Courtesy of Wichita State Athletics&nbsp;

WICHITA, Kan. -&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/lauren-lucas/7235">Lauren Lucas</a>&nbsp;was named to the American Athletic Conference Weekly Honor Roll Monday afternoon. The Little Elm, Texas, native slashed .375/.455/.625 with a triple, two walks, two runs scored and four RBI over the weekend. Lucas was responsible for four of the eight runs in Friday night's extra inning walk-off win vs. Houston. She registered a bases-clearing triple and then drove in the winning run on a sac fly in the bottom of the 11th. This is the first honor roll selection for Lucas this season after earning Player of the Week honors in February. Lucas and the Shockers travel to Stillwater for a rematch with No. 3 Oklahoma State Tuesday night at 6 p.m. Player of the Week Shannon Doherty, Jr., 1B, UCF Pitcher of the Week Sarah Willis, Jr., RHP, UCF Honor Roll Bree Cantu, Sr., UTL, Houston Kenna Wilkey, Gr., Houston Gabriella Nori, Sr., LHP, South Florida Vivian Ponn, Sr., UTL/RHP, South Florida <a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/lauren-lucas/7235">Lauren Lucas</a>, Jr., OF, Wichita State&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681758833099.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Courtesy of Wichita State Athletics&nbsp;WICHITA, Kan. -&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/lauren-lucas/7235">Lauren Lucas</a>&nbsp;was named to the American Athletic Conference Weekly Honor Roll Monday afternoon. The Little Elm, Texas, native slashed .375/.455/.625 with a triple, two walks, two runs scored and four RBI over the weekend. Lucas was responsible for four of the eight runs in Friday night's extra inning walk-off win vs. Houston. She registered a bases-clearing triple and then drove in the winning run on a sac fly in the bottom of the 11th. This is the first honor roll selection for Lucas this season after earning Player of the Week honors in February. Lucas and the Shockers travel to Stillwater for a rematch with No. 3 Oklahoma State Tuesday night at 6 p.m. Player of the Week Shannon Doherty, Jr., 1B, UCF Pitcher of the Week Sarah Willis, Jr., RHP, UCF Honor Roll Bree Cantu, Sr., UTL, Houston Kenna Wilkey, Gr., Houston Gabriella Nori, Sr., LHP, South Florida Vivian Ponn, Sr., UTL/RHP, South Florida <a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/lauren-lucas/7235">Lauren Lucas</a>, Jr., OF, Wichita State&nbsp;&nbsp;

🥎 Lucas named to AAC Honor Roll

Courtesy of&nbsp; Wichita State Athletics&nbsp;

WICHITA, Kan. –&nbsp;Wichita State has chosen Terry Nooner as its 10th head women's basketball coach, Director of Athletics Kevin Saal announced Monday afternoon. Wichita State Athletics will introduce Coach Nooner Thursday at 3:30 p.m. inside Charles Koch Arena. The event is free and open to the public with streaming available live and on demand via ESPN+. "To say this is a dream come true is an understatement," Nooner said. "As someone who played in Kansas, met my wife here and have raised my children here, I couldn't be happier to land my first head coaching position in the state I love so much. My family and I are incredibly excited to join Shocker Nation and make Wichita our home for years to come. I can't thank Kevin Saal and Dr. Muma enough for their belief and support, and I'm ready to build something special with our women's basketball program." Nooner has a decade's worth of coaching experience at the Division I level, most recently as an associate head coach at the University of Kansas. Nooner was an integral part of Kansas' recent run to the 2023 WNIT title. It's no coincidence that the last two NCAA Tournament appearances for Kansas have come with Nooner on staff. In addition to his time at Kansas, he has coached at Texas, Maryland, Alabama and Southern Illinois along with one season as a player development coach with the Cleveland Cavaliers. His third season at Kansas marked his second stint as an assistant at Kansas after spending the 2012-13 campaign with the Jayhawks. In his return to Kansas, Nooner assisted head coach Brandon Schneider – the 2022 Big 12 Coach of the Year – during the Jayhawks breakthrough campaign in 2021-22. The Jayhawks finished the season with a record of 21-10, marking the program's first 20-win season since 2010-11, and the Jayhawks had 20 wins during the regular season for the first time since 1999-2000. Kansas capped off the season with a berth in the 2022 NCAA Tournament, where KU earned the No. 8 seed in the Spokane Regional. "Terry Nooner is a highly respected leader with a proven track record of success," Saal said. "As a result of his impressive journey, Terry is incredibly well-connected within our region and nationally. We are excited to welcome Terry, his wife Tracy and the Nooner family into the Shocker family." Nooner was a big reason for the emergence of Kansas post player Taiyanna Jackson over the past two seasons. Jackson burst onto the scene as a junior college transfer, leading the Big 12 and ranking fourth in the Big 12 with a single-season school record 95 blocked shots. For her efforts, Jackson became the first Jayhawk in program history to be selected to the Big 12 All-Defensive Team. Before returning to Lawrence, Nooner spent the 2019-20 season as an assistant coach at Texas, working heavily with players at the post position. He coached a pair of All-Big 12 selections and one WNBA draft pick while on the Forty Acres and UT earned three wins against Top 25 opponents that season. Nooner, a Raytown, Mo., native, was a former guard and team captain for the University of Kansas from 1997-2000. He helped the Jayhawks to a Sweet Sixteen, four NCAA Tournament appearances and three Big 12 Championships. He earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in African-American Studies from the University of Kansas in 2000. In 2002, he earned his Master's degree in Sport Administration from Kansas. Nooner and his wife Tracy have three children. The Nooner File Hometown: Raytown, Mo. Education: Undergrad: Kansas '00 Masters: Kansas '02 Family: Wife: Tracy Children: Tarynn, Tatum and Terry III. Coaching Experience: 2020-23, Kansas (Associate Head Coach/Assistant Coach) 2019-20, Texas (Assistant Coach) 2018-19, Cleveland Cavaliers (Player Development Coach) 2015-18, Maryland (Assistant Coach) 2013-15, Alabama (Assistant Coach) 2012-13, Kansas (Assistant Coach) 2011-12, Southern Illinois (Assistant Coach) Playing Experience: Kansas: 1997-00&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681755957122.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Courtesy of&nbsp; Wichita State Athletics&nbsp;WICHITA, Kan. –&nbsp;Wichita State has chosen Terry Nooner as its 10th head women's basketball coach, Director of Athletics Kevin Saal announced Monday afternoon. Wichita State Athletics will introduce Coach Nooner Thursday at 3:30 p.m. inside Charles Koch Arena. The event is free and open to the public with streaming available live and on demand via ESPN+. "To say this is a dream come true is an understatement," Nooner said. "As someone who played in Kansas, met my wife here and have raised my children here, I couldn't be happier to land my first head coaching position in the state I love so much. My family and I are incredibly excited to join Shocker Nation and make Wichita our home for years to come. I can't thank Kevin Saal and Dr. Muma enough for their belief and support, and I'm ready to build something special with our women's basketball program." Nooner has a decade's worth of coaching experience at the Division I level, most recently as an associate head coach at the University of Kansas. Nooner was an integral part of Kansas' recent run to the 2023 WNIT title. It's no coincidence that the last two NCAA Tournament appearances for Kansas have come with Nooner on staff. In addition to his time at Kansas, he has coached at Texas, Maryland, Alabama and Southern Illinois along with one season as a player development coach with the Cleveland Cavaliers. His third season at Kansas marked his second stint as an assistant at Kansas after spending the 2012-13 campaign with the Jayhawks. In his return to Kansas, Nooner assisted head coach Brandon Schneider – the 2022 Big 12 Coach of the Year – during the Jayhawks breakthrough campaign in 2021-22. The Jayhawks finished the season with a record of 21-10, marking the program's first 20-win season since 2010-11, and the Jayhawks had 20 wins during the regular season for the first time since 1999-2000. Kansas capped off the season with a berth in the 2022 NCAA Tournament, where KU earned the No. 8 seed in the Spokane Regional. "Terry Nooner is a highly respected leader with a proven track record of success," Saal said. "As a result of his impressive journey, Terry is incredibly well-connected within our region and nationally. We are excited to welcome Terry, his wife Tracy and the Nooner family into the Shocker family." Nooner was a big reason for the emergence of Kansas post player Taiyanna Jackson over the past two seasons. Jackson burst onto the scene as a junior college transfer, leading the Big 12 and ranking fourth in the Big 12 with a single-season school record 95 blocked shots. For her efforts, Jackson became the first Jayhawk in program history to be selected to the Big 12 All-Defensive Team. Before returning to Lawrence, Nooner spent the 2019-20 season as an assistant coach at Texas, working heavily with players at the post position. He coached a pair of All-Big 12 selections and one WNBA draft pick while on the Forty Acres and UT earned three wins against Top 25 opponents that season. Nooner, a Raytown, Mo., native, was a former guard and team captain for the University of Kansas from 1997-2000. He helped the Jayhawks to a Sweet Sixteen, four NCAA Tournament appearances and three Big 12 Championships. He earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in African-American Studies from the University of Kansas in 2000. In 2002, he earned his Master's degree in Sport Administration from Kansas. Nooner and his wife Tracy have three children. The Nooner File Hometown: Raytown, Mo. Education: Undergrad: Kansas '00 Masters: Kansas '02 Family: Wife: Tracy Children: Tarynn, Tatum and Terry III. Coaching Experience: 2020-23, Kansas (Associate Head Coach/Assistant Coach) 2019-20, Texas (Assistant Coach) 2018-19, Cleveland Cavaliers (Player Development Coach) 2015-18, Maryland (Assistant Coach) 2013-15, Alabama (Assistant Coach) 2012-13, Kansas (Assistant Coach) 2011-12, Southern Illinois (Assistant Coach) Playing Experience: Kansas: 1997-00&nbsp;&nbsp;

🏀 WBB: Wichita State names Nooner head coach

LAWRENCE, Kan. –&nbsp;The 2023 WNIT Champion Kansas Jayhawks have been invited to be guests of the Kansas City Current on Sunday, April 23, at Children’s Mercy Park in Kansas City, Kansas.

The Current, who compete in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL), will face the Orlando Pride that day beginning at 4 p.m. CT. Jayhawk fans can get tickets to cheer on the WNIT Champions and the Current at&nbsp;<a href="https://kuathletics.us8.list-manage.com/track/click?u=3846a6408b9536a51afeabac1&amp;id=fcbe25529e&amp;e=33e05464a3" target="_blank">this link</a>.

Kansas won the 2023 WNIT Championship with a 66-59 victory over Columbia on April 1 at Allen Fieldhouse. The Jayhawks also defeated Western Kentucky, Missouri, Nebraska, Arkansas and Washington on its path to the tournament crown, and KU finished 25-11 on the year for its most wins in a season since 1996-97. Kansas also set a new single-season school record with 19 victories at Allen Fieldhouse during the 2022-23 season, including the WNIT Championship game, which was played in front of a crowd of 11,701 fans.

The Jayhawks will be involved in pregame festivities at Children’s Mercy Park and be recognized on the field at halftime of the match.

The KC Current are in the club’s third year after being founded in 2020. The Current have two former Kansas Soccer players on the 2023 roster in Rylan Childers and Addisyn Merrick. Childers, who played at KU from 2020-22, was the No. 42 overall pick in the 2023 NWSL Draft, while Merrick (2016-19) was the No. 28 pick by the North Carolina Courage in 2020, and acquired by Kansas City in a trade midway through the 2022 season.

Season tickets for the 2023-24 season are on sale now and can be purchased by visiting&nbsp;<a href="https://kuathletics.us8.list-manage.com/track/click?u=3846a6408b9536a51afeabac1&amp;id=cc0c1cd782&amp;e=33e05464a3" target="_blank">KUAthletics.com</a>&nbsp;or calling 800-34-HAWKS.

<figure>
 <img src="https://mcusercontent.com/3846a6408b9536a51afeabac1/_compresseds/df8fcde4-0786-f691-77fd-67adfd33832f.jpg" alt="Via KU Sports" />
 <figcaption>Via KU Sports</figcaption>
 </figure>LAWRENCE, Kan. –&nbsp;The 2023 WNIT Champion Kansas Jayhawks have been invited to be guests of the Kansas City Current on Sunday, April 23, at Children’s Mercy Park in Kansas City, Kansas.The Current, who compete in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL), will face the Orlando Pride that day beginning at 4 p.m. CT. Jayhawk fans can get tickets to cheer on the WNIT Champions and the Current at&nbsp;<a href="https://kuathletics.us8.list-manage.com/track/click?u=3846a6408b9536a51afeabac1&amp;id=fcbe25529e&amp;e=33e05464a3" target="_blank">this link</a>.Kansas won the 2023 WNIT Championship with a 66-59 victory over Columbia on April 1 at Allen Fieldhouse. The Jayhawks also defeated Western Kentucky, Missouri, Nebraska, Arkansas and Washington on its path to the tournament crown, and KU finished 25-11 on the year for its most wins in a season since 1996-97. Kansas also set a new single-season school record with 19 victories at Allen Fieldhouse during the 2022-23 season, including the WNIT Championship game, which was played in front of a crowd of 11,701 fans.The Jayhawks will be involved in pregame festivities at Children’s Mercy Park and be recognized on the field at halftime of the match.The KC Current are in the club’s third year after being founded in 2020. The Current have two former Kansas Soccer players on the 2023 roster in Rylan Childers and Addisyn Merrick. Childers, who played at KU from 2020-22, was the No. 42 overall pick in the 2023 NWSL Draft, while Merrick (2016-19) was the No. 28 pick by the North Carolina Courage in 2020, and acquired by Kansas City in a trade midway through the 2022 season.Season tickets for the 2023-24 season are on sale now and can be purchased by visiting&nbsp;<a href="https://kuathletics.us8.list-manage.com/track/click?u=3846a6408b9536a51afeabac1&amp;id=cc0c1cd782&amp;e=33e05464a3" target="_blank">KUAthletics.com</a>&nbsp;or calling 800-34-HAWKS.

🏀WBB: Jayhawks to be recognized April 23 by Kansas City Current

AP Sports headlines for Monday Morning, April 17th.

Injuries to NBA stars Giannis, Ja dim start of postseason

Anthony Davis scared Los Angeles Lakers fans by grabbing at his right shoulder and saying he couldn't move his arm. Luckily for the Lakers, Davis worked through a mere stinger in time to return for the start of the third quarter of a big road win over the West's No. 2 seed. Injuries to two-time NBA MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo, two-time All-Star Ja Morant and Tyler Herro in the span of a couple of hours knocked them out of their playoff openers. Injuries to some of the league's top stars has dimmed the start of the NBA's postseason. Title hopes may fade just as quickly depending on just how badly they're hurt.

NHL playoffs: Eichel, Hughes among the top players to watch

The NHL playoffs are going on without Sidney Crosby and Alex Ovechkin for the first time since their rookie year in 2006. But that doesn't mean the chase for the Stanley Cup isn't packed with star power. Nathan MacKinnon and the Colorado Avalanche are trying to go back to back. Connor McDavid is hell-bent on winning his first championship with the Edmonton Oilers. And there are a handful of players in the postseason as professionals for the first time. New Jersey's Jack Hughes and Vegas' Jack Eichel are ready to make an impact at the time hockey matters the most.

Fast field gathers for start of 127th Boston Marathon

HOPKINTON, Mass. (AP) — The fastest and most-decorated elite field ever to assemble in Hopkinton is getting ready to cross the start line for the 127th Boston Marathon. The group includes world record holders, Olympic and Paralympic medalists, winners of major marathons from 27 countries and a dozen Boston Marathon champions. World record-holder Eliud Kipchoge is making his Boston Marathon debut. About 30,000 athletes will run 26.2 miles to Copley Square in Boston. The city marked the 10-year anniversary of the Boston Marathon bombing on Saturday. The 2013 race was interrupted when two backpack bombs exploded steps from the finish line on Boylston Street.

Murray leads Nuggets past Wolves 109-80 in NBA playoffs

Jamal Murray scored 24 points and the top-seeded Denver Nuggets routed the Minnesota Timberwolves 109-80 in the opener of their playoff series Sunday night. This marked Murray's first playoff game since the 2020 NBA bubble. He missed the last two postseasons after tearing his left ACL in 2021. Nikola Jokic added 13 points and 14 rebounds and Michael Porter scored 18 for Denver. Anthony Edwards led the Timberwolves with 18 points.

Heat rip Bucks 130-117 in Game 1; Giannis, Herro injured

MILWAUKEE (AP) — Jimmy Butler scored 35 points and the Miami Heat capitalized on Giannis Antetokounmpo's early exit to beat the top-seeded Milwaukee Bucks 130-117 in an Eastern Conference playoff opener featuring two notable injuries. The top-seeded Bucks lost Antetokounmpo to a lower back bruise early in the second quarter. Miami's Tyler Herro broke his right hand later in the period. No. 8 seed Miami had built a 68-55 halftime advantage before Herro's departure and stayed ahead by shooting 59.5% from the floor. The Heat were 15 of 25 and the Bucks 11 of 45 from 3-point range.

Hachimura's big 2nd half leads LA past Memphis in Game 1

MEMPHIS, Tenn. (AP) — Rui Hachimura had a career-best playoff scoring performance with 29 points, including 21 in the second half, and the Los Angeles Lakers beat the Memphis Grizzlies 128-112 in the opening game of their Western Conference playoff series. LeBron James had 21 points and 11 rebounds and Anthony Davis had 22 points and 12 rebounds. Jaren Jackson Jr. led Memphis with 31 points, while Desmond Bane scored 22. Ja Morant had 18 points before leaving in the fourth quarter with an injured right hand. Los Angeles wrested home-court advantage from the Grizzlies, who had the NBA's best home record at 35-6. Game 2 is Wednesday.

Boston Marathon poses new challenge for Kipchoge: slow down

BOSTON (AP) — World record-holder Eliud Kipchoge has the speed to outclass the rest of the field when he makes his Boston Marathon debut. To win, he may have to slow things down. The two-time Olympic gold medalist and 12-time major marathon champion knows that the 26.2-mile route from Hopkinton to Boston's Back Bay isn't like those flat and friendly courses where he established himself as perhaps the greatest distance runner of all time. No matter, he says. Breaking the tape is what's important. Regardless of how long it takes. Kipchoge set the world record of 2 hours, 1 minute, 9 seconds in Berlin in 2019. Boston has always rewarded smart tactics more than pure speed.

Kings probe 'racial bias' claims after rapper E-40 ejected

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) — The Sacramento Kings are investigating allegations from a Bay Area hip-hop star that "racial bias" led to him being kicked out of his seat during a playoff game against the Golden State Warriors. The rapper E-40 said in a statement that he was heckled throughout the game and that he addressed one heckler "in an assertive but polite manner" before security guards came and ordered him to leave the arena. E-40, whose real name is Earl Stevens, is Black. He says his heckler was white. The Kings say they are investigating the circumstances behind his ejection.

Leonard scores 38 to lead Clippers past Durant, Suns 115-110

PHOENIX (AP) — Kawhi Leonard scored 38 points, including a pair of late 3-pointers, and the Los Angeles Clippers beat the Phoenix Suns 115-110 in the opener of their Western Conference playoff series. Eric Gordon added 19 points and hit a late 3 that kept the Clippers ahead. Russell Westbrook shot just 3 of 19 from the floor for Los Angeles but made a pair of free throws with 17.7 seconds left for a three-point lead, then blocked Devin Booker's layup attempt at the other end. Kevin Durant scored 27 points for the Suns, who lost for the first time with him on the floor.

Heat's Tyler Herro breaks right hand in playoff opener

MILWAUKEE (AP) — Miami Heat guard Tyler Herro broke his right hand late in the second quarter of his team's Eastern Conference playoff opener with the Milwaukee Bucks. Herro appeared to hurt the hand while diving for a loose ball. He was leaning forward and in obvious discomfort while standing in front of the Heat's bench in the final minute of the second quarter. Herro later was ruled out for the rest of the game with a broken hand.

<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.&nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681297613631.jpeg" alt="Sports Headlines for Monday, April 17th" />
 <figcaption>Sports Headlines for Monday, April 17th</figcaption>
 </figure>AP Sports headlines for Monday Morning, April 17th.Injuries to NBA stars Giannis, Ja dim start of postseasonAnthony Davis scared Los Angeles Lakers fans by grabbing at his right shoulder and saying he couldn't move his arm. Luckily for the Lakers, Davis worked through a mere stinger in time to return for the start of the third quarter of a big road win over the West's No. 2 seed. Injuries to two-time NBA MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo, two-time All-Star Ja Morant and Tyler Herro in the span of a couple of hours knocked them out of their playoff openers. Injuries to some of the league's top stars has dimmed the start of the NBA's postseason. Title hopes may fade just as quickly depending on just how badly they're hurt.NHL playoffs: Eichel, Hughes among the top players to watchThe NHL playoffs are going on without Sidney Crosby and Alex Ovechkin for the first time since their rookie year in 2006. But that doesn't mean the chase for the Stanley Cup isn't packed with star power. Nathan MacKinnon and the Colorado Avalanche are trying to go back to back. Connor McDavid is hell-bent on winning his first championship with the Edmonton Oilers. And there are a handful of players in the postseason as professionals for the first time. New Jersey's Jack Hughes and Vegas' Jack Eichel are ready to make an impact at the time hockey matters the most.Fast field gathers for start of 127th Boston MarathonHOPKINTON, Mass. (AP) — The fastest and most-decorated elite field ever to assemble in Hopkinton is getting ready to cross the start line for the 127th Boston Marathon. The group includes world record holders, Olympic and Paralympic medalists, winners of major marathons from 27 countries and a dozen Boston Marathon champions. World record-holder Eliud Kipchoge is making his Boston Marathon debut. About 30,000 athletes will run 26.2 miles to Copley Square in Boston. The city marked the 10-year anniversary of the Boston Marathon bombing on Saturday. The 2013 race was interrupted when two backpack bombs exploded steps from the finish line on Boylston Street.Murray leads Nuggets past Wolves 109-80 in NBA playoffsJamal Murray scored 24 points and the top-seeded Denver Nuggets routed the Minnesota Timberwolves 109-80 in the opener of their playoff series Sunday night. This marked Murray's first playoff game since the 2020 NBA bubble. He missed the last two postseasons after tearing his left ACL in 2021. Nikola Jokic added 13 points and 14 rebounds and Michael Porter scored 18 for Denver. Anthony Edwards led the Timberwolves with 18 points.Heat rip Bucks 130-117 in Game 1; Giannis, Herro injuredMILWAUKEE (AP) — Jimmy Butler scored 35 points and the Miami Heat capitalized on Giannis Antetokounmpo's early exit to beat the top-seeded Milwaukee Bucks 130-117 in an Eastern Conference playoff opener featuring two notable injuries. The top-seeded Bucks lost Antetokounmpo to a lower back bruise early in the second quarter. Miami's Tyler Herro broke his right hand later in the period. No. 8 seed Miami had built a 68-55 halftime advantage before Herro's departure and stayed ahead by shooting 59.5% from the floor. The Heat were 15 of 25 and the Bucks 11 of 45 from 3-point range.Hachimura's big 2nd half leads LA past Memphis in Game 1MEMPHIS, Tenn. (AP) — Rui Hachimura had a career-best playoff scoring performance with 29 points, including 21 in the second half, and the Los Angeles Lakers beat the Memphis Grizzlies 128-112 in the opening game of their Western Conference playoff series. LeBron James had 21 points and 11 rebounds and Anthony Davis had 22 points and 12 rebounds. Jaren Jackson Jr. led Memphis with 31 points, while Desmond Bane scored 22. Ja Morant had 18 points before leaving in the fourth quarter with an injured right hand. Los Angeles wrested home-court advantage from the Grizzlies, who had the NBA's best home record at 35-6. Game 2 is Wednesday.Boston Marathon poses new challenge for Kipchoge: slow downBOSTON (AP) — World record-holder Eliud Kipchoge has the speed to outclass the rest of the field when he makes his Boston Marathon debut. To win, he may have to slow things down. The two-time Olympic gold medalist and 12-time major marathon champion knows that the 26.2-mile route from Hopkinton to Boston's Back Bay isn't like those flat and friendly courses where he established himself as perhaps the greatest distance runner of all time. No matter, he says. Breaking the tape is what's important. Regardless of how long it takes. Kipchoge set the world record of 2 hours, 1 minute, 9 seconds in Berlin in 2019. Boston has always rewarded smart tactics more than pure speed.Kings probe 'racial bias' claims after rapper E-40 ejectedSACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) — The Sacramento Kings are investigating allegations from a Bay Area hip-hop star that "racial bias" led to him being kicked out of his seat during a playoff game against the Golden State Warriors. The rapper E-40 said in a statement that he was heckled throughout the game and that he addressed one heckler "in an assertive but polite manner" before security guards came and ordered him to leave the arena. E-40, whose real name is Earl Stevens, is Black. He says his heckler was white. The Kings say they are investigating the circumstances behind his ejection.Leonard scores 38 to lead Clippers past Durant, Suns 115-110PHOENIX (AP) — Kawhi Leonard scored 38 points, including a pair of late 3-pointers, and the Los Angeles Clippers beat the Phoenix Suns 115-110 in the opener of their Western Conference playoff series. Eric Gordon added 19 points and hit a late 3 that kept the Clippers ahead. Russell Westbrook shot just 3 of 19 from the floor for Los Angeles but made a pair of free throws with 17.7 seconds left for a three-point lead, then blocked Devin Booker's layup attempt at the other end. Kevin Durant scored 27 points for the Suns, who lost for the first time with him on the floor.Heat's Tyler Herro breaks right hand in playoff openerMILWAUKEE (AP) — Miami Heat guard Tyler Herro broke his right hand late in the second quarter of his team's Eastern Conference playoff opener with the Milwaukee Bucks. Herro appeared to hurt the hand while diving for a loose ball. He was leaning forward and in obvious discomfort while standing in front of the Heat's bench in the final minute of the second quarter. Herro later was ruled out for the rest of the game with a broken hand.<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.&nbsp; &nbsp;

📢📰 Sports Headlines for Monday

By CODY FRIESEN Associated Press

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Vaughn Grissom hit a tiebreaking RBI single in the ninth, Ozzie Albies homered and the Atlanta Braves beat the Kansas City Royals 5-4 on Sunday for the series sweep.

Grissom's RBI single came after Albies hit a one-out double. Albies went 2 for 4, including his 376-foot solo homer to right field in the fourth for his fifth RBI of the series. Matt Olson hit a two-run triple in Atlanta's three-run third inning.

“Our guys are relentless and will play a hard 27 outs," Braves manager Brian Snitker said. "We never feel out of a game and don’t panic, it is the next-man-up attitude.”

Atlanta starter Kyle Wright struck out six across 5 2/3 innings, allowing two runs on four hits with three walk. Relievers Michael Tonkin and Nick Anderson (1-0) combined to strike out three batters, and A.J. Minter got his third save of the year.

“Obviously I was happy that we won,” Wright said. “The sinker and curveball were really good. We threw the ball well and the defense made some nice plays.”

Zack Greinke gave up four runs on four hits in six innings with six strikeouts and a walk. Scott Barlow (0-2) allowed a run on two hits with two strikeouts.

“(Greinke) was efficient with good offspeed, fastball had good movement," Royals manager Matt Quatraro said. "His velocity was consistent with how it’s been. He really attacked hitters.”

Royals first baseman Vinnie Pasquantino hit a two-run home run to tie the game at 4 with two outs in the seventh.

Atlanta took its first sweep over the Royals since 2010 — and the first ever in Kansas City.

The Royals are 1-9 at Kauffman Stadium this season. Kansas City went 1-12 at home to start the 2018 season.

Royals: LHP Kris Bubic (left flexor strain) was placed on the 15-day injured list. Kansas City recalled LHP Josh Taylor from Triple-A Omaha.

Royals: RHP Jordan Lyles (0-2, 5.19 ERA) will open a three-game home series against Texas on Tuesday.

Braves: Atlanta will head to San Diego for a three-game set. The Braves have yet to announce a starter for Monday's game.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681690113023.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Royals starting pitcher Zack Greinke throws during the first inning of a baseball game against the Atlanta Braves Sunday, April 16, 2023, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Royals starting pitcher Zack Greinke throws during the first inning of a baseball game against the Atlanta Braves Sunday, April 16, 2023, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)</figcaption>
 </figure>By CODY FRIESEN Associated PressKANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Vaughn Grissom hit a tiebreaking RBI single in the ninth, Ozzie Albies homered and the Atlanta Braves beat the Kansas City Royals 5-4 on Sunday for the series sweep.Grissom's RBI single came after Albies hit a one-out double. Albies went 2 for 4, including his 376-foot solo homer to right field in the fourth for his fifth RBI of the series. Matt Olson hit a two-run triple in Atlanta's three-run third inning.“Our guys are relentless and will play a hard 27 outs," Braves manager Brian Snitker said. "We never feel out of a game and don’t panic, it is the next-man-up attitude.”Atlanta starter Kyle Wright struck out six across 5 2/3 innings, allowing two runs on four hits with three walk. Relievers Michael Tonkin and Nick Anderson (1-0) combined to strike out three batters, and A.J. Minter got his third save of the year.“Obviously I was happy that we won,” Wright said. “The sinker and curveball were really good. We threw the ball well and the defense made some nice plays.”Zack Greinke gave up four runs on four hits in six innings with six strikeouts and a walk. Scott Barlow (0-2) allowed a run on two hits with two strikeouts.“(Greinke) was efficient with good offspeed, fastball had good movement," Royals manager Matt Quatraro said. "His velocity was consistent with how it’s been. He really attacked hitters.”Royals first baseman Vinnie Pasquantino hit a two-run home run to tie the game at 4 with two outs in the seventh.BROOMS AND GLOOMSAtlanta took its first sweep over the Royals since 2010 — and the first ever in Kansas City.The Royals are 1-9 at Kauffman Stadium this season. Kansas City went 1-12 at home to start the 2018 season.TRAINER’S ROOMRoyals: LHP Kris Bubic (left flexor strain) was placed on the 15-day injured list. Kansas City recalled LHP Josh Taylor from Triple-A Omaha.UP NEXTRoyals: RHP Jordan Lyles (0-2, 5.19 ERA) will open a three-game home series against Texas on Tuesday.Braves: Atlanta will head to San Diego for a three-game set. The Braves have yet to announce a starter for Monday's game.

⚾ Grissom RBI, Albies HR push Braves past Royals

<a href="https://hosted.dcd.shared.geniussports.com/TBBL/en/match/2231345/boxscore?">BOXSCORE</a>

WICHITA, Kan.—In what is quickly developing into a natural rivalry, the Enid Outlaws outplayed the Wichita Sky Kings in overtime Sunday at Koch Arena to win 126-121. The same two teams will meet in Enid on April 23rd.

Both teams exchanged baskets down the stretch to end regulation tied at 107-107. After two Terrell Brown free throws with 59.4 seconds remaining, the Sky Kings led 103-102, but Enid responded with a big left corner triple by Kaylon Tippin for an Outlaw lead of 105-103 with 42 seconds to play.

Terrell Brown scored a driving layup for Wichita to tie the game up at 105-105 with 26 seconds to go.&nbsp; Enid called a time out to set up their final play but then turned the ball over on the inbounds pass as Wichita's Kam Williams jumped the rout on a Martavious McKnight pass to get the steal.&nbsp; Teddy Allen made a driving layup with 12 seconds to go to give the Sky Kings the lead 107-105 but Mcknight made a short jumper in the lane 7 seconds later to make up for his turnover and tie it at 107-107.&nbsp; A missed potential game-winner by Teddy Allen was off the mark and the game headed to overtime.

In the overtime period, both teams went back and forth with five ties and seven lead changes, but Enid's McKnight scored on a driving layup and hit two free throws and Marvin Johnson took over at the end and scored twice over the final 30 seconds to seal the five point win for the Outlaws.

In the four quarters plus overtime period, the game had 11 ties and 19 lead changes, most of those came in the second half and overtime. The Outlaws jumped out to an 8-0 lead early and led by as much as 11 points in the first half.&nbsp; Wichita's biggest lead was seven one time in the 2nd half.

The Sky Kings Matt Cerruti played lights out to lead Wichita in scoring with 26 points including eight of his nine field goals from long range shooting 75% from deep. Teddy Allen came off the bench to score 21 points and 11 rebounds for a double-double, all in the 2nd half. Isaac Johnson played another solid game with 20 points and nine boards. Terrell Brown chipped in 17 points and led the Sky Kings with six assists. Kam Williams scored 10, Jachai Simmons nine, Johnny McCants just missed a double-double with nine points and 10 rebounds before fouling out late in the game. Bandon Watkins scored four but suffered a wrist injury just before halftime that limited in action in the 2nd half.

Enid placed five players in double figures and netted four double-doubles with Ethan Chargois leading the way with 31 points and 16 boards before fouling out late. Marvin Johnson was spectacular with 30 points and 11 rebounds. McKnight 20 points, Keylon Tippins 19 points, 12 boards and Rustin Hayward with 16 points, 11 rebounds before also fouling out.

The Sky Kings go to 10-3 on the year and Enid improves their record to 6-6 with the win. 

Wichita is now in 3rd place in the TBL Central division. The Potawatomi Fire is 9-1 and Shreveport is 11-2. The Sky Kings play Potawatomi twice next week. The Fire edged Wichita 119-117 back on April 2nd in Shawnee, Oklahoma.

Next action for the Sky Kings is Friday, April 21 versus the St. Louis Griffins at Koch Arena at Wichita State University. Kansas City Chiefs Super Bowl Champion's wide receiver&nbsp;Marquez Valdes-Scantling will have a meet and greet beginning at 6 p.m.&nbsp; Tickets are available for free throughout the Wichita area at Quick Trip locations as well as available for purchase at the door and at the WSU box office throughout the week.

<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.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680354465527.jpeg" alt="Enid Outlasted the Sky Kings in OT 126-121." />
 <figcaption>Enid Outlasted the Sky Kings in OT 126-121.</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hosted.dcd.shared.geniussports.com/TBBL/en/match/2231345/boxscore?">BOXSCORE</a>WICHITA, Kan.—In what is quickly developing into a natural rivalry, the Enid Outlaws outplayed the Wichita Sky Kings in overtime Sunday at Koch Arena to win 126-121. The same two teams will meet in Enid on April 23rd.Both teams exchanged baskets down the stretch to end regulation tied at 107-107. After two Terrell Brown free throws with 59.4 seconds remaining, the Sky Kings led 103-102, but Enid responded with a big left corner triple by Kaylon Tippin for an Outlaw lead of 105-103 with 42 seconds to play.Terrell Brown scored a driving layup for Wichita to tie the game up at 105-105 with 26 seconds to go.&nbsp; Enid called a time out to set up their final play but then turned the ball over on the inbounds pass as Wichita's Kam Williams jumped the rout on a Martavious McKnight pass to get the steal.&nbsp; Teddy Allen made a driving layup with 12 seconds to go to give the Sky Kings the lead 107-105 but Mcknight made a short jumper in the lane 7 seconds later to make up for his turnover and tie it at 107-107.&nbsp; A missed potential game-winner by Teddy Allen was off the mark and the game headed to overtime.In the overtime period, both teams went back and forth with five ties and seven lead changes, but Enid's McKnight scored on a driving layup and hit two free throws and Marvin Johnson took over at the end and scored twice over the final 30 seconds to seal the five point win for the Outlaws.In the four quarters plus overtime period, the game had 11 ties and 19 lead changes, most of those came in the second half and overtime. The Outlaws jumped out to an 8-0 lead early and led by as much as 11 points in the first half.&nbsp; Wichita's biggest lead was seven one time in the 2nd half.The Sky Kings Matt Cerruti played lights out to lead Wichita in scoring with 26 points including eight of his nine field goals from long range shooting 75% from deep. Teddy Allen came off the bench to score 21 points and 11 rebounds for a double-double, all in the 2nd half. Isaac Johnson played another solid game with 20 points and nine boards. Terrell Brown chipped in 17 points and led the Sky Kings with six assists. Kam Williams scored 10, Jachai Simmons nine, Johnny McCants just missed a double-double with nine points and 10 rebounds before fouling out late in the game. Bandon Watkins scored four but suffered a wrist injury just before halftime that limited in action in the 2nd half.Enid placed five players in double figures and netted four double-doubles with Ethan Chargois leading the way with 31 points and 16 boards before fouling out late. Marvin Johnson was spectacular with 30 points and 11 rebounds. McKnight 20 points, Keylon Tippins 19 points, 12 boards and Rustin Hayward with 16 points, 11 rebounds before also fouling out.The Sky Kings go to 10-3 on the year and Enid improves their record to 6-6 with the win. Wichita is now in 3rd place in the TBL Central division. The Potawatomi Fire is 9-1 and Shreveport is 11-2. The Sky Kings play Potawatomi twice next week. The Fire edged Wichita 119-117 back on April 2nd in Shawnee, Oklahoma.Next action for the Sky Kings is Friday, April 21 versus the St. Louis Griffins at Koch Arena at Wichita State University. Kansas City Chiefs Super Bowl Champion's wide receiver&nbsp;Marquez Valdes-Scantling will have a meet and greet beginning at 6 p.m.&nbsp; Tickets are available for free throughout the Wichita area at Quick Trip locations as well as available for purchase at the door and at the WSU box office throughout the week.<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.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

🏀 MBB: Enid Outlaws edges Wichita Sky Kings in overtime thriller

Wichita, KS – The Northwest Arkansas Naturals scored five second inning runs and scored a season high 15 runs to defeat the Wichita Wind Surge 15-5. The two teams split the six game series.

Wichita started out with a 2-0 lead in the first but the Naturals pulled ahead in the second by sending five runners home. Robbie Glendinning hit a three-run shot and Jeison Guzman hit a two-run shot.

The Surge cut the deficit to 5-3 in the third after Alex Isola grounded out, scoring Jake Rucker. Northwest Arkansas hit two RBI singles in the fourth.

The Wind Surge sent eight hitters to the plate in the fifth inning scoring three runs to pull within two. Dante Biasi entered and bailed out the Naturals and the Surge left the bases loaded.

The Naturals had a 7-5 lead on the board, Peyton Wilson hit a solo shot and Tresh hit an inside-the-park home run in the eighth. Tresh added an RBI single the Naturals hit a two-run homer and a solo shot in the ninth.

Chad Donato made his first career start with the Surge on the hill. He struck out one and walked two in a little over one inning. Six pitchers came out of the bullpen for Wichita on Sunday, which is a season high. Donato got the loss and Dante Biasi earned the win.

NOTES – Wichita gave up a season high 15 runs. Brooks Lee continues his hitting streak at eight games. The inside the park home run was the second ever at Riverfront Stadium. Will Holland hit the first in 2022.

UPCOMING – Wichita will play against the Los Angeles Dodgers affiliate the Tulsa Drillers in a six-game series next week. The first pitch for game one is scheduled on Tuesday, April 18 at 6:05 p.m. RH Blayne Enlow will face RH Landon Knack. The Wind Surge RADIO: ESPN 92.3 FM and MiLB App and&nbsp;<a href="https://linkprotect.cudasvc.com/url?a=http%3a%2f%2fwindsurge.com%2f&amp;c=E,1,tQnMbXbKGjGd_XbWZijt5b5-cOxiRn5WzBk28FG0UQkENRqaECorsuX7ZOU-Ukm2cmUOkH3ePkp-SzzJ3Tyvi-rFodXTwhQV8wpt3RnbwV_dEzGo8cij0Wepgw,,&amp;typo=1">windsurge.com</a>.

NEXT HOME GAME – Wichita will play against the St. Louis Cardinals affiliate the Springfield Cardinals on April 25 at 7:05. Promotion: $5 domestic beers from when gates open until first pitch. Get two tickets for the price of one when you show your Dillions Shopper Card or Dillon's app at the box office. $1 hot dogs.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1657976359148.jpeg" alt="Wind Surge and Naturals Split" />
 <figcaption>Wind Surge and Naturals Split</figcaption>
 </figure>Wichita, KS – The Northwest Arkansas Naturals scored five second inning runs and scored a season high 15 runs to defeat the Wichita Wind Surge 15-5. The two teams split the six game series.Wichita started out with a 2-0 lead in the first but the Naturals pulled ahead in the second by sending five runners home. Robbie Glendinning hit a three-run shot and Jeison Guzman hit a two-run shot.The Surge cut the deficit to 5-3 in the third after Alex Isola grounded out, scoring Jake Rucker. Northwest Arkansas hit two RBI singles in the fourth.The Wind Surge sent eight hitters to the plate in the fifth inning scoring three runs to pull within two. Dante Biasi entered and bailed out the Naturals and the Surge left the bases loaded.The Naturals had a 7-5 lead on the board, Peyton Wilson hit a solo shot and Tresh hit an inside-the-park home run in the eighth. Tresh added an RBI single the Naturals hit a two-run homer and a solo shot in the ninth.Chad Donato made his first career start with the Surge on the hill. He struck out one and walked two in a little over one inning. Six pitchers came out of the bullpen for Wichita on Sunday, which is a season high. Donato got the loss and Dante Biasi earned the win.NOTES – Wichita gave up a season high 15 runs. Brooks Lee continues his hitting streak at eight games. The inside the park home run was the second ever at Riverfront Stadium. Will Holland hit the first in 2022.UPCOMING – Wichita will play against the Los Angeles Dodgers affiliate the Tulsa Drillers in a six-game series next week. The first pitch for game one is scheduled on Tuesday, April 18 at 6:05 p.m. RH Blayne Enlow will face RH Landon Knack. The Wind Surge RADIO: ESPN 92.3 FM and MiLB App and&nbsp;<a href="https://linkprotect.cudasvc.com/url?a=http%3a%2f%2fwindsurge.com%2f&amp;c=E,1,tQnMbXbKGjGd_XbWZijt5b5-cOxiRn5WzBk28FG0UQkENRqaECorsuX7ZOU-Ukm2cmUOkH3ePkp-SzzJ3Tyvi-rFodXTwhQV8wpt3RnbwV_dEzGo8cij0Wepgw,,&amp;typo=1">windsurge.com</a>.NEXT HOME GAME – Wichita will play against the St. Louis Cardinals affiliate the Springfield Cardinals on April 25 at 7:05. Promotion: $5 domestic beers from when gates open until first pitch. Get two tickets for the price of one when you show your Dillions Shopper Card or Dillon's app at the box office. $1 hot dogs.

⚾ NW Arkansas Naturals and Wichita Wind Surge split series

WICHITA, Kan. –&nbsp;No. 20 Wichita State was shutout for just the third time this season and held to only three hits in Sunday series finale vs. Houston, falling 4-0. Wichita State (36-8, 10-2) saw its 12-game win streak come to an end, one shy of tying a school record. <a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/alison-cooper/7231">Alison Cooper</a>&nbsp;was lights out for 6.0 innings, but didn't get any run support to back her up. Cooper struck out a career-high eight, before Houston touched her up in the seventh inning for a pair of insurance runs. Wichita State managed just three hits, a double from&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/addison-barnard/7228">Addison Barnard</a>&nbsp;and singles from&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/lauren-lucas/7235">Lauren Lucas</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/krystin-nelson/7238">Krystin Nelson</a>. For the first time in the series Houston scored the opening run on an opposite field solo home run in the top of the third. A sac fly in the top of the sixth made it 2-0 and then another sac fly in the seventh and an RBI single proved to be more than enough for the Cougars. Wichita State only threatened twice with multiple baserunners on, those coming in the first and third innings. Up Next No. 20 Wichita State heads to Stillwater for a rematch with No. 3 Oklahoma State on Tuesday at 6 p.m.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681696802410.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Courtesy of Wichita State Athletics&nbsp;WICHITA, Kan. –&nbsp;No. 20 Wichita State was shutout for just the third time this season and held to only three hits in Sunday series finale vs. Houston, falling 4-0. Wichita State (36-8, 10-2) saw its 12-game win streak come to an end, one shy of tying a school record. <a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/alison-cooper/7231">Alison Cooper</a>&nbsp;was lights out for 6.0 innings, but didn't get any run support to back her up. Cooper struck out a career-high eight, before Houston touched her up in the seventh inning for a pair of insurance runs. Wichita State managed just three hits, a double from&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/addison-barnard/7228">Addison Barnard</a>&nbsp;and singles from&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/lauren-lucas/7235">Lauren Lucas</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/krystin-nelson/7238">Krystin Nelson</a>. For the first time in the series Houston scored the opening run on an opposite field solo home run in the top of the third. A sac fly in the top of the sixth made it 2-0 and then another sac fly in the seventh and an RBI single proved to be more than enough for the Cougars. Wichita State only threatened twice with multiple baserunners on, those coming in the first and third innings. Up Next No. 20 Wichita State heads to Stillwater for a rematch with No. 3 Oklahoma State on Tuesday at 6 p.m.&nbsp;&nbsp;

🥎 Houston ends Shockers' 12-game win streak

Courtesy of Wichita State Athletics&nbsp;

NEW ORLEANS --&nbsp;Wichita State banged out 15 hits, including a season-high seven doubles, knocking off Tulane 7-4 on Sunday afternoon at Turchin Stadium. The win secured the series victory, WSU's first series win at Tulane in program history. The Shockers (20-15, 5-4) once again jumped out to a quick lead in the top of the first.&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/chuck-ingram/7448">Chuck Ingram</a>&nbsp;doubled to start the game, moved to third on a bunt single from&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/brock-rodden/7450">Brock Rodden</a>, and scored on a sacrifice fly from&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/garrett-pennington/7468">Garrett Pennington</a>&nbsp;for a 1-0 advantage. That two-bagger kicked off another incredible game for Ingram, who finished four-for-five with three doubles and three runs scored, giving him 10 hits in the three-game series. Wichita State made the most of a trio of two-out scoring opportunities to extend the lead in the middle innings. In the third,&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/jack-little/7464">Jack Little</a>&nbsp;rifled a two-out RBI double to plate&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/mauricio-millan/7461">Mauricio Millan</a>, lengthening the lead to 2-0.&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/garrett-pennington/7468">Garrett Pennington</a>&nbsp;doubled home a run with two away in the fourth, and Rodden made it 4-0 by beating out an infield single in the sixth. That appeared to be more than enough support for Shocker starter&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/grant-adler/7467">Grant Adler</a>, who had cruised through the first five innings without allowing a run. The Green Wave (10-26, 4-5) fought back in the sixth with a pair of unearned runs, breaking up the shutout on a bases-loaded walk by Brennan Lambert before Jake LaPrairie trimmed the WSU lead to 4-2 on a groundout. Tulane then tied the game in the seventh thanks in part to two Shocker errors, setting the stage for a Simon Baumgardt RBI double that knotted the score at 4-4. Adler settled for a no-decision, allowing just five hits and one earned run in 6.1 innings. The Shockers struck right back in the top of the eighth with three runs.&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/jordan-rogers/7451">Jordan Rogers</a>&nbsp;came off the bench to start the rally with a leadoff double, and&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/kyte-mcdonald/7459">Kyte McDonald</a>&nbsp;followed with a double of his own to give Wichita State a 5-4 lead. Ingram capped his monster afternoon by rifling an RBI single, coming in to score later in the inning on a double play grounder to restore the WSU lead to 7-4. <a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/robert-cranz/7445">Robert Cranz</a>&nbsp;(1-1) took it the rest of the way for Wichita State, turning in a dominant outing in relief. The right-hander fired 2.1 scoreless innings with a career-best five strikeouts, allowing just a single base hit and no walks. He set the side down in order in the ninth to secure the win. Grant Cleavinger (0-1) took the loss for Tulane, allowing three hits and a run in 1.1 innings out of the bullpen. Wichita State wraps up the road swing with a trip to Manhattan on Tuesday for an in-state battle with Kansas State. First pitch is scheduled for 6:00 pm.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681696645376.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Courtesy of Wichita State Athletics&nbsp; NEW ORLEANS --&nbsp;Wichita State banged out 15 hits, including a season-high seven doubles, knocking off Tulane 7-4 on Sunday afternoon at Turchin Stadium. The win secured the series victory, WSU's first series win at Tulane in program history. The Shockers (20-15, 5-4) once again jumped out to a quick lead in the top of the first.&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/chuck-ingram/7448">Chuck Ingram</a>&nbsp;doubled to start the game, moved to third on a bunt single from&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/brock-rodden/7450">Brock Rodden</a>, and scored on a sacrifice fly from&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/garrett-pennington/7468">Garrett Pennington</a>&nbsp;for a 1-0 advantage. That two-bagger kicked off another incredible game for Ingram, who finished four-for-five with three doubles and three runs scored, giving him 10 hits in the three-game series. Wichita State made the most of a trio of two-out scoring opportunities to extend the lead in the middle innings. In the third,&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/jack-little/7464">Jack Little</a>&nbsp;rifled a two-out RBI double to plate&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/mauricio-millan/7461">Mauricio Millan</a>, lengthening the lead to 2-0.&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/garrett-pennington/7468">Garrett Pennington</a>&nbsp;doubled home a run with two away in the fourth, and Rodden made it 4-0 by beating out an infield single in the sixth. That appeared to be more than enough support for Shocker starter&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/grant-adler/7467">Grant Adler</a>, who had cruised through the first five innings without allowing a run. The Green Wave (10-26, 4-5) fought back in the sixth with a pair of unearned runs, breaking up the shutout on a bases-loaded walk by Brennan Lambert before Jake LaPrairie trimmed the WSU lead to 4-2 on a groundout. Tulane then tied the game in the seventh thanks in part to two Shocker errors, setting the stage for a Simon Baumgardt RBI double that knotted the score at 4-4. Adler settled for a no-decision, allowing just five hits and one earned run in 6.1 innings. The Shockers struck right back in the top of the eighth with three runs.&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/jordan-rogers/7451">Jordan Rogers</a>&nbsp;came off the bench to start the rally with a leadoff double, and&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/kyte-mcdonald/7459">Kyte McDonald</a>&nbsp;followed with a double of his own to give Wichita State a 5-4 lead. Ingram capped his monster afternoon by rifling an RBI single, coming in to score later in the inning on a double play grounder to restore the WSU lead to 7-4. <a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/robert-cranz/7445">Robert Cranz</a>&nbsp;(1-1) took it the rest of the way for Wichita State, turning in a dominant outing in relief. The right-hander fired 2.1 scoreless innings with a career-best five strikeouts, allowing just a single base hit and no walks. He set the side down in order in the ninth to secure the win. Grant Cleavinger (0-1) took the loss for Tulane, allowing three hits and a run in 1.1 innings out of the bullpen. Wichita State wraps up the road swing with a trip to Manhattan on Tuesday for an in-state battle with Kansas State. First pitch is scheduled for 6:00 pm.&nbsp;&nbsp;

⚾ Shockers take 2 of 3 from Tulane

Courtesy of Kansas State Athletics

LAWRENCE, Kan. –&nbsp;In the highest scoring game in series history, K-State won 21-18 over Kansas to complete the Dillons Sunflower Showdown sweep at Hoglund Ballpark on Sunday. &nbsp; The Cats (24-14, 9-6 Big 12) used a season-high 19 hits to score 21 runs in the series finale to grab the program's first road sweep over the Jayhawks (17-18, 5-7 Big 12) since 2013. "Today was a mental toughness day," said head coach&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/baseball/roster/coaches/pete-hughes/1939">Pete Hughes</a>. "With these conditions, it's not baseball but you just have to put yourself in a different place mentally and not watch the scoreboard." "You play for your next at bat, keep your head down, pick it up at the end of the game and hopefully you're in a good spot. That's what we did today," Hughes said. <a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/baseball/roster/kyler-heyne/10982">Kyler Heyne</a>&nbsp;(3-0) picked up the victory in relief and allowed just two earned runs during his two innings with four strikeouts. Three Wildcats had multiple RBI in the win led by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/baseball/roster/kaelen-culpepper/10947">Kaelen Culpepper</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/baseball/roster/kyan-lodice/10956">Kyan Lodice</a>&nbsp;with six each while&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/baseball/roster/cash-rugely/10963">Cash Rugely</a>&nbsp;had four. "It's our program goal to win this series every year but to get a sweep in someone's park is a tough thing to do, especially in this league. It helps us to make up for some loss ground from earlier in the season." HOW IT HAPPENED After a scoreless first inning, K-State used 13 runs on 11 hits to take control of the series finale. <a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/baseball/roster/roberto-pena/10971">Roberto Pena</a>&nbsp;led off with his ninth homer of the season to open scoring. The Cats strung together two consecutive hits and a walk to load the bases before&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/baseball/roster/cash-rugely/10963">Cash Rugely</a>&nbsp;roped a single into center to double the Cats lead, 2-0. With no outs, Lodice recorded his second homer of the series with his first collegiate grand slam. The redshirt freshman launched a 3-2 pitch 425-feet out to center field to clear the bases. <a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/baseball/roster/kaelen-culpepper/10947">Kaelen Culpepper</a>&nbsp;blasted the Cats third homer of the inning and his fourth of the season to expand the lead out to expand the lead out to eight, 8-0. The Cats would add five runs to the board for their second 10-plus run inning this season. Kansas snapped the shutout in the third frame with seven runs to make it a 13-7 ball game. The Wildcats and Jayhawks exchanged 18 runs over the final six innings in the highest-scoring game in series history. &nbsp; INSIDE THE BOX

ON DECK The Cats will head home to host in-state rival Wichita State (20-15, 5-4 American) on Tuesday, April 18 at 6 p.m. inside Tointon Family Stadium. The game can be seen on the Big 12 Now on ESPN+ and the ESPN app with radio coverage available on KMAN (93.3FM/1350AM) and a free live audio available at&nbsp;<a href="https://kstatesports-my.sharepoint.com/personal/jballard_kstatesports_com/Documents/Documents/2022-23/Baseball/Archives/kstatesports.com/watch">kstatesports.com/watch</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681696478161.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Courtesy of Kansas State Athletics

LAWRENCE, Kan. –&nbsp;In the highest scoring game in series history, K-State won 21-18 over Kansas to complete the Dillons Sunflower Showdown sweep at Hoglund Ballpark on Sunday. &nbsp; The Cats (24-14, 9-6 Big 12) used a season-high 19 hits to score 21 runs in the series finale to grab the program's first road sweep over the Jayhawks (17-18, 5-7 Big 12) since 2013. "Today was a mental toughness day," said head coach&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/baseball/roster/coaches/pete-hughes/1939">Pete Hughes</a>. "With these conditions, it's not baseball but you just have to put yourself in a different place mentally and not watch the scoreboard." "You play for your next at bat, keep your head down, pick it up at the end of the game and hopefully you're in a good spot. That's what we did today," Hughes said. <a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/baseball/roster/kyler-heyne/10982">Kyler Heyne</a>&nbsp;(3-0) picked up the victory in relief and allowed just two earned runs during his two innings with four strikeouts. Three Wildcats had multiple RBI in the win led by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/baseball/roster/kaelen-culpepper/10947">Kaelen Culpepper</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/baseball/roster/kyan-lodice/10956">Kyan Lodice</a>&nbsp;with six each while&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/baseball/roster/cash-rugely/10963">Cash Rugely</a>&nbsp;had four. "It's our program goal to win this series every year but to get a sweep in someone's park is a tough thing to do, especially in this league. It helps us to make up for some loss ground from earlier in the season." HOW IT HAPPENED After a scoreless first inning, K-State used 13 runs on 11 hits to take control of the series finale. <a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/baseball/roster/roberto-pena/10971">Roberto Pena</a>&nbsp;led off with his ninth homer of the season to open scoring. The Cats strung together two consecutive hits and a walk to load the bases before&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/baseball/roster/cash-rugely/10963">Cash Rugely</a>&nbsp;roped a single into center to double the Cats lead, 2-0. With no outs, Lodice recorded his second homer of the series with his first collegiate grand slam. The redshirt freshman launched a 3-2 pitch 425-feet out to center field to clear the bases. <a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/baseball/roster/kaelen-culpepper/10947">Kaelen Culpepper</a>&nbsp;blasted the Cats third homer of the inning and his fourth of the season to expand the lead out to expand the lead out to eight, 8-0. The Cats would add five runs to the board for their second 10-plus run inning this season. Kansas snapped the shutout in the third frame with seven runs to make it a 13-7 ball game. The Wildcats and Jayhawks exchanged 18 runs over the final six innings in the highest-scoring game in series history. &nbsp; INSIDE THE BOX<ul>
 <li>K-State scored 21 runs on 19 hits with two errors</li><li>The Wildcats scored 13 runs in the second inning</li><li>Second time this season Cats posted a 10+ run inning</li><li>Lodice launched his first collegiate grand slam; Cats fifth of the season</li><li>First 10+ run against KU since 2017</li><li>Heyne picked up his third win with four strikeouts</li><li>Highest scoring game in series history; surpassed KU's 22-16 win on May 15, 1931</li><li>Nine different players recorded a hit; seven had multiple</li><li>Day produced his third straight three-hit game</li><li>Rugely, Day and Johnson each had three hits</li><li>Culpepper and Lodice each led with six-RBI</li><li>Bullpen combined for 11 earned runs and 11 strikeouts</li><li>Rugely reached base for the 20th&nbsp;straight game followed by Day (17) and Pelletier (14)</li><li>KU scored 18 runs on 17 hits with four errors</li><li>Each team stranded 12 on base</li>
 </ul>NOTES<ul>
 <li>Cats lead the all-time series 186-177-1 and are 74-92 in Lawrence</li><li>First road sweep over KU since 2013</li><li>The Wildcats move to 11-7 in true road games</li><li>First team to reach nine conference wins</li><li>K-State is the only team to have five Big 12 victories on the road</li><li>The win jumps the Cats to third in the conference standings at 9-6</li>
 </ul>ON DECK The Cats will head home to host in-state rival Wichita State (20-15, 5-4 American) on Tuesday, April 18 at 6 p.m. inside Tointon Family Stadium. The game can be seen on the Big 12 Now on ESPN+ and the ESPN app with radio coverage available on KMAN (93.3FM/1350AM) and a free live audio available at&nbsp;<a href="https://kstatesports-my.sharepoint.com/personal/jballard_kstatesports_com/Documents/Documents/2022-23/Baseball/Archives/kstatesports.com/watch">kstatesports.com/watch</a>.

⚾ Wildcats sweep Jayhawks in Dillons Sunflower Showdown

<a href="https://kuathletics.us8.list-manage.com/track/click?u=3846a6408b9536a51afeabac1&amp;id=1c27935ebd&amp;e=33e05464a3" target="_blank">Box Score</a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href="https://kuathletics.us8.list-manage.com/track/click?u=3846a6408b9536a51afeabac1&amp;id=20d4037c04&amp;e=33e05464a3" target="_blank">Season Stats</a>

AUSTIN, Texas —&nbsp;The Kansas softball team (20-19, 2-7 Big 12) fell 3-2 to No. 8 Texas (36-9, 8-4 Big 12) Sunday as the Longhorns scored in the bottom of the seventh inning after being knotted up at 2-2 all game.

Both teams scored two in the fourth and stayed tied until the seventh. Junior left hander Kasey Hamilton had her second quality start in the circle this weekend. Hamilton threw 3.2 innings and allowed two runs on three hits with four walks, while striking out three batters.

Kansas got on the board in the fourth with back-to-back RBIs from junior catcher Lyric Moore and senior third baseman Ashlyn Anderson. After senior center fielder Shayna Espy drew a walk to open the inning, she found her way to third following two groundouts. With two outs, Moore singled up the middle, scoring Kansas’ first run. Anderson followed that up with a stand up double as Moore raced from first to home, extending the lead to 2-0.

Texas responded in the bottom-half of the fourth, tying the game at two runs apiece. Hamilton struck out the first two batters of the frame, then walked the next two, putting a runner in scoring position. UT doubled to left-center, scoring their first run and followed that up with an RBI single to tie the game.

Freshman reliever Lizzy Ludwig relieved Hamilton in the fourth. She threw 3.0 innings, only allowing three hits, one walk and one run. The one run, however, was the difference and Ludwig took the decision, falling to 2-5 on the season.

The game remain tied at 2-2 until the bottom of the seventh. With a runner on second, Texas singled through the left side, bringing home the game-winning run just ahead of KU’s throw to the plate.

The Jayhawks head east Wednesday, April 19, to take on longtime rival Missouri in Columbia, Missouri. The game will be broadcast on the SEC Network on ESPN+.

<figure>
 <img src="https://mcusercontent.com/3846a6408b9536a51afeabac1/_compresseds/c08d0aa9-ab88-b707-73d0-15086677eb8e.jpg" alt="Via KU Sports" />
 <figcaption>Via KU Sports</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://kuathletics.us8.list-manage.com/track/click?u=3846a6408b9536a51afeabac1&amp;id=1c27935ebd&amp;e=33e05464a3" target="_blank">Box Score</a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href="https://kuathletics.us8.list-manage.com/track/click?u=3846a6408b9536a51afeabac1&amp;id=20d4037c04&amp;e=33e05464a3" target="_blank">Season Stats</a>AUSTIN, Texas —&nbsp;The Kansas softball team (20-19, 2-7 Big 12) fell 3-2 to No. 8 Texas (36-9, 8-4 Big 12) Sunday as the Longhorns scored in the bottom of the seventh inning after being knotted up at 2-2 all game.Both teams scored two in the fourth and stayed tied until the seventh. Junior left hander Kasey Hamilton had her second quality start in the circle this weekend. Hamilton threw 3.2 innings and allowed two runs on three hits with four walks, while striking out three batters.Kansas got on the board in the fourth with back-to-back RBIs from junior catcher Lyric Moore and senior third baseman Ashlyn Anderson. After senior center fielder Shayna Espy drew a walk to open the inning, she found her way to third following two groundouts. With two outs, Moore singled up the middle, scoring Kansas’ first run. Anderson followed that up with a stand up double as Moore raced from first to home, extending the lead to 2-0.Texas responded in the bottom-half of the fourth, tying the game at two runs apiece. Hamilton struck out the first two batters of the frame, then walked the next two, putting a runner in scoring position. UT doubled to left-center, scoring their first run and followed that up with an RBI single to tie the game.Freshman reliever Lizzy Ludwig relieved Hamilton in the fourth. She threw 3.0 innings, only allowing three hits, one walk and one run. The one run, however, was the difference and Ludwig took the decision, falling to 2-5 on the season.The game remain tied at 2-2 until the bottom of the seventh. With a runner on second, Texas singled through the left side, bringing home the game-winning run just ahead of KU’s throw to the plate.NOTES<ul>
 <li>Kansas played in its ninth-straight game against a NFCA top-25 opponent, a streak that began at No. 21 Baylor, March 31st (W, 2-1).</li><li>On Friday, KU got its first win against Texas since April 30th, 2016.</li><li>The win on Friday also gave Kansas their first top-10 road win versus a conference opponent since April 24th, 2022 (#4 Nebraska).</li>
 </ul>UP NEXTThe Jayhawks head east Wednesday, April 19, to take on longtime rival Missouri in Columbia, Missouri. The game will be broadcast on the SEC Network on ESPN+.

🥎 Jayhawks battle, fall late to Texas in series finale

WICHITA, Kan. — The OKC Lightning (0-1) jumped out to a 32-21 lead in the first quarter after the Wichita Wizards (2-1) started the game on an 8-3 run.

The Wizards tied the game up at 41 after a Kaelon Gary three with 7:41 left before the break.&nbsp;

The Wizards went up by seven on a 10-3 run.

Wichita took a 59-54 lead into halftime behind 16 Kaelon Gary points.&nbsp;

Gary finished with 22 on 10-for-20 shooting.

Gary and Jeremiah May led the way for Wichita with 22 points each.&nbsp;

Parker Austin, who scored 31 points and nabbed 10 rebounds in the home opener, added 19 points.&nbsp;

The Wizards struggled from deep, hitting just 3-of-20 from distance.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the Lightning knocked down 12 triples on 42 attempts.

Three OKC players scored 20 or more points, led by D.J. Perkins' 33.

Justin Jones added 28 for the Lightning, while Richmarr Smith contributed 20.

OKC tied the game at 64 with eight minutes left in the third.&nbsp;

The Lightning finished the third frame with an 84-82 advantage.&nbsp;

OKC built a 98-90 lead with 9:06 remaining before the Wizards started to chip away.&nbsp;

A Michael Barnes putback with 6:20 left pulled Wichita within three.&nbsp;

Back-to-back Braxton Kirkendoll buckets knotted the game at 106.

Parker Austin's basket with 1:38 left broke a 108 tie and put Wichita on top for good.&nbsp;

The Wizards went 2-of-4 from the line down the stretch (14-19 for the game) and iced the contest with two defensive stands under a minute to go.

<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/2023/4/1681682266274.jpeg" alt="Kaelon Gary scored 22 (16 in the first half) to lead the Wizards Sunday. Photo courtesy of Eli Galindo (Cloud Films)." />
 <figcaption>Kaelon Gary scored 22 (16 in the first half) to lead the Wizards Sunday. Photo courtesy of Eli Galindo (Cloud Films).</figcaption>
 </figure>WICHITA, Kan. — The OKC Lightning (0-1) jumped out to a 32-21 lead in the first quarter after the Wichita Wizards (2-1) started the game on an 8-3 run.The Wizards tied the game up at 41 after a Kaelon Gary three with 7:41 left before the break.&nbsp;The Wizards went up by seven on a 10-3 run.Wichita took a 59-54 lead into halftime behind 16 Kaelon Gary points.&nbsp;Gary finished with 22 on 10-for-20 shooting.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681730270268.jpeg" alt="Photo courtesy of Eli Galindo (Cloud Films)." />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy of Eli Galindo (Cloud Films).</figcaption>
 </figure>Gary and Jeremiah May led the way for Wichita with 22 points each.&nbsp;May went 10-of-18 from the field.&nbsp;Parker Austin, who scored 31 points and nabbed 10 rebounds in the home opener, added 19 points.&nbsp;The Wizards struggled from deep, hitting just 3-of-20 from distance.&nbsp;Meanwhile, the Lightning knocked down 12 triples on 42 attempts.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681730382428.jpeg" alt="Photo courtesy of Eli Galindo (Cloud Films)." />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy of Eli Galindo (Cloud Films).</figcaption>
 </figure>Three OKC players scored 20 or more points, led by D.J. Perkins' 33.Justin Jones added 28 for the Lightning, while Richmarr Smith contributed 20.OKC tied the game at 64 with eight minutes left in the third.&nbsp;The Lightning finished the third frame with an 84-82 advantage.&nbsp;OKC built a 98-90 lead with 9:06 remaining before the Wizards started to chip away.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681730336625.jpeg" alt="Photo courtesy of Eli Galindo (Cloud Films)." />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy of Eli Galindo (Cloud Films).</figcaption>
 </figure>A Michael Barnes putback with 6:20 left pulled Wichita within three.&nbsp;Back-to-back Braxton Kirkendoll buckets knotted the game at 106.Parker Austin's basket with 1:38 left broke a 108 tie and put Wichita on top for good.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681730433810.jpeg" alt="Photo courtesy of Eli Galindo (Cloud Films)." />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy of Eli Galindo (Cloud Films).</figcaption>
 </figure>The Wizards went 2-of-4 from the line down the stretch (14-19 for the game) and iced the contest with two defensive stands under a minute to go.FINAL: Wizards 115 Lightning 110<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.

🏀 Wizards fend off Lightning late

AP Sports Headlines for Sunday Morning, April 16th

Fox leads Kings past Warriors 126-123 in playoff return

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) — De'Aaron Fox scored 38 points in his long-awaited playoff debut and the Sacramento Kings celebrated their return to the postseason after a record 16-year drought by beating the defending-champion Golden State Warriors 126-123. The first playoff meeting ever between the Northern California neighbors lived up to the hype and delighted the raucous crowd that had been waiting for a playoff game since 2006. The inexperienced Kings closed the game strong against a Warriors team that had won four titles in the previous eight seasons.

Warriors' Wiggins returns after 2-month absence, scores 17

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) — Andrew Wiggins gave the Golden State Warriors almost everything they wanted in his first game in more than two months. Then with a chance to win it at the end, Wiggins missed. The Warriors lost 126-123 to the Sacramento Kings in Game 1 of their first-round series. Wiggins returned after missing the final 25 games of the regular season to deal with an undisclosed family matter. He rejoined the team earlier this month. Wiggins brought needed energy and scoring in his 28 minutes off the bench. He had 17 points, three rebounds and four blocked shots.

Brunson, Randle push Knicks past Cavaliers 101-97 in Game 1

CLEVELAND (AP) — Jalen Brunson shook off foul trouble and scored 21 of his 27 in the second half, and Julius Randle returned from an ankle injury to add 19 as the New York Knicks welcomed Cleveland back to the NBA playoffs by holding off the Cavaliers 101-97 in Game 1. Brunson was limited to nine minutes in the first half, but hit several big shots down the stretch as the Knicks turned back Cleveland's late rally led by Donovan Mitchell. Randle was questionable up until pregame warmups, when he tested the left ankle he sprained two weeks ago. Mitchell finished with 38 for the Cavs, who returned to the playoff stage for the first time since the 2018 Finals. Josh Hart added 17 points off New York's bench, which outscored Cleveland's 37-14.

Brown scores 29, Celtics hold off late rally by Hawks 112-99

BOSTON (AP) — Jaylen Brown scored 29 points and had 12 rebounds, and the Boston Celtics capitalized on a woeful shooting performance by the Atlanta Hawks to hold on for 112-99 victory in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference first-round matchup. Jayson Tatum scored 25 points, 21 in the first half. Derrick White finished with 25 points and 11 rebounds for Boston, which hosts Game 2 on Tuesday. The No. 2-seeded Celtics led by as many as 32 points, pouncing on an Atlanta team that missed its first 10 3-point attempts and shot 5 of 29 from beyond the arc for the game. Dejounte Murray led the Hawks with 24 points, eight rebounds and six assists. Trae Young added 16 points.

Harden scores 23 as 76ers cruise past Nets 121-101 in Game 1

PHILADELPHIA (AP) — James Harden hit seven 3-pointers and had 23 points and 13 assists, NBA MVP finalist Joel Embiid scored 26 points and the Philadelphia 76ers pushed back Mikal Bridges and the Brooklyn Nets in a 121-101 Game 1 victory. Tobias Harris added 19 points and the 76ers hit 21 3s in the opener of this Eastern Conference playoff series. The Sixers are trying to win their first NBA championship since 1983 and advance past the second round for the first time since 2001. The No. 3-seeded 76ers host Game 2 on Monday. Bridges scored 30 points and helped the Nets at least hang around in the first half.

Brewers reliever Varland hit on jaw by Machado line drive

SAN DIEGO (AP) — Milwaukee Brewers reliever Gus Varland was hit on the jaw with a line drive by Manny Machado and came out of a game against the San Diego Padres. The scary moment came in the bottom of the eighth. Varland went to the ground after getting hit by the ball. He got to his feet a moment later but then went down on his knees as he was tended by the medical staff. He was replaced by Javy Guerra. The Padres led 8-3 at the time.

Pegula sends US past Austria to Billie Jean King Cup finals

Jessica Pegula sent the U.S. into the Billie Jean King Cup finals with a 6-1, 6-3 victory over Julia Grabher of Austria. The victory gave the Americans a 3-0 lead and clinched the best-of-five tie in Delray Beach, Florida. The third-ranked Pegula also won her singles match Friday after No. 6 Coco Gauff, playing in her hometown, beat Grabher in the opener. France, Spain, the Czech Republic, Kazakhstan, Germany, Canada and Italy also secured berths in the finals, scheduled for Nov. 7-12 at a site to be determined. Those nations will join reigning champion Switzerland, 2022 runner-up Australia and one wild-card recipient at the finals, with a couple spots still be determined on the second day of the two-day qualifiers.

US Open champ Fitzpatrick holds 1-shot lead at RBC Heritage

HILTON HEAD ISLAND, S.C. (AP) — U.S. Open champion Matt Fitzpatrick shot his lowest round on the PGA Tour with a 63 to take a one-shot lead over Patrick Cantlay through three rounds at the RBC Heritage. Fitzpatrick had six birdies and a hole-out for eagle on the par-4 third hole and was at 14 under. Cantlay, who lost in a playoff to Jordan Spieth a year ago, shot 66 to put himself in position for another chance at victory. Masters champ Jon Rahm thrilled the gallery with three straight birdies to open the round, but could not sustain that momentum and was at 8 under.

Australian Grace Kim wins LOTTE Championship in playoff

HONOLULU (AP) — Australian rookie Grace Kim won the LOTTE Championship on Saturday at breezy Hoakalei for her first LPGA Tour title, beating Yu Liu and Yu Jin Sung with a birdie on the first hole of a playoff. While Liu and Sung scrambled after hitting their second shots to the left of the green on the par-5 18th, the 22-year-old Kim went over the water to the right, then chipped to 8 feet to set up her birdie. Liu made a par and Sung had a bogey. Playing alongside Sung in the final threesome, Kim shot a 4-under 68, rebounding from a bogey 14 to birdie the last two holes. She got up and down from the front-left bunker on 18 in regulation, making a 7-footer.

US to face rival Canada in gold medal game at women's worlds

BRAMPTON, Ontario (AP) — It'll be United States and Canada meeting in the women's world hockey gold medal game for the 21st time in 22 tournaments. Captain Hilary Knight, Amanda Kessel and Tessa Janecke each scored twice, and the United States secured its berth with a 9-1 rout of the Czech Republic. The two-time defending champion Canadians advanced with Sarah Fillier scoring three times in a 5-1 win over Switzerland in the other semifinal. Canada is undefeated through six games and clinched the top seed with a 4-3 shootout win over the U.S. on Monday. The Swiss and Czechs will meet in the bronze medal game in a rematch of last year's third-place game won by the Czech Republic.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681297613631.jpeg" alt="Sports Headlines from AP for Sunday, April 16th" />
 <figcaption>Sports Headlines from AP for Sunday, April 16th</figcaption>
 </figure>AP Sports Headlines for Sunday Morning, April 16thFox leads Kings past Warriors 126-123 in playoff returnSACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) — De'Aaron Fox scored 38 points in his long-awaited playoff debut and the Sacramento Kings celebrated their return to the postseason after a record 16-year drought by beating the defending-champion Golden State Warriors 126-123. The first playoff meeting ever between the Northern California neighbors lived up to the hype and delighted the raucous crowd that had been waiting for a playoff game since 2006. The inexperienced Kings closed the game strong against a Warriors team that had won four titles in the previous eight seasons.Warriors' Wiggins returns after 2-month absence, scores 17SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) — Andrew Wiggins gave the Golden State Warriors almost everything they wanted in his first game in more than two months. Then with a chance to win it at the end, Wiggins missed. The Warriors lost 126-123 to the Sacramento Kings in Game 1 of their first-round series. Wiggins returned after missing the final 25 games of the regular season to deal with an undisclosed family matter. He rejoined the team earlier this month. Wiggins brought needed energy and scoring in his 28 minutes off the bench. He had 17 points, three rebounds and four blocked shots.Brunson, Randle push Knicks past Cavaliers 101-97 in Game 1CLEVELAND (AP) — Jalen Brunson shook off foul trouble and scored 21 of his 27 in the second half, and Julius Randle returned from an ankle injury to add 19 as the New York Knicks welcomed Cleveland back to the NBA playoffs by holding off the Cavaliers 101-97 in Game 1. Brunson was limited to nine minutes in the first half, but hit several big shots down the stretch as the Knicks turned back Cleveland's late rally led by Donovan Mitchell. Randle was questionable up until pregame warmups, when he tested the left ankle he sprained two weeks ago. Mitchell finished with 38 for the Cavs, who returned to the playoff stage for the first time since the 2018 Finals. Josh Hart added 17 points off New York's bench, which outscored Cleveland's 37-14.Brown scores 29, Celtics hold off late rally by Hawks 112-99BOSTON (AP) — Jaylen Brown scored 29 points and had 12 rebounds, and the Boston Celtics capitalized on a woeful shooting performance by the Atlanta Hawks to hold on for 112-99 victory in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference first-round matchup. Jayson Tatum scored 25 points, 21 in the first half. Derrick White finished with 25 points and 11 rebounds for Boston, which hosts Game 2 on Tuesday. The No. 2-seeded Celtics led by as many as 32 points, pouncing on an Atlanta team that missed its first 10 3-point attempts and shot 5 of 29 from beyond the arc for the game. Dejounte Murray led the Hawks with 24 points, eight rebounds and six assists. Trae Young added 16 points.Harden scores 23 as 76ers cruise past Nets 121-101 in Game 1PHILADELPHIA (AP) — James Harden hit seven 3-pointers and had 23 points and 13 assists, NBA MVP finalist Joel Embiid scored 26 points and the Philadelphia 76ers pushed back Mikal Bridges and the Brooklyn Nets in a 121-101 Game 1 victory. Tobias Harris added 19 points and the 76ers hit 21 3s in the opener of this Eastern Conference playoff series. The Sixers are trying to win their first NBA championship since 1983 and advance past the second round for the first time since 2001. The No. 3-seeded 76ers host Game 2 on Monday. Bridges scored 30 points and helped the Nets at least hang around in the first half.Brewers reliever Varland hit on jaw by Machado line driveSAN DIEGO (AP) — Milwaukee Brewers reliever Gus Varland was hit on the jaw with a line drive by Manny Machado and came out of a game against the San Diego Padres. The scary moment came in the bottom of the eighth. Varland went to the ground after getting hit by the ball. He got to his feet a moment later but then went down on his knees as he was tended by the medical staff. He was replaced by Javy Guerra. The Padres led 8-3 at the time.Pegula sends US past Austria to Billie Jean King Cup finalsJessica Pegula sent the U.S. into the Billie Jean King Cup finals with a 6-1, 6-3 victory over Julia Grabher of Austria. The victory gave the Americans a 3-0 lead and clinched the best-of-five tie in Delray Beach, Florida. The third-ranked Pegula also won her singles match Friday after No. 6 Coco Gauff, playing in her hometown, beat Grabher in the opener. France, Spain, the Czech Republic, Kazakhstan, Germany, Canada and Italy also secured berths in the finals, scheduled for Nov. 7-12 at a site to be determined. Those nations will join reigning champion Switzerland, 2022 runner-up Australia and one wild-card recipient at the finals, with a couple spots still be determined on the second day of the two-day qualifiers.US Open champ Fitzpatrick holds 1-shot lead at RBC HeritageHILTON HEAD ISLAND, S.C. (AP) — U.S. Open champion Matt Fitzpatrick shot his lowest round on the PGA Tour with a 63 to take a one-shot lead over Patrick Cantlay through three rounds at the RBC Heritage. Fitzpatrick had six birdies and a hole-out for eagle on the par-4 third hole and was at 14 under. Cantlay, who lost in a playoff to Jordan Spieth a year ago, shot 66 to put himself in position for another chance at victory. Masters champ Jon Rahm thrilled the gallery with three straight birdies to open the round, but could not sustain that momentum and was at 8 under.Australian Grace Kim wins LOTTE Championship in playoffHONOLULU (AP) — Australian rookie Grace Kim won the LOTTE Championship on Saturday at breezy Hoakalei for her first LPGA Tour title, beating Yu Liu and Yu Jin Sung with a birdie on the first hole of a playoff. While Liu and Sung scrambled after hitting their second shots to the left of the green on the par-5 18th, the 22-year-old Kim went over the water to the right, then chipped to 8 feet to set up her birdie. Liu made a par and Sung had a bogey. Playing alongside Sung in the final threesome, Kim shot a 4-under 68, rebounding from a bogey 14 to birdie the last two holes. She got up and down from the front-left bunker on 18 in regulation, making a 7-footer.US to face rival Canada in gold medal game at women's worldsBRAMPTON, Ontario (AP) — It'll be United States and Canada meeting in the women's world hockey gold medal game for the 21st time in 22 tournaments. Captain Hilary Knight, Amanda Kessel and Tessa Janecke each scored twice, and the United States secured its berth with a 9-1 rout of the Czech Republic. The two-time defending champion Canadians advanced with Sarah Fillier scoring three times in a 5-1 win over Switzerland in the other semifinal. Canada is undefeated through six games and clinched the top seed with a 4-3 shootout win over the U.S. on Monday. The Swiss and Czechs will meet in the bronze medal game in a rematch of last year's third-place game won by the Czech Republic.<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.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

📢📰 Sports Headlines for Sunday

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Sean Murphy homered among his three hits and drove in four runs, Ozzie Albies also had four RBI, and the Atlanta Braves beat the Kansas City Royals 9-3 on Saturday night.

Murphy had RBI doubles in the first and third innings, a solo homer in the fifth and a bases-loaded walk in the eighth. The homer went 395 feet over the left field fence for his third of the season and his second consecutive game. In the first two games of this series, he is 5 for 7 with two homers and seven RBI.

“Getting hit is always good, but doing it early and just showing the rest of the guys that you belong with them,” Murphy said. “It's going well right now but just trying to stay consistent. I've been just trying to do my thing and not take too much stock in whatever pressure is coming from the outside.”

Albies had a two-run double in the third inning opening up a four-run lead early in the game. In the eighth inning, he singled in two more runs to put the game out of reach.

Bryce Elder (2-0) continued his promising start to the year going 5 1/3 innings and allowing three runs and seven hits, with two walks and four strikeouts.

“He just picked up right where left off from last year,” Braves manager Brian Snitker said. “He's been very aggressive and guys have to love playing behind him, he works fast. ... He got on a nice little run there.”

After being down 5-1 in the fifth, Kansas City got back into the game with RBI by Kyle Isbel and Jackie Bradley Jr. to pull within two.

The Royals got an RBI double from Salvador Perez in the first inning.

Kris Bubic (0-2) gave up his first homer in 28 innings while allowing five earned runs on 10 hits and one walk with three strikeouts in five innings.

“The stuff wasn’t very sharp today, sure it was cold and stuff like that, but I just felt like I couldn’t execute pitches when I got ahead in counts and gave up some hard contact today," Bubic said. "I didn’t have a great feel of putting away any guys with any pitch, but I wanted to keep battling to give us a chance."

The Royals are a league worst 1-8 at home this season. On the flip side, the Braves are a league best 7-1 on the road.

“We have played good teams, but that being said, we need to be better and compete with those kinds of teams," Royals manager Matt Quatraro said.

The game was delayed by 2 1/2 hours before the first pitch was thrown due to a rain delay.

The Braves send RHP Kyle Wright (0-0, 12.00 ERA) to the mound against Royals RHP Zack Greinke (0-3, 3.31).

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680115673148.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Sean Murphy homered among his three hits and drove in four runs, Ozzie Albies also had four RBI, and the Atlanta Braves beat the Kansas City Royals 9-3 on Saturday night.Murphy had RBI doubles in the first and third innings, a solo homer in the fifth and a bases-loaded walk in the eighth. The homer went 395 feet over the left field fence for his third of the season and his second consecutive game. In the first two games of this series, he is 5 for 7 with two homers and seven RBI.“Getting hit is always good, but doing it early and just showing the rest of the guys that you belong with them,” Murphy said. “It's going well right now but just trying to stay consistent. I've been just trying to do my thing and not take too much stock in whatever pressure is coming from the outside.”Albies had a two-run double in the third inning opening up a four-run lead early in the game. In the eighth inning, he singled in two more runs to put the game out of reach.Bryce Elder (2-0) continued his promising start to the year going 5 1/3 innings and allowing three runs and seven hits, with two walks and four strikeouts.“He just picked up right where left off from last year,” Braves manager Brian Snitker said. “He's been very aggressive and guys have to love playing behind him, he works fast. ... He got on a nice little run there.”After being down 5-1 in the fifth, Kansas City got back into the game with RBI by Kyle Isbel and Jackie Bradley Jr. to pull within two.The Royals got an RBI double from Salvador Perez in the first inning.Kris Bubic (0-2) gave up his first homer in 28 innings while allowing five earned runs on 10 hits and one walk with three strikeouts in five innings.“The stuff wasn’t very sharp today, sure it was cold and stuff like that, but I just felt like I couldn’t execute pitches when I got ahead in counts and gave up some hard contact today," Bubic said. "I didn’t have a great feel of putting away any guys with any pitch, but I wanted to keep battling to give us a chance."The Royals are a league worst 1-8 at home this season. On the flip side, the Braves are a league best 7-1 on the road.“We have played good teams, but that being said, we need to be better and compete with those kinds of teams," Royals manager Matt Quatraro said.RAIN DELAYThe game was delayed by 2 1/2 hours before the first pitch was thrown due to a rain delay.UP NEXTThe Braves send RHP Kyle Wright (0-0, 12.00 ERA) to the mound against Royals RHP Zack Greinke (0-3, 3.31).

⚾ Murphy and Albies each have 4 RBIs as Braves beat Royals 9-3

WICHITA, Kan.—Despite giving up 34 points to the Oklahoma Panthers leading scorer Devin Hutchinson, the Wichita Sky Kings pushed their season record to 10-2 with a 145-94 win over the Oklahoma Panthers in Koch Arena on Saturday night.

The Sky Kings used a balanced scoring attack to get the win being led by Jachai Simmons 22 points and Kam Williams 21 points including 5 for 10 from distance. Other Sky Kings scoring were Brandon Watkins and Julian Winton with 18 apiece, Johnny McCants 16, Terrell Brown&nbsp; 15, Matt Cerruti 13 and Isaac Johnson off the bench with 12. Derrick Colter added 6 and Doral Moore, Jr. had 4.

Besides Hutchinson's 34 points, the Panther's Brandon Franklin had 12 points and Johnathan McDonald 10 points were the only double digit scorers. The Panthers were held to 39 rebounds and only shot 40.9% from the free throw line. The Sky Kings owned the boards with a total of 56 rebounds led by Isaac Johnson with and McCants with 9 each, while Watkins, Simmons and Moore combined for 21 more.

The crowd was entertained by Larry Thomas, famous for his role as the Soup Nazi on Seinfeld as well as a young fan winning $500 for knocking down a half-court shot. Plus a lucky fan nailing a corn hole toss on her first attempt.

Sky Kings co-owners Ben Hamd and Lydia Hamd honored Ascension Via Christi with community spotlight check for $5,000 to highlight the night.

Next action for the Sky Kings is Sunday afternoon as the Enid Outlaws return to Koch Arena with a 3pm tip.&nbsp;

K-State's Markquis Nowell will be signing autographs with a meet and greet prior to the game and at half-time.

If you can't make it to the game, just tune into all Wichita Sky Kings games via live video stream on the tbltv.tv network.&nbsp; Glen Grunwald and Landon Wiseley with the call.

Watch for free by registering with the pass code of SKYKINGSFAMILYFRIENDS at check out.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680354465527.jpeg" alt="Wichita Sky Kings romp over Panthers" />
 <figcaption>Wichita Sky Kings romp over Panthers</figcaption>
 </figure>WICHITA, Kan.—Despite giving up 34 points to the Oklahoma Panthers leading scorer Devin Hutchinson, the Wichita Sky Kings pushed their season record to 10-2 with a 145-94 win over the Oklahoma Panthers in Koch Arena on Saturday night.The Sky Kings used a balanced scoring attack to get the win being led by Jachai Simmons 22 points and Kam Williams 21 points including 5 for 10 from distance. Other Sky Kings scoring were Brandon Watkins and Julian Winton with 18 apiece, Johnny McCants 16, Terrell Brown&nbsp; 15, Matt Cerruti 13 and Isaac Johnson off the bench with 12. Derrick Colter added 6 and Doral Moore, Jr. had 4.Besides Hutchinson's 34 points, the Panther's Brandon Franklin had 12 points and Johnathan McDonald 10 points were the only double digit scorers. The Panthers were held to 39 rebounds and only shot 40.9% from the free throw line. The Sky Kings owned the boards with a total of 56 rebounds led by Isaac Johnson with and McCants with 9 each, while Watkins, Simmons and Moore combined for 21 more.The crowd was entertained by Larry Thomas, famous for his role as the Soup Nazi on Seinfeld as well as a young fan winning $500 for knocking down a half-court shot. Plus a lucky fan nailing a corn hole toss on her first attempt.Sky Kings co-owners Ben Hamd and Lydia Hamd honored Ascension Via Christi with community spotlight check for $5,000 to highlight the night.Next action for the Sky Kings is Sunday afternoon as the Enid Outlaws return to Koch Arena with a 3pm tip.&nbsp;K-State's Markquis Nowell will be signing autographs with a meet and greet prior to the game and at half-time.If you can't make it to the game, just tune into all Wichita Sky Kings games via live video stream on the tbltv.tv network.&nbsp; Glen Grunwald and Landon Wiseley with the call.Watch for free by registering with the pass code of SKYKINGSFAMILYFRIENDS at check out.<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.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

🏀 Wichita Sky Kings blast the Oklahoma Panthers in romp

<a href="https://kuathletics.us8.list-manage.com/track/click?u=3846a6408b9536a51afeabac1&amp;id=8eb8792441&amp;e=33e05464a3" target="_blank">Box Score</a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href="https://kuathletics.us8.list-manage.com/track/click?u=3846a6408b9536a51afeabac1&amp;id=6828305e8b&amp;e=33e05464a3" target="_blank">Season Stats</a>

AUSTIN, Texas&nbsp;—&nbsp;In its eighth-straight game against a top-25 opponent, Kansas fell to No. 8 Texas 10-0 in five innings in Austin on Saturday, tying the series at one a piece.

After a nine-run first inning from Texas, the Jayhawks were unable mount a comeback, eventually falling in five innings due to a run-rule.

In the first, the Longhorns scored nine runs off of four singles, three walks, two doubles and a pair of stolen bases. The Jayhawks were unable to retire the first three batters and got their first out of the game with a fielder’s choice.&nbsp;

&nbsp;Freshman left fielder Presley Limbaugh produced Kansas’ lone hit, getting an infield single in the top of the first.

Sophomore right hander Katie Brooks got the start in the circle for the Jayhawks. Brooks allowed six runs, three hits and two walks. She was relieved in the first inning by junior utility player Savanna DesRochers.&nbsp;

DesRochers pitched the majority of the game for KU, where she threw 2.2 innings and allowed six hits, four runs and two walks against 17 batters faced. Junior utility player Addison Purvis came into the game after the fourth inning, pitching the final inning of the game.&nbsp;

The Jayhawks will have a chance to win the series on Sunday at 12 p.m. CT. Fans can watch the game on the Longhorn Network.

<figure>
 <img src="https://mcusercontent.com/3846a6408b9536a51afeabac1/_compresseds/0b85b5bc-4b17-fb50-a66a-0d49614338c7.jpg" alt="Via KU Sports" />
 <figcaption>Via KU Sports</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://kuathletics.us8.list-manage.com/track/click?u=3846a6408b9536a51afeabac1&amp;id=8eb8792441&amp;e=33e05464a3" target="_blank">Box Score</a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href="https://kuathletics.us8.list-manage.com/track/click?u=3846a6408b9536a51afeabac1&amp;id=6828305e8b&amp;e=33e05464a3" target="_blank">Season Stats</a>AUSTIN, Texas&nbsp;—&nbsp;In its eighth-straight game against a top-25 opponent, Kansas fell to No. 8 Texas 10-0 in five innings in Austin on Saturday, tying the series at one a piece.After a nine-run first inning from Texas, the Jayhawks were unable mount a comeback, eventually falling in five innings due to a run-rule.In the first, the Longhorns scored nine runs off of four singles, three walks, two doubles and a pair of stolen bases. The Jayhawks were unable to retire the first three batters and got their first out of the game with a fielder’s choice.&nbsp;&nbsp;Freshman left fielder Presley Limbaugh produced Kansas’ lone hit, getting an infield single in the top of the first.Sophomore right hander Katie Brooks got the start in the circle for the Jayhawks. Brooks allowed six runs, three hits and two walks. She was relieved in the first inning by junior utility player Savanna DesRochers.&nbsp;DesRochers pitched the majority of the game for KU, where she threw 2.2 innings and allowed six hits, four runs and two walks against 17 batters faced. Junior utility player Addison Purvis came into the game after the fourth inning, pitching the final inning of the game.&nbsp;UP NEXTThe Jayhawks will have a chance to win the series on Sunday at 12 p.m. CT. Fans can watch the game on the Longhorn Network.<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.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

🥎 Kansas drops second game of the series against Texas

Via Hutchinson CC Sports Information

NORTH NEWTON, Kan.—Freshmen&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/wtrack/2022-23/bios/hoskinson_taylor_a2wy">Taylor Hoskinson</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/wtrack/2022-23/bios/hernandez_madelyn_xh1v">Madelyn Hernandez</a>&nbsp;both had event championships and event runner-up finishes to lead the Hutchinson Community College women's track and field team on Saturday at Bethel College.

Overall, the Blue Dragons had a season-high three event victories and nine top-three finishes on Saturday.

Hoskinson won the 1,500 meters in a time of 5:12.43. She placed second in the 800 meters with a time of 2:31.69

Hernandez captured the 100-meter hurdle title with a time of 15.32 second. She was second in the high jump after clearing 5-1 (1.55 meters).

The other event victory came as part of a 1-2-3 Blue Dragon sweep in the pole vault. All-American&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/wtrack/2022-23/bios/martinez_violet_ghy2">Violet Martinez</a>&nbsp;after clearing 9 feet, 2.25 inches (2.80m). Freshman&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/wtrack/2022-23/bios/noll_alivia_vman">Alivia Noll</a>&nbsp;also cleared 9.2.25, but Martinez had fewer misses and won the event. All-Americana&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/wtrack/2022-23/bios/brown_kiana_ndhf">Kiana Brown</a>&nbsp;finished third after clearing 8-2.5 (2.50m).

In addition to Hoskinson, two other Blue Dragons placed in the top six of the 1,500. Freshman&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/wtrack/2022-23/bios/larson_serenity_v620">Serenity Larson</a>&nbsp;was second with a time of 5:15.55.&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/wtrack/2022-23/bios/lambert_gracie_ol52">Gracie Lambert</a>&nbsp;placed sixth with a time of 5:19.84.

Freshman&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/wtrack/2022-23/bios/limon_liberty_kvcl">Liberty Limon</a>&nbsp;placed third in the triple jump with a top jump of 33-6.75 (10.23m).&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/wtrack/2022-23/bios/watkins_emme_5qoi">Emme Watkins</a>&nbsp;placed sixth at 31-5.75 (9.62m).

Two Blue Dragons posted PRs on Saturday. Sophomore&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/wtrack/2022-23/bios/davis_lushous_v9nv">Lushous Davis</a>&nbsp;placed sixth in the hammer throw with a PR attempt of 134-10 (41.10m).

<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/wtrack/2022-23/bios/romney_keneah_z4mj">Keneah Romney</a>&nbsp;placed sixth in the 100 meters with a time of 12.80 seconds.

The Blue Dragons next compete at the Tabor Invitational next Saturday in Hillsboro.

<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.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681641069776.jpeg" alt="Taylor Hoskinson wins the 1,500 and places second in the 800 on Saturday at the Bethel Invitational. (Steve Carpenter/Blue Dragon Sports Information)" />
 <figcaption>Taylor Hoskinson wins the 1,500 and places second in the 800 on Saturday at the Bethel Invitational. (Steve Carpenter/Blue Dragon Sports Information)</figcaption>
 </figure>Via Hutchinson CC Sports InformationNORTH NEWTON, Kan.—Freshmen&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/wtrack/2022-23/bios/hoskinson_taylor_a2wy">Taylor Hoskinson</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/wtrack/2022-23/bios/hernandez_madelyn_xh1v">Madelyn Hernandez</a>&nbsp;both had event championships and event runner-up finishes to lead the Hutchinson Community College women's track and field team on Saturday at Bethel College.Overall, the Blue Dragons had a season-high three event victories and nine top-three finishes on Saturday.Hoskinson won the 1,500 meters in a time of 5:12.43. She placed second in the 800 meters with a time of 2:31.69Hernandez captured the 100-meter hurdle title with a time of 15.32 second. She was second in the high jump after clearing 5-1 (1.55 meters).The other event victory came as part of a 1-2-3 Blue Dragon sweep in the pole vault. All-American&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/wtrack/2022-23/bios/martinez_violet_ghy2">Violet Martinez</a>&nbsp;after clearing 9 feet, 2.25 inches (2.80m). Freshman&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/wtrack/2022-23/bios/noll_alivia_vman">Alivia Noll</a>&nbsp;also cleared 9.2.25, but Martinez had fewer misses and won the event. All-Americana&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/wtrack/2022-23/bios/brown_kiana_ndhf">Kiana Brown</a>&nbsp;finished third after clearing 8-2.5 (2.50m).In addition to Hoskinson, two other Blue Dragons placed in the top six of the 1,500. Freshman&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/wtrack/2022-23/bios/larson_serenity_v620">Serenity Larson</a>&nbsp;was second with a time of 5:15.55.&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/wtrack/2022-23/bios/lambert_gracie_ol52">Gracie Lambert</a>&nbsp;placed sixth with a time of 5:19.84.Freshman&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/wtrack/2022-23/bios/limon_liberty_kvcl">Liberty Limon</a>&nbsp;placed third in the triple jump with a top jump of 33-6.75 (10.23m).&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/wtrack/2022-23/bios/watkins_emme_5qoi">Emme Watkins</a>&nbsp;placed sixth at 31-5.75 (9.62m).Two Blue Dragons posted PRs on Saturday. Sophomore&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/wtrack/2022-23/bios/davis_lushous_v9nv">Lushous Davis</a>&nbsp;placed sixth in the hammer throw with a PR attempt of 134-10 (41.10m).<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/wtrack/2022-23/bios/romney_keneah_z4mj">Keneah Romney</a>&nbsp;placed sixth in the 100 meters with a time of 12.80 seconds.The Blue Dragons next compete at the Tabor Invitational next Saturday in Hillsboro.<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.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

👟 Hoskinson, Hernandez lead Blue Dragon women at Bethel Invite

DODGE CITY, Kan.—The No. 17-ranked Hutchinson Community College softball team swept Dodge City and reached a milestone in program history on Saturday at Legends Park.

Pitchers&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2022-23/bios/munson_emily_vjqm">Emily Munson</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2022-23/bios/wertz_riley_hm55">Riley Wertz</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2022-23/bios/pennycuff_morgan_4wht">Morgan Pennycuff</a>&nbsp;combined to allow only three hits as Hutchinson defeated Dodge City 8-0 in six innings and 7-0.

The Blue Dragons improved to 33-6 overall and 21-3 in the Jayhawk Conference. Hutchinson plays host to Northwest Tech at 1 p.m. on Wednesday at Fun Valley. Dodge City is now 17-22 overall and 12-14 in the KJCCC.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681640823813.jpeg" alt="Emily Munson tosses five shutout innings of one-hit softball in an 8-0 win in Game 1 on Saturday in Dodge City. The Dragons swept the Conquistadors and earned all-time win No. 1,000. (Andrew Carpenter/Blue Dragon Sports Information)" />
 <figcaption>Emily Munson tosses five shutout innings of one-hit softball in an 8-0 win in Game 1 on Saturday in Dodge City. The Dragons swept the Conquistadors and earned all-time win No. 1,000. (Andrew Carpenter/Blue Dragon Sports Information)</figcaption>
 </figure>Via Hutchinson CC Sports InformationDODGE CITY, Kan.—The No. 17-ranked Hutchinson Community College softball team swept Dodge City and reached a milestone in program history on Saturday at Legends Park.Pitchers&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2022-23/bios/munson_emily_vjqm">Emily Munson</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2022-23/bios/wertz_riley_hm55">Riley Wertz</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2022-23/bios/pennycuff_morgan_4wht">Morgan Pennycuff</a>&nbsp;combined to allow only three hits as Hutchinson defeated Dodge City 8-0 in six innings and 7-0.The Blue Dragons improved to 33-6 overall and 21-3 in the Jayhawk Conference. Hutchinson plays host to Northwest Tech at 1 p.m. on Wednesday at Fun Valley. Dodge City is now 17-22 overall and 12-14 in the KJCCC.Hutchinson reached the 1,000 all-time win plateau in its 38th season. The 33rd win this season moves the 2023 Blue Dragons into 10th place on the all-time program wins list. Head coach Jaime Rose reached the 550-win mark with the Blue Dragons and is two wins shy of reaching 600 for her coaching career.The Blue Dragons earned a second-straight four-game season sweep of Dodge City and have won 10 consecutive games over the Conquistadors.Hutchinson's pitching staff tossed its 11th and 12th shutouts of the season and third against Dodge City this season.GAME 1 RECAP Munson improved to 6-0 for the season with five shutout innings in the first game on Saturday. The only hit Munson allowed was a single through the right side with two out in the third inning.Munson struck out four, walked two and also hit a batter.Wertz struck out three in one inning of work,Offensively, the Blue Dragons hammered out 14 hits.<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2022-23/bios/goetz_aspen_qe50">Aspen Goetz</a>&nbsp;went 2 for 4 and drove in four runs to lead Hutchinson offensively. Goetz had a two-run single in the first inning and she added her 12th home run of the season in the sixth. Goetz now ranked No. 3 on the Blue Dragon single-season RBI list with 60 and is now sixth on the Hutchinson season home run list.Freshman JaeLeigh Darnell was 2 for 4 and had an RBI single in the third inning.&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2022-23/bios/mastin_alexis_xhvz">Alexis Mastin</a>&nbsp;was 2 for 3.&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2022-23/bios/dougherty_ella_9103">Ella Dougherty</a>&nbsp;was 2 for 3 with two runs scored.Wertz and&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2022-23/bios/lies_korri_wryv">Korri Lies</a>&nbsp;had back-back RBI doubles in the fifth inning.&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2022-23/bios/grimes_madison_371p">Madison Grimes</a>&nbsp;had an RBI on a fourth-inning sacrifice fly.GAME 2 RECAP Pennycuff twirled her second seven-inning complete game of the season and earned her team-high 12th victory of the season. Pennycuff had her fourth complete game and second complete-game shutout. The sophomore has also been part of three combined shutouts this season.Pennycuff allowed just three baserunners in her two-hit shutout. The Conquistadors had a walk in eh first innings and singles in both the third and fifth innings. Pennycuff retired the final seven batters she faced in the game.The Dragons took a 1-0 lead in the first after Dougherty singled, stole second and scored on&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2022-23/bios/sandoval_olivia_qojo">Olivia Sandoval</a>'s RBI single.The game stayed 1-0 until the seventh inning when Hutchinson exploded for six runs. After pinch-runner&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2022-23/bios/lozoya_tamara_3twe">Tamara Lozoya</a>&nbsp;scored on an error, Grimes drove in two runs to give Hutch a 4-0 lead. Mastin,&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2022-23/bios/stipsits_allie_zmyh">Allie Stipsits</a>&nbsp;and Wertz all had RBIs singles as Hutchinson built a 7-0 lead.Dougherty and Sandoval had three hits each to lead Hutchinson's 12-hit attack. Grimes and Wertz had two hits each.<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.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;