Benedictine College Athletic Director Charlie Gartenmayer announced the hiring of Joel Osborn to be the next head coach for the Raven Football program on Thursday afternoon.

Osborn, who was most recently the tight ends and running backs coach at Northwest Missouri State, takes over for&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ravenathletics.com/roster/24/5/8768.php">Larry Wilcox</a>, who announced his retirement from his post as head football coach on Nov. 17.

"It's an incredible honor and I'm very grateful for the opportunity to be the next head football coach at Benedictine College," Osborn said in a statement. "It's humbling and I'm looking forward to getting started. The culture and values of Benedictine College align with me and my family and so I thought it was a really good match.

"You have a program that has sustained success for a long time and that is a really good thing. To come in and embrace that, invest in the people that are there and bring in the best people we can and invest in them. It's going to be all about the people that we have and making them the best I can make them."

Osborn served in a number of roles for the Bearcat Football program as a Recruiting Coordinator and Co-Offensive Coordinator. As a coach for the Bearcats, he has helped recruit and coach players that have been involved in winning three NCAA Div. II National Championships, four MIAA conference championships and a string of nine consecutive trips to the NCAA Div. II Playoffs.

"We are excited to welcome Joel and his family to our Benedictine family," Gartenmayer said in a release. "He brings a great deal of success with him to Raven Football. We believe he has the characteristics to build off the legacy of Coach Wilcox while also helping our football student-athletes continue to grow academically, spiritually, and compete in the Heart of America Athletic Conference and the NAIA."

Since arriving at Northwest, Osborn has taken the offensive side of the ball to unparalleled heights, including a school record for points in a season in 2009 and breaking that record in 2011. In nine seasons on the sidelines, 14&nbsp;wide receivers combined to earn 20&nbsp;All-MIAA accolades and three All-America honors.

In two seasons as Co-Offensive Coordinator (2018 -2019), he helped guide the Bearcats to a record of 22-5 with two MIAA Co-Championships and two berths in the NCAA Div. II National Playoffs.

His team averaged 41.9 points per game during the 2019 season, which ranked ninth in NCAA Div. II.

In 2018, they averaged 36.6, which led the MIAA. In the last seven years, the Bearcats have gone 86-10 overall and 68-6 in MIAA play.

"My sincerest congratulations to Joel Osborn in being named the next head coach for Benedictine College football," said hall of fame head coach&nbsp;Larry Wilcox. "I'm confident that he and our current coaching staff will continue to have success moving forward and I'm looking forward to seeing them succeed."

Coach Osborn was blown away on his trip to campus by the Benedictine community, something that ultimately helped make his decision to become a Raven.

"When I had a chance to visit the campus, everything looks really sharp and you can tell that the people at Benedictine take pride is everything that is there," Coach Osborn said. "When I stepped on campus, the first thing I thought is that I can recruit to this. This place will impress families when they come here.

"I've known about Coach Wilcox for a long time and I've known Charlie Gartenmayer and some of the other guys on the staff for quite a while now. The people stood out to me. The longevity of the guys that are currently there has to tell you something about how great of a place it is to work at and be at."

As a player for the Bearcats, Coach Osborn was named the 2008 MIAA Offensive Player of the Year along with a first-team All-MIAA selection. As a two-year starter at quarterback, he finished with an overall record of 16-3 and started in two NCAA Div. II National Championship game.

A native of Harlan, Iowa, Osborn earned his bachelor's degree at Northwest in 2008 and received his master's in 2011. Osborn and his wife, Audrey, a Northwest alum and former Bearcat track and field athlete, have three sons, Jack, Colin, and Isaac.

Coach Osborn becomes the fifth head football coach in the modern era of Benedictine College football, which began in 1973 when the program was officially reinstated as a varsity sport at Benedictine.

"I'm looking forward to getting started," Osborn said. "Meeting all of the coaches, all of the players, and developing relationships with them. Getting into the process of college football. From the academics to the weight room, to the skill development, to the spiritual development, it's all-encompassing. I'm looking forward to the entire process."

Coach Osborn will be formally introduced on Tuesday during a special Facebook live event. He will also be available for questions by media via a Zoom press conference on Tuesday as well. Details on those two events will be shared once they are set.

RavenAthletics.comBenedictine College Athletic Director Charlie Gartenmayer announced the hiring of Joel Osborn to be the next head coach for the Raven Football program on Thursday afternoon.Osborn, who was most recently the tight ends and running backs coach at Northwest Missouri State, takes over for&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ravenathletics.com/roster/24/5/8768.php">Larry Wilcox</a>, who announced his retirement from his post as head football coach on Nov. 17."It's an incredible honor and I'm very grateful for the opportunity to be the next head football coach at Benedictine College," Osborn said in a statement. "It's humbling and I'm looking forward to getting started. The culture and values of Benedictine College align with me and my family and so I thought it was a really good match."You have a program that has sustained success for a long time and that is a really good thing. To come in and embrace that, invest in the people that are there and bring in the best people we can and invest in them. It's going to be all about the people that we have and making them the best I can make them."Osborn served in a number of roles for the Bearcat Football program as a Recruiting Coordinator and Co-Offensive Coordinator. As a coach for the Bearcats, he has helped recruit and coach players that have been involved in winning three NCAA Div. II National Championships, four MIAA conference championships and a string of nine consecutive trips to the NCAA Div. II Playoffs."We are excited to welcome Joel and his family to our Benedictine family," Gartenmayer said in a release. "He brings a great deal of success with him to Raven Football. We believe he has the characteristics to build off the legacy of Coach Wilcox while also helping our football student-athletes continue to grow academically, spiritually, and compete in the Heart of America Athletic Conference and the NAIA."Since arriving at Northwest, Osborn has taken the offensive side of the ball to unparalleled heights, including a school record for points in a season in 2009 and breaking that record in 2011. In nine seasons on the sidelines, 14&nbsp;wide receivers combined to earn 20&nbsp;All-MIAA accolades and three All-America honors.In two seasons as Co-Offensive Coordinator (2018 -2019), he helped guide the Bearcats to a record of 22-5 with two MIAA Co-Championships and two berths in the NCAA Div. II National Playoffs.His team averaged 41.9 points per game during the 2019 season, which ranked ninth in NCAA Div. II.In 2018, they averaged 36.6, which led the MIAA. In the last seven years, the Bearcats have gone 86-10 overall and 68-6 in MIAA play."My sincerest congratulations to Joel Osborn in being named the next head coach for Benedictine College football," said hall of fame head coach&nbsp;Larry Wilcox. "I'm confident that he and our current coaching staff will continue to have success moving forward and I'm looking forward to seeing them succeed."Coach Osborn was blown away on his trip to campus by the Benedictine community, something that ultimately helped make his decision to become a Raven."When I had a chance to visit the campus, everything looks really sharp and you can tell that the people at Benedictine take pride is everything that is there," Coach Osborn said. "When I stepped on campus, the first thing I thought is that I can recruit to this. This place will impress families when they come here."I've known about Coach Wilcox for a long time and I've known Charlie Gartenmayer and some of the other guys on the staff for quite a while now. The people stood out to me. The longevity of the guys that are currently there has to tell you something about how great of a place it is to work at and be at."As a player for the Bearcats, Coach Osborn was named the 2008 MIAA Offensive Player of the Year along with a first-team All-MIAA selection. As a two-year starter at quarterback, he finished with an overall record of 16-3 and started in two NCAA Div. II National Championship game.A native of Harlan, Iowa, Osborn earned his bachelor's degree at Northwest in 2008 and received his master's in 2011. Osborn and his wife, Audrey, a Northwest alum and former Bearcat track and field athlete, have three sons, Jack, Colin, and Isaac.Coach Osborn becomes the fifth head football coach in the modern era of Benedictine College football, which began in 1973 when the program was officially reinstated as a varsity sport at Benedictine."I'm looking forward to getting started," Osborn said. "Meeting all of the coaches, all of the players, and developing relationships with them. Getting into the process of college football. From the academics to the weight room, to the skill development, to the spiritual development, it's all-encompassing. I'm looking forward to the entire process."Coach Osborn will be formally introduced on Tuesday during a special Facebook live event. He will also be available for questions by media via a Zoom press conference on Tuesday as well. Details on those two events will be shared once they are set.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-partner="tweetdeck">Joel Osborn named next head coach for <a href="https://twitter.com/BenedictineKS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BenedictineKS</a> Football<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UnleashGreatness?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UnleashGreatness</a> - <a href="https://t.co/SWWi2QmT5q">https://t.co/SWWi2QmT5q</a> <a href="https://t.co/0Cfb28rJuI">pic.twitter.com/0Cfb28rJuI</a>&mdash; Raven Athletics (@ravenathletics) <a href="https://twitter.com/ravenathletics/status/1349846474738307074?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 14, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Benedictine hires Bearcats assistant Joel Osborn as the Ravens' next head football coach

Girls' basketball - Stanberry Invitational Platte Valley 60 King City 33 - (semifinal) Stanberry 37 Albany 23 (semifinal) - Girls' championship is Saturday at 12:30.

Boys' basketball - Stanberry Invitational #1 Mound City 81 vs. #5 Stanberry 46 (semifinal) - Junior and Mound City's all-time lead scorer Tony Osburn scored a new career-high 51 points. <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/d7783d90-a980-4f1d-aa52-23b05d9601be">Full coverage here.</a> #2 North Andrew 64 #3 Worth County 34 (semifinal) - Boys' championship is at 2 p.m.

Girls' basketball - Kearney Classic Lafayette 47 Raytown 44&nbsp; -&nbsp;Harlea Tarr of the Irish was named Player of the Tournament.

Boys' basketball - Kearney Classic Blue Springs 55 Platte County 51 Kearney 50 Lafayette 42

Girls' basketball - Lawson Invitational North Platte 50 Lawson 48 Chillicothe 50 Hamilton 22

Boys' basketball - Lawson Invitational Richmond 70 West Platte 54 Gallatin 58 Chillicothe 48 - Tournament title is Saturday at 4 p.m.

Girls' basketball - Osborn Invitational Winston 51 Union Star 31 (5th place)&nbsp; Pattonsburg vs. Stewartsville-Osborn (3rd place) - 9:00

Boys' basketball - Osborn Invitational Winston 63&nbsp; DeKalb 19 Pattonsburg 62 Osborn-Stewartsville 51 - Both games are at Osborn.

Girls' basketball - Fairfax Invitational St. Joseph Christian 49 West Nodaway 25 - The Lions play for 5th place on Saturday at 5 p.m. North Nodaway 38 Rockport 18 (consolation semifinal) East Atchison 58 Nodaway-Holt&nbsp; 29 (semifinal) Falls City 41 South Holt&nbsp; 28 (semifinal) - Girls' championship is Saturday at 8 p.m.

Girls' basketball - Bill Burns Classic Lathrop 62 Van Horn 36 Cameron 53 Mid-Buchanan&nbsp; 45

Boys' basketball - South Harrison tournament Maysville 61&nbsp;South Harrison JV 41 (consolation semifinal) South Harrison 78 Northeast Nodaway 66 (semifinal)

Boys' basketball - Benton Cardinal Classic Metro Academy 54 Benton 48 (semifinal) St. Pius X 53 Savannah 47(semifinal) - The Cardinals and Savages will meet in the 3rd place game Saturday at 7 p.m.

Non-tournament game results Bishop LeBlond 63 Excelsior Springs 52 - boys Bishop LeBlond 47 Excelsior Springs 18 - girls St. Joseph Central 50 Lee's Summit 26 - girls Maryville 42 St. Pius X 38 - girls - Serena Sundell 23 pts.

Wrestling results Maryville 37 Falls City 36 Mid-Buchanan 70 Holden 7 Maysville went 3-0 in duals against Stanberry, Albany and West Platte.

**We're holding off on posting Friday's schedule, due to impending weather. We'll post an update as soon as we get further information.**

You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostGirls' basketball - Stanberry Invitational Platte Valley 60 King City 33 - (semifinal) Stanberry 37 Albany 23 (semifinal) - Girls' championship is Saturday at 12:30.Boys' basketball - Stanberry Invitational #1 Mound City 81 vs. #5 Stanberry 46 (semifinal) - Junior and Mound City's all-time lead scorer Tony Osburn scored a new career-high 51 points. <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/d7783d90-a980-4f1d-aa52-23b05d9601be">Full coverage here.</a> #2 North Andrew 64 #3 Worth County 34 (semifinal) - Boys' championship is at 2 p.m.Girls' basketball - Kearney Classic Lafayette 47 Raytown 44&nbsp; -&nbsp;Harlea Tarr of the Irish was named Player of the Tournament.Boys' basketball - Kearney Classic Blue Springs 55 Platte County 51 Kearney 50 Lafayette 42Girls' basketball - Lawson Invitational North Platte 50 Lawson 48 Chillicothe 50 Hamilton 22Boys' basketball - Lawson Invitational Richmond 70 West Platte 54 Gallatin 58 Chillicothe 48 - Tournament title is Saturday at 4 p.m.Girls' basketball - Osborn Invitational Winston 51 Union Star 31 (5th place)&nbsp; Pattonsburg vs. Stewartsville-Osborn (3rd place) - 9:00Boys' basketball - Osborn Invitational Winston 63&nbsp; DeKalb 19 Pattonsburg 62 Osborn-Stewartsville 51 - Both games are at Osborn.Girls' basketball - Fairfax Invitational St. Joseph Christian 49 West Nodaway 25 - The Lions play for 5th place on Saturday at 5 p.m. North Nodaway 38 Rockport 18 (consolation semifinal) East Atchison 58 Nodaway-Holt&nbsp; 29 (semifinal) Falls City 41 South Holt&nbsp; 28 (semifinal) - Girls' championship is Saturday at 8 p.m.Girls' basketball - Bill Burns Classic Lathrop 62 Van Horn 36 Cameron 53 Mid-Buchanan&nbsp; 45Boys' basketball - South Harrison tournament Maysville 61&nbsp;South Harrison JV 41 (consolation semifinal) South Harrison 78 Northeast Nodaway 66 (semifinal)Boys' basketball - Benton Cardinal Classic Metro Academy 54 Benton 48 (semifinal) St. Pius X 53 Savannah 47(semifinal) - The Cardinals and Savages will meet in the 3rd place game Saturday at 7 p.m.Non-tournament game results Bishop LeBlond 63 Excelsior Springs 52 - boys Bishop LeBlond 47 Excelsior Springs 18 - girls St. Joseph Central 50 Lee's Summit 26 - girls Maryville 42 St. Pius X 38 - girls - Serena Sundell 23 pts.Wrestling results Maryville 37 Falls City 36 Mid-Buchanan 70 Holden 7 Maysville went 3-0 in duals against Stanberry, Albany and West Platte.**We're holding off on posting Friday's schedule, due to impending weather. We'll post an update as soon as we get further information.**You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

KFEQ/St. Joseph Post area high school scoreboard - January 14, 2021

Bishop LeBlond High School Athletic Director Michael Evans announced the hiring of Jackson Gwinn to lead the Golden Eagles boys' and girls' tennis teams.

Gwinn, a native of Nashville, TN, competed for one year at DIII Wheaton College, earning a scholarship offer to DI Tennessee State University.

He's also a certified tennis professional through both the U.S. Professional Tennis Association and the Professional Tennis Registry.

Gwinn came to St. Joseph to work as a tennis professional at Genesis last August.

Prior to that, he worked at a large, 21-court facility in Nashville and helped run their junior program. At Genesis, he leads the junior and adult programs, and offers private lessons and training.

Evans says that Gwinn’s experience, coupled with Bishop LeBlond’s tennis tradition, should keep the programs on stable footing and provide growth for the future.

“Jackson’s enthusiasm for tennis and his commitment to increase the level and success of our tennis programs is exciting,” Evans said in a release. “With our girls coming off of a 4th place state finish, and our boys with recent postseason success, our programs should not miss a beat.”

Gwinn says he 's committed to attracting more young people to the sport and to developing LeBlond’s student-athletes to reach their full potential.

“I plan to give the players the support and guidance they need to visualize their path to success and to achieve it," Gwinn said.

Bishop LeBlond’s girls tennis program has had eight top-four finishes in state team tennis since 1978, and the boys program has had two-top-four team finishes.

Numerous LeBlond tennis players have played collegiate tennis.

By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostBishop LeBlond High School Athletic Director Michael Evans announced the hiring of Jackson Gwinn to lead the Golden Eagles boys' and girls' tennis teams.Gwinn, a native of Nashville, TN, competed for one year at DIII Wheaton College, earning a scholarship offer to DI Tennessee State University.He's also a certified tennis professional through both the U.S. Professional Tennis Association and the Professional Tennis Registry.Gwinn came to St. Joseph to work as a tennis professional at Genesis last August.Prior to that, he worked at a large, 21-court facility in Nashville and helped run their junior program. At Genesis, he leads the junior and adult programs, and offers private lessons and training.Evans says that Gwinn’s experience, coupled with Bishop LeBlond’s tennis tradition, should keep the programs on stable footing and provide growth for the future.“Jackson’s enthusiasm for tennis and his commitment to increase the level and success of our tennis programs is exciting,” Evans said in a release. “With our girls coming off of a 4th place state finish, and our boys with recent postseason success, our programs should not miss a beat.”Gwinn says he 's committed to attracting more young people to the sport and to developing LeBlond’s student-athletes to reach their full potential.“I plan to give the players the support and guidance they need to visualize their path to success and to achieve it," Gwinn said. Bishop LeBlond’s girls tennis program has had eight top-four finishes in state team tennis since 1978, and the boys program has had two-top-four team finishes.Numerous LeBlond tennis players have played collegiate tennis.

Bishop LeBlond announces Jackson Gwinn as new tennis coach

&nbsp;The Missouri Western men's (8-1) and women's basketball (2-6) teams are on the road for two games this week.

The Griffons play at Nebraska-Kear­ney Thursday. The women tip at 5:30 (5:05 pregame on KFEQ) and the men at 7:30 p.m. Both teams then head to Fort Hays State Saturday. The women will play at 2 (1:30 KFEQ pregame) and the men at 4.

The Griffon men capped a three-game homestand last Saturday with a&nbsp;<a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/0aedcaa7-a803-41bf-81e7-f57bf4e50ab6">74-67 win over then No. 5 Wash­burn</a>, giving them four straight wins. Missouri Western, as a result,&nbsp;<a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/0a54ef9e-3f11-4c58-9129-9cdaf2f3dc6b">jumped six spots in the national polls this week</a>&nbsp;to No. 16, and are in first place in the MIAA Conference standings after wins over Emporia State and Washburn last week.

"I'm proud of our guys," Griffon coach Will Martin said. "I'm excited they were able to experience that environment (Saturday against Washburn). Shoutout to Griff nation. We're at 25% capacity, but we had a great crowd and everyone was socially distanced." Missouri Western will face a Nebraska-Kearney team (3-6) fresh off of a road win at Central Missouri last Saturday. The Lopers have won two of their last three games after a 1-5 start, and they are 2-3 at home this sea­son.

This is the first of two meetings between the two teams as they are scheduled to close the regular season with a matchup in St. Joseph on February 27.

"They're going to be tough to beat," Martin said of the Lopers. "They're hard to play at home. They play with a ton of confidence at their place. Every player on the floor for them is capable from three." The Griffons will then see Fort Hays State on Saturday for the second time in two weeks. The Griffons beat the Tigers in St. Joe on Jan. 2, 84-76.

Missouri Western is 4-21 all-time when playing in Hays, KS.

"That's a tough team historically to play in this league," Martin said. "I have a ton of respect for how they do things there."

Fort Hays State is looking to snap a three-game losing skid after losses last week at Central Missouri and Lincoln. They also play No. 3 Northwest Missouri State at home Thursday.

The Missouri Western women, meanwhile, will try and snap a five-game losing streak when they play at No. 5 Nebraska-Kearney (8-0) and Fort Hays State (6-2) - both of whom sit in the top three of the <a href="https://themiaa.com/standings.aspx?path=wbball">MIAA Conference standings</a>.

The Lopers, the only unbeaten women's team left in the MIAA, returned all five starters from a team that went 26-6 a year ago.

"I picked Kearney to win the league," Griffons' women's head coach Candi Whitaker said. "When you have everybody back, in a year like this, you're starting with a 10-point advantage over everyone because of that." MWSU had their game with Emporia State last Thursday postponed with&nbsp; due to COVID-19 protocol within the ESU program, leaving the Griffons with three weeks between games when they played Washburn last Saturday.

The Ichabods jumped out to an 18-2 lead and won, 61-49. Missouri Western will then play Fort Hays State (6-2) on Saturday for the first time this season. The Tigers return two starters from a team that went 23-7 last season and qualified for the NCAA Tournament.

"Fort Hays is good," Whitaker said. "They play hard, they defend very well. They're going to work for everything."

By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph Post&nbsp;The Missouri Western men's (8-1) and women's basketball (2-6) teams are on the road for two games this week.The Griffons play at Nebraska-Kear­ney Thursday. The women tip at 5:30 (5:05 pregame on KFEQ) and the men at 7:30 p.m. Both teams then head to Fort Hays State Saturday. The women will play at 2 (1:30 KFEQ pregame) and the men at 4.The Griffon men capped a three-game homestand last Saturday with a&nbsp;<a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/0aedcaa7-a803-41bf-81e7-f57bf4e50ab6">74-67 win over then No. 5 Wash­burn</a>, giving them four straight wins. Missouri Western, as a result,&nbsp;<a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/0a54ef9e-3f11-4c58-9129-9cdaf2f3dc6b">jumped six spots in the national polls this week</a>&nbsp;to No. 16, and are in first place in the MIAA Conference standings after wins over Emporia State and Washburn last week."I'm proud of our guys," Griffon coach Will Martin said. "I'm excited they were able to experience that environment (Saturday against Washburn). Shoutout to Griff nation. We're at 25% capacity, but we had a great crowd and everyone was socially distanced." Missouri Western will face a Nebraska-Kearney team (3-6) fresh off of a road win at Central Missouri last Saturday. The Lopers have won two of their last three games after a 1-5 start, and they are 2-3 at home this sea­son.This is the first of two meetings between the two teams as they are scheduled to close the regular season with a matchup in St. Joseph on February 27."They're going to be tough to beat," Martin said of the Lopers. "They're hard to play at home. They play with a ton of confidence at their place. Every player on the floor for them is capable from three." The Griffons will then see Fort Hays State on Saturday for the second time in two weeks. The Griffons beat the Tigers in St. Joe on Jan. 2, 84-76.Missouri Western is 4-21 all-time when playing in Hays, KS."That's a tough team historically to play in this league," Martin said. "I have a ton of respect for how they do things there."Fort Hays State is looking to snap a three-game losing skid after losses last week at Central Missouri and Lincoln. They also play No. 3 Northwest Missouri State at home Thursday.The Missouri Western women, meanwhile, will try and snap a five-game losing streak when they play at No. 5 Nebraska-Kearney (8-0) and Fort Hays State (6-2) - both of whom sit in the top three of the <a href="https://themiaa.com/standings.aspx?path=wbball">MIAA Conference standings</a>.The Lopers, the only unbeaten women's team left in the MIAA, returned all five starters from a team that went 26-6 a year ago."I picked Kearney to win the league," Griffons' women's head coach Candi Whitaker said. "When you have everybody back, in a year like this, you're starting with a 10-point advantage over everyone because of that." MWSU had their game with Emporia State last Thursday postponed with&nbsp; due to COVID-19 protocol within the ESU program, leaving the Griffons with three weeks between games when they played Washburn last Saturday.The Ichabods jumped out to an 18-2 lead and won, 61-49. Missouri Western will then play Fort Hays State (6-2) on Saturday for the first time this season. The Tigers return two starters from a team that went 23-7 last season and qualified for the NCAA Tournament. "Fort Hays is good," Whitaker said. "They play hard, they defend very well. They're going to work for everything."You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Missouri Western men's, women's basketball teams hit the road Thursday, Saturday

We can't NOT lead off with this first one...

Boys' basketball - Stanberry Invitational (consolation) Lafayette JV 117 Worth County 111 - 6 OT. Not a typo.

- The 228 points scored in this game broke a Stanberry Invite tournament record, and tied the state record for the most points scored in an overtime game. Lafayette's 117 points are the most scored by a team in the history of the Stanberry Invite, and Lafayette's Quinn Lowe's 43 points are an individual tournament scoring record.

Girls' basketball - Bill Burns Classic (pool play) Savannah 52 St. Michael 43

Girls' basketball - South Harrison Tournament Tri County 42 Northeast Nodaway 32 Mercer 64 Maysville 44

Girls' basketball - Lawson Invitational (consolation) Trenton 38 Gallatin 33 West Platte 40 Richmond 28

Girls' basketball - Stanberry Invite (consolation) North Andrew 47 Mound City 33 Worth County 38 Platte Valley 34

Boys' basketball - Fairfax Invitational Nodaway-Holt 49 North Nodaway 46 (consolation) West Nodaway 64 South Holt 38 (consolation) St. Joseph Christian 55 Rock Port 41. <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/829a8f82-d601-4801-ac4f-239e2ed6959b">Full coverage here.</a> Falls City 55 East Atchison 46. - Falls City and St. Joseph Christian will play in the title game Friday night at 8 p.m.

Boys' basketball - Lawson Invitational (consolation) North Platte vs. Trenton - missing Lawson 46 Hamilton 18

Boys' basketball - Bill Burns Classic (pool play) Mid-Buchanan 60 Northland Christian 45 - 400th career win for Dragons' head coach Bryce Kemper.

Other scores Wednesday Benton 52 Platte County 31 - The Cardinals were behind seven after the first quarter and snapped a three-game losing skid.

Boys' basketball - Stanberry Invitational #1 Mound City vs. #5 Stanberry - 6:00 (semifinal) #2 North Andrew vs. #3 Worth County - 7:30 (semifinal)

Girls' basketball - Stanberry Invitational #4 King City vs. #1 Platte Valley - 4:30 (semifinal) #3 Albany vs. #2 Stanberry - 7:30 (semifinal)

Boys' basketball - Kearney Classic Lafayette vs. Kearney - 6:30

Girls' basketball - Lawson Invitational Lawson vs. North Platte - 5:00 Penney vs. Chillicothe - 7:30

Boys' basketball - Lawson Invitational Richmond vs. West Platte - 5:30 Chillicothe vs. Gallatin - 7:00

Girls' basketball - Osborn Invitational Winston vs. Union Star (5th place) - 4:30 Pattonsburg vs. Stewartsville-Osborn (3rd place) - 9:00

Boys' basketball - Osborn Invitational Winston vs. DeKalb - 6:00 Pattonsburg vs. Osborn-Stewartsville - 7:30 - Both games are at Osborn.

Girls' basketball - Fairfax Invitational St. Joseph Christian vs. West Nodaway - 4:30 (consolation semifinal) North Nodaway vs. Rockport - 6:00 (consolation semifinal) East Atchison vs. Nodaway-Holt - 7:30 (semifinal) Falls City vs. South Holt - 9:00 (semifinal)

Girls' basketball - Bill Burns Classic Lathrop vs. Van Horn - 4:30 (consolation semifinal) Cameron vs. Mid-Buchanan - 6:00 (semifinal)

Boys' basketball - South Harrison tournament South Harrison JV vs. Maysville (consolation semifinal) - 4:30 South Harrison vs. Northeast Nodaway - 7:30 (semifinal)

Boys' basketball - Benton Cardinal Classic Benton vs. Metro Academy - 7:00 (semifinal) St. Pius X vs. Savannah - 8:30 - (semifinal)

By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostWe can't NOT lead off with this first one...Boys' basketball - Stanberry Invitational (consolation) Lafayette JV 117 Worth County 111 - 6 OT. Not a typo.- The 228 points scored in this game broke a Stanberry Invite tournament record, and tied the state record for the most points scored in an overtime game. Lafayette's 117 points are the most scored by a team in the history of the Stanberry Invite, and Lafayette's Quinn Lowe's 43 points are an individual tournament scoring record.Girls' basketball - Bill Burns Classic (pool play) Savannah 52 St. Michael 43Girls' basketball - South Harrison Tournament Tri County 42 Northeast Nodaway 32 Mercer 64 Maysville 44Girls' basketball - Lawson Invitational (consolation) Trenton 38 Gallatin 33 West Platte 40 Richmond 28 Girls' basketball - Stanberry Invite (consolation) North Andrew 47 Mound City 33 Worth County 38 Platte Valley 34Boys' basketball - Fairfax Invitational Nodaway-Holt 49 North Nodaway 46 (consolation) West Nodaway 64 South Holt 38 (consolation) St. Joseph Christian 55 Rock Port 41. <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/829a8f82-d601-4801-ac4f-239e2ed6959b">Full coverage here.</a> Falls City 55 East Atchison 46. - Falls City and St. Joseph Christian will play in the title game Friday night at 8 p.m.Boys' basketball - Lawson Invitational (consolation) North Platte vs. Trenton - missing Lawson 46 Hamilton 18Boys' basketball - Bill Burns Classic (pool play) Mid-Buchanan 60 Northland Christian 45 - 400th career win for Dragons' head coach Bryce Kemper.Other scores Wednesday Benton 52 Platte County 31 - The Cardinals were behind seven after the first quarter and snapped a three-game losing skid.**Thursday schedule**Boys' basketball - Stanberry Invitational #1 Mound City vs. #5 Stanberry - 6:00 (semifinal) #2 North Andrew vs. #3 Worth County - 7:30 (semifinal)Girls' basketball - Stanberry Invitational #4 King City vs. #1 Platte Valley - 4:30 (semifinal) #3 Albany vs. #2 Stanberry - 7:30 (semifinal)Boys' basketball - Kearney Classic Lafayette vs. Kearney - 6:30Girls' basketball - Lawson Invitational Lawson vs. North Platte - 5:00 Penney vs. Chillicothe - 7:30Boys' basketball - Lawson Invitational Richmond vs. West Platte - 5:30 Chillicothe vs. Gallatin - 7:00Girls' basketball - Osborn Invitational Winston vs. Union Star (5th place) - 4:30 Pattonsburg vs. Stewartsville-Osborn (3rd place) - 9:00Boys' basketball - Osborn Invitational Winston vs. DeKalb - 6:00 Pattonsburg vs. Osborn-Stewartsville - 7:30 - Both games are at Osborn.Girls' basketball - Fairfax Invitational St. Joseph Christian vs. West Nodaway - 4:30 (consolation semifinal) North Nodaway vs. Rockport - 6:00 (consolation semifinal) East Atchison vs. Nodaway-Holt - 7:30 (semifinal) Falls City vs. South Holt - 9:00 (semifinal)Girls' basketball - Bill Burns Classic Lathrop vs. Van Horn - 4:30 (consolation semifinal) Cameron vs. Mid-Buchanan - 6:00 (semifinal)Boys' basketball - South Harrison tournament South Harrison JV vs. Maysville (consolation semifinal) - 4:30 South Harrison vs. Northeast Nodaway - 7:30 (semifinal)Boys' basketball - Benton Cardinal Classic Benton vs. Metro Academy - 7:00 (semifinal) St. Pius X vs. Savannah - 8:30 - (semifinal)You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

KFEQ/St. Joseph Post area high school scoreboard - January 13, 2021

FAIRFAX - The St. Joseph Christian boys' basketball team had a streak of bad luck before the Fairfax Invitiational.

After a 6-1 start, the Lions had dropped four straight games entering the week.

After beating North Nodaway by 67 two nights prior, St. Joseph Christian (7-5) advanced to Friday's Fairfax Invitational championship with a 55-41 win over Rock Port on Wednesday night at Fairfax High School.

The Lions had beaten the Blue Jays earlier this season, 68-50, on Dec. 10.

"It feels pretty good," said Christian's Camden Lutz after. "It's pretty hard to beat a team twice, but we played strong."

Lutz, a junior, finished with a game-high 23 points and drained three 3-pointers. Carson Bowman, also a junior, tallied 14 points. Senior Landon Swavey finished with 15, including nine in the fourth quarter.

Those three combined for 95% of the scoring output. The only other Lion to score was junior Caleb Carlson, who drained a three in the second quarter.

St. Joseph Christian held the lead for practically the entire game, but the Blue Jays had closed the door, trailing 41-36, after starting the 4th quarter on a 4-0 run.

The Lions responded with a 10-0 run, leading 51-36 with about three minutes remaining.

"We were careful with the ball," Lutz said. "Didn't have as many stupid turnovers."

Less turnovers and more steals, and Swavey transition buckets in the final quarter helped St. Joseph Christian put on the finishing touches.

The Fairfax boys' championship game is on Friday night at 8 p.m. The Lions face Falls City, who beat East Atchison 55-46 Wednesday night.

"We just have to practice hard (Thursday)," Lutz said. "Focus up and cut down on the turnovers."

St. Joseph Christian 55 - 14, 11, 16, 14 Rock Port 41 - 8, 7, 17, 9

St. Joseph Christian scorers - Camden Lutz - 23, Landon Swavey - 15, Carson Bowman - 14, Caleb Carlson - 3.

Rock Port scorers - Holden Farmer - 18, Trey Peshek - 8, Aiden Burke - 7, Jagger Freemyer - 5, Bannack Skillen - 3.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1610593570760.jpeg" alt="Camden Lutz led St. Joseph Christian with 23 points in Wednesday's 55-41 over Rockport at Fairfax High School Wednesday. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Camden Lutz led St. Joseph Christian with 23 points in Wednesday's 55-41 over Rockport at Fairfax High School Wednesday. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostFAIRFAX - The St. Joseph Christian boys' basketball team had a streak of bad luck before the Fairfax Invitiational.After a 6-1 start, the Lions had dropped four straight games entering the week.Their fortunes have since changed.After beating North Nodaway by 67 two nights prior, St. Joseph Christian (7-5) advanced to Friday's Fairfax Invitational championship with a 55-41 win over Rock Port on Wednesday night at Fairfax High School.The Lions had beaten the Blue Jays earlier this season, 68-50, on Dec. 10."It feels pretty good," said Christian's Camden Lutz after. "It's pretty hard to beat a team twice, but we played strong."Lutz, a junior, finished with a game-high 23 points and drained three 3-pointers. Carson Bowman, also a junior, tallied 14 points. Senior Landon Swavey finished with 15, including nine in the fourth quarter.Those three combined for 95% of the scoring output. The only other Lion to score was junior Caleb Carlson, who drained a three in the second quarter.St. Joseph Christian held the lead for practically the entire game, but the Blue Jays had closed the door, trailing 41-36, after starting the 4th quarter on a 4-0 run.The Lions responded with a 10-0 run, leading 51-36 with about three minutes remaining."We were careful with the ball," Lutz said. "Didn't have as many stupid turnovers."Less turnovers and more steals, and Swavey transition buckets in the final quarter helped St. Joseph Christian put on the finishing touches.The Fairfax boys' championship game is on Friday night at 8 p.m. The Lions face Falls City, who beat East Atchison 55-46 Wednesday night."We just have to practice hard (Thursday)," Lutz said. "Focus up and cut down on the turnovers."St. Joseph Christian 55 - 14, 11, 16, 14 Rock Port 41 - 8, 7, 17, 9St. Joseph Christian scorers - Camden Lutz - 23, Landon Swavey - 15, Carson Bowman - 14, Caleb Carlson - 3.Rock Port scorers - Holden Farmer - 18, Trey Peshek - 8, Aiden Burke - 7, Jagger Freemyer - 5, Bannack Skillen - 3.You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

St. Joseph Christian pulls away from Rock Port late, advances to Fairfax Invitational Championship

The Missouri Basketball Coaches' Association released their latest high school basketball rankings for boys and girls in all six classes.

Numerous KFEQ and St. Joseph Post area schools are ranked in the top 10.

Class 1 boys: Mound City #3, Winston #4

Class 2 boys: Mid-Buchanan #3 - Bishop LeBlond receiving votes

Class 5 boys: Platte County #3, Lafayette St. Joseph #9

Class 2 girls: Bishop LeBlond #7, East Atchison #8 - Polo receiving votes

By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThe Missouri Basketball Coaches' Association released their latest high school basketball rankings for boys and girls in all six classes.Numerous KFEQ and St. Joseph Post area schools are ranked in the top 10.Class 1 boys: Mound City #3, Winston #4Class 2 boys: Mid-Buchanan #3 - Bishop LeBlond receiving votesClass 5 boys: Platte County #3, Lafayette St. Joseph #9Class 1 girls: Stanberry#5Class 2 girls: Bishop LeBlond #7, East Atchison #8 - Polo receiving votesClass 4 girls: Cameron #10Full state rankings below<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">MBCA Poll release No 2, Jan 12. <a href="https://t.co/AGyRW334eg">https://t.co/AGyRW334eg</a>&mdash; MBCA (@MbcaCoaches) <a href="https://twitter.com/MbcaCoaches/status/1349367604494925826?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 13, 2021</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>

Mound City, Mid-Buchanan, Platte County boys highlight latest MBCA rankings

The Northwest Missouri State volleyball team will play a spring volleyball schedule that includes four home matches and an end-of-the season regional tournament. The Bearcats will take the court for the first time on Feb. 20 at the Pittsburg State Crossover in Pittsburg, Kansas.

Northwest is working with Pittsburg State to determine the opposition for its two matches. “We are excited to be able to provide a formidable spring schedule for our student-athletes that allow them to compete against quality&nbsp;MIAA&nbsp;competition,” head coach Amy Woerth&nbsp;said in a release.

“The opportunity to finish the spring with the regional type of tournament at Kearney is awesome. We are striving to take our program to the NCAA regional and this opportunity will show us the level of play that we need to attain to accomplish that goal.” Northwest’s home opener is set for 6 p.m., Feb. 24, against Washburn. The Bearcats will also play home matches against Missouri Western, Fort Hays State and Nebraska-Kearney. Northwest enters the spring ranked No. 25. Nebraska-Kearney is ranked No. 1, while Washburn is ranked No. 4 and Central Missouri is ranked No. 11.

Full schedule Date&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Opponent&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Location&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Time Feb. 20&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; vs. Missouri Southern&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Pittsburg, Kansas&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 12:30 p.m. Feb. 20&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; at Pittsburg State&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Pittsburg, Kansas&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 6:30 p.m. Feb. 24&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Washburn&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Maryville, Missouri&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;6 p.m. March 6&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; vs. Missouri Southern&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; St. Joseph, Missouri&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 1 p.m. March 12&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; at Nebraska-Kearney&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Kearney, Nebraska&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;6 p.m. March 13&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; at Fort Hays State&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Hays, Kansas&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 3 p.m. March 17&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Missouri Western&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Maryville, Missouri&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;6 p.m. March 20&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; at Washburn&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Topeka, Kansas&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 2 p.m. March 27&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; vs. Central Missouri&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Topeka, Kansas&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 12 p.m. March 27&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; vs. Pittsburg State&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Topeka, Kansas&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 4:30 p.m. April 3&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; at Missouri Western&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; St. Joseph, Missouri&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;2 p.m. April 9&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Fort Hays State&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Maryville, Missouri&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;5 p.m. April 10&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Nebraska-Kearney&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Maryville, Missouri&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;3 p.m. April 16-17&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;MIAA&nbsp;Tournament&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;TBA&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;TBA April 23-24&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; UNK Regional Invitational&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Kearney, Nebraska&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;TBA

BearcatSports.comThe Northwest Missouri State volleyball team will play a spring volleyball schedule that includes four home matches and an end-of-the season regional tournament. The Bearcats will take the court for the first time on Feb. 20 at the Pittsburg State Crossover in Pittsburg, Kansas.Northwest is working with Pittsburg State to determine the opposition for its two matches. “We are excited to be able to provide a formidable spring schedule for our student-athletes that allow them to compete against quality&nbsp;MIAA&nbsp;competition,” head coach Amy Woerth&nbsp;said in a release. “The opportunity to finish the spring with the regional type of tournament at Kearney is awesome. We are striving to take our program to the NCAA regional and this opportunity will show us the level of play that we need to attain to accomplish that goal.” Northwest’s home opener is set for 6 p.m., Feb. 24, against Washburn. The Bearcats will also play home matches against Missouri Western, Fort Hays State and Nebraska-Kearney. Northwest enters the spring ranked No. 25. Nebraska-Kearney is ranked No. 1, while Washburn is ranked No. 4 and Central Missouri is ranked No. 11.Full schedule Date&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Opponent&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Location&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Time Feb. 20&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; vs. Missouri Southern&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Pittsburg, Kansas&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 12:30 p.m. Feb. 20&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; at Pittsburg State&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Pittsburg, Kansas&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 6:30 p.m. Feb. 24&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Washburn&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Maryville, Missouri&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;6 p.m. March 6&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; vs. Missouri Southern&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; St. Joseph, Missouri&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 1 p.m. March 12&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; at Nebraska-Kearney&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Kearney, Nebraska&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;6 p.m. March 13&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; at Fort Hays State&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Hays, Kansas&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 3 p.m. March 17&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Missouri Western&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Maryville, Missouri&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;6 p.m. March 20&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; at Washburn&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Topeka, Kansas&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 2 p.m. March 27&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; vs. Central Missouri&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Topeka, Kansas&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 12 p.m. March 27&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; vs. Pittsburg State&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Topeka, Kansas&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 4:30 p.m. April 3&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; at Missouri Western&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; St. Joseph, Missouri&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;2 p.m. April 9&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Fort Hays State&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Maryville, Missouri&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;5 p.m. April 10&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Nebraska-Kearney&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Maryville, Missouri&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;3 p.m. April 16-17&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;MIAA&nbsp;Tournament&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;TBA&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;TBA April 23-24&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; UNK Regional Invitational&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Kearney, Nebraska&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;TBA

Northwest Missouri State releases spring 2021 volleyball schedule

Chiefs wide receiver Sammy Watkins did not practice Wednesday ahead of Kansas City's Sunday divisional playoff game against the Cleveland Browns.

Watkins has been battling a calf injury. Corner Rashad Fenton and linebacker Willie Gay also did not practice. Running back Clyde Edwards-Helaire was limited (hip/ankle).

Head coach Andy Reid also announced Wednesday that right tackle Mitchell Schwartz, who's been out since week 6 with a back injury, will not be available this Sunday.

Receiver Tyreek Hill told reporters Wednesday that he "feels great" and is "ready...excited" to face the Browns on Sunday.

Kickoff from Arrowhead Stadium is set for 2:05 p.m. on Sunday. The game can be heard on KFEQ (680 AM, 95.3 FM) and Q Country 92.7 FM in St. Joseph.

The winner gets a spot in the AFC championship game on Sunday, Jan. 24.

By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostChiefs wide receiver Sammy Watkins did not practice Wednesday ahead of Kansas City's Sunday divisional playoff game against the Cleveland Browns.Watkins has been battling a calf injury. Corner Rashad Fenton and linebacker Willie Gay also did not practice. Running back Clyde Edwards-Helaire was limited (hip/ankle).Head coach Andy Reid also announced Wednesday that right tackle Mitchell Schwartz, who's been out since week 6 with a back injury, will not be available this Sunday.Receiver Tyreek Hill told reporters Wednesday that he "feels great" and is "ready...excited" to face the Browns on Sunday.Kickoff from Arrowhead Stadium is set for 2:05 p.m. on Sunday. The game can be heard on KFEQ (680 AM, 95.3 FM) and Q Country 92.7 FM in St. Joseph.The winner gets a spot in the AFC championship game on Sunday, Jan. 24.

Chiefs receiver Sammy Watkins did not practice Wednesday, Edwards-Helaire limited

Fairfax Invitational East Atchison 61 West Nodaway 17 Nodaway-Holt 31 St. Joseph Christian 22 Falls City 72 North Nodaway 51 South Holt 59 Rock Port 31

Stanberry Invitational Stanberry 57 Mound City 21 King City 43 Worth County 36

Lawson Invitational Lawson 55 Gallatin 13 - Morgan Moore 10 pts. (Lawson)

Osborn Invitational Union Star 51 Northland Christian 17

Additional scores Maryville 45 East Buchanan 32

Cardinal Classic at Benton High School Savannah 32 Oak Park 30. <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/7936cd4c-3b1d-4937-8cf1-3a92e28f5956">Full coverage here.</a> Benton 79 Northeast KC 21. <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/7936cd4c-3b1d-4937-8cf1-3a92e28f5956">Full coverage here.</a>

Stanberry Invitational Platte Valley 64 Worth County 63

Kearney Classic Lafayette 59 North Kansas City 54. Irish face Kearney on Thursday night at 8 p.m. Platte County 75 Southeast 70

Lawson Invitational Chillicothe 49 Hamilton 38 - Andrew Rich 18 pts. (Hamilton) Gallatin 67 Lawson 57 - Max Trout 17 pts. (Lawson) - Isaac Bird 21 pts. (Gallatin)

Osborn Invitational Winston 50 Polo 29 Pattonsburg 73 Union Star 34

South Harrison Tournament Northeast Nodaway 56 Tri-County 43 North Harrison 69 Maysville 62

Additional scores Lee’s Summit 56 St. Joseph Central 45 Center 59 Maryville 54

Girls' basketball - Bill Burns Classic (pool play) Savannah vs. University Academy - 6:00

Girls' basketball - South Harrison Tournament Northeast Nodaway vs. Tri County - 6:00 Mercer vs. Maysville - 9:00 (semifinal)

Girls' basketball - Lawson Invitational (consolation) Gallatin vs. Trenton - 5:00 Richmond vs. West Platte - 7:30

Girls' basketball - Stanberry Invite (consolation) North Andrew vs. Mound City - 4:30 Platte Valley JV vs . Worth County - 7:30

Boys' basketball - Fairfax Invitational North Holt vs. North Nodaway - 4:30 West Nodaway vs. South Holt - 6:00 St. Joseph Christian vs. Rock Port - 7:30 (semifinal)&nbsp; Falls City vs. East Atchison - 9:00 (semifinal)

Boys' basketball - Lawson Invitational (consolation) North Platte vs. Trenton - 5:30 Lawson vs. Hamilton - 7:00

Boys' basketball - Bill Burns Classic (pool play) Mid-Buchanan vs. N. Christian - 7:30

Boys' basketball - Stanberry Invitational (consolation) Lafayette JV vs. Worth County - 6:00

By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostGirl's basketball scoresFairfax Invitational East Atchison 61 West Nodaway 17 Nodaway-Holt 31 St. Joseph Christian 22 Falls City 72 North Nodaway 51 South Holt 59 Rock Port 31Stanberry Invitational Stanberry 57 Mound City 21 King City 43 Worth County 36Lawson Invitational Lawson 55 Gallatin 13 - Morgan Moore 10 pts. (Lawson) Osborn Invitational Union Star 51 Northland Christian 17Fairfax Invitational East Atchison 61 West Nodaway 17 Nodaway-Holt 31 St. Joseph Christian 22 Falls City 72 North Nodaway 51 South Holt 59 Rock Port 31Additional scores Maryville 45 East Buchanan 32<ul>
 <li>K-State commit Serena Sundell surpasses 2,000 career points - the first ever Spoofhound to reach that milestone.</li>
 </ul>Boys’ basketball scoresCardinal Classic at Benton High School Savannah 32 Oak Park 30. <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/7936cd4c-3b1d-4937-8cf1-3a92e28f5956">Full coverage here.</a> Benton 79 Northeast KC 21. <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/7936cd4c-3b1d-4937-8cf1-3a92e28f5956">Full coverage here.</a>Stanberry Invitational Platte Valley 64 Worth County 63Kearney Classic Lafayette 59 North Kansas City 54. Irish face Kearney on Thursday night at 8 p.m. Platte County 75 Southeast 70Lawson Invitational Chillicothe 49 Hamilton 38 - Andrew Rich 18 pts. (Hamilton) Gallatin 67 Lawson 57 - Max Trout 17 pts. (Lawson) - Isaac Bird 21 pts. (Gallatin)Osborn Invitational Winston 50 Polo 29 Pattonsburg 73 Union Star 34South Harrison Tournament Northeast Nodaway 56 Tri-County 43 North Harrison 69 Maysville 62Additional scores Lee’s Summit 56 St. Joseph Central 45 Center 59 Maryville 54Wednesday scheduleGirls' basketball - Bill Burns Classic (pool play) Savannah vs. University Academy - 6:00Girls' basketball - South Harrison Tournament Northeast Nodaway vs. Tri County - 6:00 Mercer vs. Maysville - 9:00 (semifinal)Girls' basketball - Lawson Invitational (consolation) Gallatin vs. Trenton - 5:00 Richmond vs. West Platte - 7:30 Girls' basketball - Stanberry Invite (consolation) North Andrew vs. Mound City - 4:30 Platte Valley JV vs . Worth County - 7:30Boys' basketball - Fairfax Invitational North Holt vs. North Nodaway - 4:30 West Nodaway vs. South Holt - 6:00 St. Joseph Christian vs. Rock Port - 7:30 (semifinal)&nbsp; Falls City vs. East Atchison - 9:00 (semifinal)Boys' basketball - Lawson Invitational (consolation) North Platte vs. Trenton - 5:30 Lawson vs. Hamilton - 7:00Boys' basketball - Bill Burns Classic (pool play) Mid-Buchanan vs. N. Christian - 7:30Boys' basketball - Stanberry Invitational (consolation) Lafayette JV vs. Worth County - 6:00You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

KFEQ/St. Joseph Post area high school scoreboard - January 12, 2021

It was an 8-0 run in the first two minutes. Then a 14-0 one in the first 4:13.&nbsp;

Suddenly, Benton (6-3) is ahead 25-5 after the first quarter.

"In this era of 'we're the only ones in the gym,' you have to create the energy," Cardinals coach Gary Belcher said. "You're thinking 'we have a home game,' but you look around and it's not the normal student body. It's not the normal crowd. So, you have to kind of create that (energy), and getting off to the start we did...everyone contributed tonight which is a positive."

The Cardinals coasted on their early surge and rolled in a 79-21 takedown of Northeast (KC) on Tuesday evening at the third annual Cardinal Classic hosted by Benton High School.

The win was Benton's fourth straight and the 79 points are a new season-high.

Sophomore Denver Domann scored the game's first six points and had 10 in the first half alone. But, junior Allan Coy hit a three-pointer in the second quarter.

And then another one, and another and by the end of the night, he buried six shots from long range to end up with a game-high 27 points.

"(My teammates) hit me when I was open and I just kept shooting," Coy said. "We just kept hitting the open man and hitting the guys that had the best shot."

All 11 of Coach Belcher's players saw significant minutes Tuesday, and eight of them got a tally in the score column.

"We've had a lot of close games this year," Coach Belcher said. "Our three losses were pretty much one-possession games. So, to get that sixth, seventh, eighth, ninth, tenth player on the bench a lot of minutes and involved, they work hard in practice, too. To see the starters relish and enjoy watching those guys have success, that's special too."

Benton will next play either Hogan Prep or Metro Academy, who tipped off around 8:30 p.m. Tuesday night. The semifinal will be Thursday night at 7 p.m.

Benton has already beat Hogan Prep, 53-44, on Dec. 5 in the Savannah tournament. Metro meanwhile beat Benton in last year's Cardinal Classic, 58-49.

Benton 79 - 25, 21, 26, 7 Northeast KC 21 - 5, 7, 2, 7

Benton scorers - Allan Coy - 27, Kason Mauzey - 17, Denver Domann - 12, Noah Roseberry - 8, Carson Newlon - 6, Kamren Caine - 4, Adrian Byrd -4, Trey Mull - 1

Northeast KC scorers - Nico Bateman - 10, Malcolm Cook - 6, Michael McMillian - 3 Ariath Kon - 2

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1610508989819.jpeg" alt="Allan Coy (right) looks on as Kason Mauzey (30) shoots a free throw in the second half of Benton's 79-21 win over Northeast KC Tuesday night at the Cardinal Classic. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Allan Coy (right) looks on as Kason Mauzey (30) shoots a free throw in the second half of Benton's 79-21 win over Northeast KC Tuesday night at the Cardinal Classic. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostIt was an 8-0 run in the first two minutes. Then a 14-0 one in the first 4:13.&nbsp;Suddenly, Benton (6-3) is ahead 25-5 after the first quarter."In this era of 'we're the only ones in the gym,' you have to create the energy," Cardinals coach Gary Belcher said. "You're thinking 'we have a home game,' but you look around and it's not the normal student body. It's not the normal crowd. So, you have to kind of create that (energy), and getting off to the start we did...everyone contributed tonight which is a positive."The Cardinals coasted on their early surge and rolled in a 79-21 takedown of Northeast (KC) on Tuesday evening at the third annual Cardinal Classic hosted by Benton High School.The win was Benton's fourth straight and the 79 points are a new season-high.Sophomore Denver Domann scored the game's first six points and had 10 in the first half alone. But, junior Allan Coy hit a three-pointer in the second quarter.And then another one, and another and by the end of the night, he buried six shots from long range to end up with a game-high 27 points."(My teammates) hit me when I was open and I just kept shooting," Coy said. "We just kept hitting the open man and hitting the guys that had the best shot."All 11 of Coach Belcher's players saw significant minutes Tuesday, and eight of them got a tally in the score column."We've had a lot of close games this year," Coach Belcher said. "Our three losses were pretty much one-possession games. So, to get that sixth, seventh, eighth, ninth, tenth player on the bench a lot of minutes and involved, they work hard in practice, too. To see the starters relish and enjoy watching those guys have success, that's special too."Benton will next play either Hogan Prep or Metro Academy, who tipped off around 8:30 p.m. Tuesday night. The semifinal will be Thursday night at 7 p.m.Benton has already beat Hogan Prep, 53-44, on Dec. 5 in the Savannah tournament. Metro meanwhile beat Benton in last year's Cardinal Classic, 58-49.Benton 79 - 25, 21, 26, 7 Northeast KC 21 - 5, 7, 2, 7Benton scorers - Allan Coy - 27, Kason Mauzey - 17, Denver Domann - 12, Noah Roseberry - 8, Carson Newlon - 6, Kamren Caine - 4, Adrian Byrd -4, Trey Mull - 1Northeast KC scorers - Nico Bateman - 10, Malcolm Cook - 6, Michael McMillian - 3 Ariath Kon - 2You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Benton jumps on Northeast KC early, cruises to win in Cardinal Classic Tuesday

Savannah watched a six-point, first quarter lead shrink to a one-point lead at halftime, and then suddenly, they were down seven with less than 2:30 to play.

Coach Nick Kemerling called timeout, knowing his boys had one more real shot at getting back in it.

"We used that (timeout) to calm them down," Kemerling said. "I thought we had done some dumb things. We had a couple of offensive fouls, we weren't keeping our composure."

Savannah (4-6) regained their composure and stormed back with a 9-0 run that ended with senior Wes Darnell draining a go-ahead, corner three with about three seconds remaining to give the Savages a 32-30 win over Oak Park on Tuesday at the Cardinal Classic at Benton High School in St. Joseph.

"Just saw an open shot," Darnell said after scoring a team-high 13 points, including seven in the fourth quarter. 

Kemerling admits - that last shot wasn't drawn up beforehand.

"Wes made a great play," Kemerling said. "(Quay) Jeter did a great job of getting us into that. Wes didn't have the game he wanted the first three quarters at all, but I think that's what makes him a great player. He didn't get down on myself. He had a great last 2-2.5 minutes, and it ended with that shot. And it was a contested shot."

The Savages scored 11 points in the first quarter, but only scored nine in the second and third quarters combined.

Oak Park (3-3) used a 19-9 run to take a 25-20 lead entering the fourth quarter and then went up seven, 30-23, with 2:28 left when Kemerling called timeout for Savannah.

The Savages also got a break at the foul line - from the other team. Oak Park was a dismal 7-of-20 from the charity stripe, including 1-of-8 over the final eight minutes.

With a team that has only three seniors, Kemerling believes Tuesday's game was an overall great learning experience.

"There's a lot of new kids on this roster that didn't play varsity last year," he said. "They're pretty tough kids. They compete and I do think they're improving every week."'

Savannah is onto something. They've won four of their last five games after an 0-5 start. The Savages will face St. Pius X (3-7) in Thursday's semifinal at 8:30 p.m.

"We have to string some good practices together," Kemerling said. "Mainly, they just have to play off each other. Darnell, Jeter and (Caden) Nigh, who's a senior but a new varsity player, those guys are doing a nice job o setting the tone for the younger kids. We just have to keep that up."

Savannah 32 - 11, 3, 6, 12 Oak Park 30 - 6, 7, 12, 5

Savannah scoring - Wes Darnell - 13, Quay Jeter - 11, Heisman LaFave - 3, Caden Nigh - 3 Ethan Dudeck - 2.

Oak Park scoring - Winston Allen - 17, Westin Hughes - 5, Cornelius Jones 4, Ethan Willmann - 3, Ty Clemens - 1.

Follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostSavannah watched a six-point, first quarter lead shrink to a one-point lead at halftime, and then suddenly, they were down seven with less than 2:30 to play.Coach Nick Kemerling called timeout, knowing his boys had one more real shot at getting back in it."We used that (timeout) to calm them down," Kemerling said. "I thought we had done some dumb things. We had a couple of offensive fouls, we weren't keeping our composure."Savannah (4-6) regained their composure and stormed back with a 9-0 run that ended with senior Wes Darnell draining a go-ahead, corner three with about three seconds remaining to give the Savages a 32-30 win over Oak Park on Tuesday at the Cardinal Classic at Benton High School in St. Joseph."Just saw an open shot," Darnell said after scoring a team-high 13 points, including seven in the fourth quarter. Took it, and luckily I made it."Kemerling admits - that last shot wasn't drawn up beforehand."Wes made a great play," Kemerling said. "(Quay) Jeter did a great job of getting us into that. Wes didn't have the game he wanted the first three quarters at all, but I think that's what makes him a great player. He didn't get down on myself. He had a great last 2-2.5 minutes, and it ended with that shot. And it was a contested shot."The Savages scored 11 points in the first quarter, but only scored nine in the second and third quarters combined.Oak Park (3-3) used a 19-9 run to take a 25-20 lead entering the fourth quarter and then went up seven, 30-23, with 2:28 left when Kemerling called timeout for Savannah.The Savages also got a break at the foul line - from the other team. Oak Park was a dismal 7-of-20 from the charity stripe, including 1-of-8 over the final eight minutes.With a team that has only three seniors, Kemerling believes Tuesday's game was an overall great learning experience."There's a lot of new kids on this roster that didn't play varsity last year," he said. "They're pretty tough kids. They compete and I do think they're improving every week."'Savannah is onto something. They've won four of their last five games after an 0-5 start. The Savages will face St. Pius X (3-7) in Thursday's semifinal at 8:30 p.m."We have to string some good practices together," Kemerling said. "Mainly, they just have to play off each other. Darnell, Jeter and (Caden) Nigh, who's a senior but a new varsity player, those guys are doing a nice job o setting the tone for the younger kids. We just have to keep that up."Savannah 32 - 11, 3, 6, 12 Oak Park 30 - 6, 7, 12, 5Savannah scoring - Wes Darnell - 13, Quay Jeter - 11, Heisman LaFave - 3, Caden Nigh - 3 Ethan Dudeck - 2.Oak Park scoring - Winston Allen - 17, Westin Hughes - 5, Cornelius Jones 4, Ethan Willmann - 3, Ty Clemens - 1.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1610507230464.jpeg" alt="Quay Jeter finished with 11 points in Tuesday's 32-30 win over Oak Park on Tuesday night at Benton High School. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Quay Jeter finished with 11 points in Tuesday's 32-30 win over Oak Park on Tuesday night at Benton High School. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>Follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Wes Darnell buries go-ahead three, Savannah edges Oak Park in Cardinal Classic

The Missouri Western men's basketball team (8-1) moved up six spots to No. 16 in the latest NABC Top 25 Coaches Poll released Tuesday. The Griffons move up in the rankings after a 70-61 win over Emporia State Thursday and a 75-67 triumph over No. 5 Washburn Saturday at the MWSU Fieldhouse.

The victory over the Ichabods was the program's first over a top-5 team since 2011. This is the highest ranking of the season for Missouri Western. They entered the poll at No. 19 on Dec. 15, and have stayed in the rankings ever since.

Elsewhere, Northwest Missouri State (6-1) drops to No. 3 after their loss to Washburn Thursday. The Ichabods (8-1) are now No. 8. Missouri Western is on the road this week, looking to extend their four-game winning streak.

The Griffons are at Nebraska-Kearney Thursday at 7:30 p.m. and then at Fort Hays State Saturday at 4:00 p.m..&nbsp; &nbsp;

By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThe Missouri Western men's basketball team (8-1) moved up six spots to No. 16 in the latest NABC Top 25 Coaches Poll released Tuesday. The Griffons move up in the rankings after a 70-61 win over Emporia State Thursday and a 75-67 triumph over No. 5 Washburn Saturday at the MWSU Fieldhouse. The victory over the Ichabods was the program's first over a top-5 team since 2011. This is the highest ranking of the season for Missouri Western. They entered the poll at No. 19 on Dec. 15, and have stayed in the rankings ever since.Elsewhere, Northwest Missouri State (6-1) drops to No. 3 after their loss to Washburn Thursday. The Ichabods (8-1) are now No. 8. Missouri Western is on the road this week, looking to extend their four-game winning streak. The Griffons are at Nebraska-Kearney Thursday at 7:30 p.m. and then at Fort Hays State Saturday at 4:00 p.m..&nbsp; &nbsp;<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-partner="tweetdeck"><a href="https://twitter.com/MWSUMBB?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MWSUMBB</a> ⬆️6⃣ spots this week!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OurCity?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OurCity</a><a href="https://t.co/LviJvY7K25">https://t.co/LviJvY7K25</a>&mdash; Griffon Athletics (@gogriffons) <a href="https://twitter.com/gogriffons/status/1349083973188771846?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 12, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Missouri Western men's basketball up six spots, Northwest Missouri State falls to No. 3 in latest poll

Missouri Western head volleyball coach&nbsp;Marian Carbin&nbsp;has announced the Griffons 2021 spring schedule. This will be the first competition for MWSU volleyball since the fall of 2019. The NCAA canceled all Division II fall championships and the MIAA suspended competition earlier this season.

In November, the NCAA finalized plans to conduct a spring volleyball season in which institutions were permitted to schedule up to the NCAA maximum of 20 contests with outside competition. "We are excited to get back on the court and play a full slate of spring volleyball," Carbin said in a statement. "With 16 dates on the calendar and 18 opponents lined up for this spring and then looking ahead to a full schedule for the fall, it is destined to be an unforgettable year of volleyball in 2021!

"We are extremely grateful for the hard work of all the administrators on campus and at the MIAA that have made this a reality for our players, and we are eager to suit up and put all of their hard work to good use. Finally, and most importantly, I am thrilled for our players, especially our seniors, that they will have the opportunity to put all of their hard work over the past year on display! We have an amazing and talented group of young women, and I can't wait for Griffon Nation to see them in action again." Missouri Western will open its season on the road in Wichita on February 26th and 27th as they square off against Newman and Central Oklahoma. The Griffons have seven home dates on the schedule with the home opener set for March 3rd against Washburn. The MIAA Tournament will take place April 16-17 and each school will have eight matches that count toward the seeding of that tournament. MWSU will play home-and-home matches against Fort Hays State, Nebraska-Kearney, Northwest Missouri State and Washburn that will be count toward the seeding of the MIAA Tournament, and all other matches will be considered non-conference. MWSU 2021 SPRING VOLLEYBALL SCHEDULE Feb. 26 @ Newman Crossover (vs. Newman or UCO) TBD Feb. 27 @ Newman Crossover (vs. Newman or UCO) TBD Mar. 3 vs. Washburn* 5:00 Mar. 6 vs. Missouri Southern TBD Mar. 12 @ Fort Hays State* 5:00 Mar. 13 @ Nebraska-Kearney* 4:00 Mar. 17 @ Northwest Missouri State* 6:00 Mar. 19 @ Washburn* 6:00 Mar. 24 vs. Park 7:00 Mar. 27 @ Washburn Crossover (vs. Pittsburg State) 12:00 Mar. 27 @ Washburn Crossover (vs. Emporia State) 4:30 Apr. 3 vs. Northwest Missouri State* 2:00 Apr. 9 vs. Nebraska-Kearney* 6:00 Apr. 10 vs. Fort Hays State* 2:00 Apr. 16 MIAA Tournament TBD Apr. 17 MIAA Tournament TBD Apr. 22 @ Central Missouri 5:00 Apr. 24 vs. Central Missouri 2:00&nbsp;&nbsp;

GoGriffons.comMissouri Western head volleyball coach&nbsp;Marian Carbin&nbsp;has announced the Griffons 2021 spring schedule. This will be the first competition for MWSU volleyball since the fall of 2019. The NCAA canceled all Division II fall championships and the MIAA suspended competition earlier this season.In November, the NCAA finalized plans to conduct a spring volleyball season in which institutions were permitted to schedule up to the NCAA maximum of 20 contests with outside competition. "We are excited to get back on the court and play a full slate of spring volleyball," Carbin said in a statement. "With 16 dates on the calendar and 18 opponents lined up for this spring and then looking ahead to a full schedule for the fall, it is destined to be an unforgettable year of volleyball in 2021!"We are extremely grateful for the hard work of all the administrators on campus and at the MIAA that have made this a reality for our players, and we are eager to suit up and put all of their hard work to good use. Finally, and most importantly, I am thrilled for our players, especially our seniors, that they will have the opportunity to put all of their hard work over the past year on display! We have an amazing and talented group of young women, and I can't wait for Griffon Nation to see them in action again." Missouri Western will open its season on the road in Wichita on February 26th and 27th as they square off against Newman and Central Oklahoma. The Griffons have seven home dates on the schedule with the home opener set for March 3rd against Washburn. The MIAA Tournament will take place April 16-17 and each school will have eight matches that count toward the seeding of that tournament. MWSU will play home-and-home matches against Fort Hays State, Nebraska-Kearney, Northwest Missouri State and Washburn that will be count toward the seeding of the MIAA Tournament, and all other matches will be considered non-conference. MWSU 2021 SPRING VOLLEYBALL SCHEDULE Feb. 26 @ Newman Crossover (vs. Newman or UCO) TBD Feb. 27 @ Newman Crossover (vs. Newman or UCO) TBD Mar. 3 vs. Washburn* 5:00 Mar. 6 vs. Missouri Southern TBD Mar. 12 @ Fort Hays State* 5:00 Mar. 13 @ Nebraska-Kearney* 4:00 Mar. 17 @ Northwest Missouri State* 6:00 Mar. 19 @ Washburn* 6:00 Mar. 24 vs. Park 7:00 Mar. 27 @ Washburn Crossover (vs. Pittsburg State) 12:00 Mar. 27 @ Washburn Crossover (vs. Emporia State) 4:30 Apr. 3 vs. Northwest Missouri State* 2:00 Apr. 9 vs. Nebraska-Kearney* 6:00 Apr. 10 vs. Fort Hays State* 2:00 Apr. 16 MIAA Tournament TBD Apr. 17 MIAA Tournament TBD Apr. 22 @ Central Missouri 5:00 Apr. 24 vs. Central Missouri 2:00&nbsp;&nbsp;