The Kansas City Chiefs have made a blockbuster trade, moving All Pro cornerback Trent McDuffie to the Los Angeles Rams in exchange for a haul of draft picks including three in this year's NFL draft.&nbsp;

It's&nbsp;the second time in three years the Chiefs have traded away a top cornerback instead of handing out a big-money extension. In 2024, Kansas City traded L'Jarius Sneed to the Tennessee Titans.&nbsp; Cornerback will become a need in the free agent market and draft also with&nbsp;Jaylen Watson set to become a free agent next week.

Per a source, the Rams will receive McDuffie and in exchange the Chiefs will get the 29th pick in the first round of this years draft, as well as Los Angeles' fifth and sixth round picks, along with a 2027 third round selection.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Rams had two first-round picks in this year's draft as a result of a trade they made with the Atlanta Falcons last year. Los Angeles still owns the 13th pick in this draft.

McDuffie is expected to sign a long term contract extension with the Rams.&nbsp; During last week's NFL Combine, Chiefs GM Brett Veach had expressed interest in keeping McDuffie on the team as the two sides negotiated a contract extension as he was entering the final year of his contract.&nbsp;

“We had a lot of dialogue with Trent last spring, last summer. He’s first out of the gate. Looking forward to get with him and obviously Trent’s a great player.&nbsp; We’d certainly love to have Trent back for the long-term,” Veach said to reporters in Indianapolis.

McDuffie is coming off a season in which he started 13 games with the Chiefs. He registered one interception, one sack and one forced fumble during the regular season.&nbsp; Through his career in Kansas City, McDuffie had just three interceptions, with 34 passes defended, five and a half sacks, and eight forced fumbles.

You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/3/1772643750837.jpeg" alt="Trent McDuffie participates in a drill during Chiefs Training Camp on the Missouri Western State University campus/ Photo by Justin Peacock" />
 <figcaption>Trent McDuffie participates in a drill during Chiefs Training Camp on the Missouri Western State University campus/ Photo by Justin Peacock</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKEThe Kansas City Chiefs have made a blockbuster trade, moving All Pro cornerback Trent McDuffie to the Los Angeles Rams in exchange for a haul of draft picks including three in this year's NFL draft.&nbsp;It's&nbsp;the second time in three years the Chiefs have traded away a top cornerback instead of handing out a big-money extension. In 2024, Kansas City traded L'Jarius Sneed to the Tennessee Titans.&nbsp; Cornerback will become a need in the free agent market and draft also with&nbsp;Jaylen Watson set to become a free agent next week.Per a source, the Rams will receive McDuffie and in exchange the Chiefs will get the 29th pick in the first round of this years draft, as well as Los Angeles' fifth and sixth round picks, along with a 2027 third round selection.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Rams had two first-round picks in this year's draft as a result of a trade they made with the Atlanta Falcons last year. Los Angeles still owns the 13th pick in this draft.McDuffie is expected to sign a long term contract extension with the Rams.&nbsp; During last week's NFL Combine, Chiefs GM Brett Veach had expressed interest in keeping McDuffie on the team as the two sides negotiated a contract extension as he was entering the final year of his contract.&nbsp;“We had a lot of dialogue with Trent last spring, last summer. He’s first out of the gate. Looking forward to get with him and obviously Trent’s a great player.&nbsp; We’d certainly love to have Trent back for the long-term,” Veach said to reporters in Indianapolis.McDuffie is coming off a season in which he started 13 games with the Chiefs. He registered one interception, one sack and one forced fumble during the regular season.&nbsp; Through his career in Kansas City, McDuffie had just three interceptions, with 34 passes defended, five and a half sacks, and eight forced fumbles.You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt.

Chiefs gain more draft picks trading CB Trent McDuffie to Los Angeles Rams

By MATT PIKE<div><iframe data-testid="embed-iframe" style="border-radius:12px" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/episode/5GHyzPNlYB1t2LXDGis0Eh?utm_source=generator" width="100%" height="352" frameBorder="0" allowfullscreen="" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; fullscreen; picture-in-picture" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

KFEQ Morning Sports

The Kansas City Chiefs shocked the state of Missouri with the teams announcement of its move across the state line with a new stadium in 2031.  

While Kansas governor Laura Kelly and many top Kansas representatives praised the move, US Senator Roger Marshall seems a bit more apprehensive towards it, while still having excitement.  

Marshall says while the state will celebrate the move, financially he has his own concerns about the move 

"I’m concerned well how much is this going to cost the people of Kansas, I hope it works out well for everybody, I’m going to do my part and support them as well,” Marshall tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post.  “So, certainly we’re going to celebrate the Chiefs either way, it’s still a long ways until that new stadium is built and stuff, but they will still be a part of Kansas City and just like I supported them in Missouri, I hope the people of Missouri support them when they’re in Kansas as well.” 

A new stadium for is being built in Wyandotte County, set to open in 2031.  The team is also opening a new practice facility and team headquarters in Olathe as well.  

Marshall, however, sees the economic benefits for his state. 

"Certainly it’s going to mean a lot more jobs, there’s going to be seven more Sunday’s when all the hotel rooms are full, and all the restaurants are full, and I think they’re going to certainly have more of an activity, fun, and restaurants around the stadium there where the current stadium is, so it will mean a lot more jobs,” Marshall explains.  “At the same time, Kansas is making a huge investment of taxpayer money, indirectly, into the project as well.” 

Marshall though acknowledges that the Kansas Speedway, as well as Sporting Kansas City have both had success in Kansas, and they expect the Chiefs to have success as well in bringing in both tourism dollars as well as new jobs. 

You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1764785437708.jpeg" alt="Arrowhead Stadium/ File photo" />
 <figcaption>Arrowhead Stadium/ File photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKEThe Kansas City Chiefs shocked the state of Missouri with the teams announcement of its move across the state line with a new stadium in 2031. While Kansas governor Laura Kelly and many top Kansas representatives praised the move, US Senator Roger Marshall seems a bit more apprehensive towards it, while still having excitement. Marshall says while the state will celebrate the move, financially he has his own concerns about the move "I’m concerned well how much is this going to cost the people of Kansas, I hope it works out well for everybody, I’m going to do my part and support them as well,” Marshall tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. “So, certainly we’re going to celebrate the Chiefs either way, it’s still a long ways until that new stadium is built and stuff, but they will still be a part of Kansas City and just like I supported them in Missouri, I hope the people of Missouri support them when they’re in Kansas as well.” A new stadium for is being built in Wyandotte County, set to open in 2031. The team is also opening a new practice facility and team headquarters in Olathe as well. Marshall, however, sees the economic benefits for his state. "Certainly it’s going to mean a lot more jobs, there’s going to be seven more Sunday’s when all the hotel rooms are full, and all the restaurants are full, and I think they’re going to certainly have more of an activity, fun, and restaurants around the stadium there where the current stadium is, so it will mean a lot more jobs,” Marshall explains. “At the same time, Kansas is making a huge investment of taxpayer money, indirectly, into the project as well.” Marshall though acknowledges that the Kansas Speedway, as well as Sporting Kansas City have both had success in Kansas, and they expect the Chiefs to have success as well in bringing in both tourism dollars as well as new jobs. You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

US Senator Marshall celebrates Chiefs move to Kansas but still has some concerns

By MATT PIKE<div><iframe data-testid="embed-iframe" style="border-radius:12px" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/episode/6nShxdTAKBC6XcP3zQwzoB?utm_source=generator" width="100%" height="352" frameBorder="0" allowfullscreen="" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; fullscreen; picture-in-picture" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

With hopes to win a championship this season, after a third place finish last year, the Troy Lady Trojans controlled the game from the very tip against the Goessel Bluebirds in a dominant 91-37 victory in the sub state semifinals for the Trojans final home game of the season on Monday.&nbsp;

"Well it's a lot of fun when the ball goes in the hole, and the ball was going in the hole tonight, that doesn't happen very often we shoot the ball like that, everybody hit and we had five girls in double figures," Head Coach Derek Jasper told KFEQ/St. Joseph Post after the game.&nbsp; "Everybody knows about Harper (Whetstine), but man what a great night for our two other seniors on their last night here."&nbsp;

The Trojans pressured the Bluebirds all through the first half, capitalizing on points off of turnovers, along with their shots falling, holding a 31-12 lead at the end of the first quarter, before adding 25 more points in the second quarter, extending their lead to 56-21 at the halftime break after Nicole Judd hit a three point shot as time expired.

With 11 days rest coming into this game, that pressure defense was a point of emphasis for the Trojans senior Alyson Grable says

"Coach always says that defense wins games so we knew if we wanted to win we had to play good defense but also score," Grable says.&nbsp;

Jasper says with 11 days off they could have looked rusty, or they could have looked rested.

"And we looked rested tonight," Jasper explains.&nbsp; "Shooting the ball, we looked rested with our energy on defense, and really great performance to off that long and to come out but crowd helped us and to be on our home court helped us, our energy was really good and we'll need that again."

The lead continued to extend through the remainder of the game, the Trojans ending the third quarter up 81-28, the clock running through the fourth quarter as Jasper pulled many of his starters, with the rest of the team adding the final 10 points in the 91-37 win.&nbsp;

The goal for the Trojans remains to make it back to Dodge City, Kansas and go one step farther than last year, Whetstine says that goal is what's helped push the team throughout the season

"Coach has talked about it a couple of times, but we just want to get back to that spot and hopefully do even better," Whetstine says.&nbsp;

Out of the five Trojans that scored in double figures, Whetstine led the way with 21 points.&nbsp; Grable added 20 points.&nbsp; Hailey Groff chipped in 17 points while Nicole Judd scored 15 points.&nbsp; Kyler Luedke rounded out the double digit scoring with 10 points.&nbsp;

Troy now faces a tough test to move on from sub state into the state quarterfinals, taking on the top seed Wabaunsee on Saturday.&nbsp; The Chargers hold a 21-2 record, and rank as one of the top teams in the state.&nbsp; Jasper says it will be a challenge because Wabaunsee has size on the Trojans.

"We're small, so we'll have to do a good job on the boards, Wabaunsee has a couple of six footers, but as long as we have a chance, and if the ball goes in the hole like it did tonight we could beat anybody in the state," Jasper says.&nbsp; "But we know that's not going to happen, so when that doesn't happen really got to buckle down on defense, so we'll get ready for Wabaunsee here in the next four days and go see what happens Saturday night."

Troy and Wabaunsee tipoff time is still to be determined for Saturday at&nbsp; Clifton-Clyde High School.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/3/1772510974487.jpeg" alt="Harper Whetstine (1) goes for a layup in the paint/ Photo by Matt Pike" />
 <figcaption>Harper Whetstine (1) goes for a layup in the paint/ Photo by Matt Pike</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKEWith hopes to win a championship this season, after a third place finish last year, the Troy Lady Trojans controlled the game from the very tip against the Goessel Bluebirds in a dominant 91-37 victory in the sub state semifinals for the Trojans final home game of the season on Monday.&nbsp;"Well it's a lot of fun when the ball goes in the hole, and the ball was going in the hole tonight, that doesn't happen very often we shoot the ball like that, everybody hit and we had five girls in double figures," Head Coach Derek Jasper told KFEQ/St. Joseph Post after the game.&nbsp; "Everybody knows about Harper (Whetstine), but man what a great night for our two other seniors on their last night here."&nbsp;The Trojans pressured the Bluebirds all through the first half, capitalizing on points off of turnovers, along with their shots falling, holding a 31-12 lead at the end of the first quarter, before adding 25 more points in the second quarter, extending their lead to 56-21 at the halftime break after Nicole Judd hit a three point shot as time expired.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/3/1772516225088.jpeg" alt="Hailey Groff / Photo by Matt Pike" />
 <figcaption>Hailey Groff / Photo by Matt Pike</figcaption>
 </figure>With 11 days rest coming into this game, that pressure defense was a point of emphasis for the Trojans senior Alyson Grable says"Coach always says that defense wins games so we knew if we wanted to win we had to play good defense but also score," Grable says.&nbsp;Jasper says with 11 days off they could have looked rusty, or they could have looked rested."And we looked rested tonight," Jasper explains.&nbsp; "Shooting the ball, we looked rested with our energy on defense, and really great performance to off that long and to come out but crowd helped us and to be on our home court helped us, our energy was really good and we'll need that again."The lead continued to extend through the remainder of the game, the Trojans ending the third quarter up 81-28, the clock running through the fourth quarter as Jasper pulled many of his starters, with the rest of the team adding the final 10 points in the 91-37 win.&nbsp;The goal for the Trojans remains to make it back to Dodge City, Kansas and go one step farther than last year, Whetstine says that goal is what's helped push the team throughout the season"Coach has talked about it a couple of times, but we just want to get back to that spot and hopefully do even better," Whetstine says.&nbsp;Out of the five Trojans that scored in double figures, Whetstine led the way with 21 points.&nbsp; Grable added 20 points.&nbsp; Hailey Groff chipped in 17 points while Nicole Judd scored 15 points.&nbsp; Kyler Luedke rounded out the double digit scoring with 10 points.&nbsp;Troy now faces a tough test to move on from sub state into the state quarterfinals, taking on the top seed Wabaunsee on Saturday.&nbsp; The Chargers hold a 21-2 record, and rank as one of the top teams in the state.&nbsp; Jasper says it will be a challenge because Wabaunsee has size on the Trojans."We're small, so we'll have to do a good job on the boards, Wabaunsee has a couple of six footers, but as long as we have a chance, and if the ball goes in the hole like it did tonight we could beat anybody in the state," Jasper says.&nbsp; "But we know that's not going to happen, so when that doesn't happen really got to buckle down on defense, so we'll get ready for Wabaunsee here in the next four days and go see what happens Saturday night."Troy and Wabaunsee tipoff time is still to be determined for Saturday at&nbsp; Clifton-Clyde High School.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/3/1772518705795.jpeg" alt="Kyler Luedke/ Photo by Matt Pike" />
 <figcaption>Kyler Luedke/ Photo by Matt Pike</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Troy puts up dominant 91-37 victory over Goessel to advance to sub state championship

St. Joseph Christian alum and Oklahoma Sooner Lexi McDaniel had an outstanding weekend on the diamond, and was honored by the Southeastern Conference, being named the SEC softball Freshman of the Week.

Through five games, where the Sooners put up a blistering 116 runs and 30 home runs, McDaniel was red hot at the plate&nbsp;hitting .769 with four home runs, 11 runs, 12 RBIs and a 1.769 slugging percentage. She had four multi-hit games, including a 4-for-4 game against Alabama State on February 27th in which she homered twice. She also hit a grand slam February 28th as the Sooners set a program record with 21 runs in the same inning. Teammate Abby Dayton also hit a grand slam in the same inning, tying an NCAA record for grand slams in an inning.

McDaniel leads Oklahoma with a .556 batting average, while adding five home runs and 17 RBIs. She also hit a pivotal pinch-hit home run in a 13-3 win against Sam Houston State, also on February 27th, her second pinch hit home run of the season.&nbsp; McDaniel is the second Sooners freshman to earn the honor this season,&nbsp; Kai Minor also being honored for Oklahoma.

From the top recruiting class of 2025, which including McDaniel as the nations top recruit and Minor,&nbsp;Sooner freshmen have combined for 32 of OU's 86 home runs this season between McDaniel, Minor, Allyssa Parker and Kendall Wells.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/3/1772487654514.jpeg" alt="St. Joseph Christian alum Lexi McDaniel was named the SEC Freshman of the week after an outstanding weekend for the Sooners/ Photo by Peyton Martin of Oklahoma Athletics" />
 <figcaption>St. Joseph Christian alum Lexi McDaniel was named the SEC Freshman of the week after an outstanding weekend for the Sooners/ Photo by Peyton Martin of Oklahoma Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKESt. Joseph Christian alum and Oklahoma Sooner Lexi McDaniel had an outstanding weekend on the diamond, and was honored by the Southeastern Conference, being named the SEC softball Freshman of the Week.Through five games, where the Sooners put up a blistering 116 runs and 30 home runs, McDaniel was red hot at the plate&nbsp;hitting .769 with four home runs, 11 runs, 12 RBIs and a 1.769 slugging percentage. She had four multi-hit games, including a 4-for-4 game against Alabama State on February 27th in which she homered twice. She also hit a grand slam February 28th as the Sooners set a program record with 21 runs in the same inning. Teammate Abby Dayton also hit a grand slam in the same inning, tying an NCAA record for grand slams in an inning.McDaniel leads Oklahoma with a .556 batting average, while adding five home runs and 17 RBIs. She also hit a pivotal pinch-hit home run in a 13-3 win against Sam Houston State, also on February 27th, her second pinch hit home run of the season.&nbsp; McDaniel is the second Sooners freshman to earn the honor this season,&nbsp; Kai Minor also being honored for Oklahoma.From the top recruiting class of 2025, which including McDaniel as the nations top recruit and Minor,&nbsp;Sooner freshmen have combined for 32 of OU's 86 home runs this season between McDaniel, Minor, Allyssa Parker and Kendall Wells.You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

St. Joseph Christian alum Lexi McDaniel named SEC softball Freshman of the Week 

The Kansas City Chiefs informed right tackle Jawaan Taylor that he will be released before the start of the NFL's new league year, barring a trade to help free cap space as free agency opens next week.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Sources told ESPN's Adam Schefter the Chiefs informed Taylor of the move, which will&nbsp;will save the Chiefs $20 million against the salary cap and will allow them to be under the cap when the league year starts March 11.&nbsp;&nbsp; The Chiefs entered the offseason more than $57 million over the cap, but have made moves over the past months including&nbsp;releasing veteran defensive end Mike Danna and restructuring quarterback Patrick Mahomes' contract.

The 28 year old offensive lineman&nbsp;Taylor had one year remaining on a four-year, $80 million deal. He joined the Chiefs in 2023 as a free agent and helped stabilize the offensive line as Kansas City won the Super Bowl that season to become the NFL's first repeat champion in 20 years.&nbsp;&nbsp;While Taylor was a productive pass blocker, he struggled with penalties, committing 49, 41 which were accepted, in 45 games with the Chiefs, the most of any lineman during that span.

Kansas City still could create even more cap space by releasing linebacker Drue Tranquill and tight end Noah Gray while also restructuring the contracts of pass rusher Chris Jones and center Creed Humphrey.&nbsp;&nbsp;Jaylon Moore, who signed a two-year contract worth $30 million before last season, is expected to be the starting right tackle for the upcoming season.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/3/1772482482069.jpeg" alt="Barring a trade, the Kansas City Chiefs have informed right tackled Jawaan Taylor he will be released ahead of the new league year to help the team free cap space' Photo courtesy of X" />
 <figcaption>Barring a trade, the Kansas City Chiefs have informed right tackled Jawaan Taylor he will be released ahead of the new league year to help the team free cap space' Photo courtesy of X</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKEThe Kansas City Chiefs informed right tackle Jawaan Taylor that he will be released before the start of the NFL's new league year, barring a trade to help free cap space as free agency opens next week.&nbsp;&nbsp;Sources told ESPN's Adam Schefter the Chiefs informed Taylor of the move, which will&nbsp;will save the Chiefs $20 million against the salary cap and will allow them to be under the cap when the league year starts March 11.&nbsp;&nbsp; The Chiefs entered the offseason more than $57 million over the cap, but have made moves over the past months including&nbsp;releasing veteran defensive end Mike Danna and restructuring quarterback Patrick Mahomes' contract.The 28 year old offensive lineman&nbsp;Taylor had one year remaining on a four-year, $80 million deal. He joined the Chiefs in 2023 as a free agent and helped stabilize the offensive line as Kansas City won the Super Bowl that season to become the NFL's first repeat champion in 20 years.&nbsp;&nbsp;While Taylor was a productive pass blocker, he struggled with penalties, committing 49, 41 which were accepted, in 45 games with the Chiefs, the most of any lineman during that span.Kansas City still could create even more cap space by releasing linebacker Drue Tranquill and tight end Noah Gray while also restructuring the contracts of pass rusher Chris Jones and center Creed Humphrey.&nbsp;&nbsp;Jaylon Moore, who signed a two-year contract worth $30 million before last season, is expected to be the starting right tackle for the upcoming season.You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt.

Barring trade, Chiefs plan to cut OL Jawaan Taylor ahead of new league year

By MATT PIKE<div><iframe data-testid="embed-iframe" style="border-radius:12px" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/episode/56bHt2Lz4OmHaacMUxlXiD?utm_source=generator" width="100%" height="352" frameBorder="0" allowfullscreen="" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; fullscreen; picture-in-picture" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

The North Platte Panthers overcame a slow start in the first half, storming back in the second half against the Mid-Buchanan Dragons and narrowly winning a 77-76 matchup at Bishop LeBlond High School, winning their first district title since 2011 in the Class 3 District 15 championship game.&nbsp;

It was another classic Kemper versus Kemper matchup, as Bryce Kemper led the Dragons against his son Bradyn Kemper and the Panthers for the third time this season.&nbsp; Both teams had won a matchup previously, Mid-Buchanan narrowly winning the regular season matchup 55-51, before North Platte earned a win in the&nbsp;North Platte Invitational Basketball Tournament 65-62.

For Bradyn, this matchup ranked right at the top of his coaching career thus far.&nbsp;

"It's not even close, as far as he (Bryce) goes he runs a tremendous program obviously, been one of the powerhouses in the area, a lot of the things that we do are some of the things that they've done and have been built on and I hated having to play this early in the postseason," Kemper told reporters after the game.&nbsp; "Two of the top public schools in the state matching up this early almost wasn't fair, but somebody had to lose and unfortunately their season ends, but I was happy it was them and not us and I'm happy our guys kept hitting shots."

Mid-Buchanan held control through the first half.&nbsp; After narrowly outscoring North Platte in the first quarter, leading 17-12, the Dragons pulled away in the second quarter, capitalizing on stifling defense and missed shots from the Panthers to take a 19 point lead into the halftime break, leading 44-25.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The message at halftime was a phrase the team has had all season Kemper says

"Don't be butter, that expression comes from butter in the microwave starts to melt when things get hot, and I said we were butter that first half," Kemper explains.&nbsp; "We were complaining about fouls, we were worried about us driving and not getting anything, and I thought the second half we calmed down, we played strong, we played together, and took it at the rim hard and didn't worry about a foul."&nbsp;

Senior Brenden Matt echoes that message from Kemper during the halftime break.&nbsp;

"He kind of came in there and reamed us a little bit, told us that we weren't playing the way we should and looked a little scared out there, and he was right," Matt says.&nbsp; "And that's what we needed to do, we needed to come out there and play hard, and that's what he said."

North Platte took the message from Kemper to heart, outscoring Mid-Buchanan 38-16 in the third quarter, and taking 63-60 lead.&nbsp; In the third quarter alone, both teams combined 10 of the 26 total three point shots that were made in the game between the Panthers and the Dragons.&nbsp; Four of those came from Matt, as he put up 14 points in the quarter alone, after scoring nine points through the first half.

Mid-Buchanan wasn't done though, as the game continued to go back and forth.&nbsp; Through the early parts of the fourth quarter, the Dragons never let North Platte pull away, exchanging blows.&nbsp; Eventually&nbsp; though, the Panthers began holding possessions as long as they could before taking shots, working down the clock, and continued answering every Mid-Buchanan bucket on way to the 77-76 victory.&nbsp;

It's been a long road for North Platte, for a long time sitting at the bottom of the district.&nbsp; Prior to the 2023-2024 season under Kemper, the Panthers hadn't had a winning season since the 2015-2016 season, just narrowly sitting above .500 at 14-13. In the last three years, Kemper has led North Platte to an 18-8 record, a 20-8 record, and so far this season a 24-4 record.

Kemper credits the kids he's had as part of the program that have helped him build it to what it's become.

"Each step of the way, my first group only won nine games, but it was one of my most fun groups I've had because they set the foundation, they were always there, they were always working," Kemper says.&nbsp; "We've always had good kids that keep working hard and this groups no different, some of these kids have been working since they were two years old and its starting to show, you've got to have good players, you've got to have players that work hard, and I've had here and that's really helped, they bought into it, they trusted me and they bought into it."

Matt led North Platte with 28 points.&nbsp; Jase Smith added 24 points while both Isaac Wright and Hunter Palmer each chipped in 10 points.&nbsp; For Mid-Buchanan it was Raife Smith leading the way with 28 points.&nbsp; Ian Campbell added 17 points while Chris Kowalewycz chipped in 13 points.&nbsp;

North Platte will face the South Harrison Bulldogs on Tuesday in St. Joseph at St. Joseph Christian for sectionals in the state tournament.&nbsp; Tipoff will be at 6pm

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1772341068256.jpeg" alt="The North Platte Panthers celebrate their first district title since 2011 after winning Class 3 District 15/ Photo by Matt Pike" />
 <figcaption>The North Platte Panthers celebrate their first district title since 2011 after winning Class 3 District 15/ Photo by Matt Pike</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKEThe North Platte Panthers overcame a slow start in the first half, storming back in the second half against the Mid-Buchanan Dragons and narrowly winning a 77-76 matchup at Bishop LeBlond High School, winning their first district title since 2011 in the Class 3 District 15 championship game.&nbsp;It was another classic Kemper versus Kemper matchup, as Bryce Kemper led the Dragons against his son Bradyn Kemper and the Panthers for the third time this season.&nbsp; Both teams had won a matchup previously, Mid-Buchanan narrowly winning the regular season matchup 55-51, before North Platte earned a win in the&nbsp;North Platte Invitational Basketball Tournament 65-62.For Bradyn, this matchup ranked right at the top of his coaching career thus far.&nbsp;"It's not even close, as far as he (Bryce) goes he runs a tremendous program obviously, been one of the powerhouses in the area, a lot of the things that we do are some of the things that they've done and have been built on and I hated having to play this early in the postseason," Kemper told reporters after the game.&nbsp; "Two of the top public schools in the state matching up this early almost wasn't fair, but somebody had to lose and unfortunately their season ends, but I was happy it was them and not us and I'm happy our guys kept hitting shots."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1772342636123.jpeg" alt="It was another classic battle between the Kemper's as head coach of Mid-Buchanan and father Bryce Kemper faced off against head coach of North Platte and son Braydn Kemper in the Class 3 District 15 championship/ Photo by Matt Pike" />
 <figcaption>It was another classic battle between the Kemper's as head coach of Mid-Buchanan and father Bryce Kemper faced off against head coach of North Platte and son Braydn Kemper in the Class 3 District 15 championship/ Photo by Matt Pike</figcaption>
 </figure>Mid-Buchanan held control through the first half.&nbsp; After narrowly outscoring North Platte in the first quarter, leading 17-12, the Dragons pulled away in the second quarter, capitalizing on stifling defense and missed shots from the Panthers to take a 19 point lead into the halftime break, leading 44-25.&nbsp;&nbsp;The message at halftime was a phrase the team has had all season Kemper says"Don't be butter, that expression comes from butter in the microwave starts to melt when things get hot, and I said we were butter that first half," Kemper explains.&nbsp; "We were complaining about fouls, we were worried about us driving and not getting anything, and I thought the second half we calmed down, we played strong, we played together, and took it at the rim hard and didn't worry about a foul."&nbsp;Senior Brenden Matt echoes that message from Kemper during the halftime break.&nbsp;"He kind of came in there and reamed us a little bit, told us that we weren't playing the way we should and looked a little scared out there, and he was right," Matt says.&nbsp; "And that's what we needed to do, we needed to come out there and play hard, and that's what he said."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1772344723001.jpeg" alt="Raife Smith (2) goes for the contested shot against Hunter Palmer (3)/Photo by Matt Pike" />
 <figcaption>Raife Smith (2) goes for the contested shot against Hunter Palmer (3)/Photo by Matt Pike</figcaption>
 </figure>North Platte took the message from Kemper to heart, outscoring Mid-Buchanan 38-16 in the third quarter, and taking 63-60 lead.&nbsp; In the third quarter alone, both teams combined 10 of the 26 total three point shots that were made in the game between the Panthers and the Dragons.&nbsp; Four of those came from Matt, as he put up 14 points in the quarter alone, after scoring nine points through the first half.Mid-Buchanan wasn't done though, as the game continued to go back and forth.&nbsp; Through the early parts of the fourth quarter, the Dragons never let North Platte pull away, exchanging blows.&nbsp; Eventually&nbsp; though, the Panthers began holding possessions as long as they could before taking shots, working down the clock, and continued answering every Mid-Buchanan bucket on way to the 77-76 victory.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/3/1772345628561.jpeg" alt="Jase Smith (4) shoots from beyond the arc against a defending Chris Kowalewycz (0)/ Photo by Matt Pike" />
 <figcaption>Jase Smith (4) shoots from beyond the arc against a defending Chris Kowalewycz (0)/ Photo by Matt Pike</figcaption>
 </figure>It's been a long road for North Platte, for a long time sitting at the bottom of the district.&nbsp; Prior to the 2023-2024 season under Kemper, the Panthers hadn't had a winning season since the 2015-2016 season, just narrowly sitting above .500 at 14-13. In the last three years, Kemper has led North Platte to an 18-8 record, a 20-8 record, and so far this season a 24-4 record.Kemper credits the kids he's had as part of the program that have helped him build it to what it's become."Each step of the way, my first group only won nine games, but it was one of my most fun groups I've had because they set the foundation, they were always there, they were always working," Kemper says.&nbsp; "We've always had good kids that keep working hard and this groups no different, some of these kids have been working since they were two years old and its starting to show, you've got to have good players, you've got to have players that work hard, and I've had here and that's really helped, they bought into it, they trusted me and they bought into it."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/3/1772345859345.jpeg" alt="Brenden Matt (5) drives the lane/ Photo by Matt Pike" />
 <figcaption>Brenden Matt (5) drives the lane/ Photo by Matt Pike</figcaption>
 </figure>Matt led North Platte with 28 points.&nbsp; Jase Smith added 24 points while both Isaac Wright and Hunter Palmer each chipped in 10 points.&nbsp; For Mid-Buchanan it was Raife Smith leading the way with 28 points.&nbsp; Ian Campbell added 17 points while Chris Kowalewycz chipped in 13 points.&nbsp;North Platte will face the South Harrison Bulldogs on Tuesday in St. Joseph at St. Joseph Christian for sectionals in the state tournament.&nbsp; Tipoff will be at 6pm<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/3/1772345992576.jpeg" alt="Chris Kowalewycz (0) drives in for the layup/ Photo by Matt Pike" />
 <figcaption>Chris Kowalewycz (0) drives in for the layup/ Photo by Matt Pike</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/3/1772346029368.jpeg" alt="The North Platte Panthers celebrate their first district tltle since 2011 after winning Class 3 District 15/ Photo by Matt Pike" />
 <figcaption>The North Platte Panthers celebrate their first district tltle since 2011 after winning Class 3 District 15/ Photo by Matt Pike</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Big second half helps North Platte bring home first district title since 2011

The Penney Hornets battled with the Nodaway Valley Thunder in the Class 2 District 16 championship game at St. Joseph Christian High School, battling through foul troubles in a back and forth contest to a 66-63 victory and their first district title since 2016.

Head coach Doug Burnett says it feels really good to bring the first district title in a decade back to Hamilton.&nbsp;

"Our guys have to deal with, I tell them all the time, they have to deal with me being on them nonstop, all game long, about what it takes to be a champion, the attitude you have to have every single day," Burnett tells reporters after the game.&nbsp; "We know this was not won the last week, this was won all the work they did in the summer, all the work they did in the fall, all of those things, we're just lucky to have great kids."

Despite constant pressure from the Thunder, many times being triple covered, Jacob Miller scored seven of the Hornets first 10 points of the afternoon, helping lead Penney to a 21-13 lead at the end of the first quarter.&nbsp; Miller was held to just two points the remainder of the half and Nodaway Valley went on the attack, outscoring the Hornets 19-17 heading into the halftime break trailing by just six points, with Penney leading 38-32.

As the third quarter rolled along, fouls began to pile up for Miller, having three by the end, but again posting another seven point quarter to help keep Penney ahead 51-42 heading into the final quarter.&nbsp; Early on in the fourth though, Miller picked up his fourth foul, forcing him to the bench.

Even with Miller in foul trouble though, eventually even fouling out late in the final quarter, the Hornets had young players step up in the absence of the senior big man.&nbsp; Burnett says it was big to have those other players step up.

"We do that on purpose sometimes, we do a whole bunch of Jake with four JV players versus our other five guys, and we tell them all the time we're going to need you in this moment, we're going to need you in this moment, we're going to need you in this moment," Burnett explains.&nbsp; "And they stepped up and they did it, it's fun as a coach that you hammer them on stuff and you're talking to them about stuff, and then it just pops up like you said it was going to, it makes us feel good that they believe in us."

With Miller out of the game, the Thunder did rally back to tie the game at 59 with 1:11 left in regulation.&nbsp; The Hornets hit key free throws down the stretch though, and some big shots, to pull out the 66-63 victory and advance to their first sectional round of the state tournament since 2016.&nbsp;

Along the way to the district title, the Hornets who sat as the #3 seed, beat Maysville by one point, the #2 seed Gallatin Bulldogs by six, before beating the top seed Nodaway Valley in the championship.&nbsp; Miller say's he's just blessed in the position he's in with this team.&nbsp;

"We've been working so hard this season and the proof is in the pudding," Miller says.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Along with Miller, another player that's stepped up this season for Penney is freshman point guard Hudson Creekmore.&nbsp; Creekmore says this district title is a credit to all the extra work this team has put in.

"All of us are in the gym after practice putting in the work and just stick to our gameplan," Creekmore says.&nbsp; "And we've got this mindset that says no more losses and we stick to it."

Creekmore led the Hornets with 23 points while Miller added 20.&nbsp; Jared Cooley scored 10 points for Penney.&nbsp; For the Thunder, Jax Cowden led all scorers with 19 points and Braxton McGinness added 18 points.&nbsp; Deontrae Mincy chipped in 10 points.

Penney now advances to the Class 2 sectionals where they will face&nbsp;Wellington-Napoleon on Tuesday.&nbsp; The Hornets faced&nbsp;Wellington-Napoleon in the 2016 sectional round and fell 63-51 to the Tigers, who eventually went on to win third place in the state tournament.&nbsp; The game on Tuesday will tip off at 6pm at Mid-Buchanan High School in Faucett.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1772333286318.jpeg" alt="Jacob Miller hoists the trophy as the Penney Hornets won their first Class 2 District 16 title since 2016 and head coach Doug Burnett presents Miller with the game ball/ Photo by Matt Pike" />
 <figcaption>Jacob Miller hoists the trophy as the Penney Hornets won their first Class 2 District 16 title since 2016 and head coach Doug Burnett presents Miller with the game ball/ Photo by Matt Pike</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKEThe Penney Hornets battled with the Nodaway Valley Thunder in the Class 2 District 16 championship game at St. Joseph Christian High School, battling through foul troubles in a back and forth contest to a 66-63 victory and their first district title since 2016.Head coach Doug Burnett says it feels really good to bring the first district title in a decade back to Hamilton.&nbsp;"Our guys have to deal with, I tell them all the time, they have to deal with me being on them nonstop, all game long, about what it takes to be a champion, the attitude you have to have every single day," Burnett tells reporters after the game.&nbsp; "We know this was not won the last week, this was won all the work they did in the summer, all the work they did in the fall, all of those things, we're just lucky to have great kids."Despite constant pressure from the Thunder, many times being triple covered, Jacob Miller scored seven of the Hornets first 10 points of the afternoon, helping lead Penney to a 21-13 lead at the end of the first quarter.&nbsp; Miller was held to just two points the remainder of the half and Nodaway Valley went on the attack, outscoring the Hornets 19-17 heading into the halftime break trailing by just six points, with Penney leading 38-32.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1772336030039.jpeg" alt="Jacob Miller (20) puts a ball up in the paint/ Photo by Matt PIke" />
 <figcaption>Jacob Miller (20) puts a ball up in the paint/ Photo by Matt PIke</figcaption>
 </figure>As the third quarter rolled along, fouls began to pile up for Miller, having three by the end, but again posting another seven point quarter to help keep Penney ahead 51-42 heading into the final quarter.&nbsp; Early on in the fourth though, Miller picked up his fourth foul, forcing him to the bench.Even with Miller in foul trouble though, eventually even fouling out late in the final quarter, the Hornets had young players step up in the absence of the senior big man.&nbsp; Burnett says it was big to have those other players step up."We do that on purpose sometimes, we do a whole bunch of Jake with four JV players versus our other five guys, and we tell them all the time we're going to need you in this moment, we're going to need you in this moment, we're going to need you in this moment," Burnett explains.&nbsp; "And they stepped up and they did it, it's fun as a coach that you hammer them on stuff and you're talking to them about stuff, and then it just pops up like you said it was going to, it makes us feel good that they believe in us."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1772337111207.jpeg" alt="Braxton McGinness (3) brings the ball up against Jared Cooley (3)/ Photo by Matt Pike" />
 <figcaption>Braxton McGinness (3) brings the ball up against Jared Cooley (3)/ Photo by Matt Pike</figcaption>
 </figure>With Miller out of the game, the Thunder did rally back to tie the game at 59 with 1:11 left in regulation.&nbsp; The Hornets hit key free throws down the stretch though, and some big shots, to pull out the 66-63 victory and advance to their first sectional round of the state tournament since 2016.&nbsp;Along the way to the district title, the Hornets who sat as the #3 seed, beat Maysville by one point, the #2 seed Gallatin Bulldogs by six, before beating the top seed Nodaway Valley in the championship.&nbsp; Miller say's he's just blessed in the position he's in with this team.&nbsp;"We've been working so hard this season and the proof is in the pudding," Miller says.&nbsp;&nbsp;Along with Miller, another player that's stepped up this season for Penney is freshman point guard Hudson Creekmore.&nbsp; Creekmore says this district title is a credit to all the extra work this team has put in."All of us are in the gym after practice putting in the work and just stick to our gameplan," Creekmore says.&nbsp; "And we've got this mindset that says no more losses and we stick to it."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1772337885369.jpeg" alt="Hudson Creekmore/ Photo by Matt Pike" />
 <figcaption>Hudson Creekmore/ Photo by Matt Pike</figcaption>
 </figure>Creekmore led the Hornets with 23 points while Miller added 20.&nbsp; Jared Cooley scored 10 points for Penney.&nbsp; For the Thunder, Jax Cowden led all scorers with 19 points and Braxton McGinness added 18 points.&nbsp; Deontrae Mincy chipped in 10 points.Penney now advances to the Class 2 sectionals where they will face&nbsp;Wellington-Napoleon on Tuesday.&nbsp; The Hornets faced&nbsp;Wellington-Napoleon in the 2016 sectional round and fell 63-51 to the Tigers, who eventually went on to win third place in the state tournament.&nbsp; The game on Tuesday will tip off at 6pm at Mid-Buchanan High School in Faucett.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1772339539503.jpeg" alt="Deontrae Mincy goes for three/ Photo by Matt Pike" />
 <figcaption>Deontrae Mincy goes for three/ Photo by Matt Pike</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1772339502000.jpeg" alt="Jacob Miller hoists the trophy as the Penney Hornets won their first Class 1 District 16 title since 2016/ Photo by Matt Pike" />
 <figcaption>Jacob Miller hoists the trophy as the Penney Hornets won their first Class 1 District 16 title since 2016/ Photo by Matt Pike</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt.

Penney Hornets claim first district title since 2016 with 66-63 win over Nodaway Valley

After winning Class 1 District 16 last season, and finishing fourth in the state tournament, the Rock Port Blue Jay girls came into this season with lofty expectations.&nbsp; On Friday night, they achieved the first step in getting back to the Final Four, winning a second consecutive district title.

Taking on the Mound City Panthers, a team the Blue Jays had faced three times previously through the season, Rock Port battled back and forth until pulling away in the fourth quarter, winning 41-37 in Stanberry.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Head coach&nbsp;Austin Alitz says feeling more pressure this season is the biggest difference between this district championship and last years.

"We were the #1 seed, we had beat Mound City three times, and I knew Coach (Ryan) Osburn was going to make it a dogfight and he did," Alitz tells reporters.&nbsp; "But it means a lot, and I'm happy."

Rock Port controlled the tempo through the first quarter playing stifling defense and forcing takeaways, leading to the Blue Jays holding a 13-6 lead at the end of the opening quarter.&nbsp; Mound City stormed back in the second quarter however as Peyton Farr, who scored all the points in the first quarter, added five more points and the Panthers outscore Rock Port 14-6 to hold a 20-19 lead at halftime.

Defensive adjustments at halftime were the story of the game.&nbsp; Following the 11 first half points from Farr, she would score no more, as the Blue Jays held the sophomore without a basket the entire second half.&nbsp; Maggie Osburn, the Panthers other top scorer through the season, was held to just eight points, six of those in the second half.&nbsp;

Alitz says it's hard to hold those two good basketball players to that low of scoring, coming off a game where Farr scored 20 and Osburn added 19 against Stanberry in the semifinal matchup.

"I just looked at the book and saw Peyton ended with 11, and I was like man that's what I told the girls at halftime that she had," Alitz says.&nbsp; "Just we got after it defensively and it worked out pretty well."

In the third quarter, Ella Meyerkorth scored five points, a free throw marking her 1,000th career point with the Blue Jays.&nbsp; Narrowly outscoring the Panthers, the matchup went into the final quarter tied at 31.&nbsp; &nbsp; In the final quarter Rock Port was able to pull away again, this time thanks to Audrie Meyerkorth and Braylyn Wood, pushing the lead to 41-35, before a last second layup from Danica McDonald made it 41-37.

Ella Meyerkorth led Rock Port with 12 points while Audrie Meyerkorth added 11 points.&nbsp; Stevie Gaines chipped in eight points.&nbsp; For Mound City, Farr led with 11 points while Osburn added eight points.&nbsp; Sophie Biermann and Seiah Meadows each scored six points.

Rock Port will travel to St. Joseph on Monday to face North Andrew in the Class 1 Sectional round.&nbsp; The matchup will be at St. Joseph Christian, tipping off at 7pm.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1772252315231.jpeg" alt="For a second consecutive season the Rock Port Blue Jays won the Class 1 District 16 championship/ Photo by Matt Pike" />
 <figcaption>For a second consecutive season the Rock Port Blue Jays won the Class 1 District 16 championship/ Photo by Matt Pike</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKEAfter winning Class 1 District 16 last season, and finishing fourth in the state tournament, the Rock Port Blue Jay girls came into this season with lofty expectations.&nbsp; On Friday night, they achieved the first step in getting back to the Final Four, winning a second consecutive district title.Taking on the Mound City Panthers, a team the Blue Jays had faced three times previously through the season, Rock Port battled back and forth until pulling away in the fourth quarter, winning 41-37 in Stanberry.&nbsp;&nbsp;Head coach&nbsp;Austin Alitz says feeling more pressure this season is the biggest difference between this district championship and last years."We were the #1 seed, we had beat Mound City three times, and I knew Coach (Ryan) Osburn was going to make it a dogfight and he did," Alitz tells reporters.&nbsp; "But it means a lot, and I'm happy."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1772254304230.jpeg" alt="Audrie Meyerkorth breaks away for a layup/ Photo by Matt Pike" />
 <figcaption>Audrie Meyerkorth breaks away for a layup/ Photo by Matt Pike</figcaption>
 </figure>Rock Port controlled the tempo through the first quarter playing stifling defense and forcing takeaways, leading to the Blue Jays holding a 13-6 lead at the end of the opening quarter.&nbsp; Mound City stormed back in the second quarter however as Peyton Farr, who scored all the points in the first quarter, added five more points and the Panthers outscore Rock Port 14-6 to hold a 20-19 lead at halftime.Defensive adjustments at halftime were the story of the game.&nbsp; Following the 11 first half points from Farr, she would score no more, as the Blue Jays held the sophomore without a basket the entire second half.&nbsp; Maggie Osburn, the Panthers other top scorer through the season, was held to just eight points, six of those in the second half.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1772255246414.jpeg" alt="Maggie Osburn (30) goes up against Braylyn Wood (23) for a shot in the paint/ Photo by Matt Pike" />
 <figcaption>Maggie Osburn (30) goes up against Braylyn Wood (23) for a shot in the paint/ Photo by Matt Pike</figcaption>
 </figure>Alitz says it's hard to hold those two good basketball players to that low of scoring, coming off a game where Farr scored 20 and Osburn added 19 against Stanberry in the semifinal matchup."I just looked at the book and saw Peyton ended with 11, and I was like man that's what I told the girls at halftime that she had," Alitz says.&nbsp; "Just we got after it defensively and it worked out pretty well."In the third quarter, Ella Meyerkorth scored five points, a free throw marking her 1,000th career point with the Blue Jays.&nbsp; Narrowly outscoring the Panthers, the matchup went into the final quarter tied at 31.&nbsp; &nbsp; In the final quarter Rock Port was able to pull away again, this time thanks to Audrie Meyerkorth and Braylyn Wood, pushing the lead to 41-35, before a last second layup from Danica McDonald made it 41-37.Ella Meyerkorth led Rock Port with 12 points while Audrie Meyerkorth added 11 points.&nbsp; Stevie Gaines chipped in eight points.&nbsp; For Mound City, Farr led with 11 points while Osburn added eight points.&nbsp; Sophie Biermann and Seiah Meadows each scored six points.Rock Port will travel to St. Joseph on Monday to face North Andrew in the Class 1 Sectional round.&nbsp; The matchup will be at St. Joseph Christian, tipping off at 7pm.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1772256240641.jpeg" alt="Ella Meyerkorth goes up for a layup/ Photo by Matt Pike" />
 <figcaption>Ella Meyerkorth goes up for a layup/ Photo by Matt Pike</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1772256257047.jpeg" alt="Maggie Osburn goes up for a contested layup/ Photo by Matt Pike" />
 <figcaption>Maggie Osburn goes up for a contested layup/ Photo by Matt Pike</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt.

Rock Port claims second straight Class 1 District 16 title with win over Mound City

By MATT PIKE<div><iframe data-testid="embed-iframe" style="border-radius:12px" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/episode/3o3a0H30sXuEloo3AzxNqV?utm_source=generator" width="100%" height="352" frameBorder="0" allowfullscreen="" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; fullscreen; picture-in-picture" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

By MATT PIKE<div><iframe data-testid="embed-iframe" style="border-radius:12px" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/episode/7h9s6BNmEwUhBsNapkuYOy?utm_source=generator" width="100%" height="352" frameBorder="0" allowfullscreen="" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; fullscreen; picture-in-picture" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

Competing for his spot in the Kansas City Royals starting rotation, St. Joseph's Noah Cameron made his Spring Training debut against the defending American League runners up, the Seattle Mariners on Wednesday.&nbsp;

Cameron, the St. Joseph Central alum, was solid in his limited outing, pitching two scoreless innings giving up just one hit, also walking one, while striking out two batters on 36 pitches, 20 of those strikes.&nbsp; Cameron opened the game striking out Victor Robles before giving up a single, then after forcing Josh Naylor to ground into a force out, struck out Patrick Wisdom to end the first inning.&nbsp;

In the second inning, Cameron got a flyout from&nbsp;Miles Mastrobuoni before he walked&nbsp;Andrew Knizner on six pitches, but then on a 2-0 count forced Cole Young to ground into an inning ending double play.&nbsp;&nbsp; Chase Jessee replaced Cameron in the third inning, surrendering a run to give up the 1-0 lead, but escaped the inning with the game tied.

Cameron&nbsp; says it was just a good feeling to get back out on the mound and make that first start

"I feel like every offseason we just kind of wait for that first one, you can throw as many live bullpens all that stuff in the backfields, but nothing feels real until you get out there," Cameron told reporters following the game.&nbsp; "So good to be out there and ready to keep going."&nbsp;

The plan going in for Cameron in his first game action against batters, aside from live batting practices, was to feel out the zone with his pitches.

"Which we kind of struggled with a little bit, but I was definitely around the zone, everything felt good coming out," Cameron says.&nbsp; "Velo is a little down, which is normal a little bit running out of camp, but just kind of feel it up, see what the hitters doing, obviously in season you're doing scouting reports, you're doing pitcher and catcher meetings stuff like that, Spring Training it's more just hey throw to your strengths and use it as a practice day, obviously your throwing in a game, but use it as a practice day and get better."&nbsp;

Cameron says this camp feels different after fighting to earn a spot last year, this year focusing more on not burning out early and preparing for the season while earning a spot, a difference he could feel on the mound.

"Even starting games, last year I didn't start games in Spring Training, I only had a few outings here and was kind of the later inning guy, so even that is exciting, feels more like a gameday, more like a day in Kansas City," Cameron says.&nbsp; "We're excited and ready to keep going."&nbsp;

Back-to back doubles from Bobby Witt Jr and Vinnie Pasquantino gave Cameron the 1-0 lead.&nbsp; The Royals did fall behind later in the game on a three run home run from former Kansas City prospect Jackson Reetz, but rallied back in the seventh inning and took the lead back on a three run home run of their own from #24 prospect Gavin Cross.

The Royals will next play the Arizona Diamondbacks in Spring Training action tomorrow.&nbsp; Our next game coverage on KFEQ (680AM/95.3 FM) will be on March 2nd against the Los Angeles Angels.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1772056669459.jpeg" alt="Noah Cameron made his Spring Training debut for the Kansas City Royals pitching a solid two innings, giving up one hit and walking one, while striking out two batters/ Photo courtesy of the Royals on X" />
 <figcaption>Noah Cameron made his Spring Training debut for the Kansas City Royals pitching a solid two innings, giving up one hit and walking one, while striking out two batters/ Photo courtesy of the Royals on X</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKECompeting for his spot in the Kansas City Royals starting rotation, St. Joseph's Noah Cameron made his Spring Training debut against the defending American League runners up, the Seattle Mariners on Wednesday.&nbsp;Cameron, the St. Joseph Central alum, was solid in his limited outing, pitching two scoreless innings giving up just one hit, also walking one, while striking out two batters on 36 pitches, 20 of those strikes.&nbsp; Cameron opened the game striking out Victor Robles before giving up a single, then after forcing Josh Naylor to ground into a force out, struck out Patrick Wisdom to end the first inning.&nbsp;In the second inning, Cameron got a flyout from&nbsp;Miles Mastrobuoni before he walked&nbsp;Andrew Knizner on six pitches, but then on a 2-0 count forced Cole Young to ground into an inning ending double play.&nbsp;&nbsp; Chase Jessee replaced Cameron in the third inning, surrendering a run to give up the 1-0 lead, but escaped the inning with the game tied.Cameron&nbsp; says it was just a good feeling to get back out on the mound and make that first start"I feel like every offseason we just kind of wait for that first one, you can throw as many live bullpens all that stuff in the backfields, but nothing feels real until you get out there," Cameron told reporters following the game.&nbsp; "So good to be out there and ready to keep going."&nbsp;The plan going in for Cameron in his first game action against batters, aside from live batting practices, was to feel out the zone with his pitches."Which we kind of struggled with a little bit, but I was definitely around the zone, everything felt good coming out," Cameron says.&nbsp; "Velo is a little down, which is normal a little bit running out of camp, but just kind of feel it up, see what the hitters doing, obviously in season you're doing scouting reports, you're doing pitcher and catcher meetings stuff like that, Spring Training it's more just hey throw to your strengths and use it as a practice day, obviously your throwing in a game, but use it as a practice day and get better."&nbsp;Cameron says this camp feels different after fighting to earn a spot last year, this year focusing more on not burning out early and preparing for the season while earning a spot, a difference he could feel on the mound."Even starting games, last year I didn't start games in Spring Training, I only had a few outings here and was kind of the later inning guy, so even that is exciting, feels more like a gameday, more like a day in Kansas City," Cameron says.&nbsp; "We're excited and ready to keep going."&nbsp;Back-to back doubles from Bobby Witt Jr and Vinnie Pasquantino gave Cameron the 1-0 lead.&nbsp; The Royals did fall behind later in the game on a three run home run from former Kansas City prospect Jackson Reetz, but rallied back in the seventh inning and took the lead back on a three run home run of their own from #24 prospect Gavin Cross.The Royals will next play the Arizona Diamondbacks in Spring Training action tomorrow.&nbsp; Our next game coverage on KFEQ (680AM/95.3 FM) will be on March 2nd against the Los Angeles Angels.You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt.

Noah Cameron makes spring debut as Royals tie with Mariners 8-8

By MATT PIKE<div><iframe data-testid="embed-iframe" style="border-radius:12px" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/episode/1bNUOu1hM5263jhgJbCKMm?utm_source=generator" width="100%" height="352" frameBorder="0" allowfullscreen="" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; fullscreen; picture-in-picture" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

Missouri football will now open its 2026 season with a game against Arkansas-Pine Bluff on Thursday, Sept. 3, in the newly renovated Memorial Stadium. 

The game will kick off at 7 p.m. and will air on SEC Network.&nbsp; KFEQ, your home for Missouri Tiger football and basketball, will potentially have a conflict with the Kansa City Royals that prevents the game from airing on that day.

 Head coach Eli Drinkwitz expressed excitement for the tradition of starting the season on a Thursday night in front of a renovated stadium.

"Opening the season on a Thursday night in CoMo is becoming a great tradition for our program," head coach Eli Drinkwitz said in a news release from the university. "We appreciate Arkansas-Pine Bluff and the SEC for working with us on the adjustment so our season opener can be broadcast nationally on SEC Network. There's nothing like a renovated and full Memorial Stadium to kick off a season, and we're excited to carry our program-record sellout streak into 2026."

 The move to Thursday night games has been successful for Missouri, allowing them to avoid competition with Labor Day weekend travel and the NFL. The Tigers will play seven home games in the 2026 season, including matchups against Florida, Texas, and Oklahoma.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1771972121977.jpeg" alt="Faurot Field/ Photo courtesy of Mizzou Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Faurot Field/ Photo courtesy of Mizzou Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKEMissouri football will now open its 2026 season with a game against Arkansas-Pine Bluff on Thursday, Sept. 3, in the newly renovated Memorial Stadium. The game will kick off at 7 p.m. and will air on SEC Network.&nbsp; KFEQ, your home for Missouri Tiger football and basketball, will potentially have a conflict with the Kansa City Royals that prevents the game from airing on that day. Head coach Eli Drinkwitz expressed excitement for the tradition of starting the season on a Thursday night in front of a renovated stadium."Opening the season on a Thursday night in CoMo is becoming a great tradition for our program," head coach Eli Drinkwitz said in a news release from the university. "We appreciate Arkansas-Pine Bluff and the SEC for working with us on the adjustment so our season opener can be broadcast nationally on SEC Network. There's nothing like a renovated and full Memorial Stadium to kick off a season, and we're excited to carry our program-record sellout streak into 2026." The move to Thursday night games has been successful for Missouri, allowing them to avoid competition with Labor Day weekend travel and the NFL. The Tigers will play seven home games in the 2026 season, including matchups against Florida, Texas, and Oklahoma.

Mizzou football changes date for 'Kickoff in CoMO'

Travis Kelce's future with the Kansas City Chiefs in the NFL remains uncertain, but head coach Andy Reid has confirmed ongoing communication with the star tight end. 

Kelce, who has been with the Chiefs since 2013, has not made a decision about his future yet, but promised to do so before the start of free agency in March. Despite positive comments from teammates and Kelce himself about returning, his future with the team is still up in the air. 

Chiefs General Manager Brett Veach spoke on Tuesday, ahead of the NFL Combine, and said the Chiefs will be prepared for whether Kelce decides to return for another season or not.

“I think we’ve kind of taken a different approach with Travis, in the sense that I think we kind of prepared for either scenario,” Veach told reporters in Indianapolis. [Andy Reid] had mentioned on Friday, he’s had great dialogue with Travis. Travis is the best, he’s an icon and hopefully he comes back. We’ll just kind of let that process play out.”

In early January, Kelce stated on his podcast that he’d be willing to return next season if his body allows him to.

“I think if my body can heal up and rest up and I can feel confident that I can go out there and give it another 18, 20, 21-week run, I think I would do it in a heartbeat,” Kelce said.

Kelce hinted at returning again after the Chiefs brought back Eric Bieniemy as their offensive coordinator last month, saying he, “couldn’t wait to see him back in the building.”

Fans are eagerly awaiting news about whether the tight end will continue his career with the Chiefs for the 2026 season.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754511024979.jpeg" alt="File photo" />
 <figcaption>File photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKETravis Kelce's future with the Kansas City Chiefs in the NFL remains uncertain, but head coach Andy Reid has confirmed ongoing communication with the star tight end. Kelce, who has been with the Chiefs since 2013, has not made a decision about his future yet, but promised to do so before the start of free agency in March. Despite positive comments from teammates and Kelce himself about returning, his future with the team is still up in the air. Chiefs General Manager Brett Veach spoke on Tuesday, ahead of the NFL Combine, and said the Chiefs will be prepared for whether Kelce decides to return for another season or not.“I think we’ve kind of taken a different approach with Travis, in the sense that I think we kind of prepared for either scenario,” Veach told reporters in Indianapolis. [Andy Reid] had mentioned on Friday, he’s had great dialogue with Travis. Travis is the best, he’s an icon and hopefully he comes back. We’ll just kind of let that process play out.”In early January, Kelce stated on his podcast that he’d be willing to return next season if his body allows him to.“I think if my body can heal up and rest up and I can feel confident that I can go out there and give it another 18, 20, 21-week run, I think I would do it in a heartbeat,” Kelce said.Kelce hinted at returning again after the Chiefs brought back Eric Bieniemy as their offensive coordinator last month, saying he, “couldn’t wait to see him back in the building.”Fans are eagerly awaiting news about whether the tight end will continue his career with the Chiefs for the 2026 season.You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt.

Chiefs GM Veach says team preparing for 2026 without Kelce, but also preparing for his return

By MATT PIKE<div><iframe data-testid="embed-iframe" style="border-radius:12px" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/episode/5uEAEQ0GsxtM4AGJDoRdtk?utm_source=generator" width="100%" height="352" frameBorder="0" allowfullscreen="" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; fullscreen; picture-in-picture" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

The Missouri High School Volleyball Coaches Association has named East Buchanan head coach Ryan Horn the Coach of the Year in Class 2.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Horn led the Lady Bulldogs to a 26-12-3 record in the season, finishing fourth in Class 2 after battling in close 3-2 matches against both Hermann and New Covenant Academy.&nbsp; It's the second time in the last four years Horn has led the Bulldogs to the state final four and a fourth place finish.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Over the last five years, Horn has led the Lady Bulldogs to a 132-42-10 record with three district championships.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1667530690105.jpeg" alt="East Buchanan coach Ryan Horn (center) gathers with his players during a practice at East Buchanan High School/ File photo by Tommy Rezac" />
 <figcaption>East Buchanan coach Ryan Horn (center) gathers with his players during a practice at East Buchanan High School/ File photo by Tommy Rezac</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKEThe Missouri High School Volleyball Coaches Association has named East Buchanan head coach Ryan Horn the Coach of the Year in Class 2.&nbsp;&nbsp;Horn led the Lady Bulldogs to a 26-12-3 record in the season, finishing fourth in Class 2 after battling in close 3-2 matches against both Hermann and New Covenant Academy.&nbsp; It's the second time in the last four years Horn has led the Bulldogs to the state final four and a fourth place finish.&nbsp;&nbsp;Over the last five years, Horn has led the Lady Bulldogs to a 132-42-10 record with three district championships.You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

East Buchanan's Ryan Horn named Class 2  Coach of the Year by MHSVCA

The Missouri Basketball Coaches Association released it's final boys basketball polls of the regular season, as district play in Classes 1 through 3 is set to begin this week, with Classes 4 through 6 starting next week.&nbsp;

In Class 4, the Benton boys remained ranked at #2, with 69 points, still trailing the #1 team Vashon.&nbsp; The Cardinals close out their regular season with a home matchup tomorrow against Pembroke Hill and are currently the top team in Class 4 District 16 ahead of the district tournament next week.&nbsp;&nbsp;

In Class 3, the Mid-Buchanan boys remained at #3, now in a tie with Woodland with 52 points, trailing the #2 team Miller Career Academy and the top team Principia with 70 and 80 points respectively.&nbsp; The North Platte Panthers also remained in the polls, also staying put at #7 with 33 points. The Dragons have been in the polls since the beginning of the season, getting as high as #2, while the Panthers first entered the polls December 29th, starting at #10, before moving up to #7 after briefly falling out of the polls near the end of January.

Both the Dragons and the Panthers have a first round bye in the Class 3 District 15 bracket.&nbsp; Mid-Buchanan will play the winner of West Platte and Bishop LeBlond on Thursday, while North Platte plays the winner of East Buchanan and&nbsp;Crossroads Prep Charter.

Other area teams finished in the polls as well.&nbsp; In Class 2, the West Nodaway boys finished at #9 with 12 points, while the Gallatin boys also closed out the season receiving votes.&nbsp; In Class 1, the Princeton boys finished the regular season tied for #3, with Faith Christian Academy with 55 points, while the Rock Port boys and the King City boys closed out the regular season receiving votes.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1770788794300.jpeg" alt="Benton's Lincoln Goodwin slams down a dunk that helped fuel the team in a win over Lafayette/ Photo courtesy of Clifton Grooms" />
 <figcaption>Benton's Lincoln Goodwin slams down a dunk that helped fuel the team in a win over Lafayette/ Photo courtesy of Clifton Grooms</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKEThe Missouri Basketball Coaches Association released it's final boys basketball polls of the regular season, as district play in Classes 1 through 3 is set to begin this week, with Classes 4 through 6 starting next week.&nbsp;In Class 4, the Benton boys remained ranked at #2, with 69 points, still trailing the #1 team Vashon.&nbsp; The Cardinals close out their regular season with a home matchup tomorrow against Pembroke Hill and are currently the top team in Class 4 District 16 ahead of the district tournament next week.&nbsp;&nbsp;In Class 3, the Mid-Buchanan boys remained at #3, now in a tie with Woodland with 52 points, trailing the #2 team Miller Career Academy and the top team Principia with 70 and 80 points respectively.&nbsp; The North Platte Panthers also remained in the polls, also staying put at #7 with 33 points. The Dragons have been in the polls since the beginning of the season, getting as high as #2, while the Panthers first entered the polls December 29th, starting at #10, before moving up to #7 after briefly falling out of the polls near the end of January.Both the Dragons and the Panthers have a first round bye in the Class 3 District 15 bracket.&nbsp; Mid-Buchanan will play the winner of West Platte and Bishop LeBlond on Thursday, while North Platte plays the winner of East Buchanan and&nbsp;Crossroads Prep Charter.Other area teams finished in the polls as well.&nbsp; In Class 2, the West Nodaway boys finished at #9 with 12 points, while the Gallatin boys also closed out the season receiving votes.&nbsp; In Class 1, the Princeton boys finished the regular season tied for #3, with Faith Christian Academy with 55 points, while the Rock Port boys and the King City boys closed out the regular season receiving votes.&nbsp;&nbsp;You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Benton boys stay put in final MBCA boys polls of regular season

By MATT PIKE<div><iframe data-testid="embed-iframe" style="border-radius:12px" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/episode/3dPd3FYRH6cMDXUhIJDEsG?utm_source=generator" width="100%" height="352" frameBorder="0" allowfullscreen="" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; fullscreen; picture-in-picture" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

Sporting Kansas City suffered a 3-0 loss to the San Jose Earthquakes in their 2026 MLS season opener.

In the first match under new head coach Raphael Wicky, six players made their debuts for the club as Sporting Kansas City put a youthful starting 11 together, all of the starters being 28 years old or younger for the first time in an MLS match in 31 seasons. The group included 17-year-old center back Ian James, who became the youngest player to start an MLS regular season opener for Sporting Kansas City in club history.

&nbsp;Sporting goalkeeper John Pulskamp recorded three saves on the night, but despite that effort gave up a goal in the 42nd minute as&nbsp;Daniel Munie pounced on the rebound off Pulskamp's save, to knock n the first score of the game.&nbsp; Munie scored another goal in the second half which pushed the lead to 3-0.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The second goal of the night came just before halftime as&nbsp;Preston Judd struck in the first minute of stoppage time on assists from Jamar Ricketts and Niko Tsakiris.&nbsp;&nbsp;Sporting did come close to pulling a goal back in the 73rd minute as Dejan Joveljic let loose a shot from just inside the penalty area that narrowly missed the target.

&nbsp;Sporting Kansas City will look to bounce back in their home opener against the Columbus Crew on Saturday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1771822954194.jpeg" alt="Sporting Kansas City fell in it's regular season opener 3-0 to the San Jose Earthquakes 3-0 on Saturday/ Photo courtesy of Sporting KC on X" />
 <figcaption>Sporting Kansas City fell in it's regular season opener 3-0 to the San Jose Earthquakes 3-0 on Saturday/ Photo courtesy of Sporting KC on X</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKESporting Kansas City suffered a 3-0 loss to the San Jose Earthquakes in their 2026 MLS season opener.In the first match under new head coach Raphael Wicky, six players made their debuts for the club as Sporting Kansas City put a youthful starting 11 together, all of the starters being 28 years old or younger for the first time in an MLS match in 31 seasons. The group included 17-year-old center back Ian James, who became the youngest player to start an MLS regular season opener for Sporting Kansas City in club history.&nbsp;Sporting goalkeeper John Pulskamp recorded three saves on the night, but despite that effort gave up a goal in the 42nd minute as&nbsp;Daniel Munie pounced on the rebound off Pulskamp's save, to knock n the first score of the game.&nbsp; Munie scored another goal in the second half which pushed the lead to 3-0.&nbsp;&nbsp;The second goal of the night came just before halftime as&nbsp;Preston Judd struck in the first minute of stoppage time on assists from Jamar Ricketts and Niko Tsakiris.&nbsp;&nbsp;Sporting did come close to pulling a goal back in the 73rd minute as Dejan Joveljic let loose a shot from just inside the penalty area that narrowly missed the target.&nbsp;Sporting Kansas City will look to bounce back in their home opener against the Columbus Crew on Saturday.You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt.

Sporting Kansas City falls in season opener to San Jose Earthquakes

In the very first game of Spring Training for the Kansas City Royals, some competition was on display as Stephen Kolek impressed in his start, Michael Massey hit a two run home run, and the Royals beat the Texas Rangers 7-3.&nbsp;

Massey, whose in competition with Jonathan India for the job at second base, extended the lead in the second inning with a two run home run that scored Jac Caglianone, two batters after Salvador Perez led off the inning with a no doubt home run.&nbsp; Kansas City led the Rangers 3-1 after two innings of action.&nbsp;

Kolek got the first start of spring, only pitching two innings, but gave up just three hits and walked one, allowing the one run while striking out three.&nbsp; Kolek is competing with Ryan Bergert, as well as Noah Cameron, to try to be the fifth person in the Royals rotation, unless a trade happens during Spring Training that might open up another spot.&nbsp; After injuries derailed his season last year, Kris Bubic could also be competing for his rotation spot, leaving a possible two spots open.

Another competition comes in the bullpen.&nbsp; Several non-roster invitees took the mound following Kolek, all pitching one inning, including Jose Cuas, who struck out one in a scoreless and hitless frame.&nbsp; Eric Cerentola and&nbsp;Helcris Olivárez also gave up no hits in their one inning of action from the bullpen.

Kansas City will take on the San Diego Padres on Saturday in Spring Training action.&nbsp; Bergert is slated to start the game, taking on his former team.&nbsp; Bergert was acquired from the Padres last season in the trade that sent Freddy Fermin to San Diego.&nbsp; First pitch is at 2:05.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Neither the Saturday or Sunday Spring Training games will be carried on KFEQ (680AM/95.3FM) due to Missouri basketball, with the Tigers men taking on Arkansas on Saturday, and the Missouri women facing LSU on Sunday.&nbsp; The next Royals Spring Training game on KFEQ will be aired on Monday February 23rd.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1771650320193.jpeg" alt="Royals catcher and captain Salvador Perez opened the scoring with a no doubt home run in the second inning as Kansas City beat the Texas Rangers 7-3 in their Spring Training opener/ Photo courtesy of the Royals on X" />
 <figcaption>Royals catcher and captain Salvador Perez opened the scoring with a no doubt home run in the second inning as Kansas City beat the Texas Rangers 7-3 in their Spring Training opener/ Photo courtesy of the Royals on X</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKEIn the very first game of Spring Training for the Kansas City Royals, some competition was on display as Stephen Kolek impressed in his start, Michael Massey hit a two run home run, and the Royals beat the Texas Rangers 7-3.&nbsp;Massey, whose in competition with Jonathan India for the job at second base, extended the lead in the second inning with a two run home run that scored Jac Caglianone, two batters after Salvador Perez led off the inning with a no doubt home run.&nbsp; Kansas City led the Rangers 3-1 after two innings of action.&nbsp;Kolek got the first start of spring, only pitching two innings, but gave up just three hits and walked one, allowing the one run while striking out three.&nbsp; Kolek is competing with Ryan Bergert, as well as Noah Cameron, to try to be the fifth person in the Royals rotation, unless a trade happens during Spring Training that might open up another spot.&nbsp; After injuries derailed his season last year, Kris Bubic could also be competing for his rotation spot, leaving a possible two spots open.Another competition comes in the bullpen.&nbsp; Several non-roster invitees took the mound following Kolek, all pitching one inning, including Jose Cuas, who struck out one in a scoreless and hitless frame.&nbsp; Eric Cerentola and&nbsp;Helcris Olivárez also gave up no hits in their one inning of action from the bullpen.Kansas City will take on the San Diego Padres on Saturday in Spring Training action.&nbsp; Bergert is slated to start the game, taking on his former team.&nbsp; Bergert was acquired from the Padres last season in the trade that sent Freddy Fermin to San Diego.&nbsp; First pitch is at 2:05.&nbsp;&nbsp;Neither the Saturday or Sunday Spring Training games will be carried on KFEQ (680AM/95.3FM) due to Missouri basketball, with the Tigers men taking on Arkansas on Saturday, and the Missouri women facing LSU on Sunday.&nbsp; The next Royals Spring Training game on KFEQ will be aired on Monday February 23rd.You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt.

Competition on display as Royals open Spring Training with 7-3 win over Rangers

By MATT PIKE<div><iframe data-testid="embed-iframe" style="border-radius:12px" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/episode/2YqUgHE5wLeHxQDSCpf32s?utm_source=generator" width="100%" height="352" frameBorder="0" allowfullscreen="" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; fullscreen; picture-in-picture" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

KFEQ Morning Sports 

Ahead of the start of a new Major League Soccer season tomorrow, Sporting Kansas City announced a slew of moves on Thursday, moving one forward, and acquiring another to help on the frontline for new head coach&nbsp;Raphael Wicky.

Sporting acquired up to $1 million in General Allocation Money (GAM) from Toronto FC in exchange for forward Daniel Salloi, the club announced Thursday. Sporting will receive $300,000 in GAM and an additional $700,000 in GAM if certain performance-based incentives are achieved. Sporting retains a sell-on percentage should Salloi be transferred to another club.

Salloi signed with Sporting KC as a Homegrown Player in 2016 and went on to tally 67 goals and 47 assists in 287 appearances across all competitions for the club.&nbsp; The 29 year old forward departs Sporting as the second top scorer in the team’s history, tied with Dom Dwyer and Johnny Russell, and ranks fourth in goal contributions, while his 17 game-winning goals in the regular season are the most in club history.&nbsp; 

Salloi also&nbsp;helped Sporting win the 2017 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup, scoring the game-winner in the final, and was named an MLS All-Star and MVP finalist in 2021.

In a sort of corresponding move on Thursday,&nbsp;Sporting Kanas City acquired forward Taylor Calheira in a transfer from FC Tulsa in the USL Championship. Calheira signed a two-and-a-half-year MLS contract through the 2027-2028 season with club options for the following two seasons.&nbsp;&nbsp;Sporting acquired Calheira’s Discovery Priority from Minnesota United in exchange for $50,000 in 2026 GAM and an additional $25,000 in GAM if certain performance-based incentives are achieved.

Calheira has enjoyed a prolific start to his professional career, tallying 38 goals and 10 assists in 69 matches while representing FC Tulsa in the USL Championship in 2025 and NYCFC II in MLS NEXT Pro in 2024.&nbsp; The 23 year old forward joins Sporting after an impressive debut campaign with FC Tulsa in 2025, recording 21 goals and four assists in all competitions as Tulsa finished atop the Western Conference with a 16-5-9 record and reached the USL Championship Final.

Sporting begins the 2026 MLS season tomorrow with a trip to take on the San Jose Earthquakes at PayPal Park with kickoff set for 9:30 p.m. The team will then return to Kansas City for the club’s home opener against the Columbus Crew at Sporting Park on February 28th at 7:30 p.m.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1771564114836.jpeg" alt="Daniel Salloi/ Photo courtesy of X" />
 <figcaption>Daniel Salloi/ Photo courtesy of X</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKEAhead of the start of a new Major League Soccer season tomorrow, Sporting Kansas City announced a slew of moves on Thursday, moving one forward, and acquiring another to help on the frontline for new head coach&nbsp;Raphael Wicky.Sporting acquired up to $1 million in General Allocation Money (GAM) from Toronto FC in exchange for forward Daniel Salloi, the club announced Thursday. Sporting will receive $300,000 in GAM and an additional $700,000 in GAM if certain performance-based incentives are achieved. Sporting retains a sell-on percentage should Salloi be transferred to another club.Salloi signed with Sporting KC as a Homegrown Player in 2016 and went on to tally 67 goals and 47 assists in 287 appearances across all competitions for the club.&nbsp; The 29 year old forward departs Sporting as the second top scorer in the team’s history, tied with Dom Dwyer and Johnny Russell, and ranks fourth in goal contributions, while his 17 game-winning goals in the regular season are the most in club history.&nbsp; Salloi also&nbsp;helped Sporting win the 2017 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup, scoring the game-winner in the final, and was named an MLS All-Star and MVP finalist in 2021.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1771564644332.jpeg" alt="Taylor Calheira/ Photo courtesy of X" />
 <figcaption>Taylor Calheira/ Photo courtesy of X</figcaption>
 </figure>In a sort of corresponding move on Thursday,&nbsp;Sporting Kanas City acquired forward Taylor Calheira in a transfer from FC Tulsa in the USL Championship. Calheira signed a two-and-a-half-year MLS contract through the 2027-2028 season with club options for the following two seasons.&nbsp;&nbsp;Sporting acquired Calheira’s Discovery Priority from Minnesota United in exchange for $50,000 in 2026 GAM and an additional $25,000 in GAM if certain performance-based incentives are achieved.Calheira has enjoyed a prolific start to his professional career, tallying 38 goals and 10 assists in 69 matches while representing FC Tulsa in the USL Championship in 2025 and NYCFC II in MLS NEXT Pro in 2024.&nbsp; The 23 year old forward joins Sporting after an impressive debut campaign with FC Tulsa in 2025, recording 21 goals and four assists in all competitions as Tulsa finished atop the Western Conference with a 16-5-9 record and reached the USL Championship Final.Sporting begins the 2026 MLS season tomorrow with a trip to take on the San Jose Earthquakes at PayPal Park with kickoff set for 9:30 p.m. The team will then return to Kansas City for the club’s home opener against the Columbus Crew at Sporting Park on February 28th at 7:30 p.m.You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt.