Bishop LeBlond was hopeful for a strong finish to their regular season in February.

After consecutive losses to Savannah, Lafayette and then St. Pius X on Tuesday, the Eagles had one more chance to right the ship before districts.

The Eagles (15-10) snapped their three-game losing skid, ending the game on a 12-1 run in a 50-37 win over Benton (12-9) at Springer Gymnasium on Thursday night.

"The key to this game tonight was just how tough we were," LeBlond head coach Mitch Girres said. "Our kids played extremely tough and physical. What I'm most proud of is how they played together. I felt like tonight was one of the best team games that we played in a long time."

LeBlond set the tone right away, jumping out to a 9-2 first quarter lead before Benton settled down to make it a 15-11 ballgame after the first eight minutes.

The game remained neck-and-neck for the next 2.5 quarters, but the Eagles never lost the lead, going up 25-22 at halftime and 36-32 after the third.

Five different players made a three-pointer for LeBlond through the first three quarters, which helped the Eagles get off to a fast start and maintain their lead.

"When you get some confidence going early, it just continues through the game," Girres said. "We kind of let up a little bit there in the second half and they tied it, but we never lost the lead which I think is important. Our kids really battled and held in there."

Benton started the fourth quarter on a 4-0 run to tie the game at 36 early in the period, but the last five minutes belonged to LeBlond.

After scoring eight third quarter points, senior Jeffrey Johnston continued to get the ball in the lane, and continued to score. The future Missouri Western golfer scored 14 of his game-high 19 points in the second half.

"Offensively, we really played well all game," Johnston said. "We really stepped on defense in the second half, and that really helped us get momentum toward the offense and make some good plays."

Sophomore Denver Domann and junior Kason Mauzey, who've been as good as any forwards in the region this season, combined for 22 points through three quarters.

The Eagles limited the Cardinals' big two to just combined three points in the final frame. Benton as a team made only one field goal and scored just five points in the entire fourth quarter.

"(Mauzey and Domann) are both big, physical, athletic kids," Girres said. "That's a tough matchup for us. Jeffrey is our only big guy, and he held his own tonight. He played tough, grabbed rebounds. Jake Korell did a great job on Kason Mauzey, who's a fantastic player. Pound-for-pound, Jake did a fabulous job defending him tonight, and making things tough on him."

With some new found confidence, and just their second win in the month of February, LeBlond now turns their attention toward the Class 2 District 16 tournament, where they are the one-seed and get a first round bye.

LeBlond will host either Rock Port or Albany on Tuesday night at 6 p.m.

"We really needed this win to help us get confidence for districts," Johnston said. "If we lose, we're out. So, it just helps us build momentum and keep moving forward."

"We're fortunate to get a game at home," Girres said. "It's postseason basketball. Anything can happen. We just need to continue to play tough."

Benton closes out its regular season at home in a rescheduled Missouri Sports Hall of Fame Classic against Richmond on Saturday at 6:30 p.m.

Bishop LeBlond 50 - 15, 10, 11, 14 Benton 37 - 11, 11, 10, 5

Bishop LeBlond scorers - Jeffrey Johnston - 19, Jake Korell - 11, Isaac Ferguson - 9, Chris Guldan - 3, Hayden Cross - 3, Noah Eidmann - 3, Landon Gardner - 2

Benton scorers - Kason Mauzey - 13, Denver Domann - 12, Allan Coy - 6, Adrian Byrd - 4, Carson Newlon - 2

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1613706376858.jpeg" alt="Bishop LeBlond's Jeffrey Johnston (right) looks to shoot a three while Benton's Kason Mauzey (30) and Denver Domann (33) look on in the second half of LeBlond's 50-37 win over the Cardinals Thursday. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Bishop LeBlond's Jeffrey Johnston (right) looks to shoot a three while Benton's Kason Mauzey (30) and Denver Domann (33) look on in the second half of LeBlond's 50-37 win over the Cardinals Thursday. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostBishop LeBlond was hopeful for a strong finish to their regular season in February.After consecutive losses to Savannah, Lafayette and then St. Pius X on Tuesday, the Eagles had one more chance to right the ship before districts.They took advantage.The Eagles (15-10) snapped their three-game losing skid, ending the game on a 12-1 run in a 50-37 win over Benton (12-9) at Springer Gymnasium on Thursday night."The key to this game tonight was just how tough we were," LeBlond head coach Mitch Girres said. "Our kids played extremely tough and physical. What I'm most proud of is how they played together. I felt like tonight was one of the best team games that we played in a long time."LeBlond set the tone right away, jumping out to a 9-2 first quarter lead before Benton settled down to make it a 15-11 ballgame after the first eight minutes.The game remained neck-and-neck for the next 2.5 quarters, but the Eagles never lost the lead, going up 25-22 at halftime and 36-32 after the third.Five different players made a three-pointer for LeBlond through the first three quarters, which helped the Eagles get off to a fast start and maintain their lead."When you get some confidence going early, it just continues through the game," Girres said. "We kind of let up a little bit there in the second half and they tied it, but we never lost the lead which I think is important. Our kids really battled and held in there."Benton started the fourth quarter on a 4-0 run to tie the game at 36 early in the period, but the last five minutes belonged to LeBlond.After scoring eight third quarter points, senior Jeffrey Johnston continued to get the ball in the lane, and continued to score. The future Missouri Western golfer scored 14 of his game-high 19 points in the second half."Offensively, we really played well all game," Johnston said. "We really stepped on defense in the second half, and that really helped us get momentum toward the offense and make some good plays."Sophomore Denver Domann and junior Kason Mauzey, who've been as good as any forwards in the region this season, combined for 22 points through three quarters.The Eagles limited the Cardinals' big two to just combined three points in the final frame. Benton as a team made only one field goal and scored just five points in the entire fourth quarter."(Mauzey and Domann) are both big, physical, athletic kids," Girres said. "That's a tough matchup for us. Jeffrey is our only big guy, and he held his own tonight. He played tough, grabbed rebounds. Jake Korell did a great job on Kason Mauzey, who's a fantastic player. Pound-for-pound, Jake did a fabulous job defending him tonight, and making things tough on him."With some new found confidence, and just their second win in the month of February, LeBlond now turns their attention toward the Class 2 District 16 tournament, where they are the one-seed and get a first round bye.LeBlond will host either Rock Port or Albany on Tuesday night at 6 p.m."We really needed this win to help us get confidence for districts," Johnston said. "If we lose, we're out. So, it just helps us build momentum and keep moving forward.""We're fortunate to get a game at home," Girres said. "It's postseason basketball. Anything can happen. We just need to continue to play tough."Benton closes out its regular season at home in a rescheduled Missouri Sports Hall of Fame Classic against Richmond on Saturday at 6:30 p.m.Bishop LeBlond 50 - 15, 10, 11, 14 Benton 37 - 11, 11, 10, 5Bishop LeBlond scorers - Jeffrey Johnston - 19, Jake Korell - 11, Isaac Ferguson - 9, Chris Guldan - 3, Hayden Cross - 3, Noah Eidmann - 3, Landon Gardner - 2Benton scorers - Kason Mauzey - 13, Denver Domann - 12, Allan Coy - 6, Adrian Byrd - 4, Carson Newlon - 2<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1613706584086.jpeg" alt="Benton's Denver Domann goes airborne on his way to a first half layup in Thursday's 50-37 loss to Bishop LeBlond on Thursday night. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Benton's Denver Domann goes airborne on his way to a first half layup in Thursday's 50-37 loss to Bishop LeBlond on Thursday night. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Bishop LeBlond goes on fourth quarter run, Johnston scores 19 in win over Benton

With temperatures not quite as cold and with a bunch of Monday and Tuesday games postponed, there was a pretty healthy slate of basketball for a Wednesday.

Boys: Benton 45 Savannah 36. Kason Mauzey scored 12 points, Denver Domann added 11. Lafayette 70 Chillicothe 31 Maryville 66 Cameron 59. Maryville’s Trey Oglesby hit a school record nine threes in the game and finished with 30 points.

West Platte 72 Penney 39 DeKalb 47 North Nodaway 25 Winston 66 King City 37 Lathrop 63 Plattsburg 42 Rock Port 56 West Nodaway 53 Pattonsburg 47 Princeton 36 Worth County 74 North Harrison 58

Girls: Mid-Buchanan 48 East Atchison 39. The Dragons have now won seven straight games. Benton 38 Savannah 22 Chillicothe 56 Lafayette 26 St. Joseph Central 47 Park Hill South 35 Maryville 70 Cameron 49. Serena Sundell scored 19. The Spoofhounds are 18-1.

DeKalb 63 North Nodaway 45 Lathrop 59 Plattsburg 51

West Platte 31 Penney 28. Gretchen Raney scores a career-high 20 points for the Bluejuays.

Rock Port 60 West Nodaway 32 King City 37 Winston 26 Worth County 40 North Harrison 28

By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostWith temperatures not quite as cold and with a bunch of Monday and Tuesday games postponed, there was a pretty healthy slate of basketball for a Wednesday.Boys: Benton 45 Savannah 36. Kason Mauzey scored 12 points, Denver Domann added 11. Lafayette 70 Chillicothe 31 Maryville 66 Cameron 59. Maryville’s Trey Oglesby hit a school record nine threes in the game and finished with 30 points.West Platte 72 Penney 39 DeKalb 47 North Nodaway 25 Winston 66 King City 37 Lathrop 63 Plattsburg 42 Rock Port 56 West Nodaway 53 Pattonsburg 47 Princeton 36 Worth County 74 North Harrison 58Girls: Mid-Buchanan 48 East Atchison 39. The Dragons have now won seven straight games. Benton 38 Savannah 22 Chillicothe 56 Lafayette 26 St. Joseph Central 47 Park Hill South 35 Maryville 70 Cameron 49. Serena Sundell scored 19. The Spoofhounds are 18-1.DeKalb 63 North Nodaway 45 Lathrop 59 Plattsburg 51West Platte 31 Penney 28. Gretchen Raney scores a career-high 20 points for the Bluejuays.Rock Port 60 West Nodaway 32 King City 37 Winston 26 Worth County 40 North Harrison 28You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

KFEQ/St. Joseph Post area high school scoreboard - February 17, 2021

The NCAA Division II men's basketball committee released its first regional ranking considerations for the 2021 NCAA Tournament selections Wednesday. The Northwest Missouri State men's basketball team is one of the eight teams "under consideration" for a berth into the Central Region.

The top six teams in the Central Region will earn a spot in the 2021 NCAA Tournament. Central Region Teams Under Consideration (Alphabetical Order) Augustana (S.D.) - 8-5 Minnesota State Moorhead - 8-2 Missouri Southern - 11-8 Northern State - 14-0 Northwest Missouri State - 17-1 Upper Iowa - 9-5 Washburn - 14-3 Wayne State (Neb.) - 9-5 The 2021 Central Region Tournament will take place March 13-16 at Wachs Arena in Aberdeen, South Dakota. It had been held in Maryville the previous four years, but the location was changed due to COVID-19 protocol.

By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph Post&nbsp;The NCAA Division II men's basketball committee released its first regional ranking considerations for the 2021 NCAA Tournament selections Wednesday. The Northwest Missouri State men's basketball team is one of the eight teams "under consideration" for a berth into the Central Region.The top six teams in the Central Region will earn a spot in the 2021 NCAA Tournament. Central Region Teams Under Consideration (Alphabetical Order) Augustana (S.D.) - 8-5 Minnesota State Moorhead - 8-2 Missouri Southern - 11-8 Northern State - 14-0 Northwest Missouri State - 17-1 Upper Iowa - 9-5 Washburn - 14-3 Wayne State (Neb.) - 9-5 The 2021 Central Region Tournament will take place March 13-16 at Wachs Arena in Aberdeen, South Dakota. It had been held in Maryville the previous four years, but the location was changed due to COVID-19 protocol.

Northwest Missouri State men's basketball under consideration for Central Regional berth

The Missouri Western men's basketball team closed out its five-game homestand Tuesday with an 86-75 victory over Newman inside the MWSU Fieldhouse.

The Griffons have won two straight as they improve to 10-8 this season. Newman jumped out to a quick 10-4 lead, but the Griffons then used an 18-4 run to take their first lead and they never gave that lead back.&nbsp; Leading 40-35 at the break, the Griffons opened the second half on a 12-3 run.&nbsp; The Jets got to within eight points, 60-52, with 11 minutes left, but Missouri Western put the game away with a 16-3 run. MWSU shot 50.0% (33-66) from the field for the second time this season and they made 13-of-25 from three. The Griffons forced 12 steals and forced Newman into 20 turnovers. Missouri Western had five players in double figures. Reese Glover&nbsp;scored 20 points as he went 6-of-9 from behind the arc.&nbsp; He also tied a career-high with three assists.

Tyrell Carroll&nbsp;added 19 points, six assists and four steals.&nbsp;&nbsp;Will Eames&nbsp;scored 12 points and grabbed nine rebounds, while&nbsp;Caleb Bennett&nbsp;and&nbsp;Q Mays&nbsp;added 11 points each.

The Missouri Western women's basketball team won its third straight game, overcoming an early deficit and defeating Newman 71-54 inside the MWSU Fieldhouse Tuesday night. The Griffons improve to 6-11 this season. Newman used a 13-2 run to end the first quarter and take a 20-11 lead. The Griffons scored 10 straight early in the second to tie the game at 24, but Western went scoreless the final six minutes of the first half and Newman answered with a 7-0 run to take a 31-24 lead into the locker room. The second half belonged to Missouri Western, as they outscored the Jets 31-13 in the third quarter. The Griffons never let the lead get under 11 the rest of the way, as they forced Newman into 28 total turnovers. Mychaell Gray&nbsp;led four Griffs in double figures with 14 points.&nbsp;Mary Fultz&nbsp;and&nbsp;Asia McCoy&nbsp;added 12 each, while&nbsp;Brionna Budgetts&nbsp;scored 10.&nbsp;Jordan Cunningham&nbsp;added a career-high seven assists and&nbsp;Camille Evans&nbsp;had five assists and a career-high five steals.

Both Griffon teams hit the road Thursday for games at Washburn. The women will tip off at 5:30, followed by the men at 7:30. Both games will be on KFEQ (680 AM, 95.3 FM) with coverage starting at 5:05 p.m.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1613539426747.jpeg" alt="Reese Glover shoots for three in Missouri Western's 86-75 win over Newman at the MWSU Fieldhouse on Tuesday night. Photo via GoGriffons.com." />
 <figcaption>Reese Glover shoots for three in Missouri Western's 86-75 win over Newman at the MWSU Fieldhouse on Tuesday night. Photo via GoGriffons.com.</figcaption>
 </figure>St. Joseph PostThe Missouri Western men's basketball team closed out its five-game homestand Tuesday with an 86-75 victory over Newman inside the MWSU Fieldhouse.The Griffons have won two straight as they improve to 10-8 this season. Newman jumped out to a quick 10-4 lead, but the Griffons then used an 18-4 run to take their first lead and they never gave that lead back.&nbsp; Leading 40-35 at the break, the Griffons opened the second half on a 12-3 run.&nbsp; The Jets got to within eight points, 60-52, with 11 minutes left, but Missouri Western put the game away with a 16-3 run. MWSU shot 50.0% (33-66) from the field for the second time this season and they made 13-of-25 from three. The Griffons forced 12 steals and forced Newman into 20 turnovers. Missouri Western had five players in double figures. Reese Glover&nbsp;scored 20 points as he went 6-of-9 from behind the arc.&nbsp; He also tied a career-high with three assists.Tyrell Carroll&nbsp;added 19 points, six assists and four steals.&nbsp;&nbsp;Will Eames&nbsp;scored 12 points and grabbed nine rebounds, while&nbsp;Caleb Bennett&nbsp;and&nbsp;Q Mays&nbsp;added 11 points each. Women's gameThe Missouri Western women's basketball team won its third straight game, overcoming an early deficit and defeating Newman 71-54 inside the MWSU Fieldhouse Tuesday night. The Griffons improve to 6-11 this season. Newman used a 13-2 run to end the first quarter and take a 20-11 lead. The Griffons scored 10 straight early in the second to tie the game at 24, but Western went scoreless the final six minutes of the first half and Newman answered with a 7-0 run to take a 31-24 lead into the locker room. The second half belonged to Missouri Western, as they outscored the Jets 31-13 in the third quarter. The Griffons never let the lead get under 11 the rest of the way, as they forced Newman into 28 total turnovers. Mychaell Gray&nbsp;led four Griffs in double figures with 14 points.&nbsp;Mary Fultz&nbsp;and&nbsp;Asia McCoy&nbsp;added 12 each, while&nbsp;Brionna Budgetts&nbsp;scored 10.&nbsp;Jordan Cunningham&nbsp;added a career-high seven assists and&nbsp;Camille Evans&nbsp;had five assists and a career-high five steals.Both Griffon teams hit the road Thursday for games at Washburn. The women will tip off at 5:30, followed by the men at 7:30. Both games will be on KFEQ (680 AM, 95.3 FM) with coverage starting at 5:05 p.m.

Missouri Western men's, women's basketball victorious over Newman Tuesday

Some schools elected to play Tuesday, while some were still unable due to cold weather and in some cases, the continuing possibility of blackouts.

Girls' basketball Mid-Buchanan 53 North Platte 43. <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/352c6527-47a1-4e34-9804-40a261d0375c">Full coverage here</a>. St. Pius X 68 Bishop LeBlond 46. Tatum Studer led the Eagles with 21 pts. Albany 45 South Harrison 31 DeKalb 61 West Nodaway 36 Nodaway-Holt 48 Mound City 41 Platte Valley 35 South Holt 26. Platte Valley is now 22-0. East Atchison 58 Union Star 31. Mercedes Parshall scored 14 pts.

Boys' basketball St. Pius X 65 Bishop LeBlond 44 Albany 44 South Harrison 43 East Atchison 64 Union Star 36 Mound City 91 Nodaway-Holt 16 West Nodaway 76 DeKalb 41

Postponed game update - subject to change of course

St. Joseph Central girls’ and boys’ basketball vs. Staley was called off both Monday and again on Tuesday. The girls’ game will be made up Saturday, Feb. 20 at 1 p.m., while the boys will play Feb. 22 at 7 p.m.

Lafayette's games vs. Chillicothe have been moved to Wednesday.&nbsp; The boys head to Chillicothe, with C-squad starting things off at 5 p.m. The girls host the Hornets, with the JV game starting things off at 5:30 p.m. Wednesday.

Benton's games vs. Savannah have been rescheduled to Wednesday. The JV girls and boys start things off at 4 p.m. The girls' JV game will be in the middle school gym at Benton, and the boys' JV will play in the high school gym.

King City @ Winston will be made up Wednesday. Worth County @ North Harrison has been pushed back to Wednesday as well.

Maysville/Stanberry basketball scheduled for Tuesday night has been canceled and will not be made up.

East Buchanan vs. Gallatin on Monday has been canceled and a makeup date is to be determined. North Nodaway vs. DeKalb basketball, which was set for Monday, has been rescheduled to Wednesday night.

St. Joseph Christian at Northland Christian Tuesday has been canceled and will not be made up. Cameron at Trenton Tuesday has been canceled and won't be made up either.

West Platte vs. Hamilton basketball has been moved to Wednesday. Therefore, the West Platte vs. North Andrew girls' game has been canceled.

Cameron's games against Maryville have been rescheduled to Wednesday night. The Spoofhound girls host the Dragons, while the Maryville boys head to Cameron. JV games for both boys and girls start at 5:30 p.m.

Lathrop's games vs. Plattsburg have been moved to Wednesday as well.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1613535085313.jpeg" alt="North Platte's Josie Roach scored a team-high 16 points in a 53-43 loss at Mid-Buchanan Tuesday. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>North Platte's Josie Roach scored a team-high 16 points in a 53-43 loss at Mid-Buchanan Tuesday. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostSome schools elected to play Tuesday, while some were still unable due to cold weather and in some cases, the continuing possibility of blackouts.Girls' basketball Mid-Buchanan 53 North Platte 43. <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/352c6527-47a1-4e34-9804-40a261d0375c">Full coverage here</a>. St. Pius X 68 Bishop LeBlond 46. Tatum Studer led the Eagles with 21 pts. Albany 45 South Harrison 31 DeKalb 61 West Nodaway 36 Nodaway-Holt 48 Mound City 41 Platte Valley 35 South Holt 26. Platte Valley is now 22-0. East Atchison 58 Union Star 31. Mercedes Parshall scored 14 pts.Boys' basketball St. Pius X 65 Bishop LeBlond 44 Albany 44 South Harrison 43 East Atchison 64 Union Star 36 Mound City 91 Nodaway-Holt 16 West Nodaway 76 DeKalb 41Postponed game update - subject to change of courseSt. Joseph Central girls’ and boys’ basketball vs. Staley was called off both Monday and again on Tuesday. The girls’ game will be made up Saturday, Feb. 20 at 1 p.m., while the boys will play Feb. 22 at 7 p.m.Lafayette's games vs. Chillicothe have been moved to Wednesday.&nbsp; The boys head to Chillicothe, with C-squad starting things off at 5 p.m. The girls host the Hornets, with the JV game starting things off at 5:30 p.m. Wednesday.Benton's games vs. Savannah have been rescheduled to Wednesday. The JV girls and boys start things off at 4 p.m. The girls' JV game will be in the middle school gym at Benton, and the boys' JV will play in the high school gym.King City @ Winston will be made up Wednesday. Worth County @ North Harrison has been pushed back to Wednesday as well.Maysville/Stanberry basketball scheduled for Tuesday night has been canceled and will not be made up.East Buchanan vs. Gallatin on Monday has been canceled and a makeup date is to be determined. North Nodaway vs. DeKalb basketball, which was set for Monday, has been rescheduled to Wednesday night.St. Joseph Christian at Northland Christian Tuesday has been canceled and will not be made up. Cameron at Trenton Tuesday has been canceled and won't be made up either.West Platte vs. Hamilton basketball has been moved to Wednesday. Therefore, the West Platte vs. North Andrew girls' game has been canceled.Cameron's games against Maryville have been rescheduled to Wednesday night. The Spoofhound girls host the Dragons, while the Maryville boys head to Cameron. JV games for both boys and girls start at 5:30 p.m.Lathrop's games vs. Plattsburg have been moved to Wednesday as well.You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

KFEQ/St. Joseph Post area high school scoreboard - February 16, 2021

FAUCETT - It's a critical, home conference game in mid-February with districts just around the corner.

Generating energy early on would typically be easy to do.

It was for North Platte, who jumped out to a quick 5-0 lead and a 12-7 advantage after the first quarter.

Dragons' coach Rod Elms wasn't all that surprised, given the amount of snow days there have been lately.

"We've been off for a couple days and you know girls are," Elms chuckled, "they're going to sit around and snack and sleep all day. So (the slow start) didn't surprise me a lot. (North Platte) ran the floor on us better than I expected.

"We laid off our press (defense) until we got our basketball legs underneath us, and then we started making shots. Once we got our basketball legs, things kind of took care of themselves."

Once Mid-Buchanan got loose and ran their pace, they didn't turn back. The Dragons (13-9) tied the game at the end of the third quarter, and outscored North Platte 20-10 in the final period on their way to a 53-43 win at Mid-Buchanan High School on Tuesday night, giving the Dragons six straight wins.

Sophomore Hannah Williams was the key to a big Mid-Buchanan finish, scoring 11 of her 13 points in the final quarter.

"I just focused on driving and taking it to the hole," she said. "My three was off earlier in the game, so I just led attack. And we really just pushed the pace as a team."

After being held scoreless in the first quarter, senior Kacie Livengood scored 14 of her game-high 17 points in the second half. She nailed a three-pointer in the second, third and fourth quarter as well.

"We knew it was going to be a tough game," Livengood said. "When (Roach) hit that (three) before the half, I think it motivated us to get our stuff together, and I just think that three really motivated us, because we wanted to keep our win streak."

While it was a happy ending for Mid-Buchanan, it wasn't the smoothest of starts, as the Dragons got behind 17-9 early in the second with fouls and turnovers stacking up.

Once Mid-Buchanan turned up the pressure defensively, Coach Elms felt the tide turning for his team, even when North Platte's Josie Roach, who led her team with 16 points, nailed a three-pointer right before the buzzer to put the Panthers up 22-18 at the break.

"I'd rather have that than something in the paint," Elms said. "People are going to make shots like that. I'll take that."

In all, the Dragons outscored North Platte 35-21 in the second half, and held the Panthers (14-8) to just six second half field goals and only one made three -pointer in the entire game.

"Our press will get you hopefully in the fourth quarter," Elms said. "We try to wear on people. We're little and fast, so we try and use that to our advantage."

Mid-Buchanan stays home to host East Atchison on Wednesday, with girls' varsity starting at approximately 6:30 p.m.

North Platte goes to East Buchanan on Wednesday for a 6 p.m. tip.

Mid-Buchanan 53 - 7, 11, 15, 20 North Platte 43 - 12, 10, 11, 10

Mid-Buchanan scorers - Kacie Livengood - 17, Hannah Williams - 13, Khania Clark - 9, Mallie Lieffring - 8, Jordan Thornton - 6, Taiylor Harrington - 1, Paityn King -&nbsp; 1.

North Platte scorers - Josie Roach - 16, Lonee French - 7, Ryann Smith - 6, Gracie Ramsey - 5, Karli Guinn - 4, Jaylin Burgess - 3, Gracelynn Hoffmann - 2.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1613531849582.jpeg" alt="Mid-Buchanan's Hannah Williams puts up a shot in the second half of the Dragons' 53-43 win over North Platte Tuesday. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Mid-Buchanan's Hannah Williams puts up a shot in the second half of the Dragons' 53-43 win over North Platte Tuesday. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostFAUCETT - It's a critical, home conference game in mid-February with districts just around the corner.Generating energy early on would typically be easy to do.It was for North Platte, who jumped out to a quick 5-0 lead and a 12-7 advantage after the first quarter.Dragons' coach Rod Elms wasn't all that surprised, given the amount of snow days there have been lately."We've been off for a couple days and you know girls are," Elms chuckled, "they're going to sit around and snack and sleep all day. So (the slow start) didn't surprise me a lot. (North Platte) ran the floor on us better than I expected."We laid off our press (defense) until we got our basketball legs underneath us, and then we started making shots. Once we got our basketball legs, things kind of took care of themselves."Once Mid-Buchanan got loose and ran their pace, they didn't turn back. The Dragons (13-9) tied the game at the end of the third quarter, and outscored North Platte 20-10 in the final period on their way to a 53-43 win at Mid-Buchanan High School on Tuesday night, giving the Dragons six straight wins.Sophomore Hannah Williams was the key to a big Mid-Buchanan finish, scoring 11 of her 13 points in the final quarter."I just focused on driving and taking it to the hole," she said. "My three was off earlier in the game, so I just led attack. And we really just pushed the pace as a team."After being held scoreless in the first quarter, senior Kacie Livengood scored 14 of her game-high 17 points in the second half. She nailed a three-pointer in the second, third and fourth quarter as well."We knew it was going to be a tough game," Livengood said. "When (Roach) hit that (three) before the half, I think it motivated us to get our stuff together, and I just think that three really motivated us, because we wanted to keep our win streak."While it was a happy ending for Mid-Buchanan, it wasn't the smoothest of starts, as the Dragons got behind 17-9 early in the second with fouls and turnovers stacking up.Once Mid-Buchanan turned up the pressure defensively, Coach Elms felt the tide turning for his team, even when North Platte's Josie Roach, who led her team with 16 points, nailed a three-pointer right before the buzzer to put the Panthers up 22-18 at the break."I'd rather have that than something in the paint," Elms said. "People are going to make shots like that. I'll take that."In all, the Dragons outscored North Platte 35-21 in the second half, and held the Panthers (14-8) to just six second half field goals and only one made three -pointer in the entire game."Our press will get you hopefully in the fourth quarter," Elms said. "We try to wear on people. We're little and fast, so we try and use that to our advantage."Mid-Buchanan stays home to host East Atchison on Wednesday, with girls' varsity starting at approximately 6:30 p.m.North Platte goes to East Buchanan on Wednesday for a 6 p.m. tip.Mid-Buchanan 53 - 7, 11, 15, 20 North Platte 43 - 12, 10, 11, 10Mid-Buchanan scorers - Kacie Livengood - 17, Hannah Williams - 13, Khania Clark - 9, Mallie Lieffring - 8, Jordan Thornton - 6, Taiylor Harrington - 1, Paityn King -&nbsp; 1.North Platte scorers - Josie Roach - 16, Lonee French - 7, Ryann Smith - 6, Gracie Ramsey - 5, Karli Guinn - 4, Jaylin Burgess - 3, Gracelynn Hoffmann - 2.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1613531915940.jpeg" alt="Mid-Buchanan's Kacie Livengood drives for two against North Platte's Karli Guinn in the second half of the Dragons' 53-43 win over North Platte Tuesday. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Mid-Buchanan's Kacie Livengood drives for two against North Platte's Karli Guinn in the second half of the Dragons' 53-43 win over North Platte Tuesday. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Mid-Buchanan overcomes early deficit, puts away North Platte in fourth quarter

While the temperatures today and tonight won’t be quite as nasty as they were the night prior, it’s a pretty mixed bag of who’s playing high school basketball in the KFEQ/St. Joseph Post area Tuesday night, and who’s not.

Games that are on for Tuesday&nbsp;

Bishop LeBlond will play at St. Pius X tonight with varsity girls starting things off at 5:30.

Platte Valley will be at South Holt, with JV starting it off at 5 p.m.

Mid-Buchanan is hosting North Platte in girls' basketball, with JV starting things off at 5. There'll be no boys' game, because the North Platte boys are in quarantine.

South Harrison will play at Albany Tuesday.

Tuesday games that are postponed/canceled

St. Joseph Central girls’ and boys’ basketball vs. Staley was called off both Monday and again Tuesday. The girls’ game will be made up Saturday, Feb. 20 at 1 p.m., while the boys will play Feb. 22 at 7 p.m.

Elsewhere, King City/Winston has been postponed and will be made up Wednesday. Worth County @ North Harrison has been pushed back to Wednesday.

East Buchanan vs. Gallatin on Monday has been canceled and a makeup date is to be determined. North Nodaway at DeKalb basketball, which was set for Monday, has been rescheduled to Wednesday night.

St. Joseph Christian at Northland Christian Tuesday has been canceled and will not be made up. Cameron at Trenton has been canceled and won't be made up either.

However, Cameron's games against Maryville have been rescheduled to Wednesday night. The Spoofhound girls host the Dragons, while the Maryville boys head to Cameron. JV games for both boys and girls start at 5:30 p.m.

By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostWhile the temperatures today and tonight won’t be quite as nasty as they were the night prior, it’s a pretty mixed bag of who’s playing high school basketball in the KFEQ/St. Joseph Post area Tuesday night, and who’s not.Games that are on for Tuesday&nbsp;Bishop LeBlond will play at St. Pius X tonight with varsity girls starting things off at 5:30.Platte Valley will be at South Holt, with JV starting it off at 5 p.m.Mid-Buchanan is hosting North Platte in girls' basketball, with JV starting things off at 5. There'll be no boys' game, because the North Platte boys are in quarantine.South Harrison will play at Albany Tuesday.Tuesday games that are postponed/canceledSt. Joseph Central girls’ and boys’ basketball vs. Staley was called off both Monday and again Tuesday. The girls’ game will be made up Saturday, Feb. 20 at 1 p.m., while the boys will play Feb. 22 at 7 p.m.Lafayette's games vs. Chillicothe have been moved to Wednesday.&nbsp; The boys head to Chillicothe, with C-squad starting things off at 5 p.m. The girls host the Hornets, with the JV game starting things off at 5:30 p.m. Wednesday.Benton's games vs. Savannah have been rescheduled to Wednesday. The JV girls and boys start things off at 4 p.m. The girls' JV game will be in the middle school gym at Benton, and the boys' JV will play in the high school gym.Elsewhere, King City/Winston has been postponed and will be made up Wednesday. Worth County @ North Harrison has been pushed back to Wednesday.Maysville/Stanberry basketball scheduled for Tuesday night has been canceled and will not be made up.East Buchanan vs. Gallatin on Monday has been canceled and a makeup date is to be determined. North Nodaway at DeKalb basketball, which was set for Monday, has been rescheduled to Wednesday night.St. Joseph Christian at Northland Christian Tuesday has been canceled and will not be made up. Cameron at Trenton has been canceled and won't be made up either.West Platte vs. Hamilton basketball has been moved to Wednesday. Therefore, the West Platte vs. North Andrew girls' game has been canceled.However, Cameron's games against Maryville have been rescheduled to Wednesday night. The Spoofhound girls host the Dragons, while the Maryville boys head to Cameron. JV games for both boys and girls start at 5:30 p.m.Lathrop's games vs. Plattsburg have been moved to Wednesday as well.

Area hoops guide - who's playing and who's not for Tuesday, postponement dates

LAWRENCE—The University of Kansas Athletic Director Jeff Long issued a statement&nbsp; Monday following the weekend DUI arrest of head baseball coach Ritch Price.

"After meeting with Coach Price this afternoon, I informed him that he has been suspended for the next two weeks from all team related activities as a result of his DUI arrest this past weekend."

"I also met with the team to inform them of this decision. While I have tremendous respect and appreciation for Coach Price and the manner in which he conducts our baseball program, as well as the leadership he provides our young men, in this instance he failed to meet our expectations. Coach Price expressed to me his sincere remorse for putting himself in that position and the negative impact it will have on the program. I am confident he will learn from this dangerous lapse in judgement and so will his current and future baseball student-athletes.”

In a separate statement, Price said, “I would like to apologize to my family, players, KU administration, alumni, coaches, staff, as well as our donors for embarrassing them, the University of Kansas, our entire athletic department and myself."

 As I shared with my team, the consequences from my actions on Saturday night could have jeopardized members of our community and was irresponsible. I have always held myself to the same high standards as those of my players and take full responsibility for my actions. I will do everything in my power to ensure that this type of behavior will never happen again. I love the University of Kansas, our athletic department and baseball program. Through my actions moving forward, I hope to regain the trust of all Jayhawks.”

Price joined the KU baseball program in 2002 and became head coach the following year. The team has won over 530 games during his time leading the Jayhawks.

Jeff Long further announces that Associate Head Coach, Ryan Graves, will serve as Head Coach during the suspension.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1613440228041.png" alt="Coach Ritch Price photo courtesy KU Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Coach Ritch Price photo courtesy KU Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>LAWRENCE—The University of Kansas Athletic Director Jeff Long issued a statement&nbsp; Monday following the weekend DUI arrest of head baseball coach Ritch Price."After meeting with Coach Price this afternoon, I informed him that he has been suspended for the next two weeks from all team related activities as a result of his DUI arrest this past weekend.""I also met with the team to inform them of this decision. While I have tremendous respect and appreciation for Coach Price and the manner in which he conducts our baseball program, as well as the leadership he provides our young men, in this instance he failed to meet our expectations. Coach Price expressed to me his sincere remorse for putting himself in that position and the negative impact it will have on the program. I am confident he will learn from this dangerous lapse in judgement and so will his current and future baseball student-athletes.”In a separate statement, Price said, “I would like to apologize to my family, players, KU administration, alumni, coaches, staff, as well as our donors for embarrassing them, the University of Kansas, our entire athletic department and myself." As I shared with my team, the consequences from my actions on Saturday night could have jeopardized members of our community and was irresponsible. I have always held myself to the same high standards as those of my players and take full responsibility for my actions. I will do everything in my power to ensure that this type of behavior will never happen again. I love the University of Kansas, our athletic department and baseball program. Through my actions moving forward, I hope to regain the trust of all Jayhawks.”Price joined the KU baseball program in 2002 and became head coach the following year. The team has won over 530 games during his time leading the Jayhawks.Jeff Long further announces that Associate Head Coach, Ryan Graves, will serve as Head Coach during the suspension.

KU suspends baseball coach after DUI arrest

No school? Zero degrees? No problem. Plenty of good basketball across the area Friday night.

Girls' basketball East Buchanan 43 Plattsburg 31 Mid-Buchanan 43 Hamilton 27 Lathrop 41 Lawson 39 North Platte 55 West Platte 23 Platte Valley 60 Nodaway-Holt 26

Boys' basketball Lafayette 61 Bishop LeBlond 55. <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/b2b1309b-9631-43fd-b2a9-8ea003953090">Full coverage here</a>. Benton 56 Maryville 46 - Kason Mauzey 21 pts. East Buchanan 39 Plattsburg 37 West Platte 68 North Platte 37 Mid-Buchanan 68 Hamilton 21 Lathrop 57 Lawson 37 Mound City 77 Union Star 30 Platte Valley 79 Nodaway-Holt 28 Northeast Nodaway 48 South Holt 37

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1613190956293.jpeg" alt="Isaac Ferguson of Bishop LeBlond shoots for three against Lafayette on Friday night. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Isaac Ferguson of Bishop LeBlond shoots for three against Lafayette on Friday night. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostNo school? Zero degrees? No problem. Plenty of good basketball across the area Friday night.Girls' basketball East Buchanan 43 Plattsburg 31 Mid-Buchanan 43 Hamilton 27 Lathrop 41 Lawson 39 North Platte 55 West Platte 23 Platte Valley 60 Nodaway-Holt 26Boys' basketball Lafayette 61 Bishop LeBlond 55. <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/b2b1309b-9631-43fd-b2a9-8ea003953090">Full coverage here</a>. Benton 56 Maryville 46 - Kason Mauzey 21 pts. East Buchanan 39 Plattsburg 37 West Platte 68 North Platte 37 Mid-Buchanan 68 Hamilton 21 Lathrop 57 Lawson 37 Mound City 77 Union Star 30 Platte Valley 79 Nodaway-Holt 28 Northeast Nodaway 48 South Holt 37

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

The Lafayette boys' basketball team hadn't lost in the month of February until Thursday, when the Irish fell at No. 4 Platte County 86-72.

For Camden Bennett and the rest of the team, that loss didn't sit well.

"We really felt bad about Thursday's game," Bennett said. "We came into this game wanting to prove something. To prove we're still Lafayette, we're still that team. We came into the game, and just tried to play our hearts out."

Lafayette, and Bishop LeBlond, did just that. The Eagles (14-8) hit eight second half three-pointers, but it wasn't enough in a 61-55 loss to the Irish at Bishop LeBlond High School on Friday night.

Down 25-21 at half, LeBlond came out firing in the third quarter. Senior Isaac Ferguson hit a pair of triples, while juniors Chris Guldan and Marcos Dominguez hit threes of their own.

In all, LeBlond hit 10 threes Friday, while Lafayette had only two.

Lafayette (15-7) seemed to answer the bell each time with transition layups and jumpers. The Irish never lost the lead in the second half, but the performance left something to be desired for head coach Kevin Bristol.

"I'd give us a C," he said, when asked about the team's overall performance. "Defensively, we weren't clicking tonight. LeBlond is a much improved team from previous years. I think Coach (Mitch) Girres does a great job with them. But, we just weren't clicking on defense tonight."

Offensively, Lafayette did do enough, hitting 13 field goals in the second half, including a three-pointer from both Bennett and senior Zach Langley.

Bennett, while ending up with a game-high 24 points, shared Coach Bristol's sentiment. There's room for improvement.

"I feel like we could have played better," Bennett said, "but overall, it was a good team win."

Bennett led three Lafayette players in double figures. Langley cashed in 11 points. Senior Try'Shon Page finished with 10, including four points in the fourth quarter.

The opening couple minutes of the final quarter looked like LeBlond's prime time to grab a lead. Senior and future Missouri Western golfer Jeffrey Johnston buried a three, which was part of a 5-0 run to pull the Eagles to within 45-42 less than two minutes into the final period.

But Langley, Page and Bennett all came up with transition layups to maintain the Lafayette lead, and eventually, the Irish were up 60-50 with just over a minute left.

"LeBlond is a very good team," Bennett said. "It was very tough, having them hit threes and going back and forth, but I feel like we played our game."

Lafayette is off until Tuesday, when they go on the road to face Chillicothe (12-6) in another critical Midland Empire Conference tilt.

With districts on the horizon in two weeks, Bristol knows that any win right now is a big help.

"Every loss and every win can help a team," he said. "It gives you that marker on where you're at. I think everyone in the MEC, (LeBlond) plays close. They're a good team. Everyone has multiple games under their belts, so, we're going to get everybody's best."

LeBlond visits St. Pius X (7-15) on Tuesday.

Lafayette 61 - 14, 11, 20, 16 Bishop LeBlond 55 - 10, 11, 16, 18

Lafayette scorers - Camden Bennett - 24, Zach Langley - 12, Try'Shon Page - 10, Jamar James - 8, Drake Davison -&nbsp; 6, Mikey Thomas - 1.

LeBlond scorers - Jake Korell - 14, Jeffrey Johnston - 11, Chris Guldan - 9, Isaac Ferguson - 7, Hayden Cross - 4, Landon Gardner - 4, Marcos Dominguez - 3, Noah Eidmann - 3.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1613188514074.jpeg" alt="Lafayette's Drake Davison (22) goes up for two in the first half of the Irish's 61-55 win over Bishop LeBlond at Bishop LeBlond High School on Friday night. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Lafayette's Drake Davison (22) goes up for two in the first half of the Irish's 61-55 win over Bishop LeBlond at Bishop LeBlond High School on Friday night. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThe Lafayette boys' basketball team hadn't lost in the month of February until Thursday, when the Irish fell at No. 4 Platte County 86-72.For Camden Bennett and the rest of the team, that loss didn't sit well."We really felt bad about Thursday's game," Bennett said. "We came into this game wanting to prove something. To prove we're still Lafayette, we're still that team. We came into the game, and just tried to play our hearts out."Lafayette, and Bishop LeBlond, did just that. The Eagles (14-8) hit eight second half three-pointers, but it wasn't enough in a 61-55 loss to the Irish at Bishop LeBlond High School on Friday night.Down 25-21 at half, LeBlond came out firing in the third quarter. Senior Isaac Ferguson hit a pair of triples, while juniors Chris Guldan and Marcos Dominguez hit threes of their own.In all, LeBlond hit 10 threes Friday, while Lafayette had only two.Lafayette (15-7) seemed to answer the bell each time with transition layups and jumpers. The Irish never lost the lead in the second half, but the performance left something to be desired for head coach Kevin Bristol."I'd give us a C," he said, when asked about the team's overall performance. "Defensively, we weren't clicking tonight. LeBlond is a much improved team from previous years. I think Coach (Mitch) Girres does a great job with them. But, we just weren't clicking on defense tonight."Offensively, Lafayette did do enough, hitting 13 field goals in the second half, including a three-pointer from both Bennett and senior Zach Langley.Bennett, while ending up with a game-high 24 points, shared Coach Bristol's sentiment. There's room for improvement."I feel like we could have played better," Bennett said, "but overall, it was a good team win."Bennett led three Lafayette players in double figures. Langley cashed in 11 points. Senior Try'Shon Page finished with 10, including four points in the fourth quarter.The opening couple minutes of the final quarter looked like LeBlond's prime time to grab a lead. Senior and future Missouri Western golfer Jeffrey Johnston buried a three, which was part of a 5-0 run to pull the Eagles to within 45-42 less than two minutes into the final period.But Langley, Page and Bennett all came up with transition layups to maintain the Lafayette lead, and eventually, the Irish were up 60-50 with just over a minute left."LeBlond is a very good team," Bennett said. "It was very tough, having them hit threes and going back and forth, but I feel like we played our game."Lafayette is off until Tuesday, when they go on the road to face Chillicothe (12-6) in another critical Midland Empire Conference tilt.With districts on the horizon in two weeks, Bristol knows that any win right now is a big help."Every loss and every win can help a team," he said. "It gives you that marker on where you're at. I think everyone in the MEC, (LeBlond) plays close. They're a good team. Everyone has multiple games under their belts, so, we're going to get everybody's best."LeBlond visits St. Pius X (7-15) on Tuesday.Lafayette 61 - 14, 11, 20, 16 Bishop LeBlond 55 - 10, 11, 16, 18Lafayette scorers - Camden Bennett - 24, Zach Langley - 12, Try'Shon Page - 10, Jamar James - 8, Drake Davison -&nbsp; 6, Mikey Thomas - 1.LeBlond scorers - Jake Korell - 14, Jeffrey Johnston - 11, Chris Guldan - 9, Isaac Ferguson - 7, Hayden Cross - 4, Landon Gardner - 4, Marcos Dominguez - 3, Noah Eidmann - 3.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1613188629767.jpeg" alt="Bishop LeBlond's Noah Eidmann (12) throws a block against Lafayette's Mikey Thomas (20) as the Irish topped the Eagles 61-55 Friday night. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Bishop LeBlond's Noah Eidmann (12) throws a block against Lafayette's Mikey Thomas (20) as the Irish topped the Eagles 61-55 Friday night. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Camden Bennett drops 24, Lafayette fends off tough Bishop LeBlond team Friday

The NCAA Division II Championships Committee announced its list of predetermined regional sites for the 2021 NCAA Division II Men’s and Women’s Basketball Championships on Friday.

Due to health and safety protocols surrounding COVID-19, the NCAA chose sites and hosts that offer "an exceptional and safe experience for all participants."

The Central Regional, which has been hosted in Maryville the past four years with Northwest serving as the region's top seed, will instead be held at the Barnett Center in Aberdeen, South Dakota by Northern State.

Northwest hosted for the first time in 2017, eventually finishing the season as national champions.

Northwest lost in the first round in 2018 before winning the 2019 title with an undefeated season. The Bearcats were named hosts before the 2020 tournament was canceled due to COVID-19.

“We were very pleased with the quantity and quality of the options the committee was able to select from under the circumstances,” said Fran Reidy, chair of the Division II Men’s Basketball Committee in a release.

 “We are confident that while predetermined sites are new for our regional format,that each host site has a history of successfully hosting NCAA events and that our basketball student-athletes will have a championship experience at each of the venues.”

The move comes after Division II realigned regionals for 2021 winter championships last week with many conferences and schools opting out of playing. The NCAA previously announced a reduced field from 64 to 48 teams.

The Central Region only includes the MIAA and NSIC this year, with the GAC joining the South Central regional this year.

Only one region has more actives teams (30) than the Central this year, with 33 teams playing in the Southeast. Seven of the eight regions have between 27 and 33 teams playing.

Regional quarterfinal games will begin Saturday, March 13, followed by the semifinals Sunday, March 14, and the regional championship Tuesday, March 16.

Winners will advance to the NCAA Division II Men’s Basketball Elite Eight in Evansville, Indiana, on March 24-27.

The women's Central Region will be held at Central Missouri in Warrensburg. Regional quarterfinal games will begin Friday, March 12, followed by the semifinals Saturday, March 13, and the regional championship Monday, March 15.

Winners will advance to the NCAA Division II Women’s Basketball Elite Eight in Columbus, Ohio, on March 23-26.

Participating teams will be announced Sunday, March 7. The women’s basketball selection show will be broadcast on&nbsp;<a href="http://ncaa.com/">ncaa.com</a>&nbsp;at 10 p.m. eastern time followed by the men’s basketball selection show at 10:30 p.m. eastern.

You can follow St. Joseph Post on Twitter @StJosephPost.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1613168685478.jpeg" alt="Bearcat Arena in Maryville had previously hosted the Central Regional the last four years, but will not in 2021 due to COVID-19 protocol. Photo by Whitnee Ice." />
 <figcaption>Bearcat Arena in Maryville had previously hosted the Central Regional the last four years, but will not in 2021 due to COVID-19 protocol. Photo by Whitnee Ice.</figcaption>
 </figure>St. Joseph PostThe NCAA Division II Championships Committee announced its list of predetermined regional sites for the 2021 NCAA Division II Men’s and Women’s Basketball Championships on Friday.Due to health and safety protocols surrounding COVID-19, the NCAA chose sites and hosts that offer "an exceptional and safe experience for all participants."The Central Regional, which has been hosted in Maryville the past four years with Northwest serving as the region's top seed, will instead be held at the Barnett Center in Aberdeen, South Dakota by Northern State.Northwest hosted for the first time in 2017, eventually finishing the season as national champions.Northwest lost in the first round in 2018 before winning the 2019 title with an undefeated season. The Bearcats were named hosts before the 2020 tournament was canceled due to COVID-19.“We were very pleased with the quantity and quality of the options the committee was able to select from under the circumstances,” said Fran Reidy, chair of the Division II Men’s Basketball Committee in a release. “We are confident that while predetermined sites are new for our regional format,that each host site has a history of successfully hosting NCAA events and that our basketball student-athletes will have a championship experience at each of the venues.”The move comes after Division II realigned regionals for 2021 winter championships last week with many conferences and schools opting out of playing. The NCAA previously announced a reduced field from 64 to 48 teams.The Central Region only includes the MIAA and NSIC this year, with the GAC joining the South Central regional this year.Only one region has more actives teams (30) than the Central this year, with 33 teams playing in the Southeast. Seven of the eight regions have between 27 and 33 teams playing.Regional quarterfinal games will begin Saturday, March 13, followed by the semifinals Sunday, March 14, and the regional championship Tuesday, March 16.Winners will advance to the NCAA Division II Men’s Basketball Elite Eight in Evansville, Indiana, on March 24-27.The women's Central Region will be held at Central Missouri in Warrensburg. Regional quarterfinal games will begin Friday, March 12, followed by the semifinals Saturday, March 13, and the regional championship Monday, March 15.Winners will advance to the NCAA Division II Women’s Basketball Elite Eight in Columbus, Ohio, on March 23-26.Participating teams will be announced Sunday, March 7. The women’s basketball selection show will be broadcast on&nbsp;<a href="http://ncaa.com/">ncaa.com</a>&nbsp;at 10 p.m. eastern time followed by the men’s basketball selection show at 10:30 p.m. eastern.You can follow St. Joseph Post on Twitter @StJosephPost.

NCAA Division II announces predetermined regional basketball sites

The MSHSAA has started to unveil some of their boys' and girls' district basketball tournament brackets, with the first district games starting next Monday.

More brackets will come out next week, but here's what we know so far.

Class 1 District 15 boys @ DeKalb High School

Winston is the No. 1 seed, and will face either Worth County or St. Joseph Christian in the next round.

#4 Worth County vs. #5 St. Joseph Christian - 2/20 #2 Stanberry vs. #7 Union Star - 2/20 #3 Pattonsburg vs. #6 DeKalb - 2/20

Class 2 District 15 boys @ Mid-Buchanan

The host Dragons are the top seed, and await the winner of Stewartsville-Osborn and Maysville.

#4 Stewartsville-Osborn vs. Maysville - 2/20 #2 Gallatin vs. #7 North Platte - 2/20 #3 Plattsburg vs. #6 Polo - 2/20

Class 1 District 16 boys @ Mound City

Mound City is the No. 1 seed. The Panthers will face the winner of South Holt/West Nodway.

#4 South Holt vs. #5 West Nodaway - 2/20 #2 Platte Valley vs. #7 North Nodaway - 2/20 #3 Northeast Nodaway vs. #6 Nodaway-Holt - 2/20

Class 2 District 16 boys @ North Andrew

Bishop LeBlond is the No. 1 seed, and will face either Albany or Rock Port in the semifinals.

#4 Albany vs. #5 Rock Port - 2/20 #2 North Andrew vs. #7 King City - 2/20 #3 Princeton vs. #6 East Atchison - 2/20

Class 1 District 15 girls @ DeKalb

Stanberry is the top seed, and awaits the winner of Worth County/Winston.

#4 Worth County vs. #5 Winston - 2/22 #2 DeKalb vs. #7 Union Star - 2/22 #3 Pattonsburg vs. #6 St. Joseph Christian - 2/22

Class 2 District 15 girls @ Mid-Buchanan

Just like the boys, the Lady Dragons get the top seed and a first-round bye as the host team. They await the winner of Polo/Maysville.

#4 Polo vs. #5 Maysville - 2/22 #2 North Platte vs. #7 Gallatin - 2/22 #3 Plattsburg vs. #6 Stewartsville-Osborn - 2/22

Class 3 District 15 girls @ Lathrop

Lawson earns the top seed and await the winner of West Platte/Cristo Rey. Also, No. 2 seed East Buchanan receives a first-round bye and will face either Lathrop or University Academy Charter.

#4 West Platte vs. #5 Cristo Rey - 2/20 #3 Lathrop vs. #6 University Academy Charter - 2/20

Class 1 District 16 girls @ Mound City

Platte Valley is the No. 1 seed, and awaits the winner of Nodaway-Holt/West Nodaway.

#4 Nodaway-Holt vs. West Nodaway - 2/22 #2 South Holt vs. #7 Northeast Nodaway - 2/22 #3 North Nodaway vs. #6 Mound City - 2/22

Class 2 District 16 girls @ North Andrew

Bishop LeBlond is the No. 1 seed, and will face either North Andrew or King City.

#4 North Andrew vs. #5 King City - 2/22 #2 East Atchison vs. #7 Rock Port - 2/22 #3 Albany vs. #6 Princeton - 2/22

More district info can be found on the <a href="https://www.mshsaa.org/Activities/Info/Basketball.aspx">MSHSAA website</a>.

We will add to this list as more brackets are announced.

By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThe MSHSAA has started to unveil some of their boys' and girls' district basketball tournament brackets, with the first district games starting next Monday.More brackets will come out next week, but here's what we know so far.Class 1 District 15 boys @ DeKalb High SchoolWinston is the No. 1 seed, and will face either Worth County or St. Joseph Christian in the next round.#4 Worth County vs. #5 St. Joseph Christian - 2/20 #2 Stanberry vs. #7 Union Star - 2/20 #3 Pattonsburg vs. #6 DeKalb - 2/20Class 2 District 15 boys @ Mid-BuchananThe host Dragons are the top seed, and await the winner of Stewartsville-Osborn and Maysville.#4 Stewartsville-Osborn vs. Maysville - 2/20 #2 Gallatin vs. #7 North Platte - 2/20 #3 Plattsburg vs. #6 Polo - 2/20Class 1 District 16 boys @ Mound CityMound City is the No. 1 seed. The Panthers will face the winner of South Holt/West Nodway.#4 South Holt vs. #5 West Nodaway - 2/20 #2 Platte Valley vs. #7 North Nodaway - 2/20 #3 Northeast Nodaway vs. #6 Nodaway-Holt - 2/20Class 2 District 16 boys @ North AndrewBishop LeBlond is the No. 1 seed, and will face either Albany or Rock Port in the semifinals.#4 Albany vs. #5 Rock Port - 2/20 #2 North Andrew vs. #7 King City - 2/20 #3 Princeton vs. #6 East Atchison - 2/20Class 1 District 15 girls @ DeKalbStanberry is the top seed, and awaits the winner of Worth County/Winston.#4 Worth County vs. #5 Winston - 2/22 #2 DeKalb vs. #7 Union Star - 2/22 #3 Pattonsburg vs. #6 St. Joseph Christian - 2/22Class 2 District 15 girls @ Mid-BuchananJust like the boys, the Lady Dragons get the top seed and a first-round bye as the host team. They await the winner of Polo/Maysville.#4 Polo vs. #5 Maysville - 2/22 #2 North Platte vs. #7 Gallatin - 2/22 #3 Plattsburg vs. #6 Stewartsville-Osborn - 2/22Class 3 District 15 girls @ LathropLawson earns the top seed and await the winner of West Platte/Cristo Rey. Also, No. 2 seed East Buchanan receives a first-round bye and will face either Lathrop or University Academy Charter.#4 West Platte vs. #5 Cristo Rey - 2/20 #3 Lathrop vs. #6 University Academy Charter - 2/20Class 1 District 16 girls @ Mound CityPlatte Valley is the No. 1 seed, and awaits the winner of Nodaway-Holt/West Nodaway.#4 Nodaway-Holt vs. West Nodaway - 2/22 #2 South Holt vs. #7 Northeast Nodaway - 2/22 #3 North Nodaway vs. #6 Mound City - 2/22Class 2 District 16 girls @ North AndrewBishop LeBlond is the No. 1 seed, and will face either North Andrew or King City.#4 North Andrew vs. #5 King City - 2/22 #2 East Atchison vs. #7 Rock Port - 2/22 #3 Albany vs. #6 Princeton - 2/22More district info can be found on the <a href="https://www.mshsaa.org/Activities/Info/Basketball.aspx">MSHSAA website</a>.We will add to this list as more brackets are announced.You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

District basketball - when and where KFEQ/St. Joseph Post area teams will play

The No. 3 Northwest Missouri State men's basketball team won its 11th straight game with an 87-75 home win over Pittsburg State Thursday at Bearcat Arena. The Bearcats (16-1 overall) used a late 12-4 run to secure the victory.&nbsp; Northwest was led by Trevor&nbsp;Hudgins, who poured in his sixth career 30-point game. Ryan Hawkins added 22 points, seven steals, six rebounds and five assists. Northwest led 57-47 with 16:10 left, and would eventually push the lead to 15, but the Gorillas did not go away quietly.

PSU cut Northwest's lead to 75-71 with 4:09 to play in the game, but the Bearcats put the Gorillas away for good with a 10-0 run that included a tip-in by Lafayette St. Joseph alum Diego Bernard to help secure&nbsp;the 87-75 triumph.

The Bearcats fell 79-50 contest to Pittsburg State, marking the Bearcats'&nbsp;17th straight loss to the Gorillas. Northwest started off slow, trailing 17-6 at the end of the first quarter. The Gorillas led 34-19 lead at halftime, and opened&nbsp;the second half on an 8-0 run.

Molly&nbsp;Hartnett&nbsp;led Northwest with 17 points. Northwest returns to Bearcat Arena on Saturday to face Missouri Southern. The women start things off at 1:30 with the men to follow at 3:30.

Northwest will honor its women's and men's basketball seniors on Saturday between the two games.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1613106546107.jpeg" alt="Northwest's Trevor Hudgins dribbles the ball in the Bearcats' 87-75 win over Pittsburg State Thursday. Photo via BearcatSports.com." />
 <figcaption>Northwest's Trevor Hudgins dribbles the ball in the Bearcats' 87-75 win over Pittsburg State Thursday. Photo via BearcatSports.com.</figcaption>
 </figure>St. Joseph PostThe No. 3 Northwest Missouri State men's basketball team won its 11th straight game with an 87-75 home win over Pittsburg State Thursday at Bearcat Arena. The Bearcats (16-1 overall) used a late 12-4 run to secure the victory.&nbsp; Northwest was led by Trevor&nbsp;Hudgins, who poured in his sixth career 30-point game. Ryan Hawkins added 22 points, seven steals, six rebounds and five assists. Northwest led 57-47 with 16:10 left, and would eventually push the lead to 15, but the Gorillas did not go away quietly.PSU cut Northwest's lead to 75-71 with 4:09 to play in the game, but the Bearcats put the Gorillas away for good with a 10-0 run that included a tip-in by Lafayette St. Joseph alum Diego Bernard to help secure&nbsp;the 87-75 triumph.Women's gameThe Bearcats fell 79-50 contest to Pittsburg State, marking the Bearcats'&nbsp;17th straight loss to the Gorillas. Northwest started off slow, trailing 17-6 at the end of the first quarter. The Gorillas led 34-19 lead at halftime, and opened&nbsp;the second half on an 8-0 run. Molly&nbsp;Hartnett&nbsp;led Northwest with 17 points. Northwest returns to Bearcat Arena on Saturday to face Missouri Southern. The women start things off at 1:30 with the men to follow at 3:30.Northwest will honor its women's and men's basketball seniors on Saturday between the two games.&nbsp;&nbsp;

No. 3 Northwest Missouri wins 11th straight overall, tops Pittsburg State at home

The Missouri Western women's basketball team stopped its three-game skid Thursday night in a 78-54 win over Missouri Southern at the MWSU Fieldhouse.

It marked the first win at home for the Griffons since Dec. 3.

The Griffons improve to 4-11 this season, while Southern drops to 7-11. Western struggled to start the game, making just 1-of-9 shots and falling behind 13-6. The Griffons dominated the second quarter, ending the first half on a 17-3 run and taking a 36-23 lead to the locker room. Missouri Western continued to extend their lead as Missouri Southern never got closer than 13 points the rest of the way.

The Griffons led 60-42 after three and put the game away with a 13-1 run to start the fourth. Brionna Budgetts&nbsp;and&nbsp;Logan Hughes&nbsp;led the Griffons with 14 points each, while&nbsp;Mary Fultz&nbsp;added 13 points and a career-high eight rebounds.

Camille Evans&nbsp;had nine points, four rebounds, three assists and tied a career-high with five steals. Missouri Western shot their second-best percentage of the season at 49.1% (28-57). The Griffons outrebounded the Lions 42-31 and forced 19 turnovers, including 15 steals.

The Griffons suffered their seventh straight loss Thursday as they fell to Missouri Southern, 103-94. The Griffons fall to 8-8 on the season. Missouri Southern dominated the first ten minutes, scoring the first nine points and eventually leading 30-4 just past the midway point of the first half.

Southern shot 67.4% (23-34) in the first half and took a commanding 54-23 at halftime. Western shot just 10-of-26 in the first 20 minutes and made 1-of-9 three-pointers. The Griffons fought back after halftime, using a 20-6 run to start the second half and they got the lead down to 17 with 16:14 left.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1613105633839.jpeg" alt="The Missouri Western women's basketball teams rings the victory bell following their win over Missouri Southern at the MWSU Fieldhouse on Thursday night. Photo courtesy of GoGriffons.com." />
 <figcaption>The Missouri Western women's basketball teams rings the victory bell following their win over Missouri Southern at the MWSU Fieldhouse on Thursday night. Photo courtesy of GoGriffons.com.</figcaption>
 </figure>St. Joseph PostThe Missouri Western women's basketball team stopped its three-game skid Thursday night in a 78-54 win over Missouri Southern at the MWSU Fieldhouse.It marked the first win at home for the Griffons since Dec. 3.The Griffons improve to 4-11 this season, while Southern drops to 7-11. Western struggled to start the game, making just 1-of-9 shots and falling behind 13-6. The Griffons dominated the second quarter, ending the first half on a 17-3 run and taking a 36-23 lead to the locker room. Missouri Western continued to extend their lead as Missouri Southern never got closer than 13 points the rest of the way.The Griffons led 60-42 after three and put the game away with a 13-1 run to start the fourth. Brionna Budgetts&nbsp;and&nbsp;Logan Hughes&nbsp;led the Griffons with 14 points each, while&nbsp;Mary Fultz&nbsp;added 13 points and a career-high eight rebounds.Camille Evans&nbsp;had nine points, four rebounds, three assists and tied a career-high with five steals. Missouri Western shot their second-best percentage of the season at 49.1% (28-57). The Griffons outrebounded the Lions 42-31 and forced 19 turnovers, including 15 steals.Men's gameThe Griffons suffered their seventh straight loss Thursday as they fell to Missouri Southern, 103-94. The Griffons fall to 8-8 on the season. Missouri Southern dominated the first ten minutes, scoring the first nine points and eventually leading 30-4 just past the midway point of the first half.Southern shot 67.4% (23-34) in the first half and took a commanding 54-23 at halftime. Western shot just 10-of-26 in the first 20 minutes and made 1-of-9 three-pointers. The Griffons fought back after halftime, using a 20-6 run to start the second half and they got the lead down to 17 with 16:14 left.Southern found their rhythm again, however, and pushed the lead back to 72-45 just two minutes later. Missouri Western scored 71 second half points to set a school record for points in a half. The previous best in a half was 70 by the 2001-02 team against Lincoln on November 24, 2001. Tyrell Carroll&nbsp;had 26 of his career-high 32 points in the second half and&nbsp;Reese Glover&nbsp;scored all 21 of his points after halftime.Q Mays&nbsp;added 16 points - 14 of those were in the second half. Missouri Southern outrebounded MWSU 42-32 and they outscored the Griffs in the paint, 58-30. The seven-game losing streak is the longest for Missouri Western since a seven-game skid during the 2017-18 season. The Griffons stay at home against Pittsburg State Saturday. The women tip at 1:30 p.m. and the men will follow at 3:30 at the MWSU Fieldhouse.Both games will be on KFEQ Radio (680 AM, 95.3 FM).