LINCOLN, Neb. -- Michigan needed a win in the worst way.

The short-handed Wolverines got it by playing some of their best basketball in weeks in the middle of the second half against Nebraska.

The 79-68 victory Tuesday night ended a four-game losing streak, their longest since 2014-15, and gave them their first road win of the season.

"It feels like a lot of pressure has been lifted off of our shoulders, but obviously we still have a lot of work to do," said Eli Brooks, who led Michigan with 20 points, nine rebounds and four assists. "Coming up is a big stretch. There's a lot of momentum going into that with this win."

The Wolverines (12-8, 3-6 Big Ten) got the win without two starters. Senior captain and national assists leader Zavier Simpson was suspended for violating team rules and Isaiah Livers is out indefinitely after aggravating a groin injury against Illinois on Saturday.

Nebraska (7-14, 2-8) lost its sixth straight.

"We're at a point where we have to go all out," Haanif Cheatham said. "We came in knowing this season was going to have ups and downs. Right now we're in a tough stretch. We have to pull together for these next 10 games and not pull apart."

Kevin Cross's step-back jumper from the baseline gave the Cornhuskers their last lead, 52-50, before Michigan went on a 21-4 run to go up by double digits.

Franz Wagner, who had 18 points, started the run with a 3 from the top of the key. Brandon Johns Jr. made a 3 and dunked over Jervay Green on his way to a career-high 16 points.

Michigan began dominating the inside, opening up the perimeter for Brooks, and the Wolverines were able to score transition baskets as Nebraska struggled with its shooting. The Huskers missed 11 of 12 shots over a nine-minute stretch and went scoreless for four while the Wolverines pulled away.

Cam Mack made a season-high five 3-pointers and led the Huskers with 19 points, nine assists and seven rebounds. Cross and Cheatham had 17 apiece.

"The thing I have to prevent is the ‘Here we go again' (attitude," Nebraska first-year coach Fred Hoiberg said. "I have to do a better job with this group, when the tough times hit and the heads drop, this is too good a league, and we have too thin a margin to overcome that."

In memory of Kobe Bryant, the retired NBA great who died in a helicopter crash Sunday, the Wolverines took an intentional 10-second backcourt violation after winning the opening tip, and the Huskers took an intentional 30-second shot clock violation on their first possession. The gestures were greeted with applause from fans, officials, coaches and players.

There were 24 seconds of silence before the game, with Bryant's numbers 24 and 8 displayed on the clocks over the baskets and his picture on the big screen.

Michigan coach Juwan Howard said he told Hoiberg before the game that his team was going to hold the ball on its first possession, and Hoiberg agreed that his team would do the same.

"I thought that was beautiful, because Fred and I both played against Kobe, and yes, I saw NBA teams do it, and I think it's very respectful to give the respect to a man who has given so much to the game of basketball and inspired all of us," Howard said.

Michigan: This was a gritty win for the Wolverines, who were coming off a 64-62 home loss to Illinois on a last-second shot. They could ill afford to have a loss to the No. 158 team in the NET rankings on their NCAA Tournament resume.

Nebraska: The Huskers came close to knocking off nationally ranked Rutgers on Saturday but couldn't match that effort at home, getting outrebounded 41-27 by the bigger Wolverines and missing 15 of their last 20 shots.

Nebraska hosts No. 24 Penn State on Saturday.

Michigan plays Rutgers on Saturday at Madison Square Garden in New York.

LINCOLN, Neb. -- Michigan needed a win in the worst way.The short-handed Wolverines got it by playing some of their best basketball in weeks in the middle of the second half against Nebraska.The 79-68 victory Tuesday night ended a four-game losing streak, their longest since 2014-15, and gave them their first road win of the season."It feels like a lot of pressure has been lifted off of our shoulders, but obviously we still have a lot of work to do," said Eli Brooks, who led Michigan with 20 points, nine rebounds and four assists. "Coming up is a big stretch. There's a lot of momentum going into that with this win."The Wolverines (12-8, 3-6 Big Ten) got the win without two starters. Senior captain and national assists leader Zavier Simpson was suspended for violating team rules and Isaiah Livers is out indefinitely after aggravating a groin injury against Illinois on Saturday.Nebraska (7-14, 2-8) lost its sixth straight."We're at a point where we have to go all out," Haanif Cheatham said. "We came in knowing this season was going to have ups and downs. Right now we're in a tough stretch. We have to pull together for these next 10 games and not pull apart."Kevin Cross's step-back jumper from the baseline gave the Cornhuskers their last lead, 52-50, before Michigan went on a 21-4 run to go up by double digits.Franz Wagner, who had 18 points, started the run with a 3 from the top of the key. Brandon Johns Jr. made a 3 and dunked over Jervay Green on his way to a career-high 16 points.Michigan began dominating the inside, opening up the perimeter for Brooks, and the Wolverines were able to score transition baskets as Nebraska struggled with its shooting. The Huskers missed 11 of 12 shots over a nine-minute stretch and went scoreless for four while the Wolverines pulled away.Cam Mack made a season-high five 3-pointers and led the Huskers with 19 points, nine assists and seven rebounds. Cross and Cheatham had 17 apiece."The thing I have to prevent is the ‘Here we go again' (attitude," Nebraska first-year coach Fred Hoiberg said. "I have to do a better job with this group, when the tough times hit and the heads drop, this is too good a league, and we have too thin a margin to overcome that."REMEMBERING KOBEIn memory of Kobe Bryant, the retired NBA great who died in a helicopter crash Sunday, the Wolverines took an intentional 10-second backcourt violation after winning the opening tip, and the Huskers took an intentional 30-second shot clock violation on their first possession. The gestures were greeted with applause from fans, officials, coaches and players.There were 24 seconds of silence before the game, with Bryant's numbers 24 and 8 displayed on the clocks over the baskets and his picture on the big screen.Michigan coach Juwan Howard said he told Hoiberg before the game that his team was going to hold the ball on its first possession, and Hoiberg agreed that his team would do the same."I thought that was beautiful, because Fred and I both played against Kobe, and yes, I saw NBA teams do it, and I think it's very respectful to give the respect to a man who has given so much to the game of basketball and inspired all of us," Howard said.BIG PICTUREMichigan: This was a gritty win for the Wolverines, who were coming off a 64-62 home loss to Illinois on a last-second shot. They could ill afford to have a loss to the No. 158 team in the NET rankings on their NCAA Tournament resume.Nebraska: The Huskers came close to knocking off nationally ranked Rutgers on Saturday but couldn't match that effort at home, getting outrebounded 41-27 by the bigger Wolverines and missing 15 of their last 20 shots.UP NEXTNebraska hosts No. 24 Penn State on Saturday.Michigan plays Rutgers on Saturday at Madison Square Garden in New York.--- Associated Press ---

Nebraska comes up short at home against Michigan 79-68

MARYVILLE, Missouri - The Northwest Missouri State Bearcat track and field program has both its women's and men's teams ranked in the top 10 in week one of the USTFCCCA's rating index.&nbsp; The Bearcat women's team is ranked No. 3 in the country and is making its first ever appearance in the USTFCCCA TFRI top 10, since it began in 2009. The Bearcat women have eight top-10 national performances so far this season. The Northwest men's team is ranked No. 7 in the USTFCCCA TFRI, moving up one spot from its No. 8 preseason rating. The men's ranking is its highest in program history since the beginning of the TFRI. The Bearcat men have seven top-10 national performances to date. Northwest Missouri State achieved a program record as the Bearcats come in at No. 3 for their first top-five appearance. They jumped 11 spots from their preseason ranking of 14.&nbsp; A huge contributor to the Bearcats climb is Hiba Mahgoub, who owns the top time in the 400, ranked second in the 200, and is part of the second-fastest 4×400 relay in the season. Audrey Wichmann is also ranked No. 4 in the high jump for the Bearcats. --- Northwest Athletics ---

MARYVILLE, Missouri - The Northwest Missouri State Bearcat track and field program has both its women's and men's teams ranked in the top 10 in week one of the USTFCCCA's rating index.&nbsp; The Bearcat women's team is ranked No. 3 in the country and is making its first ever appearance in the USTFCCCA TFRI top 10, since it began in 2009. The Bearcat women have eight top-10 national performances so far this season. The Northwest men's team is ranked No. 7 in the USTFCCCA TFRI, moving up one spot from its No. 8 preseason rating. The men's ranking is its highest in program history since the beginning of the TFRI. The Bearcat men have seven top-10 national performances to date. Northwest Missouri State achieved a program record as the Bearcats come in at No. 3 for their first top-five appearance. They jumped 11 spots from their preseason ranking of 14.&nbsp; A huge contributor to the Bearcats climb is Hiba Mahgoub, who owns the top time in the 400, ranked second in the 200, and is part of the second-fastest 4×400 relay in the season. Audrey Wichmann is also ranked No. 4 in the high jump for the Bearcats. --- Northwest Athletics ---

Northwest Track & Fields teams ranked in the Top 10

BOYS Benton 45 (10-3) Kansas City Southeast 33 BASEHOR-LINWOOD TOURNAMENT - 5TH PLACE Washburn Rural 63 Central 26 (6-8) RICHMOND TOURNAMENT - 1ST ROUND Bishop LeBlond 62 (7-10) Excelsior Springs 43 GIRLS BASEHOR-LINWOOD TOURNAMENT - 3RD PLACE Olathe North 53 Central 49 (9-7) BASEHOR-LINWOOD TOURNAMENT - 5TH PLACE Blue Valley 43 Benton 28 (4-12) RICHMOND TOURNAMENT - 1ST ROUND Bishop LeBlond 47 (10-6) Richmond 41

BOYS Benton 45 (10-3) Kansas City Southeast 33 BASEHOR-LINWOOD TOURNAMENT - 5TH PLACE Washburn Rural 63 Central 26 (6-8) RICHMOND TOURNAMENT - 1ST ROUND Bishop LeBlond 62 (7-10) Excelsior Springs 43 GIRLS BASEHOR-LINWOOD TOURNAMENT - 3RD PLACE Olathe North 53 Central 49 (9-7) BASEHOR-LINWOOD TOURNAMENT - 5TH PLACE Blue Valley 43 Benton 28 (4-12) RICHMOND TOURNAMENT - 1ST ROUND Bishop LeBlond 47 (10-6) Richmond 41

City High School Basketball Scores - Monday, January 27

STILLWATER, Okla. -- Freshman Christian Braun had 16 points and nine rebounds to lead No. 3 Kansas to a 65-50 victory over Oklahoma State on Monday night.

Kansas (17-3, 6-1 Big 12) has won five in a row, including a 74-68 triumph over Tennessee on Saturday in the Big 12/SEC Challenge, as well as its last five on the road. The short-handed Jayhawks were playing their second game since Silvio De Sousa and David McCormack were suspended for their roles in an ugly postgame brawl with rival Kansas State. McCormack can return from his two-game suspension for Kansas' next game, at home against Texas Tech.

Isaiah Moss added 13 points and Devon Dotson had 11 for the Jayhawks, who led wire to wire.

Cameron McGriff had 18 points and eight rebounds to lead Oklahoma State (10-10, 0-7, the only winless team in Big 12 action. Isaac Likekele had 10 points and four rebounds for the Cowboys, who had snapped a six-game losing streak with a 73-62 win at Texas A&amp;M on Saturday.

Kansas' defense was outstanding, limiting Oklahoma State to 28.1% shooting (18 of 64, including 13.6% (3 of 22) over the first 14 minutes of the second half.

Kansas: After watching a big lead evaporate late in the first half, the Jayhawks managed to build another one early in the second. After Oklahoma State cut the Kansas lead to four early in the second half, the Jayhawks went on a 17-1 run over the next six minutes to take control. Their lead never dropped below 15 the rest of the way.

Oklahoma State: After falling behind 12-2 and 24-7 midway through the opening half, the Cowboys reeled off an impressive 17-1 run over a 6 1/2-minute span to pull back to within one point when Likekele sank a layup with 1:15 remaining. The Cowboys have shown they can play with the best teams for long stretches, including their 75-68 loss to No. 1 Baylor on Jan. 18, when they led by double digits for most of the game before faltering late.

Kansas: The Jayhawks return home to take on last year's national runner-up Texas Tech on Saturday.

Oklahoma State: The Cowboys travel across the state to face their "Bedlam" rival Oklahoma on Saturday.

STILLWATER, Okla. -- Freshman Christian Braun had 16 points and nine rebounds to lead No. 3 Kansas to a 65-50 victory over Oklahoma State on Monday night.Kansas (17-3, 6-1 Big 12) has won five in a row, including a 74-68 triumph over Tennessee on Saturday in the Big 12/SEC Challenge, as well as its last five on the road. The short-handed Jayhawks were playing their second game since Silvio De Sousa and David McCormack were suspended for their roles in an ugly postgame brawl with rival Kansas State. McCormack can return from his two-game suspension for Kansas' next game, at home against Texas Tech.Isaiah Moss added 13 points and Devon Dotson had 11 for the Jayhawks, who led wire to wire.Cameron McGriff had 18 points and eight rebounds to lead Oklahoma State (10-10, 0-7, the only winless team in Big 12 action. Isaac Likekele had 10 points and four rebounds for the Cowboys, who had snapped a six-game losing streak with a 73-62 win at Texas A&amp;M on Saturday.Kansas' defense was outstanding, limiting Oklahoma State to 28.1% shooting (18 of 64, including 13.6% (3 of 22) over the first 14 minutes of the second half.BIG PICTUREKansas: After watching a big lead evaporate late in the first half, the Jayhawks managed to build another one early in the second. After Oklahoma State cut the Kansas lead to four early in the second half, the Jayhawks went on a 17-1 run over the next six minutes to take control. Their lead never dropped below 15 the rest of the way.Oklahoma State: After falling behind 12-2 and 24-7 midway through the opening half, the Cowboys reeled off an impressive 17-1 run over a 6 1/2-minute span to pull back to within one point when Likekele sank a layup with 1:15 remaining. The Cowboys have shown they can play with the best teams for long stretches, including their 75-68 loss to No. 1 Baylor on Jan. 18, when they led by double digits for most of the game before faltering late.UP NEXTKansas: The Jayhawks return home to take on last year's national runner-up Texas Tech on Saturday.Oklahoma State: The Cowboys travel across the state to face their "Bedlam" rival Oklahoma on Saturday.--- Associated Press ---

No. 3 Kansas rolls at Oklahoma State 65-50

A quartet of Northwest Missouri State football players earned spots on the 2019 Don Hansen Football Committee All-America teams announced Monday.

Senior Spencer Phillips (Tabor, Iowa) earned second-team all-America honors. Juniors Blake Bayer (Albia, Iowa, Tanner Owen (Kearney, Missouri) and Parker Sampson (Kansas City, Missouri) each tallied honorable mention status.

The Don Hansen team carries out the legacy of long-time small college football advocate Don Hansen, who passed away at age 75 on Aug. 29, 2010. Hansen, from Brookfield, Illinois, started and published Don Hansen's National Weekly Football Gazette for three decades, selecting NCAA Division II All-America teams for the first time in 1988, Don Hansen's Football Gazette began selecting Division II All-Region squads in 2003.

A quartet of Northwest Missouri State football players earned spots on the 2019 Don Hansen Football Committee All-America teams announced Monday.Senior Spencer Phillips (Tabor, Iowa) earned second-team all-America honors. Juniors Blake Bayer (Albia, Iowa, Tanner Owen (Kearney, Missouri) and Parker Sampson (Kansas City, Missouri) each tallied honorable mention status.The Don Hansen team carries out the legacy of long-time small college football advocate Don Hansen, who passed away at age 75 on Aug. 29, 2010. Hansen, from Brookfield, Illinois, started and published Don Hansen's National Weekly Football Gazette for three decades, selecting NCAA Division II All-America teams for the first time in 1988, Don Hansen's Football Gazette began selecting Division II All-Region squads in 2003.--- Northwest Athletics ---

Four Bearcats earn spots on Don Hansen All-America teams

IRVING, Texas – Kansas senior Udoka Azubuike has been named the Big 12 Player of the Week in a vote by a media panel, the conference announced Monday.

Azubuike Posted back-to-back double-doubles averaging 14.0 points, 12.5 rebounds and 4.0 blocked shots in wins against Kansas State and Tennessee. The Delta, Nigeria, native also shot 83.3 percent (10-for-12) from the field for the week. 

In the win against Kansas State, Azubuike had 10 points and tied his conference season-high with 14 rebounds and had four blocked shots. In the win versus Tennessee he was 6-for-7 from the field with 11 rebounds and four blocked shots. The only big in the game for KU, he was clutch in the second half, scoring seven points, including a 5-for-7 clip from the free throw line, with all four of his blocked shots and six rebounds.

Azubuike leads the nation in field goal percentage at 78.1 percent. He also leads the Big 12 in rebounds pulling down 9.6 boards per game. Azubuike is second in the league in blocked shots (2.5) and double-doubles with eight.

This is the first Big 12 weekly honor of Azubuike's career and the fourth by a Jayhawk this season. Sophomore Devon Dotson has been named player of the week twice (12/2, 12/16) and Isaiah Moss was last week's Big 12 Newcomer of the Week on Jan. 20.

IRVING, Texas – Kansas senior Udoka Azubuike has been named the Big 12 Player of the Week in a vote by a media panel, the conference announced Monday.Azubuike Posted back-to-back double-doubles averaging 14.0 points, 12.5 rebounds and 4.0 blocked shots in wins against Kansas State and Tennessee. The Delta, Nigeria, native also shot 83.3 percent (10-for-12) from the field for the week. In the win against Kansas State, Azubuike had 10 points and tied his conference season-high with 14 rebounds and had four blocked shots. In the win versus Tennessee he was 6-for-7 from the field with 11 rebounds and four blocked shots. The only big in the game for KU, he was clutch in the second half, scoring seven points, including a 5-for-7 clip from the free throw line, with all four of his blocked shots and six rebounds.Azubuike leads the nation in field goal percentage at 78.1 percent. He also leads the Big 12 in rebounds pulling down 9.6 boards per game. Azubuike is second in the league in blocked shots (2.5) and double-doubles with eight.This is the first Big 12 weekly honor of Azubuike's career and the fourth by a Jayhawk this season. Sophomore Devon Dotson has been named player of the week twice (12/2, 12/16) and Isaiah Moss was last week's Big 12 Newcomer of the Week on Jan. 20.--- KU Athletics ---

KU's Azubuike named Big 12 Men's Basketball Player of the Week

MIAMI (AP) — Kansas City waited 50 years to get back to a Super Bowl. And then the Chiefs had to wait a few extra minutes once they got to Miami.

It took workers at Miami International Airport about three attempts to get one of the rolling staircases that the Chiefs would use to deplane properly lined up with the front door of their chartered jet. The delay was brief, and coach Andy Reid and the rest of the Chiefs’ delegation to make their way into the hangar for the short walk to waiting buses.

A handful of local politicians and officials were at the airport to greet the teams, as loud hip-hop music blared through the maintenance hangar that was being used for the arrivals.

No players or coaches spoke to reporters inside the hangar. The first media session for the Chiefs and the San Francisco 49ers -- who arrive later Sunday -- is Monday night, when the NFL has Super Bowl Opening Night at Marlins Park.

Super Bowl 54 is next Sunday at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens.

A handful of volunteers greeted players, coaches and staff as they made their way down the stairs. Everyone was handed a floral baseball cap, and many players held their phones out to shoot video of the moment they arrived at the Super Bowl.

Even the flight attendants on the Chiefs’ flight were celebrating the moment — they gathered at the top of the stairs for a group photo once their passengers deplaned, and then a few of them pulled out their phones for some pictures of players as well.

MIAMI (AP) — Kansas City waited 50 years to get back to a Super Bowl. And then the Chiefs had to wait a few extra minutes once they got to Miami.It took workers at Miami International Airport about three attempts to get one of the rolling staircases that the Chiefs would use to deplane properly lined up with the front door of their chartered jet. The delay was brief, and coach Andy Reid and the rest of the Chiefs’ delegation to make their way into the hangar for the short walk to waiting buses.A handful of local politicians and officials were at the airport to greet the teams, as loud hip-hop music blared through the maintenance hangar that was being used for the arrivals.No players or coaches spoke to reporters inside the hangar. The first media session for the Chiefs and the San Francisco 49ers -- who arrive later Sunday -- is Monday night, when the NFL has Super Bowl Opening Night at Marlins Park.Super Bowl 54 is next Sunday at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens.A handful of volunteers greeted players, coaches and staff as they made their way down the stairs. Everyone was handed a floral baseball cap, and many players held their phones out to shoot video of the moment they arrived at the Super Bowl.Even the flight attendants on the Chiefs’ flight were celebrating the moment — they gathered at the top of the stairs for a group photo once their passengers deplaned, and then a few of them pulled out their phones for some pictures of players as well.--- Associated Press ---

Chiefs arrive in Miami for Super Bowl week

COLLEGE STATION, Texas -- Kayla Wells scored 18 points and N'dea Jones added a double-double as No. 15 Texas A&amp;M rolled to a 72-53 victory over Missouri on Sunday. Wells made 5 of 14 shots from the floor and all six of her free throws for the Aggies (17-3, 5-2 Southeastern Conference, who led 33-22 at halftime and broke the game open with a 22-11 third-quarter run. Jones finished with 10 points and 13 rebounds before fouling out, while Shambria Washington scored 11 with seven assists. Ceira Johnson added 10 points before also fouling out. Texas A&amp;M won its third straight game without All-America standout Chennady Carter, who is battling an ankle injury. Aijha Blackwell paced the Tigers (5-15, 2-5) with 18 points and seven rebounds. Jordan Chavis and reserve Haley Frank scored 12 and 10, respectively. The Aggies shot 48% from the floor, made 7 of 15 from 3-point range and hit 13 of 18 free throws. Missouri shot 33% overall and 30% from distance (8 of 27). The Tigers hit 9 of 10 foul shots. --- Associated Press ---

COLLEGE STATION, Texas -- Kayla Wells scored 18 points and N'dea Jones added a double-double as No. 15 Texas A&amp;M rolled to a 72-53 victory over Missouri on Sunday. Wells made 5 of 14 shots from the floor and all six of her free throws for the Aggies (17-3, 5-2 Southeastern Conference, who led 33-22 at halftime and broke the game open with a 22-11 third-quarter run. Jones finished with 10 points and 13 rebounds before fouling out, while Shambria Washington scored 11 with seven assists. Ceira Johnson added 10 points before also fouling out. Texas A&amp;M won its third straight game without All-America standout Chennady Carter, who is battling an ankle injury. Aijha Blackwell paced the Tigers (5-15, 2-5) with 18 points and seven rebounds. Jordan Chavis and reserve Haley Frank scored 12 and 10, respectively. The Aggies shot 48% from the floor, made 7 of 15 from 3-point range and hit 13 of 18 free throws. Missouri shot 33% overall and 30% from distance (8 of 27). The Tigers hit 9 of 10 foul shots. --- Associated Press ---

Mizzou women get blown out at No. 15 Texas A&M 72-53

DES MOINES, Iowa -- Anthony Murphy made 1 of 2 free throws with 4 seconds remaining in the game and Keandre Cook missed a 3-pointer at the buzzer as Drake edged Missouri State 71-69 on Sunday.

Drake (15-6, 5-3 Missouri Valley Conference) led 37-25 at halftime and led the whole second half, but Missouri State (10-11, 4-4) pulled within 66-65 on two free throws by Gaige Prim with 45 seconds left to play. Roman Penn answered with a 3-pointer and, following a Cook layup, Penn hit 1 of 2 foul shots for a 70-67 lead with 14 seconds to go. Another Cook layup got the Bears within a point but they couldn't get over the hump.

Penn paced Drake with 17 points, eight rebounds and eight assists. D.J. Wilkins pitched in with 14 points, five boards and four assists, while reserve Garrett Sturtz added 10 points and seven rebounds.

Prim topped Missouri State with career highs of 23 points and 12 rebounds for his first double-double. Freshman Isiaih Mosley finished with 16 points and eight boards. Cook totaled 12 points and 13 rebounds for his second double-double of the campaign.

DES MOINES, Iowa -- Anthony Murphy made 1 of 2 free throws with 4 seconds remaining in the game and Keandre Cook missed a 3-pointer at the buzzer as Drake edged Missouri State 71-69 on Sunday.Drake (15-6, 5-3 Missouri Valley Conference) led 37-25 at halftime and led the whole second half, but Missouri State (10-11, 4-4) pulled within 66-65 on two free throws by Gaige Prim with 45 seconds left to play. Roman Penn answered with a 3-pointer and, following a Cook layup, Penn hit 1 of 2 foul shots for a 70-67 lead with 14 seconds to go. Another Cook layup got the Bears within a point but they couldn't get over the hump.Penn paced Drake with 17 points, eight rebounds and eight assists. D.J. Wilkins pitched in with 14 points, five boards and four assists, while reserve Garrett Sturtz added 10 points and seven rebounds.Prim topped Missouri State with career highs of 23 points and 12 rebounds for his first double-double. Freshman Isiaih Mosley finished with 16 points and eight boards. Cook totaled 12 points and 13 rebounds for his second double-double of the campaign.--- Associated Press ---

Missouri State falls on the road at Drake 71-69

ST. JOSEPH - For the first time in 15 years the Missouri Western men's basketball team (9-11, 5-4) is 7-0 at home after gutting out an 81-75 victory over Nebraska-Kearney (12-7, 6-4) on Saturday afternoon.

The Griffons trailed by as many as eight points early in the first half, but a 9-0 run gave MWSU its first lead of the game halfway through the first half. Overall, the lead changed hands five times in the game that was tied five times.

Eventually, the Griffons built a 12-point lead with 5:16 to go, but UNK wouldn't go away easily. The Lopers trailed by two with 31 seconds to go, but the Griffons were able to force two consecutive UNK turnovers and make free throws down the stretch to secure their fifth MIAA victory of the season.

- Missouri Western shot 52% in the second half, almost 10% better than its first half percentage while limiting UNK to just one made 3-pointer on seven attempts.

- The Griffons missed just three free throw attempts in the game, going 19 for 22 in the contest.

- MWSU got 26 points from its bench, highlighted by a career-high 22 points from JaRon Thames.

- Tyus Millhollin knocked down four 3-pointers for the second straight game and scored 16 points.

- Tyrell Carroll added 13 points with a team-high seven assists.

- Beau Baker matched a career-hgih with 11 points on 4 of 5 shooting from the field and 3 for 3 shooting at the free throw line.

- Will Eames pulled down a career-high 14 rebounds.

The Griffons play their next two games on the road beginning with a trip to Central Oklahoma (7-12, 4-6) on Jan. 30. The Bronchos take a three-game losing streak into Emporia State on Sunday.

ST. JOSEPH - For the first time in 15 years the Missouri Western men's basketball team (9-11, 5-4) is 7-0 at home after gutting out an 81-75 victory over Nebraska-Kearney (12-7, 6-4) on Saturday afternoon.The Griffons trailed by as many as eight points early in the first half, but a 9-0 run gave MWSU its first lead of the game halfway through the first half. Overall, the lead changed hands five times in the game that was tied five times.Eventually, the Griffons built a 12-point lead with 5:16 to go, but UNK wouldn't go away easily. The Lopers trailed by two with 31 seconds to go, but the Griffons were able to force two consecutive UNK turnovers and make free throws down the stretch to secure their fifth MIAA victory of the season.NOTABLES- Missouri Western shot 52% in the second half, almost 10% better than its first half percentage while limiting UNK to just one made 3-pointer on seven attempts.- The Griffons missed just three free throw attempts in the game, going 19 for 22 in the contest.- MWSU got 26 points from its bench, highlighted by a career-high 22 points from JaRon Thames.- Tyus Millhollin knocked down four 3-pointers for the second straight game and scored 16 points.- Tyrell Carroll added 13 points with a team-high seven assists.- Beau Baker matched a career-hgih with 11 points on 4 of 5 shooting from the field and 3 for 3 shooting at the free throw line.- Will Eames pulled down a career-high 14 rebounds.UP NEXTThe Griffons play their next two games on the road beginning with a trip to Central Oklahoma (7-12, 4-6) on Jan. 30. The Bronchos take a three-game losing streak into Emporia State on Sunday.--- MWSU Athletics ---

Griffons hang on to defeat Nebraska-Kearney 81-75

MARYVILLE, Missouri - Northwest Missouri State sophomore Trevor Hudgins put together the first triple-double in Bearcat men's basketball history in an 83-57 victory over Fort Hays State University on Saturday.

Hudgins, a Manhattan, Kansas, native scored 10 points, grabbed a career-high 10 rebounds and dished out 11 assists. He also registered two steals and did not turn the ball over in 34 minutes of action.

Northwest improved its win streak to 10 in a row and moved to 18-1 on the season. The Bearcats are 8-1 in MIAA play. Fort Hays State fell to 7-11 and 1-9 in MIAA.

The Bearcats also took advantage of having plenty of hot hands on the perimeter by drilling 16-of-33 three-pointers. Seven different Bearcats made at least one triple. Senior Ryan Welty dropped in 5-of-6 from distance and redshirt freshman Luke Waters splashed in all four his three-point attempts.

Northwest breezed to a 47-19 lead at the half - the lowest defensive performance in a first half this season for the Bearcats. Northwest shot 60.7% from the floor in the opening 20 minutes. Fort Hays State shot 42.9% from the field in the first half but was 1-of-10 from distance. Northwest was 10-of-19 from deep in the first half.

The Bearcats blew it out to a 36-point lead at 75-39 and cruised to the 83-57 final.

Northwest will be on the road this week with matchup against Newman (Thursday, 7:30 p.m.) and against Central Oklahoma (Saturday, 3:30 p.m.).

NOTES: Northwest moved its home-court win streak to 28 in a row ... Northwest was won 45 of its last 46 home MIAA contests ... all five Bearcat starters reached double figures in scoring.

MARYVILLE, Missouri - Northwest Missouri State sophomore Trevor Hudgins put together the first triple-double in Bearcat men's basketball history in an 83-57 victory over Fort Hays State University on Saturday.Hudgins, a Manhattan, Kansas, native scored 10 points, grabbed a career-high 10 rebounds and dished out 11 assists. He also registered two steals and did not turn the ball over in 34 minutes of action.Northwest improved its win streak to 10 in a row and moved to 18-1 on the season. The Bearcats are 8-1 in MIAA play. Fort Hays State fell to 7-11 and 1-9 in MIAA.The Bearcats also took advantage of having plenty of hot hands on the perimeter by drilling 16-of-33 three-pointers. Seven different Bearcats made at least one triple. Senior Ryan Welty dropped in 5-of-6 from distance and redshirt freshman Luke Waters splashed in all four his three-point attempts.Northwest breezed to a 47-19 lead at the half - the lowest defensive performance in a first half this season for the Bearcats. Northwest shot 60.7% from the floor in the opening 20 minutes. Fort Hays State shot 42.9% from the field in the first half but was 1-of-10 from distance. Northwest was 10-of-19 from deep in the first half.The Bearcats blew it out to a 36-point lead at 75-39 and cruised to the 83-57 final.Northwest will be on the road this week with matchup against Newman (Thursday, 7:30 p.m.) and against Central Oklahoma (Saturday, 3:30 p.m.).NOTES: Northwest moved its home-court win streak to 28 in a row ... Northwest was won 45 of its last 46 home MIAA contests ... all five Bearcat starters reached double figures in scoring.--- Northwest Athletics ---

Hudgins' triple-double leads No. 2 Bearcats to rout of Fort Hays State

ST. JOSEPH - Almost four years to the day that Nebraska Kearney handed then No. 5-ranked Missouri Western women's basketball team its first loss of the season, the Lopers (19-2, 8-2) became the first team this season to defeat the Griffons (14-4, 6-3) in the MWSU Fieldhouse.

The lead changed 10 times and the game was tied eight times with UNK edging out the Griffons 60-57. An old fashioned 3-point play by Anastacia Johnson with 47 seconds pulled the Griffons within two, 59-57. After two scoreless possessions by each team, UNK's Kelsey Sanger made the second of two free throw attempts with three seconds to go. Kylee Williams tried to give Missouri Western the win at the buzzer, but her 3-point attempt was blocked by Elisa Backes.

- Neither team led for long and UNK's eight-point lead with 7:37 left in the first quarter was the largest of the game for either team.

- Despite UNK shooting 50% in the first quarter and MWSU shooting just 27%, MWSU trailed by five after the first quarter.

- Combined, the teams went 5 for 29 from 3-point range with MWSU scoring 38 of its points in the paint and UNK scoring 36 in the lane.

- Johnson scored a career-high 20 points with six rebounds and three steals.

- Corbyn Cunningham recorded her fourth straight double-double with 15 points and 10 rebounds. She added four steals.

- Missouri Western totaled 12 steals on 17 UNK turnovers, but points off turnovers were even with each team scoring 13.

Missouri Western hits the road for two, beginning with a trip to Central Oklahoma on Jan. 30. The Bronchos (14-4, 8-2) had their five game winning streak end at Washburn, Thursday night and will play at Emporia State, Sunday.

ST. JOSEPH - Almost four years to the day that Nebraska Kearney handed then No. 5-ranked Missouri Western women's basketball team its first loss of the season, the Lopers (19-2, 8-2) became the first team this season to defeat the Griffons (14-4, 6-3) in the MWSU Fieldhouse.The lead changed 10 times and the game was tied eight times with UNK edging out the Griffons 60-57. An old fashioned 3-point play by Anastacia Johnson with 47 seconds pulled the Griffons within two, 59-57. After two scoreless possessions by each team, UNK's Kelsey Sanger made the second of two free throw attempts with three seconds to go. Kylee Williams tried to give Missouri Western the win at the buzzer, but her 3-point attempt was blocked by Elisa Backes.NOTABLES- Neither team led for long and UNK's eight-point lead with 7:37 left in the first quarter was the largest of the game for either team.- Despite UNK shooting 50% in the first quarter and MWSU shooting just 27%, MWSU trailed by five after the first quarter.- Combined, the teams went 5 for 29 from 3-point range with MWSU scoring 38 of its points in the paint and UNK scoring 36 in the lane.- Johnson scored a career-high 20 points with six rebounds and three steals.- Corbyn Cunningham recorded her fourth straight double-double with 15 points and 10 rebounds. She added four steals.- Missouri Western totaled 12 steals on 17 UNK turnovers, but points off turnovers were even with each team scoring 13.UP NEXTMissouri Western hits the road for two, beginning with a trip to Central Oklahoma on Jan. 30. The Bronchos (14-4, 8-2) had their five game winning streak end at Washburn, Thursday night and will play at Emporia State, Sunday.--- MWSU Athletics ---

Missouri Western women fall short against UNK 60-57

MARYVILLE, Missouri - The Northwest Missouri State University women's basketball team dropped a 70-59 decision to the No. 10-ranked Fort Hays State University Tigers on Saturday at Bearcat Arena.

Northwest held a 32-25 lead at the break, but Fort Hays State took advantage of 25-13 third quarter. The Tigers scored 45 second-half points, while the Bearcats were limited to 27 in the final 20 minutes.

Northwest freshman Paityn Rau scored a career-high 17 points and junior Kylie Coleman was one off a career-high with 17 points as well. Coleman knocked in a team-high three triples in the contest. Junior Mallory McConkey tallied 15 points including buzzer beaters to end both the second and third periods.

Northwest limited the Tigers to 40.4% shooting from the floor and 11.8% from three-point land. FHSU made only 2-of-17 shots from three-point range.

The Bearcats will be back in action next week with road games against Newman (Thursday, 5:30 p.m.) and Central Oklahoma (Saturday, 1:30 p.m.).

MARYVILLE, Missouri - The Northwest Missouri State University women's basketball team dropped a 70-59 decision to the No. 10-ranked Fort Hays State University Tigers on Saturday at Bearcat Arena.Northwest held a 32-25 lead at the break, but Fort Hays State took advantage of 25-13 third quarter. The Tigers scored 45 second-half points, while the Bearcats were limited to 27 in the final 20 minutes.Northwest freshman Paityn Rau scored a career-high 17 points and junior Kylie Coleman was one off a career-high with 17 points as well. Coleman knocked in a team-high three triples in the contest. Junior Mallory McConkey tallied 15 points including buzzer beaters to end both the second and third periods.Northwest limited the Tigers to 40.4% shooting from the floor and 11.8% from three-point land. FHSU made only 2-of-17 shots from three-point range.The Bearcats will be back in action next week with road games against Newman (Thursday, 5:30 p.m.) and Central Oklahoma (Saturday, 1:30 p.m.).--- Northwest Athletics ---

Northwest women let halftime lead slip away, lose to No. 10 Fort Hays State

MORGANTOWN, W.Va. -- No. 14 West Virginia's inside dominance turned a close game into a rout and moved coach Bob Huggins another notch higher on the all-time wins list.

Jermaine Haley had 15 points and nine rebounds, Miles McBride scored 15 points and No. 14 West Virginia broke open a close game with a huge run early in the second half to beat cold-shooting Missouri 74-51 in the Big 12/SEC Challenge on Saturday.

Freshman Oscar Tshiebwe added 14 points and eight rebounds, Gabe Osabuohien grabbed 12 rebounds and Derek Culver had 11 rebounds for the Mountaineers (16-3).

Huggins earned his 876th win to tie Adolph Rupp for seventh place on the NCAA Division I coaching list.

"My dad is one of the winningest coaches in the history of Ohio high school and they used to say, 'That was win number whatever', and his response always was `That just means I'm old," Huggins said. "I have never been caught up in that. I'm more caught up in we're 16-3 and we need to be about 29-3."

With Missouri's Jeremiah Tillman missing his sixth straight game because of a stress fracture in his left foot, the Tigers had no answer for the Mountaineers' inside game and were outrebounded 50-30.

Missouri coach Cuonzo Martin came away impressed with West Virginia's tandem of Tshiebwe and Culver.

"I'm not sure if there is another team, thinking off the top of my head, that functions like that in the country," Martin said. "In the second half they turned the heat up. Whether their bigs were scoring the ball or not, they had a presence."

Huggins said he didn't believe Tshiebwe and Culver had their best games. Culver was just 2 of 10 from the floor.

"We have missed more one-footers today than we have for a long time," Huggins said. "They were average at best, I thought, for them. And you know, we set their standards a little higher."

West Virginia used its rebounding and several Missouri turnovers to pull away.

Haley scored six points during a 20-0 run that started just after halftime. McBride's 3-pointer capped the big rally for a 47-25 lead with 12:28 remaining.

"I think we did a great job executing on defense, more so in the second half than the first," Haley said.

Torrence Watson scored 19 points to lead Missouri (9-10).

Missouri missed 18 of its first 20 shots of the game to fall behind 20-6, but the Tigers' speed started causing problems for the bigger Mountaineers. Missouri got numerous baskets in its transition offense to close the half on a 17-4 run and trailed 24-23 at halftime.

"We stopped playing," Huggins said. "We were just standing around for a little while, then we woke up at halftime."

Missouri: Leading scorer Dru Smith had five turnovers and was held to two points, 10 under his scoring average. He missed both of his field-goal attempts.

West Virginia: The Mountaineers entered the game third in the nation in field-goal defense at 36.2% and held Missouri to 28% (15 of 53) shooting.

West Virginia shot 57% (16-28) from the free-throw line, and that could make the difference between a quick exit and a deep run in postseason play. Culver was 0-6. The Mountaineers are second-worst in the Big 12 for the season, making 64% of their free throws.

The Mountaineers should move up in the AP Top 25 poll after two convincing wins, including a 97-59 victory over Texas on Monday.

West Virginia: Plays at No. 18 Texas Tech on Wednesday.

MORGANTOWN, W.Va. -- No. 14 West Virginia's inside dominance turned a close game into a rout and moved coach Bob Huggins another notch higher on the all-time wins list.Jermaine Haley had 15 points and nine rebounds, Miles McBride scored 15 points and No. 14 West Virginia broke open a close game with a huge run early in the second half to beat cold-shooting Missouri 74-51 in the Big 12/SEC Challenge on Saturday.Freshman Oscar Tshiebwe added 14 points and eight rebounds, Gabe Osabuohien grabbed 12 rebounds and Derek Culver had 11 rebounds for the Mountaineers (16-3).Huggins earned his 876th win to tie Adolph Rupp for seventh place on the NCAA Division I coaching list."My dad is one of the winningest coaches in the history of Ohio high school and they used to say, 'That was win number whatever', and his response always was `That just means I'm old," Huggins said. "I have never been caught up in that. I'm more caught up in we're 16-3 and we need to be about 29-3."With Missouri's Jeremiah Tillman missing his sixth straight game because of a stress fracture in his left foot, the Tigers had no answer for the Mountaineers' inside game and were outrebounded 50-30.Missouri coach Cuonzo Martin came away impressed with West Virginia's tandem of Tshiebwe and Culver."I'm not sure if there is another team, thinking off the top of my head, that functions like that in the country," Martin said. "In the second half they turned the heat up. Whether their bigs were scoring the ball or not, they had a presence."Huggins said he didn't believe Tshiebwe and Culver had their best games. Culver was just 2 of 10 from the floor."We have missed more one-footers today than we have for a long time," Huggins said. "They were average at best, I thought, for them. And you know, we set their standards a little higher."West Virginia used its rebounding and several Missouri turnovers to pull away.Haley scored six points during a 20-0 run that started just after halftime. McBride's 3-pointer capped the big rally for a 47-25 lead with 12:28 remaining."I think we did a great job executing on defense, more so in the second half than the first," Haley said.Torrence Watson scored 19 points to lead Missouri (9-10).Missouri missed 18 of its first 20 shots of the game to fall behind 20-6, but the Tigers' speed started causing problems for the bigger Mountaineers. Missouri got numerous baskets in its transition offense to close the half on a 17-4 run and trailed 24-23 at halftime."We stopped playing," Huggins said. "We were just standing around for a little while, then we woke up at halftime."BIG PICTUREMissouri: Leading scorer Dru Smith had five turnovers and was held to two points, 10 under his scoring average. He missed both of his field-goal attempts.West Virginia: The Mountaineers entered the game third in the nation in field-goal defense at 36.2% and held Missouri to 28% (15 of 53) shooting.FREE THROW CLANKSWest Virginia shot 57% (16-28) from the free-throw line, and that could make the difference between a quick exit and a deep run in postseason play. Culver was 0-6. The Mountaineers are second-worst in the Big 12 for the season, making 64% of their free throws.POLL IMPLICATIONSThe Mountaineers should move up in the AP Top 25 poll after two convincing wins, including a 97-59 victory over Texas on Monday.UP NEXTMissouri: Hosts Georgia on Tuesday.West Virginia: Plays at No. 18 Texas Tech on Wednesday.--- Associated Press ---

Missouri gets blown out at No. 14 West Virginia 74-51

LAWRENCE, Kan. -- With just seven scholarship players at coach Bill Self's disposal, No. 3 Kansas weathered early foul trouble and escaped with a win.

Devon Dotson scored 22 points, Udoka Azubuike added 18 and the Jayhawks beat Tennessee 74-68 in the Big 12/SEC Challenge. Azubuike was the lone big man for the Jayhawks (16-3) after Silvio De Sousa was suspended 12 games and David McCormack banned five for their roles in a brawl Tuesday against Kansas State.

"I thought today would've been the easiest game to get up for with the week that we had," Self said.

After Azubuike went to the bench with two fouls early, Yves Pons hit consecutive 3-pointers to put the Volunteers (12-7) on a 14-2 run for a 20-13 lead. Kansas answered when Azubuike checked back in, stringing together a 12-0 run en route to a 37-30 lead at halftime.

"That stretch when (Azubuike) really got off was a pivotal point in the first half," Tennessee coach Rick Barnes said. "I thought we were hanging on there at the end of the first half."

Azubuike finished with 11 rebounds and four blocks.

Pons led the Volunteers with 24 points, and Jordan Bowden came alive early in the second half, knocking down three 3-pointers and finishing with 19 points after a scoreless first half.

Tennessee pulled within three late in the second half, but Azubuike had a block and hit four free throws late to keep the Volunteers in check.

Kansas: The pressure will stay on Azubuike, whose early foul trouble stalled Kansas' offense and allowed for a substantial Volunteer run.

Tennessee: Only three Volunteers -- Pons, Santiago Vescovi and John Fulkerson -- scored in the first half, and Tennessee turned the ball over 15 times. Despite the offensive struggles, the Volunteers were able to stay within arms' length.

After a 17-year tenure at Texas, Barnes returned to Allen Fieldhouse in search of an eighth win against Self. That would have given him the most victories of any current active coach against the Hall of Famer.

Winless in Allen Fieldhouse since Texas topped the Jayhawks 74-63 in 2011, Barnes remains tied with Michigan State's Tom Izzo in head-to-head victories over Self.

"I love Rick Barnes," Self said. "I think he's terrific. I will always love competing against Rick's teams."

With the clock dwindling below five minutes and trailing 66-63, Barnes entered Uros Plavsic to foul Azubuike, an inconsistent free throw shooter at 42.4% on the season.

"Very subtly that may have been the biggest play of the game," Self said. "Because it gave him confidence after making those two to go knock a couple more down."

Azubuike finished 6 of 11 from the stripe, with four coming in the final five minutes.

"Those were big free throws, and you know what, maybe we made him get better today," Barnes said.

With two victories this week, the Jayhawks should hold at No. 3 in the polls come Monday so long as No. 1 Baylor can fend off Florida and No.2 Gonzaga handles Pacific.

Kansas: The Jayhawks head to Stillwater, Oklahoma, on Monday to take on Oklahoma State.

Tennessee: The Vols host Texas A&amp;M on Tuesday.

LAWRENCE, Kan. -- With just seven scholarship players at coach Bill Self's disposal, No. 3 Kansas weathered early foul trouble and escaped with a win.Devon Dotson scored 22 points, Udoka Azubuike added 18 and the Jayhawks beat Tennessee 74-68 in the Big 12/SEC Challenge. Azubuike was the lone big man for the Jayhawks (16-3) after Silvio De Sousa was suspended 12 games and David McCormack banned five for their roles in a brawl Tuesday against Kansas State."I thought today would've been the easiest game to get up for with the week that we had," Self said.After Azubuike went to the bench with two fouls early, Yves Pons hit consecutive 3-pointers to put the Volunteers (12-7) on a 14-2 run for a 20-13 lead. Kansas answered when Azubuike checked back in, stringing together a 12-0 run en route to a 37-30 lead at halftime."That stretch when (Azubuike) really got off was a pivotal point in the first half," Tennessee coach Rick Barnes said. "I thought we were hanging on there at the end of the first half."Azubuike finished with 11 rebounds and four blocks.Pons led the Volunteers with 24 points, and Jordan Bowden came alive early in the second half, knocking down three 3-pointers and finishing with 19 points after a scoreless first half.Tennessee pulled within three late in the second half, but Azubuike had a block and hit four free throws late to keep the Volunteers in check.BIG PICTUREKansas: The pressure will stay on Azubuike, whose early foul trouble stalled Kansas' offense and allowed for a substantial Volunteer run.Tennessee: Only three Volunteers -- Pons, Santiago Vescovi and John Fulkerson -- scored in the first half, and Tennessee turned the ball over 15 times. Despite the offensive struggles, the Volunteers were able to stay within arms' length.BARNES' RETURNAfter a 17-year tenure at Texas, Barnes returned to Allen Fieldhouse in search of an eighth win against Self. That would have given him the most victories of any current active coach against the Hall of Famer.Winless in Allen Fieldhouse since Texas topped the Jayhawks 74-63 in 2011, Barnes remains tied with Michigan State's Tom Izzo in head-to-head victories over Self."I love Rick Barnes," Self said. "I think he's terrific. I will always love competing against Rick's teams."POKE-A-DOKWith the clock dwindling below five minutes and trailing 66-63, Barnes entered Uros Plavsic to foul Azubuike, an inconsistent free throw shooter at 42.4% on the season."Very subtly that may have been the biggest play of the game," Self said. "Because it gave him confidence after making those two to go knock a couple more down."Azubuike finished 6 of 11 from the stripe, with four coming in the final five minutes."Those were big free throws, and you know what, maybe we made him get better today," Barnes said.POLL IMPLICATIONSWith two victories this week, the Jayhawks should hold at No. 3 in the polls come Monday so long as No. 1 Baylor can fend off Florida and No.2 Gonzaga handles Pacific.UP NEXTKansas: The Jayhawks head to Stillwater, Oklahoma, on Monday to take on Oklahoma State.Tennessee: The Vols host Texas A&amp;M on Tuesday.--- Associated Press ---

Dotson, Azubuike lift No. 3 Kansas over Tennessee 74-68

TUSCALOOSA, Ala. -- Alabama point guard Kira Lewis Jr. played for Kansas State coach Bruce Weber last summer in Greece on the gold medal-winning USA U19 team. On Saturday night, Weber's team was on the receiving end of a Lewis scoring outburst.

Lewis scored 26 points and Alabama earned another win for the SEC in the SEC/Big 12 challenge, beating Kansas State 77-74.

"He's an unbelievable downhill driver," Weber said about Lewis. "He really shot the ball well from when he has those open 3s, and he made a couple of big daggers today."

A 14-0 Alabama run in the second half extended the lead to 16 for the Crimson Tide, but the Wildcats responded with a 15-2 run that eventually cut the deficit to one.

Lewis made back-to-back baskets on the next two Alabama possessions, and Alabama never relinquished the lead.

"When a team makes a run like that, you just figure out ways as a point guard to try to stop the bleed," Lewis said. "Get a bucket and try to get a stop and get more buckets."

The Crimson Tide was in unfamiliar territory in the first half after their recent success during a three-game winning streak.

During the win streak, the Crimson Tide only trailed for a total of 3:49 overall. Kansas State scored on the first possession of the game and led for more than 15 minutes in the first half.

Alabama had a mini 6-0 run to take their first lead at 31-30, but the Wildcats took a 37-36 lead into halftime.

Kansas State controlled the boards throughout the game and finished with 22 offensive rebounds compared to three for the Crimson Tide.

"Our offensive rebounding that we gave up was disastrous and really could cost us the game, so we gotta get that cleaned up," Alabama coach Nate Oats said.

All five starters for Alabama finished in double figures including Alex Reese, Jaden Shackelford and John Petty Jr. scoring 11 points and Herbert Jones 10.

Junior guard Cartier Diarra led the Wildcats with 17 points. Senior forward Makol Mawien added 13 points and 12 rebounds, including seven offensive boards.

Kansas State: The Wildcats out-rebounded Alabama 45-33, a team that was tied for fifth in the country in rebounding coming in.

Alabama: Alabama moves to 3-1 all-time in the SEC/Big 12 challenge and has now won four games in a row and eight straight at home.

Kansas State hosts Oklahoma on Wednesday night.

Alabama travels to conference leader LSU on Wednesday.

TUSCALOOSA, Ala. -- Alabama point guard Kira Lewis Jr. played for Kansas State coach Bruce Weber last summer in Greece on the gold medal-winning USA U19 team. On Saturday night, Weber's team was on the receiving end of a Lewis scoring outburst.Lewis scored 26 points and Alabama earned another win for the SEC in the SEC/Big 12 challenge, beating Kansas State 77-74."He's an unbelievable downhill driver," Weber said about Lewis. "He really shot the ball well from when he has those open 3s, and he made a couple of big daggers today."A 14-0 Alabama run in the second half extended the lead to 16 for the Crimson Tide, but the Wildcats responded with a 15-2 run that eventually cut the deficit to one.Lewis made back-to-back baskets on the next two Alabama possessions, and Alabama never relinquished the lead."When a team makes a run like that, you just figure out ways as a point guard to try to stop the bleed," Lewis said. "Get a bucket and try to get a stop and get more buckets."The Crimson Tide was in unfamiliar territory in the first half after their recent success during a three-game winning streak.During the win streak, the Crimson Tide only trailed for a total of 3:49 overall. Kansas State scored on the first possession of the game and led for more than 15 minutes in the first half.Alabama had a mini 6-0 run to take their first lead at 31-30, but the Wildcats took a 37-36 lead into halftime.Kansas State controlled the boards throughout the game and finished with 22 offensive rebounds compared to three for the Crimson Tide."Our offensive rebounding that we gave up was disastrous and really could cost us the game, so we gotta get that cleaned up," Alabama coach Nate Oats said.All five starters for Alabama finished in double figures including Alex Reese, Jaden Shackelford and John Petty Jr. scoring 11 points and Herbert Jones 10.Junior guard Cartier Diarra led the Wildcats with 17 points. Senior forward Makol Mawien added 13 points and 12 rebounds, including seven offensive boards.BIG PICTUREKansas State: The Wildcats out-rebounded Alabama 45-33, a team that was tied for fifth in the country in rebounding coming in.Alabama: Alabama moves to 3-1 all-time in the SEC/Big 12 challenge and has now won four games in a row and eight straight at home.UP NEXTKansas State hosts Oklahoma on Wednesday night.Alabama travels to conference leader LSU on Wednesday.--- Associated Press ---

K-State loses at Alabama 77-74

PISCATAWAY, NJ -- Geo Baker had struggled for nearly a month after breaking his thumb. That seemed to end Saturday with two 3-pointers in just over two minutes.

Baker hit a 3 with 1.2 seconds left to send No. 24 Rutgers past Nebraska 75-72 to raise the Scarlet Knights' home record to 14-0.

After missing a 3-pointer with 17 seconds remaining, Baker got the ball after a rebound from Akwaski Yeboah, and Rutgers' unquestioned leader waved off his teammates before drilling the final shot on a step-back jumper.

"It definitely helped my confidence to see the ball go through the hoop, especially like that," Baker said. "So I'm feeling really good right now."

Baker ditched the splint he'd been wearing since the break, saying his thumb was feeling a lot better. Entering in the game, Baker was 4-of-18 shooting in three games since returning from injury after missing three games, and started this game 0 of 6 before going 2 of 3 to end the game.

Rutgers (15-5, 6-3 Big Ten) was up 14 early in the second half before Nebraska (7-13, 2-7) went on a 22-7 run over seven minutes to lead 63-62 on two foul shots by Charlie Easely with 7:49 to go. Nebraska went ahead by six with just over three minutes left before Baker and Yeboah hit 3-pointers on back-to-back possessions to tie it at 72 with 1:59 to go.

"He's a big-time player," Nebraska coach Fred Hoiberg said of Baker. "Give him credit for stepping up and knocking down the biggest shots of the game."

Rutgers had four double-digit scorers, with Yeboah leading the way with 20 points. Caleb McConnell and Jacob Young each had 12 and Montez Mathis 10.

Nebraska, down 38-33 at the half, was led by Cam Mack with 19 points while Thorir Thorbjarnarson had 17 points and eight rebounds. Myles Johnson had nine points on 5-of-5 shooting with 11 rebounds and five blocks for Rutgers.

While it wasn't pretty, Rutgers coach Steve Pikiell was pleased his team was able to grind out a win.

"Our defense wasn't great, but it was great when it needed to be, and our offense, too, so I'm happy for that," Pikiell said. "It's how you have to win games sometimes -- you have to grind them out. And I'm an old-fashioned grinder and I appreciate those kinds of games where you're not at your best and you still find a way to win."

After receiving an AP Top 25 ranking for the first time since 1979, Rutgers went 1-1 with a close loss at No. 19 Iowa. That should be good enough to keep Rutgers right about where it is.

Rutgers has beaten Nebraska twice, its first time going 2-0 against a Big Ten opponent since joining the conference in 2014.

"Those are big things. There's a lot of good teams in this league," Pikiell said. "They say you need to climb the ladder one step at a time and that's something that we needed to do."

Rutgers: Now comes the hard part. 10 of the Scarlet Knights' final 12 games are against teams ranked or receiving votes in the AP Top 25.

Nebraska: A tough season continues. Falling well below .500 overall and in league play, the Cornhuskers are trying to stay out of the Big Ten basement.

PISCATAWAY, NJ -- Geo Baker had struggled for nearly a month after breaking his thumb. That seemed to end Saturday with two 3-pointers in just over two minutes.Baker hit a 3 with 1.2 seconds left to send No. 24 Rutgers past Nebraska 75-72 to raise the Scarlet Knights' home record to 14-0.After missing a 3-pointer with 17 seconds remaining, Baker got the ball after a rebound from Akwaski Yeboah, and Rutgers' unquestioned leader waved off his teammates before drilling the final shot on a step-back jumper."It definitely helped my confidence to see the ball go through the hoop, especially like that," Baker said. "So I'm feeling really good right now."So is his thumb.Baker ditched the splint he'd been wearing since the break, saying his thumb was feeling a lot better. Entering in the game, Baker was 4-of-18 shooting in three games since returning from injury after missing three games, and started this game 0 of 6 before going 2 of 3 to end the game.Rutgers (15-5, 6-3 Big Ten) was up 14 early in the second half before Nebraska (7-13, 2-7) went on a 22-7 run over seven minutes to lead 63-62 on two foul shots by Charlie Easely with 7:49 to go. Nebraska went ahead by six with just over three minutes left before Baker and Yeboah hit 3-pointers on back-to-back possessions to tie it at 72 with 1:59 to go."He's a big-time player," Nebraska coach Fred Hoiberg said of Baker. "Give him credit for stepping up and knocking down the biggest shots of the game."Rutgers had four double-digit scorers, with Yeboah leading the way with 20 points. Caleb McConnell and Jacob Young each had 12 and Montez Mathis 10.Nebraska, down 38-33 at the half, was led by Cam Mack with 19 points while Thorir Thorbjarnarson had 17 points and eight rebounds. Myles Johnson had nine points on 5-of-5 shooting with 11 rebounds and five blocks for Rutgers.While it wasn't pretty, Rutgers coach Steve Pikiell was pleased his team was able to grind out a win."Our defense wasn't great, but it was great when it needed to be, and our offense, too, so I'm happy for that," Pikiell said. "It's how you have to win games sometimes -- you have to grind them out. And I'm an old-fashioned grinder and I appreciate those kinds of games where you're not at your best and you still find a way to win."POLL IMPLICATIONSAfter receiving an AP Top 25 ranking for the first time since 1979, Rutgers went 1-1 with a close loss at No. 19 Iowa. That should be good enough to keep Rutgers right about where it is.B1G WinRutgers has beaten Nebraska twice, its first time going 2-0 against a Big Ten opponent since joining the conference in 2014."Those are big things. There's a lot of good teams in this league," Pikiell said. "They say you need to climb the ladder one step at a time and that's something that we needed to do."BIG PICTURERutgers: Now comes the hard part. 10 of the Scarlet Knights' final 12 games are against teams ranked or receiving votes in the AP Top 25.Nebraska: A tough season continues. Falling well below .500 overall and in league play, the Cornhuskers are trying to stay out of the Big Ten basement.UP NEXTRutgers: Hosts Purdue on Tuesday.Nebraska: Hosts Michigan on Tuesday.--- Associated Press ---

Nebraska's upset bid falls short at No. 24 Rutgers 75-72

ST. JOSEPH - The Missouri Western men's basketball team (8-11, 4-4) continues to roll at home as they beat Fort Hays State (7-10, 1-8) 79-63 in the MWSU Fieldhouse Thursday night.  The win snaps a three-game skid and move MWSU to 6-0 at home this season.

The Griffons never trailed, jumping out to a 12-0 lead on three Will Eames' 3-pointers and one by Tyus Millhollin. Missouri Western led by as many as 23 points midway through the second half. Twelve 3-pointers by the Griffons, who held the Tigers to 3 of 11 shooting from long range, aided in the lopsided victory. Missouri Western used a 10-1 run still early in the first half to lead 23-6 with 13 minutes to go before halftime.

- The five-straight home wins are the most for MWSU since winning nine in a row inside the MWSU Fieldhouse during the 2009-10 season.

- Missouri Western's women's and men's basketball teams improved to a combined 15-0 at home with the men's win which capped four-straight home doubleheader sweeps for the teams.

- MWSU owned the glass, pulling down 45 rebounds and giving up just 31 to Fort Hays State.

- 16 of the Griffons' rebounds came on the offensive glass, helping MWSU score 16 second chance points while FHSU scored six on just six offensive boards.

- The Griffons had 15 assists to just eight turnvoers.

- Four Griffs scored in double figures, led by 18 each for Eames and Tyrell Carroll. Carroll also had a team-high six assists.

- JaRon Thames led the team with nine rebounds and two blocks while scoring 12 points.

ST. JOSEPH - The Missouri Western men's basketball team (8-11, 4-4) continues to roll at home as they beat Fort Hays State (7-10, 1-8) 79-63 in the MWSU Fieldhouse Thursday night. The win snaps a three-game skid and move MWSU to 6-0 at home this season.The Griffons never trailed, jumping out to a 12-0 lead on three Will Eames' 3-pointers and one by Tyus Millhollin. Missouri Western led by as many as 23 points midway through the second half. Twelve 3-pointers by the Griffons, who held the Tigers to 3 of 11 shooting from long range, aided in the lopsided victory. Missouri Western used a 10-1 run still early in the first half to lead 23-6 with 13 minutes to go before halftime.NOTABLES- The five-straight home wins are the most for MWSU since winning nine in a row inside the MWSU Fieldhouse during the 2009-10 season.- Missouri Western's women's and men's basketball teams improved to a combined 15-0 at home with the men's win which capped four-straight home doubleheader sweeps for the teams.- MWSU owned the glass, pulling down 45 rebounds and giving up just 31 to Fort Hays State.- 16 of the Griffons' rebounds came on the offensive glass, helping MWSU score 16 second chance points while FHSU scored six on just six offensive boards.- The Griffons had 15 assists to just eight turnvoers.- Four Griffs scored in double figures, led by 18 each for Eames and Tyrell Carroll. Carroll also had a team-high six assists.- JaRon Thames led the team with nine rebounds and two blocks while scoring 12 points.- Millhollin didn't take a shot inside the 3-point arc, making four and went 5 for 5 at the free throw line for 17 points.UP NEXTThe Griffons host Nebraska-Kearney (12-6, 6-3) on Saturday at 3:30 p.m. The Lopers lost at Northwest Missouri State Thursday 65-60.--- MWSU Athletics ---

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