LAWRENCE, Kan. – Kansas football head coach Les Miles announced the addition of Jonathan Wallace to the Jayhawks coaching staff today. Wallace, who will serve as the special teams coordinator and coach the KU running backs, comes to Lawrence after spending the 2019 season coaching the tight ends at Air Force and the 2018 season on the staff at Bethel, where he coached under current Jayhawks offensive coordinator Brent Dearmon.

“Jonathan is a detail-oriented coach, who is also a dynamic recruiter,” said Miles. “He has experience with a championship caliber football program as both a player and a coach and knows the intricacies of the offensive scheme we want to run. Additionally, he has a strong understanding of what we want to accomplish in all phases of the kicking game.”

Wallace spent the 2019 campaign at Air Force, helping lead the Falcons to an 11-2 overall mark and a win over Washington State in the Cheez-It Bowl. Air Force posted a 7-1 record in the Mountain West, a school record for conference wins, and finished the year in the Top 25 national rankings for the first time since 1998. Wallace’s tight ends were instrumental in blocking for the FBS’ second-ranked rushing offense, while the Falcons led the nation in fewest sacks allowed. 

Wallace joined the Academy from Bethel, where he was wide receivers coach and director of football operations in 2018. He and Dearmon led the Wildcats to a 10-1 overall record and a conference championship.

Wallace was an offensive graduate assistant coach at Auburn from 2016-17 working with quarterbacks and wide receivers during the 2017 season. He helped the Tigers to a pair of bowl games and Southeastern Conference championship game appearance in his two seasons on the staff.

Wallace lettered as a quarterback at Auburn from 2012-14 and wide receiver in 2015 during his playing career. He started at quarterback the final four games of his freshman season and set an Auburn record for quarterback efficiency (139.60) Wallace also helped Auburn to the SEC title in 2013 and was part of the national championship run when Auburn finished the season 12-1. He was selected as a team captain in 2015 and earned the Unsung Hero Award. In addition, he was a selected as a member of the All-State Good Works team.

LAWRENCE, Kan. – Kansas football head coach Les Miles announced the addition of Jonathan Wallace to the Jayhawks coaching staff today. Wallace, who will serve as the special teams coordinator and coach the KU running backs, comes to Lawrence after spending the 2019 season coaching the tight ends at Air Force and the 2018 season on the staff at Bethel, where he coached under current Jayhawks offensive coordinator Brent Dearmon.“Jonathan is a detail-oriented coach, who is also a dynamic recruiter,” said Miles. “He has experience with a championship caliber football program as both a player and a coach and knows the intricacies of the offensive scheme we want to run. Additionally, he has a strong understanding of what we want to accomplish in all phases of the kicking game.”Wallace spent the 2019 campaign at Air Force, helping lead the Falcons to an 11-2 overall mark and a win over Washington State in the Cheez-It Bowl. Air Force posted a 7-1 record in the Mountain West, a school record for conference wins, and finished the year in the Top 25 national rankings for the first time since 1998. Wallace’s tight ends were instrumental in blocking for the FBS’ second-ranked rushing offense, while the Falcons led the nation in fewest sacks allowed. Wallace joined the Academy from Bethel, where he was wide receivers coach and director of football operations in 2018. He and Dearmon led the Wildcats to a 10-1 overall record and a conference championship.Wallace was an offensive graduate assistant coach at Auburn from 2016-17 working with quarterbacks and wide receivers during the 2017 season. He helped the Tigers to a pair of bowl games and Southeastern Conference championship game appearance in his two seasons on the staff.Wallace lettered as a quarterback at Auburn from 2012-14 and wide receiver in 2015 during his playing career. He started at quarterback the final four games of his freshman season and set an Auburn record for quarterback efficiency (139.60) Wallace also helped Auburn to the SEC title in 2013 and was part of the national championship run when Auburn finished the season 12-1. He was selected as a team captain in 2015 and earned the Unsung Hero Award. In addition, he was a selected as a member of the All-State Good Works team.--- KU Athletics ---

Kansas names Jonathan Wallace Special Teams Coordinator and Running Backs Coach

BOYS Lafayette 57 (13-9) Mid-Buchanan 41 GIRLS Central 54 (13-10, 5-5 Suburban) Park Hill South 20 Bishop LeBlond 47 (12-11) West Platte 22

BOYS Lafayette 57 (13-9) Mid-Buchanan 41 GIRLS Central 54 (13-10, 5-5 Suburban) Park Hill South 20 Bishop LeBlond 47 (12-11) West Platte 22

City High School Basketball Scores - Monday, February 17

LAWRENCE, Kan. -- Devon Dotson had watched Iowa State torch the nets in Allen Fieldhouse long enough, so the do-everything Kansas guard began raining down 3-pointers and getting to the rim in what started out as a one-man scoring showcase.

The rest of the third-ranked Jayhawks eventually followed his lead.

Dotson finished with six 3-pointers and 29 points, but he wound up being just one of five Kansas players in double-figures scoring, helping the Jayhawks to a 91-71 victory over the Cyclones on Monday night to keep pace in the Big 12 race.

"When they're hitting shots like they did, I mean, yeah, we've got to respond," Dotson said. "I think every game we try to knock down our shots, but this game, people were rolling."

Ochai Agbaji finished with 14 points, Udoka Azubuike and Christian Braun scored 13 apiece, and David McCormack had 10 points to send the Jayhawks (23-3, 12-1 Big 12) into a pivotal rematch with No. 1 Baylor with some serious momentum.

The Bears (23-1, 12-0) visit Oklahoma on Tuesday night before facing the Jayhawks at Ferrell Center on Saturday. Kansas hasn't lost since the two teams met at Allen Fieldhouse in mid-January.

"We have a couple days to get rested for obviously the biggest game of the year," Jayhawks coach Bill Self said.

Prentiss Nixon scored 20 points, Matt Jacobson had 13 and Rasir Bolton 12 for the slumping Cyclones (11-15, 4-9, who have lost 14 of their last 15 games at the Phog and still have not won a road game this season.

Their frustrating season was summed up by the first half, when they did just about everything right and still trailed 50-40.

Iowa State was 9 of 12 from beyond the arc in a torrid display of shooting, and at one point connected on 3-pointers on three consecutive trips down floor. The Cyclones committed nine turnovers but generally held onto the ball well, and they also hung tough on the glass against a team with a massive advantage in both size and depth.

Maybe a little better defense would have helped.

As good as the Cyclones were on offense, the Jayhawks were even better. They kept pounding the ball inside to the 7-foot Azubuike, who dunked his way toward 10 first-half points, and that opened things up outside. Dotson had 15 points by the break, and Braun came off the bench to hit a trio of 3-pointers and score 13 points in just 12 minutes.

"The first half I thought offensively we gave ourselves a chance to be in the game," Cyclones coach Steve Prohm said. "You get 40 in a half at this place you'd think you're in pretty good shape."

Iowa State tried to mount a comeback in the second half by getting the ball to Solomon Young, who spent most of the first half on the bench with two fouls. But the big forward was hounded every time he touched the ball and never seemed to get an open look, and that forced the Cyclones into launching up another barrage of 3-pointers.

They also slapped on a full-court press, but crisp passing and Dotson's smooth ball-handling easily broke it down.

The league's leading scorer snuffed out any chance of a comeback midway through the second half. Dotson knocked down a bucket, stripped Nixon near mid-court and took it to the rim for a three-point play, then curled in a 3-pointer from right in front of the Kansas bench to make it 78-55 with just over nine minutes to go.

"We put 40 minutes together we're really good," Nixon said, "but when we play in spurts it's not in our favor. It showed in our performance tonight."

Iowa State was playing its third game without starting guard Tyrese Haliburton, who is out the rest of the season with a fractured wrist. His absence was especially apparent against Dotson, who sliced up the Cyclones' backup guards all night.

Kansas rolled to its 800th win in Allen Fieldhouse, which will celebrate its 65th birthday on March 1. The Jayhawks have only lost 114 times in the building. Of those wins, 54 of them have come in 64 games against the Cyclones.

Marcus Morris had his No. 22 jersey added to the jerseys that hang over the south stands of the Phog during a halftime ceremony. Morris was a second-team All-American and Big 12 player of the year during his junior season in 2011 and, with twin brother Markieff Morris, helped the Jayhawks win three regular-season conference titles.

"This is a big honor for my family," Marcus Morris said. "Coming from Philadelphia, never in our wildest dreams did we think this was possible. Even when we got here, I didn't think it was possible. When I look at the jersey going up there, it represents us both, because without `Kieff it would't have been possible for me either. We accomplished a lot together."

Iowa State begins a two-game homestand against Texas Tech on Saturday night.

Kansas gets a couple extra days before its showdown with the Bears.

LAWRENCE, Kan. -- Devon Dotson had watched Iowa State torch the nets in Allen Fieldhouse long enough, so the do-everything Kansas guard began raining down 3-pointers and getting to the rim in what started out as a one-man scoring showcase.The rest of the third-ranked Jayhawks eventually followed his lead.Dotson finished with six 3-pointers and 29 points, but he wound up being just one of five Kansas players in double-figures scoring, helping the Jayhawks to a 91-71 victory over the Cyclones on Monday night to keep pace in the Big 12 race."When they're hitting shots like they did, I mean, yeah, we've got to respond," Dotson said. "I think every game we try to knock down our shots, but this game, people were rolling."Ochai Agbaji finished with 14 points, Udoka Azubuike and Christian Braun scored 13 apiece, and David McCormack had 10 points to send the Jayhawks (23-3, 12-1 Big 12) into a pivotal rematch with No. 1 Baylor with some serious momentum.The Bears (23-1, 12-0) visit Oklahoma on Tuesday night before facing the Jayhawks at Ferrell Center on Saturday. Kansas hasn't lost since the two teams met at Allen Fieldhouse in mid-January."We have a couple days to get rested for obviously the biggest game of the year," Jayhawks coach Bill Self said.Prentiss Nixon scored 20 points, Matt Jacobson had 13 and Rasir Bolton 12 for the slumping Cyclones (11-15, 4-9, who have lost 14 of their last 15 games at the Phog and still have not won a road game this season.Their frustrating season was summed up by the first half, when they did just about everything right and still trailed 50-40.Iowa State was 9 of 12 from beyond the arc in a torrid display of shooting, and at one point connected on 3-pointers on three consecutive trips down floor. The Cyclones committed nine turnovers but generally held onto the ball well, and they also hung tough on the glass against a team with a massive advantage in both size and depth.Maybe a little better defense would have helped.As good as the Cyclones were on offense, the Jayhawks were even better. They kept pounding the ball inside to the 7-foot Azubuike, who dunked his way toward 10 first-half points, and that opened things up outside. Dotson had 15 points by the break, and Braun came off the bench to hit a trio of 3-pointers and score 13 points in just 12 minutes."The first half I thought offensively we gave ourselves a chance to be in the game," Cyclones coach Steve Prohm said. "You get 40 in a half at this place you'd think you're in pretty good shape."Iowa State tried to mount a comeback in the second half by getting the ball to Solomon Young, who spent most of the first half on the bench with two fouls. But the big forward was hounded every time he touched the ball and never seemed to get an open look, and that forced the Cyclones into launching up another barrage of 3-pointers.They also slapped on a full-court press, but crisp passing and Dotson's smooth ball-handling easily broke it down.The league's leading scorer snuffed out any chance of a comeback midway through the second half. Dotson knocked down a bucket, stripped Nixon near mid-court and took it to the rim for a three-point play, then curled in a 3-pointer from right in front of the Kansas bench to make it 78-55 with just over nine minutes to go."We put 40 minutes together we're really good," Nixon said, "but when we play in spurts it's not in our favor. It showed in our performance tonight."BIG PICTUREIowa State was playing its third game without starting guard Tyrese Haliburton, who is out the rest of the season with a fractured wrist. His absence was especially apparent against Dotson, who sliced up the Cyclones' backup guards all night.Kansas rolled to its 800th win in Allen Fieldhouse, which will celebrate its 65th birthday on March 1. The Jayhawks have only lost 114 times in the building. Of those wins, 54 of them have come in 64 games against the Cyclones.RAISING TO THE RAFTERMarcus Morris had his No. 22 jersey added to the jerseys that hang over the south stands of the Phog during a halftime ceremony. Morris was a second-team All-American and Big 12 player of the year during his junior season in 2011 and, with twin brother Markieff Morris, helped the Jayhawks win three regular-season conference titles."This is a big honor for my family," Marcus Morris said. "Coming from Philadelphia, never in our wildest dreams did we think this was possible. Even when we got here, I didn't think it was possible. When I look at the jersey going up there, it represents us both, because without `Kieff it would't have been possible for me either. We accomplished a lot together."UP NEXTIowa State begins a two-game homestand against Texas Tech on Saturday night.Kansas gets a couple extra days before its showdown with the Bears.--- Associated Press ---

Dotson's 29 points lead No. 3 Kansas past Iowa State 91-71

JEFFERSON CITY — State Sen. Tony Luetkemeyer, R-Parkville, has presented a resolution to the Missouri Western State University Griffons football team in recognition of their 2019 victory in the Agent Barry Live United Bowl game. The St. Joseph-based Griffons defeated the Reddies of Henderson State University in the game played on Dec. 7 in Texarkana, Arkansas. 

The 35-14 win over the Arkadelphia, Arkansas, team marked the Griffon’s second-consecutive victory at the Live United Bowl, which benefits the Texarkana United Way. The annual cross-conference match-up is one of four NCAA Division II sanctioned bowl games. The MWSU squad was the first team to win back-to-back victories during the event’s seven-year history, having defeated Southern Arkansas University in 2018.

“The Griffons’ bowl victory is a fitting finale to a remarkable record-breaking season,” Sen. Luetkemeyer said. “I was proud to congratulate Head Coach Matt Williamson and all the members of the 2019 Griffons. They’ve really done their school and all of northwest Missouri proud.”

The bowl victory marked the Griffons’ 300th all-time win, capping off MSWU’s 50th football season. The team finished the 2019 season with a record of 9-3, the Griffons’ best performance since 2012. They also broke a previous road game record, with 11 straight wins away from St. Joseph.

JEFFERSON CITY — State Sen. Tony Luetkemeyer, R-Parkville, has presented a resolution to the Missouri Western State University Griffons football team in recognition of their 2019 victory in the Agent Barry Live United Bowl game. The St. Joseph-based Griffons defeated the Reddies of Henderson State University in the game played on Dec. 7 in Texarkana, Arkansas. The 35-14 win over the Arkadelphia, Arkansas, team marked the Griffon’s second-consecutive victory at the Live United Bowl, which benefits the Texarkana United Way. The annual cross-conference match-up is one of four NCAA Division II sanctioned bowl games. The MWSU squad was the first team to win back-to-back victories during the event’s seven-year history, having defeated Southern Arkansas University in 2018.“The Griffons’ bowl victory is a fitting finale to a remarkable record-breaking season,” Sen. Luetkemeyer said. “I was proud to congratulate Head Coach Matt Williamson and all the members of the 2019 Griffons. They’ve really done their school and all of northwest Missouri proud.”The bowl victory marked the Griffons’ 300th all-time win, capping off MSWU’s 50th football season. The team finished the 2019 season with a record of 9-3, the Griffons’ best performance since 2012. They also broke a previous road game record, with 11 straight wins away from St. Joseph.--- District 34 Press Release ---

Senator Luetkemeyer congratulates Griffon football on bowl victory

Northwest Missouri State sophomore guard Trevor Hudgins has earned his fourth MIAA men's basketball athlete of the week award. Hudgins is sharing this week's honor with Missouri Southern's Cam Martin.

Hudgins (Manhattan, Kansas) averaged 30.5 points per game and shot 65.6% from the field (21-32, including an astounding 63.2% from three-point range (12-of-19). Hudgins drained 77.8% of his free throws and averaged 4.5 assists per game as Northwest picked up two road victories over Missouri Southern (96-75) and Pittsburg State (95-60).

Hudgins poured in a game-high 33 points on 10-of-19 shooting in a 21-point win at No. 14-ranked Missouri Southern. Hudgins knocked in 7-of-13 three-pointers and 6-of-7 free throws in the triumph. Hudgins handed out six assists to go along with two turnovers in 40 minutes of action.

Hudgins recorded his sixth straight 20-plus point scoring game with a game-high 28 points at Pittsburg State. Hudgins went 11-of-13 from the field, including 5-of-6 from three-point range against the Gorillas. Hudgins dished out six assists against one turnover in 31 minutes of action.

The Northwest men's basketball team will be in action Thursday at 7:30 p.m. in Bearcat Arena against Missouri Southern.

Northwest Missouri State sophomore guard Trevor Hudgins has earned his fourth MIAA men's basketball athlete of the week award. Hudgins is sharing this week's honor with Missouri Southern's Cam Martin.Hudgins (Manhattan, Kansas) averaged 30.5 points per game and shot 65.6% from the field (21-32, including an astounding 63.2% from three-point range (12-of-19). Hudgins drained 77.8% of his free throws and averaged 4.5 assists per game as Northwest picked up two road victories over Missouri Southern (96-75) and Pittsburg State (95-60).Hudgins poured in a game-high 33 points on 10-of-19 shooting in a 21-point win at No. 14-ranked Missouri Southern. Hudgins knocked in 7-of-13 three-pointers and 6-of-7 free throws in the triumph. Hudgins handed out six assists to go along with two turnovers in 40 minutes of action.Hudgins recorded his sixth straight 20-plus point scoring game with a game-high 28 points at Pittsburg State. Hudgins went 11-of-13 from the field, including 5-of-6 from three-point range against the Gorillas. Hudgins dished out six assists against one turnover in 31 minutes of action.The Northwest men's basketball team will be in action Thursday at 7:30 p.m. in Bearcat Arena against Missouri Southern.--- Northwest Athletics ---

Northwest's Hudgins earns MIAA Player of Week honor again

JOPLIN, Mo. - Missouri Western Baseball rounded out their trip to the MIAA/GLVC Crossover on Monday as the Griffons (3-8) fell to St. Cloud State (3-1) 6-0 in Joplin.

From the first inning onward, it was all St. Cloud State. The Huskies started the matchup scoring two runs in the first inning and never let their foot off the gas for the rest of the contest.

Riley Ahern was the winning pitcher for the St. Cloud. Ahern allowed only three hits and struck out seven batters through five innings pitched. Roy Robles took his second loss on the season for the Griffons. Although the senior struck out six batters, Robles allowed six hits and four runs through six innings.

- Zach Pych went two-for-four from plate hitting two of the four total hits for the Griffons.

- Gustavo Gonzales and Andrew Meier each tallied the other two hits.

- The Griffon fielders tallied 27 putouts to St. Cloud's 24 throughout the contest.

- Four errors were booked by the Griffons compared to St. Cloud who was error-less.

- Brian Tan and Jake Gilbert came in for relief of Robles and only allowed three hits in three innings pitched.

The Griffons will return to St. Joseph to open home regular season play against Minot State on Feb. 21.

JOPLIN, Mo. - Missouri Western Baseball rounded out their trip to the MIAA/GLVC Crossover on Monday as the Griffons (3-8) fell to St. Cloud State (3-1) 6-0 in Joplin.From the first inning onward, it was all St. Cloud State. The Huskies started the matchup scoring two runs in the first inning and never let their foot off the gas for the rest of the contest.Riley Ahern was the winning pitcher for the St. Cloud. Ahern allowed only three hits and struck out seven batters through five innings pitched. Roy Robles took his second loss on the season for the Griffons. Although the senior struck out six batters, Robles allowed six hits and four runs through six innings.NOTABLES:- Zach Pych went two-for-four from plate hitting two of the four total hits for the Griffons.- Gustavo Gonzales and Andrew Meier each tallied the other two hits.- The Griffon fielders tallied 27 putouts to St. Cloud's 24 throughout the contest.- Four errors were booked by the Griffons compared to St. Cloud who was error-less.- Brian Tan and Jake Gilbert came in for relief of Robles and only allowed three hits in three innings pitched.UP NEXT:The Griffons will return to St. Joseph to open home regular season play against Minot State on Feb. 21.--- MWSU Athletics ---

Western baseball get blanked by No. 27 St. Cloud State 6-0

JOPLIN, Missouri – In a contest between Bearcats, the Northwest Missouri State University baseball team came up short against McKendree University Monday, dropping its last game of the MIAA/GLVC Challenge 3-2.

McKendree tallied the first runs of the afternoon, plating two runs in the bottom of the second to take an early 2-0 advantage.

After stagnant third and fourth innings by both offenses, Northwest got the ball rolling in the fifth, crossing a run and cutting the lead in half at 2-1. With one out, junior DMACC transfer Jordan Pinkerton tripled to deep right-center field, giving Northwest life on the base paths. Pinkerton scored when senior first baseman Connor Quick reached on a fielder's choice.

McKendree answered with a run of its own in the home half of the fifth, increasing its lead back to two.

In the top of the sixth, junior infielder Peter Carlson doubled down the right-field line. With two outs, senior infielder Tim Olson singled through the left side of the infield, allowing the speedy Carlson to score from second base. Northwest clawed into the McKendree lead 3-2.

McKendree held the explosive Northwest offense scoreless throughout the final three innings to hang onto a 3-2 victory. Northwest left 12 runners on base during Monday's action.

Junior Dodge City CC transfer Jonathan McIntyre got the start on the mound for Northwest, throwing four 1/3 innings. McIntyre allowed three runs (three earned) on five hits while adding two strikeouts to his 2020 season total (11). Junior righty Aaron Duncan earned the final two outs of the fifth and was relieved by sophomore Daniel Smith in the sixth. Smith dealt the final three innings of the contest going unscathed, not allowing a hit while striking out one.

Northwest will be back in action as it travels to Colorado Springs, Colorado, to take on UC-Colorado Springs in a three-game series. Action will begin Friday, Feb. 21, with first pitch scheduled for 3 p.m. (CT).

NOTES: Northwest outhit McKendree, 7-5 … Northwest's offense tallied two doubles and two triples … Quick extended his team-best 11-game reached base streak ... Olsen extended team-leading six-game on hitting streak … Pinkerton earned his fourth multiple-hit game of the season … six different Northwest batters notched hits (Pinkerton, Quick, Matt Gastner, Carlson, Olson, Trevor Dooley).

JOPLIN, Missouri – In a contest between Bearcats, the Northwest Missouri State University baseball team came up short against McKendree University Monday, dropping its last game of the MIAA/GLVC Challenge 3-2.McKendree tallied the first runs of the afternoon, plating two runs in the bottom of the second to take an early 2-0 advantage.After stagnant third and fourth innings by both offenses, Northwest got the ball rolling in the fifth, crossing a run and cutting the lead in half at 2-1. With one out, junior DMACC transfer Jordan Pinkerton tripled to deep right-center field, giving Northwest life on the base paths. Pinkerton scored when senior first baseman Connor Quick reached on a fielder's choice.McKendree answered with a run of its own in the home half of the fifth, increasing its lead back to two.In the top of the sixth, junior infielder Peter Carlson doubled down the right-field line. With two outs, senior infielder Tim Olson singled through the left side of the infield, allowing the speedy Carlson to score from second base. Northwest clawed into the McKendree lead 3-2.McKendree held the explosive Northwest offense scoreless throughout the final three innings to hang onto a 3-2 victory. Northwest left 12 runners on base during Monday's action.Junior Dodge City CC transfer Jonathan McIntyre got the start on the mound for Northwest, throwing four 1/3 innings. McIntyre allowed three runs (three earned) on five hits while adding two strikeouts to his 2020 season total (11). Junior righty Aaron Duncan earned the final two outs of the fifth and was relieved by sophomore Daniel Smith in the sixth. Smith dealt the final three innings of the contest going unscathed, not allowing a hit while striking out one.Northwest will be back in action as it travels to Colorado Springs, Colorado, to take on UC-Colorado Springs in a three-game series. Action will begin Friday, Feb. 21, with first pitch scheduled for 3 p.m. (CT).NOTES: Northwest outhit McKendree, 7-5 … Northwest's offense tallied two doubles and two triples … Quick extended his team-best 11-game reached base streak ... Olsen extended team-leading six-game on hitting streak … Pinkerton earned his fourth multiple-hit game of the season … six different Northwest batters notched hits (Pinkerton, Quick, Matt Gastner, Carlson, Olson, Trevor Dooley).--- Northwest Athletics ---

Bearcat baseball loses to McKendree 3-2 Monday

Kansas City, MO – Small College Basketball and the National Awards Committee are excited to announce the Top 50 watch list for the 2020 Bevo Francis Award. This list consists of some of the top players from NCAA Division II, NCAA Division III, NAIA Division I, NAIA Division II, USCAA and NCCAA. John McCarthy had this to say about this year's Top 50 watch list. 

Northwest Missouri State has two players listed on the Bevo Francis Top 50 watch list in junior forward Ryan Hawkins and sophomore guard Trevor Hudgins. Hawkins and Hudgins have helped the Bearcats to a No. 1 NCAA Division II national ranking and a 24-1 record.

Hawkins is averaging 22.7 points per game and 7.6 rebounds per game, while shooting 57.3% from the field and 46.9% from three-point range. Hawkins leads the MIAA in steals (2.4/game). Hawkins has collected seven double-doubles this season. Hawkins has reached 30 or more points on four occasions and he has posted 15 20-plus point scoring contests in 2019-20.

Hudgins leads the nation in three-point field percentage (53.9%) and is averaging 20.0 points per game. Hudgins is tops in the MIAA in assists (152 - 6.1 per game) and in assist-to-turnover ratio (3.6). Hudgins has two 30-plus point scoring contests and 16 20-plus point scoring games in 2019-20.

The Clarence "Bevo" Francis Award is presented annually to the player who has had the finest overall season within Small College Basketball. Considerations will be season statistics and individual achievements, awards, personal character and team achievements. This is an incredibly prestigious award, as this award will only be given to one player within Small College Basketball per season.   2020 marks the fifth year of the Bevo Francis Award. Past winners include Dominez Burnett of Davenport University in 2016, Justin Pitts of Northwest Missouri State University in 2017, Emanuel Terry of Lincoln Memorial University in 2018, and Aston Francis of Wheaton College in 2019. John McCarthy had this to add about this year's award.  

On March 15th, the list will be reduced to the Top 25 Players. On April 4th, the finalist of this year's award will be announced, followed by the Bevo Francis Award winner being crowned on April 6th. To stay up to date on all things Small College Basketball, please head to smallcollegebasketball.com. 

Kansas City, MO – Small College Basketball and the National Awards Committee are excited to announce the Top 50 watch list for the 2020 Bevo Francis Award. This list consists of some of the top players from NCAA Division II, NCAA Division III, NAIA Division I, NAIA Division II, USCAA and NCCAA. John McCarthy had this to say about this year's Top 50 watch list. Northwest Missouri State has two players listed on the Bevo Francis Top 50 watch list in junior forward Ryan Hawkins and sophomore guard Trevor Hudgins. Hawkins and Hudgins have helped the Bearcats to a No. 1 NCAA Division II national ranking and a 24-1 record.Hawkins is averaging 22.7 points per game and 7.6 rebounds per game, while shooting 57.3% from the field and 46.9% from three-point range. Hawkins leads the MIAA in steals (2.4/game). Hawkins has collected seven double-doubles this season. Hawkins has reached 30 or more points on four occasions and he has posted 15 20-plus point scoring contests in 2019-20.Hudgins leads the nation in three-point field percentage (53.9%) and is averaging 20.0 points per game. Hudgins is tops in the MIAA in assists (152 - 6.1 per game) and in assist-to-turnover ratio (3.6). Hudgins has two 30-plus point scoring contests and 16 20-plus point scoring games in 2019-20.The Clarence "Bevo" Francis Award is presented annually to the player who has had the finest overall season within Small College Basketball. Considerations will be season statistics and individual achievements, awards, personal character and team achievements. This is an incredibly prestigious award, as this award will only be given to one player within Small College Basketball per season. 2020 marks the fifth year of the Bevo Francis Award. Past winners include Dominez Burnett of Davenport University in 2016, Justin Pitts of Northwest Missouri State University in 2017, Emanuel Terry of Lincoln Memorial University in 2018, and Aston Francis of Wheaton College in 2019. John McCarthy had this to add about this year's award. On March 15th, the list will be reduced to the Top 25 Players. On April 4th, the finalist of this year's award will be announced, followed by the Bevo Francis Award winner being crowned on April 6th. To stay up to date on all things Small College Basketball, please head to smallcollegebasketball.com. --- Northwest Athletics ---

Northwest's Hawkins, Hudgins named to Bevo Francis top 50 watch list

JOPLIN, Mo. - Missouri Western Baseball picked up win number three on the early season on Sunday against McKendree. The Griffons (3-7) topped the Bearcats (0-3) 8-7 on day three of the MIAA/GLVC Crossover in Joplin.

McKendree outhit the Griffons 13-11 and took an early 1-0 lead in the second inning, but Missouri Western brought in seven runs in the third and fourth innings to take the lead 7-5. From there, the Griffons did not look back.

Carson Aycock got the start at the mound for the Griffons, striking out one batter in three innings pitched. Jack Schmedding and Kyle Heckenbach came in as relief for Aycock, striking out five batters and allowing only six hits. Schmedding got the win, while Heckenbach received a save for finishing the ball game. Geoff Withers received the loss for the Bearcats, allowing seven runs in 3.2 innings pitched.

 -Missouri Western tallied 11 hits throughout the contest. Reid Briney, Colby Tam and Gustavo Gonzales each added two hits, while Josh Robinson, Andrew Meier, Troy Davern, Zach Pych and Brock Wrolstad added one hit each.

- Troy Davern and Colby Tam each smacked home runs for the Griffons. Tam brought in three RBI's tallying four on the day.

- Like the previous two opponents, the matchup with the Bearcats was the first time the Griffons played McKendree in program history.

- Josh Robinson scored on two different occasions: once off of Tam's home run and another off a wild pitch.

The Griffons will return to Warren Turner Field one more time to play St. Cloud State at 10:00 a.m. on Monday.

JOPLIN, Mo. - Missouri Western Baseball picked up win number three on the early season on Sunday against McKendree. The Griffons (3-7) topped the Bearcats (0-3) 8-7 on day three of the MIAA/GLVC Crossover in Joplin.McKendree outhit the Griffons 13-11 and took an early 1-0 lead in the second inning, but Missouri Western brought in seven runs in the third and fourth innings to take the lead 7-5. From there, the Griffons did not look back.Carson Aycock got the start at the mound for the Griffons, striking out one batter in three innings pitched. Jack Schmedding and Kyle Heckenbach came in as relief for Aycock, striking out five batters and allowing only six hits. Schmedding got the win, while Heckenbach received a save for finishing the ball game. Geoff Withers received the loss for the Bearcats, allowing seven runs in 3.2 innings pitched.NOTABLES: -Missouri Western tallied 11 hits throughout the contest. Reid Briney, Colby Tam and Gustavo Gonzales each added two hits, while Josh Robinson, Andrew Meier, Troy Davern, Zach Pych and Brock Wrolstad added one hit each.- Troy Davern and Colby Tam each smacked home runs for the Griffons. Tam brought in three RBI's tallying four on the day.- Like the previous two opponents, the matchup with the Bearcats was the first time the Griffons played McKendree in program history.- Josh Robinson scored on two different occasions: once off of Tam's home run and another off a wild pitch.UP NEXT:The Griffons will return to Warren Turner Field one more time to play St. Cloud State at 10:00 a.m. on Monday.--- MWSU Athletics ---

Griffon baseball holds off McKendree 8-7

JOPLIN, Mo. – The Northwest Missouri State University baseball team dropped game three of the MIAA/GLVC Challenge Sunday, falling to University of Missouri-St. Louis 8-1.

Following a quiet first inning, the Tritons broke the scoreless tie in the top of the second, scoring a run and taking the early 1-0 advantage.

In the fourth, UMSL went back to work in the batter's box, plating three more runs and claiming a 4-0 lead over Northwest.

The Bearcats answered with a run of their own in the home half of the fourth, clawing into the Tritons lead 4-1. With two outs, sophomore Jordan Peck doubled down the right field line, scoring junior outfielder Matt Gastner from first base. Peck was thrown out at third on the play to end the inning.

UMSL extended its lead in the top of the eighth, crossing three runs on four hits, including two doubles and two singles. The Tritons led 7-1 heading into the bottom of the inning.

After silencing the powerful Bearcat offense in the bottom of the eighth, the Tritons plater another insurance run in the top of the ninth, upping the lead to 8-1.

Northwest found itself with an opportunity in the bottom of the ninth to make some noise, but couldn't capitalize with the bases loaded and two outs, concluding the contest 8-1 in favor of UMSL.

Junior DMACC transfer Spencer Hanson got the start on the bump for the Bearcats, tossing five 2/3 innings. In 28 batters faced, Hanson allowed four runs (four earned) on 10 hits while striking out three. Fellow junior Blaine Hanf and freshman Thomas Henrichs also made appearances on the mound for the 'Cats.

Northwest will be back in action in its final contest of the 2020 MIAA/GLVC Challenge Monday, taking on McKendree. First pitch is set for 1 p.m. There has been only one ever meeting between the two schools, with the last coming in 1998 when McKendree defeated Northwest 1-0.

NOTES: Peck went 2-for-4; tallying two doubles and an RBI…Quick extended his team-high on-base streak to 10 games.

JOPLIN, Mo. – The Northwest Missouri State University baseball team dropped game three of the MIAA/GLVC Challenge Sunday, falling to University of Missouri-St. Louis 8-1.Following a quiet first inning, the Tritons broke the scoreless tie in the top of the second, scoring a run and taking the early 1-0 advantage.In the fourth, UMSL went back to work in the batter's box, plating three more runs and claiming a 4-0 lead over Northwest.The Bearcats answered with a run of their own in the home half of the fourth, clawing into the Tritons lead 4-1. With two outs, sophomore Jordan Peck doubled down the right field line, scoring junior outfielder Matt Gastner from first base. Peck was thrown out at third on the play to end the inning.UMSL extended its lead in the top of the eighth, crossing three runs on four hits, including two doubles and two singles. The Tritons led 7-1 heading into the bottom of the inning.After silencing the powerful Bearcat offense in the bottom of the eighth, the Tritons plater another insurance run in the top of the ninth, upping the lead to 8-1.Northwest found itself with an opportunity in the bottom of the ninth to make some noise, but couldn't capitalize with the bases loaded and two outs, concluding the contest 8-1 in favor of UMSL.Junior DMACC transfer Spencer Hanson got the start on the bump for the Bearcats, tossing five 2/3 innings. In 28 batters faced, Hanson allowed four runs (four earned) on 10 hits while striking out three. Fellow junior Blaine Hanf and freshman Thomas Henrichs also made appearances on the mound for the 'Cats.Northwest will be back in action in its final contest of the 2020 MIAA/GLVC Challenge Monday, taking on McKendree. First pitch is set for 1 p.m. There has been only one ever meeting between the two schools, with the last coming in 1998 when McKendree defeated Northwest 1-0.NOTES: Peck went 2-for-4; tallying two doubles and an RBI…Quick extended his team-high on-base streak to 10 games.--- Northwest Athletics ---

Bearcat baseball suffers 8-1 loss to Missouri-St. Louis

BENTONVILLE, Ark. - The Missouri Western softball team closed out the Alvy Early Memorial Classic Sunday in Bentonville, Arkansas as they lost two close games.  The Griffons fell to Quincy in their first game Sunday 5-4 and then lost to Arkansas-Monticello 3-0.  MWSU falls to 1-3 on the season.

The Griffons scored two in the bottom of the seventh and had the tying run at second and winning run at first when the game ended.

Down 5-2 to start the final half-inning, Markee Brown got on with a leadoff pinch-run single. With one out, Brea Blanton reached on an error that got Brown to second. Both scored on Emma Hoffart's two-out single to center. Rachel Stewart then singled to put the tying run in scoring position, but Quincy ended it by coaxing Kelly Uthe into a ground ball to second for the final out of the game.

Hoffart went 2 for 3 in the game with the two RBIs. Stewart was 2 for 4 at the plate. Blanton, Hoffart and Stewart all doubled in the game. Uthe, Lauren Houston and Chloe Armstrong also had hits in the game. Olivia Goodale took the loss in relief of Kaili Hinds. Goodale gave up two runs, both earned on four hits over three innings. Hinds pitched the first four innings, allowing three earned runs on two hits.

A three-run fourth inning pushed the Cottom Blossoms past the Griffons in game two. Both teams had four hits, but MWSU couldn't get a run in.

Neither team produced a base hit until Sydni Hawkins' bunt-single in the top of the third. The Griffons put the first four on in the inning, but an out on the base paths prevented MWSU from scoring a run. Getting the start in game two, Goodale hadn't allowed a hit until a one-out double in the bottom of the fourth. With two-out, Goodale surrendered back-to-back walks, the second pushing across the first run of the game. A two-out, two-RBI single put UAM up 3-0 after four innings.

Missouri Western never got more than one base runner on in the rest of the game. Taylor Hoelscher doubled in the sixth and got to third on a wild pitch, but was thrown out trying to score on a fly out by Lauren Houston. Blanton, Hawkins, Hoffart and Hoelscher each had a hit in the game. Goodale took the loss, allowing three runs on four hits over six innings.

Missouri Western will play six games at the Emporia State Classic beginning this Friday.

BENTONVILLE, Ark. - The Missouri Western softball team closed out the Alvy Early Memorial Classic Sunday in Bentonville, Arkansas as they lost two close games. The Griffons fell to Quincy in their first game Sunday 5-4 and then lost to Arkansas-Monticello 3-0. MWSU falls to 1-3 on the season.GAME 1 Quincy 5, MWSU 4The Griffons scored two in the bottom of the seventh and had the tying run at second and winning run at first when the game ended.Down 5-2 to start the final half-inning, Markee Brown got on with a leadoff pinch-run single. With one out, Brea Blanton reached on an error that got Brown to second. Both scored on Emma Hoffart's two-out single to center. Rachel Stewart then singled to put the tying run in scoring position, but Quincy ended it by coaxing Kelly Uthe into a ground ball to second for the final out of the game.Hoffart went 2 for 3 in the game with the two RBIs. Stewart was 2 for 4 at the plate. Blanton, Hoffart and Stewart all doubled in the game. Uthe, Lauren Houston and Chloe Armstrong also had hits in the game. Olivia Goodale took the loss in relief of Kaili Hinds. Goodale gave up two runs, both earned on four hits over three innings. Hinds pitched the first four innings, allowing three earned runs on two hits.GAME 2 Arkansas-Monticello 3, MWSU 0A three-run fourth inning pushed the Cottom Blossoms past the Griffons in game two. Both teams had four hits, but MWSU couldn't get a run in.Neither team produced a base hit until Sydni Hawkins' bunt-single in the top of the third. The Griffons put the first four on in the inning, but an out on the base paths prevented MWSU from scoring a run. Getting the start in game two, Goodale hadn't allowed a hit until a one-out double in the bottom of the fourth. With two-out, Goodale surrendered back-to-back walks, the second pushing across the first run of the game. A two-out, two-RBI single put UAM up 3-0 after four innings.Missouri Western never got more than one base runner on in the rest of the game. Taylor Hoelscher doubled in the sixth and got to third on a wild pitch, but was thrown out trying to score on a fly out by Lauren Houston. Blanton, Hawkins, Hoffart and Hoelscher each had a hit in the game. Goodale took the loss, allowing three runs on four hits over six innings.UP NEXTMissouri Western will play six games at the Emporia State Classic beginning this Friday.--- MWSU Athletics ---

Missouri Western softball drops final two games in Arkansas

BENTONVILLE, Arkansas – The Northwest Missouri State University softball team suffered two losses Sunday against Southern Arkansas and Maryville to end the Alvy Early Classic.

The Bearcats could not produce offensively and dropped game one 8-0 against Southern Arkansas.

Later Sunday afternoon, the Bearcats faced Maryville and dropped their second game of the day 9-1.

Maryville went up 9-0 early over the Bearcats in the first two innings.

In the top of the third inning, Olivia Daugherty doubled to right field to start the momentum for the Bearcats. Next at bat, Sydne Brashear knocked an RBI single to put the Bearcats on the board, but it wasn't enough to catch back up to the Maryville lead.

The Bearcats fell short and finished their road trip in Bentonville, Arkansas, with four setbacks on the weekend.

Northwest will travel to Emporia, Kansas next weekend to compete in the 5-States Classic.

NOTES: Brashear leads the team in batting average with a .429. Brashear has one double, one home run and four RBI. Daugherty is slugging a .345 average with three doubles, one home run and a team high of five RBI. Kaitlyn Weis isn't far behind with a .321 average, two doubles, one home run and four RBI.

BENTONVILLE, Arkansas – The Northwest Missouri State University softball team suffered two losses Sunday against Southern Arkansas and Maryville to end the Alvy Early Classic.The Bearcats could not produce offensively and dropped game one 8-0 against Southern Arkansas.Later Sunday afternoon, the Bearcats faced Maryville and dropped their second game of the day 9-1.Maryville went up 9-0 early over the Bearcats in the first two innings.In the top of the third inning, Olivia Daugherty doubled to right field to start the momentum for the Bearcats. Next at bat, Sydne Brashear knocked an RBI single to put the Bearcats on the board, but it wasn't enough to catch back up to the Maryville lead.The Bearcats fell short and finished their road trip in Bentonville, Arkansas, with four setbacks on the weekend.Northwest will travel to Emporia, Kansas next weekend to compete in the 5-States Classic.NOTES: Brashear leads the team in batting average with a .429. Brashear has one double, one home run and four RBI. Daugherty is slugging a .345 average with three doubles, one home run and a team high of five RBI. Kaitlyn Weis isn't far behind with a .321 average, two doubles, one home run and four RBI.--- Northwest Athletics ---

Northwest softball falls to Southern Arkansas and Maryville Sunday

COLUMBIA, Mo. – Mizzou Women’s Basketball (6-19, 3-9 SEC) dropped a matchup against Florida (14-11, 5-7 SEC, 75-67, on Sunday afternoon at Mizzou Arena. The Tigers were outmatched down low, as the Gators outrebounded Mizzou, 40-30 and outscored the Tigers, 12-1 on second chance points. 

After a first half which featured multiple long scoring runs by both teams, Mizzou found itself down by seven at halftime, 36-29. Florida was able to gain momentum in the third quarter, as the Gators extended its lead to 16 at 54-38 after outscoring Mizzou, 18-9. The Tigers fought hard in the fourth quarter, but was unable to get any closer than eight points in the game’s final 10 minutes. 

• Freshman guard Aijha Blackwell (Berkeley, Mo.) led Mizzou in scoring for the 11th time this season as she recorded her fifth 20-point game of the season with a team-high 20 points. Blackwell also had six rebounds and three assists in the game.

• Senior guard Amber Smith (Shreveport, La.) scored 13 points and had eight rebounds in the game.

• Freshman forward Hayley Frank (Strafford, Mo.) had 10 points and six rebounds in the game.

• Mizzou shot 40.4 percent (21-of-52) from the field, the 15th time this season they have shot 40 percent or better in a game.

• Blackwell paced the Tigers with 20 points, the fifth time this season she has scored 20 or more points. Blackwell has now scored in double figures in nine consecutive games. 

• Blackwell dished out three assists, her 11th consecutive game with multiple assists. 

• With six rebounds, Blackwell extended her streak of grabbing five or more rebounds to 11 games. She has recorded five or more rebounds in 21 games this season. 

• Frank notched her 17th career-game in double figures, scoring 10 points.

• Frank joined Mizzou’s freshmen top-10 scoring list with 293 points, surpassing Sharon Farrah (292 points, 1975-76).

• Senior guard Jordan Roundtree (St. Louis, Mo.) snagged three steals, matching a career-high. 

• Junior guard Elle Brown (Columbia, Mo.) recorded two steals, also matching a career-high.

• Redshirt senior forward Hannah Schuchts (Tallahassee, Fla.) blocked two shots, her 17th game this season recording multiple blocks. 

• Smith tallied 13 points, her fourth game out of the last five in double figures. 

• Smith also snagged eight boards marking the 15th game this season with five or more rebounds.

• With one block in the game, junior guard Nadia Green (Chicago, Ill.) recorded her third career-block, all coming this season.

Next, Mizzou will hit the road to face Vanderbilt on Thursday, Feb. 20. Tipoff from Nashville is slated for 7 p.m.

COLUMBIA, Mo. – Mizzou Women’s Basketball (6-19, 3-9 SEC) dropped a matchup against Florida (14-11, 5-7 SEC, 75-67, on Sunday afternoon at Mizzou Arena. The Tigers were outmatched down low, as the Gators outrebounded Mizzou, 40-30 and outscored the Tigers, 12-1 on second chance points. TURNING POINTAfter a first half which featured multiple long scoring runs by both teams, Mizzou found itself down by seven at halftime, 36-29. Florida was able to gain momentum in the third quarter, as the Gators extended its lead to 16 at 54-38 after outscoring Mizzou, 18-9. The Tigers fought hard in the fourth quarter, but was unable to get any closer than eight points in the game’s final 10 minutes. TOP TIGERS• Freshman guard Aijha Blackwell (Berkeley, Mo.) led Mizzou in scoring for the 11th time this season as she recorded her fifth 20-point game of the season with a team-high 20 points. Blackwell also had six rebounds and three assists in the game.• Senior guard Amber Smith (Shreveport, La.) scored 13 points and had eight rebounds in the game.• Freshman forward Hayley Frank (Strafford, Mo.) had 10 points and six rebounds in the game.NOTES• Mizzou shot 40.4 percent (21-of-52) from the field, the 15th time this season they have shot 40 percent or better in a game.• Blackwell paced the Tigers with 20 points, the fifth time this season she has scored 20 or more points. Blackwell has now scored in double figures in nine consecutive games. • Blackwell dished out three assists, her 11th consecutive game with multiple assists. • With six rebounds, Blackwell extended her streak of grabbing five or more rebounds to 11 games. She has recorded five or more rebounds in 21 games this season. • Frank notched her 17th career-game in double figures, scoring 10 points.• Frank joined Mizzou’s freshmen top-10 scoring list with 293 points, surpassing Sharon Farrah (292 points, 1975-76).• Senior guard Jordan Roundtree (St. Louis, Mo.) snagged three steals, matching a career-high. • Junior guard Elle Brown (Columbia, Mo.) recorded two steals, also matching a career-high.• Redshirt senior forward Hannah Schuchts (Tallahassee, Fla.) blocked two shots, her 17th game this season recording multiple blocks. • Smith tallied 13 points, her fourth game out of the last five in double figures. • Smith also snagged eight boards marking the 15th game this season with five or more rebounds.• With one block in the game, junior guard Nadia Green (Chicago, Ill.) recorded her third career-block, all coming this season.UP NEXTNext, Mizzou will hit the road to face Vanderbilt on Thursday, Feb. 20. Tipoff from Nashville is slated for 7 p.m.--- Mizzou Athletics ---

Missouri women lose at home to Florida 75-67

TERRE HAUTE, Ind. -- Lamont West came off the bench to score a season-high 22 points with nine rebounds and Missouri State rolled to a 71-58 victory over Indiana State on Sunday.

West knocked down 6 of 10 shots from the floor, including 3 of 5 from 3-point range, and made all seven of his free throws for the Bears (13-14, 7-7 Missouri Valley Conference). Tulio Da Silva added 11 points and eight rebounds, while Gaige Prim scored 10.

Christian Williams topped the Sycamores (14-11, 7-7) with 15 points on 6-of-9 shooting. Jordan Barnes pitched in with 14 points and four assists, while freshman Jake Laravia scored 11 with five rebounds.

Missouri State shot 47% from the floor and 44% from beyond the 3-point line (7 of 16). The Bears made 16 of 21 from the foul line. Indiana State shot 36% overall and made just 5 of 20 from distance. The Sycamores hit 13 of 18 foul shots.

TERRE HAUTE, Ind. -- Lamont West came off the bench to score a season-high 22 points with nine rebounds and Missouri State rolled to a 71-58 victory over Indiana State on Sunday.West knocked down 6 of 10 shots from the floor, including 3 of 5 from 3-point range, and made all seven of his free throws for the Bears (13-14, 7-7 Missouri Valley Conference). Tulio Da Silva added 11 points and eight rebounds, while Gaige Prim scored 10.Christian Williams topped the Sycamores (14-11, 7-7) with 15 points on 6-of-9 shooting. Jordan Barnes pitched in with 14 points and four assists, while freshman Jake Laravia scored 11 with five rebounds.Missouri State shot 47% from the floor and 44% from beyond the 3-point line (7 of 16). The Bears made 16 of 21 from the foul line. Indiana State shot 36% overall and made just 5 of 20 from distance. The Sycamores hit 13 of 18 foul shots.--- Associated Press ---

West sparks Missouri State to 71-58 win over Indiana State

JOPLIN, Mo. - The Missouri Western men's basketball team had its seven-game win streak come to an end Saturday as they came up short at No. 14 Missouri Southern 97-87.  The Griffons fall to 14-12 and 10-5 in the MIAA, while the Lions improve to 19-5 and 12-3 in league play.

Missouri Western shot 52.5% from the field, going 32 for 61 and were 9 for 23 from 3-point range, but 12 missed free throws hurt the Griffons' chances in Joplin. The Lions staked their biggest lead of the game, 77-60, with 9:37 left, but MWSU would not go away. The Griffons used a 12-0 run after Southern star Cam Martin picked up his third and fourth fouls to cut the lead to just five, 77-72. That prompted Southern head coach Jeff Boschee to bring Martin back in the game which prompted a 7-0 Lion run. The Griffons never got back within single digits.

- Southern's Martin scored a Leggett &amp; Platt Athletic Center record 45 points with 10 rebounds. Martin was 17 for 17 at the charity stripe and 13 of 27 from the field.

- Missouri Western played without its second-leading scorer, Tyus Millhollin, who did not make the trip due to an illness.

- Southern scored 48 of its points in the paint, 10 more than the Griffons.

- Tyrell Carroll was 10 of 20 from the field, scoring a career-high 30 points with seven rebounds, eight assists and a steal.

- JaRon Thames registered his first career double-double with 14 points and a career and team-high 10 rebounds.

- Reese Glover scored all 21 of his points in the second half, going 5 of 11 from 3-point range and 7 for 15 from the field.

- Will Eames scored 10 points and had eight rebounds.

Missouri Western wraps up the regular season at home with four straight games in the MWSU Fieldhouse. The first comes on Wednesday against Pittsburg State at 7:30 PM.

JOPLIN, Mo. - The Missouri Western men's basketball team had its seven-game win streak come to an end Saturday as they came up short at No. 14 Missouri Southern 97-87. The Griffons fall to 14-12 and 10-5 in the MIAA, while the Lions improve to 19-5 and 12-3 in league play.Missouri Western shot 52.5% from the field, going 32 for 61 and were 9 for 23 from 3-point range, but 12 missed free throws hurt the Griffons' chances in Joplin. The Lions staked their biggest lead of the game, 77-60, with 9:37 left, but MWSU would not go away. The Griffons used a 12-0 run after Southern star Cam Martin picked up his third and fourth fouls to cut the lead to just five, 77-72. That prompted Southern head coach Jeff Boschee to bring Martin back in the game which prompted a 7-0 Lion run. The Griffons never got back within single digits.NOTABLES- Southern's Martin scored a Leggett &amp; Platt Athletic Center record 45 points with 10 rebounds. Martin was 17 for 17 at the charity stripe and 13 of 27 from the field.- Missouri Western played without its second-leading scorer, Tyus Millhollin, who did not make the trip due to an illness.- Southern scored 48 of its points in the paint, 10 more than the Griffons.- Tyrell Carroll was 10 of 20 from the field, scoring a career-high 30 points with seven rebounds, eight assists and a steal.- JaRon Thames registered his first career double-double with 14 points and a career and team-high 10 rebounds.- Reese Glover scored all 21 of his points in the second half, going 5 of 11 from 3-point range and 7 for 15 from the field.- Will Eames scored 10 points and had eight rebounds.UP NEXTMissouri Western wraps up the regular season at home with four straight games in the MWSU Fieldhouse. The first comes on Wednesday against Pittsburg State at 7:30 PM.--- MWSU Athletics ---

Griffons' upset bid falls short at No. 14 Missouri Southern 97-87

PITTSBURG, Kansas - The No. 1-ranked Northwest Missouri State University men's basketball team shot 62.1% from the field and rolled to a 95-60 road victory over the Pittsburg State Gorillas.

Northwest (24-1 overall, 14-1 MIAA) moved its win streak to 16 in a row. Pittsburg State fell to 9-15 overall and 5-10 in the MIAA.

The Bearcats shot better than 60 percent for the fifth time this season. Northwest buried 19-of-25 shots in the first half and shot 76% from the floor and led 49-23 at the break.

Sophomore Trevor Hudgins led all scorers with 28 points on 11-of-13 shooting. Hudgins sank 5-of-6 from three-point range, while also handing out six assists.

Junior Ryan Hawkins tallied 23 points and nine rebounds. Hawkins went 8-of-11 from the field and added three steals along with three blocks and a steal.

Senior Tyler Dougherty contributed with a season-high 14 points and notched seven rebounds. 

Sophomore Diego Bernard scored seven points, dished out eight assists, tallied five rebounds and added two steals on his stat sheet.

The Gorillas shot 20-of-59 (33.9%) and struggled from beyond the arc by hitting only 3-of-16 from distance.

The Bearcats will be back in action at home Thursday against Missouri Southern at 7:30 p.m.

PITTSBURG, Kansas - The No. 1-ranked Northwest Missouri State University men's basketball team shot 62.1% from the field and rolled to a 95-60 road victory over the Pittsburg State Gorillas.Northwest (24-1 overall, 14-1 MIAA) moved its win streak to 16 in a row. Pittsburg State fell to 9-15 overall and 5-10 in the MIAA.The Bearcats shot better than 60 percent for the fifth time this season. Northwest buried 19-of-25 shots in the first half and shot 76% from the floor and led 49-23 at the break.Sophomore Trevor Hudgins led all scorers with 28 points on 11-of-13 shooting. Hudgins sank 5-of-6 from three-point range, while also handing out six assists.Junior Ryan Hawkins tallied 23 points and nine rebounds. Hawkins went 8-of-11 from the field and added three steals along with three blocks and a steal.Senior Tyler Dougherty contributed with a season-high 14 points and notched seven rebounds. Sophomore Diego Bernard scored seven points, dished out eight assists, tallied five rebounds and added two steals on his stat sheet.Northwest led by as many as 43 at 86-43.The Gorillas shot 20-of-59 (33.9%) and struggled from beyond the arc by hitting only 3-of-16 from distance.The Bearcats will be back in action at home Thursday against Missouri Southern at 7:30 p.m.--- Northwest Athletics ---

No. 1 Bearcats take apart Gorillas 95-60

JOPLIN, Mo. - After leading by as many as 14 points in the second half, the Missouri Western women's basketball team had to hang on for a 65-61 win at Missouri Southern on Saturday. The Lions cut the Griffon lead to one with a minute left, but were not able to score in the final 60 seconds.

Shooting 33% (10-30) in the second half, MWSU saw what had been a comfortable lead for most of the game evaporate. Missouri Southern outscored the Griffons by seven in the second half, but an 11-point Griffon lead at halftime was enough to help the Griffons secure their 18th win of the year.

Southern missed 3-point attempts on its final two possessions and Katrina Roenfeldt knocked down three of four free throw attempts to help MWSU seal the win. Roenfeldt went 3 for 4 from the foul line on the day, but MWSU was collectively just 9 for 20 for 45% from the stripe, part of what allowed the Lions back in the game late.

- MWSU jumped out to an 11-2 lead, missing just one of its first six shots.

- The Griffons shot 61.5% from the field in the first quarter with Missouri Southern having its worst offensive quarter, 33.3%.

- Corbyn Cunningham went 7 of 10 from the field for a game-high 16 points with a team-high eight rebounds.

- Chris Wilson was 7 of 14 from the field, scoring 15 points with seven rebounds and a team-high four steals.

- Katrina Roenfeldt also scored 15 points with six boards, a team-high four assists and three steals.

- Simone Walker scored nine off the bench and Mychaell Gray added seven.

Missouri Western ends the regular season with four-straight in the MWSU Fieldhouse that starts with a repeat of their last two opponents. The Griffons get a shot at redemption against Pittsburg State on Wednesday.

JOPLIN, Mo. - After leading by as many as 14 points in the second half, the Missouri Western women's basketball team had to hang on for a 65-61 win at Missouri Southern on Saturday. The Lions cut the Griffon lead to one with a minute left, but were not able to score in the final 60 seconds.Shooting 33% (10-30) in the second half, MWSU saw what had been a comfortable lead for most of the game evaporate. Missouri Southern outscored the Griffons by seven in the second half, but an 11-point Griffon lead at halftime was enough to help the Griffons secure their 18th win of the year.Southern missed 3-point attempts on its final two possessions and Katrina Roenfeldt knocked down three of four free throw attempts to help MWSU seal the win. Roenfeldt went 3 for 4 from the foul line on the day, but MWSU was collectively just 9 for 20 for 45% from the stripe, part of what allowed the Lions back in the game late.NOTABLES- MWSU jumped out to an 11-2 lead, missing just one of its first six shots.- The Griffons shot 61.5% from the field in the first quarter with Missouri Southern having its worst offensive quarter, 33.3%.- Corbyn Cunningham went 7 of 10 from the field for a game-high 16 points with a team-high eight rebounds.- Chris Wilson was 7 of 14 from the field, scoring 15 points with seven rebounds and a team-high four steals.- Katrina Roenfeldt also scored 15 points with six boards, a team-high four assists and three steals.- Simone Walker scored nine off the bench and Mychaell Gray added seven.UP NEXTMissouri Western ends the regular season with four-straight in the MWSU Fieldhouse that starts with a repeat of their last two opponents. The Griffons get a shot at redemption against Pittsburg State on Wednesday.--- MWSU Athletics ---

Missouri Western women hang on to defeat Southern 65-61

PITTSBURG, Kansas - The Northwest Missouri State women's basketball team fell just short of defeating the Pitt State Gorillas, falling 60-54. The Bearcats struggled from the field in the game shooting only 33.3% from the field and 23.8% from behind the arc. Pittsburg State went 21-23 from the free-throw line and Northwest went 13-15. 

Mallory McConkey scored a career high 27 points in the game and added nine rebounds as well. No other Bearcat was in double figures. Paityn Rau also had nine rebounds on the game and Erika Schlosser led the team with three assists. 

Tristan Gegg led the Gorillas with 24 points and Maya Williams added 10 points as well. Athena Alvarado led Pitt State with nine rebounds and no one on the Gorillas had more than one assist. 

The Bearcats will be back in Bearcat Arena this Thursday to take on Missouri Southern at 5:30 p.m.

PITTSBURG, Kansas - The Northwest Missouri State women's basketball team fell just short of defeating the Pitt State Gorillas, falling 60-54. The Bearcats struggled from the field in the game shooting only 33.3% from the field and 23.8% from behind the arc. Pittsburg State went 21-23 from the free-throw line and Northwest went 13-15. Mallory McConkey scored a career high 27 points in the game and added nine rebounds as well. No other Bearcat was in double figures. Paityn Rau also had nine rebounds on the game and Erika Schlosser led the team with three assists. Tristan Gegg led the Gorillas with 24 points and Maya Williams added 10 points as well. Athena Alvarado led Pitt State with nine rebounds and no one on the Gorillas had more than one assist. The Bearcats will be back in Bearcat Arena this Thursday to take on Missouri Southern at 5:30 p.m.--- Northwest Athletics ---

Northwest Missouri State women fall at Pittsburg State 60-54

COLUMBIA, Mo. -- As Missouri's two point guards, Dru Smith and Xavier Pinson rarely play on the same side in practice.

The pair looked comfortable together on Saturday, each scoring 28 points as Missouri beat No. 11 Auburn 85-73.

"It was a little weird at first, weird playing off the ball, but I love having X out there with me," Smith said. "When we're both being aggressive, it gives us a great chance to win games."

Smith and Pinson started playing together in games more often in the last two weeks after starting guard Mark Smith was sidelined with a back injury. The slender Pinson has a quick first step and can elevate for emphatic dunks. The bulkier Smith muscles into the lane and patiently tricks defenders into leaving their feet with pivots and pump fakes.

"Pinson and Smith were really tough covers," Auburn coach Bruce Pearl said. "They play with great confidence, great poise."

Kobe Brown added 10 points and nine rebounds for Missouri (12-13, 4-8 Southeastern Conference).

Austin Wiley led Auburn (22-3, 9-3) with 22 points and 10 rebounds. J'Von McCormick scored 21, and Samir Doughty added 16. Auburn made just 1 of 17 shots from 3-point range.

"Missouri did a good job of switching," Pearl said. "They were creating matchups for us to take advantage of with drives and post-ups, but we weren't getting open shots because they were switching on the perimeter."

Smith and Pinson combined to score 33 points on 12-of-15 shooting in the first half. Pinson freed himself with a crossover dribble and sank a 3-pointer at the halftime buzzer, giving Missouri a 45-32 lead.

"It's almost impossible to stay in front of him without somebody helping you," Smith said. "I think he's one of the toughest guys to guard in the league."

Pinson took a long break after drawing his fourth foul with 13 minutes left in the game, but Smith picked up the slack, especially at the foul line, where he made 12 of 13 free throws.

"He's sneaky," Pinson said. "You'll think he's tired, then, boom, he cuts backdoor. Or he'll pump-fake and get you up in air and draw a foul. He's just an incredible player."

Auburn cut its deficit to five points early in the second half, but momentum changed when Devan Cambridge was ejected with 10:01 remaining. He was called for Flagrant 1 and 2 fouls on the same play. Cambridge pulled Missouri's Javon Pickett down and then stepped on his leg while he was sitting on the court. Pickett said the officials initially called the foul on him, but after a lengthy review, they called the flagrant fouls on Cambridge.

COLUMBIA, Mo. -- As Missouri's two point guards, Dru Smith and Xavier Pinson rarely play on the same side in practice.The pair looked comfortable together on Saturday, each scoring 28 points as Missouri beat No. 11 Auburn 85-73."It was a little weird at first, weird playing off the ball, but I love having X out there with me," Smith said. "When we're both being aggressive, it gives us a great chance to win games."Smith and Pinson started playing together in games more often in the last two weeks after starting guard Mark Smith was sidelined with a back injury. The slender Pinson has a quick first step and can elevate for emphatic dunks. The bulkier Smith muscles into the lane and patiently tricks defenders into leaving their feet with pivots and pump fakes."Pinson and Smith were really tough covers," Auburn coach Bruce Pearl said. "They play with great confidence, great poise."Kobe Brown added 10 points and nine rebounds for Missouri (12-13, 4-8 Southeastern Conference).Austin Wiley led Auburn (22-3, 9-3) with 22 points and 10 rebounds. J'Von McCormick scored 21, and Samir Doughty added 16. Auburn made just 1 of 17 shots from 3-point range."Missouri did a good job of switching," Pearl said. "They were creating matchups for us to take advantage of with drives and post-ups, but we weren't getting open shots because they were switching on the perimeter."Smith and Pinson combined to score 33 points on 12-of-15 shooting in the first half. Pinson freed himself with a crossover dribble and sank a 3-pointer at the halftime buzzer, giving Missouri a 45-32 lead."It's almost impossible to stay in front of him without somebody helping you," Smith said. "I think he's one of the toughest guys to guard in the league."Pinson took a long break after drawing his fourth foul with 13 minutes left in the game, but Smith picked up the slack, especially at the foul line, where he made 12 of 13 free throws."He's sneaky," Pinson said. "You'll think he's tired, then, boom, he cuts backdoor. Or he'll pump-fake and get you up in air and draw a foul. He's just an incredible player."TURNING POINTAuburn cut its deficit to five points early in the second half, but momentum changed when Devan Cambridge was ejected with 10:01 remaining. He was called for Flagrant 1 and 2 fouls on the same play. Cambridge pulled Missouri's Javon Pickett down and then stepped on his leg while he was sitting on the court. Pickett said the officials initially called the foul on him, but after a lengthy review, they called the flagrant fouls on Cambridge.Pickett and Smith combined to make 3 of the 4 free throws. Missouri then got possession of the ball, and Torrence Watson made a 3-pointer. The total damage from the play was six points, giving Missouri a 62-46 lead.OUT OF GAS?Pearl was asked if Auburn was worn down after winning three straight overtime games."It's a fair question," Pearl said. "If I look tired, I might be. And our guys might be. But don't allow that to take a thing away from Missouri."BIG PICTUREMissouri: The Tigers are showing signs of a late-season surge. After beating Arkansas in overtime on Feb. 8, they led 25th-ranked LSU on the road for most of the game Tuesday before losing 82-78. The victory over Auburn was Missouri's first win over a ranked team in five tries this season.Auburn: Freshman star Isaac Okoro, who injured his hamstring Wednesday against Alabama, didn't make the trip to Missouri. Okoro averages 13.1 points and 4.8 rebounds. He was replaced in the starting lineup by fellow freshman Allen Flanigan.UP NEXTMissouri: Host Mississippi on Tuesday.Auburn: At Georgia on Wednesday.--- Associated Press ---

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