CLICK HERE to download the Hutch Post mobile app. CLICK HERE to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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🎙 Eagle Radio Sports for Friday Morning

HUTCHINSON, Kan.—Hutch High Baseball continues the early home portion of the&nbsp; Spring 2022 season&nbsp; at Hobart-Detter Field with a double-header beginning at 4 pm vs Campus High.

Home games will be streamed on the NFHS Network Hutch High Channel as well as live on the mixlr.com Eagle Radio Sports channel.&nbsp; <a href="http://mixlr.com/eagle-radio-sports-njcaa-d1-mens-basketball-tournament/events/hutch-high-vs-campus">Click Here for Audio</a>

HUTCHINSON, Kan.—Hutch High Baseball continues the early home portion of the&nbsp; Spring 2022 season&nbsp; at Hobart-Detter Field with a double-header beginning at 4 pm vs Campus High.Home games will be streamed on the NFHS Network Hutch High Channel as well as live on the mixlr.com Eagle Radio Sports channel.&nbsp; <a href="http://mixlr.com/eagle-radio-sports-njcaa-d1-mens-basketball-tournament/events/hutch-high-vs-campus">Click Here for Audio</a><div><iframe src="https://player.nfhsnetwork.com/#/events/hutchinson-high-school-hutchinson-ks/gamf8b9aec3cb" allowfullscreen="true" frameborder="0" width="640" height="360"></iframe>



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⚾️ Hutch High Baseball hosts Campus

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Bobby Witt Jr. capped his highly anticipated big league debut with his first hit, a go-ahead double with two outs in the eighth inning, sending the Kansas City Royals to a 3-1 victory over the rechristened Cleveland Guardians. Andrew Benintendi drove in Witt after his clutch hit, giving Royals reliever Scott Barlow a cushion. And after a perfect eighth, Barlow struck out Myles Straw with runners on the corners in the ninth to end it. In a matchup of former Cy Young Award winners, Cleveland ace Shane Bieber and erstwhile Royals star Zach Greinke dueled to a 1-all stalemate before turning the game over to the bullpens on a cold day at Kauffman Stadium.

Bobby Witt Jr. searched the crowd for his family before his highly anticipated big league debut Thursday, finally spotting them in the sea of Kansas City Royals fans that had bundled up for a blustery opening day.

“I don't know if they were even paying attention to me,” Witt admitted later.

Everyone was paying attention to him by the end.

After going hitless in his first three at-bats, Witt roped a double down the left-field line with two outs in the eighth inning, spurring the Royals to a 3-1 victory over the rechristened Cleveland Guardians.

“You couldn't have scripted that any better,” Royals manager Mike Matheny said with a grin. “This isn't one he's going to forget, and I probably won't, either.”

In a matchup of former Cy Young Award winners, Cleveland ace Shane Bieber and erstwhile Royals star Zach Greinke dueled to a 1-all stalemate before turning the game over to the bullpens on a cold day at Kauffman Stadium.

It remained tied until the eighth, when the Royals' Michael Taylor worked a walk off Triston McKenzie (0-1) and then took second on Nicky Lopez's sacrifice bunt. McKenzie struck out Whit Merrifield before Witt, regarded by many as the No. 1 prospect in the game, doubled down the left-field line to give Kansas City its first lead.

“I could kind of see it coming a little bit with the way the game was going,” said Greinke, who signed a one-year deal to return to the club that drafted him 20 years ago. “It felt like it was going to be a special day.”

Andrew Benintendi drove in Witt, giving Royals reliever Scott Barlow (1-0) a cushion. And after a perfect eighth, Barlow struck out Myles Straw with runners on the corners in the ninth to end it.

Lopez also drove in a run for Kansas City, while Jose Ramirez had an RBI double for the Guardians a day after agreeing to a $124 million, five-year deal to stay with Cleveland through what could be the end of his career.

Plenty of famous fans braved wintry weather to enjoy opening day.

Several members of the Kansas City Chiefs, including coach Andy Reid, dressed up in Royals gear. So did members of the Kansas basketball team, which beat North Carolina in the national title game Monday night in New Orleans.

It was 47 degrees at first pitch, and a gale blowing out to right field made if seem even colder. Then there was the off-and-on drizzle that turned to shooting pellets of ice during the national anthem, which probably made everybody stuck wearing a jersey long for the sun and warmth of Arizona spring training.

“The weather was not fun for anybody,” Guardians manager Terry Francona said.

Greinke didn't seem to mind. He wore short sleeves for his first start in a Kansas City uniform since Sept. 30, 2010.

He didn't have the same dominant fastball that he had in 2009, when he won the Cy Young, but he made up for it with the wisdom of 18 years in the big leagues — and a beguiling 69 mph curveball. Greinke made it through 5 2/3 innings, allowing one run on five hits and a walk while striking out one, then got a standing ovation from the crowd.

“He just knows how to pitch,” Francona said.

Bieber, whose Cy Young came 11 years after Greinke won his, was nearly as good. He allowed one run on three hits in 4 2/3 innings for Cleveland, which played with a new name for the first time since 1915.

Both of the staff aces were gone by the time Witt came to bat in the eighth inning, though. They were reduced to fans just like everyone else, watching in rapt attention as one of the game's bright young stars stepped to the plate.

“I was going nuts. I jumped over the (dugout) railing,” Lopez said. “He's ready for this moment. The Royals know he's ready for this moment. We all know he's ready for this moment.”

The Royals honored longtime scout Art Stewart, who spent 69 years in professional baseball, with members of his family throwing out first pitches to George Brett and Mike Sweeney. Stewart died in November at the age of 94.

The Guardians announced their&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/covid-mlb-health-sports-emmanuel-clase-62e4bf026a2589d72aa064d6fc8ecf82">$20 million, five-year contract with closer Emmanuel Clase</a>, which was agreed to over the weekend. They have yet to announce their deal with Ramirez because several details are still being finalized.

The Guardians placed OF Josh Naylor on the injured list as he works his way back from a fractured leg. C Luke Maile (right hamstring strain) and right-hander James Karinchak (back strained) joined him there.

After taking Friday off, the series resumes Saturday with Cleveland RHP Zach Plesac against Royals RHP Brad Keller.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Bobby Witt Jr. capped his highly anticipated big league debut with his first hit, a go-ahead double with two outs in the eighth inning, sending the Kansas City Royals to a 3-1 victory over the rechristened Cleveland Guardians. Andrew Benintendi drove in Witt after his clutch hit, giving Royals reliever Scott Barlow a cushion. And after a perfect eighth, Barlow struck out Myles Straw with runners on the corners in the ninth to end it. In a matchup of former Cy Young Award winners, Cleveland ace Shane Bieber and erstwhile Royals star Zach Greinke dueled to a 1-all stalemate before turning the game over to the bullpens on a cold day at Kauffman Stadium.<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/iod238JQ_6U" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>Bobby Witt Jr. searched the crowd for his family before his highly anticipated big league debut Thursday, finally spotting them in the sea of Kansas City Royals fans that had bundled up for a blustery opening day.“I don't know if they were even paying attention to me,” Witt admitted later.Everyone was paying attention to him by the end.After going hitless in his first three at-bats, Witt roped a double down the left-field line with two outs in the eighth inning, spurring the Royals to a 3-1 victory over the rechristened Cleveland Guardians.“You couldn't have scripted that any better,” Royals manager Mike Matheny said with a grin. “This isn't one he's going to forget, and I probably won't, either.”In a matchup of former Cy Young Award winners, Cleveland ace Shane Bieber and erstwhile Royals star Zach Greinke dueled to a 1-all stalemate before turning the game over to the bullpens on a cold day at Kauffman Stadium.It remained tied until the eighth, when the Royals' Michael Taylor worked a walk off Triston McKenzie (0-1) and then took second on Nicky Lopez's sacrifice bunt. McKenzie struck out Whit Merrifield before Witt, regarded by many as the No. 1 prospect in the game, doubled down the left-field line to give Kansas City its first lead.“I could kind of see it coming a little bit with the way the game was going,” said Greinke, who signed a one-year deal to return to the club that drafted him 20 years ago. “It felt like it was going to be a special day.”Andrew Benintendi drove in Witt, giving Royals reliever Scott Barlow (1-0) a cushion. And after a perfect eighth, Barlow struck out Myles Straw with runners on the corners in the ninth to end it.Lopez also drove in a run for Kansas City, while Jose Ramirez had an RBI double for the Guardians a day after agreeing to a $124 million, five-year deal to stay with Cleveland through what could be the end of his career.Plenty of famous fans braved wintry weather to enjoy opening day.Several members of the Kansas City Chiefs, including coach Andy Reid, dressed up in Royals gear. So did members of the Kansas basketball team, which beat North Carolina in the national title game Monday night in New Orleans.It was 47 degrees at first pitch, and a gale blowing out to right field made if seem even colder. Then there was the off-and-on drizzle that turned to shooting pellets of ice during the national anthem, which probably made everybody stuck wearing a jersey long for the sun and warmth of Arizona spring training.“The weather was not fun for anybody,” Guardians manager Terry Francona said.Greinke didn't seem to mind. He wore short sleeves for his first start in a Kansas City uniform since Sept. 30, 2010.He didn't have the same dominant fastball that he had in 2009, when he won the Cy Young, but he made up for it with the wisdom of 18 years in the big leagues — and a beguiling 69 mph curveball. Greinke made it through 5 2/3 innings, allowing one run on five hits and a walk while striking out one, then got a standing ovation from the crowd.“He just knows how to pitch,” Francona said.Bieber, whose Cy Young came 11 years after Greinke won his, was nearly as good. He allowed one run on three hits in 4 2/3 innings for Cleveland, which played with a new name for the first time since 1915.Both of the staff aces were gone by the time Witt came to bat in the eighth inning, though. They were reduced to fans just like everyone else, watching in rapt attention as one of the game's bright young stars stepped to the plate.“I was going nuts. I jumped over the (dugout) railing,” Lopez said. “He's ready for this moment. The Royals know he's ready for this moment. We all know he's ready for this moment.”The Royals honored longtime scout Art Stewart, who spent 69 years in professional baseball, with members of his family throwing out first pitches to George Brett and Mike Sweeney. Stewart died in November at the age of 94.The Guardians announced their&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/covid-mlb-health-sports-emmanuel-clase-62e4bf026a2589d72aa064d6fc8ecf82">$20 million, five-year contract with closer Emmanuel Clase</a>, which was agreed to over the weekend. They have yet to announce their deal with Ramirez because several details are still being finalized.TRAINER'S ROOMThe Guardians placed OF Josh Naylor on the injured list as he works his way back from a fractured leg. C Luke Maile (right hamstring strain) and right-hander James Karinchak (back strained) joined him there.UP NEXTAfter taking Friday off, the series resumes Saturday with Cleveland RHP Zach Plesac against Royals RHP Brad Keller.

Witt a debut! Royals rookie stars in 3-1 win over Guardians

WICHITA, Kan. — Two of Wichita State's most experienced basketball players have entered the NCAA transfer portal.&nbsp; According to KAKE television, seniors-to-be Dexter Dennis and Morris Udeze announced their intentions on social media.

"I've decided&nbsp; that my time as a current basketball player for Wichita State University has come to an end", Udeze posted on Instagram.&nbsp; Dennis used the same words on his Instagram account.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Dennis and Udeze started 27 games for the Shockers this season.&nbsp; Udeze averaged 10.2 points and Dennis added 8.4.&nbsp; Wichita State now has six players in the transfer portal.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1637721410874.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>WICHITA, Kan. — Two of Wichita State's most experienced basketball players have entered the NCAA transfer portal.&nbsp; According to KAKE television, seniors-to-be Dexter Dennis and Morris Udeze announced their intentions on social media."I've decided&nbsp; that my time as a current basketball player for Wichita State University has come to an end", Udeze posted on Instagram.&nbsp; Dennis used the same words on his Instagram account.&nbsp;&nbsp;Dennis and Udeze started 27 games for the Shockers this season.&nbsp; Udeze averaged 10.2 points and Dennis added 8.4.&nbsp; Wichita State now has six players in the transfer portal.&nbsp;

Shocker players Dennis, Udeze enter transfer portal

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — All-Star outfielder Whit Merrifield and the Kansas City Royals agreed to a restructured contract in which the club exercised its option for next season and the sides added a mutual option for 2024. Merrifield, who made his second All-Star team last season, will earn $7 million this season and $2.75 million in 2023, with up to $4 million in escalators. The mutual option is for $18 million with a $500,000 buyout. Merrifield’s value to the Royals is more than just his bat and baserunning ability. One of baseball's most versatile players, Merrifield is also capable of playing first base, second base and third base along with all three outfield positions.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1648723098967.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — All-Star outfielder Whit Merrifield and the Kansas City Royals agreed to a restructured contract in which the club exercised its option for next season and the sides added a mutual option for 2024. Merrifield, who made his second All-Star team last season, will earn $7 million this season and $2.75 million in 2023, with up to $4 million in escalators. The mutual option is for $18 million with a $500,000 buyout. Merrifield’s value to the Royals is more than just his bat and baserunning ability. One of baseball's most versatile players, Merrifield is also capable of playing first base, second base and third base along with all three outfield positions.

Royal and Merrifield agree to restructured contract

<div><<iframe title="Eagle Radio Sports for Wednesday Morning" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=xttj7-11f05bb-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=1&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=7"></iframe></div>CLICK HERE to download the Hutch Post mobile app. CLICK HERE to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

🎙 Eagle Radio Sports for Wednesday Morning

Here is the latest Mid-America sports news from The Associated Press

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Bobby Witt Jr., widely considered the best prospect in baseball, has made the Kansas City roster and will start at third base in the Royals' season opener against the Cleveland Guardians on Thursday at Kauffman Stadium. The move with the 21-year-old infielder was widely expected, especially after he hit well in spring training. Witt hit .290 with 33 homers and 29 steals across Double-A and Triple-A last season.

NEW YORK (AP) — Kansas' comeback victory over North Carolina to win the NCAA men's basketball championship was the most-viewed title game on cable television. The Jayhawks' 72-69 win averaged 18.1 million viewers on TBS, TNT and truTV. That's a 4 percent increase over last year's title game between Baylor and Gonzaga on CBS. This was the third time the championship game was on Turner, but first since 2018. They were supposed to have the 2020 final, but the tournament was cancelled due to the coronavirus pandemic. The entire tournament on CBS and Turner averaged 10.7 million, a 13% increase over last year.

CLEVELAND (AP) — Cleveland State has hired longtime Iowa State assistant Daniyal Robinson as its next men's basketball coach. It's the fourth coach in seven years for Cleveland State. Robinson spent seven seasons over two stints with the Cyclones. He will be introduced Wednesday. Robinson replaces Dennis Gates, who turned Cleveland State around in three seasons before leaving to take over Missouri's floundering program. Robinson worked under Greg McDermott, Steve Prohm and T.J. Otzelberger at Iowa State. Robinson was credited with helping the Cyclones land several top recruits and was regarded as one of the top assistants in the Big 12.

JUPITER, Fla. (AP) — For a hitter not known for fast starts, Paul Goldschmidt put up a lofty number in spring training. A batting average of .500, in fact. The St. Louis Cardinals first baseman popped up and had a sacrifice fly on Tuesday against Miami, leaving him at 11 for 22. Goldschmidt's hits haven't been of the cheap variety, either. Four left the ballpark. It would have been five had Washington's Lane Thomas not extended his glove over the wall on Monday, flicking a ball back into the field of play that Dee Strange-Gordon then caught in mid-air for an out. The Cardinals open the season Thursday at home against Pittsburgh.

UNDATED (AP) — Big 12 commissioner Bob Bowlsby says he is stepping away from that role later this year after a decade on the job. Bowlsby will remain the Big 12's leader until a new commissioner is appointed. The expectation is that he will then transition into a new interim role with the league. The 70-year-old Bowlsby's contract with the Big 12 goes into 2025. He has been Big 12 commissioner since 2012. He came to the league after serving as athletic director at Stanford, Iowa and Northern Iowa.

NEW ORLEANS (AP) — The Great Kansas Comeback is about more than just one scintillating, stifling 20-minute stretch of Jayhawks basketball. The championship KU captured Monday night had roots back in 2020, when the Jayhawks were a team that looked headed for the program's fourth national title. Instead, it was KU's come-from-behind 72-69 victory over North Carolina on Monday that brought that fourth championship banner back to Allen Fieldhouse. The Jayhawks insisted they'd share it with the 2020 team, too.

Embiid scores 45, 76ers beat Pacers to pull even in Atlantic

UNDATED (AP) — Joel Embiid (joh-EHL' ehm-BEED') had 45 points and 13 rebounds, and the Philadelphia 76ers made a franchise-record 17 3-pointers in the first half of a 131-122 victory over the Indiana Pacers that moved them into a tie with Boston atop the Atlantic Division.

Embiid banked in a 3-pointer at the halftime buzzer and shot 18 for 30 overall while moving into the NBA scoring lead with 30.4 points per game.

He had 27 points and seven rebounds in the first half, helping Philadelphia take control with a 49-point second quarter that led to an 82-59 halftime lead. Buddy Hield scored 25 points for Indiana.

— Devin Booker scored 32 points and the Phoenix Suns won their franchise-record 63rd game of the season, beating a Lakers team minus LeBron James 121-110 to eliminate Los Angeles from the playoff race. It was a tight game during the first half but Phoenix used a 29-9 run in the third quarter to create separation. The rest of the game was essentially a celebration for the Suns, who danced and dunked their way past the forlorn Lakers. Los Angeles — playing without James for a second straight game because of a sprained ankle — has lost seven straight.

— CJ McCollum and Jaxson Hayes each scored 23 points and the New Orleans Pelicans clinched a spot in the Western Conference play-in tournament, beating the Sacramento Kings 123-109. Brandon Ingram added 17 points, seven rebounds and eight assists for the Pelicans (35-44), who never trailed. New Orleans has won four of five. Damian Jones had 22 points for Sacramento.

— Devin Vassell and Keldon Johnson each scored 20 points to help the San Antonio Spurs secure a spot in the play-in tournament following a 116-97 win over the Denver Nuggets. The Spurs locked up at least the 10th seed in the Western Conference when the Los Angeles Lakers were eliminated from the playoff race with a loss to Phoenix. Reigning MVP Nikola Jokic had 41 points and 17 rebounds for the Nuggets, who wasted a chance to clinch a playoff spot with a win after Minnesota lost to Washington. The Spurs had six players score in double figures as they won a regular-season game in Denver for the first time since Jan. 5, 2017.

— Rudy Gobert had 22 points and 21 rebounds, and the Utah Jazz clinched a playoff berth with a 121-115 overtime victory over the Memphis Grizzlies. Jordan Clarkson also finished with 22 points for Utah. Donovan Mitchell added 20 points, eight rebounds, and five assists. Hassan Whiteside tallied 14 points and 10 boards off the bench. Jaren Jackson, Jr. scored 28 points for the Grizzlies. Tyus Jones added 24 points and Desmond Bane had 23 points, seven rebounds and four steals. Jackson made a pair of 3-pointers in the final minute of regulation and Kyle Anderson put back Bane's airball on a 3-pointer before the buzzer to force overtime.

— Brook Lopez scored a season-high 28 points and the Milwaukee Bucks overcame a rather quiet performance from Giannis Antetokounmpo (YAH'-nihs an-teh-toh-KOON'-poh) to clinch their fourth straight Central Division championship with a 127-106 victory over the Chicago Bulls. The Bucks haven't been on a run like this since Don Nelson's teams won seven consecutive division titles in the 1980s. They took control early and came away with an easy win even though DeMar DeRozan scored 40 for Chicago. Antetokounmpo, trying to overtake LeBron James and Joel Embiid in a tight race for his first scoring title, finished with 18 points, nine rebounds and seven assists. But the two-time MVP started slow and spent most of the fourth quarter on the bench after picking up his fifth foul. Khris Middleton scored 19.

— Tyler Herro scored 35 points off the bench and the Miami Heat moved closer to clinching the No. 1 seed in the Eastern Conference playoffs with a 144-115 victory over the Charlotte Hornets. Miami won its fifth straight and posted the second-highest point total in franchise history, while Charlotte allowed 144 for the second consecutive game. Jimmy Butler added 27 points for the Heat, who need to win one of their two remaining games to secure the top spot in the East. Miami finished 23 of 42 from 3-point range. Herro was 8 of 14 from behind the arc and tied Dwyane Wade's single-game record for points by a Heat reserve. Miles Bridges scored 29 points for Charlotte.

— Pascal Siakam had 31 points and 13 rebounds, Scottie Barnes had 19 points and 14 rebounds, and the Toronto Raptors clinched a playoff berth by beating the Atlanta Hawks 118-108. Chris Boucher scored 18 points, Gary Trent Jr. had 14, Fred VanVleet 12, and Precious Achiuwa (ah-CHOO'-ah) 11. Toronto has won 12 of 16. Trae Young had 26 points and 15 assists for the Hawks, who lost for the first time in six games and locked themselves into a play-in berth. Atlanta remains 1 1/2 games behind seventh-place Cleveland.

— Kyrie Irving scored 42 points and the Brooklyn Nets beat the Houston Rockets 118-105 on improve their position in the race for play-in seeding. Irving had 17 points in the fourth quarter. Kevin Durant added 18 points, Bruce Brown had 15 and Cam Thomas 13 for the Nets. With Cleveland, Atlanta and Charlotte all losing, the Nets climbed into a tie for eighth place in the Eastern Conference, just 1 1/2 games behind the Cavaliers. The No. 7 seed hosts a game to open the tournament.

— Mo Bamba had 20 points and 12 rebounds, Ignas Brazdeikis scored 20 off the bench and the Orlando Magic beat the Cleveland Cavaliers 120-115 to stop a six-game losing streak. Darius Garland had 27 points and 10 assists, and Lauri Markkanen added 25 points for the injury-riddled Cavaliers, who have dropped eight of 10. Cleveland is trying to hold onto seventh place in the Eastern Conference with two regular-season games remaining.

— Kristaps Porzingis scored 25 points, including 12 in the third quarter as Washington took control, and the Wizards pulled away for a 132-114 win against the Minnesota Timberwolves. Minnesota is in seventh place in the Western Conference, almost out of time to climb above the cut and avoid the play-in tournament with only three regular-season games remaining.

— Jaylen Hoard had career-highs of 24 points and 21 rebounds to help the Oklahoma City Thunder top the Portland Trail Blazers 98-94. Oklahoma City improved to 4-0 against the Trail Blazers this season. The Trail Blazers lost their eighth straight.

Bulls' Ball suffers setback in recovery from knee surgery

UNDATED (AP) — Chicago Bulls point guard Lonzo Ball experienced another setback in his recovery from surgery for a torn meniscus in his left knee, raising more doubt about whether he will play again this season. Coach Billy Donovan says the next step will probably be a "meeting of the minds" in the next day or two. Ball has not played since Jan. 14.

Avalanche hit 50 wins, clinch playoff spot

UNDATED (AP) — —Nathan MacKinnon scored two goals and the Colorado Avalanche clinched a playoff spot with a 6-4 win against the Pittsburgh Penguin. The Avalanche became the first NHL team to get 50 wins this season. J.T. Compher, Darren Helm, Josh Manson and Artturi Lehkonen (ahr-TOOR'-ee LEH'-koh-nehn) also scored for Colorado.

Darcy Kuemper KEHM'-pur) stopped 41 shots. Bryan Rust, Evan Rodrigues, Jake Guentzel (GEHNT'-sul) and Mike Matheson all scored for the Penguins.

Tristan Jarry made 26 saves for Pittsburgh, which has lost five of its last seven games.

— Connor McDavid scored 31 seconds into overtime to extend his points streak to 14 games and the Edmonton Oilers rallied to beat the San Jose Sharks 2-1 for their fifth straight win. Ryan Nugent-Hopkins tied the game with a short-handed goal with 8:04 remaining in regulation before McDavid won it. Mike Smith made a save early in overtime and sent the puck ahead for McDavid, who raced in on a breakaway and beat James Reimer for the winner. McDavid has 12 goals and 15 assists during his points streak. San Jose has lost four straight.

— Artemi Panarin (ahr-TEH'-mee pah-NAH'-rihn) set up two first-period power-play goals for his 64th and 65th assists of the season and the New York Rangers posted a 3-1 victory over rival New Jersey Devils. Chris Kreider scored his 47th goal of the season, Justin Braun scored his first as a Ranger and Ryan Strome had a goal in his first game back from an injury.

— Radek Faksa's shorthanded goal midway through the second period gave the Dallas Stars a 3-2 win over the New York Islanders. Marian Studenic and Tyler Seguin (SAY'-gihn) also scored for the Stars, who moved into the Western Conference's second wild card by one point ahead of the Vegas Golden Knights. Jean-Gabriel Pageau (pa-ZHOH') and Brock Nelson scored for the Islanders, who trail the Washington Capitals by 11 points for the East's final wild card with 13 games to play

— Jonathan Huberdeau (HOO'-bur-doh) scored his second goal of the game in overtime and also had three assists, helping the Florida Panthers overcome a four-goal deficit to beat the Toronto Maple Leafs 7-6 Tuesday night. The Atlantic Division-leading Panthers trailed 5-1 midway through the second period before roaring back. Sam Reinhart scored twice, Aleksander Barkov had a goal and three assists, Claude Giroux got his first goal with Florida

— Victor Olofsson had a goal and an assist in the third period to lead the Buffalo Sabres past the Carolina Hurricanes 4-2. Jeff Skinner, Casey Mittelstadt and Dylan Cozens also scored for the Sabres, and Craig Anderson made 32 saves in the opening game of a home-and-home set with the Hurricanes. Nino Niederreiter (NEE'-dur-eye-tur) had a goal and an assist for Carolina. Jesper Fast also scored, Jordan Staal had two assists, and Frederik Andersen stopped 18 shots.

— Justin Danforth scored the go-ahead goal late in the third period, Elvis Merzlikins (murz-LEE'-kihns) stopped 47 shots and the Columbus Blue Jackets beat the Philadelphia Flyers 4-2 to end a seven-game skid. Sean Kuraly added an empty-netter for Columbus in the final seconds. The Blue Jackets last won March 19 and let their playoff hopes all but disappear over the last three weeks.

— Austin Watson scored twice and the Ottawa Senators had three goals in the third period of a 6-3 win over the Montreal Canadiens. Tim Stutzle, Brady Tkachuk, Drake Batherson and Colin White also scored for Ottawa. Anton Forsberg made 27 saves as the Sens downed the Habs for the first time this season. Montreal's Justin Barron scored his first NHL goal in his first game at the Bell Centre.

— Jakub Vrána (vah-RAH'-nah) had a goal and an assist, Alex Nedeljkovic (neh-DEHL'-koh-vihch) made a season-high 47 saves and had an assist, and the Detroit Red Wings defeated the Boston Bruins 5-3. The victory snapped a six-game losing streak for Detroit and halted Boston's three-game win streak.

— Ryan Johansen's first career hat trick led the Nashville Predators to a 6-2 victory over the Minnesota Wild. Roman Josi and Philip Tomasino had a goal and two assists, Matt Duchene had a goal and an assist and Juuse Saros made 47 saves for Nashville. Filip Forsberg had three assists and Mattias Ekholm added two. Mats Zuccarello and Kirill Kaprizov each had a goal and an assist for Minnesota. Marc-Andre Fleury made 27 saves.

Ryan Getzlaf to retire after 17 seasons with Anaheim Ducks

ANAHEIM, Calif. (AP) — Anaheim Ducks captain Ryan Getzlaf says he will retire at the conclusion of the regular season. The 36-year-old playmaking center is choosing to end a 17-year NHL career spent entirely with one club.

Getzlaf has scored 1,013 points in 1,150 games since his NHL debut in October 2005. He became Anaheim's career franchise scoring leader last October, and he became the 92nd player in league history to score 1,000 points last November.

— New Jersey Devils' leading goal-scorer Jack Hughes will miss the rest of the season with a left knee injury. Hughes was hurt Sunday in the second period when he was checked by Islanders forward Oliver Wahlstrom.

Brewers' catcher Severino gets 80-day ban

NEW YORK (AP) — Milwaukee Brewers catcher Pedro Severino has been suspended for 80 games following a positive drug test. He was expected to serve as the main backup to 2021 All-Star Omar Narváez (nahr-VY'-ehz).

The commissioner's office says Severino tested positive for the performance-enhancing substance Clomiphene. The women's fertility drug has been used by some athletes to counter side effects of steroids use.

Severino apologized to the Brewers, teammates and fans. He says he and his wife are trying to start a family and that one of the doctors he consulted with prescribed the medication to treat infertility issues. The 28-year-old is in his first season with the Brewers after playing for Washington and Baltimore.

— Outfielder Manuel Margot has agreed to a $19 million, two-year contract with the Tampa Bay Rays. The deal includes salaries of $7 million in 2023, up from the $5.6 million the 27-year-old is due to earn this season, and $10 million in 2024. It also includes a $12 million mutual option in 2025 or a $2 million buyout. Margot would have been eligible for free agency after this season. He was obtained in a trade from the San Diego Padres in February 2020 and has played all three outfield positions over two seasons with the Rays.

— New York Mets ace Max Scherzer says his hamstring is feeling much better and that he's ready to pitch Friday night against Washington in the second game of the season. The Mets haven't yet said who would start on opening day Thursday at Nationals Park. Washington traded him to the Los Angeles Dodgers late last season.

— The San Francisco Giants will open defense of their NL West title without two key components. Third baseman Evan Longoria and outfielder/first baseman LaMonte Wade Jr. will begin the season on the injured list. The Giants are optimistic that first baseman Brandon Belt will be ready to start of the season Friday at home against Miami. Belt reported to camp with swelling in his right knee.

— The New York Yankees plan to carry 16 pitchers on their opening-day roster Thursday against the Boston Red Sox. Manager Aaron Boone says switch-hitting utilityman Marwin González will play a key role off the shortened bench. Teams are allowed to carry 28 players on the roster during April due to the shortened spring training.

— Newly acquired Detroit Tigers outfielder Austin Meadows is expected to be ready for opening day Friday against the Chicago White Sox after recently being slowed by an oblique injury. Meadows was acquired from the Tampa Bay Rays on Monday night for infielder Isaac Paredes and a draft pick.

— The Los Angeles Dodgers and veteran right-hander Dellin Betances have agreed to a minor league contract, according to a person with knowledge of the deal. The person spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because the team hadn't announced it. The 34-year-old Betances made four All-Star teams in eight seasons with the New York Yankees but hasn't been a reliable contributor since 2018. He's only appeared in 17 games over the past three seasons and pitched just once for the Mets last year due to shoulder surgery. Over 10 seasons, Betances is 21-23 with a 2.53 ERA and 36 saves.

— In a move that will end a tradition dating 150 years, Major League Baseball has approved the use of an electronic device for catchers to signal pitches in an effort to eliminate sign stealing and speed games. As video at ballparks increased, so did sign stealing.

Patriots complete trade with Dolphins for DeVante Parker

UNDATED (AP) — The Patriots completed a trade with the Dolphins to acquire veteran DeVante Parker. New England sent a 2023 third-round draft pick to Miami for Parker and a 2022 fifth-round pick.

Parker, a 2015 first-round pick, arrives in New England with 338 receptions for 4,727 yards and 24 touchdowns.

The Patriots are hoping Parker can add to a group of Patriots receivers that already includes Kendrick Bourne, Jakobi Meyers and Nelson Agholor.

— Former Minnesota Vikings defensive lineman Doug Sutherland, a member of the Purple People Eaters, has died. He was 73. The team released a statement saying Sutherland died Tuesday, but did not provide a cause of death. Sutherland played 12 seasons in the NFL from 1970-81 with New Orleans, Minnesota and Seattle. Drafted by the Saints in the 14th round, he was traded to the Vikings the following season and played 10 years in Minnesota. Sutherland registered 29 sacks in 164 career games.

— The Cleveland Browns re-signed Chase McLaughlin after choosing not to tender McLaughlin as a restricted free agent last month. The Browns are bringing back the 26-year-old to compete with Chris Blewitt. The Browns could still add another kicker in free agency or the draft.

— Punter Riley Dixon has signed with the Los Angeles Rams. Dixon joined the Super Bowl champions on Tuesday after spending the past four seasons with the New York Giants, posting the two highest single-season net punting averages in franchise history during his tenure. New York released him last month

AP source: Duke's Nolan Smith heading to Louisville staff

UNDATED (AP) — Oscar Tshiebwe (SHEEB'-way) of Kentucky has won the John R. Wooden Award as the men's college basketball player of the year.

Tshiebwe led the nation with 515 total rebounds and 15.1 rebounds per game at 15.1.

The 6-foot-9 center had the most rebounds in a season since 1973 and the highest per game average since 1980.

Aliyah Boston with national champion South Carolina won the women's Wooden Award. The 6-foot-5 forward averaged 16.8 points and had a Southeastern Conference record of 27 straight double-doubles.

— Duke assistant coach Nolan Smith is heading to Louisville. Smith is the son of late Cardinals player Derek Smith from Louisville's 1980 NCAA title team. Smith's departure means new Blue Devils coach Jon Scheyer must hire two assistant coaches as he takes over for retired Hall of Famer Mike Krzyzewski (shuh-SHEHF'-skeez).

Notre Dame makes historic football game vs Tennessee State

SOUTH BEND, Ind. (AP) — Notre Dame will host Tennessee State in September 2023, marking the first time the Fighting Irish have ever faced a Historically Black College or University on the football field.

The historic contest will be broadcast nationally by NBC.

Notre Dame credited Tennessee State coach Eddie George, the 1995 Heisman Trophy winner, and athletic director Mikki Allen for creating a vision that would make the game possible.

The Tigers have won more than 550 games since the program's inception and have claimed 12 Black College national titles.

AUGUSTA, Ga. (AP) — Tiger Woods says, for now anyway, he's planning to play this week in the Masters, a little more than a year after he nearly lost a leg in a car crash.

The five-time champion at Augusta National made the announcement Tuesday morning. He will play nine more practice holes on Wednesday before making a final decision, but will be doing so with the intention of playing Thursday.

Woods was asked if he believes he can win the tournament. He said he does.

Two-time Coach of the Year Gene Shue dead at 90

UNDATED (AP) — Gene Shue, a two-time NBA Coach of the Year who won 784 games with the Bullets, 76ers and Clippers, has died.

A five-time All-Star as a player for the Pistons, Shue went on to coach for more than two decades. He took the Baltimore Bullets to the NBA Finals in 1971, then did the same with the Philadelphia 76ers in 1977. He is still the record holder for the Washington-Baltimore franchise with 522 victories.

The Wizards and the NBA announced Shue's death Monday. He was 90.

Sports Headlines for Wednesday

NEW YORK (AP) — Kansas’ comeback victory over North Carolina to win the NCAA men’s basketball championship was the most-viewed title game on cable television. The Jayhawks’ 72-69 win averaged 18.1 million viewers on TBS, TNT and truTV. That's a 4 percent increase over last year’s title game between Baylor and Gonzaga on CBS. This was the third time the championship game was on Turner, but first since 2018. They were supposed to have the 2020 final, but the tournament was cancelled due to the coronavirus pandemic. The entire tournament on CBS and Turner averaged 10.7 million, a 13% increase over last year.

NEW YORK (AP) — Kansas’ comeback victory over North Carolina to win the NCAA men’s basketball championship was the most-viewed title game on cable television. The Jayhawks’ 72-69 win averaged 18.1 million viewers on TBS, TNT and truTV. That's a 4 percent increase over last year’s title game between Baylor and Gonzaga on CBS. This was the third time the championship game was on Turner, but first since 2018. They were supposed to have the 2020 final, but the tournament was cancelled due to the coronavirus pandemic. The entire tournament on CBS and Turner averaged 10.7 million, a 13% increase over last year.CLICK HERE to download the Hutch Post mobile app. CLICK HERE to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Kansas' victory most-viewed men's title game on cable TV

NEW YORK (AP) — Kansas’ comeback victory over North Carolina to win the NCAA men’s basketball championship was the most-viewed title game on cable television. The Jayhawks’ 72-69 win averaged 18.1 million viewers on TBS, TNT and truTV. 

That's a 4 percent increase over last year’s title game between Baylor and Gonzaga on CBS. This was the third time the championship game was on Turner, but first since 2018. They were supposed to have the 2020 final, but the tournament was cancelled due to the coronavirus pandemic. 

The entire tournament on CBS and Turner averaged 10.7 million, a 13% increase over last year.

NEW YORK (AP) — Kansas’ comeback victory over North Carolina to win the NCAA men’s basketball championship was the most-viewed title game on cable television. The Jayhawks’ 72-69 win averaged 18.1 million viewers on TBS, TNT and truTV. That's a 4 percent increase over last year’s title game between Baylor and Gonzaga on CBS. This was the third time the championship game was on Turner, but first since 2018. They were supposed to have the 2020 final, but the tournament was cancelled due to the coronavirus pandemic. The entire tournament on CBS and Turner averaged 10.7 million, a 13% increase over last year.

KU win brought more viewers than ever on cable

UNDATED (AP) — Big 12 commissioner Bob Bowlsby says he is stepping away from that role later this year after a decade on the job. Bowlsby will remain the Big 12's leader until a new commissioner is appointed. The expectation is that he will then transition into a new interim role with the league. 

The 70-year-old Bowlsby's contract with the Big 12 goes into 2025. He has been Big 12 commissioner since 2012. He came to the league after serving as athletic director at Stanford, Iowa and Northern Iowa.

UNDATED (AP) — Big 12 commissioner Bob Bowlsby says he is stepping away from that role later this year after a decade on the job. Bowlsby will remain the Big 12's leader until a new commissioner is appointed. The expectation is that he will then transition into a new interim role with the league. The 70-year-old Bowlsby's contract with the Big 12 goes into 2025. He has been Big 12 commissioner since 2012. He came to the league after serving as athletic director at Stanford, Iowa and Northern Iowa.

Bowlsby planning to transition out as Big XII Commissioner

HUTCHINSON, Kan.—Scorekeepers were kept busy Tuesday during a high-scoring contest between Great Bend and&nbsp;Hutchinson Salthawks at Hobart-Detter Field where Great Bend edged the Salthawks 7-6. 

Great Bend took advantage of early errors by the Salthawks to take a 2-0 lead in the first. Hutchinson bounced back by putting up five runs in the second inning. Great Bend took the lead for good with five runs in the fourth inning. 

The offensive for Hutch was led by&nbsp;Lakin Franz&nbsp;, Mason Seitz&nbsp;,&nbsp;Jack Yoder, and Carter Morgan, all driving in runs in the 2nd Inning. Great Bend then scored five runs in the fourth inning. Great Bend's big inning was driven by singles by Gavin Gruber&nbsp;and Haberman, an error on a ball put in play by&nbsp;Sage Koelsch, and a double by Paco Hernandez finished off the fourth.

Gavin Gruber&nbsp;was the winning pitcher for Great Bend. Nolan Cunningham&nbsp;,&nbsp;Kinser Newquist&nbsp;,&nbsp;Morgan, and&nbsp;Seitz&nbsp;each collected one hit to lead&nbsp;Hutchinson. Great Bend racked up nine hits in the game.&nbsp;Koelsch&nbsp;and&nbsp;Hernandez&nbsp;all managed multiple hits for Great Bend.

In game two of the night,&nbsp;Hutchinson stayed in it until the end, but Great Bend pulled away late in an 10-2 victory.. The game was tied at two with Great Bend batting in the top of the fifth when&nbsp;Brad Beck&nbsp;laid down a sacrifice bunt, scoring one run. 

Hutchinson&nbsp; struggled to put runs on the board and had a tough time defensively containing Great Bend, giving up 10 runs. Great Bend scored four runs in the seventh inning to put the game away. The offensive firepower by Great Bend was led by&nbsp;Paco Hernandez,&nbsp;Chase Gruber, and&nbsp;Gavin Haberman, all driving in runs in the inning.. Stefan Spray&nbsp;took the win for Great Bend.&nbsp; Graydon Peck&nbsp;took the loss for Salthawks. The pitcher surrendered two runs on one hit over one inning.

Hutchinson returns to Hobart-Detter field on Friday to host the Haysville-Campus Colts in a double header beginning at 4pm.

HUTCHINSON, Kan.—Scorekeepers were kept busy Tuesday during a high-scoring contest between Great Bend and&nbsp;Hutchinson Salthawks at Hobart-Detter Field where Great Bend edged the Salthawks 7-6. Great Bend took advantage of early errors by the Salthawks to take a 2-0 lead in the first. Hutchinson bounced back by putting up five runs in the second inning. Great Bend took the lead for good with five runs in the fourth inning. The offensive for Hutch was led by&nbsp;Lakin Franz&nbsp;, Mason Seitz&nbsp;,&nbsp;Jack Yoder, and Carter Morgan, all driving in runs in the 2nd Inning. Great Bend then scored five runs in the fourth inning. Great Bend's big inning was driven by singles by Gavin Gruber&nbsp;and Haberman, an error on a ball put in play by&nbsp;Sage Koelsch, and a double by Paco Hernandez finished off the fourth.Gavin Gruber&nbsp;was the winning pitcher for Great Bend. Nolan Cunningham&nbsp;,&nbsp;Kinser Newquist&nbsp;,&nbsp;Morgan, and&nbsp;Seitz&nbsp;each collected one hit to lead&nbsp;Hutchinson. Great Bend racked up nine hits in the game.&nbsp;Koelsch&nbsp;and&nbsp;Hernandez&nbsp;all managed multiple hits for Great Bend.In game two of the night,&nbsp;Hutchinson stayed in it until the end, but Great Bend pulled away late in an 10-2 victory.. The game was tied at two with Great Bend batting in the top of the fifth when&nbsp;Brad Beck&nbsp;laid down a sacrifice bunt, scoring one run. Hutchinson&nbsp; struggled to put runs on the board and had a tough time defensively containing Great Bend, giving up 10 runs. Great Bend scored four runs in the seventh inning to put the game away. The offensive firepower by Great Bend was led by&nbsp;Paco Hernandez,&nbsp;Chase Gruber, and&nbsp;Gavin Haberman, all driving in runs in the inning.. Stefan Spray&nbsp;took the win for Great Bend.&nbsp; Graydon Peck&nbsp;took the loss for Salthawks. The pitcher surrendered two runs on one hit over one inning.Hutchinson returns to Hobart-Detter field on Friday to host the Haysville-Campus Colts in a double header beginning at 4pm.CLICK HERE to download the Hutch Post mobile app. CLICK HERE to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

⚾️ Salthawk Baseball swept by Great Bend

<div><iframe title="Eagle Radio Sports for Tuesday Morning" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=2ievy-11ee871-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=1&font-color=&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=7"></iframe></div>CLICK HERE to download the Hutch Post mobile app. CLICK HERE to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

🎙 Eagle Radio Sports for Tuesday Morning

Oklahoma State (20-8, 5-1 Big 12) vs.&nbsp;Wichita State (12-15, 1-2 American) Tuesday, April&nbsp;5 | 6:00&nbsp;pm | Wichita, Kansas (Eck Stadium) TV: ESPN Plus&nbsp;| Radio: KFH 97.5 FM/1240 AM TBA vs. LHP&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6250">Jace Miner</a>&nbsp;(0-1, 14.14)

SCENE SETTER:&nbsp;The Shockers return home for a midweek contest against nationally ranked Oklahoma State on Tuesday night at Eck Stadium, the first of three matchups against the Cowboys in 2022.&nbsp; Wichita State enters the matchup with a 12-15 overall record after going 1-2 in the first American Athletic Conference series of the season this past weekend in Houston. The Shockers blanked the Cougars on Friday night behind a brilliant pitching performance from&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5938">Jace Kaminska</a>, but Houston bounced back to claim the next two games, including a come-from-behind 4-3 win on Sunday. Prior to the two defeats, Wichita State had beaten the Cougars in nine straight games, the longest winning streak for WSU in the all-time series. Wichita State opened the season dropping their first six games, the worst start to a campaign since the 1953 season. The Shockers are coming off a 31-23 season a year ago, including an 18-13 mark in the American Athletic Conference that produced a third-place finish, WSU's best since joining the AAC in 2017. Wichita State is seeking their first appearance in the NCAA tournament since the 2013 season, a regional bid that was later vacated by the NCAA. SHOCKER BASEBALL ON THE RADIO AND ESPN PLUS:&nbsp;KFH 97.5 FM/1240 AM will once again serve as the radio home for all Wichita State baseball broadcasts in 2022. "The Voice of the Shockers" and Pizza Hut Shocker Sports Hall of Famer Mike Kennedy will have the call on Wednesday, with the pregame show beginning approximately 20 minutes prior to first pitch. All WSU home games at Eck Stadium in 2022 will air live on ESPN Plus (WatchESPN.com) with former Shocker All-American pitcher Shane Dennis handling the broadcasting duties. Live audio, in addition to live statistics, will be available for all games at GoShockers.com/listen and ShockerStats.com.&nbsp; SERIES HISTORY:&nbsp;The Shockers and Cowboys will be meeting for the 100th time on Wednesday, with Oklahoma State holding a 62-37 lead in the all-time series. The Cowboys have won eight of the last ten matchups, including a pair of victories at Eck Stadium to open the 2021. Wichita State last triumped in 2018, when the Shockers swept the season series with a 7-5 win in Wichita and a 10-7 victory in Stillwater. Prior to the WSU program's rebirth in 1978, the Shockers were just 2-25 against the Cowboys. The two programs have battled 15 times in postseason play, including a pair of matchups in the College World Series. Wichita State beat the Cowboys in 1982 and 1993. SCOUTING OKLAHOMA STATE:&nbsp;The Cowboys enter the weekend with an overall record of 20-8, including 5-1 in Big 12 play. They suffered their first conference defeat on Sunday at the hands of the Kansas State Wildcats, but have still won 13 of their last 15 games since a 7-6 start. Oklahoma State is a consensus top-10 in this week's polls, checking in at No. 5 according to Perfect Game, No. 6 by D1Baseball, No. 7 by both the NCBWA and USA Today coaches poll, and No. 10 by Collegiate Baseball. The Cowboys are led by strong pitching and defense, with a nation-leading .989 fielding percentage entering play on Wednesday. Opponents are hitting just .222 against Oklahoma State pitching, best in the Big 12, while the Cowboys rank second in the conference in both strikeouts (304) and ERA (3.90). Offensively, Oklahoma State is htting .264 as a team, led by a pair of transfers in Jake Thompson (South Dakota State/Palomar CC/Kentucky) and David Mendham (South Carolina/Connors State CC). The Cowboys are led by head coach Josh Holliday, a former Oklahoma State player who has led OSU to three Super Regionals and one College World Series appearance (2016) in his eight seasons in Stillwater. Josh is the older brother of former MLB All-Star Matt Holliday, who now serves as a volunteer assistant on the Cowboys staff. Oklahoma State was picked second in the Big 12 preseason poll, following a 36-19-1 season in 2021 that ended with a pair of defeats to UC Santa Barbara in the Tuscon regional. STAR TURN:&nbsp;One of the most promising developments for Wichita State's lineup is the improvement of sophomore outfielder&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5930">Chuck Ingram</a>. After hitting .225 with 34 strikeouts in 89 at-bats a season ago, Ingram has established himself as the Shockers best hitter in 2022, slashing .320/.363/.621. The Kansas City native has an extra-base hit in nine of the last ten games, including all three games of the series in Houston. His two-out, three-run home run in the ninth inning on Friday proved the decisive blow in Wichita State's 4-0 win. CAGING COUGARS:&nbsp;Wichita State Friday night starter&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5938">Jace Kaminska</a>&nbsp;continued his incredible dominance of Houston over the weekend, fanning a career-best 12 hitters over the course of eight shutout innings. With the win, Kaminska improved to 4-0 in four career starts against the Cougars, and has allowed just two runs in 32.1 total innings (0.56 ERA). He was named the American Athletic Conference Pitcher of the Week for his efforts.&nbsp; PRESS THE CLUTCH:&nbsp;Wichita State's recent offensive struggles have been exacerbated by a lack of success in high-leverage situations. The Shockers are hitting just .235 with runners in scoring position, and only .218 with two outs. Meanwhile, opponents are hitting .259 and .242, respectively, in those same two categories.&nbsp; STILL STREAKING:&nbsp;Junior&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6242">Sawyre Thornhill</a>&nbsp;already has a 19-game hitting streak to his credit during the 2022 season, and has reached base successfully in all 26 games played. He extended the on-base streak with a walk Friday, two doubles Saturday, and both a single and walk in Sunday's series finale. BRILLIANT BYE:<a href="https://goshockers.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5939">Cameron Bye</a>&nbsp;began the season operating out of the Wichita State bullpen due to an injury in the early spring. He has since worked his way into the weekend rotation as the Sunday starter and put together one of the most dominant stretches for a Shocker pitcher in recent memory. The sophomore right-hander has allowed just a single earned run over 29.0 innings, good for a 0.31 ERA that ranks second in the country. Perhaps just as impressively, Bye has only surrendered 12 hits for an opponent batting average of .122. RUNNING MAN:&nbsp;Outfielder&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5909">Couper Cornblum</a>&nbsp;has established himself as Wichita State's primary baserunning threat. On a team that has stolen just 21 bases in 29 attempts, Cornblum is now 7-for-7 after setting a new career high on Sunday with three swipes against Creighton. For his career, the sophomore has been successful on 26 of 31 stolen base attempts. LINEUP JUGGLING:<a href="https://goshockers.com/coaches.aspx?rc=905">Eric Wedge</a>&nbsp;continues to tinker with the starting lineup in search of consistent production. Through 27 games, the Shockers have not used the same starters and batting order in consecutive games.&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5909">Couper Cornblum</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5930">Chuck Ingram</a>&nbsp;have already started at seven different spots in the batting order, while two others players (<a href="https://goshockers.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6244">Xavier Casserilla</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5907">Ross Cadena</a>) have starts at six different spots. SHOCKERS IN THE RPI:&nbsp;Wichita State stands at 117 in the latest RPI rankings following the series loss against Houston, a 20-spot jump after entering the weekend at 137. Upcoming opponent Oklahoma State enters play on Wednesday at 29. Wichita State has played Oklahoma (20), Louisiana Tech (31), Texas State (36), Texas A&amp;M (61) and Creighton (90) and in the non-conference portion of the schedule. NO MINER ACCOMPLISHMENT:&nbsp;Tuesday starter&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6250">Jace Miner</a>&nbsp;became the eighth different Shocker pitcher to start a game in 2022, six of whom had never started a game at the Division-I level before this season. Entering the game with just 3.0 innings pitched, Miner went 4.0 innings against the Jayhawks, highlighted by a stretch where he retired 10 of 11 hitters from the end of the first inning through the fourth. HOME FIELD ADVANTAGE:&nbsp;Eck Stadium, home of Tyler Field, has consistently been one of the toughest places for opponents to win in its storied history. The Shockers own an all-time home record of 1,272-381-2, including an 862-278-2 mark at Tyler Field (first season 1988). Since taking over as head coach in 2020,&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/coaches.aspx?rc=905">Eric Wedge</a>&nbsp;has put together a 36-13 record at Eck, highlighted by a spotless 10-0 mark during the COVID-shortened 2020 campaign. KEEP IT IN THE FAMILY:&nbsp;Shocker coaches&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/coaches.aspx?rc=905">Eric Wedge</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/coaches.aspx?rc=906">Mike Pelfrey</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/coaches.aspx?rc=907">Mike Sirianni</a>&nbsp;and Director of Operations&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/staff.aspx?staff=1369">Loren Hibbs</a>&nbsp;all have ties to the WSU baseball program. Wedge powered the Shockers to a national championship as the starting catcher in 1989, earning Missouri Valley Conference Player of the Year honors along the way. Pelfrey was an All-American starter who ranks second in program history in ERA (2.18) and strikeouts (366). Sirianni was a volunteer assistant coach for the Shockers in 2015 and 2016 before taking the head coaching position at Regis University. Hibbs helped WSU to the program's first-ever CWS appearance in 1982, and still holds the NCAA record for single-season runs scored with 125. ON DECK:&nbsp;The Shockers head back on the road to resume conference play with three games in Greenville against East Carolina.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Oklahoma State (20-8, 5-1 Big 12) vs.&nbsp;Wichita State (12-15, 1-2 American) Tuesday, April&nbsp;5 | 6:00&nbsp;pm | Wichita, Kansas (Eck Stadium) TV: ESPN Plus&nbsp;| Radio: KFH 97.5 FM/1240 AM TBA vs. LHP&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6250">Jace Miner</a>&nbsp;(0-1, 14.14)<ul>
 <li><a href="https://www.espn.com/watch/player?id=34ffbf26-db41-468b-a146-fc792210d3c8" target="_blank">WATCH LIVE</a></li><li><a href="https://goshockers.com/watch/?Live=5056&amp;type=Live" target="_blank">LISTEN LIVE</a></li><li><a href="http://stats.statbroadcast.com/broadcast/?id=398790" target="_blank">LIVE STATS</a></li>
 </ul>SCENE SETTER:&nbsp;The Shockers return home for a midweek contest against nationally ranked Oklahoma State on Tuesday night at Eck Stadium, the first of three matchups against the Cowboys in 2022.&nbsp; Wichita State enters the matchup with a 12-15 overall record after going 1-2 in the first American Athletic Conference series of the season this past weekend in Houston. The Shockers blanked the Cougars on Friday night behind a brilliant pitching performance from&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5938">Jace Kaminska</a>, but Houston bounced back to claim the next two games, including a come-from-behind 4-3 win on Sunday. Prior to the two defeats, Wichita State had beaten the Cougars in nine straight games, the longest winning streak for WSU in the all-time series. Wichita State opened the season dropping their first six games, the worst start to a campaign since the 1953 season. The Shockers are coming off a 31-23 season a year ago, including an 18-13 mark in the American Athletic Conference that produced a third-place finish, WSU's best since joining the AAC in 2017. Wichita State is seeking their first appearance in the NCAA tournament since the 2013 season, a regional bid that was later vacated by the NCAA. SHOCKER BASEBALL ON THE RADIO AND ESPN PLUS:&nbsp;KFH 97.5 FM/1240 AM will once again serve as the radio home for all Wichita State baseball broadcasts in 2022. "The Voice of the Shockers" and Pizza Hut Shocker Sports Hall of Famer Mike Kennedy will have the call on Wednesday, with the pregame show beginning approximately 20 minutes prior to first pitch. All WSU home games at Eck Stadium in 2022 will air live on ESPN Plus (WatchESPN.com) with former Shocker All-American pitcher Shane Dennis handling the broadcasting duties. Live audio, in addition to live statistics, will be available for all games at GoShockers.com/listen and ShockerStats.com.&nbsp; SERIES HISTORY:&nbsp;The Shockers and Cowboys will be meeting for the 100th time on Wednesday, with Oklahoma State holding a 62-37 lead in the all-time series. The Cowboys have won eight of the last ten matchups, including a pair of victories at Eck Stadium to open the 2021. Wichita State last triumped in 2018, when the Shockers swept the season series with a 7-5 win in Wichita and a 10-7 victory in Stillwater. Prior to the WSU program's rebirth in 1978, the Shockers were just 2-25 against the Cowboys. The two programs have battled 15 times in postseason play, including a pair of matchups in the College World Series. Wichita State beat the Cowboys in 1982 and 1993. SCOUTING OKLAHOMA STATE:&nbsp;The Cowboys enter the weekend with an overall record of 20-8, including 5-1 in Big 12 play. They suffered their first conference defeat on Sunday at the hands of the Kansas State Wildcats, but have still won 13 of their last 15 games since a 7-6 start. Oklahoma State is a consensus top-10 in this week's polls, checking in at No. 5 according to Perfect Game, No. 6 by D1Baseball, No. 7 by both the NCBWA and USA Today coaches poll, and No. 10 by Collegiate Baseball. The Cowboys are led by strong pitching and defense, with a nation-leading .989 fielding percentage entering play on Wednesday. Opponents are hitting just .222 against Oklahoma State pitching, best in the Big 12, while the Cowboys rank second in the conference in both strikeouts (304) and ERA (3.90). Offensively, Oklahoma State is htting .264 as a team, led by a pair of transfers in Jake Thompson (South Dakota State/Palomar CC/Kentucky) and David Mendham (South Carolina/Connors State CC). The Cowboys are led by head coach Josh Holliday, a former Oklahoma State player who has led OSU to three Super Regionals and one College World Series appearance (2016) in his eight seasons in Stillwater. Josh is the older brother of former MLB All-Star Matt Holliday, who now serves as a volunteer assistant on the Cowboys staff. Oklahoma State was picked second in the Big 12 preseason poll, following a 36-19-1 season in 2021 that ended with a pair of defeats to UC Santa Barbara in the Tuscon regional. STAR TURN:&nbsp;One of the most promising developments for Wichita State's lineup is the improvement of sophomore outfielder&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5930">Chuck Ingram</a>. After hitting .225 with 34 strikeouts in 89 at-bats a season ago, Ingram has established himself as the Shockers best hitter in 2022, slashing .320/.363/.621. The Kansas City native has an extra-base hit in nine of the last ten games, including all three games of the series in Houston. His two-out, three-run home run in the ninth inning on Friday proved the decisive blow in Wichita State's 4-0 win. CAGING COUGARS:&nbsp;Wichita State Friday night starter&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5938">Jace Kaminska</a>&nbsp;continued his incredible dominance of Houston over the weekend, fanning a career-best 12 hitters over the course of eight shutout innings. With the win, Kaminska improved to 4-0 in four career starts against the Cougars, and has allowed just two runs in 32.1 total innings (0.56 ERA). He was named the American Athletic Conference Pitcher of the Week for his efforts.&nbsp; PRESS THE CLUTCH:&nbsp;Wichita State's recent offensive struggles have been exacerbated by a lack of success in high-leverage situations. The Shockers are hitting just .235 with runners in scoring position, and only .218 with two outs. Meanwhile, opponents are hitting .259 and .242, respectively, in those same two categories.&nbsp; STILL STREAKING:&nbsp;Junior&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6242">Sawyre Thornhill</a>&nbsp;already has a 19-game hitting streak to his credit during the 2022 season, and has reached base successfully in all 26 games played. He extended the on-base streak with a walk Friday, two doubles Saturday, and both a single and walk in Sunday's series finale. BRILLIANT BYE:<a href="https://goshockers.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5939">Cameron Bye</a>&nbsp;began the season operating out of the Wichita State bullpen due to an injury in the early spring. He has since worked his way into the weekend rotation as the Sunday starter and put together one of the most dominant stretches for a Shocker pitcher in recent memory. The sophomore right-hander has allowed just a single earned run over 29.0 innings, good for a 0.31 ERA that ranks second in the country. Perhaps just as impressively, Bye has only surrendered 12 hits for an opponent batting average of .122. RUNNING MAN:&nbsp;Outfielder&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5909">Couper Cornblum</a>&nbsp;has established himself as Wichita State's primary baserunning threat. On a team that has stolen just 21 bases in 29 attempts, Cornblum is now 7-for-7 after setting a new career high on Sunday with three swipes against Creighton. For his career, the sophomore has been successful on 26 of 31 stolen base attempts. LINEUP JUGGLING:<a href="https://goshockers.com/coaches.aspx?rc=905">Eric Wedge</a>&nbsp;continues to tinker with the starting lineup in search of consistent production. Through 27 games, the Shockers have not used the same starters and batting order in consecutive games.&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5909">Couper Cornblum</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5930">Chuck Ingram</a>&nbsp;have already started at seven different spots in the batting order, while two others players (<a href="https://goshockers.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6244">Xavier Casserilla</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5907">Ross Cadena</a>) have starts at six different spots. SHOCKERS IN THE RPI:&nbsp;Wichita State stands at 117 in the latest RPI rankings following the series loss against Houston, a 20-spot jump after entering the weekend at 137. Upcoming opponent Oklahoma State enters play on Wednesday at 29. Wichita State has played Oklahoma (20), Louisiana Tech (31), Texas State (36), Texas A&amp;M (61) and Creighton (90) and in the non-conference portion of the schedule. NO MINER ACCOMPLISHMENT:&nbsp;Tuesday starter&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6250">Jace Miner</a>&nbsp;became the eighth different Shocker pitcher to start a game in 2022, six of whom had never started a game at the Division-I level before this season. Entering the game with just 3.0 innings pitched, Miner went 4.0 innings against the Jayhawks, highlighted by a stretch where he retired 10 of 11 hitters from the end of the first inning through the fourth. HOME FIELD ADVANTAGE:&nbsp;Eck Stadium, home of Tyler Field, has consistently been one of the toughest places for opponents to win in its storied history. The Shockers own an all-time home record of 1,272-381-2, including an 862-278-2 mark at Tyler Field (first season 1988). Since taking over as head coach in 2020,&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/coaches.aspx?rc=905">Eric Wedge</a>&nbsp;has put together a 36-13 record at Eck, highlighted by a spotless 10-0 mark during the COVID-shortened 2020 campaign. KEEP IT IN THE FAMILY:&nbsp;Shocker coaches&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/coaches.aspx?rc=905">Eric Wedge</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/coaches.aspx?rc=906">Mike Pelfrey</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/coaches.aspx?rc=907">Mike Sirianni</a>&nbsp;and Director of Operations&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/staff.aspx?staff=1369">Loren Hibbs</a>&nbsp;all have ties to the WSU baseball program. Wedge powered the Shockers to a national championship as the starting catcher in 1989, earning Missouri Valley Conference Player of the Year honors along the way. Pelfrey was an All-American starter who ranks second in program history in ERA (2.18) and strikeouts (366). Sirianni was a volunteer assistant coach for the Shockers in 2015 and 2016 before taking the head coaching position at Regis University. Hibbs helped WSU to the program's first-ever CWS appearance in 1982, and still holds the NCAA record for single-season runs scored with 125. ON DECK:&nbsp;The Shockers head back on the road to resume conference play with three games in Greenville against East Carolina.&nbsp; &nbsp;CLICK HERE to download the Hutch Post mobile app. CLICK HERE to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Top-10 Cowboys visit Wichita State on Tuesday

NEW ORLEANS (AP) — Kansas finished off the biggest comeback in national championship history Monday night, getting a big game from David McCormack, crucial shots from Remy Martin and surviving a potential game-tying 3-pointer by Caleb Love at the buzzer for a 72-69 victory over North Carolina in the Superdome. The senior-laden Jayhawks trailed 40-25 at halftime before rallying to win their fourth national championship, and the second for coach Bill Self, on the same floor where they lost to Kentucky in the national title game a decade ago.

NEW ORLEANS (AP) — Bill Self won his elusive second national title with a masterful second-half coaching job and a spicy dash of Remy Martin. Kansas tightened up defensively to rev up its transition game and Martin provided the spark in a dazzling second half in the Jayhawks' 72-69 win over North Carolina. The Jayhawks started fast and faded even faster to fall into a 15-point hole by halftime. They roared back behind Self's adjustments, setting a record for biggest comeback in championship game history.

NEW ORLEANS (AP) — David McCormack's late inside baskets to help Kansas surge past North Carolina in the NCAA championship game followed a Final Four trend. The way teams played in the post had a major influence on all three games. The 6-foot-10 McCormack scored the final four points of Monday night's national title game to finish with 15 points and 10 rebounds in Kansas' 72-69 triumph. He also had a game-high 25 points in a semifinal victory over Villanova. North Carolina 6-10 center Armando Bacot also was among the top players in the Final Four. He outproduced Duke 7-foot-1 Mark Williams significantly in UNC's semifinal win but was bothered by an ankle injury in the final.

NEW ORLEANS (AP) — Bill Self went from the Hall of Fame coach who too often failed on the big stage to the brilliant mastermind of the biggest second-half comeback in NCAA title game history. The Jayhawks were blitzed by plucky North Carolina for most of the first 20 minutes and dug a seemingly insurmountable 40-25 hole. But Kansas rallied for a 72-69 victory over the Tar Heels inside the boisterous Superdome. Self managed to calm down his disjointed team in the locker room, then get it back on a script for success. That meant getting the ball inside to David McCormack and into the hands of Remy Martin and making crucial stops in the closing minutes.

ST. LOUIS (AP) — Vladimir Tarasenko scored twice, Pavel Buchnevich had a goal and two assists, and the St. Louis Blues beat the Arizona Coyotes 5-1. Ivan Barbashev and Brayden Schenn also scored for the Blues, who snapped a four-game losing streak at home to Arizona. Ville Husso made 21 saves as St. Louis won for the fourth time in its last five games (4-0-1). Nick Schmaltz scored in the third period and Ivan Prosvetov made 24 saves for the Coyotes, who lost for the eight time in 10 games.

NEW ORLEANS (AP) — There are strong connections between North Carolina and Kansas. The storied programs heading into Monday night's NCAA men's championship game in New Orleans share stories and ties to some of the giants of the sport. The connections include late North Carolina Hall of Fame coach Dean Smith being a Kansas alumnus. Smith played for the Jayhawks under Phog Allen, who had learned the game from basketball inventor Dr. James Naismith. There is also Hall of Fame coach Roy Williams, who spent 33 years between the two schools as head coach. Tar Heels first-year coach Hubert Davis says he still remembers the pain of losing to Williams' Kansas team in the 1991 Final Four as a guard on that North Carolina squad.

NEW ORLEANS (AP) — North Carolina big man Armando Bacot never looked like himself in the national championship game against Kansas because he was battling an ankle injury. Bacot finished with 15 points and 15 rebounds, but most of that production came in the first half of the 72-69 loss to the Jayhawks. Bacot injured his right ankle when he stepped on a teammate during Saturday's win against rival Duke. He insisted he'd be ready to play but was clearly limited against Kansas big man David McCormack. Bacot made just 3 of 13 shots before exiting after reinjuring the ankle in the final minute.

NEW ORLEANS (AP) — Kansas has claimed its fourth NCAA men's basketball comeback by engineering the greatest second-half comeback in finals history.

The Jayhawks turned a 16-point, second-half deficit into a 72-69 victory over North Carolina. David McCormack scored the go-ahead bucket from close range with 1:21 left, then another at the 22-second mark to put the Jayhawks ahead by three. McCormack and Jalen Wilson led KU with 15 points each. Christian Braun scored 10 of his 12 in the second half and transfer Remy Martin had 11 of his 15 over the final 20 minutes.

Carolina had scored 16 straight points late in the first half to open a 40-25 advantage at the break, but top-seeded KU went on a 31-10 run over the opening 10 minutes of the second to take a six-point lead.

The Tar Heels went scoreless over the final 1:41 and missed their last four shots, including Caleb Love's desperation 3 at the buzzer.

Armando Bacot (BAY'-kaht) provided 15 points and 15 rebounds for North Carolina to become the first player to record double-doubles in all six tournament games.

The Tar Heels were seeking their seventh national championship and could have joined the 1985 Villanova Wildcats as the only No. 8 seeds to win the title.

UNDATED (AP) — Kentucky forward Keion Brooks Jr. will enter the NBA draft but does not plan on hiring an agent. That leaves open the possibility of returning to school.

Brooks averaged career bests in several categories as a junior, including 10.8 points per contest on 49% shooting. His best performance was 27 points and eight rebounds in Kentucky's 80-62 rout of Kansas in Lawrence in the Big 12/SEC Challenge in January.

In other college basketball developments:

— Alabama leading scorer Jaden Shackelford says he plans to enter the NBA draft and sign with an agent. The Crimson Tide junior guard announced his decision Sunday on Instagram. Shackelford averaged 16.6 points per game last season, earning second-team All-Southeastern Conference honors for the second straight year.

— Syracuse forward Cole Swider will forgo his final year of eligibility and declare for the NBA draft. Swider announced his decision on social media and said he would sign with an agent. The Rhode Island native transferred to Syracuse last year from Villanova and started all 33 games for the Orange.

— Western Michigan has hired longtime Michigan State assistant Dwayne Stephens to lead its basketball program. The former Spartans forward was on Hall of Fame coach Tom Izzo's staff for 19 seasons, including the last decade as an associate head coach. Clayton Bates resigned as Western Michigan's coach last month after winning eight games in his second season.

UNDATED (AP) — Albert Pujols (POO'-hohlz) will be in the starting lineup for the St. Louis Cardinals against the Pittsburgh Pirates when he begins his final big league season Thursday.

Cardinals manager Oliver Marmol announced Monday that Pujols will be the designated hitter for his 22nd consecutive opening day start. That matches Hank Aaron and Carl Yastrzemski (ya-STREHM'-skee) for second-most behind only Pete Rose, who made 23 straight during his career.

— Mariners' top prospect Julio Rodríguez will be on the opening day roster following a torrid spring training performance. Entering Monday's spring training game, Rodríguez was hitting .419 with three home runs, eight RBIs and a 1.310 OPS.

— All major league players, managers, coaches and umpires will wear Jackie Robinson's No. 42 in Dodger blue for the first time on April 15, the 75th anniversary of his breaking the major league color barrier. Major League Baseball retired Robinson's number in 1997 and all uniformed personnel have worn 42 on Jackie Robinson Day since 2009.

— Outfielder/first baseman Danny Santana, pitcher Richard Rodríguez and infielder José Rondón have been suspended for 80 games each for a positive test of the performance-enhancing substance Boldenone. It was the first discipline since the major league drug testing program resumed March 11 following a 99-day suspension during the lockout. All three are free agents.

— Two-time National League batting champion Tommy Davis has died at age 83. Davis won batting titles with the 1962 and 1963 Dodgers and helped them win the World Series in 1963 and '65. He was the Orioles' first regular designated hitter and ended his career with a .294 batting average.

UNDATED (AP) — The Toronto Maple Leafs have taken control of second place in the NHL's Atlantic Division, moving two points ahead of Tampa Bay and Boston by defeating the Lightning.

League goals leader Auston Matthews recorded a hat trick as the Leafs earned their fifth straight win, 6-2 in Tampa. Matthews now has 54 goals, four ahead of Edmonton's Leon Draisaitl (DRY'-sy-tul).

Mitch Marner had a goal and three assists for the Maple Leafs, who also received tallies from Pierre Engvall and Alex Kerfoot.

The Bruins pulled even with the Bolts be defeating Columbus, 3-2 on Jake DeBrusk's goal 63 seconds into overtime. DeBrusk scored twice, Craig Smith had a goal and Linus Ullmark (LEE'-nuhs OOL'-mahrk) stopped 20 shots in Boston's third straight win and 17th in 21 games.

— The Flames extended their lead in the Pacific Division to five points over the Kings with a 3-2 victory in Los Angeles. Johnny Gaudreau had two goals and an assist, opening the scoring just 10 seconds into the game for Calgary's quickest goal since 1987. Adrian Kempe (KEHM'-peh) had two goals for the Kings, who had earned at least a point in five of their previous six contests.

— Pavel Buchnevich (booch-NEH'-vihch) and Vladimir Tarasenko led the Blues' scoresheet in a 5-1 downing of the Coyotes. Tarasenko scored twice and provided the eventual game-winner while St. Louis netted four unanswered goals in the second period. Buchnevich added a goal and two assists for the Blues, who moved within three points of the Wild for second place in the Central Division.

Commanders deny withholding visiting team revenue

UNDATED (AP) — The Washington Commanders are refuting a report that alleged they withheld ticket revenue from visiting teams.

A team spokeswoman said in a statement there was absolutely no withholding of ticket revenue at any time. She added that anyone who testified to Congress suggesting that committed perjury.

The lawyer for a former Washington VP of sales and customer service said her client testified truthfully and accused the NFL club of defamation.

Front Office Sports citing sources reported the House Oversight Committee received information to indicate Washington withheld ticket revenue. The league pools 40% of all ticket revenue for the road team.

Congress began investigating the team earlier this year after the league did not release a written report of an investigation into sexual harassment inside the organization.

— The Saints have acquired two first-round picks from the Eagles in a major swap of assets. The Eagles sent picks Nos. 16 and 19 and a sixth-rounder to the Saints for the 18th overall pick, a third-rounder, a seventh-rounder, a 2023 first-rounder and a 2024 second-rounder. The move leaves both teams with two firsts later this month.

—The Jets have released tight end Ryan Griffin, who became expendable when the team signed free agents C.J. Uzomah (yoo-ZOH'-mah) and Tyler Conklin last month. Griffin had 70 catches for 667 yards and seven touchdowns in three seasons with New York.

— The Raiders signed quarterback Nick Mullens to serve as Derek Carr's backup and brought back defensive tackle Johnathan Hankins for a fifth season with the team. Mullens has made 17 starts for San Francisco and Cleveland since being signed by the 49ers as an undrafted free agent in 2017.

— The Browns have signed free agent punter Corey Bojorquez to a two-year contract. Bojorquez spent last season with Green Bay, where he averaged 46.5 yards on 53 punts and drilled an 82 yarder.

<h2>Here is the latest Mid-America sports news from The Associated Press</h2>NEW ORLEANS (AP) — Kansas finished off the biggest comeback in national championship history Monday night, getting a big game from David McCormack, crucial shots from Remy Martin and surviving a potential game-tying 3-pointer by Caleb Love at the buzzer for a 72-69 victory over North Carolina in the Superdome. The senior-laden Jayhawks trailed 40-25 at halftime before rallying to win their fourth national championship, and the second for coach Bill Self, on the same floor where they lost to Kentucky in the national title game a decade ago.NEW ORLEANS (AP) — The Great Kansas Comeback is about more than just one scintillating, stifling 20-minute stretch of Jayhawks basketball. The championship KU captured Monday night had roots back in 2020, when the Jayhawks were a team that looked headed for the program's fourth national title. Instead, it was KU's come-from-behind 72-69 victory over North Carolina on Monday that brought that fourth championship banner back to Allen Fieldhouse. The Jayhawks insisted they'd share it with the 2020 team, too.NEW ORLEANS (AP) — Bill Self won his elusive second national title with a masterful second-half coaching job and a spicy dash of Remy Martin. Kansas tightened up defensively to rev up its transition game and Martin provided the spark in a dazzling second half in the Jayhawks' 72-69 win over North Carolina. The Jayhawks started fast and faded even faster to fall into a 15-point hole by halftime. They roared back behind Self's adjustments, setting a record for biggest comeback in championship game history.NEW ORLEANS (AP) — David McCormack's late inside baskets to help Kansas surge past North Carolina in the NCAA championship game followed a Final Four trend. The way teams played in the post had a major influence on all three games. The 6-foot-10 McCormack scored the final four points of Monday night's national title game to finish with 15 points and 10 rebounds in Kansas' 72-69 triumph. He also had a game-high 25 points in a semifinal victory over Villanova. North Carolina 6-10 center Armando Bacot also was among the top players in the Final Four. He outproduced Duke 7-foot-1 Mark Williams significantly in UNC's semifinal win but was bothered by an ankle injury in the final.NEW ORLEANS (AP) — Bill Self went from the Hall of Fame coach who too often failed on the big stage to the brilliant mastermind of the biggest second-half comeback in NCAA title game history. The Jayhawks were blitzed by plucky North Carolina for most of the first 20 minutes and dug a seemingly insurmountable 40-25 hole. But Kansas rallied for a 72-69 victory over the Tar Heels inside the boisterous Superdome. Self managed to calm down his disjointed team in the locker room, then get it back on a script for success. That meant getting the ball inside to David McCormack and into the hands of Remy Martin and making crucial stops in the closing minutes.ST. LOUIS (AP) — Vladimir Tarasenko scored twice, Pavel Buchnevich had a goal and two assists, and the St. Louis Blues beat the Arizona Coyotes 5-1. Ivan Barbashev and Brayden Schenn also scored for the Blues, who snapped a four-game losing streak at home to Arizona. Ville Husso made 21 saves as St. Louis won for the fourth time in its last five games (4-0-1). Nick Schmaltz scored in the third period and Ivan Prosvetov made 24 saves for the Coyotes, who lost for the eight time in 10 games.NEW ORLEANS (AP) — There are strong connections between North Carolina and Kansas. The storied programs heading into Monday night's NCAA men's championship game in New Orleans share stories and ties to some of the giants of the sport. The connections include late North Carolina Hall of Fame coach Dean Smith being a Kansas alumnus. Smith played for the Jayhawks under Phog Allen, who had learned the game from basketball inventor Dr. James Naismith. There is also Hall of Fame coach Roy Williams, who spent 33 years between the two schools as head coach. Tar Heels first-year coach Hubert Davis says he still remembers the pain of losing to Williams' Kansas team in the 1991 Final Four as a guard on that North Carolina squad.NEW ORLEANS (AP) — North Carolina big man Armando Bacot never looked like himself in the national championship game against Kansas because he was battling an ankle injury. Bacot finished with 15 points and 15 rebounds, but most of that production came in the first half of the 72-69 loss to the Jayhawks. Bacot injured his right ankle when he stepped on a teammate during Saturday's win against rival Duke. He insisted he'd be ready to play but was clearly limited against Kansas big man David McCormack. Bacot made just 3 of 13 shots before exiting after reinjuring the ankle in the final minute.<h2>Update on the latest sports</h2>COLLEGE BASKETBALL-NCAA TOURNAMENTKansas wins title with historic comebackNEW ORLEANS (AP) — Kansas has claimed its fourth NCAA men's basketball comeback by engineering the greatest second-half comeback in finals history.The Jayhawks turned a 16-point, second-half deficit into a 72-69 victory over North Carolina. David McCormack scored the go-ahead bucket from close range with 1:21 left, then another at the 22-second mark to put the Jayhawks ahead by three. McCormack and Jalen Wilson led KU with 15 points each. Christian Braun scored 10 of his 12 in the second half and transfer Remy Martin had 11 of his 15 over the final 20 minutes.Carolina had scored 16 straight points late in the first half to open a 40-25 advantage at the break, but top-seeded KU went on a 31-10 run over the opening 10 minutes of the second to take a six-point lead.The Tar Heels went scoreless over the final 1:41 and missed their last four shots, including Caleb Love's desperation 3 at the buzzer.Armando Bacot (BAY'-kaht) provided 15 points and 15 rebounds for North Carolina to become the first player to record double-doubles in all six tournament games.The Tar Heels were seeking their seventh national championship and could have joined the 1985 Villanova Wildcats as the only No. 8 seeds to win the title.COLLEGE BASKETBALL-NEWSBrooks to enter draft, but without agentUNDATED (AP) — Kentucky forward Keion Brooks Jr. will enter the NBA draft but does not plan on hiring an agent. That leaves open the possibility of returning to school.Brooks averaged career bests in several categories as a junior, including 10.8 points per contest on 49% shooting. His best performance was 27 points and eight rebounds in Kentucky's 80-62 rout of Kansas in Lawrence in the Big 12/SEC Challenge in January.In other college basketball developments:— Alabama leading scorer Jaden Shackelford says he plans to enter the NBA draft and sign with an agent. The Crimson Tide junior guard announced his decision Sunday on Instagram. Shackelford averaged 16.6 points per game last season, earning second-team All-Southeastern Conference honors for the second straight year.— Syracuse forward Cole Swider will forgo his final year of eligibility and declare for the NBA draft. Swider announced his decision on social media and said he would sign with an agent. The Rhode Island native transferred to Syracuse last year from Villanova and started all 33 games for the Orange.— Western Michigan has hired longtime Michigan State assistant Dwayne Stephens to lead its basketball program. The former Spartans forward was on Hall of Fame coach Tom Izzo's staff for 19 seasons, including the last decade as an associate head coach. Clayton Bates resigned as Western Michigan's coach last month after winning eight games in his second season.MLB-NEWSPujols to make 22nd Opening Day startUNDATED (AP) — Albert Pujols (POO'-hohlz) will be in the starting lineup for the St. Louis Cardinals against the Pittsburgh Pirates when he begins his final big league season Thursday.Cardinals manager Oliver Marmol announced Monday that Pujols will be the designated hitter for his 22nd consecutive opening day start. That matches Hank Aaron and Carl Yastrzemski (ya-STREHM'-skee) for second-most behind only Pete Rose, who made 23 straight during his career.In other news from the majors:— Mariners' top prospect Julio Rodríguez will be on the opening day roster following a torrid spring training performance. Entering Monday's spring training game, Rodríguez was hitting .419 with three home runs, eight RBIs and a 1.310 OPS.— All major league players, managers, coaches and umpires will wear Jackie Robinson's No. 42 in Dodger blue for the first time on April 15, the 75th anniversary of his breaking the major league color barrier. Major League Baseball retired Robinson's number in 1997 and all uniformed personnel have worn 42 on Jackie Robinson Day since 2009.— Outfielder/first baseman Danny Santana, pitcher Richard Rodríguez and infielder José Rondón have been suspended for 80 games each for a positive test of the performance-enhancing substance Boldenone. It was the first discipline since the major league drug testing program resumed March 11 following a 99-day suspension during the lockout. All three are free agents.— Two-time National League batting champion Tommy Davis has died at age 83. Davis won batting titles with the 1962 and 1963 Dodgers and helped them win the World Series in 1963 and '65. He was the Orioles' first regular designated hitter and ended his career with a .294 batting average.NHL-SCHEDULELeafs, B's winUNDATED (AP) — The Toronto Maple Leafs have taken control of second place in the NHL's Atlantic Division, moving two points ahead of Tampa Bay and Boston by defeating the Lightning.League goals leader Auston Matthews recorded a hat trick as the Leafs earned their fifth straight win, 6-2 in Tampa. Matthews now has 54 goals, four ahead of Edmonton's Leon Draisaitl (DRY'-sy-tul).Mitch Marner had a goal and three assists for the Maple Leafs, who also received tallies from Pierre Engvall and Alex Kerfoot.The Bruins pulled even with the Bolts be defeating Columbus, 3-2 on Jake DeBrusk's goal 63 seconds into overtime. DeBrusk scored twice, Craig Smith had a goal and Linus Ullmark (LEE'-nuhs OOL'-mahrk) stopped 20 shots in Boston's third straight win and 17th in 21 games.Elsewhere on NHL ice:— The Flames extended their lead in the Pacific Division to five points over the Kings with a 3-2 victory in Los Angeles. Johnny Gaudreau had two goals and an assist, opening the scoring just 10 seconds into the game for Calgary's quickest goal since 1987. Adrian Kempe (KEHM'-peh) had two goals for the Kings, who had earned at least a point in five of their previous six contests.— Pavel Buchnevich (booch-NEH'-vihch) and Vladimir Tarasenko led the Blues' scoresheet in a 5-1 downing of the Coyotes. Tarasenko scored twice and provided the eventual game-winner while St. Louis netted four unanswered goals in the second period. Buchnevich added a goal and two assists for the Blues, who moved within three points of the Wild for second place in the Central Division.NFL-NEWSCommanders deny withholding visiting team revenueUNDATED (AP) — The Washington Commanders are refuting a report that alleged they withheld ticket revenue from visiting teams.A team spokeswoman said in a statement there was absolutely no withholding of ticket revenue at any time. She added that anyone who testified to Congress suggesting that committed perjury.The lawyer for a former Washington VP of sales and customer service said her client testified truthfully and accused the NFL club of defamation.Front Office Sports citing sources reported the House Oversight Committee received information to indicate Washington withheld ticket revenue. The league pools 40% of all ticket revenue for the road team.Congress began investigating the team earlier this year after the league did not release a written report of an investigation into sexual harassment inside the organization.Elsewhere in the NFL:— The Saints have acquired two first-round picks from the Eagles in a major swap of assets. The Eagles sent picks Nos. 16 and 19 and a sixth-rounder to the Saints for the 18th overall pick, a third-rounder, a seventh-rounder, a 2023 first-rounder and a 2024 second-rounder. The move leaves both teams with two firsts later this month.—The Jets have released tight end Ryan Griffin, who became expendable when the team signed free agents C.J. Uzomah (yoo-ZOH'-mah) and Tyler Conklin last month. Griffin had 70 catches for 667 yards and seven touchdowns in three seasons with New York.— The Raiders signed quarterback Nick Mullens to serve as Derek Carr's backup and brought back defensive tackle Johnathan Hankins for a fifth season with the team. Mullens has made 17 starts for San Francisco and Cleveland since being signed by the 49ers as an undrafted free agent in 2017.— The Browns have signed free agent punter Corey Bojorquez to a two-year contract. Bojorquez spent last season with Green Bay, where he averaged 46.5 yards on 53 punts and drilled an 82 yarder.CLICK HERE to download the Hutch Post mobile app. CLICK HERE to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Sports Headlines for Tuesday

NEW ORLEANS (AP) — Kansas finished off the biggest comeback in national championship history Monday night, getting a big game from David McCormack, crucial shots from Remy Martin and surviving a potential game-tying 3-pointer by Caleb Love at the buzzer for a 72-69 victory over North Carolina in the Superdome. 

The Kansas Jayhawks captured their sixth national championship in school history Monday night at the Caesars Superdome, topping North Carolina 72-69 in the National Championship game.

The Jayhawks erased a 15-point halftime deficit to capture their second national championship under Coach Bill Self, outscoring the Tar Heels 47-29 in the second half. The win marked the program’s third national championship since 1988. Kansas shot 58 percent from the floor in the second half, hitting 19 of 33 shots from the floor, while North Carolina went 11-for-40 from the floor in the second, shooting 28 percent.

Kansas trailed by 16 at one point in the first half. The 16-point deficit is the largest ever overcome in a championship game in NCAA history.

Five Jayhawks scored in double figures for Kansas in the win, led by 15 points apiece from Jalen Wilson and David McCormack. McCormack had 10 rebounds as well to post a double-double, while Christian Braun also had a double-double with 12 points and 12 rebounds. Remy Martin finished with 14 points, while All-American Ochai Agbaji finished with 12.

Agbaji was named the Most Outstanding Player of the NCAA Tournament, adding to his already long list of accolades. McCormack was named to the All-NCAA Tournament Team, joining Agbaji..

Trailing 40-25 at halftime, the Jayhawks wasted no time starting the comeback, coming out of the locker room hot. Trailing 45-33 with 16:10 to play, Braun scored on a layup to cut it to 10. Wilson then converted an and-one to cut it seven at 45-38. That was the closest the Jayhawks had been since trailing 29-22 with more than four minutes to play in the first half.

After an Agbaji free throw made it six, Dajuan Harris Jr., hit a basket to get it to four. Trailing 50-47 with just more than 11 minutes left, Agbaji hit an and-one to knot the game at 50 for the first tie since it was 22-22.

Kansas then scored the next six points to grab a six-point lead at 56-50. North Carolina came right back, however, to tie it back up at 57 with 8:16 to play. The Jayhawks would lead from there until North Carolina tied it again at 65 with just more than three minutes to play. But Martin hit another 3-pointer to put Kansas up again.

NEW ORLEANS (AP) — Kansas finished off the biggest comeback in national championship history Monday night, getting a big game from David McCormack, crucial shots from Remy Martin and surviving a potential game-tying 3-pointer by Caleb Love at the buzzer for a 72-69 victory over North Carolina in the Superdome. The Kansas Jayhawks captured their sixth national championship in school history Monday night at the Caesars Superdome, topping North Carolina 72-69 in the National Championship game.The Jayhawks erased a 15-point halftime deficit to capture their second national championship under Coach Bill Self, outscoring the Tar Heels 47-29 in the second half. The win marked the program’s third national championship since 1988. Kansas shot 58 percent from the floor in the second half, hitting 19 of 33 shots from the floor, while North Carolina went 11-for-40 from the floor in the second, shooting 28 percent.Kansas trailed by 16 at one point in the first half. The 16-point deficit is the largest ever overcome in a championship game in NCAA history.Five Jayhawks scored in double figures for Kansas in the win, led by 15 points apiece from Jalen Wilson and David McCormack. McCormack had 10 rebounds as well to post a double-double, while Christian Braun also had a double-double with 12 points and 12 rebounds. Remy Martin finished with 14 points, while All-American Ochai Agbaji finished with 12.Agbaji was named the Most Outstanding Player of the NCAA Tournament, adding to his already long list of accolades. McCormack was named to the All-NCAA Tournament Team, joining Agbaji..Trailing 40-25 at halftime, the Jayhawks wasted no time starting the comeback, coming out of the locker room hot. Trailing 45-33 with 16:10 to play, Braun scored on a layup to cut it to 10. Wilson then converted an and-one to cut it seven at 45-38. That was the closest the Jayhawks had been since trailing 29-22 with more than four minutes to play in the first half.After an Agbaji free throw made it six, Dajuan Harris Jr., hit a basket to get it to four. Trailing 50-47 with just more than 11 minutes left, Agbaji hit an and-one to knot the game at 50 for the first tie since it was 22-22.Kansas then scored the next six points to grab a six-point lead at 56-50. North Carolina came right back, however, to tie it back up at 57 with 8:16 to play. The Jayhawks would lead from there until North Carolina tied it again at 65 with just more than three minutes to play. But Martin hit another 3-pointer to put Kansas up again.After back-to-back buckets put North Carolina back up one, McCormack went to work and scored in the paint to put the Jayhawks up 70-69 with 1:21 to play. He then scored again with 22 seconds left to make the score 72-69 and close out the national championship win for the Jayhawks.