PROVIDENCE, R.I. (AP) — Jonas Aidoo scored 22 points to help 10th-seeded Arkansas to a 79-72 opening-round&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/march-madness">NCAA Tournament</a>&nbsp;victory over No. 7 seed Kansas on Thursday night in the latest meeting between two of college basketball’s winningest coaches.

Johnell Davis added 18 points, including some crucial late free throws, to help John Calipari to his first tournament victory as Razorbacks coach. Freshman standout Boogie Fland played for the first time since having right thumb surgery in January and scored six points in 24 minutes.

Arkansas will get either No. 2 seed St. John’s or No. 15 Omaha in the second round of the West Region on Saturday.

Zeke Mayo had 18 points for Kansas (21-13), which has made 35 straight NCAA Tournaments and hadn't lost in the first round since 2006. AJ Storr&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/MarchMadnessMBB/status/1902876748573790487">finished</a>&nbsp;with 15 points and Hunter Dickinson added 11 points and nine rebounds.

Thursday’s matchup was the third March Madness meeting between two of the four active win leaders in men’s college basketball. Calipari is second (876), with Bill Self of Kansas fourth (831) on the list. Both previous meetings were in the national championship game, with each winning once.

Kansas erased what was an 11-point, second-half deficit and nudged ahead 65-64 on a follow shot by Storr with less than six minutes remaining.

The Jayhawks kept the lead until Aidoo connected on a pair of free throws to put the Razorbacks back in front. Arkansas got a stop on the other end and then got a 3-pointer by Davis that gave it a 71-67 cushion with less than two minutes on the clock.

Arkansas’ edge was down to 71-69 before Davis dropped in a pair of free throws. Dickinson missed a 3 on Kansas’ next trip and Arkansas added two more free throws.

The Jayhawks got it back down to 75-72 on a 3-pointer by Rylan Griffen with 13 seconds left. The Razorbacks called back-to-back timeouts trying to get the ball inbounds. They finally did and Davis calmly sank two free throws to help close it out.

Arkansas: Posted its first tournament victory since reaching the Sweet 16 in 2023 under former coach Eric Musselman.

Kansas: Kansas fell to 47-6 record in first-round games all-time.

The Razorbacks could now face the active coach with the most wins – St. John’s Rick Pitino (884) – in Saturday’s second round. The pair were longtime rivals when Calipari was Kentucky and Pitino coached at Louisville.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1742520751413.png" alt="Photo Courtesy Kansas Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Kansas Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>PROVIDENCE, R.I. (AP) — Jonas Aidoo scored 22 points to help 10th-seeded Arkansas to a 79-72 opening-round&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/march-madness">NCAA Tournament</a>&nbsp;victory over No. 7 seed Kansas on Thursday night in the latest meeting between two of college basketball’s winningest coaches.Johnell Davis added 18 points, including some crucial late free throws, to help John Calipari to his first tournament victory as Razorbacks coach. Freshman standout Boogie Fland played for the first time since having right thumb surgery in January and scored six points in 24 minutes.Arkansas will get either No. 2 seed St. John’s or No. 15 Omaha in the second round of the West Region on Saturday.Zeke Mayo had 18 points for Kansas (21-13), which has made 35 straight NCAA Tournaments and hadn't lost in the first round since 2006. AJ Storr&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/MarchMadnessMBB/status/1902876748573790487">finished</a>&nbsp;with 15 points and Hunter Dickinson added 11 points and nine rebounds.Thursday’s matchup was the third March Madness meeting between two of the four active win leaders in men’s college basketball. Calipari is second (876), with Bill Self of Kansas fourth (831) on the list. Both previous meetings were in the national championship game, with each winning once.Kansas erased what was an 11-point, second-half deficit and nudged ahead 65-64 on a follow shot by Storr with less than six minutes remaining.The Jayhawks kept the lead until Aidoo connected on a pair of free throws to put the Razorbacks back in front. Arkansas got a stop on the other end and then got a 3-pointer by Davis that gave it a 71-67 cushion with less than two minutes on the clock.Arkansas’ edge was down to 71-69 before Davis dropped in a pair of free throws. Dickinson missed a 3 on Kansas’ next trip and Arkansas added two more free throws.The Jayhawks got it back down to 75-72 on a 3-pointer by Rylan Griffen with 13 seconds left. The Razorbacks called back-to-back timeouts trying to get the ball inbounds. They finally did and Davis calmly sank two free throws to help close it out.<h2>Takeaways</h2>Arkansas: Posted its first tournament victory since reaching the Sweet 16 in 2023 under former coach Eric Musselman.Kansas: Kansas fell to 47-6 record in first-round games all-time.<h2>Up next</h2>The Razorbacks could now face the active coach with the most wins – St. John’s Rick Pitino (884) – in Saturday’s second round. The pair were longtime rivals when Calipari was Kentucky and Pitino coached at Louisville.

🏀 Arkansas holds off Kansas to post win in matchup of marquee coaches

Q:&nbsp;Could you tell it was a priority for the Chiefs to bring you back?

BOLTON:&nbsp;“Oh yeah, absolutely. We had extra meetings and had conversations with (Head) Coach (Andy) Reid and (Defensive Coordinator Steve) Spags (Spagnuolo) and my position coach BD (Linebackers Coach Brendan Daly) as well. They wanted to get me back; I think it was a mutual interest on both parties. I’m just super super happy. I want to give a shoutout to (Chairman and CEO Clark) Hunt, Coach Reid, Coach Spags just giving me another opportunity to come out there and be with my teammates. I have some familiarity; I’ve been in Missouri going on eight years now, so it definitely feels like home, and I was happy to be here.”

Q:&nbsp;You had the opportunity to explore free agency, but you decided to sign with the Chiefs right away, why was that the right decision for you?

BOLTON:&nbsp;“Just talking with my family and my agent, it just made the most sense. Again, I kind of mentioned a little bit of the points earlier, just had familiarity, having the scheme, having players around me that I’m comfortable with and just people that believe in you. I think that’s kind of one of the big things for me. They gave me a chance coming out of college and then after that, kind of let me go into myself and&nbsp;be the leader that I wanted to be. So, I just kind of felt like that was the best decision for me and my family. Obviously, they had a great football team, a great chance to win, all of those things played a part and is the reason why I’m here.”

Q:&nbsp;You mentioned that Defensive Coordinator Steve Spagnuolo has already called you since you have signed. Is he already talking about football? What are those conversations about?

BOLTON:&nbsp;“We don’t talk about football. (Defensive Coordinator Steve) Spags (Spagnuolo) has been real invested in my family (and) my siblings for sure. The first day he met my dad he asked my dad if he had some years left to play, so he’s kind of one of those things. Just a family person, it’s all family. Me and Spags, when we come into work man, we have the opportunity to make sure that we’re all focused in on ball and then once ball is over with, it’s more family, more outside of ball, things that make you a great human, things that make you succeed later on in life once this is all wrapped up and said and done. We have conversations all about life, all about family, asks me how I’m doing, girlfriend, siblings, family, mom (and) sister healthy, so he makes sure he checks in every single week, makes sure my mental (health) is good, my family is good, and&nbsp;I do the same.”

Q:&nbsp;What were the conversations like in the offseason as far as wanting to weigh your options in free agency versus wanting to come back to Kansas City?

BROWN:&nbsp;“I knew all along I wanted to be back. They voiced their opinions of wanting me back and we had some unfinished business. I know (I) had a great start to my camp and getting hurt – we all wanted to see it come together so glad we got it done.”

Q: Due to your injury, do you feel like you ever really had a chance to show the Chiefs what kind of player you really are?

BROWN: “No, I didn’t really. I mean, except (for) the people in the building, my teammates, my coaches, and you know it carried me a long way. They know the type of guy I am, the type of work I put in and essentially that’s one of the reasons I got brought back because the few games I played, I was there, and I was able to open the offense up a lot but wasn’t really involved that much. I just know that impression that I left was something that I want to show the whole Chiefs Kingdom and really show what I can do.”

Q: You said earlier that you knew all along that you wanted to come back. What led to that decision?

BROWN:&nbsp;“I think just their environment and the atmosphere. Everyday coming to work – it felt like for the first time in my career I was getting where I wanted to be, everyday coming to work getting better and getting better. I knew that was a place and environment that I wanted to stay in.”

Q: What kind of opportunity did you see when signing with the Chiefs?

MOORE:&nbsp;“Obviously, probably having a chance to play some football, but outside of that, it’s a great organization, I know it’s a great team. Everything that I’ve heard from the outside, having new teammates that came from the organization, I know it’s top tier so I’m excited.”

Q: What tells you that you’re ready to be a full-time starter if that’s how this turns out?

MOORE:&nbsp;“In my opinion, the tape doesn’t lie. I know it’s a small sample size, but I just go out there and play ball the way I know how. I don’t know, they see something in me, so I’m excited to go balls to the wall for these guys.”

Q:&nbsp;How much of these last few years working under San Francisco 49ers LT Trent Williams do you think prepared you for this opportunity?

MOORE:&nbsp;“It was everything I could’ve imagined. You kind of sit in the film room every day and to me, I kind of set a standard for myself and with that being the standard every day, in and out. It’s kind of hard for the floor to be very low, I would say, not saying that it’s hard for anybody else to be able to do that but just being put in that position and being able to study behind him (49ers LT Trent Williams) and kind of critique my game based on what I see every single day. I mean, it made all the difference in the world.”

Q:&nbsp;What was it about Kansas City that made this the right place for you?

MITCHELL:&nbsp;“Just their offense, man – really both sides of the ball. Just the organization, just hearing about it, but man they know how to win and that was my biggest thing. Even coming from San Francisco and being able to come to another winning team is just amazing and the things they do in the offense, it’s everything I did when I was in San Fran so I’m excited for it.”

Q:&nbsp;How challenging was last season when you weren’t able to play?

MITCHELL:&nbsp;“It was very challenging. Just having the love for football and not being able to step on the field and compete against the best, it really weighed on me a lot. I’m hungrier than ever, and I’m ready to roll.”

Q:&nbsp;On joining the Chiefs with former 49ers teammate Jaylon Moore.

MITCHELL:&nbsp;“Actually, that’s my boy. We came in together since day one. We clicked, but Jaylon (Moore), he brings a lot. Even though he was in front of one of the best tackles in the league, but Jaylon’s definitely a sleeper and Patrick Mahomes, he’s going to love what Jaylon brings to it (the offense). He can protect, he’s a good guy and an awesome football player, so he’s going to be good. I’m excited for him.”

Q:&nbsp;What is it that stands out to you about this defense and why was Kansas City the right choice for you?

FULTON:&nbsp;“I think what stands out to me, obviously, within the past few years – well, obviously being a defensive guy, I know defense wins championships even though it’s a great offense as well. Like I said, you don’t get to this level in the NFL without having a great defense, and the past few years, it’s been put on display. Obviously, being a corner, I like to watch other corners in this league and the past few years they’ve had some of the top guys in the league with their play and then their scheme, so I feel like it was a great fit for me to be put in this position – myself in this position.”

Q:&nbsp;What makes this Kansas City wide receiver group difficult for opponents to cover?

FULTON:&nbsp;“It’s a real diverse group. You know, they all have different skill sets and they all have something that stands out in their game, and they’ve made plays in this league. Obviously, you know Xavier (Worthy), he was a rookie last year and we’ve seen what he can do in this league. He can take the top off a defense; he can also run away from you on shorter routes – run across the field. Rashee Rice, he’s a pretty much do-it-all receiver (who) can take you deep or he can also run different, shorter routes in the (route) tree. They all have different skill sets, I believe so. I think you need that in a receiver room. You can’t just have – I guess it’s like a one-trick pony receiver room where you know one guy is doing a certain thing or they’re all doing a certain thing. Obviously, (Head) Coach (Andy) Reid, he does a great job of scheming defenses up and getting those guys the ball, so I think that’s what stands out. JuJu (Smith-Schuster) as well and Hollywood (Brown) as well, they’ve all had a long career in this league getting the ball different ways and making plays.”

Q:&nbsp;How do you capture the feeling of being here in Kansas City?

FULTON:&nbsp;“It’s great. Like I said, the organization – the success speaks for itself. Me being the player and my history in football, I come from successful organizations which is high school to college. I think, like you said, it always comes back full circle, and it was meant to be. Maybe it didn’t happen then but now it’s meant to be for us to work together and to build on success that we’ve already had and I’m looking forward to building on that off the field, on the field and doing my best to get us back on top of the football world.”

Q:&nbsp;What were the conversations like with the team after the season?

WINCHESTER:&nbsp;“Well, I spoke with my agent and obviously our goal was to come back to Kansas City. Kansas City’s home, it’s where I want to be so really there wasn’t a big desire to entertain options with other teams. I had great conversations with the team, everyone expressed that they wanted me back, but you know that’s a process so when the season ends, there’s higher priority than the long snapper on the team and I know that, so I’ve become pretty accustomed to that. So, when the season ends it’s kind of like I knew where they stood, I knew they wanted me back, but we go about our offseason plans and I knew that the closer it got to that (new) league year I would start hearing from them. Sure enough, a couple weeks out, really the combine we started talking to them and my agent had communication with the team and we were able to come up with a deal there. It was above what we had anticipated, and we were excited to have the opportunity to sign another go and another year. At my age, that’s what you hope for, right, is a one-year deal. That’s what we got accomplished.”

Q:&nbsp;How much longer are you thinking you want to do this?

WINCHESTER:&nbsp;“You know, really my answer has never changed. You just take it one year at a time and I think being where your feet are is kind of the way to go about that. Take it year-by-year – I would say, coin the term that someone used a long time ago is like ‘Icing on the Cake.’ I’ve had the opportunity to be with the team for a very long time and none of that is taken for granted, but you know we still have a job to do. You still train like you want to be the best that you can at your job every year. That’s just a year-by-year deal. I think earlier in your career, you’re more concerned with getting that big deal and signing for multiple years. For me, I’m thrilled to just be back on the team one year at a time. I think every season we evaluate as a family where we’re at, what we’re doing and this year we did the same. You see the team that you’re on, the people that I get to go to work with every day, the future Hall of Famers and then so many great guys on the team and in this organization and you just go, ‘There’s nowhere else that I would rather be.’ There’s so many who would love to play for an organization like Kansas City and to be able to do that for another year, it was a no-brainer that yes, we wanted to go another season.”

Q:&nbsp;How important are Head Coach Andy Reid and Assistant Head Coach/Special Teams Coordinator Dave Toub to your career?

WINCHESTER:&nbsp;“Extremely special. I think the turnover in the NFL is quite high, right? So, the longer you play, you realize players, coaches (and) staff, there’s just a big turnover. I feel like in Kansas City, I’ve been fortunate to be with those guys from the top down. Our head coach hasn’t changed and then you run through one of the best coordinators to ever do it in (Assistant Head Coach/Special Teams Coordinator) Dave Toub and getting to play for that guy, it doesn’t get any better than that. We really kept a lot of our core coaches and they’ve been around the entire time I’ve been in Kansas City, so (it’s) extremely special. (Head) Coach (Andy) Reid is out of this world when it comes to leadership and just being able to be in the team room with that man and be around him and get to know him not only as a coach but as a person has been extremely special. You guys (the media) get to have pressers with him all the time. His personality is like no other and there’s really just no one quite like him. It’s extremely special to get to be around him and same thing as Dave Toub. Like I said, one of the best coordinators (and) special teams coordinators to ever do it in NFL history so to be able to call that guy my coach and spend as much time with him, I’m very grateful for that, honestly. Same thing with our core special teamers. Having played eight seasons with Harrison Butker, that’s awesome. (He’s) such a great guy and a pro at what he does and (I’m) fortunate to get to be around him as long as I have.”

Q: Can you tell me what the conversations were like with the Chiefs here this offseason and getting to bring you back?

HUNT:&nbsp;“It was good, man. (It was) definitely good to talk with (Head) Coach (Andy) Reid and I want to thank (General Manager Brett) Veach and (Chairman &amp; CEO) Clark Hunt for them giving me the opportunity to come back to get another shot.”

Q: How much are you looking forward to being with the team and getting to participate in training camp this year?

HUNT:&nbsp;“I’m very excited because I feel like that’s going to help me in the long run. To be able to prepare my body for the long run and a long season and grind and not have to start from behind pretty much.”

Q: Was your return to Kansas City and the Chiefs what you had hoped for?

HUNT:&nbsp;“I mean, yeah, definitely. I love playing for the Chiefs and the culture is just great there. It didn’t end the way we wanted it to but look, we have a lot of work to do, and I feel like we have another good shot at it.”

Q:&nbsp;You’ve played against the Chiefs a number of times over the years. What were your thoughts about what the Chiefs were doing over the years?

TILLERY:&nbsp;“Well, of course – like you said, I’ve played against the Chiefs six years of my career now. Four (years) in L.A. and then two in Las Vegas like I’ve been to Kansas City a couple of times now. So, I’ve been watching this team closely my whole career. Obviously, they have – I guess we now have been on top of the AFC West for a long time and my job here is to continue that dominance.”

Q:&nbsp;What intrigued you most about the opportunity to join the Chiefs?

TILLERY:&nbsp;“There was a lot on the table, but the Kansas City Chiefs have a lot to offer. In terms of consistency, winning culture and style of play and these were things I emulate in my game, so it felt like a perfect fit.”

Q:&nbsp;How well do you know Chris Jones? How big of a role was playing alongside him a part of coming to Kansas City and making it attractive?

TILLERY:&nbsp;“Chris Jones is an incredible player and someone who I am excited to play with. I’ve watched him over the years as well as somebody at the top of our game who’s doing it the best. To watch this guy work and to be with him, I think that type of player is somebody who can raise everybody’s level. Chris Jones is a great guy so I’m excited to get to know him better and even more excited to play with him.”

Q:&nbsp;What do you want to get out of your time with the Chiefs?

MINSHEW:&nbsp;“Super fired up to be part of just a winning organization (and a) winning culture. I feel like I have so much to learn from how (Head) Coach (Andy) Reid and everybody operates, how Pat (Patrick Mahomes) operates. I’m just looking forward to helping in any way I can. If there’s any way I can help this team, whether it’s from the scout team, whether it’s helping Pat in meetings, whether it's just bringing a good energy to practice. I look forward to just doing whatever I can to contribute and help this team win.”

Q:&nbsp;How do you view the role of the backup quarterback? How do you think you help Patrick Mahomes?

MINSHEW:&nbsp;“Man, that’s a great question. Being a starting quarterback in the NFL is a hard deal. Especially with all the expectations with everything that gets put on, especially, a guy like that. Sometimes it’s having a safe place in the quarterback room where you can come and let off some steam or just have a good laugh. That little stuff is very important getting through weeks (and) getting through years, but I don’t know, man. I look forward to just working with him (Patrick Mahomes), helping in any way I can, whether it’s on the practice field (or) in the meeting room. (When) getting ready for game days, if there’s film preparation I can help with or even, like I said, providing a good laugh here or there. I just couldn’t be more grateful for the role and (I) just want to help in any way I really can.”

Q:&nbsp;You’ve played in some similar offenses to Head Coach Andy Reid’s offense in the past. How do you feel like that transition going to be? How do you feel like your game fits into his style?

Chiefs Player QuotesMarch 20, 2025LB NICK BOLTONQ:&nbsp;Could you tell it was a priority for the Chiefs to bring you back?BOLTON:&nbsp;“Oh yeah, absolutely. We had extra meetings and had conversations with (Head) Coach (Andy) Reid and (Defensive Coordinator Steve) Spags (Spagnuolo) and my position coach BD (Linebackers Coach Brendan Daly) as well. They wanted to get me back; I think it was a mutual interest on both parties. I’m just super super happy. I want to give a shoutout to (Chairman and CEO Clark) Hunt, Coach Reid, Coach Spags just giving me another opportunity to come out there and be with my teammates. I have some familiarity; I’ve been in Missouri going on eight years now, so it definitely feels like home, and I was happy to be here.”Q:&nbsp;You had the opportunity to explore free agency, but you decided to sign with the Chiefs right away, why was that the right decision for you?BOLTON:&nbsp;“Just talking with my family and my agent, it just made the most sense. Again, I kind of mentioned a little bit of the points earlier, just had familiarity, having the scheme, having players around me that I’m comfortable with and just people that believe in you. I think that’s kind of one of the big things for me. They gave me a chance coming out of college and then after that, kind of let me go into myself and&nbsp;be the leader that I wanted to be. So, I just kind of felt like that was the best decision for me and my family. Obviously, they had a great football team, a great chance to win, all of those things played a part and is the reason why I’m here.”Q:&nbsp;You mentioned that Defensive Coordinator Steve Spagnuolo has already called you since you have signed. Is he already talking about football? What are those conversations about?BOLTON:&nbsp;“We don’t talk about football. (Defensive Coordinator Steve) Spags (Spagnuolo) has been real invested in my family (and) my siblings for sure. The first day he met my dad he asked my dad if he had some years left to play, so he’s kind of one of those things. Just a family person, it’s all family. Me and Spags, when we come into work man, we have the opportunity to make sure that we’re all focused in on ball and then once ball is over with, it’s more family, more outside of ball, things that make you a great human, things that make you succeed later on in life once this is all wrapped up and said and done. We have conversations all about life, all about family, asks me how I’m doing, girlfriend, siblings, family, mom (and) sister healthy, so he makes sure he checks in every single week, makes sure my mental (health) is good, my family is good, and&nbsp;I do the same.”WR HOLLYWOOD BROWNQ:&nbsp;What were the conversations like in the offseason as far as wanting to weigh your options in free agency versus wanting to come back to Kansas City?BROWN:&nbsp;“I knew all along I wanted to be back. They voiced their opinions of wanting me back and we had some unfinished business. I know (I) had a great start to my camp and getting hurt – we all wanted to see it come together so glad we got it done.”Q: Due to your injury, do you feel like you ever really had a chance to show the Chiefs what kind of player you really are?BROWN: “No, I didn’t really. I mean, except (for) the people in the building, my teammates, my coaches, and you know it carried me a long way. They know the type of guy I am, the type of work I put in and essentially that’s one of the reasons I got brought back because the few games I played, I was there, and I was able to open the offense up a lot but wasn’t really involved that much. I just know that impression that I left was something that I want to show the whole Chiefs Kingdom and really show what I can do.”Q: You said earlier that you knew all along that you wanted to come back. What led to that decision?BROWN:&nbsp;“I think just their environment and the atmosphere. Everyday coming to work – it felt like for the first time in my career I was getting where I wanted to be, everyday coming to work getting better and getting better. I knew that was a place and environment that I wanted to stay in.”T JAYLON MOOREQ: What kind of opportunity did you see when signing with the Chiefs?MOORE:&nbsp;“Obviously, probably having a chance to play some football, but outside of that, it’s a great organization, I know it’s a great team. Everything that I’ve heard from the outside, having new teammates that came from the organization, I know it’s top tier so I’m excited.”Q: What tells you that you’re ready to be a full-time starter if that’s how this turns out?MOORE:&nbsp;“In my opinion, the tape doesn’t lie. I know it’s a small sample size, but I just go out there and play ball the way I know how. I don’t know, they see something in me, so I’m excited to go balls to the wall for these guys.”Q:&nbsp;How much of these last few years working under San Francisco 49ers LT Trent Williams do you think prepared you for this opportunity?MOORE:&nbsp;“It was everything I could’ve imagined. You kind of sit in the film room every day and to me, I kind of set a standard for myself and with that being the standard every day, in and out. It’s kind of hard for the floor to be very low, I would say, not saying that it’s hard for anybody else to be able to do that but just being put in that position and being able to study behind him (49ers LT Trent Williams) and kind of critique my game based on what I see every single day. I mean, it made all the difference in the world.”RB ELIJAH MITCHELLQ:&nbsp;What was it about Kansas City that made this the right place for you?MITCHELL:&nbsp;“Just their offense, man – really both sides of the ball. Just the organization, just hearing about it, but man they know how to win and that was my biggest thing. Even coming from San Francisco and being able to come to another winning team is just amazing and the things they do in the offense, it’s everything I did when I was in San Fran so I’m excited for it.”Q:&nbsp;How challenging was last season when you weren’t able to play?MITCHELL:&nbsp;“It was very challenging. Just having the love for football and not being able to step on the field and compete against the best, it really weighed on me a lot. I’m hungrier than ever, and I’m ready to roll.”Q:&nbsp;On joining the Chiefs with former 49ers teammate Jaylon Moore.MITCHELL:&nbsp;“Actually, that’s my boy. We came in together since day one. We clicked, but Jaylon (Moore), he brings a lot. Even though he was in front of one of the best tackles in the league, but Jaylon’s definitely a sleeper and Patrick Mahomes, he’s going to love what Jaylon brings to it (the offense). He can protect, he’s a good guy and an awesome football player, so he’s going to be good. I’m excited for him.”CB KRISTIAN FULTONQ:&nbsp;What is it that stands out to you about this defense and why was Kansas City the right choice for you?FULTON:&nbsp;“I think what stands out to me, obviously, within the past few years – well, obviously being a defensive guy, I know defense wins championships even though it’s a great offense as well. Like I said, you don’t get to this level in the NFL without having a great defense, and the past few years, it’s been put on display. Obviously, being a corner, I like to watch other corners in this league and the past few years they’ve had some of the top guys in the league with their play and then their scheme, so I feel like it was a great fit for me to be put in this position – myself in this position.”Q:&nbsp;What makes this Kansas City wide receiver group difficult for opponents to cover?FULTON:&nbsp;“It’s a real diverse group. You know, they all have different skill sets and they all have something that stands out in their game, and they’ve made plays in this league. Obviously, you know Xavier (Worthy), he was a rookie last year and we’ve seen what he can do in this league. He can take the top off a defense; he can also run away from you on shorter routes – run across the field. Rashee Rice, he’s a pretty much do-it-all receiver (who) can take you deep or he can also run different, shorter routes in the (route) tree. They all have different skill sets, I believe so. I think you need that in a receiver room. You can’t just have – I guess it’s like a one-trick pony receiver room where you know one guy is doing a certain thing or they’re all doing a certain thing. Obviously, (Head) Coach (Andy) Reid, he does a great job of scheming defenses up and getting those guys the ball, so I think that’s what stands out. JuJu (Smith-Schuster) as well and Hollywood (Brown) as well, they’ve all had a long career in this league getting the ball different ways and making plays.”Q:&nbsp;How do you capture the feeling of being here in Kansas City?FULTON:&nbsp;“It’s great. Like I said, the organization – the success speaks for itself. Me being the player and my history in football, I come from successful organizations which is high school to college. I think, like you said, it always comes back full circle, and it was meant to be. Maybe it didn’t happen then but now it’s meant to be for us to work together and to build on success that we’ve already had and I’m looking forward to building on that off the field, on the field and doing my best to get us back on top of the football world.”LS JAMES WINCHESTERQ:&nbsp;What were the conversations like with the team after the season?WINCHESTER:&nbsp;“Well, I spoke with my agent and obviously our goal was to come back to Kansas City. Kansas City’s home, it’s where I want to be so really there wasn’t a big desire to entertain options with other teams. I had great conversations with the team, everyone expressed that they wanted me back, but you know that’s a process so when the season ends, there’s higher priority than the long snapper on the team and I know that, so I’ve become pretty accustomed to that. So, when the season ends it’s kind of like I knew where they stood, I knew they wanted me back, but we go about our offseason plans and I knew that the closer it got to that (new) league year I would start hearing from them. Sure enough, a couple weeks out, really the combine we started talking to them and my agent had communication with the team and we were able to come up with a deal there. It was above what we had anticipated, and we were excited to have the opportunity to sign another go and another year. At my age, that’s what you hope for, right, is a one-year deal. That’s what we got accomplished.”Q:&nbsp;How much longer are you thinking you want to do this?WINCHESTER:&nbsp;“You know, really my answer has never changed. You just take it one year at a time and I think being where your feet are is kind of the way to go about that. Take it year-by-year – I would say, coin the term that someone used a long time ago is like ‘Icing on the Cake.’ I’ve had the opportunity to be with the team for a very long time and none of that is taken for granted, but you know we still have a job to do. You still train like you want to be the best that you can at your job every year. That’s just a year-by-year deal. I think earlier in your career, you’re more concerned with getting that big deal and signing for multiple years. For me, I’m thrilled to just be back on the team one year at a time. I think every season we evaluate as a family where we’re at, what we’re doing and this year we did the same. You see the team that you’re on, the people that I get to go to work with every day, the future Hall of Famers and then so many great guys on the team and in this organization and you just go, ‘There’s nowhere else that I would rather be.’ There’s so many who would love to play for an organization like Kansas City and to be able to do that for another year, it was a no-brainer that yes, we wanted to go another season.”Q:&nbsp;How important are Head Coach Andy Reid and Assistant Head Coach/Special Teams Coordinator Dave Toub to your career?WINCHESTER:&nbsp;“Extremely special. I think the turnover in the NFL is quite high, right? So, the longer you play, you realize players, coaches (and) staff, there’s just a big turnover. I feel like in Kansas City, I’ve been fortunate to be with those guys from the top down. Our head coach hasn’t changed and then you run through one of the best coordinators to ever do it in (Assistant Head Coach/Special Teams Coordinator) Dave Toub and getting to play for that guy, it doesn’t get any better than that. We really kept a lot of our core coaches and they’ve been around the entire time I’ve been in Kansas City, so (it’s) extremely special. (Head) Coach (Andy) Reid is out of this world when it comes to leadership and just being able to be in the team room with that man and be around him and get to know him not only as a coach but as a person has been extremely special. You guys (the media) get to have pressers with him all the time. His personality is like no other and there’s really just no one quite like him. It’s extremely special to get to be around him and same thing as Dave Toub. Like I said, one of the best coordinators (and) special teams coordinators to ever do it in NFL history so to be able to call that guy my coach and spend as much time with him, I’m very grateful for that, honestly. Same thing with our core special teamers. Having played eight seasons with Harrison Butker, that’s awesome. (He’s) such a great guy and a pro at what he does and (I’m) fortunate to get to be around him as long as I have.”RB KAREEM HUNTQ: Can you tell me what the conversations were like with the Chiefs here this offseason and getting to bring you back?HUNT:&nbsp;“It was good, man. (It was) definitely good to talk with (Head) Coach (Andy) Reid and I want to thank (General Manager Brett) Veach and (Chairman &amp; CEO) Clark Hunt for them giving me the opportunity to come back to get another shot.”Q: How much are you looking forward to being with the team and getting to participate in training camp this year?HUNT:&nbsp;“I’m very excited because I feel like that’s going to help me in the long run. To be able to prepare my body for the long run and a long season and grind and not have to start from behind pretty much.”Q: Was your return to Kansas City and the Chiefs what you had hoped for?HUNT:&nbsp;“I mean, yeah, definitely. I love playing for the Chiefs and the culture is just great there. It didn’t end the way we wanted it to but look, we have a lot of work to do, and I feel like we have another good shot at it.”DT JERRY TILLERYQ:&nbsp;You’ve played against the Chiefs a number of times over the years. What were your thoughts about what the Chiefs were doing over the years?TILLERY:&nbsp;“Well, of course – like you said, I’ve played against the Chiefs six years of my career now. Four (years) in L.A. and then two in Las Vegas like I’ve been to Kansas City a couple of times now. So, I’ve been watching this team closely my whole career. Obviously, they have – I guess we now have been on top of the AFC West for a long time and my job here is to continue that dominance.”Q:&nbsp;What intrigued you most about the opportunity to join the Chiefs?TILLERY:&nbsp;“There was a lot on the table, but the Kansas City Chiefs have a lot to offer. In terms of consistency, winning culture and style of play and these were things I emulate in my game, so it felt like a perfect fit.”Q:&nbsp;How well do you know Chris Jones? How big of a role was playing alongside him a part of coming to Kansas City and making it attractive?TILLERY:&nbsp;“Chris Jones is an incredible player and someone who I am excited to play with. I’ve watched him over the years as well as somebody at the top of our game who’s doing it the best. To watch this guy work and to be with him, I think that type of player is somebody who can raise everybody’s level. Chris Jones is a great guy so I’m excited to get to know him better and even more excited to play with him.”QB GARDNER MINSHEWQ:&nbsp;What do you want to get out of your time with the Chiefs?MINSHEW:&nbsp;“Super fired up to be part of just a winning organization (and a) winning culture. I feel like I have so much to learn from how (Head) Coach (Andy) Reid and everybody operates, how Pat (Patrick Mahomes) operates. I’m just looking forward to helping in any way I can. If there’s any way I can help this team, whether it’s from the scout team, whether it’s helping Pat in meetings, whether it's just bringing a good energy to practice. I look forward to just doing whatever I can to contribute and help this team win.”Q:&nbsp;How do you view the role of the backup quarterback? How do you think you help Patrick Mahomes?MINSHEW:&nbsp;“Man, that’s a great question. Being a starting quarterback in the NFL is a hard deal. Especially with all the expectations with everything that gets put on, especially, a guy like that. Sometimes it’s having a safe place in the quarterback room where you can come and let off some steam or just have a good laugh. That little stuff is very important getting through weeks (and) getting through years, but I don’t know, man. I look forward to just working with him (Patrick Mahomes), helping in any way I can, whether it’s on the practice field (or) in the meeting room. (When) getting ready for game days, if there’s film preparation I can help with or even, like I said, providing a good laugh here or there. I just couldn’t be more grateful for the role and (I) just want to help in any way I really can.”Q:&nbsp;You’ve played in some similar offenses to Head Coach Andy Reid’s offense in the past. How do you feel like that transition going to be? How do you feel like your game fits into his style?

Chiefs Quotes: 3-20-25

While track is primarily an individual endeavor it has important team components as well. That makes Kansas Wesleyan coach <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/91031070-a1eb-47aa-8f9b-0ed4ca8b53b9?elinkdata=22460">Kyle Hiser</a>'s task simultaneously more difficult and enjoyable.

"We're going to have pretty much every event area covered as long as we stay healthy and we keep doing the things that we need to do as we go into season," Hiser said of the upcoming outdoor season. "That's what makes my job fun and makes it fun for the viewers out there that come to watch us."

KWU's roster numbers have steadily increased during Hiser's five years at the helm and 2025 will be the biggest yet.

"You can't turn your head from the track, from the throws ring, and not see someone in our uniform out there competing which is always very fun," he said. "Makes it feel like a true team sport."

The Coyotes open the season with two competitions this weekend. Distance runners will travel to Leavenworth on Friday for the Spire Challenge. Everyone else will be in North Newton on Saturday for the Bethel Invitational.

The schedule is highlighted by two events at JRI Hospitality Stadium and Graves Family Sports Complex and the throwing events venue on Coronado Avenue just off Broadway: the Coyote Challenge on April 18-19 and the Kansas Conference Championships on May 1-2.

KWU enters the spring season on a roll after winning the program's first KCAC indoor title.

Six Coyotes who qualified for the NAIA Outdoor Championships last season return led by three-quarters of the men's 4x800-meter relay team - <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/40211627-61d1-45f8-bf10-181f2ac3e817?elinkdata=22460">Julian Avila</a>, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/57982b86-2056-4abe-9750-ab5f593974e2?elinkdata=22460">Ty Davidson</a> and <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/73e93862-743f-480f-bb4f-731b68f6a0a1?elinkdata=22460">Wyatt Johnson</a> - and will be joined by <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/21b585b9-f372-461c-8565-067e6c1f0223?elinkdata=22460">Triston Cottone</a>. The quartet earned Indoor All-America honors with a fourth-place finish last month in Gainesville, Florida.

"Just trying to continue the legacy by getting that team to nationals and making them All-American each year," Hiser said.

Avila had wildly successful cross country and indoor track seasons and will focus on the 1,500 meters in the spring.

"I think this outdoor year could be one of the toughest ever in the NAIA and it's going to be a lot of fun to see how he steps up to the competition as we go through the spring," Hiser said. "The good news is he has people in the conference that are going to push him. Saint Mary has some guys that were really strong. When you get to toe the line against people that are All-American and pushing you every single weekend it makes you have to step up your game a little bit and be better."

<a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/682ebc85-72a5-4784-9569-27ed1d3bf494?elinkdata=22460">Keegan Lott</a> qualified for NAIA outdoors in the discus a year ago and competed at indoor nationals in the shot put.

"Hopefully we can double up on two events in the shot and in the discus as we go into outdoor season," Hiser said.

<a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/e2ef417a-86ff-4bc5-9915-96c8fff30431?elinkdata=22460">Damion Jackson</a> was an indoor All-American in the 3,000 meters and will compete in the 5,000 and 10,000 meters this spring.

"He had a strong cross country season and indoors really caught fire towards the end of the conference year," Hiser said. "I think his confidence should be sky high as we move to outdoor season and hopefully, we see him building off that strong indoor campaign."

<a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/259a534d-32d0-4745-ba2f-e1a924294328?elinkdata=22460">Brenden Ellis</a> competed in the NAIA steeplechase in 2024 and is part of a strong Coyote group in the event in '25.

"Coach (Garrett) Young has the biggest steeplechase crew in the conference, and we think they're going to be extremely strong," Hiser said. "<a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/8455bdcf-1176-486f-964a-ff75c7e28b66?elinkdata=22460">Ian Doss</a> is a returning scorer for us in that event and <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/ea538197-fdf9-4bc0-aabd-ffd43ce7e0df?elinkdata=22460">Brenden Ellis</a> is one of the more talented buys on the team. We added some freshmen that are going to take some steps forward."

<a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/b1c475db-404f-4f3a-b366-7c6dd2434123?elinkdata=22460">Zamari Burrell</a> will lead the sprinters and run the 100 and 200 meters. Freshmen <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/3b740580-a3f1-46c3-95d9-7b0a76728e0e?elinkdata=22460">Kean Dinkel</a> and <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/1c186619-8938-41fc-8f76-77dac2e9c910?elinkdata=22460">Cayden Purcell</a> will compete in relays and Purcell in hurdles.

<a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/bfe56913-a634-42f0-a58a-e6be85e98309?elinkdata=22460">Madisyn Ehrlich</a> returns after qualifying for outdoor nationals in 1,500 meters a year ago. She also ran a leg on the 4x800-meter relay team along with <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/93ec7dfc-7089-4d56-8c23-b702e88c6605?elinkdata=22460">Josie Koppes</a>, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/aab3d2a0-650a-4fee-b219-4ddb97d5550b?elinkdata=22460">Hailey Nordhus</a> and <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/1c8298a8-9437-4d96-a1aa-0371ee9c4896?elinkdata=22460">Kirstin Hackney</a> that won the KCAC indoor title in a school-record time and placed ninth in the national meet.

Nordhus will run the 400 and 800 meters races this spring.

Hiser has numerous options for the relay events with <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/87cab643-43c5-4d06-84d0-97c4f984f64b?elinkdata=22460">Joni Schroeder</a>, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/f94cddda-861d-4709-8341-0242352a3786?elinkdata=22460">Julie Rottinghaus</a>, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/e0145968-eb0e-454a-b996-9433ed03e23f?elinkdata=22460">Lauryn Mikkelson</a>, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/0721e96a-2c1b-48a0-b7fe-3ad6e9d81f9f?elinkdata=22460">Kierra Jensen</a>, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/68995ff4-0404-416a-bb48-4a043b6dd244?elinkdata=22460">Brionna Floyd</a> and <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/444b3d66-7eb4-487a-a0b3-d3c0b93a099a?elinkdata=22460">Dahn Hanlon</a> having experience as well as those who competed in the 4x800 this winter.

Floyd earned All-KCAC honors in the 400 meters a year ago and Mikkelson will be in the 400-meter hurdles after qualifying for state multiple times at Sacred Heart High School. Rottinghaus will run sprints and compete in the triple and long jumps.

Like the men the steeplechase appears to be a strength. Jensen will compete in the event along with Schroeder and returner <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/d074d063-d25e-42a8-985f-42901a29f3ee?elinkdata=22460">Allyson Taylor</a>.

"The steeplechase is going to be strong," Hiser said.

<a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/b31b66d6-8d7a-4779-b70e-3bddb7aade7e?elinkdata=22460">Madelyn Wolf</a> and <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/e46994fe-58b4-450b-a88a-2fd5dc156f52?elinkdata=22460">Mayce Russell</a> will throw the javelin. Both have thrown more than 140 feet, and their PRs (personal records) would rank them in the top eight nationally, according to Hiser.

"Clay Herdman, our volunteer javelin coach, has done a great job with them," Hiser said. "With how they throw they're going to be people you should have your eyes on every single week because they're so talented and they work so hard.

While track is primarily an individual endeavor it has important team components as well. That makes Kansas Wesleyan coach <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/91031070-a1eb-47aa-8f9b-0ed4ca8b53b9?elinkdata=22460">Kyle Hiser</a>'s task simultaneously more difficult and enjoyable."We're going to have pretty much every event area covered as long as we stay healthy and we keep doing the things that we need to do as we go into season," Hiser said of the upcoming outdoor season. "That's what makes my job fun and makes it fun for the viewers out there that come to watch us."KWU's roster numbers have steadily increased during Hiser's five years at the helm and 2025 will be the biggest yet."You can't turn your head from the track, from the throws ring, and not see someone in our uniform out there competing which is always very fun," he said. "Makes it feel like a true team sport."The Coyotes open the season with two competitions this weekend. Distance runners will travel to Leavenworth on Friday for the Spire Challenge. Everyone else will be in North Newton on Saturday for the Bethel Invitational.The schedule is highlighted by two events at JRI Hospitality Stadium and Graves Family Sports Complex and the throwing events venue on Coronado Avenue just off Broadway: the Coyote Challenge on April 18-19 and the Kansas Conference Championships on May 1-2.MEN'S TEAMKWU enters the spring season on a roll after winning the program's first KCAC indoor title.Six Coyotes who qualified for the NAIA Outdoor Championships last season return led by three-quarters of the men's 4x800-meter relay team - <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/40211627-61d1-45f8-bf10-181f2ac3e817?elinkdata=22460">Julian Avila</a>, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/57982b86-2056-4abe-9750-ab5f593974e2?elinkdata=22460">Ty Davidson</a> and <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/73e93862-743f-480f-bb4f-731b68f6a0a1?elinkdata=22460">Wyatt Johnson</a> - and will be joined by <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/21b585b9-f372-461c-8565-067e6c1f0223?elinkdata=22460">Triston Cottone</a>. The quartet earned Indoor All-America honors with a fourth-place finish last month in Gainesville, Florida."Just trying to continue the legacy by getting that team to nationals and making them All-American each year," Hiser said.Avila had wildly successful cross country and indoor track seasons and will focus on the 1,500 meters in the spring."I think this outdoor year could be one of the toughest ever in the NAIA and it's going to be a lot of fun to see how he steps up to the competition as we go through the spring," Hiser said. "The good news is he has people in the conference that are going to push him. Saint Mary has some guys that were really strong. When you get to toe the line against people that are All-American and pushing you every single weekend it makes you have to step up your game a little bit and be better."<a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/682ebc85-72a5-4784-9569-27ed1d3bf494?elinkdata=22460">Keegan Lott</a> qualified for NAIA outdoors in the discus a year ago and competed at indoor nationals in the shot put."Hopefully we can double up on two events in the shot and in the discus as we go into outdoor season," Hiser said.<a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/e2ef417a-86ff-4bc5-9915-96c8fff30431?elinkdata=22460">Damion Jackson</a> was an indoor All-American in the 3,000 meters and will compete in the 5,000 and 10,000 meters this spring."He had a strong cross country season and indoors really caught fire towards the end of the conference year," Hiser said. "I think his confidence should be sky high as we move to outdoor season and hopefully, we see him building off that strong indoor campaign."<a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/259a534d-32d0-4745-ba2f-e1a924294328?elinkdata=22460">Brenden Ellis</a> competed in the NAIA steeplechase in 2024 and is part of a strong Coyote group in the event in '25."Coach (Garrett) Young has the biggest steeplechase crew in the conference, and we think they're going to be extremely strong," Hiser said. "<a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/8455bdcf-1176-486f-964a-ff75c7e28b66?elinkdata=22460">Ian Doss</a> is a returning scorer for us in that event and <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/ea538197-fdf9-4bc0-aabd-ffd43ce7e0df?elinkdata=22460">Brenden Ellis</a> is one of the more talented buys on the team. We added some freshmen that are going to take some steps forward."<a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/b1c475db-404f-4f3a-b366-7c6dd2434123?elinkdata=22460">Zamari Burrell</a> will lead the sprinters and run the 100 and 200 meters. Freshmen <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/3b740580-a3f1-46c3-95d9-7b0a76728e0e?elinkdata=22460">Kean Dinkel</a> and <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/1c186619-8938-41fc-8f76-77dac2e9c910?elinkdata=22460">Cayden Purcell</a> will compete in relays and Purcell in hurdles.WOMEN'S TEAM<a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/bfe56913-a634-42f0-a58a-e6be85e98309?elinkdata=22460">Madisyn Ehrlich</a> returns after qualifying for outdoor nationals in 1,500 meters a year ago. She also ran a leg on the 4x800-meter relay team along with <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/93ec7dfc-7089-4d56-8c23-b702e88c6605?elinkdata=22460">Josie Koppes</a>, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/aab3d2a0-650a-4fee-b219-4ddb97d5550b?elinkdata=22460">Hailey Nordhus</a> and <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/1c8298a8-9437-4d96-a1aa-0371ee9c4896?elinkdata=22460">Kirstin Hackney</a> that won the KCAC indoor title in a school-record time and placed ninth in the national meet.Nordhus will run the 400 and 800 meters races this spring.Hiser has numerous options for the relay events with <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/87cab643-43c5-4d06-84d0-97c4f984f64b?elinkdata=22460">Joni Schroeder</a>, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/f94cddda-861d-4709-8341-0242352a3786?elinkdata=22460">Julie Rottinghaus</a>, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/e0145968-eb0e-454a-b996-9433ed03e23f?elinkdata=22460">Lauryn Mikkelson</a>, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/0721e96a-2c1b-48a0-b7fe-3ad6e9d81f9f?elinkdata=22460">Kierra Jensen</a>, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/68995ff4-0404-416a-bb48-4a043b6dd244?elinkdata=22460">Brionna Floyd</a> and <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/444b3d66-7eb4-487a-a0b3-d3c0b93a099a?elinkdata=22460">Dahn Hanlon</a> having experience as well as those who competed in the 4x800 this winter.Floyd earned All-KCAC honors in the 400 meters a year ago and Mikkelson will be in the 400-meter hurdles after qualifying for state multiple times at Sacred Heart High School. Rottinghaus will run sprints and compete in the triple and long jumps.Like the men the steeplechase appears to be a strength. Jensen will compete in the event along with Schroeder and returner <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/d074d063-d25e-42a8-985f-42901a29f3ee?elinkdata=22460">Allyson Taylor</a>."The steeplechase is going to be strong," Hiser said.<a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/b31b66d6-8d7a-4779-b70e-3bddb7aade7e?elinkdata=22460">Madelyn Wolf</a> and <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/e46994fe-58b4-450b-a88a-2fd5dc156f52?elinkdata=22460">Mayce Russell</a> will throw the javelin. Both have thrown more than 140 feet, and their PRs (personal records) would rank them in the top eight nationally, according to Hiser."Clay Herdman, our volunteer javelin coach, has done a great job with them," Hiser said. "With how they throw they're going to be people you should have your eyes on every single week because they're so talented and they work so hard.

Outdoor Track Season Preview: Coyotes ready for spring challenges

LEXINGTON, Ky. -&nbsp;K-State (26-7, 13-5 Big 12), the 5-seed in the Spokane 4 Region, will face the 12-seed, Fairfield (28-4, 19-1 MAAC), in the first round of the 2025 NCAA Tournament on Friday at 1:30 p.m. (CT), in Lexington, Kentucky, at Memorial Coliseum.

• With a win on Friday, K-State would secure the third-highest single season win total in program history.

• Friday's game will air on ESPNews, as Sam Gore (play-by-play) and Tamika Catchings (analyst) will have the call.

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

1. Wildcats in the NCAA Tournament

• K-State is making its 19th NCAA Tournament appearance and the sixth under head coach Jeff Mittie. The Wildcats own a record of 15-18 in its previous 18 bids and have advanced at least one round 13 times.

• K-State has registered 52 wins in the last two seasons (2023-24, 26; 2024-25, 26). The 52 wins are tied for third in school history (1974-75 &amp; 1975-76) for wins in a two-season span. The school record for wins over a two-season span is 55 over the 2001-02 (26) and 2002-03 (29) seasons.

3. K-State Sets School Blocks Record

• K-State has broken the school record for blocks in a season with its 183 this season. The Wildcats rank tied for seventh in the nation for total blocks this season and are ninth in the nation for blocks per game (5.5).

4. Cats Improve on Season Assist Record

• K-State has led the nation in assists for most of the season and have pocketed the school season record for assists. The Wildcats have dished out 705 assists this season, which is second in the nation in total assists. The 705 assists are eighth in Big 12 history for a season. K-State joins Baylor (8x) as the only programs in Big 12 history (1996-present) with 700 or more assists in a season.

• All-America candidate and 2025 All-Big 12 First Team selection Serena Sundell has broken the school record for assists in a season with her career-high 233 this season. Her total ranks ninth in Big 12 history for a season.

• K-State has scored 2,616 points this season (79.3 ppg).

• The 2,616 points ranks second in school history. This is the sixth season in program history with 2,500 or more points scored.

• With 20 points, the Wildcats will break the school record for points in a season of 2,635 set in the 1979-80 season.

• The Wildcats' scoring average of 79.3 would rank second in school history behind the school record of 81.3 in the 1982-83 season.

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

• Under head coach Jeff Mittie, K-State has scored 90 or more points 26 times, including 19 times in the last four seasons.

2024-25 K-State Player Milestones to Watch

• Needs 12 points to reach 2,500 in her career

• Needs three double-doubles to move into second in Big 12 history for career double-doubles

• Needs 160 rebounds to move into second in Big 12 history for career rebounds

• Needs 14 made free throws to set the school record for career free throws made

• Needs 22 points to move into 6th in K-State history for career points

• Needs 10 assists to move into 5th in Big 12 history for career assists

• Needs 19 assists to set the school record for career assists

• Needs 14 assists to move into 14th on K-State career assists list

• Needs 2 rebounds for sole possession of 19th on the K-State career rebounds list

• Needs 16 points for sole possession of 27th on the K-State career points list

• Needs 26 points for 2,000 points in her college career

• Needs 14 points for 1,000 points in her college career

• Fairfield (28-4, 19-1 MAAC) enters Friday's game with wins in 22 of their last 23 games including three straight in the MAAC Tournament and a 76-53 victory over Quinnipiac in the MAAC title game, which avenged the only league loss for Fairfield.

• On the sideline, the Stags are led by third-year head coach Carly Thibault-DuDonis. A 2013 graduate of Monmouth, Thibault-DuDonis owns a record of 74-21 (.779) at Fairfield, including two NCAA Tournament appearances and four MAAC titles.

• On the floor, Fairfield is led by the duo of Meghan Andersen and Kaety L'Amoreaux.

• Andersen, a sophomore from Wantagh, New York, leads the squad in scoring at 15.1 points per game on a .485 field goal percentage. Andersen was an All-MAAC First Team selection for the second straight season.

• L'Amoreaux, a sophomore from Endwell, New York, is second on the team at 12.5 points and a team-best 4.7 rebounds. L'Amoreaux collected All-MAAC Second Team honors.

K-State Top-20 in NCAA History for Wins

• K-State is in its 57th season of action and ranks among the top programs in NCAA history for all-time wins.

• K-State's all-time record stands at 1,069-671 (.614) and the Wildcats entered the 2024-25 season ranked 20th in NCAA Division I women's basketball history for program wins. The Wildcats were the 19th program in NCAA Division I history to reach 1,000 or more wins as a program and are one of three members of the Big 12 (Baylor, Utah). K-State is averaging 18.5 wins per season.

• K-State is one of three teams in the nation to be guided by an active head coach with 650 or more career wins and the program has surpassed the 1,000-win mark (UConn, NC State).

• The Wildcats have accumulated 28 20-win seasons and have secured 413 victories inside Bramlage Coliseum.

• K-State has 245 wins in the Big 12 Conference.

• Kansas State has registered 274 victories when they were ranked in the Associated Press top-25 poll and achieved 94 wins against teams ranked in the AP poll.

With &amp; Without Big 12 Preseason PoY

• K-State has utilized the services of 2024-25 Big 12 Preseason Player of the Year and All-American Ayoka Lee to its advantage but have missed her while she has been out with injury.

• In the 19 games Lee has played in this season, K-State is 18-1 including an 8-0 record in Big 12 play. The Wildcats are averaging 82.2 points per game and holding opponents to 53.6 points and handing out 23.1 assists per game.

• In the 12 games without Lee, K-State is 8-7 including 5-5 in Big 12 action. K-State is averaging 75.4 points per game and allowing 65.2 points per game.

• Since the 2001-02 season, K-State is 401-53 (.883) when leading at the break, including a 24-1 record in the 2024-25 season.

• K-State is 174-20 (.897) when leading at the break under head coach Jeff Mittie.

• Since the start of the 2007-08 season, K-State is 307-19 (.942) when leading with five minutes to play including a 191-8 (.960) record under Mittie.

• K-State features four players with 1,000 or more career points: Ayoka Lee (2,488), Temira Poindexter (1,974), Serena Sundell (1,712) and Jaelyn Glenn (1,174).

• The Wildcats and Miami (Fla.) are the only two teams in the nation with a 2,000+ point scorer, 1,500+ point scorer and a 1,000+ point scorer on their roster.

• The Wildcats are tied for second in the nation for 1,000+ point scorers on its roster. K-State is one of three Big 12 programs with four or more 1,000-point scorers on its roster (Baylor, 6; Utah, 4).

• With Lee, Sundell and Glenn all scoring 1,000 or more points at their current school, K-State is one of six teams in the nation and one of two in the Big 12 (Utah) with three or more players on their current roster to score 1,000 or more points at their current school.

• Since the 2014-15 season, K-State is 130-21 (.861) when scoring 70 or more points in a game. The Wildcats have scored 70 or more points in 23 games this season.

• K-State has scored 2,616 points this season, which ranks second in school history. This is the sixth season in program history with 2,500 or more points scored.

• K-State is averaging 79.3 points per game this season and leads the Big 12 and ranks 15th in the nation in scoring offense. K-State's field goal percentage of .489 leads the league and is fourth in the nation.

• 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.

• In its history, K-State has scored 100 or more points in a game 30 times (30-0) including seven times under Mittie.

• When K-State shoots 50.0 percent or better in a game during the Jeff Mittie era, they have been victorious. Since the 2014-15 season, the Wildcats are 54-6 (.900) when shooting 50.0 percent or better in a game.

• K-State has shot over 50.0 percent in a game 18 times this season including a season-best of 60.0 percent (45-of-75) against Milwaukee on Nov. 20. The 60.0 field goal percentage was the fourth-highest in under Mittie and highest since Feb. 15, 2023, against Baylor (60.4).

• The Wildcats' 45 made field goals against Milwaukee were the second-most in K-State history, trailing the school record of 46 set on Nov. 23, 1981 against Pacific Christian.

• For the season, the Wildcats are shooting 48.9 percent from the floor. K-State is fourth in the nation and leads the Big 12 in field goal percentage.

• K-State has shot 50.0 percent or better in a school record 74 quarters this season including all four quarters in six games.

• The Wildcats registered a season-high field goal percentage in a quarter with an 86.7 percent effort (13-of-15) against West Virginia on March 7. This was the second-highest field goal percentage for a quarter in program history, trailing a 90.0 percent effort against UIW on Dec. 3, 2019.

• K-State has continued to attack from deep in the 2024-25 season.

• For the season, K-State is shooting 38.8 percent (280-of-721) from 3-point range. The Wildcats lead the Big 12 and are second in the nation in 3-point field goal percentage and are third in the Big 12 and 23rd in the nation for 3-point field goals made (8.5).

• K-State's 280 three-point field goals made ranks second in program history for 3-pointers made in a single season. K-State's 3-point field goal percentage of .388 would rank second in school history for a season.

• K-State is receiving 32.1 percent of its total points (840 points) from made 3-point field goals this season. This is the highest percentage of points from 3-pointers in the Jeff Mittie era and the fourth time since 2014-15 that K-State has received 30.0 percent or more of its points from beyond the arc.

• The Wildcats registered a season-high 15 connections from 3-point range at Kansas on Feb. 2 with a percentage of 65.2.

• The Wildcats registered 14 connections on 20 attempts from 3-point range against UCF on Feb. 15 for a season-high 70.0 percent effort. Since 2009-10 season, the percentage of 70.0 is the highest in program history (min. 20 attempts), the only Big 12 team to shoot 70.0 percent or better on 20 or more attempts and the eighth team in the nation to achieve the feat.

• In the Mittie era, the Wildcats have made five or more 3-pointers in a game 258 times in 358 total games including 50 games with 10 or more connections (w-l: 44-6) from deep.

• This season, K-State made 10 or more 3-pointers in five straight games (Dec. 1-18) for the first time in program history.

• The trio of Temira Poindexter (81), Taryn Sides (80) and Jaelyn Glenn (65) are the fourth set of K-State teammates and first since 2012-13 to make 50 or more 3-pointers in a season.

• The quintet of Poindexter (81), Sides (80), Glenn (65), Walker (22) and Sundell (20) marks the fifth season in program including the third straight with five or more Wildcats making 20 or more 3-point field goals in a season.

• In the 11 seasons under Mittie, K-State has buried 2,254 three-pointers which is 6.30 per game.

• K-State remains unselfish in its play in the 2024-25 season.

• The Wildcats are averaging 21.4 assists per game and own an assisted shot rate of 70.6. K-State is second in the nation for assists per game, second in the nation for assist/turnover ratio (1.67) and is tied for first in the nation for assisted shot rate.

LEXINGTON, Ky. -&nbsp;K-State (26-7, 13-5 Big 12), the 5-seed in the Spokane 4 Region, will face the 12-seed, Fairfield (28-4, 19-1 MAAC), in the first round of the 2025 NCAA Tournament on Friday at 1:30 p.m. (CT), in Lexington, Kentucky, at Memorial Coliseum.• With a win on Friday, K-State would secure the third-highest single season win total in program history.• Friday's game will air on ESPNews, as Sam Gore (play-by-play) and Tamika Catchings (analyst) will have the call.Starting 5Five names, numbers or storylines about K-State women's basketball1. Wildcats in the NCAA Tournament• K-State is making its 19th NCAA Tournament appearance and the sixth under head coach Jeff Mittie. The Wildcats own a record of 15-18 in its previous 18 bids and have advanced at least one round 13 times.2. 26 Dubs x 2• K-State has registered 52 wins in the last two seasons (2023-24, 26; 2024-25, 26). The 52 wins are tied for third in school history (1974-75 &amp; 1975-76) for wins in a two-season span. The school record for wins over a two-season span is 55 over the 2001-02 (26) and 2002-03 (29) seasons.3. K-State Sets School Blocks Record• K-State has broken the school record for blocks in a season with its 183 this season. The Wildcats rank tied for seventh in the nation for total blocks this season and are ninth in the nation for blocks per game (5.5).4. Cats Improve on Season Assist Record• K-State has led the nation in assists for most of the season and have pocketed the school season record for assists. The Wildcats have dished out 705 assists this season, which is second in the nation in total assists. The 705 assists are eighth in Big 12 history for a season. K-State joins Baylor (8x) as the only programs in Big 12 history (1996-present) with 700 or more assists in a season.5. Sundell Sets Assist Record• All-America candidate and 2025 All-Big 12 First Team selection Serena Sundell has broken the school record for assists in a season with her career-high 233 this season. Her total ranks ninth in Big 12 history for a season.Number to Know2,616• K-State has scored 2,616 points this season (79.3 ppg).• The 2,616 points ranks second in school history. This is the sixth season in program history with 2,500 or more points scored.• With 20 points, the Wildcats will break the school record for points in a season of 2,635 set in the 1979-80 season.• The Wildcats' scoring average of 79.3 would rank second in school history behind the school record of 81.3 in the 1982-83 season.• The Wildcats have scored 90 or more points in a game 10 times this season, which is a school record for games with 90 or more points in a season.• Under head coach Jeff Mittie, K-State has scored 90 or more points 26 times, including 19 times in the last four seasons.2024-25 K-State Player Milestones to WatchAyoka Lee• Needs 12 points to reach 2,500 in her career• Needs three double-doubles to move into second in Big 12 history for career double-doubles• Needs 160 rebounds to move into second in Big 12 history for career rebounds• Needs 14 made free throws to set the school record for career free throws madeSerena Sundell• Needs 22 points to move into 6th in K-State history for career points• Needs 10 assists to move into 5th in Big 12 history for career assists• Needs 19 assists to set the school record for career assistsJaelyn Glenn• Needs 14 assists to move into 14th on K-State career assists list• Needs 2 rebounds for sole possession of 19th on the K-State career rebounds list• Needs 16 points for sole possession of 27th on the K-State career points listTemira Poindexter• Needs 26 points for 2,000 points in her college careerKennedy Taylor• Needs 14 points for 1,000 points in her college careerAt a Glance: Fairfield• Fairfield (28-4, 19-1 MAAC) enters Friday's game with wins in 22 of their last 23 games including three straight in the MAAC Tournament and a 76-53 victory over Quinnipiac in the MAAC title game, which avenged the only league loss for Fairfield.• On the sideline, the Stags are led by third-year head coach Carly Thibault-DuDonis. A 2013 graduate of Monmouth, Thibault-DuDonis owns a record of 74-21 (.779) at Fairfield, including two NCAA Tournament appearances and four MAAC titles.• On the floor, Fairfield is led by the duo of Meghan Andersen and Kaety L'Amoreaux.• Andersen, a sophomore from Wantagh, New York, leads the squad in scoring at 15.1 points per game on a .485 field goal percentage. Andersen was an All-MAAC First Team selection for the second straight season.• L'Amoreaux, a sophomore from Endwell, New York, is second on the team at 12.5 points and a team-best 4.7 rebounds. L'Amoreaux collected All-MAAC Second Team honors.K-State Top-20 in NCAA History for Wins• K-State is in its 57th season of action and ranks among the top programs in NCAA history for all-time wins.• K-State's all-time record stands at 1,069-671 (.614) and the Wildcats entered the 2024-25 season ranked 20th in NCAA Division I women's basketball history for program wins. The Wildcats were the 19th program in NCAA Division I history to reach 1,000 or more wins as a program and are one of three members of the Big 12 (Baylor, Utah). K-State is averaging 18.5 wins per season.• K-State is one of three teams in the nation to be guided by an active head coach with 650 or more career wins and the program has surpassed the 1,000-win mark (UConn, NC State).• The Wildcats have accumulated 28 20-win seasons and have secured 413 victories inside Bramlage Coliseum.• K-State has 245 wins in the Big 12 Conference.• Kansas State has registered 274 victories when they were ranked in the Associated Press top-25 poll and achieved 94 wins against teams ranked in the AP poll.With &amp; Without Big 12 Preseason PoY• K-State has utilized the services of 2024-25 Big 12 Preseason Player of the Year and All-American Ayoka Lee to its advantage but have missed her while she has been out with injury.• In the 19 games Lee has played in this season, K-State is 18-1 including an 8-0 record in Big 12 play. The Wildcats are averaging 82.2 points per game and holding opponents to 53.6 points and handing out 23.1 assists per game.• In the 12 games without Lee, K-State is 8-7 including 5-5 in Big 12 action. K-State is averaging 75.4 points per game and allowing 65.2 points per game.Halftime Lead = K-State 'W'• Since the 2001-02 season, K-State is 401-53 (.883) when leading at the break, including a 24-1 record in the 2024-25 season.• K-State is 174-20 (.897) when leading at the break under head coach Jeff Mittie.• Since the start of the 2007-08 season, K-State is 307-19 (.942) when leading with five minutes to play including a 191-8 (.960) record under Mittie.Cats With a Pack of 1K Scorers• K-State features four players with 1,000 or more career points: Ayoka Lee (2,488), Temira Poindexter (1,974), Serena Sundell (1,712) and Jaelyn Glenn (1,174).• The Wildcats and Miami (Fla.) are the only two teams in the nation with a 2,000+ point scorer, 1,500+ point scorer and a 1,000+ point scorer on their roster.• The Wildcats are tied for second in the nation for 1,000+ point scorers on its roster. K-State is one of three Big 12 programs with four or more 1,000-point scorers on its roster (Baylor, 6; Utah, 4).• With Lee, Sundell and Glenn all scoring 1,000 or more points at their current school, K-State is one of six teams in the nation and one of two in the Big 12 (Utah) with three or more players on their current roster to score 1,000 or more points at their current school.Magic Number is 70 Points• Since the 2014-15 season, K-State is 130-21 (.861) when scoring 70 or more points in a game. The Wildcats have scored 70 or more points in 23 games this season.• K-State has scored 2,616 points this season, which ranks second in school history. This is the sixth season in program history with 2,500 or more points scored.• With 20 points, the Wildcats will break the school record for points in a season of 2,635 set in the 1979-80 season.• K-State is averaging 79.3 points per game this season and leads the Big 12 and ranks 15th in the nation in scoring offense. K-State's field goal percentage of .489 leads the league and is fourth in the nation.• The Wildcats' scoring average of 79.3 would rank second in school history behind the school record of 81.3 in the 1982-83 season.• The Wildcats have scored 90 or more points in a game 10 times this season, which is a school record for games with 90 or more points in a season.• Under head coach Jeff Mittie, K-State has scored 90 or more points 26 times, including 19 times in the last four seasons.• 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.• In its history, K-State has scored 100 or more points in a game 30 times (30-0) including seven times under Mittie.Sky-High Field Goal Percentage• When K-State shoots 50.0 percent or better in a game during the Jeff Mittie era, they have been victorious. Since the 2014-15 season, the Wildcats are 54-6 (.900) when shooting 50.0 percent or better in a game.• K-State has shot over 50.0 percent in a game 18 times this season including a season-best of 60.0 percent (45-of-75) against Milwaukee on Nov. 20. The 60.0 field goal percentage was the fourth-highest in under Mittie and highest since Feb. 15, 2023, against Baylor (60.4).• The Wildcats' 45 made field goals against Milwaukee were the second-most in K-State history, trailing the school record of 46 set on Nov. 23, 1981 against Pacific Christian.• For the season, the Wildcats are shooting 48.9 percent from the floor. K-State is fourth in the nation and leads the Big 12 in field goal percentage.• K-State has shot 50.0 percent or better in a school record 74 quarters this season including all four quarters in six games.• The Wildcats registered a season-high field goal percentage in a quarter with an 86.7 percent effort (13-of-15) against West Virginia on March 7. This was the second-highest field goal percentage for a quarter in program history, trailing a 90.0 percent effort against UIW on Dec. 3, 2019.Wildcats Solid From the Arc• K-State has continued to attack from deep in the 2024-25 season.• For the season, K-State is shooting 38.8 percent (280-of-721) from 3-point range. The Wildcats lead the Big 12 and are second in the nation in 3-point field goal percentage and are third in the Big 12 and 23rd in the nation for 3-point field goals made (8.5).• K-State's 280 three-point field goals made ranks second in program history for 3-pointers made in a single season. K-State's 3-point field goal percentage of .388 would rank second in school history for a season.• K-State is receiving 32.1 percent of its total points (840 points) from made 3-point field goals this season. This is the highest percentage of points from 3-pointers in the Jeff Mittie era and the fourth time since 2014-15 that K-State has received 30.0 percent or more of its points from beyond the arc.• The Wildcats registered a season-high 15 connections from 3-point range at Kansas on Feb. 2 with a percentage of 65.2.• The Wildcats registered 14 connections on 20 attempts from 3-point range against UCF on Feb. 15 for a season-high 70.0 percent effort. Since 2009-10 season, the percentage of 70.0 is the highest in program history (min. 20 attempts), the only Big 12 team to shoot 70.0 percent or better on 20 or more attempts and the eighth team in the nation to achieve the feat.• In the Mittie era, the Wildcats have made five or more 3-pointers in a game 258 times in 358 total games including 50 games with 10 or more connections (w-l: 44-6) from deep.• This season, K-State made 10 or more 3-pointers in five straight games (Dec. 1-18) for the first time in program history.• The trio of Temira Poindexter (81), Taryn Sides (80) and Jaelyn Glenn (65) are the fourth set of K-State teammates and first since 2012-13 to make 50 or more 3-pointers in a season.• The quintet of Poindexter (81), Sides (80), Glenn (65), Walker (22) and Sundell (20) marks the fifth season in program including the third straight with five or more Wildcats making 20 or more 3-point field goals in a season.• In the 11 seasons under Mittie, K-State has buried 2,254 three-pointers which is 6.30 per game.Sharing is Caring• K-State remains unselfish in its play in the 2024-25 season.• The Wildcats are averaging 21.4 assists per game and own an assisted shot rate of 70.6. K-State is second in the nation for assists per game, second in the nation for assist/turnover ratio (1.67) and is tied for first in the nation for assisted shot rate.• The Wildcats have dished out 705 total assists this season, which is second in the nation for total assists. The 705 assists are eighth in Big 12 history for a season. K-State joins Baylor (8x) as the only programs in Big 12 history (1996-present) with 700 or more assists in a season.• Since assists became an officially tracked stat in 1981-82, K-State has registered an assisted shot rate of 60.0 percent or higher at the end of a season 24 times in its history.• The Wildcats have handed out 20 or more assists in 20 games this season (20-0) including a season-high 30 assists on 37 made field goals against DePaul on Nov. 27. The 30 assists were the most since carding 30 against UIW on Dec. 3, 2019.• Over the last 17 years, the Wildcats are 112-8 (.933) when handing out 20 or more assists.• Serena Sundell (233) and Zyanna Walker (117) have combined to dish out 350 assists this season, setting the school record for most combined assists by a tandem.• K-State features five players with 50 or more assists this season: Sundell (233), Walker (117), Jaelyn Glenn (99), Taryn Sides (94) and Temira Poindexter (57). This marks the fourth season in program history with five or more players dishing 50 or more assists.Cats Send Back Shots Under Mittie• During the Jeff Mittie era, K-State has dealt out rejection to its opponents including a record total in 2023-24 season.• This season, K-State is averaging 5.5 blocks per game (183 blocks) and ranks second in the Big 12 and ninth in the nation. The Wildcats are one of three teams in the nation (South Carolina &amp; Virginia) that feature seven players with 10 or more blocks this season - Ayoka Lee (41), Serena Sundell (30), Temira Poindexter (28), Zyanna Walker (20), Imani Lester (19), Eliza Maupin (17) and Kennedy Taylor (14).• K-State's blocked shots total of 183 set the school record for blocks in a season, surpassing the mark set last season of 178.• The Wildcats have registered 150 or more blocked shots in consecutive seasons for the first time since the 2014-15 and 2015-16 seasons. K-State has blocked 120 or more shots in each of Mittie's 11 seasons, the longest streak of 120 or more blocks in program history.• K-State has a blocked shot differential of +95 this season (183-88). Since blocks became official in 1982-83, K-State has 22 seasons with a positive blocked shot differential including a school record of +95 last season.• K-State recorded a season-high nine blocks against Milwaukee on Nov. 20, against DePaul on Nov. 27 and against Arizona on Jan. 16.• During the Mittie era, Kansas State has sent back 1,710 shots for 4.78 per game in the 358 games. The 1,710 blocks in the 11 seasons are the most in any 11-season span in program history.We Are An Ag School After All• Fans and media may notice a stuffed four-legged friend on the K-State bench in the 2023-24 season and he has returned for the 2024-25 season.• During the summer of 2023-24, the K-State coaching staff encouraged the team to get "gaps" which are three consecutive stops on defense and to do this seven times in a game.• Before the 2023-24 season, head coach Jeff Mittie asked Serena Sundell, Gabby Gregory and Ayoka Lee to make this their own and to embrace the three straight defensive stops. Enter Gap Goat.• Gregory chose a goat because it is her favorite animal.• Gap Goat, who can be followed on Instagram (@GapGoat7), is hoisted aloft when the Wildcats register three consecutive defensive stops.• Gap Goat's apparel includes a K-State jersey and gold chains with one chain featuring a goal number seven pendant, which he is awarded when the team gets seven "gaps" in a game.• K-State fans have jumped on the new tradition and have purchased their own versions of Gap Goats and bring them to Bramlage Coliseum to join in the celebration of the K-State defense.

K-State Set to Face Fairfield in NCAA First Round on Friday

<a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/88c2410b-bb96-41cf-bafe-0e2d6aa8a7fb?elinkdata=22336">Matt Middleton</a>'s priority as Kansas Wesleyan's new head football coach was to assemble a quality staff as quickly as possible.

Middleton previously announced the hirings of offensive coordinator Robert "Boomer" Cunningham and defensive coordinator <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/c309e39b-1786-448b-a8b9-156c9683fe13?elinkdata=22336">Greg Parker</a>. The rest of the slots have been filled except for two graduate assistants who will be added this spring.

Middleton, who came to KWU from Harding College (Ark.), has announced the hiring of three new members and the return of two coaches from last year's staff.

"It's been good and we're excited," Middleton said. "I think the biggest thing for a head coach is to surround yourself with people that are smarter than you in a lot of ways and also have strengths that you don't have."

Middleton coached quarterbacks and fullbacks at Harding while helping the Bisons compile a 27-2 record for the last two seasons.

"(Blahauvietz) worked with special teams at Harding, was very influential in working with those guys and the success we had," Middleton said. "I spent time coaching with Ben, and he is an absolute go getter. He brings a lot of that coaching experience even though he's been in a GA role and now he is in a full-time role. (Gray) is going to be a really good one. Tycen is not far removed from playing and it's been amazing to watch him. He's going to be an absolute hammer one day.

"One thing I can tell you about Ben and Tycen is they are super hungry recruiters. They've done a great job. Those are two guys that have hit the ground running and done really well."

Blahauvietz and Gray joined the staff in January while Teague is a recent arrival.

"Dylan just got here. He has been the linebackers coach the last two years at Southern Arkansas and is a coach's kid, so he understands it. He grew up doing that," Middleton said.

Snyder and Leonard led the Coyotes to a 5-0 record, the Kansas Conference's Gene Bissell Division title and a berth in the NAIA playoffs as co-interim head coaches.

"Chris and David have been real instrumental with retention and have given us an opportunity to build relationships and those things," Middleton said. "It's been a clean slate too where they helped us early but now, we've moved on into 2025. I think it has been a breath of fresh air for them to be able to just go back and coach ball again, be assistant coaches."

Cunningham came to KWU after three seasons at Delta State where he coached running backs and tight ends. Prior to that he was offensive line coach and recruiting coordinator at Southern Arkansas for seven seasons.

Parker was defensive line coach at Thomas (Florida) last fall after coaching the defensive line and outside linebackers for two seasons at Division I Bucknell.

Middleton and his staff will take the field with their athletes for the first time when spring practice begins March 31. The Coyotes will have 13 practice sessions at JRI Hospitality Stadium and Graves Family Sports Complex before the spring scrimmage on April 26

<a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/88c2410b-bb96-41cf-bafe-0e2d6aa8a7fb?elinkdata=22336">Matt Middleton</a>'s priority as Kansas Wesleyan's new head football coach was to assemble a quality staff as quickly as possible.Mission accomplished.Middleton previously announced the hirings of offensive coordinator Robert "Boomer" Cunningham and defensive coordinator <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/c309e39b-1786-448b-a8b9-156c9683fe13?elinkdata=22336">Greg Parker</a>. The rest of the slots have been filled except for two graduate assistants who will be added this spring.Middleton, who came to KWU from Harding College (Ark.), has announced the hiring of three new members and the return of two coaches from last year's staff.<ul>
 <li>Ben Blahauvietz follows Middleton from Harding and will coach safeties and coordinate the special teams.</li><li>Dylan Teague comes from Southern Arkansas and will coach linebackers, serve as equipment manager and supervise student assistants and managers.</li><li>Tycen Gray is a graduate assistant after finishing his playing career at Delta State (Miss.) and will work with the offense.</li><li><a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/750c58df-0004-4eb9-8dc1-5dadb8b35769?elinkdata=22336">Chris Snyder</a> and <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/11d56157-655b-451e-b0f8-b4b2b21e95a1?elinkdata=22336">David Leonard</a> have been retained after serving as co-head interim coaches last fall. Snyder will coach the quarterbacks and is recruiting coordinator while Leonard will coach the secondary and coordinate community service projects.</li>
 </ul>"It's been good and we're excited," Middleton said. "I think the biggest thing for a head coach is to surround yourself with people that are smarter than you in a lot of ways and also have strengths that you don't have."Middleton coached quarterbacks and fullbacks at Harding while helping the Bisons compile a 27-2 record for the last two seasons."(Blahauvietz) worked with special teams at Harding, was very influential in working with those guys and the success we had," Middleton said. "I spent time coaching with Ben, and he is an absolute go getter. He brings a lot of that coaching experience even though he's been in a GA role and now he is in a full-time role. (Gray) is going to be a really good one. Tycen is not far removed from playing and it's been amazing to watch him. He's going to be an absolute hammer one day."One thing I can tell you about Ben and Tycen is they are super hungry recruiters. They've done a great job. Those are two guys that have hit the ground running and done really well."Blahauvietz and Gray joined the staff in January while Teague is a recent arrival."Dylan just got here. He has been the linebackers coach the last two years at Southern Arkansas and is a coach's kid, so he understands it. He grew up doing that," Middleton said.Snyder and Leonard led the Coyotes to a 5-0 record, the Kansas Conference's Gene Bissell Division title and a berth in the NAIA playoffs as co-interim head coaches."Chris and David have been real instrumental with retention and have given us an opportunity to build relationships and those things," Middleton said. "It's been a clean slate too where they helped us early but now, we've moved on into 2025. I think it has been a breath of fresh air for them to be able to just go back and coach ball again, be assistant coaches."Cunningham came to KWU after three seasons at Delta State where he coached running backs and tight ends. Prior to that he was offensive line coach and recruiting coordinator at Southern Arkansas for seven seasons.Parker was defensive line coach at Thomas (Florida) last fall after coaching the defensive line and outside linebackers for two seasons at Division I Bucknell.Middleton and his staff will take the field with their athletes for the first time when spring practice begins March 31. The Coyotes will have 13 practice sessions at JRI Hospitality Stadium and Graves Family Sports Complex before the spring scrimmage on April 26

Middleton announces new additions to his staff

MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;– K-State’s Serena Sundell and Ayoka Lee added to their career trophy cases, as the tandem were named honorable mention All-Americans by the Associated Press (AP) on Wednesday. This is the first time since 2004 the Wildcats have seen two players garner All-America honors.

This is the third time Lee has collected AP All-America honors in her career, as she was a second team recipient in 2022 and honorable mention in 2024. This was the first All-America honor for Sundell.

Sundell, a 2025 All-Big 12 First Team selection, is second in the nation with a career-high for total assists (233), is second in the nation and paces the Big 12 with a career-high for assists per game (7.06 apg) and fourth in the Big 12 for assist-turnover ratio (2.38). She owns a league-best eight games with 10 or more assists.

The product of Maryville, Missouri, is second on the team in scoring average with 13.6 points per game and leads the Wildcats with 449 points, which is the second-highest total of her career on a .493 field goal percentage. Her 170 made field goals this season is a new career-high.

She has registered a career-high 30 blocked shots (0.91 bpg) and has pulled in 148 rebounds (4.5 rpg), which is the second-highest rebound total in her career.

Sundell is the only player in the nation to register 400 or more points, 200 or more assists, 125 or more rebounds and 30 or more blocks. She has registered a career-high seven double-doubles this season. She was the first Big 12 player since the 2022-23 season and the fifth player in program history to register a triple-double with 26 points, 13 assists and 10 rebounds against USC Upstate on Dec. 5, 2024.

With her point (449) and assist (233) totals this season, Sundell is the first player in Big 12 history to record four seasons with 350 or more points and 150 or more assists.

MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;– K-State’s Serena Sundell and Ayoka Lee added to their career trophy cases, as the tandem were named honorable mention All-Americans by the Associated Press (AP) on Wednesday. This is the first time since 2004 the Wildcats have seen two players garner All-America honors.This is the third time Lee has collected AP All-America honors in her career, as she was a second team recipient in 2022 and honorable mention in 2024. This was the first All-America honor for Sundell.Sundell, a 2025 All-Big 12 First Team selection, is second in the nation with a career-high for total assists (233), is second in the nation and paces the Big 12 with a career-high for assists per game (7.06 apg) and fourth in the Big 12 for assist-turnover ratio (2.38). She owns a league-best eight games with 10 or more assists.The product of Maryville, Missouri, is second on the team in scoring average with 13.6 points per game and leads the Wildcats with 449 points, which is the second-highest total of her career on a .493 field goal percentage. Her 170 made field goals this season is a new career-high.She has registered a career-high 30 blocked shots (0.91 bpg) and has pulled in 148 rebounds (4.5 rpg), which is the second-highest rebound total in her career.Sundell is the only player in the nation to register 400 or more points, 200 or more assists, 125 or more rebounds and 30 or more blocks. She has registered a career-high seven double-doubles this season. She was the first Big 12 player since the 2022-23 season and the fifth player in program history to register a triple-double with 26 points, 13 assists and 10 rebounds against USC Upstate on Dec. 5, 2024.With her point (449) and assist (233) totals this season, Sundell is the first player in Big 12 history to record four seasons with 350 or more points and 150 or more assists.In her career, Sundell holds the school records for career starts (136) and games played (136). She is second in school history and sixth in Big 12 history for career assists with 782 and is second in program history for career assists per game (5.75 apg). She ranks seventh on the K-State career scoring list with 1,712 points. She ranks eighth in school history for career blocks (103).She is the only player in school history with 1,500 or more career points, 700 or more career assists and 100 or more career blocked shots.This season, Lee, a 2025 All-Big 12 Second Team honoree, is averaging a team-high 15.5 points on a career-high .656 field goal percentage. She is also averaging team-highs with 6.1 rebounds and 2.2 blocks per game.In her career, Lee holds the school record and ranks sixth in Big 12 history for points scored with 2,488 and holds the school record for career scoring average at 18.8. She also owns the school records for career rebounds and ranks fifth in Big 12 history with 1,233 and career rebounding average at 9.3.Lee is also the school record holder and ranks fourth in Big 12 history for career blocks with 351 and owns the school record and ranks tied for third in Big 12 history for career double-doubles with 63. She is the first player in program history with 300 or more career blocks and 100 or more career steals.(19/18) K-State (26-7), the five-seed in the Spokane 4 Region, will face 12-seed Fairfield (28-4) on Friday at 1:30 p.m. (CT), in Lexington, Kentucky, in the first round of the 2025 NCAA Tournament.