HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Finally playing at home after 15 games on the road to open the 2024 season, the Hutchinson Community College volleyball team hit better than .400 in its first two sets back at the Sports Arena Wednesday night against Cloud County.

The Blue Dragons cooled off in the latter stages of the match and earned a 3-1 KJCCC victory over the Thunderbirds, winning 25-8, 25-13, 24-26, 25-16.

Hutchinson improved to 9-7 overall and 2-2 in the Jayhawk Conference. The Blue Dragons will play McCook, Iowa Western, Missouri State-West Plains and Labette this weekend in the Blue Dragon Volleyball Classic at the Sports Arena. Cloud County is now 3-11 overall and 0-5 in the KJCCC.

The Blue Dragons dominated early, out-hitting Cloud County .462 to a minus .154 in the first set and .400 to a minus .031 in the second set. Hutchinson cooled off in the third and fourth sets and wound up out-hitting the Thunderbirds for the match .236 to a minus .008. The Dragons held Cloud County to negative hitting percentages in three of the four sets.

Freshman Atlyn Proctor led the Blue Dragons with 17 kills, hitting .433 on 30 attacks. Proctor had four digs and three block assists.

Sophomore Tiana Simmons had 14 kills on .111 hitting. She had a season-high eight digs with two service aces and two assists.

Freshman Viktoria Graf also reached double figures in kills with 10 kills on .200 hitting. She had six digs and three block assists.

Sophomore middle McKenzie Murphy had a season-high nine kills on .471 hitting. She added five total blocks, including one solo block.

The Blue Dragons out-blocked Cloud County 9-7 and out-dug the Thunderbirds 52-41. The Dragons also racked up a season-high 10 service aces.

Freshman setter Ellie Suber earned her first career double-double with 39 set assists and 10 digs.

Freshman libero Addy Foster had a team-high 14 digs.

Freshman Beatriz Carvalho had season highs of four service aces, five set assists and four digs.

SET 1 – The Blue Dragons were balanced offensively in the opening set with five kills from Murphy and four each from Proctor and Graf. Tied at 3-3, the Dragons went on a 7-0 run to take a 10-3 lead after a Simmons kills. A Murphy kill extended the run to 13-2 for a 16-5 Hutchinson lead. Back-to-back kills from Proctor extended the run to 16-3 and a 19-6 Dragon lead. Hutchison closed the set on a 6-1 run, getting a Simmons kill on set point for a 25-8 victory.

SET 2 – Hutchinson had an 8-5 lead and broke open the set with a 7-0 run on Graf’s serve. A Murphy kill capped the run and the Dragons led 15-5. A Graf kill upped the Dragon advantage to 19-10. The Dragons scored five unanswered points with a kill from Graf and a Graf/Murphy double block. Simmons had an ace to give the Dragons a 24-12 lead. Graf finished off the set with a kill. The Dragons had 13 kills and four blocks in the second set.

SET 3 – The third set was much tighter with six lead changes and 13 ties. After Cloud jumped out to a 3-0 lead, Hutchinson answered with a 5-0 run and led 5-3 after a Proctor kill. Tied at 20, a Proctor kill, a Proctor/Kierny Follmer double block and an Angela Reupena service ace gave the Dragons a 23-20 lead. The teams traded points to 24-21. Cloud County fought off three match points and scored the final five points of the set for a 26-24 win. Cloud County out-hit the Dragons in the third set .207-.103.

SET 4 – Trailing 3-1 early, the Blue Dragons went on a nine-point service run on Carvalho’s serve. Carvalho had four aces in that run, the fourth giving Hutchinson a 10-3 lead. The Dragons built a 16-4 lead on Foster’s serve. The longest scoring run from that point was three, by the Dragons. Hutchinson hit only .091 in the fourth set, getting a set-high four kills from Simmons.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726746479778.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy HutchCC Sports Information" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy HutchCC Sports Information</figcaption>
 </figure>HutchCC Sports InformationHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Finally playing at home after 15 games on the road to open the 2024 season, the Hutchinson Community College volleyball team hit better than .400 in its first two sets back at the Sports Arena Wednesday night against Cloud County.The Blue Dragons cooled off in the latter stages of the match and earned a 3-1 KJCCC victory over the Thunderbirds, winning 25-8, 25-13, 24-26, 25-16.Hutchinson improved to 9-7 overall and 2-2 in the Jayhawk Conference. The Blue Dragons will play McCook, Iowa Western, Missouri State-West Plains and Labette this weekend in the Blue Dragon Volleyball Classic at the Sports Arena. Cloud County is now 3-11 overall and 0-5 in the KJCCC.The Blue Dragons dominated early, out-hitting Cloud County .462 to a minus .154 in the first set and .400 to a minus .031 in the second set. Hutchinson cooled off in the third and fourth sets and wound up out-hitting the Thunderbirds for the match .236 to a minus .008. The Dragons held Cloud County to negative hitting percentages in three of the four sets.Freshman Atlyn Proctor led the Blue Dragons with 17 kills, hitting .433 on 30 attacks. Proctor had four digs and three block assists.Sophomore Tiana Simmons had 14 kills on .111 hitting. She had a season-high eight digs with two service aces and two assists.Freshman Viktoria Graf also reached double figures in kills with 10 kills on .200 hitting. She had six digs and three block assists.Sophomore middle McKenzie Murphy had a season-high nine kills on .471 hitting. She added five total blocks, including one solo block.The Blue Dragons out-blocked Cloud County 9-7 and out-dug the Thunderbirds 52-41. The Dragons also racked up a season-high 10 service aces.Freshman setter Ellie Suber earned her first career double-double with 39 set assists and 10 digs.Freshman libero Addy Foster had a team-high 14 digs.Freshman Beatriz Carvalho had season highs of four service aces, five set assists and four digs.SET 1 – The Blue Dragons were balanced offensively in the opening set with five kills from Murphy and four each from Proctor and Graf. Tied at 3-3, the Dragons went on a 7-0 run to take a 10-3 lead after a Simmons kills. A Murphy kill extended the run to 13-2 for a 16-5 Hutchinson lead. Back-to-back kills from Proctor extended the run to 16-3 and a 19-6 Dragon lead. Hutchison closed the set on a 6-1 run, getting a Simmons kill on set point for a 25-8 victory.SET 2 – Hutchinson had an 8-5 lead and broke open the set with a 7-0 run on Graf’s serve. A Murphy kill capped the run and the Dragons led 15-5. A Graf kill upped the Dragon advantage to 19-10. The Dragons scored five unanswered points with a kill from Graf and a Graf/Murphy double block. Simmons had an ace to give the Dragons a 24-12 lead. Graf finished off the set with a kill. The Dragons had 13 kills and four blocks in the second set.SET 3 – The third set was much tighter with six lead changes and 13 ties. After Cloud jumped out to a 3-0 lead, Hutchinson answered with a 5-0 run and led 5-3 after a Proctor kill. Tied at 20, a Proctor kill, a Proctor/Kierny Follmer double block and an Angela Reupena service ace gave the Dragons a 23-20 lead. The teams traded points to 24-21. Cloud County fought off three match points and scored the final five points of the set for a 26-24 win. Cloud County out-hit the Dragons in the third set .207-.103.SET 4 – Trailing 3-1 early, the Blue Dragons went on a nine-point service run on Carvalho’s serve. Carvalho had four aces in that run, the fourth giving Hutchinson a 10-3 lead. The Dragons built a 16-4 lead on Foster’s serve. The longest scoring run from that point was three, by the Dragons. Hutchinson hit only .091 in the fourth set, getting a set-high four kills from Simmons.

🏐 Finally at home, Dragons down Cloud in 4

After being stunned early after a goal against in the third minute on Wednesday’s NJCAA Top 20 battle, the Hutchinson Community College Women’s Soccer team stayed the course and earned another key KJCCC league point.

Sophomore Katharina Marx scored the equalizer in the 50th minute and the No. 17 Blue Dragons battled to a 1-1 draw with the ninth-ranked Kansas City Blue Devils on Wednesday at the Salthawk Sports Complex.

The Blue Dragons are now 4-1-3 overall and 3-1-3 (12 points) in the KJCCC. Kansas City remained unbeaten at 6-0-2 overall and 4-0-2 (14 points) in the KJCCC. The Blue Dragons are off on Saturday and will return to action next Wednesday at No. 14 Cowley.

Kansas City took an early 1-0 lead just 2:35 into the game when Cora Ellerman scored on a Jaycee Schumann assist. The Blue Devils kept that one-goal lead into halftime.

The Dragons started to sustain some offensive pressure in the second half.

Winning a couple of 50-50 balls in the offensive zone, sophomore midfielder Kaitlyn Edwards slid a pass to a wide-open Marx, who scored her fifth goal of the season to tie the game with 40:35 to play in the second half.

Statistically, the game was played at an even pace. Kansas City out-shot the Blue Dragons 15-13, but were 9-9 in the second half. The Devils had three corner kicks to Hutchinson’s two.

Blue Dragon sophomore goalkeeper Karsyn Slothower (3-1-2) made eight saves against the Blue Devils. Slothower now has 129 career saves, third most in Blue Dragon history.

Kansas City goalkeeper Maria Heuman made five saves.

The Blue Dragons lead the all-time series with the Blue Devils 6-1-3.

With their third draw of the 2024 season, the Blue Dragons tie a season record for ties in a season, matching the 2020/21 and 2023 Hutchinson teams.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726744507970.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy HutchCC Sports Information" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy HutchCC Sports Information</figcaption>
 </figure>HutchCC Sports InformationAfter being stunned early after a goal against in the third minute on Wednesday’s NJCAA Top 20 battle, the Hutchinson Community College Women’s Soccer team stayed the course and earned another key KJCCC league point.Sophomore Katharina Marx scored the equalizer in the 50th minute and the No. 17 Blue Dragons battled to a 1-1 draw with the ninth-ranked Kansas City Blue Devils on Wednesday at the Salthawk Sports Complex.The Blue Dragons are now 4-1-3 overall and 3-1-3 (12 points) in the KJCCC. Kansas City remained unbeaten at 6-0-2 overall and 4-0-2 (14 points) in the KJCCC. The Blue Dragons are off on Saturday and will return to action next Wednesday at No. 14 Cowley.Kansas City took an early 1-0 lead just 2:35 into the game when Cora Ellerman scored on a Jaycee Schumann assist. The Blue Devils kept that one-goal lead into halftime.The Dragons started to sustain some offensive pressure in the second half.Winning a couple of 50-50 balls in the offensive zone, sophomore midfielder Kaitlyn Edwards slid a pass to a wide-open Marx, who scored her fifth goal of the season to tie the game with 40:35 to play in the second half.Statistically, the game was played at an even pace. Kansas City out-shot the Blue Dragons 15-13, but were 9-9 in the second half. The Devils had three corner kicks to Hutchinson’s two.Blue Dragon sophomore goalkeeper Karsyn Slothower (3-1-2) made eight saves against the Blue Devils. Slothower now has 129 career saves, third most in Blue Dragon history.Kansas City goalkeeper Maria Heuman made five saves.The Blue Dragons lead the all-time series with the Blue Devils 6-1-3.With their third draw of the 2024 season, the Blue Dragons tie a season record for ties in a season, matching the 2020/21 and 2023 Hutchinson teams.

⚽ Dragons draw in Top 20 matchup

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Tarik Skubal allowed three hits over five innings for his 17th win and the streaking Detroit Tigers beat the Kansas City Royals 4-2 on Wednesday night to move within a half game of a playoff spot with 10 games remaining.

Riley Greene hit a go-ahead home run as the Tigers (80-73) won their fourth straight and ninth in the last 11 games. With the series sweep, Detroit won for the 25th time in 35 games to move within a half game of Minnesota (80-72) for the third AL wild-card spot.

“These guys, first of all we believe, and second we come every day to try to win the game, and we are winning a lot, which is fun to watch these guys learn and grow and compete until the end of the game,” Tigers manager A.J. Hinch said.

Skubal (17-4), who has won his last five decisions, made his case for the AL Cy Young Award stronger by matching Atlanta’s Chris Sale for the major league lead in wins and lowered his AL-leading earned run average to 2.48. He walked one and struck out seven.

“Really proud of the guys. Last time we came here we were on the other side of the sweep,” Skubal said. “We’ve got a great group, a resilient group. I mean if you just look at the season that we’ve had, I think it shows in this series.”

Skubal had struggled against the Royals in the past, entering Wednesday with a 2-9 record and 5.05 ERA in 12 starts over 14 appearances. After allowing three hits and Yuli Gurriel’s two-out RBI single in the first inning, he threw four hitless innings.

“We put some good at-bats on him early, but once he got the runs, five of the next six hitters were 0-2 counts. He’s coming after us,” Royals manager Matt Quatraro said of Skubal. “But that’s how he pitches. He’s not picking at the corners. He’s got elite stuff and he knows it.”

Skubal screamed after striking out Royals All-Star catcher Salvador Perez with two on for his final out in the fifth.

“For me it’s always about executing pitches,” Skubal said. “If I can execute pitches at a high clip, I like my chances against anybody, no matter how many times they’ve seen me."

Hinch was happy to see his ace battle through 95 pitches though he wasn’t as sharp as his previous starts.

“It was a big fight for him, but he did a great job,” Hinch said. “Sometimes five is enough, and he did his job by getting the biggest out against his biggest nemesis and showed a ton of emotion. ... If he somehow isn’t able to make pitches to Salvy, who has been good against him, this game’s completely different. He’s our guy. We needed our guy to do his part, and he did."

The Royals (82-71), who lost their fourth straight, were swept for the first time at home this season and the third time overall. They remained 2 1/2 games behind Baltimore for the first wild-card spot and 1 1/2 games ahead of Minnesota for the second wild card.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/orioles-giants-score-6ec70e02cd2b3f67760e8e2272f1fdaf">The Orioles</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/twins-guardians-score-cb19462f4d0652f6799b22b30297f003">Twins both lost</a>&nbsp;earlier Wednesday.

Skubal struck out major league batting leader Bobby Witt Jr. twice before hitting him with a pitch in the fifth. Witt, who became the first player in major league history&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/royals-bobby-witt-jr-steals-homers-2f244fb981427ad0622cbc0d73c200df">with multiple seasons of 30 home runs and 30 steals</a>&nbsp;in his first three seasons Tuesday, broke Hal McRae’s 1977 franchise record with his 87th extra-base hit of the season with a bloop double to lead off the eighth.

Perez then drove in Witt with a single off reliever Brenan Hanifee. Sean Guenther preserved the 4-2 lead with a double play and a fly out. Guenther got the first out of the ninth and Will Vest got the final two for his second save.

Royals starter Alec Marsh (8-9), coming off a career-high 11 strikeouts in his last start, lasted only 2 2/3 innings, allowing four runs (three earned) on five hits and three walks.

Perez and Gurriel, who is hitting .385 since the Royals acquired him from Atlanta, each had two hits for the Royals.

Tigers: Rookie 3B Colt Keith is day to day after reinjuring his right shoulder in Tuesday’s game on a diving attempt in the field. He has had a right shoulder problem in three straight seasons. He did not play Wednesday, but Hinch said he would hit in the batting cage during the game. “It could have been much worse,” Hinch said.

Tigers: Detroit has not announced a starter for Friday’s series opener at Baltimore.

Royals: RHP Michael Wacha (13-7, 3.29) is scheduled to start Friday’s home series opener against San Francisco. Wacha is 3-0 with a 1.80 ERA in nine career starts against the Giants and 7-2 with a 2.87 ERA this season at home.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726715949210.png" alt="Detroit Tigers' Jace Jung (17) beats the tag by Kansas City Royals catcher Salvador Perez to score on a double by Trey Sweeney during the third inning of a baseball game Wednesday, Sept. 18, 2024, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)" />
 <figcaption>Detroit Tigers' Jace Jung (17) beats the tag by Kansas City Royals catcher Salvador Perez to score on a double by Trey Sweeney during the third inning of a baseball game Wednesday, Sept. 18, 2024, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)</figcaption>
 </figure>KARL ZINKE Associated PressKANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Tarik Skubal allowed three hits over five innings for his 17th win and the streaking Detroit Tigers beat the Kansas City Royals 4-2 on Wednesday night to move within a half game of a playoff spot with 10 games remaining.Riley Greene hit a go-ahead home run as the Tigers (80-73) won their fourth straight and ninth in the last 11 games. With the series sweep, Detroit won for the 25th time in 35 games to move within a half game of Minnesota (80-72) for the third AL wild-card spot.“These guys, first of all we believe, and second we come every day to try to win the game, and we are winning a lot, which is fun to watch these guys learn and grow and compete until the end of the game,” Tigers manager A.J. Hinch said.Skubal (17-4), who has won his last five decisions, made his case for the AL Cy Young Award stronger by matching Atlanta’s Chris Sale for the major league lead in wins and lowered his AL-leading earned run average to 2.48. He walked one and struck out seven.“Really proud of the guys. Last time we came here we were on the other side of the sweep,” Skubal said. “We’ve got a great group, a resilient group. I mean if you just look at the season that we’ve had, I think it shows in this series.”Skubal had struggled against the Royals in the past, entering Wednesday with a 2-9 record and 5.05 ERA in 12 starts over 14 appearances. After allowing three hits and Yuli Gurriel’s two-out RBI single in the first inning, he threw four hitless innings.“We put some good at-bats on him early, but once he got the runs, five of the next six hitters were 0-2 counts. He’s coming after us,” Royals manager Matt Quatraro said of Skubal. “But that’s how he pitches. He’s not picking at the corners. He’s got elite stuff and he knows it.”Skubal screamed after striking out Royals All-Star catcher Salvador Perez with two on for his final out in the fifth.“For me it’s always about executing pitches,” Skubal said. “If I can execute pitches at a high clip, I like my chances against anybody, no matter how many times they’ve seen me."Hinch was happy to see his ace battle through 95 pitches though he wasn’t as sharp as his previous starts.“It was a big fight for him, but he did a great job,” Hinch said. “Sometimes five is enough, and he did his job by getting the biggest out against his biggest nemesis and showed a ton of emotion. ... If he somehow isn’t able to make pitches to Salvy, who has been good against him, this game’s completely different. He’s our guy. We needed our guy to do his part, and he did."The Royals (82-71), who lost their fourth straight, were swept for the first time at home this season and the third time overall. They remained 2 1/2 games behind Baltimore for the first wild-card spot and 1 1/2 games ahead of Minnesota for the second wild card.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/orioles-giants-score-6ec70e02cd2b3f67760e8e2272f1fdaf">The Orioles</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/twins-guardians-score-cb19462f4d0652f6799b22b30297f003">Twins both lost</a>&nbsp;earlier Wednesday.Skubal struck out major league batting leader Bobby Witt Jr. twice before hitting him with a pitch in the fifth. Witt, who became the first player in major league history&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/royals-bobby-witt-jr-steals-homers-2f244fb981427ad0622cbc0d73c200df">with multiple seasons of 30 home runs and 30 steals</a>&nbsp;in his first three seasons Tuesday, broke Hal McRae’s 1977 franchise record with his 87th extra-base hit of the season with a bloop double to lead off the eighth.Perez then drove in Witt with a single off reliever Brenan Hanifee. Sean Guenther preserved the 4-2 lead with a double play and a fly out. Guenther got the first out of the ninth and Will Vest got the final two for his second save.Royals starter Alec Marsh (8-9), coming off a career-high 11 strikeouts in his last start, lasted only 2 2/3 innings, allowing four runs (three earned) on five hits and three walks.Perez and Gurriel, who is hitting .385 since the Royals acquired him from Atlanta, each had two hits for the Royals.TRAINER’S ROOMTigers: Rookie 3B Colt Keith is day to day after reinjuring his right shoulder in Tuesday’s game on a diving attempt in the field. He has had a right shoulder problem in three straight seasons. He did not play Wednesday, but Hinch said he would hit in the batting cage during the game. “It could have been much worse,” Hinch said.UP NEXTTigers: Detroit has not announced a starter for Friday’s series opener at Baltimore.Royals: RHP Michael Wacha (13-7, 3.29) is scheduled to start Friday’s home series opener against San Francisco. Wacha is 3-0 with a 1.80 ERA in nine career starts against the Giants and 7-2 with a 2.87 ERA this season at home.

⚾ Tigers beat Royals Wednesday

Saturday's come-from-behind 33-30 overtime victory by the No. 1-ranked Hutchinson Community College football team over No. 12 Iowa Central continues to reap rewards.

One day after both players earned Jayhawk Conference Player of the Week honors, Blue Dragon quarterback&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/fball/2024-25/bios/collier_samari_f7ro">Samari Collier</a>&nbsp;was named the NJCAA Offensive Player of the Week and kicker&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/fball/2024-25/bios/burger_nestus_ljhj">Nestus Burger</a>&nbsp;was named the national Special Teams Player of the Week on Wednesday.

Collier won his second NJCAA National Offensive Player of the Week award after the sophomore from DeSoto, Texas threw for a career high 300 yards and two touchdowns in the final 6:19 to force overtime against the Tritons. Collier also won the award on November 8, 2023

Burger also won his second national Special Teams Award. The kicker from Perth Australia also won on October 11, 2023.

On Saturday, the Blue Dragons trailed Iowa Central 30-16 in the fourth quarter.

Collier was 23 of 40 passing for 300 yards and three touchdowns against the Tritons. He also added 89 rushing yards on 14 carries.

Collier threw two touchdown passes in the final 4:12 of the fourth quarter to force overtime.

In overtime, Burger kicked a walk-off 36-yard field goal to complete a 14-point comeback over Iowa Central.

Burger was 2 for 2 on field goals and 3 for 3 on extra-points in the Blue Dragon victory. He also had four touchbacks on 6 kickoffs vs. the Tritons.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726686927791.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy&nbsp; HutchCC Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy&nbsp; HutchCC Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>Hutchinson CC Sports InformationSaturday's come-from-behind 33-30 overtime victory by the No. 1-ranked Hutchinson Community College football team over No. 12 Iowa Central continues to reap rewards.One day after both players earned Jayhawk Conference Player of the Week honors, Blue Dragon quarterback&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/fball/2024-25/bios/collier_samari_f7ro">Samari Collier</a>&nbsp;was named the NJCAA Offensive Player of the Week and kicker&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/fball/2024-25/bios/burger_nestus_ljhj">Nestus Burger</a>&nbsp;was named the national Special Teams Player of the Week on Wednesday.Collier won his second NJCAA National Offensive Player of the Week award after the sophomore from DeSoto, Texas threw for a career high 300 yards and two touchdowns in the final 6:19 to force overtime against the Tritons. Collier also won the award on November 8, 2023Burger also won his second national Special Teams Award. The kicker from Perth Australia also won on October 11, 2023.On Saturday, the Blue Dragons trailed Iowa Central 30-16 in the fourth quarter.Collier was 23 of 40 passing for 300 yards and three touchdowns against the Tritons. He also added 89 rushing yards on 14 carries.Collier threw two touchdown passes in the final 4:12 of the fourth quarter to force overtime.In overtime, Burger kicked a walk-off 36-yard field goal to complete a 14-point comeback over Iowa Central.Burger was 2 for 2 on field goals and 3 for 3 on extra-points in the Blue Dragon victory. He also had four touchbacks on 6 kickoffs vs. the Tritons.

🏈 Blue Dragons double up on NJCAA Player of the Week honors

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726684587823.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy Kansas Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Kansas Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure><div>Kansas Athletics
 
LAWRENCE, Kan.&nbsp;&ndash; Kansas men&apos;s basketball will play a charity fundraising exhibition game at Arkansas on Friday, Oct. 25. The contest will be played at Bud Walton Arena in Fayetteville, Arkansas. &nbsp; Start time and broadcast information will be announced soon. Ticket-wise, Kansas will hold a donor sale for its small allotment for the game with that information to come later. General public ticket sales will begin Sept. 25 at 9 a.m. CT through the Arkansas ticket office. &nbsp; The Kansas at Arkansas contest is part of a series exhibition games sponsored by CareSource in which proceeds from ticket sales will benefit mental health providers and charities within each school&apos;s footprint. Kansas will donate proceeds from the game to the Kansas City based Fore The Kids Foundation (forethekidskc.org). Arkansas will donate proceeds from the charity game to Arkansas Children&apos;s Hospitals. &quot;We are excited to be able to go play at Arkansas in an exhibition game and help raise money for a great cause, as the proceeds will go to mental health charities,&quot; Kansas head coach&nbsp;<a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/mens-basketball/roster/coaches/bill-self/727" rel="smarttag" style="color: rgb(0, 81, 186);">Bill Self</a>&nbsp;said. &quot;This game will give us a good idea to see where our team is before the season starts. We wanted to play on the road to give us an opportunity to experience what our first road contest will be like as opposed to experiencing it for the first time in the regular season.&quot; This will be the third charity exhibition game Kansas will have participated over the last seven seasons. In October 2017, Kansas played Missouri in Kansas City, Missouri which raised money for Hurricane Katrina relief. Last season, in October 2023, Kansas played at Illinois to provide financial resources for rapid response and recovery for the devastating wildfires in Maui. Kansas leads the overall series with Arkansas, 8-6, and the two teams last met in the 2023 NCAA Tournament second round in Des Moines, Iowa, with Arkansas claiming a 72-71 win. The 14-game series dates back to 1946 and the Oct. 25 contest will be the first exhibition meeting between the two schools. The KU-Arkansas contest will pit Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame coaches with&nbsp;<a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/mens-basketball/roster/coaches/bill-self/727" rel="smarttag" style="color: rgb(0, 81, 186);">Bill Self</a>, who enters his 22nd&nbsp;season at Kansas, and Arkansas first-year coach John Calipari. &nbsp; In 21 seasons at Kansas with a 588-143 record, Self is three wins from becoming the winningest coach in Kansas basketball history. He will pass Dr. F.C. &quot;Phog&quot; Allen who was 590-219 in 39 seasons at KU (1907-09; 1919-56). Additionally, Self has a career record of 795-248 in 31 seasons and is five wins from becoming the third active NCAA D1 head coach to amass 800 all-time wins. Calipari is first at 813-260 entering his 34th season, while Tennessee&apos;s Rick Barnes is next at 806-415 entering his 38th career season.</div>

🏀 MBB: KU to play at Arkansas in exhibition game

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Royals’ Bobby Witt Jr. became the first shortstop in major league history with multiple seasons of at least 30 homers and 30 steals when the All-Star swiped second base in the first inning of Tuesday night’s game against the Detroit Tigers.

Witt finished with three walks in the game,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/tigers-royals-score-9edee0e88ad0d946d01d80cf3ac7cb89">which the Royals lost 3-1 in 10 innings</a>.

“It’s pretty special any time you get to be the first,” Witt said, “but yeah, that’s over now. We’re onto tomorrow.”

The Royals are 2 1/2 games behind Baltimore for the first AL wild-card spot and 1 1/2 ahead of Minnesota for the second.

Witt has 31 homers this season, including a grand slam in the series-opener Monday night, to go with 30 steals. The 24-year-old superstar had 49 steals last season, when he hit the homer he needed to reach 30 with three games left in the season.

The son of longtime big league pitcher Bobby Witt also became the first player with multiple 30-30 seasons in his first three years in the big leagues. In fact, only six other players have had one within their first three seasons.

“He’s the best player in baseball. He’s incredible,” Royals pitcher Cole Ragans said. “A special talent, a special human being. We’re blessed to be able to watch him each and every day, and how hard he works behind the scenes to make that product on the field be what it is, is incredible. He’s just a special, special player. It’s a joy to get to watch every single day.”

The second overall pick in the 2019 first-year player draft, Witt signed an 11-year deal with the Royals in the offseason that ultimately will pay him $288,777,777. The biggest deal in franchise history included a $7,777,777 signing bonus, an ode to his No. 7 jersey that has become so popular with Kansas City fans who have packed Kauffman Stadium during their playoff chase.

The Royals are firmly in an AL wild-card spot with an outside chance of catching Cleveland in the division.

Witt has been one of the biggest reasons for their turnaround from a 106-loss season a year ago. He entered Tuesday leading the majors with 200 hits, a .332 average and 112 runs scored. The only players to finish a season leading in all three categories have been Nap Lajoie in 1901, Ty Cobb in 1911 and ’15, Stan Musial in 1952 and Rod Carew in 1977.

More than anything else, Witt has brought an infectious enthusiasm to a club sorely in need of it.

The Royals won back-to-back AL Pennants in 2014 and ’15 along with their first World Series title in 30 years, but they were unable to sustain the success and quickly returned to mediocrity. Kansas City lost at least 100 games three times in a span of six seasons before turning things around under second-year manager Matt Quatraro this season.

While fans in Kansas City have seen Witt’s stardom blossoming, his coming out party may have come this summer during the Home Run Derby at Globe Life Field in Arlington, Texas, not far from where he grew up in Colleyville. Witt reached the finals but lost 14-13 to Teoscar Hernández of the Dodgers in a dramatic showdown that came down to the final swings.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1691287799360.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Royals' Bobby Witt Jr. dives back to first base after a fly out by Michael Massey during the eighth inning of a baseball game against the Philadelphia Phillies, Saturday, Aug. 5, 2023, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Royals' Bobby Witt Jr. dives back to first base after a fly out by Michael Massey during the eighth inning of a baseball game against the Philadelphia Phillies, Saturday, Aug. 5, 2023, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Royals’ Bobby Witt Jr. became the first shortstop in major league history with multiple seasons of at least 30 homers and 30 steals when the All-Star swiped second base in the first inning of Tuesday night’s game against the Detroit Tigers.Witt finished with three walks in the game,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/tigers-royals-score-9edee0e88ad0d946d01d80cf3ac7cb89">which the Royals lost 3-1 in 10 innings</a>.“It’s pretty special any time you get to be the first,” Witt said, “but yeah, that’s over now. We’re onto tomorrow.”The Royals are 2 1/2 games behind Baltimore for the first AL wild-card spot and 1 1/2 ahead of Minnesota for the second.Witt has 31 homers this season, including a grand slam in the series-opener Monday night, to go with 30 steals. The 24-year-old superstar had 49 steals last season, when he hit the homer he needed to reach 30 with three games left in the season.The son of longtime big league pitcher Bobby Witt also became the first player with multiple 30-30 seasons in his first three years in the big leagues. In fact, only six other players have had one within their first three seasons.“He’s the best player in baseball. He’s incredible,” Royals pitcher Cole Ragans said. “A special talent, a special human being. We’re blessed to be able to watch him each and every day, and how hard he works behind the scenes to make that product on the field be what it is, is incredible. He’s just a special, special player. It’s a joy to get to watch every single day.”The second overall pick in the 2019 first-year player draft, Witt signed an 11-year deal with the Royals in the offseason that ultimately will pay him $288,777,777. The biggest deal in franchise history included a $7,777,777 signing bonus, an ode to his No. 7 jersey that has become so popular with Kansas City fans who have packed Kauffman Stadium during their playoff chase.The Royals are firmly in an AL wild-card spot with an outside chance of catching Cleveland in the division.Witt has been one of the biggest reasons for their turnaround from a 106-loss season a year ago. He entered Tuesday leading the majors with 200 hits, a .332 average and 112 runs scored. The only players to finish a season leading in all three categories have been Nap Lajoie in 1901, Ty Cobb in 1911 and ’15, Stan Musial in 1952 and Rod Carew in 1977.More than anything else, Witt has brought an infectious enthusiasm to a club sorely in need of it.The Royals won back-to-back AL Pennants in 2014 and ’15 along with their first World Series title in 30 years, but they were unable to sustain the success and quickly returned to mediocrity. Kansas City lost at least 100 games three times in a span of six seasons before turning things around under second-year manager Matt Quatraro this season.While fans in Kansas City have seen Witt’s stardom blossoming, his coming out party may have come this summer during the Home Run Derby at Globe Life Field in Arlington, Texas, not far from where he grew up in Colleyville. Witt reached the finals but lost 14-13 to Teoscar Hernández of the Dodgers in a dramatic showdown that came down to the final swings.

⚾ Witt Jr. becomes first SS with multiple seasons of 30 homers and 30 steals

Week 4 of the college football season is upon us in the Sunflower State. See below for the schedule involving state teams.

KJCCC 11 a.m. - Ellsworth at Garden City 1 p.m. - Dodge City at Highland 7 p.m. - Coffeyville at Butler

KCAC 1 p.m. - Sterling at Bethany&nbsp; 6 p.m. - Avila at Bethel 6 p.m. - Ottawa at McPherson 6 p.m. - Kansas Wesleyan at Friends 6 p.m. - Saint Mary at Evangel 7 p.m. - Tabor at Southwestern

MIAA 11 a.m. - Central Missouri at Davenport (Mich.) 1 p.m. - Missouri Western at Emporia St. 1 p.m. - Pittsburg St. at Washburn 2 p.m. - NW Missouri St. at Missouri Southern 7 p.m. - Northeastern St. at Fort Hays St. 7 p.m. - Central Oklahoma at Nebraska Kearney

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719520416153.png" alt="EAGLE Media College Football Scoreboard" />
 <figcaption>EAGLE Media College Football Scoreboard</figcaption>
 </figure>Week 4 of the college football season is upon us in the Sunflower State. See below for the schedule involving state teams.KJCCC 11 a.m. - Ellsworth at Garden City 1 p.m. - Dodge City at Highland 7 p.m. - Coffeyville at ButlerKCAC 1 p.m. - Sterling at Bethany&nbsp; 6 p.m. - Avila at Bethel 6 p.m. - Ottawa at McPherson 6 p.m. - Kansas Wesleyan at Friends 6 p.m. - Saint Mary at Evangel 7 p.m. - Tabor at SouthwesternMIAA 11 a.m. - Central Missouri at Davenport (Mich.) 1 p.m. - Missouri Western at Emporia St. 1 p.m. - Pittsburg St. at Washburn 2 p.m. - NW Missouri St. at Missouri Southern 7 p.m. - Northeastern St. at Fort Hays St. 7 p.m. - Central Oklahoma at Nebraska Kearney

🏈 Week 4 KJCCC, KCAC, MIAA schedule 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1701263164849.png" alt="Early Morning Sports with Rob Dreher for Wednesday, September 18th." />
 <figcaption>Early Morning Sports with Rob Dreher for Wednesday, September 18th.</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="Early Morning Sports for September 18th, 2024" 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=zne7f-16d88e1-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=60a0c8&font-color=&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=ff6d00" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

🎧 LISTEN: Royals slump continues, 🏈 Chiefs sign Hunt to practice squad, 🏈 HutchCC remains No. 1

AP Sports Summary for September 18th, 2024:

Dolphins place Tua Tagovailoa on injured reserve after latest concussion

MIAMI GARDENS, Fla. (AP) — The Miami Dolphins have placed Tua Tagovailoa on injured reserve after the quarterback was diagnosed with his third concussion in two years. Tagovailoa will be sidelined for at least four games. He will be eligible to return in Week 8 when the Dolphins host Arizona, but has to complete a series of tests and assessments required by the NFL's concussion protocol before he can return to the field. Coach Mike McDaniel has cautioned against speculation on the quarterback's future, stressing that he's more focused on Tagovailoa getting healthy than what this latest concussion means for the team or for his career.

New Champions League format makes its debut with same old winners: Madrid, Liverpool, Bayern, Juve

ROME (AP) — The revamped Champions League made its debut with some familiar clubs claiming victories on opening night. Kylian Mbappé scored for Real Madrid but the 15-time champion needed late goals from Antonio Rudiger and Endrick to beat Stuttgart 3-1. Six-time champion Liverpool came back from a goal down for a 3-1 win at seven-time champion AC Milan. Harry Kane scored four in Bayern Munich's 9-2 rout of Dinamo Zagreb. Two-time champion Juventus dispatched PSV Eindhoven 3-1. During the new league phase all 36 teams are ranked from top to bottom in a single standings that finishes in January. Aston Villa and Sporting Lisbon also won.

Harry Kane scores 4 goals in Bayern's 9-2 rout of Zagreb and breaks a record that Wayne Rooney held

MUNICH (AP) — Harry Kane has scored four goals as he broke a record set by Wayne Rooney for the most goals by an English player in the Champions League. It was one of several records broken as Bayern Munich routed Dinamo Zagreb 9-2. Kane scored his 30th goal from the penalty spot in the 19th minute to give Bayern the lead and draw level with Rooney and his 31st on a rebound in the 57th. He scored two more penalties after that.

ACC eyes revenue distribution models that could quell disputes with FSU, Clemson, AP sources say

Atlantic Coast Conference leaders are discussing new ways of divvying up media rights revenue that could potentially resolve legal disputes with Florida State and Clemson. That's according to two people familiar with the league's internal talks who spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because there is no fully formed proposal and a resolution is far from imminent. The discussions internally and with Florida State are an extension of a court-ordered mediation session last month between the conference and the school. FSU's board of trustees sued the ACC in December, looking for an affordable potential way out of the conference.

Royals' Bobby Witt Jr. becomes first shortstop with multiple seasons of 30 homers and 30 steals

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Royals' Bobby Witt Jr. became the first shortstop in major league history with multiple seasons of at least 30 homers and 30 steals when the All-Star swiped second base in the first inning of Tuesday night's game against the Detroit Tigers. Witt has 31 homers this season, including a grand slam in the series-opener Monday night, to go with 30 steals. The 24-year-old superstar had 49 steals last season, when he hit the homer he needed to reach 30 with three games left in the season. The son of longtime big league pitcher Bobby Witt also became the first player with multiple 30-30 seasons in his first three years in the big leagues.

Jesús Sánchez leads Marlins in 11-9 win over Dodgers. Shohei Ohtani hits 48th homer of the season

MIAMI (AP) — Jesús Sánchez doubled twice and drove in three runs, and the Miami Marlins beat Shohei Ohtani and the NL West-leading Los Angeles Dodgers 11-9 on Tuesday night. Ohtani struck out three times but hit his 48th home run as he tries to become the first player in MLB history to hit 50 home runs and steal 50 bases in a season. He did not steal a base for the fifth straight game and remains at 48. Sánchez went 5 for 5, while Otto Lopez and Jake Burger homered for the Marlins.

Salvatore 'Totò' Schillaci, the Italy striker who was top scorer at 1990 World Cup, dies at 59

ROME (AP) — Salvatore "Totò" Schillaci, the Italy striker who was top scorer at the 1990 World Cup that his country hosted, has died. He was 59. The Palermo Civico hospital says in a statement that Schillacci died on Wednesday morning after being admitted 11 days ago. Schillaci scored six goals for Italy during the 1990 World Cup, earning the Golden Boot awarded to the tournament's top scorer. He only scored one other goal for Italy in his career. Schillaci played for Messina, Juventus, Inter Milan and Japanese team Jubilo Iwata during his club career.

Juan Soto hits 40th homer, Aaron Judge drives in 4 runs as Yankees thump Mariners 11-2

SEATTLE (AP) — Aaron Judge drove in four runs in his first two at-bats, Juan Soto hit his 40th homer of the season and 200th of his career, and the New York Yankees moved to the cusp of clinching a playoff berth with an 11-2 win over the Seattle Mariners. The Yankees can clinch at worst a wild-card spot in the American League with a victory over Seattle on Wednesday. The win in the opener of New York's six-game road trip pushed the Yankees lead in the AL East to four games over Baltimore — their largest lead since holding a 4 1/2-game lead when play started on June 7.

Overlooked champ Dubois says 'my time' for stardom in heavyweight bout against Joshua at Wembley

LONDON (AP) — Daniel Dubois didn't have to dethrone anyone to become a world heavyweight champion. So he has something to prove when he makes his first title defense before one of the biggest crowds in British boxing history. If he successfully defends his IBF belt on Saturday by beating fellow Briton Anthony Joshua in front of 96,000 fans at Wembley Stadium, Dubois might just transform himself into boxing's next big thing. Dubois tells the AP, "I'm getting used to the idea that I'm the world champion but I think I need to legitimize it by beating AJ." The 27-year-old Dubois was awarded the belt in late June after then-undisputed heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk of Ukraine relinquished it.

Tennessee is adding a 10% fee on football game tickets next season to pay players

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (AP) — Tennessee has announced a price hike for football tickets starting in 2025 with most of the increase going specifically to help pay players. The increase announced Tuesday morning in an email to season-ticket holders notes a new 10% talent fee to help pay the proposed revenue share for athletes. Athletic director Danny White explains in a video the price hike at Neyland Stadium will help Tennessee continue attracting and keeping the best athletes. Tennessee has been working to be at the front of the changing landscape supporting athletes since the NCAA changed its rules in 2021 allowing athletes to cash in on their success.

Here are the scores from yesterday's sports events:

		Philadelphia	at	New York City FC	7:30 p.m.	

		Charlotte FC	at	Orlando City	8:15 p.m.	

		Colorado	at	Sporting Kansas City	8:30 p.m.	

		Austin FC	at	Los Angeles FC	10:30 p.m.	

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1701494597443.png" alt="Sports Headlines and News for Wednesday, September 18th, 2024" />
 <figcaption>Sports Headlines and News for Wednesday, September 18th, 2024</figcaption>
 </figure>AP Sports Summary for September 18th, 2024:<div><iframe width="100%" height="95" src="https://embeds.audioboom.com/posts/8572860/embed?v=202301" style="background-color: transparent; display: block; padding: 0; width: 100%" frameborder="0" allowtransparency="allowtransparency" scrolling="no" title="Audioboom player" allow="autoplay" sandbox="allow-downloads allow-forms allow-popups allow-same-origin allow-scripts allow-storage-access-by-user-activation allow-top-navigation-by-user-activation"></iframe></div>Dolphins place Tua Tagovailoa on injured reserve after latest concussionMIAMI GARDENS, Fla. (AP) — The Miami Dolphins have placed Tua Tagovailoa on injured reserve after the quarterback was diagnosed with his third concussion in two years. Tagovailoa will be sidelined for at least four games. He will be eligible to return in Week 8 when the Dolphins host Arizona, but has to complete a series of tests and assessments required by the NFL's concussion protocol before he can return to the field. Coach Mike McDaniel has cautioned against speculation on the quarterback's future, stressing that he's more focused on Tagovailoa getting healthy than what this latest concussion means for the team or for his career.New Champions League format makes its debut with same old winners: Madrid, Liverpool, Bayern, JuveROME (AP) — The revamped Champions League made its debut with some familiar clubs claiming victories on opening night. Kylian Mbappé scored for Real Madrid but the 15-time champion needed late goals from Antonio Rudiger and Endrick to beat Stuttgart 3-1. Six-time champion Liverpool came back from a goal down for a 3-1 win at seven-time champion AC Milan. Harry Kane scored four in Bayern Munich's 9-2 rout of Dinamo Zagreb. Two-time champion Juventus dispatched PSV Eindhoven 3-1. During the new league phase all 36 teams are ranked from top to bottom in a single standings that finishes in January. Aston Villa and Sporting Lisbon also won.Harry Kane scores 4 goals in Bayern's 9-2 rout of Zagreb and breaks a record that Wayne Rooney heldMUNICH (AP) — Harry Kane has scored four goals as he broke a record set by Wayne Rooney for the most goals by an English player in the Champions League. It was one of several records broken as Bayern Munich routed Dinamo Zagreb 9-2. Kane scored his 30th goal from the penalty spot in the 19th minute to give Bayern the lead and draw level with Rooney and his 31st on a rebound in the 57th. He scored two more penalties after that.ACC eyes revenue distribution models that could quell disputes with FSU, Clemson, AP sources sayAtlantic Coast Conference leaders are discussing new ways of divvying up media rights revenue that could potentially resolve legal disputes with Florida State and Clemson. That's according to two people familiar with the league's internal talks who spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because there is no fully formed proposal and a resolution is far from imminent. The discussions internally and with Florida State are an extension of a court-ordered mediation session last month between the conference and the school. FSU's board of trustees sued the ACC in December, looking for an affordable potential way out of the conference.Royals' Bobby Witt Jr. becomes first shortstop with multiple seasons of 30 homers and 30 stealsKANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Royals' Bobby Witt Jr. became the first shortstop in major league history with multiple seasons of at least 30 homers and 30 steals when the All-Star swiped second base in the first inning of Tuesday night's game against the Detroit Tigers. Witt has 31 homers this season, including a grand slam in the series-opener Monday night, to go with 30 steals. The 24-year-old superstar had 49 steals last season, when he hit the homer he needed to reach 30 with three games left in the season. The son of longtime big league pitcher Bobby Witt also became the first player with multiple 30-30 seasons in his first three years in the big leagues.Jesús Sánchez leads Marlins in 11-9 win over Dodgers. Shohei Ohtani hits 48th homer of the seasonMIAMI (AP) — Jesús Sánchez doubled twice and drove in three runs, and the Miami Marlins beat Shohei Ohtani and the NL West-leading Los Angeles Dodgers 11-9 on Tuesday night. Ohtani struck out three times but hit his 48th home run as he tries to become the first player in MLB history to hit 50 home runs and steal 50 bases in a season. He did not steal a base for the fifth straight game and remains at 48. Sánchez went 5 for 5, while Otto Lopez and Jake Burger homered for the Marlins.Salvatore 'Totò' Schillaci, the Italy striker who was top scorer at 1990 World Cup, dies at 59ROME (AP) — Salvatore "Totò" Schillaci, the Italy striker who was top scorer at the 1990 World Cup that his country hosted, has died. He was 59. The Palermo Civico hospital says in a statement that Schillacci died on Wednesday morning after being admitted 11 days ago. Schillaci scored six goals for Italy during the 1990 World Cup, earning the Golden Boot awarded to the tournament's top scorer. He only scored one other goal for Italy in his career. Schillaci played for Messina, Juventus, Inter Milan and Japanese team Jubilo Iwata during his club career.Juan Soto hits 40th homer, Aaron Judge drives in 4 runs as Yankees thump Mariners 11-2SEATTLE (AP) — Aaron Judge drove in four runs in his first two at-bats, Juan Soto hit his 40th homer of the season and 200th of his career, and the New York Yankees moved to the cusp of clinching a playoff berth with an 11-2 win over the Seattle Mariners. The Yankees can clinch at worst a wild-card spot in the American League with a victory over Seattle on Wednesday. The win in the opener of New York's six-game road trip pushed the Yankees lead in the AL East to four games over Baltimore — their largest lead since holding a 4 1/2-game lead when play started on June 7.Overlooked champ Dubois says 'my time' for stardom in heavyweight bout against Joshua at WembleyLONDON (AP) — Daniel Dubois didn't have to dethrone anyone to become a world heavyweight champion. So he has something to prove when he makes his first title defense before one of the biggest crowds in British boxing history. If he successfully defends his IBF belt on Saturday by beating fellow Briton Anthony Joshua in front of 96,000 fans at Wembley Stadium, Dubois might just transform himself into boxing's next big thing. Dubois tells the AP, "I'm getting used to the idea that I'm the world champion but I think I need to legitimize it by beating AJ." The 27-year-old Dubois was awarded the belt in late June after then-undisputed heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk of Ukraine relinquished it.Tennessee is adding a 10% fee on football game tickets next season to pay playersKNOXVILLE, Tenn. (AP) — Tennessee has announced a price hike for football tickets starting in 2025 with most of the increase going specifically to help pay players. The increase announced Tuesday morning in an email to season-ticket holders notes a new 10% talent fee to help pay the proposed revenue share for athletes. Athletic director Danny White explains in a video the price hike at Neyland Stadium will help Tennessee continue attracting and keeping the best athletes. Tennessee has been working to be at the front of the changing landscape supporting athletes since the NCAA changed its rules in 2021 allowing athletes to cash in on their success.AP-ScorecardHere are the scores from yesterday's sports events:___INTERLEAGUEFinal	San Francisco	10	Baltimore	0	Final	Oakland	4	Chicago Cubs	3	Final	Houston	4	San Diego	3	___AMERICAN LEAGUEFinal	Minnesota	4	Cleveland	1	Final	Tampa Bay	8	Boston	3	Final	Detroit	3	Kansas City	1	Final	Texas	13	Toronto	8	Final	L.A. Angels	5	Chicago White Sox	0	Final	N.Y. Yankees	11	Seattle	2	___NATIONAL LEAGUEFinal	Miami	11	L.A. Dodgers	9	Final	Cincinnati	6	Atlanta	5	Final	N.Y. Mets	10	Washington	1	Final	St. Louis	3	Pittsburgh	1	Final	Philadelphia	5	Milwaukee	1	Final	Colorado	8	Arizona	2	___WOMEN'S NATIONAL BASKETBALL ASSOCIATIONFinal	Minnesota	78	Connecticut	76	Final	New York	87	Washington	71	Final	Atlanta	86	Chicago	70	Final	Las Vegas	85	Seattle	72	Final	Phoenix	85	Los Angeles	81	___TODAY'S SPORTS SCHEDULE___INTERLEAGUE		Oakland	at	Chi Cubs	2:20 p.m.			San Francisco	at	Baltimore	6:35 p.m.			Houston	at	San Diego	6:40 p.m.	___AMERICAN LEAGUE		Chi White Sox	at	L-A Angels	4:07 p.m.			Minnesota	at	Cleveland	6:40 p.m.			Boston	at	Tampa Bay	6:50 p.m.			Detroit	at	Kansas City	7:40 p.m.			Toronto	at	Texas	8:05 p.m.			N-Y Yankees	at	Seattle	9:40 p.m.	___NATIONAL LEAGUE		Arizona	at	Colorado	3:10 p.m.			Atlanta	at	Cincinnati	6:40 p.m.			L-A Dodgers	at	Miami	6:40 p.m.			Washington	at	N-Y Mets	7:10 p.m.			Philadelphia	at	Milwaukee	7:40 p.m.			Pittsburgh	at	St. Louis	7:45 p.m.	___MAJOR LEAGUE SOCCER		Miami	at	Atlanta	7:30 p.m.			Philadelphia	at	New York City FC	7:30 p.m.			CF Montréal	at	New England	7:30 p.m.			Columbus	at	Toronto FC	7:30 p.m.			Charlotte FC	at	Orlando City	8:15 p.m.			Vancouver	at	Houston	8:30 p.m.			Colorado	at	Sporting Kansas City	8:30 p.m.			Cincinnati	at	Minnesota	8:30 p.m.			Chicago	at	Nashville	8:30 p.m.			FC Dallas	at	Real Salt Lake	9:30 p.m.			Austin FC	at	Los Angeles FC	10:30 p.m.			LA Galaxy	at	Portland	10:30 p.m.			San Jose	at	Seattle	10:30 p.m.	___

📢📰🎧 Sports Headlines for Wednesday

PUEBLO, Colo. —&nbsp; Sophomore Charlie Box tied the Hutchinson Community College men’s golf individual record for 54 holes and cruised to his second collegiate victory on Tuesday afternoon.

Box fired a 5-under-par 67 on Tuesday to win the Samuel Proal Classic at Walking Stick Country Club.

The No. 5-ranked Blue Dragons had three golfers finish in the Top 10 to finish second to tournament host Colorado State University-Pueblo by one stroke.

Box had rounds of 67, 69 and 67 to finish the 54-hole tournament at 13-under 203. Box tied the Blue Dragon individual record for a 54-hole score on a Par-72 course, matching the 2020 mark of Ben Partridge, who posted his 13-under 203 at The Rawls Course in Lubbock, Texas at the 2020 NJCAA National Preview.

Box started his round on Tuesday with five birdies in the first six holes. Over the three rounds on holes one through six, Box played those holes in 10-under par with 12 total birdies. 

Box’s 67 on Tuesday matched his collegiate career low of 67 set in Round 1 on Monday.

Box won the individual title by five strokes over Garden City’s Jack Dyer. Box and Dyer started Tuesday tied for the individual lead at 8-under park. Dyer shot a 72 on Tuesday.

The Blue Dragons tied the best-ever 54-hole team score they shot at the Samuel Proal Classic, matching the 2020 mark at 17-under 847. The Dragons entered the day three strokes off the lead and shot a 281 on Tuesday. CSU-Pueblo shot 283 in the final round.

Sophomore David Razinskas finished tied for third, shooting 2-under-par 70 on Tuesday. Razinskas had an eagle on the Par-5 15th hole to close at 5-under 211.

Freshman Jaydon Carruthers also had an eagle on the par-5 fifth hole to help post a round of 1-under 71. Carruthers tied for ninth at 1-under 215.

Jack Northgraves tied for 13th at 218 after a one-over 73 on Tuesday.

Sophomore Louis Ross tied for 22nd at 222. Ross closed with a 75 on Tuesday.

The Blue Dragons’ individual players  tied for 20th and 29th in the season-opening tournament for the fall 2024 season. Tyler Walker shot a final-round 76 on Tuesday and placed 20th with a 222. Cal Schultz carded an 84 on Tuesday and was 29th at 234.

Hutchinson plays at the Iowa Western Invitational on Monday and Tuesday at Bent Tree Golf Club in Council Bluffs, IA.

5. Lubbock Christian – 286-298-297 – 881

T9. Jaydon Carruthers – 71-73-71 – 215

T13. Jack Northgraves – 73-72-73 – 218

T20. Tyler Walker (I) – 74-72-76 – 222

T25. Cal Schultz (I) – 78-72-84 – 234

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726651792402.jpeg" alt="Image Courtesy HutchCC Sports Information" />
 <figcaption>Image Courtesy HutchCC Sports Information</figcaption>
 </figure>HutchCC Sports InformationPUEBLO, Colo. —&nbsp; Sophomore Charlie Box tied the Hutchinson Community College men’s golf individual record for 54 holes and cruised to his second collegiate victory on Tuesday afternoon.Box fired a 5-under-par 67 on Tuesday to win the Samuel Proal Classic at Walking Stick Country Club.The No. 5-ranked Blue Dragons had three golfers finish in the Top 10 to finish second to tournament host Colorado State University-Pueblo by one stroke.Box had rounds of 67, 69 and 67 to finish the 54-hole tournament at 13-under 203. Box tied the Blue Dragon individual record for a 54-hole score on a Par-72 course, matching the 2020 mark of Ben Partridge, who posted his 13-under 203 at The Rawls Course in Lubbock, Texas at the 2020 NJCAA National Preview.Box started his round on Tuesday with five birdies in the first six holes. Over the three rounds on holes one through six, Box played those holes in 10-under par with 12 total birdies. Box’s 67 on Tuesday matched his collegiate career low of 67 set in Round 1 on Monday.Box won the individual title by five strokes over Garden City’s Jack Dyer. Box and Dyer started Tuesday tied for the individual lead at 8-under park. Dyer shot a 72 on Tuesday.The Blue Dragons tied the best-ever 54-hole team score they shot at the Samuel Proal Classic, matching the 2020 mark at 17-under 847. The Dragons entered the day three strokes off the lead and shot a 281 on Tuesday. CSU-Pueblo shot 283 in the final round.Sophomore David Razinskas finished tied for third, shooting 2-under-par 70 on Tuesday. Razinskas had an eagle on the Par-5 15th hole to close at 5-under 211.Freshman Jaydon Carruthers also had an eagle on the par-5 fifth hole to help post a round of 1-under 71. Carruthers tied for ninth at 1-under 215.Jack Northgraves tied for 13th at 218 after a one-over 73 on Tuesday.Sophomore Louis Ross tied for 22nd at 222. Ross closed with a 75 on Tuesday.The Blue Dragons’ individual players tied for 20th and 29th in the season-opening tournament for the fall 2024 season. Tyler Walker shot a final-round 76 on Tuesday and placed 20th with a 222. Cal Schultz carded an 84 on Tuesday and was 29th at 234.Hutchinson plays at the Iowa Western Invitational on Monday and Tuesday at Bent Tree Golf Club in Council Bluffs, IA.SAMUEL PROAL CLASSIC FINAL TEAM SCORES1. CSU-Pueblo – 284-279-283 – 8462. Hutchinson – 282-284-281 – 8473. Dodge City – 283-289-298 – 8704. Garden City – 287-291-298 – 8765. Lubbock Christian – 286-298-297 – 8816. Otero – 293-300-297 – 917BLUE DRAGON SCORES1. Charlie Box – 67-69-67 – 2033. David Razinskas – 71-70-70 – 211T9. Jaydon Carruthers – 71-73-71 – 215T13. Jack Northgraves – 73-72-73 – 218T20. Louis Ross – 74-73-75 – 222T20. Tyler Walker (I) – 74-72-76 – 222T25. Cal Schultz (I) – 78-72-84 – 234

⛳ Box ties HutchCC record; wins in Pueblo, Colorado Tuesday

Both quarterback Samari Collier and kicker Nestus Burger played significant roles in the No. 1-ranked Hutchinson Community College football team’s come-from-behind 33-30 overtime win over No. 12 Iowa Central on Saturday at Gowans Stadium.

Both Collier and Burger earned KJCCC Weekly Player of the Week honors on Tuesday.

Collier was named the league’s Offensive Player of the Week after a career-best game against the Tritons. Burger kicked the game-winning field-goal in overtime to earn KJCCC Special Teams Player of the Week honors.

Collier is the third-straight Blue Dragon to won KJCCC Offensive Player of the Week honors. Running back Waymond Jordan Jr. was the league’s offensive winner in Weeks 1 and 2.

The sophomore quarterback from DeSoto, Texas, threw for his first career 300-yard game and led the No. 1 Blue Dragons back from 14 points down with 6:19 remaining in the fourth quarter in a 33-30 overtime victory over No. 12 Iowa Central.

Collier was 23 of 40 passing for 300 yards and three touchdowns vs. the Tritons. He also added 89 rushing yards on 14 carries. Collier threw two touchdown passes in the final 4:12 of the fourth quarter to force overtime.

This is the third time Collier was won KJCCC Offensive Player of the Week honors. He won the award twice in his freshman season in 2023.

Burger, a sophomore from Perth, Australia, kicked a walk-off 36-yard field goal in overtime to cap a 14-point fourth-quarter comeback for No. 1-ranked Hutchinson a 33-30 OT win over No. 12 Iowa Central. Burger was 2 for 2 on field goals and 3 for 3 on extra-points in the Blue Dragon victory from 14 points down with 6:19 to play in the fourth quarter. He also had four touchbacks on 6 kickoffs vs. the Tritons.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724431961058.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HutchCC Sports InformationBoth quarterback Samari Collier and kicker Nestus Burger played significant roles in the No. 1-ranked Hutchinson Community College football team’s come-from-behind 33-30 overtime win over No. 12 Iowa Central on Saturday at Gowans Stadium.Both Collier and Burger earned KJCCC Weekly Player of the Week honors on Tuesday.Collier was named the league’s Offensive Player of the Week after a career-best game against the Tritons. Burger kicked the game-winning field-goal in overtime to earn KJCCC Special Teams Player of the Week honors.Collier is the third-straight Blue Dragon to won KJCCC Offensive Player of the Week honors. Running back Waymond Jordan Jr. was the league’s offensive winner in Weeks 1 and 2.The sophomore quarterback from DeSoto, Texas, threw for his first career 300-yard game and led the No. 1 Blue Dragons back from 14 points down with 6:19 remaining in the fourth quarter in a 33-30 overtime victory over No. 12 Iowa Central.Collier was 23 of 40 passing for 300 yards and three touchdowns vs. the Tritons. He also added 89 rushing yards on 14 carries. Collier threw two touchdown passes in the final 4:12 of the fourth quarter to force overtime.This is the third time Collier was won KJCCC Offensive Player of the Week honors. He won the award twice in his freshman season in 2023.Burger, a sophomore from Perth, Australia, kicked a walk-off 36-yard field goal in overtime to cap a 14-point fourth-quarter comeback for No. 1-ranked Hutchinson a 33-30 OT win over No. 12 Iowa Central. Burger was 2 for 2 on field goals and 3 for 3 on extra-points in the Blue Dragon victory from 14 points down with 6:19 to play in the fourth quarter. He also had four touchbacks on 6 kickoffs vs. the Tritons.BLUE DRAGON KJCCC PLAYERS OF THE WEEKWeek 1 – Offense: Waymond Jordan Jr.Week 2 – Offense: Waymond Jordan Jr.Week 3 – Offense: Samari CollierWeek 3 – Special Teams: Nestus Burger

🏈 Collier, Burger named Player of the Week

Undefeated in four home games in 2024, the No. 17-ranked Hutchinson Community College women’s soccer team faces a key home KJCCC matchup on Wednesday evening.

The Blue Dragons (4-1-2 overall, 3-1-2 KJCCC) will play host to No. 9 Kansas City (6-0-1, 4-0-1 KJCCC) at 6 p.m. at the Salthawk Soccer Complex.

Hutchinson is currently in third place in the KJCCC Division I standings with 10 team points (KJCCC earn three points for a win and one point for a tie). The Blue Dragons are tied for third place with Dodge City. Kansas City is second in the KJCCC with 13 points, just three points behind first-place Butler.

The last time out, the Blue Dragons played to a 1-1 draw on Saturday at Barton. Sophomore midfielder Kaitlyn Edwards scored the game-tying goal with 17 minutes to play in regulation time.

The only blemish on Kansas City’s record to this point in a 1-1 home tie with Butler. The Blue Devils have back-to-back 3-0 victories over Coffeyville and Barton.

The Blue Dragons are 6-1-2 all-time against Kansas City.

Hutchinson has outscored its opponents 19-3 in its four home games, which include back-to-back shutouts over Dodge City and Coffeyville.  

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726651172875.jpeg" alt="Image Courtesy HutchCC Sports Information" />
 <figcaption>Image Courtesy HutchCC Sports Information</figcaption>
 </figure>HutchCC Sports InformationUndefeated in four home games in 2024, the No. 17-ranked Hutchinson Community College women’s soccer team faces a key home KJCCC matchup on Wednesday evening.The Blue Dragons (4-1-2 overall, 3-1-2 KJCCC) will play host to No. 9 Kansas City (6-0-1, 4-0-1 KJCCC) at 6 p.m. at the Salthawk Soccer Complex.Hutchinson is currently in third place in the KJCCC Division I standings with 10 team points (KJCCC earn three points for a win and one point for a tie). The Blue Dragons are tied for third place with Dodge City. Kansas City is second in the KJCCC with 13 points, just three points behind first-place Butler.The last time out, the Blue Dragons played to a 1-1 draw on Saturday at Barton. Sophomore midfielder Kaitlyn Edwards scored the game-tying goal with 17 minutes to play in regulation time.The only blemish on Kansas City’s record to this point in a 1-1 home tie with Butler. The Blue Devils have back-to-back 3-0 victories over Coffeyville and Barton.The Blue Dragons are 6-1-2 all-time against Kansas City.Hutchinson has outscored its opponents 19-3 in its four home games, which include back-to-back shutouts over Dodge City and Coffeyville.

⚽ Top 20 matchup in Hutch Wednesday

Now into the fifth week of the 2024 NJCAA Volleyball season, the Hutchinson Community College volleyball team finally gets to play in front of the home fans on Wednesday at the Sports Arena.

The Blue Dragons play host to the Cloud County Thunderbirds at 6 p.m. in the latest home opener Hutchinson volleyball history. The game will be a “Blue-Out” at the Sports Arena.

The Blue Dragons opened the season with 15-straight road games, including three tournaments in Council Bluffs, Iowa, McCook, Nebraska and Odessa, Texas. The Dragons went 8-7 to open the season, which included a five-set victory over then-No. 9 Indian Hills in McCook.

Hutchinson is 1-2 in Jayhawk Conference play with losses at Butler (three sets) and Garden City (five sets) and a sweep at Seward County.

Wednesday night will be part of a big week at home for the Blue Dragons.

Hutchinson on Friday and Saturday plays host to the Blue Dragon Volleyball Classic. Games are at 3, 5 and 7 p.m. on Friday and 10 a.m., Noon and 2 p.m. on Saturday. Hutchinson will play McCook at 3 p.m. on and Iowa Western at 7 p.m. on Friday. The Blue Dragons play Missouri State-West Plains at Noon and Labette at 2 p.m. on Saturday. Butler is the sixth team to complete the field.

Then on Monday, the Blue Dragons play host to Dodge City at 6 p.m. at the Sports Arena.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726650965644.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy HutchCC Sports Information" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy HutchCC Sports Information</figcaption>
 </figure>HutchCC Sports InformationNow into the fifth week of the 2024 NJCAA Volleyball season, the Hutchinson Community College volleyball team finally gets to play in front of the home fans on Wednesday at the Sports Arena.The Blue Dragons play host to the Cloud County Thunderbirds at 6 p.m. in the latest home opener Hutchinson volleyball history. The game will be a “Blue-Out” at the Sports Arena.The Blue Dragons opened the season with 15-straight road games, including three tournaments in Council Bluffs, Iowa, McCook, Nebraska and Odessa, Texas. The Dragons went 8-7 to open the season, which included a five-set victory over then-No. 9 Indian Hills in McCook.Hutchinson is 1-2 in Jayhawk Conference play with losses at Butler (three sets) and Garden City (five sets) and a sweep at Seward County.Wednesday night will be part of a big week at home for the Blue Dragons.Hutchinson on Friday and Saturday plays host to the Blue Dragon Volleyball Classic. Games are at 3, 5 and 7 p.m. on Friday and 10 a.m., Noon and 2 p.m. on Saturday. Hutchinson will play McCook at 3 p.m. on and Iowa Western at 7 p.m. on Friday. The Blue Dragons play Missouri State-West Plains at Noon and Labette at 2 p.m. on Saturday. Butler is the sixth team to complete the field.Then on Monday, the Blue Dragons play host to Dodge City at 6 p.m. at the Sports Arena.

🏐 Dragons at home Wednesday

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Parker Meadows hit a broken-bat single in the 10th inning to give Detroit the lead, moments after Trey Sweeney had been given third base because of a balk, and the Tigers went on to beat the Kansas City Royals 3-1 on Tuesday night.

Tyler Holton (7-1) retired all six Royals he faced, striking out a pair in the ninth to force extra innings. Jason Foley took care of the Royals in the 10th, earning the save for the second straight night and 25th time this season.

“Pitching and defense, it goes together, and we hung in there in some really difficult situations,” said Tigers manager A.J. Hinch, whose club has won 24 of its last 34 games, its best stretch of that length in more than a decade.

“It was kind of all hands on deck,” Hinch said, “and they responded.”

Riley Greene added an RBI single off Lucas Erceg (2-6) later in the 10th for the Tigers, helping them to remain 1 1/2 games back of the Twins for the final AL wild-card spot. Minnesota beat the Guardians earlier Tuesday night.

The Royals stayed 2 1/2 games behind Baltimore for the first wild-card spot. They are 1 1/2 ahead of Minnesota.

“There were some good pitchers on the other side that are trying to keep us from doing things offensively," Royals manager Matt Quatraro said. “That was a classic pitching duel the whole night.”

Cole Ragans allowed one run on four hits and four walks with six strikeouts over seven innings for Kansas City, and Casey Mize allowed one run on six hits and four walks while pitching into the fifth for Detroit.

“We found a way,” Mize said, “and that's obviously the most important thing right now.”

Ragans struggled with his control from the onset, hitting Andy Ibáñez to start the game — Matt Vierling followed with an RBI double — and walking a pair in the fourth inning. But with a combination of groundballs and strikeouts, the hard-throwing left-hander was able to keep the Tigers from capitalizing on his mistakes.

Freddy Fermín also threw out a pair of runners trying to steal second.

Mize allowed plenty of traffic on the bases, too. But it was his defense that kept Kansas City from a big inning. The Tigers turned double plays in the third, fourth and fifth, the last after Mize had walked the bases loaded and Shelby Miller got Michael Massey to ground into the double play on the first pitch he threw.

Miller loaded the bases again in the sixth but got Tommy Pham to pop out and end the inning.

“Shelby bailed me out of a huge spot,” Mize said. “Our team is just resilient and that's what is important.”

The Royals' Bobby Witt Jr. became the first shortstop in major league history with multiple seasons of at least 30 homers and 30 steals when the All-Star swiped second base in the first inning. Witt has 31 home runs this season, including a grand slam in the series opener Monday night, to go with 30 steals. The 24-year-old superstar had 49 steals and 30 homers last season.

Royals RHP James McArthur went on the injured list with a sprained ulnar collateral ligament in his elbow, though Quatraro believes he could be back for the playoffs. “The hope is it's not a season-ending injury,” Quatraro said. RHP Steven Cruz was recalled from Triple-A Omaha to take his place in the bullpen.

Royals RHP Michael Lorenzen (left hamstring strain) and LHP Will Smith (lower back spasms) could make the next step in their rehab this weekend when they pitch against each other in live batting practice. There still is no date for their return.

Tigers: LHP Tarik Skubal (16-4, 2.50) tries to match the Braves' Chris Sale with his major league-best 17th win in the series finale against Kansas City on Wednesday night. Skubal has won his last four decisions.

Royals: RHP Alec Marsh (8-8, 4.42) is on the mound against Detroit after striking out a career-best 11 in 5 1/3 innings last Friday night against Pittsburgh. Marsh pitched six innings of three-hit ball against Detroit on May 21.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1717239521858.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>DAVE SKRETTA AP Sports WriterKANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Parker Meadows hit a broken-bat single in the 10th inning to give Detroit the lead, moments after Trey Sweeney had been given third base because of a balk, and the Tigers went on to beat the Kansas City Royals 3-1 on Tuesday night.Tyler Holton (7-1) retired all six Royals he faced, striking out a pair in the ninth to force extra innings. Jason Foley took care of the Royals in the 10th, earning the save for the second straight night and 25th time this season.“Pitching and defense, it goes together, and we hung in there in some really difficult situations,” said Tigers manager A.J. Hinch, whose club has won 24 of its last 34 games, its best stretch of that length in more than a decade.“It was kind of all hands on deck,” Hinch said, “and they responded.”Riley Greene added an RBI single off Lucas Erceg (2-6) later in the 10th for the Tigers, helping them to remain 1 1/2 games back of the Twins for the final AL wild-card spot. Minnesota beat the Guardians earlier Tuesday night.The Royals stayed 2 1/2 games behind Baltimore for the first wild-card spot. They are 1 1/2 ahead of Minnesota.“There were some good pitchers on the other side that are trying to keep us from doing things offensively," Royals manager Matt Quatraro said. “That was a classic pitching duel the whole night.”Cole Ragans allowed one run on four hits and four walks with six strikeouts over seven innings for Kansas City, and Casey Mize allowed one run on six hits and four walks while pitching into the fifth for Detroit.“We found a way,” Mize said, “and that's obviously the most important thing right now.”Ragans struggled with his control from the onset, hitting Andy Ibáñez to start the game — Matt Vierling followed with an RBI double — and walking a pair in the fourth inning. But with a combination of groundballs and strikeouts, the hard-throwing left-hander was able to keep the Tigers from capitalizing on his mistakes.Freddy Fermín also threw out a pair of runners trying to steal second.Mize allowed plenty of traffic on the bases, too. But it was his defense that kept Kansas City from a big inning. The Tigers turned double plays in the third, fourth and fifth, the last after Mize had walked the bases loaded and Shelby Miller got Michael Massey to ground into the double play on the first pitch he threw.Miller loaded the bases again in the sixth but got Tommy Pham to pop out and end the inning.“Shelby bailed me out of a huge spot,” Mize said. “Our team is just resilient and that's what is important.”WONDERFUL WITTThe Royals' Bobby Witt Jr. became the first shortstop in major league history with multiple seasons of at least 30 homers and 30 steals when the All-Star swiped second base in the first inning. Witt has 31 home runs this season, including a grand slam in the series opener Monday night, to go with 30 steals. The 24-year-old superstar had 49 steals and 30 homers last season.ROSTER MOVESRoyals RHP James McArthur went on the injured list with a sprained ulnar collateral ligament in his elbow, though Quatraro believes he could be back for the playoffs. “The hope is it's not a season-ending injury,” Quatraro said. RHP Steven Cruz was recalled from Triple-A Omaha to take his place in the bullpen.TRAINER'S ROOMRoyals RHP Michael Lorenzen (left hamstring strain) and LHP Will Smith (lower back spasms) could make the next step in their rehab this weekend when they pitch against each other in live batting practice. There still is no date for their return.UP NEXTTigers: LHP Tarik Skubal (16-4, 2.50) tries to match the Braves' Chris Sale with his major league-best 17th win in the series finale against Kansas City on Wednesday night. Skubal has won his last four decisions.Royals: RHP Alec Marsh (8-8, 4.42) is on the mound against Detroit after striking out a career-best 11 in 5 1/3 innings last Friday night against Pittsburgh. Marsh pitched six innings of three-hit ball against Detroit on May 21.

⚾ Royals lose in extra innings Tuesday

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Chiefs are signing Kareem Hunt to their practice squad, reuniting with the running back who achieved stardom with them before off-the-field issues led to his release, a person familiar with their decision told The Associated Press.

The person spoke to the AP on condition of anonymity Tuesday because the team had not yet announced the move.

The Chiefs brought Hunt in for a workout after Isiah Pacheco, their top running back, sustained a right ankle injury in Sunday’s win over Cincinnati that&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/chiefs-pacheco-injury-5a299988d5e757e798571eaffe8fc1fe">could keep him out the rest of the season</a>. They already have Clyde Edwards-Helaire on the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/nfl-injured-reserve-pup-list-07369696d0a0c5a91f89ec9eea255a5d">non-football illness list</a>&nbsp;for at least two more games, leaving them short-handed at the position heading to Atlanta this weekend.

The Chiefs drafted Hunt in the third round in 2017, and he proceeded to run for a league-high 1,327 yards and eight touchdowns as a rookie. Hunt returned the following season and appeared in 11 games before a video surfaced that showed Hunt pushing a woman to the ground and kicking her, leading to his eventual release from the team.

Hunt signed with the Browns the following February, though he ultimately was suspended by the NFL eight games for violating its personal conduct policy. He went on to spend the last five seasons in Cleveland, running for 2,285 yards and five TDs.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726603212832.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Chiefs running back Kareem Hunt (27) carries the ball during the first half of an NFL football game against the Oakland Raiders in Kansas City, Mo., Sunday, Dec. 10, 2017. (AP Photo/Ed Zurga)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Chiefs running back Kareem Hunt (27) carries the ball during the first half of an NFL football game against the Oakland Raiders in Kansas City, Mo., Sunday, Dec. 10, 2017. (AP Photo/Ed Zurga)</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Chiefs are signing Kareem Hunt to their practice squad, reuniting with the running back who achieved stardom with them before off-the-field issues led to his release, a person familiar with their decision told The Associated Press.The person spoke to the AP on condition of anonymity Tuesday because the team had not yet announced the move.The Chiefs brought Hunt in for a workout after Isiah Pacheco, their top running back, sustained a right ankle injury in Sunday’s win over Cincinnati that&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/chiefs-pacheco-injury-5a299988d5e757e798571eaffe8fc1fe">could keep him out the rest of the season</a>. They already have Clyde Edwards-Helaire on the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/nfl-injured-reserve-pup-list-07369696d0a0c5a91f89ec9eea255a5d">non-football illness list</a>&nbsp;for at least two more games, leaving them short-handed at the position heading to Atlanta this weekend.The Chiefs drafted Hunt in the third round in 2017, and he proceeded to run for a league-high 1,327 yards and eight touchdowns as a rookie. Hunt returned the following season and appeared in 11 games before a video surfaced that showed Hunt pushing a woman to the ground and kicking her, leading to his eventual release from the team.Hunt signed with the Browns the following February, though he ultimately was suspended by the NFL eight games for violating its personal conduct policy. He went on to spend the last five seasons in Cleveland, running for 2,285 yards and five TDs.

🏈 Chiefs are signing Kareem Hunt to their practice squad

<a href="https://kuathletics.com/documents/2024/9/16/04_Kansas_at_WVU_Game_Notes.pdf">GAME NOTES</a>&nbsp; |&nbsp; <a href="https://stats.statbroadcast.com/broadcast/?id=531044&amp;vislive=kan">LIVE STATS</a>&nbsp; |&nbsp; <a href="https://www.espn.com/watch/player/_/id/60dda993-1921-4cbf-835c-2c7d3910eec4">WATCH</a>&nbsp; | <a href="https://kuathletics.leanplayer.com/">LISTEN</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726597470036.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy Kansas Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Kansas Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://kuathletics.com/documents/2024/9/16/04_Kansas_at_WVU_Game_Notes.pdf">GAME NOTES</a>&nbsp; |&nbsp; <a href="https://stats.statbroadcast.com/broadcast/?id=531044&amp;vislive=kan">LIVE STATS</a>&nbsp; |&nbsp; <a href="https://www.espn.com/watch/player/_/id/60dda993-1921-4cbf-835c-2c7d3910eec4">WATCH</a>&nbsp; | <a href="https://kuathletics.leanplayer.com/">LISTEN</a><div>Kansas Athletics
 
LAWRENCE, Kan.&nbsp;&ndash; The Kansas Jayhawks open their Big 12 Conference schedule on Saturday, Sept. 21 when they travel to Morgantown, W. Va., to take on the West Virginia Mountaineers in Milan Puskar Stadium. &nbsp; Kickoff is scheduled for 11 a.m. on ESPN2 with Brian Custer (Play-by-Play), Rod Gilmore (Analyst) and Lauren Sisler (Sideline) on the call. &nbsp; The Big 12 Conference opener serves as the first meeting between Kansas and West Virginia since the thrilling 55-42 overtime victory for the Jayhawks in week two of the 2022 season, which saw quarterback&nbsp;<a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/football/roster/jalon-daniels/1362" rel="smarttag" style="color: rgb(0, 81, 186);">Jalon Daniels</a>&nbsp;throw for three touchdowns, before cornerback&nbsp;<a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/football/roster/cobee-bryant/1350" rel="smarttag" style="color: rgb(0, 81, 186);">Cobee Bryant</a>&nbsp;sealed the game with a pick-six in overtime. &nbsp; Saturday&apos;s matchup with West Virginia will be the fourth conference opener for the Jayhawks against the Mountaineers all-time. Kansas has won each of its last two Big 12 Conference openers (2023 vs. BYU, 38-27; 2022 at West Virginia, 55-42) for the first time since a three-win stretch from 2007-09. Kansas is 43-68-4 in conference openers all-time, including 20-35-3 on the road. &nbsp; The Jayhawks are led by senior running back&nbsp;<a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/football/roster/devin-neal/1356" rel="smarttag" style="color: rgb(0, 81, 186);">Devin Neal</a>, who has rushed for 100-plus yards in each of Kansas&apos; three games this season (112 vs. Lindenwood, 101 at Illinois, 120 vs. UNLV). Neal has carried 45 times for 333 yards and two touchdowns, averaging a staggering 7.4 yards per carry. Along with Neal on offense, Kansas has benefitted from throwing to seniors&nbsp;<a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/football/roster/luke-grimm/1374" rel="smarttag" style="color: rgb(0, 81, 186);">Luke Grimm</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/football/roster/lawrence-arnold/1348" rel="smarttag" style="color: rgb(0, 81, 186);">Lawrence Arnold</a>. Grimm leads the team with 18 receptions for 157 yards and two touchdowns, while Arnold has 10 receptions for 131 yards and one score. &nbsp; Defensively, the Jayhawks have stood strong, allowing just 16.3 points per game through the first three games. Senior captain&nbsp;<a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/football/roster/cornell-wheeler/1428" rel="smarttag" style="color: rgb(0, 81, 186);">Cornell Wheeler</a>&nbsp;leads that unit with 19 total tackles, while senior defensive end&nbsp;<a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/football/roster/jereme-robinson/1545" rel="smarttag" style="color: rgb(0, 81, 186);">Jereme Robinson</a>&nbsp;leads the team with 2.5 sacks and 4.5 tackles-for-loss. &nbsp; West Virginia (1-2, 0-0 Big 12) comes into Saturday&apos;s game following a 38-34 defeat to Pitt in the 107th Backyard Brawl. The Mountaineers led by 10 points with 4:55 remaining in the fourth quarter, before Pitt engineered two-straight scoring drives to steal the victory. &nbsp; Offensively, West Virginia is led by senior quarterback Garrett Greene, who has completed 48-of-81 for 607 yards and five touchdowns through three games, while running back CJ Donaldson Jr., has rushed for 246 yards on 45 carries and three touchdowns. Senior safety Anthony Wilson Jr. leads the Mountaineers with 22 tackles entering Saturday&apos;s contest. &nbsp; Saturday&apos;s game at West Virginia will be the 13th in the series history, which West Virginia leads 10-2 all-time. Kansas&apos; 55-42 overtime victory in 2022 was its first win Morgantown in program history. The Jayhawks are 6-12 on the road under head coach&nbsp;<a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/football/roster/coaches/lance-leipold/116" rel="smarttag" style="color: rgb(0, 81, 186);">Lance Leipold</a>, including wins in back-to-back road contests against Big 12 opponents (at Cincinnati, at Iowa State). &nbsp; Following Saturday&apos;s Big 12 Conference opener, the Jayhawks will play their first of four games at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium on Saturday, Sept. 28 against TCU.</div>

🏈 KU travels to West Virginia for Big 12 opener

🏈 K-State travels to BYU for Big 12 opener

CLASS 6A 1. Derby (2-0) 2. Gardner-Edgerton (2-0) 3. Blue Valley NW (2-0) 4. Lawrence (2-0) 5. Manhattan (2-0)

CLASS 5A 1. Mill Valley (1-1) 2. Blue Valley (2-0) 3. St. Thomas Aquinas (2-0) 4. Eisenhower (2-0) 5. Great Bend (2-0)

CLASS 4A 1. Andover Central (2-0) 2. Kapaun Mt. Carmel (2-0) 3. Bishop Miege (0-2) 4. Wamego (2-0) 5. Louisburg (2-0)

CLASS 3A 1. Andale (2-0) 2. Cheney (2-0) 3. Topeka Hayden (2-0) 4. Wichita Collegiate (2-0) 5. Marysville (2-0)

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697026404630.png" alt="Photo Courtesy Kpreps.com" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Kpreps.com</figcaption>
 </figure>Kpreps.comCLASS 6A 1. Derby (2-0) 2. Gardner-Edgerton (2-0) 3. Blue Valley NW (2-0) 4. Lawrence (2-0) 5. Manhattan (2-0)CLASS 5A 1. Mill Valley (1-1) 2. Blue Valley (2-0) 3. St. Thomas Aquinas (2-0) 4. Eisenhower (2-0) 5. Great Bend (2-0)CLASS 4A 1. Andover Central (2-0) 2. Kapaun Mt. Carmel (2-0) 3. Bishop Miege (0-2) 4. Wamego (2-0) 5. Louisburg (2-0)CLASS 3A 1. Andale (2-0) 2. Cheney (2-0) 3. Topeka Hayden (2-0) 4. Wichita Collegiate (2-0) 5. Marysville (2-0)CLASS 2A 1. Norton (2-0) 2. Southeast of Saline (2-0) 3. St. Marys (2-0) 4. Nemaha Central (1-1) 5. Silver Lake (1-1)CLASS 1A 1. Conway Springs (2-0) 2. Medicine Lodge (2-0) 3. Sedgwick (2-0) 4. Jackson Heights (2-0) 5. Moundridge (2-0)8-PLAYER DIVISION I 1. Hoxie (2-0) 2. Little River (2-0) 3. Leoti-Wichita County (1-1) 4. West Elk (2-0) 5. South Central (2-0)8-PLAYER DIVISION II 1. Axtell (2-0) 2. Frankfort (2-0) 3. Victoria (2-0) 4. Dighton (2-0) 5. Burlingame (2-0)6-PLAYER 1. Cunningham (2-0) 2. Ingalls (2-0) 3. Weskan (2-0) 4. South Barber (1-1) 5. Marais Des Cygnes Valley (2-0)