BOYS CARDINAL CLASSIC - CHAMPIONSHIP Metro Academy 58 Benton 49 (9-3) KEARNEY TOURNAMENT - SEMIFINAL Kearney 44 (7-5) Lafayette 36 GIRLS Central 41 (8-5, 2-2 Suburban) Staley 40 Bishop LeBlond 50 (8-6) Excelsior Springs 38

BOYS CARDINAL CLASSIC - CHAMPIONSHIP Metro Academy 58 Benton 49 (9-3) KEARNEY TOURNAMENT - SEMIFINAL Kearney 44 (7-5) Lafayette 36 GIRLS Central 41 (8-5, 2-2 Suburban) Staley 40 Bishop LeBlond 50 (8-6) Excelsior Springs 38

City High School Basketball Scores - Thursday, January 16

ST. JOSEPH, MO. – Central High School is excited to announce the 2019 Athletic Hall of Fame Induction Class. This year’s class includes the winningest football coach in Central’s history, Tony Dudik (1987-2009) and the 1995 Football Team.

The Induction ceremony is scheduled at halftime of the Varsity Basketball game vs. Platte County on Friday, February 14, 2020 in the Coliseum at Central High School. The Athletic Department will host a reception in the inductee’s honor prior to the game beginning at 5:30 pm in the Central Cafeteria. All family, friends, colleagues, former players and alumni are invited.

Inductee Mr. Tony Dudik – Head Football Coach 1987-2009

Mr. Tony Dudik is the winningest Head Football Coach in Central history. In 23 seasons, Dudik won 11 Jamboree Championships, multiple City Championships and a trip to the State Quarterfinals in 1995. 

Coach Dudik developed 35 All-State, 6 NFL, 8 Pro and numerous college football players during his tenure. Seven former players are now members of the Central Athletic Hall of Fame. Tony Dudik is also a member of the Missouri Football Coaches Association Hall of Fame, Class of 2011.

The Class of 1995 football team left the legacy of playing a “Big Game” every week. Winning the City Jamboree, defeating Lafayette and Benton in dominating fashion, rolling Truman, getting a “gut check” against Columbia Hickman, outdueling Lee’s Summit, going toe to toe with #1 Blue Springs and securing a trip to the playoffs with three straight wins against Oak Park, Park Hill and William Chrisman. 

The Indians defeated Fort Osage in the first round of State, advancing to the Quarterfinals against Blue Springs South. Central finished the season with a 9-3 record, outscoring their opponents 357 to 248. Central had a 1000 yard rusher in Mikael Henderson, 1000 yard passer in David Haasis and six receivers with over 100 yards. Defensive End, Paul Ideker earned All-State honors recording 7 sacks. 

The Class of ’95 included future All-State players in Dwayne Blakley and Aaron Crittenden. Blakley and Crittenden went on to play in the NFL.

ST. JOSEPH, MO. – Central High School is excited to announce the 2019 Athletic Hall of Fame Induction Class. This year’s class includes the winningest football coach in Central’s history, Tony Dudik (1987-2009) and the 1995 Football Team.The Induction ceremony is scheduled at halftime of the Varsity Basketball game vs. Platte County on Friday, February 14, 2020 in the Coliseum at Central High School. The Athletic Department will host a reception in the inductee’s honor prior to the game beginning at 5:30 pm in the Central Cafeteria. All family, friends, colleagues, former players and alumni are invited.Inductee Mr. Tony Dudik – Head Football Coach 1987-2009Mr. Tony Dudik is the winningest Head Football Coach in Central history. In 23 seasons, Dudik won 11 Jamboree Championships, multiple City Championships and a trip to the State Quarterfinals in 1995. Coach Dudik developed 35 All-State, 6 NFL, 8 Pro and numerous college football players during his tenure. Seven former players are now members of the Central Athletic Hall of Fame. Tony Dudik is also a member of the Missouri Football Coaches Association Hall of Fame, Class of 2011.Class of 1995 Football TeamThe Class of 1995 football team left the legacy of playing a “Big Game” every week. Winning the City Jamboree, defeating Lafayette and Benton in dominating fashion, rolling Truman, getting a “gut check” against Columbia Hickman, outdueling Lee’s Summit, going toe to toe with #1 Blue Springs and securing a trip to the playoffs with three straight wins against Oak Park, Park Hill and William Chrisman. The Indians defeated Fort Osage in the first round of State, advancing to the Quarterfinals against Blue Springs South. Central finished the season with a 9-3 record, outscoring their opponents 357 to 248. Central had a 1000 yard rusher in Mikael Henderson, 1000 yard passer in David Haasis and six receivers with over 100 yards. Defensive End, Paul Ideker earned All-State honors recording 7 sacks. The Class of ’95 included future All-State players in Dwayne Blakley and Aaron Crittenden. Blakley and Crittenden went on to play in the NFL.--- Central HS Press Release ---

Central High School announces 2019 Athletic Hall of Fame Class

COLUMBIA, Mo. -- Aliyah Boston and Victaria Saxon each had 10 points and 10 rebounds to lead No. 1 South Carolina to a 78-45 victory over Missouri on Thursday night.

Zia Cooke and Mikiah Herbert Harrigan scored 14 each for the Gamecocks (17-1, 5-0 Southeastern Conference, who played their first game since taking over the top spot in the AP Top 25. South Carolina exploited its size advantage, grabbing 37 offensive rebounds and holding a 62-31 edge in total rebounds.

Aijha Blackwell scored 13 points to lead the Tigers (4-14, 1-4). Missouri shot just 27.3%.

After a sluggish start, the Gamecocks started to pull away in the second quarter, outscoring the Tigers 18-3 in the last six minutes of the first half for a 35-17 lead.

Defensively, the Gamecocks blocked eight shots. They smothered Amber Smith, who leads Missouri in scoring by averaging 13 points. Smith didn't score until the final minute of the third quarter and finished with four points on 1-of-8 shooting.

South Carolina's Tyasha Harris finished with 11 points and five assists and became the second player in program history to surpass 1,000 points and 600 assists in a career. She joined Cristina Ciocan, who accomplished the feat from 2000-04.

Missouri: After qualifying for the NCAA Tournament four years in a row, the Tigers have struggled adjusting to life without the program's all-time leading scorer, Sophie Cunningham, who now plays in the WNBA and in Australia. They hope to build for the future around freshmen Blackwell and Hayley Frank, who average more than 12 points.

South Carolina: The Gamecocks have yet to be slowed down or seriously challenged in SEC play, winning each game by at least nine points. South Carolina is averaging 91 per game in conference play.

South Carolina: Host No. 10 Mississippi State on Monday.

COLUMBIA, Mo. -- Aliyah Boston and Victaria Saxon each had 10 points and 10 rebounds to lead No. 1 South Carolina to a 78-45 victory over Missouri on Thursday night.Zia Cooke and Mikiah Herbert Harrigan scored 14 each for the Gamecocks (17-1, 5-0 Southeastern Conference, who played their first game since taking over the top spot in the AP Top 25. South Carolina exploited its size advantage, grabbing 37 offensive rebounds and holding a 62-31 edge in total rebounds.Aijha Blackwell scored 13 points to lead the Tigers (4-14, 1-4). Missouri shot just 27.3%.After a sluggish start, the Gamecocks started to pull away in the second quarter, outscoring the Tigers 18-3 in the last six minutes of the first half for a 35-17 lead.Defensively, the Gamecocks blocked eight shots. They smothered Amber Smith, who leads Missouri in scoring by averaging 13 points. Smith didn't score until the final minute of the third quarter and finished with four points on 1-of-8 shooting.South Carolina's Tyasha Harris finished with 11 points and five assists and became the second player in program history to surpass 1,000 points and 600 assists in a career. She joined Cristina Ciocan, who accomplished the feat from 2000-04.BIG PICTUREMissouri: After qualifying for the NCAA Tournament four years in a row, the Tigers have struggled adjusting to life without the program's all-time leading scorer, Sophie Cunningham, who now plays in the WNBA and in Australia. They hope to build for the future around freshmen Blackwell and Hayley Frank, who average more than 12 points.South Carolina: The Gamecocks have yet to be slowed down or seriously challenged in SEC play, winning each game by at least nine points. South Carolina is averaging 91 per game in conference play.UP NEXTMissouri: At Mississippi on Sunday.South Carolina: Host No. 10 Mississippi State on Monday.--- Associate Press ---

Missouri women get blown out at home by No. 1 South Carolina

BOYS CARDINAL CLASSIC - SEMIFINAL Benton 62 (9-2) Plattsburg 38 FAIRFAX TOURNAMENT - SEMIFINAL Rock Port 61 St. Joseph Christian 58 (8-4) GIRLS KEARNEY TOURNAMENT - CONSOLATION Lafayette 42 (1-11) Raytown South 22

BOYS CARDINAL CLASSIC - SEMIFINAL Benton 62 (9-2) Plattsburg 38 FAIRFAX TOURNAMENT - SEMIFINAL Rock Port 61 St. Joseph Christian 58 (8-4) GIRLS KEARNEY TOURNAMENT - CONSOLATION Lafayette 42 (1-11) Raytown South 22

City High School Basketball Scores - Wednesday, January 15

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. (AP) — Bobby Petrino, a coach with a track record of on-the-field success and off-the-field embarrassments, will be the next coach at Missouri State.

The Springfield-based university said Wednesday that Petrino, 58, will be introduced at a news conference Thursday. He will replace Dave Steckel, who was fired last week after winning just 13 games in five seasons.

Petrino has a 119-56 record in 14 seasons at Arkansas, Western Kentucky and Louisville. He also spent part of one season coaching the NFL's Atlanta Falcons, where he coached 13 games in 2007 before abruptly resigning.

Petrino was 31-9 at Louisville from 2003-06 and took the Cardinals to the Orange Bowl. He left to coach the Falcons, lasted less than a season and took the job at Arkansas. Petrino was 34-17 in four seasons at Arkansas, leading the school to the Sugar Bowl following the 2010 season and a No. 5 final ranking the following season.

That job ended in 2012 when Petrino was fired after a motorcycle accident exposed an extra-marital affair with an athletic department employee and Petrino's lies to his boss.

He made another comeback, resurfacing at Western Kentucky for the 2013 season. The Hilltoppers were 8-4 in his only season there before Petrino returned to Louisville.

Petrino was 36-26 in his second stint with the Cardinals, but it didn't end well. Louisville was 2-8 and in the midst of a seven-game losing streak when he was fired in 2018 following a 54-23 loss to Syracuse. His exit was expensive — Louisville still owed him $14 million.

Missouri State was just 13-42 under Steckel, who previously served as defensive coordinator for Gary Pinkel at Missouri. The Bears play in the Missouri Valley Conference and are part of the NCAA Football Championship Subdivision.

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. (AP) — Bobby Petrino, a coach with a track record of on-the-field success and off-the-field embarrassments, will be the next coach at Missouri State.The Springfield-based university said Wednesday that Petrino, 58, will be introduced at a news conference Thursday. He will replace Dave Steckel, who was fired last week after winning just 13 games in five seasons.Petrino has a 119-56 record in 14 seasons at Arkansas, Western Kentucky and Louisville. He also spent part of one season coaching the NFL's Atlanta Falcons, where he coached 13 games in 2007 before abruptly resigning.Petrino was 31-9 at Louisville from 2003-06 and took the Cardinals to the Orange Bowl. He left to coach the Falcons, lasted less than a season and took the job at Arkansas. Petrino was 34-17 in four seasons at Arkansas, leading the school to the Sugar Bowl following the 2010 season and a No. 5 final ranking the following season.That job ended in 2012 when Petrino was fired after a motorcycle accident exposed an extra-marital affair with an athletic department employee and Petrino's lies to his boss.He made another comeback, resurfacing at Western Kentucky for the 2013 season. The Hilltoppers were 8-4 in his only season there before Petrino returned to Louisville.Petrino was 36-26 in his second stint with the Cardinals, but it didn't end well. Louisville was 2-8 and in the midst of a seven-game losing streak when he was fired in 2018 following a 54-23 loss to Syracuse. His exit was expensive — Louisville still owed him $14 million.Missouri State was just 13-42 under Steckel, who previously served as defensive coordinator for Gary Pinkel at Missouri. The Bears play in the Missouri Valley Conference and are part of the NCAA Football Championship Subdivision.--- Associated Press ---

Missouri State to hire Bobby Petrino as new football coach

Northwest Missouri State University is represented by three players on Small College Basketball's Bevo Francis Top 100 Watch List. The list consists of some of the top players from NCAA Division II, NCAA Division III, NAIA Division I, NAIA Division II, USCAA and NCCAA.

The Clarence "Bevo" Francis Award is presented annually to the player who has had the finest overall season within Small College Basketball. Considerations will be season statistics and individual achievements, awards, personal character and team achievements. This is an incredibly prestigious honor, as this award will only be given to one player within Small College Basketball per season.

Forward Ryan Hawkins, a junior from Atlantic, Iowa, is leading the Bearcats and the MIAA in scoring at 23.6 points per game. Hawkins is shooting 56.3% from the field, including 45.0% from three-point range. Hawkins has buried a team-best 45 three-pointers and is 62-of-75 (82.7%) at the free throw line. Hawkins also leads the team in steals with 35. Hawkins poured in 32 points at Washburn (Jan. 11) to surpass the 30-point mark for the third time this season. Hawkins set the Northwest single-game scoring record with 44 points against Southern Nazarene (Nov. 2). Hawkins ranks No. 7 in the nation in total points scored with 377 points through 16 games. Hawkins is one of 13 all-time Bearcats to reach 1,000 points and 500 rebounds. It's the second straight season that Hawkins has been named to the Top 100 Watch List.

Guard Trevor Hudgins, a sophomore from Manhattan, Kansas, is averaging 17.9 points and 6.2 assists per game. He has a 4.09 assist-to-turnover ratio, which ranks No. 8 in the nation. Hudgins has 90 assists to go against 22 turnovers in 490 minutes of action. Hudgins set a career-high with 13 assists in Northwest's 110-66 win over Central Methodist (Dec. 16). Hudgins has surpassed double figures in assists four times this season. Hudgins has handed out 99 assists, which ranks No. 12 in the nation. On the season, Hudgins is the No. 1-ranked three-point field goal percentage shooter in the MIAA at 51.9%. Hudgins ranks No. 4 in Division II in three-point field goal percentage. Hudgins is shooting 42-of-81 from the arc. Hudgins is shooting 72.2% from three-point range in his last six games by making 26-of-36 from distance. It's also the second straight season that Hudgins has been named to the Top 100 Watch List.

Guard Diego Bernard, a sophomore from St. Joseph, Missouri, is averaging 15.2 points and 7.0 rebounds. He is shooting 47.2% from the field and 80.3% from the free throw line. Bernard ranks second in the MIAA in steals (32) and eighth in points scored (243). Bernard has four 20-point scoring games in 2019-2020. He has scored in double figures in 14 of 16 games this season as Northwest has compiled a mark of 15-1 overall and 5-1 in the MIAA. Bernard compiled back-to-back double-doubles against St. Mary (Nov. 14) with 20 points and 10 rebounds and against William Jewell (Nov. 21) with 21 points and 11 rebounds. 

This marks the fifth year of the Bevo Francis Award. Past winners include Dominez Burnett of Davenport University in 2016, Justin Pitts of Northwest Missouri State University in 2017, Emanuel Terry of Lincoln Memorial University in 2018 and Aston Francis of Wheaton College in 2019.

On Feb. 15, the list will be reduced to the top 50 players. One month later on March 15, the top 25 players will be announced. On April 4, the finalists for this year's award will be announced, followed by the Bevo Francis Award winning being crowned on April 6.

Northwest Missouri State University is represented by three players on Small College Basketball's Bevo Francis Top 100 Watch List. The list consists of some of the top players from NCAA Division II, NCAA Division III, NAIA Division I, NAIA Division II, USCAA and NCCAA.The Clarence "Bevo" Francis Award is presented annually to the player who has had the finest overall season within Small College Basketball. Considerations will be season statistics and individual achievements, awards, personal character and team achievements. This is an incredibly prestigious honor, as this award will only be given to one player within Small College Basketball per season.Forward Ryan Hawkins, a junior from Atlantic, Iowa, is leading the Bearcats and the MIAA in scoring at 23.6 points per game. Hawkins is shooting 56.3% from the field, including 45.0% from three-point range. Hawkins has buried a team-best 45 three-pointers and is 62-of-75 (82.7%) at the free throw line. Hawkins also leads the team in steals with 35. Hawkins poured in 32 points at Washburn (Jan. 11) to surpass the 30-point mark for the third time this season. Hawkins set the Northwest single-game scoring record with 44 points against Southern Nazarene (Nov. 2). Hawkins ranks No. 7 in the nation in total points scored with 377 points through 16 games. Hawkins is one of 13 all-time Bearcats to reach 1,000 points and 500 rebounds. It's the second straight season that Hawkins has been named to the Top 100 Watch List.Guard Trevor Hudgins, a sophomore from Manhattan, Kansas, is averaging 17.9 points and 6.2 assists per game. He has a 4.09 assist-to-turnover ratio, which ranks No. 8 in the nation. Hudgins has 90 assists to go against 22 turnovers in 490 minutes of action. Hudgins set a career-high with 13 assists in Northwest's 110-66 win over Central Methodist (Dec. 16). Hudgins has surpassed double figures in assists four times this season. Hudgins has handed out 99 assists, which ranks No. 12 in the nation. On the season, Hudgins is the No. 1-ranked three-point field goal percentage shooter in the MIAA at 51.9%. Hudgins ranks No. 4 in Division II in three-point field goal percentage. Hudgins is shooting 42-of-81 from the arc. Hudgins is shooting 72.2% from three-point range in his last six games by making 26-of-36 from distance. It's also the second straight season that Hudgins has been named to the Top 100 Watch List.Guard Diego Bernard, a sophomore from St. Joseph, Missouri, is averaging 15.2 points and 7.0 rebounds. He is shooting 47.2% from the field and 80.3% from the free throw line. Bernard ranks second in the MIAA in steals (32) and eighth in points scored (243). Bernard has four 20-point scoring games in 2019-2020. He has scored in double figures in 14 of 16 games this season as Northwest has compiled a mark of 15-1 overall and 5-1 in the MIAA. Bernard compiled back-to-back double-doubles against St. Mary (Nov. 14) with 20 points and 10 rebounds and against William Jewell (Nov. 21) with 21 points and 11 rebounds. This marks the fifth year of the Bevo Francis Award. Past winners include Dominez Burnett of Davenport University in 2016, Justin Pitts of Northwest Missouri State University in 2017, Emanuel Terry of Lincoln Memorial University in 2018 and Aston Francis of Wheaton College in 2019.On Feb. 15, the list will be reduced to the top 50 players. One month later on March 15, the top 25 players will be announced. On April 4, the finalists for this year's award will be announced, followed by the Bevo Francis Award winning being crowned on April 6.--- Northwest Athletics ---

Three Bearcats named to Bevo Francis Top 100 watch list

BOYS Central 55 (5-6) Liberty North 51 Mid-Buchanan 59 Bishop LeBlond 26 (6-8) BENTON CARDINAL CLASSIC - 1ST ROUND Benton 76 (8-2) Excelsior Springs 29 KEARNEY TOURNAMENT - 1ST ROUND Lafayette 52 (7-4) Kansas City Southeast 37 FAIRFAX TOURNAMENT - 1ST ROUND St. Joseph Christian 51 (8-3) West Nodaway 45 GIRLS FAIRFAX TOURNAMENT - 1ST ROUND North Nodaway 39 St. Joseph Christian 20 (3-8)

BOYS Central 55 (5-6) Liberty North 51 Mid-Buchanan 59 Bishop LeBlond 26 (6-8) BENTON CARDINAL CLASSIC - 1ST ROUND Benton 76 (8-2) Excelsior Springs 29 KEARNEY TOURNAMENT - 1ST ROUND Lafayette 52 (7-4) Kansas City Southeast 37 FAIRFAX TOURNAMENT - 1ST ROUND St. Joseph Christian 51 (8-3) West Nodaway 45 GIRLS FAIRFAX TOURNAMENT - 1ST ROUND North Nodaway 39 St. Joseph Christian 20 (3-8)

City High School Basketball Scores - Tuesday, January 14

STARKVILLE, Miss. -- Reggie Perry had 23 points and 10 rebounds to lead Mississippi State to an easy 72-45 victory over Missouri on Tuesday.

Perry has now collected nine double-doubles this season and has 18 for his career. Tyson Carter had 15 points while Nick Weatherspoon added 11 for Mississippi State (10-6 overall, 1-3 in SEC, who snapped a three-game losing streak.

Missouri (9-7, 1-3) was led by Kobe Brown's 14 points and Brown was the only Tiger to finish in double digits.

Mississippi State jumped out to a 10-0 lead in the opening four minutes. Missouri did not get on the scoreboard until Kobe Brown sank a 3 pointer with 15:06 remaining in the first half. The Bulldogs' hot shooting in the first half continued as Mississippi State made 9 of 12 shots to open the game en route to a 19-7 lead.

The Bulldogs stretched the lead to 31-11 after a Weatherspoon 3-pointer with 4:04 left in the first half. Mississippi State maintained that advantage the rest of the way and led 40-20 at halftime. Missouri's point total in the first half was the lowest allowed against SEC competition during Howland's four-plus seasons at Mississippi State.

Mississippi State shot a sizzling 60.7% in the first half while Missouri shot just 34.8% from the field. The Tigers were just 2 of 10 beyond the arc in the opening half while Mississippi State was 3 of 8 on 3s. The Tigers held a 13-12 rebounding edge in the opening half but had 13 turnovers.

Missouri: The Tigers' struggles in Starkville continued on Tuesday with another loss at Humphrey Coliseum. Missouri is now just 1-6 all-time at Mississippi State.

Mississippi State: In desperate search for their first conference win, the Bulldogs finally got that against Missouri. With two more home games over the next eight days, Mississippi State has a chance to get to .500 in the SEC after an 0-3 start.

Missouri: The Tigers remain on the road and travel to Alabama on Saturday.

Mississippi State: The Bulldogs continue their three-game homestand on Saturday and play host to Georgia.

STARKVILLE, Miss. -- Reggie Perry had 23 points and 10 rebounds to lead Mississippi State to an easy 72-45 victory over Missouri on Tuesday.Perry has now collected nine double-doubles this season and has 18 for his career. Tyson Carter had 15 points while Nick Weatherspoon added 11 for Mississippi State (10-6 overall, 1-3 in SEC, who snapped a three-game losing streak.Missouri (9-7, 1-3) was led by Kobe Brown's 14 points and Brown was the only Tiger to finish in double digits.Mississippi State jumped out to a 10-0 lead in the opening four minutes. Missouri did not get on the scoreboard until Kobe Brown sank a 3 pointer with 15:06 remaining in the first half. The Bulldogs' hot shooting in the first half continued as Mississippi State made 9 of 12 shots to open the game en route to a 19-7 lead.The Bulldogs stretched the lead to 31-11 after a Weatherspoon 3-pointer with 4:04 left in the first half. Mississippi State maintained that advantage the rest of the way and led 40-20 at halftime. Missouri's point total in the first half was the lowest allowed against SEC competition during Howland's four-plus seasons at Mississippi State.Mississippi State shot a sizzling 60.7% in the first half while Missouri shot just 34.8% from the field. The Tigers were just 2 of 10 beyond the arc in the opening half while Mississippi State was 3 of 8 on 3s. The Tigers held a 13-12 rebounding edge in the opening half but had 13 turnovers.BIG PICTUREMissouri: The Tigers' struggles in Starkville continued on Tuesday with another loss at Humphrey Coliseum. Missouri is now just 1-6 all-time at Mississippi State.Mississippi State: In desperate search for their first conference win, the Bulldogs finally got that against Missouri. With two more home games over the next eight days, Mississippi State has a chance to get to .500 in the SEC after an 0-3 start.UP NEXTMissouri: The Tigers remain on the road and travel to Alabama on Saturday.Mississippi State: The Bulldogs continue their three-game homestand on Saturday and play host to Georgia.--- Associated Press ---

Mizzou get clobbered at Mississippi State 72-45

NORMAN, Okla. -- Isaiah Moss scored 20 points to help No. 6 Kansas beat Oklahoma 66-52 on Tuesday night.

Stepping into the starting lineup in place of leading scorer Devon Dotson, who sat out with a hip injury, Moss made 6 of 11 3-pointers. It was Moss' first start for Kansas. The graduate transfer had started every game he played in the previous two seasons at Iowa.

Udoka Azubuike had 16 points and 14 rebounds and Marcus Garrett added 15 points for the Jayhawks (13-3, 3-1 Big 12, who bounced back from a loss to Baylor last Saturday.

Kristian Doolittle had 13 points and 10 rebounds for Oklahoma (11-5, 2-2, but he made just 5 of 18 shots. De'Vion Harmon scored 13 points and Brady Manek added 10 points for the Sooners. Oklahoma shot 28% from the field, including 8 of 29 from 3-point range.

The Sooners had won home games against the Jayhawks the previous two years, and it looked like they might get another one. Kansas led 28-27 at the break after a back-and-forth first half.

Kansas controlled the early part of the second half, but a 3-pointer by Doolittle cut Kansas' lead to 49-45. Garrett answered with a 3-pointer, and then Azubuike dunked to put Kansas in control for good.

Kansas: The Jayhawks were solid without their scoring leader. Dotson averages 18 points per game, but the No. 2 scorer heading into the game was Azubuike with 12.6.

Oklahoma: The Sooners became too dependent on the 3-point shot, taking nearly half their shots from beyond the arc. They couldn't find scoring elsewhere when outside shots weren't falling. Oklahoma could have used a win against a highly ranked team.

NORMAN, Okla. -- Isaiah Moss scored 20 points to help No. 6 Kansas beat Oklahoma 66-52 on Tuesday night.Stepping into the starting lineup in place of leading scorer Devon Dotson, who sat out with a hip injury, Moss made 6 of 11 3-pointers. It was Moss' first start for Kansas. The graduate transfer had started every game he played in the previous two seasons at Iowa.Udoka Azubuike had 16 points and 14 rebounds and Marcus Garrett added 15 points for the Jayhawks (13-3, 3-1 Big 12, who bounced back from a loss to Baylor last Saturday.Kristian Doolittle had 13 points and 10 rebounds for Oklahoma (11-5, 2-2, but he made just 5 of 18 shots. De'Vion Harmon scored 13 points and Brady Manek added 10 points for the Sooners. Oklahoma shot 28% from the field, including 8 of 29 from 3-point range.The Sooners had won home games against the Jayhawks the previous two years, and it looked like they might get another one. Kansas led 28-27 at the break after a back-and-forth first half.Kansas controlled the early part of the second half, but a 3-pointer by Doolittle cut Kansas' lead to 49-45. Garrett answered with a 3-pointer, and then Azubuike dunked to put Kansas in control for good.BIG PICTUREKansas: The Jayhawks were solid without their scoring leader. Dotson averages 18 points per game, but the No. 2 scorer heading into the game was Azubuike with 12.6.Oklahoma: The Sooners became too dependent on the 3-point shot, taking nearly half their shots from beyond the arc. They couldn't find scoring elsewhere when outside shots weren't falling. Oklahoma could have used a win against a highly ranked team.UP NEXTKansas: Visits Texas on Saturday.Oklahoma: Hosts TCU on Saturday.--- Associated Press ---

Moss scores 20 points as No. 6 Kansas wins at Oklahoma 66-52

MANHATTAN, Kan. -- Kyler Edwards scored a career-high 24 points, Davide Moretti had 14 and No. 23 Texas Tech used a late push to beat Kansas State 77-63 Tuesday night.

The Red Raiders (11-5, 2-2 Big 12) led by 17 at one point, but the Wildcats rallied and led 46-45 with 13 minutes remaining. Kevin McCuller scored nine of his 10 points in the final 11:30 to help steady Texas Tech. Jahmi'us Ramsey also had 10 points.

Cartier Diarra scored 19 points, Xavier Sneed had 14 and Montavious Murphy added 11 for Kansas State (7-9, 0-4).

This is only the second time Texas Tech has won at Kansas State since 2007.

The Wildcats shot 47.2% but only had 36 attempts due to 20 turnovers. Texas Tech also shot 47.2% from the field.

The Red Raiders scored 30 points off those turnovers and made seven 3-pointers.

Kansas State shot almost as many free throws as field goals, making 25 of 34 attempts from the line.

Texas Tech outrebounded Kansas State 31-23 as the Wildcats posted their lowest number of rebounds in a game this season.

Kansas State guard Mike McGuirl did not play due to a concussion and Texas Tech guard Terrance Shannon Jr. missed the game due to a back injury.

Kansas State: The Wildcats got down early but fought back in the second half. The big hole proved costly.

Texas Tech: Despite having 16 turnovers and battling foul trouble, the Red Raiders were able to hold off a pesky Wildcat team.

Kansas State hosts West Virginia on Saturday.

Texas Tech goes home to take on Iowa State on Saturday.

MANHATTAN, Kan. -- Kyler Edwards scored a career-high 24 points, Davide Moretti had 14 and No. 23 Texas Tech used a late push to beat Kansas State 77-63 Tuesday night.The Red Raiders (11-5, 2-2 Big 12) led by 17 at one point, but the Wildcats rallied and led 46-45 with 13 minutes remaining. Kevin McCuller scored nine of his 10 points in the final 11:30 to help steady Texas Tech. Jahmi'us Ramsey also had 10 points.Cartier Diarra scored 19 points, Xavier Sneed had 14 and Montavious Murphy added 11 for Kansas State (7-9, 0-4).This is only the second time Texas Tech has won at Kansas State since 2007.The Wildcats shot 47.2% but only had 36 attempts due to 20 turnovers. Texas Tech also shot 47.2% from the field.The Red Raiders scored 30 points off those turnovers and made seven 3-pointers.Kansas State shot almost as many free throws as field goals, making 25 of 34 attempts from the line.Texas Tech outrebounded Kansas State 31-23 as the Wildcats posted their lowest number of rebounds in a game this season.STARTERS INJUREDKansas State guard Mike McGuirl did not play due to a concussion and Texas Tech guard Terrance Shannon Jr. missed the game due to a back injury.BIG PICTUREKansas State: The Wildcats got down early but fought back in the second half. The big hole proved costly.Texas Tech: Despite having 16 turnovers and battling foul trouble, the Red Raiders were able to hold off a pesky Wildcat team.UP NEXTKansas State hosts West Virginia on Saturday.Texas Tech goes home to take on Iowa State on Saturday.--- Associated Press ---

K-State remains winless in Big 12 with loss to No. 23 Texas Tech

COLUMBUS, Ohio -- Ohio State coach Chris Holtmann came into his post-game news conference ready to talk about some good stuff for a change.

"It's been awhile since I sat in front of you in a good mood," Holtmann told the assembled media after No. 21 Ohio State snapped a four-game losing streak by beating Nebraska on Tuesday night. "It seems like forever."

Actually, it was two weeks, since Dec. 21 when they Buckeyes beat Kentucky. They were 11-1 after that and rose to No. 2 in the AP Top 25 before the losing streak started after the Christmas break. That means 80-68 win over Nebraska was Ohio State's first win of 2020.

The Buckeyes seemed to find their way on the floor again, shooting 54.5% for the game after hitting a dismal 34% combined in the four losses.

"Confidence," said guard C.J. Walker, who led Ohio State with 18 points. "Once we saw the ball fall in the first half, it just went from there. That's kind of all we needed to see. We've been playing defense really well, we just haven't been making shots."

Walker and freshman guard D.J. Carton both logged more than 37 minutes each because of the suspension of guards Luther Muhammad and Duane Washington Jr. Carton had 13 points to go along with five assists, and stalwart big man Kaleb Wesson added 13 points and 14 rebounds.

The Buckeyes (12-5, 2-4 Big Ten) took charge early and rolled over the Cornhuskers, whose transfer-heavy lineup is still learning to play together. Ohio State led by as 25 in the second half.

Thorir Thorbjarnarson paced Nebraska (7-10, 2-4) with 15 points and three players had 10. The Huskers shot 42.4% in losing their second in a row.

"They were a confident team tonight," first-year Nebraska coach Fred Hoiberg said of Ohio State. "You know, you go through stretches where you don't shoot the ball as well as you'd like. But when this team knocks down shots, they're going to be tough to beat."

Ohio State had failed to score 60 points in the string of four losses. On Tuesday, it reached that number during a 12-0 run before the mid-way point of the second half.

Ohio State started the game 0 for 5. Then Andre Wesson hit three straight 3-pointers and the Buckeyes took off from there.

"It gave us a big jolt of confidence," Holtmann said.

Nebraska: The Huskers hoped to come to Columbus and catch Ohio State at the bottom of a slump, but it wasn't going to happen. They shot better in the second half but couldn't keep up with the more polished Buckeyes.

Ohio State: The Buckeyes were reeling and needed a feel-good game like this, even if it was against an over-matched opponent. They seemed to get their shooting eye back after struggling mightily getting the ball in the basket in the past two weeks. Fun fact: Last January's five-game losing streak also ended with a loss to Nebraska.

"I just think there's so much basketball left, and it's not the end of the ups and downs," Holtmann said. "We've had some better practices here as of late. I'm just anxious to see how that continues, and I'm anxious to see collectively what our approach and attitude is consistently. I think when we see that consistently and feel good about that, then I'll live with results."

Ohio State announced shortly before the game that Muhammad and Washington would be suspended. It's not clear what they did or if they will sit out for more games. Holtmann said it's "day to day."

COLUMBUS, Ohio -- Ohio State coach Chris Holtmann came into his post-game news conference ready to talk about some good stuff for a change."It's been awhile since I sat in front of you in a good mood," Holtmann told the assembled media after No. 21 Ohio State snapped a four-game losing streak by beating Nebraska on Tuesday night. "It seems like forever."Actually, it was two weeks, since Dec. 21 when they Buckeyes beat Kentucky. They were 11-1 after that and rose to No. 2 in the AP Top 25 before the losing streak started after the Christmas break. That means 80-68 win over Nebraska was Ohio State's first win of 2020.The Buckeyes seemed to find their way on the floor again, shooting 54.5% for the game after hitting a dismal 34% combined in the four losses.The difference?"Confidence," said guard C.J. Walker, who led Ohio State with 18 points. "Once we saw the ball fall in the first half, it just went from there. That's kind of all we needed to see. We've been playing defense really well, we just haven't been making shots."Walker and freshman guard D.J. Carton both logged more than 37 minutes each because of the suspension of guards Luther Muhammad and Duane Washington Jr. Carton had 13 points to go along with five assists, and stalwart big man Kaleb Wesson added 13 points and 14 rebounds.The Buckeyes (12-5, 2-4 Big Ten) took charge early and rolled over the Cornhuskers, whose transfer-heavy lineup is still learning to play together. Ohio State led by as 25 in the second half.Thorir Thorbjarnarson paced Nebraska (7-10, 2-4) with 15 points and three players had 10. The Huskers shot 42.4% in losing their second in a row."They were a confident team tonight," first-year Nebraska coach Fred Hoiberg said of Ohio State. "You know, you go through stretches where you don't shoot the ball as well as you'd like. But when this team knocks down shots, they're going to be tough to beat."FINALLY SOME BASKETSOhio State had failed to score 60 points in the string of four losses. On Tuesday, it reached that number during a 12-0 run before the mid-way point of the second half.TURNING POINTOhio State started the game 0 for 5. Then Andre Wesson hit three straight 3-pointers and the Buckeyes took off from there."It gave us a big jolt of confidence," Holtmann said.BIG PICTURENebraska: The Huskers hoped to come to Columbus and catch Ohio State at the bottom of a slump, but it wasn't going to happen. They shot better in the second half but couldn't keep up with the more polished Buckeyes.Ohio State: The Buckeyes were reeling and needed a feel-good game like this, even if it was against an over-matched opponent. They seemed to get their shooting eye back after struggling mightily getting the ball in the basket in the past two weeks. Fun fact: Last January's five-game losing streak also ended with a loss to Nebraska."I just think there's so much basketball left, and it's not the end of the ups and downs," Holtmann said. "We've had some better practices here as of late. I'm just anxious to see how that continues, and I'm anxious to see collectively what our approach and attitude is consistently. I think when we see that consistently and feel good about that, then I'll live with results."ABOUT THOSE SUSPENSIONSOhio State announced shortly before the game that Muhammad and Washington would be suspended. It's not clear what they did or if they will sit out for more games. Holtmann said it's "day to day."UP NEXTNebraska: Hosts Indiana on Saturday.Ohio State: At Penn State on Saturday.--- Associated Press ---

Nebraska falls on the road at No. 21 Ohio State 80-68

GIRLS Liberty North 56 Central 43 (7-5, 1-2 Suburban) KEARNEY TOURNAMENT - 1ST ROUND Kearney 56 Lafayette 20 (0-11)

GIRLS Liberty North 56 Central 43 (7-5, 1-2 Suburban) KEARNEY TOURNAMENT - 1ST ROUND Kearney 56 Lafayette 20 (0-11)

City High School Basketball Scores - Monday, January 13



For the third time this season, Northwest Missouri State junior forward Ryan Hawkins has been named the&nbsp;MIAA's&nbsp;Men's Basketball Athlete of the Week.

Hawkins (Atlantic, Iowa) averaged 23.5 points, 7.5 rebounds and shot 53.1 percent from the field in leading Northwest to a pair of road&nbsp;MIAA&nbsp;victories. Hawkins played all 80 minutes in the two games.

Hawkins collected his third double-double with 15 points and 11 rebounds in a 71-56 win at Emporia State.&nbsp;

Hawkins scored a game-high 32 points on 11-of-18 shooting and grabbed four rebounds to go along with five steals in a 73-68 victory at Washburn. Hawkins hit a driving left-hand layup with 3:38 to play and added two free throws with 2:33 left to put Northwest on top of Washburn for good at 66-65. It was the fourth 30-point plus scoring game this season for Hawkins.

Hawkins leads the league in scoring (23.6 ppg) and in steals (2.2 spg). He is second in the&nbsp;MIAA&nbsp;in three-point field goals made (45) and in three-point field goal percentage (45.0%). He ranks third in the league in field goal percentage (56.3%) and in minutes per game (34.6 mpg).

The Bearcats will play a single game this week on Saturday at home against Missouri Western. Tip is set for 3:30 p.m. in Bearcat Arena following the women's matchup between Missouri Western and Northwest.



For the third time this season, Northwest Missouri State junior forward Ryan Hawkins has been named the&nbsp;MIAA's&nbsp;Men's Basketball Athlete of the Week.Hawkins (Atlantic, Iowa) averaged 23.5 points, 7.5 rebounds and shot 53.1 percent from the field in leading Northwest to a pair of road&nbsp;MIAA&nbsp;victories. Hawkins played all 80 minutes in the two games.Hawkins collected his third double-double with 15 points and 11 rebounds in a 71-56 win at Emporia State.&nbsp;Hawkins scored a game-high 32 points on 11-of-18 shooting and grabbed four rebounds to go along with five steals in a 73-68 victory at Washburn. Hawkins hit a driving left-hand layup with 3:38 to play and added two free throws with 2:33 left to put Northwest on top of Washburn for good at 66-65. It was the fourth 30-point plus scoring game this season for Hawkins.Hawkins leads the league in scoring (23.6 ppg) and in steals (2.2 spg). He is second in the&nbsp;MIAA&nbsp;in three-point field goals made (45) and in three-point field goal percentage (45.0%). He ranks third in the league in field goal percentage (56.3%) and in minutes per game (34.6 mpg).The Bearcats will play a single game this week on Saturday at home against Missouri Western. Tip is set for 3:30 p.m. in Bearcat Arena following the women's matchup between Missouri Western and Northwest.

--- Northwest Athletics ---

Northwest's Hawkins named MIAA men's basketball Player of the Week

After helping their teams to wins over ranked opponents, Baylor’s Jared Butler was named Big 12 Men’s Basketball Player of the Week while his teammate Macio Teague and West Virginia’s Miles McBride were named Newcomers of the Week. Butler picked up his second weekly award of the season and the third of his career. McBride was honored for the second time while Teague garnered his first recognition.

Butler led Baylor to back-to-back road victories over top 25 teams, including the program's first win at Kansas, which was also the first road win against a top 5 team in program history. He scored a game-high 22 points and played turnover-free with three assists and two steals in 32 minutes at No. 3 KU. The sophomore guard scored 10 straight points in a 2:25 span late in the second half, and the Bears led by double-digits for the final 8:54 of the game. Butler made consecutive buckets in the final four minutes at No. 22 Texas Tech, extending Baylor’s lead to six points both times. He helped the Baylor defense limit TTU to its fewest points (52) in a home game in the four-year Chris Beard era and KU to its fewest points (55) in a home game in the 17-year Bill Self era.

Teague scored 16 points, posted a team-high seven rebounds and added three assists with no turnovers in 35 minutes in Baylor's win at No. 3 Kansas. He scored eight straight points in the final three minutes of the first half at Kansas, extending the Bears’ lead from two to 10 points. The junior guard drove and dished for three straight BU field goals in the final five minutes. Teague added seven points and two rebounds in the win at No. 22 Texas Tech and assisted with the Bears’ defensive efforts in both games.

McBride posted double figure scoring in both of West Virginia’s games as the team won at Oklahoma State and beat No. 22 Texas Tech at home. The freshman guard scored a career-high 22 points in the win over the Red Raiders with 13 of those points in the second half. He connected on 8-of-11 from the field. McBride contributed 10 points on 4-of-7 shooting in the road win at Oklahoma State. He averaged 16.0 points for the week while shooting 66.7 percent from the field, 60 percent from 3-point range and 83.3 percent from the free throw line.

After helping their teams to wins over ranked opponents, Baylor’s Jared Butler was named Big 12 Men’s Basketball Player of the Week while his teammate Macio Teague and West Virginia’s Miles McBride were named Newcomers of the Week. Butler picked up his second weekly award of the season and the third of his career. McBride was honored for the second time while Teague garnered his first recognition.Butler led Baylor to back-to-back road victories over top 25 teams, including the program's first win at Kansas, which was also the first road win against a top 5 team in program history. He scored a game-high 22 points and played turnover-free with three assists and two steals in 32 minutes at No. 3 KU. The sophomore guard scored 10 straight points in a 2:25 span late in the second half, and the Bears led by double-digits for the final 8:54 of the game. Butler made consecutive buckets in the final four minutes at No. 22 Texas Tech, extending Baylor’s lead to six points both times. He helped the Baylor defense limit TTU to its fewest points (52) in a home game in the four-year Chris Beard era and KU to its fewest points (55) in a home game in the 17-year Bill Self era.Teague scored 16 points, posted a team-high seven rebounds and added three assists with no turnovers in 35 minutes in Baylor's win at No. 3 Kansas. He scored eight straight points in the final three minutes of the first half at Kansas, extending the Bears’ lead from two to 10 points. The junior guard drove and dished for three straight BU field goals in the final five minutes. Teague added seven points and two rebounds in the win at No. 22 Texas Tech and assisted with the Bears’ defensive efforts in both games.McBride posted double figure scoring in both of West Virginia’s games as the team won at Oklahoma State and beat No. 22 Texas Tech at home. The freshman guard scored a career-high 22 points in the win over the Red Raiders with 13 of those points in the second half. He connected on 8-of-11 from the field. McBride contributed 10 points on 4-of-7 shooting in the road win at Oklahoma State. He averaged 16.0 points for the week while shooting 66.7 percent from the field, 60 percent from 3-point range and 83.3 percent from the free throw line.--- Big 12 Release ---

Big 12 hands out weekly men's basketball awards

MANHATTAN, Kan. – Kansas State kick returner Joshua Youngblood received his second honor from the Football Writers Association of America (FWAA) and sixth overall All-America accolade as he was named a Freshman All-American by the organization on Monday.

Youngblood, who was a Second Team All-American by the FWAA, was previously named to ESPN’s lone All-America team and was a Second Team All-American by CBS Sports, while he was a Freshman All-American by The Athletic and a True Freshman All-American by 247Sports.

The freshman was part of an overall kickoff-return unit that led the nation in both average (29.50) touchdowns (4). The unit’s average tied for the 14th best mark in NCAA history and set a new school and Big 12 record.

A product of Tampa, Florida, who was named the Big 12 Special Teams Player of the Year, Youngblood led the country with three kickoff-return touchdowns during the regular season. His three scores rank third in school history for a season and fourth in a career, while he ranks third in Big 12 history for a season and already tied for seventh in a career.

Youngblood held a Big 12-leading 35.9-yard kickoff-return average, which would rank first in the nation and broke both the school and conference records if he had two more attempts to meet the NCAA required minimum.

MANHATTAN, Kan. – Kansas State kick returner Joshua Youngblood received his second honor from the Football Writers Association of America (FWAA) and sixth overall All-America accolade as he was named a Freshman All-American by the organization on Monday.Youngblood, who was a Second Team All-American by the FWAA, was previously named to ESPN’s lone All-America team and was a Second Team All-American by CBS Sports, while he was a Freshman All-American by The Athletic and a True Freshman All-American by 247Sports.The freshman was part of an overall kickoff-return unit that led the nation in both average (29.50) touchdowns (4). The unit’s average tied for the 14th best mark in NCAA history and set a new school and Big 12 record.A product of Tampa, Florida, who was named the Big 12 Special Teams Player of the Year, Youngblood led the country with three kickoff-return touchdowns during the regular season. His three scores rank third in school history for a season and fourth in a career, while he ranks third in Big 12 history for a season and already tied for seventh in a career.Youngblood held a Big 12-leading 35.9-yard kickoff-return average, which would rank first in the nation and broke both the school and conference records if he had two more attempts to meet the NCAA required minimum.--- K-State Sports ---

Kansas State's Youngblood named FWAA Freshman All-American

KANSAS CITY, Mo. -- Patrick Mahomes stalked up and down the sideline like a field marshal rallying his troops, the brilliant young quarterback imploring the Kansas City Chiefs to stay together even as the Houston Texans were on the verge of taking them apart.

The Chiefs already faced a 24-0 hole, bigger than any deficit they had overcome in franchise history.

"The biggest thing I was preaching," Mahomes said later, "was, `Let's go do something special. Everybody is counting us out. Let's go out there and play by play put it out there.' And play by play, we did what we were supposed to do."

Beginning with the first of his five touchdown passes, Mahomes and the Chiefs slowly chipped away at Houston's seemingly insurmountable lead. They continued to pick up momentum, outscoring the Texans 28-0 during the second quarter alone, and eventually reeled off 41 consecutive points before cruising the rest of the way to a 51-31 victory Sunday that propelled Kansas City back to the AFC championship game for the second consecutive season.

In doing so, the Chiefs (13-4) became the first team in NFL history to win a playoff game by at least 20 points after trailing by at least 20. They matched the fourth-biggest comeback in playoff history while winning a postseason game in back-to-back seasons for the first time. Travis Kelce and Damien Williams scored three touchdowns apiece, joining the 49ers' Jerry Rice and Ricky Waters in Super Bowl 29 as the only teammates to score that many times in a postseason game.

Meanwhile, Mahomes led by example as much as by voice. He finished with 321 yards passing, becoming the first player in postseason history with at least 300 yards passing and five touchdowns while running for at least 50 more yards.

"You saw him going up and down the bench, he was talking to everybody, -- `Just settle down," Chiefs coach Andy Reid said. "As a head coach, you can't ask for more than that. When he's the leader of your team and he's going, `Hey, we're going to be fine. Let's not wait for the fourth quarter. Let's go!' And he did that."

Now, after losing to the Patriots in overtime in last year's conference title game, the Chiefs are back on the brink of their first Super Bowl appearance in 50 years. They will host Tennessee next Sunday in a rematch from earlier this season after the Titans upset Lamar Jackson and the top-seeded Baltimore Ravens on Saturday night.

"We've already played them and we know they're a tough team," Mahomes said. "They're a team that battles all the way until the end. They're a team that's really hot, playing really good football right now, so we know it's going to take our best effort. And, whatever way, we've got to find a way to win."

Deshaun Watson, meanwhile, threw for 388 yards and two touchdowns while running for another, but not even his heroics could bail out the Texans (11-7) after their calamitous second quarter and dismal third. The result: The reborn Houston franchise is 0-4 in the divisional round and has never won a road playoff game.

"I definitely thought we were going to have to score more than 24," said Texans coach Bill O'Brien, who made a series of debatable calls during the collapse. "I think that they're, obviously, a very explosive team and it just didn't work out."

The Chiefs certainly gave Houston a chance to end their frustrating playoff streak in the first quarter.

On defense, Kansas City blew coverage on Kenny Stills on the opening possession, allowing him to walk into the end zone from 54 yards. On offense, they wasted timeouts, dropped a series of easy passes and managed just 46 yards. And on special teams, the Chiefs had a punt blocked for a score and fumbled a return that set up another touchdown.

Indeed, the Texans kept humming right along after finishing on a 22-3 run to beat Buffalo last week, while the mountain of miscues made by the Chiefs made them only the fourth home playoff team to trail 21-0 after the first quarter.

Things turned around on a series of plays -- and a call by O'Brien in particular -- that will be debated for a while.

After the Texans stretched the lead to 24-0 early in the second quarter, the Chiefs began to nip into their deficit with a quick touchdown drive. And the comeback really gained momentum when O'Brien called for a fake punt at the Houston 31-yard line and the Chiefs stuffed it, giving them a short field and setting up another easy touchdown.

"We had that play ready for a variety of different teams and situations," said the Texans' Justin Reid, who took the snap and was stopped short of the first down. "Credit to them, they made the play."

As the Chiefs continued to take off, the Texans continued to stumble.

On the ensuing kickoff, Houston return man DeAndre Carter had the ball pop loose and into the arms of Darwin Thompson, whose recovery set up a second Mahomes-to-Kelce touchdown in a matter of seconds. And their third came after the Chiefs forced a punt -- a successful one, for a change -- and they drove 90 yards to take a stunning 28-24 halftime lead.

"I mean, it was an amazing thing. Everything was working," Mahomes said. "The play calls were open, everybody was getting open against man-coverage which we've been preaching all season long, and guys were making plays."

The comeback became a clobbering by the time the third quarter ended.

The Chiefs breezed downfield to start the second half, and Williams finished the drive with his first TD run. Their overhauled defense under coordinator Steve Spagnuolo sacked Watson on fourth down to get the ball right back, and Mahomes and Co. required just six more plays to position Williams for another TD run and a 41-24 lead.

The 41 consecutive points, spanning most of the second and third quarters, were the most since the Jets had the same against the Colts in the 2002 wild-card round.

Even when the Texans finally cracked the scoreboard, when Watson scrambled to his left and dived over the pylon, the Chiefs rendered the touchdown moot. In four plays they went 72 yards to set up the fifth TD pass by Mahomes, the strike to little-used tight end Blake Bell giving coach Andy Reid's team a postseason-record seven straight TD drives.

It also gave a festive crowd that turned out early in freezing weather and a slight drizzle a chance to celebrate early.

"We've got full confidence not only in the players but the game plan going into it. Just got to deal with what's going on in the game -- what's real and what's not -- and what was real was we were hurting ourselves early," Kelce said. "With that, you just rally the troops, lean on the leaders of this team and make plays. That's what we did."

Houston played without S Jahleel Addae (hamstring) and TE Jordan Akins (hamstring). They also lost RT Chris Clark to a knee injury early in the game, and backup Roderick Johnson struggled against the Chiefs pass rush the rest of the game.

Kansas City sat defensive tackle Chris Jones, who strained his calf muscle late in the week and couldn't make it through pregame warm-ups. WR Tyreek Hill left briefly after a hard hit but eventually returned to the game.

The Texans will spend the offseason wondering how they let a 24-0 lead slip away, and the Chiefs will begin preparing for the Titans in the AFC title game. Kansas City lost lost 35-32 at Tennessee in Week 10, when Derrick Henry ran for 188 yards and two touchdowns against them. It was the Chiefs' most recent loss.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. -- Patrick Mahomes stalked up and down the sideline like a field marshal rallying his troops, the brilliant young quarterback imploring the Kansas City Chiefs to stay together even as the Houston Texans were on the verge of taking them apart.The Chiefs already faced a 24-0 hole, bigger than any deficit they had overcome in franchise history."The biggest thing I was preaching," Mahomes said later, "was, `Let's go do something special. Everybody is counting us out. Let's go out there and play by play put it out there.' And play by play, we did what we were supposed to do."Beginning with the first of his five touchdown passes, Mahomes and the Chiefs slowly chipped away at Houston's seemingly insurmountable lead. They continued to pick up momentum, outscoring the Texans 28-0 during the second quarter alone, and eventually reeled off 41 consecutive points before cruising the rest of the way to a 51-31 victory Sunday that propelled Kansas City back to the AFC championship game for the second consecutive season.In doing so, the Chiefs (13-4) became the first team in NFL history to win a playoff game by at least 20 points after trailing by at least 20. They matched the fourth-biggest comeback in playoff history while winning a postseason game in back-to-back seasons for the first time. Travis Kelce and Damien Williams scored three touchdowns apiece, joining the 49ers' Jerry Rice and Ricky Waters in Super Bowl 29 as the only teammates to score that many times in a postseason game.Meanwhile, Mahomes led by example as much as by voice. He finished with 321 yards passing, becoming the first player in postseason history with at least 300 yards passing and five touchdowns while running for at least 50 more yards."You saw him going up and down the bench, he was talking to everybody, -- `Just settle down," Chiefs coach Andy Reid said. "As a head coach, you can't ask for more than that. When he's the leader of your team and he's going, `Hey, we're going to be fine. Let's not wait for the fourth quarter. Let's go!' And he did that."Now, after losing to the Patriots in overtime in last year's conference title game, the Chiefs are back on the brink of their first Super Bowl appearance in 50 years. They will host Tennessee next Sunday in a rematch from earlier this season after the Titans upset Lamar Jackson and the top-seeded Baltimore Ravens on Saturday night."We've already played them and we know they're a tough team," Mahomes said. "They're a team that battles all the way until the end. They're a team that's really hot, playing really good football right now, so we know it's going to take our best effort. And, whatever way, we've got to find a way to win."Deshaun Watson, meanwhile, threw for 388 yards and two touchdowns while running for another, but not even his heroics could bail out the Texans (11-7) after their calamitous second quarter and dismal third. The result: The reborn Houston franchise is 0-4 in the divisional round and has never won a road playoff game."I definitely thought we were going to have to score more than 24," said Texans coach Bill O'Brien, who made a series of debatable calls during the collapse. "I think that they're, obviously, a very explosive team and it just didn't work out."The Chiefs certainly gave Houston a chance to end their frustrating playoff streak in the first quarter.On defense, Kansas City blew coverage on Kenny Stills on the opening possession, allowing him to walk into the end zone from 54 yards. On offense, they wasted timeouts, dropped a series of easy passes and managed just 46 yards. And on special teams, the Chiefs had a punt blocked for a score and fumbled a return that set up another touchdown.Indeed, the Texans kept humming right along after finishing on a 22-3 run to beat Buffalo last week, while the mountain of miscues made by the Chiefs made them only the fourth home playoff team to trail 21-0 after the first quarter.Things turned around on a series of plays -- and a call by O'Brien in particular -- that will be debated for a while.After the Texans stretched the lead to 24-0 early in the second quarter, the Chiefs began to nip into their deficit with a quick touchdown drive. And the comeback really gained momentum when O'Brien called for a fake punt at the Houston 31-yard line and the Chiefs stuffed it, giving them a short field and setting up another easy touchdown."We had that play ready for a variety of different teams and situations," said the Texans' Justin Reid, who took the snap and was stopped short of the first down. "Credit to them, they made the play."As the Chiefs continued to take off, the Texans continued to stumble.On the ensuing kickoff, Houston return man DeAndre Carter had the ball pop loose and into the arms of Darwin Thompson, whose recovery set up a second Mahomes-to-Kelce touchdown in a matter of seconds. And their third came after the Chiefs forced a punt -- a successful one, for a change -- and they drove 90 yards to take a stunning 28-24 halftime lead."I mean, it was an amazing thing. Everything was working," Mahomes said. "The play calls were open, everybody was getting open against man-coverage which we've been preaching all season long, and guys were making plays."The comeback became a clobbering by the time the third quarter ended.The Chiefs breezed downfield to start the second half, and Williams finished the drive with his first TD run. Their overhauled defense under coordinator Steve Spagnuolo sacked Watson on fourth down to get the ball right back, and Mahomes and Co. required just six more plays to position Williams for another TD run and a 41-24 lead.The 41 consecutive points, spanning most of the second and third quarters, were the most since the Jets had the same against the Colts in the 2002 wild-card round.Even when the Texans finally cracked the scoreboard, when Watson scrambled to his left and dived over the pylon, the Chiefs rendered the touchdown moot. In four plays they went 72 yards to set up the fifth TD pass by Mahomes, the strike to little-used tight end Blake Bell giving coach Andy Reid's team a postseason-record seven straight TD drives.It also gave a festive crowd that turned out early in freezing weather and a slight drizzle a chance to celebrate early."We've got full confidence not only in the players but the game plan going into it. Just got to deal with what's going on in the game -- what's real and what's not -- and what was real was we were hurting ourselves early," Kelce said. "With that, you just rally the troops, lean on the leaders of this team and make plays. That's what we did."INJURIESHouston played without S Jahleel Addae (hamstring) and TE Jordan Akins (hamstring). They also lost RT Chris Clark to a knee injury early in the game, and backup Roderick Johnson struggled against the Chiefs pass rush the rest of the game.Kansas City sat defensive tackle Chris Jones, who strained his calf muscle late in the week and couldn't make it through pregame warm-ups. WR Tyreek Hill left briefly after a hard hit but eventually returned to the game.UP NEXTThe Texans will spend the offseason wondering how they let a 24-0 lead slip away, and the Chiefs will begin preparing for the Titans in the AFC title game. Kansas City lost lost 35-32 at Tennessee in Week 10, when Derrick Henry ran for 188 yards and two touchdowns against them. It was the Chiefs' most recent loss.--- Associated Press ---

Chiefs rally from 24-0 hole to beat Texans 51-31 in divisional playoffs

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. -- Chelsea Dungee scored a season-high 38 points, Taylah Thomas added a double-double and No. 21 Arkansas overcame a slow start to defeat Missouri 90-73 on Sunday.

The Tigers scored the first six points of the game and had a 10-point lead in the first quarter, which ended with the visitors on top 22-14. Dungee had 10 points in the second quarter, including the last eight, and had 17 at the break, when the Razorbacks led 34-30.

Dungee opened the third quarter with a 3-pointer, part of an 8-0 and ended it with a buzzer-beating 3 for a 62-50 lead. A 10-0 run in the fourth quarter broke the game open.

Alexis Tolefree scored 13 points for the Razorbacks (14-3, 2-2 Southeastern Conference) and Thomas scored 10 points and grabbed 11 rebounds. Arkansas shot 56% in the second half (20 for 36) after shooting 32% (12 of 37) in the first.

Hayley Frank led the Tigers (4-13, 1-3, who had won seven-straight in the series, with 19 points and Aijha Blackwell had 18. Hannah Schuchts grabbed 12 rebounds, a career-high. Mizzou shot 36.5% and had 18 turnovers.

There were 54 fouls in the game, including four technicals, and the teams combined to shoot 56 free throws.

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. -- Chelsea Dungee scored a season-high 38 points, Taylah Thomas added a double-double and No. 21 Arkansas overcame a slow start to defeat Missouri 90-73 on Sunday.The Tigers scored the first six points of the game and had a 10-point lead in the first quarter, which ended with the visitors on top 22-14. Dungee had 10 points in the second quarter, including the last eight, and had 17 at the break, when the Razorbacks led 34-30.Dungee opened the third quarter with a 3-pointer, part of an 8-0 and ended it with a buzzer-beating 3 for a 62-50 lead. A 10-0 run in the fourth quarter broke the game open.Alexis Tolefree scored 13 points for the Razorbacks (14-3, 2-2 Southeastern Conference) and Thomas scored 10 points and grabbed 11 rebounds. Arkansas shot 56% in the second half (20 for 36) after shooting 32% (12 of 37) in the first.Hayley Frank led the Tigers (4-13, 1-3, who had won seven-straight in the series, with 19 points and Aijha Blackwell had 18. Hannah Schuchts grabbed 12 rebounds, a career-high. Mizzou shot 36.5% and had 18 turnovers.There were 54 fouls in the game, including four technicals, and the teams combined to shoot 56 free throws.--- Associated Press ---

Mizzou women fall at No. 21 Arkansas 90-73

EMPORIA, Kan. - It was cold in Emporia, Saturday, and not much warmer for the Griffon Men's Basketball team (7-10, 3-3 MIAA) inside White Auditorium. Missouri Western shot 37% from the field in an 81-68 loss at Emporia State (9-5, 3-2).

The Hornets led all 40 minutes, stretching their lead to as many as 16 points more than once. Missouri Western did use a late little run to get within three points, 59-56, with 7:09 left before Emporia State answered to stretch the its lead back to 10 with five minutes remaining.

- MWSU used 43% shooting in the second half to get to 37% for the game. The Griffons shot 30% from the field in the first half.

- The Griffons went 7 for 28 from behind the 3-point arc (25%) with Emporia State making 11 of its 25 long range attempts for 44%.

- Emporia State controlled the glass, out-rebounding MWSU 42-32

- Alex John scored 13 points on 6 of 7 shooting and added four rebounds.

- Will Eames led the team with 19 points, six rebounds and two steals.

- Tyrell Carroll scored 13 points with a team-high six assists and five rebounds.

The Griffons wrap up two weeks away from St. Joseph with a trip to No. 2 Northwest Missouri State (15-1, 5-1) on Jan. 18. Northwest Missouri State survived for its 15th win of the season, 73-68 at Washburn on Saturday.

EMPORIA, Kan. - It was cold in Emporia, Saturday, and not much warmer for the Griffon Men's Basketball team (7-10, 3-3 MIAA) inside White Auditorium. Missouri Western shot 37% from the field in an 81-68 loss at Emporia State (9-5, 3-2).The Hornets led all 40 minutes, stretching their lead to as many as 16 points more than once. Missouri Western did use a late little run to get within three points, 59-56, with 7:09 left before Emporia State answered to stretch the its lead back to 10 with five minutes remaining.NOTABLES- MWSU used 43% shooting in the second half to get to 37% for the game. The Griffons shot 30% from the field in the first half.- The Griffons went 7 for 28 from behind the 3-point arc (25%) with Emporia State making 11 of its 25 long range attempts for 44%.- Emporia State controlled the glass, out-rebounding MWSU 42-32- Alex John scored 13 points on 6 of 7 shooting and added four rebounds.- Will Eames led the team with 19 points, six rebounds and two steals.- Tyrell Carroll scored 13 points with a team-high six assists and five rebounds.UP NEXTThe Griffons wrap up two weeks away from St. Joseph with a trip to No. 2 Northwest Missouri State (15-1, 5-1) on Jan. 18. Northwest Missouri State survived for its 15th win of the season, 73-68 at Washburn on Saturday.--- MWSU Athletics ---

Griffons fall on the road at Emporia State 81-68

TOPEKA, Kansas – The No. 2-ranked Northwest Missouri State Bearcat men’s basketball team overcame a four-point deficit down the stretch and secured a 73-68 road win over the Washburn Ichabods on Saturday at Lee Arena.

Northwest’s victory improves the Bearcats to 15-1 overall and 5-1 in MIAA play, while Washburn falls to 8-6 overall and 3-2 in league action.

Junior Ryan Hawkins put the ‘Cats on his shoulders with a 32-point scoring barrage on only 18 shots from the field. Hawkins was 11-of-18 shooting and was 3-of-7 from three-point range. Hawkins drained seven of his eight free throw attempts. Hawkins also did damage on the defensive end with five steals and four rebounds.

Even with Hawkins’s scoring heroics the Bearcats had to overcome a 62-58 Washburn lead with 5:58 to play. Freshman Luke Waters hit a pair of free throws to cut the lead to two with 5:21 to left. Diego Bernard evened the game at 62-62 on a driving layup but missed the ensuing free throw to leave it level.

Washburn’s Jalen Lewis sank three free throws after getting fouled by Northwest’s Trevor Hudgins with 3:57 to play that gave the Ichabods a 65-62 advantage.

Hawkins hit a left-handed layup to trim the lead to one with 3:38. Hawkins then drew a foul and sank two free throws to give the Bearcats the lead they would not relinquish with 2:33 on the clock.

Hudgins buried two free throws with 1:54 to play to put Northwest up 68-65. Bernard made two more at the charity stripe with 47 seconds left to put Northwest up five, 70-65.

After a Bernard turnover, Washburn’s Lewis knocked in a three-pointer with 23 ticks left to cut the Northwest lead to two at 70-68. Hudgins then made three of four at the line to close out the scoring and a Northwest win, 73-68.

Hawkins paced the Bearcats in the opening half with 22 points. Hawkins was 9-of-13 from the field and added three steals on the defensive end. Northwest led 41-35 at the break, despite Washburn shooting 68.4% from the floor (13-of-19 FGs).

Both teams shot better than 50% from the field as Washburn made 56.5% (26-of-46 FGs, while Northwest shot 52.3% (23-of-44).

Northwest’s next action will be at home Saturday at 3:30 p.m. against the Missouri Western Griffons. Northwest has won 25 straight games in Bearcat Arena.

NOTES: It is the 10th straight win for Northwest over Washburn … Hudgins has scored 999 career points … Waters scored 14 points in his second career start … Bernard stuffed his stat sheet with 12 points, six rebounds, four assists and three steals … Hudgins added five assists.

TOPEKA, Kansas – The No. 2-ranked Northwest Missouri State Bearcat men’s basketball team overcame a four-point deficit down the stretch and secured a 73-68 road win over the Washburn Ichabods on Saturday at Lee Arena.Northwest’s victory improves the Bearcats to 15-1 overall and 5-1 in MIAA play, while Washburn falls to 8-6 overall and 3-2 in league action.Junior Ryan Hawkins put the ‘Cats on his shoulders with a 32-point scoring barrage on only 18 shots from the field. Hawkins was 11-of-18 shooting and was 3-of-7 from three-point range. Hawkins drained seven of his eight free throw attempts. Hawkins also did damage on the defensive end with five steals and four rebounds.Even with Hawkins’s scoring heroics the Bearcats had to overcome a 62-58 Washburn lead with 5:58 to play. Freshman Luke Waters hit a pair of free throws to cut the lead to two with 5:21 to left. Diego Bernard evened the game at 62-62 on a driving layup but missed the ensuing free throw to leave it level.Washburn’s Jalen Lewis sank three free throws after getting fouled by Northwest’s Trevor Hudgins with 3:57 to play that gave the Ichabods a 65-62 advantage.Hawkins hit a left-handed layup to trim the lead to one with 3:38. Hawkins then drew a foul and sank two free throws to give the Bearcats the lead they would not relinquish with 2:33 on the clock.Hudgins buried two free throws with 1:54 to play to put Northwest up 68-65. Bernard made two more at the charity stripe with 47 seconds left to put Northwest up five, 70-65.After a Bernard turnover, Washburn’s Lewis knocked in a three-pointer with 23 ticks left to cut the Northwest lead to two at 70-68. Hudgins then made three of four at the line to close out the scoring and a Northwest win, 73-68.Hawkins paced the Bearcats in the opening half with 22 points. Hawkins was 9-of-13 from the field and added three steals on the defensive end. Northwest led 41-35 at the break, despite Washburn shooting 68.4% from the floor (13-of-19 FGs).Both teams shot better than 50% from the field as Washburn made 56.5% (26-of-46 FGs, while Northwest shot 52.3% (23-of-44).Northwest’s next action will be at home Saturday at 3:30 p.m. against the Missouri Western Griffons. Northwest has won 25 straight games in Bearcat Arena.NOTES: It is the 10th straight win for Northwest over Washburn … Hudgins has scored 999 career points … Waters scored 14 points in his second career start … Bernard stuffed his stat sheet with 12 points, six rebounds, four assists and three steals … Hudgins added five assists.--- Northwest Athletics ---

No. 2 Bearcats come from behind to win at Washburn 73-68

EMPORIA, Kan. - The Missouri Western women's basketball team needed another quarter Saturday at Emporia State.  The Griffons (12-3, 4-2 MIAA) got better and better as the game went on, but a big first half hole was too much to dig out of as the No. 16-ranked Lady Hornets (12-2, 5-0) ended Missouri Western's seven-game win streak, 74-70.

Missouri Western used 32 fourth quarter points and 56% shooting over the final 10 minutes to climb back and get within as many as three points late in the game. It was a stark contrast from the seven point, 27% shooting first quarter that put MWSU down by 14 after 10 minutes of play. Missouri Western outscored Emporia State 22-5 from the five minute mark, getting nine points from Corbyn Cunningham and seven from Anastacia Johnson to cut the ESU lead to 70-67 with 23 seconds left. Emporia State went 4 for 4 from the free throw line after that with Johnson adding a 3-pointer late to reach the final score.

- Missouri Western trailed by 22 with 34 seconds left in the first half and went to the locker room down 19.

- The big run came in the fourth quarter, but MWSU clawed back in the game in the third when ESU shot just 23% from the field.

- MWSU forced five ESU turnovers in the third quarter with the Lady Hornets scoring eight of their 15 points in the quarter at the free throw line.

- The Griffons went 10 of 18 from the field in the fourth after going 8 for 26 in the entire first half and outscored ESU by 12 in the quarter.

- Cunningham scored 11 points and pulled down seven rebounds in the fourth quarter while drawing six fouls. She ended the game with 18 points and 11 boards.

- Johnson scored 10 of her 13 points in the fourth quarter and added five rebounds, three assists and two steals.

- Logan Hughes scored 10 points, with all 10 coming in the second half.

EMPORIA, Kan. - The Missouri Western women's basketball team needed another quarter Saturday at Emporia State. The Griffons (12-3, 4-2 MIAA) got better and better as the game went on, but a big first half hole was too much to dig out of as the No. 16-ranked Lady Hornets (12-2, 5-0) ended Missouri Western's seven-game win streak, 74-70.Missouri Western used 32 fourth quarter points and 56% shooting over the final 10 minutes to climb back and get within as many as three points late in the game. It was a stark contrast from the seven point, 27% shooting first quarter that put MWSU down by 14 after 10 minutes of play. Missouri Western outscored Emporia State 22-5 from the five minute mark, getting nine points from Corbyn Cunningham and seven from Anastacia Johnson to cut the ESU lead to 70-67 with 23 seconds left. Emporia State went 4 for 4 from the free throw line after that with Johnson adding a 3-pointer late to reach the final score.NOTABLES- Missouri Western trailed by 22 with 34 seconds left in the first half and went to the locker room down 19.- The big run came in the fourth quarter, but MWSU clawed back in the game in the third when ESU shot just 23% from the field.- MWSU forced five ESU turnovers in the third quarter with the Lady Hornets scoring eight of their 15 points in the quarter at the free throw line.- The Griffons went 10 of 18 from the field in the fourth after going 8 for 26 in the entire first half and outscored ESU by 12 in the quarter.- Cunningham scored 11 points and pulled down seven rebounds in the fourth quarter while drawing six fouls. She ended the game with 18 points and 11 boards.- Johnson scored 10 of her 13 points in the fourth quarter and added five rebounds, three assists and two steals.- Logan Hughes scored 10 points, with all 10 coming in the second half.- Chris Wilson exited in the first half with an injury. Wilson was leading the Griffons with eight points on 4 for 4 shooting and four rebounds when she was injured.UP NEXTMissouri Western ends a three-game road swing with a trip to Northwest Missouri State (8-7, 3-3) on Jan. 18. The Bearcats lost 59-43 at Washburn on Saturday.--- MWSU Athletics ---