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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Kansas State hosts Oklahoma on Wednesday night.

Alabama travels to conference leader LSU on Wednesday.

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

K-State loses at Alabama 77-74

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

- The Griffons had 15 assists to just eight turnvoers.

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

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

- Millhollin didn't take a shot inside the 3-point arc, making four and went 5 for 5 at the free throw line for 17 points.

The Griffons host Nebraska-Kearney (12-6, 6-3) on Saturday at 3:30 p.m. The Lopers lost at Northwest Missouri State Thursday 65-60.

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

Griffons roll past Fort Hays State 79-63

MARYVILLE, Missouri - The No. 2-ranked Northwest Missouri State Bearcat men's basketball team held off the University of Nebraska-Kearney Lopers for a 65-60 home win on Thursday in Bearcat Arena.

Northwest won its ninth straight game to improve to 17-1 overall and 7-1 in MIAA play. Nebraska-Kearney saw its four-game win streak snapped as the Lopers fall to 12-6 overall and 6-3 in league action.

The Bearcats looked to turn it into a laugher in the first half by leaping out to a 19-point bulge at 33-14 with 3:28 to play in the opening half. UNK then began to dig itself out of the hole and finished the half on a 13-1 run. The Bearcats did not make a field goal in the final 3:28 of the first half after burying 13 shots in building the lead. Northwest led 34-27 at the intermission.

On the opening possession of the second half Diego Bernard connected on an alley-oop pass to Ryan Welty that pushed the lead back to nine at 36-27. The Lopers pulled to within two at 39-37 on a two free throws from R.J. Pair with 15:40 to play.

The Bearcats took the lead back to double-digits at 53-43 on a three-point play from Trevor Hudgins with 8:11 left in the game. However, a 6-0 run from the Lopers brought it back to 53-49 with 6:35 play. The Lopers's Morgan Soucie completed the run with a steal and dunk.

Bernard hit a jumper on the left side of the lane with 1:56 to play that gave Northwest a 63-57 lead. Both squads then had two empty scoring possessions before UNK's Kyle Juhl sank a three-pointer with :32 seconds to play in the game that trimmed it to a three-point Bearcat advantage. Bernard was fouled and missed the front end of a 1-and-1 giving the ball back to UNK with a chance to tie.

UNK's Jake Walker's three-pointer from the right wing missed off the left of the rim, but the ball bounced and and the Lopers's recorded the offensive rebound and fired to Juhl in the corner for another three-point attempt. Juhl's shot rimmed hight and Northwest's Ryan Hawkins secured his game-high 12th rebound of the contest. Hawkins was fouled and went to the free throw line with :00.4 on the clock. Hawkins sank both free throws to close out the 65-60 triumph.

Hawkins scored a game-high 24 points to go along with his 12 rebounds. It was his fourth double-double and 10th 20-point scoring game on the season. Hawkins also registered a game-high four steals. Luke Waters chipped in with 13 points, 11 of which came in the opening half. Welty knocked in all three of his three-point attempts and was 4-of-5 from the field for 11 points. Bernard contributed with nine points, six rebounds, four assists and two steals.

Northwest will return to Bearcat Arena on Saturday to take on the Fort Hays State Tigers. The Tigers are 7-10 overall and 1-8 in the MIAA.

NOTES: Northwest has won 27 straight home games, which ranks as the second-longest active streak among NCAA Division II teams ... Northwest is 10-0 at home this season ... Northwest is 119-9 in Bearcat Arena since the start of the 2011-12 season ... the Bearcats have won 44 of their last 45 MIAA home games - a stretch that began Jan. 14, 2015 ... Hawkins moved into Northwest's top-10 all-time rebounding list in the game ... Hawkins ranks No. 8 on the Bearcat rebounding list with 577 career caroms ... he surpassed Rick Jolley (1993-1996, Mark Adams (1976-1980) and Bob Sundell (1986-1989, who all tallied 574 rebounds for the Bearcats ... Northwest is 8-1 all-time vs. UNK ... Northwest is 4-0 in Bearcat Arena vs. UNK.

MARYVILLE, Missouri - The No. 2-ranked Northwest Missouri State Bearcat men's basketball team held off the University of Nebraska-Kearney Lopers for a 65-60 home win on Thursday in Bearcat Arena.Northwest won its ninth straight game to improve to 17-1 overall and 7-1 in MIAA play. Nebraska-Kearney saw its four-game win streak snapped as the Lopers fall to 12-6 overall and 6-3 in league action.The Bearcats looked to turn it into a laugher in the first half by leaping out to a 19-point bulge at 33-14 with 3:28 to play in the opening half. UNK then began to dig itself out of the hole and finished the half on a 13-1 run. The Bearcats did not make a field goal in the final 3:28 of the first half after burying 13 shots in building the lead. Northwest led 34-27 at the intermission.On the opening possession of the second half Diego Bernard connected on an alley-oop pass to Ryan Welty that pushed the lead back to nine at 36-27. The Lopers pulled to within two at 39-37 on a two free throws from R.J. Pair with 15:40 to play.The Bearcats took the lead back to double-digits at 53-43 on a three-point play from Trevor Hudgins with 8:11 left in the game. However, a 6-0 run from the Lopers brought it back to 53-49 with 6:35 play. The Lopers's Morgan Soucie completed the run with a steal and dunk.Bernard hit a jumper on the left side of the lane with 1:56 to play that gave Northwest a 63-57 lead. Both squads then had two empty scoring possessions before UNK's Kyle Juhl sank a three-pointer with :32 seconds to play in the game that trimmed it to a three-point Bearcat advantage. Bernard was fouled and missed the front end of a 1-and-1 giving the ball back to UNK with a chance to tie.UNK's Jake Walker's three-pointer from the right wing missed off the left of the rim, but the ball bounced and and the Lopers's recorded the offensive rebound and fired to Juhl in the corner for another three-point attempt. Juhl's shot rimmed hight and Northwest's Ryan Hawkins secured his game-high 12th rebound of the contest. Hawkins was fouled and went to the free throw line with :00.4 on the clock. Hawkins sank both free throws to close out the 65-60 triumph.Hawkins scored a game-high 24 points to go along with his 12 rebounds. It was his fourth double-double and 10th 20-point scoring game on the season. Hawkins also registered a game-high four steals. Luke Waters chipped in with 13 points, 11 of which came in the opening half. Welty knocked in all three of his three-point attempts and was 4-of-5 from the field for 11 points. Bernard contributed with nine points, six rebounds, four assists and two steals.Northwest will return to Bearcat Arena on Saturday to take on the Fort Hays State Tigers. The Tigers are 7-10 overall and 1-8 in the MIAA.NOTES: Northwest has won 27 straight home games, which ranks as the second-longest active streak among NCAA Division II teams ... Northwest is 10-0 at home this season ... Northwest is 119-9 in Bearcat Arena since the start of the 2011-12 season ... the Bearcats have won 44 of their last 45 MIAA home games - a stretch that began Jan. 14, 2015 ... Hawkins moved into Northwest's top-10 all-time rebounding list in the game ... Hawkins ranks No. 8 on the Bearcat rebounding list with 577 career caroms ... he surpassed Rick Jolley (1993-1996, Mark Adams (1976-1980) and Bob Sundell (1986-1989, who all tallied 574 rebounds for the Bearcats ... Northwest is 8-1 all-time vs. UNK ... Northwest is 4-0 in Bearcat Arena vs. UNK.--- Northwest Athletics ---

No. 2 Bearcats hold off Nebraska-Kearney 65-60

ST. JOSEPH - Behind stifling defense and red-hot shooting, the Missouri Western women's basketball team (14-3, 6-2) snapped No. 10 Fort Hays State's (15-3, 5-3) nine-game win streak and moved to 9-0 in the MWSU Fieldhouse with a 75-58 win Thursday.

The Griffons trailed for just over seven minutes in the game and led by as many as 18 points, shooting 55.6% from the field-best against an MIAA opponent this season-and holding Fort Hays State to a season-low 30.8%. The Griffons' 75 points were the most allowed by the Tigers all season.

Fort Hays State led 14-10 after one quarter of play, but MWSU opened the second quarter on a 10-2 run to take a 20-16 lead to the second quarter media timeout. The Griffons led by four at halftime, but stretched the lead to 18 after starting the second half on a 14-0 run.

- It was MWSU's first win over a top-10 opponent since then No. 5-ranked Missouri Western defeated No. 3 Fort Hays State, 77-75 on Jan. 21, 2016.

- The Griffons picked up their first win over a ranked opponent since early in the 2017-18 season against No. 21-ranked Central Oklahoma in the MWSU Fieldhouse.

- Missouri Western made all nine of its free throw attempts while Fort Hays State went 21 of 24 from the line.

- MWSU outscored the tall Tigers 38-22 in the paint.

- Simone Walker scored a career-high 21 points on 7 of 8 shooting and was 6 for 6 at the free throw line. She added sice rebounds and three assists.

- Katrina Roenfeld scored 15 of her 19 points in the second half and added nine rebounds, seven assists and four steals.

- Corbyn Cunningham posted her third-straight double-double and fourth-straight double digit rebound effort, scoring 15 with 10 boards.

- Kacey Kennett scored Fort Hays State's first eight points and 17 of their 23 first half points, but was limited to five second half points and didn't score her 18th point until there were just five minutes remaining in the game.

The Griffons host Nebraska-Kearney (18-2, 7-2) on Saturday at 1:30 p.m. MWSU could take over third place in the MIAA standings with a win.

ST. JOSEPH - Behind stifling defense and red-hot shooting, the Missouri Western women's basketball team (14-3, 6-2) snapped No. 10 Fort Hays State's (15-3, 5-3) nine-game win streak and moved to 9-0 in the MWSU Fieldhouse with a 75-58 win Thursday.The Griffons trailed for just over seven minutes in the game and led by as many as 18 points, shooting 55.6% from the field-best against an MIAA opponent this season-and holding Fort Hays State to a season-low 30.8%. The Griffons' 75 points were the most allowed by the Tigers all season.Fort Hays State led 14-10 after one quarter of play, but MWSU opened the second quarter on a 10-2 run to take a 20-16 lead to the second quarter media timeout. The Griffons led by four at halftime, but stretched the lead to 18 after starting the second half on a 14-0 run.NOTABLES- It was MWSU's first win over a top-10 opponent since then No. 5-ranked Missouri Western defeated No. 3 Fort Hays State, 77-75 on Jan. 21, 2016.- The Griffons picked up their first win over a ranked opponent since early in the 2017-18 season against No. 21-ranked Central Oklahoma in the MWSU Fieldhouse.- Missouri Western made all nine of its free throw attempts while Fort Hays State went 21 of 24 from the line.- MWSU outscored the tall Tigers 38-22 in the paint.- Simone Walker scored a career-high 21 points on 7 of 8 shooting and was 6 for 6 at the free throw line. She added sice rebounds and three assists.- Katrina Roenfeld scored 15 of her 19 points in the second half and added nine rebounds, seven assists and four steals.- Corbyn Cunningham posted her third-straight double-double and fourth-straight double digit rebound effort, scoring 15 with 10 boards.- Kacey Kennett scored Fort Hays State's first eight points and 17 of their 23 first half points, but was limited to five second half points and didn't score her 18th point until there were just five minutes remaining in the game.UP NEXTThe Griffons host Nebraska-Kearney (18-2, 7-2) on Saturday at 1:30 p.m. MWSU could take over third place in the MIAA standings with a win.--- MWSU Athletics ---

Missouri Western women upset No. 10 Fort Hays State 75-58

MARYVILLE, Missouri - The Northwest Missouri State Bearcat women's basketball team fell to the Nebraska-Kearney Lopers 75-51 in Bearcat Arena. 

The Bearcats fell behind early losing the first quarter 24-9, and were never able to work all the way back into the game. The Bearcats struggled offensively again, as they have in all three games without leading scorer Kendey Eaton. Northwest shot only 40.7% from the field and 16.7% from behind the three-point line. The Lopers were on fire from the floor in this game shooting over 50% from the field and from behind the arc. Northwest was outrebounded by Nebraska-Kearney 40-24. 

The Bearcats were led in scoring by Paityn Rau and Mallory McConkey with 14 points each. Kylie Coleman led the team in rebounds with four. Northwest limited themselves to 11 turnovers, which is less than their season average of nearly 13. 

The Lopers were led by Brooke Carlson with 22 points. Carlson added 4 steals, and 13 rebounds to give her a double-double on the game. Following Carlson in scoring was Madison Dreckman with 14, Elisa Backes with 12, and Haley Simental with 10. 

Northwest will be back in action against #10 Fort Hays State on Saturday at 1:30 p.m in Bearcat Arena. 

MARYVILLE, Missouri - The Northwest Missouri State Bearcat women's basketball team fell to the Nebraska-Kearney Lopers 75-51 in Bearcat Arena. The Bearcats fell behind early losing the first quarter 24-9, and were never able to work all the way back into the game. The Bearcats struggled offensively again, as they have in all three games without leading scorer Kendey Eaton. Northwest shot only 40.7% from the field and 16.7% from behind the three-point line. The Lopers were on fire from the floor in this game shooting over 50% from the field and from behind the arc. Northwest was outrebounded by Nebraska-Kearney 40-24. The Bearcats were led in scoring by Paityn Rau and Mallory McConkey with 14 points each. Kylie Coleman led the team in rebounds with four. Northwest limited themselves to 11 turnovers, which is less than their season average of nearly 13. The Lopers were led by Brooke Carlson with 22 points. Carlson added 4 steals, and 13 rebounds to give her a double-double on the game. Following Carlson in scoring was Madison Dreckman with 14, Elisa Backes with 12, and Haley Simental with 10. Northwest will be back in action against #10 Fort Hays State on Saturday at 1:30 p.m in Bearcat Arena. --- Northwest Athletics ---

Northwest Missouri State women lose at home to UNK 75-51

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. -- Keandre Cook poured in 27 points and Missouri State jumped out to a big first-half lead and held off Valparaiso 67-60 on Thursday night.

Cook buried 6 of 12 shots from the floor and 12 of 16 free throws for the Bears (10-10, 4-3 Missouri Valley Conference). No other Bear scored in double figures. Missouri State led 36-16 at halftime.

Mileek McMillan topped the Crusaders (10-10, 3-4) with 12 points, while Javon Freeman-Liberty and Daniel Sackey scored 11 each. Freeman-Liberty, Valparaiso's leading scorer at 21.2 per game, hit only 4 of 18 shots from the floor, including 1 of 10 from 3-point range.

Missouri State did some damage at the free-throw line, making 18 of 23 (78%). The Crusaders were 10 of 13 at the foul line (77%). Valparaiso sank just 8 of 39 from distance (20.5%).

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. -- Keandre Cook poured in 27 points and Missouri State jumped out to a big first-half lead and held off Valparaiso 67-60 on Thursday night.Cook buried 6 of 12 shots from the floor and 12 of 16 free throws for the Bears (10-10, 4-3 Missouri Valley Conference). No other Bear scored in double figures. Missouri State led 36-16 at halftime.Mileek McMillan topped the Crusaders (10-10, 3-4) with 12 points, while Javon Freeman-Liberty and Daniel Sackey scored 11 each. Freeman-Liberty, Valparaiso's leading scorer at 21.2 per game, hit only 4 of 18 shots from the floor, including 1 of 10 from 3-point range.Missouri State did some damage at the free-throw line, making 18 of 23 (78%). The Crusaders were 10 of 13 at the foul line (77%). Valparaiso sank just 8 of 39 from distance (20.5%).--- Associated Press ---

Cook scores 27, Missouri State tops Valparaiso 67-60

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - The MIAA announced its preseason coaches poll for the 2020 baseball season and Missouri Western is picked to finish seventh by the league's coaches.

The top spot belonged to defending NCAA Division II Central Region and MIAA champions, Central Missouri. The Mules received 120 points and 10 first-place votes in the poll.

Griffon Baseball's regular season will begin at Oklahoma Baptist on Jan. 31 with conference action beginning at Washburn on Feb. 28. The first home action will begin Feb. 21 against Minot State. Below is the complete 2020 MIAA Baseball Coaches Preseason Poll.

2020 MIAA Baseball Coaches Preseason Poll 1. Central Missouri (10) - 120 points 2. Central Oklahoma (1) - 107 points 3. Missouri Southern (1) - 102 points 4. Pittsburg State - 91 points 5. Emporia State - 79 points 6. Rogers State - 67 points 7. Missouri Western - 61 points 8. Northwest Missouri - 51 points 9. Washburn - 50 points 10. Northeastern State - 27 points 11. Newman - 21 points 12. Fort Hays State - 16 points

***Coaches Cannot Vote For Their Own Teams

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - The MIAA announced its preseason coaches poll for the 2020 baseball season and Missouri Western is picked to finish seventh by the league's coaches.The top spot belonged to defending NCAA Division II Central Region and MIAA champions, Central Missouri. The Mules received 120 points and 10 first-place votes in the poll.Griffon Baseball's regular season will begin at Oklahoma Baptist on Jan. 31 with conference action beginning at Washburn on Feb. 28. The first home action will begin Feb. 21 against Minot State. Below is the complete 2020 MIAA Baseball Coaches Preseason Poll.2020 MIAA Baseball Coaches Preseason Poll 1. Central Missouri (10) - 120 points 2. Central Oklahoma (1) - 107 points 3. Missouri Southern (1) - 102 points 4. Pittsburg State - 91 points 5. Emporia State - 79 points 6. Rogers State - 67 points 7. Missouri Western - 61 points 8. Northwest Missouri - 51 points 9. Washburn - 50 points 10. Northeastern State - 27 points 11. Newman - 21 points 12. Fort Hays State - 16 points***Coaches Cannot Vote For Their Own Teams--- MWSU Athletics ---

MWSU picked seventh in preseason MIAA baseball poll

BOYS BASEHOR-LINWOOD TOURNAMENT - 1ST ROUND Basehor-Linwood 58 Central 41 (5-8) GIRLS BASEHOR-LINWOOD TOURNAMENT - 1ST ROUND Piper 60 Benton 31 (3-11) BASEHOR-LINWOOD TOURNAMENT - 1ST ROUND Central 54 (9-5) Blue Valley 43

BOYS BASEHOR-LINWOOD TOURNAMENT - 1ST ROUND Basehor-Linwood 58 Central 41 (5-8) GIRLS BASEHOR-LINWOOD TOURNAMENT - 1ST ROUND Piper 60 Benton 31 (3-11) BASEHOR-LINWOOD TOURNAMENT - 1ST ROUND Central 54 (9-5) Blue Valley 43

City High School Basketball Scores - Wednesday, January 22

LAWRENCE, Kan. (AP) — The Big 12 suspended four players from Kansas and Kansas State a combined 25 games Wednesday for their roles in a melee that spilled off the court and into a section of disabled seating in Allen Fieldhouse near the end of the third-ranked Jayhawks’ win over the Wildcats.

Kansas forward Silvio De Sousa, who already was suspended indefinitely by Jayhawks coach Bill Self, was given a 12-game suspension by the league office. His teammate, David McCormack, was suspended two games while Kansas State forward James Love received an eight-game suspension and Antonio Gordon got a three-game suspension.

Both schools also were reprimanded by the Big 12 for violations of its sportsmanship policy.

“This kind of behavior cannot be tolerated and these suspensions reflect the severity of last night’s events,” Big 12 commissioner Bob Bowlsby said. “I am appreciative of the cooperation of both institutions in resolving this matter.”

De Sousa was the main instigator on the Kansas side Tuesday night, getting stripped of the ball as he was dribbling out the final seconds of an 81-60 win. He recovered to block a layup attempt by the Wildcats’ DaJuan Gordon, then stood over the freshman in a taunting manner, triggering both benches to empty in a scrum that spilled into fans.

At one point, De Sousa was preparing to swing a stool when it was plucked from his hands, and several players from both teams threw wild punches while a sellout crowd in Allen Fieldhouse watched in shock.

“I have suspended Silvio De Sousa indefinitely pending the final outcome of the review by KU and the Big 12 Conference,” Self said shortly after discussing the incident on the league’s weekly conference call with reporters. “As I said last night, we are disappointed in his actions and there is no place in the game for that behavior.”

Kansas (15-3) has played six conference games, which means De Sousa’s suspension from the Big 12 would last through the end of the regular season. The Jayhawks are a half-game back of top-ranked Baylor in the league standings, and they have a team that is capable of making a deep run in the NCAA Tournament.

“Obviously an unfortunate situation,” said Dan Gavitt, the NCAA vice president for men’s basketball. “It’s a conference game so it will be up to the Big 12 to determine what actions need to be taken. Other than that, it’s too early to say how it might affect them (in the NCAA Tournament).”

Self said he spoke with a fan who was caught up in the melee, and that she was banged around “to the point where I’m sure we’ll correspond with her today to see how she’s feeling.”

“Obviously it’s embarrassing,” Self said. “It’s not something to be proud of.”

Games between Kansas and Kansas State are always testy affairs, and for all but the final seconds their meeting at Allen Fieldhouse was rather subdued. The Jayhawks used a 19-2 run midway through the first half to seize control and the outcome was never in doubt the final 30 minutes.

The fight drew comparisons to the brawl between Cincinnati and Xavier in December 2011 that left players bloodied and college basketball fans aghast. Eight players wound up suspended for a total of 30 games.

Kansas State coach Bruce Weber told his players to allow the Jayhawks to dribble out the clock, and he was walking toward the scorer’s table to shake hands with Self when the benches emptied. Both coaches eventually joined members of their staff, security officials and even Kansas cheerleaders in trying to separate the players.

“Very, very sad by the event that happened last night,” said Weber, adding the school would issue its own punishments soon. “It’s sad and disappointing and you know, it leaves a bad picture for everybody. And I’ve been in this for a long time and you see it happen occasionally and you think you’re not going too be part of it and obviously I was part of it — we were part of it — and its sad for college basketball, the game that I love and I’ve been part of basically all my life.”

The fracas continued a particularly difficult 12 months for Self and the Jayhawks, and De Sousa has played a big part in most of it. His name surfaced as part of the FBI probe into college basketball in October 2018, and that in part led to an NCAA investigation that resulted in a notice of allegations last September outlining major violations tied to recruiting in men’s basketball. Those violations are being appealed and a decision is not expected until later this year.

De Sousa was initially suspended for two seasons for his role in the case — last season and this season — and the school spent significant resources appealing the punishment. It eventually was reduced, allowing the junior forward to play this season.

LAWRENCE, Kan. (AP) — The Big 12 suspended four players from Kansas and Kansas State a combined 25 games Wednesday for their roles in a melee that spilled off the court and into a section of disabled seating in Allen Fieldhouse near the end of the third-ranked Jayhawks’ win over the Wildcats.Kansas forward Silvio De Sousa, who already was suspended indefinitely by Jayhawks coach Bill Self, was given a 12-game suspension by the league office. His teammate, David McCormack, was suspended two games while Kansas State forward James Love received an eight-game suspension and Antonio Gordon got a three-game suspension.Both schools also were reprimanded by the Big 12 for violations of its sportsmanship policy.“This kind of behavior cannot be tolerated and these suspensions reflect the severity of last night’s events,” Big 12 commissioner Bob Bowlsby said. “I am appreciative of the cooperation of both institutions in resolving this matter.”De Sousa was the main instigator on the Kansas side Tuesday night, getting stripped of the ball as he was dribbling out the final seconds of an 81-60 win. He recovered to block a layup attempt by the Wildcats’ DaJuan Gordon, then stood over the freshman in a taunting manner, triggering both benches to empty in a scrum that spilled into fans.At one point, De Sousa was preparing to swing a stool when it was plucked from his hands, and several players from both teams threw wild punches while a sellout crowd in Allen Fieldhouse watched in shock.“I have suspended Silvio De Sousa indefinitely pending the final outcome of the review by KU and the Big 12 Conference,” Self said shortly after discussing the incident on the league’s weekly conference call with reporters. “As I said last night, we are disappointed in his actions and there is no place in the game for that behavior.”Kansas (15-3) has played six conference games, which means De Sousa’s suspension from the Big 12 would last through the end of the regular season. The Jayhawks are a half-game back of top-ranked Baylor in the league standings, and they have a team that is capable of making a deep run in the NCAA Tournament.“Obviously an unfortunate situation,” said Dan Gavitt, the NCAA vice president for men’s basketball. “It’s a conference game so it will be up to the Big 12 to determine what actions need to be taken. Other than that, it’s too early to say how it might affect them (in the NCAA Tournament).”Self said he spoke with a fan who was caught up in the melee, and that she was banged around “to the point where I’m sure we’ll correspond with her today to see how she’s feeling.”“Obviously it’s embarrassing,” Self said. “It’s not something to be proud of.”Games between Kansas and Kansas State are always testy affairs, and for all but the final seconds their meeting at Allen Fieldhouse was rather subdued. The Jayhawks used a 19-2 run midway through the first half to seize control and the outcome was never in doubt the final 30 minutes.The fight drew comparisons to the brawl between Cincinnati and Xavier in December 2011 that left players bloodied and college basketball fans aghast. Eight players wound up suspended for a total of 30 games.Kansas State coach Bruce Weber told his players to allow the Jayhawks to dribble out the clock, and he was walking toward the scorer’s table to shake hands with Self when the benches emptied. Both coaches eventually joined members of their staff, security officials and even Kansas cheerleaders in trying to separate the players.“Very, very sad by the event that happened last night,” said Weber, adding the school would issue its own punishments soon. “It’s sad and disappointing and you know, it leaves a bad picture for everybody. And I’ve been in this for a long time and you see it happen occasionally and you think you’re not going too be part of it and obviously I was part of it — we were part of it — and its sad for college basketball, the game that I love and I’ve been part of basically all my life.”The fracas continued a particularly difficult 12 months for Self and the Jayhawks, and De Sousa has played a big part in most of it. His name surfaced as part of the FBI probe into college basketball in October 2018, and that in part led to an NCAA investigation that resulted in a notice of allegations last September outlining major violations tied to recruiting in men’s basketball. Those violations are being appealed and a decision is not expected until later this year.De Sousa was initially suspended for two seasons for his role in the case — last season and this season — and the school spent significant resources appealing the punishment. It eventually was reduced, allowing the junior forward to play this season.--- Associated Press ---

Big 12 suspends four players from KU-KSU brawl 25 games total

KANSAS CITY -- The Royals and Alex Gordon have completed a one-year deal that will bring him back for the 2020 season.

The deal will be for $4 million with performance bonus incentives, according to a source. Sources also indicated that Gordon has waived his 10-and-5 no-trade rights, but would get a $500,000 assignment bonus if traded.

It is likely that Gordon will be present for a news conference at Friday’s Royals FanFest celebration.

Gordon, 35, hit .266 in 2019 with 13 home runs and 76 RBIs, his highest RBI total since 2013.

Gordon also won his seventh Gold Glove Award in 2019. He has made three All-Star Games, and in 2014 he won the American League Platinum Glove Award as the best defensive outfielder. He will return to patrol left field, while Whit Merrifield will take over in center field and Hunter Dozier will play right field following the signing of free-agent third baseman Maikel Franco.

Gordon played in 150 games and had 633 plate appearances, his highest totals since 2014, last year. The Royals, though, seem likely go a bit easier on his playing time in order to give opportunities to Bubba Starling and Brett Phillips, both of whom are out of options.

Gordon told MLB.com last May that he was “60-40” on returning to the Royals for 2020. After winning the Gold Glove Award in November, he told reporters in a conference call that after listening to new manager Mike Matheny’s introductory news conference, he was itching to return in 2020.

Gordon signed a four-year, $72 million contract in January o2016, the richest contract awarded any Royal. Gordon had a $4 million buyout on his mutual option for 2020, though $500,000 was paid on that during the season, making the final figure $3.5 million.

KANSAS CITY -- The Royals and Alex Gordon have completed a one-year deal that will bring him back for the 2020 season.The deal will be for $4 million with performance bonus incentives, according to a source. Sources also indicated that Gordon has waived his 10-and-5 no-trade rights, but would get a $500,000 assignment bonus if traded.It is likely that Gordon will be present for a news conference at Friday’s Royals FanFest celebration.Gordon, 35, hit .266 in 2019 with 13 home runs and 76 RBIs, his highest RBI total since 2013.Gordon also won his seventh Gold Glove Award in 2019. He has made three All-Star Games, and in 2014 he won the American League Platinum Glove Award as the best defensive outfielder. He will return to patrol left field, while Whit Merrifield will take over in center field and Hunter Dozier will play right field following the signing of free-agent third baseman Maikel Franco.Gordon played in 150 games and had 633 plate appearances, his highest totals since 2014, last year. The Royals, though, seem likely go a bit easier on his playing time in order to give opportunities to Bubba Starling and Brett Phillips, both of whom are out of options.Gordon told MLB.com last May that he was “60-40” on returning to the Royals for 2020. After winning the Gold Glove Award in November, he told reporters in a conference call that after listening to new manager Mike Matheny’s introductory news conference, he was itching to return in 2020.Gordon signed a four-year, $72 million contract in January o2016, the richest contract awarded any Royal. Gordon had a $4 million buyout on his mutual option for 2020, though $500,000 was paid on that during the season, making the final figure $3.5 million.--- Royals.com ---

Alex Gordon signs one-year deal to stay with Royals

COLUMBIA, Mo. -- For a struggling Missouri men's basketball team, even an NCAA record-breaking night wasn't enough for a win. After sinking 31 straight free throws in its weekend loss to Alabama, the Tigers (9-9, 1-5 Southeastern Conference) continued their streak with 23 foul shots in a row against Texas A&amp;M on Tuesday night. The 54 consecutive free throws broke the NCAA record of 50 set by Wake Forest in 2005. But it wasn't enough -- Josh Nebo and his 14 points overpowered a sloppy Missouri team to a 66-64 Aggies' win. The Tigers led 32-27 after a first half filled with sloppy passes and consistent free throws. Texas A&amp;M (9-8, 3-3 SEC) led for much of the second half, but Missouri came within two points of tying it in the last minute of the game. Nebo's fifth foul sent Missouri's Mitchell Smith to the free throw line, but he missed his second shot, keeping the Aggies ahead by one point. The teams traded trips to the free throw line, then Missouri guard Torrence Watson missed a 3 at the buzzer to cement the Tigers' loss. Missouri limited Nebo to five points in the first half, but the 6-foot-9-inch center dominated under the basket in the second half. With Missouri center Jeremiah Tilmon out with a foot injury, the Tigers rotated between Mitchell Smith and Reed Nikko. The Aggies' offense was spread out over Nebo, Savion Flagg and Emanuel Miller. With six 3s made, Texas A&amp;M averaged 35% from beyond the arc, significantly higher than its team percentage of 25%. Mark Smith led Missouri's offense with 19 points, including 15 from beyond the arc. Dru Smith scored 18 points and Torrence Watson added 11. Watson had averaged 4.8 points per game before Tuesday. BIG PICTURE Missouri: Sloppy passes and offensive troubles combined to hand Missouri its third straight loss. The Tigers have been inconsistent at home this season, tacking up an energizing win over Florida but also losses to Charleston Southern and Texas A&amp;M. Texas A&amp;M: The Aggies capitalized on offensive production from Savion Flagg (14 points, Emanuel Miller (12) and Josh Nebo (14) to break its two-game losing streak. Nebo had averaged 12.5 points before Tuesday night. UP NEXT Missouri: The Tigers will head to West Virginia to face the Mountaineers on Saturday. Texas A&amp;M: The Aggies will face Oklahoma State on Saturday at home in the Big 12/SEC Challenge. --- Associated Press ---

COLUMBIA, Mo. -- For a struggling Missouri men's basketball team, even an NCAA record-breaking night wasn't enough for a win. After sinking 31 straight free throws in its weekend loss to Alabama, the Tigers (9-9, 1-5 Southeastern Conference) continued their streak with 23 foul shots in a row against Texas A&amp;M on Tuesday night. The 54 consecutive free throws broke the NCAA record of 50 set by Wake Forest in 2005. But it wasn't enough -- Josh Nebo and his 14 points overpowered a sloppy Missouri team to a 66-64 Aggies' win. The Tigers led 32-27 after a first half filled with sloppy passes and consistent free throws. Texas A&amp;M (9-8, 3-3 SEC) led for much of the second half, but Missouri came within two points of tying it in the last minute of the game. Nebo's fifth foul sent Missouri's Mitchell Smith to the free throw line, but he missed his second shot, keeping the Aggies ahead by one point. The teams traded trips to the free throw line, then Missouri guard Torrence Watson missed a 3 at the buzzer to cement the Tigers' loss. Missouri limited Nebo to five points in the first half, but the 6-foot-9-inch center dominated under the basket in the second half. With Missouri center Jeremiah Tilmon out with a foot injury, the Tigers rotated between Mitchell Smith and Reed Nikko. The Aggies' offense was spread out over Nebo, Savion Flagg and Emanuel Miller. With six 3s made, Texas A&amp;M averaged 35% from beyond the arc, significantly higher than its team percentage of 25%. Mark Smith led Missouri's offense with 19 points, including 15 from beyond the arc. Dru Smith scored 18 points and Torrence Watson added 11. Watson had averaged 4.8 points per game before Tuesday. BIG PICTURE Missouri: Sloppy passes and offensive troubles combined to hand Missouri its third straight loss. The Tigers have been inconsistent at home this season, tacking up an energizing win over Florida but also losses to Charleston Southern and Texas A&amp;M. Texas A&amp;M: The Aggies capitalized on offensive production from Savion Flagg (14 points, Emanuel Miller (12) and Josh Nebo (14) to break its two-game losing streak. Nebo had averaged 12.5 points before Tuesday night. UP NEXT Missouri: The Tigers will head to West Virginia to face the Mountaineers on Saturday. Texas A&amp;M: The Aggies will face Oklahoma State on Saturday at home in the Big 12/SEC Challenge. --- Associated Press ---

Missouri's rally comes up short against Texas A&M 66-64

LAWRENCE, Kan. -- Third-ranked Kansas and Kansas State ended their bitter showdown Tuesday night with a wild melee behind the basket that included punches, shoving and at least one player picking up a stool, moments after the Jayhawks tried to dribble out the time on their 81-60 victory.

Silvio De Sousa was stripped by the Wildcats' DaJuan Gordon near midcourt and Gordon tried to go in for a layup. The Jayhawks' big man recovered and blocked his shot, sending Gordon to the floor, then stood over him barking. That triggered benches to empty and punches to be thrown in what amounted to a rugby scrum. At one point, De Souza picked up a stool and held it above his head before assistant coach Jerrance Howard grabbed it from him.

It took both coaching staffs and security to separate the teams. Then, adding to the bizarre finish, both teams were summoned back from the locker rooms by officials and one-tenth of a second was put on the clock. Kansas State shot technical free throws to booing from a few thousand fans left -- necessitating a change to the final score.

"Well, obviously it's an embarrassment," Jayhawks coach Bill Self said. "It's not something to be proud of. What happened showed zero signs of toughness. It's a sign of immaturity and selfishness more so than toughness."

Christian Braun scored a career-high 20 points, Devon Dotson added 18 and Udoka Azubuike finished with 10 points and 14 rebounds for Kansas, which beat the Wildcats for the 14th straight time at Allen Fieldhouse.

The Jayhawks, who lost to Baylor 10 days ago, also avoided back-to-back home defeats for the first time since 1988-89.

Xavier Sneed had 16 points and David Sloan had 14 for the Wildcats (8-10, 1-5, who continue to struggle on the road. They have lost all three league contests away from Bramlage Coliseum after going 7-2 in those games a year ago, when they tied Texas Tech for the Big 12 title -- ending the Jayhawks' record-setting run of 14 consecutive championships.

The Jayhawks built a comfortable 39-23 lead by the break, and all of it -- and then some -- came during that soul-crushing 19-2 run midway through the first half that torpedoed just about any chance of an upset.

It began when Braun hit the first of what would become three 3-pointers by the freshman during the charge. It continued when the Jayhawks forced the Wildcats into a series of blown layups and easy misses, a pair of missed free throws, a shot clock violation and five turnovers that left coach Bruce Weber stamping his feet in frustration.

The run ended -- fittingly -- with Braun hitting another 3, giving the Jayhawks a 26-9 lead with less than 10 minutes left.

Braun, who played a mere 4 minutes last weekend at Texas, hit another from beyond the arc as the shot clock wound down to star the second half, and Kansas more than doubled up its biggest rival at 47-23 before the Wildcats showed some life.

Sloan started their own run with an easy basket, then he followed one by Sneed with two more. Cartier Diarra answered the fans that'd been heckling him all night from an early air-ball by adding a layup, and Gordon's 3-pointer capped a 13-2 run that got Kansas State withing 49-36 with about 14 minutes left in the game.

Braun answered with another 3 during another big run that allowed the Jayhawks to put the game away.

Kansas State was playing its third consecutive ranked opponent, and should have come in with some momentum after an easy win over then-No. 12 West Virginia. But after hanging with the Jayhawks the first few minutes, sloppy play and their inability to convert layups at the rim allowed Kansas to go on the run that defined the game.

Kansas didn't shoot the ball particularly well, but the Jayhawks dominated the glass, kept turnovers to a minimum and played one of their better defensive games all season.

Kansas State heads to Alabama on Saturday for the Big 12-SEC Challenge.

Kansas welcomes back ex-Texas coach Rick Barnes with Tennessee on Saturday.

LAWRENCE, Kan. -- Third-ranked Kansas and Kansas State ended their bitter showdown Tuesday night with a wild melee behind the basket that included punches, shoving and at least one player picking up a stool, moments after the Jayhawks tried to dribble out the time on their 81-60 victory.Silvio De Sousa was stripped by the Wildcats' DaJuan Gordon near midcourt and Gordon tried to go in for a layup. The Jayhawks' big man recovered and blocked his shot, sending Gordon to the floor, then stood over him barking. That triggered benches to empty and punches to be thrown in what amounted to a rugby scrum. At one point, De Souza picked up a stool and held it above his head before assistant coach Jerrance Howard grabbed it from him.It took both coaching staffs and security to separate the teams. Then, adding to the bizarre finish, both teams were summoned back from the locker rooms by officials and one-tenth of a second was put on the clock. Kansas State shot technical free throws to booing from a few thousand fans left -- necessitating a change to the final score."Well, obviously it's an embarrassment," Jayhawks coach Bill Self said. "It's not something to be proud of. What happened showed zero signs of toughness. It's a sign of immaturity and selfishness more so than toughness."Christian Braun scored a career-high 20 points, Devon Dotson added 18 and Udoka Azubuike finished with 10 points and 14 rebounds for Kansas, which beat the Wildcats for the 14th straight time at Allen Fieldhouse.The Jayhawks, who lost to Baylor 10 days ago, also avoided back-to-back home defeats for the first time since 1988-89.Xavier Sneed had 16 points and David Sloan had 14 for the Wildcats (8-10, 1-5, who continue to struggle on the road. They have lost all three league contests away from Bramlage Coliseum after going 7-2 in those games a year ago, when they tied Texas Tech for the Big 12 title -- ending the Jayhawks' record-setting run of 14 consecutive championships.The Jayhawks built a comfortable 39-23 lead by the break, and all of it -- and then some -- came during that soul-crushing 19-2 run midway through the first half that torpedoed just about any chance of an upset.It began when Braun hit the first of what would become three 3-pointers by the freshman during the charge. It continued when the Jayhawks forced the Wildcats into a series of blown layups and easy misses, a pair of missed free throws, a shot clock violation and five turnovers that left coach Bruce Weber stamping his feet in frustration.The run ended -- fittingly -- with Braun hitting another 3, giving the Jayhawks a 26-9 lead with less than 10 minutes left.Braun, who played a mere 4 minutes last weekend at Texas, hit another from beyond the arc as the shot clock wound down to star the second half, and Kansas more than doubled up its biggest rival at 47-23 before the Wildcats showed some life.Sloan started their own run with an easy basket, then he followed one by Sneed with two more. Cartier Diarra answered the fans that'd been heckling him all night from an early air-ball by adding a layup, and Gordon's 3-pointer capped a 13-2 run that got Kansas State withing 49-36 with about 14 minutes left in the game.Braun answered with another 3 during another big run that allowed the Jayhawks to put the game away.BIG PICTUREKansas State was playing its third consecutive ranked opponent, and should have come in with some momentum after an easy win over then-No. 12 West Virginia. But after hanging with the Jayhawks the first few minutes, sloppy play and their inability to convert layups at the rim allowed Kansas to go on the run that defined the game.Kansas didn't shoot the ball particularly well, but the Jayhawks dominated the glass, kept turnovers to a minimum and played one of their better defensive games all season.UP NEXTKansas State heads to Alabama on Saturday for the Big 12-SEC Challenge.Kansas welcomes back ex-Texas coach Rick Barnes with Tennessee on Saturday.--- Associated Press ---

No. 6 KU defeats K-State 81-60 as brawl breaks out at end of game

BOYS Lawson 44 Bishop LeBlond 25 (6-9) GIRLS Bishop LeBlond 51 (9-6) Falls City (NE) 45

BOYS Lawson 44 Bishop LeBlond 25 (6-9) GIRLS Bishop LeBlond 51 (9-6) Falls City (NE) 45

City High School Basketball Scores - Tuesday, January 21

MADISON, Wis. -- Brad Davison scored 14 points, D'Mitrik Trice added 11 points, 10 rebounds and seven assists and Wisconsin used a big second half to power past Nebraska 82-68 on Tuesday night.

After leading 39-38 at halftime, the Badgers (12-7, 5-3 Big Ten) opened the second half on a 20-4 run to hand the Cornhuskers (7-12, 2-6) their fourth straight loss.

Davison sparked the surge by knocking down back-to-back 3s out of the locker room. The junior guard scored 11 points in the second half to help the Badgers bounce back from a loss to then-No. 15 Michigan State (now No. 11) on Friday.

Dachon Burke Jr. had a game-high 20 points and Kevin Cross scored 17 off the bench for Nebraska, which countered with a 19-7 run of its own to pull within 66-61 with less than 8:00 to play. But that was as close as the Cornhuskers would come.

Thorir Thorbjarnarson, who was averaging 12.5 points on 55% shooting and 7.8 rebounds over the Cornhuskers' last four games, finished with 12 points and three rebounds.

Nate Reuvers, who had 11 points and four blocks, moved into fourth place on Wisconsin's all-time blocks list.

With the Badgers up 16-15 early, Micah Potter and Brevin Pritzl came off the bench and sparked an 8-0 run to put Wisconsin ahead 24-15, prompting a Nebraska timeout with 10:46 to play in the first half.

Nebraska countered with a 10-0 run, including back-to-back 3-pointers by Cam Mack, to go up 25-24 with just under 6:00 to go before halftime. Mack had 14 points, seven rebounds and six assists.

But the Badgers came back and took a 31-26 lead after a Potter 3 and they never trailed again. The first half saw five lead changes.

Fred Hoiberg's Nebraska squad has only won one game in the New Year. It doesn't get any easier for the Cornhuskers, who have another road test at 24th-ranked Rutgers on Saturday.

Wisconsin, which relies heavily on its balanced offensive attack, had eight different players hit 3-pointers on Tuesday. The Badgers made a single-game record 18 3s and has now won seven of its last nine.

MADISON, Wis. -- Brad Davison scored 14 points, D'Mitrik Trice added 11 points, 10 rebounds and seven assists and Wisconsin used a big second half to power past Nebraska 82-68 on Tuesday night.After leading 39-38 at halftime, the Badgers (12-7, 5-3 Big Ten) opened the second half on a 20-4 run to hand the Cornhuskers (7-12, 2-6) their fourth straight loss.Davison sparked the surge by knocking down back-to-back 3s out of the locker room. The junior guard scored 11 points in the second half to help the Badgers bounce back from a loss to then-No. 15 Michigan State (now No. 11) on Friday.Dachon Burke Jr. had a game-high 20 points and Kevin Cross scored 17 off the bench for Nebraska, which countered with a 19-7 run of its own to pull within 66-61 with less than 8:00 to play. But that was as close as the Cornhuskers would come.Thorir Thorbjarnarson, who was averaging 12.5 points on 55% shooting and 7.8 rebounds over the Cornhuskers' last four games, finished with 12 points and three rebounds.Nate Reuvers, who had 11 points and four blocks, moved into fourth place on Wisconsin's all-time blocks list.With the Badgers up 16-15 early, Micah Potter and Brevin Pritzl came off the bench and sparked an 8-0 run to put Wisconsin ahead 24-15, prompting a Nebraska timeout with 10:46 to play in the first half.Nebraska countered with a 10-0 run, including back-to-back 3-pointers by Cam Mack, to go up 25-24 with just under 6:00 to go before halftime. Mack had 14 points, seven rebounds and six assists.But the Badgers came back and took a 31-26 lead after a Potter 3 and they never trailed again. The first half saw five lead changes.BIG PICTUREFred Hoiberg's Nebraska squad has only won one game in the New Year. It doesn't get any easier for the Cornhuskers, who have another road test at 24th-ranked Rutgers on Saturday.Wisconsin, which relies heavily on its balanced offensive attack, had eight different players hit 3-pointers on Tuesday. The Badgers made a single-game record 18 3s and has now won seven of its last nine.UP NEXTNebraska: At No. 24 Rutgers on Saturday.Wisconsin: At Purdue on Friday.--- Associated Press ---

Nebraska loses at Wisconsin 82-68

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - After an outstanding performance in Missouri Western's rout at Northwest Missouri State last Saturday, Corbyn Cunningham has been named the MIAA Women's Basketball Athlete of the Week.

The junior forward from Albuquerque, New Mexico scored 21 points with 10 rebounds and six assists in 26 minutes at Northwest. Cunningham was 10 of 16 from the field, shooting 62.5% in the 71-53 victory. Her assist total led the team and was a career-high while she was two points shy of matching her career scoring high. It was Cunningham's fourth double-double of the season and her third consecutive double digit rebounding performance.

On the season, Cunningham ranks third in the MIAA in field goal percentage, shooting 55.2%. She ranks seventh, averaging 7.8 rebounds per game and 10th in scoring, averaging 14.9 points per game. Cunningham became the second Griffon Women's Basketball student-athlete to receive the honor this season, joining Chris Wilson.

Cunningham and the Griffons return to the MWSU Fieldhouse this week to host Fort Hays State on Thursday and Nebraska Kearney on Saturday.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - After an outstanding performance in Missouri Western's rout at Northwest Missouri State last Saturday, Corbyn Cunningham has been named the MIAA Women's Basketball Athlete of the Week.The junior forward from Albuquerque, New Mexico scored 21 points with 10 rebounds and six assists in 26 minutes at Northwest. Cunningham was 10 of 16 from the field, shooting 62.5% in the 71-53 victory. Her assist total led the team and was a career-high while she was two points shy of matching her career scoring high. It was Cunningham's fourth double-double of the season and her third consecutive double digit rebounding performance.On the season, Cunningham ranks third in the MIAA in field goal percentage, shooting 55.2%. She ranks seventh, averaging 7.8 rebounds per game and 10th in scoring, averaging 14.9 points per game. Cunningham became the second Griffon Women's Basketball student-athlete to receive the honor this season, joining Chris Wilson.Cunningham and the Griffons return to the MWSU Fieldhouse this week to host Fort Hays State on Thursday and Nebraska Kearney on Saturday.--- MWSU Athletics ---

Griffons' Cunningham named MIAA Women's Player of the Week

After posting a career-high 31 points, Northwest Missouri State sophomore guard Trevor Hudgins was named the MIAA Men's Basketball Athlete of the Week.

Hudgins was the lone Bearcat to reach double-figure scoring in Northwest's 65-56 win over Missouri Western on Saturday. Hudgins surpassed the 1,000-point mark in scoring in the first half and did not stop scoring as he tallied a career-best 31 points against the Griffons. Hudgins sank 11-of-18 shots from the field, including 6-of-9 from beyond three-point range as he played all 40 minutes. He was also a perfect 3-of-3 from the free throw line. Hudgins handed out three assists. 

Hudgins ranks No. 2 in the nation in three-point field goal percentage (53.3%). He ranks first in the MIAA in assist-to-turnover ratio (3.29). Hudgins ranks No. 2 in the MIAA in free throw percentage (88.9%). Hudgins ranks No. 3 in the MIAA in scoring (18.7 ppg).

It marks the second MIAA weekly award for the Manhattan, Kansas, native. It's the sixth time this season that a Northwest player has earned the league's top weekly honor. It's the fourth straight week a Bearcat has scored the accolade.

The Bearcats will play a pair of home games this week against Nebraska-Kearney (Thursday, 7:30 p.m.) and vs. Fort Hays State (Saturday, 3:30 p.m.). Northwest has won 26 straight home games, the second-longest home streak among NCAA Division II teams.

After posting a career-high 31 points, Northwest Missouri State sophomore guard Trevor Hudgins was named the MIAA Men's Basketball Athlete of the Week.Hudgins was the lone Bearcat to reach double-figure scoring in Northwest's 65-56 win over Missouri Western on Saturday. Hudgins surpassed the 1,000-point mark in scoring in the first half and did not stop scoring as he tallied a career-best 31 points against the Griffons. Hudgins sank 11-of-18 shots from the field, including 6-of-9 from beyond three-point range as he played all 40 minutes. He was also a perfect 3-of-3 from the free throw line. Hudgins handed out three assists. Hudgins ranks No. 2 in the nation in three-point field goal percentage (53.3%). He ranks first in the MIAA in assist-to-turnover ratio (3.29). Hudgins ranks No. 2 in the MIAA in free throw percentage (88.9%). Hudgins ranks No. 3 in the MIAA in scoring (18.7 ppg).It marks the second MIAA weekly award for the Manhattan, Kansas, native. It's the sixth time this season that a Northwest player has earned the league's top weekly honor. It's the fourth straight week a Bearcat has scored the accolade.The Bearcats will play a pair of home games this week against Nebraska-Kearney (Thursday, 7:30 p.m.) and vs. Fort Hays State (Saturday, 3:30 p.m.). Northwest has won 26 straight home games, the second-longest home streak among NCAA Division II teams.--- Northwest Athletics ---

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

KANSAS CITY, Mo. -- Patrick Mahomes tip-toed down the sideline for a game-turning touchdown, added three TD passes, and the Kansas City Chiefs made their first Super Bowl in a half-century by beating the Tennessee Titans 35-24 Sunday for the AFC championship.

In two weeks in Miami, they will play the winner of the NFC title game between Green Bay and San Francisco.

Mahomes did his usual superb job passing, but it was his 27-yard tap dance down the left sideline late in the first half that gave the Chiefs their first lead. From there, they outran the run-oriented Titans and star back Derrick Henry.

At last, for the first time since 1970 and the third time overall, the Chiefs (14-4) are Super Bowl bound.

Adding to the joy of the achievement, coach Andy Reid and owner Clark Hunt accepted the Lamar Hunt Trophy -- named after his father -- emblematic of the AFC title.

Next up: chasing the Vince Lombardi Trophy.

As they had done in their past three "elimination" games, the sixth-seeded Titans (11-8) got started quickly. The difference at Arrowhead as opposed to Houston, New England and Baltimore was that the Chiefs had Mahomes, Tyreek Hill, Sammy Watkins and Damien Williams on offense, and a vastly upgraded defense from when they lost in last year's AFC title game.

A week after they overcame a 24-0 deficit against Houston, the Chiefs had to rally again.

Down 10-0 and 17-7, Kansas City didn't flinch, building a 35-17 lead while controlling the clock with a strong ground game. Naturally, Mahomes complemented that with sharp passing, spreading the ball on short and deep throws. The dagger came with a 60-yard completion to Watkins for the Chiefs' 28th straight point midway in the final period.

Mahomes thrust both arms in the air as the crowd sang "I Want To Dance With Somebody."

That somebody will be either the 49ers or Packers in two weeks. They were deciding the NFC crown later Sunday in California.

After taking a 3-0 lead on Greg Joseph's first field goal -- with Tennessee's penchant for scoring in the red zone, he hadn't been called upon in his previous four games with the team -- the Titans got a huge break. Bashaud Breeland appeared to make a diving interception, but replay review showed the ball hitting the ground.

Helped by consecutive offside penalties and a a fourth-down pass to Adam Humphries for his first career playoff reception, the Titans converted on, what else, Henry's 4-yard run.

Then the Chiefs got rolling, scoring on three successive series. Hill took it in on a shovel pass, later beat top Titans cornerback Logan Ryan for a 20-yard reception, and Mahomes finished the half with his brilliant jaunt down the left sideline with half the Tennessee defense seemingly expecting him to step out of bounds.

That gave the Chiefs a 21-17 lead. It went to 28-17 on Williams' 3-yard run to cap a seven-minute drive. Then Watkins toasted Logan for the clinching long pass.

Henry was held to 69 yards on 19 carries after rushing for 588 yards in the past three games as an unstoppable force. But the Chiefs easily outrushed the Titans on Sunday.

Mahomes had 53 of those yards and also was 23 for 35 for 294 yards passing.

Last week, Henry threw a jump pass for a touchdown against Baltimore. On Sunday, Dennis Kelly emulated his coach, Mike Vrabel. He sneaked free for Ryan Tannehill's lob, falling back awkwardly but holding on for Tennessee's second TD. The backup tackle is the only offensive lineman since 2000 with two TDs receiving in a season. He also had one against Jacksonville.

Vrabel caught 12 touchdown passes as a linebacker, including one in the Super Bowl when his Patriots beat Reid's Eagles.

Displaying the gambling nature of both coaches, fourth-down conversions were key on early scoring drives. Humphries, who missed the last six games with an ankle problem, caught a 3-yarder on fourth-and-2 at the KC 29. Two plays later, Henry scored.

On the Chiefs' ensuing possession, they went on fourth-and-2 from the Titans 28. Travis Kelce's 4-yard reception continued a march to Hill's first TD.

Titans: Figuring out if they ran out of gas or were beaten by a more talented team as they head into the offseason.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. -- Patrick Mahomes tip-toed down the sideline for a game-turning touchdown, added three TD passes, and the Kansas City Chiefs made their first Super Bowl in a half-century by beating the Tennessee Titans 35-24 Sunday for the AFC championship.In two weeks in Miami, they will play the winner of the NFC title game between Green Bay and San Francisco.Mahomes did his usual superb job passing, but it was his 27-yard tap dance down the left sideline late in the first half that gave the Chiefs their first lead. From there, they outran the run-oriented Titans and star back Derrick Henry.At last, for the first time since 1970 and the third time overall, the Chiefs (14-4) are Super Bowl bound.Adding to the joy of the achievement, coach Andy Reid and owner Clark Hunt accepted the Lamar Hunt Trophy -- named after his father -- emblematic of the AFC title.Next up: chasing the Vince Lombardi Trophy.As they had done in their past three "elimination" games, the sixth-seeded Titans (11-8) got started quickly. The difference at Arrowhead as opposed to Houston, New England and Baltimore was that the Chiefs had Mahomes, Tyreek Hill, Sammy Watkins and Damien Williams on offense, and a vastly upgraded defense from when they lost in last year's AFC title game.A week after they overcame a 24-0 deficit against Houston, the Chiefs had to rally again.Down 10-0 and 17-7, Kansas City didn't flinch, building a 35-17 lead while controlling the clock with a strong ground game. Naturally, Mahomes complemented that with sharp passing, spreading the ball on short and deep throws. The dagger came with a 60-yard completion to Watkins for the Chiefs' 28th straight point midway in the final period.Mahomes thrust both arms in the air as the crowd sang "I Want To Dance With Somebody."That somebody will be either the 49ers or Packers in two weeks. They were deciding the NFC crown later Sunday in California.After taking a 3-0 lead on Greg Joseph's first field goal -- with Tennessee's penchant for scoring in the red zone, he hadn't been called upon in his previous four games with the team -- the Titans got a huge break. Bashaud Breeland appeared to make a diving interception, but replay review showed the ball hitting the ground.Helped by consecutive offside penalties and a a fourth-down pass to Adam Humphries for his first career playoff reception, the Titans converted on, what else, Henry's 4-yard run.Then the Chiefs got rolling, scoring on three successive series. Hill took it in on a shovel pass, later beat top Titans cornerback Logan Ryan for a 20-yard reception, and Mahomes finished the half with his brilliant jaunt down the left sideline with half the Tennessee defense seemingly expecting him to step out of bounds.That gave the Chiefs a 21-17 lead. It went to 28-17 on Williams' 3-yard run to cap a seven-minute drive. Then Watkins toasted Logan for the clinching long pass.Henry was held to 69 yards on 19 carries after rushing for 588 yards in the past three games as an unstoppable force. But the Chiefs easily outrushed the Titans on Sunday.Mahomes had 53 of those yards and also was 23 for 35 for 294 yards passing.TRICKERYLast week, Henry threw a jump pass for a touchdown against Baltimore. On Sunday, Dennis Kelly emulated his coach, Mike Vrabel. He sneaked free for Ryan Tannehill's lob, falling back awkwardly but holding on for Tennessee's second TD. The backup tackle is the only offensive lineman since 2000 with two TDs receiving in a season. He also had one against Jacksonville.Vrabel caught 12 touchdown passes as a linebacker, including one in the Super Bowl when his Patriots beat Reid's Eagles.FOURTH DOWNSDisplaying the gambling nature of both coaches, fourth-down conversions were key on early scoring drives. Humphries, who missed the last six games with an ankle problem, caught a 3-yarder on fourth-and-2 at the KC 29. Two plays later, Henry scored.On the Chiefs' ensuing possession, they went on fourth-and-2 from the Titans 28. Travis Kelce's 4-yard reception continued a march to Hill's first TD.UP NEXTTitans: Figuring out if they ran out of gas or were beaten by a more talented team as they head into the offseason.Chiefs: The Tomahawk Chop will be heard at Hard Rock Stadium in the Super Bowl.--- Associated Press ---

Sports