EDMOND, Okla. – For the first time this season, the Missouri women's basketball team (14-5, 6-4) has suffered consecutive losses after a heartbreaking defeat at Central Oklahoma (15-5, 9-3) 70-69 Thursday. The Griffons used a 22-4 run in the final seven minutes of regulation to take a 69-68 lead, but UCO got the game-winning put-back layup off an errant 3-point attempt with seven seconds remaining.

Trailing 64-47 with 7:14 left, head coach Candi Whitaker switched the Griffons to a zone defense that forced six-straight stops and allowed just one Broncho field goal. MWSU fed off the defensive stops to go on a 10-0 run that brought MWSU within seven. UCO's only field goal against the Griffon zone stopped its scoreless streak, but needed four bounces to rattle in. More stops and more baskets led to a Chris Wilson layup with 12 seconds left that gave MWSU a 69-68 lead, its first since the first half.

The Griffons got off to a hot start in the game, making four of their first five shots, but UCO nearly equaled the MWSU offensive effort. Missouri Western's largest lead of the game came with 3:43 left in the first quarter by seven. Central Oklahoma used a 10-0 run between the end of the first quarter and the beginning of the second quarter to take a 22-19 lead and held the lead through the quarter to go to halftime up 32-27.

- MWSU outscored UCO 26-16 in the fourth quarter after getting outscored 22-16 in the third.

- The Griffons were limited to 23% shooting (3-13) in the second quarter after going 7 for 14 in the first.

- UCO outscored the Griffons 40-28 in the paint despite being outrebounded by MWSU, 40-31.

- The Griffons committed 22 turnovers in the game, tying their season-high, but scored 19 points off 18 UCO turnovers while the Bronchos scored 17 off MWSU's giveaways.

- Corbyn Cunningham scored 11 fourth quarter points to lead the Griffons with 18 total, going 8 for 9 at the free throw line. Cunningham just missed her fifth-straight double-double and sixth-straight double-digit rebound effort with nine.

- Wilson, in her first action in almost three weeks led the Griffons with 10 rebounds and scored six points.

- Katrina Roenfeldt scored 17 points on 6 of 12 shooting from the field and led MWSU with six steals, four in the fourth.

- Anastacia Johnson dished out a career-high and team-high five assists while scoring 10 points.

The Griffons travel up I-35 to take on Newman (9-12, 4-8) on Saturday. The Jets dropped their third straight, 70-67 in double overtime on Thursday to Northwest Missouri State.

EDMOND, Okla. – For the first time this season, the Missouri women's basketball team (14-5, 6-4) has suffered consecutive losses after a heartbreaking defeat at Central Oklahoma (15-5, 9-3) 70-69 Thursday. The Griffons used a 22-4 run in the final seven minutes of regulation to take a 69-68 lead, but UCO got the game-winning put-back layup off an errant 3-point attempt with seven seconds remaining.Trailing 64-47 with 7:14 left, head coach Candi Whitaker switched the Griffons to a zone defense that forced six-straight stops and allowed just one Broncho field goal. MWSU fed off the defensive stops to go on a 10-0 run that brought MWSU within seven. UCO's only field goal against the Griffon zone stopped its scoreless streak, but needed four bounces to rattle in. More stops and more baskets led to a Chris Wilson layup with 12 seconds left that gave MWSU a 69-68 lead, its first since the first half.The Griffons got off to a hot start in the game, making four of their first five shots, but UCO nearly equaled the MWSU offensive effort. Missouri Western's largest lead of the game came with 3:43 left in the first quarter by seven. Central Oklahoma used a 10-0 run between the end of the first quarter and the beginning of the second quarter to take a 22-19 lead and held the lead through the quarter to go to halftime up 32-27.NOTABLES- MWSU outscored UCO 26-16 in the fourth quarter after getting outscored 22-16 in the third.- The Griffons were limited to 23% shooting (3-13) in the second quarter after going 7 for 14 in the first.- UCO outscored the Griffons 40-28 in the paint despite being outrebounded by MWSU, 40-31.- The Griffons committed 22 turnovers in the game, tying their season-high, but scored 19 points off 18 UCO turnovers while the Bronchos scored 17 off MWSU's giveaways.- Corbyn Cunningham scored 11 fourth quarter points to lead the Griffons with 18 total, going 8 for 9 at the free throw line. Cunningham just missed her fifth-straight double-double and sixth-straight double-digit rebound effort with nine.- Wilson, in her first action in almost three weeks led the Griffons with 10 rebounds and scored six points.- Katrina Roenfeldt scored 17 points on 6 of 12 shooting from the field and led MWSU with six steals, four in the fourth.- Anastacia Johnson dished out a career-high and team-high five assists while scoring 10 points.UP NEXTThe Griffons travel up I-35 to take on Newman (9-12, 4-8) on Saturday. The Jets dropped their third straight, 70-67 in double overtime on Thursday to Northwest Missouri State.--- MWSU Athletics ---

Missouri Western women rally, but fall short at UCO 70-69

WICHITA, Kansas - The Northwest Missouri State women's basketball team defeated the Newman University Jets 70-67 in double-overtime.  This was Northwest's first double-overtime win since Jan. 25, 1984 when they defeated Central Missouri 112-102. 

Kaitlyn Potter made a layup for the Jets to send the game into OT at 54-54. The Bearcats got the last look in the first OT but were unable to convert and the second overtime began with a score of 59-59. The Bearcats had five different players score in the second OT. One of the biggest buckets of 2OT was a three-pointer by Jaelyn Haggard to take a 67-65 lead with 0:56 left in the game. Kendey Eaton made two free throws to extend the lead to 69-65 and after a Newman bucket Mallory McConkey made one-of-two free throws to take a 70-67 lead. The Jets got a contested look to tie but could not get it to fall and Haggard sealed the game with a rebound. 

Haggard had 12 points on the night, on four made three-pointers. With those four made threes, Haggard moves into second in Northwest history in three-point field goals made with 172. She passed Shelly Martin (2008-10) for second with 170, and sits 30 behind leader Kelli Nelson (2005-08) with 202. McConkey led Northwest in scoring with 13 points, and Kendey Eaton added 10 points in limited action, in her first game returning from injury. McConkey led the team in rebounds with eight and assists with four. The Bearcats were able to outscore the Jets 20-13 off of turnovers and 30-24 in the paint. 

Potter had 20 points for the Jets to lead all scorers, and added seven rebounds. Newman shot 42.1% from the field and outrebounded Northwest 40-32. 

Northwest will be back in action on the road Saturday against Central Oklahoma at 1:30 p.m. 

WICHITA, Kansas - The Northwest Missouri State women's basketball team defeated the Newman University Jets 70-67 in double-overtime. This was Northwest's first double-overtime win since Jan. 25, 1984 when they defeated Central Missouri 112-102. Kaitlyn Potter made a layup for the Jets to send the game into OT at 54-54. The Bearcats got the last look in the first OT but were unable to convert and the second overtime began with a score of 59-59. The Bearcats had five different players score in the second OT. One of the biggest buckets of 2OT was a three-pointer by Jaelyn Haggard to take a 67-65 lead with 0:56 left in the game. Kendey Eaton made two free throws to extend the lead to 69-65 and after a Newman bucket Mallory McConkey made one-of-two free throws to take a 70-67 lead. The Jets got a contested look to tie but could not get it to fall and Haggard sealed the game with a rebound. Haggard had 12 points on the night, on four made three-pointers. With those four made threes, Haggard moves into second in Northwest history in three-point field goals made with 172. She passed Shelly Martin (2008-10) for second with 170, and sits 30 behind leader Kelli Nelson (2005-08) with 202. McConkey led Northwest in scoring with 13 points, and Kendey Eaton added 10 points in limited action, in her first game returning from injury. McConkey led the team in rebounds with eight and assists with four. The Bearcats were able to outscore the Jets 20-13 off of turnovers and 30-24 in the paint. Potter had 20 points for the Jets to lead all scorers, and added seven rebounds. Newman shot 42.1% from the field and outrebounded Northwest 40-32. Northwest will be back in action on the road Saturday against Central Oklahoma at 1:30 p.m. --- Northwest Athletics ---

Northwest women outlast Newman in double overtime 70-67

COLUMBIA, Mo. -- Amanda Paschal stepped in for injured star Rhyne Howard and scored a career-high 18 points to lead No. 13 Kentucky to a 62-47 win over Missouri on Thursday night.

The Wildcats announced before the game that Howard, who leads the Southeastern Conference and is third in the country in scoring at 23.2 points a game, would be out until mid-February with a broken pinky finger on her left hand.

Howard was injured in the third quarter of Monday's win over Auburn but returned to finish the game.

The Wildcats (17-3, 6-2) had no problem without Howard, who accounts for 32% of their scoring, as Paschal and Sabrina Haines each made two baskets before Jaida Roper drilled a 3-pointer to cap an 11-0 run in the first quarter.

Taking an 11-7 lead into the second quarter, the Wildcats started with a 9-0 run, led off by Tatyana Wyatt's three-point play and capped by two Chasity Patterson buckets. Patterson then scored three times in an 8-0 run for a 28-11 lead.

The lead stayed in double figures the rest of the way.

Patterson scored 12 points and Blair Green had 11 for Kentucky, which went 4 of 16 from 3-point range but shot 45.5% overall.

Aijha Blackwell led Missouri (5-16, 2-6) with 17 points. The Tigers were 2 of 18 behind the arc, shot 31% overall and had 20 turnovers.

COLUMBIA, Mo. -- Amanda Paschal stepped in for injured star Rhyne Howard and scored a career-high 18 points to lead No. 13 Kentucky to a 62-47 win over Missouri on Thursday night.The Wildcats announced before the game that Howard, who leads the Southeastern Conference and is third in the country in scoring at 23.2 points a game, would be out until mid-February with a broken pinky finger on her left hand.Howard was injured in the third quarter of Monday's win over Auburn but returned to finish the game.The Wildcats (17-3, 6-2) had no problem without Howard, who accounts for 32% of their scoring, as Paschal and Sabrina Haines each made two baskets before Jaida Roper drilled a 3-pointer to cap an 11-0 run in the first quarter.Taking an 11-7 lead into the second quarter, the Wildcats started with a 9-0 run, led off by Tatyana Wyatt's three-point play and capped by two Chasity Patterson buckets. Patterson then scored three times in an 8-0 run for a 28-11 lead.The lead stayed in double figures the rest of the way.Patterson scored 12 points and Blair Green had 11 for Kentucky, which went 4 of 16 from 3-point range but shot 45.5% overall.Aijha Blackwell led Missouri (5-16, 2-6) with 17 points. The Tigers were 2 of 18 behind the arc, shot 31% overall and had 20 turnovers.--- Associated Press ---

Mizzou women lose at home to No. 13 Kentucky 62-47

BOYS Hogan Prep 59 Lafayette 53 (7-7) GIRLS RICHMOND TOURNAMENT - SEMIFINAL Bishop LeBlond 42 (11-6) Pembroke Hill 35

BOYS Hogan Prep 59 Lafayette 53 (7-7) GIRLS RICHMOND TOURNAMENT - SEMIFINAL Bishop LeBlond 42 (11-6) Pembroke Hill 35

City High School Basketball Scores - Wednesday, January 29

MANHATTAN, Kan. -- Mike McGuirl scored 16 points, Xavier Sneed added 12 and Cartier Diarra 10 as Kansas State held off Oklahoma 61-53 on Wednesday night.

The Wildcats led by 16 with six minutes to go but the Sooners were within 57-53 when Victor Iwuakor hit a 3-pointer with 10 seconds to play, capping a frantic 13-2 run.

The Wildcats closed out the game with four straight free throws by McGuirl.

Kansas State (9-11, 2-5 Big 12 Conference) led wire-to-wire, handing the Sooners (13-7, 3-4) their fourth lost in their last five five conference games.

Alondes Williams scored 15 points and Austin Reaves added 12 for Oklahoma, which was held to its lowest total of the season. The Sooners, who went 4 of 21 from 3-point range, committed 19 turnovers which turned into 18 points for Kansas State.

The Sooners, who shot 35% overall, were 13 of 15 from the free-throw line while the Wildcats went 9 of 15, struggling down the stretch until McGuirl sealed the game.

Kansas State coach Bruce Weber is 8-0 against Oklahoma at home in his career.

Oklahoma: The Sooners struggled from the 3-point line and had too many turnovers to win a game on the road in Big 12 play.

Kansas State: The Wildcats have won their last two home games, but this team needs to be better on the road if they want to be considered a threat.

Oklahoma hosts in-state rival Oklahoma State on Saturday.

Kansas State travels to West Virginia on Saturday.

MANHATTAN, Kan. -- Mike McGuirl scored 16 points, Xavier Sneed added 12 and Cartier Diarra 10 as Kansas State held off Oklahoma 61-53 on Wednesday night.The Wildcats led by 16 with six minutes to go but the Sooners were within 57-53 when Victor Iwuakor hit a 3-pointer with 10 seconds to play, capping a frantic 13-2 run.The Wildcats closed out the game with four straight free throws by McGuirl.Kansas State (9-11, 2-5 Big 12 Conference) led wire-to-wire, handing the Sooners (13-7, 3-4) their fourth lost in their last five five conference games.Alondes Williams scored 15 points and Austin Reaves added 12 for Oklahoma, which was held to its lowest total of the season. The Sooners, who went 4 of 21 from 3-point range, committed 19 turnovers which turned into 18 points for Kansas State.The Sooners, who shot 35% overall, were 13 of 15 from the free-throw line while the Wildcats went 9 of 15, struggling down the stretch until McGuirl sealed the game.Kansas State coach Bruce Weber is 8-0 against Oklahoma at home in his career.BIG PICTUREOklahoma: The Sooners struggled from the 3-point line and had too many turnovers to win a game on the road in Big 12 play.Kansas State: The Wildcats have won their last two home games, but this team needs to be better on the road if they want to be considered a threat.UP NEXTOklahoma hosts in-state rival Oklahoma State on Saturday.Kansas State travels to West Virginia on Saturday.--- Associated Press ---

Kansas State hangs on to defeat Oklahoma 61-53

COLUMBIA, Mo. – Mizzou Head Football Coach Eliah Drinkwitz has added junior college transfer DL Ben Key (Cranbourne West, Australia) to the Tiger program, as announced today.  Key, who will be the first-ever native Australian to suit up for the Tiger program, comes to Columbia via East Los Angeles College, where the 6-foot-3, 274-pound linemen became one of the top defensive end prospects in the junior college ranks.

Key has enrolled at Mizzou and will have two years of eligibility with the Tiger program.  He was ranked as the No. 41 overall junior college prospect in the nation for 2020 by ESPN.com, as well as that outlet’s No. 4 defensive tackle, while 247Sports.com ranked Key as the No. 15 junior college player and No. 13 strong side defensive end in California.

As a sophomore in 2019, he totaled 40 tackles, including 6.5 tackles for loss and three quarterback sacks in 10 games, while also forcing a pair of fumbles and recovering one.  In his first year at East L.A., he saw action in six games and made 14 tackles, including five tackles for loss and four sacks.

Initially a rugby player growing up in his native Australia, Key eventually converted to football.  He would later move across the Pacific Ocean to finish his high school career and continue his pursuit of football at Cathedral High School in Los Angeles, Calif.  He chose Mizzou over offers from Mississippi State, Utah, Oregon, Arizona, Oregon State, UCLA and Syracuse, among others.

COLUMBIA, Mo. – Mizzou Head Football Coach Eliah Drinkwitz has added junior college transfer DL Ben Key (Cranbourne West, Australia) to the Tiger program, as announced today. Key, who will be the first-ever native Australian to suit up for the Tiger program, comes to Columbia via East Los Angeles College, where the 6-foot-3, 274-pound linemen became one of the top defensive end prospects in the junior college ranks.Key has enrolled at Mizzou and will have two years of eligibility with the Tiger program. He was ranked as the No. 41 overall junior college prospect in the nation for 2020 by ESPN.com, as well as that outlet’s No. 4 defensive tackle, while 247Sports.com ranked Key as the No. 15 junior college player and No. 13 strong side defensive end in California.As a sophomore in 2019, he totaled 40 tackles, including 6.5 tackles for loss and three quarterback sacks in 10 games, while also forcing a pair of fumbles and recovering one. In his first year at East L.A., he saw action in six games and made 14 tackles, including five tackles for loss and four sacks.Initially a rugby player growing up in his native Australia, Key eventually converted to football. He would later move across the Pacific Ocean to finish his high school career and continue his pursuit of football at Cathedral High School in Los Angeles, Calif. He chose Mizzou over offers from Mississippi State, Utah, Oregon, Arizona, Oregon State, UCLA and Syracuse, among others.--- Mizzou Athletics ---

Missouri adds junior college defensive lineman Ben Key

CEDAR FALLS, Iowa -- AJ Green had 27 points as Northern Iowa extended its home win streak to 12 games, rolling past Missouri State 95-66 on Wednesday night.

Austin Phyfe had 17 points and seven rebounds for Northern Iowa (18-3, 7-2 Missouri Valley Conference). Trae Berhow added 16 points. Isaiah Brown had 16 points and nine assists.

Keandre Cook had 16 points for the Bears (10-12, 4-5). Tulio Da Silva added 11 points and seven rebounds. Gaige Prim had 10 points.

The Panthers improve to 2-0 against the Bears on the season. Northern Iowa defeated Missouri State 80-57 on Jan. 11. Northern Iowa plays Evansville on the road on Saturday. Missouri State faces Indiana State at home on Saturday.

CEDAR FALLS, Iowa -- AJ Green had 27 points as Northern Iowa extended its home win streak to 12 games, rolling past Missouri State 95-66 on Wednesday night.Austin Phyfe had 17 points and seven rebounds for Northern Iowa (18-3, 7-2 Missouri Valley Conference). Trae Berhow added 16 points. Isaiah Brown had 16 points and nine assists.Keandre Cook had 16 points for the Bears (10-12, 4-5). Tulio Da Silva added 11 points and seven rebounds. Gaige Prim had 10 points.The Panthers improve to 2-0 against the Bears on the season. Northern Iowa defeated Missouri State 80-57 on Jan. 11. Northern Iowa plays Evansville on the road on Saturday. Missouri State faces Indiana State at home on Saturday.--- Associated Press ---

Missouri State gets blown out at Northern Iowa 95-66

BOYS Park Hill South 52 Central 29 (6-9, 1-2 Suburban) NW MISSOURI TOURNAMENT - 1ST ROUND West Nodaway 78 St. Joseph Christian 74 (9-6) GIRLS Park Hill South 40 Central 39 (9-8, 2-3 Suburban) NW MISSOURI TOURNAMENT - 1ST ROUND North Nodaway 41 St. Joseph Christian 31 (5-10)

BOYS Park Hill South 52 Central 29 (6-9, 1-2 Suburban) NW MISSOURI TOURNAMENT - 1ST ROUND West Nodaway 78 St. Joseph Christian 74 (9-6) GIRLS Park Hill South 40 Central 39 (9-8, 2-3 Suburban) NW MISSOURI TOURNAMENT - 1ST ROUND North Nodaway 41 St. Joseph Christian 31 (5-10)

City High School Basketball Scores - Tuesday, January 28

COLUMBIA, Mo. -- Missouri overcame a 20-point deficit in the second half to defeat Georgia 72-69 on Tuesday night in Columbia, ending a four-game losing streak.

The Bulldogs (11-9, 1-6 Southeastern Conference) jumped to an early lead, largely in part to star freshman Anthony Edwards (18 points per game, who scored 14 in the first half alone to put Georgia ahead 42-30 at halftime.

Then, as Georgia's offense lagged, Missouri (10-10, 2-5) woke up. Guard Xavier Pinson scored 16 points in the last 14 minutes of the game, almost single-handedly fueling a comeback. Missouri forward Reed Nikko reached a career high with 13 points, 11 of which came in the second half.

Leading by two with nine seconds left, Nikko blocked a potential game-tying jump shot from Edwards.

Edwards played every minute of the game, finishing with 23 points. Georgia's Tyree Crump and Toumani Camara scored 13 and 12, respectively.

Missouri ran into foul trouble early, finishing the first half with 12. Mitchell Smith and Nikko both finished the game with four.

The Tigers held leading Georgia rebounder Rayshaun Hammonds to one off the glass. Hammonds had averaged 8.1 rebounds per game prior to facing Missouri.

Missouri wins: After a sleepy start, the team's late comeback proved enough to break the losing streak and avoid a second straight home loss. Nikko's offensive production was key, as the team has struggled offensively without forward Jeremiah Tilmon, who hasn't played since Jan. 4 because of a foot injury.

Georgia loses: Even with 23 points from Edwards, the Bulldogs' offense went cold when the Tigers started their comeback. Georgia scored eight points in the last 12 minutes of the game.

Missouri: The Tigers will head to Columbia, South Carolina, to face the Gamecocks on Saturday.

Georgia: The Bulldogs will continue their SEC play against Texas A&amp;M on Saturday at home.

COLUMBIA, Mo. -- Missouri overcame a 20-point deficit in the second half to defeat Georgia 72-69 on Tuesday night in Columbia, ending a four-game losing streak.The Bulldogs (11-9, 1-6 Southeastern Conference) jumped to an early lead, largely in part to star freshman Anthony Edwards (18 points per game, who scored 14 in the first half alone to put Georgia ahead 42-30 at halftime.Then, as Georgia's offense lagged, Missouri (10-10, 2-5) woke up. Guard Xavier Pinson scored 16 points in the last 14 minutes of the game, almost single-handedly fueling a comeback. Missouri forward Reed Nikko reached a career high with 13 points, 11 of which came in the second half.Leading by two with nine seconds left, Nikko blocked a potential game-tying jump shot from Edwards.Edwards played every minute of the game, finishing with 23 points. Georgia's Tyree Crump and Toumani Camara scored 13 and 12, respectively.Missouri ran into foul trouble early, finishing the first half with 12. Mitchell Smith and Nikko both finished the game with four.The Tigers held leading Georgia rebounder Rayshaun Hammonds to one off the glass. Hammonds had averaged 8.1 rebounds per game prior to facing Missouri.BIG PICTUREMissouri wins: After a sleepy start, the team's late comeback proved enough to break the losing streak and avoid a second straight home loss. Nikko's offensive production was key, as the team has struggled offensively without forward Jeremiah Tilmon, who hasn't played since Jan. 4 because of a foot injury.Georgia loses: Even with 23 points from Edwards, the Bulldogs' offense went cold when the Tigers started their comeback. Georgia scored eight points in the last 12 minutes of the game.UP NEXTMissouri: The Tigers will head to Columbia, South Carolina, to face the Gamecocks on Saturday.Georgia: The Bulldogs will continue their SEC play against Texas A&amp;M on Saturday at home.--- Associated Press ---

Mizzou ends 4-game skid with comeback win over Georgia

BROOKFIELD, Ill. - Missouri Western football's Trey Vaval and Sam Webb added to their list of postseason honors as the duo was named honorable mention Don Hansen Division II All-America.

Both were named first team Don Hansen All-Region, Vaval as a return specialist and Webb as a cornerback. Vaval was also named the Don Hansen Super Region 3 Co-Freshman of the Year. In his first season of collegiate football, Vaval picked up the following honors: first team D2CCA All-America, second team D2Football.com All-America, second team AFCA All-America, honorable mention Don Hansen All-America, first team D2CCA All-Region, first team Don Hansen All-Region, Don Hansen Region 3 Co-Freshman of the Year, first team All-MIAA and Agent Barry Live United Bowl MVP. Vaval led DII with 1,335 combined return yards and ranked second in all of the NCAA in that category. His 34.3 yards per kick return broke a 27-year old MIAA record and were third most in DII. The Blue Springs native ranked also second in DII, averaging 21.1 yards per punt return.

Webb was a first team All-MIAA selection along with earning first team Don Hansen All-Region and second team D2CCA All-Region honors. The junior was sixth in the MIAA iwth 14 passes defended and finished the regular season with 28 tackles, two interceptions, a forced fumble, a recovered fumble and a blocked kick. The Excelsior Springs native was named MIAA Defensive Player of the Week after forcing three turnovers at Washburn.

The duo helped Griffon Football to its first 9-win season in seven years and a second consecutive Agent Barry Live United Bowl championship.

BROOKFIELD, Ill. - Missouri Western football's Trey Vaval and Sam Webb added to their list of postseason honors as the duo was named honorable mention Don Hansen Division II All-America.Both were named first team Don Hansen All-Region, Vaval as a return specialist and Webb as a cornerback. Vaval was also named the Don Hansen Super Region 3 Co-Freshman of the Year. In his first season of collegiate football, Vaval picked up the following honors: first team D2CCA All-America, second team D2Football.com All-America, second team AFCA All-America, honorable mention Don Hansen All-America, first team D2CCA All-Region, first team Don Hansen All-Region, Don Hansen Region 3 Co-Freshman of the Year, first team All-MIAA and Agent Barry Live United Bowl MVP. Vaval led DII with 1,335 combined return yards and ranked second in all of the NCAA in that category. His 34.3 yards per kick return broke a 27-year old MIAA record and were third most in DII. The Blue Springs native ranked also second in DII, averaging 21.1 yards per punt return.Webb was a first team All-MIAA selection along with earning first team Don Hansen All-Region and second team D2CCA All-Region honors. The junior was sixth in the MIAA iwth 14 passes defended and finished the regular season with 28 tackles, two interceptions, a forced fumble, a recovered fumble and a blocked kick. The Excelsior Springs native was named MIAA Defensive Player of the Week after forcing three turnovers at Washburn.The duo helped Griffon Football to its first 9-win season in seven years and a second consecutive Agent Barry Live United Bowl championship.--- MWSU Athletics ---

MWSU's Vaval, Webb named honorable mention All-Americans by Don Hansen

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Nebraska hosts No. 24 Penn State on Saturday.

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

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

Nebraska comes up short at home against Michigan 79-68

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

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

Northwest Track & Fields teams ranked in the Top 10

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

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

City High School Basketball Scores - Monday, January 27

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

No. 3 Kansas rolls at Oklahoma State 65-50

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

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

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

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

Four Bearcats earn spots on Don Hansen All-America teams

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Chiefs arrive in Miami for Super Bowl week

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Missouri State falls on the road at Drake 71-69

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Griffons hang on to defeat Nebraska-Kearney 81-75

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Missouri Western women fall short against UNK 60-57

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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