GLEN GRUNWALD Hutch Post

HAYS, Kan. — The Hutchinson High School Salthawk girls' season came to a heartbreaking end in the sub-state championship Friday night, falling to the Hays High Indians 56-17.

The Salthawk boys came up short against Hays on Wednesday night in the first round of sub-state play, seeing a four-point lead slip away in the final quarter as the Indians advanced with a 48-43 win.

Despite the girls' tough loss, the Salthawks had already established themselves as one of the most formidable teams in Kansas, finishing with a 16-8 record and proving they were more than capable of competing with the state’s best.

The Salthawks had an impressive run that included some unforgettable moments. Just as they started the season strong, the Salthawks opened Friday night's game with a brief but promising 4-0 lead, but the Indians’ relentless defense and efficient offense quickly turned the tide.

Still, Hutchinson had already earned its place in the spotlight earlier in the season with a stunning 58-54 victory over the top-ranked Derby Panthers on Valentine’s Day. The win was a statement, as Derby was not only the top team in Class 6A but also ranked No. 1 in the state across all classifications.

Another standout moment came in the first round of sub-state against No. 9 seed Andover Central, where the Salthawks cruised to a 60-37 win. That performance was a testament to the team's depth and resilience, especially with players stepping up in key moments.

But as much as this season was about victories, it was also about the players who made it all possible. Hutchinson will miss the leadership of Grace Posh, a four-year varsity player who scored 971 points in her high school career. Posh’s commitment, skill and competitive spirit will be hard to replace as the team looks to rebuild.

Along with Posh, the Salthawks will say goodbye to senior standouts Lily Rodriguez and Kaia Smith. Smith averaged 13.8 points per game, while Rodriguez was the player who initiated the offense at point guard. Their contributions were invaluable and will leave a lasting mark on Hutchinson basketball. However, their legacy will be carried on by junior starters Ava Krone and Kohlbie Craft. Both have proven themselves as key players and will be instrumental in the team's future.

Sophomore point guard Tenley Keeton and junior shooting guard Clara Ontjes also made a significant impact off the bench this season and will be players to watch moving forward. The Salthawks will look to build on this season’s momentum and develop their younger players as they prepare for next year.

Meanwhile, the Hays High Indians will take their undefeated 22-0 record to Emporia, where they will compete in the Class 5A state tournament for the first time in 29 years. Their victory over Hutchinson solidified their standing as one of the top teams in the state, but Hutchinson’s grit and determination throughout the season showed they were not far behind.

As the Salthawks reflect on a season full of highs and lows, one thing is clear: this group of players, coaches and fans created something special. And while they will miss their seniors, the future is bright for Hutchinson basketball under second-year head coach Kalen Hilst and assistant coaches Shayla DeGarmo-Cruz and Lyric Martin.

The 2024-25 season for the Hutchinson Salthawk boys basketball team was also full of highs and lows. With a final record of 10-11, the team faced numerous challenges but also enjoyed moments of brilliance. Among the most memorable was a dramatic Valentine's Day victory that sent shockwaves through Kansas basketball — a 67-63 win over the undefeated, top-ranked team in Class 6A, which was also No. 1 in the state overall.

The season got off to a rough start as the Salthawks hit a tough stretch in January. A grueling seven-game losing streak, including three losses at the McPherson Invitational, had Hutchinson reeling. That tournament seemed like a microcosm of their entire month: competitive games that ended in heartbreak. The Salthawks went 0-3 at McPherson, but the close losses stung the most. Four of those setbacks in January were by a combined total of just 12 points, underscoring the team’s resilience. Still, the inability to close out opponents left Hutchinson searching for answers.

Despite the adversity, the Salthawks didn’t fold under pressure. The grit they showed during that tough stretch paid off as they managed to string together five consecutive victories. The momentum was palpable, and Hutchinson started to find its rhythm just when it mattered most. This late-season surge gave them confidence heading into their sub-state game against Hays.

Then came the night that changed everything — the unforgettable Feb. 14 upset.

The Hutchinson Salthawks took the court against an undefeated, top-ranked opponent in a game that had all the makings of a David vs. Goliath matchup. Their opponent, a powerhouse with a perfect season record, was expected to dominate. But the Salthawks were not intimidated. With precision shooting, sharp defense and collective willpower, Hutchinson pulled off a stunning 67-63 win.

Led by standout performances from key players, the Salthawks capitalized on every opportunity, making clutch shots and playing tenacious defense down the stretch. The game was tight throughout, with both teams exchanging leads multiple times. But with seconds remaining and the score neck and neck, Hutchinson remained calm under pressure. A pair of crucial free throws and a final defensive stop sealed the win, sending the visiting Hutchinson fan section into a frenzy.

For Hutchinson, it was more than just a win — it was a statement. The Salthawks had proven they could compete with the best. In a season filled with near misses, they showed the heart and determination to fight through any challenge.

That victory over the state’s No. 1 team gave the Salthawks a massive boost in confidence and solidified their place as a team that could never be counted out. With the wind at their backs, Hutchinson entered its sub-state game against Hays with momentum — and while the season ended there, the team's resilience was something its fans would never forget.

As the Salthawks look ahead, they will have to say goodbye to key players who left a lasting impact on the program. Point guard Terrell King, in particular, will be greatly missed. His leadership on the court was invaluable, running the offense with poise and keeping the Salthawks competitive in every game. Alongside him, senior starters Taishaun Govain and Levi Kepler played critical roles, each bringing unique skills and experience. Their contributions, both on and off the court, will be hard to replace.

However, the future looks bright. Sophomore Lamar Govain stepped up in a big way this season, seamlessly taking over a starting role and proving he is more than capable of leading the team moving forward. Along with Danny Boone, who was a consistent force off the bench, sharpshooter Jalen Crable and Tramel Walker, who provided energy and hustle, Hutchinson has a solid foundation to build on.

Head coach Bryan Miller, now in his fifth year, will look to reload and rebuild next season. His experience and leadership have been crucial to the program's development, and with emerging young talent, Miller is confident the Salthawks will remain competitive. While losing several key seniors will create some gaps, the foundation of strong returning players and the promise of future talent should keep Hutchinson in the mix.

Though the 2024-25 season is over, Hutchinson basketball is in good hands. The Salthawks will aim to build on the momentum they’ve created and push for even greater success in the coming years.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741440872076.jpeg" alt="Salthawk Girls vs Hays. for Friday's Sub-State Championship Game" />
 <figcaption>Salthawk Girls vs Hays. for Friday's Sub-State Championship Game</figcaption>
 </figure>GLEN GRUNWALD Hutch PostHAYS, Kan. — The Hutchinson High School Salthawk girls' season came to a heartbreaking end in the sub-state championship Friday night, falling to the Hays High Indians 56-17.The Salthawk boys came up short against Hays on Wednesday night in the first round of sub-state play, seeing a four-point lead slip away in the final quarter as the Indians advanced with a 48-43 win.Despite the girls' tough loss, the Salthawks had already established themselves as one of the most formidable teams in Kansas, finishing with a 16-8 record and proving they were more than capable of competing with the state’s best.The Salthawks had an impressive run that included some unforgettable moments. Just as they started the season strong, the Salthawks opened Friday night's game with a brief but promising 4-0 lead, but the Indians’ relentless defense and efficient offense quickly turned the tide.Still, Hutchinson had already earned its place in the spotlight earlier in the season with a stunning 58-54 victory over the top-ranked Derby Panthers on Valentine’s Day. The win was a statement, as Derby was not only the top team in Class 6A but also ranked No. 1 in the state across all classifications.Another standout moment came in the first round of sub-state against No. 9 seed Andover Central, where the Salthawks cruised to a 60-37 win. That performance was a testament to the team's depth and resilience, especially with players stepping up in key moments.But as much as this season was about victories, it was also about the players who made it all possible. Hutchinson will miss the leadership of Grace Posh, a four-year varsity player who scored 971 points in her high school career. Posh’s commitment, skill and competitive spirit will be hard to replace as the team looks to rebuild.Along with Posh, the Salthawks will say goodbye to senior standouts Lily Rodriguez and Kaia Smith. Smith averaged 13.8 points per game, while Rodriguez was the player who initiated the offense at point guard. Their contributions were invaluable and will leave a lasting mark on Hutchinson basketball. However, their legacy will be carried on by junior starters Ava Krone and Kohlbie Craft. Both have proven themselves as key players and will be instrumental in the team's future.Sophomore point guard Tenley Keeton and junior shooting guard Clara Ontjes also made a significant impact off the bench this season and will be players to watch moving forward. The Salthawks will look to build on this season’s momentum and develop their younger players as they prepare for next year.Meanwhile, the Hays High Indians will take their undefeated 22-0 record to Emporia, where they will compete in the Class 5A state tournament for the first time in 29 years. Their victory over Hutchinson solidified their standing as one of the top teams in the state, but Hutchinson’s grit and determination throughout the season showed they were not far behind.As the Salthawks reflect on a season full of highs and lows, one thing is clear: this group of players, coaches and fans created something special. And while they will miss their seniors, the future is bright for Hutchinson basketball under second-year head coach Kalen Hilst and assistant coaches Shayla DeGarmo-Cruz and Lyric Martin.The 2024-25 season for the Hutchinson Salthawk boys basketball team was also full of highs and lows. With a final record of 10-11, the team faced numerous challenges but also enjoyed moments of brilliance. Among the most memorable was a dramatic Valentine's Day victory that sent shockwaves through Kansas basketball — a 67-63 win over the undefeated, top-ranked team in Class 6A, which was also No. 1 in the state overall.The season got off to a rough start as the Salthawks hit a tough stretch in January. A grueling seven-game losing streak, including three losses at the McPherson Invitational, had Hutchinson reeling. That tournament seemed like a microcosm of their entire month: competitive games that ended in heartbreak. The Salthawks went 0-3 at McPherson, but the close losses stung the most. Four of those setbacks in January were by a combined total of just 12 points, underscoring the team’s resilience. Still, the inability to close out opponents left Hutchinson searching for answers.Despite the adversity, the Salthawks didn’t fold under pressure. The grit they showed during that tough stretch paid off as they managed to string together five consecutive victories. The momentum was palpable, and Hutchinson started to find its rhythm just when it mattered most. This late-season surge gave them confidence heading into their sub-state game against Hays.Then came the night that changed everything — the unforgettable Feb. 14 upset.The Hutchinson Salthawks took the court against an undefeated, top-ranked opponent in a game that had all the makings of a David vs. Goliath matchup. Their opponent, a powerhouse with a perfect season record, was expected to dominate. But the Salthawks were not intimidated. With precision shooting, sharp defense and collective willpower, Hutchinson pulled off a stunning 67-63 win.Led by standout performances from key players, the Salthawks capitalized on every opportunity, making clutch shots and playing tenacious defense down the stretch. The game was tight throughout, with both teams exchanging leads multiple times. But with seconds remaining and the score neck and neck, Hutchinson remained calm under pressure. A pair of crucial free throws and a final defensive stop sealed the win, sending the visiting Hutchinson fan section into a frenzy.For Hutchinson, it was more than just a win — it was a statement. The Salthawks had proven they could compete with the best. In a season filled with near misses, they showed the heart and determination to fight through any challenge.That victory over the state’s No. 1 team gave the Salthawks a massive boost in confidence and solidified their place as a team that could never be counted out. With the wind at their backs, Hutchinson entered its sub-state game against Hays with momentum — and while the season ended there, the team's resilience was something its fans would never forget.As the Salthawks look ahead, they will have to say goodbye to key players who left a lasting impact on the program. Point guard Terrell King, in particular, will be greatly missed. His leadership on the court was invaluable, running the offense with poise and keeping the Salthawks competitive in every game. Alongside him, senior starters Taishaun Govain and Levi Kepler played critical roles, each bringing unique skills and experience. Their contributions, both on and off the court, will be hard to replace.However, the future looks bright. Sophomore Lamar Govain stepped up in a big way this season, seamlessly taking over a starting role and proving he is more than capable of leading the team moving forward. Along with Danny Boone, who was a consistent force off the bench, sharpshooter Jalen Crable and Tramel Walker, who provided energy and hustle, Hutchinson has a solid foundation to build on.Head coach Bryan Miller, now in his fifth year, will look to reload and rebuild next season. His experience and leadership have been crucial to the program's development, and with emerging young talent, Miller is confident the Salthawks will remain competitive. While losing several key seniors will create some gaps, the foundation of strong returning players and the promise of future talent should keep Hutchinson in the mix.Though the 2024-25 season is over, Hutchinson basketball is in good hands. The Salthawks will aim to build on the momentum they’ve created and push for even greater success in the coming years.

🏀 Salthawk teams show grit in tough losses, celebrate a remarkable season

LAWRENCE, Ks. (AP) — Hunter Dickinson matched a career high with 33 points to lead Kansas past&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/ap-top-25-college-basketball-poll">No. 24</a>&nbsp;Arizona 83-76 on Saturday.

Zeke Mayo drilled five three-pointers and had 20 points while KJ Adams Jr. scored 12, including three dunks while the Jayhawks (20-11, 11-9 Big 12) built a 14-point first-half lead.

The Wildcats (20-11, 14-6) rallied for a brief lead before Dickinson took over, scoring 16 in the first half on 8-of-9 shooting, giving the Jayhawks a 39-30 halftime advantage.

Dickinson grabbed 10 rebounds for his 15th double-double of the year. He was 15 of 23 from the floor.

Jaden Bradley led Arizona with 21 points on 7-of-11 shooting and made all seven of his free-throw attempts. Caleb Love had 16 points and Trey Townsend scored 13 off the bench.

As Bradley and Love traded baskets, Arizona erased Kansas’ halftime advantage, taking a short-lived two-point lead at 68-66 with 6:02 to play. The pair combined for 26 second-half points.

Kansas has won 42 consecutive home finales and reached the 20-win mark for the 36th straight year.

Arizona has lost 5 of 8 since a six-game winning streak.

Adams tipped a rebound of Dickinson’s 3-point miss, then dunked an alley-oop pass for a 79-72 lead with 1:22. Adams had four dunks.

Kansas recorded 14 assists against one first-half turnover.

Arizona: Begins Big 12 Tournament play Thursday as the No. 2 or 3 seed.

Kansas: Begins Big 12 Tournament play Tuesday as No. 9 seed or Wednesday as No. 7 or 8 seed.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741477678993.png" alt="Photo Kansas athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Kansas athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>LAWRENCE, Ks. (AP) — Hunter Dickinson matched a career high with 33 points to lead Kansas past&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/ap-top-25-college-basketball-poll">No. 24</a>&nbsp;Arizona 83-76 on Saturday.Zeke Mayo drilled five three-pointers and had 20 points while KJ Adams Jr. scored 12, including three dunks while the Jayhawks (20-11, 11-9 Big 12) built a 14-point first-half lead.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741477727642.png" alt="photo Kansas athletics" />
 <figcaption>photo Kansas athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>The Wildcats (20-11, 14-6) rallied for a brief lead before Dickinson took over, scoring 16 in the first half on 8-of-9 shooting, giving the Jayhawks a 39-30 halftime advantage.Dickinson grabbed 10 rebounds for his 15th double-double of the year. He was 15 of 23 from the floor.Jaden Bradley led Arizona with 21 points on 7-of-11 shooting and made all seven of his free-throw attempts. Caleb Love had 16 points and Trey Townsend scored 13 off the bench.As Bradley and Love traded baskets, Arizona erased Kansas’ halftime advantage, taking a short-lived two-point lead at 68-66 with 6:02 to play. The pair combined for 26 second-half points.<h2>Takeaways</h2>Kansas has won 42 consecutive home finales and reached the 20-win mark for the 36th straight year.Arizona has lost 5 of 8 since a six-game winning streak.<h2>Key moment</h2>Adams tipped a rebound of Dickinson’s 3-point miss, then dunked an alley-oop pass for a 79-72 lead with 1:22. Adams had four dunks.<h2>Key stat</h2>Kansas recorded 14 assists against one first-half turnover.<h2>Up next</h2>Arizona: Begins Big 12 Tournament play Thursday as the No. 2 or 3 seed.Kansas: Begins Big 12 Tournament play Tuesday as No. 9 seed or Wednesday as No. 7 or 8 seed.

🏀 Dickinson's 33 points leads Kansas over Arizona 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741493532041.png" alt="Photo Courtesy Kansas State Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Kansas State Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure><div>Kansas State Athletics
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MANHATTAN, Kan. &ndash;&nbsp;K-State's five home runs, led by&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/baseball/roster/maximus-martin/12314" rel="smarttag" rev="12314">Maximus Martin's</a></dfn>&nbsp;grand slam in the first inning, powered K-State to a 17-5 walk-off, run-rule victory over William and Mary at Tointon Family Stadium to clinch the weekend series on Saturday. K-State (8-5) tallied season-highs in runs and extra-base hits (8) on its way to winning the first weekend series of the season. Four different Wildcats turned in multi-hit efforts and four carded multiple RBI. The Cats scored multiple runs in four separate frames, including 12 in the game's first three innings. &nbsp;&nbsp; "We're playing with great energy, and that's a difference maker in college baseball," said K-State's head coach&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/baseball/roster/coaches/pete-hughes/2603" rel="smarttag" rev="2603">Pete Hughes</a></dfn>. "I thought our guys did a great job controlling the energy and tempo of the game and setting the tone. Being consistent scoring four in the first three innings is not an easy task. Really happy with our offensive effort today &ndash; top to bottom. Martin, the Big 12 Player of the Week, became the first Wildcat to turn in a multi-homer game this season with his grand slam and three-run homer in the second. The Edgewater Park, N.J., product drove a game-leading eight runs batted in, finishing 2-for-4. "<dfn><a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/baseball/roster/maximus-martin/12314" rel="smarttag" rev="12314">Maximus Martin</a></dfn>&nbsp;set the tone for us, obviously. He had a monster day setting the tone like he did yesterday and got our offense going." <dfn><a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/baseball/roster/donte-lewis/12313" rel="smarttag" rev="12313">Donte Lewis</a></dfn>&nbsp;(2-0) was awarded the victory in relief, as the true freshman held the Tribe (4-10) to one earned run and allowed just two hits in his 3 1/3 innings of work. Lewis retired 11 of the 13 batters he faced in his fourth outing of the season, striking out a season-high five. K-State starter&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/baseball/roster/michael-quevedo/12322" rel="smarttag" rev="12322">Michael Quevedo</a></dfn>&nbsp;recorded a pair of punch outs on his way to retiring the side in the opening frame. Quevedo's day ended after 3 2/3 innings, with a season-high four earned runs surrendered on six hits. Both pitchers achieved above a 68% strike percentage. <dfn><a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/baseball/roster/ty-smolinski/12325" rel="smarttag" rev="12325">Ty Smolinski</a></dfn>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/baseball/roster/bear-madliak/12309" rel="smarttag" rev="12309">Bear Madliak</a></dfn>&nbsp;added to the Cats home run total with their solo shots while&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/baseball/roster/aj-evasco/12312" rel="smarttag" rev="12312">AJ Evasco</a></dfn>, who produced a season-high three hits (3-for-5), rounded out the Cats' home run count with his walk-off, three-run blast in the seventh. &nbsp; Eleven different Wildcats have hit the long ball this season, led by Maritn with five, while it is K-State's first five-home run game since May 31, 2024, against La Tech in the opening round of the NCAA Tournament. K-State has homered in nine of 13 games this season, including multiple in six. HOW IT HAPPENED After Quevedo retired the Tribe in order, K-State erupted for four runs in the opening frame. <dfn><a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/baseball/roster/nick-english/12292" rel="smarttag" rev="12292">Nick English</a></dfn>&nbsp;was issued a walk to lead off the home half of the inning and advanced to third on a double from&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/baseball/roster/kyan-lodice/12298" rel="smarttag" rev="12298">Kyan Lodice</a></dfn>.&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/baseball/roster/seth-dardar/12320" rel="smarttag" rev="12320">Seth Dardar</a></dfn>&nbsp;was clipped to load the bases and bring Martin to the plate. The junior shortstop turned on a 0-2 pitch and belted his fourth homer of the season into left field to clear the bases and hand K-State a 4-0 lead. WM's Christian Rush tacked a run onto the board with a leadoff solo shot in the second. K-State immediately answered in the bottom of the inning, as Smolinski launched his first collegiate hit and home run out to deep center field. After issuing a pair of walks, WM made a call to the bullpen and bring Daniel Lingle to the mound before Martin shelled his second homer of the game to expand the Cats lead 8-1. With four hits in the third frame, K-State stretched its lead into double figures, 12-1, &nbsp; WM scored three runs in the fourth, highlighted by back-to-back doubles from Owen Wilson and Kevin Francella. Lewis relieved Quevedo in the fourth, inheriting runners on first and second. The freshman from Pearland, Texas fanned the first batter he faced to get out of the jam. &nbsp; Leading 14-5, Evasco delivered his first collegiate three-run homer to center field to seal the walk-off victory. INSIDE THE BOX
<ul>
<li>K-State scored 17 runs on 13 hits, committed one error and left five runners on base.</li>
<li>WM scored five runs on eight hits, while committing two errors with six men left on base.</li>
<li>Eight different players generated a hit, led by Evasco (3-for-5).</li>
<li>Martin drove in a team-leading eight RBI.</li>
<li>Four different players homered &ndash; Maritn (2), Smolinski, Madliak, Evasco.</li>
<li>K-State hit five home runs including two from Martin (grand slam, 3-run).</li>
<li>English drew three walks.</li>
<li>Lewis (2-0) picked up the victory in relief, tossing 3 1/3 innings and allowing one earned run on two hits with five strikeouts.</li>
<li>Quevedo allowed four earned runs in his 3 2/3 inning start.</li>
<li>K-State hit .368 (7-for-19) with runners on and .333 (5-for-15) with men in scoring position.</li>
<li>WM went 4-for-13 (.308) with runners on base and was 1-for-5 in scoring position.</li>
</ul>
NOTES
<ul>
<li>K-State leads the all-time series, 2-0.</li>
<li>The Cats are 7-3 in their last 10 outings, with a four-game winning streak.</li>
<li>Martin becomes the first Wildcat this season to produce a multi-home run game this season (Last:&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/baseball/roster/chuck-ingram/11526" rel="smarttag" rev="11526">Chuck Ingram</a></dfn>&nbsp;vs. La Tech, May 31, 2024).</li>
<li>Martin homered for the third consecutive game with his grand slam, recording the first K-State grand slam (Last:&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/baseball/roster/nick-english/12292" rel="smarttag" rev="12292">Nick English</a></dfn>&nbsp;vs. UMass Lowell on March 2, 2024).</li>
<li>Smolinski became the fourth to make their first collegiate start, and third true freshmen.</li>
<li>K-State has produced multi-home run games in 4 of the last 5 games - six overall on the season.</li>
<li>Cats hit five homers for the first time May 31, 2024 (vs. La Tech).</li>
<li>Eleven different players have homered this season.</li>
</ul>
UP NEXT Sunday's series finale is scheduled for 11 a.m. at Tointon Family Stadium and can be seen on ESPN+, while a free live streaming audio available for all games at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/watch/?Live=3268&amp;type=Archive">KStateSports.com/watch</a>&nbsp;and on the K-State Sports app. Season and single-game tickets are now available. To purchase season tickets, fans can visit KStateSports.com, call 1-800-221-CATS (2287), or stop by the K-State Athletics Ticket Office in Bramlage Coliseum.</div>

⚾ K-State launches five homers to clinch series

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741493315506.png" alt="Photo Courtesy Kansas Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Kansas Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure><div>Kansas Athletics
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WACO, Texas&nbsp;&ndash;&nbsp;The Jayhawks secured their first conference win of the season with a 3-2 victory over Baylor, evening the series at 1-1 in a game that came down to Baylor's final batter.&nbsp;<a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/olivia-bruno/6949" data-airgap-id="70">Olivia Bruno</a>&nbsp;delivered a standout performance, excelling in pitching, fielding, and crushing a home run that gave Kansas an early lead. "I'm extremely proud of Bruno today. We needed her bat, and she delivered in the first inning with a big two-run bomb that gave us an early lead. But what stood out even more was her performance in the circle. She was really strong, and we needed every bit of that to keep Baylor at bay. Her ability to compete in both aspects of the game really showed her value to the team today," Head Coach&nbsp;<a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/coaches/jennifer-mcfalls/526" data-airgap-id="71">Jennifer McFalls</a>&nbsp;said. "I'm also proud of the entire team. We didn't get the hits we were looking for, but we jumped on it early, which was exactly what we challenged them to do. It was a team effort, and everyone stepped up when we needed them." The Jayhawks wasted no time making their presence felt in their first at-bat, jumping out to an early lead.&nbsp;<a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/olivia-bruno/6949" data-airgap-id="72">Olivia Bruno</a>&nbsp;launched a two-run home run, driving in&nbsp;<a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/hailey-cripe/6977" data-airgap-id="73">Hailey Cripe</a>&nbsp;and giving Kansas a quick 2-0 advantage. Following her blast over the fence, Bruno also took the circle for Kansas, giving Baylor a different look. She efficiently retired three batters on 21 pitches, quickly sending the Jayhawks back to the plate for another scoring opportunity. Kansas answered when&nbsp;<a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/anna-soles/6934" data-airgap-id="74">Anna Soles</a>&nbsp;singled to first base, bringing in Hays, a prime base stealer, to pinch-run. On back-to-back wild pitches by the Baylor pitcher, Hays easily scored, extending the lead to 3-0. Baylor put pressure on the Jayhawks by loading the bases with a runner on first. However,&nbsp;<a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/olivia-bruno/6949" data-airgap-id="75">Olivia Bruno</a>&nbsp;fielded a double play, transitioning the ball from second to first for two quick outs. The next batter grounded out softly to second, ending the threat. The score remained unchanged through five innings. Despite Baylor's efforts to put base runners on each inning, the defense behind Bruno continued to excel, leaving the Bears stranded and scoreless. . In the bottom of the sixth, the Bears threatened again. This time, Baylor managed to get a run across after hitting a deep double to left field, cutting into the Jayhawks' lead and making the score 3-1. It all came down to the final inning for Kansas, with the defense needing to stay solid. The first out came on a strikeout by Bruno, followed by a pop-up to second for the second out. With the bases loaded, Junior&nbsp;<a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/lizzy-ludwig/6881" data-airgap-id="76">Lizzy Ludwig</a>&nbsp;entered to pitch and take on the challenge against the Bears. Baylor managed to push a run across on a walk, but an unfazed Ludwig fielded her position on the next at-bat, securing KU's first conference win of the season with a 3-2&nbsp; victory. Pitchers of Record Win:&nbsp;<a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/olivia-bruno/6949">Olivia Bruno</a>&nbsp; Line: 6.2 IP, 6 H, 2 R, 6 BB, 4 SO Save:&nbsp;<a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/lizzy-ludwig/6881">Lizzy Ludwig</a>&nbsp; Loss: Lexia Warncke&nbsp; Line: 1.2 IP, 3 H, 3 R, 1 BB, 1 SO Up Next Kansas will conclude its three-game series against Baylor tomorrow at 12 p.m. CT, aiming to secure its first conference series win of the season.
&nbsp;</div>

🥎 Kansas secures first conference win of season, evens series against Baylor

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741497572319.png" alt="Photo Courtesy Wichita State Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Wichita State Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure><div>Wichita State Athletics
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WICHITA, Kan. --&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/grant-adler/9422" rel="smarttag" rev="9422" data-airgap-id="58">Grant Adler</a></dfn>&nbsp;struck out 10 over seven innings of one-run ball and&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/jace-miner/9423" rel="smarttag" rev="9423" data-airgap-id="59">Jace Miner</a></dfn>&nbsp;slammed the door with three strikeouts in the ninth as Wichita State secured a series win with a 4-2 victory over Missouri State on Saturday afternoon at Eck Stadium. Adler (1-0) allowed just four hits and did not walk a batter, finishing one off his career high in strikeouts. The redshirt senior retired the first 10 hitters he faced and closed his outing by setting down the final five Bears, including consecutive strikeouts to end the seventh. Wichita State (5-9) gave Adler all the run support he would need with three runs worth of small ball in the bottom of the fourth inning. After a single, double and walk loaded the bases with nobody out, the Shockers got consecutive run-scoring groundouts&nbsp;from&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/ryan-callahan/9175" rel="smarttag" rev="9175" data-airgap-id="60">Ryan Callahan</a></dfn>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/jaden-gustafson/9178" rel="smarttag" rev="9178" data-airgap-id="61">Jaden Gustafson</a></dfn>&nbsp;to take a 2-0 lead. A&nbsp;hit by pitch put two on base for&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/jordan-rogers/9191" rel="smarttag" rev="9191" data-airgap-id="62">Jordan Rogers</a></dfn>, who placed a perfect bunt down the third base line, adding another run on the RBI single for a 3-0 lead. Missouri State (5-6) got their lone run against Adler in the sixth when Caden&nbsp;Bogenpohl singled with one out and came around to score on a double to right-center off the bat of Taeg Gollert, cutting the WSU lead to 3-1. The Bears threatened late against the Shocker bullpen, pulling to within 3-2 on a&nbsp;Bogenpohl&nbsp;RBI single in the eighth, but WSU reliever&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/jace-miner/9423" rel="smarttag" rev="9423" data-airgap-id="63">Jace Miner</a></dfn>&nbsp;induced a double play to end the inning and then pitched around a leadoff double in the ninth with three straight strikeouts to record his first save of the season. WSU manufactured an insurance run in the bottom of the eighth thanks to some Missouri State charity.&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/josh-livingston/9185" rel="smarttag" rev="9185" data-airgap-id="64">Josh Livingston</a></dfn>&nbsp;reached on a dropped third strike, advanced to second on a throwing error and third on a fly ball before reliever Kaleb Thomas bounced a wild pitch, scoring Livingston for the final margin. Starter Jackson Holmes (1-3) took the loss for Missouri State, allowing three runs in just 3.2 innings with three walks and three strikeouts. The Shockers finished with just four hits on the day, two from&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/camden-johnson/9183" rel="smarttag" rev="9183" data-airgap-id="65">Camden Johnson</a></dfn>&nbsp;and one apiece from Rogers and Livingston. The series concludes on Sunday morning, with first pitch of game three scheduled for 11:30 am CT.</div>

⚾ Dominate Adler lifts Shockers to series win

MANHATTAN, Kan. (AP) — Curtis Jones scored 24 points to lead&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/ap-top-25-college-basketball-poll">No. 10</a>&nbsp;Iowa State past Kansas State 73-57 on Saturday.

The Cyclones (23-8, 13-7 Big 12) led wire-to-wire. They got 14 points from Joshua Jefferson and 11 points from Dishon Jackson.

Kansas State (15-16, 9-11) was led by senior David N'Guessan with 19 points. Dug McDaniel had 14 points.

The Wildcats shot just 37.7% from the field and 9.5% from 3-point range.

Iowa State: The Cyclones remembered the first meeting between the two teams, when they jumped out to an early lead only to see the Wildcats take an 80-61 win, snapping the Cyclones' 29-game home winning streak. The Cyclones led by 11 early in the first half and never allowed the Wildcats back in the game.

Kansas State: The Wildcats need to find consistency to even have a chance at postseason play.

Kansas State closed the first half on an 8-0 run to trim the halftime deficit to 34-26. But the Wildcats couldn't carry the momentum into the second half. After K-State got within 6 points, the Cyclones went on an 11-0 run to grab their largest lead to that point in the game.

The Cyclones took advantage of their opponent's mistakes, earning a 22-6 advantage in points off turnovers.

Both teams will appear in the Big 12 Tournament, with the pairings announced later Saturday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741470965409.png" alt="Photo K-State Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo K-State Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>MANHATTAN, Kan. (AP) — Curtis Jones scored 24 points to lead&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/ap-top-25-college-basketball-poll">No. 10</a>&nbsp;Iowa State past Kansas State 73-57 on Saturday.The Cyclones (23-8, 13-7 Big 12) led wire-to-wire. They got 14 points from Joshua Jefferson and 11 points from Dishon Jackson.Kansas State (15-16, 9-11) was led by senior David N'Guessan with 19 points. Dug McDaniel had 14 points.The Wildcats shot just 37.7% from the field and 9.5% from 3-point range.<h2>Takeaways</h2>Iowa State: The Cyclones remembered the first meeting between the two teams, when they jumped out to an early lead only to see the Wildcats take an 80-61 win, snapping the Cyclones' 29-game home winning streak. The Cyclones led by 11 early in the first half and never allowed the Wildcats back in the game.Kansas State: The Wildcats need to find consistency to even have a chance at postseason play.<h2>Key moment</h2>Kansas State closed the first half on an 8-0 run to trim the halftime deficit to 34-26. But the Wildcats couldn't carry the momentum into the second half. After K-State got within 6 points, the Cyclones went on an 11-0 run to grab their largest lead to that point in the game.<h2>Key stat</h2>The Cyclones took advantage of their opponent's mistakes, earning a 22-6 advantage in points off turnovers.<h2>Up next</h2>Both teams will appear in the Big 12 Tournament, with the pairings announced later Saturday.

🏀 Jones scores 24 to lead Iowa State past Kansas State

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741279495945.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy NJCAA" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy NJCAA</figcaption>
 </figure><div><h1>Region VI Women's First Round (Saturday, March 8)</h1>
<h3>Games played at higher seeds</h3>
No. 5 Cowley vs. No. 12 Independence, 1 p.m.
No. 8 Barton vs. No. 9 Garden City, 2 p.m.
No. 7 Cloud County vs. No. 10 Colby, 2 p.m.
No. 6 Seward County vs. No. 11 Pratt, 7 p.m.
&nbsp;
<h1>Region VI Men's First Round (Saturday, March 8)</h1>
<h3>Games played at higher seeds</h3>
No. 6 Colby vs. No. 11 Cloud County, 2 p.m.
No. 5 Butler vs. No. 12 Pratt,&nbsp; 4 p.m.
No. 7 Garden City vs. No. 10 Independence, 4 p.m.
No. 8 Fort Hays Tech NW vs. No. 9 Dodge City, 6:30 p.m. CST
&nbsp;
<h1>Region VI Women's&nbsp;Second Round (Tuesday, March 11)</h1>
<h3>Games played at higher seeds</h3>
No.&nbsp;1 Dodge City vs. Barton-Garden City winner
No. 2 Hutchinson vs. Cloud County-Colby winner
No. 3 Coffeyville vs. Seward County-Pratt winner
No. 4 Butler vs. Cowley-Independence winner
&nbsp;
<h1>Region VI Men's&nbsp;Second Round (Tuesday, March 11)</h1>
<h3>Games played at higher seeds</h3>
No. 1 Cowley vs. Fort Hays Tech NW-Dodge City winner
No. 2 Coffeyville vs. Garden City-Independence winner
No. 3 Barton vs. Colby-Cloud County winner
No. 4 Hutchinson vs. Butler-Pratt winner</div>

🏀 Region VI Tournament begins today; both HutchCC teams receive bye

HAYS, Kan. - Hays High and Hutchinson girls met in the class 5A sub-state Championship on Friday night to battle for a spot in the 5A State Basketball Tournament. The Salthawks had a brief lead early at 4-0, but the wheels quickly came off at the start of the second quarter as Hays eliminated the Salthawks 56 to 17 ending a 29 year drought of qualifying for State for the Indians.

Hutchinson scored the first four points of the game. It took the Indians nearly three minutes to put anything on their side of the scoreboard. Katie Linenberger hit a pair of free throws and start the Indians scoring..

Hays held the Salthawks scoreless for the remainder of the quarter for an 8-4 lead after the first eight minutes. The second quarter belonged to the Indians. Linenberger scored the first six points of the frame forcing a Hutchinson timeout.

The Salthawks scored out of the time out for their only points of the second quarter. Molly Buckles scored the final two points of the quarter right before the buzzer to polish off a 13-0 run and a 27-6 halftime lead.

Hutch was led by Kaia Smith's seven points. Grace Posh and Clara Ontjes had three each, Ava Krone and Kohlbie Craft finished out the Salthawks scoring with two points each.

The Indians Molly Martin scored 16, Jenna Schmeidler had 15, Zoe Winter added 11 and Katie Linenberger chipped in 10. The Indians are 22-0 setting a record for their most wins in a season.

Seniors Grace Posh, Lily Rodriquez and Kaia Smith finished off their season at 15 and 8 including one the first times Hutchinson has reached the sub-state championship game in recent seasons.

Posh finishes her career with 971 points scored over her four seasons. Posh has committed to Seward County Community College to begin her college career.

Rodriquez will compete on the Hutch High Golf team this spring before enrolling at Hutchinson Community College in the fall.

Smith is undecided where she will play but has had several offers to continue her athletic career at the next level.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741440872076.jpeg" alt="Salthawk Girls drop sub-state championship game to Hays 56-17 on Friday, March 7th, 2025" />
 <figcaption>Salthawk Girls drop sub-state championship game to Hays 56-17 on Friday, March 7th, 2025</figcaption>
 </figure>HAYS, Kan. - Hays High and Hutchinson girls met in the class 5A sub-state Championship on Friday night to battle for a spot in the 5A State Basketball Tournament. The Salthawks had a brief lead early at 4-0, but the wheels quickly came off at the start of the second quarter as Hays eliminated the Salthawks 56 to 17 ending a 29 year drought of qualifying for State for the Indians.Hutchinson scored the first four points of the game. It took the Indians nearly three minutes to put anything on their side of the scoreboard. Katie Linenberger hit a pair of free throws and start the Indians scoring..Hays held the Salthawks scoreless for the remainder of the quarter for an 8-4 lead after the first eight minutes. The second quarter belonged to the Indians. Linenberger scored the first six points of the frame forcing a Hutchinson timeout.The Salthawks scored out of the time out for their only points of the second quarter. Molly Buckles scored the final two points of the quarter right before the buzzer to polish off a 13-0 run and a 27-6 halftime lead.Hutch was led by Kaia Smith's seven points. Grace Posh and Clara Ontjes had three each, Ava Krone and Kohlbie Craft finished out the Salthawks scoring with two points each.The Indians Molly Martin scored 16, Jenna Schmeidler had 15, Zoe Winter added 11 and Katie Linenberger chipped in 10. The Indians are 22-0 setting a record for their most wins in a season.Seniors Grace Posh, Lily Rodriquez and Kaia Smith finished off their season at 15 and 8 including one the first times Hutchinson has reached the sub-state championship game in recent seasons.Posh finishes her career with 971 points scored over her four seasons. Posh has committed to Seward County Community College to begin her college career.Rodriquez will compete on the Hutch High Golf team this spring before enrolling at Hutchinson Community College in the fall.Smith is undecided where she will play but has had several offers to continue her athletic career at the next level.

🏀 Hutch High Girls season comes to an end; Hays High advances to state for the first time in 29 seasons

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741019551612.png" alt="EAGLE Media High School Basketball Sub-State Scoreboard" />
 <figcaption>EAGLE Media High School Basketball Sub-State Scoreboard</figcaption>
 </figure><div><h1>Saturday, March&nbsp;8</h1>
<h2>4A&nbsp;Girls</h2>
[2] Buhler (17-4)&nbsp;vs. [10] Towanda-Circle (10-11), 5 p.m. [West sub-state championship]
[9]&nbsp;McPherson&nbsp;(10-11) at [1] Wellington (20-1),&nbsp;5 p.m. [West sub-state championship]
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<h2>3A Boys</h2>
[4]&nbsp;Haven (19-3)&nbsp;vs. [1] Cheney (20-1),&nbsp;6:30 p.m. [Halstead sub-state #1 championship]
[2] Hesston (19-2) vs. [6] Council Grove (14-7),&nbsp;5 p.m. [Halstead sub-state #2 championship]
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<h2>2A Boys</h2>
[1] Sterling (18-3) vs. [5] Stanton County (15-6), 2:30 p.m. [Sublette sub-state #1 championship]
&nbsp;
<h2>2A Girls</h2>
[1] Moundridge (20-2)&nbsp;vs. [5]&nbsp;Whitewater-Remington (17-5), 6:30 p.m. [Moundridge sub-state #1 championship]
[3] Inman (18-3)&nbsp;vs. [2] Bennington (19-3),&nbsp;5 p.m. [Moundridge sub-state #2 championship]
&nbsp;&nbsp;
<h2>1A-I Boys</h2>
[1] Little River (14-6) vs.&nbsp;[2] Oxford (16-3), 6:30 p.m. [Canton-Galva sub-state #2 championship]
&nbsp;
<h2>1A-II Boys</h2>
[9] Hutchinson-Central Christian (10-10) vs. [5] Sharon Springs-Wallace County (12-8), 5 p.m. [Dighton sub-state #2 championship]
[1] McPherson-Elyria Christian (16-4)&nbsp;vs. [4] South Haven (12-8), 6:30 p.m. [McPherson-Elyria Christian sub-state #1 championship @ Central Christian College]</div>

🏀 Hutch Post area sub-state schedule for March 8

IRVING, Texas (AP) — The Big 12 has moved six of its conference football games to Friday nights next fall, along with another matchup of league teams that won’t count in the standings.

Those were among the&nbsp;<a href="https://big12sports.com/news/2025/3/7/big-12-announces-2025-football-friday-game-selections.aspx" target="_blank">10 games involving Big 12 teams</a>&nbsp;selected Friday by the league’s television partners, ESPN and Fox, for Friday night broadcasts. There will be two games on three of those nights.

On the opening weekend of the season, Baylor will host SEC team Auburn, and Colorado will be home against ACC team Georgia Tech on Aug. 29. Arizona plays at Arizona State and Utah is at Kansas on Nov. 28, the day after Thanksgiving.

There will also be two games Sept. 12, with Colorado at Houston, and Kansas State at Arizona. That matchup of Wildcats won’t count in the Big 12 standings since it part of a pre-existing schedule agreement between the two teams before the league expanded to 16 teams last year.

The other four Friday night games are Tulsa at Oklahoma State (Sept. 19), TCU at Arizona State (Sept. 26), West Virginia at BYU (Oct. 3), and Houston at UCF (Nov. 7).

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688593258929.png" alt="Photo Courtesy Big 12 Conference" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Big 12 Conference</figcaption>
 </figure>IRVING, Texas (AP) — The Big 12 has moved six of its conference football games to Friday nights next fall, along with another matchup of league teams that won’t count in the standings.Those were among the&nbsp;<a href="https://big12sports.com/news/2025/3/7/big-12-announces-2025-football-friday-game-selections.aspx" target="_blank">10 games involving Big 12 teams</a>&nbsp;selected Friday by the league’s television partners, ESPN and Fox, for Friday night broadcasts. There will be two games on three of those nights.On the opening weekend of the season, Baylor will host SEC team Auburn, and Colorado will be home against ACC team Georgia Tech on Aug. 29. Arizona plays at Arizona State and Utah is at Kansas on Nov. 28, the day after Thanksgiving.There will also be two games Sept. 12, with Colorado at Houston, and Kansas State at Arizona. That matchup of Wildcats won’t count in the Big 12 standings since it part of a pre-existing schedule agreement between the two teams before the league expanded to 16 teams last year.The other four Friday night games are Tulsa at Oklahoma State (Sept. 19), TCU at Arizona State (Sept. 26), West Virginia at BYU (Oct. 3), and Houston at UCF (Nov. 7).

🏈 Big 12 Conference moves 10 football games to Fridays next fall

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — JJ Quinerly made a critical steal to set up her game-winning basket and scored 24 points to lift No. 16 West Virginia to a 73-69 win over No. 20 Kansas State in the quarterfinals of the Big 12 Tournament on Friday.

The Wildcats attempted a sideline inbounds lob into the key when Quinerly soared in to intercept the ball with a minute to go.&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/WVUWBB/status/1898085411194282080" target="_blank">She then drove into the lane for a floater that put West Virginia on top 71-69</a>&nbsp;with 44.2 seconds remaining.

Temira Poindexter missed a wide-open 3 from the right sideline before Sydney Shaw iced it with two free throws.

The fourth-seeded Mountaineers face the winner of Colorado and TCU in Saturday’s semifinals.

Jordan Harrison scored 17 of her 19 points in the second half for West Virginia (24-6). Shaw added 13 points and Jordan Thomas 11.

<a href="https://x.com/KStateWBB/status/1898084402535559217" target="_blank">Reserve Kennedy Taylor scored 21 points on 9-of-9 shooting</a>&nbsp;for the Wildcats (26-7). Poindexter scored 16 points and Serena Sundell added 10 with nine assists, giving her a KSU single-season record 233.

The Wildcats made 13 of 15 shots (87%), including 5 of 6 behind the arc to race to a 33-23 lead. Quinerly had 15 at halftime as the Mountaineers were within 44-36.

Harrison had 11 points in the third quarter and hit a basket to give the Mountaineers their first lead 54-53. But after she made two free throws with four seconds left, Poindexter drilled a long 3 at the buzzer and Kansas State led 58-56 entering the fourth.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741373689598.png" alt="Photo Courtesy Kansas State Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Kansas State Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — JJ Quinerly made a critical steal to set up her game-winning basket and scored 24 points to lift No. 16 West Virginia to a 73-69 win over No. 20 Kansas State in the quarterfinals of the Big 12 Tournament on Friday.The Wildcats attempted a sideline inbounds lob into the key when Quinerly soared in to intercept the ball with a minute to go.&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/WVUWBB/status/1898085411194282080" target="_blank">She then drove into the lane for a floater that put West Virginia on top 71-69</a>&nbsp;with 44.2 seconds remaining.Temira Poindexter missed a wide-open 3 from the right sideline before Sydney Shaw iced it with two free throws.The fourth-seeded Mountaineers face the winner of Colorado and TCU in Saturday’s semifinals.Jordan Harrison scored 17 of her 19 points in the second half for West Virginia (24-6). Shaw added 13 points and Jordan Thomas 11.<a href="https://x.com/KStateWBB/status/1898084402535559217" target="_blank">Reserve Kennedy Taylor scored 21 points on 9-of-9 shooting</a>&nbsp;for the Wildcats (26-7). Poindexter scored 16 points and Serena Sundell added 10 with nine assists, giving her a KSU single-season record 233.The Wildcats made 13 of 15 shots (87%), including 5 of 6 behind the arc to race to a 33-23 lead. Quinerly had 15 at halftime as the Mountaineers were within 44-36.Harrison had 11 points in the third quarter and hit a basket to give the Mountaineers their first lead 54-53. But after she made two free throws with four seconds left, Poindexter drilled a long 3 at the buzzer and Kansas State led 58-56 entering the fourth.

🏀 K-State women eliminated from Big 12 Tournament by West Virginia

HAYS, Kan. — The Hutchinson High Salthawk girls continue sub-state play on the road tonight, taking on the Hays High Indians in the Class 5A West Sub-State Championship. Hutch High (15-6) enters as the No. 8 seed, while Hays High (21-0) holds the No. 1 seed.

The winner will advance to the Kansas Class 5A Girls State Tournament next week in Emporia.

Radio Broadcast: Catch all the action on <a href="https://radio.securenetsystems.net/v5/KWBW">KWBW Radio (1450 AM/98.5 FM)</a> with the award-winning EAGLE Media sportscast crew. Play-by-play announcer Glen Grunwald, recently named KSHSAA Sportscaster of the Year, will be joined by color analyst Dan "Coach Nac" Naccarato.

Pregame coverage begins at 5:45 p.m., with tipoff set for 6 p.m.

Fans can listen live on HutchPost.com or kwbwradio.com. The free KWBW app is also available for download on the Apple App Store and Google Play.

Video Streaming: The game will be available as a pay-per-view stream on the <a href="https://www.nfhsnetwork.com/events/kshsaa/gamfb938855b8">Hays High NFHS Network channel</a> OR&nbsp;<a href="https://fan.hudl.com/usa/ks/hays/organization/2455/hays-high-school/team/8207/girls-varsity-basketball">Hudl.tv Hays High Channel</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741335897190.jpeg" alt="Hutch High Girls @ Hays High Sub-State Championship March 7th- 2025." />
 <figcaption>Hutch High Girls @ Hays High Sub-State Championship March 7th- 2025.</figcaption>
 </figure>HAYS, Kan. — The Hutchinson High Salthawk girls continue sub-state play on the road tonight, taking on the Hays High Indians in the Class 5A West Sub-State Championship. Hutch High (15-6) enters as the No. 8 seed, while Hays High (21-0) holds the No. 1 seed.The winner will advance to the Kansas Class 5A Girls State Tournament next week in Emporia.Radio Broadcast: Catch all the action on <a href="https://radio.securenetsystems.net/v5/KWBW">KWBW Radio (1450 AM/98.5 FM)</a> with the award-winning EAGLE Media sportscast crew. Play-by-play announcer Glen Grunwald, recently named KSHSAA Sportscaster of the Year, will be joined by color analyst Dan "Coach Nac" Naccarato.Pregame coverage begins at 5:45 p.m., with tipoff set for 6 p.m.Fans can listen live on HutchPost.com or kwbwradio.com. The free KWBW app is also available for download on the Apple App Store and Google Play.Video Streaming: The game will be available as a pay-per-view stream on the <a href="https://www.nfhsnetwork.com/events/kshsaa/gamfb938855b8">Hays High NFHS Network channel</a> OR&nbsp;<a href="https://fan.hudl.com/usa/ks/hays/organization/2455/hays-high-school/team/8207/girls-varsity-basketball">Hudl.tv Hays High Channel</a>.Girls Game vs Hays High on hudl.tv:<div><iframe src="https://vcloud.hudl.com/broadcast/embed/2253952?autoplay=1" width="640" height="360" allow="fullscreen;" style="border:0;overflow:hidden;"></iframe></div>

🎧🎥🏀 Hutch High girls travel to Hays for sub-state championship

LAWRENCE, Kan. —&nbsp;Kansas men's basketball signee Darryn Peterson has been named the 2025 Jersey Mike's Naismith Boys High School Player of the Year, the Atlanta Tipoff Club announced today.

Peterson is the third Jayhawk to win the Naismith Boys High School Player of the Year honor joining Andrew Wiggins in 2013 and Cliff Alexander in 2014. The award started in 1987.

A 6-foot-5 guard from Canton, Ohio, Peterson is nationally ranked No. 2 by ESPN.com and 247Sports.com, and No. 3 by Rivals.com and On3.com. A 2025 McDonald's All-American, Peterson is playing his senior prep season at Prolific Prep in Napa, California, where he averages 30.4 points, 6.8 rebounds, 7.4 assists and 2.2 steals per game. He shoots&nbsp;52 percent from the field and 86 percent from the free throw line as Prolific Prep has posted a 28-5 record.

Peterson played his first two years of high school basketball at Cuyahoga Falls High School in Cuyahoga, Ohio, and then transferred to Huntington Prep in West Virginia in 2023-24 before moving on to Prolific Prep. He played club basketball for Phenom United where he averaged 28.2 points, 7.2 rebounds, 4.6 assists, 4.2 steals and 3.0 blocked shot per game this past summer in the Adidas 3Stripes Select league.

In 2023, Peterson won a gold medal with USA Basketball at the FIBA Under-16 Americas Championship in Merida, Yucatan, Mexico. At the championship, Peterson averaged 16.8 points, 3.8 rebounds, 3.7 assists and 3.3 steals in earning all-tournament honors.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741369343910.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy Kansas Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Kansas Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas AthleticsLAWRENCE, Kan. —&nbsp;Kansas men's basketball signee Darryn Peterson has been named the 2025 Jersey Mike's Naismith Boys High School Player of the Year, the Atlanta Tipoff Club announced today.Peterson is the third Jayhawk to win the Naismith Boys High School Player of the Year honor joining Andrew Wiggins in 2013 and Cliff Alexander in 2014. The award started in 1987.A 6-foot-5 guard from Canton, Ohio, Peterson is nationally ranked No. 2 by ESPN.com and 247Sports.com, and No. 3 by Rivals.com and On3.com. A 2025 McDonald's All-American, Peterson is playing his senior prep season at Prolific Prep in Napa, California, where he averages 30.4 points, 6.8 rebounds, 7.4 assists and 2.2 steals per game. He shoots&nbsp;52 percent from the field and 86 percent from the free throw line as Prolific Prep has posted a 28-5 record.Peterson played his first two years of high school basketball at Cuyahoga Falls High School in Cuyahoga, Ohio, and then transferred to Huntington Prep in West Virginia in 2023-24 before moving on to Prolific Prep. He played club basketball for Phenom United where he averaged 28.2 points, 7.2 rebounds, 4.6 assists, 4.2 steals and 3.0 blocked shot per game this past summer in the Adidas 3Stripes Select league.In 2023, Peterson won a gold medal with USA Basketball at the FIBA Under-16 Americas Championship in Merida, Yucatan, Mexico. At the championship, Peterson averaged 16.8 points, 3.8 rebounds, 3.7 assists and 3.3 steals in earning all-tournament honors.&nbsp;&nbsp;

🏀 KU signee named National High School Player of the Year

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741363887547.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy Kansas Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Kansas Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas Athletics<div>LAWRENCE, Kan. &ndash;&nbsp;Kansas football will play its regular season finale vs. Utah at David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium on Friday, Nov. 28, the Big 12 Conference announced on Friday. Kickoff time and tv designations will be announced at a later date. &nbsp; Kansas' matchup with Utah will be the final of seven home games played at the new David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium. It will be the first meeting between the two teams as members of the Big 12 Conference, while Kansas and Utah last met in 1996. The series history between the Jayhawks and the Utes dates back to 1950, in a series that is tied 2-2 all-time. &nbsp; The Jayhawks will also play host to Fresno State (Aug. 23), Wagner (Fri., Aug. 29), West Virginia (Sept. 20), Cincinnati (Sept. 27), Kansas State (Oct. 25) and Oklahoma State (Nov. 1) during the 2025 season. &nbsp; Kansas football enters Leipold's fifth season in Lawrence featuring a talented roster led by senior quarterback&nbsp;<a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/football/roster/jalon-daniels/1362">Jalon Daniels</a>. Daniels started all 12 games for the Jayhawks last season and finished strong, leading the team to wins in three of its final four games, including three straight wins over ranked opponents. &nbsp; Kansas also welcomes back several accomplished starters on the offensive and defensive lines in&nbsp;<a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/football/roster/bryce-foster/15525">Bryce Foster</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/football/roster/kobe-baynes/1448">Kobe Baynes</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/football/roster/dean-miller/1429">Dean Miller</a>, Tommy Dunn and DJ Withers, among others, along with a nationally recognized transfer class and a group of emerging playmakers poised to make a difference in 2025. &nbsp; Fans looking to experience the new David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium can purchase a full seven-game season ticket package beginning at $350, with&nbsp;<a href="https://admin.kuathletics.com/feature/2025-Season-Tickets">more information available here</a>. As part of the per-seat donation model beginning in 2025-26, fans will see an all-in price that includes the cost of the ticket, the annual donation associated with the seating location, plus applicable taxes and fees. For more information on the Per-Seat Donation model,&nbsp;<a href="https://admin.kuathletics.com/feature/PSD">click here</a>, or&nbsp;<a href="https://forms.fanthreesixty.com/2025_football_ticket_interest_form?mnemonic=ku">submit an interest</a>&nbsp;form to be contacted by a member of the sales team.&nbsp; Parking pricing and information will be released at a later date prior to select-a-seat.</div>

🏈 KU game against Utah moved to Nov. 28

<a>MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;–</a>&nbsp;The Big 12 Conference and its television partners announced Friday that Kansas State’s non-conference football game at Arizona originally scheduled for Saturday, September 13, will now be played on Friday, September 12.

The game will be shown on either an ESPN or FOX network, and the game time and network designation will be announced at a later date.

Kansas State will play at Arizona for the eighth time in school history and will play in Tucson for the first time since defeating Wyoming in the 1993 Copper Bowl. K-State won the battle of the Wildcats last season, 31-9, in the first game of a home-and-home non-conference series that was scheduled prior to Arizona joining the Big 12.

Season tickets for Kansas State’s six-game 2025 home slate&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kstatesports.com/news/2025/3/3/2025-football-season-ticket-information-announced">are on sale now</a>&nbsp;by visiting&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.k-statesports.com/tickets">www.k-statesports.com/tickets</a>&nbsp;or by calling 1-800-221-CATS.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741363755052.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy Kansas State Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Kansas State Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas State Athletics<a>MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;–</a>&nbsp;The Big 12 Conference and its television partners announced Friday that Kansas State’s non-conference football game at Arizona originally scheduled for Saturday, September 13, will now be played on Friday, September 12.The game will be shown on either an ESPN or FOX network, and the game time and network designation will be announced at a later date.Kansas State will play at Arizona for the eighth time in school history and will play in Tucson for the first time since defeating Wyoming in the 1993 Copper Bowl. K-State won the battle of the Wildcats last season, 31-9, in the first game of a home-and-home non-conference series that was scheduled prior to Arizona joining the Big 12.Season tickets for Kansas State’s six-game 2025 home slate&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kstatesports.com/news/2025/3/3/2025-football-season-ticket-information-announced">are on sale now</a>&nbsp;by visiting&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.k-statesports.com/tickets">www.k-statesports.com/tickets</a>&nbsp;or by calling 1-800-221-CATS.

🏈 K-State’s game at Arizona moved to Sept.12

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson High School athletic director Steve Kappenman announced on Friday morning that Hutch High graduate, Cidy Vargas has been named the next boys head soccer coach for the Salthawks.

Vargas had been an assistant coach for both the girls and boys programs at HHS.

Vargas takes over for Tyler Lawrence, who helped guide the Salthawks to an 11-4-2 record this past fall. The 11 wins were four more than Hutch High had during the 2023 season.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741363565075.png" alt="Photo Courtesy Hutchinson High School Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Hutchinson High School Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson High School athletic director Steve Kappenman announced on Friday morning that Hutch High graduate, Cidy Vargas has been named the next boys head soccer coach for the Salthawks.Vargas had been an assistant coach for both the girls and boys programs at HHS.Vargas takes over for Tyler Lawrence, who helped guide the Salthawks to an 11-4-2 record this past fall. The 11 wins were four more than Hutch High had during the 2023 season.

⚽ Hutch High alum Vargas named Salthawk boys coach

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741019551612.png" alt="EAGLE Media High School Basketball Sub-State Scoreboard" />
 <figcaption>EAGLE Media High School Basketball Sub-State Scoreboard</figcaption>
 </figure><div><h1>Friday, March&nbsp;7</h1>
<h2>5A&nbsp;Girls</h2>
[8] Hutchinson (15-6) at [1] Hays High (21-0),&nbsp;6 p.m. [West sub-state championship]
&nbsp;
<h2>4A Boys</h2>
[3]&nbsp;Pratt (16-5) vs. [6] Clay Center (15-6),&nbsp;7 p.m. [West sub-state championship]
&nbsp;
<h2>3A Girls</h2>
[1] Hesston (21-0) vs. [4] Riley County (16-5), 7:30 p.m. [Halstead sub-state #1 championship]
[2] Halstead (20-1) vs. [11] Marysville (11-11), 6 p.m. [Halstead sub-state #2 championship]
&nbsp;
<h2>2A Boys</h2>
[1] Moundridge (22-0) vs. [4]&nbsp;Berean Academy (16-6), 7:30 p.m. [Moundridge sub-state #1 championship]
&nbsp;
<h2>1A-I&nbsp;Girls</h2>
[1] Little River (18-0) vs. [4] Madison (13-7), 7:30 p.m. [Canton-Galva sub-state #1 championship]
&nbsp;
<h2>1A-II Girls</h2>
[3] Hutchinson-Central Christian (16-4) vs. [2] Lebo (18-1), 7:30 p.m. [McPherson-Elyria Christian sub-state #2 championship @ Central Christian College]</div>

🏀 Hutch Post area sub-state schedule for March 7

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741353805467.jpeg" alt="Addi Lutz celebrates with first-base coach Ray Aguirre after hitting a ninth-inning walk-off single to lead the Blue Dragon softball team to a come-from-behind 7-6 victory over No. 14 Butler in Game 1 on Thursday at Hobart-Detter Field. (Sammi Carpenter/Blue Dragon Sports Information)" />
 <figcaption>Addi Lutz celebrates with first-base coach Ray Aguirre after hitting a ninth-inning walk-off single to lead the Blue Dragon softball team to a come-from-behind 7-6 victory over No. 14 Butler in Game 1 on Thursday at Hobart-Detter Field. (Sammi Carpenter/Blue Dragon Sports Information)</figcaption>
 </figure><div>Hutchinson CC sports Information
&nbsp;
&nbsp;
Freshman designated player Addi Lutz came up big not just once, but twice on Thursday, to lead the Hutchinson Community College softball team to a wild come-from behind walk-off victory over No. 14 Butler in a KJCCC doubleheader at Fun Valley.
The Dragons rallied from four runs down entering their final at-bat in Game 1, forced extra innings and Lutz roped a walk-off single into center field to score&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2024-25/bios/stauffer_gabby_t8qf">Gabby Stauffer</a>&nbsp;for a 7-6 victory in nine innings over the Grizzlies. Butler came back to take Game 2 10-2 in six innings.
The Blue Dragons improved to 9-5 overall and are 5-1 in the Jayhawk Conference. Butler suffered its first loss of the season and is now 7-1 overall and 1-1 in the KJCCC. Hutchinson will play host to Labette in a make-up doubleheader at 2 and 4 p.m. on Sunday at Fun Valley.
GAME 1 RECAP &ndash; Hutchinson 7, Butler 6 (9 innings) Butler led 3-2 entering the seventh inning in Game 1 and scored three runs in the top of the seventh to take a 6-2 lead. That's when the Blue Dragon fireworks started.
The bottom of the seventh started with a&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2024-25/bios/kruger_kaibryn_wwcp">Kaibryn Kruger</a>&nbsp;double,&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2024-25/bios/golly_taylor_l19d">Tailor Golly</a>&nbsp;RBI double and a Stauffer RBI double cut the Butler lead to 6-4. After a walk to&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2024-25/bios/backhaus_brooke_ngsp">Brooke Backhaus</a>&nbsp;and a&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2024-25/bios/brawner_brie_hldl">Brie Brawner</a>&nbsp;line-out to third base for the first out of the inning, Stauffer and Backhaus moved up 60 feet each on a wild pitch. Lutz then laced a single up the middle that deflected off the second-base bag to score Stauffer and Backhaus to tie the game at 6-6. One batter later, Lutz was thrown out at the plate trying to score on a Butler error to end the seventh.
Freshman&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2024-25/bios/schmidt_jessica_edec">Jessica Schmidt</a>&nbsp;got the Blue Dragons out of their seventh-inning jam and pitched three innings of scoreless relief with two strikeouts and a walk and hit allowed.
Then in the bottom of the ninth, the Dragons cashed in on two Grizzly throwing errors. With Stauffer at third and Brawner at first, Lutz singled up the middle to score Stauffer with the game-winning run and secure a three-game win streak over Butler, which included the two championship game victories in the 2024 Region 6 Tournament championship game.
The Blue Dragons had eight hits off three Butler pitchers.
Lutz was 3 for 5 with a season-high three RBIs. Stauffer was 3 for 5 with a double, two RBIs and two runs scored.&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2024-25/bios/kruger_kaibryn_wwcp">Kaibryn Kruger</a>&nbsp;was 2 for 4 with a double and two runs. Golly went 2 for 4 with a double and RBI
GAME 2 RECAP &ndash; Butler 10, Hutchinson 2 (6 innings) The Blue Dragons jumped on Butler starter Ellie Randall for two runs on one hit.&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2024-25/bios/kruger_kaibryn_wwcp">Kaibryn Kruger</a>&nbsp;scored on a bases-loaded walk to Brawner and Golly scored on a wild pitch for a 2-0 lead. Butler scored three runs in the top of the second to take a 3-2 lead.
After&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2024-25/bios/dice_emily_75aj">Emily Dice</a>&nbsp;lined into a double play in the second, Butler seized control. Randall allowed just two hits after the first inning.
The Grizzlies broke the game open against three Hutchinson pitchers with a five-run fifth and two-run sixth inning.
Kruger, Staffer and Lutz had the only hits for the Dragons in Game 2.
<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2024-25/bios/thomas_aubree_o0p2">Aubree Thomas</a>&nbsp;(4-2) suffered the loss for the Dragons, working 4 1-3 innings with five hits and five runs allowed.&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2024-25/bios/tomlinson_morgan_0v0v">Morgan Tomlinson</a>&nbsp;and Schmidt also pitched as Butler out-hit the Dragons 10-3 in the second game.</div>

🥎 Clutch Lutz hits rally Dragons past Grizzlies

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741353702312.jpeg" alt="Eli Duncan smacked two home runs and drove in a career-high six runs in No. 21 Hutchinson's 23-11 rule-run win over Dodge City in Game 2 of a doubleheader on Thursday in Dodge City. (Sammi Carpenter/Blue Dragon Sports Information)" />
 <figcaption>Eli Duncan smacked two home runs and drove in a career-high six runs in No. 21 Hutchinson's 23-11 rule-run win over Dodge City in Game 2 of a doubleheader on Thursday in Dodge City. (Sammi Carpenter/Blue Dragon Sports Information)</figcaption>
 </figure><div>Hutchinson CC Sports Information
&nbsp;
&nbsp;
DODGE CITY &ndash; Catcher Eli Duncan had two home runs and six RBIs to ignite a Hutchinson Community College offense that struggled in Thursday's Jayhawk West opener on Thursday at Cavalier Field in Dodge City.
Duncan's performance led the No. 21-ranked Blue Dragons in Game 2 to a 23-11 victory over the Conquistadors. Dodge City won the opener 8-2 earlier Thursday.
The Blue Dragons are now 14-3 overall and 1-1 in league play. Dodge City is 12-4 overall and 1-1 in the league. Games 3 and 4 of this opening KJCCC series will be at 1 and 3:30 p.m. on Saturday at Hobart-Detter Field.
Hutchinson's 23-run explosion in Game 2 tied for the highest single-game output in the Brock Nehls' era and it tied for the eighth-most runs scored in single-game history. The last time the Dragons scored at least 23 runs last May 10, 2024 against Labette in the opening round of the Region 6 tournament at Hobart-Detter Field.
GAME 2 RECAP (Hutchinson 23, Dodge City 11 &ndash; 7 innings) Duncan is the first Blue Dragon this season with a multi-home run game. He hit a three-run home run in the top of the third inning to give the Blue Dragons a 6-1 lead. Then after Dodge City rallied to take a 9-8 lead, Duncan launched his second three-run home run to left field as part of a season-high 10-run inning in the top of the sixth inning.
Duncan finished 2 for 5 with a career-high six RBIs, which is also an individual high for the Blue Dragons this season.
The Nos. 8 and 9 hitters for the Dragons &ndash;&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2024-25/bios/griffin_leo_z3t1">Leo Griffin</a>&nbsp;and Duncan &ndash; combined to go 6 for 9 with 10 RBIs, six runs, three doubles and two home runs.
Griffin was a career-best 4 for 4 with three doubles, which tied a Blue Dragon single-game record for doubles with nine others &ndash; the last time by Ben McLaughlin vs. State Fair on March 9, 2021.
Griffin,&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2024-25/bios/mazza_antony_9347">Anthony Mazza</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2024-25/bios/allen_griffin_bmj4">Nick Glantz</a>&nbsp;all tied a team single-game record for runs scored with four each. They are the 32nd, 33rd and 34th Blue Dragons to score four runs in a single game.
The Blue Dragons had a season-high four home runs, also getting homers from Mazza and&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2024-25/bios/stokes_taber_u8n0">Taber Stokes</a>.
Hutchinson jumped out to leads of 3-0, 6-1 and 9-3 before Dodge City rallied to take a 9-8 lead after five innings. The Blue Dragons sent 14 batters to the plate in the sixth inning and racked up six hits to take an 18-9 lead. The Dragons tacked one five more runs in the top of the seventh to take a 23-9 lead.
Mazza, who in Game 1 had his 14-game hitting streak to start the season ended, was 3 for 3 with three RBIs, including his second home run of the season. Stokes was 3 for 5 with three RBIs and two runs. Stokes was a single shy of hitting for the cycle with a two-run home run, RBI triple and a double.&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2024-25/bios/maher_quinn_nqj4">Quinn Maher</a>&nbsp;was 3 for 4 with three runs scored. A.J.Mustow drove in two runs.
<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2024-25/bios/ainsworth_seth_huwf">Seth Ainsworth</a>&nbsp;(2-0) was the winning pitcher, going the final 3 1-3 innings. He allowed five hits and three runs with four strikeouts and two walks.&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2024-25/bios/perry_gabe_wq1l">Gabe Perry</a>&nbsp;went 3 2/3 innings in his start. He allowed seven hits and eight runs.
GAME 1 RECAP (Dodge City 8, Hutchinson 2) Dodge City Game 1 starter Will Davis scattered six his and shut out the Dragons leading to the seventh in the Conquistadors' 8-2 win.
The shutout disappeared when Maher hit two-out, two-run home run in the to of the seventh for Hutchinson's first runs of the game.
Maher was 2 for 4 with a double and home run to lead the Blue Dragons. Stokes was 2 for 2 with a walk.
Sophomore&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2024-25/bios/roehler_trenton_pudh">Trenton Roehler</a>&nbsp;(0-1) pitched five innings and allowed 10 hits and six runs. Brand Phillips pitched the sixth inning. Dodge City had 11 hits with two doubles, a triple and home run.</div>

⚾ Dragons erupt for 23 runs in Game 2 at Dodge City

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1701263164849.png" alt="Early Morning Sports with Rob Dreher" />
 <figcaption>Early Morning Sports with Rob Dreher</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="Early Morning Sports for Friday, March 7" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=6q6yf-1830435-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=60a0c8&font-color=&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=ff6d00" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

🎧 LISTEN: 🏀 Hutch High girls in sub-state championship; 🏀 Other area teams in title games

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741353592870.jpeg" alt="Elisha Williams (left) and Laura Avila (right) will be competing with the Blue Dragon track and field teams at the NJCAA Indoor Championships beginning Friday in Lubbock, TX" />
 <figcaption>Elisha Williams (left) and Laura Avila (right) will be competing with the Blue Dragon track and field teams at the NJCAA Indoor Championships beginning Friday in Lubbock, TX</figcaption>
 </figure><div>Hutchinson CC Sports Information
&nbsp;
Coming off their best-ever performances in the Region 6 Indoor championships two weeks ago, the Hutchinson Community College men's and women's track and field teams now take aim at the 2025 NJCAA Indoor Track and Field Championships, which begin Friday at Texas Tech University.
The 2025 Region 6 champion Blue Dragon men have 10 athletes competing in 18 individual events beginning on Friday. The Blue Dragon women, who finished third at the Region 6 championship have nine athletes competing in 14 different events.
BLUE DRAGON TRACK AND FIELD NJCAA Indoor National Championships &ndash; Day 1 When: Friday, March 7, 2025 Where: Texas Tech Sports Performance Center, Lubbock, TX Times: Multi-events &ndash; 9 a.m.; Field events &ndash; 1 p.m.; Running Events &ndash; 1:30 p.m. Video:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.njcaa.org/network/championships/ind-tf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NJCAA Network (all day &ndash; PPV)</a> Live Results:&nbsp;T<a href="https://live.pttiming.com/?mid=7609" target="_blank" rel="noopener">TU Sports Information</a> <a href="https://www.njcaa.org/sports/mtrack/mtrack-ind/2024-25/national_championship/schedule" target="_blank" rel="noopener">CLICK FOR MEET SCHEDULE</a>
The Blue Dragon distance runners will see plenty of action over the two-day run of the indoor championships at the Texas Tech Sports Performance Center.
Sophomore&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/mtrack/2024-25/bios/mangelson_farrin_7y5g">Farrin Mangelson</a>&nbsp;is scheduled to compete in three events &ndash; the Mile run, 3,000-meter and 5,000 meters. Mangelson is the Blue Dragon indoor record holder in the 3,000 (8:19.75) and 5,000 (14:35.35) and is 10th in Dragon history in the indoor Mile (4:19.62). Mangelson qualified in the 3,000 and 5,000 meters and received a while-card invitation in the Mile.
The women will be led by sophomore Jordyn Picolet, who will compete in three events &ndash; 3,000 meters, 5,000 meters and Mile run). Like Mangelson, Picolet owns Blue Dragon indoor school records in the 3,000 (10:19.29) and 5,000 (18:06.64).
Here are all the Blue Dragon 2025 Indoor national qualifiers, including national ranking and qualifying marks:
Men <a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/mtrack/2024-25/bios/kiprotich_titus_hgfs">Titus Kiprotich</a> 18. 5,000 Meters &ndash; 14:37.76 22. 3,000 Meters &ndash; 8:22.46 25. Mile run &ndash; 4:10.64
<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/mtrack/2024-25/bios/kogo_cornelius_hf87">Cornelius Kogo</a> 34. 3000 Meters &ndash; 8:28.14 Mile Run- No time (white card entry)
<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/mtrack/2024-25/bios/legrand_leo_gfpl">Leo LeGrand</a> 19. 800 Meters &ndash; 1:53.06 18. 1,000 Meters &ndash; 2:27.85
De'Shawn Lester 18. 600 Meters &ndash; 1:19.73
<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/mtrack/2024-25/bios/makalo_kebba_vl76">Kebba Makalo</a> 21. 60 Meters &ndash; 6.77 27. 200 Meters &ndash; 21.54
<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/mtrack/2024-25/bios/mangelson_farrin_7y5g">Farrin Mangelson</a> 18. 3,000 Meters &ndash; 8:19.75 16. 5,000 Meters &ndash; 14:35.35 Mile Run &ndash; No time (white card entry)
<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/mtrack/2024-25/bios/parkinson_malique_53uy">Malique Parkinson</a> 16. Triple Jump &ndash; 47-7 3/4
<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/mtrack/2024-25/bios/spencer_jayce_3o70">Jayce Spencer</a> 14. Pole vault &ndash; 14-4 1/2
<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/mtrack/2024-25/bios/warren_d-antonio_9loc">D'Antonio Warren</a> 52. 200 Meters &ndash; 21.78
<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/mtrack/2024-25/bios/williams_elisha_7e2c">Elisha Williams</a> 15. 600 Meters &ndash; 1:19.46 3. Long Jump &ndash; 25-0
WOMEN Laura Avila 68. Mile Run &ndash; 5:23.57 40. 5,000 Meters &ndash; 18:35.89
Grace Bender 16. Pole vault &ndash; 10-0
Abigail Grantham 28. 1,000 Meters &ndash; 3:07.09 45. Mile Run &ndash; 5:18028
Aiyanna Green 16. Shot Put &ndash; 41-1 12. Weight Throw &ndash; 49-3
Deisheline Mayer Scott 7. Shot put &ndash; 45-1 16. Weight Throw &ndash; 48-3 1/2
Alycia McCoy 15. Pole vault &ndash; 10-2 3/4
Janiel Monteque 8. Shot put &ndash; 44-2 1/2
Jordyn Picolet 29. 3,000 Meters &ndash; 10:19.29 26. 5,000 Meters &ndash; 18.06.64 Mile run &ndash; no time (white card entry)</div>

👟 Blue Dragons take 32 qualifiers to NJCAA indoor nationals

At beginning of tough stretch, Lakers show grit with overtime victory over Knicks

LOS ANGELES (AP) — It is fitting that in a town built on movies and television, JJ Redick likes to use a popular directing term to refer to different moments in his first season as coach of the Los Angeles Lakers. On Thursday night, the Lakers provided Redick with another memorable callback moment. Los Angeles began a stretch of five games against some of the top teams in the NBA with a 113-109 overtime victory over the New York Knicks. The Lakers have won eight straight and are second in the Western Conference at 40-21.

Knicks guard Jalen Brunson expected to miss time after suffering ankle injury in OT loss to Lakers

LOS ANGELES (AP) — New York star guard Jalen Brunson could miss an extended period of time after suffering an ankle injury during overtime in the Knicks' 113-109 loss to the Los Angeles Lakers on Thursday night. Coach Tom Thibodeau said after the game that Brunson was still being examined by the medical staff. Brunson rolled his right ankle with 1:24 remaining in overtime after landing on the foot of Lakers guard Austin Reaves after being fouled on a drive to the basket. Brunson got help up from teammates and stayed in the game to make both free throws and tie it at 107. He then came out and went to the locker room.

After Curry's highlight heave in a 40-point game, Green says the 'NBA is lucky' to watch the showman

NEW YORK (AP) — Perhaps only Stephen Curry could describe his basket as the first half was ending as a "rhythm shot." Who else but the most accomplished outside shooter in history could be in rhythm when he's nearly 40 feet away and not even facing the basket? Curry threw in the turnaround heave from 38 feet with 0.3 seconds left in the second quarter while scoring 40 points in Golden State's 121-119 victory over Brooklyn on Thursday night. Longtime teammate Draymond Green said after the game he was thinking to himself that "the NBA is lucky, because this man is going into every arena and putting on a show."

Bengals All-Pro edge rusher Trey Hendrickson receives permission to seek a trade, AP sources say

Two people with knowledge of the move say All-Pro edge rusher Trey Hendrickson received permission from the Cincinnati Bengals to seek a trade. Hendrickson led the NFL in sacks this past season. The people spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because they weren't authorized to discuss personnel moves. ESPN first reported the move after receiving a statement from Hendrickson. Hendrickson had 17 1/2 sacks last season for the second straight year. His 57 sacks since joining the Bengals in 2021 are third-most in the league over the past four seasons.

Browns restructure Watson's contract to get under the salary cap, AP source says

Deshaun Watson's contract has been reworked again by the Cleveland Browns as the team looks to clear salary cap space with the new league year less than one week away. A person with knowledge of the move tells The Associated Press the latest restructuring of the quarterback's contract will clear nearly $36 million in cap space for the Browns. The person spoke on condition of anonymity because the team has not announced the move, which was first reported by ESPN. The Browns were nearly $22 million over the cap before restructuring Watson's deal. It is the second time in three months that Watson's contract was reworked.

Avalanche acquire Brock Nelson from the Islanders on the eve of the NHL trade deadline

The Colorado Avalanche made a big splash on the eve of the NHL trade deadline by getting center Brock Nelson from the New York Islanders. The move came hours after the Western Conference-rival Vegas Golden Knights reacquired winger Reilly Smith in a deal with the New York Rangers. Much of the action Thursday came in the East, where New Jersey added on defense with Brian Dumoulin, Florida got depth center Nico Sturm and the Rangers also bought by acquiring Carson Soucy from Vancouver.

Avalanche standout Cale Makar has 6-point game to break franchise record for defenseman

DENVER (AP) — The ever-modest Cale Makar did all he could to downplay his two-goal, four-assist night. It was a performance that just so happened to be the most productive scoring night by a defenseman in franchise history. Teammate Nathan MacKinnon made sure to put Makar's achievement in proper perspective as well as his entire season. MacKinnon said it's tough to find a better player in the league. Makar became the third defenseman in the last 30 years to notch six points in a game. He joins Kris Letang in 2023 and Sheldon Souray in 2004, according to NHL Stats.

US offers $10 million reward for fugitive snowboarder accused of running deadly drug ring

LOS ANGELES (AP) — There's a $10 million reward for information leading to the arrest of a former Olympic snowboarder for Canada who is wanted for running a multi-national drug trafficking network and planning multiple murders related to the drug ring. The FBI has added 43-year-old Ryan Wedding to its 10 Most Wanted list, while also announcing the State Department's $10 million offer. Wedding was charged last June with murder and drug crimes. Those charges were augmented in September in an indictment that alleged Wedding and others arranged the shipment of some 60 tons of cocaine a year. Wedding finished 24th in parallel giant slalom at the 2002 Olympics.

Outfielder Lawrence Butler agrees to $65.5 million, 7-year deal with A's, AP source says

A person with direct knowledge of the negotiations says outfielder Lawrence Butler has agreed to a $65.5 million, seven-year contract with the Athletics. The agreement, first reported by ESPN, includes a team option for 2032 and was subject to a successful physical, the person said, speaking to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because the contract hasn't been completed. Butler, a 24-year-old who was a sixth-round pick in the 2018 amateur draft, hit .262 average, 22 home runs and 18 stolen bases last year.

Wyndham Clark handles a stressful test at Bay Hill to lead by 2

ORLANDO, Fla. (AP) — Wyndham Clark has the lead at the Arnold Palmer Invitational after a brutal day of cold and wind at Bay Hill. Clark played in the afternoon and got a slight reprieve with calmer wind. But his 67 was still the highest score to lead at Bay Hill in eight years. He leads by two shots over a group that includes Shane Lowry and Ryder Cup captain Keegan Bradley. Rory McIlroy bogeyed his last hole for a 70. Defending champion Scottie Scheffler battled to a 71. Only 14 players in the 72-man field of this signature event managed to break par.

Here are the scores from yesterday's sports events:

Final	San Francisco	7	Chicago White Sox	3	

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1701494597443.png" alt="Sports Headlines and News for Friday, March 7th, 2025" />
 <figcaption>Sports Headlines and News for Friday, March 7th, 2025</figcaption>
 </figure>AP Sports Summary for March 7th, 2025:At beginning of tough stretch, Lakers show grit with overtime victory over KnicksLOS ANGELES (AP) — It is fitting that in a town built on movies and television, JJ Redick likes to use a popular directing term to refer to different moments in his first season as coach of the Los Angeles Lakers. On Thursday night, the Lakers provided Redick with another memorable callback moment. Los Angeles began a stretch of five games against some of the top teams in the NBA with a 113-109 overtime victory over the New York Knicks. The Lakers have won eight straight and are second in the Western Conference at 40-21.Knicks guard Jalen Brunson expected to miss time after suffering ankle injury in OT loss to LakersLOS ANGELES (AP) — New York star guard Jalen Brunson could miss an extended period of time after suffering an ankle injury during overtime in the Knicks' 113-109 loss to the Los Angeles Lakers on Thursday night. Coach Tom Thibodeau said after the game that Brunson was still being examined by the medical staff. Brunson rolled his right ankle with 1:24 remaining in overtime after landing on the foot of Lakers guard Austin Reaves after being fouled on a drive to the basket. Brunson got help up from teammates and stayed in the game to make both free throws and tie it at 107. He then came out and went to the locker room.After Curry's highlight heave in a 40-point game, Green says the 'NBA is lucky' to watch the showmanNEW YORK (AP) — Perhaps only Stephen Curry could describe his basket as the first half was ending as a "rhythm shot." Who else but the most accomplished outside shooter in history could be in rhythm when he's nearly 40 feet away and not even facing the basket? Curry threw in the turnaround heave from 38 feet with 0.3 seconds left in the second quarter while scoring 40 points in Golden State's 121-119 victory over Brooklyn on Thursday night. Longtime teammate Draymond Green said after the game he was thinking to himself that "the NBA is lucky, because this man is going into every arena and putting on a show."Bengals All-Pro edge rusher Trey Hendrickson receives permission to seek a trade, AP sources sayTwo people with knowledge of the move say All-Pro edge rusher Trey Hendrickson received permission from the Cincinnati Bengals to seek a trade. Hendrickson led the NFL in sacks this past season. The people spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because they weren't authorized to discuss personnel moves. ESPN first reported the move after receiving a statement from Hendrickson. Hendrickson had 17 1/2 sacks last season for the second straight year. His 57 sacks since joining the Bengals in 2021 are third-most in the league over the past four seasons.Browns restructure Watson's contract to get under the salary cap, AP source saysDeshaun Watson's contract has been reworked again by the Cleveland Browns as the team looks to clear salary cap space with the new league year less than one week away. A person with knowledge of the move tells The Associated Press the latest restructuring of the quarterback's contract will clear nearly $36 million in cap space for the Browns. The person spoke on condition of anonymity because the team has not announced the move, which was first reported by ESPN. The Browns were nearly $22 million over the cap before restructuring Watson's deal. It is the second time in three months that Watson's contract was reworked.Avalanche acquire Brock Nelson from the Islanders on the eve of the NHL trade deadlineThe Colorado Avalanche made a big splash on the eve of the NHL trade deadline by getting center Brock Nelson from the New York Islanders. The move came hours after the Western Conference-rival Vegas Golden Knights reacquired winger Reilly Smith in a deal with the New York Rangers. Much of the action Thursday came in the East, where New Jersey added on defense with Brian Dumoulin, Florida got depth center Nico Sturm and the Rangers also bought by acquiring Carson Soucy from Vancouver.Avalanche standout Cale Makar has 6-point game to break franchise record for defensemanDENVER (AP) — The ever-modest Cale Makar did all he could to downplay his two-goal, four-assist night. It was a performance that just so happened to be the most productive scoring night by a defenseman in franchise history. Teammate Nathan MacKinnon made sure to put Makar's achievement in proper perspective as well as his entire season. MacKinnon said it's tough to find a better player in the league. Makar became the third defenseman in the last 30 years to notch six points in a game. He joins Kris Letang in 2023 and Sheldon Souray in 2004, according to NHL Stats.US offers $10 million reward for fugitive snowboarder accused of running deadly drug ringLOS ANGELES (AP) — There's a $10 million reward for information leading to the arrest of a former Olympic snowboarder for Canada who is wanted for running a multi-national drug trafficking network and planning multiple murders related to the drug ring. The FBI has added 43-year-old Ryan Wedding to its 10 Most Wanted list, while also announcing the State Department's $10 million offer. Wedding was charged last June with murder and drug crimes. Those charges were augmented in September in an indictment that alleged Wedding and others arranged the shipment of some 60 tons of cocaine a year. Wedding finished 24th in parallel giant slalom at the 2002 Olympics.Outfielder Lawrence Butler agrees to $65.5 million, 7-year deal with A's, AP source saysA person with direct knowledge of the negotiations says outfielder Lawrence Butler has agreed to a $65.5 million, seven-year contract with the Athletics. The agreement, first reported by ESPN, includes a team option for 2032 and was subject to a successful physical, the person said, speaking to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because the contract hasn't been completed. Butler, a 24-year-old who was a sixth-round pick in the 2018 amateur draft, hit .262 average, 22 home runs and 18 stolen bases last year.Wyndham Clark handles a stressful test at Bay Hill to lead by 2ORLANDO, Fla. (AP) — Wyndham Clark has the lead at the Arnold Palmer Invitational after a brutal day of cold and wind at Bay Hill. Clark played in the afternoon and got a slight reprieve with calmer wind. But his 67 was still the highest score to lead at Bay Hill in eight years. He leads by two shots over a group that includes Shane Lowry and Ryder Cup captain Keegan Bradley. Rory McIlroy bogeyed his last hole for a 70. Defending champion Scottie Scheffler battled to a 71. Only 14 players in the 72-man field of this signature event managed to break par.AP-ScorecardHere are the scores from yesterday's sports events:___INTERLEAGUEFinal	Tampa Bay	5	Philadelphia	4	Final	San Francisco	7	Chicago White Sox	3	Final	Texas	8	San Diego	2	Final	L.A. Dodgers	8	Texas	4	Final	Pittsburgh	9	Baltimore	5	Final	Houston	5	N.Y. Mets	1	Final	Cleveland	4	Arizona	0	Final	Kansas City	9	Chicago Cubs	3	Final	Milwaukee	10	Athletics	0	Final	Arizona	11	Seattle	4	___AMERICAN LEAGUEFinal	Toronto	7	Boston	4	Final	Minnesota	8	N.Y. Yankees	4	Final	L.A. Angels	5	Seattle	5	___NATIONAL LEAGUEFinal	Washington	12	St. Louis	1	Final	Miami	1	Atlanta	1	___NATIONAL BASKETBALL ASSOCIATIONFinal	Chicago	125	Orlando	123	Final	Boston	123	Philadelphia	105	Final	Atlanta	124	Indiana	118	Final	Golden State	121	Brooklyn	119	Final	Houston	109	New Orleans	97	Final OT	L.A. Lakers	113	New York	109	___NATIONAL HOCKEY LEAGUEFinal	Winnipeg	4	Philadelphia	1	Final	Utah	4	Detroit	2	Final	Carolina	3	Boston	2	Final	Florida	3	Columbus	0	Final	Tampa Bay	6	Buffalo	5	Final	Nashville	5	Seattle	3	Final OT	Dallas	3	Calgary	2	Final OT	Edmonton	3	Montreal	2	Final	Colorado	7	San Jose	3	___TOP-25 COLLEGE BASKETBALLFinal	(8)Michigan St.	91	Iowa	84	___TODAY'S SPORTS SCHEDULE___INTERLEAGUE		Miami	at	Boston	1:05 p.m.			Atlanta	at	Minnesota	1:05 p.m.			Chi Cubs	at	Chi White Sox	3:05 p.m.			Arizona	at	L-A Angels	3:10 p.m.			Houston	at	St. Louis	6:05 p.m.			Texas	at	Colorado	8:40 p.m.			L-A Dodgers	at	Seattle	8:40 p.m.	___AMERICAN LEAGUE		Minnesota	at	Tampa Bay	1:05 p.m.			Cleveland	at	Athletics	3:05 p.m.			L-A Angels	at	Kansas City	3:05 p.m.			Baltimore	at	Detroit	6:05 p.m.			Toronto	at	N-Y Yankees	6:35 p.m.	___NATIONAL LEAGUE		Philadelphia	at	Pittsburgh	1:05 p.m.			San Francisco	at	Cincinnati	3:05 p.m.			San Diego	at	Milwaukee	3:10 p.m.			N-Y Mets	at	Washington	6:05 p.m.	___NATIONAL BASKETBALL ASSOCIATION		Cleveland	at	Charlotte	7 p.m.			Memphis	at	Dallas	7:30 p.m.			Utah	at	Toronto	7:30 p.m.			Minnesota	at	Miami	8 p.m.			Portland	at	Oklahoma City	8 p.m.			Phoenix	at	Denver	10 p.m.			San Antonio	at	Sacramento	10 p.m.			New York	at	L.A. Clippers	10:30 p.m.	___NATIONAL HOCKEY LEAGUE		Detroit	at	Washington	7 p.m.			Winnipeg	at	New Jersey	7 p.m.			Utah	at	Chicago	8:30 p.m.			Minnesota	at	Vancouver	10 p.m.			Pittsburgh	at	Vegas	10 p.m.			St. Louis	at	Anaheim	10 p.m.	___TOP-25 COLLEGE BASKETBALL		South Florida	at	(16)Memphis	9 p.m.			(18)Purdue	at	Illinois	8 p.m.	___

📢📰 Sports Headlines for Friday

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741316884058.png" alt="Photo Courtesy Wichita State Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Wichita State Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure><div>Wichita State Athletics
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HOUSTON &nbsp;&ndash;&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/mens-basketball/roster/harlond-beverly/9059" rel="smarttag" rev="9059" data-airgap-id="61">Harlond Beverly</a></dfn>&nbsp;scored a game-high 16 points and&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/mens-basketball/roster/ronnie-degray-iii/9061" rel="smarttag" rev="9061" data-airgap-id="62">Ronnie DeGray III</a></dfn>&nbsp;grabbed a career-high 16 rebounds to lead Wichita State in a 63-59 road win at Rice Thursday night in Tudor Fieldhouse. Wichita State (18-12, 8-9) snapped a two-game skid and has now won four of its last five road games to end the regular season. Beverly scored 12 of his 16 points in the first half, marking his second straight 16-point outing.&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/mens-basketball/roster/xavier-bell/9058" rel="smarttag" rev="9058" data-airgap-id="63">Xavier Bell</a></dfn>&nbsp;finished with 13 points &ndash; 11 in the second half. DeGray had a career night on the glass, grabbing 16 rebounds, including six offensive, to go with seven points.&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/mens-basketball/roster/quincy-ballard/9056" rel="smarttag" rev="9056" data-airgap-id="64">Quincy Ballard</a></dfn>&nbsp;blocked four shots to go with six points and seven rebounds. Neither team lit the world on fire, offensively. Both teams shot less than 40 percent from the field and they combined to shoot 6-for-34 from beyond the arc. Wichita State was 2-for-14 and Rice finished 4-for-20. Wichita State committed only eight turnovers and was plus-10 on the glass. A slow start for Wichita State allowed Rice to take an early 8-2 lead just minutes into the game. Wichita State slowly but surely got its offense on track behind 11 straight points from Beverly. His own personal 8-0 run turned a two-point deficit into a 21-14 lead with 7:01 left in the half. Two Rice free throws briefly stopped Beverly's run, but the Shockers came right back with consecutive scores from&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/mens-basketball/roster/quincy-ballard/9056" rel="smarttag" rev="9056" data-airgap-id="65">Quincy Ballard</a></dfn>&nbsp;and Beverly to give Wichita State its largest lead of the half, 26-16. The Shockers would hold a 28-21 lead with 4:11 left, but the Owls would climb back in by scoring seven of the final 10 points to make it 31-28 at halftime. Beverly's 12 first half points led all scorers, as Wichita State shot 44.8 percent from the field. Rice would miss 11-of-12 three-pointers and shoot just 35.5 percent overall. Wichita State stretched its lead to nine right off the bat out of halftime after scoring the first six points. At the 12:46 mark the margin was 10 and momentum on Wichita State's side, but the Owls got an uncontested dunk and back-to-back three-pointers to pull within three, 48-45. The final 10 minutes would be a defensive slugfest. Wichita State would never relinquish the lead, but never lead by more than six down the stretch. With 5:31 to go, Wichita State led 58-55 and neither team would score until the 2:54 mark when Rice split a pair of free throws. Both teams went another 1:37 before Rice pulled within one on another 1-for-2 trip to the line. Finally after going 4:52 without a score,&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/mens-basketball/roster/bijan-cortes/9060" rel="smarttag" rev="9060" data-airgap-id="66">Bijan Cortes</a></dfn>&nbsp;dumped in a floater to put the Shockers up 60-57 with 51 seconds left. A DeGray free throw pushed it to four with 7 seconds remaining. Rice would race down and convert on a goaltend with 1.5 seconds on the clock. An immediate foul on the inbounds sent Bell to the line where he swished both to ice the game. Up Next Wichita State hosts Tulsa in the regular season finale Sunday, March 9 at 1 p.m. for Senior Day in Charles Koch Arena.</div>

🏀 Shocker men hang on for road win at Rice

<a href="https://www.naia.org/sports/wbkb/2024-25/Releases/FSR">First &amp; Second Round Schedule</a>&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;|&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;<a href="https://www.naia.org/sports/wbkb/2024-25/Files/Bracket_WBB_64Team.pdf">Tournament Bracket</a>

<a href="mailto:sean.boston@eaglemedia.com">SEAN BOSTON</a> Hutch Post

The Sterling College Warriors women's basketball team will make the 652-mile one-way trip to McKenzie, Tenn. for the NAIA Women's Basketball National Championship First &amp; Second Round March 14-15.

The <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UI9955XYWuw%20">selection show</a> took place on Thursday evening.&nbsp;

The Warriors, who earned an automatic bid after winning the KCAC Tournament title Tuesday, will be the No. 16 seed in the Cramer Quadrant.&nbsp;Sterling will play the host, Bethel (Tenn.) on Friday, March 14. The game time is yet to be determined.

The winner of the Sterling-Bethel game will face the winner of Benedictine and LSU Alexandria (La.) in the Second Round on Saturday, March 15.

Sterling enters the national tournament with a 21-10 record and has won three consecutive games. Bethel (Tenn.) is 23-7 and has won four straight. The Wildcats defeated Campbellsville (Tenn.) in the&nbsp;Mid-South Conference on Tuesday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741013369435.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy Sterling College Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Sterling College Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://www.naia.org/sports/wbkb/2024-25/Releases/FSR">First &amp; Second Round Schedule</a>&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;|&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;<a href="https://www.naia.org/sports/wbkb/2024-25/Files/Bracket_WBB_64Team.pdf">Tournament Bracket</a><a href="mailto:sean.boston@eaglemedia.com">SEAN BOSTON</a> Hutch PostThe Sterling College Warriors women's basketball team will make the 652-mile one-way trip to McKenzie, Tenn. for the NAIA Women's Basketball National Championship First &amp; Second Round March 14-15.The <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UI9955XYWuw%20">selection show</a> took place on Thursday evening.&nbsp;The Warriors, who earned an automatic bid after winning the KCAC Tournament title Tuesday, will be the No. 16 seed in the Cramer Quadrant.&nbsp;Sterling will play the host, Bethel (Tenn.) on Friday, March 14. The game time is yet to be determined.The winner of the Sterling-Bethel game will face the winner of Benedictine and LSU Alexandria (La.) in the Second Round on Saturday, March 15.Sterling enters the national tournament with a 21-10 record and has won three consecutive games. Bethel (Tenn.) is 23-7 and has won four straight. The Wildcats defeated Campbellsville (Tenn.) in the&nbsp;Mid-South Conference on Tuesday.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741315665029.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy NAIA" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy NAIA</figcaption>
 </figure>

🏀 Sterling women open NAIA tournament March 14 in Tennessee

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741315283345.png" alt="Photo Courtesy Kansas Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Kansas Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure><div>Kansas Athletics
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LAWRENCE, Kan. &ndash;&nbsp;Kansas baseball had its second walk-off victory in as many weeks as the Jayhawks won 4-3 on Thursday afternoon at Hoglund Ballpark to improve to 11-1 overall this season. The Milwaukee pitcher caught a soft line drive for the second out of the ninth inning and then attempted to throw the ball to first base for a double play, but he sailed the ball over the first baseman's head to allow&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/tj-williams/16134" rel="smarttag" rev="16134" data-airgap-id="70">TJ Williams</a></dfn>&nbsp;to score the game-winning run. &nbsp; Sophomore starting pitcher&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/cooper-moore/16136" rel="smarttag" rev="16136" data-airgap-id="71">Cooper Moore</a></dfn>&nbsp;tossed seven innings and allowed three runs, two of which were earned. Moore had a career-high seven strikeouts and allowed only one walk. His seven innings pitched were also a career high. Junior&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/alex-breckheimer/16154" rel="smarttag" rev="16154" data-airgap-id="72">Alex Breckheimer</a></dfn>&nbsp;followed Moore and threw two scoreless frames and earned the win. Junior&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/derek-cerda/16140" rel="smarttag" rev="16140" data-airgap-id="73">Derek Cerda</a></dfn>&nbsp;hit his first home run of the season on the first pitch Kansas saw offensively on Thursday. &nbsp; HOW IT HAPPENED &bull; Kansas (11-1) started the ninth inning with&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/jackson-hauge/16155" rel="smarttag" rev="16155" data-airgap-id="74">Jackson Hauge</a></dfn>&nbsp;reaching base on a fielding error. Two batters later,&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/chase-diggins/16124" rel="smarttag" rev="16124" data-airgap-id="75">Chase Diggins</a></dfn>&nbsp;hit a ball to the shortstop who failed to complete a throw to second base for a force out and sent the ball into right field. An intentional walk to&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/sawyer-smith/16138" rel="smarttag" rev="16138" data-airgap-id="76">Sawyer Smith</a></dfn>&nbsp;loaded the bases for&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/michael-brooks/16122" rel="smarttag" rev="16122" data-airgap-id="77">Michael Brooks</a></dfn>. He lined out softly to the pitcher but an errant throw to first base in an attempt to turn a double play led to the winning run. &bull; The Jayhawks started out fast on Thursday as Cerda led off the first inning with a solo home run on the first pitch. The Jayhawks were able to add another run in the first on an RBI groundout by senior&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/tommy-barth/16141" rel="smarttag" rev="16141" data-airgap-id="78">Tommy Barth</a></dfn>&nbsp;to score sophomore&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/brady-ballinger/16147" rel="smarttag" rev="16147" data-airgap-id="79">Brady Ballinger</a></dfn>. That built Kansas a 2-0 lead. &bull; Milwaukee (1-11) was able to even the game at 2-2 in the fourth inning. The Panthers hit back-to-back hard RBI singles directly at the mound that brought in a pair of runs. &bull; The Panthers took the lead in the fifth inning on an unearned run. Gabe Roessler came in to score on a wild pitch to make it a 3-2 Milwaukee lead. &bull; The Jayhawks were able to tie up the game in the seventh inning as Barth hit a bases loaded RBI single to left field. That made it 3-3. &bull; Breckheimer came into the game in relief of Moore and continued his early season dominance with two scoreless innings. &nbsp; PITCHERS OF RECORD Win:&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/alex-breckheimer/16154" rel="smarttag" rev="16154" data-airgap-id="80">Alex Breckheimer</a></dfn>&nbsp;(1-0) Final line: 2.0 IP, 0 H, 0 R, 1 BB, 3 SO Loss: Logan Snow (0-1) Final line: 2.1 IP, 2 H, 1 R, 0 ER, 2 BB, 1 SO <iframe title="Video: Kansas vs. Milwaukee Highlights - University of Kansas" src="https://kuathletics.com/showcase/embed.aspx?Archive=2086&amp;autoplay=false" width="640" height="360" frameborder="0" align="" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" data-airgap-id="81"></iframe> &nbsp; SOCIAL POST OF THE GAME
<div class="twitter-tweet twitter-tweet-rendered"><iframe id="twitter-widget-0" class="" title="X Post" src="https://platform.twitter.com/embed/Tweet.html?creatorScreenName=%40KUBaseball&amp;dnt=false&amp;embedId=twitter-widget-0&amp;features=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%3D%3D&amp;frame=false&amp;hideCard=false&amp;hideThread=false&amp;id=1897796314433569147&amp;lang=en&amp;origin=https%3A%2F%2Fkuathletics.com%2Fnews%2F2025%2F3%2F6%2Fbaseball-kansas-seals-walk-off-win-against-milwaukee-4-3.aspx&amp;sessionId=c947fad0befd61aed915fa26e59fc818f8c3aa2f&amp;theme=light&amp;widgetsVersion=2615f7e52b7e0%3A1702314776716&amp;width=550px" width="300" height="150" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" data-tweet-id="1897796314433569147"></iframe></div>
&nbsp; QUOTABLES &amp; NOTABLES "The old adage of winners find a way &ndash; I think that was a good example today. I haven't had a chance to look at [the box score], but we had 14 runners left on base. You leave runners on base when you're a good offense. That's part of part of baseball when you're pressuring with two outs, but 14 is a lot. Some of that was decisions I made. I chose to bunt with (<dfn><a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/chase-diggins/16124" rel="smarttag" rev="16124" data-airgap-id="83">Chase Diggins</a></dfn>) there and their pitcher made a heck of a play. What I loved about it was in the ninth, we get an out and then the guy hammers one to right center and&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/mike-koszewski/16125" rel="smarttag" rev="16125" data-airgap-id="84">Mike Koszewski</a></dfn>, who has been sitting on the bench for two hours, goes out there and makes an absolutely unbelievable catch that gets us two outs. Then, Breck strikes the guy out and we get to the ninth. The thing that I loved is there is just complete and total belief inside that dugout of like, okay, here we go. I tell the guys all the time you can wish and you can dream, but there is something about having faith and having belief that we have prepared. Super proud of how they competed and there is nothing better than being on that side of a walk-off." &ndash; Head Coach&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/coaches/dan-fitzgerald/871" rel="smarttag" rev="871" data-airgap-id="85">Dan Fitzgerald</a></dfn> &nbsp; "Today I was a little bit more aggressive. My past at-bats I was a little too passive. That worked today, so I'm going to keep doing that." &ndash;&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/derek-cerda/16140" rel="smarttag" rev="16140" data-airgap-id="86">Derek Cerda</a></dfn> &nbsp; "I was feeling really good. I had a whole lot of confidence and just the ability to throw strikes and let my defense work behind me and get weak ground balls." &ndash;&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/cooper-moore/16136" rel="smarttag" rev="16136" data-airgap-id="87">Cooper Moore</a></dfn> &nbsp; &bull; Kansas improved to 11-1 on the season. &bull; Kansas has walk-off wins on back-to-back Thursdays. The last time Kansas had two walk-off wins in the same season was 2023. &bull; Cerda's leadoff home run was the first for Kansas since Dylan Ditzenberger vs. Kansas State on May 15, 2021. &bull; Moore had career highs of seven innings and seven strikeouts. &bull; Breckheimer earned his first win as a Jayhawk. &bull; Ballinger has reached base safely in all 12 games this season. &nbsp; UP NEXT Kansas and Milwaukee will play the second of four games at Hoglund Ballpark on Friday. First pitch is set for 12 p.m. CT. The start time was originally 3 p.m. CT but was adjusted due to weather. The game will be broadcast on ESPN+ and live audio will be available on the Jayhawk Sports Network.</div>