For the first time in more than 30 years, the Benton boys basketball team is in the final four.

The Benton boys basketball team finished third place in 1992.  Now, in 2025, they are back at state looking to bring home a championship.

Following the Cardinals narrow 36-32 win over Center, head coach Jared Boone says he knows how much this opportunity means for so many people.

"The southside, Benton High School, our fans that travel with us, the players, parents, past players, current players, my teammates from back in the day," Boone told reporters following the game.&nbsp; "I mean gosh it just means so much to, not only me, but a lot of people and I couldn't be more ecstatic to be able to deliver this to them."

For the first time ever, both the Benton boys and girls basketball teams will be competing for a state title, at the same time. The Lady Cardinals defeated Boonville 62-42 over the weekend.  

&nbsp;Boone says having both teams down in Columbia at the same time will be awesome

"That's kind of been the talk here lately is to get boys and girls down there and just basically have the southside take over Columbia," Boone says.&nbsp; "That's exciting and I definitely want to see, I've been down there when they was down there so I know the fans show up and just being able to experience that."

Boone knows the energy having both teams can bring, after seeing Logan Rogersville do it in 2018

"Just seeing that atmosphere there and just it's like, oh man it would be cool if the southside could experience this," Boone explains.

Benton will do just that against that very team that did it in 2018, both taking on Logan Rogersville on Friday in Columbia.  The boys tipping off at 4pm, and the girls at 8pm.

You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741403651938.jpeg" alt="The Benton student section celebrate alongside the team after winning the Class 4 District 16 title.JPG" />
 <figcaption>The Benton student section celebrate alongside the team after winning the Class 4 District 16 title.JPG</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostFor the first time in more than 30 years, the Benton boys basketball team is in the final four.The Benton boys basketball team finished third place in 1992. Now, in 2025, they are back at state looking to bring home a championship.Following the Cardinals narrow 36-32 win over Center, head coach Jared Boone says he knows how much this opportunity means for so many people."The southside, Benton High School, our fans that travel with us, the players, parents, past players, current players, my teammates from back in the day," Boone told reporters following the game.&nbsp; "I mean gosh it just means so much to, not only me, but a lot of people and I couldn't be more ecstatic to be able to deliver this to them."For the first time ever, both the Benton boys and girls basketball teams will be competing for a state title, at the same time. The Lady Cardinals defeated Boonville 62-42 over the weekend. &nbsp;Boone says having both teams down in Columbia at the same time will be awesome"That's kind of been the talk here lately is to get boys and girls down there and just basically have the southside take over Columbia," Boone says.&nbsp; "That's exciting and I definitely want to see, I've been down there when they was down there so I know the fans show up and just being able to experience that."Boone knows the energy having both teams can bring, after seeing Logan Rogersville do it in 2018"Just seeing that atmosphere there and just it's like, oh man it would be cool if the southside could experience this," Boone explains.Benton will do just that against that very team that did it in 2018, both taking on Logan Rogersville on Friday in Columbia. The boys tipping off at 4pm, and the girls at 8pm.You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Benton boys and girls basketball headed to state

With no Mark Mitchell in the second half, senior Tamar Bates took over and helped lead the #21 Missouri Tigers to an 85-73 win over the Mississippi State Bulldogs in the second round of the SEC Tournament.&nbsp;

Missouri held a narrow lead over Mississippi state all through the first half, their largest lead only ever getting to eight points, but after 20 minutes led the Bulldogs 39-34.&nbsp;

Starting the second half, it was announced that Mitchell was ruled out for the remainder of the game with a knee injury, leaving a hole in the Missouri lineup, but the Tigers never wavered and continued trading blows throughout the second half, until late.&nbsp;

Caleb Grill broke the 17th and final tie of the game with a dunk with 4:05 remaining in the second half to put the Tigers up 71-69.&nbsp;Missouri finished the second half hitting six of its final seven field goals, while the Bulldogs hit just one of their final nine attempts from the field.

Bates led the Tigers with 25 points, shooting a blistering 8-12 from the field and 3-5 from beyond the arc while going a perfect 6-6 at the free throw line.&nbsp; Tony Perkins added 20 points

Missouri will play Florida next in the tournament.&nbsp; The Tigers beat the Gators 83-82 in their lone matchup this season.&nbsp; Tipoff is scheduled for 6pm, coverage will begin at 5:30 on KFEQ (680AM/95.3FM).

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741919994141.jpeg" alt="Missouri's Tamar Bates drives in during the first round of the SEC Tournament/ Photo courtesy of the SEC on X" />
 <figcaption>Missouri's Tamar Bates drives in during the first round of the SEC Tournament/ Photo courtesy of the SEC on X</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostWith no Mark Mitchell in the second half, senior Tamar Bates took over and helped lead the #21 Missouri Tigers to an 85-73 win over the Mississippi State Bulldogs in the second round of the SEC Tournament.&nbsp;Missouri held a narrow lead over Mississippi state all through the first half, their largest lead only ever getting to eight points, but after 20 minutes led the Bulldogs 39-34.&nbsp;Starting the second half, it was announced that Mitchell was ruled out for the remainder of the game with a knee injury, leaving a hole in the Missouri lineup, but the Tigers never wavered and continued trading blows throughout the second half, until late.&nbsp;Caleb Grill broke the 17th and final tie of the game with a dunk with 4:05 remaining in the second half to put the Tigers up 71-69.&nbsp;Missouri finished the second half hitting six of its final seven field goals, while the Bulldogs hit just one of their final nine attempts from the field.Bates led the Tigers with 25 points, shooting a blistering 8-12 from the field and 3-5 from beyond the arc while going a perfect 6-6 at the free throw line.&nbsp; Tony Perkins added 20 pointsMissouri will play Florida next in the tournament.&nbsp; The Tigers beat the Gators 83-82 in their lone matchup this season.&nbsp; Tipoff is scheduled for 6pm, coverage will begin at 5:30 on KFEQ (680AM/95.3FM).

Missouri rolls through second half to beat Mississippi State, advances in SEC tourney

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph Post<div><iframe src="https://creators.spotify.com/pod/show/kfeq-news/embed/episodes/KFEQ-Morning-Sports-3132025-e304e5r/a-abr36ui" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>

KFEQ Morning Sports

The #21 Missouri Tigers open the SEC Tournament on Thursday, after earning a first round bye, taking on the Mississippi State Bulldogs at Bridgestone Arena in Nashville.

Mississippi State advanced after beating LSU 91-62 in the opening round.&nbsp; In one game against the Bulldogs this season, the Tigers won on the road 88-61.

Missouri ended the season on a three game losing streak, with losses to Vanderbilt, Oklahoma and Kentucky.&nbsp; But even with that, Tigers head coach Dennis Gates doesn't believe there's any sort of fatigue

"No fatigue, no mental, emotional fatigue or anything like that, our guys have done a great job, if you look at our minutes distribution they've been below 30 minutes," Gates told reporters before the tournament.&nbsp; "And when you can do that with your depth, you obviously extend health, you extend the possibility of having mental or emotional fatigue that has not crept into our program."

The Tigers had a bounce back season this year, despite suffering a slump near the end, posting a 21-10 overall record in the regular season, and going 10-8 in the SEC one year after going through an 0-18 conference schedule.&nbsp; Gates hopes his team uses this SEC tournament as a springboard in preparing for the NCAA tournament.&nbsp;

"When you look at the history of the NCAA tournament, some winners have finished right where we are, some have finished right where we are," Gates says.&nbsp; "So, we're excited about the SEC tournament, it's an opportunity for us to win an SEC tournament championship, and that's our approach."

Missouri and Mississippi State will tipoff at 6pm on Thursday.&nbsp; Coverage on KFEQ (680AM/95.3FM) will begin at 5:30.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741833881515.jpeg" alt="Photo courtesy of Mizzou Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy of Mizzou Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostThe #21 Missouri Tigers open the SEC Tournament on Thursday, after earning a first round bye, taking on the Mississippi State Bulldogs at Bridgestone Arena in Nashville.Mississippi State advanced after beating LSU 91-62 in the opening round.&nbsp; In one game against the Bulldogs this season, the Tigers won on the road 88-61.Missouri ended the season on a three game losing streak, with losses to Vanderbilt, Oklahoma and Kentucky.&nbsp; But even with that, Tigers head coach Dennis Gates doesn't believe there's any sort of fatigue"No fatigue, no mental, emotional fatigue or anything like that, our guys have done a great job, if you look at our minutes distribution they've been below 30 minutes," Gates told reporters before the tournament.&nbsp; "And when you can do that with your depth, you obviously extend health, you extend the possibility of having mental or emotional fatigue that has not crept into our program."The Tigers had a bounce back season this year, despite suffering a slump near the end, posting a 21-10 overall record in the regular season, and going 10-8 in the SEC one year after going through an 0-18 conference schedule.&nbsp; Gates hopes his team uses this SEC tournament as a springboard in preparing for the NCAA tournament.&nbsp;"When you look at the history of the NCAA tournament, some winners have finished right where we are, some have finished right where we are," Gates says.&nbsp; "So, we're excited about the SEC tournament, it's an opportunity for us to win an SEC tournament championship, and that's our approach."Missouri and Mississippi State will tipoff at 6pm on Thursday.&nbsp; Coverage on KFEQ (680AM/95.3FM) will begin at 5:30.You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

#21 Missouri to open SEC Tournament against Mississippi State on Thursday

The Kansas City Chiefs have restructured the contracts of quarterback Patrick Mahomes and defensive tackle Chris Jones, freeing up&nbsp;$49.446 million in salary cap space

The report on the move came from a source telling ESPN's Field Yates on Wednesday morning.&nbsp;

The moves were needed to clear the cap space to needed to cover the Chiefs' activity in recent weeks. They placed the franchise tag on guard Trey Smith and re-signed linebacker Nick Bolton and wide receiver Hollywood Brown.&nbsp; They also added in free agency, most notably picking up offensive tackle Jaylon Moore and cornerback Kristian Fulton.

This is the fourth time Mahomes has reworked his contract since before the 2021 season. He signed a revised contract in 2023 that moved up some money he was scheduled to receive in later years of his contract, and a restructure in March 2024 created $21.6 million of salary cap space.

Mahomes is signed through the 2031 season at a total cost of almost $500 million.

-ESPN's Adam Teicher contributed to this report

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723743945433.jpeg" alt="Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes throws a pass during Chiefs practice/ Photo by Alexis Starks" />
 <figcaption>Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes throws a pass during Chiefs practice/ Photo by Alexis Starks</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostThe Kansas City Chiefs have restructured the contracts of quarterback Patrick Mahomes and defensive tackle Chris Jones, freeing up&nbsp;$49.446 million in salary cap spaceThe report on the move came from a source telling ESPN's Field Yates on Wednesday morning.&nbsp;The moves were needed to clear the cap space to needed to cover the Chiefs' activity in recent weeks. They placed the franchise tag on guard Trey Smith and re-signed linebacker Nick Bolton and wide receiver Hollywood Brown.&nbsp; They also added in free agency, most notably picking up offensive tackle Jaylon Moore and cornerback Kristian Fulton.This is the fourth time Mahomes has reworked his contract since before the 2021 season. He signed a revised contract in 2023 that moved up some money he was scheduled to receive in later years of his contract, and a restructure in March 2024 created $21.6 million of salary cap space.Mahomes is signed through the 2031 season at a total cost of almost $500 million.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721584304820.jpeg" alt="Chris Jones rides to the locker room following practice waving to fans/ Photo by Alexis Starks" />
 <figcaption>Chris Jones rides to the locker room following practice waving to fans/ Photo by Alexis Starks</figcaption>
 </figure>-ESPN's Adam Teicher contributed to this reportYou can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Patrick Mahomes, Chris Jones restructure to help out Chiefs cap space

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph Post<div><iframe src="https://creators.spotify.com/pod/show/kfeq-news/embed/episodes/KFEQ-Morning-Sports-3122025-e302no0/a-abr12ha" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>

Missouri Western State University will be searching for a new men's basketball coach after Will Martin announced his resignation today Athletic Director Andy Carter announced.

"Will is a class-act who has led our program with love, passion and integrity," Carter said in a news release from the university.&nbsp; "I appreciate his dedication to our student-athletes and our university. We thank him for his efforts of elevating our program back to respectability."

Martin spent seven total seasons on the Griffon sidelines, including the last five as head coach.&nbsp; He compiled a 77-70 overall record and a 51-56 mark in MIAA conference play.&nbsp; Joining the staff in 2018 as an assistant under Sundance Wicks, Martin was elevated to first-time head coach in the Spring of 2020. 

He led the Griffons to an NCAA Tournament berth during the Covid-shortened season of 2020-21, MWSU's 18-13 record in 2024-25 was the program's highest regular-season win total in 22 years.

"I am extremely grateful for my time at Missouri Western," Martin said."I will forever be humbled by the opportunity to be a Head Coach for this entire community, and appreciative to everyone who made it possible. I am proud of the success we were able to have on the court, in the classroom, and in the community."

"Most importantly, I will forever cherish the wonderful relationships cultivated in my time here. Thank you to my staff and all the student-athletes I was blessed to coach. Your hard work, sacrifice, and dedication undoubtedly served to leave the program better than we found it. Griffon Nation will always hold a special place in my heart!"

The search for Martin's replacement begins immediately.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591383897177.jpeg" alt="Will Martin/ File photo" />
 <figcaption>Will Martin/ File photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostMissouri Western State University will be searching for a new men's basketball coach after Will Martin announced his resignation today Athletic Director Andy Carter announced."Will is a class-act who has led our program with love, passion and integrity," Carter said in a news release from the university.&nbsp; "I appreciate his dedication to our student-athletes and our university. We thank him for his efforts of elevating our program back to respectability."Martin spent seven total seasons on the Griffon sidelines, including the last five as head coach.&nbsp; He compiled a 77-70 overall record and a 51-56 mark in MIAA conference play.&nbsp; Joining the staff in 2018 as an assistant under Sundance Wicks, Martin was elevated to first-time head coach in the Spring of 2020. He led the Griffons to an NCAA Tournament berth during the Covid-shortened season of 2020-21, MWSU's 18-13 record in 2024-25 was the program's highest regular-season win total in 22 years."I am extremely grateful for my time at Missouri Western," Martin said."I will forever be humbled by the opportunity to be a Head Coach for this entire community, and appreciative to everyone who made it possible. I am proud of the success we were able to have on the court, in the classroom, and in the community.""Most importantly, I will forever cherish the wonderful relationships cultivated in my time here. Thank you to my staff and all the student-athletes I was blessed to coach. Your hard work, sacrifice, and dedication undoubtedly served to leave the program better than we found it. Griffon Nation will always hold a special place in my heart!"The search for Martin's replacement begins immediately.You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

MWSU to begin search for new head coach as Will Martin resigns

The Kansas City Royals have been trimming down their camp roster over the past weeks, and some of the more notable moves came on Sunday and Monday as pitchers Noah Cameron (The Royals #5 prospect),&nbsp; Luinder Avila (#19), and Eric Cerantola (#28) were all optioned to Triple A Omaha and assigned to minor league camp.&nbsp;

Along with those three pitchers, who had all been added to the 40-man roster this past offseason, the Royals optioned outfielder Tyler Gentry (#25) to Triple-A, and he will also head to Minor League camp.

In his first big league camp, Cameron wasted no time showing why the Royals protected him from the Rule 5 draft last offseason.&nbsp; The pitcher from St. Joseph allowed four earned runs across 10 inning with one walk and seven strikeouts in four Cactus League appearances, with one start.&nbsp; He also recorded one save.&nbsp;&nbsp;He’ll now head to Triple-A at the beginning of the season trying to build on the 2.32 ERA he posted there in nine starts at the end of last season.

Manager Matt Quatraro was impressed with Cameron, and it's become a matter of when, not if, he gets to Kansas City to make his major league debut.

“He was really impressive, first and foremost,” manager Matt Quatraro tells reporters. “His poise, delivery, stuff, command, all those things were outstanding. He could not have had a better camp. Fortunately for us right now, with pitchers being healthy and guys that are established big leaguers, he’s going to have to wait his turn, so to speak.

“But we’re really excited about what we saw. And you know how this goes. It could be a moment’s notice that we need him and need him to help us win.”

Cameron was solid in three innings Sunday, his first Cactus League start, allowing one unearned run with two strikeouts. He’s always been a strike-thrower in his Minor League career, and that didn’t waver when he got on the mound in front of big league coaches.

“It’s definitely helped, for sure,” Cameron said Sunday. “Just being around everybody and having the locker room atmosphere. Whenever [my debut] comes, just having relationships with these guys takes all the stress off of you a little bit. Just having confidence in me, knowing that whenever I do go up or whatever that looks like, knowing that I deserve to be there and can help the team win.”

-MLB.com's Anne Rogers contributed to this report

You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741572394248.jpeg" alt="Noah Cameron/ File photo" />
 <figcaption>Noah Cameron/ File photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostThe Kansas City Royals have been trimming down their camp roster over the past weeks, and some of the more notable moves came on Sunday and Monday as pitchers Noah Cameron (The Royals #5 prospect),&nbsp; Luinder Avila (#19), and Eric Cerantola (#28) were all optioned to Triple A Omaha and assigned to minor league camp.&nbsp;Along with those three pitchers, who had all been added to the 40-man roster this past offseason, the Royals optioned outfielder Tyler Gentry (#25) to Triple-A, and he will also head to Minor League camp.In his first big league camp, Cameron wasted no time showing why the Royals protected him from the Rule 5 draft last offseason.&nbsp; The pitcher from St. Joseph allowed four earned runs across 10 inning with one walk and seven strikeouts in four Cactus League appearances, with one start.&nbsp; He also recorded one save.&nbsp;&nbsp;He’ll now head to Triple-A at the beginning of the season trying to build on the 2.32 ERA he posted there in nine starts at the end of last season.Manager Matt Quatraro was impressed with Cameron, and it's become a matter of when, not if, he gets to Kansas City to make his major league debut.“He was really impressive, first and foremost,” manager Matt Quatraro tells reporters. “His poise, delivery, stuff, command, all those things were outstanding. He could not have had a better camp. Fortunately for us right now, with pitchers being healthy and guys that are established big leaguers, he’s going to have to wait his turn, so to speak.“But we’re really excited about what we saw. And you know how this goes. It could be a moment’s notice that we need him and need him to help us win.”Cameron was solid in three innings Sunday, his first Cactus League start, allowing one unearned run with two strikeouts. He’s always been a strike-thrower in his Minor League career, and that didn’t waver when he got on the mound in front of big league coaches.“It’s definitely helped, for sure,” Cameron said Sunday. “Just being around everybody and having the locker room atmosphere. Whenever [my debut] comes, just having relationships with these guys takes all the stress off of you a little bit. Just having confidence in me, knowing that whenever I do go up or whatever that looks like, knowing that I deserve to be there and can help the team win.”-MLB.com's Anne Rogers contributed to this reportYou can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Despite being sent to Omaha, Royals management impressed with Noah Cameron

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph Post<div><iframe src="https://creators.spotify.com/pod/show/kfeq-news/embed/episodes/KFEQ-Morning-Sports-3112025-e30135g/a-abquvd8" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>

A trio of Missouri Tigers have been honored by the Southeastern Conference with end of season awards announced on Monday. 

Caleb Grill was named the SEC Sixth Man of the Year, while junior Mark Mitchell was named all SEC third team.  Sophomore Anthony Robinson was named to the SEC All-Defense team.

Grill is the second Tiger to be named the Sixth Man of the Year by the conference.  He ranked second on the team overall, and first during conference play, in points per game.

Meanwhile Mitchell led the team in points per game.  He also ranks second on the team in rebounds, first in blocks, third in assists, and fifth in steals.  

Robinson became just the second Tiger to be named to the all defense team, and the only underclassmen in the conference in the last two seasons.  Robinson leads Mizzou and ranks 38th nationally with 2.03 steals per game, swiping 61 in 30 games as a sophomore.

The trio is set to lead Mizzou into the postseason, starting on Thursday when the Tigers play in the SEC Tournament Second Round at 6 p.m. against either Mississippi State or LSU.

You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741647573422.jpeg" alt="The Tigers surround Caleb Grill in celebration.&nbsp; Grill was named the SEC's Sixth Man of the Year on Monday/ Photo courtesy of Mizzou Athletics" />
 <figcaption>The Tigers surround Caleb Grill in celebration.&nbsp; Grill was named the SEC's Sixth Man of the Year on Monday/ Photo courtesy of Mizzou Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostA trio of Missouri Tigers have been honored by the Southeastern Conference with end of season awards announced on Monday. Caleb Grill was named the SEC Sixth Man of the Year, while junior Mark Mitchell was named all SEC third team. Sophomore Anthony Robinson was named to the SEC All-Defense team.Grill is the second Tiger to be named the Sixth Man of the Year by the conference. He ranked second on the team overall, and first during conference play, in points per game.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741647678389.jpeg" alt="Mark Mitchell/ Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Mark Mitchell/ Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Meanwhile Mitchell led the team in points per game. He also ranks second on the team in rebounds, first in blocks, third in assists, and fifth in steals. Robinson became just the second Tiger to be named to the all defense team, and the only underclassmen in the conference in the last two seasons. Robinson leads Mizzou and ranks 38th nationally with 2.03 steals per game, swiping 61 in 30 games as a sophomore.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741647939636.jpeg" alt="Anthony Robinson/ Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Anthony Robinson/ Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>The trio is set to lead Mizzou into the postseason, starting on Thursday when the Tigers play in the SEC Tournament Second Round at 6 p.m. against either Mississippi State or LSU.You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Trio of Tigers earn SEC Awards

Two Bishop LeBlond seniors that helped in turning the football program around, have officially signed their letters of intent to continue playing football in college.&nbsp;

Wide receiver Trey Icke will stay in St. Joseph, signing with Missouri Western State University, while tight end&nbsp;Jacob Winkelbauer is joining a Benedictine Ravens team that came one game shy of a national championship berth last season.&nbsp;

Icke will go play for head coach Tyler Fenwick at Missouri Western State University, staying at home.&nbsp; For him, it was a talk with Griffons linebacker coach Colin Mcquillan that made Western the perfect fit.&nbsp;

"Everything was so good, the facilities are great, and their strength and conditioning coach he just topped it off, I had to go after talking to him," Icke tells reporters.&nbsp;

Winkelbauer will also stay close to home, albeit a little farther away, joining the Benedictine Ravens, a team that this past season came one game shy of a trip to the national championship.&nbsp; Winkelbauer points to the culture of the Ravens as to why it was the right choice.&nbsp;

"Good stuff, and the players they all liked it, they all looked like they bought into the program and I think they're going to be going some places in a few years," Winkelbauer says.&nbsp;

It will be a slight transition at the next level for both Icke and Winkelbauer after playing four years of 8-man football in high school, shifting to 11-man in college.&nbsp;&nbsp;Winkelbauer though, feels like it won't feel that different.&nbsp;

"We run a lot of 11-man schemes in our eight man game, so I feel like it won't be too hard,"&nbsp;Winkelbauer explains.&nbsp;

And for Icke, he says it's just a transition back to a way that he's played nearly his whole life.&nbsp;

"I played tackle football, 11-man, since I was five, so hopefully it's not that different, not that hard," Icke says.&nbsp;

Icke and Winkelbauer were part of two district championship teams at LeBlond, including a second place finish at state in 2022.&nbsp; A massive turnaround happened in their time, with the Golden Eagles not having a winning season prior to that since 2012.&nbsp;

When it comes to the legacy they hope to leave, Winkelbauer points to something coaches have told them, about how their senior class really shifted the culture

"From all the seniors beating up on the freshman, like killshots every practice, and we kind of welcomed freshman, became friends with them, we were more of a team I'd say for the past two years, and that was nice," Winkelbauer says.&nbsp;

Icke echoes that, saying that as a group the seniors really focused on helping to build up the freshman and underclassmen

"Instead of like tearing them down, we were like building them up, making them get better to carry on this tradition, and to just go all the way through to the district championship each year," Icke says.&nbsp;

Icke recorded 20 carries for 144 yds and 88 receptions for 1307 yds with 24 total touchdowns in his senior year.&nbsp; On defense he tallied 77 tackles, three sacks, three ints, one blocked punt, one forced fumble and three fumble recoveries.&nbsp; He was tabbed first team all-state recognition his senior year and second- team all-state recognition his junior year, as well as being an all-district selection his sophomore year.

In his senior season, Winkelbauer had 47 catches for 816 yards with 16 touchdowns.&nbsp; On defense he recorded 70 tackles, 17 for loss, with 10 sacks.&nbsp; He forced two fumbles and had one interception. He earned first team all state in his senior year and was a second team honoree in his sophomore season.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741639995161.png" alt="Bishop Leblond's Trey Icke (left) and Jacob&nbsp;Winkelbauer (right) signed their NLI's to continue playing football in college.&nbsp; Icke signed to Missouri Western State University while&nbsp;Winkelbauer will play at Benedictine/ Photo by Matt Pike" />
 <figcaption>Bishop Leblond's Trey Icke (left) and Jacob&nbsp;Winkelbauer (right) signed their NLI's to continue playing football in college.&nbsp; Icke signed to Missouri Western State University while&nbsp;Winkelbauer will play at Benedictine/ Photo by Matt Pike</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostTwo Bishop LeBlond seniors that helped in turning the football program around, have officially signed their letters of intent to continue playing football in college.&nbsp;Wide receiver Trey Icke will stay in St. Joseph, signing with Missouri Western State University, while tight end&nbsp;Jacob Winkelbauer is joining a Benedictine Ravens team that came one game shy of a national championship berth last season.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741640898856.jpeg" alt="Trey Icke/ Photo by Matt Pike" />
 <figcaption>Trey Icke/ Photo by Matt Pike</figcaption>
 </figure>Icke will go play for head coach Tyler Fenwick at Missouri Western State University, staying at home.&nbsp; For him, it was a talk with Griffons linebacker coach Colin Mcquillan that made Western the perfect fit.&nbsp;"Everything was so good, the facilities are great, and their strength and conditioning coach he just topped it off, I had to go after talking to him," Icke tells reporters.&nbsp;Winkelbauer will also stay close to home, albeit a little farther away, joining the Benedictine Ravens, a team that this past season came one game shy of a trip to the national championship.&nbsp; Winkelbauer points to the culture of the Ravens as to why it was the right choice.&nbsp;"Good stuff, and the players they all liked it, they all looked like they bought into the program and I think they're going to be going some places in a few years," Winkelbauer says.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741645080279.jpeg" alt="Jake Winkelbauer/ Photo by Matt Pike" />
 <figcaption>Jake Winkelbauer/ Photo by Matt Pike</figcaption>
 </figure>It will be a slight transition at the next level for both Icke and Winkelbauer after playing four years of 8-man football in high school, shifting to 11-man in college.&nbsp;&nbsp;Winkelbauer though, feels like it won't feel that different.&nbsp;"We run a lot of 11-man schemes in our eight man game, so I feel like it won't be too hard,"&nbsp;Winkelbauer explains.&nbsp;And for Icke, he says it's just a transition back to a way that he's played nearly his whole life.&nbsp;"I played tackle football, 11-man, since I was five, so hopefully it's not that different, not that hard," Icke says.&nbsp;Icke and Winkelbauer were part of two district championship teams at LeBlond, including a second place finish at state in 2022.&nbsp; A massive turnaround happened in their time, with the Golden Eagles not having a winning season prior to that since 2012.&nbsp;When it comes to the legacy they hope to leave, Winkelbauer points to something coaches have told them, about how their senior class really shifted the culture"From all the seniors beating up on the freshman, like killshots every practice, and we kind of welcomed freshman, became friends with them, we were more of a team I'd say for the past two years, and that was nice," Winkelbauer says.&nbsp;Icke echoes that, saying that as a group the seniors really focused on helping to build up the freshman and underclassmen"Instead of like tearing them down, we were like building them up, making them get better to carry on this tradition, and to just go all the way through to the district championship each year," Icke says.&nbsp;Icke recorded 20 carries for 144 yds and 88 receptions for 1307 yds with 24 total touchdowns in his senior year.&nbsp; On defense he tallied 77 tackles, three sacks, three ints, one blocked punt, one forced fumble and three fumble recoveries.&nbsp; He was tabbed first team all-state recognition his senior year and second- team all-state recognition his junior year, as well as being an all-district selection his sophomore year.In his senior season, Winkelbauer had 47 catches for 816 yards with 16 touchdowns.&nbsp; On defense he recorded 70 tackles, 17 for loss, with 10 sacks.&nbsp; He forced two fumbles and had one interception. He earned first team all state in his senior year and was a second team honoree in his sophomore season.You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Bishop LeBlond's Trey Icke, Jacob Winkelbauer sign to continue football careers

With just over three weeks until Opening Day. the Kansas City Royals continued trimming down their roster today, getting closer to the 26 players that will be on their roster.&nbsp;

The Royals today moved six players to minor league camp, and optioned three of them to Triple A Omaha, including St. Joseph's Noah Cameron.&nbsp;

Cameron, right handed pitcher Eric Cerantola, and outfielder Tyler Gentry were optioned to Omaha and to minor league camp, while right handed pitchers Anthony&nbsp;Simonelli and Junior Fernandez, along with catcher Kyle Hayes were assigned to minor league camp.&nbsp;

Cameron had impressed this spring for the Royals.&nbsp; Through four appearances (with one start) he pitched 10 innings, struck out seven batters, and had a 3.60 ERA.&nbsp; He was competing with Daniel Lynch and Kris Bubic for the fifth spot in the Royals rotation.&nbsp;

In a limited sample size, Cerantola had also pitched well this spring, only appearing in two games&nbsp; but giving up no runs while striking out one batter.&nbsp; Gentry also made his case for the roster in limited time, with five hits in 15 at bats, batting .333 with one home run and three RBI's.&nbsp;

With the moves, the Royals roster is now down to 52 players.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741572394248.jpeg" alt="Noah Cameron/ File photo" />
 <figcaption>Noah Cameron/ File photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostWith just over three weeks until Opening Day. the Kansas City Royals continued trimming down their roster today, getting closer to the 26 players that will be on their roster.&nbsp;The Royals today moved six players to minor league camp, and optioned three of them to Triple A Omaha, including St. Joseph's Noah Cameron.&nbsp;Cameron, right handed pitcher Eric Cerantola, and outfielder Tyler Gentry were optioned to Omaha and to minor league camp, while right handed pitchers Anthony&nbsp;Simonelli and Junior Fernandez, along with catcher Kyle Hayes were assigned to minor league camp.&nbsp;Cameron had impressed this spring for the Royals.&nbsp; Through four appearances (with one start) he pitched 10 innings, struck out seven batters, and had a 3.60 ERA.&nbsp; He was competing with Daniel Lynch and Kris Bubic for the fifth spot in the Royals rotation.&nbsp;In a limited sample size, Cerantola had also pitched well this spring, only appearing in two games&nbsp; but giving up no runs while striking out one batter.&nbsp; Gentry also made his case for the roster in limited time, with five hits in 15 at bats, batting .333 with one home run and three RBI's.&nbsp;With the moves, the Royals roster is now down to 52 players.&nbsp;

Royals continue trimming roster, Cameron optioned to Omaha

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph Post<div><iframe src="https://creators.spotify.com/pod/show/kfeq-news/embed/episodes/KFEQ-Morning-Sports-3102025-e2vvd99/a-abqsrn9" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>

For the third time in four years, and the 15th time in program history, the Missouri Western women's basketball team has punched their ticket into the NCAA tournament.&nbsp;

The Lady Griffons were selected as the four seed in the NCAA Central Region during the NCAA Divsion II Women's Basketball Selection show on Sunday night.&nbsp; Missouri Western will play five seed Minnesota State in Pittsburgh, Kansas.&nbsp; Pittsburgh State was selected as the top seed in the region earning the right to host.&nbsp;

The trip to the dance is the first for the Griffons under first-year head coach Ashton Feldhaus, who guided Missouri Western to a 20-9 record in her debut season, and did so with a unique rebuild of the conference championship program she inherited. Competing with a roster of just 10 student-athletes for the majority of the 2024-25 season, the Griffons reached 20 wins for the fifth time in six years.

Missouri Western is 13-14 in NCAA tournament games all-time, with regional championships (Elite 8 Appearances) in 1994, 1995 and 2022.

A time and date for tip-off will be announced soon.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741579772732.jpeg" alt="Missouri Western women's basketball is in the NCAA tournament for the third time in four years. They will play Minnesota State in the first round/ Photo courtesy of Missouri Western Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Missouri Western women's basketball is in the NCAA tournament for the third time in four years. They will play Minnesota State in the first round/ Photo courtesy of Missouri Western Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostFor the third time in four years, and the 15th time in program history, the Missouri Western women's basketball team has punched their ticket into the NCAA tournament.&nbsp;The Lady Griffons were selected as the four seed in the NCAA Central Region during the NCAA Divsion II Women's Basketball Selection show on Sunday night.&nbsp; Missouri Western will play five seed Minnesota State in Pittsburgh, Kansas.&nbsp; Pittsburgh State was selected as the top seed in the region earning the right to host.&nbsp;The trip to the dance is the first for the Griffons under first-year head coach Ashton Feldhaus, who guided Missouri Western to a 20-9 record in her debut season, and did so with a unique rebuild of the conference championship program she inherited. Competing with a roster of just 10 student-athletes for the majority of the 2024-25 season, the Griffons reached 20 wins for the fifth time in six years.Missouri Western is 13-14 in NCAA tournament games all-time, with regional championships (Elite 8 Appearances) in 1994, 1995 and 2022.A time and date for tip-off will be announced soon.You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

MWSU women's basketball back in the NCAA tournament

St. Joseph's Noah Cameron made his first Cactus League start for the Kansas City Royals on Sunday against the Milwaukee Brewers where the Royals came away with a 5-2 victory.&nbsp;

Cameron opened up the game hot in his fourth appearance of spring training, making quick work of the Brewers with a 1-2-3 inning.&nbsp; The Royals went on to take the lead in the bottom half of the inning, thanks to new leadoff hitter Jonathan India, who hit his first home run of the spring to left field.&nbsp;

After Cameron gave up a leadoff double to Mark Cahna to start the second inning, he got Oliver Dunn to ground out and Manuel Margot to fly out, before striking out Jake Bauers with a curveball to end the inning.&nbsp;

After Kansas City failed to score in the bottom half of the inning, Milwaukee tied up the game in the top of the third.&nbsp; Cameron struck out Eric Haase to start the inning, but gave up a single to Raynel Delgado.&nbsp; As Delgado stole second, on a 3-2 pickoff move, first baseman Jac Caglianone threw the ball off his back, and into the outfield allowing Delgado to advance to third.&nbsp; After a Sal Frelick walk, Delgado scored on a sacrifice fly by Vinny Capra.&nbsp;

Caglianone made up for his mistake in the bottom half of the inning, hitting his third home run of spring training, 444 feet to right field for a monster blast, again putting Cameron in position to earn a win in his first spring start.&nbsp;

Carlos Hernandez relieved Cameron in the fourth inning and walked Cahna, who advanced to second on a wild pitch.&nbsp; After forcing Dunn and Margot to fly out, Bauers hit a double to drive in Cahna and tie the game up once more.&nbsp;

The game remained tied until the sixth inning where Maikel Garcia drove in MJ Melendez after he tripled.&nbsp; Kansas City scored two more runs in the eighth, Daniel Vazquez driving in Payton Wilson with an RBI triple and then scoring one batter later on a fielding error.&nbsp;

Cameron earned a no decision in the game, pitching three innings, striking out two batters, giving up two hits, walking one, and giving up one unearned run.&nbsp; Austin Cox earned the win.&nbsp;

Through spring training Cameron has continued to impress the Royals and fans.&nbsp; Through his four appearances he's pitched 10 innings and has struck out seven batters with a 3.60 ERA with one save.&nbsp;

The Royals matchup with the Cleveland Guardians on Monday.&nbsp; First pitch is at 3:05.&nbsp; The next broadcast of Royals spring training on KFEQ (680AM/95.3FM) will be on Tuesday against the Texas Rangers with coverage beginning at 2pm.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741572394248.jpeg" alt="St. Joseph' s Noah Cameron made his first Cactus League start against the Milwaukee Brewers Sunday.&nbsp; Cameron pitched three innings, gave up one unearned run, walked one and struck out two/ Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>St. Joseph' s Noah Cameron made his first Cactus League start against the Milwaukee Brewers Sunday.&nbsp; Cameron pitched three innings, gave up one unearned run, walked one and struck out two/ Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostSt. Joseph's Noah Cameron made his first Cactus League start for the Kansas City Royals on Sunday against the Milwaukee Brewers where the Royals came away with a 5-2 victory.&nbsp;Cameron opened up the game hot in his fourth appearance of spring training, making quick work of the Brewers with a 1-2-3 inning.&nbsp; The Royals went on to take the lead in the bottom half of the inning, thanks to new leadoff hitter Jonathan India, who hit his first home run of the spring to left field.&nbsp;After Cameron gave up a leadoff double to Mark Cahna to start the second inning, he got Oliver Dunn to ground out and Manuel Margot to fly out, before striking out Jake Bauers with a curveball to end the inning.&nbsp;After Kansas City failed to score in the bottom half of the inning, Milwaukee tied up the game in the top of the third.&nbsp; Cameron struck out Eric Haase to start the inning, but gave up a single to Raynel Delgado.&nbsp; As Delgado stole second, on a 3-2 pickoff move, first baseman Jac Caglianone threw the ball off his back, and into the outfield allowing Delgado to advance to third.&nbsp; After a Sal Frelick walk, Delgado scored on a sacrifice fly by Vinny Capra.&nbsp;Caglianone made up for his mistake in the bottom half of the inning, hitting his third home run of spring training, 444 feet to right field for a monster blast, again putting Cameron in position to earn a win in his first spring start.&nbsp;<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Jac Caglianone, oh my 🤯 The <a href="https://twitter.com/Royals?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Royals</a> top prospect (MLB No. 22) destroys his 3rd homer of the spring! 444 ft | 114.6 EV <a href="https://t.co/JlljYwPgBf">pic.twitter.com/JlljYwPgBf</a>&mdash; MLB Pipeline (@MLBPipeline) <a href="https://twitter.com/MLBPipeline/status/1898838314373026110?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 9, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Carlos Hernandez relieved Cameron in the fourth inning and walked Cahna, who advanced to second on a wild pitch.&nbsp; After forcing Dunn and Margot to fly out, Bauers hit a double to drive in Cahna and tie the game up once more.&nbsp;The game remained tied until the sixth inning where Maikel Garcia drove in MJ Melendez after he tripled.&nbsp; Kansas City scored two more runs in the eighth, Daniel Vazquez driving in Payton Wilson with an RBI triple and then scoring one batter later on a fielding error.&nbsp;Cameron earned a no decision in the game, pitching three innings, striking out two batters, giving up two hits, walking one, and giving up one unearned run.&nbsp; Austin Cox earned the win.&nbsp;Through spring training Cameron has continued to impress the Royals and fans.&nbsp; Through his four appearances he's pitched 10 innings and has struck out seven batters with a 3.60 ERA with one save.&nbsp;The Royals matchup with the Cleveland Guardians on Monday.&nbsp; First pitch is at 3:05.&nbsp; The next broadcast of Royals spring training on KFEQ (680AM/95.3FM) will be on Tuesday against the Texas Rangers with coverage beginning at 2pm.&nbsp;You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

St. Joseph's Noah Cameron makes first spring start, Royals top Brewers 5-2

Linebacker Nick Bolton is resigning with the Kansas City Chiefs on a three year deal worth $45 million, sources told ESPN's Adam Schefter today.&nbsp;

He joined the Chiefs in 2021 as a second-round draft pick out of Missouri. He became an immediate contributor, starting 12 games as a rookie and finishing with 112 tackles.&nbsp; He&nbsp;became a full-time starter in 2022, and made 180 tackles, with two sacks and two interceptions in the regular season. His signature play that season was a 36-yard fumble return for a touchdown in the Chiefs' Super Bowl LVII win over the Philadelphia Eagles.

Bolton started 16 games this past regular season, registering 106 tackles and recording a career-high three sacks. He then started all three games in the postseason, recording 20 tackles.

Bolton has 559 tackles and 37 tackles for loss in his career, including playoffs. The other four players with 550-plus tackles and 35-plus TFLs over their first four seasons (including playoffs) since 2000, per NFL Research, combined for 10 first-team All-Pro selections in those spans -- Luke Kuechly, Lavonte David, NaVorro Bowman, and Patrick Willis.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697752888994.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Chiefs' Nick Bolton (32) reacts after an interception during the first half of an NFL football game against the Denver Broncos, Thursday, Oct. 12, 2023, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Ed Zurga)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Chiefs' Nick Bolton (32) reacts after an interception during the first half of an NFL football game against the Denver Broncos, Thursday, Oct. 12, 2023, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Ed Zurga)</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostLinebacker Nick Bolton is resigning with the Kansas City Chiefs on a three year deal worth $45 million, sources told ESPN's Adam Schefter today.&nbsp;He joined the Chiefs in 2021 as a second-round draft pick out of Missouri. He became an immediate contributor, starting 12 games as a rookie and finishing with 112 tackles.&nbsp; He&nbsp;became a full-time starter in 2022, and made 180 tackles, with two sacks and two interceptions in the regular season. His signature play that season was a 36-yard fumble return for a touchdown in the Chiefs' Super Bowl LVII win over the Philadelphia Eagles.Bolton started 16 games this past regular season, registering 106 tackles and recording a career-high three sacks. He then started all three games in the postseason, recording 20 tackles.Bolton has 559 tackles and 37 tackles for loss in his career, including playoffs. The other four players with 550-plus tackles and 35-plus TFLs over their first four seasons (including playoffs) since 2000, per NFL Research, combined for 10 first-team All-Pro selections in those spans -- Luke Kuechly, Lavonte David, NaVorro Bowman, and Patrick Willis.You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Chiefs resign LB Nick Bolton to three year, $45 million deal

Last year, the Lafayette Fighting Irish beat the Benton Cardinals in the Class 4 District 16 championship game on a last second shot by then freshman Jodell Redman.&nbsp; This year, the Cardinals got their revenge.

Benton raced out to an early lead and never let Lafayette back into the game, winning against their crosstown rivals 65-46 and bringing the first district title since 2007 to the southside.&nbsp;

After the Cardinals raced to a 6-0 lead to start the game, the Fighting Irish cut the lead to as much as two before Benton pulled away and led at the end of the first quarter 19-8.&nbsp;

While the second quarter was closer, the Cardinals continued to show a potent offensive attack and stifling defense to keep holding Lafayette down, going on to lead 35-18.&nbsp;

Benton Head Coach Jared Boone says the team knew they had to come out early and set the tone.&nbsp;

"We knew they were going to come out juiced up, especially after the way they played yesterday," Boone tells reporters following the game.&nbsp; "They're in this championship game year after year after year after year, I mean they've owned this district year after year after year after year, so I mean they have that championship pedigree, we knew it was going to be tough."&nbsp;

"KB (Lafayette head coach Kevin Bristol) did a good job, hats off to them in towing the load, but I mean we had a good start and we didn't look back."&nbsp;

Benton went on to outscore Lafayette 30-28 in the second half of the game on way to the district championship.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Boone says it means everything to bring the first championship in 18 years back to the southside

"It's why I came back, to try to deliver this to this community this school, I mean I have no words, it's amazing," Boone says.&nbsp; "It's all contributed to these guys, their hard work, their belief in me, and what we're trying to do here and what we're trying to build here."&nbsp;

"You know they put their hard hats on and come to work every single day, and we've had our ups and our downs and our heartbreaks and days where we've been at it, but it's all for this, it's all for this."

Senior Lincoln Goodwin led the team with 21 points.&nbsp; Junior Mach Mayom scored 14 while senior Myles Bachali added 11.&nbsp; Bachali says waiting a whole year for this rematch, after a heartbreaking loss last season, is what motivated the team

"Just having to wait 365 days, just keeping in the back of our mind we got beat, everyday it haunts you the whole year," Bachali points out.&nbsp;

Beating a team that has been as dominant as Lafayette could bring pressure to any other team, but not Benton, according to Goodwin.&nbsp;

"I mean not really pressure, this is what we're built for, we work hard every single day, we're built for the moment," Goodwin tells reporters.&nbsp;

Benton will matchup with St. Pius X to open up the Class 4 quarterfinals on Monday.&nbsp; MSHSAA has yet to announce the host or tipoff time.&nbsp; In their one matchup this season, Benton beat St. Pius 64-53.&nbsp;

You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741403651938.jpeg" alt="The Benton student section celebrate alongside the team after winning the Class 4 District 16 title/ Photo by Matt Pike" />
 <figcaption>The Benton student section celebrate alongside the team after winning the Class 4 District 16 title/ Photo by Matt Pike</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostLast year, the Lafayette Fighting Irish beat the Benton Cardinals in the Class 4 District 16 championship game on a last second shot by then freshman Jodell Redman.&nbsp; This year, the Cardinals got their revenge.Benton raced out to an early lead and never let Lafayette back into the game, winning against their crosstown rivals 65-46 and bringing the first district title since 2007 to the southside.&nbsp;After the Cardinals raced to a 6-0 lead to start the game, the Fighting Irish cut the lead to as much as two before Benton pulled away and led at the end of the first quarter 19-8.&nbsp;While the second quarter was closer, the Cardinals continued to show a potent offensive attack and stifling defense to keep holding Lafayette down, going on to lead 35-18.&nbsp;Benton Head Coach Jared Boone says the team knew they had to come out early and set the tone.&nbsp;"We knew they were going to come out juiced up, especially after the way they played yesterday," Boone tells reporters following the game.&nbsp; "They're in this championship game year after year after year after year, I mean they've owned this district year after year after year after year, so I mean they have that championship pedigree, we knew it was going to be tough."&nbsp;"KB (Lafayette head coach Kevin Bristol) did a good job, hats off to them in towing the load, but I mean we had a good start and we didn't look back."&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741402893764.jpeg" alt="Myles Bachali goes up for a layup/ Photo by Matt Pike" />
 <figcaption>Myles Bachali goes up for a layup/ Photo by Matt Pike</figcaption>
 </figure>Benton went on to outscore Lafayette 30-28 in the second half of the game on way to the district championship.&nbsp;&nbsp;Boone says it means everything to bring the first championship in 18 years back to the southside"It's why I came back, to try to deliver this to this community this school, I mean I have no words, it's amazing," Boone says.&nbsp; "It's all contributed to these guys, their hard work, their belief in me, and what we're trying to do here and what we're trying to build here."&nbsp;"You know they put their hard hats on and come to work every single day, and we've had our ups and our downs and our heartbreaks and days where we've been at it, but it's all for this, it's all for this."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741410460395.jpeg" alt="Lincoln Goodwin takes a fadeway shot/ Photo by Matt Pike" />
 <figcaption>Lincoln Goodwin takes a fadeway shot/ Photo by Matt Pike</figcaption>
 </figure>Senior Lincoln Goodwin led the team with 21 points.&nbsp; Junior Mach Mayom scored 14 while senior Myles Bachali added 11.&nbsp; Bachali says waiting a whole year for this rematch, after a heartbreaking loss last season, is what motivated the team"Just having to wait 365 days, just keeping in the back of our mind we got beat, everyday it haunts you the whole year," Bachali points out.&nbsp;Beating a team that has been as dominant as Lafayette could bring pressure to any other team, but not Benton, according to Goodwin.&nbsp;"I mean not really pressure, this is what we're built for, we work hard every single day, we're built for the moment," Goodwin tells reporters.&nbsp;Benton will matchup with St. Pius X to open up the Class 4 quarterfinals on Monday.&nbsp; MSHSAA has yet to announce the host or tipoff time.&nbsp; In their one matchup this season, Benton beat St. Pius 64-53.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741410501154.jpeg" alt="Daryan May breakaway layup/ Photo by Matt Pike" />
 <figcaption>Daryan May breakaway layup/ Photo by Matt Pike</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741410524033.jpeg" alt="Jodell Redman (5) fights through the double team of Mach Mayom (35) and Xavier Warner (25)/ Photo by Matt Pike" />
 <figcaption>Jodell Redman (5) fights through the double team of Mach Mayom (35) and Xavier Warner (25)/ Photo by Matt Pike</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Benton boys basketball beats Lafayette 65-46 for first district title since '07

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph Post<div><iframe src="https://creators.spotify.com/pod/show/kfeq-news/embed/episodes/KFEQ-Morning-Sports-372025-e2vrgdp/a-abqo179" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>

The Mid- America Intercollegiate Athletics Association presidents unanimously voted to keep the men's and women's basketball tournaments in Kansas City until at least 2030.  

With a contract expiring in 2026, a bid process was put out for communities to try to get the tournament away from Municipal Auditorium.  St. Joseph was one of those bids.  

St. Joseph Sports Commission Director Brett Esely says he's disappointed for St. Joseph in the MIAA's decision 

"Simply because, we host events of that nature in a very professional, hospitable manner, and being around that event for so long, just from my previous experience, the MIAA basketball championship would be a great fit for St. Joseph," Esely tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post.  "And it still could be someday." 

Esely says he feels like they put together a very competitive bid to bring the tournament to St. Joseph, but adds he respects the decision to go back to Kansas City.  

Esely doesn't feel though as if the bids from other communities were used to get a better deal from Kansas City 

"I think the MIAA, Commissioner Racy and his staff, did their due diligence to seek, really, communities that could host the leagues marquee championship," Esely says.  "And we felt from day one that it was a real bid process; I think it definitely was."  

Esely feels like this is just the reality of the bid process and says he respects the decision and the opportunity and looks forward to future opportunities with the MIAA. 

Esely says when the next bid process comes around, an obvious thing that could make a stronger case for St. Joseph is more hotels and conference space 

"I do think, four years from now, I think that landscape in St. Joseph will look considerably different than it does today." Esely says.  

Esely points out one new hotel has already been developed in the North Village Shoppes, and there is another on the way.  There is also development underway on a hotel and conference center at the site of the old Ramada Inn at I-29 and Frederick. 

Esely says it is also paramount to continue working on getting more hotel spaces in downtown St. Joseph 

"I don't know this, but you often wonder if there was a downtown hotel open and functional today, would the MIAA's decision have been different?" Esely questions.  "You know, I don't know that I can't answer that, but I know it certainly wouldn't have hurt." 

Esely says he thinks keeping amenities in mind and knowing what out-of-town groups need needs to be kept in the forefront when talking about tourism as well as these big sporting events.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679502589475.jpeg" alt="File photo" />
 <figcaption>File photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKE St. Joseph Post The Mid- America Intercollegiate Athletics Association presidents unanimously voted to keep the men's and women's basketball tournaments in Kansas City until at least 2030. With a contract expiring in 2026, a bid process was put out for communities to try to get the tournament away from Municipal Auditorium. St. Joseph was one of those bids. St. Joseph Sports Commission Director Brett Esely says he's disappointed for St. Joseph in the MIAA's decision "Simply because, we host events of that nature in a very professional, hospitable manner, and being around that event for so long, just from my previous experience, the MIAA basketball championship would be a great fit for St. Joseph," Esely tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. "And it still could be someday." Esely says he feels like they put together a very competitive bid to bring the tournament to St. Joseph, but adds he respects the decision to go back to Kansas City. Esely doesn't feel though as if the bids from other communities were used to get a better deal from Kansas City "I think the MIAA, Commissioner Racy and his staff, did their due diligence to seek, really, communities that could host the leagues marquee championship," Esely says. "And we felt from day one that it was a real bid process; I think it definitely was." Esely feels like this is just the reality of the bid process and says he respects the decision and the opportunity and looks forward to future opportunities with the MIAA. Esely says when the next bid process comes around, an obvious thing that could make a stronger case for St. Joseph is more hotels and conference space "I do think, four years from now, I think that landscape in St. Joseph will look considerably different than it does today." Esely says. Esely points out one new hotel has already been developed in the North Village Shoppes, and there is another on the way. There is also development underway on a hotel and conference center at the site of the old Ramada Inn at I-29 and Frederick. Esely says it is also paramount to continue working on getting more hotel spaces in downtown St. Joseph "I don't know this, but you often wonder if there was a downtown hotel open and functional today, would the MIAA's decision have been different?" Esely questions. "You know, I don't know that I can't answer that, but I know it certainly wouldn't have hurt." Esely says he thinks keeping amenities in mind and knowing what out-of-town groups need needs to be kept in the forefront when talking about tourism as well as these big sporting events.JOURNAL<div><iframe src="https://creators.spotify.com/pod/show/kfeq-news/embed/episodes/Journal-Esely-disappointed-for-St--Joseph-by-MIAA-decision-e2vrfce/a-abqnvuu" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>FULL INTERVIEW<div><iframe src="https://creators.spotify.com/pod/show/kfeq-news/embed/episodes/Full-Interiew-Brett-Esely-on-MIAA-decision-to-stay-in-KC-e2vrg4s/a-abqo0rn" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

St. Joseph Sports Director dissapointed for city by MIAA choice to stay in KC

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Former Kansas City Chiefs and Missouri Tigers, and current Jacksonville Jaguars, center Mitch Morse has announced his retirement from the NFL.&nbsp;

Morse is a former second-round pick in the 2015 NFL draft by the Kansas City Chiefs. After spending four seasons in Kansas City, Morse played in Buffalo from 2019 to 2023 and spent the 2024 season in Jacksonville after signing with the team last offseason.

Morse was a Pro Bowler during the 2022 season with Buffalo.

Last season with the Jaguars, Morse provided a stabilizing presence along the offensive line, particularly in pass protection, allowing only three sacks and two quarterback hits in 634 pass-blocking snaps, according to Pro Football Focus.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741276860194.jpeg" alt="Mitch Morse" />
 <figcaption>Mitch Morse</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostFormer Kansas City Chiefs and Missouri Tigers, and current Jacksonville Jaguars, center Mitch Morse has announced his retirement from the NFL.&nbsp;Morse is a former second-round pick in the 2015 NFL draft by the Kansas City Chiefs. After spending four seasons in Kansas City, Morse played in Buffalo from 2019 to 2023 and spent the 2024 season in Jacksonville after signing with the team last offseason.Morse was a Pro Bowler during the 2022 season with Buffalo.Last season with the Jaguars, Morse provided a stabilizing presence along the offensive line, particularly in pass protection, allowing only three sacks and two quarterback hits in 634 pass-blocking snaps, according to Pro Football Focus.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/mithenmor60?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@mithenmor60</a> is calling it a career 👏<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DUUUVAL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DUUUVAL</a>&mdash; Jacksonville Jaguars (@Jaguars) <a href="https://twitter.com/Jaguars/status/1897669697510027630?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 6, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Former Chiefs, Tigers OL Mitch Morse announces retirement

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph Post<div><iframe src="https://creators.spotify.com/pod/show/kfeq-news/embed/episodes/KFEQ-Morning-Sports-362025-e2vptms/a-abqm11j" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>

Former Missouri Western women's basketball player and graduate assistant Chelsea Dewey has been honored in her second year as head coach of the Arizona Western women's basketball.

Dewey was named by the&nbsp;Arizona Community College Athletic Conference as the&nbsp;ACCAC DI Women's Basketball Coach of the Year, after leading the Matadors to a 25-3 record.&nbsp;

Dewey led the Matadors to the program's first regular season title since the 2021-22 season after winning their last nine regular season games to secure the No. 1 seed in the upcoming Region I Tournament.

The Matadors are currently ranked No. 11 in the final NJCAA DI Women's Basketball poll and own wins over seven nationally ranked opponents this season and are 7-1 in games against teams ranked in the NJCAA DI Women's Basketball Top-25.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Matadors completed a perfect regular season at home, going 14-0 on the home floor at the House Gymnasium.

The last time the ACCAC Coach of the Year honors was awarded to Arizona Western was in the 2021-22 season when Patrick Cunningham won the award.

You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729872896741.jpeg" alt="Chelsea Dewey leads a huddle during a gamebreak for Arizona Western/ Photo courtesy of Arizona Western College" />
 <figcaption>Chelsea Dewey leads a huddle during a gamebreak for Arizona Western/ Photo courtesy of Arizona Western College</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKEFormer Missouri Western women's basketball player and graduate assistant Chelsea Dewey has been honored in her second year as head coach of the Arizona Western women's basketball.Dewey was named by the&nbsp;Arizona Community College Athletic Conference as the&nbsp;ACCAC DI Women's Basketball Coach of the Year, after leading the Matadors to a 25-3 record.&nbsp;Dewey led the Matadors to the program's first regular season title since the 2021-22 season after winning their last nine regular season games to secure the No. 1 seed in the upcoming Region I Tournament.The Matadors are currently ranked No. 11 in the final NJCAA DI Women's Basketball poll and own wins over seven nationally ranked opponents this season and are 7-1 in games against teams ranked in the NJCAA DI Women's Basketball Top-25.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Matadors completed a perfect regular season at home, going 14-0 on the home floor at the House Gymnasium.The last time the ACCAC Coach of the Year honors was awarded to Arizona Western was in the 2021-22 season when Patrick Cunningham won the award.You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Former Griffon Chelsea Dewey named ACCAC Coach of the Year

Once the new league year opens on March 12th, a key part of the Kansas City Chiefs offensive line will be on the move, heading to Chicago.&nbsp;

According to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport the Chiefs are trading Joe Thuney to the Bears.&nbsp; In return Kansas City will get a fourth round pick in next year's NFL draft.&nbsp;

It's a significant move for both sides.&nbsp; Last year, Thuney turned into one of the most valuable players for the Chiefs, and in turn was named the teams's MVP by his teammates, after Thuney slid from left guard to left tackle midway through the season when it became clear he was the best option at that position.&nbsp;

For the Bears, it's the second trade they've have agreed to in the past 24 hours to beef up their offensive line to provide better protection for quarterback Caleb Williams. On Tuesday, the Bears agreed to a trade with the Los Angeles Rams to acquire guard Jonah Jackson.

Thuney, who will be 33 in November, signed with the Chiefs in 2021 after playing his first five years with the Patriots. He is a four-time Super Bowl champion, having won two with New England and two with Kansas City.

By trading Thuney, the Chiefs will save $16 million against the cap. Thuney is currently entering the last year of his contract and is set to make $15.5 million in base salary.&nbsp; Kansas City also franchise-tagged guard Trey Smith and has signaled that the club would like to sign him to a long-term deal.

Rapoport also responded to a post on X from Yahoo's Nate Tice, discussing the future of the left guard position. He emphasized that he expects former Chiefs second-round pick Kingsley Suamataia to be given a shot to play left guard in place of Thuney.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1722280296661.png" alt="Joe Thuney (62) walks down the hill with tackle Jawaan Taylor (74) before practice, Thuney returned to practice Monday after being on the PUP list to start Training Camp/ Photo by Alexis Starks" />
 <figcaption>Joe Thuney (62) walks down the hill with tackle Jawaan Taylor (74) before practice, Thuney returned to practice Monday after being on the PUP list to start Training Camp/ Photo by Alexis Starks</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostOnce the new league year opens on March 12th, a key part of the Kansas City Chiefs offensive line will be on the move, heading to Chicago.&nbsp;According to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport the Chiefs are trading Joe Thuney to the Bears.&nbsp; In return Kansas City will get a fourth round pick in next year's NFL draft.&nbsp;It's a significant move for both sides.&nbsp; Last year, Thuney turned into one of the most valuable players for the Chiefs, and in turn was named the teams's MVP by his teammates, after Thuney slid from left guard to left tackle midway through the season when it became clear he was the best option at that position.&nbsp;For the Bears, it's the second trade they've have agreed to in the past 24 hours to beef up their offensive line to provide better protection for quarterback Caleb Williams. On Tuesday, the Bears agreed to a trade with the Los Angeles Rams to acquire guard Jonah Jackson.Thuney, who will be 33 in November, signed with the Chiefs in 2021 after playing his first five years with the Patriots. He is a four-time Super Bowl champion, having won two with New England and two with Kansas City.By trading Thuney, the Chiefs will save $16 million against the cap. Thuney is currently entering the last year of his contract and is set to make $15.5 million in base salary.&nbsp; Kansas City also franchise-tagged guard Trey Smith and has signaled that the club would like to sign him to a long-term deal.Rapoport also responded to a post on X from Yahoo's Nate Tice, discussing the future of the left guard position. He emphasized that he expects former Chiefs second-round pick Kingsley Suamataia to be given a shot to play left guard in place of Thuney.&nbsp;<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Good call. I believe Kingsley Suamataia, a former 2nd rounder, will be given a shot to become a guard, stepping in for the former All-Pro. <a href="https://t.co/8aN1c2H8AP">https://t.co/8aN1c2H8AP</a>&mdash; Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapSheet/status/1897296317241864618?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 5, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Report: Chiefs trade OL Joe Thuney to Chicago for 2026 draft pick

Former Northwest Missouri State player Bennett Stirtz and former coach Ben McCollum have earned honors in their first year at Drake University as the Missouri Valley Conference announced it's league awards on Wednesday.&nbsp;

McCollum was named the Missouri Valley Coach of the Year.&nbsp;McCollum joins 21 other coaches to a win an MVC men's basketball title in his first year in the league. He's the 14th rookie coach to win the league's Coach of the Year award, which was first presented in 1949.

With 27 wins, he's among the most successful first-year league coaches. Drake, 27-3 overall and 17-3 in the MVC, is tied for the national lead in victories and is second in winning percentage behind Auburn. Drake is the only team in the NCAA that has a perfect record against the top two quadrants.

Stirtz has been named the MVC Larry Bird Player of the Year.&nbsp;&nbsp;Stirtz is just the third player in league history to earn the Larry Bird Trophy in his first season in the MVC. Player of the Year was not the only honor given to the Liberty, Mo., native, however. Stirtz was also named Newcomer of the Year, selected First Team All-MVC, and named to the All-Newcomer Team.

Stirtz leads the MVC in scoring (18.93), assists (5.93) and steals (2.20). Stirtz, who leads the nation in minutes per game, is the only player in the NCAA to lead his league in scoring, assists, and steals.

Two other former Northwest players who followed McCollum to Drake earned honors as well.&nbsp; Mitch Mascari earned an MVC All-Third Teams Selection, while Daniel Abreau was named to the MVC All-Defensive Team.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634064862076.jpeg" alt="Northwest Missouri State men's basketball coach Ben McCollum enters his 12th season as head coach of the Bearcats, having already won three national titles, including in 2021. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Northwest Missouri State men's basketball coach Ben McCollum enters his 12th season as head coach of the Bearcats, having already won three national titles, including in 2021. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostFormer Northwest Missouri State player Bennett Stirtz and former coach Ben McCollum have earned honors in their first year at Drake University as the Missouri Valley Conference announced it's league awards on Wednesday.&nbsp;McCollum was named the Missouri Valley Coach of the Year.&nbsp;McCollum joins 21 other coaches to a win an MVC men's basketball title in his first year in the league. He's the 14th rookie coach to win the league's Coach of the Year award, which was first presented in 1949.With 27 wins, he's among the most successful first-year league coaches. Drake, 27-3 overall and 17-3 in the MVC, is tied for the national lead in victories and is second in winning percentage behind Auburn. Drake is the only team in the NCAA that has a perfect record against the top two quadrants.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741196162442.jpeg" alt="Bennett Stirtz/ Photo courtesy of Ginnie Coleman with Drake Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Bennett Stirtz/ Photo courtesy of Ginnie Coleman with Drake Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>Stirtz has been named the MVC Larry Bird Player of the Year.&nbsp;&nbsp;Stirtz is just the third player in league history to earn the Larry Bird Trophy in his first season in the MVC. Player of the Year was not the only honor given to the Liberty, Mo., native, however. Stirtz was also named Newcomer of the Year, selected First Team All-MVC, and named to the All-Newcomer Team.Stirtz leads the MVC in scoring (18.93), assists (5.93) and steals (2.20). Stirtz, who leads the nation in minutes per game, is the only player in the NCAA to lead his league in scoring, assists, and steals.Two other former Northwest players who followed McCollum to Drake earned honors as well.&nbsp; Mitch Mascari earned an MVC All-Third Teams Selection, while Daniel Abreau was named to the MVC All-Defensive Team.You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;