BY NOAH HELGET Salina Post Contributor

The Lady Knights were on fire on Friday as they took down the 9th-ranked Lady Warriors 48-29. On the boys’ side, things were a lot closer, and free throws came in clutch as the Knights defeated Berean Academy 50-47.

Girls: Sacred Heart 48, #9 Berean Academy 29

The Lady Knights would find themselves in a defensive battle in the first and leading 9-4 going into the 2nd&nbsp;quarter.

The defense locked in and only allowed six points in the second quarter. Emmy Lee would go 3-3 from beyond the arc and lead the Lady Warriors 28-10 at the Intermission.

In the second half the Lady Knights wouldn’t let off and led at the end of the third 40-23. The Lady Warriors got into foul trouble early in the fourth quarter and sent the Lady Knights to the line seven times, as the Lady Knights pulled away to win 48-29.

Sacred Heart was led in scoring by Emmy Lee with a career-high 23 and Skylar Douglas would finish her night with 11.

Fionna Morgan would finish with 16 for Berean Academy.

The Lady Knights look ahead as they take on Lyons in the first league matchup on Friday.

Boys: #4 Sacred Heart 50, #5 Berean Academy 47

The Knights started the first quarter aggressively and moved the ball well, but found themselves being guarded and pressured well by the Warriors; the Knights would find themselves down 16-11 going into the second.

Kolton Sprague came off the bench and helped with the 20-8 second quarter as the Knights would take back the lead and be ahead at intermission 31-24.

Berean Academy came out of the locker room on fire hitting 2 triples back-to-back and cut back the deficit but the Knights would still lead 43-40.

Back and forth basketball summed up the fourth, near the end, Noah Hines hit the deck hard, drawing charge. He would follow that up with winning free throws to end the game as the Knights win 50-47.

The Knights were led in scoring by Will Tuttle (17), Maddox Wells (10), Ben Disberger (10).

Berean Academy was led in scoring by Jace Unruh; he compiled 10.

The Knights take on Lyons in the first league contest to close out the year on Friday.

You can watch both games on-demand below.&nbsp;

BY NOAH HELGET Salina Post ContributorThe Lady Knights were on fire on Friday as they took down the 9th-ranked Lady Warriors 48-29. On the boys’ side, things were a lot closer, and free throws came in clutch as the Knights defeated Berean Academy 50-47.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765031258309.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>Girls: Sacred Heart 48, #9 Berean Academy 29The Lady Knights would find themselves in a defensive battle in the first and leading 9-4 going into the 2nd&nbsp;quarter.The defense locked in and only allowed six points in the second quarter. Emmy Lee would go 3-3 from beyond the arc and lead the Lady Warriors 28-10 at the Intermission.In the second half the Lady Knights wouldn’t let off and led at the end of the third 40-23. The Lady Warriors got into foul trouble early in the fourth quarter and sent the Lady Knights to the line seven times, as the Lady Knights pulled away to win 48-29.Sacred Heart was led in scoring by Emmy Lee with a career-high 23 and Skylar Douglas would finish her night with 11.Fionna Morgan would finish with 16 for Berean Academy.The Lady Knights look ahead as they take on Lyons in the first league matchup on Friday.Boys: #4 Sacred Heart 50, #5 Berean Academy 47The Knights started the first quarter aggressively and moved the ball well, but found themselves being guarded and pressured well by the Warriors; the Knights would find themselves down 16-11 going into the second.Kolton Sprague came off the bench and helped with the 20-8 second quarter as the Knights would take back the lead and be ahead at intermission 31-24.Berean Academy came out of the locker room on fire hitting 2 triples back-to-back and cut back the deficit but the Knights would still lead 43-40.Back and forth basketball summed up the fourth, near the end, Noah Hines hit the deck hard, drawing charge. He would follow that up with winning free throws to end the game as the Knights win 50-47.The Knights were led in scoring by Will Tuttle (17), Maddox Wells (10), Ben Disberger (10).Berean Academy was led in scoring by Jace Unruh; he compiled 10.The Knights take on Lyons in the first league contest to close out the year on Friday.You can watch both games on-demand below.&nbsp;<figure>
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🏀 Sacred Heart sweeps two ranked foes at Berean Academy

By TYLER HENRY Lead Sportswriter - Salina Post

The Lady Trojans continued their good run of form on Tuesday night, defeating Garden Plain on the road in a defensive battle, while the Trojans dropped an equally low-scoring game.

Girls: SE of Saline 37, Garden Plain 25

Lockdown defense helped Southeast to their fourth win of the year as they smothered the Lady Owls, allowing just three made field goals in the first half.

Southeast came flying out of the gates, knocking down four first-quarter three-pointers to take a 15-5 lead at the end of the first.

Despite the offense slowing in the second, SES continued to dominate on defense, allowing just one made field goal and three free throws in the second to maintain an eight-point halftime lead.

In the third, the Lady Trojans picked things back up offensively, spreading six field goals among four different players to pull away to a double digit lead.

That lead was one Southeast would carry over the finish line as Garden Plain ran out of gas in a 37-25 final.

The Lady Owls were led by their lone double digit scorer Lyah Zoglman (11), while Southeast of Saline was led by Reese Heinrich (11) and Kyiah Samuelson (11).

With this win the Lady Trojans improve to 4-1 while Garden Plain falls to 2-4.

Boys: Garden Plain 32, SE of Saline 30

As they have in every game, Southeast of Saline fought hard in this one, leaning on defense in a very low-scoring affair.

The Trojans held Garden Plain to just seven points in the first quarter and trailed by just two (19-17) at the half.

In the third quarter Southeast allowed just seven points again, but only scored two themselves setting up the need for a small comeback in the fourth.

The Trojans outscored Garden Plain 11-1 to tie the game at 30 apiece, but missed a shot in the closing seconds which led to a game winning rebound and runout for the Owls.

Cooper Eck led the charge for the Owls with 12 points while Tiernan Ptacek led all scorers accounting for 20 of Southeast’s 30 points.

With this result the Owls improve to 3-2 while Southeast continues to search for their first win at 0-5.

You can watch both games on-demand below.

By TYLER HENRY Lead Sportswriter - Salina PostThe Lady Trojans continued their good run of form on Tuesday night, defeating Garden Plain on the road in a defensive battle, while the Trojans dropped an equally low-scoring game.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765031258309.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>Girls: SE of Saline 37, Garden Plain 25Lockdown defense helped Southeast to their fourth win of the year as they smothered the Lady Owls, allowing just three made field goals in the first half.Southeast came flying out of the gates, knocking down four first-quarter three-pointers to take a 15-5 lead at the end of the first.Despite the offense slowing in the second, SES continued to dominate on defense, allowing just one made field goal and three free throws in the second to maintain an eight-point halftime lead.In the third, the Lady Trojans picked things back up offensively, spreading six field goals among four different players to pull away to a double digit lead.That lead was one Southeast would carry over the finish line as Garden Plain ran out of gas in a 37-25 final.The Lady Owls were led by their lone double digit scorer Lyah Zoglman (11), while Southeast of Saline was led by Reese Heinrich (11) and Kyiah Samuelson (11).With this win the Lady Trojans improve to 4-1 while Garden Plain falls to 2-4.Boys: Garden Plain 32, SE of Saline 30As they have in every game, Southeast of Saline fought hard in this one, leaning on defense in a very low-scoring affair.The Trojans held Garden Plain to just seven points in the first quarter and trailed by just two (19-17) at the half.In the third quarter Southeast allowed just seven points again, but only scored two themselves setting up the need for a small comeback in the fourth.The Trojans outscored Garden Plain 11-1 to tie the game at 30 apiece, but missed a shot in the closing seconds which led to a game winning rebound and runout for the Owls.Cooper Eck led the charge for the Owls with 12 points while Tiernan Ptacek led all scorers accounting for 20 of Southeast’s 30 points.With this result the Owls improve to 3-2 while Southeast continues to search for their first win at 0-5.You can watch both games on-demand below.<figure>
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🏀 Lady Trojans stifle Owls for win in Garden Plain

LAWRENCE, Kan. (AP) — Flory Bidunga had 18 points and 10 rebounds to spur No. 17 Kansas to a 73-49 victory over Towson on Tuesday night.

Tre White had 16 points and a career-high six assists for the Jayhawks (9-3). Melvin Council, coming off&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-melvin-council-3fa0e92a24fea40c9d072d54ec3bb826">a career-best 36-point performance</a>&nbsp;in Saturday's&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-nc-state-score-c3e0319a94dd9632ac2f4d0108979da0">overtime win</a>&nbsp;over N.C. State, added 15 points.

Kansas improved to 273-9 at home against unranked opponents under coach Bill Self.

Sophomore guard Jamari McDowell started for preseason All-American Darryn Peterson, who missed an eighth game due to injury. Self said Peterson had quadriceps cramps.

Bidunga, who entered the night as the Big 12’s leading shot blocker, had two blocks in the first seven minutes and finished with three. He also scored KU’s first six points en route to his seventh career double-double.

A 6-foot-10 sophomore forward from the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Bidunga was 7 of 8 from the field and 4 of 7 from the line.

Dylan Williamson scored 19 points for Towson (6-5), which never led. The Tigers drew within nine early in the second half before KU went on a 10-2 run. Kansas led by 25 in the second half and held an opponent below 50 points for the second time this year.

Bryson Tiller added 11 points for the Jayhawks.

The Tigers managed just four assists, although they did finish with a 22-12 advantage in offensive rebounds.

Still, Towson shot only 27.5% from the field and finished 3 of 12 from 3-point range against the stingy Jayhawks.

KU didn’t commit a foul until 9:11 remained in the first half. The Jayhawks hit 10 of their first 13 field-goal attempts.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765939780403.png" alt="Photo Kansas Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Kansas Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>LAWRENCE, Kan. (AP) — Flory Bidunga had 18 points and 10 rebounds to spur No. 17 Kansas to a 73-49 victory over Towson on Tuesday night.Tre White had 16 points and a career-high six assists for the Jayhawks (9-3). Melvin Council, coming off&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-melvin-council-3fa0e92a24fea40c9d072d54ec3bb826">a career-best 36-point performance</a>&nbsp;in Saturday's&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-nc-state-score-c3e0319a94dd9632ac2f4d0108979da0">overtime win</a>&nbsp;over N.C. State, added 15 points.Kansas improved to 273-9 at home against unranked opponents under coach Bill Self.Sophomore guard Jamari McDowell started for preseason All-American Darryn Peterson, who missed an eighth game due to injury. Self said Peterson had quadriceps cramps.Bidunga, who entered the night as the Big 12’s leading shot blocker, had two blocks in the first seven minutes and finished with three. He also scored KU’s first six points en route to his seventh career double-double.A 6-foot-10 sophomore forward from the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Bidunga was 7 of 8 from the field and 4 of 7 from the line.Dylan Williamson scored 19 points for Towson (6-5), which never led. The Tigers drew within nine early in the second half before KU went on a 10-2 run. Kansas led by 25 in the second half and held an opponent below 50 points for the second time this year.Bryson Tiller added 11 points for the Jayhawks.The Tigers managed just four assists, although they did finish with a 22-12 advantage in offensive rebounds.Still, Towson shot only 27.5% from the field and finished 3 of 12 from 3-point range against the stingy Jayhawks.KU didn’t commit a foul until 9:11 remained in the first half. The Jayhawks hit 10 of their first 13 field-goal attempts.<h2>Up next</h2>Towson hosts Notre Dame (Md.) on Friday.Kansas hosts Davidson on Monday.

🏀 Flory Bidunga has 18 points, 10 rebounds as KU beats Towson 

The Minneapolis and Ellsworth basketball teams split a doubleheader on the hardwood on Tuesday night, with the Lady Bearcats remaining undefeated on the year, and the Lions collecting their first victory of 2025.

Girls: Ellsworth 52, Minneapolis 46 (OT)

The Lady Bearcats stumbled a bit out of the gates but recovered flawlessly and rode the hot hand of Lainey Peschka to their fourth-straight win in 2025.

Minneapolis jumped out to an early 17-7 lead thanks to the hot shooting of Baylee Randall-Hurt, who scored seven of the 17 Lady Lion points in the first quarter.

Things would cool off considerably for Minneapolis in the second quarter as they mustered just one made field goal and four total points, watching Ellsworth come back to take a two-point lead at halftime.

The third quarter was a back-and-forth affair but late in the fourth, Randall-Hurt was called for an offensive foul, collecting her fifth and finishing her night with 17 points.

From there, Peschka took over, scoring seven of Ellsworth’s final twelve points, including a dagger three in overtime, to help the Lady Bearcats pull away for an overtime win.

With this win, Ellsworth remains perfect at 4-0 while Minneapolis falls to 3-2.

Boys: Minneapolis 44, Ellsworth 33

The boys' game got off to a very slow start offensively, with Minneapolis holding an 8-2 lead at the end of the first quarter.

Things picked up in the second for both teams, and by the intermission the Lion lead was up to 21-13.

Minneapolis spread out their scoring evenly, with each member of their starting five contributing in the second half, as the Lions matched pace down the stretch en route to a 44-33 win, their first of the 2025-26 season.

Free throws proved to be a crucial difference in this game as Minneapolis sunk 15-20, while Ellsworth shot 7-13 at the stripe.

Tanner Norris (14) and Owen Just (12) led the way for the Lions in scoring, while Cooper McGowan (13) did his best in a losing effort.

With this result, Minneapolis improves to 1-4 while Ellsworth slides to 1-3.

You can watch both of these games on-demand any time below.

By TYLER HENRY Lead Sportswriter - Salina PostThe Minneapolis and Ellsworth basketball teams split a doubleheader on the hardwood on Tuesday night, with the Lady Bearcats remaining undefeated on the year, and the Lions collecting their first victory of 2025.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765031258309.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>Girls: Ellsworth 52, Minneapolis 46 (OT)The Lady Bearcats stumbled a bit out of the gates but recovered flawlessly and rode the hot hand of Lainey Peschka to their fourth-straight win in 2025.Minneapolis jumped out to an early 17-7 lead thanks to the hot shooting of Baylee Randall-Hurt, who scored seven of the 17 Lady Lion points in the first quarter.Things would cool off considerably for Minneapolis in the second quarter as they mustered just one made field goal and four total points, watching Ellsworth come back to take a two-point lead at halftime.The third quarter was a back-and-forth affair but late in the fourth, Randall-Hurt was called for an offensive foul, collecting her fifth and finishing her night with 17 points.From there, Peschka took over, scoring seven of Ellsworth’s final twelve points, including a dagger three in overtime, to help the Lady Bearcats pull away for an overtime win.With this win, Ellsworth remains perfect at 4-0 while Minneapolis falls to 3-2.Boys: Minneapolis 44, Ellsworth 33The boys' game got off to a very slow start offensively, with Minneapolis holding an 8-2 lead at the end of the first quarter.Things picked up in the second for both teams, and by the intermission the Lion lead was up to 21-13.Minneapolis spread out their scoring evenly, with each member of their starting five contributing in the second half, as the Lions matched pace down the stretch en route to a 44-33 win, their first of the 2025-26 season.Free throws proved to be a crucial difference in this game as Minneapolis sunk 15-20, while Ellsworth shot 7-13 at the stripe.Tanner Norris (14) and Owen Just (12) led the way for the Lions in scoring, while Cooper McGowan (13) did his best in a losing effort.With this result, Minneapolis improves to 1-4 while Ellsworth slides to 1-3.You can watch both of these games on-demand any time below.<figure>
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🏀 Bearcats and Lions split doubleheader in Minneapolis

The Kansas Shrine Bowl is excited to announce the coaches who will lead the East and West teams in the 53rd Kansas Shrine Bowl on Saturday, June 27, 2026, in Emporia, Kansas. 

Each classification of 11-man football, 1A through 6A, is represented on the coaching staff, while the Head Coach of each team is selected from the previous year’s Kansas Shrine Bowl assistants.

The East team will be led by Mike Berg (Wellsville) who was announced earlier this summer as the 2026 East Head Coach. 

The East coaching staff assistants will be Kurt Webster (Shawnee Mission Northwest – 6A), Rod Stallbaumer (Basehor-Linwood – 5A), Bradley Argabright (Labette County – 4A), Greg Slade (Santa Fe Trail – 3A), Andrew Gantenbein (Osage City – 2A), and Derick Hammes (Rossville – 1A). 

The East coaching staff brings a wealth of Kansas Shrine Bowl experience to this year’s team, with Mike Berg, Rod Stallbaumer, Greg Slade, Andrew Gantenbein and Derick Hammes having coached in a combined 12 Kansas Shrine Bowls. Hammes also played in the game as an East All-Star for Nemaha Valley in 1989. Kurt Webster and Bradley Argabright will be participating for the first time in the Kansas Shrine Bowl.

The West team is led by Daniel Myears (Mulvane) and his staff will include Randall Zimmerman (Junction City – 6A), Erin Beck (Great Bend – 5A), Dawson Elliott (Augusta – 4A), Brent Hoelting (Pratt – 3A), Todd Rice (Garden Plain – 2A), and Brent Schneider (Sterling – 1A). 

Coach Zimmerman will be making his Kansas Shrine Bowl record 9th appearance on the sidelines. Zimmerman has been an assistant coach five times previously (1988, 1995, 2009, 2015, 2021) and the West Head Coach on three previous occasions (1996, 2010, 2016). Erin Beck and Brent Hoelting also bring Kansas Shrine Bowl experience to the West squad, while Dawson Elliott, Todd Rice and Brent Schneider will be making their Kansas Shrine Bowl coaching debuts. Rice served as an assistant coach in the Nebraska Shrine Bowl in 2009 while the Head Coach at North Platte High School.

“We’re always grateful for the sacrifice these coaches make by taking time away from their own programs and their families to be a part of the Kansas Shrine Bowl experience,” said Brice Kesler, Executive Director of the Kansas Shrine Bowl. “We certainly couldn’t have the quality of football game that we get without this outstanding coaching talent, but these men also provide tremendous leadership to the players and serve as great ambassadors for the mission of the Kansas Shrine Bowl.”

The 53rd Kansas Shrine Bowl will be played at Welch Stadium on the campus of Emporia State University in Emporia, Kansas on Saturday, June 27th, 2026, at 7:00 pm. The initial rosters for the game will be announced during the annual Kansas Shrine Bowl Player Selection Show, which is set to air on Sunday, January 11th, 2026, at 4:00 pm. The selection show can be watched at <a href="http://www.kansasshrinebowl.com/">www.KansasShrineBowl.com</a> and on the Kansas Shrine Bowl YouTube channel. For more information on the Kansas Shrine Bowl and all the additional camps, events and support opportunities surrounding the game, please visit <a href="http://www.kansasshrinebowl.com/">www.KansasShrineBowl.com</a> or call the Kansas Shrine Bowl office at 913-602-8656.

The Shrine Bowl of Kansas, Inc is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit charity that produces annual events and related activities with net proceeds benefiting Shriners Children's. The Shrine Bowl of Kansas, Inc has existed since 1974 with the flagship event being the Kansas Shrine Bowl, an East vs. West all-star senior football game. Kansas Shrine All-Star Events also include the Kansas Masonic All-State Marching Band Camp, the Kansas Shrine Bowl All-Star Cheer Camp, the KWCA Kansas Shrine Duals and many other game week events. All Kansas Shrine All-Star Events are produced and presented to benefit Shriners Children's. Shriner's Children's, previously Shriners Hospitals for Children, is a world-renowned healthcare system with hospitals, outpatient clinics, ambulatory care centers and outreach locations across the globe. Shriners Children's is dedicated to improving the lives of children every day by providing pediatric specialty care, innovative research, and outstanding teaching programs for medical professionals. Children up to the age of 18 are eligible for care and receive all services in a family-centered environment, regardless of the patients' ability to pay.

2026 Kansas Shrine Bowl East Coaching Staff

Head Coach: Mike Berg, Wellsville. 2025 Record: 6-4; Head Coach Record at Wellsville: 53-18. Overall Head Coaching Record: 170-100 (Baldwin, Wellsville). Kansas Shrine Bowl Experience: East Assistant Coach (2025-Wellsville)

“It's an honor and a privilege to help raise awareness for the Shriner's and their mission.&nbsp; I am excited to work with some of the best coaches and players in the State of Kansas.”

6A Assistant: Kurt Webster, Shawnee Mission Northwest 2025 Record: 7-4; Head Coach Record at SMNW: 7-4. Overall Head Coaching Record: 34-36 (Chapman, Shawnee Mission Northwest). Kansas Shrine Bowl Experience: First game

“I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to coach in this year’s Kansas Shrine Bowl. It is a distinct honor to stand on the sidelines representing our community and supporting the life-changing work of the Shriners Hospitals. I can’t wait to get to work with this talented group of players.”

5A Assistant: Rod Stallbaumer, Basehor-Linwood. 2025 Record: 12-1 *KSHSAA 5A State Runner-Up; Head Coach Record at Basehor-Linwood: 95-33. Overall Head Coaching Record: 161-61 (Quivira Heights, Lyndon, Basehor-Linwood)Kansas Shrine Bowl Experience: East Assistant Coach (2008-Lyndon; 2014, 2021-Basehor-Linwood), East Head Coach (2009-Lyndon; 2022-Basehor-Linwood)

“I'm excited to be able to represent the Basehor-Linwood football program and the Basehor-Linwood community in the Kansas Shrine Bowl and do a small part to help such a noble and worthy cause.”

4A Assistant: Bradley Argabright, Labette County. 2025 Record: 9-3; Head Coach Record at Labette County: 9-3. Kansas Shrine Bowl Experience: First game

“It is an incredible honor to have the opportunity to represent the 4A East in the 2026 Kansas Shrine Bowl. This opportunity reflects the hard work and commitment of the great team and coaching staff I was able to lead in the 2025 season at Labette County High School. I am grateful to be able to help spread the Shriner's mission and to be able to coach some of the amazing young men who embody what football in Kansas is all about.”

3A Assistant: Greg Slade, Santa Fe Trail. 2025 Record: 11-1; Head Coach Record at Santa Fe Trail: 16-5. Overall Head Coaching Record: 136-117 (Rose Hill, Campus, Newton, Santa Fe Trail). Kansas Shrine Bowl Experience: West Assistant Coach (2005, 2012-Rose Hill)

“It is an honor to get to represent Santa Fe Trail HS, Our School District, and Communities at 2026 Kansas Shrine Bowl. I want to thank my wife, Lisa, for all support she gives me as a High School Head Football Coach.”

2A Assistant: Andrew Gantenbein, Osage City. 2025 Record: 10-2; Head Coach Record at Osage City: 112-61. Kansas Shrine Bowl Experience: East Assistant Coach (2021-Osage City)

“I am excited to coach in the 2026 Kansas Shrine Bowl. I've had the opportunity to do it once before, and it was a great experience. I look forward to working with this year's staff and players as we get together and compete for a great cause.”

1A Assistant: Derick Hammes, Rossville. 2025 Record: 11-2 *KSHSAA 1A State Runner-Up; Head Coach Record at Rossville: 126-30. Overall Head Coaching Record: 154-85 (Center, MO, Washburn Rural, Rossville). Kansas Shrine Bowl Experience: 1989 East All-Star (Nemaha Valley); East Assistant Coach (2016, 2022-Rossville); East Head Coach (2017-Rossville)

“I'm excited to get to coach the "best of the best" as I have another opportunity to be involved in the Kansas Shrine Bowl.&nbsp; Most importantly, I'm honored to get the chance to help the Shrine Bowl achieve its mission of helping children in need.”

2026 Kansas Shrine Bowl West Coaching Staff

Head Coach: Daniel Myears, Mulvane 2025 Record: 8-2; Head Coach Record at Mulvane: 39-37 Kansas Shrine Bowl Experience: West Assistant Coach (2025-Mulvane)

“I am truly honored and humbled to have the opportunity to be involved with the Kansas Shrine Bowl again in 2026. After serving as an assistant coach in 2025, I was inspired by the incredible work the Shriners Hospitals have done and continue to do for children in need. I’m grateful for the chance to play a small role in supporting their mission.”

6A Assistant: Randall Zimmerman, Junction City. 2025 Record: 7-3; Head Coach Record at Junction City: 205-112. Overall Head Coaching Record: 237-145 (Salina Sacred Heart, Phillipsburg, Junction City). Kansas Shrine Bowl Experience: Most All-Time Coaching Appearances in Kansas Shrine Bowl history; West Assistant Coach (1988, 1995, 2009, 2015, 2021-Junction City); West Head Coach (1996, 2010, 2016-Junction City)

“I am very honored to be a part of this game this year.&nbsp; I have great respect for Shriners and their families for what they do for the children of the hospital.&nbsp; The Shrine Bowl experience is very humbling, bringing an incredible appreciation for the talents and gifts we have been given.”

5A Assistant: Erin Beck, Great Bend. 2025 Record: 11-1; Head Coach Record at Great Bend: 61-39. Kansas Shrine Bowl Experience: West Assistant Coach (2020-Great Bend)

“Such an honor to be selected to represent the 5A West once again. Very excited for this opportunity. Was an assistant during the summer of 2020 so was unable to fully experience everything due to COVID.”

4A Assistant: Dawson Elliott, Augusta. 2025 Record: 5-6; Head Coach Record at Augusta: 6-14. Kansas Shrine Bowl Experience: First game

“I am honored to coach in such a historic game as the Shrine Bowl, and I look forward to the experience.”

3A Assistant: Brent Hoelting, Pratt. 2025 Record: 9-2; Head Coach Record at Pratt: 37-29. Overall Head Coaching Record: 74-44 (Lyndon, Pratt). Kansas Shrine Bowl Experience: East Assistant Coach (2017-Lyndon)

“Coaching in the Kansas Shrine Bowl is a tremendous honor. It's a reflection of having great kids and assistants in your program. I am excited to get to know this year's team and to get to help raise money for such a worthy cause.”

2A Assistant: Todd Rice, Garden Plain. 2025 Record: 9-2; Head Coach Record at Garden Plain: 29-12. Overall Head Coaching Record: 172-143 (Ness City, Phillipsburg, Henderson NE, North Platte NE, Clay Center, Garden Plain). Kansas Shrine Bowl Experience: First game (2009 Nebraska Shrine Bowl Assistant Coach)

“I feel that being selected to participate in the Shrine Bowl is the highest honor that a high school athlete, or coach can attain. I am very humbled and look forward to being involved in such an impactful event.”

1A Assistant: Brent Schneider, Sterling. 2025 Record: 13-0 *KSHSAA 1A State Champions; Head Coach Record at Sterling: 36-33. Overall Head Coaching Record: 51-57 (Ellsworth, Chase, Sterling). Kansas Shrine Bowl Experience: First game

“It is an amazing honor that I have been chosen as an assistant coach for the 2026 Kansas Shrine Bowl. I would like to give the glory to my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Thank you to my assistant coaches, their families, SHS, and the Sterling community. Most of all, thank you to my wife Mariah. I couldn't be more excited for this opportunity to participate with these fantastic coaches and athletes.”

The Kansas Shrine Bowl is excited to announce the coaches who will lead the East and West teams in the 53rd Kansas Shrine Bowl on Saturday, June 27, 2026, in Emporia, Kansas. Each classification of 11-man football, 1A through 6A, is represented on the coaching staff, while the Head Coach of each team is selected from the previous year’s Kansas Shrine Bowl assistants.The East team will be led by Mike Berg (Wellsville) who was announced earlier this summer as the 2026 East Head Coach. The East coaching staff assistants will be Kurt Webster (Shawnee Mission Northwest – 6A), Rod Stallbaumer (Basehor-Linwood – 5A), Bradley Argabright (Labette County – 4A), Greg Slade (Santa Fe Trail – 3A), Andrew Gantenbein (Osage City – 2A), and Derick Hammes (Rossville – 1A). The East coaching staff brings a wealth of Kansas Shrine Bowl experience to this year’s team, with Mike Berg, Rod Stallbaumer, Greg Slade, Andrew Gantenbein and Derick Hammes having coached in a combined 12 Kansas Shrine Bowls. Hammes also played in the game as an East All-Star for Nemaha Valley in 1989. Kurt Webster and Bradley Argabright will be participating for the first time in the Kansas Shrine Bowl.The West team is led by Daniel Myears (Mulvane) and his staff will include Randall Zimmerman (Junction City – 6A), Erin Beck (Great Bend – 5A), Dawson Elliott (Augusta – 4A), Brent Hoelting (Pratt – 3A), Todd Rice (Garden Plain – 2A), and Brent Schneider (Sterling – 1A). Coach Zimmerman will be making his Kansas Shrine Bowl record 9th appearance on the sidelines. Zimmerman has been an assistant coach five times previously (1988, 1995, 2009, 2015, 2021) and the West Head Coach on three previous occasions (1996, 2010, 2016). Erin Beck and Brent Hoelting also bring Kansas Shrine Bowl experience to the West squad, while Dawson Elliott, Todd Rice and Brent Schneider will be making their Kansas Shrine Bowl coaching debuts. Rice served as an assistant coach in the Nebraska Shrine Bowl in 2009 while the Head Coach at North Platte High School.“We’re always grateful for the sacrifice these coaches make by taking time away from their own programs and their families to be a part of the Kansas Shrine Bowl experience,” said Brice Kesler, Executive Director of the Kansas Shrine Bowl. “We certainly couldn’t have the quality of football game that we get without this outstanding coaching talent, but these men also provide tremendous leadership to the players and serve as great ambassadors for the mission of the Kansas Shrine Bowl.”The 53rd Kansas Shrine Bowl will be played at Welch Stadium on the campus of Emporia State University in Emporia, Kansas on Saturday, June 27th, 2026, at 7:00 pm. The initial rosters for the game will be announced during the annual Kansas Shrine Bowl Player Selection Show, which is set to air on Sunday, January 11th, 2026, at 4:00 pm. The selection show can be watched at <a href="http://www.kansasshrinebowl.com/">www.KansasShrineBowl.com</a> and on the Kansas Shrine Bowl YouTube channel. For more information on the Kansas Shrine Bowl and all the additional camps, events and support opportunities surrounding the game, please visit <a href="http://www.kansasshrinebowl.com/">www.KansasShrineBowl.com</a> or call the Kansas Shrine Bowl office at 913-602-8656.The Shrine Bowl of Kansas, Inc is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit charity that produces annual events and related activities with net proceeds benefiting Shriners Children's. The Shrine Bowl of Kansas, Inc has existed since 1974 with the flagship event being the Kansas Shrine Bowl, an East vs. West all-star senior football game. Kansas Shrine All-Star Events also include the Kansas Masonic All-State Marching Band Camp, the Kansas Shrine Bowl All-Star Cheer Camp, the KWCA Kansas Shrine Duals and many other game week events. All Kansas Shrine All-Star Events are produced and presented to benefit Shriners Children's. Shriner's Children's, previously Shriners Hospitals for Children, is a world-renowned healthcare system with hospitals, outpatient clinics, ambulatory care centers and outreach locations across the globe. Shriners Children's is dedicated to improving the lives of children every day by providing pediatric specialty care, innovative research, and outstanding teaching programs for medical professionals. Children up to the age of 18 are eligible for care and receive all services in a family-centered environment, regardless of the patients' ability to pay.2026 Kansas Shrine Bowl East Coaching StaffHead Coach: Mike Berg, Wellsville. 2025 Record: 6-4; Head Coach Record at Wellsville: 53-18. Overall Head Coaching Record: 170-100 (Baldwin, Wellsville). Kansas Shrine Bowl Experience: East Assistant Coach (2025-Wellsville)“It's an honor and a privilege to help raise awareness for the Shriner's and their mission.&nbsp; I am excited to work with some of the best coaches and players in the State of Kansas.”6A Assistant: Kurt Webster, Shawnee Mission Northwest 2025 Record: 7-4; Head Coach Record at SMNW: 7-4. Overall Head Coaching Record: 34-36 (Chapman, Shawnee Mission Northwest). Kansas Shrine Bowl Experience: First game“I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to coach in this year’s Kansas Shrine Bowl. It is a distinct honor to stand on the sidelines representing our community and supporting the life-changing work of the Shriners Hospitals. I can’t wait to get to work with this talented group of players.”5A Assistant: Rod Stallbaumer, Basehor-Linwood. 2025 Record: 12-1 *KSHSAA 5A State Runner-Up; Head Coach Record at Basehor-Linwood: 95-33. Overall Head Coaching Record: 161-61 (Quivira Heights, Lyndon, Basehor-Linwood)Kansas Shrine Bowl Experience: East Assistant Coach (2008-Lyndon; 2014, 2021-Basehor-Linwood), East Head Coach (2009-Lyndon; 2022-Basehor-Linwood)“I'm excited to be able to represent the Basehor-Linwood football program and the Basehor-Linwood community in the Kansas Shrine Bowl and do a small part to help such a noble and worthy cause.”4A Assistant: Bradley Argabright, Labette County. 2025 Record: 9-3; Head Coach Record at Labette County: 9-3. Kansas Shrine Bowl Experience: First game“It is an incredible honor to have the opportunity to represent the 4A East in the 2026 Kansas Shrine Bowl. This opportunity reflects the hard work and commitment of the great team and coaching staff I was able to lead in the 2025 season at Labette County High School. I am grateful to be able to help spread the Shriner's mission and to be able to coach some of the amazing young men who embody what football in Kansas is all about.”3A Assistant: Greg Slade, Santa Fe Trail. 2025 Record: 11-1; Head Coach Record at Santa Fe Trail: 16-5. Overall Head Coaching Record: 136-117 (Rose Hill, Campus, Newton, Santa Fe Trail). Kansas Shrine Bowl Experience: West Assistant Coach (2005, 2012-Rose Hill)“It is an honor to get to represent Santa Fe Trail HS, Our School District, and Communities at 2026 Kansas Shrine Bowl. I want to thank my wife, Lisa, for all support she gives me as a High School Head Football Coach.”2A Assistant: Andrew Gantenbein, Osage City. 2025 Record: 10-2; Head Coach Record at Osage City: 112-61. Kansas Shrine Bowl Experience: East Assistant Coach (2021-Osage City)“I am excited to coach in the 2026 Kansas Shrine Bowl. I've had the opportunity to do it once before, and it was a great experience. I look forward to working with this year's staff and players as we get together and compete for a great cause.”1A Assistant: Derick Hammes, Rossville. 2025 Record: 11-2 *KSHSAA 1A State Runner-Up; Head Coach Record at Rossville: 126-30. Overall Head Coaching Record: 154-85 (Center, MO, Washburn Rural, Rossville). Kansas Shrine Bowl Experience: 1989 East All-Star (Nemaha Valley); East Assistant Coach (2016, 2022-Rossville); East Head Coach (2017-Rossville)“I'm excited to get to coach the "best of the best" as I have another opportunity to be involved in the Kansas Shrine Bowl.&nbsp; Most importantly, I'm honored to get the chance to help the Shrine Bowl achieve its mission of helping children in need.”2026 Kansas Shrine Bowl West Coaching StaffHead Coach: Daniel Myears, Mulvane 2025 Record: 8-2; Head Coach Record at Mulvane: 39-37 Kansas Shrine Bowl Experience: West Assistant Coach (2025-Mulvane) “I am truly honored and humbled to have the opportunity to be involved with the Kansas Shrine Bowl again in 2026. After serving as an assistant coach in 2025, I was inspired by the incredible work the Shriners Hospitals have done and continue to do for children in need. I’m grateful for the chance to play a small role in supporting their mission.”6A Assistant: Randall Zimmerman, Junction City. 2025 Record: 7-3; Head Coach Record at Junction City: 205-112. Overall Head Coaching Record: 237-145 (Salina Sacred Heart, Phillipsburg, Junction City). Kansas Shrine Bowl Experience: Most All-Time Coaching Appearances in Kansas Shrine Bowl history; West Assistant Coach (1988, 1995, 2009, 2015, 2021-Junction City); West Head Coach (1996, 2010, 2016-Junction City)“I am very honored to be a part of this game this year.&nbsp; I have great respect for Shriners and their families for what they do for the children of the hospital.&nbsp; The Shrine Bowl experience is very humbling, bringing an incredible appreciation for the talents and gifts we have been given.”5A Assistant: Erin Beck, Great Bend. 2025 Record: 11-1; Head Coach Record at Great Bend: 61-39. Kansas Shrine Bowl Experience: West Assistant Coach (2020-Great Bend)“Such an honor to be selected to represent the 5A West once again. Very excited for this opportunity. Was an assistant during the summer of 2020 so was unable to fully experience everything due to COVID.”4A Assistant: Dawson Elliott, Augusta. 2025 Record: 5-6; Head Coach Record at Augusta: 6-14. Kansas Shrine Bowl Experience: First game“I am honored to coach in such a historic game as the Shrine Bowl, and I look forward to the experience.”3A Assistant: Brent Hoelting, Pratt. 2025 Record: 9-2; Head Coach Record at Pratt: 37-29. Overall Head Coaching Record: 74-44 (Lyndon, Pratt). Kansas Shrine Bowl Experience: East Assistant Coach (2017-Lyndon)“Coaching in the Kansas Shrine Bowl is a tremendous honor. It's a reflection of having great kids and assistants in your program. I am excited to get to know this year's team and to get to help raise money for such a worthy cause.”2A Assistant: Todd Rice, Garden Plain. 2025 Record: 9-2; Head Coach Record at Garden Plain: 29-12. Overall Head Coaching Record: 172-143 (Ness City, Phillipsburg, Henderson NE, North Platte NE, Clay Center, Garden Plain). Kansas Shrine Bowl Experience: First game (2009 Nebraska Shrine Bowl Assistant Coach)“I feel that being selected to participate in the Shrine Bowl is the highest honor that a high school athlete, or coach can attain. I am very humbled and look forward to being involved in such an impactful event.”1A Assistant: Brent Schneider, Sterling. 2025 Record: 13-0 *KSHSAA 1A State Champions; Head Coach Record at Sterling: 36-33. Overall Head Coaching Record: 51-57 (Ellsworth, Chase, Sterling). Kansas Shrine Bowl Experience: First game“It is an amazing honor that I have been chosen as an assistant coach for the 2026 Kansas Shrine Bowl. I would like to give the glory to my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Thank you to my assistant coaches, their families, SHS, and the Sterling community. Most of all, thank you to my wife Mariah. I couldn't be more excited for this opportunity to participate with these fantastic coaches and athletes.”

🏈 53rd Kansas Shrine Bowl Coaching Staff Announced

<a>MANHATTAN, Kan.</a>&nbsp;–&nbsp;A seven-year coaching staff member who has tutored Wildcat defensive ends to 10 All-Big 12 honors,&nbsp;Buddy Wyatt&nbsp;will remain on staff to coach the Kansas State defensive line, head coach&nbsp;Collin Klein&nbsp;announced Monday.

Wyatt has coached at K-State since 2019 and guided players to All-Big 12 First Team honors on five occasions.

“I appreciate Collin placing his trust in me,” Wyatt said. “Kansas State has a strong tradition and culture, and I am excited to be a part of this staff. I look forward to helping our players and this program succeed.”

Wyatt worked alongside Klein in each of his first five seasons in Manhattan.

“Buddy has a tremendous track record of developing young men,” Klein said. “I have always admired how he built genuine relationships with players and staff. He is of the highest character, and I am very excited we he will be with us moving forward.”

Wyatt has guided K-State players to three Big 12 Defensive Lineman of the Year honors over his first seven seasons in Manhattan. In fact, when adding in his time coaching Adam Carriker at Nebraska to the honor in 2006, Wyatt has tutored the most Big 12 Defensive Linemen of the Year in league history.

The latest recipient of the award was Brendan Mott in 2024, who also earned All-Big 12 First Team honors. Mott ranked 26th nationally and was tops in the Big 12 in sacks (0.65 sacks per game), while he tied for fourth in the Big 12 in tackles for loss. He led a defensive unit that finished with a No. 25 national ranking in sacks at 2.69 per game, which was its best ranking since 2015. Of the 35 total sacks on the year, 23 came from Wyatt’s ends.

Wyatt tutored two players to All-Big 12 honors in 2023 with Khalid Duke earning second-team honors in addition to earning votes for the Big 12 Defensive Lineman of the Year award, while Mott was an honorable mention pick.

Wyatt’s unit in 2022 was headlined by Big 12 Player of the Year and Big 12 Defensive Lineman of the Year Felix Anudike-Uzomah, who earned All-Big 12 First Team honors each of the final two seasons of his career. Wyatt helped Anudike-Uzomah tie for fourth in K-State history in career forced fumbles (8) and sixth in career sacks (20.5). Anudike-Uzomah also picked up multiple All-American designations – including a first-team honor from&nbsp;USA TODAY&nbsp;– and was a finalist for the Ted Hendricks Award and Lott IMPACT Trophy. He was selected in the first round of the 2023 NFL Draft by Kansas City, the Wildcats’ first first-round draft pick since 2009. Along with Anudike-Uzomah, Wyatt tutored a breakout season for Mott, who ranked sixth in the Big 12 with 6.0 sacks.

In 2021, Wyatt and his defensive ends helped K-State rack up 90 tackles for loss on the year – the most since 2006 – to rank 10th in school history. Wyatt coached Anudike-Uzomah, then a sophomore, to All-America honors, while he was the co-Big 12 Defensive Lineman of the Year and an All-Big 12 First Team honoree. Anudike-Uzomah, who also earned votes for the Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year award, tied for the national lead in forced fumbles per game (0.46), while he ranked 11th nationally and second in the Big 12 in sacks per game (0.85). His 11.0 total sacks tied for fifth in school history, and his six forced fumbles tied the school record.

Wyatt coached Wyatt Hubert in 2020 to another All-Big 12 First Team honor from the league’s coaches – and was the only unanimous choice on defense – as he tied for third in the Big 12 and 16th in the nation in sacks. Thanks to Wyatt’s teachings, Hubert finished his career tied for eighth in school history with 20.0 career sacks, while he left ranking seventh in the nation among active players in sacks per game (0.59) and 10th in tackles for loss per game (1.00). Hubert went on to be selected in the 2021 NFL Draft by Cincinnati.

Arriving at K-State for the 2019 season, Wyatt went right to work with two dynamic ends, coaching senior Reggie Walker to All-Big 12 Honorable Mention accolades and Hubert to All-Big 12 First Team honors. Under Wyatt, Hubert also earned votes for the Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year and Big 12 Defensive Lineman of the Year awards. Hubert tied for second in the Big 12 in sacks and ranked 10th in tackles for loss.

Wyatt came to Manhattan after serving as a senior analyst at Kansas in 2018. His previous full-time assistant coaching job was tutoring the SMU defensive line from 2015 to 2017. He also spent time in the Big 12 at Oklahoma State (1996), Colorado (1999), Texas A&amp;M (2000-02; 2008-09) and Nebraska (2007). His other Power 4 coaching stints have been at Minnesota (1992-95), Northwestern (1997-98) and Alabama (2003-06).

During his career, Wyatt has been selected to the NCAA Expert Coaches Academy, a program that addresses the shortage of ethnic minorities in college football head coaching positions and raises awareness regarding the deep pool of talented, qualified coaching candidates.

A native of Victoria, Texas, Wyatt was a defensive lineman at TCU from 1986 to 1989. He earned his bachelor’s degree in education from TCU in 1990 and began his coaching career as a graduate assistant for the Horned Frogs working with the defensive line in 1991.

Wyatt and his wife, Andrea, have two children, Fredrick and Ariel. Fred played collegiately at Northwestern and is the current defensive line coach at the Air Force Academy.

College:&nbsp;TCU – Bachelor’s degree in education (1990)

Family:&nbsp;Wife: Andrea; Children: Fredrick, Ariel

Playing Career:&nbsp;TCU (defensive line), 1986-89

<a>MANHATTAN, Kan.</a>&nbsp;–&nbsp;A seven-year coaching staff member who has tutored Wildcat defensive ends to 10 All-Big 12 honors,&nbsp;Buddy Wyatt&nbsp;will remain on staff to coach the Kansas State defensive line, head coach&nbsp;Collin Klein&nbsp;announced Monday.Wyatt has coached at K-State since 2019 and guided players to All-Big 12 First Team honors on five occasions.“I appreciate Collin placing his trust in me,” Wyatt said. “Kansas State has a strong tradition and culture, and I am excited to be a part of this staff. I look forward to helping our players and this program succeed.”Wyatt worked alongside Klein in each of his first five seasons in Manhattan.“Buddy has a tremendous track record of developing young men,” Klein said. “I have always admired how he built genuine relationships with players and staff. He is of the highest character, and I am very excited we he will be with us moving forward.”Wyatt has guided K-State players to three Big 12 Defensive Lineman of the Year honors over his first seven seasons in Manhattan. In fact, when adding in his time coaching Adam Carriker at Nebraska to the honor in 2006, Wyatt has tutored the most Big 12 Defensive Linemen of the Year in league history.The latest recipient of the award was Brendan Mott in 2024, who also earned All-Big 12 First Team honors. Mott ranked 26th nationally and was tops in the Big 12 in sacks (0.65 sacks per game), while he tied for fourth in the Big 12 in tackles for loss. He led a defensive unit that finished with a No. 25 national ranking in sacks at 2.69 per game, which was its best ranking since 2015. Of the 35 total sacks on the year, 23 came from Wyatt’s ends.Wyatt tutored two players to All-Big 12 honors in 2023 with Khalid Duke earning second-team honors in addition to earning votes for the Big 12 Defensive Lineman of the Year award, while Mott was an honorable mention pick.Wyatt’s unit in 2022 was headlined by Big 12 Player of the Year and Big 12 Defensive Lineman of the Year Felix Anudike-Uzomah, who earned All-Big 12 First Team honors each of the final two seasons of his career. Wyatt helped Anudike-Uzomah tie for fourth in K-State history in career forced fumbles (8) and sixth in career sacks (20.5). Anudike-Uzomah also picked up multiple All-American designations – including a first-team honor from&nbsp;USA TODAY&nbsp;– and was a finalist for the Ted Hendricks Award and Lott IMPACT Trophy. He was selected in the first round of the 2023 NFL Draft by Kansas City, the Wildcats’ first first-round draft pick since 2009. Along with Anudike-Uzomah, Wyatt tutored a breakout season for Mott, who ranked sixth in the Big 12 with 6.0 sacks.In 2021, Wyatt and his defensive ends helped K-State rack up 90 tackles for loss on the year – the most since 2006 – to rank 10th in school history. Wyatt coached Anudike-Uzomah, then a sophomore, to All-America honors, while he was the co-Big 12 Defensive Lineman of the Year and an All-Big 12 First Team honoree. Anudike-Uzomah, who also earned votes for the Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year award, tied for the national lead in forced fumbles per game (0.46), while he ranked 11th nationally and second in the Big 12 in sacks per game (0.85). His 11.0 total sacks tied for fifth in school history, and his six forced fumbles tied the school record.Wyatt coached Wyatt Hubert in 2020 to another All-Big 12 First Team honor from the league’s coaches – and was the only unanimous choice on defense – as he tied for third in the Big 12 and 16th in the nation in sacks. Thanks to Wyatt’s teachings, Hubert finished his career tied for eighth in school history with 20.0 career sacks, while he left ranking seventh in the nation among active players in sacks per game (0.59) and 10th in tackles for loss per game (1.00). Hubert went on to be selected in the 2021 NFL Draft by Cincinnati.Arriving at K-State for the 2019 season, Wyatt went right to work with two dynamic ends, coaching senior Reggie Walker to All-Big 12 Honorable Mention accolades and Hubert to All-Big 12 First Team honors. Under Wyatt, Hubert also earned votes for the Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year and Big 12 Defensive Lineman of the Year awards. Hubert tied for second in the Big 12 in sacks and ranked 10th in tackles for loss.Wyatt came to Manhattan after serving as a senior analyst at Kansas in 2018. His previous full-time assistant coaching job was tutoring the SMU defensive line from 2015 to 2017. He also spent time in the Big 12 at Oklahoma State (1996), Colorado (1999), Texas A&amp;M (2000-02; 2008-09) and Nebraska (2007). His other Power 4 coaching stints have been at Minnesota (1992-95), Northwestern (1997-98) and Alabama (2003-06).During his career, Wyatt has been selected to the NCAA Expert Coaches Academy, a program that addresses the shortage of ethnic minorities in college football head coaching positions and raises awareness regarding the deep pool of talented, qualified coaching candidates.A native of Victoria, Texas, Wyatt was a defensive lineman at TCU from 1986 to 1989. He earned his bachelor’s degree in education from TCU in 1990 and began his coaching career as a graduate assistant for the Horned Frogs working with the defensive line in 1991.Wyatt and his wife, Andrea, have two children, Fredrick and Ariel. Fred played collegiately at Northwestern and is the current defensive line coach at the Air Force Academy.THE BUDDY WYATT FILEHometown:&nbsp;Victoria, TexasCollege:&nbsp;TCU – Bachelor’s degree in education (1990)Family:&nbsp;Wife: Andrea; Children: Fredrick, ArielPlaying Career:&nbsp;TCU (defensive line), 1986-89BUDDY WYATT’S COACHING CAREER1991, TCU (Graduate Assistant)1992-95, Minnesota (Defensive Line)1996, Oklahoma State (Defensive Line)1997-98, Northwestern (Defensive Line)1999, Colorado (Defensive Line)2000-02, Texas A&amp;M (Defensive Line)2003-06, Alabama (Defensive Line)2007, Nebraska (Defensive Line)2008-09, Texas A&amp;M (Defensive Line)2010-14, Kansas (Defensive Line)2015-17, SMU (Defensive Line)2018, Kansas (Senior Analyst)2019-2025, Kansas State (Defensive Ends)

🏈 Buddy Wyatt to Coach K-State Defensive Line

Chiefs Head Coach Andy Reid Quotes

OPENING STATEMENT:&nbsp;“After reviewing the tape, I basically feel the same way I did last night. We’ve got to clean up some things really all three phases. There were some good things from our young guys but not enough. We’ll go back to the drawing board here and work on that. For information, Patrick (Mahomes) is going to go back to Dallas for a second opinion with Dr. (Dan) Cooper, and we’ll just see. We’ll give you updates as we go from there. Then as far as the other injuries go, I really don’t have anything to offer you right now. We’ll talk about that later. With that, time’s yours.”

Q: How do you think Patrick Mahomes will attack rehab and that challenge?

REID:&nbsp;“Just what you said, he’ll (Patrick Mahomes) attack it. Just like he does everything else. There’s been some pretty good quarterbacks that have had this same injury, and they’ve done pretty well after they came back. He’ll get after it, and he has good people here to rehab him, and he’ll get in here and be right on top of all that.”

Q: How much can you use these last three games of the season to evaluate young talent on the team?

REID:&nbsp;“Listen, every game you go into can be Yahtzee if you want to win. We’re in America here, that’s what we do. You want to go in to play your best and – if the guys are available, they’re going to play. They know that and they want to do that, so you find out.”

Q: How much have you talked to Patrick Mahomes in the last 18 hours after the injury?

REID:&nbsp;“I’ve had a good visit with him (Patrick Mahomes) a couple of different times. He’s in a good place. He felt like he let people down but then he comes back, and he’s ready for the challenge ahead, which is what’s real right now. He’s just got to get through surgery wherever it might be and then move on from there.”

Q: What are your own thoughts and emotions on Patrick Mahomes injury?

REID:&nbsp;“I know the process of rehab and for sure he’ll get in there and I know he’ll come out on the strong end of this thing. As we go here, we’re finding a lot out about our team. Some of the young guys are having opportunities to play, we’re going to finish this season strong and with effort. Then you get into the offseason, but I’m always optimistic about going forward. (General Manger) Brett Veach does a heck of a job with bringing players in as you can see now by the guys that are in there playing. Then it’s our responsibility to clean things up on the coaching side of it and the players to take responsibility on their end and finish these three games and then whoever is here after to retool it.”

Q: What’s the thought process on potentially not playing younger players in the last three games of the season knowing you won’t be in the playoffs?

REID:&nbsp;“Well, Soren (Petro), most of them are already playing (chuckles). That’s the main thing. I have to see what the injuries are here from this game and then go from there. But most of the young guys are having an opportunity in one phase or another. You only have so many numbers in this thing that you can play with, and the NFL is not quite like college where you have 90 guys that you can just pick and choose from.”

Q:&nbsp;Do you feel like the offense has been out of sync all season?

REID:&nbsp;“When you lose close games, you search for things because you want to fix it. Sometimes it’s a penalty here or sometimes it’s a turnover here. It can be a variety of things. It’s always one little thing that determines close games, normally one or two things, and we’ve had our share of those, and you can’t have those. It could be the wrong play, called the wrong play at the wrong time. We’ve all got a piece of this thing and you have to keep striving to fix it and then do what you have to do in the offseason, but you finish these games here striving to do better and cleaning up some things. I mention one of the positive thing is you get to see a lot of young guys play out of it and see what they’re all about.”

Q: Is Patrick Mahomes getting a second opinion due to the potential of further damage beyond the ACL?

REID:&nbsp;“No, but these guys normally do that on that Sam (McDowell). Those guys get a second opinion (I) probably put it up as much as probably over 90% of the guys do this. That’s just part of it, and that’s what he’s (Patrick Mahomes) doing.”

Q: On the team typically getting better throughout the season and other teams now doing the same.

REID:&nbsp;“You’ve always got to continue to strive to build and add to the roster and then you’ve got to stay ahead of the game as a coach. And that’s every offseason. That’s the challenge. Sometimes when you’re good for the period of time that we’ve been doing well, you’re not picking very high in the draft and you make things work. Nobody is doing it better than (General Manager) Brett (Veach) has of being able to keep everything afloat and then still not spending a ton on – working in the free agency market as much as a lot of people do. He's done an amazing job at juggling all of that.”

Q: Did Patrick Mahomes’ initial diagnosis mention a meniscus or anything or just the ACL?

REID:&nbsp;“It’s just what they (Kansas City Chiefs) put out there. We try not to hide too much from you, right (laughs). It’s not our game. I try to keep it right up front with you, so that’s the information that they had and they put it out for you.”

Q: You haven’t missed the playoffs in a long time, how does that resonate with you?

REID:&nbsp;“Yeah Todd (Leabo) obviously I’m not happy about it. Nor is anybody here. We strive for excellence; we try to do that every year. Things happen though in this league, and it’s a ton of parity and sometimes you end up on the short end of it and you’ve got to go back and look at things and that can be healthy and we’ve got good people to do that with and we’ve got a good nucleus of players. So, we’ve got to go back and look at all of that.”

Q: Are these next three games an audition for Gardner Minshew going into the 2026 season?

REID:&nbsp;“I’ve got a ton of confidence in Gardner (Minshew). I’ve watched him play with these other teams. He’s started in the league. Our guys have confidence in him. And then Chris Oladokun behind him will work up there and Chris has been with us for a while too so I think they’re two guys who our guys trust in there and will play hard for.”

Q: Is Patrick Mahomes going to see Dan Cooper down in Dallas?

Q:&nbsp;How does Patrick Mahomes’ injury change your approach to the offseason?

Chiefs Head Coach Andy Reid QuotesDecember 15, 2025OPENING STATEMENT:&nbsp;“After reviewing the tape, I basically feel the same way I did last night. We’ve got to clean up some things really all three phases. There were some good things from our young guys but not enough. We’ll go back to the drawing board here and work on that. For information, Patrick (Mahomes) is going to go back to Dallas for a second opinion with Dr. (Dan) Cooper, and we’ll just see. We’ll give you updates as we go from there. Then as far as the other injuries go, I really don’t have anything to offer you right now. We’ll talk about that later. With that, time’s yours.”Q: How do you think Patrick Mahomes will attack rehab and that challenge?REID:&nbsp;“Just what you said, he’ll (Patrick Mahomes) attack it. Just like he does everything else. There’s been some pretty good quarterbacks that have had this same injury, and they’ve done pretty well after they came back. He’ll get after it, and he has good people here to rehab him, and he’ll get in here and be right on top of all that.”Q: How much can you use these last three games of the season to evaluate young talent on the team?REID:&nbsp;“Listen, every game you go into can be Yahtzee if you want to win. We’re in America here, that’s what we do. You want to go in to play your best and – if the guys are available, they’re going to play. They know that and they want to do that, so you find out.”Q: How much have you talked to Patrick Mahomes in the last 18 hours after the injury?REID:&nbsp;“I’ve had a good visit with him (Patrick Mahomes) a couple of different times. He’s in a good place. He felt like he let people down but then he comes back, and he’s ready for the challenge ahead, which is what’s real right now. He’s just got to get through surgery wherever it might be and then move on from there.”Q: What are your own thoughts and emotions on Patrick Mahomes injury?REID:&nbsp;“I know the process of rehab and for sure he’ll get in there and I know he’ll come out on the strong end of this thing. As we go here, we’re finding a lot out about our team. Some of the young guys are having opportunities to play, we’re going to finish this season strong and with effort. Then you get into the offseason, but I’m always optimistic about going forward. (General Manger) Brett Veach does a heck of a job with bringing players in as you can see now by the guys that are in there playing. Then it’s our responsibility to clean things up on the coaching side of it and the players to take responsibility on their end and finish these three games and then whoever is here after to retool it.”Q: What’s the thought process on potentially not playing younger players in the last three games of the season knowing you won’t be in the playoffs?REID:&nbsp;“Well, Soren (Petro), most of them are already playing (chuckles). That’s the main thing. I have to see what the injuries are here from this game and then go from there. But most of the young guys are having an opportunity in one phase or another. You only have so many numbers in this thing that you can play with, and the NFL is not quite like college where you have 90 guys that you can just pick and choose from.”Q:&nbsp;Do you feel like the offense has been out of sync all season?REID:&nbsp;“When you lose close games, you search for things because you want to fix it. Sometimes it’s a penalty here or sometimes it’s a turnover here. It can be a variety of things. It’s always one little thing that determines close games, normally one or two things, and we’ve had our share of those, and you can’t have those. It could be the wrong play, called the wrong play at the wrong time. We’ve all got a piece of this thing and you have to keep striving to fix it and then do what you have to do in the offseason, but you finish these games here striving to do better and cleaning up some things. I mention one of the positive thing is you get to see a lot of young guys play out of it and see what they’re all about.”Q: Is Patrick Mahomes getting a second opinion due to the potential of further damage beyond the ACL?REID:&nbsp;“No, but these guys normally do that on that Sam (McDowell). Those guys get a second opinion (I) probably put it up as much as probably over 90% of the guys do this. That’s just part of it, and that’s what he’s (Patrick Mahomes) doing.”Q: On the team typically getting better throughout the season and other teams now doing the same.REID:&nbsp;“You’ve always got to continue to strive to build and add to the roster and then you’ve got to stay ahead of the game as a coach. And that’s every offseason. That’s the challenge. Sometimes when you’re good for the period of time that we’ve been doing well, you’re not picking very high in the draft and you make things work. Nobody is doing it better than (General Manager) Brett (Veach) has of being able to keep everything afloat and then still not spending a ton on – working in the free agency market as much as a lot of people do. He's done an amazing job at juggling all of that.”Q: Did Patrick Mahomes’ initial diagnosis mention a meniscus or anything or just the ACL?REID:&nbsp;“It’s just what they (Kansas City Chiefs) put out there. We try not to hide too much from you, right (laughs). It’s not our game. I try to keep it right up front with you, so that’s the information that they had and they put it out for you.”Q: You haven’t missed the playoffs in a long time, how does that resonate with you?REID:&nbsp;“Yeah Todd (Leabo) obviously I’m not happy about it. Nor is anybody here. We strive for excellence; we try to do that every year. Things happen though in this league, and it’s a ton of parity and sometimes you end up on the short end of it and you’ve got to go back and look at things and that can be healthy and we’ve got good people to do that with and we’ve got a good nucleus of players. So, we’ve got to go back and look at all of that.”Q: Are these next three games an audition for Gardner Minshew going into the 2026 season?REID:&nbsp;“I’ve got a ton of confidence in Gardner (Minshew). I’ve watched him play with these other teams. He’s started in the league. Our guys have confidence in him. And then Chris Oladokun behind him will work up there and Chris has been with us for a while too so I think they’re two guys who our guys trust in there and will play hard for.”Q: Is Patrick Mahomes going to see Dan Cooper down in Dallas?REID:&nbsp;“Yes, Dan Cooper.”Q:&nbsp;How does Patrick Mahomes’ injury change your approach to the offseason?

Chiefs Quotes: 12-15-25

KANSAS CITY, Mo.—The Kansas City Royals announced&nbsp;today&nbsp;they have acquired outfielder&nbsp;Isaac Collins&nbsp;and right-handed pitcher&nbsp;Nick Mears&nbsp;from the Milwaukee Brewers for left-handed pitcher&nbsp;Angel Zerpa. The Royals now have 39 players on their Major League Reserve List.

Collins, 28, slashed .263/.368/.411 (98-for-372) with 34 extra-base hits (.779 OPS) and 16 stolen bases in 130 games with the Brewers in 2025, his first full season in the Majors. He made 100 starts, including 91 in left field, 6 in right field, 2 at designated hitter and 1 at second base. He recorded 6 Outs Above Average in left field, most in the Majors among all players at the position.

Collins finished 4th in the National League Rookie of the Year ballot, after ranking among the NL rookie leaders in walks (1st, 57), RBI (3rd, 54), runs (T-4th, 56), doubles (T-4th, 22) and hits (5th, 98). He was named the National League Rookie of the Month for July, during which he slashed .321/.411/.436 (25-for-78) in 23 games.

Collins, a switch hitter, batted .279 (69-for-247) with an .802 OPS vs. right-handed pitchers in 2025 and .232 (29-for-125) with a .732 OPS vs. left handers, though 4 of his 9 home runs came vs. southpaws. He was one of five switch hitters in the Majors in 2025 to record at least 30 extra-base hits and 15 stolen bases, along with&nbsp;José Ramírez,&nbsp;Francisco Lindor,&nbsp;Elly De La Cruz&nbsp;and&nbsp;Geraldo Perdomo.

Mears, 29, has pitched for three teams over parts of six seasons in the Majors, including Pittsburgh (2020-22), Colorado (2023-24) and Milwaukee (2024-25). He set career highs with the Brewers in 2025 in wins (5), appearances (63), holds (17) and ERA (3.49).

During his six seasons in the Majors, Mears has recorded 174 strikeouts in 164.0 innings (9.5 K/9), including a career-best 75 strikeouts in 57.2 innings (11.7 K/9) in 2024.

KANSAS CITY, Mo.—The Kansas City Royals announced&nbsp;today&nbsp;they have acquired outfielder&nbsp;Isaac Collins&nbsp;and right-handed pitcher&nbsp;Nick Mears&nbsp;from the Milwaukee Brewers for left-handed pitcher&nbsp;Angel Zerpa. The Royals now have 39 players on their Major League Reserve List.Collins, 28, slashed .263/.368/.411 (98-for-372) with 34 extra-base hits (.779 OPS) and 16 stolen bases in 130 games with the Brewers in 2025, his first full season in the Majors. He made 100 starts, including 91 in left field, 6 in right field, 2 at designated hitter and 1 at second base. He recorded 6 Outs Above Average in left field, most in the Majors among all players at the position.Collins finished 4th in the National League Rookie of the Year ballot, after ranking among the NL rookie leaders in walks (1st, 57), RBI (3rd, 54), runs (T-4th, 56), doubles (T-4th, 22) and hits (5th, 98). He was named the National League Rookie of the Month for July, during which he slashed .321/.411/.436 (25-for-78) in 23 games.Collins, a switch hitter, batted .279 (69-for-247) with an .802 OPS vs. right-handed pitchers in 2025 and .232 (29-for-125) with a .732 OPS vs. left handers, though 4 of his 9 home runs came vs. southpaws. He was one of five switch hitters in the Majors in 2025 to record at least 30 extra-base hits and 15 stolen bases, along with&nbsp;José Ramírez,&nbsp;Francisco Lindor,&nbsp;Elly De La Cruz&nbsp;and&nbsp;Geraldo Perdomo.Mears, 29, has pitched for three teams over parts of six seasons in the Majors, including Pittsburgh (2020-22), Colorado (2023-24) and Milwaukee (2024-25). He set career highs with the Brewers in 2025 in wins (5), appearances (63), holds (17) and ERA (3.49).During his six seasons in the Majors, Mears has recorded 174 strikeouts in 164.0 innings (9.5 K/9), including a career-best 75 strikeouts in 57.2 innings (11.7 K/9) in 2024.

Royals Acquire Outfielder Isaac Collins and Pitcher Nick Mears from Milwaukee

OMAHA, NEBRASKA&nbsp;–&nbsp;K-State ended its non-conference schedule with a 75-71 win at Creighton on Sunday at D.J. Sokol Arena.

K-State (7-6) saw every player that played in the game register at least one point and were paced by sophomore forward Nastja Claessens by tying her career-high with 21 points on 8-of-11 shooting and pulled in five rebounds.

Freshman guard Jordan Speiser notched 15 points on 4-of-7 shooting, while sophomore guard Izela Arenas added 10 points.

- K-State won the first quarter with a strong offensive performance, outscoring the Bluejays, 21-15, on 9-of-16 shooting (.563). The 21 points were the most in a quarter for the Wildcats since scoring 22 in the third quarter against South Dakota State on Nov. 29.

- After Creighton (4-5, 1-0 Big East) trimmed the K-State lead to three, 23-20, early in the second quarter, the Wildcats used a 7-0 run in thirty seconds to take a 30-20 lead with 6:47 remaining in the frame and force the Bluejays to call their second timeout of the first half.

- Freshman Jordan Speiser started the run with a pair of free throws and was quickly followed by a steal and layup from freshman Gina Garcia. On the next defensive possession, senior Tess Heal snared a steal and found sophomore Izela Arenas open in the corner for a 3-pointer.

- Creighton would narrow the margin to four, 38-34, but a driving layup from Garcia and a corner three-pointer in transition from junior Taryn Sides rebuilt the K-State lead to 43-34 with 1:07 to play. Heal would cap the first half with a driving acrobatic layup to beat the buzzer and give the Wildcats a 45-36 halftime lead.

- K-State shot 56.3 percent (18-of-32) from the field in the first half, including 50.0 percent (5-of-10) from beyond the arc. This was the first time K-State registered 20 or more points in each quarter of the first half since November 27 against Columbia.

- Three-pointers from Sides and Claessens to begin the third quarter forced Creighton into burning its third timeout of the afternoon, as K-State increased its lead to 51-36 with 8:12 left.

- Creighton used a 10-0 run to cut the K-State lead to four, 53-49, with 1:38 remaining, but a fastbreak layup from Aniya Foy ended the Wildcat drought and was followed by a layup from Arenas to give the Wildcats a 57-49 lead heading into the final quarter. K-State was limited to a 30.8 percent effort (4-of-13) from the field in third frame.

- The Bluejays used an 11-2 run early in the fourth quarter to close to within one, 61-60, and force a K-State timeout with 6:15 to play. Creighton would eventually take a one-point lead, 64-63, on a fastbreak layup.

- K-State recovered to with a 7-2 run to build a 71-67 lead with 2:49 remaining in the fourth quarter. Claessens started the rally with a layup and a 3-pointer and was followed by a layup from Speiser with 2:49 to play.

- After the Bluejays tied the game at 71 with 1:11 remaining, Speiser finished a putback layup with 42 seconds left. After a missed layup from Creighton with seven seconds left, Claessens buried two free throws to seal the win with five seconds left.

- K-State shot 47.4 percent (27-of-57) from the field for the game, including 40.0 percent (8-of-20) from 3-point range.

- The Wildcats held a 36-24 advantage in points in the paint and a 14-2 edge in fastbreak points.

- K-State leads the series with Creighton, 17-5, including a 6-4 mark in games played in Omaha. Head coach Jeff Mittie is 2-0 in his career against Creighton. The Wildcats are 22-11 against current members of the Big East Conference.

- K-State head coach Jeff Mittie owns a career record of 679-384 (.639), including a mark of 225-149 (.602).

- The Wildcats are 301-330 (.477) in road games in its 58-season history. Under Mittie, K-State is 52-73 (.416) in road games.

- The Wildcats are 253-104 (.709) in games played in the month of December. Under head coach Jeff Mittie, K-State is 52-19 (.732) in games during the 12th&nbsp;month.

- K-State's starting five consisted of guards Gina Garcia, Brandie Harrod, Taryn Sides and forwards Jenessa Cotton and Nastja Claessens. This was the sixth time this lineup has started together this season. This was the 13th career start for Harrod. This was the 12th career start for Sides. This was the 11th career start for Garcia. Cotton made her ninth career start. Claessens made her ninth career start.

- The Wildcats held a 45-36 lead at halftime on Sunday. Under Mittie, K-State is 180-21 (.896) when leading at halftime, including a 4-0 mark this season.

- Since the start of the quarter system in 2015-16, K-State is 165-69 (.705) when scoring 20 or more points in any quarter in a game. K-State has 19 quarters this season with 20 or more points scored. K-State scored 20 or more in the first and second quarters on Sunday.

- K-State has 20 quarters this season with an effort of 50.0 percent or better including 50.0 percent performance in the first and second quarters on Sunday.

- The Wildcats scored 33 bench points on Sunday. This is the 11th&nbsp;time this season K-State has scored 20 or more points from its bench.

- Claessens achieved double figures in scoring for the sixth time this season. This was her second career game with 20 or more points and tied her career-high.

- Arenas registered her sixth game this season and the 11th of her career with 10 or more points.

- Arenas made two 3-pointers on Sunday. This was her ninth career game and her fourth this season with two or more connections from long range.

- Speiser scored in double figures for the sixth time this season.

- Garcia registered six assists. This was her seventh career game with five or more assists. She has led K-State in assists in nine games this season.

- Garcia pulled in a career-high six rebounds. This was her second career game with five or more rebounds.

- Sides buried two 3-pointers on Sunday. This was her 10th game this season and the 41st&nbsp;of her career with two or more connections from 3-point range.

OMAHA, NEBRASKA&nbsp;–&nbsp;K-State ended its non-conference schedule with a 75-71 win at Creighton on Sunday at D.J. Sokol Arena.K-State (7-6) saw every player that played in the game register at least one point and were paced by sophomore forward Nastja Claessens by tying her career-high with 21 points on 8-of-11 shooting and pulled in five rebounds.Freshman guard Jordan Speiser notched 15 points on 4-of-7 shooting, while sophomore guard Izela Arenas added 10 points.HOW IT HAPPENED- K-State won the first quarter with a strong offensive performance, outscoring the Bluejays, 21-15, on 9-of-16 shooting (.563). The 21 points were the most in a quarter for the Wildcats since scoring 22 in the third quarter against South Dakota State on Nov. 29.- After Creighton (4-5, 1-0 Big East) trimmed the K-State lead to three, 23-20, early in the second quarter, the Wildcats used a 7-0 run in thirty seconds to take a 30-20 lead with 6:47 remaining in the frame and force the Bluejays to call their second timeout of the first half.- Freshman Jordan Speiser started the run with a pair of free throws and was quickly followed by a steal and layup from freshman Gina Garcia. On the next defensive possession, senior Tess Heal snared a steal and found sophomore Izela Arenas open in the corner for a 3-pointer.- Creighton would narrow the margin to four, 38-34, but a driving layup from Garcia and a corner three-pointer in transition from junior Taryn Sides rebuilt the K-State lead to 43-34 with 1:07 to play. Heal would cap the first half with a driving acrobatic layup to beat the buzzer and give the Wildcats a 45-36 halftime lead.- K-State shot 56.3 percent (18-of-32) from the field in the first half, including 50.0 percent (5-of-10) from beyond the arc. This was the first time K-State registered 20 or more points in each quarter of the first half since November 27 against Columbia.- Three-pointers from Sides and Claessens to begin the third quarter forced Creighton into burning its third timeout of the afternoon, as K-State increased its lead to 51-36 with 8:12 left.- Creighton used a 10-0 run to cut the K-State lead to four, 53-49, with 1:38 remaining, but a fastbreak layup from Aniya Foy ended the Wildcat drought and was followed by a layup from Arenas to give the Wildcats a 57-49 lead heading into the final quarter. K-State was limited to a 30.8 percent effort (4-of-13) from the field in third frame.- The Bluejays used an 11-2 run early in the fourth quarter to close to within one, 61-60, and force a K-State timeout with 6:15 to play. Creighton would eventually take a one-point lead, 64-63, on a fastbreak layup.- K-State recovered to with a 7-2 run to build a 71-67 lead with 2:49 remaining in the fourth quarter. Claessens started the rally with a layup and a 3-pointer and was followed by a layup from Speiser with 2:49 to play.- After the Bluejays tied the game at 71 with 1:11 remaining, Speiser finished a putback layup with 42 seconds left. After a missed layup from Creighton with seven seconds left, Claessens buried two free throws to seal the win with five seconds left.- K-State shot 47.4 percent (27-of-57) from the field for the game, including 40.0 percent (8-of-20) from 3-point range.- The Wildcats held a 36-24 advantage in points in the paint and a 14-2 edge in fastbreak points.QUICK FACTS- K-State leads the series with Creighton, 17-5, including a 6-4 mark in games played in Omaha. Head coach Jeff Mittie is 2-0 in his career against Creighton. The Wildcats are 22-11 against current members of the Big East Conference.- K-State head coach Jeff Mittie owns a career record of 679-384 (.639), including a mark of 225-149 (.602).- The Wildcats are 301-330 (.477) in road games in its 58-season history. Under Mittie, K-State is 52-73 (.416) in road games.- The Wildcats are 253-104 (.709) in games played in the month of December. Under head coach Jeff Mittie, K-State is 52-19 (.732) in games during the 12th&nbsp;month.TEAM NOTES- K-State's starting five consisted of guards Gina Garcia, Brandie Harrod, Taryn Sides and forwards Jenessa Cotton and Nastja Claessens. This was the sixth time this lineup has started together this season. This was the 13th career start for Harrod. This was the 12th career start for Sides. This was the 11th career start for Garcia. Cotton made her ninth career start. Claessens made her ninth career start.- The Wildcats held a 45-36 lead at halftime on Sunday. Under Mittie, K-State is 180-21 (.896) when leading at halftime, including a 4-0 mark this season.- Since the start of the quarter system in 2015-16, K-State is 165-69 (.705) when scoring 20 or more points in any quarter in a game. K-State has 19 quarters this season with 20 or more points scored. K-State scored 20 or more in the first and second quarters on Sunday.- K-State has 20 quarters this season with an effort of 50.0 percent or better including 50.0 percent performance in the first and second quarters on Sunday.- The Wildcats scored 33 bench points on Sunday. This is the 11th&nbsp;time this season K-State has scored 20 or more points from its bench.PLAYER NOTES- Claessens achieved double figures in scoring for the sixth time this season. This was her second career game with 20 or more points and tied her career-high.- Arenas registered her sixth game this season and the 11th of her career with 10 or more points.- Arenas made two 3-pointers on Sunday. This was her ninth career game and her fourth this season with two or more connections from long range.- Speiser scored in double figures for the sixth time this season.- Garcia registered six assists. This was her seventh career game with five or more assists. She has led K-State in assists in nine games this season.- Garcia pulled in a career-high six rebounds. This was her second career game with five or more rebounds.- Sides buried two 3-pointers on Sunday. This was her 10th game this season and the 41st&nbsp;of her career with two or more connections from 3-point range.- Sides dished out two assists on Sunday. Sides improved her career total to 238 and moved into sole possession of 24th in program history.- Sides hauled in five rebounds on Sunday. This was the ninth time this season and 25th&nbsp;time in her career with five or more rebounds in a game.UP NEXTK-State begins its Big 12 Conference schedule on Saturday, December 20, as the Wildcats visit (8/7) TCU at 4 p.m.