world's best players. But the numbers are shrinkingAUGUSTA, Ga. (AP) — The Masters is more than just the first major of the year. It's the first time the whole gang is back together. The question is for how much longer. The 13 players from LIV Golf join the rest of the players in an 89-man field at Augusta National. Masters Chairman Fred Ridley is leaning on invitations in his belief they can get the right players. He believes the Official World Golf Ranking is legitimate. The Masters always reviews the criteria. Ridley did not announce any changes in his news conference. For now, the focus is on winning a green jacket.Caitlin Clark tells fans 'this place will always be home to me' as she bids farewell to IowaIOWA CITY, Iowa (AP) — Caitlin Clark got a final chance to say goodbye to Iowa fans on Wednesday, and of course there was a big crowd waiting. Clark, who became major college basketball's all-time leading scorer this season on the way to being the consensus national player of the year, was honored along with her teammates in a celebration at Iowa's home arena commemorating the Hawkeyes' second consecutive national runner-up finish in the NCAA tournament. "I would say you've all inspired me as much as I inspired you," Clark said to the approximately 8,000 fans at Iowa's Carver-Hawkeye Arena.Adam Silver says gambling probe of Toronto's Jontay Porter could lead to banishment from leagueNEW YORK (AP) — Toronto's Jontay Porter could face expulsion from the league if the gambling-related accusations against him are found to be true, NBA Commissioner Adam Silver said Wednesday. Silver, speaking after a two-day meeting of the league's Board of Governors, did not reveal any specifics about the investigation surrounding Porter, other than saying the probe is ongoing. Porter has not played since the league said it was looking into betting patterns surrounding his on-court performance.Jokic scores 41 points and leads Nuggets past Timberwolves 116-107 to take lead in WestDENVER (AP) — Nikola Jokic scored 41 points and powered the Denver Nuggets past Minnesota and into sole possession of first place in the tight Western Conference playoff race with a 116-107 win over the Timberwolves. Jokic made 16 of 20 shots against the NBA's best defense while being guarded most of the night by the league's top defender, Rudy Gobert. Jamal Murray added 20 points in 27 minutes and Michael Porter Jr. scored 18. Anthony Edwards led Minnesota with 25 points but was a non-factor in the fourth quarter as Denver pulled away.Jackson Holliday, baseball's top-rated prospect, makes MLB debut for Orioles at Fenway ParkBOSTON (AP) — After his rapid rise to the majors, Jackson Holliday was given a particularly meaningful number with the Baltimore Orioles. Baseball's top-ranked prospect made his big league debut Wednesday night at Fenway Park, starting at second base and batting ninth against the Boston Red Sox. He struck out his first time up. The 20-year-old infielder, selected first in the 2022 amateur draft out of high school in Oklahoma, is a son of Matt Holliday, a seven-time All-Star and the 2007 NL batting champion. Holliday will wear No. 7 for Baltimore. His father wore that number during seven seasons with St. Louis and one with Colorado. But it hadn't been worn by a member of the Orioles since former manager Cal Ripken Sr. was still coaching in 1992.Former NFL linebacker Terrell Suggs faces charges from Starbucks drive-thru incidentSCOTTSDALE, Ariz. (AP) — Former NFL linebacker Terrell Suggs has been arrested after allegedly threatening another man and showing a handgun during a dispute in a Starbucks drive-thru line. Scottsdale Police arrested Suggs and charged the former Baltimore Ravens player with threatening and intimidating and disorderly conduct with a weapon. The incident on March 10 began after a black Range Rover driven by Suggs passed the ordering speaker at Starbucks and had to back up to place his order, backing into the other vehicle.Hawaii-born sumo champion Akebono Taro dies of heart failure at the age of 54 in JapanTOKYO (AP) — Hawaii-born Akebono Taro, one of the greats of sumo wrestling and a former grand champion, has died. He was 54. He was the first foreign-born wrestler to reach the level of "yokozuna" — or grand champion — in Japan. At the prime of his career he was a real giant, reported at the time to weigh 500 pounds and standing 6-feet-8. He was born Chad Rowan and moved to Tokyo in the late 1980s and won his first grand championship in 1993. Akebono was an 11-time grand tournament winner and he retired in 2001.Jets' Aaron Rodgers briefly thought playing career could be over after tearing his Achilles tendonAaron Rodgers acknowledged during a podcast appearance this week he briefly thought his playing career could be over after he tore his left Achilles tendon in the New York Jets' season opener. The 40-year-old quarterback said during a wide-ranging 2 1/2-hour interview on the "I Can Fly" podcast that he feared for his playing career immediately after he was hurt just four snaps into his Jets debut on Sept. 11. Rodgers was traded to the Jets last offseason after 18 years with the Green Bay Packers. He said his life has changed for the better since the injury and is excited about playing again.Monterrey beats Messi and Inter Miami to advance to the CONCACAF semifinalsMONTERREY, Mexico (AP) — Brandon Vazquez, German Berterame and Jesus Gallardo scored goals and Monterrey beat Inter Miami 3-1 to secure a spot in the CONCACAF Champions Cup semifinals. Vazquez opened the scoring in the 31st minute, Berterame added a goal in 58th and Gallardo sealed the win in the 64th for Monterrey, which progressed to the next round with a 5-2 aggregate score. Monterrey, the team with the highest payroll in the Mexican league, will take on the Columbus Crew in one of the semifinals. America, the reining champion in Mexico, will play against Pachuca in the other.Fixture pileup a concern as Premier League title contenders look to juggle European commitmentsAny dropped points from this stage could be fatal for the three contenders in the Premier League title race. The danger could be greater than ever for Arsenal, Liverpool and Manchester City this weekend. The games don't appear too difficult on the face of it. Arsenal, the leader on goal difference, is at home to an Aston Villa team in fifth place but going through a difficult spell. Second-place Liverpool hosts a Crystal Palace team with just one win since January. Third-place Manchester City is a point further back and is also at home to third-to-last Luton. The peril is present because this weekend's schedule comes in between two-legged quarterfinals in the Champions League and Europa League.AP-ScorecardHere are the scores from yesterday's sports events:___INTERLEAGUEFinal	Minnesota	3	L.A. Dodgers	2	Final	Miami	5	N.Y. Yankees	2	___AMERICAN LEAGUEFinal	Seattle	6	Toronto	1	Final	Tampa Bay	4	L.A. Angels	2	Final	Cleveland	7	Chicago White Sox	6	Final	Baltimore	7	Boston	5	Final	Kansas City	11	Houston	2	Final	Texas	6	Oakland	2	___NATIONAL LEAGUE		N-Y Mets	at	Atlanta	7:20 p.m.	(Postponed)Final	Philadelphia	4	St. Louis	3	Final	San Francisco	7	Washington	1	Final	Arizona	5	Colorado	3	Final	Milwaukee	7	Cincinnati	2	Final	San Diego	10	Chicago Cubs	2	___NATIONAL BASKETBALL ASSOCIATIONFinal	Cleveland	110	Memphis	98	Final	Charlotte	115	Atlanta	114	Final	Dallas	111	Miami	92	Final	Brooklyn	106	Toronto	102	Final	Oklahoma City	127	San Antonio	89	Final	Milwaukee	117	Orlando	99	Final	Denver	116	Minnesota	107	Final	Phoenix	124	L.A. Clippers	108	___NATIONAL HOCKEY LEAGUEFinal	St. Louis	5	Chicago	2	Final	Edmonton	5	Vegas	1	Final OT	Arizona	4	Vancouver	3	___TODAY'S SPORTS SCHEDULE___AMERICAN LEAGUE		Minnesota	at	Detroit	1:10 p.m.			Houston	at	Kansas City	2:10 p.m.			Oakland	at	Texas	2:35 p.m.			Baltimore	at	Boston	7:10 p.m.	___NATIONAL LEAGUE		N-Y Mets	at	Atlanta	12:20 p.m.			Milwaukee	at	Cincinnati	1:10 p.m.			Pittsburgh	at	Philadelphia	6:40 p.m.	___NATIONAL BASKETBALL ASSOCIATION		Chicago	at	Detroit	7 p.m.			New York	at	Boston	7:30 p.m.			Houston	at	Utah	9 p.m.			Golden State	at	Portland	10 p.m.			New Orleans	at	Sacramento	10 p.m.	___NATIONAL HOCKEY LEAGUE		Columbus	at	Florida	7 p.m.			Detroit	at	Pittsburgh	7 p.m.			New Jersey	at	Toronto	7 p.m.			Ottawa	at	Tampa Bay	7 p.m.			Philadelphia	at	N-Y Rangers	7 p.m.			Washington	at	Buffalo	7 p.m.			Montreal	at	N-Y Islanders	7:30 p.m.			Winnipeg	at	Dallas	8 p.m.			San Jose	at	Seattle	10 p.m.			Calgary	at	Los Angeles	10:30 p.m.	___