The inagural Bill Snyder Classic, a Division I women's basketball game between Mizzou and Kansas State played at St. Joseph's Civic Arena, came and went this past Saturday with a terrific reception.

Over 3,500 fans packed into a sold out Civic Arena to watch the Tigers and Wildcats do battle in the first known Division I game of any kind played in St. Joseph's city limits.

Brett Esely, director of the St. Joseph Sports Commission, says both the teams' and fans' experiences were an overall positive.

"Everything had to be perfect for this event," Esely told KFEQ Radio. "There was a lot that went into it. But, once the clock hit 0:00 at the end, I think the folks who were there, the teams, even though there's only one winner, I think it was a really, really good positive experience."

<a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/1d3ae8d3-526f-4c9e-b4a6-91700e3ea88f?utm_source=dlvr.it&amp;utm_medium=facebook">The game saw 13th-ranked Kansas State pull away from Mizzou in an 84-56 victory</a> for the Wildcats - head coached by former Missouri Western <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/e547b736-a825-4fcb-9e1a-c8703c2cca32">women's basketball coach Jeff Mittie</a>. Maryville native Serena Sundell scored 11 points in the win for K-State as well.

This game, which was a regular season matchup, felt like a major event in and of itself, and was named the Bill Snyder Classic.&nbsp;Coach Snyder, a St. Joseph native, was at the arena and honored on the court during Saturday's contest.

Esely says the whole event served as a key opportunity to make a strong impression for the fans, the city and the teams participating.

"You only get one shot to do it the first time," he said. "If we want this to be an annual, we had to knock the first time out of the park. I think fan experience is one thing, but the experience of the teams is another. By all accounts, even hearing what the coaches said on the record in the postgame press conference, we did that."

Esely went onto say that&nbsp;hosting the game was a huge point of pride for not only the city, but for the teams and all of the personnel who participated and helped run it.

"I think it's really neat that St. Joseph was able to serve as a backdrop and those teams were able to go about their business and I think they thought it was a big deal to come here," Esely said. "But, it's only a big deal if you make it a big deal."

"And I think everyone involved in the game, no matter what your role was, treated it that way and that showed to both travel parties."

Esely says he's confident that more Division I games in St. Joseph will be announced in the not-so-distant future. But until such time, he hopes the community can be proud of what it pulled off on Saturday.

"I think it's really cool to have the opportunity to do that here and we can never underestimate that opportunity we were able to provide our community on Saturday evening in downtown."

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1702417741068.jpeg" alt="Hall of Fame Kansas State football coach and St. Joseph native Bill Snyder (left) with director of the St. Joseph Sports Commission Brett Esely (right) during Saturday's Bill Snyder Classic between Kansas State and Mizzou women's basketball. Photo by Brent Martin." />
 <figcaption>Hall of Fame Kansas State football coach and St. Joseph native Bill Snyder (left) with director of the St. Joseph Sports Commission Brett Esely (right) during Saturday's Bill Snyder Classic between Kansas State and Mizzou women's basketball. Photo by Brent Martin.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThe inagural Bill Snyder Classic, a Division I women's basketball game between Mizzou and Kansas State played at St. Joseph's Civic Arena, came and went this past Saturday with a terrific reception.Over 3,500 fans packed into a sold out Civic Arena to watch the Tigers and Wildcats do battle in the first known Division I game of any kind played in St. Joseph's city limits.Brett Esely, director of the St. Joseph Sports Commission, says both the teams' and fans' experiences were an overall positive."Everything had to be perfect for this event," Esely told KFEQ Radio. "There was a lot that went into it. But, once the clock hit 0:00 at the end, I think the folks who were there, the teams, even though there's only one winner, I think it was a really, really good positive experience."<a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/1d3ae8d3-526f-4c9e-b4a6-91700e3ea88f?utm_source=dlvr.it&amp;utm_medium=facebook">The game saw 13th-ranked Kansas State pull away from Mizzou in an 84-56 victory</a> for the Wildcats - head coached by former Missouri Western <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/e547b736-a825-4fcb-9e1a-c8703c2cca32">women's basketball coach Jeff Mittie</a>. Maryville native Serena Sundell scored 11 points in the win for K-State as well.This game, which was a regular season matchup, felt like a major event in and of itself, and was named the Bill Snyder Classic.&nbsp;Coach Snyder, a St. Joseph native, was at the arena and honored on the court during Saturday's contest.Esely says the whole event served as a key opportunity to make a strong impression for the fans, the city and the teams participating."You only get one shot to do it the first time," he said. "If we want this to be an annual, we had to knock the first time out of the park. I think fan experience is one thing, but the experience of the teams is another. By all accounts, even hearing what the coaches said on the record in the postgame press conference, we did that."Esely went onto say that&nbsp;hosting the game was a huge point of pride for not only the city, but for the teams and all of the personnel who participated and helped run it."I think it's really neat that St. Joseph was able to serve as a backdrop and those teams were able to go about their business and I think they thought it was a big deal to come here," Esely said. "But, it's only a big deal if you make it a big deal.""And I think everyone involved in the game, no matter what your role was, treated it that way and that showed to both travel parties."Esely says he's confident that more Division I games in St. Joseph will be announced in the not-so-distant future. But until such time, he hopes the community can be proud of what it pulled off on Saturday."I think it's really cool to have the opportunity to do that here and we can never underestimate that opportunity we were able to provide our community on Saturday evening in downtown."<div><iframe src="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kfeq-sports/embed/episodes/Brett-Esely---121223-e2d4f0e" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1702418244655.jpeg" alt="Photo by Brent Martin." />
 <figcaption>Photo by Brent Martin.</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fstjoepost%2Fposts%2Fpfbid02Yw9MreVz7QkT2AaHP6PEnEfnfayWCV4tNe3MVfwnweSt37JvxnWpNZV9hGdPt86hl&show_text=true&width=500" width="500" height="664" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></div>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Esely: inaugural Bill Snyder Classic at Civic Arena 'had to be perfect'

A former Royal that has won World Series in each of the last three years is making his return to Kansas City to help stabilize a bullpen that struggled mightily in 2023.&nbsp;

Left hander Will Smith has signed a one year deal with the Kansas City Royals.&nbsp; Though the club has not confirmed financials, a source says the contract is worth $5 million, along with some performance bonuses.&nbsp;

Now 34 years old, Smith made his major league debut with the Royals in 2012, starting 16 games, before being moved to the bullpen in 2013.&nbsp; The following offseason Smith was traded to the Milwaukee Brewers, the move bringing Nori Aoki to Kansas City.&nbsp;

Over the next 11 years of his career, Smith went on to play for five other teams, the last three seasons however were historic for Smith.&nbsp; The lefty won World Series titles with the Atlanta Braves in 2021, Houston Astros in 2022, and most recently the Texas Rangers last season.&nbsp;

Smith became the first player in MLB history to be on the World Series roster with three different teams in three consecutive years.&nbsp;

The Royals hope that experience will help the back end of their bullpen and rubs off on some of their young relievers, Kansas City coming off having the second worst bullpen ERA last season at 5.23.

Smith is viewed by the Royals as one option at the back end of the bullpen, along with Nick Anderson who was acquired earlier this offseason from the Braves.&nbsp; They could also look younger right handers James McArthur and Carlos Hernandez to close out games.&nbsp;

In a corresponding move, the Royals designated right-handed pitcher Collin Snider for assignment.

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostA former Royal that has won World Series in each of the last three years is making his return to Kansas City to help stabilize a bullpen that struggled mightily in 2023.&nbsp;Left hander Will Smith has signed a one year deal with the Kansas City Royals.&nbsp; Though the club has not confirmed financials, a source says the contract is worth $5 million, along with some performance bonuses.&nbsp;Now 34 years old, Smith made his major league debut with the Royals in 2012, starting 16 games, before being moved to the bullpen in 2013.&nbsp; The following offseason Smith was traded to the Milwaukee Brewers, the move bringing Nori Aoki to Kansas City.&nbsp;Over the next 11 years of his career, Smith went on to play for five other teams, the last three seasons however were historic for Smith.&nbsp; The lefty won World Series titles with the Atlanta Braves in 2021, Houston Astros in 2022, and most recently the Texas Rangers last season.&nbsp;Smith became the first player in MLB history to be on the World Series roster with three different teams in three consecutive years.&nbsp;The Royals hope that experience will help the back end of their bullpen and rubs off on some of their young relievers, Kansas City coming off having the second worst bullpen ERA last season at 5.23.Smith is viewed by the Royals as one option at the back end of the bullpen, along with Nick Anderson who was acquired earlier this offseason from the Braves.&nbsp; They could also look younger right handers James McArthur and Carlos Hernandez to close out games.&nbsp;In a corresponding move, the Royals designated right-handed pitcher Collin Snider for assignment.

Royals reunite with left handed reliever Will Smith on one year contract

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Kansas City Chiefs thought they had beaten the Buffalo Bills with one of the most unexpected and audacious of plays Sunday.

Then, the roar inside Arrowhead Stadium was silenced - replaced instead by a cascade of boos.

The Bills (7-6) had just taken the lead on Tyler Bass's field goal with 1:54 to go when Patrick Mahomes marched the Chiefs across midfield.

He dropped back, spotted favorite target Travis Kelce across the middle, hit him between the numbers — then watched the ex-high school quarterback throw across the field to Kadarius Toney, who finished off the 49-yard touchdown catch.

Except, there was a flag on the play. Toney had lined up offside. The play came back, Mahomes proceeded to throw incomplete on three straight plays and the Bills, in desperate need of a win, escaped with a 20-17 victory.

Meanwhile, it was another brutal loss for the Chiefs (8-5), who have lost four of their past six.

An especially tough way for Toney to end his night. He also dropped an easy pass earlier in the game when Kansas City was driving for points.

The loss didn't rest entirely upon Toney's shoulders, though.

The Chiefs have been beating themselves with penalties and turnovers most of the season, and that was the case again on Sunday

 They were flagged seven times for 45 yards — that 5-yarder on Toney the one that everyone will remember — while Mahomes was picked off on a batted ball and Rashee Rice fumbled the ball away late in the third quarter.

Mahomes finished with 271 yards passing and a touchdown with an interception Sunday, though he was pressured all day by a healthy Buffalo pass rush. Rice had seven catches for 72 yards and the score.

Kelce finished with six catches for 83 yards.

Though, there were too many mistakes for a team with too many deficiencies to overcome.

In years past, the Chiefs seemed as if they could win no matter what. And proof often came at the expense of the Bills. There was that 38-24 victory in the AFC championship game a few years ago, and the 42-36 overtime win in the divisional round the following year, when the Chiefs needed a mere 13 seconds to get within range for the tying field goal in regulation.

It looked as if there would be more of that magic Sunday until 80,000 fans in Arrowhead Stadium spotted a flag on the field.

Then, the game looked like so many have this season for the Chiefs.

Kansas City, who's now only one game ahead of Denver in the AFC West, and now the No. 3 seed in the AFC, go to New England Sunday for a noon central time kickoff.

The game will be carried on KFEQ Radio (680, 95.3) and Q Country 92.7 FM in St. Joseph.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1702259420245.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Kadarius Toney runs to the end zone after catching a lateral by teammate Travis Kelce during the second half of an NFL football game against the Buffalo Bills Sunday, Dec. 10, 2023, in Kansas City, Mo. The play was nullified after Toney was called for being offside on the play. (AP Photo/Ed Zurga)." />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Kadarius Toney runs to the end zone after catching a lateral by teammate Travis Kelce during the second half of an NFL football game against the Buffalo Bills Sunday, Dec. 10, 2023, in Kansas City, Mo. The play was nullified after Toney was called for being offside on the play. (AP Photo/Ed Zurga).</figcaption>
 </figure>St. Joseph PostKANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Kansas City Chiefs thought they had beaten the Buffalo Bills with one of the most unexpected and audacious of plays Sunday.Then, the roar inside Arrowhead Stadium was silenced - replaced instead by a cascade of boos.The Bills (7-6) had just taken the lead on Tyler Bass's field goal with 1:54 to go when Patrick Mahomes marched the Chiefs across midfield.He dropped back, spotted favorite target Travis Kelce across the middle, hit him between the numbers — then watched the ex-high school quarterback throw across the field to Kadarius Toney, who finished off the 49-yard touchdown catch.Except, there was a flag on the play. Toney had lined up offside. The play came back, Mahomes proceeded to throw incomplete on three straight plays and the Bills, in desperate need of a win, escaped with a 20-17 victory.Meanwhile, it was another brutal loss for the Chiefs (8-5), who have lost four of their past six.An especially tough way for Toney to end his night. He also dropped an easy pass earlier in the game when Kansas City was driving for points.The loss didn't rest entirely upon Toney's shoulders, though.The Chiefs have been beating themselves with penalties and turnovers most of the season, and that was the case again on Sunday They were flagged seven times for 45 yards — that 5-yarder on Toney the one that everyone will remember — while Mahomes was picked off on a batted ball and Rashee Rice fumbled the ball away late in the third quarter.Mahomes finished with 271 yards passing and a touchdown with an interception Sunday, though he was pressured all day by a healthy Buffalo pass rush. Rice had seven catches for 72 yards and the score.Kelce finished with six catches for 83 yards.Though, there were too many mistakes for a team with too many deficiencies to overcome.In years past, the Chiefs seemed as if they could win no matter what. And proof often came at the expense of the Bills. There was that 38-24 victory in the AFC championship game a few years ago, and the 42-36 overtime win in the divisional round the following year, when the Chiefs needed a mere 13 seconds to get within range for the tying field goal in regulation.It looked as if there would be more of that magic Sunday until 80,000 fans in Arrowhead Stadium spotted a flag on the field.Then, the game looked like so many have this season for the Chiefs.Kansas City, who's now only one game ahead of Denver in the AFC West, and now the No. 3 seed in the AFC, go to New England Sunday for a noon central time kickoff.The game will be carried on KFEQ Radio (680, 95.3) and Q Country 92.7 FM in St. Joseph.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1702259537122.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce (87) laterals to teammate Kadarius Toney, not seen, as Buffalo Bills cornerback Cam Lewis (39) defends during the second half of an NFL football game Sunday, Dec. 10, 2023, in Kansas City, Mo. Toney ran the ball into the end zone, but the play was nullified by an offside penalty by Toney. (AP Photo/Ed Zurga)." />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce (87) laterals to teammate Kadarius Toney, not seen, as Buffalo Bills cornerback Cam Lewis (39) defends during the second half of an NFL football game Sunday, Dec. 10, 2023, in Kansas City, Mo. Toney ran the ball into the end zone, but the play was nullified by an offside penalty by Toney. (AP Photo/Ed Zurga).</figcaption>
 </figure>

Chiefs have go-ahead TD called back by penalty, fall 20-17 to Buffalo Sunday

HAYS, KS - The Missouri Western women's basketball team overcame what was once an 11-point deficit in the first half and made big plays down the stretch in a 61-58 win over No. 18 Fort Hays State in Hays, Kansas on Saturday.

The Griffons (6-3, 2-2 MIAA) made 9-of-21 attempts from three and outscored the Tigers (7-1, 3-1 MIAA) 37-27 in the second half.

Connie Clarke led Missouri Western with 18 points, seven rebounds and four steals.

Johnni Gonzalez turned in a season-high 11 points to go with seven boards and four steals. Brionna Budgets and Mackenzie Hart both added 10 points.

Missouri Western withstood a stellar performance from Hays' first-team all-conference guard Katie Wagner, who put up 28 points and 14 rebounds.

Hays' Olivia Hollenbeck also had a double-double, scoring 10 points and grabbing 11 rebounds.

Missouri Western scored 16 points off of 14 Hays turnovers. They also held the Tigers to just 33.9% shooting, including 3-of-16 from three.

The Missouri Western women have now won each of their last three games played at Hays' Gross Memorial Coliseum. Griffons' head coach Candi Whitaker has now beaten a ranked Hays team four times since her first season in 2019-20.

Griffon men get stifled early, fall big at Fort Hays State

It seemed like it'd be a manageable fight for the Missouri Western men at first.

Fort Hays State essentially clawed their way to a 15-7 lead with 10:15 left in the first half.

Suddenly, the Griffons looked up, and were down 30-8 with 4:29 remaining before halftime.

Missouri Western (7-2, 2-2 MIAA) was unable to really make a dent from that point, as Hays rolled to a 73-49 win on Saturday afternoon at Gross Memorial Coliseum.

Hays is ranked No. 1 in NCAA Division II in scoring defense, holding teams to 56.6 points per contest. They held Western to a season-low scoring output, and the Griffs shot only 32% from the field.

Missouri Western also committed 19 turnovers, while Hays had only seven. The Tigers also dominated points in the paint 34-16.

JaRon Thames was the lone Griffon in double figures with 11 points. Zion Swader had eight and Taye Fields had seven.

Elijah Nnanabu led Hays with 17 points, seven rebounds and seven steals. Shaun Riley scored 15 off the bench for the Tigers.

The Missouri Western men have lost each of their last three games played at Hays. Each of those times, they've been held to 49 points or less.

The Griffon men and women are back in St. Joseph to face Emporia State Thursday. The women play at 5:30, the men at 7:30. The games will be at Civic Arena and will be carried live on KFEQ Radio (680, 95.3).

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1702185347447.jpeg" alt="Stock photo by Derek Zimmerman-Guyer." />
 <figcaption>Stock photo by Derek Zimmerman-Guyer.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostHAYS, KS - The Missouri Western women's basketball team overcame what was once an 11-point deficit in the first half and made big plays down the stretch in a 61-58 win over No. 18 Fort Hays State in Hays, Kansas on Saturday.The Griffons (6-3, 2-2 MIAA) made 9-of-21 attempts from three and outscored the Tigers (7-1, 3-1 MIAA) 37-27 in the second half.Connie Clarke led Missouri Western with 18 points, seven rebounds and four steals.Johnni Gonzalez turned in a season-high 11 points to go with seven boards and four steals. Brionna Budgets and Mackenzie Hart both added 10 points.Missouri Western withstood a stellar performance from Hays' first-team all-conference guard Katie Wagner, who put up 28 points and 14 rebounds.Hays' Olivia Hollenbeck also had a double-double, scoring 10 points and grabbing 11 rebounds.Missouri Western scored 16 points off of 14 Hays turnovers. They also held the Tigers to just 33.9% shooting, including 3-of-16 from three.The Missouri Western women have now won each of their last three games played at Hays' Gross Memorial Coliseum. Griffons' head coach Candi Whitaker has now beaten a ranked Hays team four times since her first season in 2019-20.Candi Whitaker postgame<div><iframe src="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kfeq-sports/embed/episodes/Candi-Whitaker---FHSU-postgame---12923-e2d24s7/a-aanih9g" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>Full audio broadcast<div><iframe src="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kfeq-sports/embed/episodes/MWSU-WBB--Fort-Hays-State---12923-e2d24sq/a-aanihcu" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>Griffon men get stifled early, fall big at Fort Hays StateIt seemed like it'd be a manageable fight for the Missouri Western men at first.Fort Hays State essentially clawed their way to a 15-7 lead with 10:15 left in the first half.Suddenly, the Griffons looked up, and were down 30-8 with 4:29 remaining before halftime.Missouri Western (7-2, 2-2 MIAA) was unable to really make a dent from that point, as Hays rolled to a 73-49 win on Saturday afternoon at Gross Memorial Coliseum.Hays is ranked No. 1 in NCAA Division II in scoring defense, holding teams to 56.6 points per contest. They held Western to a season-low scoring output, and the Griffs shot only 32% from the field.Missouri Western also committed 19 turnovers, while Hays had only seven. The Tigers also dominated points in the paint 34-16.JaRon Thames was the lone Griffon in double figures with 11 points. Zion Swader had eight and Taye Fields had seven.Elijah Nnanabu led Hays with 17 points, seven rebounds and seven steals. Shaun Riley scored 15 off the bench for the Tigers.The Missouri Western men have lost each of their last three games played at Hays. Each of those times, they've been held to 49 points or less.The Griffon men and women are back in St. Joseph to face Emporia State Thursday. The women play at 5:30, the men at 7:30. The games will be at Civic Arena and will be carried live on KFEQ Radio (680, 95.3).<div><iframe src="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kfeq-sports/embed/episodes/Will-Martin---FHSU-postgame---12923-e2d24v3/a-aanihkb" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

MWSU women's basketball knocks off Hays, Griffon men struggle against Tigers

Kansas State broke a close game wide open in the third quarter
of the inaugural Bill Snyder Classic at the Civic Arena, defeating Missouri
84-56.

K-State dominated after halftime, outscoring Mizzou 36-12 in
the third quarter, cruising the rest of the way for the win.

It was a homecoming for K-State Head Coach Jeff Mittie, who
began his coaching career at Missouri Western State University.

“It goes without saying that St. Joe means a lot to me,
because I went to school here and I coached here and there are a lot of friends
and family and ex-players here,” Mittie tells reporters during the media
availability after the game. “So, that was fun as well. But, if the event’s run
poorly those things don’t matter. This has been run very well, so I appreciate
that.”

Mittie says he tried to keep the weekend as normal as
possible, but says he saw a lot of old friends and former players.

The Civic Arena was packed for the game with 3,500 in attendance
for the Saturday night match.

“A lot of K-State fans. A lot of Mizzou fans. I think it was a
good atmosphere,” Mittie says. “You look up and see very few open seats. I
mean, that’s what you want to play in front of. I think the venue’s really,
really good for basketball.”

Missouri Head Coach Robin Pingeton also praised the classic.

“I think it was a very well-run organization,” Pingeton says. “Very
impressed with everything that they’ve done. It was first class from top to
bottom.”

Pingeton says the classic was attractive to her program, because
it gave it a chance to play a good basketball team near the greater Kansas City
area, which is a natural recruiting hotbed for both teams.

Mittie wasn’t the only member of the K-State squad that had a
homecoming.

Junior Serena Sundell is from Maryville and says it was thrill
to hear the crowd when she was introduced.

“It’s special to come back to this town and just have so many
people from Maryville and St. Joe; there’s girls that I was seeing that were
from East Buch and Benton, just young girls that are looking up to me and this
team and women’s college basketball,” Sundell tells reporters. “So, just to be
able to come back to St. Joe and play for them is really special and I’ll never
forget this game.”

K-State Center Ayoka Lee led all scorers with 28. MU was led
by Abby Feit and Heyley Frank, who had 13 each.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1702181326420.jpeg" alt="Kansas State Coach Jeff Mittie gestures at the sideline during the Bill Snyder Classic at the Civic Arena in St. Joseph/Photo by Brent Martin " />
 <figcaption>Kansas State Coach Jeff Mittie gestures at the sideline during the Bill Snyder Classic at the Civic Arena in St. Joseph/Photo by Brent Martin </figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostKansas State broke a close game wide open in the third quarter
of the inaugural Bill Snyder Classic at the Civic Arena, defeating Missouri
84-56.K-State dominated after halftime, outscoring Mizzou 36-12 in
the third quarter, cruising the rest of the way for the win.It was a homecoming for K-State Head Coach Jeff Mittie, who
began his coaching career at Missouri Western State University.“It goes without saying that St. Joe means a lot to me,
because I went to school here and I coached here and there are a lot of friends
and family and ex-players here,” Mittie tells reporters during the media
availability after the game. “So, that was fun as well. But, if the event’s run
poorly those things don’t matter. This has been run very well, so I appreciate
that.”Mittie says he tried to keep the weekend as normal as
possible, but says he saw a lot of old friends and former players.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1702181460139.jpeg" alt="Former K-State Football Coach Bill Snyder prepares to bring out the game ball, waiting with St. Joseph Sports Commission Dir. Brett Esely./Photo by Brent Martin" />
 <figcaption>Former K-State Football Coach Bill Snyder prepares to bring out the game ball, waiting with St. Joseph Sports Commission Dir. Brett Esely./Photo by Brent Martin</figcaption>
 </figure>The Civic Arena was packed for the game with 3,500 in attendance
for the Saturday night match.Mittie says it was a fun event.“A lot of K-State fans. A lot of Mizzou fans. I think it was a
good atmosphere,” Mittie says. “You look up and see very few open seats. I
mean, that’s what you want to play in front of. I think the venue’s really,
really good for basketball.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1702181587960.jpeg" alt="MU Coach Robin Pingeton directs from the sidelines./Photo by Brent Martin" />
 <figcaption>MU Coach Robin Pingeton directs from the sidelines./Photo by Brent Martin</figcaption>
 </figure>Missouri Head Coach Robin Pingeton also praised the classic.“I think it was a very well-run organization,” Pingeton says. “Very
impressed with everything that they’ve done. It was first class from top to
bottom.”Pingeton says the classic was attractive to her program, because
it gave it a chance to play a good basketball team near the greater Kansas City
area, which is a natural recruiting hotbed for both teams.Mittie wasn’t the only member of the K-State squad that had a
homecoming.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1702181752666.jpeg" alt="K-State Guard, Maryville native, Serena Sundell/Photo by Brent Martin" />
 <figcaption>K-State Guard, Maryville native, Serena Sundell/Photo by Brent Martin</figcaption>
 </figure>Junior Serena Sundell is from Maryville and says it was thrill
to hear the crowd when she was introduced.“It’s special to come back to this town and just have so many
people from Maryville and St. Joe; there’s girls that I was seeing that were
from East Buch and Benton, just young girls that are looking up to me and this
team and women’s college basketball,” Sundell tells reporters. “So, just to be
able to come back to St. Joe and play for them is really special and I’ll never
forget this game.”Sundell scored 11 on 4-for-8 shooting.K-State Center Ayoka Lee led all scorers with 28. MU was led
by Abby Feit and Heyley Frank, who had 13 each.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1702181882510.jpeg" alt="Sundell directs traffic./Photo by Brent Martin" />
 <figcaption>Sundell directs traffic./Photo by Brent Martin</figcaption>
 </figure>

K-State dominates MU in 3rd quarter, cruises to win in Bill Snyder Classic

The last time Jeff Mittie was the head coach in a college basketball game played in St. Joseph, Missouri, it was March 4, 1995. Some 10,506 days ago.

The Missouri Western women’s basketball team hosted Washburn for the MIAA tournament championship. The Griffons beat the Ichabods, 76-62.

After leading MWSU to a third place finish in the NCAA tournament that year, Mittie was the head coach at Division I Arkansas State by the following season.

He went to TCU in 1999 and since 2014, Mittie has been the head coach of Kansas State women's basketball.

Nearly 29 years after that MIAA championship run with the Griffons, Mittie returns to the sideline in St. Joseph - to Civic Arena, where his 13th-ranked and 8-1 Wildcats will play 7-3 Mizzou in a regular season, non-conference matchup on Saturday.

Mittie, a Blue Springs native, looks forward to this homecoming of sorts.

"It's definitely unique," Mittie told KFEQ Radio. "Yeah, excited to be a part of it. Been a long time since I coached a game in St. Joe. That'll be fun. We'll get to see some friends, family, ex-players, all of the above."

Mittie was Missouri Western’s head women’s basketball coach from 1992-95. He amassed 76 wins, two MIAA regular season titles, an MIAA tournament title and two NCAA Elite Eight appearances.

Mittie was inducted into the Missouri Western Athletics Hall of Fame in 2011 and he received the Distinguished Alumni Award from the University in 2016. Mittie got his undergrad degree from MWSU in 1989.

"It's always kind of cool to go back to where you went to school," Mittie remarked. "I think my players will probably be tired of me telling them, 'Hey, I used to do this. Hey, over here is this.' They may not even know. Shoot, they're so young, they may not be paying attention."

"But, I'll be excited to get back and see some familiar faces I haven't seen in awhile."

This game between K-State and Mizzou was announced back in May, and was dubbed as the inaugural “Bill Snyder Classic.”

It’s the brainchild of Brett Esely - director of the St. Joseph Sports Commission and former MWSU associate A.D. from 2007-2021.

Mittie says the connection with Esely made scheduling this game that much better.

"We've known Brett for a long time through the Missouri Western connection," he said. "Having said that, it still has to be the right fit, the right game, the right time. Everything kind of came together and it was."

The game is set for Saturday at 5 p.m. There’s a lot Mittie is looking forward to this weekend.

A chance for his Wildcats to play Mizzou for the first time in six years. A chance to see old friends and former players. A trip down memory lane.

Also, the chance to see <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/ac66de1b-f3d1-4fdd-a59e-8bb444e95a97">a revamped Civic Arena</a>, which got a much needed facelift over the last year or so - specifically to draw events like this.

"I have not been in the revamped convention center, so I'm kind of excited to see what they did with that and how that looks as well."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1702065082411.jpeg" alt="Jeff Mittie's first year at Missouri Western was 1992-93. This is a photo of that team from that year's MWSU yearbook." />
 <figcaption>Jeff Mittie's first year at Missouri Western was 1992-93. This is a photo of that team from that year's MWSU yearbook.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThe last time Jeff Mittie was the head coach in a college basketball game played in St. Joseph, Missouri, it was March 4, 1995. Some 10,506 days ago.The Missouri Western women’s basketball team hosted Washburn for the MIAA tournament championship. The Griffons beat the Ichabods, 76-62.After leading MWSU to a third place finish in the NCAA tournament that year, Mittie was the head coach at Division I Arkansas State by the following season.He went to TCU in 1999 and since 2014, Mittie has been the head coach of Kansas State women's basketball.Nearly 29 years after that MIAA championship run with the Griffons, Mittie returns to the sideline in St. Joseph - to Civic Arena, where his 13th-ranked and 8-1 Wildcats will play 7-3 Mizzou in a regular season, non-conference matchup on Saturday.Mittie, a Blue Springs native, looks forward to this homecoming of sorts."It's definitely unique," Mittie told KFEQ Radio. "Yeah, excited to be a part of it. Been a long time since I coached a game in St. Joe. That'll be fun. We'll get to see some friends, family, ex-players, all of the above."Mittie was Missouri Western’s head women’s basketball coach from 1992-95. He amassed 76 wins, two MIAA regular season titles, an MIAA tournament title and two NCAA Elite Eight appearances.Mittie was inducted into the Missouri Western Athletics Hall of Fame in 2011 and he received the Distinguished Alumni Award from the University in 2016. Mittie got his undergrad degree from MWSU in 1989."It's always kind of cool to go back to where you went to school," Mittie remarked. "I think my players will probably be tired of me telling them, 'Hey, I used to do this. Hey, over here is this.' They may not even know. Shoot, they're so young, they may not be paying attention.""But, I'll be excited to get back and see some familiar faces I haven't seen in awhile."This game between K-State and Mizzou was announced back in May, and was dubbed as the inaugural “Bill Snyder Classic.”It’s the brainchild of Brett Esely - director of the St. Joseph Sports Commission and former MWSU associate A.D. from 2007-2021.Mittie says the connection with Esely made scheduling this game that much better."We've known Brett for a long time through the Missouri Western connection," he said. "Having said that, it still has to be the right fit, the right game, the right time. Everything kind of came together and it was."The game is set for Saturday at 5 p.m. There’s a lot Mittie is looking forward to this weekend.A chance for his Wildcats to play Mizzou for the first time in six years. A chance to see old friends and former players. A trip down memory lane. Also, the chance to see <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/ac66de1b-f3d1-4fdd-a59e-8bb444e95a97">a revamped Civic Arena</a>, which got a much needed facelift over the last year or so - specifically to draw events like this."I have not been in the revamped convention center, so I'm kind of excited to see what they did with that and how that looks as well."<div><iframe src="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kfeq-sports/embed/episodes/Jeff-Mittie---Kansas-State-WBB-coach-e2ctlq2/a-aan4h90" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1702065148753.jpeg" alt="Jeff Mittie's 1994-95 Elite Eight team that finished third in the nation was inducted into the Missouri Western Athletics Hall of Fame in 2014." />
 <figcaption>Jeff Mittie's 1994-95 Elite Eight team that finished third in the nation was inducted into the Missouri Western Athletics Hall of Fame in 2014.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1702065224232.jpeg" alt="Jeff Mittie picked up his 600th career win as a head coach last November after a season-opening win against Central Arkansas. Courtesy photo via K-State athletics." />
 <figcaption>Jeff Mittie picked up his 600th career win as a head coach last November after a season-opening win against Central Arkansas. Courtesy photo via K-State athletics.</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Mittie excited for his return to St. Joseph as K-State WBB faces Mizzou at Civic

KEARNEY, NE - The Missouri Western women's basketball team held a lead for about five minutes of the first half and only trailed 28-24 at halftime.

However, Nebraska-Kearney (8-1, 2-1 MIAA) outscored the Griffons 48-30 in the second half and the Lopers rolled to a 76-54 win at the Health and Fitness Center in Kearney, Nebraska on Thursday night.

It all came undone for Missouri Western (5-3, 1-2 MIAA) in the third quarter, when UNK made five three-pointers and outscored the Griffs 28-15 in that period.

Kearney made seven threes in the second half after making just one in the first. Bailee Sobczak led four Lopers in double figures with 18 points. Jillian Aschoff dropped a double-double for UNK with 16 points and 12 rebounds.

Jayme Jackson led Missouri Western with 15 points. Connie Clarke had eight. The Griffons were outrebounded 44-34.

UNK made 20-of-29 free throws Thursday. Missouri Western was just 2-of-5 at the stripe.

The Griffon women have dropped each of their last seven regular season meetings played at Nebraska-Kearney.

Griffon men fall on buzzer beater at Nebraska-Kearney Thursday

The Missouri Western men kept pace with Nebraska-Kearney's hot shooting all night Thursday, knocking down 13 threes and tying the game nine times.

Down eight with 1:52 to play, the Griffons rallied and tied it at 90-90, thanks to a left wing three by Zion Swader.

But with 2.7 seconds still on the clock, Nebraska-Kearney's Damiri Lindo heaved a ball from midcourt at the buzzer, and knocked down the shot, lifting the Lopers to a stunning 93-90 win over the Griffons at the Health and Fitness Center.

Kearney (4-3, 2-1 MIAA) was a threat from long range all game, making 12 triples themselves. Lindo led the Lopers with 21 points. Taden King had 20.

Julius Dixon led Missouri Western (7-1, 2-1 MIAA) with 28 points and 11 rebounds - a new career-high in scoring and his first career double-double. Swader turned in a career-high 27 points on four made three-pointers.

Taye Fields turned in 16 points, nine rebounds, three assists and three blocks. JaRon Thames dropped 11 points and two steals.

The game featured nine ties and five lead changes, but Missouri Western led for only 2:38 total and only 12 seconds of the second half.

Kearney benefitted from 17 bench points. Missouri Western's points all came from the starting five.&nbsp;

Both Griffon teams are on the road Saturday to face Fort Hays State. The women's game is at 2, the men's game follows at 4. Both will be on KFEQ Radio (680, 95.3).

The Hays women (7-0) beat Northwest Missouri State 62-48 Thursday. The Hays men (6-2) beat the 17th-ranked Bearcat men, 57-49, on Thursday as well.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1702013083850.jpeg" alt="Jayme Jackson (left) drives the ball in Thursday's game at Nebraska-Kearney. Photo by Derek Zimmerman-Guyer." />
 <figcaption>Jayme Jackson (left) drives the ball in Thursday's game at Nebraska-Kearney. Photo by Derek Zimmerman-Guyer.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostKEARNEY, NE - The Missouri Western women's basketball team held a lead for about five minutes of the first half and only trailed 28-24 at halftime.However, Nebraska-Kearney (8-1, 2-1 MIAA) outscored the Griffons 48-30 in the second half and the Lopers rolled to a 76-54 win at the Health and Fitness Center in Kearney, Nebraska on Thursday night.It all came undone for Missouri Western (5-3, 1-2 MIAA) in the third quarter, when UNK made five three-pointers and outscored the Griffs 28-15 in that period.Kearney made seven threes in the second half after making just one in the first. Bailee Sobczak led four Lopers in double figures with 18 points. Jillian Aschoff dropped a double-double for UNK with 16 points and 12 rebounds.Jayme Jackson led Missouri Western with 15 points. Connie Clarke had eight. The Griffons were outrebounded 44-34.UNK made 20-of-29 free throws Thursday. Missouri Western was just 2-of-5 at the stripe.The Griffon women have dropped each of their last seven regular season meetings played at Nebraska-Kearney.<div><iframe src="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kfeq-sports/embed/episodes/Candi-Whitaker---UNK-postgame-12723-e2cvtvo" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>Griffon men fall on buzzer beater at Nebraska-Kearney Thursday<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1702014634062.jpeg" alt="Taye Fields (13) tries to pass the ball to Julius Dixon during Thursday's game at Nebraska-Kearney. Photo by Derek Zimmerman-Guyer." />
 <figcaption>Taye Fields (13) tries to pass the ball to Julius Dixon during Thursday's game at Nebraska-Kearney. Photo by Derek Zimmerman-Guyer.</figcaption>
 </figure>The Missouri Western men kept pace with Nebraska-Kearney's hot shooting all night Thursday, knocking down 13 threes and tying the game nine times.Down eight with 1:52 to play, the Griffons rallied and tied it at 90-90, thanks to a left wing three by Zion Swader.But with 2.7 seconds still on the clock, Nebraska-Kearney's Damiri Lindo heaved a ball from midcourt at the buzzer, and knocked down the shot, lifting the Lopers to a stunning 93-90 win over the Griffons at the Health and Fitness Center.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><a href="https://twitter.com/UNKMBB?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@UNKMBB</a> give Missouri Western their first loss of the year! Damiri Lindo from halfcourt at the buzzer! Lopers win 93-90! <a href="https://t.co/MhohF6S0Xv">pic.twitter.com/MhohF6S0Xv</a>&mdash; NCAA D2 Buzzer Beaters (@D2BuzzerBeaters) <a href="https://twitter.com/D2BuzzerBeaters/status/1732969186882695351?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 8, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Kearney (4-3, 2-1 MIAA) was a threat from long range all game, making 12 triples themselves. Lindo led the Lopers with 21 points. Taden King had 20.Julius Dixon led Missouri Western (7-1, 2-1 MIAA) with 28 points and 11 rebounds - a new career-high in scoring and his first career double-double. Swader turned in a career-high 27 points on four made three-pointers.Taye Fields turned in 16 points, nine rebounds, three assists and three blocks. JaRon Thames dropped 11 points and two steals.The game featured nine ties and five lead changes, but Missouri Western led for only 2:38 total and only 12 seconds of the second half.Kearney benefitted from 17 bench points. Missouri Western's points all came from the starting five.&nbsp;Both Griffon teams are on the road Saturday to face Fort Hays State. The women's game is at 2, the men's game follows at 4. Both will be on KFEQ Radio (680, 95.3).The Hays women (7-0) beat Northwest Missouri State 62-48 Thursday. The Hays men (6-2) beat the 17th-ranked Bearcat men, 57-49, on Thursday as well.<div><iframe src="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kfeq-sports/embed/episodes/Will-Martin---UNK-postgame-12723-e2cvtmp/a-aanbe9i" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

MWSU men's, women's basketball take losses at Nebraska-Kearney Thursday

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) — The Kansas City Royals have swapped pitchers with the Astros, sending right-hander Dylan Coleman to Houston in exchange for minor league right-hander Carlos Mateo.

The teams announced the trade Wednesday during the winter meetings.

Mateo, who puts the Royals' reserve list at 39, turns 20 on Dec. 16. He played seven games in the Gulf Coast League this year, striking out 12 batters in 8 2/3 innings. Mateo made his professional debut with the Dominican Summer League Astros Orange in 2022.

He went 2-1 with a 2.63 ERA over 271 1/3 innings with 33 strikeouts. He allowed only 13 walks.

Coleman, 27, was 5-4 with a 3.88 ERA over 92 2/3 innings in 96 games over parts of three seasons with Kansas City, including 23 games this year as he split time between Triple-A Omaha and the Royals.

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) — The Kansas City Royals have swapped pitchers with the Astros, sending right-hander Dylan Coleman to Houston in exchange for minor league right-hander Carlos Mateo.The teams announced the trade Wednesday during the winter meetings.Mateo, who puts the Royals' reserve list at 39, turns 20 on Dec. 16. He played seven games in the Gulf Coast League this year, striking out 12 batters in 8 2/3 innings. Mateo made his professional debut with the Dominican Summer League Astros Orange in 2022.He went 2-1 with a 2.63 ERA over 271 1/3 innings with 33 strikeouts. He allowed only 13 walks.Coleman, 27, was 5-4 with a 3.88 ERA over 92 2/3 innings in 96 games over parts of three seasons with Kansas City, including 23 games this year as he split time between Triple-A Omaha and the Royals.

Royals swap pitchers with Astros, trade Dylan Coleman for Carlos Mateo

The Bishop LeBlond girls' basketball team was in an all out battle with St. Joseph Christian early on, leading by only three points after the first quarter and at halftime.

The Golden Eagles, however, led by as many as 12 points in the second half and came away with a 45-36 win over the Lions on Tuesday night at St. Joseph Christian High School.

LeBlond (4-0), just four days removed from a Mound City tournament championship, forced 17 turnovers in the win and never trailed in the final two quarters.

Senior Kyla Conard led the way with 19 points.

"We knew (Christian) would be good in competition," Conard told St. Joseph Post after. "We worked hard (Monday) in practice preparing, we came out well and I thought we executed perfectly."

Christian (3-2) got back to within single digits in the latter stages of the fourth quarter, but were unable to close the gap. Senior Chloe Burnham led the Lions in defeat with 19 points. Junior Lexi McDaniel ended up with 12 points.

While Conard was the only Golden Eagle to finish in double figures Tuesday, several of her teammates made strong contributions.

Senior Kaleigh Ziesel finished with eight points - all in the second half. Another senior, Katie Beam, ended up with nine.

"Offensively, once we started sharing the ball and making the extra pass and not turning the ball over," LeBlond head coach Jackie Steltenpohl said, "we saw a little bit of a spread in the scoring like we wanted."

LeBlond boys explode in third quarter, rout St. Joseph Christian

The Bishop LeBlond boys' basketball team ended the first half on an 11-1 run, scored 31 third quarter points and ultimately ran away from St. Joseph Christian in a 73-36 thrashing of the Lions on Tuesday night.

LeBlond (4-0), also coming off a Mound City tournament title from over the weekend, got off to a hot start Tuesday, scoring 21 points in the first eight minutes.

The Golden Eagles stayed hot throughout, making nine total three-pointers. Juniors Jacob Winkelbauer and Trey Icke each scored 16 points in the win. Another junior, Chris Miljavic, tallied 12.

"I was proud of our kids," LeBlond head coach Mitch Girres said. "We played really hard. We're a different team than we were a year ago. We play different. It was nice to see them come out and compete on the defensive end and get a nice win tonight."

Christian's Nick Orscheln led the Lions with 17 points. The Lions took their first loss of the season after posting a PVI championship on Saturday.

Christian (4-1) really struggled coming out of halftime, scoring only five points in the third quarter.

LeBlond, who's won district titles each of the last two years, are off to a strong start after graduating two senior starters in Landon Gardner and Jake Korell from last year's team.

"Our schedule really picks up here in the next couple of weeks," Girres pointed out. "I'm hopeful we keep grinding out, keep trying to get better day in and day out, and that's really all we can do."

Both LeBlond teams are at Nodaway Valley Friday. Both St. Joseph Christian teams stay home to host North Harrison on Friday as well.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1701833955441.jpeg" alt="Bishop LeBlond's Kyla Conard (20) drives against St. Joseph Christian in Tuesday night's game against the Lions. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Bishop LeBlond's Kyla Conard (20) drives against St. Joseph Christian in Tuesday night's game against the Lions. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThe Bishop LeBlond girls' basketball team was in an all out battle with St. Joseph Christian early on, leading by only three points after the first quarter and at halftime.The Golden Eagles, however, led by as many as 12 points in the second half and came away with a 45-36 win over the Lions on Tuesday night at St. Joseph Christian High School.LeBlond (4-0), just four days removed from a Mound City tournament championship, forced 17 turnovers in the win and never trailed in the final two quarters.Senior Kyla Conard led the way with 19 points."We knew (Christian) would be good in competition," Conard told St. Joseph Post after. "We worked hard (Monday) in practice preparing, we came out well and I thought we executed perfectly."Christian (3-2) got back to within single digits in the latter stages of the fourth quarter, but were unable to close the gap. Senior Chloe Burnham led the Lions in defeat with 19 points. Junior Lexi McDaniel ended up with 12 points.While Conard was the only Golden Eagle to finish in double figures Tuesday, several of her teammates made strong contributions.Senior Kaleigh Ziesel finished with eight points - all in the second half. Another senior, Katie Beam, ended up with nine."Offensively, once we started sharing the ball and making the extra pass and not turning the ball over," LeBlond head coach Jackie Steltenpohl said, "we saw a little bit of a spread in the scoring like we wanted."LeBlond boys explode in third quarter, rout St. Joseph Christian<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1701835365887.jpeg" alt="Jacob Winkelbauer (20) goes up for a shot in the first half of Tuesday's game against St. Joseph Christian. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Jacob Winkelbauer (20) goes up for a shot in the first half of Tuesday's game against St. Joseph Christian. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>The Bishop LeBlond boys' basketball team ended the first half on an 11-1 run, scored 31 third quarter points and ultimately ran away from St. Joseph Christian in a 73-36 thrashing of the Lions on Tuesday night.LeBlond (4-0), also coming off a Mound City tournament title from over the weekend, got off to a hot start Tuesday, scoring 21 points in the first eight minutes.The Golden Eagles stayed hot throughout, making nine total three-pointers. Juniors Jacob Winkelbauer and Trey Icke each scored 16 points in the win. Another junior, Chris Miljavic, tallied 12."I was proud of our kids," LeBlond head coach Mitch Girres said. "We played really hard. We're a different team than we were a year ago. We play different. It was nice to see them come out and compete on the defensive end and get a nice win tonight."Christian's Nick Orscheln led the Lions with 17 points. The Lions took their first loss of the season after posting a PVI championship on Saturday.Christian (4-1) really struggled coming out of halftime, scoring only five points in the third quarter.LeBlond, who's won district titles each of the last two years, are off to a strong start after graduating two senior starters in Landon Gardner and Jake Korell from last year's team."Our schedule really picks up here in the next couple of weeks," Girres pointed out. "I'm hopeful we keep grinding out, keep trying to get better day in and day out, and that's really all we can do."Both LeBlond teams are at Nodaway Valley Friday. Both St. Joseph Christian teams stay home to host North Harrison on Friday as well.Additional photos from both games<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1701835418232.jpeg" alt="Chloe Burnham (2)." />
 <figcaption>Chloe Burnham (2).</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1701835463197.jpeg" alt="Chris Miljavic (22) attempts a three-point shot." />
 <figcaption>Chris Miljavic (22) attempts a three-point shot.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1701835487024.jpeg" alt="Cy Carlson (11)." />
 <figcaption>Cy Carlson (11).</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1701835512503.jpeg" alt="Danika Wattenbarger (4)." />
 <figcaption>Danika Wattenbarger (4).</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1701835546614.jpeg" alt="Kaleigh Ziesel (left)." />
 <figcaption>Kaleigh Ziesel (left).</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1701835572261.jpeg" alt="Kendall Cathcart." />
 <figcaption>Kendall Cathcart.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1701835615433.jpeg" alt="Lexi McDaniel (22)." />
 <figcaption>Lexi McDaniel (22).</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1701835635091.jpeg" alt="Nick Orscheln (0)." />
 <figcaption>Nick Orscheln (0).</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1701835665083.jpeg" alt="Trey Icke (4)." />
 <figcaption>Trey Icke (4).</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Bishop LeBlond boys, girls' basketball score wins at St. Joseph Christian Tuesday

BENTONVILLE, Ark. (AP) — Missouri running back Cody Schrader has won the Burlsworth Trophy, given to the nation's best player who started his Division I career as a a walk-on.

Schrader, who walked on two years ago after transferring from Division II Truman State, leads Division I with 124.9 yards rushing per game this season. He has rushed for 1,625 yards and 13 touchdowns and led the Tigers to a 10-2 record. He was a unanimous Associated Press first-team All-Southeastern Conference selection this year.

Ninth-ranked Missouri will play No. 7 Ohio State in the Cotton Bowl on Dec. 29.

Schrader ran for more than 700 yards at Missouri last season before emerging as one of the nation’s best running backs this season. In a 36-7 win over Tennessee, he became the first SEC player and 10th player in FBS history with 200-plus rushing yards and 100-plus receiving yards in the same game. He finished with 205 yards rushing and 321 total yards.

Other finalists for the award were James Madison nose guard James Carpenter and Oklahoma receiver Drake Stoops.

Carpenter had 48 total tackles, nine tackles for loss, four sacks and an interception for the 11-1 Dukes. Stoops led Oklahoma with 78 catches for 880 yards and 10 touchdowns in the regular season.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1701803759316.jpeg" alt="Missouri running back Cody Schrader (7) is knocked out of bounds by Arkansas defensive back Hudson Clark (17) during the second half of an NCAA college football game Friday, Nov. 24, 2023, in Fayetteville, Ark. (AP Photo/Michael Woods)" />
 <figcaption>Missouri running back Cody Schrader (7) is knocked out of bounds by Arkansas defensive back Hudson Clark (17) during the second half of an NCAA college football game Friday, Nov. 24, 2023, in Fayetteville, Ark. (AP Photo/Michael Woods)</figcaption>
 </figure>BENTONVILLE, Ark. (AP) — Missouri running back Cody Schrader has won the Burlsworth Trophy, given to the nation's best player who started his Division I career as a a walk-on.Schrader, who walked on two years ago after transferring from Division II Truman State, leads Division I with 124.9 yards rushing per game this season. He has rushed for 1,625 yards and 13 touchdowns and led the Tigers to a 10-2 record. He was a unanimous Associated Press first-team All-Southeastern Conference selection this year.Ninth-ranked Missouri will play No. 7 Ohio State in the Cotton Bowl on Dec. 29.Schrader ran for more than 700 yards at Missouri last season before emerging as one of the nation’s best running backs this season. In a 36-7 win over Tennessee, he became the first SEC player and 10th player in FBS history with 200-plus rushing yards and 100-plus receiving yards in the same game. He finished with 205 yards rushing and 321 total yards.Other finalists for the award were James Madison nose guard James Carpenter and Oklahoma receiver Drake Stoops.Carpenter had 48 total tackles, nine tackles for loss, four sacks and an interception for the 11-1 Dukes. Stoops led Oklahoma with 78 catches for 880 yards and 10 touchdowns in the regular season.

Missouri RB Cody Schrader wins Burlsworth Trophy

LSU quarterback Jayden Daniels is the unanimous pick as Associated Press Southeastern Conference offensive player of the year, while Mississippi State linebacker Nathaniel Watson is defensive player of the year.

Missouri coach Eliah Drinkwitz won coach of the year honors Monday after leading the ninth-ranked Tigers into the Cotton Bowl against No. 7 Ohio State. Alabama safety Caleb Downs is the top newcomer.

Daniels, a leading contender for the Heisman Trophy, leads the nation in total offense (412.2 yards per game), passing for 3,812 yards and a nation's best 40 touchdowns against only four interceptions. Daniels has also run for 1,134 yards and 10 touchdowns.

Watson is the SEC's leading tackler with 137 and also has a league-best 10 sacks. Watson has two forced fumbles, two fumble recoveries and an interception.

Downs led No. 5 Alabama with 99 tackles as a freshman, well ahead of No. 2 tackler Jihaad Campbell's 65. He also has two interceptions and returned a punt 85 yards for a touchdown against Chattanooga.

Other unanimous first-team picks include LSU wide receiver Malik Nabers, Missouri running back Cody Schrader, Georgia tight end Brock Bowers and Georgia center Sedrick Van Pran.

The AP All-SEC teams were voted on by a panel of 14 sportswriters and broadcasters covering the league.

WR — u-Malik Nabers, LSU, 6-0, 200, Jr., Youngsville, Louisiana

WR — Luther Burden III, Missouri, 5-11, 208, So., St. Louis, Missouri

T — Javon Foster, Missouri, 6-5, 319, grad, Detroit

T — JC Latham, Alabama, 6-6, 360, Jr., Oak Creek, Wisconsin

G — Tate Ratledge, Georgia, 6-6, 310, Jr., Rome, Georgia

G — Tyler Booker, Alabama, 6-5, 352, So., New Haven, Connecticut

C — u-Sedrick Van Pran, Georgia, Jr., 6-4, 310, New Orleans

TE — u-Brock Bowers, Georgia, 6-4, 240, Jr., Napa, California

QB — u-Jayden Daniels, LSU, 6-4, 210, Sr., San Bernardino, California

RB — u-Cody Schrader, Missouri, 5-9, 214, graduate, St. Louis, Missouri

RB — Ray Davis, Kentucky, 5-10, 216, Sr., San Francisco

PK — Will Reichard, Alabama, 6-1, 194, grad, Hoover, Alabama

All-Purpose — Ainias Smith, Texas A&amp;M, 5-10, 200, grad, Missouri City, Texas

DE — James Pearce Jr., Tennessee, 6-5, 242, So., Charlotte, North Carolina

DE — Darius Robinson, Missouri, 6-5, 296, grad, Southfield, Michigan

DT — Marcus Harris, Auburn, 6-3, 295, Sr., Montgomery, Alabama

DT — Deone Walker, Kentucky, 6-6, 348, So., Detroit

LB — Dallas Turner, Alabama, 6-4, 252, Jr., Fort Lauderdale, Florida

LB — Edgerrin Cooper, Texas A&amp;M, 6-3, 230, Jr., Covington, Louisiana

LB — Nathaniel Watson, Mississippi State, grad, 6-2, 245, Maplesville, Alabama

CB — Kris Abrams-Draine, Missouri, 5-11, 178, Jr., Mobile, Alabama

CB — Kool-Aid McKinstry, Alabama, 6-1, 195, Jr., Birmingham, Ala.

S — Malaki Starks, Georgia, 6-1, 205, So., Jefferson, Georgia

S — Jaylin Simpson, Auburn, 6-1, 178, Sr., Brunswick, Georgia

P — Matthew Hayball, Vanderbilt, 6-1, 187, grad, West Adelaide, Australia

WR — Xavier Legette, South Carolina, 6-3, 227, Sr., Mullins, South Carolina

WR — Brian Thomas, LSU, 6-4, 205, Jr., Walker, Louisiana

T — Will Campbell, LSU, 6-6, 325, So., Monroe, Louisiana

T — Gunner Britton, Auburn, 6-6, 312, Sr., Conway, South Carolina

G — Joshua Braun, Arkansas, 6-6, 348, Jr., Live Oak, Florida

G — Cam'Ron Johnson, Missouri, 6-4, 305, Jr., Houston

C — Cooper Mays, Tennessee, 6-3, 305, Sr., Knoxville, Tennessee

TE — Rivaldo Fairweather, 6-4, 251, Jr., Lauderhill, Florida

QB — Jalen Milroe, Alabama, 6-2, 220, So., Katy, Texas

LSU quarterback Jayden Daniels is the unanimous pick as Associated Press Southeastern Conference offensive player of the year, while Mississippi State linebacker Nathaniel Watson is defensive player of the year.Missouri coach Eliah Drinkwitz won coach of the year honors Monday after leading the ninth-ranked Tigers into the Cotton Bowl against No. 7 Ohio State. Alabama safety Caleb Downs is the top newcomer.Daniels, a leading contender for the Heisman Trophy, leads the nation in total offense (412.2 yards per game), passing for 3,812 yards and a nation's best 40 touchdowns against only four interceptions. Daniels has also run for 1,134 yards and 10 touchdowns.Watson is the SEC's leading tackler with 137 and also has a league-best 10 sacks. Watson has two forced fumbles, two fumble recoveries and an interception.Downs led No. 5 Alabama with 99 tackles as a freshman, well ahead of No. 2 tackler Jihaad Campbell's 65. He also has two interceptions and returned a punt 85 yards for a touchdown against Chattanooga.Other unanimous first-team picks include LSU wide receiver Malik Nabers, Missouri running back Cody Schrader, Georgia tight end Brock Bowers and Georgia center Sedrick Van Pran.The AP All-SEC teams were voted on by a panel of 14 sportswriters and broadcasters covering the league.(u-unanimous choice)FIRST TEAMOffenseWR — u-Malik Nabers, LSU, 6-0, 200, Jr., Youngsville, LouisianaWR — Luther Burden III, Missouri, 5-11, 208, So., St. Louis, MissouriT — Javon Foster, Missouri, 6-5, 319, grad, DetroitT — JC Latham, Alabama, 6-6, 360, Jr., Oak Creek, WisconsinG — Tate Ratledge, Georgia, 6-6, 310, Jr., Rome, GeorgiaG — Tyler Booker, Alabama, 6-5, 352, So., New Haven, ConnecticutC — u-Sedrick Van Pran, Georgia, Jr., 6-4, 310, New OrleansTE — u-Brock Bowers, Georgia, 6-4, 240, Jr., Napa, CaliforniaQB — u-Jayden Daniels, LSU, 6-4, 210, Sr., San Bernardino, CaliforniaRB — u-Cody Schrader, Missouri, 5-9, 214, graduate, St. Louis, MissouriRB — Ray Davis, Kentucky, 5-10, 216, Sr., San FranciscoPK — Will Reichard, Alabama, 6-1, 194, grad, Hoover, AlabamaAll-Purpose — Ainias Smith, Texas A&amp;M, 5-10, 200, grad, Missouri City, TexasDefenseDE — James Pearce Jr., Tennessee, 6-5, 242, So., Charlotte, North CarolinaDE — Darius Robinson, Missouri, 6-5, 296, grad, Southfield, MichiganDT — Marcus Harris, Auburn, 6-3, 295, Sr., Montgomery, AlabamaDT — Deone Walker, Kentucky, 6-6, 348, So., DetroitLB — Dallas Turner, Alabama, 6-4, 252, Jr., Fort Lauderdale, FloridaLB — Edgerrin Cooper, Texas A&amp;M, 6-3, 230, Jr., Covington, LouisianaLB — Nathaniel Watson, Mississippi State, grad, 6-2, 245, Maplesville, AlabamaCB — Kris Abrams-Draine, Missouri, 5-11, 178, Jr., Mobile, AlabamaCB — Kool-Aid McKinstry, Alabama, 6-1, 195, Jr., Birmingham, Ala.S — Malaki Starks, Georgia, 6-1, 205, So., Jefferson, GeorgiaS — Jaylin Simpson, Auburn, 6-1, 178, Sr., Brunswick, GeorgiaP — Matthew Hayball, Vanderbilt, 6-1, 187, grad, West Adelaide, AustraliaSECOND TEAMOffenseWR — Xavier Legette, South Carolina, 6-3, 227, Sr., Mullins, South CarolinaWR — Brian Thomas, LSU, 6-4, 205, Jr., Walker, LouisianaT — Will Campbell, LSU, 6-6, 325, So., Monroe, LouisianaT — Gunner Britton, Auburn, 6-6, 312, Sr., Conway, South CarolinaG — Joshua Braun, Arkansas, 6-6, 348, Jr., Live Oak, FloridaG — Cam'Ron Johnson, Missouri, 6-4, 305, Jr., HoustonC — Cooper Mays, Tennessee, 6-3, 305, Sr., Knoxville, TennesseeTE — Rivaldo Fairweather, 6-4, 251, Jr., Lauderhill, FloridaQB — Jalen Milroe, Alabama, 6-2, 220, So., Katy, TexasRB — Quinshon Judkins, Mississippi, 5-11, 210, So., Pike Road, AlabamaRB — Jaylen Wright, Tennessee, 5-11, 210, Jr., Durham, North CarolinaPK — Harrison Mevis, Missouri, 5-11, 243, Sr., Warsaw, IndianaAll-Purpose — t-Barion Brown, Kentucky, 6-1, 166, So., Nashville; Xavier Legette, South Carolina, 6-3, 227, Sr., Mullins, South CarolinaDefenseDE — Princely Umanmielen, 6-5, 255, Jr., Manor, TexasDE — Landon Jackson, Arkansas, 6-7, 281, Texarkana, TexasDT — Justin Eboigbe, Alabama, 6-5, 292, Sr., Forest Park, GeorgiaDT — Nazir Stackhouse, Georgia, 6-3, 320, Sr., Stone Mountain, GeorgiaLB — Jett Johnson, Mississippi State, 6-2, 230, grad, Tupelo, MississippiLB — Chris Braswell, Alabama, 6-3, 255, Sr., Baltimore, MarylandLB — Debo Williams, South Carolina, 6-1, 232, Jr., Smyrna, DelawareCB — Terrion Arnold, Alabama, 6-0, 196, So., Tallahassee, FloridaCB — Maxwell Hairston, Kentucky, 6-0, 196, So., West Bloomfield, MichiganS — Javon Bullard, Georgia, 5-11, 195, Jr., Milledgeville, GeorgiaS — Caleb Downs, Alabama, 6-0, 203, Fr., Hoschton, GeorgiaP — Jeremy Chrawshaw, Florida, 6-4, 200, Jr., New South Wales, AustraliaOffensive Player of the Year — u-Jayden Daniels, QB, LSUDefensive Player of the Year — Nathaniel Watson, LB, Mississippi StateCoach of the Year — Eliah Drinkwitz, MissouriNewcomer of the Year — Caleb Downs, S, Alabama