It was made official at a board meeting this week that Benton head boys' basketball and girls' golf coach Gary Belcher has been hired to lead Lawson in a similar fashion this upcoming school year.

 Belcher was named the head boys' basketball coach, girls' and boys' golf coach and Math Instructor at Lawson High School.

A St. Joseph native and 1982 Central alum, Belcher has been a boys' basketball coach in northwest Missouri for 22 years and has guided Lathrop (1998-2001), Warrensburg (2001-2004), Kearney (2005-2014) and Benton all to winning records.

Belcher finished his tenure at Benton with a 101-80 record. He first informed his players and the administration of his decision last Thursday.

Belcher mentioned that the uncertainty surrounding the upcoming <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/f9528775-1917-4031-a70b-53a98649f034">$107 million bond issue</a> on the April 6 ballot was part of the reason why he applied to Lawson.

The proposed bond, if passed, would convert both Benton and Lafayette into middle schools and bring the addition of a new high school at the American Family Insurance regional headquarters building. That new high school would operate alongside St. Joseph Central.

"I grew up in St. Joe and I love St. Joe," Belcher said. "My parents still live there. But, kind of the uncertainty of what lies ahead makes you pause and think for a little bit. When these two opportunities are kind of out there, this one (at Lawson) kind of matches the one I have at Benton.

"All the talk is that within 1-2 years, regardless of whether the bond issue passes or not, they're looking to repurpose Benton into a middle school. You have to stop and think, 'You know, what does that mean for me, you know?'"

Belcher will take over for Brad Smith, who's retiring as the Lawson boys' basketball and boys' and girls' golf coach after 30 years.

Once Smith officially decided to step away this past November, he gave Belcher, an old coaching buddy, a call.

Belcher and Smith used to coach against each other during Belcher's days at Lathrop in the late 90s and early 2000s. Through offseason tournaments and the like, the two have kept in touch ever since.

"I wished him well," Belcher said of Smith's retirement. "I didn't really give it a whole lot of thought at first, but then I got to thinking, 'Well, you know what? He's a math teacher. He's a boys' basketball and coaches golf, too.' I know he's had a great program and a great run. Obviously, I have some big shoes to fill."

Belcher has compiled an overall coaching record of 353-237, including a Class 4 State Championship with Kearney in 2010, seven district Championships and a pair of conference titles.

 This past year, Belcher guided his girls' golf team to their first Conference Championship in school history and sent two golfers to the Class 2 State Tournament.

Belcher also serves as the Vice President of the Missouri Basketball Coaches Association and is a Past President of the Greater Kansas City Basketball Coaches Association.

Belcher's wife, Debbie, is a Special Education teacher at South Valley Middle School in Liberty and also a real estate agent for Reece Nichols Real Estate in Kansas City.

For Belcher, whose family has lived in the north Kansas City area the last 15 years, the daily commute does become significantly shorter.

"I still live in the Kansas City area, so the drive is 25 minutes shorter for basically the same financial package," Belcher pointed out. "It was just too hard of a thing to pass up."

The decision to leave a job in his hometown was a difficult one, and Belcher isn't the only one who has uncertain feelings about the current bond issue.

But all of that aside, Belcher remains grateful for the time he had in the South Side, and looks forward to what lies ahead.

"All things considered, I feel very blessed and fortunate to get this opportunity," he said. "It was just too hard to say no to. I look back at the relationships I've built with the players and the parents and the community and the staff members, I'll take those with me the rest of the way. Those types of things, in my opinion, are more important than wins and losses, because those span a lifetime...St. Joe will always have a special place in my heart."

You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616794880359.jpeg" alt="Gary Belcher will be headed to Lawson next year to take over as their boys' basketball and girls' and boys' golf coach after spending seven years in a similar role at Benton. Courtesy photo." />
 <figcaption>Gary Belcher will be headed to Lawson next year to take over as their boys' basketball and girls' and boys' golf coach after spending seven years in a similar role at Benton. Courtesy photo.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostIt was made official at a board meeting this week that Benton head boys' basketball and girls' golf coach Gary Belcher has been hired to lead Lawson in a similar fashion this upcoming school year. Belcher was named the head boys' basketball coach, girls' and boys' golf coach and Math Instructor at Lawson High School.A St. Joseph native and 1982 Central alum, Belcher has been a boys' basketball coach in northwest Missouri for 22 years and has guided Lathrop (1998-2001), Warrensburg (2001-2004), Kearney (2005-2014) and Benton all to winning records.Belcher finished his tenure at Benton with a 101-80 record. He first informed his players and the administration of his decision last Thursday.Belcher mentioned that the uncertainty surrounding the upcoming <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/f9528775-1917-4031-a70b-53a98649f034">$107 million bond issue</a> on the April 6 ballot was part of the reason why he applied to Lawson.The proposed bond, if passed, would convert both Benton and Lafayette into middle schools and bring the addition of a new high school at the American Family Insurance regional headquarters building. That new high school would operate alongside St. Joseph Central."I grew up in St. Joe and I love St. Joe," Belcher said. "My parents still live there. But, kind of the uncertainty of what lies ahead makes you pause and think for a little bit. When these two opportunities are kind of out there, this one (at Lawson) kind of matches the one I have at Benton."All the talk is that within 1-2 years, regardless of whether the bond issue passes or not, they're looking to repurpose Benton into a middle school. You have to stop and think, 'You know, what does that mean for me, you know?'"Belcher will take over for Brad Smith, who's retiring as the Lawson boys' basketball and boys' and girls' golf coach after 30 years.Once Smith officially decided to step away this past November, he gave Belcher, an old coaching buddy, a call.Belcher and Smith used to coach against each other during Belcher's days at Lathrop in the late 90s and early 2000s. Through offseason tournaments and the like, the two have kept in touch ever since."I wished him well," Belcher said of Smith's retirement. "I didn't really give it a whole lot of thought at first, but then I got to thinking, 'Well, you know what? He's a math teacher. He's a boys' basketball and coaches golf, too.' I know he's had a great program and a great run. Obviously, I have some big shoes to fill."Belcher has compiled an overall coaching record of 353-237, including a Class 4 State Championship with Kearney in 2010, seven district Championships and a pair of conference titles. This past year, Belcher guided his girls' golf team to their first Conference Championship in school history and sent two golfers to the Class 2 State Tournament.Belcher also serves as the Vice President of the Missouri Basketball Coaches Association and is a Past President of the Greater Kansas City Basketball Coaches Association.Belcher's wife, Debbie, is a Special Education teacher at South Valley Middle School in Liberty and also a real estate agent for Reece Nichols Real Estate in Kansas City.For Belcher, whose family has lived in the north Kansas City area the last 15 years, the daily commute does become significantly shorter."I still live in the Kansas City area, so the drive is 25 minutes shorter for basically the same financial package," Belcher pointed out. "It was just too hard of a thing to pass up."The decision to leave a job in his hometown was a difficult one, and Belcher isn't the only one who has uncertain feelings about the current bond issue.But all of that aside, Belcher remains grateful for the time he had in the South Side, and looks forward to what lies ahead."All things considered, I feel very blessed and fortunate to get this opportunity," he said. "It was just too hard to say no to. I look back at the relationships I've built with the players and the parents and the community and the staff members, I'll take those with me the rest of the way. Those types of things, in my opinion, are more important than wins and losses, because those span a lifetime...St. Joe will always have a special place in my heart."<div><iframe width="100%" height="300" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/1017019972&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true&visual=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/tommy-rezac" title="KFEQ Radio, St. Joseph Post" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">KFEQ Radio, St. Joseph Post</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/tommy-rezac/benton-basketball-and-golf-coach-gary-belcher-reflects-on-his-tenure-with-the-cardinals" title="Benton basketball and golf coach Gary Belcher reflects on his tenure with the Cardinals" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Benton basketball and golf coach Gary Belcher reflects on his tenure with the Cardinals</a></div></div>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Benton's Gary Belcher grateful for coaching career in his hometown as he heads to Lawson

Northwest Missouri State (27-2) has steamrolled its way through the Elite Eight and has now reached the national championship game for the third time since 2017.

The Bearcats dominated Flagler in a 77-46 beatdown at the Ford Center in Evansville, Indiana on Thursday night.

The 31-point victory by Northwest is the largest ever for any team in a national semifinal. It comes just one day after the Bearcats dismantled West Liberty in the Elite Eight round, 98-77.

"I thought they were both good games," Northwest head coach Ben McCollum said. "It'll probably be another good game in the championship I hope."

Ryan Hawkins, despite picking up two fouls in the first three minutes, led his team in scoring once again with 20 points. He also had 11 rebounds for his eighth double-double this season and 29th of his career. Sophomore Luke Waters scored 15, junior Trevor Hudgins had 13 and junior Diego Bernard had 10.

Bernard, a Lafayette St. Joseph alum, was just shy of a double-double with nine rebounds and not far off from a triple-double with seven assists.

"Man, I was just trying to get the win," he chuckled. "I don't even know my stat line. It don't matter, as long as we got the win and are playing on Saturday."

Northwest was hot right out of the chute Thursday, going on a 7-0 run to start. Flagler kept up for a bit, trailing only 17-14 with about 10 minutes to go until halftime, but the Bearcats then pulled away with a 21-2 run, leading 38-16 with 3:43 left in the first half.

Leading 40-24 at the break, Northwest continued its crusade, and never came close to letting Flagler back in it. The Bearcats opened the second half on a 7-0 run and outscored the Saints 37-22 in the final 20 minutes, never leading by any less than 18 points during that time.

Northwest shot 12-of-31 from deep, while Flagler was just 5-of-22.

It is mind boggling when you take a step back and look at the numbers. McCollum is now 16-1 in his last 17 NCAA tournament games and 22-5 in tournament games overall with a chance to win a third national championship. The Bearcats have won 42 straight games on neutral floors. They've won 96 of their last 99 overall.

After going 31-1 last season, only to have the NCAA tournament wiped out by the pandemic, Bernard is excited to see what his team can do, now that they've reached the biggest stage once more.

"We felt like we should have been here last year if we had the chance," he said. "We're just trying to win one more game. It just feels good to be back."

It's all very remarkable - what Northwest has done. Not just in the last several years, but just in the last two days. They've outscored two Elite Eight teams by a combined score of 175-123.

Part of what's made Northwest so great in this stretch is their laser focus. Not on what they've done or on any stat, but rather on what lies in front of them.

"There's no style points," McCollum said on his team's performance in recent days. "It's just one of those things. We probably just had good matchups or what not. We played well, and they didn't play very well. There's nothing more to read into it in regards to whether we dominated or not. A win's a win, and you need to try and win the next game."

Northwest will face West Texas A&amp;M for the Division II national title on Saturday at 11 a.m. The game will be televised nationally on CBS.

The Buffaloes (19-2) beat Lincoln Memorial in dramatic fashion, 87-86, after Zach Toussaint hit a game-winning 3-pointer at the buzzer to put his team in the championship.

It was quite something. You should watch it.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616732725458.jpeg" alt="Northwest junior and Lafayette St. Joseph alum Diego Bernard flirted with a triple-double Thursday, settling for 10 points, nine rebounds and seven assists in the Bearcats' 77-46 drubbing of Flagler in the Final Four on Thursday night./ Stock photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Northwest junior and Lafayette St. Joseph alum Diego Bernard flirted with a triple-double Thursday, settling for 10 points, nine rebounds and seven assists in the Bearcats' 77-46 drubbing of Flagler in the Final Four on Thursday night./ Stock photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostNorthwest Missouri State (27-2) has steamrolled its way through the Elite Eight and has now reached the national championship game for the third time since 2017.The Bearcats dominated Flagler in a 77-46 beatdown at the Ford Center in Evansville, Indiana on Thursday night.The 31-point victory by Northwest is the largest ever for any team in a national semifinal. It comes just one day after the Bearcats dismantled West Liberty in the Elite Eight round, 98-77."I thought they were both good games," Northwest head coach Ben McCollum said. "It'll probably be another good game in the championship I hope."Ryan Hawkins, despite picking up two fouls in the first three minutes, led his team in scoring once again with 20 points. He also had 11 rebounds for his eighth double-double this season and 29th of his career. Sophomore Luke Waters scored 15, junior Trevor Hudgins had 13 and junior Diego Bernard had 10.Bernard, a Lafayette St. Joseph alum, was just shy of a double-double with nine rebounds and not far off from a triple-double with seven assists."Man, I was just trying to get the win," he chuckled. "I don't even know my stat line. It don't matter, as long as we got the win and are playing on Saturday."Northwest was hot right out of the chute Thursday, going on a 7-0 run to start. Flagler kept up for a bit, trailing only 17-14 with about 10 minutes to go until halftime, but the Bearcats then pulled away with a 21-2 run, leading 38-16 with 3:43 left in the first half.Leading 40-24 at the break, Northwest continued its crusade, and never came close to letting Flagler back in it. The Bearcats opened the second half on a 7-0 run and outscored the Saints 37-22 in the final 20 minutes, never leading by any less than 18 points during that time.Northwest shot 12-of-31 from deep, while Flagler was just 5-of-22.It is mind boggling when you take a step back and look at the numbers. McCollum is now 16-1 in his last 17 NCAA tournament games and 22-5 in tournament games overall with a chance to win a third national championship. The Bearcats have won 42 straight games on neutral floors. They've won 96 of their last 99 overall.After going 31-1 last season, only to have the NCAA tournament wiped out by the pandemic, Bernard is excited to see what his team can do, now that they've reached the biggest stage once more."We felt like we should have been here last year if we had the chance," he said. "We're just trying to win one more game. It just feels good to be back."It's all very remarkable - what Northwest has done. Not just in the last several years, but just in the last two days. They've outscored two Elite Eight teams by a combined score of 175-123.Part of what's made Northwest so great in this stretch is their laser focus. Not on what they've done or on any stat, but rather on what lies in front of them."There's no style points," McCollum said on his team's performance in recent days. "It's just one of those things. We probably just had good matchups or what not. We played well, and they didn't play very well. There's nothing more to read into it in regards to whether we dominated or not. A win's a win, and you need to try and win the next game."Northwest will face West Texas A&amp;M for the Division II national title on Saturday at 11 a.m. The game will be televised nationally on CBS.The Buffaloes (19-2) beat Lincoln Memorial in dramatic fashion, 87-86, after Zach Toussaint hit a game-winning 3-pointer at the buzzer to put his team in the championship.It was quite something. You should watch it.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-partner="tweetdeck">WHAT. JUST. HAPPENED.<a href="https://twitter.com/WestTXD2Hoops?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@WestTXD2Hoops</a> NAILS the three as time expired and they are moving on to the <a href="https://twitter.com/NCAADII?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NCAADII</a> National Championship. <a href="https://t.co/3QSASXRSPT">pic.twitter.com/3QSASXRSPT</a>&mdash; CBS Sports Network (@CBSSportsNet) <a href="https://twitter.com/CBSSportsNet/status/1375253683437514754?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 26, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Northwest Missouri State dominates again Thursday, reaches national title game

&nbsp;The Kansas City Chiefs have resigned receiver DeMarcus Robinson for a one year deal, as first reported by ESPN’s Adam Schefter on Thursday. 

The deal is worth just over $1.1 million. Robinson returns to a wide receiver core that includes Tyreek Hill, Mecole Hardman and Byron Pringle.

The Chiefs will likely be without free-agent Sammy Watkins, who’s been visiting other AFC teams this week.

Over his five-year career with the Chiefs, Robinson has 120 catches for 1,415 yards and 11 touchdowns.

By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph Post&nbsp;The Kansas City Chiefs have resigned receiver DeMarcus Robinson for a one year deal, as first reported by ESPN’s Adam Schefter on Thursday. The deal is worth just over $1.1 million. Robinson returns to a wide receiver core that includes Tyreek Hill, Mecole Hardman and Byron Pringle.The Chiefs will likely be without free-agent Sammy Watkins, who’s been visiting other AFC teams this week.Over his five-year career with the Chiefs, Robinson has 120 catches for 1,415 yards and 11 touchdowns.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616704320205.png" alt="DeMarcus Robinson." />
 <figcaption>DeMarcus Robinson.</figcaption>
 </figure>

Kansas City Chiefs resign DeMarcus Robinson to one-year deal, per ESPN

The Northwest Missouri State men's basketball team quickly overcame a slow start and dominated down the stretch in a 98-77 win over West Liberty in an Elite Eight contest at the Ford Center in Evansville, Indiana Wednesday.

The 98 points are the most Northwest has ever scored in an Elite Eight game.

Senior Ryan Hawkins was dominant with 32 points - a new career postseason high.

"Transition kick-out threes is the best shot in basketball there is," said Hawkins, who was an outstanding 11-of-14 from the field, including 6-of-8 from three. "I felt like our offense got a lot of those shots tonight for everybody."

Hawkins led five Bearcats (26-2) in double figures. Junior Trevor Hudgins turned in 23 points, while junior Diego Bernard scored 14 after getting two fouls in the first three minutes.

Sophomore Luke Waters scored 13 points, while freshman Byron Alexander tallied 11 points and 10 rebounds for his first career double-double.

Alexander went down late in the game with an ankle injury, and had to be helped off the floor. His exact status wasn't known as of late Wednesday.

Northwest was 9-of-20 from beyond the arc as a team and shot an impressive 61.8 percent from the field. At one point, the Bearcats were shooting better than 70 percent from the field in the second half.

Northwest also dominated on the boards, 40-22.

For Hawkins and his teammates, they treated it like business as usual.

"It felt like just another game," Hawkins said. "It's win or go home at this point, so you have to bring your best. We weren't at our best to start, but we got it corrected and went on a little run there in the first half."

After falling behind 8-4 in the first five minutes, Northwest responded with a 13-3 run and took a 21-15 lead with 8:45 left in the first half. Pretty soon, the lead ballooned and Northwest led 51-32 at the break.

"We just played our defense," said Hawkins. "We had a week to prepare for it. We just stuck to who we were and what we do defensively, and we slowed them down quite a bit."

It was the lowest scoring first half of the season for West Liberty, who entered the game with a nation-leading 102 points per contest.

"Once we calmed down, we were able to get (West Liberty) in rotation and were able to get kick-out threes and open layups and were able to finish them in transition," Northwest head coach Ben McCollum said, as he's now 15-1 in his last 16 NCAA tournament games.

"I was proud of our kids' effort and was proud of the week of practice we had going into it. Now, it's onto the next."

Northwest is back at it in the Final Four on Thursday night at 8:45 p.m., as they'll take on Flagler College. The Lions (18-2) beat Truman State late Wednesday night, 70-69.

A quick turnaround. But for a Northwest team that's playing in its third Final Four in four years, it's business as usual.

"We'll find a way," McCollum said. "It's a quick turnaround and a quick scout. Everyone is tired this time of year. You just survive and advance."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1615093222426.jpeg" alt="Northwest's Ryan Hawkins (33) led his team to an Elite Eight victory with 32 points on Wednesday against West Liberty in Evansville, Indiana./ Stock photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Northwest's Ryan Hawkins (33) led his team to an Elite Eight victory with 32 points on Wednesday against West Liberty in Evansville, Indiana./ Stock photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThe Northwest Missouri State men's basketball team quickly overcame a slow start and dominated down the stretch in a 98-77 win over West Liberty in an Elite Eight contest at the Ford Center in Evansville, Indiana Wednesday.The 98 points are the most Northwest has ever scored in an Elite Eight game.Senior Ryan Hawkins was dominant with 32 points - a new career postseason high."Transition kick-out threes is the best shot in basketball there is," said Hawkins, who was an outstanding 11-of-14 from the field, including 6-of-8 from three. "I felt like our offense got a lot of those shots tonight for everybody."Hawkins led five Bearcats (26-2) in double figures. Junior Trevor Hudgins turned in 23 points, while junior Diego Bernard scored 14 after getting two fouls in the first three minutes.Sophomore Luke Waters scored 13 points, while freshman Byron Alexander tallied 11 points and 10 rebounds for his first career double-double.Alexander went down late in the game with an ankle injury, and had to be helped off the floor. His exact status wasn't known as of late Wednesday.Northwest was 9-of-20 from beyond the arc as a team and shot an impressive 61.8 percent from the field. At one point, the Bearcats were shooting better than 70 percent from the field in the second half.Northwest also dominated on the boards, 40-22.For Hawkins and his teammates, they treated it like business as usual."It felt like just another game," Hawkins said. "It's win or go home at this point, so you have to bring your best. We weren't at our best to start, but we got it corrected and went on a little run there in the first half."After falling behind 8-4 in the first five minutes, Northwest responded with a 13-3 run and took a 21-15 lead with 8:45 left in the first half. Pretty soon, the lead ballooned and Northwest led 51-32 at the break."We just played our defense," said Hawkins. "We had a week to prepare for it. We just stuck to who we were and what we do defensively, and we slowed them down quite a bit."It was the lowest scoring first half of the season for West Liberty, who entered the game with a nation-leading 102 points per contest."Once we calmed down, we were able to get (West Liberty) in rotation and were able to get kick-out threes and open layups and were able to finish them in transition," Northwest head coach Ben McCollum said, as he's now 15-1 in his last 16 NCAA tournament games."I was proud of our kids' effort and was proud of the week of practice we had going into it. Now, it's onto the next."Northwest is back at it in the Final Four on Thursday night at 8:45 p.m., as they'll take on Flagler College. The Lions (18-2) beat Truman State late Wednesday night, 70-69.A quick turnaround. But for a Northwest team that's playing in its third Final Four in four years, it's business as usual."We'll find a way," McCollum said. "It's a quick turnaround and a quick scout. Everyone is tired this time of year. You just survive and advance."You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Northwest Missouri State dominates in Elite Eight win over West Liberty Wednesday

It was a little cool and breezy Wednesday, but it stayed dry, which allowed high school spring sports to resume their schedules outdoors.

Baseball scores Benton (2-1) plated three runs in the 9th and erased a 7-3 deficit to beat Lafayette 10-7 at Phil Welch Stadium.

In the second game at Welch Wednesday, St. Joseph Central beat Bishop LeBlond 6-3.

Girls' soccer Chillicothe 5 Mid-Buchanan 0 St. Joseph Central 2 Bishop LeBlond 1 Summit Christian 8 Cameron 0 (Oak Grove tournament)

Boys' Golf Bishop LeBlond won a triangular with Savannah and Smithville Wednesday with 148 team points. Smithville had 167 and Savannah had 197. Tim Johnston led the way for LeBlond with a 34.

Boys' Tennis Savannah beat Maryville in a dual 9-0.

Track and Field Several area schools got the track season underway with a meet at Maryville on Wednesday afternoon. Results can be viewed <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1y7iDGweNaYmQp7PTBMBhknfs58He8PL5/view?usp=sharing">here</a>.

By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostIt was a little cool and breezy Wednesday, but it stayed dry, which allowed high school spring sports to resume their schedules outdoors.Baseball scores Benton (2-1) plated three runs in the 9th and erased a 7-3 deficit to beat Lafayette 10-7 at Phil Welch Stadium.In the second game at Welch Wednesday, St. Joseph Central beat Bishop LeBlond 6-3.Girls' soccer Chillicothe 5 Mid-Buchanan 0 St. Joseph Central 2 Bishop LeBlond 1 Summit Christian 8 Cameron 0 (Oak Grove tournament)Boys' Golf Bishop LeBlond won a triangular with Savannah and Smithville Wednesday with 148 team points. Smithville had 167 and Savannah had 197. Tim Johnston led the way for LeBlond with a 34.Boys' Tennis Savannah beat Maryville in a dual 9-0.Track and Field Several area schools got the track season underway with a meet at Maryville on Wednesday afternoon. Results can be viewed <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1y7iDGweNaYmQp7PTBMBhknfs58He8PL5/view?usp=sharing">here</a>.You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

KFEQ/St. Joseph Post area high school scoreboard - March 24, 2021

The Missouri Basketball Coaches' Association released their 2020-21 all-state boys' and girls' basketball teams on Wednesday night. Below is a list of honorees from the KFEQ/St. Joseph Post coverage area.

MBCA ALL-STATE CLASS 1 BOYS Landon Poppa, Mound City, Senior Tony Osborn, Mound City, Junior Collin Sager, Stanberry, Senior

MBCA ALL-STATE CLASS 2 BOYS Tanner McDaniel, North Andrew, Senior Javon Noyes, Mid-Buchanan, Senior

MBCA ALL-STATE CLASS 3 BOYS Nick Knight, Lathrop, Senior

MBCA&nbsp;ALL-STATE CLASS 4 BOYS Kason Mauzey, Benton, Junior

MBCA ALL-STATE CLASS 1 GIRLS Jaclyn Pappert, Platte Valley, Junior Maggie Collins, Platte Valley, Freshman Malia Collins, Platte Valley, Senior Coach of the Year:&nbsp;Tyler Pedersen, Platte Valley

MBCA ALL-STATE CLASS 4 GIRLS Serena Sundell, Maryville, Senior Laini Joseph, Cameron, Senior Player of the Year:&nbsp;Serena Sundell, Maryville

Sundell was also named the Miss Show Me Basketball Player of the Year - the highest honor the MBCA gives out to an individual player each season.

MBCA ALL-STATE CLASS 6 GIRLS Ella Moody, St. Joseph Central, Junior

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1615688545342.jpeg" alt="Platte Valley's Maggie Collins was one of several Platte Valley girls to receive all-state honors from the Missouri Basketball Coaches' Association. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Platte Valley's Maggie Collins was one of several Platte Valley girls to receive all-state honors from the Missouri Basketball Coaches' Association. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThe Missouri Basketball Coaches' Association released their 2020-21 all-state boys' and girls' basketball teams on Wednesday night. Below is a list of honorees from the KFEQ/St. Joseph Post coverage area.MBCA ALL-STATE CLASS 1 BOYS Landon Poppa, Mound City, Senior Tony Osborn, Mound City, Junior Collin Sager, Stanberry, SeniorMBCA ALL-STATE CLASS 2 BOYS Tanner McDaniel, North Andrew, Senior Javon Noyes, Mid-Buchanan, SeniorMBCA ALL-STATE CLASS 3 BOYS Nick Knight, Lathrop, SeniorMBCA&nbsp;ALL-STATE CLASS 4 BOYS Kason Mauzey, Benton, JuniorMBCA ALL-STATE CLASS 1 GIRLS Jaclyn Pappert, Platte Valley, Junior Maggie Collins, Platte Valley, Freshman Malia Collins, Platte Valley, Senior Coach of the Year:&nbsp;Tyler Pedersen, Platte ValleyMBCA ALL-STATE CLASS 4 GIRLS Serena Sundell, Maryville, Senior Laini Joseph, Cameron, Senior Player of the Year:&nbsp;Serena Sundell, MaryvilleSundell was also named the Miss Show Me Basketball Player of the Year - the highest honor the MBCA gives out to an individual player each season.MBCA ALL-STATE CLASS 6 GIRLS Ella Moody, St. Joseph Central, Junior You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Missouri Basketball Coaches' Association unveils all-state basketball teams

The National Association of Basketball Coaches (NABC) announced Wednesday that Northwest Missouri State's Trevor Hudgins has been selected as the 2021 NABC Division II Player of the Year.

Hudgins is leading the Bearcats into the NCAA Division II Elite Eight championship in Evansville, Ind., with a 25-2 record.

Hudgins has started every game in three seasons at Northwest, and the Bearcats have a 94-3 record in that time.

Hudgins has been racking up postseason accolades. He was named the 2021 Division II Conference Commissioners Association Men’s Basketball Ron Lenz National Player of the Year, and picked up his second straight MIAA Player of the Year honor.

A Manhattan, KS native, Hudgins has been averaging 20.1 points per game, with 127 assists and 36 steals while shooting 54.5% from the field, including 52.5 percent from three-point range and 89 percent of his free throws.

The Bearcats face West Liberty in the Elite Eight on Wednesday night at 6 p.m. at the Ford Center in Evansville, Indiana. <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/445328b3-a89c-46ba-8022-3972722c2a65">Read a preview here</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1615086932353.jpeg" alt="Northwest junior Trevor Hudgins fires for three in the first half during the MIAA championship against Washburn at Bearcat Arena. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Northwest junior Trevor Hudgins fires for three in the first half during the MIAA championship against Washburn at Bearcat Arena. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThe National Association of Basketball Coaches (NABC) announced Wednesday that Northwest Missouri State's Trevor Hudgins has been selected as the 2021 NABC Division II Player of the Year.Hudgins is leading the Bearcats into the NCAA Division II Elite Eight championship in Evansville, Ind., with a 25-2 record.Hudgins has started every game in three seasons at Northwest, and the Bearcats have a 94-3 record in that time.Hudgins has been racking up postseason accolades. He was named the 2021 Division II Conference Commissioners Association Men’s Basketball Ron Lenz National Player of the Year, and picked up his second straight MIAA Player of the Year honor.A Manhattan, KS native, Hudgins has been averaging 20.1 points per game, with 127 assists and 36 steals while shooting 54.5% from the field, including 52.5 percent from three-point range and 89 percent of his free throws.The Bearcats face West Liberty in the Elite Eight on Wednesday night at 6 p.m. at the Ford Center in Evansville, Indiana. <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/445328b3-a89c-46ba-8022-3972722c2a65">Read a preview here</a>.

Northwest's Trevor Hudgins picks up Division II Player of the Year honors

The Missouri Sportswriters and Sportscasters Association released its 2020-21 All-Northwest District High School teams this week.

Class 1&nbsp; Girls Malia Collins, Platte Valley, 5’6”, sr. Jaclyn Pappert, Platte Valley, 5’10”, jr. Maggie Collins, Platte Valley, 6’, fr. Stephanie Turpin, Platte Valley, 5’5”, jr. Riley McQueen, Stanberry, 5’6”, sr. Lexi Craig, Stanberry, 5’10”, jr. Ashton Crockett, DeKalb, 5’8”, jr. Jacquelyn Cline, North Nodaway, 5’6”, soph. Destiny Gutshall, Tri-County, 5’7”, jr. Shaina Culp, Nodaway-Holt, 5’10”, sr. Webby Bailey, Pattonsburg, 5’7”, jr. Emma Craig, North Harrison, 5’9”, sr. Rayleigh Guyer, South Holt, 5’5”, jr.

COY — Tyler Pedersen, Platte Valley

Class 1 Boys Landon Poppa, Mound City, 6’5”, sr. Tony Osburn, Mound City, 6’2”, jr. Gage Salsbury, Mound City, 6’, sr. Collin Sager, Stanberry, 6’5”, sr. Austin Schwebach, Stanberry, 6’5”, jr. Jakob Hisel, Winston, 6’, sr. Jacob Uthe, Winston, 6’2”, Jr. Tyler Blay, West Nodaway, 6’, sr. Cameron Jones, Pattonsburg, 6’1”, sr. Brett Emig, North Harrison, 5’10”, sr. Alex Rinehart, Worth County, 5’10”, jr. Trever McQueen, Platte Valley, 5’11”, sr. Dylan McIntyre, Northeast Nodaway, 6’, soph. Carson Bowman, St. Joseph Christian, 6’2”, jr. Hunter Dawson, West Nodaway, 5’8”, jr.

Class 2 Girls Gabby Newman, Albany, 5’5”, sr. Sierra Anthony, Albany, 5’9”, sr. Mercedes Parshall, East Atchison, 5’5”, sr. Morgan Parshall,&nbsp;&nbsp;East Atchison, 5’5”, sr. Shae Lewis, St. Joseph: Bishop LeBlond, 5’9”, soph. Tatum Studer, St. Joseph: Bishop LeBlond, 5’6”, soph. Kacie Livengood, Mid-Buchanan, 5’6”, sr. Jordan Thornton, Mid-Buchanan, 5’2”, soph. Mary Copeland, Polo, 5’11”, jr. Lauren Krohn, Princeton, 5’8”, jr. Savannah Bingham, Plattsburg, 5’8”, jr. Alaina Officer, North Andrew, 6’, sr. Josie Roach, North Platte, 5’9”, jr. Olivia Dierenfeldt, Osborn/Stewartsville, 5’9”, sr. Maddie Saunders, King City, 5’6”, sr.

COY — Jackie Ziesel, St. Joseph: Bishop LeBlond

Class 2 Boys Javan Noyes, Mid-Buchanan, 5’6”, sr. Caden Bailey, Mid-Buchanan, 6’2”, jr. Joe Clark, Mid-Buchanan, 6’4”, soph. Tanner McDaniel, North Andrew, 6’3”, sr. Owen Graham, North Andrew, 6’8”, jr. Chris Guldan, St. Joseph: Bishop LeBlond, 6’1”, jr. Jake Korell, St. Joseph: Bishop LeBlond, 5’10”, soph. Isaac Bird, Gallatin, 6’4”, soph. Payton Feiden, Gallatin, 6’1”, soph. Kaeden Hutchinson, Albany, 6’1”, sr. Holden Farmer, Rock Port, 6’3”, jr. Isaia Howard, Plattsburg, 6’2”, fr. Doran Saunders, Osborn/Stewartsville, 6’, jr. Zeb Schwartzkopf, Princeton, 6’2”, sr.

Class 3 Girls Lilly Schilling, East Buchanan, 5’10”, sr. Laken Manns, Lawson, 5’9”, sr. Sadie Hendrickson, Lawson, 5’6”, sr. Maycee Nichols, Lathrop, 5’7”, sr. Maya Watkins, East Buchanan, 5’9”, soph. Brighton Swindler, Hamilton: Penney, 5’7”, sr. Hannah Carter, South Harrison, 6’, fr. Madi Moore, Trenton, 5’8”, fr.

Class 3 Boys Brayden Sunderman, South Harrison, 6’2”, sr. Luke Karns, South Harrison, 6’7”, sr. Andrew Rich, Hamilton: Penney, 6’2”, jr. Ryan Pattison, West Platte, 6’3”, jr. Tanner Rowe, West Platte, jr. Max Trout, Lawson, 6’2”, jr. Jackson Gentzell, Lathrop, 6’2”, jr. Drew Thompson, East Buchanan, 5’11”, sr.

Serena Sundell, Maryville, 6’1”, sr. Anastyn Pettlon, Maryville, 5’3”, soph. Rylee Vierthaler, Maryville, 5’10”, soph. Jaida Cox, Benton, 5’7”, jr. Kianna Herrera, Benton, 5’11”, jr. Laini Joseph, Cameron, 5’9”, sr. Ella Moody, St. Joseph Central, 5’11”, jr. Lauren Eiman, St. Joseph Central, 6’1”, sr. Jessica Reeter, Chillicothe, 5’5”, soph. Rylee Benight, Savannah, 5’6”, sr.

Co-COY — Quentin Albrecht, Maryville, and Chris Michaels, Benton

Classes 4-5 Boys Camden Bennett, St. Joseph: Lafayette, 6’2”, soph. Ty’Shon Page, St. Joseph: Lafayette, 6’4”, sr. Caden Stoecklein, Maryville, 6’, soph. Marc Gustafson, Maryville, 6’9”, sr. Kason Mauzey, Benton, 6’6”, jr. Griff Bonderer,&nbsp; Chillicothe, 6’2”, soph. Wes Darnell,&nbsp; Savannah, 6’2”, sr. TJ Best, Cameron, 6’2”, soph. Will Small, St. Joseph Central, 5’10”, sr. Lavar Felder, Jr., St. Joseph Central, 6’3”, sr.

COY – Kevin Bristol, St. Joseph: Lafayette

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616601190781.jpeg" alt="Several members of the 2021 Class 1 state champion Platte Valley girls' basketball team were honored by the Missouri Sportswriters and Sportscasters Association this week./ Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Several members of the 2021 Class 1 state champion Platte Valley girls' basketball team were honored by the Missouri Sportswriters and Sportscasters Association this week./ Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThe Missouri Sportswriters and Sportscasters Association released its 2020-21 All-Northwest District High School teams this week.Class 1&nbsp; Girls Malia Collins, Platte Valley, 5’6”, sr. Jaclyn Pappert, Platte Valley, 5’10”, jr. Maggie Collins, Platte Valley, 6’, fr. Stephanie Turpin, Platte Valley, 5’5”, jr. Riley McQueen, Stanberry, 5’6”, sr. Lexi Craig, Stanberry, 5’10”, jr. Ashton Crockett, DeKalb, 5’8”, jr. Jacquelyn Cline, North Nodaway, 5’6”, soph. Destiny Gutshall, Tri-County, 5’7”, jr. Shaina Culp, Nodaway-Holt, 5’10”, sr. Webby Bailey, Pattonsburg, 5’7”, jr. Emma Craig, North Harrison, 5’9”, sr. Rayleigh Guyer, South Holt, 5’5”, jr.COY — Tyler Pedersen, Platte ValleyClass 1 Boys Landon Poppa, Mound City, 6’5”, sr. Tony Osburn, Mound City, 6’2”, jr. Gage Salsbury, Mound City, 6’, sr. Collin Sager, Stanberry, 6’5”, sr. Austin Schwebach, Stanberry, 6’5”, jr. Jakob Hisel, Winston, 6’, sr. Jacob Uthe, Winston, 6’2”, Jr. Tyler Blay, West Nodaway, 6’, sr. Cameron Jones, Pattonsburg, 6’1”, sr. Brett Emig, North Harrison, 5’10”, sr. Alex Rinehart, Worth County, 5’10”, jr. Trever McQueen, Platte Valley, 5’11”, sr. Dylan McIntyre, Northeast Nodaway, 6’, soph. Carson Bowman, St. Joseph Christian, 6’2”, jr. Hunter Dawson, West Nodaway, 5’8”, jr. Class 2 Girls Gabby Newman, Albany, 5’5”, sr. Sierra Anthony, Albany, 5’9”, sr. Mercedes Parshall, East Atchison, 5’5”, sr. Morgan Parshall,&nbsp;&nbsp;East Atchison, 5’5”, sr. Shae Lewis, St. Joseph: Bishop LeBlond, 5’9”, soph. Tatum Studer, St. Joseph: Bishop LeBlond, 5’6”, soph. Kacie Livengood, Mid-Buchanan, 5’6”, sr. Jordan Thornton, Mid-Buchanan, 5’2”, soph. Mary Copeland, Polo, 5’11”, jr. Lauren Krohn, Princeton, 5’8”, jr. Savannah Bingham, Plattsburg, 5’8”, jr. Alaina Officer, North Andrew, 6’, sr. Josie Roach, North Platte, 5’9”, jr. Olivia Dierenfeldt, Osborn/Stewartsville, 5’9”, sr. Maddie Saunders, King City, 5’6”, sr.COY — Jackie Ziesel, St. Joseph: Bishop LeBlondClass 2 Boys Javan Noyes, Mid-Buchanan, 5’6”, sr. Caden Bailey, Mid-Buchanan, 6’2”, jr. Joe Clark, Mid-Buchanan, 6’4”, soph. Tanner McDaniel, North Andrew, 6’3”, sr. Owen Graham, North Andrew, 6’8”, jr. Chris Guldan, St. Joseph: Bishop LeBlond, 6’1”, jr. Jake Korell, St. Joseph: Bishop LeBlond, 5’10”, soph. Isaac Bird, Gallatin, 6’4”, soph. Payton Feiden, Gallatin, 6’1”, soph. Kaeden Hutchinson, Albany, 6’1”, sr. Holden Farmer, Rock Port, 6’3”, jr. Isaia Howard, Plattsburg, 6’2”, fr. Doran Saunders, Osborn/Stewartsville, 6’, jr. Zeb Schwartzkopf, Princeton, 6’2”, sr.COY – Wade Bryson, North AndrewClass 3 Girls Lilly Schilling, East Buchanan, 5’10”, sr. Laken Manns, Lawson, 5’9”, sr. Sadie Hendrickson, Lawson, 5’6”, sr. Maycee Nichols, Lathrop, 5’7”, sr. Maya Watkins, East Buchanan, 5’9”, soph. Brighton Swindler, Hamilton: Penney, 5’7”, sr. Hannah Carter, South Harrison, 6’, fr. Madi Moore, Trenton, 5’8”, fr.COY — Lisa Glenn, LawsonClass 3 Boys Brayden Sunderman, South Harrison, 6’2”, sr. Luke Karns, South Harrison, 6’7”, sr. Andrew Rich, Hamilton: Penney, 6’2”, jr. Ryan Pattison, West Platte, 6’3”, jr. Tanner Rowe, West Platte, jr. Max Trout, Lawson, 6’2”, jr. Jackson Gentzell, Lathrop, 6’2”, jr. Drew Thompson, East Buchanan, 5’11”, sr.COY – Ryan Nichols, West PlatteCLASSES 4-5 GirlsSerena Sundell, Maryville, 6’1”, sr. Anastyn Pettlon, Maryville, 5’3”, soph. Rylee Vierthaler, Maryville, 5’10”, soph. Jaida Cox, Benton, 5’7”, jr. Kianna Herrera, Benton, 5’11”, jr. Laini Joseph, Cameron, 5’9”, sr. Ella Moody, St. Joseph Central, 5’11”, jr. Lauren Eiman, St. Joseph Central, 6’1”, sr. Jessica Reeter, Chillicothe, 5’5”, soph. Rylee Benight, Savannah, 5’6”, sr.Co-COY — Quentin Albrecht, Maryville, and Chris Michaels, BentonClasses 4-5 Boys Camden Bennett, St. Joseph: Lafayette, 6’2”, soph. Ty’Shon Page, St. Joseph: Lafayette, 6’4”, sr. Caden Stoecklein, Maryville, 6’, soph. Marc Gustafson, Maryville, 6’9”, sr. Kason Mauzey, Benton, 6’6”, jr. Griff Bonderer,&nbsp; Chillicothe, 6’2”, soph. Wes Darnell,&nbsp; Savannah, 6’2”, sr. TJ Best, Cameron, 6’2”, soph. Will Small, St. Joseph Central, 5’10”, sr. Lavar Felder, Jr., St. Joseph Central, 6’3”, sr.COY – Kevin Bristol, St. Joseph: LafayetteYou can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

MSAA releases All-Northwest District high school basketball teams

The No. 2-seed Northwest Missouri State men’s basketball team (25-2) is set for its Elite Eight matchup against No. 7 seed West Liberty (18-4).

 Tip-off is set for Wednesday at 6 p.m. at the Ford Center in Evansville, Indiana. This season marks the Bearcats' fifth Elite Eight appearance in program history, including the third in the last five years.

Northwest head coach Ben McCollum tells KFEQ in an interview that this string of recent success is a testament to the winning culture that he, his staff, as well as current and former players, have established in recent years.

"We've just had good kids, good teams and a good culture," he said. "That helps to be able to have continued success."

The only team that has more Elite Eight appearances than Northwest in Division II is West Liberty. The Hilltoppers are in their sixth Elite Eight, and are seeking their first national title. They were runners-up to Central Missouri in 2014.

West Liberty is playing in its nation-leading 12th straight NCAA tournament and have won four straight Mountain East Conference titles.

The Hilltoppers lead the nation with 102 points per game, and they're led by senior Dalton Bolon, who was named to the National Association of Basketball Coaches (NABC) Division II All-America Team.

Bolon averages 21.6 points and eight rebounds per contest. He also leads all active Division II players with 2,232 career points and 349 three-pointers.

"They're a very good basketball team and they play extremely hard," McCollum said of West Liberty. "It's going to be a tough game for us."

Northwest is seeking its third national title as a program after winning it all in 2017 and 2019.&nbsp;

For all-conference performers like senior Ryan Hawkins, and juniors Trevor Hudgins and Diego Bernard, playing on the big stage is familiar territory for them. McCollum says that remains a key advantage for his squad.

"We've been here before and won championships," McCollum said. "So, that eliminates some of that 'happy to be there excitement.' We understand what it does take."

The 2020 NCAA tournament, as we know, was wiped out due to COVID-19. The Bearcats were 31-1 entering that tournament and riding a 23-game winning streak.

No one will ever know what might have been last year, but McCollum is appreciating this year's postseason run a little bit more. Simply due to of all of the hard work that had to be done for this season to start and finish successfully.

"Whenever you have an opportunity to play for a championship, you need to make the most of it and understand what kind of opportunity you have," said McCollum, who's won 14 of his last 15 NCAA tournament games as coach.

"Right now, we have a big time opportunity and we need to make sure we make the most of it. I think our kids are going to and are ready for that. As long as you give your best effort, I think we'll be okay."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1614828235345.png" alt="Northwest Missouri State's Trevor Hudgins dribbles at the top of the key in the first half of the Bearcats' 100-61 win over Emporia State in the MIAA Quarterfinals. Photo by Whitnee Ice." />
 <figcaption>Northwest Missouri State's Trevor Hudgins dribbles at the top of the key in the first half of the Bearcats' 100-61 win over Emporia State in the MIAA Quarterfinals. Photo by Whitnee Ice.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph Post&nbsp;The No. 2-seed Northwest Missouri State men’s basketball team (25-2) is set for its Elite Eight matchup against No. 7 seed West Liberty (18-4). Tip-off is set for Wednesday at 6 p.m. at the Ford Center in Evansville, Indiana. This season marks the Bearcats' fifth Elite Eight appearance in program history, including the third in the last five years.Northwest head coach Ben McCollum tells KFEQ in an interview that this string of recent success is a testament to the winning culture that he, his staff, as well as current and former players, have established in recent years."We've just had good kids, good teams and a good culture," he said. "That helps to be able to have continued success."The only team that has more Elite Eight appearances than Northwest in Division II is West Liberty. The Hilltoppers are in their sixth Elite Eight, and are seeking their first national title. They were runners-up to Central Missouri in 2014.West Liberty is playing in its nation-leading 12th straight NCAA tournament and have won four straight Mountain East Conference titles.The Hilltoppers lead the nation with 102 points per game, and they're led by senior Dalton Bolon, who was named to the National Association of Basketball Coaches (NABC) Division II All-America Team.Bolon averages 21.6 points and eight rebounds per contest. He also leads all active Division II players with 2,232 career points and 349 three-pointers."They're a very good basketball team and they play extremely hard," McCollum said of West Liberty. "It's going to be a tough game for us."Northwest is seeking its third national title as a program after winning it all in 2017 and 2019.&nbsp;For all-conference performers like senior Ryan Hawkins, and juniors Trevor Hudgins and Diego Bernard, playing on the big stage is familiar territory for them. McCollum says that remains a key advantage for his squad."We've been here before and won championships," McCollum said. "So, that eliminates some of that 'happy to be there excitement.' We understand what it does take."The 2020 NCAA tournament, as we know, was wiped out due to COVID-19. The Bearcats were 31-1 entering that tournament and riding a 23-game winning streak.No one will ever know what might have been last year, but McCollum is appreciating this year's postseason run a little bit more. Simply due to of all of the hard work that had to be done for this season to start and finish successfully."Whenever you have an opportunity to play for a championship, you need to make the most of it and understand what kind of opportunity you have," said McCollum, who's won 14 of his last 15 NCAA tournament games as coach."Right now, we have a big time opportunity and we need to make sure we make the most of it. I think our kids are going to and are ready for that. As long as you give your best effort, I think we'll be okay." You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Northwest Missouri State set for Elite Eight matchup against West Liberty

The continued off and on rainfall across the area Tuesday forced many area high school baseball and girls’ soccer games to be postponed.

The Mid-Buchanan girls’ soccer team played its inaugural game as a program Tuesday, and won it in style.

The Dragons took down Ewing Marion Kauffman with University Academy Charter 8-0 in Faucett. Freshman Liv Moeckli led her team with four goals in the victory.

Mid-Buchanan is at Chillicothe Wednesday for a 5 p.m. kickoff. The Hornets are 1-1 on the season thus far.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616582782023.png" alt="Photo courtesy of Mid-Buchanan on Twitter." />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy of Mid-Buchanan on Twitter.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThe continued off and on rainfall across the area Tuesday forced many area high school baseball and girls’ soccer games to be postponed.All but one in fact.The Mid-Buchanan girls’ soccer team played its inaugural game as a program Tuesday, and won it in style.The Dragons took down Ewing Marion Kauffman with University Academy Charter 8-0 in Faucett. Freshman Liv Moeckli led her team with four goals in the victory.Mid-Buchanan is at Chillicothe Wednesday for a 5 p.m. kickoff. The Hornets are 1-1 on the season thus far.

Mid-Buchanan girls' soccer opens inaugural season with shutout win over Kaufmann

The continued off and on rainfall across the KFEQ/St. Joseph Post coverage area has forced many area high school baseball and girls’ soccer games scheduled for Tuesday to be postponed.

Baseball Benton vs. Lafayette will be played on Wednesday afternoon at 2 at Phil Welch Stadium. Central vs. LeBlond will also be played Wednesday at Welch Stadium at 4:30.

Maryville baseball is at Savannah Wednesday for a 4:30 first pitch.

West Platte @ King City has been postponed to a date to be determined.

Mid-Buchanan @ Princeton has been moved to March 29th for a 4:30 first pitch.

St. Joseph Christian vs. East Atchison has been postponed with a makeup date to be determined.

Plattsburg baseball will open its season on Thursday at Mid-Buchanan. The Tigers had games against Braymer and North Nodaway rescheduled to March 29th.

Platte Valley @ East Buchanan set for Wednesday has been postponed.

Maysville @ Lathrop has been been postponed with a makeup date to be determined.

DeKalb vs. Southwest Livingston has been canceled with no makeup date at this time.

Girls soccer Central vs. Bishop LeBlond has been moved to Wednesday at 5:30 p.m.

Maryville vs. Savannah has been postponed to a new date to be determined.

By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThe continued off and on rainfall across the KFEQ/St. Joseph Post coverage area has forced many area high school baseball and girls’ soccer games scheduled for Tuesday to be postponed.Baseball Benton vs. Lafayette will be played on Wednesday afternoon at 2 at Phil Welch Stadium. Central vs. LeBlond will also be played Wednesday at Welch Stadium at 4:30.Maryville baseball is at Savannah Wednesday for a 4:30 first pitch.West Platte @ King City has been postponed to a date to be determined.Mid-Buchanan @ Princeton has been moved to March 29th for a 4:30 first pitch.St. Joseph Christian vs. East Atchison has been postponed with a makeup date to be determined.Plattsburg baseball will open its season on Thursday at Mid-Buchanan. The Tigers had games against Braymer and North Nodaway rescheduled to March 29th.Platte Valley @ East Buchanan set for Wednesday has been postponed.Maysville @ Lathrop has been been postponed with a makeup date to be determined.DeKalb vs. Southwest Livingston has been canceled with no makeup date at this time.Girls soccer Central vs. Bishop LeBlond has been moved to Wednesday at 5:30 p.m.Maryville vs. Savannah has been postponed to a new date to be determined.

Persisent rains in the area force postponement of baseball, soccer games

It's been a little while since we've done one of these!&nbsp;This week starts the spring sports season for many area high school teams, including baseball and soccer. Many teams got their season underway on Monday, despite a rainy start.

Baseball scores St. Joseph Central 3 Benton 0 Lafayette 14 St. Joseph Central 1 (5 innings) - Irish pitcher and Oklahoma commit&nbsp;Brayden Luikart struck out 8 batters in a full game.

Benton 10 Bishop LeBlond 3 Mid-Buchanan 17 Northeast Nodaway 6 Platte Valley 15 North Platte 4 King City 4 West Nodaway 3 South Harrison 14 DeKalb 4

Soccer scores - girls Bishop LeBlond 7 Benton 0 You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616467331473.jpeg" alt="St. Joseph Central and Benton play a game Monday at Phil Welch Stadium. Photo courtesy of David Lau." />
 <figcaption>St. Joseph Central and Benton play a game Monday at Phil Welch Stadium. Photo courtesy of David Lau.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostIt's been a little while since we've done one of these!&nbsp;This week starts the spring sports season for many area high school teams, including baseball and soccer. Many teams got their season underway on Monday, despite a rainy start.Baseball scores St. Joseph Central 3 Benton 0 Lafayette 14 St. Joseph Central 1 (5 innings) - Irish pitcher and Oklahoma commit&nbsp;Brayden Luikart struck out 8 batters in a full game.Benton 10 Bishop LeBlond 3 Mid-Buchanan 17 Northeast Nodaway 6 Platte Valley 15 North Platte 4 King City 4 West Nodaway 3 South Harrison 14 DeKalb 4Soccer scores - girls Bishop LeBlond 7 Benton 0 You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

KFEQ/St. Joseph Post area high school scoreboard - March 22, 2021

LOS ANGELES (AP) — Elgin Baylor, the Lakers' 11-time NBA All-Star, has died. The Lakers said Monday that Baylor died of natural causes in Los Angeles with his wife and daughter by his side. 

With a silky-smooth jumper and fluid athleticism, Baylor played a major role in revolutionizing basketball from a ground-bound sport into an aerial show. He was the first NBA player to surpass 70 points in a game. 

Lakers great Jerry West called him "one of the most spectacular shooters the world has ever seen." Baylor's second career as a personnel executive with the Los Angeles Clippers was much less successful. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616445851151.png" alt="Baylor on the cover of a Los Angeles Lakers program on March 21, 1969 which was dubbed "Elgin Baylor Night." Public domain photo" />
 <figcaption>Baylor on the cover of a Los Angeles Lakers program on March 21, 1969 which was dubbed "Elgin Baylor Night." Public domain photo</figcaption>
 </figure>LOS ANGELES (AP) — Elgin Baylor, the Lakers' 11-time NBA All-Star, has died. The Lakers said Monday that Baylor died of natural causes in Los Angeles with his wife and daughter by his side. With a silky-smooth jumper and fluid athleticism, Baylor played a major role in revolutionizing basketball from a ground-bound sport into an aerial show. He was the first NBA player to surpass 70 points in a game. Lakers great Jerry West called him "one of the most spectacular shooters the world has ever seen." Baylor's second career as a personnel executive with the Los Angeles Clippers was much less successful. Elgin Baylor was 86 years old.

Lakers Hall of Famer Elgin Baylor dies at 86

The Midland Empire Conference announced their all-conference honorees Monday. Also attached are the final boys' and girls' MEC Conference basketball standings from the 2020-21 season.

MEC All-Conference Girls' Basketball Final Standings Maryville 7-0 (MEC Champions) St. Pius X 6-1 Benton 4-3 Cameron 4-3 Bishop LeBlond 3-4 Chillicothe 2-5 Savannah 2-5 Lafayette 0-7

All-Conference Honorees - girls Serena Sundell – Maryville (Unanimous) Laini Joseph – Cameron Olivia White – St. Pius X Jaida Cox – Benton Anastyn Pettlon – Maryville Ashley Hall – St. Pius X Essie Hicks – Chillicothe Rylee Benight – Savannah Tatum Studer – Bishop LeBlond Kianna Herrera – Benton

All-Conference Honorable Mention Honorees - girls Jessica Reeter – Chillicothe Rylee Vierthaler – Maryville Mia Simone – St. Pius X Adanna Anikwe – St. Pius X Kelsey Johnson – Benton Emily Cassavaugh – Maryville Avery McVicker – Cameron Shae Lewis – Bishop LeBlond Jolie Bonderer – Chillicothe Darcy Bowlin – Lafayette Lexi Jones – Savannah Natalie Rippy – St. Pius X Olivia Moore – Cameron Lauren Cullin – Maryville Peyton Anderson - Benton

MEC All-Conference Boys' Basketball Final Standings Lafayette 7-0 (MEC Champions) Benton 5-2 Maryville 5-2 St. Pius X 4-3 Chillicothe 3-4 Bishop LeBlond 2-5 Savannah 2-5 Cameron 0-7

All-Conference Honorees - boys Camden Bennett – Lafayette Kason Mauzey – Benton Caden Stoecklein – Maryville Griff Bonderer – Chillicothe Wes Darnell – Savannah Chris Guldan – Bishop LeBlond Tyler Racy – St. Pius X Try’Shon Page – Lafayette Quay Jeter – Savannah T.J. Best – Cameron

Honorable Mention All-Conference Honorees - boys Chase Wilcox – St. Pius X Marc Gustafson – Maryville Jake Korell – Bishop LeBlond Jamar James – Lafayette Allan Coy - Benton Hayden Simmer – Chillicothe Carson Newlon – Benton Zach Langley – Lafayette Jeffrey Johnston – Bishop LeBlond Mason Baxter – Chillicothe Ian Riley – Cameron Grant Redd – St. Pius X Trey Houchin – Maryville Ethan Dudeck – Savannah

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1612410067067.jpeg" alt="Maryville's Serena Sundell (upper left) was named as a unanimous all-MEC Conference selection on Monday. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Maryville's Serena Sundell (upper left) was named as a unanimous all-MEC Conference selection on Monday. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThe Midland Empire Conference announced their all-conference honorees Monday. Also attached are the final boys' and girls' MEC Conference basketball standings from the 2020-21 season.MEC All-Conference Girls' Basketball Final Standings Maryville 7-0 (MEC Champions) St. Pius X 6-1 Benton 4-3 Cameron 4-3 Bishop LeBlond 3-4 Chillicothe 2-5 Savannah 2-5 Lafayette 0-7All-Conference Honorees - girls Serena Sundell – Maryville (Unanimous) Laini Joseph – Cameron Olivia White – St. Pius X Jaida Cox – Benton Anastyn Pettlon – Maryville Ashley Hall – St. Pius X Essie Hicks – Chillicothe Rylee Benight – Savannah Tatum Studer – Bishop LeBlond Kianna Herrera – BentonAll-Conference Honorable Mention Honorees - girls Jessica Reeter – Chillicothe Rylee Vierthaler – Maryville Mia Simone – St. Pius X Adanna Anikwe – St. Pius X Kelsey Johnson – Benton Emily Cassavaugh – Maryville Avery McVicker – Cameron Shae Lewis – Bishop LeBlond Jolie Bonderer – Chillicothe Darcy Bowlin – Lafayette Lexi Jones – Savannah Natalie Rippy – St. Pius X Olivia Moore – Cameron Lauren Cullin – Maryville Peyton Anderson - BentonMEC All-Conference Boys' Basketball Final Standings Lafayette 7-0 (MEC Champions) Benton 5-2 Maryville 5-2 St. Pius X 4-3 Chillicothe 3-4 Bishop LeBlond 2-5 Savannah 2-5 Cameron 0-7All-Conference Honorees - boys Camden Bennett – Lafayette Kason Mauzey – Benton Caden Stoecklein – Maryville Griff Bonderer – Chillicothe Wes Darnell – Savannah Chris Guldan – Bishop LeBlond Tyler Racy – St. Pius X Try’Shon Page – Lafayette Quay Jeter – Savannah T.J. Best – CameronHonorable Mention All-Conference Honorees - boys Chase Wilcox – St. Pius X Marc Gustafson – Maryville Jake Korell – Bishop LeBlond Jamar James – Lafayette Allan Coy - Benton Hayden Simmer – Chillicothe Carson Newlon – Benton Zach Langley – Lafayette Jeffrey Johnston – Bishop LeBlond Mason Baxter – Chillicothe Ian Riley – Cameron Grant Redd – St. Pius X Trey Houchin – Maryville Ethan Dudeck – Savannah

All MEC Conference boys, girls basketball teams announced Monday

The National Association of Basketball Coaches announced the 2021&nbsp;NABC&nbsp;Coaches' Division II All-District teams and coaches Monday, recognizing the best men's college basketball student-athletes and coaches in the division.

The players and coaches are selected and voted on by member coaches of the&nbsp;NABC&nbsp;in NCAA Division II.&nbsp; Northwest Missouri State's Trevor&nbsp;Hudgins&nbsp;and Ryan Hawkins each earned&nbsp;NABC&nbsp;Central District First-Team honors, while Diego Bernard tallied second-team status. Bearcat head coach Ben McCollum registered his fourth career&nbsp;NABC&nbsp;Central District Coach of the Year award. He previously won the award in 2017, 2019 and 2020. Hudgins&nbsp;secured first-team all-district status for the third consecutive season.&nbsp;Hudgins&nbsp;averaged 20.1 points per game and shot 54.5% from the field, including 52.5% from three-point range.&nbsp;Hudgins&nbsp;has already earned first-team&nbsp;all-MIAA&nbsp;and was named the&nbsp;MIAA&nbsp;Player of the Year for the second straight season. Hawkins earned first-team all-district honors for the second straight season. Hawkins led the Bearcats in both scoring (22.0 ppg) and rebounding (8.5 rpg). Hawkins was early named a first-team&nbsp;all-MIAA&nbsp;performer. Bernard tallied his initial all-district award with a nod on the second team. Bernard had 15 double-figure scoring games, including a pair of 20-point contests. Bernard was named the&nbsp;MIAA&nbsp;Defensive Player of the Year and secured second-team&nbsp;all-MIAA&nbsp;status. Bernard averaged 11.8 points per game, 6.2 rebounds per game, while shooting 54.3% from the field. McCollum has guided Northwest to its eighth consecutive&nbsp;MIAA&nbsp;regular season title and he helped lead the Bearcats to their fifth trip to the Elite Eight with the highest victory total in the nation among NCAA Division II teams at 25-2 overall. Northwest will begin its quest for a third national championship on Wednesday with a matchup against West Liberty at 6 p.m. in the&nbsp;Elight&nbsp;Eight in Evansville, Indiana.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616437289353.jpeg" alt="Ryan Hawkins (left) and Trevor Hudgins (left) were both named first-team&nbsp;NABC Central District selections Monday. Photo by Whitnee Ice." />
 <figcaption>Ryan Hawkins (left) and Trevor Hudgins (left) were both named first-team&nbsp;NABC Central District selections Monday. Photo by Whitnee Ice.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThe National Association of Basketball Coaches announced the 2021&nbsp;NABC&nbsp;Coaches' Division II All-District teams and coaches Monday, recognizing the best men's college basketball student-athletes and coaches in the division.The players and coaches are selected and voted on by member coaches of the&nbsp;NABC&nbsp;in NCAA Division II.&nbsp; Northwest Missouri State's Trevor&nbsp;Hudgins&nbsp;and Ryan Hawkins each earned&nbsp;NABC&nbsp;Central District First-Team honors, while Diego Bernard tallied second-team status. Bearcat head coach Ben McCollum registered his fourth career&nbsp;NABC&nbsp;Central District Coach of the Year award. He previously won the award in 2017, 2019 and 2020. Hudgins&nbsp;secured first-team all-district status for the third consecutive season.&nbsp;Hudgins&nbsp;averaged 20.1 points per game and shot 54.5% from the field, including 52.5% from three-point range.&nbsp;Hudgins&nbsp;has already earned first-team&nbsp;all-MIAA&nbsp;and was named the&nbsp;MIAA&nbsp;Player of the Year for the second straight season. Hawkins earned first-team all-district honors for the second straight season. Hawkins led the Bearcats in both scoring (22.0 ppg) and rebounding (8.5 rpg). Hawkins was early named a first-team&nbsp;all-MIAA&nbsp;performer. Bernard tallied his initial all-district award with a nod on the second team. Bernard had 15 double-figure scoring games, including a pair of 20-point contests. Bernard was named the&nbsp;MIAA&nbsp;Defensive Player of the Year and secured second-team&nbsp;all-MIAA&nbsp;status. Bernard averaged 11.8 points per game, 6.2 rebounds per game, while shooting 54.3% from the field. McCollum has guided Northwest to its eighth consecutive&nbsp;MIAA&nbsp;regular season title and he helped lead the Bearcats to their fifth trip to the Elite Eight with the highest victory total in the nation among NCAA Division II teams at 25-2 overall. Northwest will begin its quest for a third national championship on Wednesday with a matchup against West Liberty at 6 p.m. in the&nbsp;Elight&nbsp;Eight in Evansville, Indiana.

Hawkins, Hudgins, Bernard and Coach McCollum garner NABC all-district honors

SPRINGFIELD - Benton came to within single digits of playing for a state championship.

After going toe-to-toe with Boonville the night before, the Cardinals (15-11) had less than 12 hours of turnaround time to get up and get ready for their third place game, which was against No. 1 Vashon.

The Cardinals hung in for 3.5 quarters, but the Wolverines (18-2) used a 16-2 run the final four minutes to beat Benton 57-37 in the Class 4 girls' state third place game at the Hammons Student Center in Springfield Saturday.

Not the end result Benton wanted of course, but first-year head coach Chris Michaels and his team aren't hanging their heads.

"I'm not disappointed in these girls one bit," Michaels said. "When you go against as many challenges and as much adversity as we went through, and everyone dealt with adversity this year, but it's a little bit different in south St. Joseph. We went through some things and to finish the year where we're at right now, I couldn't be more proud."

Vashon got off to a fast 8-1 start, but Benton responded after an early timeout, and trailed 19-14 after the first quarter. The Cardinals continued to fight, and only trailed 26-23 at the break.

Just like in Friday's semifinal, Benton contended with a tight, press defense throughout the game, as Vashon forced 25 turnovers. The Wolverines had only 11 giveaways themselves.

Benton got to within 28-27 with 3:51 to go in the third after a jump shot from sophomore Peyton Anderson, but then got down 41-29 with 6:30 left in the game.

The Cardinals made one last surge, pulling to within 41-35 with 5:02 to go, but after a couple of steals and ensuing three-pointers and fast breaks, Vashon was up 53-37 with 2:28 left.

"When you're down already and their three-pointers hit and you lost a heartbreaker yesterday on a quick turnaround, it's very very hard to turn around again," Michaels said. "Especially in the fourth quarter. We did a good job of staying with each other and not fighting each other and not fighting against the grain. So, we're leaving here a better family than what we were when we showed up."

Benton was also held scoreless for the final 2:48. The Wolverines end up third in their first ever Final Four appearance after absorbing a 78-55 loss to Mount Vernon in their semifinal the night before.

"Vashon isn't ranked No. 1 in the state for nothing," Michaels said. "They had a game (Friday) where they didn't play their best, so they end up in the third place game. We knew it'd be tough. You're in the top four teams down here. So, they didn't make it down here by a fluke."

While the end result wasn't the desired one, Benton has plenty of reason to be optimistic. Heck, when the month of March began, almost nobody expected the Cardinals to make it out of their district bracket, let alone to the Final Four.

"Would we have loved to take home a first place trophy and get to hoop and holler and do everything like that?" Michaels said. "Of course we would. However, to get here wasn't in the cards for us when we started. A month ago, if you'd have asked me, 'Do you think you're going to be (in Springfield?) I would've said yes, but you wouldn't have gotten a lot of yeses from other people."

The Cardinals will bring every player on their current roster back for next season. All except senior Alyssa White, who scored 64 points in her final season and played 29 minutes in her final game.

"Ally White is going to go on and do great things," Michaels said proudly. "She's going to be an awesome citizen. She's going to be the perfect role model and I tell her all the time, 'I have two daughters and I want them to be just like Ally White.'

"She's going to go to college at Arkansas and she's going to graduate probably one of the top in her class. Ally White is about as special as they come. Benton High School wouldn't be Benton High School without Ally White."

Vashon 57 - 19, 7, 11, 20 Benton 37 - 14, 9, 6, 8

Vashon scorers - Raychel Jones - 17, Nariyah Simmons - 11, Marshaun Bostic - 10, Kanitra Barnett - 8, Rayvin Jones - 4, Chrissy Dudley - 3, Azaria Moore - 2, Kiyah Cooper - 2

Benton scorers - Kelsey Johnson - 16, Jaida Cox - 8, Lauren Burright - 6, Kianna Herrera - 5, Peyton Anderson - 2

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616260943707.jpeg" alt="Benton's Jaida Cox (4) throws up a shot in the first half of the Cardinals' 57-37 loss to Vashon in the Class 4 girls' state third place game in Springfield Saturday. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Benton's Jaida Cox (4) throws up a shot in the first half of the Cardinals' 57-37 loss to Vashon in the Class 4 girls' state third place game in Springfield Saturday. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostSPRINGFIELD - Benton came to within single digits of playing for a state championship.After going toe-to-toe with Boonville the night before, the Cardinals (15-11) had less than 12 hours of turnaround time to get up and get ready for their third place game, which was against No. 1 Vashon.The Cardinals hung in for 3.5 quarters, but the Wolverines (18-2) used a 16-2 run the final four minutes to beat Benton 57-37 in the Class 4 girls' state third place game at the Hammons Student Center in Springfield Saturday.Not the end result Benton wanted of course, but first-year head coach Chris Michaels and his team aren't hanging their heads."I'm not disappointed in these girls one bit," Michaels said. "When you go against as many challenges and as much adversity as we went through, and everyone dealt with adversity this year, but it's a little bit different in south St. Joseph. We went through some things and to finish the year where we're at right now, I couldn't be more proud."Vashon got off to a fast 8-1 start, but Benton responded after an early timeout, and trailed 19-14 after the first quarter. The Cardinals continued to fight, and only trailed 26-23 at the break.Just like in Friday's semifinal, Benton contended with a tight, press defense throughout the game, as Vashon forced 25 turnovers. The Wolverines had only 11 giveaways themselves.Benton got to within 28-27 with 3:51 to go in the third after a jump shot from sophomore Peyton Anderson, but then got down 41-29 with 6:30 left in the game.The Cardinals made one last surge, pulling to within 41-35 with 5:02 to go, but after a couple of steals and ensuing three-pointers and fast breaks, Vashon was up 53-37 with 2:28 left."When you're down already and their three-pointers hit and you lost a heartbreaker yesterday on a quick turnaround, it's very very hard to turn around again," Michaels said. "Especially in the fourth quarter. We did a good job of staying with each other and not fighting each other and not fighting against the grain. So, we're leaving here a better family than what we were when we showed up."Benton was also held scoreless for the final 2:48. The Wolverines end up third in their first ever Final Four appearance after absorbing a 78-55 loss to Mount Vernon in their semifinal the night before."Vashon isn't ranked No. 1 in the state for nothing," Michaels said. "They had a game (Friday) where they didn't play their best, so they end up in the third place game. We knew it'd be tough. You're in the top four teams down here. So, they didn't make it down here by a fluke."While the end result wasn't the desired one, Benton has plenty of reason to be optimistic. Heck, when the month of March began, almost nobody expected the Cardinals to make it out of their district bracket, let alone to the Final Four."Would we have loved to take home a first place trophy and get to hoop and holler and do everything like that?" Michaels said. "Of course we would. However, to get here wasn't in the cards for us when we started. A month ago, if you'd have asked me, 'Do you think you're going to be (in Springfield?) I would've said yes, but you wouldn't have gotten a lot of yeses from other people."The Cardinals will bring every player on their current roster back for next season. All except senior Alyssa White, who scored 64 points in her final season and played 29 minutes in her final game."Ally White is going to go on and do great things," Michaels said proudly. "She's going to be an awesome citizen. She's going to be the perfect role model and I tell her all the time, 'I have two daughters and I want them to be just like Ally White.'"She's going to go to college at Arkansas and she's going to graduate probably one of the top in her class. Ally White is about as special as they come. Benton High School wouldn't be Benton High School without Ally White."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616260886806.jpeg" alt="Benton girls' basketball coach Chris Michaels (white shirt) embraces senior Alyssa White while holding the girls' state 4th place trophy on Saturday in Springfield. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Benton girls' basketball coach Chris Michaels (white shirt) embraces senior Alyssa White while holding the girls' state 4th place trophy on Saturday in Springfield. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>Vashon 57 - 19, 7, 11, 20 Benton 37 - 14, 9, 6, 8Vashon scorers - Raychel Jones - 17, Nariyah Simmons - 11, Marshaun Bostic - 10, Kanitra Barnett - 8, Rayvin Jones - 4, Chrissy Dudley - 3, Azaria Moore - 2, Kiyah Cooper - 2Benton scorers - Kelsey Johnson - 16, Jaida Cox - 8, Lauren Burright - 6, Kianna Herrera - 5, Peyton Anderson - 2<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616261150004.jpeg" alt="Benton's Laura Burright pushes the ball up the floor during the Cardinals' 57-37 loss to Vashon on Saturday in the Class 4 girls' state third place game in Springfield. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Benton's Laura Burright pushes the ball up the floor during the Cardinals' 57-37 loss to Vashon on Saturday in the Class 4 girls' state third place game in Springfield. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Vashon pulls away late, Benton finishes fourth at state semifinals Saturday

SPRINGFIELD - The Benton girls' basketball team (15-10) played Boonville (26-2) down to the wire, but 33 turnovers proved costly for the Cardinals in a 48-44 loss to the Pirates in the Class 4 state semifinals at JQH Arena in Springfield Friday night.

In a game that featured seven ties and 13 lead changes, Benton overcame a seven-point, halftime deficit and grabbed a 40-38 lead with 3:01 to play after a clutch three-pointer from sophomore Kelsey Johnson.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616212364354.jpeg" alt="Benton's Kelsey Johnson dribbles the ball out of the corner in the first half of the Cardinals' 48-44 loss to Boonville in the Class 4 state semifinals on Friday night at JQH Arena in Springfield. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Benton's Kelsey Johnson dribbles the ball out of the corner in the first half of the Cardinals' 48-44 loss to Boonville in the Class 4 state semifinals on Friday night at JQH Arena in Springfield. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostSPRINGFIELD - The Benton girls' basketball team (15-10) played Boonville (26-2) down to the wire, but 33 turnovers proved costly for the Cardinals in a 48-44 loss to the Pirates in the Class 4 state semifinals at JQH Arena in Springfield Friday night.In a game that featured seven ties and 13 lead changes, Benton overcame a seven-point, halftime deficit and grabbed a 40-38 lead with 3:01 to play after a clutch three-pointer from sophomore Kelsey Johnson.Offensively, Benton was better in the second half. After making only 5-of-20 shots in the first half, the Cardinals shot 11-of-20 in the final 16 minutes, and outscored the Pirates 18-9 in the third quarter.Benton also held Boonville to just 31.4 percent shooting in the entire game."We just slowed down and did what we do," Benton coach Chris Michaels said of his team's effort in the second half. "We let (Boonville) dictate the whole first half. We told our girls (at halftime), 'The fact that they are dictating you right now and deciding what you do is not how we play basketball.'"On the flipside, the Pirates' full-court press and tight, on-ball defense made life difficult for the Cardinals throughout. The intense pressure on defense allowed Boonville to grab 18 steals."We held them to 21 points in the first half, so defensively, I thought we played a good game," Michaels said. "I just don't think we handled their pressure very well."With the game still airtight, Benton junior Lauren Burright tied it at 42-42 on a layup with 1:58 left, but Boonville junior Addison Brownfield gave the Pirates the lead back at 44-42 after a jumper of her own with 54 seconds remaining.At that point, Benton brought the ball up the floor with plenty of time left, down two and still had a timeout in their back pocket. But with 35 seconds to go, Burright had the ball stolen underneath by Boonville's Kennedy Renfrow.Johnson then fouled Boonville's Kourtney Kendrick with 24 seconds to go. That foul put the Pirates in the double-bonus. Kendrick went 1-for-2 at the line, putting the Pirates ahead 45-42 with still 24 seconds left.Still with a solid chance to send it overtime, Johnson brought the ball up the floor for Benton, but Brownfield swiped it away on a tipped pass with 11 seconds left. Brownfield was swiftly fouled and sunk both free throws, putting the game out of reach at 47-42 with 11 seconds remaining.Benton's Kianna Herrera, who led her team with 18 points, was able to get a final layup with about three seconds left. The Cardinals called timeout, and with 1.7 remaining, Brownfield was fouled again and made one more free throw to put the final tally at 48-44.A tough end to a tough game, as Benton's bid for a third state title in girls' basketball came to an end and the team suffered its first loss in the month of March.But, the season is not yet over. Playing in only the program's fifth Final Four, the Cardinals have a chance to take third at state Saturday for the first time since 1991. They have a chance to end this remarkable run the right way."That's a really, really good team," Michaels said of Boonville. "We're one of the top four teams, so we knew we were going to see a team that was going to be tough and pressure us a lot. We didn't handle the pressure very well. So, we're going to have to forget about this one and go to the next one tomorrow."Benton will face Vashon (17-2) for third place on Saturday at 10 a.m. at the John Q. Hammons Student Center. Vashon lost in their semifinal to Mount Vernon Friday, 78-55."It's a quick turnaround," Michaels said, as his team will have had less than 12 hours to prepare. "It's a quick turnaround for (Vashon), too, so, there's no excuses about a quick turnaround right now."Boonville 48 - 12, 9, 9, 18 Benton 44 - 10, 4, 18, 12Boonville scorers - Jodie Bass - 18, Addison Brownfield - 15, Kourtney Kendrick - 5, Kennedy Renfrow - 5, Emma West - 4, Brooke Eichelberger - 1.Benton scorers - Kianna Herrera - 18, Lauren Burright - 8, Jaida Cox - 8, Kelsey Johnson - 5, Peyton Anderson - 3, Alyssa White - 2.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616212510703.jpeg" alt="Benton's Jaida Cox looks to throw the ball to an open teammate in the second half of Benton's 48-44 loss to Boonville in the Class 4 girls' state semifinals at JQH Arena in Springfield. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Benton's Jaida Cox looks to throw the ball to an open teammate in the second half of Benton's 48-44 loss to Boonville in the Class 4 girls' state semifinals at JQH Arena in Springfield. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.