K-State Introduces the 2025-26 WildcatsPronunication Guide

MANHATTAN, Kan. – Fourth-year head coach Jerome Tang has announced the 2025-26 Wildcat men’s basketball team, which includes four returners and 10 newcomers.

K-State welcomes back four returners in senior C.J. Jones (East St. Louis, Ill.), juniors Mobi Ikegwuruka (Galway, Ireland) and Taj Manning (Grandview, Mo.) and sophomore David Castillo (Bartlesville, Okla.). Castillo, Ikegwuruka and Jones are all returning for a second year at K-State, while Manning is entering his fourth year.

The 10 newcomers (listed in alphabetical order) include junior Abdi Bashir Jr. (Omaha, Neb./Monmouth), junior Dorin Buca (Perugia, Italy/Akern Libertas Livorno), junior P.J. Haggerty (Crosby, Texas/Memphis), senior Marcus Johnson (Akron, Ohio/Bowling Green), senior Nate Johnson (Liberty Township, Ohio/Akron), freshman Andrej Kostic (Belgrade, Serbia/Crvena zevda Meridan bet Beograd), senior Khamari McGriff (Tallahassee, Fla./UNC Wilmington), sophomore Stephen Osei (Toronto, Ontario/Casper College), junior Elias Rapieque (Berlin, Germany/ALBA Berlin), and freshman Exavier Wilson (Columbia, Mo./Father Tolton Catholic).

The newcomer class includes three seniors (M. Johnson, N. Johnson and McGriff), four juniors (Bashir, Buca, Haggerty and Rapieque), one sophomore (Osei) and two freshmen (Kostic and Wilson). There are five Division I transfers (Bashir, Haggerty, M. Johnson, N. Johnson and McGriff), one junior college transfer (Osei), one from the high school ranks (Wilson) and three international players (Buca, Rapieque and Kostic). It marks the first time in school history that K-State has had a player from Germany (Rapieque), Italy (Buca) and Serbia (Kostic).

“I'm excited about this group,” said Tang. “They are high character, hardworking, a mature group. They take their craft seriously. They understand that how they do anything is how they do everything. They take care of business in the classroom, they conduct themselves right off the floor, and then when we step on the floor, they really get after it, and they like each other and they're fun to be around. And so, regardless of the results of what happens with the season, we're going to be able to enjoy this journey together.”

The newcomer profiles are listed in alphabetical order followed by individual quotes from Tang.

Abdi Bashir Jr. [pronounced OBB-dee BUH-sheer]

(6-7, 175, Jr.-TR, G, Omaha, Neb./PHHoenix Prep/Monmouth)

[Rating: 4-star / 94.36 Rivals | 4-star / 93 On3 | 4-star / 94 247Sports]

Bashir arrives at K-State after two seasons (2023-25) at Monmouth, where he scored nearly 900 points (872) on 37.8 percent (298-of-789) shooting from the field, including 38.4 percent (178-of-463) from 3-point range, and 86 percent (98-of-114) from the free throw line. He scored in double figures in 36 of 66 career games at Monmouth, including 14 20-point games and five 30-point games. He scored a career-high 38 points at Rutgers on Nov. 15, 2024, on 11-of-23 field goals, including 10-of-17 from 3-point range. It was the most points scored by an opponent against the Scarlet Knights since 1977.

Bashir was one of the top scorers in the country in 2024-25, leading the CAA in scoring at 20.1 points per game while was 16th in scoring and 25th in total points (663) nationally. He posted five 30-point games, which tied for the most in program history. He was named First Team All-CAA, becoming the fourth sophomore in school history to earn First Team honors.

A big threat from 3-point range, Bashir led the nation in 3-point field goals/game (3.85) while was second in total 3-point field goals (127) and 3-point field goals attempted (332) in 2024-25. He broke both school and conference single-season records for 3-pointers (127).

Bashir was born in Minnesota and raised in Omaha, Neb., before he prepped at PHHoenix Prep in Arizona. His twin brother, Abdul, was the top scorer (27.2 ppg.) in the junior college ranks at Casper College a year ago and currently plays at Auburn.

On what interested the coaches about Abdi Bashir Jr. …

“We were interested in Abdi, first of all, because he was a prolific scorer at Monmouth. His coach there, King Rice, just absolutely loved him. Abdi being from Omaha right up the road was something I think was really exciting for us and for him to be able to play closer to home. Fans are going to fall in love with his infectious smile and the energy he brings every day.”

“Abdi’s playing style, best described with one word, he’s a bucket. He can score it from all three levels, and the ball comes out of his hands easily. He has a beautiful shot. He loves making plays for his teammates and his leadership skills are gonna be very evident on the court.”

On what enticed Tang about Abdi Bashir Jr. while recruiting him…

“Abdi started the season last year great at Monmouth putting up big numbers. And his college coach King Rice actually went to the media and announced to all of America, ‘look he’s gonna transfer at the end of the year but leave him alone this season so he can focus on basketball and getting better and his team.’ Man, I thought that was so impressive of both King and Abdi to have that mature approach to it. That was definitely one of the things that enticed me about him is his approach and how he’s very serious about this game.”

Dorin Buca [pronounced DOOR-reen BOO-cah]

(7-2, 254, Jr.-TR, W, Perugia, Italy/Akern Libertas Livorno)

Buca arrives at K-State after playing the past season (2024-25) at Akern Libertas Livorno in the Italian Serie A2, which is in the second-tier of the pro basketball in Italy. He was one of three players to see action in all 43 games with Libertas Livorno, averaging 5.6 points on 60.8 percent (101-of-166) shooting with 5.3 rebounds and 1.2 blocks in 16.7 minutes per game. He led the team in blocks per game (1.2 bpg.) while he was second in field goal percentage (60.8), third in rebounding (5.3 rpg.) and fourth in field goals made (101). He scored in 38 of 43 games with seven double-digit scoring games with a season-high 15 points vs. Piazenza on March 8.

Buca began his career with Basket Perugia in the Italian Serie C in 2019-20, spending two seasons before moving to Sana Basketball Academy Siena in the Italian Serie C in 2022-23. He was promoted to Libertas 1947 Livorno in the Italian Serie B in 2023-24, where he averaged 3.3 points and 3.3 rebounds in helping the team to the 2024 Italian Serie B Cup Finals.

Buca holds dual citizenship in Romania and Italy.

On what interested the coaches in Dorin Buca…

“Well, his size, first of all, and then how well he moved for his size, and then he set illegal screens. And so, he wasn't afraid of contact. He's played in Europe for a while and moved up in the league to a higher level to better competition, and got most improved player, which meant that he's just continuing to get better and better and better. And we learned this a long time ago that big guys get better later, so his best basketball is ahead of him, and the fact that he wants to get better, and he's got a great work ethic. Everyone, all his coaches, raved about his work ethic and people around him that watched him play and scouts over there had great things to say about him. I got on a Zoom with him, and he was fun to talk to. He made me laugh. I made him laugh. He has just a terrific story.”

“He’s a big, physical presence with good touch around the rim. He really can go over either shoulder. He’s someone who has played in a situation (in Europe) where he had a role and he had to execute that role in order to play, and he was willing to buy into his role and execute it to allow his team to be successful and stay on the floor.”

(6-4, 195, Jr.-TR, G, Crosby, Texas/Crosby/TCU/Tulsa/Memphis)

[Rating: 5-star / 98.46 Rivals | 4-star / 97 On3 | 5-star / 99 247Sports]

Haggerty arrives at K-State after one season (2024-25) at Memphis, where he became the first Tiger since 2008 to be named an AP All-American while earning consensus Second Team All-America honors. He was also selected as the AAC Player of the Year and the Most Outstanding Player of the AAC Championship en route to leading Memphis to 29 wins, both the AAC regular season and tournament championships and a trip to the NCAA Tournament.

Haggerty has scored more than 1,400 points (1,433) in 72 games and 66 starts in his college career, which has included one-year stints at TCU (2022-23), Tulsa (2023-24) and Memphis. He has averaged nearly 20 points per game in his career, including better than 21 points per game in each of the last past two seasons at Tulsa and Memphis. He is the only Division I player to average at least 21 points, 5.5 rebounds, 3.5 assists and 1.5 steals per game in each of the last two seasons.

Haggerty has connected on 48.4 percent (452-of-934) of his field goals in his career, including 33.2 percent (61-of-184) from 3-point range, and 79.1 percent (468-of-592) from the free throw line. He has averaged 5.3 rebounds, 3.5 assists and 1.8 steals in 2,381 minutes played.

Haggerty has scored in double figures in 64 of 72 career games with 25 games of 25 or more points, including two 30-point games and one 40-point games in his career. He scored a career-high and AAC Championship-tying 42 points vs. Wichita State on March 14 in the quarterfinals of the AAC Championship on 16-of-25 field goals and 10-of-11 free throws.

Haggerty ranked third nationally in both scoring (21.7 ppg.) and total points (759) in 2024-25. His 759 points were an AAC single-season record and the most since Dajuan Wagner (762) set the school single-season record in 2001-02. He has also ranked in the top-3 nationally in both free throws made and attempted in the past two seasons, including second in attempts (309) and third in makes (237) in 2023-24 and second in both makes (224) and attempts (274) in 2024-25.

Last season, Haggerty became the first Division I player to average at least 21.5 points, 5.5 rebounds, 3.5 assists and 1.5 steals per game to go with 6.5 free throws per game since Ja Morant in 2018-19.

Prior to his time at Memphis, Haggerty played the 2023-24 season at Tulsa, where he earned Kyle Macy National Freshman of the Year and unanimous AAC Freshman of the Year honors.

On what interested the coaches about P.J. Haggerty…

“It was very easy to be interested in P.J. Haggerty. This is actually the third time I’m recruiting him. I recruited him for a little bit when I was at Baylor when he’s coming out of high school. I’ve known him for a while since he actually grew up in a town just right down the road from where my wife grew up. So, we’re real excited to have him be a part of the program.”

“PJ’s style of play is aggressive and attack. I think those two words describe him, while he’s playing downhill he’s trying to get to the rim, get to the free throw line. Big time shot maker and then he makes the game easier for his teammates.”

On what excites him about the upcoming season with P.J. Haggerty…

“Anytime you get to have an All-American with a ball in his hands in your backcourt as a coach it gets you very excited and as fans we should be super excited about the opportunity to cheer P.J. on this year and the rest of the Wildcats.”

(6-7, 265, Jr.-TR, W, Akron, Ohio/St. Vincent-St. Mary/Wheeling/Bowling Green)

[Rating: 4-star / 91.38 Rivals | 4-star / 91 On3]

Johnson arrives at K-State coming off a career season at Bowling Green in 2024-25, in which, he ranked sixth in the Mid-American Conference (MAC) in scoring (16.2 ppg.) while scoring in double figures in 26 of 32 games played with 13 games of 20 or more points. In total, he ranked in the MAC’s top-15 in four other categories, including first in free throw percentage (89.8), fourth in 3-point field goals made (78), ninth in 3-point field goal percentage (39.4) and 14th in minutes (31.4).

Johnson has scored nearly 1,900 points (1,865) in his college career in 107 games and 80 starts in his college career, which has included one season (2021-22) at NJCAA’s Parkland College and two seasons (2022-24) at Division II Wheeling College. He has scored more than 1,600 points (1,627) at the Division I and/or II ranks in 88 career games with 86 starts at Wheeling and Bowling Green with three consecutive seasons of 500 or more points, including a career-high 582 in 2023-24.

Johnson has connected on 46.8 percent (678-of-1449) shooting from the field, including 40.9 percent (201-of-492) from 3-point range, and 85.8 percent (308-of-359) from the free throw line. He has also averaged 6.4 rebounds, 2.1 assists and 1.2 steals in 3,171 minutes played.

Johnson has scored in double figures in 86 of 107 career games at Parkland, Wheeling and Bowling Green, including 42 20-point games and four 30-point games. He scored a career-high 34 points vs. West Virginia State on Feb. 3, 2024, while at Wheeling on 12-of-23 field goals, including 6-of-8 from 3-point range. He posted a Division I scoring high of 28 points vs. Toledo on Jan. 24.

Johnson prepped at famed St. Vincent-St. Mary Catholic High School in Akron, Ohio, where he led the Fighting Irish to back-to-back state championships in 2016-17 and 2017-18.

On what interested the coaches about Marcus Johnson…

“We were very interested in Marcus because we needed a stretch forward. And a forward who could stretch the floor but was a mismatch in the post-up area. Marcus’ quickness, agility and touch are very unique for someone with his size.”

“He’s a guard in a forward’s body because he can shoot it, he can handle it and he’s so light on his feet. That a unique quality that’s gonna allow him to be able to always have an advantage offensively on the floor.”

On what excites him about the upcoming season with Marcus…

“I can’t wait to see Marcus in uniform. Looking forward to the fans getting to enjoy his ability to make shots from a variety of angles and then his ability to score on the block. But also, the infectious smile that he brings to the court and the energy that he plays with.”

(6-3, 215, Sr.-TR, G, Liberty Township, Ohio/Lakota East/Akron)

[Rating: 4-star / 95.18 Rivals | 4-star / 94 On3 | 4-star / 95 247Sports]

Johnson arrives at K-State after three seasons (2022-25) at Akron, where he was a part of 74 wins, three Mid-American Conference Championships (one regular season (2025) and two tournament titles (2024, 2025) and two NCAA Tournament appearances (2024, 2025).

Johnson has scored more than 800 points (812) in 92 games and 60 starts in his college career, connecting on 44.9 percent (295-of-657) from the field, including 33 percent (77-of-233) from 3-point range, and 78.4 percent (145-of-185) from the free throw line. He has also averaged 3.8 rebounds, 2.0 assists and 1.3 steals in 2,285 minutes played.

Johnson has scored in double figures in 40 games with five 20-point games and one 30-point game in his career. He scored a career-high 31 points in the Zips’ win over Toledo on March 14 in the semifinals of the MAC Tournament on 10-of-16 field goals.

Johnson is coming off a career year in 2024-25, in which, he became the first player in Akron history to be named both the MAC Player and Defensive Player of the Year in the same season and the first since Ball State’s Bonzi Wells in 1998. In addition, he was selected as the MVP of the MAC Tournament after averaging 18.7 points, 5.0 rebounds and 5.3 assists in guiding the Zips to their second consecutive tournament championship.

Johnson is one of the active Division I leaders in steals with 123 in his 92-game career, leading the Zips in steals in each of the last three seasons.

On what interested the coaches about Nate Johnson…

“My interest level in Nate Johnson was extremely high not just because he was MAC [Mid-American Conference] Player of the Year, but he was also the [MAC] Defensive Player of the Year. He’s so versatile he can play any position on the floor, his toughness allows him to guard bigger guys, his quickness allows him to guard smaller guys. But it’s his competitiveness that allows him to be victorious in all of those. Having played in two NCAA tournaments the last two years [with Akron] and winning the conference championship he just brings a winner’s mentality and do whatever it takes for the team to win guy.”

“Nate’s style of play is unique in that he’s got great physical gifts and that he can put the ball in the hole but he’s also rugged and physical and willing to play with and through contact. And he’s got a dog mentality on the defensive end that he’s gonna make life miserable for you.”

On what excites him about the upcoming season with Nate Johnson…

“Man, we are fired up to have Nate in uniform on the court. It was one of his dreams to play for K-State and to play for me. I look forward to watching him compete at a really high level and bring all kinds of excitement to our fans.”

Andrej Kostic [pronounced ANDRE (j is silent) COS-titch]

(6-6, 210, Fr.-TR, G, Belgrade, Serbia/Crvena zveda Meridan bet Beograd)

Considered one of the top prospects in Europe, Kostic arrives at K-State after developing at the KK Crvena Zvezda Meridianbet Beograd organization in Serbia since 2022-23. He made his debut with KK Crvena Zvezda U19 team in 2023-24 before playing for KK Crvena Zvezda Meridianbet Beograd (2023-25) and KK Dynamic Vip Pay Beograd (2024-25). This past season, he played in 29 games for KK Dynamic in the Basketball League of Serbia (KLS), which is a top-tier professional league, averaging 16.4 points on 43.2 percent shooting with 3.1 rebounds and 2.9 assists per game.

A member of the Serbian U18 and U19 National Teams, winning the gold medal at the 2023 European U18 Championship in Nils, Serbia and a silver medal at the 2024 European U18 Championship in Tampere, Finland. He played for Serbia at the 2025 U19 World Cup that ran from June 28 to July 6 in Laussane, Switzerland. He helped the Serbia team to three straight wins to end the tournament, averaging 23.7 points, 3.7 rebounds and 1.3 assists in that span.

Kostic earned all-tournament honors at the 2025 Adidas Eurocamp May 31 to June 2 in Treviso, Italy, which serves as the premier pre-draft scouting event for players ages 16-22. He also played in the 2024 Adidas Next Generation Tournament in Belgrade, averaging 24.2 points, 7.8 rebounds and 2.0 steals in four games as his team reached the finals.

On what interested the coaches about Andrej Kostic…

“The sport of basketball is global and there are kids all over the world that are playing this game and we’re looking to bring the very best to Manhattan, Kansas, and be a part of our family. So, learning about Andrej and not just talent but his drive to be one of the best ever to play the game was very intriguing to me.”

“At 6-foot-6 and the ability to play the point guard position, Andrej’s play style is just fun. There’s nothing on the court that he can’t do, and he plays with supreme confidence. He’s got a baby face, but man he’s got a killer heart.”

On what enticed Tang about Andrej while recruiting him…

“Well, what’s interesting about Andrej is that from a very young age he’s been playing at the professional level and having to compete against people way older than him. He’s never backed down from anything and just has supreme confidence.”

(6-9, 230, W, Sr.-TR, Tallahassee, Fla./James S. Rickards/UNC Wilmington)

[Rating: 3-star / 89 Rivals | 3-star / 89 On3]

McGriff arrives at K-State after four seasons (2021-25) at UNC Wilmington, where he was part of 99 wins, three Coastal Athletic Association (CAA) Championships (two regular season (2022, 2025) and one tournament title (2025), a College Basketball Insider (CBI) Tournament championship (2022) and one NCAA Tournament appearance (2025).

McGriff has scored more than 500 points (539) in 85 career games and 42 starts in his college career, connecting on 67.9 percent (224-of-330) from the field and 67.4 percent (89-of-132) from the free throw line. His scoring ability increased each season at UNCW capped by his 11.5 points per game average as a junior in 2024-25.

McGriff has scored in double figures in 23 games with one 20-point game and one 30-point game in his career. He posted a career-high 34 points at Howard on Dec. 14, 2024, connecting on 14-of-16 field goals and 5-of-8 free throws in 30 minutes.

McGriff emerged as one of the top sixth men in the CAA in 2024-25, averaging 11.5 points on 65.1 percent shooting, while leading the league in field goal percentage (64.1) in conference-only games. He was selected to the All-CAA Tournament team after averaging 11.7 points on 63.2 percent shooting with 5.3 rebounds and 2.6 blocks per game.

On what interested the coaches about Khamari McGriff…

K-State Introduces the 2025-26 Wildcats

Q: How do you feel about this year’s tight end room?

GRAY:&nbsp;“Yeah, no, it’s awesome, and we’re just looking forward to Week 1 against the (Los Angeles) Chargers now. (We have) great guys all across the team, and coaching staff, and it’s going to be real exciting to just really attack practice and you know, (I’m) really looking forward to a really great Chargers team that we get to play down in Brazil.”

Q: Does it make a difference when Rashee Rice, Hollywood Brown, and Xavier Worthy are all on the field at the same time?

GRAY:&nbsp;“Oh yeah, absolutely. It definitely opens up a lot, those guys (Rashee Rice, Hollywood Brown, and Xavier Worthy) are fast. They can run downfield and make big plays down the field, but they are also great in the slot, you can move those guys around. So, it’s just really cool to see guys like that, especially when we (have) got all of them on the field at one time to come together, (and) to run certain concepts together. It’s a lot of fun, it’s been a lot of fun for me, (and) it helps me get open when guys are flying around (and) taking the top off the defense and doing their job extremely well. It’s been really awesome, and (I’m) just really looking forward to building on that chemistry moving forward.”

Q: Do you like the fact that you start the season internationally?

GRAY:&nbsp;“Yeah, absolutely. I think it’s going to be a lot of fun. I enjoyed my time when I went to Germany.&nbsp; I know I’m going to enjoy my time in Brazil. I think it’s cool that as an NFL player we get to travel across the world; it’s not just in the United States. It’s cool enough that I get to go from city to city that I’ve never been in here, never mind leaving the country. It’s going to be awesome; it’s going to be an experience. I’m looking forward to it. I know the Brazilian crowd (has) got to be absolutely electric – I watched a little bit of that game last year, I think it was the (Philadelphia) Eagles and the (Green Bay) Packers that played there last year. But I know that the fans and everything – it’s going to be a great experience, and I know we’re all looking forward to it.”

Q:&nbsp;How have you seen Kingsley Suamataia grow off the field mentally after last season?

TAYLOR:&nbsp;“Football is definitely more mental than physical at times. So, he’s (Kingsley Suamataia) been doing a phenomenal job with that and just asking questions in the room, (he’s) just getting better in every way he can and just being a sponge in the room. I feel like he has been doing a great job with that and especially just playing a new position that he’s not used to, I feel like he’s embraced it and he’s doing a great job.”

Q:&nbsp;The offensive line played well in the game against the Bears. How can you build off that moving forward to the regular season?

TAYLOR:&nbsp;“Just getting better on days like today, just a workday, just going out there as a unit and just taking every rep at a time and one play at a time, trying to get better as a unit. Just going through meetings and stuff, (and) learning what we can learn to get better as a unit and just get better each and every day.”

Q:&nbsp;What type of mentality do you guys want to put on tape for other opponents to see in the future?

TAYLOR:&nbsp;“We are just trying to be as aggressive as we can (and) just go out there and play at our best and have a great week of practice to prepare for a great team.”

Q:&nbsp;What was your first impression when you found out that you were coming back to Kansas City?

NNADI:&nbsp;“Honestly, it was a little bit of a surprise. I was getting my body right for the next day of work and then the GM called me and was like: ‘Hey, just wanted to let you know we’re trading you to back to KC’ and I’m like, ‘Okay, that’s cool.’ The only part I was really a little annoyed about was like, I gotta move again. There’s stuff over there at my old place that is still in boxes, so I’m like, ‘At least it will be a lot easier to just put it in the truck and go.’ But otherwise, I was fine with the decision.”

Q:&nbsp;What were your feelings about Kansas City when you made the choice to leave?

NNADI:&nbsp;“Yeah, I felt a little hurt because this was the team that drafted me but at the end of the day, they (Kansas City Chiefs) gave me the opportunity of a lifetime coming out of college, so I wasn’t mad or upset or anything. It’s part of the business, so when the Jets offered me the opportunity I was like ‘By all means’. How this business works, I am right back where I started. So, it kind of works out the right way sometimes.”

Q:&nbsp;On his teammates’ reaction to him coming back.

Chiefs Player QuotesAugust 27, 2025TE NOAH GRAYQ: How do you feel about this year’s tight end room?GRAY:&nbsp;“Yeah, no, it’s awesome, and we’re just looking forward to Week 1 against the (Los Angeles) Chargers now. (We have) great guys all across the team, and coaching staff, and it’s going to be real exciting to just really attack practice and you know, (I’m) really looking forward to a really great Chargers team that we get to play down in Brazil.”Q: Does it make a difference when Rashee Rice, Hollywood Brown, and Xavier Worthy are all on the field at the same time?GRAY:&nbsp;“Oh yeah, absolutely. It definitely opens up a lot, those guys (Rashee Rice, Hollywood Brown, and Xavier Worthy) are fast. They can run downfield and make big plays down the field, but they are also great in the slot, you can move those guys around. So, it’s just really cool to see guys like that, especially when we (have) got all of them on the field at one time to come together, (and) to run certain concepts together. It’s a lot of fun, it’s been a lot of fun for me, (and) it helps me get open when guys are flying around (and) taking the top off the defense and doing their job extremely well. It’s been really awesome, and (I’m) just really looking forward to building on that chemistry moving forward.”Q: Do you like the fact that you start the season internationally?GRAY:&nbsp;“Yeah, absolutely. I think it’s going to be a lot of fun. I enjoyed my time when I went to Germany.&nbsp; I know I’m going to enjoy my time in Brazil. I think it’s cool that as an NFL player we get to travel across the world; it’s not just in the United States. It’s cool enough that I get to go from city to city that I’ve never been in here, never mind leaving the country. It’s going to be awesome; it’s going to be an experience. I’m looking forward to it. I know the Brazilian crowd (has) got to be absolutely electric – I watched a little bit of that game last year, I think it was the (Philadelphia) Eagles and the (Green Bay) Packers that played there last year. But I know that the fans and everything – it’s going to be a great experience, and I know we’re all looking forward to it.”T JAWAAN TAYLORQ:&nbsp;How have you seen Kingsley Suamataia grow off the field mentally after last season?TAYLOR:&nbsp;“Football is definitely more mental than physical at times. So, he’s (Kingsley Suamataia) been doing a phenomenal job with that and just asking questions in the room, (he’s) just getting better in every way he can and just being a sponge in the room. I feel like he has been doing a great job with that and especially just playing a new position that he’s not used to, I feel like he’s embraced it and he’s doing a great job.”Q:&nbsp;The offensive line played well in the game against the Bears. How can you build off that moving forward to the regular season?TAYLOR:&nbsp;“Just getting better on days like today, just a workday, just going out there as a unit and just taking every rep at a time and one play at a time, trying to get better as a unit. Just going through meetings and stuff, (and) learning what we can learn to get better as a unit and just get better each and every day.”Q:&nbsp;What type of mentality do you guys want to put on tape for other opponents to see in the future?TAYLOR:&nbsp;“We are just trying to be as aggressive as we can (and) just go out there and play at our best and have a great week of practice to prepare for a great team.”DT DERRICK NNADIQ:&nbsp;What was your first impression when you found out that you were coming back to Kansas City?NNADI:&nbsp;“Honestly, it was a little bit of a surprise. I was getting my body right for the next day of work and then the GM called me and was like: ‘Hey, just wanted to let you know we’re trading you to back to KC’ and I’m like, ‘Okay, that’s cool.’ The only part I was really a little annoyed about was like, I gotta move again. There’s stuff over there at my old place that is still in boxes, so I’m like, ‘At least it will be a lot easier to just put it in the truck and go.’ But otherwise, I was fine with the decision.”Q:&nbsp;What were your feelings about Kansas City when you made the choice to leave?NNADI:&nbsp;“Yeah, I felt a little hurt because this was the team that drafted me but at the end of the day, they (Kansas City Chiefs) gave me the opportunity of a lifetime coming out of college, so I wasn’t mad or upset or anything. It’s part of the business, so when the Jets offered me the opportunity I was like ‘By all means’. How this business works, I am right back where I started. So, it kind of works out the right way sometimes.”Q:&nbsp;On his teammates’ reaction to him coming back.

Chiefs Quotes: 8-27-25

MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;–&nbsp;As K-State Athletics prepares to welcome its fans back to Bill Snyder Family Stadium for Saturday’s home opener against North Dakota, fans are advised of the following construction projects in and around the Manhattan area that could affect travel plans.

The&nbsp;pavement replacement project between Exit 297 on the west and mile marker 300 on the east of Junction City is in its final stage but will again impact football game traffic this season. Traffic is reduced to one lane in each direction and is head-to-head. The speed limit is reduced in this area and delays are anticipated with heavy gameday traffic.

Fans traveling from the north into Manhattan should note that US 24 is closed between K-113 (Seth Child Road) on the west side and K-13 (Tuttle Creek Boulevard) on the east as roundabouts are being constructed at each junction. Construction is expected to last through the football season. Depending upon which side of the stadium fans park for the game, this may affect their postgame route as dictated by stadium exiting traffic patterns. For more information, see the map below and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ksdot.gov/Home/Components/News/News/4933/385?arch=1-3472&amp;widgetId=3472" target="_blank">click here</a>.

A multi-year reconstruction project has begun on Anderson Avenue with the first phase occurring between Connecticut Avenue and College Heights Road. Traffic is reduced to one lane in each direction. Traffic delays are anticipated on gameday, and fans should consider other east-west arterials such as Claflin Road, Fort Riley Boulevard and Kimball Avenue.

All parking lots around Bill Snyder Family Stadium open five hours prior to kickoff, which is 1 p.m., this Saturday. As always, fans are encouraged to arrive early as pregame traffic could become congested.

A free shuttle sponsored by the K-State Union and Housing and Dining Services is available to fans with free parking in the K-State Parking Garage. The shuttle begins two hours prior to kickoff from the south circle on Martin Luther King Jr. Drive between the K-State Parking Garage and the Union. Passengers will be dropped off near the Jardine Plaza Neighborhood. Return trips resume with five minutes remaining in the third quarter, and rides will continue until approximately one hour after the end of the game.

MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;–&nbsp;As K-State Athletics prepares to welcome its fans back to Bill Snyder Family Stadium for Saturday’s home opener against North Dakota, fans are advised of the following construction projects in and around the Manhattan area that could affect travel plans.I-70 at Junction CityThe&nbsp;pavement replacement project between Exit 297 on the west and mile marker 300 on the east of Junction City is in its final stage but will again impact football game traffic this season. Traffic is reduced to one lane in each direction and is head-to-head. The speed limit is reduced in this area and delays are anticipated with heavy gameday traffic.US 24 at K-113 and K-13Fans traveling from the north into Manhattan should note that US 24 is closed between K-113 (Seth Child Road) on the west side and K-13 (Tuttle Creek Boulevard) on the east as roundabouts are being constructed at each junction. Construction is expected to last through the football season. Depending upon which side of the stadium fans park for the game, this may affect their postgame route as dictated by stadium exiting traffic patterns. For more information, see the map below and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ksdot.gov/Home/Components/News/News/4933/385?arch=1-3472&amp;widgetId=3472" target="_blank">click here</a>.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1756326341335.jpeg" alt="New Traffic Pattern" />
 <figcaption>New Traffic Pattern</figcaption>
 </figure>Anderson AvenueA multi-year reconstruction project has begun on Anderson Avenue with the first phase occurring between Connecticut Avenue and College Heights Road. Traffic is reduced to one lane in each direction. Traffic delays are anticipated on gameday, and fans should consider other east-west arterials such as Claflin Road, Fort Riley Boulevard and Kimball Avenue.All parking lots around Bill Snyder Family Stadium open five hours prior to kickoff, which is 1 p.m., this Saturday. As always, fans are encouraged to arrive early as pregame traffic could become congested.A free shuttle sponsored by the K-State Union and Housing and Dining Services is available to fans with free parking in the K-State Parking Garage. The shuttle begins two hours prior to kickoff from the south circle on Martin Luther King Jr. Drive between the K-State Parking Garage and the Union. Passengers will be dropped off near the Jardine Plaza Neighborhood. Return trips resume with five minutes remaining in the third quarter, and rides will continue until approximately one hour after the end of the game.

K-State Fans Advised of On-Going Road Construction

SALINA, Kan. - Kansas Wesleyan and Kansas State University Salina announced Tuesday that they will partner to provide flyovers at designated Kansas Wesleyan home football games, beginning with Aug. 30's season opener. The flyovers will be provided by K-State Salina and provide an opportunity for Wildcat student pilots to gain experience, all while KWU boosts its game-day experience.

"This is a great example of community collaboration," said <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/c9bbf707-a459-4284-b344-953115f1c809?elinkdata=28049">Miguel Paredes</a>, Kansas Wesleyan athletic director. "It highlights both the strong relationship between our institutions and showcases how truly special this city is, by lifting up both of our universities. We look forward to the partnership that brings together innovation for the student and game-day experience and community pride."

The flyovers will be conducted by representatives from K-State Salina - including students -with aircraft for the opener, including a Piper Seminole leading and a Beechcraft Bonanza on the wing.

"We're thrilled to partner with Kansas Wesleyan University in this unique way," said Tysen Pina, Aviation Department head at K-State Salina. "Their championship-level athletics program embodies the same values of teamwork, discipline and excellence that we strive to instill in our flight team. I hope this small step becomes the foundation for even greater collaboration between our institutions to the benefit of our students and the entire Salina community."

In addition to the season opener, flyovers will take place at games during Family Weekend (Sept. 27), Homecoming (Oct. 25) and the regular season finale (Nov. 15). Discussions are ongoing regarding adding flyovers at other contests throughout the fall season, including men's and women's soccer matches, and such additions are likely.

For more information on KWU Athletics, please visit <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/d2f7a7ba-2e17-4dd6-b527-d59098c9040e?elinkdata=28049">KWUCoyotes.com</a>. For additional information on Kansas State University Salina, please visit <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/91d9761d-9578-4b8c-917f-e0e61ab48da7?elinkdata=28049">salina.k-state.edu</a>.

ABOUT KWU: Kansas Wesleyan University is a private, nonprofit four-year college in Salina, Kan., founded in 1886 and affiliated with the United Methodist Church. Its mission is to promote and integrate academic excellence, spiritual development, personal well-being and social responsibility. KWU provides an educational program characterized by excellence, within a caring community, rooted in the liberal arts tradition, that includes 16 academic departments and a wide range of majors. KWU's Music program and DECA team have been especially successful, with DECA winning multiple world championships and graduates of the Music program securing positions all over the U.S. The Athletic Department has captured three straight KCAC Commissioner's Cups and recorded a cumulative GPA in excess of 3.0 for the past three years. For more information, visit <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/460e2eae-416b-4556-a347-42f48ff89b94?elinkdata=28049">www.kwu.edu.</a>

SALINA, Kan. - Kansas Wesleyan and Kansas State University Salina announced Tuesday that they will partner to provide flyovers at designated Kansas Wesleyan home football games, beginning with Aug. 30's season opener. The flyovers will be provided by K-State Salina and provide an opportunity for Wildcat student pilots to gain experience, all while KWU boosts its game-day experience."This is a great example of community collaboration," said <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/c9bbf707-a459-4284-b344-953115f1c809?elinkdata=28049">Miguel Paredes</a>, Kansas Wesleyan athletic director. "It highlights both the strong relationship between our institutions and showcases how truly special this city is, by lifting up both of our universities. We look forward to the partnership that brings together innovation for the student and game-day experience and community pride."The flyovers will be conducted by representatives from K-State Salina - including students -with aircraft for the opener, including a Piper Seminole leading and a Beechcraft Bonanza on the wing."We're thrilled to partner with Kansas Wesleyan University in this unique way," said Tysen Pina, Aviation Department head at K-State Salina. "Their championship-level athletics program embodies the same values of teamwork, discipline and excellence that we strive to instill in our flight team. I hope this small step becomes the foundation for even greater collaboration between our institutions to the benefit of our students and the entire Salina community."In addition to the season opener, flyovers will take place at games during Family Weekend (Sept. 27), Homecoming (Oct. 25) and the regular season finale (Nov. 15). Discussions are ongoing regarding adding flyovers at other contests throughout the fall season, including men's and women's soccer matches, and such additions are likely.For more information on KWU Athletics, please visit <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/d2f7a7ba-2e17-4dd6-b527-d59098c9040e?elinkdata=28049">KWUCoyotes.com</a>. For additional information on Kansas State University Salina, please visit <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/91d9761d-9578-4b8c-917f-e0e61ab48da7?elinkdata=28049">salina.k-state.edu</a>.ABOUT KWU: Kansas Wesleyan University is a private, nonprofit four-year college in Salina, Kan., founded in 1886 and affiliated with the United Methodist Church. Its mission is to promote and integrate academic excellence, spiritual development, personal well-being and social responsibility. KWU provides an educational program characterized by excellence, within a caring community, rooted in the liberal arts tradition, that includes 16 academic departments and a wide range of majors. KWU's Music program and DECA team have been especially successful, with DECA winning multiple world championships and graduates of the Music program securing positions all over the U.S. The Athletic Department has captured three straight KCAC Commissioner's Cups and recorded a cumulative GPA in excess of 3.0 for the past three years. For more information, visit <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/460e2eae-416b-4556-a347-42f48ff89b94?elinkdata=28049">www.kwu.edu.</a>

Kansas Wesleyan Partners with K-State Salina for Football Flyovers, Beginning Saturday

WICHITA, Kan. (August 26, 2025)—Jaylen Nowlin, John Stankiewicz, Hunter Hoopes, and Kade Bragg held Arkansas to a hit over the final four frames in a 5-3 Wichita Wind Surge win over the Arkansas Travelers at Equity Bank Park. 

The win for the Wind Surge snaps a five game winning streak that the Travelers entered the week with.&nbsp;Kala’i Rosario hit the third of three opposite-field singles to right field in the bottom of the third inning to drive in Wichita’s first run. Andrew Cossetti later worked a bases-loaded walk to give the Wind Surge a 2-0 lead.&nbsp;

Caleb Cali smashed a no-doubt go-ahead three run home run to left field in the top of the fifth to push Arkansas out in front 3-2.&nbsp;Jake Rucker tied the game with an RBI double off the top of the wall near the left field corner in the bottom of the sixth inning. 

A groundout to the pitcher from Nate Baez and a run-scoring Ben Ross single to left put Wichita ahead 5-3 after the stretch in the seventh.&nbsp;Starting in the sixth innings, the Wind Surge bullpen began to stretch a lights out display on the mound, with four pitchers combining to give up just one hit over the final four frames. 

Jaylen Nowlin pitched a routine sixth, with Stankiewicz following by retiring the minimum in the seventh on the way to a win and a 3-5 record with Wichita. Hoopes retired the side on nine pitches, and Bragg gave up just a hit in the ninth to record his second save with the Wind Surge in the 5-3 victory.&nbsp;

Wichita continues the series against the Arkansas Travelers on August 27 at 7:05 PM on Wet Nose Wednesday, presented by Quantum Credit Union. Bring your dogs to the ballpark and enjoy some baseball under the summertime lights! You can listen to Wind Surge games on ESPN Wichita 92.3 FM and&nbsp;<a href="http://windsurge.com/" target="_blank">windsurge.com</a>&nbsp;or watch online at&nbsp;<a href="http://milb.tv/" target="_blank">MiLB.TV</a>&nbsp;and Bally Sports Live. For ticket information, please visit&nbsp;<a href="http://windsurge.com/tickets" target="_blank">windsurge.com/tickets</a>.

WICHITA, Kan. (August 26, 2025)—Jaylen Nowlin, John Stankiewicz, Hunter Hoopes, and Kade Bragg held Arkansas to a hit over the final four frames in a 5-3 Wichita Wind Surge win over the Arkansas Travelers at Equity Bank Park. The win for the Wind Surge snaps a five game winning streak that the Travelers entered the week with.&nbsp;Kala’i Rosario hit the third of three opposite-field singles to right field in the bottom of the third inning to drive in Wichita’s first run. Andrew Cossetti later worked a bases-loaded walk to give the Wind Surge a 2-0 lead.&nbsp;Caleb Cali smashed a no-doubt go-ahead three run home run to left field in the top of the fifth to push Arkansas out in front 3-2.&nbsp;Jake Rucker tied the game with an RBI double off the top of the wall near the left field corner in the bottom of the sixth inning. A groundout to the pitcher from Nate Baez and a run-scoring Ben Ross single to left put Wichita ahead 5-3 after the stretch in the seventh.&nbsp;Starting in the sixth innings, the Wind Surge bullpen began to stretch a lights out display on the mound, with four pitchers combining to give up just one hit over the final four frames. Jaylen Nowlin pitched a routine sixth, with Stankiewicz following by retiring the minimum in the seventh on the way to a win and a 3-5 record with Wichita. Hoopes retired the side on nine pitches, and Bragg gave up just a hit in the ninth to record his second save with the Wind Surge in the 5-3 victory.&nbsp;POSTGAME NOTES<ul>
 <li>Jaylen Nowlin, John Stankiewicz, Hunter Hoopes, and Kade Bragg hold the Travelers to just a hit over the final four innings of the ballgame.&nbsp;</li><li>Jake Rucker is up to an 8 Game On Base Streak.</li><li>Rubel Cespedes has a 7 Game Hitting Streak.</li><li>Kade Bragg picks up his second save with Wichita and his fifth of his pro career.</li><li>The Wind Surge snap the Travelers’ five-game win streak.&nbsp;</li>
 </ul>Wichita continues the series against the Arkansas Travelers on August 27 at 7:05 PM on Wet Nose Wednesday, presented by Quantum Credit Union. Bring your dogs to the ballpark and enjoy some baseball under the summertime lights! You can listen to Wind Surge games on ESPN Wichita 92.3 FM and&nbsp;<a href="http://windsurge.com/" target="_blank">windsurge.com</a>&nbsp;or watch online at&nbsp;<a href="http://milb.tv/" target="_blank">MiLB.TV</a>&nbsp;and Bally Sports Live. For ticket information, please visit&nbsp;<a href="http://windsurge.com/tickets" target="_blank">windsurge.com/tickets</a>.

Wichita Bullpen Silences Arkansas

Chiefs Head Coach Andy Reid Quotes

OPENING STATEMENT:&nbsp;“All right. So, the guys that won’t practice today are (Jack) Cochrane, Omarr (Norman-Lott) and Jalen Royals. But Cochrane and Omarr are doing - they're all doing a good job, and they're probably a little closer than Jalen is. Always a tough day as we go forward through today, we haven’t officially done anything. So, I can't answer any questions on who's here and who's not, you know. But (General Manager Brett) Veach will get you all that going forward, so you can hold off on those, on the questions of who's making it and who's not making it. Other than that, we look forward to the challenge coming up here to play the Chargers. We know they're a good football team. It’ll be a little different setting being in Brazil, but we look forward to heading south there to Brazil. So, anyways with that, times yours.”

Q: How do you handle practice on a day like this when it is the cut deadline?

REID:&nbsp;“Yeah, you – well, you'll see it out there, part of it at least. So, we go about it. How's that for an answer (laughter)? We'll have a good one today.”

Q: When you went back and watched the film from the preseason game, what stood out about the offensive line as a group?

REID:&nbsp;“Yeah, you know Sam (McDowell) I thought they did a good job. They, against a good – what I think is a pretty solid defensive line (and) defensive front – I thought they held their own. They blitzed a little bit. So, it gives you an idea versus a blitz. You know they were able to handle that pretty good and going in the right direction in the run game. But I thought overall, I thought they did a pretty nice job after looking at (the film).”

Q: On Kingsley Suamataia on the offensive line.

REID:&nbsp;“Yeah, I just think the more he's able to play next to Josh (Simmons), I think is important. There's got to be communication there. And so, Josh is new, and Kingsley (Suamataia) knows all this stuff, is just making sure that his partner, sidekick (has) got it and then, you know, Creed (Humphrey) inside, working with Creed and Creed making his call. So, you’re kind of in the middle of those three when you're sitting in that spot, you got to be able to listen a little bit and at the same time be able to make your own calls. And I thought he (Kingsley Suamataia), I thought he did good. I think the more reps he gets in there, the better he’ll get.”

Q: On bringing Derrick Nnadi back.

REID:&nbsp;“Yeah, I think just a good inside player and you can't really have enough of those guys. He knows the system. So, getting back in there I think is a positive, and (General Manager) Brett (Veach) we're always a little heavy on O-line and D-line. I mean that's normally just to make sure we've got those areas filled.”

Q:&nbsp;What do you think makes this place unique when it comes to scouting guys, figuring out who is going to be on the roster and potentially getting new guys in the building?

REID:&nbsp;“Yeah, I think (General Manager) Brett (Veach), he's the best in the business. I think if you ask around the league and you probably get a lot of yes, he's really good at what he does. And he's, I think the best thing he does, he communicates with everybody. Not only does he have a good eye for talent, but he talks to the coaches. He utilizes his staff and trusts them. And you end up with a product – he has to make that final decision. But it's still, he's using people making sure he covers all the bases that way.”

Q:&nbsp;How do you think the first-team offense performed in the last preseason game?

WORTHY:&nbsp;“I think we came out with a lot of excitement. I feel like that has just kinda been the moral of the group. Everybody came out juiced (and) ready. We didn’t want to come out (of the game because) we were having so much fun. That’s just our core right now. (Head Coach Andy) Reid says all the time, ‘let your personality show’ and I feel like we’re letting that happen.”

Q:&nbsp;On the team’s confidence heading into this season.

WORTHY:&nbsp;“I feel like things didn’t end how we wanted to last year and guys like Chris (Jones) said it well in the locker room, ‘How are we going to get better (and) how are you going to adapt and thrive off the situation? Are you going to come back better or are you going to come back still soggy or mad that you lost?’ A lot of guys in the offseason came back with a chip on their shoulder (and are) more conditioned and ready to work.”

Q:&nbsp;Did you feel things open up differently with a collection of elite receivers on the field compared to last year?

WORTHY:&nbsp;“I feel like definitely, for sure. In the preseason it is a little bit different from year two to year one. I was more comfortable. I was moving faster earlier on. It all just clicked, and everybody was working and moving how they were supposed to.”

Q: Have you reached out to Derrick Nnadi since his return to the Chiefs?

DANNA:&nbsp;“Yeah, he’s (Derrick Nnadi) here now. I think that’s a great thing. Blessings for him. I think anytime you can bring a veteran leader like him, a guy who is knowledgeable about the game (and) also knowledgeable about the system. He had a lot of success in this system (in) previous years, he spent his last seven years here, so I’m happy to see him back. There was a big smile on his face when he got here so Nnadi hasn’t changed. (He’s) still the same guy. We’re lucky to have him again.”

Q: How do you feel about how the defense played in the first half of the Bears game?

DANNA:&nbsp;“We knew we had a challenge. Our second preseason game wasn’t the showing we really wanted to have. It was a nasty taste in our mouth. That whole week we were emphasizing during practice on locking in, coming out aggressive and showing how our defense plays. I feel like that first half was a good little glimpse. I’m excited for some more action coming up (and) getting up there and balling with those guys. That was definitely a response to our second preseason game and that’s how we want every game to be. We want to set a tone from the jump and that’s how we execute.”

Q:&nbsp; What do you know about Brazil?

Chiefs Head Coach Andy Reid QuotesAugust 26, 2025OPENING STATEMENT:&nbsp;“All right. So, the guys that won’t practice today are (Jack) Cochrane, Omarr (Norman-Lott) and Jalen Royals. But Cochrane and Omarr are doing - they're all doing a good job, and they're probably a little closer than Jalen is. Always a tough day as we go forward through today, we haven’t officially done anything. So, I can't answer any questions on who's here and who's not, you know. But (General Manager Brett) Veach will get you all that going forward, so you can hold off on those, on the questions of who's making it and who's not making it. Other than that, we look forward to the challenge coming up here to play the Chargers. We know they're a good football team. It’ll be a little different setting being in Brazil, but we look forward to heading south there to Brazil. So, anyways with that, times yours.”Q: How do you handle practice on a day like this when it is the cut deadline?REID:&nbsp;“Yeah, you – well, you'll see it out there, part of it at least. So, we go about it. How's that for an answer (laughter)? We'll have a good one today.”Q: When you went back and watched the film from the preseason game, what stood out about the offensive line as a group?REID:&nbsp;“Yeah, you know Sam (McDowell) I thought they did a good job. They, against a good – what I think is a pretty solid defensive line (and) defensive front – I thought they held their own. They blitzed a little bit. So, it gives you an idea versus a blitz. You know they were able to handle that pretty good and going in the right direction in the run game. But I thought overall, I thought they did a pretty nice job after looking at (the film).”Q: On Kingsley Suamataia on the offensive line.REID:&nbsp;“Yeah, I just think the more he's able to play next to Josh (Simmons), I think is important. There's got to be communication there. And so, Josh is new, and Kingsley (Suamataia) knows all this stuff, is just making sure that his partner, sidekick (has) got it and then, you know, Creed (Humphrey) inside, working with Creed and Creed making his call. So, you’re kind of in the middle of those three when you're sitting in that spot, you got to be able to listen a little bit and at the same time be able to make your own calls. And I thought he (Kingsley Suamataia), I thought he did good. I think the more reps he gets in there, the better he’ll get.”Q: On bringing Derrick Nnadi back.REID:&nbsp;“Yeah, I think just a good inside player and you can't really have enough of those guys. He knows the system. So, getting back in there I think is a positive, and (General Manager) Brett (Veach) we're always a little heavy on O-line and D-line. I mean that's normally just to make sure we've got those areas filled.”Q:&nbsp;What do you think makes this place unique when it comes to scouting guys, figuring out who is going to be on the roster and potentially getting new guys in the building?REID:&nbsp;“Yeah, I think (General Manager) Brett (Veach), he's the best in the business. I think if you ask around the league and you probably get a lot of yes, he's really good at what he does. And he's, I think the best thing he does, he communicates with everybody. Not only does he have a good eye for talent, but he talks to the coaches. He utilizes his staff and trusts them. And you end up with a product – he has to make that final decision. But it's still, he's using people making sure he covers all the bases that way.”Chiefs Player QuotesAugust 26, 2025WR XAVIER WORTHYQ:&nbsp;How do you think the first-team offense performed in the last preseason game?WORTHY:&nbsp;“I think we came out with a lot of excitement. I feel like that has just kinda been the moral of the group. Everybody came out juiced (and) ready. We didn’t want to come out (of the game because) we were having so much fun. That’s just our core right now. (Head Coach Andy) Reid says all the time, ‘let your personality show’ and I feel like we’re letting that happen.”Q:&nbsp;On the team’s confidence heading into this season.WORTHY:&nbsp;“I feel like things didn’t end how we wanted to last year and guys like Chris (Jones) said it well in the locker room, ‘How are we going to get better (and) how are you going to adapt and thrive off the situation? Are you going to come back better or are you going to come back still soggy or mad that you lost?’ A lot of guys in the offseason came back with a chip on their shoulder (and are) more conditioned and ready to work.”Q:&nbsp;Did you feel things open up differently with a collection of elite receivers on the field compared to last year?WORTHY:&nbsp;“I feel like definitely, for sure. In the preseason it is a little bit different from year two to year one. I was more comfortable. I was moving faster earlier on. It all just clicked, and everybody was working and moving how they were supposed to.”DE MIKE DANNAQ: Have you reached out to Derrick Nnadi since his return to the Chiefs?DANNA:&nbsp;“Yeah, he’s (Derrick Nnadi) here now. I think that’s a great thing. Blessings for him. I think anytime you can bring a veteran leader like him, a guy who is knowledgeable about the game (and) also knowledgeable about the system. He had a lot of success in this system (in) previous years, he spent his last seven years here, so I’m happy to see him back. There was a big smile on his face when he got here so Nnadi hasn’t changed. (He’s) still the same guy. We’re lucky to have him again.”Q: How do you feel about how the defense played in the first half of the Bears game?DANNA:&nbsp;“We knew we had a challenge. Our second preseason game wasn’t the showing we really wanted to have. It was a nasty taste in our mouth. That whole week we were emphasizing during practice on locking in, coming out aggressive and showing how our defense plays. I feel like that first half was a good little glimpse. I’m excited for some more action coming up (and) getting up there and balling with those guys. That was definitely a response to our second preseason game and that’s how we want every game to be. We want to set a tone from the jump and that’s how we execute.”Q:&nbsp; What do you know about Brazil?

Chiefs Quotes: 8-26-25

WICHITA, Kan. -&nbsp;Kansas Wesleyan's&nbsp;<a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/914ef411-d8c4-42d7-b7b7-b8fb9bcdbfd9?elinkdata=28018" target="_blank">Kori Arnold</a>&nbsp;has been named as the KCAC Women's Volleyball Defender of the Week for her efforts in matches for the Coyotes last week.

The KCAC Player of the Week program is administered and voted upon by conference sports information directors and is presented at the conference level by Equity Bank.

Arnold had two impressive matches as libero for the Coyotes to open the season. Against College of Saint Mary, she had 33 digs, averaging 8.25 per set. She then averaged 5.0 digs per set in the match against Hastings. She also added a few assists along the way, setting up kills when setters covered blocks.In KWU's two matches last week, she averaged 6.63 digs per set with 53 total digs.

Kansas Wesleyan went 1-1 to open the season last weekend at the Hastings College Classic in Hastings, Nebraska. The season continues this weekend as the Coyotes head to Fort Worth, Texas for the Texas Two-Step Tournament hosted by Texas Wesleyan and Nelson University on Friday and Saturday.

The Coyotes will not make their home debut until September 20 when KWU hosts Benedictine at Mabee Arena.

WICHITA, Kan. -&nbsp;Kansas Wesleyan's&nbsp;<a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/914ef411-d8c4-42d7-b7b7-b8fb9bcdbfd9?elinkdata=28018" target="_blank">Kori Arnold</a>&nbsp;has been named as the KCAC Women's Volleyball Defender of the Week for her efforts in matches for the Coyotes last week.The KCAC Player of the Week program is administered and voted upon by conference sports information directors and is presented at the conference level by Equity Bank.Arnold had two impressive matches as libero for the Coyotes to open the season. Against College of Saint Mary, she had 33 digs, averaging 8.25 per set. She then averaged 5.0 digs per set in the match against Hastings. She also added a few assists along the way, setting up kills when setters covered blocks.In KWU's two matches last week, she averaged 6.63 digs per set with 53 total digs.Kansas Wesleyan went 1-1 to open the season last weekend at the Hastings College Classic in Hastings, Nebraska. The season continues this weekend as the Coyotes head to Fort Worth, Texas for the Texas Two-Step Tournament hosted by Texas Wesleyan and Nelson University on Friday and Saturday.The Coyotes will not make their home debut until September 20 when KWU hosts Benedictine at Mabee Arena.

Arnold earns KCAC Women's Volleyball Defender of the Week honor

CHICAGO (AP) — Michael Massey hit a tying two-run single in the ninth inning and Kyle Isbel had a go-ahead run-scoring single as the Kansas City Royals rallied for a 5-4 win over the Chicago White Sox on Tuesday night.

Maikel Garcia had a two-run single in the eighth inning as the Royals rallied from a 4-0 deficit. Jonathan India had two hits and scored two runs.

Sam Long (2-3) pitched a scoreless eighth to pick up the win, and Carlos Estévez got the last three outs for his 35th save as the Royals advanced (68-65) remained in the wild-card race.

Jordan Leasure gave up two runs in the eighth and Grant Taylor (0-4) was charged with three in the ninth as the White Sox fell to an AL-worst 48-84.

Colson Montgomery homered for the fourth consecutive game, and fellow rookie Kyle Teel had three hits and an RBI for the White Sox.

Trailing by two, Kansas City loaded the bases with one out in the top of the ninth against Taylor. Tyler Alexander came on gave Massey's tying two-run single. After Adam Frazier was hit by a pitch, Isbel followed with his go-ahead single.

White Sox starter Martín Pérez limited the Royals to one hit in seven innings while striking out five and walking none. Kansas City then had eight hits over the final two innings.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1756261736455.jpeg" alt="Photo Kansas CityRoyals" />
 <figcaption>Photo Kansas CityRoyals</figcaption>
 </figure>CHICAGO (AP) — Michael Massey hit a tying two-run single in the ninth inning and Kyle Isbel had a go-ahead run-scoring single as the Kansas City Royals rallied for a 5-4 win over the Chicago White Sox on Tuesday night.Maikel Garcia had a two-run single in the eighth inning as the Royals rallied from a 4-0 deficit. Jonathan India had two hits and scored two runs.Sam Long (2-3) pitched a scoreless eighth to pick up the win, and Carlos Estévez got the last three outs for his 35th save as the Royals advanced (68-65) remained in the wild-card race.Jordan Leasure gave up two runs in the eighth and Grant Taylor (0-4) was charged with three in the ninth as the White Sox fell to an AL-worst 48-84.Colson Montgomery homered for the fourth consecutive game, and fellow rookie Kyle Teel had three hits and an RBI for the White Sox.<h2>Key Moment</h2>Trailing by two, Kansas City loaded the bases with one out in the top of the ninth against Taylor. Tyler Alexander came on gave Massey's tying two-run single. After Adam Frazier was hit by a pitch, Isbel followed with his go-ahead single.<h2>Key Stat</h2>White Sox starter Martín Pérez limited the Royals to one hit in seven innings while striking out five and walking none. Kansas City then had eight hits over the final two innings.<h2>Up Next</h2>

⚾ Massey, Isbel get run-scoring hits in 9th as Royals beat White Sox

KANSAS CITY, Mo.—In conjunction with Major League Baseball, the Kansas City Royals today announced their 2026 regular season schedule. All game times will be announced at a later date.

Opening Day is scheduled for Thursday, March 26 at Truist Park vs. the Atlanta Braves. This will mark the earliest Opening Day in franchise history, one day earlier than Kansas City’s opener this season. It will be just the third time in 12 years dating back to 2015 that the Royals will open on the road, following 2017 at Minnesota and 2020 at Cleveland. This will mark the second time the Royals are beginning the season vs. a National League opponent, following 2016 vs. the Mets, but it will be the first time they’re starting the season in a National League ballpark.

The Royals will play their home opener at Kauffman Stadium on Monday, March 30 vs. the Minnesota Twins. Following an off day on Tuesday, March 31, the Royals will continue the 3-game series vs. the Twins before beginning a 3-game series vs. the Milwaukee Brewers to wrap a 6-game homestand.

The Royals will end the regular season with a 6-game homestand vs. the White Sox and Guardians from Sept. 22-27.

Two home series will be impacted by the World Cup at the Truman Sports Complex. From June 18-21, the Royals will host a 3-game series vs. the St. Louis Cardinals beginning Thursday night. Following an off day on Saturday, the teams will conclude the series on Sunday. The Royals also have a scheduled off day on Friday, July 3 before beginning a 3-game series vs. the Philadelphia Phillies from Saturday, July 4-Monday, July 6.

For the fourth consecutive season, Major League Baseball will continue its balanced schedule, in which the Royals will play all other 29 teams. Kansas City’s 162-game schedule will include:

•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 52 games vs. American League Central teams (13 games across 4 series vs. all 4 opponents)

•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 62 league games vs. American League East and West teams (6-7 games vs. each opponent)

•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 48 Interleague games (6 games vs. St. Louis and 3 games vs. all other NL teams)

The breakdown of divisional games will include 7 home games and 6 road games vs. the White Sox and Guardians, and 6 home games and 7 road games vs. the Tigers and Twins.

Of the 10 teams who play in the American League East and West divisions, the Royals will play two of those opponents (Rays and Athletics) seven times and the remaining eight of those teams six times.

Aside from 6 games vs. the Cardinals (3 at home and 3 on the road), the Royals will play 3 games against each of the other 14 National League teams. From July 4-Aug. 12, the Royals will play 21 of 34 games vs. National League teams.

The Royals will travel to eight National League ballparks, including Atlanta (March 26-29), St. Louis (May 15-17), Cincinnati (June 1-3), Washington (June 15-17), New York (July 7-9), Colorado (July 31-Aug. 2), Los Angeles (Aug. 10-12) and Pittsburgh (Sept. 18-20).

The Royals will host all major holidays, including Easter Sunday vs. Milwaukee (April 5), Mother’s Day vs. Detroit (May 10), Memorial Day vs. the Yankees (May 25), Father’s Day vs. St. Louis (June 21), Independence Day vs. Philadelphia (July 4) and Labor Day vs. Arizona (Sept. 7).

The Royals will be in Detroit on&nbsp;Jackie Robinson&nbsp;Day (April 15), Cincinnati on&nbsp;Lou Gehrig&nbsp;Day (June 2) and Houston on&nbsp;Roberto Clemente&nbsp;Day (Sept. 15).

The All-Star break will run from July 13-16 and will include the 96th Major League Baseball All-Star Game to be played on Tuesday, July 14 at Citizens Bank Park, home of the Philadelphia Phillies.

Kansas City will host a pair of three-opponent homestands, including 9 games in 10 days from May 18-27 vs. the Red Sox, Mariners and Yankees. They will host 9 games in 9 days from Sept. 1-9 vs. the Marlins, Blue Jays and Diamondbacks.

The Royals are scheduled for a trio of three-city road trips, including 10 games in 10 days from May 29-June 7 at Texas, Cincinnati and Minnesota, 10 games in 11 days from July 23-Aug. 2 at Detroit, Minnesota and Colorado and 9 games in 10 days from Sept. 11-20 in Boston, Houston and Pittsburgh.

KANSAS CITY, Mo.—In conjunction with Major League Baseball, the Kansas City Royals today announced their 2026 regular season schedule. All game times will be announced at a later date.Opening Day is scheduled for Thursday, March 26 at Truist Park vs. the Atlanta Braves. This will mark the earliest Opening Day in franchise history, one day earlier than Kansas City’s opener this season. It will be just the third time in 12 years dating back to 2015 that the Royals will open on the road, following 2017 at Minnesota and 2020 at Cleveland. This will mark the second time the Royals are beginning the season vs. a National League opponent, following 2016 vs. the Mets, but it will be the first time they’re starting the season in a National League ballpark.The Royals will play their home opener at Kauffman Stadium on Monday, March 30 vs. the Minnesota Twins. Following an off day on Tuesday, March 31, the Royals will continue the 3-game series vs. the Twins before beginning a 3-game series vs. the Milwaukee Brewers to wrap a 6-game homestand.The Royals will end the regular season with a 6-game homestand vs. the White Sox and Guardians from Sept. 22-27.Two home series will be impacted by the World Cup at the Truman Sports Complex. From June 18-21, the Royals will host a 3-game series vs. the St. Louis Cardinals beginning Thursday night. Following an off day on Saturday, the teams will conclude the series on Sunday. The Royals also have a scheduled off day on Friday, July 3 before beginning a 3-game series vs. the Philadelphia Phillies from Saturday, July 4-Monday, July 6.For the fourth consecutive season, Major League Baseball will continue its balanced schedule, in which the Royals will play all other 29 teams. Kansas City’s 162-game schedule will include:•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 52 games vs. American League Central teams (13 games across 4 series vs. all 4 opponents)•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 62 league games vs. American League East and West teams (6-7 games vs. each opponent)•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 48 Interleague games (6 games vs. St. Louis and 3 games vs. all other NL teams)The breakdown of divisional games will include 7 home games and 6 road games vs. the White Sox and Guardians, and 6 home games and 7 road games vs. the Tigers and Twins.Of the 10 teams who play in the American League East and West divisions, the Royals will play two of those opponents (Rays and Athletics) seven times and the remaining eight of those teams six times.Aside from 6 games vs. the Cardinals (3 at home and 3 on the road), the Royals will play 3 games against each of the other 14 National League teams. From July 4-Aug. 12, the Royals will play 21 of 34 games vs. National League teams.The Royals will travel to eight National League ballparks, including Atlanta (March 26-29), St. Louis (May 15-17), Cincinnati (June 1-3), Washington (June 15-17), New York (July 7-9), Colorado (July 31-Aug. 2), Los Angeles (Aug. 10-12) and Pittsburgh (Sept. 18-20).The Royals will host all major holidays, including Easter Sunday vs. Milwaukee (April 5), Mother’s Day vs. Detroit (May 10), Memorial Day vs. the Yankees (May 25), Father’s Day vs. St. Louis (June 21), Independence Day vs. Philadelphia (July 4) and Labor Day vs. Arizona (Sept. 7).The Royals will be in Detroit on&nbsp;Jackie Robinson&nbsp;Day (April 15), Cincinnati on&nbsp;Lou Gehrig&nbsp;Day (June 2) and Houston on&nbsp;Roberto Clemente&nbsp;Day (Sept. 15).The All-Star break will run from July 13-16 and will include the 96th Major League Baseball All-Star Game to be played on Tuesday, July 14 at Citizens Bank Park, home of the Philadelphia Phillies.Kansas City will host a pair of three-opponent homestands, including 9 games in 10 days from May 18-27 vs. the Red Sox, Mariners and Yankees. They will host 9 games in 9 days from Sept. 1-9 vs. the Marlins, Blue Jays and Diamondbacks.The Royals are scheduled for a trio of three-city road trips, including 10 games in 10 days from May 29-June 7 at Texas, Cincinnati and Minnesota, 10 games in 11 days from July 23-Aug. 2 at Detroit, Minnesota and Colorado and 9 games in 10 days from Sept. 11-20 in Boston, Houston and Pittsburgh.

Royals announce 2026 regular season schedule

MANHATTAN, Kansas&nbsp;–&nbsp;Recent K-State graduate Serena Sundell has signed a contract with the WNBA’s Dallas Wings and will be active for Wednesday’s game against Connecticut.

Sundell was signed to a seven-day hardship contract by the Wings. She was a 2025 WNBA Draft selection by the Seattle Storm. She was the ninth player in program history to be selected during the WNBA Draft.

In addition to signing with Dallas, Sundell signed a contract with the Adelaide Lightning of Australia’s WNBL. She will begin her season with Adelaide in October.

Sundell has had an active summer, as she played for the United States in the 2025 FIBA 3x3 Youth Nations League Americas in Punta Arenas, Chile, on July 21-27. She also finished as a runner-up with her 3x3 team at the FIBA 3x3 Women’s Series event in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, on August 1-2.

Sundell helped her team, B&amp;B, win the 3XBA event at the Spokane Hoopfest on June 27-28 in Spokane, Washington. The 3XBA event featured 32 of the most elite basketball players in the nation.

A 2025 Women’s Basketball Coaches Association (WBCA) and Associated Press (AP) All-America honorable mention selection, Sundell led the nation with a career-high and school record for total assists (262) and paced the nation and led the Big 12 with a career-high for assists per game (7.28 apg) and was second in the Big 12 for assist-turnover ratio (2.52). She recorded a league-best nine games with 10 or more assists.

Sundell was K-State’s second-leading scorer with an average of 14.1 points per game and led the Wildcats with 508 points, which was the second-highest total of her career, on a .501 field goal percentage. Sundell was the only player in the nation in the 2024-25 season and the third player since 1993-94 to register a season with 500 or more points, 250 or more assists and shoot 50.0 percent or better from the field.

With her point (508) and assist (262) totals in the 2024-25 season, Sundell was the first player in Big 12 history to record four seasons with 350 or more points and 150 or more assists. She joined former Wildcat Kayla Goth as the only two players in program history with 500 or more points and 200 or more assists in a season.

In her career, Sundell set the school records for career starts (139) and games played (139). She established the school record and ranks fourth in Big 12 history for career assists with 811 and is second in program history for career assists per game (5.83 apg). She ranks sixth on the K-State career scoring list with 1,771 points. She ranks tied for seventh in school history for career blocks (104).

She was the first player in school history and the 14th&nbsp;in NCAA Division I women’s basketball history with 1,700 or more career points and 800 or more career assists.

MANHATTAN, Kansas&nbsp;–&nbsp;Recent K-State graduate Serena Sundell has signed a contract with the WNBA’s Dallas Wings and will be active for Wednesday’s game against Connecticut.Sundell was signed to a seven-day hardship contract by the Wings. She was a 2025 WNBA Draft selection by the Seattle Storm. She was the ninth player in program history to be selected during the WNBA Draft.In addition to signing with Dallas, Sundell signed a contract with the Adelaide Lightning of Australia’s WNBL. She will begin her season with Adelaide in October.Sundell has had an active summer, as she played for the United States in the 2025 FIBA 3x3 Youth Nations League Americas in Punta Arenas, Chile, on July 21-27. She also finished as a runner-up with her 3x3 team at the FIBA 3x3 Women’s Series event in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, on August 1-2.Sundell helped her team, B&amp;B, win the 3XBA event at the Spokane Hoopfest on June 27-28 in Spokane, Washington. The 3XBA event featured 32 of the most elite basketball players in the nation.A 2025 Women’s Basketball Coaches Association (WBCA) and Associated Press (AP) All-America honorable mention selection, Sundell led the nation with a career-high and school record for total assists (262) and paced the nation and led the Big 12 with a career-high for assists per game (7.28 apg) and was second in the Big 12 for assist-turnover ratio (2.52). She recorded a league-best nine games with 10 or more assists.Sundell was K-State’s second-leading scorer with an average of 14.1 points per game and led the Wildcats with 508 points, which was the second-highest total of her career, on a .501 field goal percentage. Sundell was the only player in the nation in the 2024-25 season and the third player since 1993-94 to register a season with 500 or more points, 250 or more assists and shoot 50.0 percent or better from the field.With her point (508) and assist (262) totals in the 2024-25 season, Sundell was the first player in Big 12 history to record four seasons with 350 or more points and 150 or more assists. She joined former Wildcat Kayla Goth as the only two players in program history with 500 or more points and 200 or more assists in a season.In her career, Sundell set the school records for career starts (139) and games played (139). She established the school record and ranks fourth in Big 12 history for career assists with 811 and is second in program history for career assists per game (5.83 apg). She ranks sixth on the K-State career scoring list with 1,771 points. She ranks tied for seventh in school history for career blocks (104).She was the first player in school history and the 14th&nbsp;in NCAA Division I women’s basketball history with 1,700 or more career points and 800 or more career assists.

K-State's Sundell Signs Contract with WNBA’s Dallas Wings

CHICAGO (AP) — Shane Smith allowed one hit in a career-high seven innings, Korey Lee hit a two-run homer, and the Chicago White Sox beat the Kansas City Royals 7-0 on Monday night.

CHICAGO (AP) — Shane Smith allowed one hit in a career-high seven innings, Korey Lee hit a two-run homer, and the Chicago White Sox beat the Kansas City Royals 7-0 on Monday night.Smith (4-7) pitched into the seventh inning for the first time in his career, facing just 23 batters on 80 pitches.Lee, in his first start since getting called up from Triple-A Charlotte, drove a shot over the left-field wall for his first home run of the season for a 5-0 lead in the fourth. Brooks Baldwin followed with a home run near the same spot for a six-run lead.Chicago has won three straight games after losing 14 of 18.Kansas City dropped to 13-10 in August. The Royals entered having scored at least five runs in 20 of 34 games (58.8%) since the All-Star break, tied with Milwaukee for the most in the majors.Kansas City starter Noah Cameron (7-6) allowed six earned runs and eight hits in five innings.Mike Yastrzemski hit a double in the third and Bobby Witt Jr. had one in the ninth for the Royals' two hits.<h2>Key moment</h2>Chicago scored three runs on four hits in the first inning. Edgar Quero hit a shot into the gap in left-center field to score Chase Meidroth from first to open the scoring. Lenyn Sosa followed with a hit into the right-field gap for back-to-back doubles. Curtis Mead added Chicago’s third double for his third RBI of the season and a 3-0 lead.<h2>Key stat</h2>Chicago scored in the first inning for the third time in four games after doing so just once in the previous nine.<h2>Up next</h2>Royals RHP Michael Lorenzen (5-8, 4.50) is scheduled to make his 21st start of the season while White Sox LHP Martín Pérez (1-3, 2.51) will be making his sixth start.