Dave Riggert had a chance to talk to Missouri Western women's basketball coach Candi Whitaker on Tuesday as she wrapped up her first season on the sideline for the Griffons last month. Whitaker talks about having to be away from her team during the COVID-19 pandemic, recruiting during this unprecedented time and she reflects on the 2019-2020 season. <a href="https://clyp.it/mcq05zj5">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN TO THE INTERVIEW.</a>

Whitaker led Missouri Western to a 21-8 record and they finished in a tie for fourth place in the MIAA at 13-6.  She won more games in her first season than any other first-year coach in the history of the program, and was the second to win 20 or more in year one.  Josh Keister was the other as he went 20-9 in the 2004-2005 season.

The 21 wins was a seven-win improvement over the previous season and the first 20-win season since 2017.  Missouri Western junior Corbyn Cunningham was named First Team All-MIAA after averaging 15.7 points and 8.3 rebounds per game, and she shot 56.4% from the field.

Cunningham will be the only starter back as Whitaker will have to replace six seniors from the 2019-2020 team.

Dave Riggert had a chance to talk to Missouri Western women's basketball coach Candi Whitaker on Tuesday as she wrapped up her first season on the sideline for the Griffons last month. Whitaker talks about having to be away from her team during the COVID-19 pandemic, recruiting during this unprecedented time and she reflects on the 2019-2020 season. <a href="https://clyp.it/mcq05zj5">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN TO THE INTERVIEW.</a>Whitaker led Missouri Western to a 21-8 record and they finished in a tie for fourth place in the MIAA at 13-6. She won more games in her first season than any other first-year coach in the history of the program, and was the second to win 20 or more in year one. Josh Keister was the other as he went 20-9 in the 2004-2005 season.The 21 wins was a seven-win improvement over the previous season and the first 20-win season since 2017. Missouri Western junior Corbyn Cunningham was named First Team All-MIAA after averaging 15.7 points and 8.3 rebounds per game, and she shot 56.4% from the field.Cunningham will be the only starter back as Whitaker will have to replace six seniors from the 2019-2020 team.

1-on-1 with Griffon women's basketball coach Candi Whitaker

LAWRENCE, Kan. – After researching his prospective draft status with the NBA, Kansas guard Ochai Agbaji announced Tuesday that he will return for his junior season at KU in 2020-21. 

“I looked into the NBA and was given some great feedback on ways I can be a better basketball player,” Agbaji said. ”I know there are a lot of areas of my game I can improve and look forward to working with our coaches to reach that next level. We have some unfinished business to take care of and I’m looking forward to returning to KU for my junior season.”

Agbaji started all 31 games for Kansas in 2019-20 and was third on the team in scoring at 10.0 points per game for the 28-3 Jayhawks who won the Big 12 regular-season title at 17-1 and finished No. 1 in both the Associated Press and USA TODAY Coaches polls before the 2019-20 season ended due to the pandemic. The Kansas City, Mo., guard earned All-Big 12 Honorable Mention honors and was an Academic All-Big 12 First Team selection this past season.

“I believe Ochai could have been drafted but there are some things he knows he still needs to improve on,” KU head coach Bill Self said. “He has taken a very mature approach to this. I believe Ochai is an NBA player and with a great year next season, hopefully he’ll put himself in a position to do that.”

Agbaji was second on the team in minutes played, averaging 33.3 minutes per game which ranked sixth in the Big 12. He had 30-plus minutes in 24 games, was second on team with 44 3-point field goals made and third with 38 steals. He ranked 15th in the Big 12 in 3-point field goals made per game at 1.5 and 15th in steals per contest at 1.2.

For his career, Agbaji has started 47 of 53 games played, has made 69 3-pointers and has averaged 9.4 points and 4.3 rebounds per contest.

LAWRENCE, Kan. – After researching his prospective draft status with the NBA, Kansas guard Ochai Agbaji announced Tuesday that he will return for his junior season at KU in 2020-21. “I looked into the NBA and was given some great feedback on ways I can be a better basketball player,” Agbaji said. ”I know there are a lot of areas of my game I can improve and look forward to working with our coaches to reach that next level. We have some unfinished business to take care of and I’m looking forward to returning to KU for my junior season.”Agbaji started all 31 games for Kansas in 2019-20 and was third on the team in scoring at 10.0 points per game for the 28-3 Jayhawks who won the Big 12 regular-season title at 17-1 and finished No. 1 in both the Associated Press and USA TODAY Coaches polls before the 2019-20 season ended due to the pandemic. The Kansas City, Mo., guard earned All-Big 12 Honorable Mention honors and was an Academic All-Big 12 First Team selection this past season.“I believe Ochai could have been drafted but there are some things he knows he still needs to improve on,” KU head coach Bill Self said. “He has taken a very mature approach to this. I believe Ochai is an NBA player and with a great year next season, hopefully he’ll put himself in a position to do that.”Agbaji was second on the team in minutes played, averaging 33.3 minutes per game which ranked sixth in the Big 12. He had 30-plus minutes in 24 games, was second on team with 44 3-point field goals made and third with 38 steals. He ranked 15th in the Big 12 in 3-point field goals made per game at 1.5 and 15th in steals per contest at 1.2.For his career, Agbaji has started 47 of 53 games played, has made 69 3-pointers and has averaged 9.4 points and 4.3 rebounds per contest.--- KU Athletics ---

KU's Agbaji to return for junior season

SOMERSET, N.J. (AP) — Jim Frey, who managed the Kansas City Royals to the 1980 AL pennant and the Chicago Cubs within one win of the 1984 World Series, has died. He was 88.

Frey died Sunday at his home in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida, according to the Atlantic League’s Somerset Patriots, the minor league team he had been affiliated with since its launch in 1998. The Patriots did not announce a cause of death.

“He was a great baseball mind and the person who gave me my first chance in the game,” former pitcher Sparky Lyle said in a statement about his early minor league manager. “He saw the opportunity for me to be a relief pitcher back then and set me on that path. We remained good friends all this time.”

Born in Cleveland on May 26, 1931, Frey became friends with future major leaguer Don Zimmer at Western Hills High School in Cincinnati.

An outfielder, Frey spent 14 seasons in the minor league organizations of the Boston and Milwaukee Braves, and the St. Louis Cardinals without reaching the majors.

He scouted and managed in the minor leagues for Baltimore and coached for the Orioles under manager Earl Weaver from 1970-79.

Frey replaced Whitey Herzog as the Royals’ manager after the 1979 season. They won the AL West with a 97-65 record in 1980, finishing 14 games ahead of Oakland.

That Royals team rode an offense led by MVP George Brett, Willie Wilson, Hal McRae, Frank White and Willie Aikens, and a pitching staff headed by Dennis Leonard, Larry Gura and Dan Quisenberry, and they swept the New York Yankees 3-0 in the AL Championship Series for their first pennant. Kansas City lost the World Series to Philadelphia in six games.

Kansas City was 20-30 when the 1981 season was interrupted by a players’ strike and 10-10 when Frey was fired with the Royals in first place of the second-half divisions standings. He was replaced by Dick Howser, who had been jettiisoned by the Yankees after losing to the Royals.

Frey coached for the New York Mets in 1982 and ’83, then was hired by the Cubs to replace Charlie Fox. Seeking its first World Series title since 1908, Chicago went 96-65 and won the NL East, reaching the postseason for the first time since 1945.

A celebrated group of Cubs that included Ryne Sandberg, Ron Cey, Gary Matthews, Keith Moreland, Leon Durham and Rick Sutcliffe won the first two games in the best-of-five NL Championship Series at Wrigley Field. But the Cubs lost the next two games at San Diego.

Chicago led 3-0 in Game 5, then allowed two runs in the sixth inning and four in the seventh in a 6-3 defeat. They did not reach the World Series until 2016, when they beat Cleveland in seven games.

Frey was voted NL Manager of the Year after leading the Cubs to their first winning record since 1972.

Chicago slumped to 77-85 in 1985 and Frey was replaced by John Vukovich after a 22-33 start in 1986. His managerial record was 323-287, including 196-182 with the Cubs.

After spending 1987 as a commentator on Cubs’ radio broadcasts, he was hired as the Cubs’ GM that December and brought in Zimmer as manager. Chicago won the division in 1989 only to lose to San Francisco in the playoffs.

Frey’s moves included signing George Bell and Danny Jackson, trading Lee Smith to Boston for Calvin Schiraldi and Al Nipper; dealing Keith Moreland to the Padres for Rich Gossage; and shipping Rafael Palmeiro and Jamie Moyer to Texas for Mitch Williams.

Frey remained as GM through the 1991 season, when he was replaced by Larry Himes after Frey’s power eroded under team president Don Grenesko.

He became vice chairman of the Patriots, owned by friend Steve Kalafer, and shifted to an adviser role in later years.

Frey is survived by his wife of 68 years, the former Joan Miller; son James; daughters Mary Maenner, Jennifer Stangl and Cindy Sullivan; six grandchildren and five great grandchildren.

SOMERSET, N.J. (AP) — Jim Frey, who managed the Kansas City Royals to the 1980 AL pennant and the Chicago Cubs within one win of the 1984 World Series, has died. He was 88.Frey died Sunday at his home in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida, according to the Atlantic League’s Somerset Patriots, the minor league team he had been affiliated with since its launch in 1998. The Patriots did not announce a cause of death.“He was a great baseball mind and the person who gave me my first chance in the game,” former pitcher Sparky Lyle said in a statement about his early minor league manager. “He saw the opportunity for me to be a relief pitcher back then and set me on that path. We remained good friends all this time.”Born in Cleveland on May 26, 1931, Frey became friends with future major leaguer Don Zimmer at Western Hills High School in Cincinnati.An outfielder, Frey spent 14 seasons in the minor league organizations of the Boston and Milwaukee Braves, and the St. Louis Cardinals without reaching the majors.He scouted and managed in the minor leagues for Baltimore and coached for the Orioles under manager Earl Weaver from 1970-79.Frey replaced Whitey Herzog as the Royals’ manager after the 1979 season. They won the AL West with a 97-65 record in 1980, finishing 14 games ahead of Oakland.That Royals team rode an offense led by MVP George Brett, Willie Wilson, Hal McRae, Frank White and Willie Aikens, and a pitching staff headed by Dennis Leonard, Larry Gura and Dan Quisenberry, and they swept the New York Yankees 3-0 in the AL Championship Series for their first pennant. Kansas City lost the World Series to Philadelphia in six games.Kansas City was 20-30 when the 1981 season was interrupted by a players’ strike and 10-10 when Frey was fired with the Royals in first place of the second-half divisions standings. He was replaced by Dick Howser, who had been jettiisoned by the Yankees after losing to the Royals.Frey coached for the New York Mets in 1982 and ’83, then was hired by the Cubs to replace Charlie Fox. Seeking its first World Series title since 1908, Chicago went 96-65 and won the NL East, reaching the postseason for the first time since 1945.A celebrated group of Cubs that included Ryne Sandberg, Ron Cey, Gary Matthews, Keith Moreland, Leon Durham and Rick Sutcliffe won the first two games in the best-of-five NL Championship Series at Wrigley Field. But the Cubs lost the next two games at San Diego.Chicago led 3-0 in Game 5, then allowed two runs in the sixth inning and four in the seventh in a 6-3 defeat. They did not reach the World Series until 2016, when they beat Cleveland in seven games.Frey was voted NL Manager of the Year after leading the Cubs to their first winning record since 1972.Chicago slumped to 77-85 in 1985 and Frey was replaced by John Vukovich after a 22-33 start in 1986. His managerial record was 323-287, including 196-182 with the Cubs.After spending 1987 as a commentator on Cubs’ radio broadcasts, he was hired as the Cubs’ GM that December and brought in Zimmer as manager. Chicago won the division in 1989 only to lose to San Francisco in the playoffs.Frey’s moves included signing George Bell and Danny Jackson, trading Lee Smith to Boston for Calvin Schiraldi and Al Nipper; dealing Keith Moreland to the Padres for Rich Gossage; and shipping Rafael Palmeiro and Jamie Moyer to Texas for Mitch Williams.Frey remained as GM through the 1991 season, when he was replaced by Larry Himes after Frey’s power eroded under team president Don Grenesko.He became vice chairman of the Patriots, owned by friend Steve Kalafer, and shifted to an adviser role in later years.Frey is survived by his wife of 68 years, the former Joan Miller; son James; daughters Mary Maenner, Jennifer Stangl and Cindy Sullivan; six grandchildren and five great grandchildren.A memorial will be held at a later date.--- Associated Press ---

Former Royals manager Jim Frey dies at age 88

<a href="https://clyp.it/srmt01be">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN TO DAVE RIGGERT'S INTERVIEW WITH KOBE CUMMINGS</a>

All student-athletes at Missouri Western have been affected in different ways by the COVID-19 pandemic, but sophomore Kobe Cummings has probably been affected the most.

The Platte County High School graduate is a member of the Griffon football and baseball teams, so normally he'd be in the middle of playing both sports right now.  But with the pandemic shutting everything down, Cummings doesn't have springs football practice and his baseball season was cut short.

Cummings finished up his sophomore season for MWSU football in the fall as he helped the Griffons to a 9-3 record and another bowl victory.  He's been starting at safety since the third game of the his true freshman year and Cummings was third on the team in tackles last season despite missing two games due to injury.  He finished with 64 tackles, 3.5 tackles for loss, one interception and five pass break-ups.

On the baseball diamond, Cummings was in the middle of his redshirt freshman campaign.  He and the Griffons got off to a slow start this season at 4-14 with 35 new players of the roster.  Missouri Western had turned things around before the season was canceled as they won four of their last five, which included a three-game MIAA sweep of Rogers State in their final series.  Cummings appeared in just six games this spring as he finished 1-for-2 with one RBI in the games in played in.

Cummings in back home in Platte City as he's turned his focus now on preparing for the 2020 football season.  Missouri Western will have nine of their 11 starters back on defense and expectations are extremely high after their nine-win season last a year ago

<a href="https://clyp.it/srmt01be">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN TO DAVE RIGGERT'S INTERVIEW WITH KOBE CUMMINGS</a>All student-athletes at Missouri Western have been affected in different ways by the COVID-19 pandemic, but sophomore Kobe Cummings has probably been affected the most.The Platte County High School graduate is a member of the Griffon football and baseball teams, so normally he'd be in the middle of playing both sports right now. But with the pandemic shutting everything down, Cummings doesn't have springs football practice and his baseball season was cut short.Cummings finished up his sophomore season for MWSU football in the fall as he helped the Griffons to a 9-3 record and another bowl victory. He's been starting at safety since the third game of the his true freshman year and Cummings was third on the team in tackles last season despite missing two games due to injury. He finished with 64 tackles, 3.5 tackles for loss, one interception and five pass break-ups.On the baseball diamond, Cummings was in the middle of his redshirt freshman campaign. He and the Griffons got off to a slow start this season at 4-14 with 35 new players of the roster. Missouri Western had turned things around before the season was canceled as they won four of their last five, which included a three-game MIAA sweep of Rogers State in their final series. Cummings appeared in just six games this spring as he finished 1-for-2 with one RBI in the games in played in.Cummings in back home in Platte City as he's turned his focus now on preparing for the 2020 football season. Missouri Western will have nine of their 11 starters back on defense and expectations are extremely high after their nine-win season last a year ago

1-on-1 with Missouri Western two-sport star Kobe Cummings

LAWRENCE, Kan. – Kansas men’s basketball standout Devon Dotson has declared for the NBA Draft, the 2019-20 sophomore guard announced Monday.

“After talking it over with my family and full support from my coaches, I’ve decided to enter the 2020 NBA Draft and pursue my lifelong goal of being an NBA player,” Dotson said. “In basketball, this has always been my ultimate dream and my time at KU has prepared me. Although I intend to sign with an agent and remain in the draft, this is not a good-bye as I will always be a Jayhawk. Thank you to God, my parents, coaches, support staff, teammates, Jayhawk nation, and everyone for making these last two years extremely special. Rock Chalk.”

Last summer, Dotson participated in the NBA Combine and returned to KU where he led the Jayhawks to a 28-3 record and a Big 12 regular-season title winning a conference-record 17 league games going 17-1 in 2019-20. The Jayhawks won their final 16 games of the season and finished ranked No. 1 in both the Associated Press and USA TODAY Coaches’ polls at the end of the shortened season.

“This decision came about from what Devon’s goals were last year and what he was told by NBA personnel on what he needed to improve on,” Kansas head coach Bill Self said. “And then he goes out and has an All-American year. I believe this was going to be a decision he made regardless of NBA feedback, but the NBA feedback he has received has been positive and I concur with him that this is the right time to pursue a professional career.”

A Consensus All-America Second Team and Wooden Award All-American, Dotson led the Big 12 in scoring at 18.1 ppg, steals (2.1) and free throws made (142). The Charlotte, N.C., native who was a three-time Big 12 Player of the Week in 2019-20, Dotson ranked among the Big 12 leaders in 20-point games (second at 9, field goal percentage (second at 46.8, free throw percentage (fifth at 83.0, assists (fifth at 4.0) and assist-to-turnover ratio (fifth at 1.7).

“We are all so proud and happy for Devon and what a year he had,” Self said. “We support and believe this is the correct decision for him to make. Although we only got two years from Devon, all Jayhawk fans should be very appreciative and wish him all the best moving forward.”

Dotson became just the fifth Jayhawk to lead the Big 12 in scoring joining Drew Gooden in 2002, Wayne Simien in 2005, Frank Mason III in 2017 and Dedric Lawson in 2019. In addition to his All-America honors in 2019-20, Dotson was an All-Big 12 First Team (unanimous selection, a Bob Cousy Award Point Guard of the Year Award Finalist, USBWA All-District VI and the co-MVP of the Maui Invitational in leading KU to the tourney title. Dotson amassed 986 career points in only two seasons at Kansas.

2019-20: Wooden Award All-America; Consensus All-America Second Team; NABC All-America Second Team; USBWA All-America Second Team; Associated Press All-America Second Team; ESPN.com All-America First Team; CBSSports.com All-America Second Team; Sporting News All-America Second Team; USBWA All-District VI; Bleacher Report All-America First Team; All-Big 12 First Team (Coaches &amp; AP); Oscar Robertson Trophy Midseason Watch List (1 of 12); Wooden Award National Ballot; Bob Cousy Award Finalist (1 of 5); 3x Big 12 Player of the Week (12.16.19, 12.2.19, 2.3.20); Maui Invitational Co-MVP &amp; All-Tournament Team; NABC Player of the Year Watch List (1 of 20); Preseason Associated Press All-America Honorable Mention; Preseason All-Big 12

Big 12 All-Tournament Team [2019]; All-Big 12 Third Team [2019]; Big 12 All-Freshman Team [2019]; CBS Sports/USBWA Freshman of the Week (2.12); Big 12 Newcomer of the Week (12.31); Bob Cousy Point Guard of the Year Award Candidate (1 of 20)

LAWRENCE, Kan. – Kansas men’s basketball standout Devon Dotson has declared for the NBA Draft, the 2019-20 sophomore guard announced Monday.“After talking it over with my family and full support from my coaches, I’ve decided to enter the 2020 NBA Draft and pursue my lifelong goal of being an NBA player,” Dotson said. “In basketball, this has always been my ultimate dream and my time at KU has prepared me. Although I intend to sign with an agent and remain in the draft, this is not a good-bye as I will always be a Jayhawk. Thank you to God, my parents, coaches, support staff, teammates, Jayhawk nation, and everyone for making these last two years extremely special. Rock Chalk.”Last summer, Dotson participated in the NBA Combine and returned to KU where he led the Jayhawks to a 28-3 record and a Big 12 regular-season title winning a conference-record 17 league games going 17-1 in 2019-20. The Jayhawks won their final 16 games of the season and finished ranked No. 1 in both the Associated Press and USA TODAY Coaches’ polls at the end of the shortened season.“This decision came about from what Devon’s goals were last year and what he was told by NBA personnel on what he needed to improve on,” Kansas head coach Bill Self said. “And then he goes out and has an All-American year. I believe this was going to be a decision he made regardless of NBA feedback, but the NBA feedback he has received has been positive and I concur with him that this is the right time to pursue a professional career.”A Consensus All-America Second Team and Wooden Award All-American, Dotson led the Big 12 in scoring at 18.1 ppg, steals (2.1) and free throws made (142). The Charlotte, N.C., native who was a three-time Big 12 Player of the Week in 2019-20, Dotson ranked among the Big 12 leaders in 20-point games (second at 9, field goal percentage (second at 46.8, free throw percentage (fifth at 83.0, assists (fifth at 4.0) and assist-to-turnover ratio (fifth at 1.7).“We are all so proud and happy for Devon and what a year he had,” Self said. “We support and believe this is the correct decision for him to make. Although we only got two years from Devon, all Jayhawk fans should be very appreciative and wish him all the best moving forward.”Dotson became just the fifth Jayhawk to lead the Big 12 in scoring joining Drew Gooden in 2002, Wayne Simien in 2005, Frank Mason III in 2017 and Dedric Lawson in 2019. In addition to his All-America honors in 2019-20, Dotson was an All-Big 12 First Team (unanimous selection, a Bob Cousy Award Point Guard of the Year Award Finalist, USBWA All-District VI and the co-MVP of the Maui Invitational in leading KU to the tourney title. Dotson amassed 986 career points in only two seasons at Kansas.Devon Dotson Career Honors at Kansas2019-20: Wooden Award All-America; Consensus All-America Second Team; NABC All-America Second Team; USBWA All-America Second Team; Associated Press All-America Second Team; ESPN.com All-America First Team; CBSSports.com All-America Second Team; Sporting News All-America Second Team; USBWA All-District VI; Bleacher Report All-America First Team; All-Big 12 First Team (Coaches &amp; AP); Oscar Robertson Trophy Midseason Watch List (1 of 12); Wooden Award National Ballot; Bob Cousy Award Finalist (1 of 5); 3x Big 12 Player of the Week (12.16.19, 12.2.19, 2.3.20); Maui Invitational Co-MVP &amp; All-Tournament Team; NABC Player of the Year Watch List (1 of 20); Preseason Associated Press All-America Honorable Mention; Preseason All-Big 12Big 12 All-Tournament Team [2019]; All-Big 12 Third Team [2019]; Big 12 All-Freshman Team [2019]; CBS Sports/USBWA Freshman of the Week (2.12); Big 12 Newcomer of the Week (12.31); Bob Cousy Point Guard of the Year Award Candidate (1 of 20)--- KU Athletics ---

Jayhawks' Devon Dotson declares for the NBA Draft

LAWRENCE, Kan. - Kansas women’s basketball announces that Larry Tidwell will be stepping down as associate head coach this spring due to personal reasons, the program released Monday. With the ongoing global pandemic, the COVID-19 outbreak, Tidwell has decided to relocate back to his hometown of Fort Worth, Texas to be closer to his family.

“I am relocating back home to be with family during these troubled times,” said Tidwell. “This crisis has had an impact on my decision in going home to take care of family issues and put family first. I have been away and need to be in a situation where I can get to my family, who all live in Texas, in a hurry.”

In his first season with the Jayhawks, the program saw its best overall record (15-14) in seven years. Kansas put forth a competitive 2019-20 campaign as it ended 2019 with an 11-0 non-conference record and charted four conference wins, which included an upset over Texas on Feb. 15. Before the pandemic, the Jayhawks anticipated earning a WNIT bid and hosting a game at home in the first round. The bid would have been KU’s first postseason appearance since 2013.

“Coach Tidwell has dedicated over 40 years to the growth and development of women’s basketball,” said Kansas head coach Brandon Schneider. “ We greatly appreciate the impact he made on our program this season, and we both respect and admire his decision to commit more time to his family.”

While Tidwell has made an impact on the Kansas women’s basketball program, he also echoes that those he has worked with have had an impact on him during his time with the Jayhawks.

“Leaving Kansas is extremely hard,” said Tidwell. “It was so much fun to see the program improve this year, seeing them have their first winning season in seven years. I worked with an outstanding coaching staff. I’ve known Brandon for a while now, and it was fun to watch him coach. 

"Things are so positive at Kansas, it's unbelievable. Just being a part of the tradition has been great, and I want to thank all who have made my time at KU amazing.”

The Texas native has dedicated more than 40 years in helping grow women's basketball into what it is today. Tidwell began his career in Texas at the high school level before starting his long career at the college level. Before coming to Kansas, Tidwell spent a season at Texas Tech and five seasons as the head coach at UT-Rio Grande Valley, where he broke 117 program records and tied 83 others.

LAWRENCE, Kan. - Kansas women’s basketball announces that Larry Tidwell will be stepping down as associate head coach this spring due to personal reasons, the program released Monday. With the ongoing global pandemic, the COVID-19 outbreak, Tidwell has decided to relocate back to his hometown of Fort Worth, Texas to be closer to his family.“I am relocating back home to be with family during these troubled times,” said Tidwell. “This crisis has had an impact on my decision in going home to take care of family issues and put family first. I have been away and need to be in a situation where I can get to my family, who all live in Texas, in a hurry.”In his first season with the Jayhawks, the program saw its best overall record (15-14) in seven years. Kansas put forth a competitive 2019-20 campaign as it ended 2019 with an 11-0 non-conference record and charted four conference wins, which included an upset over Texas on Feb. 15. Before the pandemic, the Jayhawks anticipated earning a WNIT bid and hosting a game at home in the first round. The bid would have been KU’s first postseason appearance since 2013.“Coach Tidwell has dedicated over 40 years to the growth and development of women’s basketball,” said Kansas head coach Brandon Schneider. “ We greatly appreciate the impact he made on our program this season, and we both respect and admire his decision to commit more time to his family.”While Tidwell has made an impact on the Kansas women’s basketball program, he also echoes that those he has worked with have had an impact on him during his time with the Jayhawks.“Leaving Kansas is extremely hard,” said Tidwell. “It was so much fun to see the program improve this year, seeing them have their first winning season in seven years. I worked with an outstanding coaching staff. I’ve known Brandon for a while now, and it was fun to watch him coach. "Things are so positive at Kansas, it's unbelievable. Just being a part of the tradition has been great, and I want to thank all who have made my time at KU amazing.”The Texas native has dedicated more than 40 years in helping grow women's basketball into what it is today. Tidwell began his career in Texas at the high school level before starting his long career at the college level. Before coming to Kansas, Tidwell spent a season at Texas Tech and five seasons as the head coach at UT-Rio Grande Valley, where he broke 117 program records and tied 83 others.--- KU Athletics ---

Kansas women’s basketball top assistant steps down

St. Joseph Central High School is parting way with girls basketball coach Jared Boone as he's been relieved of his duties.  

Boone confirmed the news Friday but St. Joseph School District officials said they were unable to comment on personnel issues.

Boone just completed his fifth season as the head coach of the Indians as went 79-54 overall and 33-31 in the Suburban League.  He led CHS to a district championship this past season as they went 16-12 and lost to Liberty in the Class 5 Sectionals.  It was the second district title for Boone as Central also won a title in 2016.

Boone is a St. Joseph native as he graduated from Benton High School in 2004.

St. Joseph Central High School is parting way with girls basketball coach Jared Boone as he's been relieved of his duties. Boone confirmed the news Friday but St. Joseph School District officials said they were unable to comment on personnel issues.Boone just completed his fifth season as the head coach of the Indians as went 79-54 overall and 33-31 in the Suburban League. He led CHS to a district championship this past season as they went 16-12 and lost to Liberty in the Class 5 Sectionals. It was the second district title for Boone as Central also won a title in 2016.Boone is a St. Joseph native as he graduated from Benton High School in 2004.

Central relieves girls basketball coach Jared Boone of his duties

Columbia, Mo. - Following Governor Parson’s announcement Thursday afternoon, of in-person school closure for the remainder of the school year, the Missouri State High School Activities Association (MSHSAA) announces the cancellation of all remaining post-season events for the 2019-20 school year.

“This decision is very difficult for all involved especially given the impact it will have on our students, parents, coaches, teachers, and administrators throughout the state,” said MSHSAA Executive Director Dr. Kerwin Urhahn. “We thank all of the participants, the coaches/directors/advisors, the administrations, the parents, and everyone else who has dedicated tremendous amounts of time, passion, and effort to these events.”

The biggest impact of this decision will be felt by the seniors, many of whom have exhausted their eligibility without taking the field, court or course.

“To our senior participants- we thank you for everything you have done for your schools and communities and wish you the very best in your bright futures,” Urhahn continued. “While this is a difficult ending, the lessons you’ve learned and friendships you’ve made through high school activities will last your lifetime.”

“The MSHSAA office thanks everyone involved for their patience and understanding throughout this process,” said Urhahn.  The MSHSAA staff looks forward to the resumption of high school activities during the 2020-21 school year, and will continue work on those events at this time.

Columbia, Mo. - Following Governor Parson’s announcement Thursday afternoon, of in-person school closure for the remainder of the school year, the Missouri State High School Activities Association (MSHSAA) announces the cancellation of all remaining post-season events for the 2019-20 school year.“This decision is very difficult for all involved especially given the impact it will have on our students, parents, coaches, teachers, and administrators throughout the state,” said MSHSAA Executive Director Dr. Kerwin Urhahn. “We thank all of the participants, the coaches/directors/advisors, the administrations, the parents, and everyone else who has dedicated tremendous amounts of time, passion, and effort to these events.”The biggest impact of this decision will be felt by the seniors, many of whom have exhausted their eligibility without taking the field, court or course.“To our senior participants- we thank you for everything you have done for your schools and communities and wish you the very best in your bright futures,” Urhahn continued. “While this is a difficult ending, the lessons you’ve learned and friendships you’ve made through high school activities will last your lifetime.”“The MSHSAA office thanks everyone involved for their patience and understanding throughout this process,” said Urhahn. The MSHSAA staff looks forward to the resumption of high school activities during the 2020-21 school year, and will continue work on those events at this time.--- MSHSAA Press Release ---

MSHSAA officially cancels all spring sports postseason events

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Kansas City Chiefs are bringing back cornerback Bashaud Breeland on a one-year deal that could be worth up to $4.5 million, helping to alleviate one of the Super Bowl champions’ biggest concerns ahead of the NFL draft.

The deal was confirmed to The Associated Press on Thursday on condition of anonymity because the Chiefs had yet to announce it. ESPN.com was first to report that the two sides had agreed to a reunion after Breeland played a significant part in helping the organization end a five-decade championship drought.

The Chiefs lost three cornerbacks to free agency in Breeland, Kendall Fuller and Morris Claiborne. Fuller has since signed a $40 million, four-year deal with Washington, and many thought Breeland would command a similar long-term contract.

Instead, he got another one-year deal to help the Chiefs attempt to defend their Super Bowl title. The club already has signed defensive tackle Mike Pennel, quarterback Chad Henne, wide receiver Demarcus Robinson and fullback Anthony Sherman from last year’s team, and the Chiefs restructured the contracts of defensive end Frank Clark and wide receiver Sammy Watkins to create the salary-cap space necessary to round out their roster.

“Absolutely, as many guys as you can keep, you’d love to do that,” said Chiefs coach Andy Reid, adding that the benefit of bringing back 20 of 22 starters could increase, given that the coronavirus pandemic could wipe out part of the offseason.

The Chiefs nearly signed Breeland two years ago, after an injury torpedoed a long-term contract with Carolina. The sides were unable to agree during training camp and Breeland wound up signing with Green Bay midway through the season, only to agree to a $2 million contract to play for Kansas City the following season.

He wound up starting 15 of 16 regular-season games and all three playoff games, allowing a completion percentage of just 48.4 and collecting 48 tackles with two interceptions. Breeland also had a crucial interception of 49ers quarterback Jimmy Garappolo, helping the Chiefs to rally for a 31-20 victory in the Super Bowl.

The Chiefs have been relatively frugal in free agency given their tight salary cap situation, but also because they appear content with defending their championship with a strikingly similar team. The only major additions have been offensive lineman Mike Remmers, backup cornerback Antonio Hamilton and running back DeAndre Washington.

“We’ve tried to stay in touch with everybody,” Reid said, “as far as (general manager) Brett Veach doing all the things behind the scenes with that type of thing, and agents and so on. But you know, they’ve kept communication, which is important in any situation I think, when you’re dealing with players and contracts and tags and all those things.”

The signing of Breeland also means the Chiefs no longer have to spend a first- or second-round pick in the upcoming draft on a cornerback, though they could still use help in the defensive backfield. Rather, they now have the flexibility to choose the best player available — potentially a running back, offensive lineman, defensive lineman or linebacker.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Kansas City Chiefs are bringing back cornerback Bashaud Breeland on a one-year deal that could be worth up to $4.5 million, helping to alleviate one of the Super Bowl champions’ biggest concerns ahead of the NFL draft.The deal was confirmed to The Associated Press on Thursday on condition of anonymity because the Chiefs had yet to announce it. ESPN.com was first to report that the two sides had agreed to a reunion after Breeland played a significant part in helping the organization end a five-decade championship drought.The Chiefs lost three cornerbacks to free agency in Breeland, Kendall Fuller and Morris Claiborne. Fuller has since signed a $40 million, four-year deal with Washington, and many thought Breeland would command a similar long-term contract.Instead, he got another one-year deal to help the Chiefs attempt to defend their Super Bowl title. The club already has signed defensive tackle Mike Pennel, quarterback Chad Henne, wide receiver Demarcus Robinson and fullback Anthony Sherman from last year’s team, and the Chiefs restructured the contracts of defensive end Frank Clark and wide receiver Sammy Watkins to create the salary-cap space necessary to round out their roster.“Absolutely, as many guys as you can keep, you’d love to do that,” said Chiefs coach Andy Reid, adding that the benefit of bringing back 20 of 22 starters could increase, given that the coronavirus pandemic could wipe out part of the offseason.The Chiefs nearly signed Breeland two years ago, after an injury torpedoed a long-term contract with Carolina. The sides were unable to agree during training camp and Breeland wound up signing with Green Bay midway through the season, only to agree to a $2 million contract to play for Kansas City the following season.He wound up starting 15 of 16 regular-season games and all three playoff games, allowing a completion percentage of just 48.4 and collecting 48 tackles with two interceptions. Breeland also had a crucial interception of 49ers quarterback Jimmy Garappolo, helping the Chiefs to rally for a 31-20 victory in the Super Bowl.The Chiefs have been relatively frugal in free agency given their tight salary cap situation, but also because they appear content with defending their championship with a strikingly similar team. The only major additions have been offensive lineman Mike Remmers, backup cornerback Antonio Hamilton and running back DeAndre Washington.“We’ve tried to stay in touch with everybody,” Reid said, “as far as (general manager) Brett Veach doing all the things behind the scenes with that type of thing, and agents and so on. But you know, they’ve kept communication, which is important in any situation I think, when you’re dealing with players and contracts and tags and all those things.”The signing of Breeland also means the Chiefs no longer have to spend a first- or second-round pick in the upcoming draft on a cornerback, though they could still use help in the defensive backfield. Rather, they now have the flexibility to choose the best player available — potentially a running back, offensive lineman, defensive lineman or linebacker.--- Associated Press ---

Chiefs re-sign CB Bashaud Breeland to one-year contract

<a href="https://clyp.it/han5gva4">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN TO MWSU QB ANTHONY VESPO</a>

Dave Riggert talked with Missouri Western quarterback Anthony Vespo Wednesday as they discuss not having spring football this season, expectations for Griffon football in 2020 and much more.  Click the link above to listen to the conversation.

Missouri Western would normally be in the middle of spring practice right now but the COVID-19 pandemic has put a halt to all spring ball around the country.

Vespo, a sophomore-to-be from Bolingbrook, Illinois, is the favorite to take over at quarterback next season for the Griffons as he did play in six games a year ago behind starter Wyatt Steigerwald.  Vespo completed 65.4 percent of his passes for 411 yards, three touchdowns and no interceptions.  

He even made one start in place of Steigerwald, who was injured and missed week 11 against Lincoln.  Vespo was nearly flawless against the Blue Tigers as he finished 18-of-21 for 240 yards and three touchdowns, and MWSU rolled to a 71-8 victory over Lincoln.

Vespo and the Griffons have high expectations going into the 2020 season after going 9-3 a year ago and winning their second consecutive bowl game.  Missouri Western will kick off the 2020 season on the road as they open at Central Oklahoma on Thursday, September 3rd.

<a href="https://clyp.it/han5gva4">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN TO MWSU QB ANTHONY VESPO</a>Dave Riggert talked with Missouri Western quarterback Anthony Vespo Wednesday as they discuss not having spring football this season, expectations for Griffon football in 2020 and much more. Click the link above to listen to the conversation.Missouri Western would normally be in the middle of spring practice right now but the COVID-19 pandemic has put a halt to all spring ball around the country.Vespo, a sophomore-to-be from Bolingbrook, Illinois, is the favorite to take over at quarterback next season for the Griffons as he did play in six games a year ago behind starter Wyatt Steigerwald. Vespo completed 65.4 percent of his passes for 411 yards, three touchdowns and no interceptions. He even made one start in place of Steigerwald, who was injured and missed week 11 against Lincoln. Vespo was nearly flawless against the Blue Tigers as he finished 18-of-21 for 240 yards and three touchdowns, and MWSU rolled to a 71-8 victory over Lincoln.Vespo and the Griffons have high expectations going into the 2020 season after going 9-3 a year ago and winning their second consecutive bowl game. Missouri Western will kick off the 2020 season on the road as they open at Central Oklahoma on Thursday, September 3rd.

1-on-1 with Missouri Western QB Anthony Vespo

The Kansas City Chiefs have agreed to a one-year deal with free agent running back DeAndre Washington, Terez Paylor of Yahoo Sports reports.

Washington, 27, spent his first four seasons with the Raiders after they made him a fifth-round choice out of Texas Tech.  He was a college teammate of Chiefs QB Patrick Mahomes with the Red Raiders.  During his senior season, Washington accounted for 1,492 total yards and 14 touchdowns.

In 2019 with Oakland, Washington played in 16 games with three starts. He ran for 387 yards and three touchdowns, while recording a career-high 36 receptions for a career-high 292 yards.

Washington has played 55 games with five starts in his career. He has 282 carries for 1,122 yards and seven touchdowns, while also catching 88 passes for 613 yards and a score.

The Kansas City Chiefs have agreed to a one-year deal with free agent running back DeAndre Washington, Terez Paylor of Yahoo Sports reports.Washington, 27, spent his first four seasons with the Raiders after they made him a fifth-round choice out of Texas Tech. He was a college teammate of Chiefs QB Patrick Mahomes with the Red Raiders. During his senior season, Washington accounted for 1,492 total yards and 14 touchdowns.In 2019 with Oakland, Washington played in 16 games with three starts. He ran for 387 yards and three touchdowns, while recording a career-high 36 receptions for a career-high 292 yards.Washington has played 55 games with five starts in his career. He has 282 carries for 1,122 yards and seven touchdowns, while also catching 88 passes for 613 yards and a score.

Report: Chiefs to sign former Raiders RB DeAndre Washington

<a href="https://clyp.it/v3gcvexw">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN TO AN INTERVIEW WITH JAQUAYLON MAYS</a>

Dave Riggert had a chance to talk to Missouri Western men's basketball commit JaQuaylon Mays Tuesday to discuss his basketball journey, his two years at Johnson County Community College and his decision to play at MWSU.  Click the link above to listen to the interview.

Mays was named a NJCAA Division II All-American earlier this week after leading Johnson County to a 25-7 record this past season.

The sophomore from Lincoln, Nebraska committed to Missouri Western last month after two years at JCCC. The 6'2", 155 pound guard was named the Jayhawk Conference Division II Player of the Year this past season as he averaged 16.9 points, 6.4 rebounds, 4.6 assists and 2.2 steals per game. Mays shot 53.0 percent from the field, 37.9 percent from the three-point line and 71.9 percent on his free throws.

Mays has two years of eligibility left and he'll join a Griffon team that went 18-14 this past season and finished fourth in the MIAA with a 13-6 league mark.

<a href="https://clyp.it/v3gcvexw">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN TO AN INTERVIEW WITH JAQUAYLON MAYS</a>Dave Riggert had a chance to talk to Missouri Western men's basketball commit JaQuaylon Mays Tuesday to discuss his basketball journey, his two years at Johnson County Community College and his decision to play at MWSU. Click the link above to listen to the interview.Mays was named a NJCAA Division II All-American earlier this week after leading Johnson County to a 25-7 record this past season.The sophomore from Lincoln, Nebraska committed to Missouri Western last month after two years at JCCC. The 6'2", 155 pound guard was named the Jayhawk Conference Division II Player of the Year this past season as he averaged 16.9 points, 6.4 rebounds, 4.6 assists and 2.2 steals per game. Mays shot 53.0 percent from the field, 37.9 percent from the three-point line and 71.9 percent on his free throws.Mays has two years of eligibility left and he'll join a Griffon team that went 18-14 this past season and finished fourth in the MIAA with a 13-6 league mark.

1-on-1 with MWSU men's basketball commit JaQuaylon Mays

D2Football.com announced its 2010s All-Decade football team Tuesday and 50 players were honored, including one former Missouri Western Griffon.  Kicker Greg Zuerlein is on the All-Decade First Team after having one of the most impressive seasons a kick has ever had at any level.  

Zuerlein began his career at Nebraska-Omaha, but transferred to Missouri Western after UNO cut the football program after his junior season in 2010.  He had one year left and helped MWSU to a 9-3 record and an appearance in the NCAA Division II Playoffs.

Zuerlein made 23-of-24 field goals in 2011 and made all nine of his attempts from beyond 50 yards, including two from 58.  He set a NCAA Division II record with 21 consecutive field goals and was named First Team All-American, All-Region and All-MIAA.  Zuerlein was then drafted in the Sixth Round of the 2012 NFL Draft by the St. Louis Rams, as he became first non-BCS kicker to be drafted since Stephen Gostkowski in 2006 and the first below the Division I FBS level since Paul Ernster in 2005.

Zuerlein spent his entire career with the Rams until he signed a three-year 7.5 million dollar contract with the Dallas Cowboys last month.  He's connected on 82.0 percent (201-of-245) for his career with a long of 61 yards.  Zuerlien was a 2017 First Team All-Pro and was selected to the 2017 Pro Bowl after making 38-of-40 field goals that season.

D2Football.com announced its 2010s All-Decade football team Tuesday and 50 players were honored, including one former Missouri Western Griffon. Kicker Greg Zuerlein is on the All-Decade First Team after having one of the most impressive seasons a kick has ever had at any level. Zuerlein began his career at Nebraska-Omaha, but transferred to Missouri Western after UNO cut the football program after his junior season in 2010. He had one year left and helped MWSU to a 9-3 record and an appearance in the NCAA Division II Playoffs.Zuerlein made 23-of-24 field goals in 2011 and made all nine of his attempts from beyond 50 yards, including two from 58. He set a NCAA Division II record with 21 consecutive field goals and was named First Team All-American, All-Region and All-MIAA. Zuerlein was then drafted in the Sixth Round of the 2012 NFL Draft by the St. Louis Rams, as he became first non-BCS kicker to be drafted since Stephen Gostkowski in 2006 and the first below the Division I FBS level since Paul Ernster in 2005.Zuerlein spent his entire career with the Rams until he signed a three-year 7.5 million dollar contract with the Dallas Cowboys last month. He's connected on 82.0 percent (201-of-245) for his career with a long of 61 yards. Zuerlien was a 2017 First Team All-Pro and was selected to the 2017 Pro Bowl after making 38-of-40 field goals that season.

Former Griffon K Greg Zuerlein named to D2Football.com 2010s All-Decade Team

KANSAS CITY, MO. (April 7, 2020) – To thank area first responders, healthcare professionals and essential workers for their tireless efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic, the Kansas City Royals, the Kansas City Chiefs and Sporting KC are joining many others in Kansas City and across the country to light national icons blue.  The #LightItBlue campaign will begin on April 9 at 8 p.m. CT. 

In a letter signed by Royals Chairman and CEO John Sherman, Chiefs Chairman and CEO Clark Hunt and Sporting Kansas City Principal Owner Cliff Illig, they stated, “On behalf of the Kansas City Royals, Kansas City Chiefs and Sporting KC, we invite you to help us light Kansas City blue this Thursday, April 9, in salute of the extraordinary, selfless and brave men and women who are fighting this pandemic 24 hours a day.  The goal of this effort,” they continued, “is to create a global expression of support and gratitude to the healthcare and essential professionals who are saving lives around the clock, ‘toward creating a universal symbol of solidarity and hope.’”

All three teams will display the campaign logo on their digital boards at their respective stadiums. 

The effort was created in late March in the United Kingdom as major landmarks were lit throughout the country to support their healthcare providers. 

Fans are also encouraged to show their support during the 8 p.m. to 9 p.m. hour by lighting their homes blue and by using the hashtags #LightItBlue and #MakeItBlue on social media.  “Our hope is that Greater Kansas City will participate in support of the extraordinary first responders who are putting their lives on the line each and every day to fight the COVID-19 pandemic,” stated Sherman, Hunt and Illig.

KANSAS CITY, MO. (April 7, 2020) – To thank area first responders, healthcare professionals and essential workers for their tireless efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic, the Kansas City Royals, the Kansas City Chiefs and Sporting KC are joining many others in Kansas City and across the country to light national icons blue. The #LightItBlue campaign will begin on April 9 at 8 p.m. CT. In a letter signed by Royals Chairman and CEO John Sherman, Chiefs Chairman and CEO Clark Hunt and Sporting Kansas City Principal Owner Cliff Illig, they stated, “On behalf of the Kansas City Royals, Kansas City Chiefs and Sporting KC, we invite you to help us light Kansas City blue this Thursday, April 9, in salute of the extraordinary, selfless and brave men and women who are fighting this pandemic 24 hours a day. The goal of this effort,” they continued, “is to create a global expression of support and gratitude to the healthcare and essential professionals who are saving lives around the clock, ‘toward creating a universal symbol of solidarity and hope.’”All three teams will display the campaign logo on their digital boards at their respective stadiums. The effort was created in late March in the United Kingdom as major landmarks were lit throughout the country to support their healthcare providers. Fans are also encouraged to show their support during the 8 p.m. to 9 p.m. hour by lighting their homes blue and by using the hashtags #LightItBlue and #MakeItBlue on social media. “Our hope is that Greater Kansas City will participate in support of the extraordinary first responders who are putting their lives on the line each and every day to fight the COVID-19 pandemic,” stated Sherman, Hunt and Illig.--- Chiefs Press Release ---

Chiefs, Royals & Sporting KC join together to #LightItBlue for Kansas City

D2Football.com has announced the 50 players the coach that have been selected to the 2010-2019 All-Decade Team.

Northwest Missouri State is represented by first-team choice Matt Longacre, second-team selection Brandon Dixon and former head coach Adam Dorrel.

Longacre was the 2014 MIAA defensive player of the year and a two-time first-team All-America pick for the Bearcats. Longacre joined the Bearcats in 2010 as a redshirt and played in 53 games over his four-year playing career. He totaled 109 tackles, including 47 tackles-for-loss. He also registered 30.5 quarterback sacks, including 12 in 2013 as Northwest captured the national championship. Longacre was signed as an undrafted free agent in 2015. Longacre played in 38 games for the Rams and made eight starts. He was credited with 6.5 quarterback sacks in the NFL. He concluded his four-year NFL career by playing in Super Bowl 53 with the Los Angeles Rams. 

Dixon played in 27 career games for the Bearcats and helped lead the squad to the 2013 national championship. Dixon earned first-team All-America honors as a senior in 2013, after having earned second-team All-America honors as a junior in 2012. He posted 56  tackles and six interceptions in his two-year Bearcat career. He was drafted by the New York Jets in the sixth round of the 2014 National Football League draft Dixon was the 195th overall selection and 19th selection of the sixth round. Dixon would go on to play 14 games and intercept a pass for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2014. He finished his playing career in the NFL when he played five games for the New York Giants in 2017.

Dorrel was the obvious choice for the coach of the team. He won three national championships at Northwest Missouri and had a 76-8 record (.904). From 2013-2016, he won three championships and only lost two games.

To be eligible for the team, a student-athlete must have played during any season from 2010-2019 but must have completed his eligibility prior to the 2020 season. He must also have been named a D2Football.com All-American in that time period.

The GLIAC had the most selections (10) followed closely by the MIAA (9). Ferris State and Northwest Missouri each had three selections (one coach for Northwest, which were the most by any program.

At the time of publication, 35 of the players on the team had made an active roster in the NFL. Sixteen of the members of the team had been drafted by the NFL. Three members await the 2020 NFL Draft. While participation in professional leagues creeped into the deliberation process, the student-athletes are on this team because of their accomplishments on the collegiate football field.

There are four D2Football.com Offensive Players of the Year selections on the team. They are joined by five Defensive Player of the Year selections. Three players on the team earned four Harlon Hill Trophies.

The D2Football.com All-Decade Team was selected by the staff of D2Football.com with input from coaches across the country.

https://www.d2football.com/2010-2019-all-decade/ 

D2Football.com has announced the 50 players the coach that have been selected to the 2010-2019 All-Decade Team.Northwest Missouri State is represented by first-team choice Matt Longacre, second-team selection Brandon Dixon and former head coach Adam Dorrel.Longacre was the 2014 MIAA defensive player of the year and a two-time first-team All-America pick for the Bearcats. Longacre joined the Bearcats in 2010 as a redshirt and played in 53 games over his four-year playing career. He totaled 109 tackles, including 47 tackles-for-loss. He also registered 30.5 quarterback sacks, including 12 in 2013 as Northwest captured the national championship. Longacre was signed as an undrafted free agent in 2015. Longacre played in 38 games for the Rams and made eight starts. He was credited with 6.5 quarterback sacks in the NFL. He concluded his four-year NFL career by playing in Super Bowl 53 with the Los Angeles Rams. Dixon played in 27 career games for the Bearcats and helped lead the squad to the 2013 national championship. Dixon earned first-team All-America honors as a senior in 2013, after having earned second-team All-America honors as a junior in 2012. He posted 56 tackles and six interceptions in his two-year Bearcat career. He was drafted by the New York Jets in the sixth round of the 2014 National Football League draft Dixon was the 195th overall selection and 19th selection of the sixth round. Dixon would go on to play 14 games and intercept a pass for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2014. He finished his playing career in the NFL when he played five games for the New York Giants in 2017.Dorrel was the obvious choice for the coach of the team. He won three national championships at Northwest Missouri and had a 76-8 record (.904). From 2013-2016, he won three championships and only lost two games.To be eligible for the team, a student-athlete must have played during any season from 2010-2019 but must have completed his eligibility prior to the 2020 season. He must also have been named a D2Football.com All-American in that time period.The GLIAC had the most selections (10) followed closely by the MIAA (9). Ferris State and Northwest Missouri each had three selections (one coach for Northwest, which were the most by any program.At the time of publication, 35 of the players on the team had made an active roster in the NFL. Sixteen of the members of the team had been drafted by the NFL. Three members await the 2020 NFL Draft. While participation in professional leagues creeped into the deliberation process, the student-athletes are on this team because of their accomplishments on the collegiate football field.There are four D2Football.com Offensive Players of the Year selections on the team. They are joined by five Defensive Player of the Year selections. Three players on the team earned four Harlon Hill Trophies.The D2Football.com All-Decade Team was selected by the staff of D2Football.com with input from coaches across the country.https://www.d2football.com/2010-2019-all-decade/ D2Football.com's All-Decade First TeamQBJason Vander LaanFerris StateRBFranklyn QuitehBloomsburgRBAustin EkelerWestern ColoradoWRJeff JanisSaginaw ValleyWRBilly BrownShepherdTEAdam ShaheenAshlandOLRyan SchraederValdosta StateOLGarth HeikkinenMinnesota DulthOLRyan JensenCSU-PuebloOLAmini SilatoluMidwestern StateOLJoe LongWayne State (Mich.)DLMatt JudonGrand ValleyDLBrandon WilliamsMissouri SouthernDLJamie MederAshlandDLMatt LongacreNorthwest MissouriLBDeon LaceyWest AlabamaLBNate DreilingPittsburg StateLBConnor HarrisLindenwoodDBMalcolm ButlerWest AlabamaDBKyle DuggerLenoir-RhyneDBRontez MilesCal UDBPierre DesirLindenwoodKGreg ZuerleinMissouri WesternPTaylor AccardiColorado School of MinesAPJohn BrownPittsburg StateD2Football.com's All-Decade Second TeamQBLuis PerezTexas A&amp;M-CommerceRBCameron McDondleCSU-PuebloRBJa'Quan GardnerHumboldt StateWRBrody OliverColorado MinesWRShane ZylstraMinnesota StateTEBrian LeonhardtBemidji StateOLAlex CappaHumboldt StateOLEric KushCal UOLBrandon FuscoSlippery RockOLMatt ArmstrongGrand ValleyOLTrey PipkensSioux FallsDLMarcus MartinSlippery RockDLGrover StewartAlbany StateDLCedric ThorntonSouthern ArkansasDLZach SielerFerris StateLBLarry DeanValdosta StateLBAdam BighillCentral WashingtonLBCarlos FieldsWinston-SalemDBJanoris JenkinsNorth AlabamaDBJeff HeathSaginaw ValleyDBTavierre ThomasFerris StateDBBrandon DixonNorthwest MissouriKDante BrownFort HaysPRandy WeichWayne State (Neb.)APDeonte HarrisAssumption

Three Bearcats featured on D2Football.com 2010s All-Decade team

The NFL and the Pro Football Hall of Fame have announced the 52 players and two head coaches selected to the 2010s All-Decade Team. Tom Brady, 42 and starting over with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, was one of just eight players unanimously voted to the squad. (For the full list of honorees, check out the bottom of this file.) Tampa might be unfamiliar to Brady, but the honor is not. Not surprisingly, Brady was also a member of the 2000s All-Decade Team.

Peyton Manning was the other quarterback joining Brady on the 2000s team. For the 2010s, the Pro Football Hall of Fame's 48-member selection committee chose Green Bay's Aaron Rodgers. Brady and Rodgers led their respective teams to the top win-loss records of the decade, including the postseason, and both teams won Super Bowls in the decade -- Rodgers in the 2010 season and Brady in '14, '16 and '18.

Left off the list, which allowed just two quarterbacks: Drew Brees, who set the career record for pass completions, passing yards, passing touchdowns and completion percentage in the 2010s. His omission is the most glaring of the list, and likely came because, despite Brees' own outstanding play, the Saints' lone Super Bowl championship came in the previous decade (2009) and New Orleans missed the playoffs four times during the 2010s.

The other unanimous picks represent a who's who of the biggest NFL stars of the last 10 years -- and a pretty good preview of who'll headline future Hall of Fame classes: defensive tackle Aaron Donald, linebacker Von Miller, running back Adrian Peterson, offensive tackle Joe Thomas, kicker Justin Tucker, defensive end J.J. Watt and offensive guard Marshal Yanda.

The best news of all for fans: The majority of players on the All-Decade Team are still active heading into the 2020 season.

Donald is one of 12 players who played primarily in the NFC West during the decade, making that division the most well-represented. That shouldn't be a surprise. The NFC West has sent a team to five of the last eight Super Bowls. The Arizona Cardinals had four players on the list (Calais Campbell, Larry Fitzgerald, Patrick Peterson, Chandler Jones) and the San Francisco 49ers had three (Frank Gore, Joe Staley, Patrick Willis). The Seahawks, who went to the Super Bowl in the 2013 and '14 campaigns, are the most-represented NFC West team, with five members, including three from the "Legion of Boom" defense: Bobby Wagner, Richard Sherman, Earl Thomas, Marshawn Lynch and coach Pete Carroll.

Carroll, who led the Seahawks to eight playoff berths and one championship in the decade, is one of two coaches on the team. The other is, of course, Bill Belichick, whose Patriots went to the playoffs every year of the 2010s, and advanced to five Super Bowls, winning three times, including once over the Seahawks. Belichick is one of just two coaches in NFL history to be on two All-Decade Teams. The other is former Steelers coach Chuck Noll, a four-time Super Bowl winner who was on the 1970s and 1980s All-Decade Teams.

Together, Belichick and Brady dominated the NFL for 20 years, and they are two of the five people on the 2010s team who also were on the 2000s team. Devin Hester, Shane Lechler and Julius Peppers are the others. For all of their dominance, the Patriots developed a reputation of featuring players who were perfect for their roles and, other than Brady, only occasionally boasting the league's best talents at their respective positions. Not quite.

Eight guys on the list played for the Patriots, the most of any team, although their tenures stretched from lifetime -- Rob Gronkowski, who was named to the NFL' All-Time Team last year -- to eyeblink, in the case of Antonio Brown, who played one game for the Patriots before being released. Brown made this 2010s team because of his stellar play with the Steelers. The other players with Patriots ties on the list: Stephen Gostkowski (who had the unenviable task of replacing Adam Vinatieri, a member of the 2000s All-Decade Team, Cordarrelle Patterson (who played 15 regular-season games with the Patriots during the decade, Darrelle Revis (16 games, Logan Mankins (50) and Chandler Jones (55).

After Brady's signing with the Bucs and Gostkowski's release this offseason, only Belichick remains from the greatest dynasty the modern NFL has seen.

The team that has a chance to be the next dynasty -- the Kansas City Chiefs -- placed six players on the roster, second only to the Patriots: Eric Berry, Tyreek Hill, Travis Kelce, Tyrann Mathieu, LeSean McCoy and Revis.

And one player earned a singular -- actually dual -- honor. Darren Sproles was selected to the team at two positions -- punt returner and offensive flex player, which is someone who fills multiple offensive roles -- becoming just the fourth player in history to be named to an All-Decade Team at multiple positions. The others are Mel Gray (kick returner and punt returner in the 1990s, Dante Hall (kick returner and punt returner in the 2000s) and Deion Sanders (cornerback and punt returner in the 1990s).

2010s ALL-DECADE TEAM ROSTER * -- denotes a unanimous selection OFFENSE QB Tom Brady* QB Aaron Rodgers RB Frank Gore RB Marshawn Lynch RB LeSean McCoy RB Adrian Peterson* WR Antonio Brown WR Larry Fitzgerald WR Calvin Johnson WR Julio Jones FLEX Darren Sproles TE Rob Gronkowski TE Travis Kelce OT Jason Peters OT Tyron Smith OT Joe Staley OT Joe Thomas* OG Jahri Evans OG Logan Mankins OG Zack Martin OG Marshal Yanda* C Alex Mack C Maurkice Pouncey DEFENSE DE Calais Campbell DE Cameron Jordan DE Julius Peppers DE J.J. Watt* DT Geno Atkins DT Fletcher Cox DT Aaron Donald* DT Ndamukong Suh LB Chandler Jones LB Luke Kuechly LB Khalil Mack LB Von Miller* LB Bobby Wagner LB Patrick Willis CB Patrick Peterson CB Darrelle Revis CB Richard Sherman S Eric Berry S Earl Thomas S Eric Weddle DB Chris Harris Jr. DB Tyrann Mathieu SPECIALISTS P Johnny Hekker P Shane Lechler K Stephen Gostkowski K Justin Tucker* PR Tyreek Hill PR Darren Sproles KR Devin Hester KR Cordarrelle Patterson COACHES Bill Belichick Pete Carroll --- NFL Press Release ---

The NFL and the Pro Football Hall of Fame have announced the 52 players and two head coaches selected to the 2010s All-Decade Team. Tom Brady, 42 and starting over with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, was one of just eight players unanimously voted to the squad. (For the full list of honorees, check out the bottom of this file.) Tampa might be unfamiliar to Brady, but the honor is not. Not surprisingly, Brady was also a member of the 2000s All-Decade Team.Peyton Manning was the other quarterback joining Brady on the 2000s team. For the 2010s, the Pro Football Hall of Fame's 48-member selection committee chose Green Bay's Aaron Rodgers. Brady and Rodgers led their respective teams to the top win-loss records of the decade, including the postseason, and both teams won Super Bowls in the decade -- Rodgers in the 2010 season and Brady in '14, '16 and '18.Left off the list, which allowed just two quarterbacks: Drew Brees, who set the career record for pass completions, passing yards, passing touchdowns and completion percentage in the 2010s. His omission is the most glaring of the list, and likely came because, despite Brees' own outstanding play, the Saints' lone Super Bowl championship came in the previous decade (2009) and New Orleans missed the playoffs four times during the 2010s.The other unanimous picks represent a who's who of the biggest NFL stars of the last 10 years -- and a pretty good preview of who'll headline future Hall of Fame classes: defensive tackle Aaron Donald, linebacker Von Miller, running back Adrian Peterson, offensive tackle Joe Thomas, kicker Justin Tucker, defensive end J.J. Watt and offensive guard Marshal Yanda.The best news of all for fans: The majority of players on the All-Decade Team are still active heading into the 2020 season.Donald is one of 12 players who played primarily in the NFC West during the decade, making that division the most well-represented. That shouldn't be a surprise. The NFC West has sent a team to five of the last eight Super Bowls. The Arizona Cardinals had four players on the list (Calais Campbell, Larry Fitzgerald, Patrick Peterson, Chandler Jones) and the San Francisco 49ers had three (Frank Gore, Joe Staley, Patrick Willis). The Seahawks, who went to the Super Bowl in the 2013 and '14 campaigns, are the most-represented NFC West team, with five members, including three from the "Legion of Boom" defense: Bobby Wagner, Richard Sherman, Earl Thomas, Marshawn Lynch and coach Pete Carroll.Carroll, who led the Seahawks to eight playoff berths and one championship in the decade, is one of two coaches on the team. The other is, of course, Bill Belichick, whose Patriots went to the playoffs every year of the 2010s, and advanced to five Super Bowls, winning three times, including once over the Seahawks. Belichick is one of just two coaches in NFL history to be on two All-Decade Teams. The other is former Steelers coach Chuck Noll, a four-time Super Bowl winner who was on the 1970s and 1980s All-Decade Teams.Together, Belichick and Brady dominated the NFL for 20 years, and they are two of the five people on the 2010s team who also were on the 2000s team. Devin Hester, Shane Lechler and Julius Peppers are the others. For all of their dominance, the Patriots developed a reputation of featuring players who were perfect for their roles and, other than Brady, only occasionally boasting the league's best talents at their respective positions. Not quite.Eight guys on the list played for the Patriots, the most of any team, although their tenures stretched from lifetime -- Rob Gronkowski, who was named to the NFL' All-Time Team last year -- to eyeblink, in the case of Antonio Brown, who played one game for the Patriots before being released. Brown made this 2010s team because of his stellar play with the Steelers. The other players with Patriots ties on the list: Stephen Gostkowski (who had the unenviable task of replacing Adam Vinatieri, a member of the 2000s All-Decade Team, Cordarrelle Patterson (who played 15 regular-season games with the Patriots during the decade, Darrelle Revis (16 games, Logan Mankins (50) and Chandler Jones (55).After Brady's signing with the Bucs and Gostkowski's release this offseason, only Belichick remains from the greatest dynasty the modern NFL has seen.The team that has a chance to be the next dynasty -- the Kansas City Chiefs -- placed six players on the roster, second only to the Patriots: Eric Berry, Tyreek Hill, Travis Kelce, Tyrann Mathieu, LeSean McCoy and Revis.And one player earned a singular -- actually dual -- honor. Darren Sproles was selected to the team at two positions -- punt returner and offensive flex player, which is someone who fills multiple offensive roles -- becoming just the fourth player in history to be named to an All-Decade Team at multiple positions. The others are Mel Gray (kick returner and punt returner in the 1990s, Dante Hall (kick returner and punt returner in the 2000s) and Deion Sanders (cornerback and punt returner in the 1990s).2010s ALL-DECADE TEAM ROSTER * -- denotes a unanimous selection OFFENSE QB Tom Brady* QB Aaron Rodgers RB Frank Gore RB Marshawn Lynch RB LeSean McCoy RB Adrian Peterson* WR Antonio Brown WR Larry Fitzgerald WR Calvin Johnson WR Julio Jones FLEX Darren Sproles TE Rob Gronkowski TE Travis Kelce OT Jason Peters OT Tyron Smith OT Joe Staley OT Joe Thomas* OG Jahri Evans OG Logan Mankins OG Zack Martin OG Marshal Yanda* C Alex Mack C Maurkice Pouncey DEFENSE DE Calais Campbell DE Cameron Jordan DE Julius Peppers DE J.J. Watt* DT Geno Atkins DT Fletcher Cox DT Aaron Donald* DT Ndamukong Suh LB Chandler Jones LB Luke Kuechly LB Khalil Mack LB Von Miller* LB Bobby Wagner LB Patrick Willis CB Patrick Peterson CB Darrelle Revis CB Richard Sherman S Eric Berry S Earl Thomas S Eric Weddle DB Chris Harris Jr. DB Tyrann Mathieu SPECIALISTS P Johnny Hekker P Shane Lechler K Stephen Gostkowski K Justin Tucker* PR Tyreek Hill PR Darren Sproles KR Devin Hester KR Cordarrelle Patterson COACHES Bill Belichick Pete Carroll --- NFL Press Release ---

Six current or former Chiefs on NFL's 2010s All-Decade team

The NFL draft will be conducted in a virtual format, with team personnel working from their homes.

In a memo sent to the 32 teams Monday and obtained by The Associated Press, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell outlined procedures for the April 23-25 draft. The guidelines include no group gatherings.

“We have reviewed this matter in the past few days with both the competition committee and CEC (a group of league executives,” Goodell wrote, “and this will confirm that clubs will conduct their draft operations remotely, with club personnel separately located in their homes.”

All team facilities were closed on March 26 and Goodell has ordered them to remain shut indefinitely.

“We will reopen facilities when it is safe to do so based on medical and public health advice, and in compliance with government mandates,” he wrote.

The draft originally was scheduled to be held in Las Vegas, but the NFL canceled all public events last month as a safeguard against the coronavirus. On Monday, Goodell instructed the teams on how they should plan to make their selections.

“We have made this decision for several reasons,” he wrote. "All clubs will not have access to their facilities, which is contrary to the fundamental equity principle that all clubs operate in a consistent and fair way.

“Moreover, we want all NFL personnel to comply with government directives and to model safe and appropriate health practices. Our staff will carry out its responsibilities in the same way, operating in separate locations outside of our offices. And after consulting with medical advisers, we cannot identify an alternative that is preferable from a medical or public health perspective, given the varying needs of clubs, the need properly to screen participants, and the unique risk factors that individual club employees may face.”

Several team general managers had sought a delay in the draft, basically citing an unfair playing field. But the owners pushed for the draft, the NFL's biggest offseason event, to take place as scheduled. It is up to each team to ensure not only safe and healthy conditions, but to offset any perceived competitive imbalance under the guidelines set forth by Goodell.

“We are operating in an environment unlike anything we have experienced before,” Goodell added, “one that requires flexibility, patience, and cooperation.”

Plans for televising the draft have not been finalized, though it is expected that ESPN and NFL Network will do so, perhaps in a joint effort.

The NFL draft will be conducted in a virtual format, with team personnel working from their homes.In a memo sent to the 32 teams Monday and obtained by The Associated Press, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell outlined procedures for the April 23-25 draft. The guidelines include no group gatherings.“We have reviewed this matter in the past few days with both the competition committee and CEC (a group of league executives,” Goodell wrote, “and this will confirm that clubs will conduct their draft operations remotely, with club personnel separately located in their homes.”All team facilities were closed on March 26 and Goodell has ordered them to remain shut indefinitely.“We will reopen facilities when it is safe to do so based on medical and public health advice, and in compliance with government mandates,” he wrote.The draft originally was scheduled to be held in Las Vegas, but the NFL canceled all public events last month as a safeguard against the coronavirus. On Monday, Goodell instructed the teams on how they should plan to make their selections.“We have made this decision for several reasons,” he wrote. "All clubs will not have access to their facilities, which is contrary to the fundamental equity principle that all clubs operate in a consistent and fair way.“Moreover, we want all NFL personnel to comply with government directives and to model safe and appropriate health practices. Our staff will carry out its responsibilities in the same way, operating in separate locations outside of our offices. And after consulting with medical advisers, we cannot identify an alternative that is preferable from a medical or public health perspective, given the varying needs of clubs, the need properly to screen participants, and the unique risk factors that individual club employees may face.”Several team general managers had sought a delay in the draft, basically citing an unfair playing field. But the owners pushed for the draft, the NFL's biggest offseason event, to take place as scheduled. It is up to each team to ensure not only safe and healthy conditions, but to offset any perceived competitive imbalance under the guidelines set forth by Goodell.“We are operating in an environment unlike anything we have experienced before,” Goodell added, “one that requires flexibility, patience, and cooperation.”Plans for televising the draft have not been finalized, though it is expected that ESPN and NFL Network will do so, perhaps in a joint effort.--- Associated Press ---

NFL going with virtual format for upcoming draft

The British Open will not be played this year for the first time since 1945, golf officials announced Monday as they tried to reconfigure a major championship schedule that would end with the Masters being played two weeks before Thanksgiving.

Still to be determined is when — or even if — golf can resume depending on the spread of COVID-19 that has shut down sports worldwide.

The R&amp;A announced that the British Open, scheduled for July 16-19 at Royal St. George’s in England, will be pushed back until July 15-18 in 2021, leaving the 150th Open for St. Andrews in 2022.

“I can assure everyone that we have explored every option for playing The Open this year, but it is not going to be possible,” R&amp;A chief Martin Slumbers said.

The Masters, which was supposed to start Thursday, was rescheduled for Nov. 12-15. That would follow the PGA Championship on Aug. 6-9 at Harding Park in San Francisco and the U.S. Open — still at Winged Foot — for Sept. 17-20.

Golf’s major organizations have been trying to piece together a puzzle for the last three weeks and each agreed to announce their schedules at the same time in a show of collaboration. Still missing is the starting line.

The PGA Tour has the most moving parts, and it tentatively has planned to complete its FedEx Cup season close to schedule, with the Tour Championship wrapping up the postseason run on Labor Day.

“We hope the anticipation of staging the Masters Tournament in the fall brings a moment of joy to the Augusta community and all those who love the sport,” Augusta National Chairman Fred Ridley said. “We want to emphasize that our future plans are incumbent upon favorable counsel and direction from health officials.”

Ridley said every player who has received invitations to play the Masters in April will stay on the list, with more details to be sorted out later. He also said the Augusta National Women’s Amateur was canceled, and every player can keep their spots for next year provided they don’t turn pro.

Winged Foot just north of New York City is about 5 miles away from a hot spot for the new coronavirus. Construction for the U.S. Open was stopped two weeks ago as the USGA trying to determine its best course. For now, it’s to stay in New York with a September date.

The U.S. Senior Open at Newport Country Club and the U.S. Senior Women’s Open at Brooklawn Country Club in Connecticut have been canceled.

The PGA Championship, which last year moved to May for the first time in some 70 years, returns to August at Harding Park. That would precede the PGA Tour’s end-of-season run of the Wyndham Championship in North Carolina, The Northern Trust outside Boston, the BMW Championship in Chicago and the Tour Championship in Atlanta.

The British Open will not be played this year for the first time since 1945, golf officials announced Monday as they tried to reconfigure a major championship schedule that would end with the Masters being played two weeks before Thanksgiving.Still to be determined is when — or even if — golf can resume depending on the spread of COVID-19 that has shut down sports worldwide.The R&amp;A announced that the British Open, scheduled for July 16-19 at Royal St. George’s in England, will be pushed back until July 15-18 in 2021, leaving the 150th Open for St. Andrews in 2022.“I can assure everyone that we have explored every option for playing The Open this year, but it is not going to be possible,” R&amp;A chief Martin Slumbers said.The Masters, which was supposed to start Thursday, was rescheduled for Nov. 12-15. That would follow the PGA Championship on Aug. 6-9 at Harding Park in San Francisco and the U.S. Open — still at Winged Foot — for Sept. 17-20.Golf’s major organizations have been trying to piece together a puzzle for the last three weeks and each agreed to announce their schedules at the same time in a show of collaboration. Still missing is the starting line.The PGA Tour has the most moving parts, and it tentatively has planned to complete its FedEx Cup season close to schedule, with the Tour Championship wrapping up the postseason run on Labor Day.“We hope the anticipation of staging the Masters Tournament in the fall brings a moment of joy to the Augusta community and all those who love the sport,” Augusta National Chairman Fred Ridley said. “We want to emphasize that our future plans are incumbent upon favorable counsel and direction from health officials.”Ridley said every player who has received invitations to play the Masters in April will stay on the list, with more details to be sorted out later. He also said the Augusta National Women’s Amateur was canceled, and every player can keep their spots for next year provided they don’t turn pro.Winged Foot just north of New York City is about 5 miles away from a hot spot for the new coronavirus. Construction for the U.S. Open was stopped two weeks ago as the USGA trying to determine its best course. For now, it’s to stay in New York with a September date.The U.S. Senior Open at Newport Country Club and the U.S. Senior Women’s Open at Brooklawn Country Club in Connecticut have been canceled.The PGA Championship, which last year moved to May for the first time in some 70 years, returns to August at Harding Park. That would precede the PGA Tour’s end-of-season run of the Wyndham Championship in North Carolina, The Northern Trust outside Boston, the BMW Championship in Chicago and the Tour Championship in Atlanta.--- Associated Press ---

British Open canceled, Masters moved to November in major rescheduling

Future Missouri Western men's basketball player JaQuaylon Mays has been named a NJCAA Division II All-American.  He was named a Second Team All-American on Monday after leading Johnson County Community College to a 25-7 record this past season.

The sophomore from Lincoln, Nebraska committed to Missouri Western last month after two years at JCCC.  The 6'2", 155 pound guard was named the Jayhawk Conference Division II Player of the Year this past season as he averaged 16.9 points, 6.4 rebounds, 4.6 assists and 2.2 steals per game. Mays shot 53.0 percent from the field, 37.9 percent from the three-point line and 71.9 percent on his free throws.

Mays ranked second in the Jayhawk Conference in scoring, second in made free throws, second in assists, sixth in field goal percentage and eighth in free throw percentage. He scored in double figures a team-best 27 times, including 11 games of 20 or more points.

Future Missouri Western men's basketball player JaQuaylon Mays has been named a NJCAA Division II All-American. He was named a Second Team All-American on Monday after leading Johnson County Community College to a 25-7 record this past season.The sophomore from Lincoln, Nebraska committed to Missouri Western last month after two years at JCCC. The 6'2", 155 pound guard was named the Jayhawk Conference Division II Player of the Year this past season as he averaged 16.9 points, 6.4 rebounds, 4.6 assists and 2.2 steals per game. Mays shot 53.0 percent from the field, 37.9 percent from the three-point line and 71.9 percent on his free throws.Mays ranked second in the Jayhawk Conference in scoring, second in made free throws, second in assists, sixth in field goal percentage and eighth in free throw percentage. He scored in double figures a team-best 27 times, including 11 games of 20 or more points.Mays has two years of eligibility left and he'll join a Griffon team that went 18-14 this past season and finished fourth in the MIAA with a 13-6 league mark.

Griffon men's basketball recruit named NJCAA DII All-American

Northwest Missouri State women's basketball coach Austin Meyer has tested positive for COVID-19.

Meyer made the announcement on social media Sunday:

"It has been a little rough this past week as I had battled some sickness. I can't remember the last time I had been sick so of course I started thinking I probably have this COVID thing. Turns out I did as I received a positive test result. One big question is how did I get this? I started working from home weeks ago, washed my hands so much my skin was cracking, stayed in with the family and only left for grocery essentials (where the germaphobe in me wiped everything down, even the milk). It just didn't make sense but I guess it shows how easily this thing can spread. As for me, I'm on day 7 and am feeling pretty good just hoping our family continues to stay healthy. The virus is obviously around here more than people think so please be vigilant &amp; be safe!"

Meyer just finish his second season as the head coach of the Northwest women as they finished 12-18 and 6-13 in the MIAA.  The Bearcats won four more game and two more league game than in Meyer's first season.

Meyer played as Northwest from 2002-2006 and was a full-time assistant coach for the Northwest men's basketball team from 2008-2018 before taking over the women's program.

Northwest Missouri State women's basketball coach Austin Meyer has tested positive for COVID-19.Meyer made the announcement on social media Sunday:"It has been a little rough this past week as I had battled some sickness. I can't remember the last time I had been sick so of course I started thinking I probably have this COVID thing. Turns out I did as I received a positive test result. One big question is how did I get this? I started working from home weeks ago, washed my hands so much my skin was cracking, stayed in with the family and only left for grocery essentials (where the germaphobe in me wiped everything down, even the milk). It just didn't make sense but I guess it shows how easily this thing can spread. As for me, I'm on day 7 and am feeling pretty good just hoping our family continues to stay healthy. The virus is obviously around here more than people think so please be vigilant &amp; be safe!"Meyer just finish his second season as the head coach of the Northwest women as they finished 12-18 and 6-13 in the MIAA. The Bearcats won four more game and two more league game than in Meyer's first season.Meyer played as Northwest from 2002-2006 and was a full-time assistant coach for the Northwest men's basketball team from 2008-2018 before taking over the women's program.

Northwest women's basketball coach Austin Meyer has tested positive for COVID-19

Northwest Missouri State's sophomore guard Trevor Hudgins and junior forward Ryan Hawkins have each been named among the 14 finalists for the 2020 Bevo Francis Award by Small College Basketball. It marks only the second time that the same school had two finalists in the same year.

Small College Basketball and the National Awards Committee are proud to announce the 14 finalists for the 2020 Bevo Francis Award. This list consists of some of the top players from NCAA Division II, NCAA Division III, NAIA Division I, NAIA Division II, USCAA and NCCAA. 

The Clarence "Bevo" Francis Award is presented annually to the player who has had the finest overall season within Small College Basketball. Considerations will be season statistics and individual achievements, awards, personal character and team achievements. This is an incredibly prestigious award, as this award will only be given to one player within Small College Basketball per season.

On Monday, April 6, at 6 p.m. (CT) the 2020 Bevo Francis Award winner will be announced.

"On behalf of Small College Basketball and the National Award Committee, I sincerely congratulate all 14 Finalists for the 2020 Bevo Francis Award," John McCarthy said. "Based on our criteria, these players are the elite of the elite in the country during the 2019-20 season. It's been a joy to watch each of them, and every one of them has had an exceptional season and has helped to lead their teams to tremendous success this season.  I'm so happy for each of them, as they have earned this tremendous recognition."

This marks the fifth year of the Bevo Francis Award. Past winners include Dominez Burnett of Davenport University in 2016, Justin Pitts of Northwest Missouri State University in 2017, Emanuel Terry of Lincoln Memorial University in 2018, and Aston Francis of Wheaton College in 2019. 

Hudgins (Manhattan, Kansas) led the nation in three-point field goal percentage (53.3% - 105-of-197). Hudgins averaged 19.6 points per game, 6.0 assists per game and 1.5 steals per game Hudgins has already earned first-team all-MIAA, first-team D2CCA all-region, D2CCA region player of the year, MIAA Player of the Year and the Most Outstanding Player at the 2020 MIAA Tournament. Hudgins had 18 20-point scoring games to go along with four 30-point scoring contests. He collected the school's first triple-double with 10 points, 11 rebounds and 11 assists vs. Fort Hays State (Jan. 25). His 626 points this season ranks as the sixth-most for a Bearcat in a single season. His 191 assists in 2019-2020 ranks as the second-best total in Bearcat history behind his mark of 203 set last season. 

Hawkins (Atlantic, Iowa) led the Bearcats in scoring at 22.7  per game, in rebounding at 7.4  per contest, in steals at 2.1 per game and in blocks at 0.8 per game. Hawkins collected eight double-doubles, reached 30 or more points on five occasions and posted 20 20-point scoring contests. Hawkins set the Bearcat single-game scoring record with 44 against Southern Nazarene on Nov. 2. The Atlantic, Iowa, native was selected as the MIAA's Defensive Player of the Year for the second straight season, while also being tabbed a first-team all-MIAA performer. Hawkins poured in 726 points in the 2019-2020 season, which ranks as the third-most points ever scored by a Bearcat in a single season. He is one of only four Bearcats to ever score 700 or more points in a season. 

Hudgins and Hawkins become the fifth and six Bearcat finalists for the Bevo Francis Award. Pitts was a three-time finalist and captured the award in 2017. Northwest is the only school to have a finalists in each of the five years the award has been presented.

Northwest's six finalists for the Bevo Francis Award is the most of any small college. Cornerstone ranks second with three finalists in 2017, 2018 and 2019.

To stay up to date on all things Small College Basketball, please head to smallcollegebasketball.com.

Northwest Missouri State's sophomore guard Trevor Hudgins and junior forward Ryan Hawkins have each been named among the 14 finalists for the 2020 Bevo Francis Award by Small College Basketball. It marks only the second time that the same school had two finalists in the same year.Small College Basketball and the National Awards Committee are proud to announce the 14 finalists for the 2020 Bevo Francis Award. This list consists of some of the top players from NCAA Division II, NCAA Division III, NAIA Division I, NAIA Division II, USCAA and NCCAA. The Clarence "Bevo" Francis Award is presented annually to the player who has had the finest overall season within Small College Basketball. Considerations will be season statistics and individual achievements, awards, personal character and team achievements. This is an incredibly prestigious award, as this award will only be given to one player within Small College Basketball per season.On Monday, April 6, at 6 p.m. (CT) the 2020 Bevo Francis Award winner will be announced."On behalf of Small College Basketball and the National Award Committee, I sincerely congratulate all 14 Finalists for the 2020 Bevo Francis Award," John McCarthy said. "Based on our criteria, these players are the elite of the elite in the country during the 2019-20 season. It's been a joy to watch each of them, and every one of them has had an exceptional season and has helped to lead their teams to tremendous success this season. I'm so happy for each of them, as they have earned this tremendous recognition."This marks the fifth year of the Bevo Francis Award. Past winners include Dominez Burnett of Davenport University in 2016, Justin Pitts of Northwest Missouri State University in 2017, Emanuel Terry of Lincoln Memorial University in 2018, and Aston Francis of Wheaton College in 2019. Hudgins (Manhattan, Kansas) led the nation in three-point field goal percentage (53.3% - 105-of-197). Hudgins averaged 19.6 points per game, 6.0 assists per game and 1.5 steals per game Hudgins has already earned first-team all-MIAA, first-team D2CCA all-region, D2CCA region player of the year, MIAA Player of the Year and the Most Outstanding Player at the 2020 MIAA Tournament. Hudgins had 18 20-point scoring games to go along with four 30-point scoring contests. He collected the school's first triple-double with 10 points, 11 rebounds and 11 assists vs. Fort Hays State (Jan. 25). His 626 points this season ranks as the sixth-most for a Bearcat in a single season. His 191 assists in 2019-2020 ranks as the second-best total in Bearcat history behind his mark of 203 set last season. Hawkins (Atlantic, Iowa) led the Bearcats in scoring at 22.7 per game, in rebounding at 7.4 per contest, in steals at 2.1 per game and in blocks at 0.8 per game. Hawkins collected eight double-doubles, reached 30 or more points on five occasions and posted 20 20-point scoring contests. Hawkins set the Bearcat single-game scoring record with 44 against Southern Nazarene on Nov. 2. The Atlantic, Iowa, native was selected as the MIAA's Defensive Player of the Year for the second straight season, while also being tabbed a first-team all-MIAA performer. Hawkins poured in 726 points in the 2019-2020 season, which ranks as the third-most points ever scored by a Bearcat in a single season. He is one of only four Bearcats to ever score 700 or more points in a season. Hudgins and Hawkins become the fifth and six Bearcat finalists for the Bevo Francis Award. Pitts was a three-time finalist and captured the award in 2017. Northwest is the only school to have a finalists in each of the five years the award has been presented.Northwest's six finalists for the Bevo Francis Award is the most of any small college. Cornerstone ranks second with three finalists in 2017, 2018 and 2019.To stay up to date on all things Small College Basketball, please head to smallcollegebasketball.com.Northwest's Bevo Francis Award Finalists Justin Pitts (2016, 2017, 2018) Joey Witthus (2019) Trevor Hudgins (2020) Ryan Hawkins (2020) Bevo Francis Award Finalists by School Northwest Missouri State – 6 (2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020x2) Cornerstone – 3 (2017, 2018, 2019) Augustana – 2 (2016x2) Babson – 2 (2016, 2017) Florida Southern – 2 (2019, 2020) Missouri Southern – 2 (2016, 2020) Notre Dame (Ohio) – 2 (2016, 2019) Shippensburg – 2 (2017, 2018) Springfield – 2 (2018, 2020) St. Thomas Aquinas – 2 (2017, 2018) Western Oregon – 2 (2016, 2018) 2019-20 Bevo Francis Award Finalists Chris Coffey 6’7” Sr. Georgetown Zaccheus Darko-Kelly 6’6” Jr. Providence (MT) Jhonathan Dunn 6’4” Sr. Southern Nazarene Brett Hanson 6’2” Sr. Florida Southern Ryan Hawkins 6’7” Jr. NW MO State Trevor Hudgins 6’1” So. NW MO State Kyle Mangas 6’3” Jr. Indiana Wesleyan Cam Martin 6’9” Jr. MO Southern Mark Matthews 6’6” Sr. Nova Southeastern Selom Mawugbe 6’10” Sr. Azusa Pacific Nic Reed 6’5” Sr. Olivet Nazarene Jake Ross 6’4” Sr. Springfield (MA) Andrew Sischo 6’9” Jr. Daemen Nate West 5’10” Sr. LeTourneau--- Northwest Athletics ---