The Northwest Missouri State University men's basketball team captured three of the four specialty awards from the All-Mid-American Intercollegiate Athletic Association and had four players earn all-league honors as announced by the MIAA office Tuesday.

Trevor Hudgins (Player of the Year, First Team All-MIAA, Ryan Hawkins (Defensive Player of the Year, All-Defensive Team, First Team All-MIAA) and Ben McCollum (Coach of the Year) claimed the MIAA's specialty awards, while Diego Bernard (Third Team All-MIAA, All-Defensive Team) and Ryan Welty (Honorable Mention) also garnered accolades.

For the fifth straight season the MIAA Player of the Year resides in Maryville. Sophomore guard Trevor Hudgins (Manhattan, Kansas) took home the league's top honor after averaging 19.6 points per game and shooting 51.8 percent from the field. Hudgins is a four-time MIAA men's basketball athlete of the week honoree in 2019-20. Hudgins leads the nation in three-point field goal percentage (52.7%). He ranks No. 3 among NCAA Division II players in assist-to-turnover ratio (3.72). Hudgins is tops in the MIAA in assists (175 - 6.0 per game). Hudgins has three 30-plus point scoring contests and 17 20-plus point scoring games in 2019-20. He posted a career-high 36 points in a 96-49 win over Lincoln on Feb. 8.

Hawkins (Atlantic, Iowa) repeats as MIAA Defensive Player of Year and earned first team all-MIAA honors for the first time. Hawkins leads the Bearcats in scoring (22.8 ppg, rebounds (7.6 rpg, steals (2.1 spg) and blocked shots (0.7 bpg). Hawkins leads the MIAA in steals (65, ranks fifth in rebounding and fifth in minutes played per game. Hawkins is one of three MIAA players (Lincoln's Jonell Burton, Missouri Western's Will Eames) with at least 20 steals, 20 blocks, 20 assists and 20 three-pointers made. Hawkins is shooting 55.5% from the field and 45.0% from three-point range. Hawkins leads the Hawkins has collected eight double-doubles this season. Hawkins has reached 30 or more points on four occasions and he has posted 18 20-plus point scoring contests in 2019-20. Hawkins set the Northwest single-game scoring record with 44 points vs. Southern Nazarene on Nov. 2, 2019. Hawkins is a four-time MIAA athlete of the week award recipient.

Bernard (St. Joseph, Missouri) earned third team all-MIAA status and a spot on the MIAA All-Defensive squad for the second straight year. Bernard is averaging 13.8 points, 6.6 rebounds, 3.6 assists and shooting 47.9 percent from the field. He has scored 20 or more points four times this season. Bernard scored in double-figures 23 times. He ranks third in the team with 46 steals.

Welty (Parkville, Missouri) also captured honorable mention all-MIAA honors for the second consecutive season. Welty is averaging 7.7 points per game and is shooting 54.9% from the field. Welty is knocking down 51.6% of his three-point shots (47-of-91). He ranks No. 2 among all active NCAA players in career three-point field goal percentage (51.0%). Welty has connected on 27-of-29 free throws (93.1%) this season. Welty has scored a season-high 17 points on three occasions this season.

McCollum secured his sixth MIAA Coach of the Year Award after leading the Bearcats to their seventh consecutive MIAA regular season title. Northwest produced a mark of 18-1 in league play and had a +17.1 scoring margin in MIAA games. McCollum has guided the Bearcats to nine consecutive 20-win seasons, including a mark of 66-1 over the past two years.

The Bearcats return to action at 6 p.m. Thursday in Kansas City in the quarterfinals of the MIAA Tournament. Northwest will play the winner of Wednesday's first round game between No. 8-seeded Central Oklahoma and No. 9-seeded Lincoln.

2020 Men's Basketball All-MIAA Teams

Cam Martin - Missouri Southern, Junior Tyrell Carroll - Missouri Western, Sophomore Ryan Hawkins - Northwest Missouri, Junior Trevor Hudgins - Northwest Missouri, Sophomore Tyler Geiman - Washburn, Junior

Kinzer Lambert - Missouri Southern, Senior Morgan Soucie - Nebraska Kearney, Senior Caleb Smith - Northeastern State, Senior Kendrick Thompson - Northeastern State, Senior Marques Sumner - Rogers State, Senior

Jared Vitztum - Fort Hays State, Junior Elyjah Clark - Missouri Southern, Senior Marshawn Blackmon - Newman, Senior Diego Bernard - Northwest Missouri, Sophomore Tavian Davis - Rogers State, Senior

Braelon Walker - Missouri Southern Senior Josh Ihek - Northeastern State, Senior Diego Bernard - Northwest Missouri, Sophomore Ryan Hawkins - Northwest Missouri, Junior Tavian Davis - Rogers State - Senior

Central Oklahoma - Cam Givens - Sophomore Emporia State - Brenden Van Dyke - Junior Lincoln - Jonell Burton - Senior Missouri Western - Will Eames - Freshman, Tyus Millhollin - Senior Nebraska Kearney - AJ Jackson - Senior, Kyle Juhl - Senior Northwest Missouri - Ryan Welty - Senior Pittsburg State - AJ Walker - Senior Rogers State - Chris Miller - Senior, Brewster Peacock - Junior Washburn - Jonny Clausing - Sophomore

The Northwest Missouri State University men's basketball team captured three of the four specialty awards from the All-Mid-American Intercollegiate Athletic Association and had four players earn all-league honors as announced by the MIAA office Tuesday.Trevor Hudgins (Player of the Year, First Team All-MIAA, Ryan Hawkins (Defensive Player of the Year, All-Defensive Team, First Team All-MIAA) and Ben McCollum (Coach of the Year) claimed the MIAA's specialty awards, while Diego Bernard (Third Team All-MIAA, All-Defensive Team) and Ryan Welty (Honorable Mention) also garnered accolades.For the fifth straight season the MIAA Player of the Year resides in Maryville. Sophomore guard Trevor Hudgins (Manhattan, Kansas) took home the league's top honor after averaging 19.6 points per game and shooting 51.8 percent from the field. Hudgins is a four-time MIAA men's basketball athlete of the week honoree in 2019-20. Hudgins leads the nation in three-point field goal percentage (52.7%). He ranks No. 3 among NCAA Division II players in assist-to-turnover ratio (3.72). Hudgins is tops in the MIAA in assists (175 - 6.0 per game). Hudgins has three 30-plus point scoring contests and 17 20-plus point scoring games in 2019-20. He posted a career-high 36 points in a 96-49 win over Lincoln on Feb. 8.Hawkins (Atlantic, Iowa) repeats as MIAA Defensive Player of Year and earned first team all-MIAA honors for the first time. Hawkins leads the Bearcats in scoring (22.8 ppg, rebounds (7.6 rpg, steals (2.1 spg) and blocked shots (0.7 bpg). Hawkins leads the MIAA in steals (65, ranks fifth in rebounding and fifth in minutes played per game. Hawkins is one of three MIAA players (Lincoln's Jonell Burton, Missouri Western's Will Eames) with at least 20 steals, 20 blocks, 20 assists and 20 three-pointers made. Hawkins is shooting 55.5% from the field and 45.0% from three-point range. Hawkins leads the Hawkins has collected eight double-doubles this season. Hawkins has reached 30 or more points on four occasions and he has posted 18 20-plus point scoring contests in 2019-20. Hawkins set the Northwest single-game scoring record with 44 points vs. Southern Nazarene on Nov. 2, 2019. Hawkins is a four-time MIAA athlete of the week award recipient.Bernard (St. Joseph, Missouri) earned third team all-MIAA status and a spot on the MIAA All-Defensive squad for the second straight year. Bernard is averaging 13.8 points, 6.6 rebounds, 3.6 assists and shooting 47.9 percent from the field. He has scored 20 or more points four times this season. Bernard scored in double-figures 23 times. He ranks third in the team with 46 steals.Welty (Parkville, Missouri) also captured honorable mention all-MIAA honors for the second consecutive season. Welty is averaging 7.7 points per game and is shooting 54.9% from the field. Welty is knocking down 51.6% of his three-point shots (47-of-91). He ranks No. 2 among all active NCAA players in career three-point field goal percentage (51.0%). Welty has connected on 27-of-29 free throws (93.1%) this season. Welty has scored a season-high 17 points on three occasions this season.McCollum secured his sixth MIAA Coach of the Year Award after leading the Bearcats to their seventh consecutive MIAA regular season title. Northwest produced a mark of 18-1 in league play and had a +17.1 scoring margin in MIAA games. McCollum has guided the Bearcats to nine consecutive 20-win seasons, including a mark of 66-1 over the past two years.The Bearcats return to action at 6 p.m. Thursday in Kansas City in the quarterfinals of the MIAA Tournament. Northwest will play the winner of Wednesday's first round game between No. 8-seeded Central Oklahoma and No. 9-seeded Lincoln.2020 Men's Basketball All-MIAA TeamsFirst-TeamCam Martin - Missouri Southern, Junior Tyrell Carroll - Missouri Western, Sophomore Ryan Hawkins - Northwest Missouri, Junior Trevor Hudgins - Northwest Missouri, Sophomore Tyler Geiman - Washburn, JuniorSecond-TeamKinzer Lambert - Missouri Southern, Senior Morgan Soucie - Nebraska Kearney, Senior Caleb Smith - Northeastern State, Senior Kendrick Thompson - Northeastern State, Senior Marques Sumner - Rogers State, SeniorThird-TeamJared Vitztum - Fort Hays State, Junior Elyjah Clark - Missouri Southern, Senior Marshawn Blackmon - Newman, Senior Diego Bernard - Northwest Missouri, Sophomore Tavian Davis - Rogers State, SeniorAll-Defensive TeamBraelon Walker - Missouri Southern Senior Josh Ihek - Northeastern State, Senior Diego Bernard - Northwest Missouri, Sophomore Ryan Hawkins - Northwest Missouri, Junior Tavian Davis - Rogers State - SeniorHonorable MentionsCentral Oklahoma - Cam Givens - Sophomore Emporia State - Brenden Van Dyke - Junior Lincoln - Jonell Burton - Senior Missouri Western - Will Eames - Freshman, Tyus Millhollin - Senior Nebraska Kearney - AJ Jackson - Senior, Kyle Juhl - Senior Northwest Missouri - Ryan Welty - Senior Pittsburg State - AJ Walker - Senior Rogers State - Chris Miller - Senior, Brewster Peacock - Junior Washburn - Jonny Clausing - Sophomore--- Northwest Athletics ---

Hudgins named Player of the Year as Bearcats dominate All-MIAA awards

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Four members of the Missouri Western women's basketball team received a total of five MIAA postseason awards as announced by the association office on Tuesday. Corbyn Cunningham was named first team forward; Katrina Roenfeldt (G, third team and all-defensive team; Chris Wilson (F, honorable mention; and Anastacia Johnson (G, all-defensive team.

CORBYN CUNNINGHAM - First Team Forward

Cunningham was the only player in the MIAA to rank top-5 in the association in points, rebounds and field goal percentage. In her first season at MWSU, the Albuquerque, New Mexico, native finished fifth in the MIAA in scoring (15.7); third in rebounding (8.5); and third in field goal percentage (57.4%). Cunningham was twice named MIAA Player of the week and turned in nine double-doubles on the season.

KATRINA ROENFELDT - Third Team Guard / All-Defensive

A first team All-MIAA selection as a junior, Roenfeldt filled out her stat line as a senior. The Dodge City, Kansas, native was third on the team averaging 10.4 points per game. She also pulled down 6.2 rebounds per contest. Ronefeldt led the Griffons with 100 total assists and 74 steals. Her 3.6 assists per game were sixth-best in the MIAA; her 1.9 assist to turnover ratio was third-best; and her 2.6 steals per game ranked second in the MIAA.

CHRIS WILSON - Honorable Mention Forward

In her one and only season as a Griffon, Wilson joined Cunningham to form the MIAA's most formidable post duo. The St. Louis, Missouri, native's 13.5 points per game ranked 14th in the MIAA. She averaged 7.6 rebounds per game, good for seventh in the MIAA and her 52.1% shooting from the field was fifth-best in the MIAA. Wilson recorded six double-doubles on the season and was named MIAA Player of the Week once.

Often charged with defending the opposing team's top guard, Johnson ranked fourth in the MIAA with 2.2 steals per game in her senior season. Many of those steals turned into assists for the Aurora, Colorado, native as she ranked 12th in the MIAA by averaging 2.9 assists per game and fourth in assist to turnover ratio at 1.8. Johnson was also the team's fourth-leading scorer, averaging 9.5 points per game.

Missouri Western finished the season 21-7 overall and 13-6 in MIAA play, finishing in a three-way tie for third place in the association standings. The Griffons begin postseason play on Friday, March 6 as the No. 6 seed in the MIAA Championships. They will play No. 3-seeded Nebraska Kearney at 2:15 p.m. at Kansas City's Municipal Auditorium.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Four members of the Missouri Western women's basketball team received a total of five MIAA postseason awards as announced by the association office on Tuesday. Corbyn Cunningham was named first team forward; Katrina Roenfeldt (G, third team and all-defensive team; Chris Wilson (F, honorable mention; and Anastacia Johnson (G, all-defensive team.CORBYN CUNNINGHAM - First Team ForwardCunningham was the only player in the MIAA to rank top-5 in the association in points, rebounds and field goal percentage. In her first season at MWSU, the Albuquerque, New Mexico, native finished fifth in the MIAA in scoring (15.7); third in rebounding (8.5); and third in field goal percentage (57.4%). Cunningham was twice named MIAA Player of the week and turned in nine double-doubles on the season.KATRINA ROENFELDT - Third Team Guard / All-DefensiveA first team All-MIAA selection as a junior, Roenfeldt filled out her stat line as a senior. The Dodge City, Kansas, native was third on the team averaging 10.4 points per game. She also pulled down 6.2 rebounds per contest. Ronefeldt led the Griffons with 100 total assists and 74 steals. Her 3.6 assists per game were sixth-best in the MIAA; her 1.9 assist to turnover ratio was third-best; and her 2.6 steals per game ranked second in the MIAA.CHRIS WILSON - Honorable Mention ForwardIn her one and only season as a Griffon, Wilson joined Cunningham to form the MIAA's most formidable post duo. The St. Louis, Missouri, native's 13.5 points per game ranked 14th in the MIAA. She averaged 7.6 rebounds per game, good for seventh in the MIAA and her 52.1% shooting from the field was fifth-best in the MIAA. Wilson recorded six double-doubles on the season and was named MIAA Player of the Week once.ANASTACIA JOHNSON- All-DefensiveOften charged with defending the opposing team's top guard, Johnson ranked fourth in the MIAA with 2.2 steals per game in her senior season. Many of those steals turned into assists for the Aurora, Colorado, native as she ranked 12th in the MIAA by averaging 2.9 assists per game and fourth in assist to turnover ratio at 1.8. Johnson was also the team's fourth-leading scorer, averaging 9.5 points per game.Missouri Western finished the season 21-7 overall and 13-6 in MIAA play, finishing in a three-way tie for third place in the association standings. The Griffons begin postseason play on Friday, March 6 as the No. 6 seed in the MIAA Championships. They will play No. 3-seeded Nebraska Kearney at 2:15 p.m. at Kansas City's Municipal Auditorium.--- MWSU Athletics ---

Four MWSU women earn All-MIAA honors; Cunningham named 1st Team

CLASS 5 DISTRICT 16 BOYS SEMIFINALS Park Hill South 67 Central 49 Staley 69 Park Hill 38 CLASS 4 DISTRICT 16 BOYS SEMIFINALS Lafayette 51 Savannah 47 Kearney 58 Platte County 48 CLASS 1 BOYS SECTIONAL Platte Valley 68 OT Mound City 64 CLASS 1 GIRLS SECTIONAL Platte Valley 44 South Holt 21

CLASS 5 DISTRICT 16 BOYS SEMIFINALS Park Hill South 67 Central 49 Staley 69 Park Hill 38 CLASS 4 DISTRICT 16 BOYS SEMIFINALS Lafayette 51 Savannah 47 Kearney 58 Platte County 48 CLASS 1 BOYS SECTIONAL Platte Valley 68 OT Mound City 64 CLASS 1 GIRLS SECTIONAL Platte Valley 44 South Holt 21

Area High School Basketball Scores - Tuesday, March 3

Northwest Missouri State junior guard Mallory McConkey has been named to the 2019-20 honorable mention all-Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletic Association women's basketball squad the league announced Tuesday.

McConkey (Guilford, Missouri) leads the Bearcats in scoring at 12.7 points per game and rebounding at 4.4 boards per contest. McConkey upped her scoring average to 13.5 points per game in MIAA action. She scored in double figures 14 times, including a career-high 27 points at Pittsburg State on Feb. 15.

McConkey and the Bearcat women's basketball team will travel to Kansas City and Municipal Auditorium to compete in the MIAA Tournament on Wednesday. It is the first time since 2013 that the Bearcats will play in the MIAA Tournament in Kansas City.

Northwest is slated to take on No. 7 seed Central Oklahoma in the first round at 2 p.m. Wednesday. The winner of the Northwest-Central Oklahoma game will take on No. 2-seeded Emporia State on Thursday at 2:15 p.m. in the MIAA quarterfinals.

Player of the Year - Megan Skaggs - Central Missouri, Senior

Co-Defensive Player of the Year - Nija Collier - Central Missouri, Junior

Co-Defensive Player of the Year - Jessica Wayne - Emporia State, Senior

Freshman of the Year - Tre'Zure Jobe - Emporia State

Coach of the Year - Dave Slifer - Central Missouri

Morgan Fleming - Central Missouri, Senior

Corbyn Cunningham - Missouri Western, Junior

Kaylee DaMitz - Pittsburg State, Sophomore

Kelsey Johnson - Central Oklahoma, Junior

Brooke Carlson - Nebraska Kearney, Sophomore

Katrina Roenfeldt - Missouri Western, Senior

Haley Simental - Nebraska Kearney, Senior

Tristan Gegg - Pittsburg State, Sophomore

Central Oklahoma - Shatoya Bryson - Senior, Micayla Haynes - Senior

Fort Hays State - Belle Barbieri - Senior

Missouri Southern - Destiny Cozart - Senior, Chasidee Owens - Senior

Nebraska Kearney - Maegan Holt - Sophomore, Klaire Kirsch - Sophomore, Kelsey Sanger - Junior

Northeastern State - Cenia Hayes - Junior

Northwest Missouri - Mallory McConkey - Junior

Pittsburg State - Athena Alvarado - Senior, Meghan Maher - Senior

Washburn - Hunter Bentley - Washburn, Shelbe Piggie - Senior

Northwest Missouri State junior guard Mallory McConkey has been named to the 2019-20 honorable mention all-Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletic Association women's basketball squad the league announced Tuesday.McConkey (Guilford, Missouri) leads the Bearcats in scoring at 12.7 points per game and rebounding at 4.4 boards per contest. McConkey upped her scoring average to 13.5 points per game in MIAA action. She scored in double figures 14 times, including a career-high 27 points at Pittsburg State on Feb. 15.McConkey and the Bearcat women's basketball team will travel to Kansas City and Municipal Auditorium to compete in the MIAA Tournament on Wednesday. It is the first time since 2013 that the Bearcats will play in the MIAA Tournament in Kansas City.Northwest is slated to take on No. 7 seed Central Oklahoma in the first round at 2 p.m. Wednesday. The winner of the Northwest-Central Oklahoma game will take on No. 2-seeded Emporia State on Thursday at 2:15 p.m. in the MIAA quarterfinals.2020 All-MIAA AwardsPlayer of the Year - Megan Skaggs - Central Missouri, SeniorCo-Defensive Player of the Year - Nija Collier - Central Missouri, JuniorCo-Defensive Player of the Year - Jessica Wayne - Emporia State, SeniorFreshman of the Year - Tre'Zure Jobe - Emporia StateCoach of the Year - Dave Slifer - Central MissouriFirst-TeamMegan Skaggs - Central Missouri, SeniorMorgan Fleming - Central Missouri, SeniorTre'Zure Jobe - Emporia State, FreshmanCorbyn Cunningham - Missouri Western, JuniorKaylee DaMitz - Pittsburg State, SophomoreSecond-TeamNija Collier - Central Missouri, JuniorKelsey Johnson - Central Oklahoma, JuniorMollie Mounsey - Emporia State, SeniorKacey Kennett - Fort Hays State, SeniorBrooke Carlson - Nebraska Kearney, SophomoreThird-TeamJaden Hobbs - Fort Hays State, JuniorKatrina Roenfeldt - Missouri Western, SeniorHaley Simental - Nebraska Kearney, SeniorTristan Gegg - Pittsburg State, SophomoreReagan Phelan - Washburn, SeniorHonorable MentionCentral Oklahoma - Shatoya Bryson - Senior, Micayla Haynes - SeniorEmporia State - Jessica Wayne - SeniorFort Hays State - Belle Barbieri - SeniorMissouri Southern - Destiny Cozart - Senior, Chasidee Owens - SeniorMissouri Western - Chris Wilson - SeniorNebraska Kearney - Maegan Holt - Sophomore, Klaire Kirsch - Sophomore, Kelsey Sanger - JuniorNewman - Kaitlyn Potter - SeniorNortheastern State - Cenia Hayes - JuniorNorthwest Missouri - Mallory McConkey - JuniorPittsburg State - Athena Alvarado - Senior, Meghan Maher - SeniorWashburn - Hunter Bentley - Washburn, Shelbe Piggie - Senior--- Northwest Athletics ---

Northwest's McConkey named honorable mention All-MIAA

COLUMBIA, Mo. — Arguably the most decorated big-man in Mizzou Men’s Basketball history, former Tiger standout Steve Stipanovich has been named a 2020 Allstate® SEC Basketball Legend, as announced by the league office on Tuesday. The 22nd annual SEC Basketball Legends class will be honored at the SEC Men’s Basketball Tournament from March 11-15 at Bridgestone Arena in Nashville, Tenn.

Stipanovich was a 1983 All-American and the 1983 Big Eight Player of the Year. The 7-foot center steered four consecutive conference championships from 1980-83 and two sweet 16 appearances. Nicknamed “Stipo”, the St. Louis native racked up back-to-back First Team All-Big Eight honors in 1982 and 1983 after claiming Big Eight Newcomer of the Year recognition in 1980.

As a senior, he became Mizzou’s all-time leading scorer with 1,836 points and the Tigers’ all-time leading rebounder with 984 boards. Stipanovich still ranks fourth all-time in program history in scoring, fourth all-time in field goals made with 709, third all-time in blocked shots with 149 swats and third all-time in rebounding. He finished with 34 double-doubles, which still ranks fifth all-time at Mizzou.

Stipanovich was selected second overall in the 1983 NBA Draft by the Indiana Pacers, and remains the highest draft pick in school history. He played six seasons for the Pacers.

Stipanovich was inducted into the Mizzou Athletics Hall of Fame in 1990 and is one of eight players with their jersey retired in the Mizzou Arena rafters.

The 2020 SEC Legends Class also includes Jerry Harper, Alabama; Derek Hood, Arkansas; Layton Johns, Auburn; Chris Richard, Florida; Rod Cole, Georgia; Vernon Hatton, Kentucky; Collis Temple III, LSU; Eric Laird, Ole Miss; Jerry Jenkins, Mississippi State; Tre’ Kelly, South Carolina; David Britton, Texas A&amp;M; Butch Feher, Vanderbilt.

COLUMBIA, Mo. — Arguably the most decorated big-man in Mizzou Men’s Basketball history, former Tiger standout Steve Stipanovich has been named a 2020 Allstate® SEC Basketball Legend, as announced by the league office on Tuesday. The 22nd annual SEC Basketball Legends class will be honored at the SEC Men’s Basketball Tournament from March 11-15 at Bridgestone Arena in Nashville, Tenn.Stipanovich was a 1983 All-American and the 1983 Big Eight Player of the Year. The 7-foot center steered four consecutive conference championships from 1980-83 and two sweet 16 appearances. Nicknamed “Stipo”, the St. Louis native racked up back-to-back First Team All-Big Eight honors in 1982 and 1983 after claiming Big Eight Newcomer of the Year recognition in 1980.As a senior, he became Mizzou’s all-time leading scorer with 1,836 points and the Tigers’ all-time leading rebounder with 984 boards. Stipanovich still ranks fourth all-time in program history in scoring, fourth all-time in field goals made with 709, third all-time in blocked shots with 149 swats and third all-time in rebounding. He finished with 34 double-doubles, which still ranks fifth all-time at Mizzou.Stipanovich was selected second overall in the 1983 NBA Draft by the Indiana Pacers, and remains the highest draft pick in school history. He played six seasons for the Pacers.Stipanovich was inducted into the Mizzou Athletics Hall of Fame in 1990 and is one of eight players with their jersey retired in the Mizzou Arena rafters.The 2020 SEC Legends Class also includes Jerry Harper, Alabama; Derek Hood, Arkansas; Layton Johns, Auburn; Chris Richard, Florida; Rod Cole, Georgia; Vernon Hatton, Kentucky; Collis Temple III, LSU; Eric Laird, Ole Miss; Jerry Jenkins, Mississippi State; Tre’ Kelly, South Carolina; David Britton, Texas A&amp;M; Butch Feher, Vanderbilt.--- Mizzou Athletics ---

Missouri basketball's Steve Stipanovich named to 2020 SEC Legends Class

QUINCY, Ill. – The Missouri Western baseball team split a doubleheader at Quincy on Tuesday as they won the opener 7-3 before falling in game two 7-2.

The Griffons are now 5-15 this season, while Quincy is 8-3.

- The Griffons scored first with a solo home run by Ben Tsui in the first inning. Tsui would return to home plate in the fourth and add a second home run to drive in Alex Crouch and Chas Verduzco to make the lead 4-0. From then on, it was all Missouri Western as they never surrendered the lead.

- Jacob Cooper received his first win of the season on Tuesday afternoon. The senior struck out six batters and only allowed three runs in the six innings he pitched.

- Ben Tsui led the Griffons offensively as he hit two home runs with 5 RBIs. 

- Tsui leads all Griffons in homers this season with four in 2020.

- The Griffons out-hit the Hawks 12-7 in the first contest. Andrew Meier led the way with three hits, while six other Griffons tallied at least one hit.

- The Griffons stranded eight batters in game one, including six in the last three innings of play.

- Quincy got on top of the Griffons early in game two, scoring two runs in the first inning. The Hawks never gave up their lead following the gain of that lead.

- Brian Tan took the loss in game two. Although he struck out two batters in 2.2 innings pitched, Tan allowed four runs and four hits.

- The Griffon offense tallied six hits throughout game two. Ben Tsui, Colby Tam, Andrew Meier, Alex Crouch, Chas Verduzco and Jack Hazlett each had a single hit.

- The Quincy pitching staff stranded eight Griffons throughout game two, stranding Zach Hanlan four times throughout the ball game.

Missouri Western returns to Griffon Baseball Field on Mar. 6 to host MIAA opponent Rogers State for a three-game series.

QUINCY, Ill. – The Missouri Western baseball team split a doubleheader at Quincy on Tuesday as they won the opener 7-3 before falling in game two 7-2.The Griffons are now 5-15 this season, while Quincy is 8-3.GAME ONE:- The Griffons scored first with a solo home run by Ben Tsui in the first inning. Tsui would return to home plate in the fourth and add a second home run to drive in Alex Crouch and Chas Verduzco to make the lead 4-0. From then on, it was all Missouri Western as they never surrendered the lead.- Jacob Cooper received his first win of the season on Tuesday afternoon. The senior struck out six batters and only allowed three runs in the six innings he pitched.- Ben Tsui led the Griffons offensively as he hit two home runs with 5 RBIs. - Tsui leads all Griffons in homers this season with four in 2020.- The Griffons out-hit the Hawks 12-7 in the first contest. Andrew Meier led the way with three hits, while six other Griffons tallied at least one hit.- The Griffons stranded eight batters in game one, including six in the last three innings of play.GAME TWO:- Quincy got on top of the Griffons early in game two, scoring two runs in the first inning. The Hawks never gave up their lead following the gain of that lead.- Brian Tan took the loss in game two. Although he struck out two batters in 2.2 innings pitched, Tan allowed four runs and four hits.- The Griffon offense tallied six hits throughout game two. Ben Tsui, Colby Tam, Andrew Meier, Alex Crouch, Chas Verduzco and Jack Hazlett each had a single hit.- The Quincy pitching staff stranded eight Griffons throughout game two, stranding Zach Hanlan four times throughout the ball game.UP NEXT:Missouri Western returns to Griffon Baseball Field on Mar. 6 to host MIAA opponent Rogers State for a three-game series.--- MWSU Athletics ---

Missouri Western baseball splits doubleheader at Quincy

COLUMBIA, Mo.  – Mizzou Women's Basketball freshmen Aijha Blackwell (Berkeley, Mo.) and Hayley Frank (Strafford, Mo.) were named to the All-SEC Freshman Team, announced by the league office on Tuesday. Blackwell and Frank are looking to become the eighth and ninth freshmen in program history to average double figures, and the first pair to do so in the same season.

The duo are the fifth and sixth Tigers to be named to the league’s All-Freshman Team, with all six honors coming since 2016. Blackwell and Frank join Sophie Cunningham (2016, Cierra Porter (2016, Amber Smith (2017) and Akira Levy (2019) as Mizzou freshmen to be named to the All-SEC Freshman Team after impressive debut campaigns.

The duo led Mizzou to victory over Vanderbilt (Feb. 20, as they combined for 42 points (Frank 24, Blackwell 18, the most by a Mizzou freshmen duo since Sophie Cunningham (42) and Cierra Porter (14) combined for 56 points against Wake Forest on Nov. 22, 2015. They once again combined for 42 points (Frank 22, Blackwell 20) in Mizzou’s win over Ole Miss (Feb. 23, becoming the first Mizzou freshmen duo to score 20+ points in the same game since Jan. 31, 1996 when Julie Helm and Kesha Bonds did so.

Blackwell leads Mizzou in many statistical categories this season, including points (437, points per game (15.1, rebounds (210, rebounds per game (7.2, assists (77) and free throws made (210). Blackwell is one of three SEC players to be ranked in the top-10 in both scoring (15.1) and rebounding (7.2). She has played her best basketball during league play, as the Tiger freshman ranks fourth in scoring (17.9) and fifth in rebounding (8.8) during SEC play.

The Berkeley, Mo., has established herself as a go-to option in her first season in the Black &amp; Gold, as she has produced eight 20-point games and seven double-doubles. Blackwell is one of three Mizzou freshmen to record eight or more 20-point games (Julie Helm – 12, 1995-96; Sophie Cunningham – 10, 2015-16). Her seven double-doubles are the most by a Mizzou freshman since at least 2002-03.

Blackwell has put together one of the most prolific freshman seasons in program history. Among freshmen program records, she currently ranks second in free throws made (113, second in rebounding average (7.2, third in scoring (447, third in field goals made (146, fourth in scoring average (15.1, fourth in rebounds (210, fifth in three-pointers (32) and fifth in assists (77).

Frank has been impressive as well in her first season at Mizzou, as she is averaging 12.2 points and 4.0 rebounds per game while posting impressive shooting marks of 43.9 percent from the field, 36.9 percent from three and 87.6 percent from the free throw line. Frank’s mark from the charity stripe leads the SEC and ranks 17th nationally.

The Strafford, Mo., native has scored in double figures in 20 games this season, including three 20-point games and a stretch of eight consecutive games with 10+ points from Nov. 13 to Dec. 8, 2019. Frank set a Mizzou freshman program record by making at least one three-pointer in each of her first 12 collegiate games. She surpassed Kassie Drew, who made 1+ three in her first nine games in 2004-05.

Against New Mexico (Nov. 28) at the Cancun Challenge, Frank scored 29 points and grabbed six rebounds while shooting 9-of-14 from the field, 4-of-5 from three and 7-of-7 from the free throw line. Her 29 points was a new career-high, the most by a Tiger this season and the most by a Mizzou freshman since Sophie Cunningham scored 29 points against Kentucky on Feb. 25, 2016.

COLUMBIA, Mo. – Mizzou Women's Basketball freshmen Aijha Blackwell (Berkeley, Mo.) and Hayley Frank (Strafford, Mo.) were named to the All-SEC Freshman Team, announced by the league office on Tuesday. Blackwell and Frank are looking to become the eighth and ninth freshmen in program history to average double figures, and the first pair to do so in the same season.The duo are the fifth and sixth Tigers to be named to the league’s All-Freshman Team, with all six honors coming since 2016. Blackwell and Frank join Sophie Cunningham (2016, Cierra Porter (2016, Amber Smith (2017) and Akira Levy (2019) as Mizzou freshmen to be named to the All-SEC Freshman Team after impressive debut campaigns.The duo led Mizzou to victory over Vanderbilt (Feb. 20, as they combined for 42 points (Frank 24, Blackwell 18, the most by a Mizzou freshmen duo since Sophie Cunningham (42) and Cierra Porter (14) combined for 56 points against Wake Forest on Nov. 22, 2015. They once again combined for 42 points (Frank 22, Blackwell 20) in Mizzou’s win over Ole Miss (Feb. 23, becoming the first Mizzou freshmen duo to score 20+ points in the same game since Jan. 31, 1996 when Julie Helm and Kesha Bonds did so.Blackwell leads Mizzou in many statistical categories this season, including points (437, points per game (15.1, rebounds (210, rebounds per game (7.2, assists (77) and free throws made (210). Blackwell is one of three SEC players to be ranked in the top-10 in both scoring (15.1) and rebounding (7.2). She has played her best basketball during league play, as the Tiger freshman ranks fourth in scoring (17.9) and fifth in rebounding (8.8) during SEC play.The Berkeley, Mo., has established herself as a go-to option in her first season in the Black &amp; Gold, as she has produced eight 20-point games and seven double-doubles. Blackwell is one of three Mizzou freshmen to record eight or more 20-point games (Julie Helm – 12, 1995-96; Sophie Cunningham – 10, 2015-16). Her seven double-doubles are the most by a Mizzou freshman since at least 2002-03.Blackwell has put together one of the most prolific freshman seasons in program history. Among freshmen program records, she currently ranks second in free throws made (113, second in rebounding average (7.2, third in scoring (447, third in field goals made (146, fourth in scoring average (15.1, fourth in rebounds (210, fifth in three-pointers (32) and fifth in assists (77).Frank has been impressive as well in her first season at Mizzou, as she is averaging 12.2 points and 4.0 rebounds per game while posting impressive shooting marks of 43.9 percent from the field, 36.9 percent from three and 87.6 percent from the free throw line. Frank’s mark from the charity stripe leads the SEC and ranks 17th nationally.The Strafford, Mo., native has scored in double figures in 20 games this season, including three 20-point games and a stretch of eight consecutive games with 10+ points from Nov. 13 to Dec. 8, 2019. Frank set a Mizzou freshman program record by making at least one three-pointer in each of her first 12 collegiate games. She surpassed Kassie Drew, who made 1+ three in her first nine games in 2004-05.Against New Mexico (Nov. 28) at the Cancun Challenge, Frank scored 29 points and grabbed six rebounds while shooting 9-of-14 from the field, 4-of-5 from three and 7-of-7 from the free throw line. Her 29 points was a new career-high, the most by a Tiger this season and the most by a Mizzou freshman since Sophie Cunningham scored 29 points against Kentucky on Feb. 25, 2016.--- Mizzou Athletics ---

Mizzou's Blackwell & Frank named to All-SEC Freshman Team

GIRLSCLASS 5 DISTRICT 16 SEMIFINALSCentral 76, Oak Park 63Staley 61, Park Hill 54CLASS 4 DISTRICT 16 SEMIFINALSBenton 53, Smithville 44Kearney 50, Savannah 30

Area High School Basketball Scores - Monday, March 2

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Missouri Western junior forward Corbyn Cunningham has been named the final MIAA Women's Basketball Athlete of the Week. Cunningham earned the honor for the second time this season.

The Albuquerque, New Mexico native averaged 21.5 points, 11.5 rebounds and shot 55.2% from the field as Missouri Western rolled Northwest Missouri State and Washburn in its final two regular season games. Cunningham scored a career high 26 points and matched a career-high with 16 rebounds in the 77-49 win over Northwest. Against, Washburn she scored 17 with seven rebounds.

Cunnigham ended the regular season as the only player in the MIAA to rank top-5 in the conference in scoring, rebounding and field goal percentage. Her 15.7 points per game were fifth most; her 8.5 rebounds per game were third most; and her 57.4% shooting from the field was third-best in the MIAA this season.

It was the third MIAA weekly honor for a member of the team this season. Chris Wilson picked up the honor on Nov. 19 and Cunningham was named Player of the Week on Jan. 20.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Missouri Western junior forward Corbyn Cunningham has been named the final MIAA Women's Basketball Athlete of the Week. Cunningham earned the honor for the second time this season.The Albuquerque, New Mexico native averaged 21.5 points, 11.5 rebounds and shot 55.2% from the field as Missouri Western rolled Northwest Missouri State and Washburn in its final two regular season games. Cunningham scored a career high 26 points and matched a career-high with 16 rebounds in the 77-49 win over Northwest. Against, Washburn she scored 17 with seven rebounds.Cunnigham ended the regular season as the only player in the MIAA to rank top-5 in the conference in scoring, rebounding and field goal percentage. Her 15.7 points per game were fifth most; her 8.5 rebounds per game were third most; and her 57.4% shooting from the field was third-best in the MIAA this season.It was the third MIAA weekly honor for a member of the team this season. Chris Wilson picked up the honor on Nov. 19 and Cunningham was named Player of the Week on Jan. 20.--- MWSU Athletics ---

MWSU's Cunningham named MIAA Women's Basketball Player of the Week

Northwest Missouri State junior forward Ryan Hawkins has been named the MIAA men's basketball athlete of the week for the fourth time this season. It is the ninth time this season that a Bearcat men's basketball player has earned the league's weekly top honor.

Hawkins (Atlantic, Iowa) averaged 24.5 points per game and 9.0 rebound per game in leading Northwest to two victories that capped an 18-1 run through the MIAA.

Hawkins scored 25 points and tallied eight rebounds in a 92-69 win at Missouri Western. Hawkins shot 9-of-17 from the field and was a perfect 6-of-6 at the free throw line. Hawkins added 24 points and 11 rebounds for a double-double in Northwest's 69-61 home win over Washburn. Hawkins went 9-of-9 at the free throw line and added five steals as the Bearcats completed a perfect home season at 16-0.

The No. 1-ranked Bearcats (28-1 overall, 18-1 MIAA) will head to Municipal Auditorium in Kansas City this week for the 2020 MIAA Tournament. As the No. 1 seed, Northwest will take on the winner of the No. 8 Central Oklahoma vs. No. 9 Lincoln game on Thursday at 6 p.m. in the first of four quarterfinal matchups. The semifinal is set for Saturday at 6 p.m.. The title game will be played Sunday at 3:15 p.m. The Bearcats have won four consecutive MIAA Tournament championships.

Northwest Missouri State junior forward Ryan Hawkins has been named the MIAA men's basketball athlete of the week for the fourth time this season. It is the ninth time this season that a Bearcat men's basketball player has earned the league's weekly top honor.Hawkins (Atlantic, Iowa) averaged 24.5 points per game and 9.0 rebound per game in leading Northwest to two victories that capped an 18-1 run through the MIAA.Hawkins scored 25 points and tallied eight rebounds in a 92-69 win at Missouri Western. Hawkins shot 9-of-17 from the field and was a perfect 6-of-6 at the free throw line. Hawkins added 24 points and 11 rebounds for a double-double in Northwest's 69-61 home win over Washburn. Hawkins went 9-of-9 at the free throw line and added five steals as the Bearcats completed a perfect home season at 16-0.The No. 1-ranked Bearcats (28-1 overall, 18-1 MIAA) will head to Municipal Auditorium in Kansas City this week for the 2020 MIAA Tournament. As the No. 1 seed, Northwest will take on the winner of the No. 8 Central Oklahoma vs. No. 9 Lincoln game on Thursday at 6 p.m. in the first of four quarterfinal matchups. The semifinal is set for Saturday at 6 p.m.. The title game will be played Sunday at 3:15 p.m. The Bearcats have won four consecutive MIAA Tournament championships.--- Northwest Athletics ---

Northwest's Hawkins earns weekly MIAA men's basketball honor

MANHATTAN, Kan. – Kansas State safeties coach Joe Klanderman has been promoted to defensive coordinator, while cornerbacks coach Van Malone has added the titles of assistant head coach and passing game coordinator, head coach Chris Klieman announced Monday.

Klanderman, who has coached all three levels of the defense during his career, will serve as a defensive coordinator for a second time after holding the position from 2007 to 2013 at his alma mater, Minnesota State. He will continue to tutor the Wildcat safeties, as Klieman will search for a new linebackers coach to replace Scottie Hazelton, who left to become the defensive coordinator at Michigan State.

“Joe is one of the best defensive coaches I have ever been around, and he is ready for this role,” Klieman said. “In addition to already having coordinator experience, Joe knows our defense as well as anyone, and it is important to continue to develop our players and keep them in our system. We appreciate what Scottie did for our program this past year and hate to see him leave, but we are excited about our future with Coach Klanderman and the rest of our defensive staff.”

Klanderman and Malone were vital parts of a defensive staff that helped the Wildcats rank first in the nation in third down defense at 28.0%, which was the best by K-State since at least 2003. The Wildcats also ranked 15th nationally in first down defense (224) and put together a No. 2 ranking in the Big 12 in pass defense (202.9 yards per game, their best ranking in the conference since in five seasons. Additionally, K-State allowed just 21.4 points per game in 2019, its best mark since 2003.

“Van is a veteran coach who has immediately had a big impact on our program and student-athletes,” Klieman said. “Not only is he one of the most respected defensive coaches in college football, but his experience, leadership and development of young men is unmatched.”

Under Klanderman’s guidance, Denzel Goolsby earned 2019 Honorable Mention All-Big 12 honors, the first Wildcat safety to do so since 2016.

“I’m so appreciative to have the opportunity to expand my role in something much bigger than myself,” Klanderman said. “We’re going to work tirelessly to put a product on the field that Wildcat fans can be proud of. We will continue to push ahead with what we did a year ago and expand upon the foundation that was laid last season.” 

Klanderman came to Manhattan from North Dakota State after helping the Bison win four national titles in his five seasons on staff, which included a perfect 15-0 record in 2018. The NDSU defense was a major factor in its undefeated run as the Bison ranked first nationally with 23 interceptions, including six by safety Robbie Grimsley and five by safety James Hendricks.

Overall, the Bison ranked in the top five in scoring defense each of his five years on staff, including a No. 2 ranking in 2017 (11.6 points per game) and No. 3 spot in 2018 (12.6). His secondary has also helped NDSU rank in the top 11 in passing yards allowed in four of the five years, with a No. 3 national ranking in 2017 (147.9 yards per game).

Malone hit the ground running in 2019 by tutoring AJ Parker, a junior who picked up Honorable Mention All-Big 12 accolades despite missing the final five games of the year due to injury. At the time of his injury, Parker was tied for second in the Big 12 and 17th nationally in interceptions.

“This is a tremendous opportunity,” Malone said. “I couldn’t be more thrilled for Coach Klieman to give me these responsibilities, but I also understand the challenge that they hold. We came here to win championships – and it’s on the right trajectory – but we all have to be better and give more. This expanded role puts me in a great position to help us do that.”

Malone came to Manhattan after one year working as a defensive quality control coach at Mississippi State, helping the Bulldogs earn an 8-4 record and a No. 1 national ranking in scoring defense and a No. 3 mark in total defense.

Prior to Mississippi State, Malone was the defensive coordinator at SMU for three seasons, including the 2017 campaign when he was named the American Football Coaches Association (AFCA) National FBS Assistant Coach of the Year. That year, he tutored three All-AAC performers, including Justin Lawler, who was the conference’s leader in sacks.

Malone coached Lawler to his first All-AAC honor in 2016, a year he was joined on the list by cornerback Horace Richardson and safety Darrion Millines. Malone’s 2016 defense was statistically one of the 10 most improved in college football. The Mustangs ranked seventh nationally in interceptions per game and forced 26 turnovers overall. In fact, two of Malone’s three defenses finished in the top 20 in defensive turnovers.

MANHATTAN, Kan. – Kansas State safeties coach Joe Klanderman has been promoted to defensive coordinator, while cornerbacks coach Van Malone has added the titles of assistant head coach and passing game coordinator, head coach Chris Klieman announced Monday.Klanderman, who has coached all three levels of the defense during his career, will serve as a defensive coordinator for a second time after holding the position from 2007 to 2013 at his alma mater, Minnesota State. He will continue to tutor the Wildcat safeties, as Klieman will search for a new linebackers coach to replace Scottie Hazelton, who left to become the defensive coordinator at Michigan State.“Joe is one of the best defensive coaches I have ever been around, and he is ready for this role,” Klieman said. “In addition to already having coordinator experience, Joe knows our defense as well as anyone, and it is important to continue to develop our players and keep them in our system. We appreciate what Scottie did for our program this past year and hate to see him leave, but we are excited about our future with Coach Klanderman and the rest of our defensive staff.”Klanderman and Malone were vital parts of a defensive staff that helped the Wildcats rank first in the nation in third down defense at 28.0%, which was the best by K-State since at least 2003. The Wildcats also ranked 15th nationally in first down defense (224) and put together a No. 2 ranking in the Big 12 in pass defense (202.9 yards per game, their best ranking in the conference since in five seasons. Additionally, K-State allowed just 21.4 points per game in 2019, its best mark since 2003.“Van is a veteran coach who has immediately had a big impact on our program and student-athletes,” Klieman said. “Not only is he one of the most respected defensive coaches in college football, but his experience, leadership and development of young men is unmatched.”Under Klanderman’s guidance, Denzel Goolsby earned 2019 Honorable Mention All-Big 12 honors, the first Wildcat safety to do so since 2016.“I’m so appreciative to have the opportunity to expand my role in something much bigger than myself,” Klanderman said. “We’re going to work tirelessly to put a product on the field that Wildcat fans can be proud of. We will continue to push ahead with what we did a year ago and expand upon the foundation that was laid last season.” Klanderman came to Manhattan from North Dakota State after helping the Bison win four national titles in his five seasons on staff, which included a perfect 15-0 record in 2018. The NDSU defense was a major factor in its undefeated run as the Bison ranked first nationally with 23 interceptions, including six by safety Robbie Grimsley and five by safety James Hendricks.Overall, the Bison ranked in the top five in scoring defense each of his five years on staff, including a No. 2 ranking in 2017 (11.6 points per game) and No. 3 spot in 2018 (12.6). His secondary has also helped NDSU rank in the top 11 in passing yards allowed in four of the five years, with a No. 3 national ranking in 2017 (147.9 yards per game).Malone hit the ground running in 2019 by tutoring AJ Parker, a junior who picked up Honorable Mention All-Big 12 accolades despite missing the final five games of the year due to injury. At the time of his injury, Parker was tied for second in the Big 12 and 17th nationally in interceptions.“This is a tremendous opportunity,” Malone said. “I couldn’t be more thrilled for Coach Klieman to give me these responsibilities, but I also understand the challenge that they hold. We came here to win championships – and it’s on the right trajectory – but we all have to be better and give more. This expanded role puts me in a great position to help us do that.”Malone came to Manhattan after one year working as a defensive quality control coach at Mississippi State, helping the Bulldogs earn an 8-4 record and a No. 1 national ranking in scoring defense and a No. 3 mark in total defense.Prior to Mississippi State, Malone was the defensive coordinator at SMU for three seasons, including the 2017 campaign when he was named the American Football Coaches Association (AFCA) National FBS Assistant Coach of the Year. That year, he tutored three All-AAC performers, including Justin Lawler, who was the conference’s leader in sacks.Malone coached Lawler to his first All-AAC honor in 2016, a year he was joined on the list by cornerback Horace Richardson and safety Darrion Millines. Malone’s 2016 defense was statistically one of the 10 most improved in college football. The Mustangs ranked seventh nationally in interceptions per game and forced 26 turnovers overall. In fact, two of Malone’s three defenses finished in the top 20 in defensive turnovers.--- K-State Athletics ---

K-State’s Klanderman, Malone promoted on defensive football staff

TOPEKA, Kan. – Missouri Western Baseball rounded out their three-game series at Washburn with game three on Sunday afternoon. The Griffons (4-14, 0-3 MIAA) were swept in their first MIAA series of the season by Washburn (11-8, 3-0 MIAA) falling 13-9 on Sunday.

Washburn scored three runs in the first two innings of play. From then on, it was all Ichabods, scoring 10 runs in the last five innings of play to seal the series sweep. Missouri Western did threaten in the ninth, scoring three runs with one out. The Griffons had a runner at third with one out before a Washburn pitching change turned momentum back in the Ichabods' favor.

Roy Robles received the loss in game three for the Griffons. Although he struck out five batters, Robles gave up six hits and four runs in four innings pitched. Jared Sharp got the win for the Ichabods, allowing one hit in 2.1 innings.

- Andrew Meier led the way with three, Ben Tsui tallied two and nine other Griffons added one hit each

- Jordan Jackson hit his first home run of the season, scoring Meier in the ninth inning

- 10 Griffons were stranded on base throughout game three, including four in the final two innings of play

- Missouri Western's pitching staff tallied eight strikeouts

Missouri Western will round out a five-game road trip on Tuesday with a doubleheader against GLVC opponent Quincy. The Hawks are currently 6-2 on the year. 

TOPEKA, Kan. – Missouri Western Baseball rounded out their three-game series at Washburn with game three on Sunday afternoon. The Griffons (4-14, 0-3 MIAA) were swept in their first MIAA series of the season by Washburn (11-8, 3-0 MIAA) falling 13-9 on Sunday.Washburn scored three runs in the first two innings of play. From then on, it was all Ichabods, scoring 10 runs in the last five innings of play to seal the series sweep. Missouri Western did threaten in the ninth, scoring three runs with one out. The Griffons had a runner at third with one out before a Washburn pitching change turned momentum back in the Ichabods' favor.Roy Robles received the loss in game three for the Griffons. Although he struck out five batters, Robles gave up six hits and four runs in four innings pitched. Jared Sharp got the win for the Ichabods, allowing one hit in 2.1 innings.NOTABLES:- The Griffon offense totaled 14 hits- Andrew Meier led the way with three, Ben Tsui tallied two and nine other Griffons added one hit each- Jordan Jackson hit his first home run of the season, scoring Meier in the ninth inning- 10 Griffons were stranded on base throughout game three, including four in the final two innings of play- Missouri Western's pitching staff tallied eight strikeoutsUP NEXT:Missouri Western will round out a five-game road trip on Tuesday with a doubleheader against GLVC opponent Quincy. The Hawks are currently 6-2 on the year. --- MWSU Athletics ---

Griffon baseball gets swept by Washburn

MARYVILLE, Missouri - The visiting Northeastern State RiverHawks posted a 9-4 victory on Sunday to take a three-game series against the Northwest Missouri State Bearcat baseball team.

Following a scoreless first at Bearcat Field, Northeastern St. jumped on the scoreboard first in the top of the second, scoring three runs and taking an early 3-0 advantage.

The Northwest offense answered with two runs of its own in the home half of the inning. Junior Donovan Warren began the two-out rally by drawing a walk. Warren kept NSU starter Lee Callison off balance as he advanced to second on a wild pitch and to third on a pickoff attempt from Callison that sailed into center. Senior Tim Olson drew a walk to put runners on the corners. Junior Jacob Pinkerton was hit by a pitch for the second time in two innings to load the bases. Redshirt freshman Caden Diel came through with a two-RBI single to right-center that scored both Warren and Olson. Peter Carlson drew a walk to reload the bases but Connor Quick hit into a groundout at second to end the inning.

The Bearcats evened the score in the fifth while also chasing Callison from the game. Carlson led off the inning by connecting with a double to left-center. Quick flew out deep enough to center to advance Carlson to third. Junior Matt Gastner greeted NSU reliever Colt Browne with an RBI single to left-center to even the score at 3-3.

Northwest starter Quintin Van Ackeren worked six innings and gave up five hits. NSU could only muster three runs against Ackeren, who was relieved by Daniel Smith to begin the sixth. 

The RiverHawks dinged Smith for three hits and three runs in a third of an inning. Aaron Duncan came in with one out in the sixth and got the final two outs on a sacrifice fly and a flyout to right.

Northeastern State added three more insurance runs in the ninth, two of which came via a two-run homer from Collin Klingensmith off Northwest's Zach Shadlow.

With one out in the bottom of the ninth, Diel stepped up to the plate and blasted a solo homer to right-center field to give the Bearcats their final run of the game. Quick launched a two-out double and moved to third on a wild pitch but was stranded when Gastner struck out to end it.

The Bearcats will hit the road and be back in action March 6-8 as they take on Emporia State in a three-game series in Emporia, Kansas.

NOTES: Three Bearcats notched multi-hit outings (Jacob Pinketon, Diel, Quick, Diel tallied game-high three RBI, Quick extended his team-best 17-game on-base streak, Pinkerton and Quick extended team-high seven game hitting streaks.

MARYVILLE, Missouri - The visiting Northeastern State RiverHawks posted a 9-4 victory on Sunday to take a three-game series against the Northwest Missouri State Bearcat baseball team.Following a scoreless first at Bearcat Field, Northeastern St. jumped on the scoreboard first in the top of the second, scoring three runs and taking an early 3-0 advantage.The Northwest offense answered with two runs of its own in the home half of the inning. Junior Donovan Warren began the two-out rally by drawing a walk. Warren kept NSU starter Lee Callison off balance as he advanced to second on a wild pitch and to third on a pickoff attempt from Callison that sailed into center. Senior Tim Olson drew a walk to put runners on the corners. Junior Jacob Pinkerton was hit by a pitch for the second time in two innings to load the bases. Redshirt freshman Caden Diel came through with a two-RBI single to right-center that scored both Warren and Olson. Peter Carlson drew a walk to reload the bases but Connor Quick hit into a groundout at second to end the inning.The Bearcats evened the score in the fifth while also chasing Callison from the game. Carlson led off the inning by connecting with a double to left-center. Quick flew out deep enough to center to advance Carlson to third. Junior Matt Gastner greeted NSU reliever Colt Browne with an RBI single to left-center to even the score at 3-3.Northwest starter Quintin Van Ackeren worked six innings and gave up five hits. NSU could only muster three runs against Ackeren, who was relieved by Daniel Smith to begin the sixth. The RiverHawks dinged Smith for three hits and three runs in a third of an inning. Aaron Duncan came in with one out in the sixth and got the final two outs on a sacrifice fly and a flyout to right.Northeastern State added three more insurance runs in the ninth, two of which came via a two-run homer from Collin Klingensmith off Northwest's Zach Shadlow.With one out in the bottom of the ninth, Diel stepped up to the plate and blasted a solo homer to right-center field to give the Bearcats their final run of the game. Quick launched a two-out double and moved to third on a wild pitch but was stranded when Gastner struck out to end it.The Bearcats will hit the road and be back in action March 6-8 as they take on Emporia State in a three-game series in Emporia, Kansas.NOTES: Three Bearcats notched multi-hit outings (Jacob Pinketon, Diel, Quick, Diel tallied game-high three RBI, Quick extended his team-best 17-game on-base streak, Pinkerton and Quick extended team-high seven game hitting streaks.--- Northwest Athletics ---

Bearcat baseball drops series finale to Northeastern State 9-4

JOPLIN, Mo. – After a narrow defeat in game one, the Missouri Western softball team (7-8) exploded for nine runs in a run-rule victory in game two of a doubleheader against Northern State (11-3) on Sunday morning.

The Griffons went 4-1 at the Teri Mathis-Zenner Memorial Tournament hosted by Missouri Southern. Missouri Western outscored its opponents 28-7 in the five games played in Joplin over the weekend with two shutouts.

After suffering her first loss of the season on Saturday to Missouri Southern, Northern State pitcher Meghan Anderson held the Griffons to just three hits in a complete game victory that pushed her record to 7-1 on the season.

Anderson retired the first nine Griffons she faced before Brea Blanton broke up the perfect game attempt with a leadoff single in the fourth. Blanton scored MWSU's only run of the game two batters later after a Lauren Houston sacrifice bunt and a fielding error that allowed Rachel Stewart to reach and Blanton to score from second.

In the bottom of the sixth, Blanton had another leadoff single then stole second. After Lauren Houston walked to put the go-ahead run at first, Stewart popped up to short and Blanton was doubled off. Houston got into scoring position, but a line out ended MWSU's last scoring threat.

Kaili Hinds (3-2) pitched all seven innings for the Griffs. She scattered nine Northern State runs, walking four and striking out four. Blanton had two of the team's three hits. Sydni Hawkins had the other.   

The Griffs scored three runs each in the first, third and fourth innings while Kelly Uthe held the Wolves to just three hits in her four innings of work.

An Emma Hoffart triple scored Houston to put MWSU up 1-0 four batters into the game. Markee Brown drove in two more with a single up the middle to give the Griffs three in the first. The first five Griffs reached in the third, scoring two on a Taylor Hoelscher single and one on a throwing error. Sydni Hawkins drove in one with a single and Uthe drove in two with a double in the fourth.

Hoffart and Brown had three hits each with Hoffart scoring three runs and Brown driving in two. Hawkins and Hoelscher each had two hits and Hoelscher added two RBIs. Uthe retired the first eight she faced before allowing a two-out single in the third. Northern State added its two other hits in the fourth. Olivia Goodale relieved Uthe after four innings and pitched a perfect fifth with one strikeout. 

Missouri Western plays its first MIAA games of the season on March 6 at Northwest Missouri State.

JOPLIN, Mo. – After a narrow defeat in game one, the Missouri Western softball team (7-8) exploded for nine runs in a run-rule victory in game two of a doubleheader against Northern State (11-3) on Sunday morning.The Griffons went 4-1 at the Teri Mathis-Zenner Memorial Tournament hosted by Missouri Southern. Missouri Western outscored its opponents 28-7 in the five games played in Joplin over the weekend with two shutouts.GAME 1Northern State 2, MWSU 1After suffering her first loss of the season on Saturday to Missouri Southern, Northern State pitcher Meghan Anderson held the Griffons to just three hits in a complete game victory that pushed her record to 7-1 on the season.Anderson retired the first nine Griffons she faced before Brea Blanton broke up the perfect game attempt with a leadoff single in the fourth. Blanton scored MWSU's only run of the game two batters later after a Lauren Houston sacrifice bunt and a fielding error that allowed Rachel Stewart to reach and Blanton to score from second.In the bottom of the sixth, Blanton had another leadoff single then stole second. After Lauren Houston walked to put the go-ahead run at first, Stewart popped up to short and Blanton was doubled off. Houston got into scoring position, but a line out ended MWSU's last scoring threat.Kaili Hinds (3-2) pitched all seven innings for the Griffs. She scattered nine Northern State runs, walking four and striking out four. Blanton had two of the team's three hits. Sydni Hawkins had the other. GAME 2MWSU 9, Northern State 0 (5 Inn.)The Griffs scored three runs each in the first, third and fourth innings while Kelly Uthe held the Wolves to just three hits in her four innings of work.An Emma Hoffart triple scored Houston to put MWSU up 1-0 four batters into the game. Markee Brown drove in two more with a single up the middle to give the Griffs three in the first. The first five Griffs reached in the third, scoring two on a Taylor Hoelscher single and one on a throwing error. Sydni Hawkins drove in one with a single and Uthe drove in two with a double in the fourth.Hoffart and Brown had three hits each with Hoffart scoring three runs and Brown driving in two. Hawkins and Hoelscher each had two hits and Hoelscher added two RBIs. Uthe retired the first eight she faced before allowing a two-out single in the third. Northern State added its two other hits in the fourth. Olivia Goodale relieved Uthe after four innings and pitched a perfect fifth with one strikeout. UP NEXTMissouri Western plays its first MIAA games of the season on March 6 at Northwest Missouri State.--- MWSU Athletics ---

Missouri Western softball splits doubleheader with Northern State

SPRINGFIELD, Missouri – The Northwest Missouri State University softball team finished the Drury Invitational Sunday with two more wins. The Bearcats are now on a four-game win streak with a 12-4 triumph over Newman and a 5-1 victory over Southwest Baptist.

Olivia Daugherty singled to the shortstop in the first inning to start the momentum. Jacee Winn reached on a fielder's choice and then advanced to third from two errors from the Jets defense. Daugherty scored off one of the errors. Shortly after, Kali Allen hit a RBI single to bring in Winn to score and give Northwest an early 2-0 lead.

In the top of the second inning, Daugherty reached base on an error by the third baseman pushing Grace Jeffries to second. Winn then reached base on an error by the shortstop, bringing in Jeffries to score. Next at bat, Kaitlyn Weis hit a RBI single to allow Daugherty to score. Erin Keeney then hit a three-run homer to push the Bearcat lead to 7-0.

Jeffries hit a RBI single to the shortstop to bring in Alexis Kump to score in the top of the third inning and advance their lead to 8-0.

The Jets answered in the bottom of the third inning scoring three runs to cut Northwest's lead, 8-3.

In the top of the fourth inning, Kump hit a three-run blast to advance the Bearcat lead to 11-3 over the Jets.

Newman scored off a RBI in the bottom of the fifth inning to make the score 11-4.

Keeney homered for the second time in the game in the sixth to secure the 12-4 win over Newman.

Southwest Baptist got on the board first with a run from a passed ball in the first inning.

In the top of the third inning, Jacee Winn grounded out to the pitcher but allowed Grace Jeffries to score and tie the game, 1-1.

In the top of the fifth inning, Olivia Daugherty hit a two-run homer. Winn then hit a single and stole second. Next at bat, Kaitlyn Weis hit a RBI double, bringing in Winn to score and give Northwest the lead at 4-1.

Jeffries reached base on an error by the center fielder to start the seventh inning. Jeffries then stole second. Daugherty then hit a RBI single to allow Jeffries to score and give Northwest the 5-1 win over Southwest Baptist.

Northwest moves to 7-11 overall on the season and swept the Drury Invitational with four wins.

The Bearcats will host Missouri Western and Illinois Springfield next weekend for their home opener.

NOTES: Daugherty leads the team in batting average with a .424. She has six doubles, three home runs and 10 RBI. Weis is slugging a .355 average with four doubles, five home runs and 15 RBI. Keeney has a .295 average with three doubles, two home runs and 12 RBI.

SPRINGFIELD, Missouri – The Northwest Missouri State University softball team finished the Drury Invitational Sunday with two more wins. The Bearcats are now on a four-game win streak with a 12-4 triumph over Newman and a 5-1 victory over Southwest Baptist.Game One vs. Newman, W 12-4 Olivia Daugherty singled to the shortstop in the first inning to start the momentum. Jacee Winn reached on a fielder's choice and then advanced to third from two errors from the Jets defense. Daugherty scored off one of the errors. Shortly after, Kali Allen hit a RBI single to bring in Winn to score and give Northwest an early 2-0 lead.In the top of the second inning, Daugherty reached base on an error by the third baseman pushing Grace Jeffries to second. Winn then reached base on an error by the shortstop, bringing in Jeffries to score. Next at bat, Kaitlyn Weis hit a RBI single to allow Daugherty to score. Erin Keeney then hit a three-run homer to push the Bearcat lead to 7-0.Jeffries hit a RBI single to the shortstop to bring in Alexis Kump to score in the top of the third inning and advance their lead to 8-0.The Jets answered in the bottom of the third inning scoring three runs to cut Northwest's lead, 8-3.In the top of the fourth inning, Kump hit a three-run blast to advance the Bearcat lead to 11-3 over the Jets.Newman scored off a RBI in the bottom of the fifth inning to make the score 11-4.Keeney homered for the second time in the game in the sixth to secure the 12-4 win over Newman.Game Two vs. Southwest Baptist, W 5-1Southwest Baptist got on the board first with a run from a passed ball in the first inning.In the top of the third inning, Jacee Winn grounded out to the pitcher but allowed Grace Jeffries to score and tie the game, 1-1.In the top of the fifth inning, Olivia Daugherty hit a two-run homer. Winn then hit a single and stole second. Next at bat, Kaitlyn Weis hit a RBI double, bringing in Winn to score and give Northwest the lead at 4-1.Jeffries reached base on an error by the center fielder to start the seventh inning. Jeffries then stole second. Daugherty then hit a RBI single to allow Jeffries to score and give Northwest the 5-1 win over Southwest Baptist.Northwest moves to 7-11 overall on the season and swept the Drury Invitational with four wins.The Bearcats will host Missouri Western and Illinois Springfield next weekend for their home opener.NOTES: Daugherty leads the team in batting average with a .424. She has six doubles, three home runs and 10 RBI. Weis is slugging a .355 average with four doubles, five home runs and 15 RBI. Keeney has a .295 average with three doubles, two home runs and 12 RBI.--- Northwest Athletics ---

Northwest softball wins final two games at Drury Invite

PITTSBURG, Kan. – Missouri Western Track and Field rounded out their weekend with the final day of the MIAA Championships on Sunday. Similar to Saturday's action, many personal records were set and program records were broken.

Sunday's results were highlighted by Hanna Williams placing third in the women's 600-yard run. Williams' finish is the best individual finish at the MIAA Indoor Championships in school history. She finished the weekend with a time of 1:24.59, scoring six points toward the women's team total and breaking her program record for the third time this year.

Savannah Simmons also posted a top-10 finish in the women's 60-meter dash with a time of 7.84. Simmons placed seventh posting two points towards the team cause.

The women's 4x400-meter relay team of Aniya Mance-Edwards, Williams, Lynzi Miller and Symonne Holland also posted points for the Griffon women. The group posted a sixth-place finish with 3:52.78 and scored three points.

When it comes to personal records, Tara Bergman finished in the women's shot put with a PR of 12.69 meters. Kallin Sheppard also set a lifetime personal best in the shot with a best of 12.34 meters.

The Griffon men's 4x400-meter relay team finished sixth overall to score three points towards the men's team. The group of Michael Smith, Tyler Luke, Derek Dixon and Jalen Pauley also broke the school record with a time of 3:17.48.

PITTSBURG, Kan. – Missouri Western Track and Field rounded out their weekend with the final day of the MIAA Championships on Sunday. Similar to Saturday's action, many personal records were set and program records were broken.Sunday's results were highlighted by Hanna Williams placing third in the women's 600-yard run. Williams' finish is the best individual finish at the MIAA Indoor Championships in school history. She finished the weekend with a time of 1:24.59, scoring six points toward the women's team total and breaking her program record for the third time this year.Savannah Simmons also posted a top-10 finish in the women's 60-meter dash with a time of 7.84. Simmons placed seventh posting two points towards the team cause.The women's 4x400-meter relay team of Aniya Mance-Edwards, Williams, Lynzi Miller and Symonne Holland also posted points for the Griffon women. The group posted a sixth-place finish with 3:52.78 and scored three points.When it comes to personal records, Tara Bergman finished in the women's shot put with a PR of 12.69 meters. Kallin Sheppard also set a lifetime personal best in the shot with a best of 12.34 meters.The Griffon men's 4x400-meter relay team finished sixth overall to score three points towards the men's team. The group of Michael Smith, Tyler Luke, Derek Dixon and Jalen Pauley also broke the school record with a time of 3:17.48.--- MWSU Athletics ---

William finishes 3rd in 600 as MWSU track & field wraps up the MIAA Championships

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. – The Missouri Western men's basketball team (17-13, 13-6 MIAA) wrapped up the program's most successful season in 10 years with a 94-80 win over Washburn (16-12, 11-8) on Saturday afternoon. The 13th MIAA win of the season matched the total from the previous three seasons, combined, and was the most for the program in 18 years.

Missouri Western's first win over the Ichabods in four years came via a big Griffon run to start the second half. After taking a 36-35 lead to halftime, MWSU started the second half with a 13-2 run and built its biggest lead of the game, 20, with 3:44 to go. Missouri Western went 12 for 19 from long range in the second half after going 4 of 10 in the first. The Griffons shot 58.8% from the field in a 58-point second half.

Prior to the game, seniors Tyus Millhollin, Jason Jones and Beau Baker were recognized. The trio combined for 40 points in the game.

- 16 made 3-point field goals in the game gave the Griffons 292 on the season, breaking the program record of 290 set in the 1994-95 season

- Tyus Millhollin broke the school record with 10, 3-point field goals in the game and tied the program record for individual 3s in a season with 96

- The Griffons scored 20 points off 13 Washburn turnovers while the Ichabods managed seven points on 11 giveaways by the Griffs

- MWSU also scored 23 fast break points to five for Washburn

- Millhollin scored a career-high 34 points in his final game in the MWSU Fieldhouse. The senior guard went 11 of 18 from the field, 10 of 15 from 3-pointr range and added three assists.

- Tyrell Carrolll scored 20 points on 8 of 16 shooting with a team-high five rebounds, nine assists and five steals

- JaRon Thames was 5 of 10 from the field with 14 points and four rebounds

- Reese Glover went 5 of 8 from the field and 3 of 5 from long range, scoring 13 points

- Tony Chukwuemeke matched Carroll's team-high rebound total with five

- Matched conference win total from previous three seasons combined

- Longest home win (11) streak in 17 years

- Longest overall win streak (7) in 18 years

- First win over a ranked opponent in seven years

- Most total rebounds in more than 20 years

- Most 3-point field goals in program history

Missouri Western will face Washburn once again in the opening round of the MIAA Championships on March 6 at 6 p.m. inside Municipal Auditorium in Kansas City, Missouri. The Griffons finished fourth in the standings and will be the No. 4 seed while Washburn tied for fifth with Northeastern State, but got the No. 5 seed via tiebreaker.

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. – The Missouri Western men's basketball team (17-13, 13-6 MIAA) wrapped up the program's most successful season in 10 years with a 94-80 win over Washburn (16-12, 11-8) on Saturday afternoon. The 13th MIAA win of the season matched the total from the previous three seasons, combined, and was the most for the program in 18 years.Missouri Western's first win over the Ichabods in four years came via a big Griffon run to start the second half. After taking a 36-35 lead to halftime, MWSU started the second half with a 13-2 run and built its biggest lead of the game, 20, with 3:44 to go. Missouri Western went 12 for 19 from long range in the second half after going 4 of 10 in the first. The Griffons shot 58.8% from the field in a 58-point second half.Prior to the game, seniors Tyus Millhollin, Jason Jones and Beau Baker were recognized. The trio combined for 40 points in the game.NOTABLES- 16 made 3-point field goals in the game gave the Griffons 292 on the season, breaking the program record of 290 set in the 1994-95 season- Tyus Millhollin broke the school record with 10, 3-point field goals in the game and tied the program record for individual 3s in a season with 96- The Griffons scored 20 points off 13 Washburn turnovers while the Ichabods managed seven points on 11 giveaways by the Griffs- MWSU also scored 23 fast break points to five for Washburn- Millhollin scored a career-high 34 points in his final game in the MWSU Fieldhouse. The senior guard went 11 of 18 from the field, 10 of 15 from 3-pointr range and added three assists.- Tyrell Carrolll scored 20 points on 8 of 16 shooting with a team-high five rebounds, nine assists and five steals- JaRon Thames was 5 of 10 from the field with 14 points and four rebounds- Reese Glover went 5 of 8 from the field and 3 of 5 from long range, scoring 13 points- Tony Chukwuemeke matched Carroll's team-high rebound total with fiveSEASON NOTABLES- First winning season in 10 years- Most overall wins in 10 years- Most conference wins in 18 years- Highest conference finish in 10 years- Matched conference win total from previous three seasons combined- Longest home win (11) streak in 17 years- Most home wins (12) in 14 years- Longest overall win streak (7) in 18 years- First win over a ranked opponent in seven years- Most total points (2,374) in 18 years- Most total rebounds in more than 20 years- Most assists in 10 years- Most field goals 12 years- Most 3-point field goals in program historyUP NEXTMissouri Western will face Washburn once again in the opening round of the MIAA Championships on March 6 at 6 p.m. inside Municipal Auditorium in Kansas City, Missouri. The Griffons finished fourth in the standings and will be the No. 4 seed while Washburn tied for fifth with Northeastern State, but got the No. 5 seed via tiebreaker.--- MWSU Athletics ---

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