KANSAS CITY, Mo.—The Kansas City Royals announced today their minor league coaching staffs.

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 </figure>Kansas City RoyalsKANSAS CITY, Mo.—The Kansas City Royals announced today their minor league coaching staffs.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1768575912850.png" alt="Photo Courtesy Kansas City Royals" />
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⚾ Royals announce 2026 minor league coaching staffs

🎧🏀 WSU loses at FAU; 🏀 Hutch High travels to Great Bend; 🏈 NFL Divisional Round

BOCA RATON, Fla. (AP) — Kanaan Carlyle scored 18 points as Florida Atlantic beat Wichita State 85-67 on Thursday.

Carlyle went 7 of 14 from the field (3 for 7 from 3-point range) for the Owls (12-6, 4-1 American Athletic Conference). Isaiah Elohim scored 18 points, going 7 of 8 and 3 of 5 from the free-throw line. Devin Williams finished 6 of 8 from the field to finish with 14 points, while adding 10 rebounds and three blocks.

Will Berg led the way for the Shockers (10-8, 2-3) with 14 points, eight rebounds and two blocks. Wichita State also got 12 points, four assists and three steals from Dre Kindell. Karon Boyd had 10 points.

Florida Atlantic took the lead for good with 18:54 left in the first half. The score was 37-25 at halftime, with Elohim racking up 15 points. Florida Atlantic pulled away with a 10-0 run in the second half to extend an 18-point lead to 28 points. They outscored Wichita State by six points in the final half, as Xander Pintelon led the way with a team-high 11 second-half points.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1768575672460.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy Wichita State Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Wichita State Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>BOCA RATON, Fla. (AP) — Kanaan Carlyle scored 18 points as Florida Atlantic beat Wichita State 85-67 on Thursday.Carlyle went 7 of 14 from the field (3 for 7 from 3-point range) for the Owls (12-6, 4-1 American Athletic Conference). Isaiah Elohim scored 18 points, going 7 of 8 and 3 of 5 from the free-throw line. Devin Williams finished 6 of 8 from the field to finish with 14 points, while adding 10 rebounds and three blocks.Will Berg led the way for the Shockers (10-8, 2-3) with 14 points, eight rebounds and two blocks. Wichita State also got 12 points, four assists and three steals from Dre Kindell. Karon Boyd had 10 points.Florida Atlantic took the lead for good with 18:54 left in the first half. The score was 37-25 at halftime, with Elohim racking up 15 points. Florida Atlantic pulled away with a 10-0 run in the second half to extend an 18-point lead to 28 points. They outscored Wichita State by six points in the final half, as Xander Pintelon led the way with a team-high 11 second-half points.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

🏀 Wichita State blown out by Florida Atlantic

KANSAS CITY, Mo.—The Kansas City Royals announced today they have agreed to terms with 19 international free agents.

“The 2026 international signing class features 19 incredible athletes that we are so excited to welcome to the Royals family,” said Royals Sr. Vice President, Major League &amp; International Operations/Assistant General Manager,&nbsp;Rene Francisco. “This group highlights the tremendous work done by the entire international scouting department, and we cannot wait to see these young men grow into professionals as they chase their dreams of playing for the Royals.”

The class features five right-handed pitchers, four infielders, four outfielders, three left-handed pitchers and three catchers. Among the group are 17-year-olds&nbsp;Angeibel Gomez&nbsp;(ahn-hi-bell), a Venezuelan outfielder and MLB Pipeline’s No. 4 ranked international prospect, Cuban infielder&nbsp;Jaider Suárez, who MLB Pipeline ranked as their No. 22 international prospect in the class and Venezuelan catcher&nbsp;Adrián Lunar, the 2nd-highest ranked catching prospect in the class, per MLB Pipeline.Video of Gomez can be found&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.mlb.com/video/top-international-prospects-angeibel-gomez-of">here</a>&nbsp;and video of Suárez can be found&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://youtube.com/shorts/dVUor4lHFYw?si=gxflCs3R29IsbOoc">here</a>.

The complete list of Kansas City’s 19 international free agents is below:



<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1768507692006.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy Kansas City Royals" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Kansas City Royals</figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas City RoyalsKANSAS CITY, Mo.—The Kansas City Royals announced today they have agreed to terms with 19 international free agents.“The 2026 international signing class features 19 incredible athletes that we are so excited to welcome to the Royals family,” said Royals Sr. Vice President, Major League &amp; International Operations/Assistant General Manager,&nbsp;Rene Francisco. “This group highlights the tremendous work done by the entire international scouting department, and we cannot wait to see these young men grow into professionals as they chase their dreams of playing for the Royals.”The class features five right-handed pitchers, four infielders, four outfielders, three left-handed pitchers and three catchers. Among the group are 17-year-olds&nbsp;Angeibel Gomez&nbsp;(ahn-hi-bell), a Venezuelan outfielder and MLB Pipeline’s No. 4 ranked international prospect, Cuban infielder&nbsp;Jaider Suárez, who MLB Pipeline ranked as their No. 22 international prospect in the class and Venezuelan catcher&nbsp;Adrián Lunar, the 2nd-highest ranked catching prospect in the class, per MLB Pipeline.Video of Gomez can be found&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.mlb.com/video/top-international-prospects-angeibel-gomez-of">here</a>&nbsp;and video of Suárez can be found&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://youtube.com/shorts/dVUor4lHFYw?si=gxflCs3R29IsbOoc">here</a>.The complete list of Kansas City’s 19 international free agents is below:

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1768507755445.png" alt="Photo Courtesy Kansas City Royals" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Kansas City Royals</figcaption>
 </figure>

⚾ Royals agree to terms with 19 international free agents

🎧🏀 Dragons split with Beavers; 🏀 K-State drops to 0-4 in Big 12 play

PRATT, Kan. — Hutchinson (10-7, 5-6) built a 16-point lead on Pratt (5-12, 2-10) with 6:58 left in the first half.

The Beavers used a 7-0 run to close the first half and cut the lead to 36-29.

No Beaver starters managed double-digit scoring, however, the Pratt bench outscored Hutchinson's bench 47-8.

The Beavers used a 9-0 run to take a 55-52 advantage with 7:04 left.

Pratt also took advantage of Kyrell Shaw's third foul.

While Hutchinson's leading scorer was on the bench, the Beavers cut the 11-point deficit to six.

Shaw posted his third-straight game of 30-plus points, but was the only Dragon to score in double figures.

Shaw finished with 34 points and went 10-of-13 from the free-throw line.

The Dragons shot 19 free throws in the first half but only got five attempts in the second half. Hutchinson found the free-throw line for the first time in the second frame with just 1:23 remaining.

Three Beavers scored in double figures off the bench.

Scottie Guillory led the way with 15. Muna Godswill scored 12 and Seydina Faye added 11.

Faye scored seven of his team's points during the crucial 9-0 run to take the lead in the second half.

Shaw hit a three with 38 seconds left to pull Hutchinson within three before Pratt was whistled for an offensive foul.

Bobby Cannon was fouled on the ensuing inbound and made 1-of-2 from the line to pull Hutchinson with two points.

Hutchinson was whistled for an intentional foul with 23.7 seconds left.

Pratt hit 1-of-2 from the line and was rewarded with a baseline throw-in.

Hutchinson had to foul again and Guillory made both free throws to put Pratt up five.

Shaw missed a three-point attempt with 19 seconds left and Hutchinson had to foul again.

The Beavers made just one of the attempts to ice the game.

Neither team shot well from three. The teams were a combined 7-of-41 and began the game 0-for-19.

The Dragons return to the Sports Arena Saturday, Jan. 17, to face Fort Hays Tech Northwest at 4 p.m.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1768449945568.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>PRATT, Kan. — Hutchinson (10-7, 5-6) built a 16-point lead on Pratt (5-12, 2-10) with 6:58 left in the first half.The Beavers used a 7-0 run to close the first half and cut the lead to 36-29.No Beaver starters managed double-digit scoring, however, the Pratt bench outscored Hutchinson's bench 47-8.The Beavers used a 9-0 run to take a 55-52 advantage with 7:04 left.Pratt also took advantage of Kyrell Shaw's third foul.While Hutchinson's leading scorer was on the bench, the Beavers cut the 11-point deficit to six.Shaw posted his third-straight game of 30-plus points, but was the only Dragon to score in double figures.Shaw finished with 34 points and went 10-of-13 from the free-throw line.The Dragons shot 19 free throws in the first half but only got five attempts in the second half. Hutchinson found the free-throw line for the first time in the second frame with just 1:23 remaining.Three Beavers scored in double figures off the bench.Scottie Guillory led the way with 15. Muna Godswill scored 12 and Seydina Faye added 11.Faye scored seven of his team's points during the crucial 9-0 run to take the lead in the second half.Shaw hit a three with 38 seconds left to pull Hutchinson within three before Pratt was whistled for an offensive foul.Bobby Cannon was fouled on the ensuing inbound and made 1-of-2 from the line to pull Hutchinson with two points.Hutchinson was whistled for an intentional foul with 23.7 seconds left.Pratt hit 1-of-2 from the line and was rewarded with a baseline throw-in.Hutchinson had to foul again and Guillory made both free throws to put Pratt up five.Shaw missed a three-point attempt with 19 seconds left and Hutchinson had to foul again.The Beavers made just one of the attempts to ice the game.FINAL: Pratt 71 Hutchinson 65Neither team shot well from three. The teams were a combined 7-of-41 and began the game 0-for-19.The Dragons return to the Sports Arena Saturday, Jan. 17, to face Fort Hays Tech Northwest at 4 p.m.

🏀 MBB: Dragons suffer second-half collapse

MANHATTAN, Kan. (AP) — Riley Kugel scored 19 points, Jamichael Stillwell added 18, and UCF weathered Kansas State's comeback bid to win 82-73 on Wednesday night.

The Knights (14-2, 3-1 Big 12) shot 53% from the field and 47% from beyond the arc. Themus Fulks had 13 points (6-for-11 shooting) and dished 12 assists for his fifth game with 10 or more assists this season. Devan Cambridge chipped in with 11 points on perfect 4-for-4 shooting.

UCF narrowly won the rebound battle, 35-34, paced by seven rebounds each from Kugel and Stillwell.

A 20-6 run near the midway point of the first half put UCF up by double-figures, and they led 42-28 at halftime.

K-State cut the lead to one point in the second half, but could not pull ahead in the frame. Their last lead came with 15:24 remaining in the first.

PJ Haggerty scored 23 points (9-for-18 shooting) for the Wildcats (9-8, 0-4), and Khamari McGriff added 15 points. Nate Johnson racked up 10 assists. K-State struggled from beyond the arc, converting on just six of their 30 3-point attempts.

UCF won their second straight game, after their 11-game winning streak was snapped by Oklahoma State on Jan. 6. Kansas State has dropped four straight contests after winning four straight to end their non-conference schedule.

Kansas State: visits Oklahoma State on Saturday.

UCF: hosts No. 1 Arizona on Saturday. ___&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1768444381078.png" alt="Photo K-State Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo K-State Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>MANHATTAN, Kan. (AP) — Riley Kugel scored 19 points, Jamichael Stillwell added 18, and UCF weathered Kansas State's comeback bid to win 82-73 on Wednesday night.The Knights (14-2, 3-1 Big 12) shot 53% from the field and 47% from beyond the arc. Themus Fulks had 13 points (6-for-11 shooting) and dished 12 assists for his fifth game with 10 or more assists this season. Devan Cambridge chipped in with 11 points on perfect 4-for-4 shooting.UCF narrowly won the rebound battle, 35-34, paced by seven rebounds each from Kugel and Stillwell.A 20-6 run near the midway point of the first half put UCF up by double-figures, and they led 42-28 at halftime.K-State cut the lead to one point in the second half, but could not pull ahead in the frame. Their last lead came with 15:24 remaining in the first.PJ Haggerty scored 23 points (9-for-18 shooting) for the Wildcats (9-8, 0-4), and Khamari McGriff added 15 points. Nate Johnson racked up 10 assists. K-State struggled from beyond the arc, converting on just six of their 30 3-point attempts.UCF won their second straight game, after their 11-game winning streak was snapped by Oklahoma State on Jan. 6. Kansas State has dropped four straight contests after winning four straight to end their non-conference schedule.<h2>Up next</h2>Kansas State: visits Oklahoma State on Saturday.UCF: hosts No. 1 Arizona on Saturday. ___&nbsp;

🏀Kugel's 19 points, Stillwell's 18 lift UCF over Kansas State 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1762665656970.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>FINAL: No. 20 HutchCC women 86, Pratt 47FINAL: Pratt men 71, HutchCC 65<div><iframe title="Blue Dragon Rewind: HutchCC WBB & MBB at Pratt (Jan. 14, 2026)" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:300px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=z5h4t-1a1c4be-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=60a0c8&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=3267a3&size=300" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>

🎧🏀 Blue Dragon Rewind: HutchCC at Pratt

PRATT, Kan. — No. 20 Hutchinson (13-4, 8-3) jumped out to a 6-0 lead just 58 seconds into Wednesday night's matchup with Pratt (6-11, 2-10) and never looked back.

The Dragons led by as many as 23 in the first half and went up by 43 with 7:15 left in the contest.

Noelle Anthon had a career-high 19 points on a career-best nine-made field goals. She scored 12-of-her-19 points in the first half as Hutchinson went up 45-22 at the break.

The Dragons held the Beavers to 31.6% shooting for the game, including just 16.7% in the third quarter.

Four Beaver starters combined for just 5-of-25 shooting.

Polla Balint led the way for Pratt with 12 points and six rebounds. No other Beavers scored in double digits.

Led by Anthon's 19, Hutchinson had four double-digit scorers.

Katie Duncan hit 4-of-7 from distance and finished with 16 points while KaMyra Barber added 14.

Delora Pricop provided a career-high 16 points off the bench on a 5-of-7 shooting night.

The Dragons return to the Sports Arena on Saturday, Jan. 17, to face Fort Hays Tech Northwest at 2 p.m.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1768449891453.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>PRATT, Kan. — No. 20 Hutchinson (13-4, 8-3) jumped out to a 6-0 lead just 58 seconds into Wednesday night's matchup with Pratt (6-11, 2-10) and never looked back.The Dragons led by as many as 23 in the first half and went up by 43 with 7:15 left in the contest.Noelle Anthon had a career-high 19 points on a career-best nine-made field goals. She scored 12-of-her-19 points in the first half as Hutchinson went up 45-22 at the break.The Dragons held the Beavers to 31.6% shooting for the game, including just 16.7% in the third quarter.Four Beaver starters combined for just 5-of-25 shooting.Polla Balint led the way for Pratt with 12 points and six rebounds. No other Beavers scored in double digits.Led by Anthon's 19, Hutchinson had four double-digit scorers.Katie Duncan hit 4-of-7 from distance and finished with 16 points while KaMyra Barber added 14.Delora Pricop provided a career-high 16 points off the bench on a 5-of-7 shooting night.FINAL: Hutchinson 86 Pratt 47The Dragons return to the Sports Arena on Saturday, Jan. 17, to face Fort Hays Tech Northwest at 2 p.m.

🏀 WBB: No. 20 Dragons roll to road victory

Location: Dennis Lesh Sports Arena; Pratt Pregame: 5:15 p.m. Tipoff: 5:30 p.m. Station(s): KHUT-FM (102.9); KWBW-AM/FM (1450/98.5) Play-by-Play: Sean Boston; Analyst: Daren Dunn

<a href="https://streamdb5web.securenetsystems.net/v5/KHUT">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN LIVE</a>

Location: Dennis Lesh Sports Arena; Pratt Pregame: 7:15 p.m. Tipoff: 7:30 p.m. Station(s): KHUT-FM (102.9); KWBW-AM/FM (1450/98.5) Play-by-Play: Sean Boston; Analyst: Daren Dunn

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1762665656970.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure><h2>No. 20 HutchCC women at Pratt</h2>Location: Dennis Lesh Sports Arena; Pratt Pregame: 5:15 p.m. Tipoff: 5:30 p.m. Station(s): KHUT-FM (102.9); KWBW-AM/FM (1450/98.5) Play-by-Play: Sean Boston; Analyst: Daren Dunn<a href="https://streamdb5web.securenetsystems.net/v5/KHUT">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN LIVE</a><h2>HutchCC men at Pratt</h2>Location: Dennis Lesh Sports Arena; Pratt Pregame: 7:15 p.m. Tipoff: 7:30 p.m. Station(s): KHUT-FM (102.9); KWBW-AM/FM (1450/98.5) Play-by-Play: Sean Boston; Analyst: Daren Dunn<a href="https://streamdb5web.securenetsystems.net/v5/KHUT">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN LIVE</a>

🎧🏀 LISTEN LIVE: HutchCC at Pratt

MANHATTAN, Kan. – One of the most electrifying and dynamic players in the early 2000s, Kansas State's Terence Newman has been selected to the National Football Foundation's College Football Hall of Fame Induction Class of 2026.

Newman is the seventh K-State player or coach to be selected to college football's highest honor and the fourth in the last 15 years. He joins former running back Darren Sproles (Class of 2021), linebackers Gary Spani (Class of 2002) and Mark Simoneau (Class of 2012), as well as coaches Lynn "Pappy" Waldorf (Class of 1966), Charles Bachman (Class of 1978) and Bill Snyder (Class of 2015).

The 2026 College Football Hall of Fame Class will be officially inducted during the 68th NFF Annual Awards Dinner on December 8, 2026, at the Bellagio Resort and Casino in Las Vegas.

Once the 2026 Hall of Fame Class is officially inducted, only 1,129 players and 241 coaches will have been inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame from the nearly 5.86 million who have played or coached the game during the past 157 years. In other words, less than two one-hundredths of a percent (.02%) of the individuals who have played/coached the game have earned this distinction.

Regarded as one of the most dynamic football players in school history, Newman electrified fans playing for Snyder from 1999-2002 and followed his Wildcat days with a 15-plus-year career in the NFL.

A two-time All-Big 12 selection, Newman put together an unforgettable senior season in 2002, earning Consensus All-American honors as a cornerback and returner while also earning All-Big 12 First Team and Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year honors. He also won the 2002 Jim Thorpe Award, given annually to the nation’s top defensive back.

Newman, a K-State Ring of Honor and Athletics Hall of Fame member, was also a two-time All-American while competing for K-State Track &amp; Field, winning two Big 12 Championships with a school record 6.62 in the Indoor 60-meters and 10.20 in the Outdoor 100-meters, two marks that still stand.

In 2003, Newman became the second-highest draft pick in school history as the No. 5 overall selection in the first round of the NFL Draft by the Dallas Cowboys and earned two Pro Bowl selections during his career.

Joining Newman as players in the Class of 2026 are Jerry Azumah, RB (1995-98) – University of New Hampshire; Ki-Jana Carter, RB (1991-94) – Penn State University; Bruce Collie, OT (1981-84) – University of Texas at Arlington; George Cumby, LB (1976-79) – University of Oklahoma; Aaron Donald, DT (2010-13) – University of Pittsburgh; Marvin Harrison, KR/WR (1992-95) – Syracuse University; Garrison Hearst, RB (1990-92) – University of Georgia; Chris Hudson, DB (1991-94) – University of Colorado; Mark Ingram, RB (2008-10) – University of Alabama; Olin Kreutz, C (1995-97) – University of Washington; James Laurinaitis, LB (2005-08) – Ohio State University; Jordan Lynch, AP/QB (2010-13) – Northern Illinois University; Herman Moore, WR (1988-90) – University of Virginia; Bob Novogratz, OG (1957-58) – United States Military Academy; Ndamukong Suh, DT (2006-09) – University of Nebraska; Peter Warrick, WR (1996-99) – Florida State University; Eric Weddle, S (2003-06) – University of Utah.

Coaches being inducted include Jim Margraff – Johns Hopkins University [MD] (1990-2018); Gary Patterson - Texas Christian University (2000-21); Chris Petersen – Boise State University (2006-13); University of Washington (2014-19).&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1768418948485.png" alt="Photo Courtesy Kansas State Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Kansas State Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas State AthleticsMANHATTAN, Kan. – One of the most electrifying and dynamic players in the early 2000s, Kansas State's Terence Newman has been selected to the National Football Foundation's College Football Hall of Fame Induction Class of 2026.Newman is the seventh K-State player or coach to be selected to college football's highest honor and the fourth in the last 15 years. He joins former running back Darren Sproles (Class of 2021), linebackers Gary Spani (Class of 2002) and Mark Simoneau (Class of 2012), as well as coaches Lynn "Pappy" Waldorf (Class of 1966), Charles Bachman (Class of 1978) and Bill Snyder (Class of 2015).The 2026 College Football Hall of Fame Class will be officially inducted during the 68th NFF Annual Awards Dinner on December 8, 2026, at the Bellagio Resort and Casino in Las Vegas.Once the 2026 Hall of Fame Class is officially inducted, only 1,129 players and 241 coaches will have been inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame from the nearly 5.86 million who have played or coached the game during the past 157 years. In other words, less than two one-hundredths of a percent (.02%) of the individuals who have played/coached the game have earned this distinction.Regarded as one of the most dynamic football players in school history, Newman electrified fans playing for Snyder from 1999-2002 and followed his Wildcat days with a 15-plus-year career in the NFL.A two-time All-Big 12 selection, Newman put together an unforgettable senior season in 2002, earning Consensus All-American honors as a cornerback and returner while also earning All-Big 12 First Team and Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year honors. He also won the 2002 Jim Thorpe Award, given annually to the nation’s top defensive back.Newman, a K-State Ring of Honor and Athletics Hall of Fame member, was also a two-time All-American while competing for K-State Track &amp; Field, winning two Big 12 Championships with a school record 6.62 in the Indoor 60-meters and 10.20 in the Outdoor 100-meters, two marks that still stand.In 2003, Newman became the second-highest draft pick in school history as the No. 5 overall selection in the first round of the NFL Draft by the Dallas Cowboys and earned two Pro Bowl selections during his career.Joining Newman as players in the Class of 2026 are Jerry Azumah, RB (1995-98) – University of New Hampshire; Ki-Jana Carter, RB (1991-94) – Penn State University; Bruce Collie, OT (1981-84) – University of Texas at Arlington; George Cumby, LB (1976-79) – University of Oklahoma; Aaron Donald, DT (2010-13) – University of Pittsburgh; Marvin Harrison, KR/WR (1992-95) – Syracuse University; Garrison Hearst, RB (1990-92) – University of Georgia; Chris Hudson, DB (1991-94) – University of Colorado; Mark Ingram, RB (2008-10) – University of Alabama; Olin Kreutz, C (1995-97) – University of Washington; James Laurinaitis, LB (2005-08) – Ohio State University; Jordan Lynch, AP/QB (2010-13) – Northern Illinois University; Herman Moore, WR (1988-90) – University of Virginia; Bob Novogratz, OG (1957-58) – United States Military Academy; Ndamukong Suh, DT (2006-09) – University of Nebraska; Peter Warrick, WR (1996-99) – Florida State University; Eric Weddle, S (2003-06) – University of Utah.Coaches being inducted include Jim Margraff – Johns Hopkins University [MD] (1990-2018); Gary Patterson - Texas Christian University (2000-21); Chris Petersen – Boise State University (2006-13); University of Washington (2014-19).&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

🏈 K-State's Newman elected to College Football Hall of Fame

WICHITA, Kansas – The Minnesota Twins announced their 2026 Minor League coaching staffs, including the staff for their Double-A affiliate the Wichita Wind Surge. Nico Giarratano will take the helm as manager of the Wind Surge, taking over for Brian Dinkelman who was promoted to manage the Minnesota Twins Class AAA club, the St Paul Saints, following one season in Wichita. Giarratano managed the FCL Twins last season. He will be joined on the staff by Pitching Coaches Jesus Sanchez and Stephen Ridings, Hitting Coaches Andrew Cresci and Julian Gonzalez, Strength and Conditioning Coach Meagan Vota, Lead Athletic Trainer Taylor Carpenter, Assistant Athletic Trainer Asja Morello, and Baseball Technology Coordinator Chase Carder. 

Giarratano, who is entering his fourth year with the Twins organization, arrives in Wichita after leading the Florida Complex League Twins to a 39-20 record and a division title in 2025. He spent the 2023 and 24 seasons as a development coach at the Twins Florida Complex. Before joining the Twins organization, Giarratano broke into coaching managing the Seattle Mariners’ Dominican Summer League team in 2022. Prior to coaching, he played collegiately at the University of San Francisco and was selected by the San Francisco Giants in the 24th round of the 2017 MLB First-Year Player Draft. He went on to play three seasons in the Giants’ system, reaching High-A. He wrapped up his playing career with Durango of the Mexican League in 2021, hitting .249 (45-for-181) with eight doubles, one home run, 21 RBI and 17 runs scored in 61 games. 

Jesus Sanchez enters his fourth season with the Twins organization and second season with Double-A Wichita. Last season he spearheaded a Wind Surge pitching staff that finished with the fewest walks and third lowest ERA in the Texas League. A native of Venezuela, he racked up 410 strikeouts over a 15-year minor league career from 2008-2022, making it as high as the Triple-A level. 

Stephen Ridings will make his coaching debut this season. He wrapped up his pitching career last season pitching with Oklahoma City Comets in the Pacific Coast League in 2025. The eight-year professional baseball player made his MLB debut in 2021 with the New York Yankees and pitched in five career MLB games. He spent time in the Cubs, Royals, Mets, Yankees and Dodgers organizations. 

Andrew Cresci returns to Wichita for a second season. Last season with the Surge, the team led the league in home runs anruns scored and finished second in the league in batting average. Prior to 2025 he spent three seasons in the Houston Astros organization. He has been a hitting trainer at Driveline, and is the hitting coordinator for the Italian Softball Federation. 

Julian Gonzalez enters his second season with the Twins organization and his fourth season in professional baseball, spending three seasons in Baltimore Orioles organization before joining Minnesota. Gonzalez was the Hitting and Development coach for the Cedar Rapids Kernels in 2025, helping them to a first half division title and playoff appearance.

Taylor Carpenter and Asja Morello will work as Athletic Trainers for the club. Meagan Vota will serve as the Strength and Conditioning coordinator. Carpenter spent the 2022 season in Wichita and has been in Twins organization for the past five seasons. Morello and Vota were both with the Surge in 2025. Chase Carder will return for his fifth season as the Baseball Technology Coordinator. 

The Surge open the 2026 season at Equity Bank Park on April 2nd vs Northwest Arkansas Naturals. 

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1768417827563.png" alt="(Courtesy Wichita Wind Surge)" />
 <figcaption>(Courtesy Wichita Wind Surge)</figcaption>
 </figure>WICHITA WIND SURGEWICHITA, Kansas – The Minnesota Twins announced their 2026 Minor League coaching staffs, including the staff for their Double-A affiliate the Wichita Wind Surge. Nico Giarratano will take the helm as manager of the Wind Surge, taking over for Brian Dinkelman who was promoted to manage the Minnesota Twins Class AAA club, the St Paul Saints, following one season in Wichita. Giarratano managed the FCL Twins last season. He will be joined on the staff by Pitching Coaches Jesus Sanchez and Stephen Ridings, Hitting Coaches Andrew Cresci and Julian Gonzalez, Strength and Conditioning Coach Meagan Vota, Lead Athletic Trainer Taylor Carpenter, Assistant Athletic Trainer Asja Morello, and Baseball Technology Coordinator Chase Carder. Giarratano, who is entering his fourth year with the Twins organization, arrives in Wichita after leading the Florida Complex League Twins to a 39-20 record and a division title in 2025. He spent the 2023 and 24 seasons as a development coach at the Twins Florida Complex. Before joining the Twins organization, Giarratano broke into coaching managing the Seattle Mariners’ Dominican Summer League team in 2022. Prior to coaching, he played collegiately at the University of San Francisco and was selected by the San Francisco Giants in the 24th round of the 2017 MLB First-Year Player Draft. He went on to play three seasons in the Giants’ system, reaching High-A. He wrapped up his playing career with Durango of the Mexican League in 2021, hitting .249 (45-for-181) with eight doubles, one home run, 21 RBI and 17 runs scored in 61 games. Jesus Sanchez enters his fourth season with the Twins organization and second season with Double-A Wichita. Last season he spearheaded a Wind Surge pitching staff that finished with the fewest walks and third lowest ERA in the Texas League. A native of Venezuela, he racked up 410 strikeouts over a 15-year minor league career from 2008-2022, making it as high as the Triple-A level. Stephen Ridings will make his coaching debut this season. He wrapped up his pitching career last season pitching with Oklahoma City Comets in the Pacific Coast League in 2025. The eight-year professional baseball player made his MLB debut in 2021 with the New York Yankees and pitched in five career MLB games. He spent time in the Cubs, Royals, Mets, Yankees and Dodgers organizations. Andrew Cresci returns to Wichita for a second season. Last season with the Surge, the team led the league in home runs anruns scored and finished second in the league in batting average. Prior to 2025 he spent three seasons in the Houston Astros organization. He has been a hitting trainer at Driveline, and is the hitting coordinator for the Italian Softball Federation. Julian Gonzalez enters his second season with the Twins organization and his fourth season in professional baseball, spending three seasons in Baltimore Orioles organization before joining Minnesota. Gonzalez was the Hitting and Development coach for the Cedar Rapids Kernels in 2025, helping them to a first half division title and playoff appearance.Taylor Carpenter and Asja Morello will work as Athletic Trainers for the club. Meagan Vota will serve as the Strength and Conditioning coordinator. Carpenter spent the 2022 season in Wichita and has been in Twins organization for the past five seasons. Morello and Vota were both with the Surge in 2025. Chase Carder will return for his fifth season as the Baseball Technology Coordinator. The Surge open the 2026 season at Equity Bank Park on April 2nd vs Northwest Arkansas Naturals.

Wind Surge announces 2026 coaching staff

KANSAS CITY, Mo.—The Kansas City Royals announced today their minor league staff and coordinators for the 2026 season. Individual minor league affiliate coaching staffs will be announced later this week.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757384001940.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas City RoyalsKANSAS CITY, Mo.—The Kansas City Royals announced today their minor league staff and coordinators for the 2026 season. Individual minor league affiliate coaching staffs will be announced later this week.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1768403055790.png" alt="Royals staff" />
 <figcaption>Royals staff</figcaption>
 </figure>

⚾ Royals announce 2026 minor league staff and coordinators

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Buhler claimed top honors on both the boys and girls sides Tuesday at a triangular bowling meet at The Alley.

The Crusaders finished first in the boys competition with a score of 3,301, outpacing Augusta (2,798) and Andover (2,764). Buhler also led the girls field with a 2,233 total, finishing ahead of Augusta (2,107) and Andover (1,974).

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1711630763075.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Buhler claimed top honors on both the boys and girls sides Tuesday at a triangular bowling meet at The Alley.The Crusaders finished first in the boys competition with a score of 3,301, outpacing Augusta (2,798) and Andover (2,764). Buhler also led the girls field with a 2,233 total, finishing ahead of Augusta (2,107) and Andover (1,974).<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1768405482429.jpeg" alt="Photos Courtesy Buhler High School Bowling" />
 <figcaption>Photos Courtesy Buhler High School Bowling</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1768405492300.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1768405500084.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>

🎳 Buhler sweeps home triangular with dominant wins

McPherson High School has released the boys bracket for the 62nd McPherson Invitational Basketball Tournament, which will&nbsp; be held January 22-24 at the McPherson High School Roundhouse.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1768409347458.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy McPherson High School" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy McPherson High School</figcaption>
 </figure>McPherson High School has released the boys bracket for the 62nd McPherson Invitational Basketball Tournament, which will&nbsp; be held January 22-24 at the McPherson High School Roundhouse.

🏀 Bracket released for 62nd Annual McPherson Invitational Basketball Tournament

VALLEY CENTER, Kan. — The Hutchinson High Salthawks earned their first victories of the 2026 calendar year Tuesday night, sweeping Valley Center on the road.

The Hutchinson girls pulled away in the second half for a 49-32 win over the Hornets, while the Salthawk boys held off a late Valley Center push to escape with a 59-56 victory.

In the girls’ game, Hutchinson found itself in a tight contest at halftime, carrying a 25-20 lead into the locker room. The Salthawks quickly took control after the break, opening the third quarter with a strong defensive effort that limited Valley Center’s scoring chances and fueled a decisive run.

Hutchinson outscored the Hornets by double figures in the third period to create separation and never looked back on the way to the 17-point win. Ava Kron led the way for the Salthawks with a 15-point double-double, providing steady scoring and presence on the glass.

The boys’ contest came down to the final minute, but this time Hutchinson avoided a late-game collapse. The Salthawks overcame turnovers and knocked down free throws in the closing moments to seal the three-point road victory.

Larry Jeramiah Jr. delivered a consistent performance to pace Hutchinson with 15 points, while Lamar Govain came up with several key baskets down the stretch to help preserve the lead as Valley Center threatened in the final seconds.

The sweep marked the first wins of 2026 for both Salthawk squads.

Hutchinson returns to action Friday night when the Salthawks travel to Great Bend for another road doubleheader non-league game.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1768378530828.jpeg" alt="Salthawks. sweep Valley Center" />
 <figcaption>Salthawks. sweep Valley Center</figcaption>
 </figure>VALLEY CENTER, Kan. — The Hutchinson High Salthawks earned their first victories of the 2026 calendar year Tuesday night, sweeping Valley Center on the road.The Hutchinson girls pulled away in the second half for a 49-32 win over the Hornets, while the Salthawk boys held off a late Valley Center push to escape with a 59-56 victory.In the girls’ game, Hutchinson found itself in a tight contest at halftime, carrying a 25-20 lead into the locker room. The Salthawks quickly took control after the break, opening the third quarter with a strong defensive effort that limited Valley Center’s scoring chances and fueled a decisive run.Hutchinson outscored the Hornets by double figures in the third period to create separation and never looked back on the way to the 17-point win. Ava Kron led the way for the Salthawks with a 15-point double-double, providing steady scoring and presence on the glass.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1768379316391.jpeg" alt="Girls VC Final" />
 <figcaption>Girls VC Final</figcaption>
 </figure>The boys’ contest came down to the final minute, but this time Hutchinson avoided a late-game collapse. The Salthawks overcame turnovers and knocked down free throws in the closing moments to seal the three-point road victory.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1768379359539.jpeg" alt="Boys VC Final." />
 <figcaption>Boys VC Final.</figcaption>
 </figure>Larry Jeramiah Jr. delivered a consistent performance to pace Hutchinson with 15 points, while Lamar Govain came up with several key baskets down the stretch to help preserve the lead as Valley Center threatened in the final seconds.The sweep marked the first wins of 2026 for both Salthawk squads.Hutchinson returns to action Friday night when the Salthawks travel to Great Bend for another road doubleheader non-league game.

🏀Salthawks Sweep Valley Center for first wins of 2026

LAWRENCE, Kan. (AP) — Kansas finally showed what it could do with a healthy Darryn Peterson and a regular rotation Tuesday night.

The timing couldn't have been worse for second-ranked Iowa State.

After falling from the AP Top 25 following a second loss in their first three Big 12 games, the Jayhawks roared away from the stunned Cyclones the moment the ball was thrown up. Tre White hit four early 3-pointers and went on to score 19 points, Peterson contributed 16 before more cramping issues, and Kansas coasted to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/iowa-state-cyclones-kansas-jayhawks-96bf5daca216794e231c8435598e5dc0">an 84-63 victory</a>&nbsp;over previously unbeaten Iowa State.

“This is more what I envisioned,” Jayhawks coach Bill Self said. “We've got an elite player — we got an elite scorer — and even tonight, when (Peterson) went to get his own, he can do some things other guys can't do. But the thing is the other guys are good players. We don't need to defer to him. I don't know that we've found that balance yet. But tonight was the closest thing to it.”

Melvin Council Jr. added 15 points and Flory Bidunga had 10 for the Jayhawks (12-5, 2-2 Big 12), who led by 26 in the first half, had that advantage trimmed to 11 midway through the second, then answered with a 10-0 run to put the game away.

It was the kind of performance that college basketball fans have become accustomed to seeing from the Jayhawks over the years.

Much more familiar than recent losses to unranked UCF and West Virginia.

“They were extremely well-prepared, well-coached, like we knew they would be,” Iowa State coach T.J. Otzelberger said. “Extremely urgent (for Kansas) to come out and play with a tremendous spirit, which they did, so credit to them.

“That was an absolute beat-down,” Otzelberger added, “in their favor, unfortunately.”

There are a multitude of reasons for a stumbling start to the season, which had the Jayhawks in danger of their first 1-3 start to league play since the 1987-88 season. But the biggest may have been the cramping problems that had kept Peterson off the court for long stretches and kept the Jayhawks from getting into a rhythm even when he was available.

He was still massaging his calf on the bench Tuesday night, and at one point, Peterson grabbed it after going high for a dunk. But Self said the issue wasn't as serious as earlier in the year: “It was more of, ‘I’m not quite whole right now.'”

“Feeling better. It's coming back slowly to me,” Peterson said. “I was out for a while but every game is getting better. This was a great win, especially coming off the loss to West Virginia. We knew we had to come out and get a win.”

The Jayhawks clearly felt a sense of urgency. They even had a players-only meeting — Self insisted he knew nothing about it — during which they talked about their goals for the season and what it would take to get back on track.

“Just kind of reiterating the key things that we want to identify ourselves as this year,” White said, “and just internal conversations that made us more focused on what we want to do. It definitely made us more connected.”

It was evident from the opening minutes, when Kansas opened with an 11-3 run to get the crowd into the game.

By the 7-minute mark, the lead had grown to 31-14, and Otzelberger had wasted two timeouts trying to get things under control.

Kansas pushed the lead to 26 points before Iowa State mounted its only real comeback, stringing together some stops and getting some buckets to go on each side of halftime. But eventually, the Jayhawks found their stride again, and they quickly pushed the lead back over 20 points before emptying the bench in the final minutes.

What made the performance particularly impressive was the opposition: Iowa State was off to a 16-0 start, including a 23-point road win over then-No. 1 Purdue, and the Cyclones were one of two teams receiving No. 1 votes in the AP Top 25 this week.

“We looked a little spooked and panicked, and the moment got to us,” Otzelberger said. “We know how well prepared they were going to be. We know how competitive they're going to be. We know how much confidence they have, especially in this building. You can tell they've been on the practice court working, and getting ready, and they did a tremendous job.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1768388197811.png" alt="Kansas Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Kansas Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>LAWRENCE, Kan. (AP) — Kansas finally showed what it could do with a healthy Darryn Peterson and a regular rotation Tuesday night.The timing couldn't have been worse for second-ranked Iowa State.After falling from the AP Top 25 following a second loss in their first three Big 12 games, the Jayhawks roared away from the stunned Cyclones the moment the ball was thrown up. Tre White hit four early 3-pointers and went on to score 19 points, Peterson contributed 16 before more cramping issues, and Kansas coasted to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/iowa-state-cyclones-kansas-jayhawks-96bf5daca216794e231c8435598e5dc0">an 84-63 victory</a>&nbsp;over previously unbeaten Iowa State.“This is more what I envisioned,” Jayhawks coach Bill Self said. “We've got an elite player — we got an elite scorer — and even tonight, when (Peterson) went to get his own, he can do some things other guys can't do. But the thing is the other guys are good players. We don't need to defer to him. I don't know that we've found that balance yet. But tonight was the closest thing to it.”Melvin Council Jr. added 15 points and Flory Bidunga had 10 for the Jayhawks (12-5, 2-2 Big 12), who led by 26 in the first half, had that advantage trimmed to 11 midway through the second, then answered with a 10-0 run to put the game away.It was the kind of performance that college basketball fans have become accustomed to seeing from the Jayhawks over the years.Much more familiar than recent losses to unranked UCF and West Virginia.“They were extremely well-prepared, well-coached, like we knew they would be,” Iowa State coach T.J. Otzelberger said. “Extremely urgent (for Kansas) to come out and play with a tremendous spirit, which they did, so credit to them.“That was an absolute beat-down,” Otzelberger added, “in their favor, unfortunately.”There are a multitude of reasons for a stumbling start to the season, which had the Jayhawks in danger of their first 1-3 start to league play since the 1987-88 season. But the biggest may have been the cramping problems that had kept Peterson off the court for long stretches and kept the Jayhawks from getting into a rhythm even when he was available.He was still massaging his calf on the bench Tuesday night, and at one point, Peterson grabbed it after going high for a dunk. But Self said the issue wasn't as serious as earlier in the year: “It was more of, ‘I’m not quite whole right now.'”“Feeling better. It's coming back slowly to me,” Peterson said. “I was out for a while but every game is getting better. This was a great win, especially coming off the loss to West Virginia. We knew we had to come out and get a win.”The Jayhawks clearly felt a sense of urgency. They even had a players-only meeting — Self insisted he knew nothing about it — during which they talked about their goals for the season and what it would take to get back on track.“Just kind of reiterating the key things that we want to identify ourselves as this year,” White said, “and just internal conversations that made us more focused on what we want to do. It definitely made us more connected.”It was evident from the opening minutes, when Kansas opened with an 11-3 run to get the crowd into the game.By the 7-minute mark, the lead had grown to 31-14, and Otzelberger had wasted two timeouts trying to get things under control.Kansas pushed the lead to 26 points before Iowa State mounted its only real comeback, stringing together some stops and getting some buckets to go on each side of halftime. But eventually, the Jayhawks found their stride again, and they quickly pushed the lead back over 20 points before emptying the bench in the final minutes.What made the performance particularly impressive was the opposition: Iowa State was off to a 16-0 start, including a 23-point road win over then-No. 1 Purdue, and the Cyclones were one of two teams receiving No. 1 votes in the AP Top 25 this week.“We looked a little spooked and panicked, and the moment got to us,” Otzelberger said. “We know how well prepared they were going to be. We know how competitive they're going to be. We know how much confidence they have, especially in this building. You can tell they've been on the practice court working, and getting ready, and they did a tremendous job.”___

🏀 Peterson and KU crush previously unbeaten Iowa State

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712064660369.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure><h2>January 13, 2026 Rankings</h2>Class 6A<ul>
 <li>Shawnee Mission South</li><li>Olathe North</li><li>Mill Valley</li><li>Wichita Heights</li><li>Blue Valley Northwest</li><li>Blue Valley High</li><li>Maize</li><li>Manhattan</li><li>Shawnee Mission North</li><li>Blue Valley North</li>
 </ul>Class 5A<ul>
 <li>Kapaun Mt. Carmel</li><li>Topeka West</li><li>Topeka Seaman</li><li>Emporia</li><li>Bonner Springs</li><li>St. James Academy</li><li>Kansas City Piper</li><li>Hays</li><li>Maize South</li><li>Andover</li>
 </ul>Class 4A<ul>
 <li>Rock Creek</li><li>Atchison</li><li>Bishop Miege</li><li>Pratt</li><li>Andale</li><li>Concordia</li><li>Baldwin</li><li>Hugoton</li><li>Chanute</li><li>Augusta</li>
 </ul>Class 3A<ul>
 <li>Wichita Collegiate</li><li>Hesston</li><li>Holcomb</li><li>Burlington</li><li>Wichita Trinity</li><li>Beloit</li><li>Silver Lake</li><li>Hiawatha</li><li>Colby</li><li>Anthony-Harper-Chaparral</li>
 </ul>Class 2A<ul>
 <li>Sterling</li><li>Ell-Saline</li><li>Salina Sacred Heart</li><li>Classical of Wichita</li><li>Moundridge</li><li>St. Mary’s</li><li>Berean Academy</li><li>St. Mary’s Colgan</li><li>Rossville</li><li>Cair Paravel Latin School</li>
 </ul>Class 1A Division I<ul>
 <li>Olpe</li><li>South Central</li><li>Little River</li><li>Bishop Seabury Academy</li><li>Wabaunsee</li><li>Central Plains</li><li>St. John’s-Tipton Catholic</li><li>Tribune-Greeley County</li><li>Burden-Central</li><li>Canton-Galva</li>
 </ul>Class 1A Division II<ul>
 <li>Hanover</li><li>Axtell</li><li>Thunder Ridge</li><li>Victoria</li><li>Hartford</li><li>Wallace County</li><li>Tescott</li><li>Ingalls</li><li>Deerfield</li><li>Linn</li>
 </ul>

🏀 KBCA releases latest boys rankings

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712064660369.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure><h2>January 13, 2026 Rankings</h2>Class 6A<ul>
 <li>Shawnee Mission South</li><li>Wichita Heights</li><li>Derby</li><li>Blue Valley North</li><li>Wichita East</li><li>Olathe North</li><li>Olathe South</li><li>Manhattan</li><li>Washburn Rural</li><li>Blue Valley High</li>
 </ul>Class 5A<ul>
 <li>St. Thomas Aquinas</li><li>Andover</li><li>Hays</li><li>Maize South</li><li>Kansas City Piper</li><li>St. James Academy</li><li>Kapaun Mt. Carmel</li><li>Salina South</li><li>Bishop Carroll</li><li>Topeka Seaman</li>
 </ul>Class 4A<ul>
 <li>Wellington</li><li>Ottawa</li><li>Wamego</li><li>Bishop Miege</li><li>Independence</li><li>Fort Scott</li><li>Topeka Hayden</li><li>Eudora</li><li>Rock Creek</li><li>Mulvane</li>
 </ul>Class 3A<ul>
 <li>Silver Lake</li><li>Halstead</li><li>Osage City</li><li>Holcomb</li><li>Burlington</li><li>Cheney</li><li>Girard</li><li>Riley County</li><li>Beloit</li><li>Haven</li>
 </ul>Class 2A<ul>
 <li>Ellinwood</li><li>St. Mary’s Colgan</li><li>Moundridge</li><li>Eureka</li><li>Remington</li><li>Hoxie</li><li>Hillsboro</li><li>Inman</li><li>Sacred Heart</li><li>Valley Heights</li>
 </ul>Class 1A Division I<ul>
 <li>Little River</li><li>Wabaunsee</li><li>Centralia</li><li>Hodgeman County</li><li>Rock Hills</li><li>Spearville</li><li>South Gray</li><li>Olpe</li><li>Quinter</li><li>Clifton-Clyde</li>
 </ul>Class 1A Division II<ul>
 <li>Hanover</li><li>Bucklin</li><li>Linn</li><li>Marais des Cygnes Valley</li><li>Central Christian</li><li>Dighton</li><li>Lebo</li><li>Ashland</li><li>Cheylin</li><li>Wheatland-Grinnell</li>
 </ul>

🏀 KBCA releases latest girls rankings

The Hutchinson Community College look to keep the good vibes going from a victory over No. 18 Coffeyville one week ago heading into a Wednesday KJCCC road trip.

The Blue Dragons (10-6, 5-5 KJCCC) make their shortest road trip of the season on Wednesday as Hutchinson makes the hour trip to the Dennis Lesh Sports Arena to meet the Pratt Beavers (4-12, 1-10 KJCCC). Tipoff is at 7:30 p.m.

The game will be broadcast live on Blue Dragon flagship station KHUT-FM (102.9) and on sister stations KWBW-AM/FM (1450/98.5) beginning at 7:15 p.m. with Sean Boston (PBP) and Daren Dunn (color) calling the action. The Beavers Sports Network will exclusively stream the game on a pay-per-view service.

The Blue Dragons come off their first league bye week on Saturday. Before that, Hutchinson played one of its best games of the season in a 93-77 victory over No. 18 Coffeyville, the Dragons' third win over a ranked opponent this season.

<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/mbkb/2025-26/bios/shaw_kyrell_v507">Kyrell Shaw</a>&nbsp;scored 32 points, while&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/mbkb/2025-26/bios/cannon_bobby_almy">Bobby Cannon</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/mbkb/2025-26/bios/thomas_daleron_yjqw">Daleron Thomas</a>&nbsp;added 15 each as the Blue Dragons out-shot Coffeyville 50.8-39.4 percent. Leading 48-42 at halftime, the Blue Dragon defense regained its first-semester form holding the Red Ravens to 34.4 percent overall shooting and outscored Coffeyville 45-35 in the final 20 minutes.

Coming off back-to-back 32-point games, Shaw is now second in the Jayhawk Conference in scoring at 20.6 points per game. Shaw is also averaging 20.6 points in KJCCC contests.

The Blue Dragons reclaim the No. 1 spot in the KJCCC in defensive scoring average at 70.6 points per game allowed). The Dragons are No. 2 in the KJCCC in scoring defense (38.6 percent) and fifth in 3-point defense (28.6 percent). Hutchinson has held 12 of 16 opponents to 75 points or less this season.

Pratt come into Wednesday's game 1-10 in the KJCCC, but seven of those losses have been by 10 points or loss. The Beavers fell 87-80 in overtime at home on Saturday to Coffeyville. Hunter Vaughn scored 31 points on 6 of 11 3-point shooting and 9 of 11 from the free-throw line to pace the Beavers.

The Beavers average 76.4 points while allowing 78.6 points. The shoot 42.6 percent overall and 31.1 percent from the 3-point line.

Vaughn is Pratt's leading scorer at 14.6 points per game. The Beavers are balanced in scoring with two players in double figures and nine players averaging at least five points per game.

Hutchinson leads the overall series with Pratt 155-28.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1768340119138.jpeg" alt="Daleron Thomas and the Blue Dragon men's basketball team plays at Pratt at 5:30 p.m. on Wednesday at the Dennis Lesh Sports Arena. (Sydney Holzrichter/Blue Dragon Sports Information)" />
 <figcaption>Daleron Thomas and the Blue Dragon men's basketball team plays at Pratt at 5:30 p.m. on Wednesday at the Dennis Lesh Sports Arena. (Sydney Holzrichter/Blue Dragon Sports Information)</figcaption>
 </figure>Hutchinson CC Sports InformationThe Hutchinson Community College look to keep the good vibes going from a victory over No. 18 Coffeyville one week ago heading into a Wednesday KJCCC road trip.The Blue Dragons (10-6, 5-5 KJCCC) make their shortest road trip of the season on Wednesday as Hutchinson makes the hour trip to the Dennis Lesh Sports Arena to meet the Pratt Beavers (4-12, 1-10 KJCCC). Tipoff is at 7:30 p.m.The game will be broadcast live on Blue Dragon flagship station KHUT-FM (102.9) and on sister stations KWBW-AM/FM (1450/98.5) beginning at 7:15 p.m. with Sean Boston (PBP) and Daren Dunn (color) calling the action. The Beavers Sports Network will exclusively stream the game on a pay-per-view service.<div>BLUE DRAGON MEN'S BASKETBALL Hutchinson (10-6, 5-5) at Pratt (4-12, 1-10) When: Wednesday, January 14, 2026 Where: Dennis Lesh Sports Arena, Pratt, KS Time: 7:30 p.m. Radio:&nbsp;<a href="https://streamdb5web.securenetsystems.net/v5/KHUT">KHUT-FM (102.9); KWBW-AM/FM (1450/98.5), 7:15 p.m. -- Sean Boston (PBP); Daren Dunn (Color)</a> Video:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.gobeaversports.com/links/LiveBroadcasts">Beaver Sports Network (PPV), 7:25 p.m.</a> X: @bluedragonsport <a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/mbkb/2025-26/files/Game_17_men_-_Pratt.pdf">CLICK FOR FULL BLUE DRAGON GAME NOTES (PDF Format)</a></div>The Blue Dragons come off their first league bye week on Saturday. Before that, Hutchinson played one of its best games of the season in a 93-77 victory over No. 18 Coffeyville, the Dragons' third win over a ranked opponent this season.<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/mbkb/2025-26/bios/shaw_kyrell_v507">Kyrell Shaw</a>&nbsp;scored 32 points, while&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/mbkb/2025-26/bios/cannon_bobby_almy">Bobby Cannon</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/mbkb/2025-26/bios/thomas_daleron_yjqw">Daleron Thomas</a>&nbsp;added 15 each as the Blue Dragons out-shot Coffeyville 50.8-39.4 percent. Leading 48-42 at halftime, the Blue Dragon defense regained its first-semester form holding the Red Ravens to 34.4 percent overall shooting and outscored Coffeyville 45-35 in the final 20 minutes.Coming off back-to-back 32-point games, Shaw is now second in the Jayhawk Conference in scoring at 20.6 points per game. Shaw is also averaging 20.6 points in KJCCC contests.The Blue Dragons reclaim the No. 1 spot in the KJCCC in defensive scoring average at 70.6 points per game allowed). The Dragons are No. 2 in the KJCCC in scoring defense (38.6 percent) and fifth in 3-point defense (28.6 percent). Hutchinson has held 12 of 16 opponents to 75 points or less this season.Pratt come into Wednesday's game 1-10 in the KJCCC, but seven of those losses have been by 10 points or loss. The Beavers fell 87-80 in overtime at home on Saturday to Coffeyville. Hunter Vaughn scored 31 points on 6 of 11 3-point shooting and 9 of 11 from the free-throw line to pace the Beavers.The Beavers average 76.4 points while allowing 78.6 points. The shoot 42.6 percent overall and 31.1 percent from the 3-point line.Vaughn is Pratt's leading scorer at 14.6 points per game. The Beavers are balanced in scoring with two players in double figures and nine players averaging at least five points per game.Hutchinson leads the overall series with Pratt 155-28.

🏀 Blue Dragons face road test Wednesday at Pratt

The Hutchinson Community College women's basketball team has had a week to think about a performance the team would like to forget.

The No. 20-ranked Blue Dragons (12-4, 7-3 KJCCC) will return to the court Wednesday after a bye week on Saturday to play the Pratt Beavers (6-10, 2-9) KJCCC at 5:30 p.m. at the Dennis Lesh Sports Arena in Pratt.

The game will be broadcast live on Blue Dragon flagship station KHUT-FM (102.9) and on sister stations KWBW-AM/FM (1450/98.5) beginning at 5:15 p.m. with Sean Boston (PBP) and Daren Dunn (color) calling the action. The Beavers Sports Network will exclusively stream the game on a pay-per-view service.

The Blue Dragons had their worst offensive performance in four seasons last Wednesday in a 68-39 loss to Coffeyville at the Sports Arena.

The Red Ravens jumped out to a 21-14 lead after one quarter and never looked back holding the Dragons to season lows in points, field-goal percentage (26.0) and rebounds (26).

Despite the setback against Coffeyville, the Blue Dragons are only two games behind league front runners Butler and Dodge City as the league's season halfway point nears.

In Blue Dragon head coach John Ontjes' tenure, his teams are 67-6 following a loss, including 3-0 this season.

Through 16 games, the Blue Dragons are averaging 68.8 points per game, which ranks sixth in the KJCCC. They are shooting 42.1 percent overall and 31.0 percent from 3-point range. Defensively, the Dragon rank sixth in the league allowing 57.8 points per game. Opponents are shooting 35.9 percent overall and 34.5 percent from distance.

<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wbkb/2025-26/bios/barber_kamyra_spfy">KaMyra Barber</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wbkb/2025-26/bios/duncan_katie_ltx7">Katie Duncan</a>&nbsp;continue to lead the Blue Dragons individually in scoring at 13.4 and 13.3 points per game, respectively. Barber is the Dragons' top rebounder at 6.8 boards per game and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wbkb/2025-26/bios/brown_whitney_uv6o">Whitney Brown</a>&nbsp;averages 4.6 assists per game.

Pratt enters the game on a seven-game losing streak and are 1-9 in its last 10 games. Since returning from the break, the Beavers have lost to Cloud County (81-67), Colby (74-30) and Coffeyville (74-35).

With a victory on Wednesday, the Blue Dragons would tie a series record with 22-straight wins over the Beavers. Hutchinson previously had a 22-game win streak over Pratt from 1993 to 2003.

Hutchinson leads the all-time series with Pratt, 90-11.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1768340038146.jpeg" alt="Noelle Anthon and the No. 20-ranked Blue Dragon women's basketball team travel to Pratt Wednesday for a 5:30 p.m. KJCCC matchup in Pratt. (Sydney Holzrichter/Blue Dragon Sports Information)" />
 <figcaption>Noelle Anthon and the No. 20-ranked Blue Dragon women's basketball team travel to Pratt Wednesday for a 5:30 p.m. KJCCC matchup in Pratt. (Sydney Holzrichter/Blue Dragon Sports Information)</figcaption>
 </figure>Hutchinson CC Sports InformationThe Hutchinson Community College women's basketball team has had a week to think about a performance the team would like to forget.The No. 20-ranked Blue Dragons (12-4, 7-3 KJCCC) will return to the court Wednesday after a bye week on Saturday to play the Pratt Beavers (6-10, 2-9) KJCCC at 5:30 p.m. at the Dennis Lesh Sports Arena in Pratt.The game will be broadcast live on Blue Dragon flagship station KHUT-FM (102.9) and on sister stations KWBW-AM/FM (1450/98.5) beginning at 5:15 p.m. with Sean Boston (PBP) and Daren Dunn (color) calling the action. The Beavers Sports Network will exclusively stream the game on a pay-per-view service.<div>BLUE DRAGON WOMEN'S BASKETBALL No. 20 Hutchinson (12-4, 7-3) at Pratt (6-10, 2-9) When: Wednesday, January 14, 2026 Where: Dennis Lesh Sports Arena, Pratt, KS Time: 5:30 p.m. Radio:&nbsp;<a href="https://streamdb5web.securenetsystems.net/v5/KHUT" target="_blank" rel="noopener">KHUT-FM (102.9); KWBW-AM/FM (1450/98.5), 5:15 p.m. -- Sean Boston (PBP); Daren Dunn (Color)</a> Video:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.gobeaversports.com/links/LiveBroadcasts">Beaver Sports Network (PPV), 5:25 p.m.</a> X: @bluedragonsport <a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wbkb/2025-26/files/Game_17_Women_-_Pratt.pdf">CLICK FOR FULL BLUE DRAGON GAME NOTES (PDF Format)</a></div>The Blue Dragons had their worst offensive performance in four seasons last Wednesday in a 68-39 loss to Coffeyville at the Sports Arena.The Red Ravens jumped out to a 21-14 lead after one quarter and never looked back holding the Dragons to season lows in points, field-goal percentage (26.0) and rebounds (26).Despite the setback against Coffeyville, the Blue Dragons are only two games behind league front runners Butler and Dodge City as the league's season halfway point nears.In Blue Dragon head coach John Ontjes' tenure, his teams are 67-6 following a loss, including 3-0 this season.Through 16 games, the Blue Dragons are averaging 68.8 points per game, which ranks sixth in the KJCCC. They are shooting 42.1 percent overall and 31.0 percent from 3-point range. Defensively, the Dragon rank sixth in the league allowing 57.8 points per game. Opponents are shooting 35.9 percent overall and 34.5 percent from distance.<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wbkb/2025-26/bios/barber_kamyra_spfy">KaMyra Barber</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wbkb/2025-26/bios/duncan_katie_ltx7">Katie Duncan</a>&nbsp;continue to lead the Blue Dragons individually in scoring at 13.4 and 13.3 points per game, respectively. Barber is the Dragons' top rebounder at 6.8 boards per game and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wbkb/2025-26/bios/brown_whitney_uv6o">Whitney Brown</a>&nbsp;averages 4.6 assists per game.Pratt enters the game on a seven-game losing streak and are 1-9 in its last 10 games. Since returning from the break, the Beavers have lost to Cloud County (81-67), Colby (74-30) and Coffeyville (74-35).With a victory on Wednesday, the Blue Dragons would tie a series record with 22-straight wins over the Beavers. Hutchinson previously had a 22-game win streak over Pratt from 1993 to 2003.Hutchinson leads the all-time series with Pratt, 90-11.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

🏀 No. 20 HutchCC women head to Pratt on Wednesday

KANSAS CITY, Mo.—The Kansas City Royals announced today Kauffman Stadium’s outfield wall is being moved in for the 2026 season.

This change will likely create more home runs (and robbed home runs), more extra-base hits, and more exciting action on the field – while bringing fans closer to seeing it. The decision was made by Baseball Operations for competitive reasons, including to bring The K more in line with other Major League ballparks.

Work on the project has begun, and will be complete ahead of the Royals home opener vs the Twins on Monday, March 30.

“We’ve discussed this possibility for years, and after much work by our Research &amp; Development department, believe this will be a positive change for our baseball team,” Royals Executive Vice President and General Manager J.J. Picollo said. “We wanted more consistency throughout the season, while making sure the specifics put us in the best position to succeed.”

The wall will come in 8 to 10 feet starting near each foul pole – the gaps will go from 387 feet to 379 – and taper back toward centerfield, which will remain 410 feet. The height of the wall will also change, from 10 feet tall in most places to 8 ½ feet. About 150 seats will be added in left field and about 80 new drinkrail seats in right.

The club’s research estimates the changes will take the run value of fly balls at The K from the bottom third of MLB ballparks to the middle, primarily through more extra-base hits.

Over the last three seasons, these specific changes would have benefitted the Royals overall, even accounting for more extra-base hits by opponents.

“Making this a fairer ballpark will help with roster construction, but more importantly will allow our players to keep the same approach regardless of where we play,” Royals Vice President – Research &amp; Development/Assistant GM Dr. Daniel Mack said. “Our approach was carefully considered to account for as many factors as possible. We believe this will ultimately reduce the constraints within Kauffman Stadium.”&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1768320255230.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy Kansas City Royals" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Kansas City Royals</figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas City RoyalsKANSAS CITY, Mo.—The Kansas City Royals announced today Kauffman Stadium’s outfield wall is being moved in for the 2026 season.This change will likely create more home runs (and robbed home runs), more extra-base hits, and more exciting action on the field – while bringing fans closer to seeing it. The decision was made by Baseball Operations for competitive reasons, including to bring The K more in line with other Major League ballparks.Work on the project has begun, and will be complete ahead of the Royals home opener vs the Twins on Monday, March 30.“We’ve discussed this possibility for years, and after much work by our Research &amp; Development department, believe this will be a positive change for our baseball team,” Royals Executive Vice President and General Manager J.J. Picollo said. “We wanted more consistency throughout the season, while making sure the specifics put us in the best position to succeed.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1768320463164.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy Kansas City Royals" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Kansas City Royals</figcaption>
 </figure>The wall will come in 8 to 10 feet starting near each foul pole – the gaps will go from 387 feet to 379 – and taper back toward centerfield, which will remain 410 feet. The height of the wall will also change, from 10 feet tall in most places to 8 ½ feet. About 150 seats will be added in left field and about 80 new drinkrail seats in right.The club’s research estimates the changes will take the run value of fly balls at The K from the bottom third of MLB ballparks to the middle, primarily through more extra-base hits.Over the last three seasons, these specific changes would have benefitted the Royals overall, even accounting for more extra-base hits by opponents.“Making this a fairer ballpark will help with roster construction, but more importantly will allow our players to keep the same approach regardless of where we play,” Royals Vice President – Research &amp; Development/Assistant GM Dr. Daniel Mack said. “Our approach was carefully considered to account for as many factors as possible. We believe this will ultimately reduce the constraints within Kauffman Stadium.”&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

⚾ Royals announce changes to dimensions at Kauffman Stadium

HAVEN, Kan. — Haven High School standout Avery Brawner reached a career milestone Monday night, scoring her 1,000th point in an 82-21 victory over Nickerson.

Brawner finished with 22 points in the win. The senior is a three-sport athlete, also competing in volleyball and softball. 

Haven is set to host Hillsboro on Tuesday night. The Wildcats are 9-2 and have won eight straight games after a 1-2 start to the season.

Brawner will continue her academic and athletic career at Hutchinson Community College, where she will play softball for the Blue Dragons.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1768316888827.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy Kristi Rinehart Roper" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Kristi Rinehart Roper</figcaption>
 </figure>HAVEN, Kan. — Haven High School standout Avery Brawner reached a career milestone Monday night, scoring her 1,000th point in an 82-21 victory over Nickerson.Brawner finished with 22 points in the win. The senior is a three-sport athlete, also competing in volleyball and softball. Haven is set to host Hillsboro on Tuesday night. The Wildcats are 9-2 and have won eight straight games after a 1-2 start to the season.Brawner will continue her academic and athletic career at Hutchinson Community College, where she will play softball for the Blue Dragons.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1768317018415.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy Kristi Rinehart Roper" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Kristi Rinehart Roper</figcaption>
 </figure>

🏀 Haven’s Avery Brawner reaches 1,000-point mark

BUHLER, Kan. — Buhler High School track and field coach Willie Adkins was recently honored by the Kansas Cross Country Track and Field Coaches Association for being named the 2025 Class 4A Boys Track &amp; Field Coach of the Year.

Adkins was recognized at the 2026 KCCTFCA Winter Coaching Clinic held this past weekend in Topeka.&nbsp;

He has served as the Buhler High School track and field team for the last 36 years.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1768316073851.jpeg" alt="Graphic Courtesy Buhler Crusader Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Graphic Courtesy Buhler Crusader Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>BUHLER, Kan. — Buhler High School track and field coach Willie Adkins was recently honored by the Kansas Cross Country Track and Field Coaches Association for being named the 2025 Class 4A Boys Track &amp; Field Coach of the Year.Adkins was recognized at the 2026 KCCTFCA Winter Coaching Clinic held this past weekend in Topeka.&nbsp;He has served as the Buhler High School track and field team for the last 36 years.&nbsp;

👟 Buhler's Adkins named 4A Boys Track and Field Coach of the Year by KCCTFCA

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

GREEN BAY, Wis. — Former Hutchinson Community College women’s basketball standout Kiki Smith, a key figure in one of the most dominant seasons in NJCAA history, will be inducted into the North American Indigenous Athletics Hall of Fame on Saturday, May 30, in Green Bay, Wisconsin.

Smith, who helped lead Hutchinson Community College to a perfect 37-0 record and the 2023 NJCAA Division I national championship, will be honored as a member of the NAIAHF Class of 2026 during the organization’s banquet weekend at the Oneida Hotel and Conference Center.

The Topeka native and daughter to Darold Smith and Harmony Burgess-Smith, developed her love for basketball at an early age and carried that passion to Topeka High School, where she became one of the most decorated players in program history. She was a four-time Class 6A all-state selection, earning three first-team honors, and was named Centennial League player of the year after averaging more than 20 points per game in both her junior and senior seasons.

Despite her accolades, Smith was lightly recruited out of high school and arrived at Hutchinson Community College with something to prove. In one season with the Blue Dragons, she averaged 17.6 points, 3.2 rebounds, 2.2 assists and 2.7 steals per game while shooting 55.9 percent from the field and 44.4 percent from beyond the arc. Her 82 made 3-pointers set a single-season school record.

Smith’s impact was reflected in the postseason honors that followed. She was named the NJCAA Division I Player of the Year, a first-team NJCAA All-American and the Kansas Jayhawk Community College Conference Player of the Year, capping one of the most complete individual seasons in Blue Dragon history.

Following her national title run at Hutchinson, Smith transferred to Arkansas, where she averaged 10.2 points per game during her sophomore season and ranked second in the Southeastern Conference in 3-point shooting at 40.6 percent, placing her among the nation’s top shooters.

She is currently playing at <a href="https://purduesports.com/sports/womens-basketball/roster/player/kiki-smith">Purdue</a>, where she quickly emerged as a leading scorer for the Boilermakers and established herself as one of the Big Ten Conference’s top 3-point shooters and distributors. Through 17 games and 13 starts with Purdue, Smith is averaging 10.5 points per game on 36 percent shooting from deep.

A proud member of the Comanche Nation, Smith played for Legendary Elite on the Native Basketball Circuit during her prep career and remains active in the organization, speaking with youth players about pursuing college athletics. She is a Yellowfish descendant and also has Kiowa, Cheyenne, Absentee Shawnee and Caddo heritage.

The NAIAHF induction weekend will include cultural ceremonies, musical performances and formal recognition of inductees. Other members of the Class of 2026 include brothers ZA and G McIntosh and the mother-and-son duo of Trina and Breas Ross.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1768315554127.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy NAIAHF" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy NAIAHF</figcaption>
 </figure>By <a href="mailto:sean.boston@eaglemedia.com">SEAN BOSTON</a> Hutch PostGREEN BAY, Wis. — Former Hutchinson Community College women’s basketball standout Kiki Smith, a key figure in one of the most dominant seasons in NJCAA history, will be inducted into the North American Indigenous Athletics Hall of Fame on Saturday, May 30, in Green Bay, Wisconsin.Smith, who helped lead Hutchinson Community College to a perfect 37-0 record and the 2023 NJCAA Division I national championship, will be honored as a member of the NAIAHF Class of 2026 during the organization’s banquet weekend at the Oneida Hotel and Conference Center.The Topeka native and daughter to Darold Smith and Harmony Burgess-Smith, developed her love for basketball at an early age and carried that passion to Topeka High School, where she became one of the most decorated players in program history. She was a four-time Class 6A all-state selection, earning three first-team honors, and was named Centennial League player of the year after averaging more than 20 points per game in both her junior and senior seasons.Despite her accolades, Smith was lightly recruited out of high school and arrived at Hutchinson Community College with something to prove. In one season with the Blue Dragons, she averaged 17.6 points, 3.2 rebounds, 2.2 assists and 2.7 steals per game while shooting 55.9 percent from the field and 44.4 percent from beyond the arc. Her 82 made 3-pointers set a single-season school record.Smith’s impact was reflected in the postseason honors that followed. She was named the NJCAA Division I Player of the Year, a first-team NJCAA All-American and the Kansas Jayhawk Community College Conference Player of the Year, capping one of the most complete individual seasons in Blue Dragon history.Following her national title run at Hutchinson, Smith transferred to Arkansas, where she averaged 10.2 points per game during her sophomore season and ranked second in the Southeastern Conference in 3-point shooting at 40.6 percent, placing her among the nation’s top shooters.She is currently playing at <a href="https://purduesports.com/sports/womens-basketball/roster/player/kiki-smith">Purdue</a>, where she quickly emerged as a leading scorer for the Boilermakers and established herself as one of the Big Ten Conference’s top 3-point shooters and distributors. Through 17 games and 13 starts with Purdue, Smith is averaging 10.5 points per game on 36 percent shooting from deep.A proud member of the Comanche Nation, Smith played for Legendary Elite on the Native Basketball Circuit during her prep career and remains active in the organization, speaking with youth players about pursuing college athletics. She is a Yellowfish descendant and also has Kiowa, Cheyenne, Absentee Shawnee and Caddo heritage.The NAIAHF induction weekend will include cultural ceremonies, musical performances and formal recognition of inductees. Other members of the Class of 2026 include brothers ZA and G McIntosh and the mother-and-son duo of Trina and Breas Ross.