By TYLER HENRY Lead Sportswriter - Salina Post

The Russell Broncos had a magical 2025 season, posting seven wins for the first time since 2003, and winning their first playoff game in 46 years.

Fresh off that postseason win, Cinderella rolled into Gypsum and took the lead on the opening drive when Trey Zorn hit Sam Thielen over the middle for a 37-yard touchdown to put the Broncos ahead of the defending state champs.

Before any glass slippers could be fitted, however, the clock quickly, and loudly struck midnight, and the Southeast of Saline Trojans advanced to the state quarterfinals by a final score of 44-12.

Grady Gebhardt took the opening handoff 65 yards to the house to give Southeast the lead, and the Trojans never looked back, outscoring the Broncos 44-6 down the stretch.

On their ensuing drive, Russell would enter the Trojan red zone, but was turned away on downs following back-to-back sacks for Kanyon Douglas and Brody Chambers.

Tiernan Ptacek added two rushing touchdowns to extend the lead to 22-6, and the Trojan defense again stood tall at the goal line, turning Russell over on downs with their backs against the wall at the two.

The two teams traded touchdowns to bring the score to 30-12 at halftime, but in the third quarter, the Trojans picked right up where they left off as Gebhardt completed his weekly hat trick with a 13-yard rushing score.

Desperately needing a touchdown and inside the red zone, the Broncos again went for it on fourth down, but the Southeast defense stood up Zorn behind the sticks to force a third critical turnover on downs.

“They got inside the 20 twice and our boys stood tall and didn’t let them score,” SES head coach Mitch Gebhardt said. “We haven’t had a whole lot of that happen this season, and it was good for our guys to do that. That’s probably the most yards we’ve given up all year, but when they had to they made plays.”

Grady added a fourth rushing touchdown to put the icing on the cake of a dominant 44-12 second-round win.

Gebhardt again led the charge, toting the rock 25 times for a staggering 341 yards and four scores.

Ptacek looked solid at quarterback again, completing 6-12 for 52 yards without a single interception while adding 10 carries, 65 yards and two touchdowns on the ground.

The Trojans will square off with Phillipsburg in the state quarterfinals. The Panthers thrashed Minneapolis and Haven in the first two rounds of their playoff run.

You can watch our full broadcast of this game anytime on demand below.

By TYLER HENRY Lead Sportswriter - Salina PostThe Russell Broncos had a magical 2025 season, posting seven wins for the first time since 2003, and winning their first playoff game in 46 years.Fresh off that postseason win, Cinderella rolled into Gypsum and took the lead on the opening drive when Trey Zorn hit Sam Thielen over the middle for a 37-yard touchdown to put the Broncos ahead of the defending state champs.Before any glass slippers could be fitted, however, the clock quickly, and loudly struck midnight, and the Southeast of Saline Trojans advanced to the state quarterfinals by a final score of 44-12.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746812152965.jpeg" alt="Salina Regional Orthopedic &amp; Sports Medicine- Your home-field advantage starts here." />
 <figcaption>Salina Regional Orthopedic &amp; Sports Medicine- Your home-field advantage starts here.</figcaption>
 </figure>Grady Gebhardt took the opening handoff 65 yards to the house to give Southeast the lead, and the Trojans never looked back, outscoring the Broncos 44-6 down the stretch.On their ensuing drive, Russell would enter the Trojan red zone, but was turned away on downs following back-to-back sacks for Kanyon Douglas and Brody Chambers.Tiernan Ptacek added two rushing touchdowns to extend the lead to 22-6, and the Trojan defense again stood tall at the goal line, turning Russell over on downs with their backs against the wall at the two.The two teams traded touchdowns to bring the score to 30-12 at halftime, but in the third quarter, the Trojans picked right up where they left off as Gebhardt completed his weekly hat trick with a 13-yard rushing score.Desperately needing a touchdown and inside the red zone, the Broncos again went for it on fourth down, but the Southeast defense stood up Zorn behind the sticks to force a third critical turnover on downs.“They got inside the 20 twice and our boys stood tall and didn’t let them score,” SES head coach Mitch Gebhardt said. “We haven’t had a whole lot of that happen this season, and it was good for our guys to do that. That’s probably the most yards we’ve given up all year, but when they had to they made plays.”Grady added a fourth rushing touchdown to put the icing on the cake of a dominant 44-12 second-round win.Gebhardt again led the charge, toting the rock 25 times for a staggering 341 yards and four scores.Ptacek looked solid at quarterback again, completing 6-12 for 52 yards without a single interception while adding 10 carries, 65 yards and two touchdowns on the ground.The Trojans will square off with Phillipsburg in the state quarterfinals. The Panthers thrashed Minneapolis and Haven in the first two rounds of their playoff run.You can watch our full broadcast of this game anytime on demand below.<figure>
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🏈 Trojans end Russell run, advance to sixth-straight state quarterfinal

CHAPEL HILL, N.C. (AP) — Freshman Caleb Wilson had 24 points, big man Henri Veesaar added 20 and No. 25 North Carolina dominated the second half to pull away from No. 19 Kansas 87-74 in Friday night's battle of college basketball bluebloods.

Senior Seth Trimble added 13 of his 17 after halftime, proving to be a catalyst for the Tar Heels (2-0) in taking control of the second-half tempo as UNC roared out of the break.

But North Carolina made 18 of its first 23 second-half shots — including back-to-back push-the-tempo scores by Trimble that had Kansas coach Bill Self first waving his hands in frustration and then burning a quick timeout barely two minutes in.

Kyan Evans added 12 points after a scoreless first half for the Tar Heels, who went from shooting 33% before the break to making 24 of 36 shots (66.7%) after halftime to lead by as many as 16 on the way to scoring 58 second-half points.

Kansas star freshman Darryn Peterson had 22 points to lead the Jayhawks (1-1), who led by 10 in the first half and 37-29 at the break.

The Jayhawks entered Friday having won five straight meetings between programs with a combined 10 NCAA titles, including in the 2008 Final Four, the 2012 NCAA Elite Eight and the 2022 national championship game. The Jayhawks won last year's meeting at Allen Fieldhouse despite blowing a 20-point lead and were playing their first game in Chapel Hill.

Kansas: The Jayhawks return home to face Texas A&amp;M-Corpus Christi on Tuesday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1762568793363.png" alt="Photo North Carolina Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo North Carolina Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>CHAPEL HILL, N.C. (AP) — Freshman Caleb Wilson had 24 points, big man Henri Veesaar added 20 and No. 25 North Carolina dominated the second half to pull away from No. 19 Kansas 87-74 in Friday night's battle of college basketball bluebloods.Senior Seth Trimble added 13 of his 17 after halftime, proving to be a catalyst for the Tar Heels (2-0) in taking control of the second-half tempo as UNC roared out of the break.But North Carolina made 18 of its first 23 second-half shots — including back-to-back push-the-tempo scores by Trimble that had Kansas coach Bill Self first waving his hands in frustration and then burning a quick timeout barely two minutes in.Kyan Evans added 12 points after a scoreless first half for the Tar Heels, who went from shooting 33% before the break to making 24 of 36 shots (66.7%) after halftime to lead by as many as 16 on the way to scoring 58 second-half points.Kansas star freshman Darryn Peterson had 22 points to lead the Jayhawks (1-1), who led by 10 in the first half and 37-29 at the break.The Jayhawks entered Friday having won five straight meetings between programs with a combined 10 NCAA titles, including in the 2008 Final Four, the 2012 NCAA Elite Eight and the 2022 national championship game. The Jayhawks won last year's meeting at Allen Fieldhouse despite blowing a 20-point lead and were playing their first game in Chapel Hill.<h2>Up next</h2>Kansas: The Jayhawks return home to face Texas A&amp;M-Corpus Christi on Tuesday.

🏀 Wilson, Veesaar, Trimble power North Carolina over Kansas

The Coyotes are back home for a Kansas Conference and Gene Bissell Division game against the 18th-ranked McPherson Bulldogs.

The Coyotes' nine-game winning streak ended last year when McPherson won 42-14 in McPherson. KWU's winning streak came after the Bulldogs had won five of six. Wesleyan has a 17-7 advantage in the series since 2001.

"Not much to say except we got physically whipped. (Friends) is a really, really good football team. I have not seen anybody close to them roster wise this year. The mistakes we made didn't make it any better. It's nothing against the kids but Friends was just more physical and that was indicated on both sides of the ball. I'd be shocked if they don't have a chance to play for (the NAIA title).

"We're in a situation where we're just absolutely physically beat up. I have never been in a year like this. I think the biggest thing for us is trying to bounce back because we've still got two football games left to play.

"(Domena) is a tough kid, we've really found a hammer with that. It's probably not good that he gets all the totes he gets but he's been our offense in a lot of ways. I'm super proud of him and how hard he's played.

"(McPherson) has got a lot of talent on the roster, they're doing their very best to be a national contender. They're 8-1 and had a chance against Friends so I think they're super talented skill wise. I think offensively they're really good and on defense they get after you.

"(Brown) is super special. If you shut him down in the run game, they're going to get him involved in the passing game. You don't stop a guy like that; you can try and contain some of his touches a little but at some point, he's going to get loose."

"I think we've executed at a high level for the most part. I think that D'Heaven's come in and done a good job for Luke (Armstrong) since his injury. I think the (offensive line) has been buying into what I'm trying to teach them, and the receivers are doing a good job as well blocking on the exterior trying to give our running backs time and space to be able to do things. I think we've progressed pretty well for the most part.

"The good thing that you like to see is that next man up mentality. Even though we've had those injuries you see guys step in for Will (Wilcox) and Luke and Jevin (Dorsey). It's been a total team effort which makes me very proud to see. They've taken it upon themselves that 'I can help out the team and take that role on.' Of course, you want your big-time playmakers but that's going to happen. It's just how it is sometimes on the football field."

The Coyotes are back home for a Kansas Conference and Gene Bissell Division game against the 18th-ranked McPherson Bulldogs.GAME INFORMATION<ul>
 <li>Kickoff: 1 p.m.</li><li>Day: Saturday</li><li>Location: Gene Bissell Field at JRI Hospitality Stadium and the Graves Family Sport Complex</li><li>Records: Kansas Wesleyan 6-3 (2-1 Bissell Division); McPherson 8-1 (2-1)</li>
 </ul>KCAC GAME DAY LIVE IS HERE<ul>
 <li>The KCAC has selected Kansas Wesleyan as the host of this week's KCAC Game Day Live pregame show. Join host Jason Dannelly on Urban Edge Network, along with on-site host Tyler Henry and a plenty of special guests to talk about Saturday's game and all things KWU, KCAC and NAIA Football.</li><li>Part of the show will feature interviews with KWU staff, a special guest pick for the show, and a field goal kicking contest with the winner earning a gift card to Yotee's Store.</li>
 </ul>LIVE COVERAGE<ul>
 <li>The video stream of the game will be available online on the Urban Edge Network (<a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/af8a32fb-6da9-4264-87fc-a92f0d644e35?elinkdata=32439">https://urbanedgenetwork.net/watch/2872</a>). The game will also be streamed on the KCAC Network (<a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/0290ac43-bf71-4339-a076-d0ae710d91fa?elinkdata=32439">https://kcacnetwork.com/kansaswesleyan/</a>) The KINA Radio Pregame Show with Tyler Henry and Brooks Garretson will start at 12 p.m. on KINA Radio.</li><li>Live Stats will be available at <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/2cf21fd3-acfb-40f4-9edc-83a4e890569a?elinkdata=32439">https://kwucoyotes.com/sidearmstats/football/summary</a></li><li>Radio coverage will be on KINA starting at noon with Henry and Garretson. The online radio stream is available at <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/daf0c103-fd10-49ea-95d5-a0c5e518d60d?elinkdata=32439">https://radio.securenetsystems.net/ce/kina2</a>.</li>
 </ul>THE SERIESThe Coyotes' nine-game winning streak ended last year when McPherson won 42-14 in McPherson. KWU's winning streak came after the Bulldogs had won five of six. Wesleyan has a 17-7 advantage in the series since 2001.KANSAS WESLEYAN AT A GLANCE<ul>
 <li>The Coyotes lost to fourth-ranked Friends 63-6 last Saturday in Wichita. The Falcons rushed for 341 yards and six touchdowns and forced four KWU turnovers. Wesleyan finished with 374 total yards and Friends 452.</li><li><a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/ad4baa47-58dc-4b84-8cc5-c2da981132ea?elinkdata=32439">D'Heaven Domena</a> and <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/4c190a6d-178f-41e7-8df5-2a46b63e8bec?elinkdata=32439">Rhadarious Lomax-Spivey</a> had huge games. Domena rushed for 205 yards on 41 carries and Lomax-Spivey caught six passes for 109 yards. <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/6743d6d8-b35f-4e6c-9486-ecc54485b847?elinkdata=32439">Henry Austad</a> completed 13 of 25 passes for 105 yards and backup <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/95e84952-7670-488f-ae0b-7dfff1af924f?elinkdata=32439">Caden Middleton</a> was 4 of 7 for 74 yards that included a five-yard touchdown pass to <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/814192c5-95ae-482f-90b8-42cfffea66f4?elinkdata=32439">Mason Ross</a> in the fourth quarter.</li><li>Domena, a senior running back, has been a true workhorse of late rushing for 470 yards on 81 carries in the last two games. He ran the ball 40 times for 265 yards and a touchdown against Sterling before last week's herculean effort. Domena has 813 yards rushing and seven touchdowns in the last six games.</li><li>Lomax-Spivey, senior wide receiver, has surpassed 100 receiving yards in two of the last three games. He had eight catches for 153 yards against Saint Mary on Oct. 18.</li><li><a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/2ac81535-e2d5-47ea-ab74-2b51024ed813?elinkdata=32439">Zarek Fewell</a> rushed for 70 yards and a touchdown, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/a3d994b5-96d2-447b-b4cd-815a52cf47fe?elinkdata=32439">Richard Lara</a> threw for 151 yards and Talen Cope kicked field goals of 23 and 29 yards against McPherson a year ago. The Coyotes led 10-7 after one quarter but trailed 21-10 at halftime.</li>
 </ul>McPHERSON AT A GLANCE<ul>
 <li>The Bulldogs downed No. 25 Southwestern 53-40 in a shootout last Saturday in Winfield. It was their second consecutive victory since losing to Friends 56-32 Oct. 18 in Wichita. They defeated Evangel 17-10 Sept. 20 in Nixa, Mo.</li><li>Junior running back Jalil Brown ranks fifth in rushing in the NAIA at 124.2 yards per game. For the season he has 1,118 yards, averages 7.4 per carry, has 14 touchdowns and is the second-leading receiver with 28 catches for 324 yards. Brown had 142 yards rushing and two touchdowns against KWU last year.</li><li>Junior quarterback Ryan Markarian has competed 66.7 percent of his passes for 2,464 yards, 25 touchdowns and seven interceptions.</li><li>McPherson averages 45.4 points and 492.4 total yards - 300.1 passing and 192.3 rushing. Opponents average 18.3 points and 275.6 total yards - 163.2 passing and 112.3 rushing.</li><li>Head coach Jeremiah Fiscus is in his seventh season. He previously was an assistant at Henderson State (Ark.), TCU and Northwestern State (La.).</li>
 </ul>KWU HEAD COACH MATT MIDDLETON"Not much to say except we got physically whipped. (Friends) is a really, really good football team. I have not seen anybody close to them roster wise this year. The mistakes we made didn't make it any better. It's nothing against the kids but Friends was just more physical and that was indicated on both sides of the ball. I'd be shocked if they don't have a chance to play for (the NAIA title)."We're in a situation where we're just absolutely physically beat up. I have never been in a year like this. I think the biggest thing for us is trying to bounce back because we've still got two football games left to play."(Domena) is a tough kid, we've really found a hammer with that. It's probably not good that he gets all the totes he gets but he's been our offense in a lot of ways. I'm super proud of him and how hard he's played."(McPherson) has got a lot of talent on the roster, they're doing their very best to be a national contender. They're 8-1 and had a chance against Friends so I think they're super talented skill wise. I think offensively they're really good and on defense they get after you."(Brown) is super special. If you shut him down in the run game, they're going to get him involved in the passing game. You don't stop a guy like that; you can try and contain some of his touches a little but at some point, he's going to get loose."OFFENSIVE COORDINATOR BOOMER CUNNINGHAM"I think we've executed at a high level for the most part. I think that D'Heaven's come in and done a good job for Luke (Armstrong) since his injury. I think the (offensive line) has been buying into what I'm trying to teach them, and the receivers are doing a good job as well blocking on the exterior trying to give our running backs time and space to be able to do things. I think we've progressed pretty well for the most part."The good thing that you like to see is that next man up mentality. Even though we've had those injuries you see guys step in for Will (Wilcox) and Luke and Jevin (Dorsey). It's been a total team effort which makes me very proud to see. They've taken it upon themselves that 'I can help out the team and take that role on.' Of course, you want your big-time playmakers but that's going to happen. It's just how it is sometimes on the football field."NEXT WEEK

🏈 KWU hosts No. 18 McPherson on Saturday

NORTH NEWTON - Kansas Wesleyan's <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/eb2f7999-aa94-48fa-925e-8748faf5379c?elinkdata=32371">Caiden Punt</a> flirted with a double-double and three teammates also scored in double figures, but it wasn't enough to overcome Peru State's white-hot shooting.

The Bobcats connected on 59 percent of their shots and defeated the Coyotes 89-69 in the Bethel College Classic on Thursday night inside Thresher Gymnasium.

Peru State (3-1) entered the game averaging 93 points and was coming off an 85-68 upset of third-ranked Georgetown (Ky.) on Saturday in Parkville, Mo.

The Bobcats took control of the game with a 15-2 first half run that gave them a 32-15 lead. A 7-0 spurt later in the half made it 41-23 and they led 50-28 at intermission.

<a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/ac26b351-ffc0-45c4-aba4-d72f15895ac3?elinkdata=32371">Brandon Avedon's</a> 3-pointer capped a 7-2 run that brought KWU (0-3) within 78-63 late in the second half but Peru State answered with a 9-4 surge that pushed the lead back to 20 (87-67).

Peru State was 37 of 63 from the field for the game, including 10 of 22 from 3-point range and got 30 points from the reserve players. The Coyotes shot 40 percent (22 of 55), were 6 of 18 from deep and had eight bench points.

Punt led Wesleyan with 22 points - 14 in the second half - and eight rebounds. Avedon finished with 14 points, four rebounds and three assists, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/c325c6fa-dbdf-4efc-8c6c-62cbea395f5c?elinkdata=32371">Matthew Garber</a> had 12 points and five rebounds and <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/55413386-9211-4f9a-9273-e9a7cc53c66d?elinkdata=32371">Gabe Phillips</a> 11 points and four rebounds.

Peru State won the rebounding battle 29-27 and committed eight turnovers while the Coyotes had 12.

Everett Stubblefield paced the Bobcats with 27 points on 11 of 14 shooting, including 5 of 7 from beyond the arc. He scored 17 points in the second half. Ty Griggs and Denim Johnson scored 16 apiece.

NORTH NEWTON - Kansas Wesleyan's <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/eb2f7999-aa94-48fa-925e-8748faf5379c?elinkdata=32371">Caiden Punt</a> flirted with a double-double and three teammates also scored in double figures, but it wasn't enough to overcome Peru State's white-hot shooting.The Bobcats connected on 59 percent of their shots and defeated the Coyotes 89-69 in the Bethel College Classic on Thursday night inside Thresher Gymnasium.Peru State (3-1) entered the game averaging 93 points and was coming off an 85-68 upset of third-ranked Georgetown (Ky.) on Saturday in Parkville, Mo.The Bobcats took control of the game with a 15-2 first half run that gave them a 32-15 lead. A 7-0 spurt later in the half made it 41-23 and they led 50-28 at intermission.<a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/ac26b351-ffc0-45c4-aba4-d72f15895ac3?elinkdata=32371">Brandon Avedon's</a> 3-pointer capped a 7-2 run that brought KWU (0-3) within 78-63 late in the second half but Peru State answered with a 9-4 surge that pushed the lead back to 20 (87-67).Peru State was 37 of 63 from the field for the game, including 10 of 22 from 3-point range and got 30 points from the reserve players. The Coyotes shot 40 percent (22 of 55), were 6 of 18 from deep and had eight bench points.Punt led Wesleyan with 22 points - 14 in the second half - and eight rebounds. Avedon finished with 14 points, four rebounds and three assists, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/c325c6fa-dbdf-4efc-8c6c-62cbea395f5c?elinkdata=32371">Matthew Garber</a> had 12 points and five rebounds and <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/55413386-9211-4f9a-9273-e9a7cc53c66d?elinkdata=32371">Gabe Phillips</a> 11 points and four rebounds.Peru State won the rebounding battle 29-27 and committed eight turnovers while the Coyotes had 12.Everett Stubblefield paced the Bobcats with 27 points on 11 of 14 shooting, including 5 of 7 from beyond the arc. He scored 17 points in the second half. Ty Griggs and Denim Johnson scored 16 apiece.

🏀 Coyotes fall to hot shooting Peru State 89-69 in Bethel Classic

NORTH NEWTON - Kansas Wesleyan's <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/070b9f9c-2bd0-453a-97f8-133446dae7f5?elinkdata=32405">Odessa Ozuna</a> led a balanced scoring attack for the Coyotes in an 87-63 rout of the Baker University Wildcats on Thursday in the Bethel College Classic at Thresher Gymnasium.

The Coyotes were also on fire shooting the basketball, going 32 of 54 from the field for a blistering 59.3 percent, which included 7 of 16 shooting from 3-point range for 43.8 percent.

Ozuna's 19 points paced KWU's balanced attack in the victory as five players reached double-figures in scoring.

It was back and forth to start the game as each team had the lead several times in the first quarter. KWU trailed 13-11 with 3:21 left but a Ozuna free throw and a later bucket by <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/f1bfd633-d6ba-4161-95e3-560d7cb140c6?elinkdata=32405">Emma Gertken</a> gave the Coyotes a 14-13 lead with 2:30 to go and a three-point play by <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/2b3527dc-4269-4db4-a58e-1ddc63a5c1f2?elinkdata=32405">Addison Denney</a> gave the Coyotes a 17-13 lead with 1:34 to go in the first.

Baker got within a point with 9:42 to go in the first half, but a Gertken bucket pushed Wesleyan's lead out to 24-18 with 6:01 left. The Coyotes would carry a 31-27 lead into the half.

It was a six-point game with 3:50 left in the third when the Coyotes used an 8-0 run capped by <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/48aede9e-7426-4020-b59c-ff970ea20df6?elinkdata=32405">Izzy McCool's</a> 3-pointer to take a 56-42 lead with 1:42 to go.

<a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/30530ae1-9707-4bf4-b5d5-94f4680a249d?elinkdata=32405">Jocelyn Hall's</a> bucket with 7:49 left in the fourth pushed the Coyote lead over 20 points for the first time at 71-51. The Coyotes would maintain the big advantage leading by as many as 25 several times before picking up the 24-point win.

McCool and Gertken added 13 each for the Coyotes and <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/849cb86c-1e44-4dca-9b2c-f0e20e67eeb6?elinkdata=32405">Raegann McDonald</a> and Hall had 10 each. McDonald had seven rebounds to help lead the Coyotes to a 38-14 advantage on the glass. Ozuna added seven assists as well.

NORTH NEWTON - Kansas Wesleyan's <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/070b9f9c-2bd0-453a-97f8-133446dae7f5?elinkdata=32405">Odessa Ozuna</a> led a balanced scoring attack for the Coyotes in an 87-63 rout of the Baker University Wildcats on Thursday in the Bethel College Classic at Thresher Gymnasium.The Coyotes were also on fire shooting the basketball, going 32 of 54 from the field for a blistering 59.3 percent, which included 7 of 16 shooting from 3-point range for 43.8 percent.Ozuna's 19 points paced KWU's balanced attack in the victory as five players reached double-figures in scoring.It was back and forth to start the game as each team had the lead several times in the first quarter. KWU trailed 13-11 with 3:21 left but a Ozuna free throw and a later bucket by <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/f1bfd633-d6ba-4161-95e3-560d7cb140c6?elinkdata=32405">Emma Gertken</a> gave the Coyotes a 14-13 lead with 2:30 to go and a three-point play by <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/2b3527dc-4269-4db4-a58e-1ddc63a5c1f2?elinkdata=32405">Addison Denney</a> gave the Coyotes a 17-13 lead with 1:34 to go in the first.Baker got within a point with 9:42 to go in the first half, but a Gertken bucket pushed Wesleyan's lead out to 24-18 with 6:01 left. The Coyotes would carry a 31-27 lead into the half.It was a six-point game with 3:50 left in the third when the Coyotes used an 8-0 run capped by <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/48aede9e-7426-4020-b59c-ff970ea20df6?elinkdata=32405">Izzy McCool's</a> 3-pointer to take a 56-42 lead with 1:42 to go.<a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/30530ae1-9707-4bf4-b5d5-94f4680a249d?elinkdata=32405">Jocelyn Hall's</a> bucket with 7:49 left in the fourth pushed the Coyote lead over 20 points for the first time at 71-51. The Coyotes would maintain the big advantage leading by as many as 25 several times before picking up the 24-point win.McCool and Gertken added 13 each for the Coyotes and <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/849cb86c-1e44-4dca-9b2c-f0e20e67eeb6?elinkdata=32405">Raegann McDonald</a> and Hall had 10 each. McDonald had seven rebounds to help lead the Coyotes to a 38-14 advantage on the glass. Ozuna added seven assists as well.

🏀 Ozuna leads balanced attack for white hot shooting Coyotes in 87-63 rout of Baker

The Southeast of Saline football team will look to continue its title defense on Friday night when the 2A field of 16 is whittled down to 8.

The Trojans made short work of Southwestern Heights, sending the Mustangs packing in a 74-0 drubbing in the opening round last week.

“I was proud of our team effort in that game,” SES head coach Mitch Gebhardt said. “Our older guys came out of the gate and set the tone, and I was really proud of the way our younger guys competed in the second half. They’ve shown a lot of improvement this year.”

Much like last year, the Trojans have held massive leads early in games, and have been able to rest their starters for the majority of the second half.

“This time of year, it’s vital that you stay as healthy as possible,” Gebhardt said. “No team is fully healthy this time of year, but we’ve been blessed to be able to rest some kids and those early leads have been big for us.”

To advance to a sixth-straight state quarterfinal appearance, the Trojans will have to go through an old league foe in the Russell Broncos, who have put together one of their best seasons at 7-2, and enter this game fresh off a 25-14 win over Cimmaron.

“Russell is definitely on an upswing as a football program,” he said. “They’ve won some close games this year and they have a lot of things going for them. They’re very athletic across the board, and they have a power run game and a quarterback that can extend plays with his legs. Defensively, they’ve got a lot of athletes that you have to deal with, and their defensive line has nice size so overall they have the full package.”

Offensively, Russell is led by senior quarterback Trey Zorn, who has completed 67% of his passes this season for over 1,800 yards, 17 touchdowns, and just 2 picks.

Zorn has been backed up by a rotating backfield of Walker Middleton, Wyatt Harmon and Kolton Jones, who have combined to tote the rock 204 times for 1,159 yards and 16 touchdowns.

That rushing attack will look to unite to match the increasingly unstoppable-looking Grady Gebhardt, who himself has 112 carries, 1,266 rushing yards and 34 total touchdowns on the season.

While the Trojans will enter this second-round matchup as favorites, the Broncos are not a team to be overlooked, and will be eager to assert themselves against a team they have not beaten in four straight meetings since 2017.

“Russell has good size and they play physical in the trenches,” Gebhardt said. “They can attack you in a lot of different ways. They’ve scored a lot of points so hanging onto the football and preventing turnovers will be keys, they have a lot of weapons so we’ll have to defend soundly as well.”

Kickoff for this game is scheduled for 7:00 on Friday night at Steve Fritz Field in Gypsum, as always the game can be heard on KINA, and will be streamed live on Salina Post at the link below.

By TYLER HENRY Lead Sportswriter - Salina PostThe Southeast of Saline football team will look to continue its title defense on Friday night when the 2A field of 16 is whittled down to 8.The Trojans made short work of Southwestern Heights, sending the Mustangs packing in a 74-0 drubbing in the opening round last week.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746812152965.jpeg" alt="Salina Regional Orthopedic &amp; Sports Medicine- Your home-field advantage starts here." />
 <figcaption>Salina Regional Orthopedic &amp; Sports Medicine- Your home-field advantage starts here.</figcaption>
 </figure>“I was proud of our team effort in that game,” SES head coach Mitch Gebhardt said. “Our older guys came out of the gate and set the tone, and I was really proud of the way our younger guys competed in the second half. They’ve shown a lot of improvement this year.”Much like last year, the Trojans have held massive leads early in games, and have been able to rest their starters for the majority of the second half.“This time of year, it’s vital that you stay as healthy as possible,” Gebhardt said. “No team is fully healthy this time of year, but we’ve been blessed to be able to rest some kids and those early leads have been big for us.”To advance to a sixth-straight state quarterfinal appearance, the Trojans will have to go through an old league foe in the Russell Broncos, who have put together one of their best seasons at 7-2, and enter this game fresh off a 25-14 win over Cimmaron.“Russell is definitely on an upswing as a football program,” he said. “They’ve won some close games this year and they have a lot of things going for them. They’re very athletic across the board, and they have a power run game and a quarterback that can extend plays with his legs. Defensively, they’ve got a lot of athletes that you have to deal with, and their defensive line has nice size so overall they have the full package.”Offensively, Russell is led by senior quarterback Trey Zorn, who has completed 67% of his passes this season for over 1,800 yards, 17 touchdowns, and just 2 picks.Zorn has been backed up by a rotating backfield of Walker Middleton, Wyatt Harmon and Kolton Jones, who have combined to tote the rock 204 times for 1,159 yards and 16 touchdowns.That rushing attack will look to unite to match the increasingly unstoppable-looking Grady Gebhardt, who himself has 112 carries, 1,266 rushing yards and 34 total touchdowns on the season.While the Trojans will enter this second-round matchup as favorites, the Broncos are not a team to be overlooked, and will be eager to assert themselves against a team they have not beaten in four straight meetings since 2017.“Russell has good size and they play physical in the trenches,” Gebhardt said. “They can attack you in a lot of different ways. They’ve scored a lot of points so hanging onto the football and preventing turnovers will be keys, they have a lot of weapons so we’ll have to defend soundly as well.”Kickoff for this game is scheduled for 7:00 on Friday night at Steve Fritz Field in Gypsum, as always the game can be heard on KINA, and will be streamed live on Salina Post at the link below.<figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/e9cHmlH5KiA"></iframe>
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🏈 Trojans take on former league rival in bid for sixth-straight quarterfinal berth

MANHATTAN, Kansas -&nbsp; (rv/25) K-State makes&nbsp; first road trip of the 2025-26 season of action, as the Wildcats visit SMU on Saturday afternoon at 4 p.m.

• This is the second time in the last three seasons that K-State will play a road game in its second game of the season (at Little Rock - 2023-24).

• Saturday’s game can streamed live on ACCNX, as John Liddle (play-by-play), Jim Haller (analyst) and Breanna Sorensen (sideline) will have the call.

Five names, numbers or storylines about K-State women’s basketball

• K-State’s game at SMU will be the first of eight games against schools from the state of Texas. The Wildcats will face Lamar (Nov. 10) and Texas A&amp;M (Nov. 16) in its upcoming four-game homestand. K-State will make five trips to the state with four in Big 12 action (at TCU, at Houston, at Texas Tech, at Baylor).

• Junior guard Taryn Sides was the fourth player in NCAA Division I women’s basketball history since 1981-82 to register a stat line of 15 or more points, 12 or more assists, zero turnovers and shoot 70.0 percent or better from the field.

• Sophomore guard Izela Arenas registered 18 points on 8-of-12 shooting in her K-State debut. Her 18 points were the most in a Wildcat debut since Gabby Gregory tallied 19 points against Central Arkansas on Nov. 7, 2022.

• Freshman guard Gina Garcia handed out five assists in her collegiate debut. Her five assists were the most by a K-State freshman in their debut since Serena Sundell handed out nine on Nov. 9, 2021, against Central Arkansas.

• K-State’s roster of 12 for the 2025-26 season features nine new faces including four true freshmen (Aniya Foy, Gina Garcia, Brandie Harrod and Jordan Speiser) and five transfers (Izela Arenas, Nastja Claessens, Jenessa Cotton, Tess Heal and Ramiya White).

• K-State registered a 2-point field goal percentage of 73.2 (30-of-41) in the season-opening win.

• Since 1981-82, K-State has registered a field goal percentage of .725 or better four times.

• Monday’s effort was the highest 2-point field goal percentage when scoring 100 or more points.

• Of K-State’s 60 points inside the arc, 48 were scored in the paint. The 48 points in the paint were the most since scoring 54 against New Mexico State on Dec. 18, 2024.

• The game against New Mexico State was the last time K-State shot over 72.5 percent on two-point field goal attempts (.737).

• SMU enters Saturday’s matchup following a 96-70 home win over Grambling State in its season-opener on Tuesday night.

• The Mustangs enter the 2025-26 season picked for a 14th-place finish in the ACC preseason coaches and Blue Ribbon Panel.

• SMU is guided on the sideline by first-year head coach JAdia Barnes. The 1998 graduate of Arizona coached her alma mater for nine seasons, which included a trip to the 2021 national championship game, before departing for Dallas after last season. Barnes owns a career record of 170-113 (.601).

• In its opening win over Grambling State, the Mustangs saw five players reach double figures and were led by Sahnya Jah with 19 points, while Kyla Deck added 18 points, six steals, four assists and four rebounds.

(rv/25) K-State 100, Omaha 35 (Nov. 3, 2025; Manhattan, Kan.)

• The Wildcats won its 15th straight season opener by downing the Mavericks by 65 points. This was the second-largest margin of victory in a K-State season-opener since Nov. 23, 1981, when the Wildcats tallied a 67 point win over Pacific Christian.

• K-State had four of its five starters make their first career start.

• The Wildcats had five players reach double figures: Izela Arenas (18), Taryn Sides (15), Aniya Foy (13), Nastja Claessens (12), Jenessa Cotton (11). Sides dished out 12 assists with zero turnovers and hauled in seven rebounds.

• Since head coach Jeff Mittie’s first season in 2014-15, K-State is 132-21 (.863) when scoring 70 or more points in a game.

• The Wildcats opened the 2025-26 season with 100 points, the second time in five seasons K-State has reached 100 or more points in the season opener.

• In its history, K-State has scored 100 or more points in a game 31 times (31-0) including eight times under Mittie.

• Under Mittie, K-State has scored 90 or more points 27 times, including 20 times in the last five seasons.

• In the 2024-25 season, K-State scored a single season school record 2,842 points this season. This was the sixth season in program history with 2,500 or more points scored. The Wildcats scored 70 or more points in 25 games last season.

• K-State averaged 78.9 points per game last season and led the Big 12 and ranked 16th in the nation in scoring offense. K-State’s field goal percentage of .486 led the league and was fifth in the nation.

• The Wildcats’ scoring average of 78.9 ranked second in school history behind the school record of 81.3 in the 1982-83 season.

• The Wildcats scored 90 or more points in a game 10 times last season, which was a school record for games with 90 or more points in a season.

• K-State tallied a season-high 111 points against Milwaukee on Nov. 20. This was the highest single-game point total in the Mittie era. It was the second-highest single-game point total in program history, trailing the school record of 115 on Dec. 2, 2002, against Arkansas-Pine Bluff.

• The Wildcats recorded 110 points against USC Upstate in a 110-24 win on Dec. 5. This is the first time in program history K-State scored 110 or more points in two or more games in the same season.

• K-State has continued to attack the lane to begin the 2025-26 season.

• The Wildcats opened the season with 48 points in the paint against Omaha, which were 80.0 percent of its points from inside the arc. K-State shot 73.2 percent (30-of-41) on two-point field goal attempts.

• In the 2024-25 season, the Wildcats registered 30 or more points in the lane in 28 games including a season-high 56 points in the paint against Milwaukee on Nov. 20 and DePaul on Nov. 27. The 56 points were the most since scoring 58 against McNeese State on Dec. 6, 2023.

• K-State averaged 37.6 points per game (1,352 points) in the paint with 47.6 percent of its point total from inside the lane and outscored its foes in the lane in 26 games. The 1,352 points in the paint were the most scored in the lane under head coach Jeff Mittie. This was the fourth consecutive season K-State scored 1,000 or more points in the paint. K-State has scored 1,000 or more points in the paint in five of Mittie’s 11 seasons.

K-State Holds Foes to Single-Digits

• In the 11th season of the quarter system in women’s college basketball, K-State’s defense has limited its opponents point production for 10 minute durations.

• To open the 2025-26 season, K-State held Omaha to nine points in the first half (5 pts - 1st qtr; 4 pts - 2nd qtr). The nine points in the first half were the fewest K-State allowed since holding Clemson to nine points in the second half on Nov. 24, 2022.

• The Wildcats held Omaha without a made field goal in the first quarter (0-of-12) and two made field goals in the first half (2-of-22; .091).

• Kansas State is 115-29 (.799) when holding an opponent to single digits in any quarter in a game.

• Last season, K-State held foes to 27 quarters with single-digits. The Wildcats were 20-0 when holding an opponent to single digits in any quarter in a game.

• Against USC Upstate on Dec. 5, K-State held the Spartans to two points in two different quarters (first and fourth quarters). The 2 points in a quarter tied the school record for fewest points allowed in any quarter.

• Guard Taryn Sides made her first career start a memorable one against Omaha in the 2025-26 season opener.

• Sides registered her second career double-double and her first with assists, as she filled her stat line with 15 points on 5-of-7 shooting including 3-of-4 from long range, 12 assists with zero turnovers, seven rebounds and four steals.

MANHATTAN, Kansas -&nbsp; (rv/25) K-State makes&nbsp; first road trip of the 2025-26 season of action, as the Wildcats visit SMU on Saturday afternoon at 4 p.m.• This is the second time in the last three seasons that K-State will play a road game in its second game of the season (at Little Rock - 2023-24).• Saturday’s game can streamed live on ACCNX, as John Liddle (play-by-play), Jim Haller (analyst) and Breanna Sorensen (sideline) will have the call.Starting 5Five names, numbers or storylines about K-State women’s basketball1. Cats Dance the Texas 8-Step• K-State’s game at SMU will be the first of eight games against schools from the state of Texas. The Wildcats will face Lamar (Nov. 10) and Texas A&amp;M (Nov. 16) in its upcoming four-game homestand. K-State will make five trips to the state with four in Big 12 action (at TCU, at Houston, at Texas Tech, at Baylor).2. Taryn Up the Stat Sheet• Junior guard Taryn Sides was the fourth player in NCAA Division I women’s basketball history since 1981-82 to register a stat line of 15 or more points, 12 or more assists, zero turnovers and shoot 70.0 percent or better from the field.3. Arenas Debut• Sophomore guard Izela Arenas registered 18 points on 8-of-12 shooting in her K-State debut. Her 18 points were the most in a Wildcat debut since Gabby Gregory tallied 19 points against Central Arkansas on Nov. 7, 2022.4. Garcia on the Dish• Freshman guard Gina Garcia handed out five assists in her collegiate debut. Her five assists were the most by a K-State freshman in their debut since Serena Sundell handed out nine on Nov. 9, 2021, against Central Arkansas.5. Nice to Meet You• K-State’s roster of 12 for the 2025-26 season features nine new faces including four true freshmen (Aniya Foy, Gina Garcia, Brandie Harrod and Jordan Speiser) and five transfers (Izela Arenas, Nastja Claessens, Jenessa Cotton, Tess Heal and Ramiya White).Number to Know.732• K-State registered a 2-point field goal percentage of 73.2 (30-of-41) in the season-opening win.• Since 1981-82, K-State has registered a field goal percentage of .725 or better four times.• Monday’s effort was the highest 2-point field goal percentage when scoring 100 or more points.• Of K-State’s 60 points inside the arc, 48 were scored in the paint. The 48 points in the paint were the most since scoring 54 against New Mexico State on Dec. 18, 2024.• The game against New Mexico State was the last time K-State shot over 72.5 percent on two-point field goal attempts (.737).At a Glance: SMU• SMU enters Saturday’s matchup following a 96-70 home win over Grambling State in its season-opener on Tuesday night.• The Mustangs enter the 2025-26 season picked for a 14th-place finish in the ACC preseason coaches and Blue Ribbon Panel.• SMU is guided on the sideline by first-year head coach JAdia Barnes. The 1998 graduate of Arizona coached her alma mater for nine seasons, which included a trip to the 2021 national championship game, before departing for Dallas after last season. Barnes owns a career record of 170-113 (.601).• In its opening win over Grambling State, the Mustangs saw five players reach double figures and were led by Sahnya Jah with 19 points, while Kyla Deck added 18 points, six steals, four assists and four rebounds.Last Time Out(rv/25) K-State 100, Omaha 35 (Nov. 3, 2025; Manhattan, Kan.)• The Wildcats won its 15th straight season opener by downing the Mavericks by 65 points. This was the second-largest margin of victory in a K-State season-opener since Nov. 23, 1981, when the Wildcats tallied a 67 point win over Pacific Christian.• K-State had four of its five starters make their first career start.• The Wildcats had five players reach double figures: Izela Arenas (18), Taryn Sides (15), Aniya Foy (13), Nastja Claessens (12), Jenessa Cotton (11). Sides dished out 12 assists with zero turnovers and hauled in seven rebounds.Magic Number is 70 Points• Since head coach Jeff Mittie’s first season in 2014-15, K-State is 132-21 (.863) when scoring 70 or more points in a game.• The Wildcats opened the 2025-26 season with 100 points, the second time in five seasons K-State has reached 100 or more points in the season opener.• In its history, K-State has scored 100 or more points in a game 31 times (31-0) including eight times under Mittie.• Under Mittie, K-State has scored 90 or more points 27 times, including 20 times in the last five seasons.• In the 2024-25 season, K-State scored a single season school record 2,842 points this season. This was the sixth season in program history with 2,500 or more points scored. The Wildcats scored 70 or more points in 25 games last season.• K-State averaged 78.9 points per game last season and led the Big 12 and ranked 16th in the nation in scoring offense. K-State’s field goal percentage of .486 led the league and was fifth in the nation.• The Wildcats’ scoring average of 78.9 ranked second in school history behind the school record of 81.3 in the 1982-83 season.• The Wildcats scored 90 or more points in a game 10 times last season, which was a school record for games with 90 or more points in a season.• K-State tallied a season-high 111 points against Milwaukee on Nov. 20. This was the highest single-game point total in the Mittie era. It was the second-highest single-game point total in program history, trailing the school record of 115 on Dec. 2, 2002, against Arkansas-Pine Bluff.• The Wildcats recorded 110 points against USC Upstate in a 110-24 win on Dec. 5. This is the first time in program history K-State scored 110 or more points in two or more games in the same season.K-State Attacking the Paint• K-State has continued to attack the lane to begin the 2025-26 season.• The Wildcats opened the season with 48 points in the paint against Omaha, which were 80.0 percent of its points from inside the arc. K-State shot 73.2 percent (30-of-41) on two-point field goal attempts.• In the 2024-25 season, the Wildcats registered 30 or more points in the lane in 28 games including a season-high 56 points in the paint against Milwaukee on Nov. 20 and DePaul on Nov. 27. The 56 points were the most since scoring 58 against McNeese State on Dec. 6, 2023.• K-State averaged 37.6 points per game (1,352 points) in the paint with 47.6 percent of its point total from inside the lane and outscored its foes in the lane in 26 games. The 1,352 points in the paint were the most scored in the lane under head coach Jeff Mittie. This was the fourth consecutive season K-State scored 1,000 or more points in the paint. K-State has scored 1,000 or more points in the paint in five of Mittie’s 11 seasons.K-State Holds Foes to Single-Digits• In the 11th season of the quarter system in women’s college basketball, K-State’s defense has limited its opponents point production for 10 minute durations.• To open the 2025-26 season, K-State held Omaha to nine points in the first half (5 pts - 1st qtr; 4 pts - 2nd qtr). The nine points in the first half were the fewest K-State allowed since holding Clemson to nine points in the second half on Nov. 24, 2022.• The Wildcats held Omaha without a made field goal in the first quarter (0-of-12) and two made field goals in the first half (2-of-22; .091).• Kansas State is 115-29 (.799) when holding an opponent to single digits in any quarter in a game.• Last season, K-State held foes to 27 quarters with single-digits. The Wildcats were 20-0 when holding an opponent to single digits in any quarter in a game.• Against USC Upstate on Dec. 5, K-State held the Spartans to two points in two different quarters (first and fourth quarters). The 2 points in a quarter tied the school record for fewest points allowed in any quarter.Big Debut for Sides• Guard Taryn Sides made her first career start a memorable one against Omaha in the 2025-26 season opener.• Sides registered her second career double-double and her first with assists, as she filled her stat line with 15 points on 5-of-7 shooting including 3-of-4 from long range, 12 assists with zero turnovers, seven rebounds and four steals.

 K-State WBB Ready for Road Test at SMU

KANSAS CITY, Mo.—The Kansas City Royals announced today that&nbsp;Cullen Maxey&nbsp;has joined the organization as President of Business Operations and will oversee all departments outside of baseball operations.&nbsp;Brooks Sherman, who previously held that title, will take on a new role as President of Real Estate and Development.

Media are invited to meet with Maxey at 11:30 a.m. on Monday, Nov. 10 in The&nbsp;Mike Swanson&nbsp;Interview Room on the first floor of Kauffman Stadium. Monday will also be Maxey’s first day with the Royals.

To RSVP for the press conference, please email&nbsp;Logan Jones:&nbsp;<a href="mailto:logan.jones@royals.com" target="_blank">logan.jones@royals.com</a>.

“This is an opportunity and fit that I never would have dreamed of,” Maxey said. “The Royals are known throughout the industry for how much they care about the Kansas City region and their fans. Working with this homegrown ownership group that’s invested so much already with plans of doing even more to strengthen this community is an honor.”

“We believe that Cullen’s proven leadership and relevant experience will fit the organization strategically, operationally, and culturally,” said Royals Chairman/CEO&nbsp;John Sherman. “This also allows Brooks to focus on our next home and the surrounding mixed-use development that will help define our future. I’m grateful for Cullen’s trust and confidence and know that along with what&nbsp;J.J. Picollo&nbsp;is building in Baseball Operations, the Royals are moving in the right direction.”

Maxey stood out in a competitive and nationwide search over the past few months. He joins the Royals from the Arizona Diamondbacks, where he served the last 20 years, including the last 16 overseeing all revenue-generating, community impact, and fan-facing departments. As Executive Vice President, Business Operations &amp; Chief Revenue Officer, he led 15 departments and was the part of the leadership team responsible for the planning and construction of the $200 million Salt River Fields Complex.

He also launched new revenue entities including Arizona Diamondbacks Events &amp; Entertainment and the Legends Entertainment Signage District in Downtown Phoenix. Maxey’s and his team led the broadcast transition from the RSN model to a team-managed multi-platform distribution, which doubled nightly viewership and expanded access through OTA partnerships.

He and his team also oversaw multiple stadium projects, coordinated the 2011 Major League Baseball All-Star Game, two World Baseball Classics, the 2023 World Series and several brand evolutions. Maxey, a 1994 Arizona State University graduate, also worked in corporate sales for the Phoenix Suns (1997-2001) and Arizona Coyotes (2001-05) before spending two years as the General Manager of CBS Collegiate Sports Properties at Arizona State from 2005-06.

KANSAS CITY, Mo.—The Kansas City Royals announced today that&nbsp;Cullen Maxey&nbsp;has joined the organization as President of Business Operations and will oversee all departments outside of baseball operations.&nbsp;Brooks Sherman, who previously held that title, will take on a new role as President of Real Estate and Development.Media are invited to meet with Maxey at 11:30 a.m. on Monday, Nov. 10 in The&nbsp;Mike Swanson&nbsp;Interview Room on the first floor of Kauffman Stadium. Monday will also be Maxey’s first day with the Royals.To RSVP for the press conference, please email&nbsp;Logan Jones:&nbsp;<a href="mailto:logan.jones@royals.com" target="_blank">logan.jones@royals.com</a>.“This is an opportunity and fit that I never would have dreamed of,” Maxey said. “The Royals are known throughout the industry for how much they care about the Kansas City region and their fans. Working with this homegrown ownership group that’s invested so much already with plans of doing even more to strengthen this community is an honor.”“We believe that Cullen’s proven leadership and relevant experience will fit the organization strategically, operationally, and culturally,” said Royals Chairman/CEO&nbsp;John Sherman. “This also allows Brooks to focus on our next home and the surrounding mixed-use development that will help define our future. I’m grateful for Cullen’s trust and confidence and know that along with what&nbsp;J.J. Picollo&nbsp;is building in Baseball Operations, the Royals are moving in the right direction.”Maxey stood out in a competitive and nationwide search over the past few months. He joins the Royals from the Arizona Diamondbacks, where he served the last 20 years, including the last 16 overseeing all revenue-generating, community impact, and fan-facing departments. As Executive Vice President, Business Operations &amp; Chief Revenue Officer, he led 15 departments and was the part of the leadership team responsible for the planning and construction of the $200 million Salt River Fields Complex.He also launched new revenue entities including Arizona Diamondbacks Events &amp; Entertainment and the Legends Entertainment Signage District in Downtown Phoenix. Maxey’s and his team led the broadcast transition from the RSN model to a team-managed multi-platform distribution, which doubled nightly viewership and expanded access through OTA partnerships.He and his team also oversaw multiple stadium projects, coordinated the 2011 Major League Baseball All-Star Game, two World Baseball Classics, the 2023 World Series and several brand evolutions. Maxey, a 1994 Arizona State University graduate, also worked in corporate sales for the Phoenix Suns (1997-2001) and Arizona Coyotes (2001-05) before spending two years as the General Manager of CBS Collegiate Sports Properties at Arizona State from 2005-06.

Royals Hire New President of Business Operations

MANHATTAN, Kansas&nbsp;–&nbsp;K-State women’s basketball head coach Jeff Mittie has added an international talent to the 2025-26 roster, as Ivona Scekic from Slovenia has signed with the Wildcats. She will join the team in mid-December.

A center from Ljubljana, Slovenia, Scekic has played in numerous European events in her national team’s program. Scekic has taken part in the 2025 FIBA U20 Women’s EuroBasket, the 2025 FIBA U18 Women’s EuroBasket, the 2024 FIBA U18 Women’s EuroBasket and the 2023 FIBA U16 Women’s European Championship.

During the 2025 FIBA U18 Women’s EuroBasket, Scekic saw action in seven games and averaged 5.7 points, 6.9 rebounds and 1.1 assists. She ranked 17th&nbsp;in the event for rebounds per game. Against Greece, Scekic tallied 13 points and nine rebounds in 19 minutes of action.

K-State makes its first regular season road trip of the 2025-26 season, as the Wildcats visit SMU on Saturday at 4 p.m.

MANHATTAN, Kansas&nbsp;–&nbsp;K-State women’s basketball head coach Jeff Mittie has added an international talent to the 2025-26 roster, as Ivona Scekic from Slovenia has signed with the Wildcats. She will join the team in mid-December.A center from Ljubljana, Slovenia, Scekic has played in numerous European events in her national team’s program. Scekic has taken part in the 2025 FIBA U20 Women’s EuroBasket, the 2025 FIBA U18 Women’s EuroBasket, the 2024 FIBA U18 Women’s EuroBasket and the 2023 FIBA U16 Women’s European Championship.During the 2025 FIBA U18 Women’s EuroBasket, Scekic saw action in seven games and averaged 5.7 points, 6.9 rebounds and 1.1 assists. She ranked 17th&nbsp;in the event for rebounds per game. Against Greece, Scekic tallied 13 points and nine rebounds in 19 minutes of action.K-State makes its first regular season road trip of the 2025-26 season, as the Wildcats visit SMU on Saturday at 4 p.m.

K-State Women’s Basketball Adds Scekic to 2025-26 Roster

Kansas Wesleyan Women's Soccer is back in the KCAC Women's Soccer Tournament Semifinals for the 20th time in the last 21 years after the Coyotes won a penalty kick shootout 4-2 over the University of Saint Mary Spires on Wednesday night at JRI Stadium.

The shootout came after a scoreless draw between the teams through regulation time and two extra time periods.

The Coyotes were up first in the shootout, and <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/f73f3da6-b933-4be8-aed3-2d49efd46129?elinkdata=32337">Emma Gervy</a> would miss her try. Then it was Saint Mary's turn. Wesleyan keeper <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/4834c9ef-d610-48e8-84e1-13cc05c4c587?elinkdata=32337">Isabella Galvan</a> would save the try by Tessa Lucas.

KWU stepped to the spot again, this time <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/3f1d35ad-c12c-49b2-bf86-beaea2952469?elinkdata=32337">Rylie Moreno-Rojas</a> converted giving KWU a 1-0 lead. On Saint Mary's try by Kate Erpelding, again Galvan would make the save keeping the Spires off the board.

On KWU's third try, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/c921cc5a-c4ad-4ebe-8aba-80722cb94e76?elinkdata=32337">Marlee Walsh</a> converted making it 2-0 Coyotes. Saint Mary's Jaidyn Cavalieri would convert her try making it 2-1.

On the fourth shot, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/2538adcb-c28c-4d45-a1bd-29ded8b09ce0?elinkdata=32337">Paige Proper</a> converted for the Coyotes but Saint Mary's Natalie Flores would also convert making it 3-2.

Up stepped KWU's last shot taker in <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/c57dd3ca-28d2-423e-b146-16bc8fc729c4?elinkdata=32337">Hanna Castro</a>. Castro would convert, giving the Coyotes the 4-2 win.

In regulation, the match was played very evenly throughout. Saint Mary had the first try on goal in the ninth minute, but Galvan would make a save on the shot by Flores.

The Coyotes had a golden chance at a goal in the 41st minute but <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/f58a3642-307b-4fc2-ab6c-98d9becffec2?elinkdata=32337">Victoria Poon's</a> shot would hit the crossbar.

Wesleyan had a couple more good looks in the second half, the first by Moreno-Rojas in the 48th on a header that just missed. Moreno-Rojas had another try in the 74th that would be blocked.

Saint Mary had a chance to score in the 85th minute when a foul occurred inside the penalty area resulting in a penalty kick. Rebecca Lord set the ball at the spot and shot but missed high and wide left to keep the match scoreless.

Each team had a try in the first overtime, but could not convert.

The Coyotes had one chance in the second overtime by <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/a98dfe8e-f945-4359-9bd8-942edfd1365b?elinkdata=32337">Minaya Winchester</a> but her shot would be save and Galvan would have a save for the Coyotes to send the match to penalty kicks.

Gervy and Moreno-Rojas led the Coyotes with three shots each. Galvan had four saves for the Coyotes.

Hello, KCAC Semifinals, our old friend.Kansas Wesleyan Women's Soccer is back in the KCAC Women's Soccer Tournament Semifinals for the 20th time in the last 21 years after the Coyotes won a penalty kick shootout 4-2 over the University of Saint Mary Spires on Wednesday night at JRI Stadium.The shootout came after a scoreless draw between the teams through regulation time and two extra time periods.The Coyotes were up first in the shootout, and <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/f73f3da6-b933-4be8-aed3-2d49efd46129?elinkdata=32337">Emma Gervy</a> would miss her try. Then it was Saint Mary's turn. Wesleyan keeper <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/4834c9ef-d610-48e8-84e1-13cc05c4c587?elinkdata=32337">Isabella Galvan</a> would save the try by Tessa Lucas.KWU stepped to the spot again, this time <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/3f1d35ad-c12c-49b2-bf86-beaea2952469?elinkdata=32337">Rylie Moreno-Rojas</a> converted giving KWU a 1-0 lead. On Saint Mary's try by Kate Erpelding, again Galvan would make the save keeping the Spires off the board.On KWU's third try, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/c921cc5a-c4ad-4ebe-8aba-80722cb94e76?elinkdata=32337">Marlee Walsh</a> converted making it 2-0 Coyotes. Saint Mary's Jaidyn Cavalieri would convert her try making it 2-1.On the fourth shot, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/2538adcb-c28c-4d45-a1bd-29ded8b09ce0?elinkdata=32337">Paige Proper</a> converted for the Coyotes but Saint Mary's Natalie Flores would also convert making it 3-2.Up stepped KWU's last shot taker in <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/c57dd3ca-28d2-423e-b146-16bc8fc729c4?elinkdata=32337">Hanna Castro</a>. Castro would convert, giving the Coyotes the 4-2 win.In regulation, the match was played very evenly throughout. Saint Mary had the first try on goal in the ninth minute, but Galvan would make a save on the shot by Flores.The Coyotes had a golden chance at a goal in the 41st minute but <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/f58a3642-307b-4fc2-ab6c-98d9becffec2?elinkdata=32337">Victoria Poon's</a> shot would hit the crossbar.Wesleyan had a couple more good looks in the second half, the first by Moreno-Rojas in the 48th on a header that just missed. Moreno-Rojas had another try in the 74th that would be blocked.Saint Mary had a chance to score in the 85th minute when a foul occurred inside the penalty area resulting in a penalty kick. Rebecca Lord set the ball at the spot and shot but missed high and wide left to keep the match scoreless.Each team had a try in the first overtime, but could not convert.The Coyotes had one chance in the second overtime by <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/a98dfe8e-f945-4359-9bd8-942edfd1365b?elinkdata=32337">Minaya Winchester</a> but her shot would be save and Galvan would have a save for the Coyotes to send the match to penalty kicks.Gervy and Moreno-Rojas led the Coyotes with three shots each. Galvan had four saves for the Coyotes.

⚽️ KWU Women’s Soccer advances past Saint Mary in penalty kick shootout

KANSAS CITY, Mo.—In conjunction with Major League Baseball, the Royals today announced their 32-game exhibition schedule for 2026. Game times will be announced at a later date.

The Royals will begin their 24th season in the Cactus League on Friday, Feb. 20 as the road team vs. the Texas Rangers at Surprise Stadium. Kansas City’s schedule features 15 home games at Surprise Stadium, plus 2 games as the visiting team vs. the Rangers on Feb. 20 and March 18.

The Royals will play 32 games in 33 days next spring, including 29 Cactus League games. The other 3 games include an exhibition vs. Team Cuba on Tuesday, March 3 at Surprise Stadium, plus 2 games vs. the Texas Rangers at Globe Life Field on Monday, March 23 and Tuesday, March 24, after the conclusion of Cactus League play.

The Royals are scheduled for two off days in Arizona, on Wednesday, March 4 and Monday, March 16. Their final Cactus League game is scheduled for Saturday, March 21 vs. Colorado, after which they’ll have an off day on Sunday, March 22, before their games in Arlington, Texas.

There are two split-squad dates, on which the Royals will field a pair of teams and play 2 games, on Wednesday, March 11 and Thursday, March 19.

The Royals will play their neighbors in Surprise, the Texas Rangers, five times in total, including 2 games as the home team. They will play every other Cactus League team twice, including 1 home game and 1 road game.

The Royals will play their regular season opener on Thursday, March 26 at Truist Park vs. the Atlanta Braves. Their home opener will be on Monday, March 30 vs. the Minnesota Twins.

In addition to their 32 exhibition games, the Royals will play a Spring Breakout Game on Friday, March 20 at Surprise Stadium vs. the Rangers, in which both organizations will field a team of minor league prospects.

A complete Spring Training schedule is attached. Games are subject to change.

Group and season ticket packages for the 2026 Spring Training season will go on sale starting Tuesday, Nov. 18 at 10 a.m. MST.

Individual game tickets for Spring Training at Surprise Stadium will go on sale Tuesday, Dec. 2 at 10 a.m. MST online at&nbsp;<a href="http://surprisestadium.com/" target="_blank">SurpriseStadium.com</a>. Information regarding game times and promotional events will be announced later.

KANSAS CITY, Mo.—In conjunction with Major League Baseball, the Royals today announced their 32-game exhibition schedule for 2026. Game times will be announced at a later date.The Royals will begin their 24th season in the Cactus League on Friday, Feb. 20 as the road team vs. the Texas Rangers at Surprise Stadium. Kansas City’s schedule features 15 home games at Surprise Stadium, plus 2 games as the visiting team vs. the Rangers on Feb. 20 and March 18.The Royals will play 32 games in 33 days next spring, including 29 Cactus League games. The other 3 games include an exhibition vs. Team Cuba on Tuesday, March 3 at Surprise Stadium, plus 2 games vs. the Texas Rangers at Globe Life Field on Monday, March 23 and Tuesday, March 24, after the conclusion of Cactus League play.The Royals are scheduled for two off days in Arizona, on Wednesday, March 4 and Monday, March 16. Their final Cactus League game is scheduled for Saturday, March 21 vs. Colorado, after which they’ll have an off day on Sunday, March 22, before their games in Arlington, Texas.There are two split-squad dates, on which the Royals will field a pair of teams and play 2 games, on Wednesday, March 11 and Thursday, March 19.The Royals will play their neighbors in Surprise, the Texas Rangers, five times in total, including 2 games as the home team. They will play every other Cactus League team twice, including 1 home game and 1 road game.The Royals will play their regular season opener on Thursday, March 26 at Truist Park vs. the Atlanta Braves. Their home opener will be on Monday, March 30 vs. the Minnesota Twins.In addition to their 32 exhibition games, the Royals will play a Spring Breakout Game on Friday, March 20 at Surprise Stadium vs. the Rangers, in which both organizations will field a team of minor league prospects.A complete Spring Training schedule is attached. Games are subject to change.Group and season ticket packages for the 2026 Spring Training season will go on sale starting Tuesday, Nov. 18 at 10 a.m. MST.Individual game tickets for Spring Training at Surprise Stadium will go on sale Tuesday, Dec. 2 at 10 a.m. MST online at&nbsp;<a href="http://surprisestadium.com/" target="_blank">SurpriseStadium.com</a>. Information regarding game times and promotional events will be announced later.

Royals Announce 2026 Spring Training Schedule

Kansas Wesleyan Men's Soccer is headed to Wichita for the KCAC Semifinals.

The third-seeded Coyotes put forth a dominating performance behind three unmatched second half goals to defeat sixth-seeded Tabor College Bluejays 4-1 on Tuesday night at JRI Hospitality Stadium at the Graves Family Sports Complex.

The victory boosts Wesleyan's record to 13-3-3 as KWU heads to the KCAC Semifinals on Friday in Wichita at Scheels-Stryker Sports Complex. KWU will meet up with the Ottawa Braves at 7:30 p.m. Ottawa squeaked by seventh-seeded McPherson 2-1 in overtime, needing an 89th minute goal to tie the match and then scored in the 94th minute to win.

The Coyotes were quick out of the gates to get some shots off in the second minute by <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/b0159863-6ae7-4528-8253-ff4a70005bc3?elinkdata=32269">Noel Zimbeva</a> and another by <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/adaa2dc1-5e09-422b-a9a3-32f571e9b616?elinkdata=32269">Gonzalo Gaubeka</a> in the third.

However the teams settled in and the match was played mostly in the middle third of the pitch for most of the first half.

Late in the first, the Coyotes went on the offensive attack again, a pair of shots by <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/f9a1b14c-f047-4132-90cc-e272079a8f82?elinkdata=32269">Brennen Lamont</a> and <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/e7987ecd-cca4-4381-abd4-ac68223d8010?elinkdata=32269">Mateo Hoyos</a> were blocked by Tabor's defense and another by Hoyos was saved.

The Coyotes got on the board first in the 41st minute. <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/7105481d-5422-4d5d-8b46-7188dab34607?elinkdata=32269">Emilio Rodriguez</a> netted the goal. After receiving a pass from <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/588216cf-6bdf-4067-88e2-7d67bf3c53a7?elinkdata=32269">Seth Flores</a>, Rodriguez settled the ball on the left edge of the penalty area and worked around a couple defenders before sending a shot into goal for the score.

Tabor had a quick answer, literally 20 seconds later. Martin Marinakis sent a cross into the box to David Montoya who got a foot on in and sent it in for the equalizer.

Wesleyan wasted no time in taking the lead to start the second half. After a Tabor foul, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/22abdacc-1f7c-48fd-9c4a-4507ff842ebe?elinkdata=32269">Noel Zimbeva</a> had a direct kick from 23 yards out on the left side. He sent the ball into goal, using the far post to send into the back of the next for the score putting the Coyotes up 2-1 in the 47th minute.

The Coyotes had several other good looks at goals but would be denied.

Wesleyan's last two goals came exactly a minute apart in the 68th and 69th minutes, and both came off corner set pieces.

The first came as Flores sent the corner from the right side into the goal area and found <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/b954d51b-263f-4dfd-bb02-adc05587fa4c?elinkdata=32269">Brennen Lamont</a> for the score. Lamont nearly had another goal immediately following but his shot was saved, setting up another corner.

This time Flores sent it in to the far post, finding <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/dd847dc5-b140-4e91-b006-6c065a5002e2?elinkdata=32269">Mateo Hoyos</a> who knocked it in just inside the near post putting the Coyotes up 4-1.

Kansas Wesleyan Men's Soccer is headed to Wichita for the KCAC Semifinals.The third-seeded Coyotes put forth a dominating performance behind three unmatched second half goals to defeat sixth-seeded Tabor College Bluejays 4-1 on Tuesday night at JRI Hospitality Stadium at the Graves Family Sports Complex.The victory boosts Wesleyan's record to 13-3-3 as KWU heads to the KCAC Semifinals on Friday in Wichita at Scheels-Stryker Sports Complex. KWU will meet up with the Ottawa Braves at 7:30 p.m. Ottawa squeaked by seventh-seeded McPherson 2-1 in overtime, needing an 89th minute goal to tie the match and then scored in the 94th minute to win.The Coyotes were quick out of the gates to get some shots off in the second minute by <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/b0159863-6ae7-4528-8253-ff4a70005bc3?elinkdata=32269">Noel Zimbeva</a> and another by <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/adaa2dc1-5e09-422b-a9a3-32f571e9b616?elinkdata=32269">Gonzalo Gaubeka</a> in the third.However the teams settled in and the match was played mostly in the middle third of the pitch for most of the first half.Late in the first, the Coyotes went on the offensive attack again, a pair of shots by <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/f9a1b14c-f047-4132-90cc-e272079a8f82?elinkdata=32269">Brennen Lamont</a> and <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/e7987ecd-cca4-4381-abd4-ac68223d8010?elinkdata=32269">Mateo Hoyos</a> were blocked by Tabor's defense and another by Hoyos was saved.The Coyotes got on the board first in the 41st minute. <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/7105481d-5422-4d5d-8b46-7188dab34607?elinkdata=32269">Emilio Rodriguez</a> netted the goal. After receiving a pass from <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/588216cf-6bdf-4067-88e2-7d67bf3c53a7?elinkdata=32269">Seth Flores</a>, Rodriguez settled the ball on the left edge of the penalty area and worked around a couple defenders before sending a shot into goal for the score.Tabor had a quick answer, literally 20 seconds later. Martin Marinakis sent a cross into the box to David Montoya who got a foot on in and sent it in for the equalizer.The score was tied at the half.Wesleyan wasted no time in taking the lead to start the second half. After a Tabor foul, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/22abdacc-1f7c-48fd-9c4a-4507ff842ebe?elinkdata=32269">Noel Zimbeva</a> had a direct kick from 23 yards out on the left side. He sent the ball into goal, using the far post to send into the back of the next for the score putting the Coyotes up 2-1 in the 47th minute.The Coyotes had several other good looks at goals but would be denied.Wesleyan's last two goals came exactly a minute apart in the 68th and 69th minutes, and both came off corner set pieces.The first came as Flores sent the corner from the right side into the goal area and found <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/b954d51b-263f-4dfd-bb02-adc05587fa4c?elinkdata=32269">Brennen Lamont</a> for the score. Lamont nearly had another goal immediately following but his shot was saved, setting up another corner.This time Flores sent it in to the far post, finding <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/dd847dc5-b140-4e91-b006-6c065a5002e2?elinkdata=32269">Mateo Hoyos</a> who knocked it in just inside the near post putting the Coyotes up 4-1.

⚽️ Coyotes roll past Bluejays 4-1 to reach KCAC Semifinals

MANHATTAN, Kan. – Junior guard P.J. Haggerty continued to add to his preseason accolades list, as he was named to the watch lists for the 2025-26 Jersey Mike’s Naismith Trophy Men’s College Player of the Year award, which is presented by AXIA Time, and the Oscar Robertson Trophy, which is given annually to the Player of the Year by the U.S. Basketball Writers Association.

This is third time Haggerty has been named to the watch list for a national player of the year award, as he was among 20 candidates for the 2026 NABC Division I Player of the Year on Oct. 30.

Haggerty has already received a number of preseason accolades, including All-America honors from CBS Sports, Jay Bilas, The Field of 68, Jon Rothstein and @CBBAnalytics and All-Big 12 honors from the league coaches. He was also named to the watch list for the Jerry West Award, which is given annually the nation’s top shooting guard.

Haggerty averaged 25 points in K-State’s 2 exhibition games, including a 27-point, 10-assist double-double in Friday’s win over Newman.

A consensus Second Team All-American at Memphis, Haggerty is coming off a career year in 2024-25, in which, he became the first Division I player since Ja Morant in 2018-19 to average 21.5 points, 5.5 rebounds, 3.5 assists and 1.5 steals to go with 6.5 free throws per game. He ranked third nationally in both scoring (21.7 ppg.) and total points (759), while 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 became the first Memphis Tiger since 2008 to be named an AP All-American, while he was selected as the AAC Player of the Year, First Team All-AAC and the Most Outstanding Player of the 2025 AAC Championship.

MANHATTAN, Kan. – Junior guard P.J. Haggerty continued to add to his preseason accolades list, as he was named to the watch lists for the 2025-26 Jersey Mike’s Naismith Trophy Men’s College Player of the Year award, which is presented by AXIA Time, and the Oscar Robertson Trophy, which is given annually to the Player of the Year by the U.S. Basketball Writers Association.This is third time Haggerty has been named to the watch list for a national player of the year award, as he was among 20 candidates for the 2026 NABC Division I Player of the Year on Oct. 30.Haggerty has already received a number of preseason accolades, including All-America honors from CBS Sports, Jay Bilas, The Field of 68, Jon Rothstein and @CBBAnalytics and All-Big 12 honors from the league coaches. He was also named to the watch list for the Jerry West Award, which is given annually the nation’s top shooting guard.Haggerty averaged 25 points in K-State’s 2 exhibition games, including a 27-point, 10-assist double-double in Friday’s win over Newman.A consensus Second Team All-American at Memphis, Haggerty is coming off a career year in 2024-25, in which, he became the first Division I player since Ja Morant in 2018-19 to average 21.5 points, 5.5 rebounds, 3.5 assists and 1.5 steals to go with 6.5 free throws per game. He ranked third nationally in both scoring (21.7 ppg.) and total points (759), while 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 became the first Memphis Tiger since 2008 to be named an AP All-American, while he was selected as the AAC Player of the Year, First Team All-AAC and the Most Outstanding Player of the 2025 AAC Championship.

Haggerty Named to Two More Player of the Year Watch Lists

KANSAS CITY, Mo.—The Kansas City Royals tonight announced a two-year contact agreement with catcher&nbsp;Salvador Perez&nbsp;through the 2027 season.

“Salvy is a Royals legend and one of the most important players this franchise has ever had,” said Executive Vice President/General Manager&nbsp;J.J. Picollo. “We had the option for next year, but everyone knew we wanted to make sure his legacy with us continued longer than that. We appreciate Salvy’s commitment to the Royals, and we’re just as excited as our fans.”

Perez, 35, is a nine-time All-Star, five-time&nbsp;Rawlings&nbsp;Gold Glove Award winner, five-time Silver Slugger Award winner, the 2015 World Series Most Valuable Player and the 2024&nbsp;Roberto Clemente&nbsp;Award winner. In 2023, Perez was named the fourth Captain in franchise history.

He is one of two catchers in Major League history to win at least five Gold Glove Awards and five Silver Slugger Awards, along with Hall of Famer&nbsp;Iván Rodríguez.

In 2025, Perez completed his 14th season—all with Kansas City—and recorded 30 home runs and 100 RBI in 155 games. The 30 HR were the 2nd-highest total of his career, trailing his franchise-record-tying 48-HR season in 2021. This marked his third season with at least 100 RBI and second straight.

Salvy in 2025 became the second catcher in Major League history (min. 50% of games at the position) to record at least 100 RBI in his age-35 season (or older), following Hall of Famer&nbsp;Carlton Fisk, who had 107 RBI as a 37 year old in 1985.

The 2025 season also saw Perez reach the 300-HR and 1,000-RBI career milestones. He’s one of eight primary catchers in Major League history with 300 HR and one of 15 catchers with 1,000 RBI.

He ranks among the Royals all-time leaders in HR (2nd, 303), RBI (2nd, 1,106), extra-base hits (3rd, 634), hits (6th, 1,712) and games (7th, 1,707). Perez is 14 HR shy of matching Hall of Famer&nbsp;George Brett&nbsp;(317) for the club’s all-time HR record.

KANSAS CITY, Mo.—The Kansas City Royals tonight announced a two-year contact agreement with catcher&nbsp;Salvador Perez&nbsp;through the 2027 season.“Salvy is a Royals legend and one of the most important players this franchise has ever had,” said Executive Vice President/General Manager&nbsp;J.J. Picollo. “We had the option for next year, but everyone knew we wanted to make sure his legacy with us continued longer than that. We appreciate Salvy’s commitment to the Royals, and we’re just as excited as our fans.”Perez, 35, is a nine-time All-Star, five-time&nbsp;Rawlings&nbsp;Gold Glove Award winner, five-time Silver Slugger Award winner, the 2015 World Series Most Valuable Player and the 2024&nbsp;Roberto Clemente&nbsp;Award winner. In 2023, Perez was named the fourth Captain in franchise history.He is one of two catchers in Major League history to win at least five Gold Glove Awards and five Silver Slugger Awards, along with Hall of Famer&nbsp;Iván Rodríguez.In 2025, Perez completed his 14th season—all with Kansas City—and recorded 30 home runs and 100 RBI in 155 games. The 30 HR were the 2nd-highest total of his career, trailing his franchise-record-tying 48-HR season in 2021. This marked his third season with at least 100 RBI and second straight.Salvy in 2025 became the second catcher in Major League history (min. 50% of games at the position) to record at least 100 RBI in his age-35 season (or older), following Hall of Famer&nbsp;Carlton Fisk, who had 107 RBI as a 37 year old in 1985.The 2025 season also saw Perez reach the 300-HR and 1,000-RBI career milestones. He’s one of eight primary catchers in Major League history with 300 HR and one of 15 catchers with 1,000 RBI.He ranks among the Royals all-time leaders in HR (2nd, 303), RBI (2nd, 1,106), extra-base hits (3rd, 634), hits (6th, 1,712) and games (7th, 1,707). Perez is 14 HR shy of matching Hall of Famer&nbsp;George Brett&nbsp;(317) for the club’s all-time HR record.

Royals Announce Two-Year Contract with Salvador Perez

<a>MANHATTAN, Kan.</a>&nbsp;–&nbsp;Kansas State offensive lineman&nbsp;Sam Hecht&nbsp;and safety&nbsp;VJ Payne&nbsp;have been rewarded with successful collegiate careers thus far as the senior duo has earned invitations to the 2026 East West Shrine Bowl.

Hecht and Payne are invited to take part in the longest-running college all-star football game in the nation on Tuesday, January 27, 2026, inside the Ford Center at The Star in Frisco, Texas.

This will be the fourth time in the last five years and the third-straight season the Wildcats have had a representative in the game. Marques Sigle played in last year’s edition before being selected in the NFL Draft by San Francisco. In 2024, defensive end Khalid Duke and offensive lineman KT Leveston competed in the game. Duke ended up being a free agent signee by Tennessee, while Leveston was selected in 2024 NFL Draft by the Los Angeles Rams. In 2022, quarterback Skylar Thompson and safety Russ Yeast played in the Shrine Bowl before being selected in the 2022 NFL Draft by the Dolphins and Rams, respectively.

A native of Shawnee, Kansas, Hecht has started each of the last 22 games dating back to the 2024 season opener, seeing time on a combined 1,410 offensive snaps while only committing two penalties. A 2024 All-Big 12 Second Team honoree, Hecht was on the watch lists for the 2025 Outland and Rimington trophies in addition to being a semifinalist for the William V. Campbell Trophy.

<a>MANHATTAN, Kan.</a>&nbsp;–&nbsp;Kansas State offensive lineman&nbsp;Sam Hecht&nbsp;and safety&nbsp;VJ Payne&nbsp;have been rewarded with successful collegiate careers thus far as the senior duo has earned invitations to the 2026 East West Shrine Bowl.Hecht and Payne are invited to take part in the longest-running college all-star football game in the nation on Tuesday, January 27, 2026, inside the Ford Center at The Star in Frisco, Texas.This will be the fourth time in the last five years and the third-straight season the Wildcats have had a representative in the game. Marques Sigle played in last year’s edition before being selected in the NFL Draft by San Francisco. In 2024, defensive end Khalid Duke and offensive lineman KT Leveston competed in the game. Duke ended up being a free agent signee by Tennessee, while Leveston was selected in 2024 NFL Draft by the Los Angeles Rams. In 2022, quarterback Skylar Thompson and safety Russ Yeast played in the Shrine Bowl before being selected in the 2022 NFL Draft by the Dolphins and Rams, respectively.A native of Shawnee, Kansas, Hecht has started each of the last 22 games dating back to the 2024 season opener, seeing time on a combined 1,410 offensive snaps while only committing two penalties. A 2024 All-Big 12 Second Team honoree, Hecht was on the watch lists for the 2025 Outland and Rimington trophies in addition to being a semifinalist for the William V. Campbell Trophy.Payne, a product of Buford, Georgia, has started a team-leading 39 games, including 38-straight contests to stand as the best on the squad. He has 191 career tackles, including 10.0 tackles for loss, one sack, three interceptions and 12 total passes defended. This season, Payne ranks third on the team with 43 career tackles.