Missouri Western women's basketball has followed a familiar formula in the latter half of its current 11-game winning streak.

Wanting to get its offense back to full speed, while also playing stellar defense from start to finish.

The No. 24 Griffons (21-4, 16-3 MIAA) hasn't quite had the offensive firepower as of late, but the defense turned in yet another stellar performance in a 57-43 win over Rogers State on Saturday at the MWSU Fieldhouse in St. Joseph.

Missouri Western hasn't scored more than 73 points in the last six games. They haven't scored more than 61 in the last three.

Yet, their last four opponents have been held to 59 points or fewer.

The last team to shoot better than 40% against the Griffons was Central Missouri - six games ago.

Rogers State (9-15, 4-14 MIAA) was held to 32.8% shooting Saturday, including 0-of-10 from three. Missouri Western scored 19 points off of 18 Hillcat turnovers.

The Griffons led by nine at halftime, but that lead was cut down to three, 29-26, with 8:40 left in the third. Missouri Western ended the quarter on a 12-2 run, entering the fourth, ahead 41-28.

That lead ballooned to 56-37 with 2:07 remaining. The Griffons honored six seniors on Senior Day Saturday. Two of them came up big in the win.

Connie Clarke logged her 26th career double-double as a Griffon with 15 points and 14 rebounds - both game-highs. She also had three steals.

Jordan Cunningham came off the bench, tying her season-high with 13 points on 6-of-6 shooting.&nbsp;

Missouri Western won the rebounding battle 43-34. The Griffons also scored 32 fastbreak points, while Rogers State had just two of those. Missouri Western also got 29 bench points.

With Fort Hays State and Missouri Southern both taking losses on Saturday, Missouri Western now has a two-game lead in the MIAA standings with just three regular season games left.

A win at Northwest Missouri State next Saturday would clinch at least a share of the regular season conference title - something the Griffons haven't captured since 2016.

Griffon men lose 11-point lead, and lose in another heartbreaker

The way Thursday's and Saturday's games unfolded for Missouri Western men's basketball this week was eerily identical.

In both games played in St. Joseph, the final home games of the season, the Griffons (15-10, 9-10 MIAA) got off to a quick start and a nice lead, but both games were lost on, essentially, what ended up being buzzer beaters.

In Saturday's edition, with the game tied at 56-56 and 3.2 seconds left in regulation, Rogers State's Anthony Marshall Jr. inbounded in the half-court to teammate Rodney Battle.

Battle, fighting off Reese Glover, stepped back for a baseline bunny that floated high and through the cylinder.

That shot, with 0.6 seconds left, lifted the Hillcats to a 58-56 win over the Griffons on Saturday at MWSU Fieldhouse.

This two days after the Griffons <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/12a25d0e-e3d9-4888-a601-2f052665b23e">lost to Northeastern State, 62-61</a>, on a go-ahead layup with 1.6 seconds remaining.

Missouri Western (15-10, 9-10), losers in seven of their last eight overall, were without their top rebounder and second best scorer Taye Fields Saturday, who sustained both a wrist and a hip injury against Northeastern State Thursday.

Fields had started the first 24 games of the season.

Missouri Western coach Will Martin said in postgame on KFEQ Radio that Fields warmed up, but "just couldn't go" against Rogers. Martin did not specify when the all-MIAA guard/forward might return to the lineup.

Missouri Western was hot out of the gate, leading 27-16 with 6:38 left in the first half. Problem is, the Griffons didn't score again in the first half after that.

Rogers (14-10, 11-7 MIAA) ended the half on a 13-0 run to go up 29-27 at halftime.

The Griffons got down 41-36 with 9:52 to play, but weathered the storm in a game that featured seven lead changes and six ties.

Missouri Western went on a 10-2 run to take a 54-50 lead at the final media break with 4:40 to go.

But again, like the end of the first half, the Griffons went on a drought, being held scoreless for the last 3:17 of the game and hitting just one of their last 11 shot attempts.

Battle, who hit the game-winner, led Rogers State with a game-high 21 points. JaRon Thames went out in style on his Senior Day with his second straight double-double, logging 13 points and 12 boards.

Zion Swader had his first career double-double with 11 points and 11 rebounds. Senior Reese Glover, in his first start of the season and 44th of his career, scored 11 points on three made three-pointers.

Justin Bubak came off the bench for a season-high 10 points to go with six boards. Missouri Western dominated on the glass 48-27, but lost the turnover battle 14-6.

Both Missouri Western teams are off this week before going to Maryville to play Northwest Missouri State on Saturday, February 24.

The women's game starts at 1:30, the men's at 3:30. Both games are on KFEQ Radio (680, 95.3, 680kfeq.com, KFEQ app).

The Northwest women (20-5, 14-5 MIAA) have won five straight, beating Northeastern State Saturday, 72-54.

The Northwest men, ranked No. 11, are on the brink of clinching yet another MIAA regular season title - it'd be their 11th in a row.

The Bearcats pulled away from Northeastern State down the stretch in a 73-56 resul Saturday.

The Bearcat men have won 10 straight - ever since losing at Missouri Western on January 13, 76-70.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708220875163.jpeg" alt="Jayme Jackson (11) had six points in a 57-43 win over Rogers State on Saturday at the MWSU Fieldhouse. Photo by Arianne Boma." />
 <figcaption>Jayme Jackson (11) had six points in a 57-43 win over Rogers State on Saturday at the MWSU Fieldhouse. Photo by Arianne Boma.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostMissouri Western women's basketball has followed a familiar formula in the latter half of its current 11-game winning streak.Wanting to get its offense back to full speed, while also playing stellar defense from start to finish.The No. 24 Griffons (21-4, 16-3 MIAA) hasn't quite had the offensive firepower as of late, but the defense turned in yet another stellar performance in a 57-43 win over Rogers State on Saturday at the MWSU Fieldhouse in St. Joseph.Missouri Western hasn't scored more than 73 points in the last six games. They haven't scored more than 61 in the last three.Yet, their last four opponents have been held to 59 points or fewer.The last team to shoot better than 40% against the Griffons was Central Missouri - six games ago.Rogers State (9-15, 4-14 MIAA) was held to 32.8% shooting Saturday, including 0-of-10 from three. Missouri Western scored 19 points off of 18 Hillcat turnovers.The Griffons led by nine at halftime, but that lead was cut down to three, 29-26, with 8:40 left in the third. Missouri Western ended the quarter on a 12-2 run, entering the fourth, ahead 41-28.That lead ballooned to 56-37 with 2:07 remaining. The Griffons honored six seniors on Senior Day Saturday. Two of them came up big in the win.Connie Clarke logged her 26th career double-double as a Griffon with 15 points and 14 rebounds - both game-highs. She also had three steals.Jordan Cunningham came off the bench, tying her season-high with 13 points on 6-of-6 shooting.&nbsp;Missouri Western won the rebounding battle 43-34. The Griffons also scored 32 fastbreak points, while Rogers State had just two of those. Missouri Western also got 29 bench points.With Fort Hays State and Missouri Southern both taking losses on Saturday, Missouri Western now has a two-game lead in the MIAA standings with just three regular season games left.A win at Northwest Missouri State next Saturday would clinch at least a share of the regular season conference title - something the Griffons haven't captured since 2016.Candi Whitaker interview<div><iframe src="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kfeq-sports/embed/episodes/Candi-Whitaker---RSU-postgame---21724-e2ftve3/a-aavnpqc" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>Jordan Cunningham interview<div><iframe src="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kfeq-sports/embed/episodes/Jordan-Cunningham---RSU-postgame-e2fu0e1/a-aavnrl2" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708222820817.jpeg" alt="Mackenzie Hart (22) rings the bell in celebration." />
 <figcaption>Mackenzie Hart (22) rings the bell in celebration.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708222858584.jpeg" alt="Photo by Arianne Boma." />
 <figcaption>Photo by Arianne Boma.</figcaption>
 </figure>Griffon men lose 11-point lead, and lose in another heartbreakerThe way Thursday's and Saturday's games unfolded for Missouri Western men's basketball this week was eerily identical.In both games played in St. Joseph, the final home games of the season, the Griffons (15-10, 9-10 MIAA) got off to a quick start and a nice lead, but both games were lost on, essentially, what ended up being buzzer beaters.In Saturday's edition, with the game tied at 56-56 and 3.2 seconds left in regulation, Rogers State's Anthony Marshall Jr. inbounded in the half-court to teammate Rodney Battle.Battle, fighting off Reese Glover, stepped back for a baseline bunny that floated high and through the cylinder.That shot, with 0.6 seconds left, lifted the Hillcats to a 58-56 win over the Griffons on Saturday at MWSU Fieldhouse.This two days after the Griffons <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/12a25d0e-e3d9-4888-a601-2f052665b23e">lost to Northeastern State, 62-61</a>, on a go-ahead layup with 1.6 seconds remaining.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Rodney Battle drills the catch and shoot midrange off the inbound with 0.4 to go as <a href="https://twitter.com/rsumbb?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@rsumbb</a> bears Missouri Western 58-56! <a href="https://t.co/r2pMu95IKP">pic.twitter.com/r2pMu95IKP</a>&mdash; NCAA D2 Buzzer Beaters (@D2BuzzerBeaters) <a href="https://twitter.com/D2BuzzerBeaters/status/1759032106607317380?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 18, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Missouri Western (15-10, 9-10), losers in seven of their last eight overall, were without their top rebounder and second best scorer Taye Fields Saturday, who sustained both a wrist and a hip injury against Northeastern State Thursday.Fields had started the first 24 games of the season.Missouri Western coach Will Martin said in postgame on KFEQ Radio that Fields warmed up, but "just couldn't go" against Rogers. Martin did not specify when the all-MIAA guard/forward might return to the lineup.Missouri Western was hot out of the gate, leading 27-16 with 6:38 left in the first half. Problem is, the Griffons didn't score again in the first half after that.Rogers (14-10, 11-7 MIAA) ended the half on a 13-0 run to go up 29-27 at halftime.The Griffons got down 41-36 with 9:52 to play, but weathered the storm in a game that featured seven lead changes and six ties.Missouri Western went on a 10-2 run to take a 54-50 lead at the final media break with 4:40 to go.But again, like the end of the first half, the Griffons went on a drought, being held scoreless for the last 3:17 of the game and hitting just one of their last 11 shot attempts.Battle, who hit the game-winner, led Rogers State with a game-high 21 points. JaRon Thames went out in style on his Senior Day with his second straight double-double, logging 13 points and 12 boards.Zion Swader had his first career double-double with 11 points and 11 rebounds. Senior Reese Glover, in his first start of the season and 44th of his career, scored 11 points on three made three-pointers.Justin Bubak came off the bench for a season-high 10 points to go with six boards. Missouri Western dominated on the glass 48-27, but lost the turnover battle 14-6.Both Missouri Western teams are off this week before going to Maryville to play Northwest Missouri State on Saturday, February 24.The women's game starts at 1:30, the men's at 3:30. Both games are on KFEQ Radio (680, 95.3, 680kfeq.com, KFEQ app).The Northwest women (20-5, 14-5 MIAA) have won five straight, beating Northeastern State Saturday, 72-54.The Northwest men, ranked No. 11, are on the brink of clinching yet another MIAA regular season title - it'd be their 11th in a row.The Bearcats pulled away from Northeastern State down the stretch in a 73-56 resul Saturday.The Bearcat men have won 10 straight - ever since losing at Missouri Western on January 13, 76-70.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708223442023.jpeg" alt="Zion Swader (2) had his first career double-double Saturday. Photo by Arianne Boma." />
 <figcaption>Zion Swader (2) had his first career double-double Saturday. Photo by Arianne Boma.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708223510068.jpeg" alt="JaRon Thames (24) had his fourth double-double of the season Saturday. Photo by Arianne Boma." />
 <figcaption>JaRon Thames (24) had his fourth double-double of the season Saturday. Photo by Arianne Boma.</figcaption>
 </figure>Will Martin interview<div><iframe src="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kfeq-sports/embed/episodes/Will-Martin---RSU-postgame---21724-e2fu0rb/a-aavns7p" 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-MBB-vs--Rogers-State---21724-e2fu0lg/a-aavns40" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

MWSU WBB beats Rogers State on Senior Day, Griffon men drop another heartbreaker

Missouri Western women's basketball, once again, leaned on its defense and the Griffons kept their win streak going with a 58-49 victory over Northeastern State on Thursday at the MWSU Fieldhouse in St. Joseph.

The Riverhawks (12-11, 8-9 MIAA) scored the first four points of the game, but No. 24 Missouri Western led 5-4 at the first media break and never trailed after.

The Griffons (20-4, 15-3 MIAA) led 22-19 at halftime, but started the third quarter on a 14-0 run to lead 36-19 midway through the period.

Northeastern State limited the damage, and trailed by only seven points at the start of the fourth quarter, but the Griffons scored 20 points over the final 10 minutes to keep the Riverhawks at bay.

Northeastern, who beat the Griffons 74-58 in Tahlequah, Oklahoma back on January 6, are a much improved team, having already doubled their win total from last season.

Connie Clarke led three Griffons in double figures with 12 points to go with six rebounds, three steals and two blocks.

Brionna Budgets and Tiani Ellison each had 10 points. All of Budgets' points came in the second half. Ellison tied a team-high with six rebounds.

Missouri Western got 29 points from their bench, and held the Riverhawks to just 31.3% shooting (15-of-48). Northeastern made 14-of-17 at the foul line.

The Griffons scored 23 points off of 22 Northeastern turnovers. Missouri Western was limited to 38.1% shooting (24-of-63) and just 3-of-19 from three.

Still, Missouri Western pushes their win streak to 10 games, the Griffons remain in first place in the MIAA standings and have now won 15 of their last 16.

Griffon men battle through injuries, fouls, lose heartbreaker to NSU

Missouri Western was without star player and lead rebounder Taye Fields for most of Thursday's game against Northeastern State.

Fields got injured midway through the first half and played only 13 minutes with an apparent hand/wrist injury. He was on the floor for about two minutes of the second half.

That, paired with foul trouble for Missouri Western starters Kiani Saxon and Julius Dixon, made things difficult for the Griffons.

Missouri Western (14-9, 9-9) battled, got 19 bench points in a game with 13 ties and 11 lead changes, but the Riverhawks scored the winning basket with 1.6 seconds left, and Northeastern beat the Griffons, 62-61, Thursday night.

Caison Hartloff got the ball with only six seconds left, got down the lane on a dribble, put up a shot and got the friendly roll to give Northeastern State (9-14, 4-13 MIAA) the win.

Hartloff finished with 12 points in the game.

JaRon Thames led the Griffons on a valiant effort with 23 points and 12 rebounds - both game-highs. The 12 boards were a career-high.

Ethan Blackmon led four Riverhawks in double figures with 14 points off the bench. Northeastern was efficient all night, shooting 52.1% (25-of-48) from the field. Missouri Western wasn't bad, shooting 45.3% (25-of-53).

Both teams committed 15 turnovers. The Riverhawks won the points off turnovers battle, 19-11.

Missouri Western has now dropped six of their last seven games. Northeastern State has played some better ball lately, scoring wins over Missouri Southern, Washburn and now Western - all since January 24.

Both Griffon teams play their final home game of the regular season Saturday, hosting Rogers State. The women tip at 1:30, the men at 3:30. Both games are on KFEQ Radio (680, 95.3, 680kfeq.com, KFEQ app). Coverage starts at 1 p.m.

Saturday's games will also be Senior Day for the Griffons.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708061424590.jpeg" alt="Tiani Ellison came off the bench for 10 points and six rebounds in a 58-49 win over Northeastern State Thursday. Photo by Arianne Boma." />
 <figcaption>Tiani Ellison came off the bench for 10 points and six rebounds in a 58-49 win over Northeastern State Thursday. Photo by Arianne Boma.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostMissouri Western women's basketball, once again, leaned on its defense and the Griffons kept their win streak going with a 58-49 victory over Northeastern State on Thursday at the MWSU Fieldhouse in St. Joseph.The Riverhawks (12-11, 8-9 MIAA) scored the first four points of the game, but No. 24 Missouri Western led 5-4 at the first media break and never trailed after.The Griffons (20-4, 15-3 MIAA) led 22-19 at halftime, but started the third quarter on a 14-0 run to lead 36-19 midway through the period.Northeastern State limited the damage, and trailed by only seven points at the start of the fourth quarter, but the Griffons scored 20 points over the final 10 minutes to keep the Riverhawks at bay.Northeastern, who beat the Griffons 74-58 in Tahlequah, Oklahoma back on January 6, are a much improved team, having already doubled their win total from last season.Connie Clarke led three Griffons in double figures with 12 points to go with six rebounds, three steals and two blocks.Brionna Budgets and Tiani Ellison each had 10 points. All of Budgets' points came in the second half. Ellison tied a team-high with six rebounds.Missouri Western got 29 points from their bench, and held the Riverhawks to just 31.3% shooting (15-of-48). Northeastern made 14-of-17 at the foul line.The Griffons scored 23 points off of 22 Northeastern turnovers. Missouri Western was limited to 38.1% shooting (24-of-63) and just 3-of-19 from three.Still, Missouri Western pushes their win streak to 10 games, the Griffons remain in first place in the MIAA standings and have now won 15 of their last 16.Candi Whitaker interview<div><iframe src="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kfeq-sports/embed/episodes/Candi-Whitaker---NSU-postgame-e2frp0t/a-aavi3jh" 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-vs--Northeastern-State---21524-e2frout/a-aavi3hs" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>Griffon men battle through injuries, fouls, lose heartbreaker to NSUMissouri Western was without star player and lead rebounder Taye Fields for most of Thursday's game against Northeastern State.Fields got injured midway through the first half and played only 13 minutes with an apparent hand/wrist injury. He was on the floor for about two minutes of the second half.That, paired with foul trouble for Missouri Western starters Kiani Saxon and Julius Dixon, made things difficult for the Griffons.Missouri Western (14-9, 9-9) battled, got 19 bench points in a game with 13 ties and 11 lead changes, but the Riverhawks scored the winning basket with 1.6 seconds left, and Northeastern beat the Griffons, 62-61, Thursday night.Caison Hartloff got the ball with only six seconds left, got down the lane on a dribble, put up a shot and got the friendly roll to give Northeastern State (9-14, 4-13 MIAA) the win.Hartloff finished with 12 points in the game.JaRon Thames led the Griffons on a valiant effort with 23 points and 12 rebounds - both game-highs. The 12 boards were a career-high.Ethan Blackmon led four Riverhawks in double figures with 14 points off the bench. Northeastern was efficient all night, shooting 52.1% (25-of-48) from the field. Missouri Western wasn't bad, shooting 45.3% (25-of-53).Both teams committed 15 turnovers. The Riverhawks won the points off turnovers battle, 19-11.Missouri Western has now dropped six of their last seven games. Northeastern State has played some better ball lately, scoring wins over Missouri Southern, Washburn and now Western - all since January 24.Both Griffon teams play their final home game of the regular season Saturday, hosting Rogers State. The women tip at 1:30, the men at 3:30. Both games are on KFEQ Radio (680, 95.3, 680kfeq.com, KFEQ app). Coverage starts at 1 p.m.Saturday's games will also be Senior Day for the Griffons.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708063006500.jpeg" alt="JaRon Thames (24). Photo by Arianne Boma." />
 <figcaption>JaRon Thames (24). Photo by Arianne Boma.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708063034244.jpeg" alt="Zion Swader." />
 <figcaption>Zion Swader.</figcaption>
 </figure>Will Martin interview<div><iframe src="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kfeq-sports/embed/episodes/Will-Martin---NSU-postgame-e2frp2v/a-aavi3po" 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-MBB-vs--Northeastern-State---21524-e2frp1n/a-aavi3nl" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

MWSU WBB reaches 20th win of the season vs. NSU, MWSU men lose heartbreaker

St. Joseph Christian School announced Dr. James Schoonover as the new head football coach for the 2024-2025 school year.

Schoonover succeeds Troy Schenk, who had held the position since 2018. The Lions are coming off of a 7-4 season in 2023 - their highest win total since 2015.

Schoonover started coaching with the Lions as an assistant coach for baseball and football in 2023.

Schoonover was born and raised in Mound City, where he graduated valedictorian. He lives in St. Joseph with his wife, Holly and his two sons, Jet and Jordy.

During his high school tenure at Mound City, Schoonover's teams won three 8-man football state championships. He earned All-state awards at three positions and was named 8-man Player of the Year his senior year.

 Through high school, Schoonover participated in football, basketball, track and baseball, earning all-conference and all-state awards in multiple sports.

Following high school, Schoonover played football for the Griffons at Missouri Western. He was on the team from 2011-2014 and is a part of the 2012 squad that won the MIAA and is in the Griffons' Athletic Hall of Fame.

 Following a career ending injury, Schoonover switched his major to pre-med and transferred to Cleveland University where he completed the remainder of his eight-year college stint. He finished with a bachelors degree in Human Biology and a Doctorate in Chiropractic being awarded academic honors for his GPA.

Schoonover comes from a sports family. Both of his parents had successful sports careers, playing and coaching college sports. His four siblings had successful high school and college careers as well, with one currently serving as Special Teams Coordinator at Ole Miss.

In 2022, Schoonover started Thrive Family Chiropractic. In 2023, he and his wife started their own IV clinic in St. Joseph, where they provide intravenous and intramuscular injections to patients for health and wellness goals.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708020986868.jpeg" alt="Dr. James Schoonover." />
 <figcaption>Dr. James Schoonover.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostSt. Joseph Christian School announced Dr. James Schoonover as the new head football coach for the 2024-2025 school year.Schoonover succeeds Troy Schenk, who had held the position since 2018. The Lions are coming off of a 7-4 season in 2023 - their highest win total since 2015.Schoonover started coaching with the Lions as an assistant coach for baseball and football in 2023.Schoonover was born and raised in Mound City, where he graduated valedictorian. He lives in St. Joseph with his wife, Holly and his two sons, Jet and Jordy.During his high school tenure at Mound City, Schoonover's teams won three 8-man football state championships. He earned All-state awards at three positions and was named 8-man Player of the Year his senior year. Through high school, Schoonover participated in football, basketball, track and baseball, earning all-conference and all-state awards in multiple sports.Following high school, Schoonover played football for the Griffons at Missouri Western. He was on the team from 2011-2014 and is a part of the 2012 squad that won the MIAA and is in the Griffons' Athletic Hall of Fame. Following a career ending injury, Schoonover switched his major to pre-med and transferred to Cleveland University where he completed the remainder of his eight-year college stint. He finished with a bachelors degree in Human Biology and a Doctorate in Chiropractic being awarded academic honors for his GPA.Schoonover comes from a sports family. Both of his parents had successful sports careers, playing and coaching college sports. His four siblings had successful high school and college careers as well, with one currently serving as Special Teams Coordinator at Ole Miss.In 2022, Schoonover started Thrive Family Chiropractic. In 2023, he and his wife started their own IV clinic in St. Joseph, where they provide intravenous and intramuscular injections to patients for health and wellness goals.

St. Joseph Christian names James Schoonover as new head football coach

KANSAS CITY, MO— The mass shooting that unfolded at the conclusion of the Kansas City Chiefs’&nbsp;Super Bowl parade and rally appeared to stem from a dispute between several people, authorities said Thursday.

Police Chief Stacey Graves said that the 22 people wounded in the shooting ranged between the ages of 8 and 47 years old - half were under the age of 16. A mother of two was also killed.

Three people were detained, including two juveniles, and firearms were recovered during the mayhem, police said. But, investigators are calling for witnesses, people with cellphone footage and victims of the violence to call a dedicated hotline.

"We are working to determine the involvement of others. And it should be noted we have recovered several firearms. This incident is still a very active investigation,” Graves said at a news conference.

University Health spokesperson Leslie Carto said two of the eight gunshot victims brought to the hospital are still in critical condition. One is in stable condition. The other five have been discharged. The hospital also treated four people from the rally who had non-gunshot injuries. Three of those patients were discharged.

Stephanie Meyer, chief nursing officer for Children’s Mercy Kansas City, said it was treating 12 patients from the rally, including 11 children between the ages of 6-15 - many of whom suffered gunshot wounds. All are expected to recover.

St. Luke’s Hospital spokesperson Emily Hohenberg said one gunshot victim at the hospital remains in critical condition. Four people who suffered injuries while fleeing the aftermath of the shooting were treated and released.

The shooting&nbsp;outside Union Station occurred, despite the presence of more than 800 police officers who were in the building and nearby, including on top of nearby structures. Mayor Quinton Lucas doesn't expect to cancel the upcoming St. Patrick’s Day parade in Kansas City.

“We have parades all the time. I don’t think they’ll end. Certainly we recognized the public safety challenges and issues that relate to them,” Lucas said.

It's unclear exactly how many people attended the Chief's Super Bowl parade.&nbsp;Witnesses described confusion as gunshots began, sounding to some like fireworks.

Some people didn’t run at first, but others immediately scrambled for cover. The rally music initially continued playing, despite the havoc.

Social media users posted shocking video of police running through Wednesday's crowded scene as people scrambled for cover and fled.

One video showed someone apparently performing chest compressions on a victim as another person, seemingly writhing in pain, lay on the ground nearby. People screamed in the background.

Another video showed two people chase and tackle a person, holding them down until two police officers arrived. It was not immediately clear if the person he held down was involved in the shooting.

The&nbsp;woman killed in the shooting&nbsp;was identified by radio station KKFI-FM as host Lisa Lopez-Galvan.

Kansas City has long struggled with gun violence, and in 2020 it was&nbsp;among nine cities&nbsp;targeted by the U.S. Justice Department in an effort to crack down on violent crime. In 2023, the city matched a record with 182 homicides, most of which involved guns.

Lucas has joined with mayors across the country in calling for new laws to reduce gun violence, including mandating universal background checks.

“We did everything to make this event as safe as possible,” Lucas, a Democrat, said in an interview. "But, as long as we have fools who will commit these types of acts, as long as we have their access to firearms with this level of capacity, then we may see incidents like this one.”

The parade and rally were the third in five years after Chiefs' Super Bowl wins. Lucas said it may be time to reconsider how to handle the next one if they win again, perhaps holding a “vastly smaller event” at Arrowhead Stadium, with fans going through metal detectors.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708018481478.jpeg" alt="Emergency crew arrive at the scene after an incident following the Kansas City Chiefs victory parade in Kansas City, Mo., Wednesday, Feb. 14, 2024. The Chiefs defeated the San Francisco 49ers Sunday in the NFL Super Bowl 58 football game. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)." />
 <figcaption>Emergency crew arrive at the scene after an incident following the Kansas City Chiefs victory parade in Kansas City, Mo., Wednesday, Feb. 14, 2024. The Chiefs defeated the San Francisco 49ers Sunday in the NFL Super Bowl 58 football game. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel).</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostKANSAS CITY, MO— The mass shooting that unfolded at the conclusion of the Kansas City Chiefs’&nbsp;Super Bowl parade and rally appeared to stem from a dispute between several people, authorities said Thursday.Police Chief Stacey Graves said that the 22 people wounded in the shooting ranged between the ages of 8 and 47 years old - half were under the age of 16. A mother of two was also killed.Three people were detained, including two juveniles, and firearms were recovered during the mayhem, police said. But, investigators are calling for witnesses, people with cellphone footage and victims of the violence to call a dedicated hotline."We are working to determine the involvement of others. And it should be noted we have recovered several firearms. This incident is still a very active investigation,” Graves said at a news conference.University Health spokesperson Leslie Carto said two of the eight gunshot victims brought to the hospital are still in critical condition. One is in stable condition. The other five have been discharged. The hospital also treated four people from the rally who had non-gunshot injuries. Three of those patients were discharged.Stephanie Meyer, chief nursing officer for Children’s Mercy Kansas City, said it was treating 12 patients from the rally, including 11 children between the ages of 6-15 - many of whom suffered gunshot wounds. All are expected to recover.St. Luke’s Hospital spokesperson Emily Hohenberg said one gunshot victim at the hospital remains in critical condition. Four people who suffered injuries while fleeing the aftermath of the shooting were treated and released.The shooting&nbsp;outside Union Station occurred, despite the presence of more than 800 police officers who were in the building and nearby, including on top of nearby structures. Mayor Quinton Lucas doesn't expect to cancel the upcoming St. Patrick’s Day parade in Kansas City.“We have parades all the time. I don’t think they’ll end. Certainly we recognized the public safety challenges and issues that relate to them,” Lucas said.It's unclear exactly how many people attended the Chief's Super Bowl parade.&nbsp;Witnesses described confusion as gunshots began, sounding to some like fireworks.Some people didn’t run at first, but others immediately scrambled for cover. The rally music initially continued playing, despite the havoc.Social media users posted shocking video of police running through Wednesday's crowded scene as people scrambled for cover and fled.One video showed someone apparently performing chest compressions on a victim as another person, seemingly writhing in pain, lay on the ground nearby. People screamed in the background.Another video showed two people chase and tackle a person, holding them down until two police officers arrived. It was not immediately clear if the person he held down was involved in the shooting.The&nbsp;woman killed in the shooting&nbsp;was identified by radio station KKFI-FM as host Lisa Lopez-Galvan.Kansas City has long struggled with gun violence, and in 2020 it was&nbsp;among nine cities&nbsp;targeted by the U.S. Justice Department in an effort to crack down on violent crime. In 2023, the city matched a record with 182 homicides, most of which involved guns.Lucas has joined with mayors across the country in calling for new laws to reduce gun violence, including mandating universal background checks.“We did everything to make this event as safe as possible,” Lucas, a Democrat, said in an interview. "But, as long as we have fools who will commit these types of acts, as long as we have their access to firearms with this level of capacity, then we may see incidents like this one.”The parade and rally were the third in five years after Chiefs' Super Bowl wins. Lucas said it may be time to reconsider how to handle the next one if they win again, perhaps holding a “vastly smaller event” at Arrowhead Stadium, with fans going through metal detectors.The Associated Press contributed to this report.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708018810884.jpeg" alt="Emergency medical technicians walk around the scene after an incident following the Kansas City Chiefs victory parade in Kansas City, Mo., Wednesday, Feb. 14, 2024. The Chiefs defeated the San Francisco 49ers Sunday in the NFL Super Bowl 58 football game. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)." />
 <figcaption>Emergency medical technicians walk around the scene after an incident following the Kansas City Chiefs victory parade in Kansas City, Mo., Wednesday, Feb. 14, 2024. The Chiefs defeated the San Francisco 49ers Sunday in the NFL Super Bowl 58 football game. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel).</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708018861457.jpeg" alt="Police clear the area following a shooting at the Kansas City Chiefs NFL football Super Bowl celebration in Kansas City, Mo., Wednesday, Feb. 14, 2024. Multiple people were injured, a fire official said.(AP Photo/Reed Hoffmann)." />
 <figcaption>Police clear the area following a shooting at the Kansas City Chiefs NFL football Super Bowl celebration in Kansas City, Mo., Wednesday, Feb. 14, 2024. Multiple people were injured, a fire official said.(AP Photo/Reed Hoffmann).</figcaption>
 </figure>

Super Bowl parade shooting may have stemmed from dispute among several people

KANSAS CITY —Authorities say one person has died and 22 people have been wounded in the shooting after the Kansas City Chiefs' Super Bowl rally outside of Union Station Wednesday.

Eight victims were said to have had 'immediately' life threatening wounds, according to Kansas City Police. Seven are said to have had life threatening wounds. Six suffered minor wounds.

Radio station KKFI said in a Facebook post Wednesday evening that Lisa Lopez-Galvan, host of “Taste of Tejano,” was killed in the shooting.

“This senseless act has taken a beautiful person from her family and this KC Community,” KKFI said in a statement.

Children's Mercy Hospital in Kansas City reported late Wednesday afternoon that they are treating 12 patients - 11 of whom are children, and eight of them are being treated for gunshot wounds.

A Children's spokesperson confirmed Wednesday evening, though, that none of the children being treated there are in critical condition and all are expected to recover.

University Health spokeswoman Nancy Lewis said the hospital was treating eight gunshot victims. Two were in critical condition and six were in stable condition, she said.

The hospital also was treating four people for other injuries resulting from the chaos after the shooting, Lewis said.

Police say three people had been taken into custody.

At the conclusion of the Chiefs' Super Bowl parade on Wednesday afternoon, shots were fired west of Union Station near the parking garage, where multiple people were struck, according to police.

“This is absolutely a tragedy, the likes of which we never would have expected in Kansas City, the likes of which we’ll remember for some time,” Mayor Quinton Lucas said.

Mayor Lucas confirmed that all Chiefs players, coaches and staff members are safe and accounted for.

“We are truly saddened by the senseless act of violence that occurred outside of Union Station at the conclusion of today's parade and rally,” the Chiefs said in a&nbsp;statement. “Our hearts go out to the victims, their families and all of Kansas City.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

The NFL issued&nbsp;its own statement&nbsp;saying it was “deeply saddened” and adding that its ”thoughts are with the victims and everyone affected.”

Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce said he was “heartbroken” by the shooting.

“KC, you mean the world to me,” he&nbsp;posted on X, formerly known as Twitter.

Quarterback and Super Bowl MVP Patrick Mahomes said in a&nbsp;post on X, “Praying for Kansas City.” He included three emojis of hands in prayer.

Offensive tackle Donovan Smith, defensive tackle Mike Pennel and safety Justin Reid were among the Chiefs players offering similar statements of support on social media.

“My thoughts and prayers are with everyone affected by today’s incidents — a huge thank you to the first responders who ran towards the sound of danger,” offensive guard&nbsp;Trey Smith&nbsp;posted on X. “You’re the ones who should be celebrated today.”

Mayor Lucas said around 800 law enforcement officers were part of the response, including 250 officers from outside agencies.

"I’m angry at what happened today. The people who came to this celebration should expect a safe environment," Kansas City Police Chiefs Stacey Graves said.

Missouri Gov. Mike Parson and First Lady Teresa Parson were at the parade during the gunfire but were unhurt. “Thanks to the professionalism of our security officers and first responders, Teresa and I and our staff are safe and secure,” Parson said in a statement.

President Joe Biden has been briefed on the shooting in Kansas City and will continue to receive updates, a White House spokesperson said.

Biden said the shooting “cuts deep in the American soul” and called on people to press Congress to ban assault weapons, to limit high-capacity gun magazines and for other gun measures that have been rejected by Republicans.

“Today’s events should move us, shock us, shame us into acting. What are we waiting for?” he said.

White House officials have been in touch with state and local leaders, and federal law enforcement is on the scene supporting local law enforcement.

Social media users posted shocking video. One user’s video showed someone apparently performing chest compressions on a shooting victim as another person, seemingly writhing in pain, lay on the ground nearby. People screamed in the background.

Another video showed two people chase and tackle a person, holding them down until two police officers arrived.

Areas that had been filled with crowds were empty after the shooting, with police and firefighters standing and talking behind an area restricted by yellow tape.

Throngs had lined the route, with fans climbing trees and street poles, or standing on rooftops for a better view. Players rolled through the crowd on double-decker buses, DJs and drummers heralding their arrival. Owner Clark Hunt was on one of those buses, holding the Lombardi Trophy.

Eyewitness report (Cody Oshel of Weatherby Lake)

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707945460107.jpeg" alt="Police cordon off the area around Union Station following a shooting at the Kansas City Chiefs NFL football Super Bowl celebration in Kansas City, Mo., Wednesday, Feb. 14, 2024. Multiple people were injured, a fire official said. (AP Photo/Reed Hoffmann)." />
 <figcaption>Police cordon off the area around Union Station following a shooting at the Kansas City Chiefs NFL football Super Bowl celebration in Kansas City, Mo., Wednesday, Feb. 14, 2024. Multiple people were injured, a fire official said. (AP Photo/Reed Hoffmann).</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostKANSAS CITY —Authorities say one person has died and 22 people have been wounded in the shooting after the Kansas City Chiefs' Super Bowl rally outside of Union Station Wednesday.Eight victims were said to have had 'immediately' life threatening wounds, according to Kansas City Police. Seven are said to have had life threatening wounds. Six suffered minor wounds.Radio station KKFI said in a Facebook post Wednesday evening that Lisa Lopez-Galvan, host of “Taste of Tejano,” was killed in the shooting.“This senseless act has taken a beautiful person from her family and this KC Community,” KKFI said in a statement.Children's Mercy Hospital in Kansas City reported late Wednesday afternoon that they are treating 12 patients - 11 of whom are children, and eight of them are being treated for gunshot wounds.A Children's spokesperson confirmed Wednesday evening, though, that none of the children being treated there are in critical condition and all are expected to recover.University Health spokeswoman Nancy Lewis said the hospital was treating eight gunshot victims. Two were in critical condition and six were in stable condition, she said.The hospital also was treating four people for other injuries resulting from the chaos after the shooting, Lewis said.Police say three people had been taken into custody.At the conclusion of the Chiefs' Super Bowl parade on Wednesday afternoon, shots were fired west of Union Station near the parking garage, where multiple people were struck, according to police.“This is absolutely a tragedy, the likes of which we never would have expected in Kansas City, the likes of which we’ll remember for some time,” Mayor Quinton Lucas said.Mayor Lucas confirmed that all Chiefs players, coaches and staff members are safe and accounted for.“We are truly saddened by the senseless act of violence that occurred outside of Union Station at the conclusion of today's parade and rally,” the Chiefs said in a&nbsp;statement. “Our hearts go out to the victims, their families and all of Kansas City.”&nbsp;&nbsp;The NFL issued&nbsp;its own statement&nbsp;saying it was “deeply saddened” and adding that its ”thoughts are with the victims and everyone affected.”Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce said he was “heartbroken” by the shooting.“KC, you mean the world to me,” he&nbsp;posted on X, formerly known as Twitter.Quarterback and Super Bowl MVP Patrick Mahomes said in a&nbsp;post on X, “Praying for Kansas City.” He included three emojis of hands in prayer.Offensive tackle Donovan Smith, defensive tackle Mike Pennel and safety Justin Reid were among the Chiefs players offering similar statements of support on social media.“My thoughts and prayers are with everyone affected by today’s incidents — a huge thank you to the first responders who ran towards the sound of danger,” offensive guard&nbsp;Trey Smith&nbsp;posted on X. “You’re the ones who should be celebrated today.”Mayor Lucas said around 800 law enforcement officers were part of the response, including 250 officers from outside agencies."I’m angry at what happened today. The people who came to this celebration should expect a safe environment," Kansas City Police Chiefs Stacey Graves said.Missouri Gov. Mike Parson and First Lady Teresa Parson were at the parade during the gunfire but were unhurt. “Thanks to the professionalism of our security officers and first responders, Teresa and I and our staff are safe and secure,” Parson said in a statement.President Joe Biden has been briefed on the shooting in Kansas City and will continue to receive updates, a White House spokesperson said.Biden said the shooting “cuts deep in the American soul” and called on people to press Congress to ban assault weapons, to limit high-capacity gun magazines and for other gun measures that have been rejected by Republicans.“Today’s events should move us, shock us, shame us into acting. What are we waiting for?” he said.White House officials have been in touch with state and local leaders, and federal law enforcement is on the scene supporting local law enforcement.Social media users posted shocking video. One user’s video showed someone apparently performing chest compressions on a shooting victim as another person, seemingly writhing in pain, lay on the ground nearby. People screamed in the background.Another video showed two people chase and tackle a person, holding them down until two police officers arrived.Areas that had been filled with crowds were empty after the shooting, with police and firefighters standing and talking behind an area restricted by yellow tape.Throngs had lined the route, with fans climbing trees and street poles, or standing on rooftops for a better view. Players rolled through the crowd on double-decker buses, DJs and drummers heralding their arrival. Owner Clark Hunt was on one of those buses, holding the Lombardi Trophy.Eyewitness report (Cody Oshel of Weatherby Lake)<div><iframe src="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kfeq-sports/embed/episodes/Cody-Oshel---Chiefs-parade-attendee-e2fpvs8" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707945570654.jpeg" alt="A woman is taken to an ambulance after an incident following the Kansas City Chiefs NFL football Super Bowl celebration in Kansas City, Mo., Wednesday, Feb. 14, 2024. The Chiefs defeated the San Francisco 49ers Sunday in the Super Bowl 58. (AP Photo/Reed Hoffmann)." />
 <figcaption>A woman is taken to an ambulance after an incident following the Kansas City Chiefs NFL football Super Bowl celebration in Kansas City, Mo., Wednesday, Feb. 14, 2024. The Chiefs defeated the San Francisco 49ers Sunday in the Super Bowl 58. (AP Photo/Reed Hoffmann).</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707957880008.jpeg" alt="A person is taken to an ambulance after an incident following the Kansas City Chiefs victory parade in Kansas City, Mo., Wednesday, Feb. 14, 2024. The Chiefs defeated the San Francisco 49ers Sunday in the NFL Super Bowl 58 football game. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)." />
 <figcaption>A person is taken to an ambulance after an incident following the Kansas City Chiefs victory parade in Kansas City, Mo., Wednesday, Feb. 14, 2024. The Chiefs defeated the San Francisco 49ers Sunday in the NFL Super Bowl 58 football game. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel).</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707957914012.jpeg" alt="A law enforcement officer looks around the scene following a shooting at the Kansas City Chiefs NFL football Super Bowl celebration in Kansas City, Mo., Wednesday, Feb. 14, 2024. Multiple people were injured, a fire official said.(AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)." />
 <figcaption>A law enforcement officer looks around the scene following a shooting at the Kansas City Chiefs NFL football Super Bowl celebration in Kansas City, Mo., Wednesday, Feb. 14, 2024. Multiple people were injured, a fire official said.(AP Photo/Charlie Riedel).</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707958028584.jpeg" alt="Law enforcement personnel clear the area around Union Station following a shooting at the Kansas City Chiefs NFL football Super Bowl celebration in Kansas City, Mo., Wednesday, Feb. 14, 2024. Multiple people were injured, a fire official said.. (AP Photo/Reed Hoffmann)." />
 <figcaption>Law enforcement personnel clear the area around Union Station following a shooting at the Kansas City Chiefs NFL football Super Bowl celebration in Kansas City, Mo., Wednesday, Feb. 14, 2024. Multiple people were injured, a fire official said.. (AP Photo/Reed Hoffmann).</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707957978033.jpeg" alt="A person is taken to an ambulance after an incident following the Kansas City Chiefs victory parade in Kansas City, Mo., Wednesday, Feb. 14, 2024. The Chiefs defeated the San Francisco 49ers Sunday in the NFL Super Bowl 58 football game. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)." />
 <figcaption>A person is taken to an ambulance after an incident following the Kansas City Chiefs victory parade in Kansas City, Mo., Wednesday, Feb. 14, 2024. The Chiefs defeated the San Francisco 49ers Sunday in the NFL Super Bowl 58 football game. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel).</figcaption>
 </figure>

One person dead, 22 wounded in shooting after Chiefs parade Wednesday

The Kansas City Royals have selected the Crossroads location for its new stadium in downtown.

Royals owner John Sherman said Tuesday in a press conference that Kansas City is in a 'golden era,' and he hopes a new stadium can add to that.

"The arts, the music, the food and drink," Sherman said about the district. "I believe in my gut that the timing is right. I believe the timing is right for the Royals to become residents of the Crossroads district. We are thrilled to announce our plans to contribute to community dynamics and long-term growth for the Crossroads."

Sherman says he will be visible in the community to sell the project.

"I will be in the community to talk about our project. I want to hear from you."

The proposed development is located on the corner of Truman and Grand. The total project includes a new stadium, a hotel, team offices and a residential and entertainment venue.&nbsp;

The Royals said it will be a private-public partnership, saying they'll contribute $1 billion to the total $2 billion investment.

The new stadium should hold between 34,000 - 35,000 spectators, according to Royals' chief operating officer Brooks Sherman. The team is targeting a completion by Opening Day 2028.

Jackson County residents will, on April 2, get to vote on continuing the 3/8th-cent sales tax&nbsp;that goes to the Kansas City Royals and Kansas City Chiefs’ stadium projects for another 40 years.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707861796961.jpeg" alt="Courtesy of the Kansas City Royals." />
 <figcaption>Courtesy of the Kansas City Royals.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThe Kansas City Royals have selected the Crossroads location for its new stadium in downtown.Royals owner John Sherman said Tuesday in a press conference that Kansas City is in a 'golden era,' and he hopes a new stadium can add to that."The arts, the music, the food and drink," Sherman said about the district. "I believe in my gut that the timing is right. I believe the timing is right for the Royals to become residents of the Crossroads district. We are thrilled to announce our plans to contribute to community dynamics and long-term growth for the Crossroads."Sherman says he will be visible in the community to sell the project."I will be in the community to talk about our project. I want to hear from you."The proposed development is located on the corner of Truman and Grand. The total project includes a new stadium, a hotel, team offices and a residential and entertainment venue.&nbsp;The Royals said it will be a private-public partnership, saying they'll contribute $1 billion to the total $2 billion investment.The new stadium should hold between 34,000 - 35,000 spectators, according to Royals' chief operating officer Brooks Sherman. The team is targeting a completion by Opening Day 2028.Jackson County residents will, on April 2, get to vote on continuing the 3/8th-cent sales tax&nbsp;that goes to the Kansas City Royals and Kansas City Chiefs’ stadium projects for another 40 years.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707862318361.jpeg" alt="Courtesy photo." />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photo.</figcaption>
 </figure><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">We are excited to share our vision for the future of Royals baseball in the heart of Kansas City. <a href="https://t.co/1t2Wcumyoa">pic.twitter.com/1t2Wcumyoa</a>&mdash; Kansas City Royals (@Royals) <a href="https://twitter.com/Royals/status/1757507407754801238?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 13, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Royals unveil plans, location for new downtown ballpark site

Kansas City formed their dynasty with their latest Championship (3 in 5 years). Nearly 20 years after the last back 2 back winners! Re-live the excitement of the win.

<h2>Kansas City formed their dynasty with their latest Championship (3 in 5 years). Nearly 20 years after the last back 2 back winners! Re-live the excitement of the win.</h2><div><iframe width="100%" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/AOkdk2wKKqo?si=uCGGX7ZAi8jZ1i7B" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>

Kansas City Chiefs Back 2 Back Champions Remix

LAS VEGAS (AP) — Patrick Mahomes, Travis Kelce and the Kansas City Chiefs are back-to-back Super Bowl champions.

Can't really debate the whole dynasty thing anymore.

Mahomes threw a three-yard touchdown pass to Mecole Hardman with three seconds left in overtime, and the Chiefs rallied to beat the San Francisco 49ers, 25-22, on Sunday in the second overtime game in Super Bowl history at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas.

The Chiefs become the first repeat champions in the Super Bowl in 19 years and the ninth overall.

Mahomes also captured his third Super Bowl MVP title with 399 total yards of offense. With pop star Taylor Swift watching boyfriend Kelce from a suite, the Chiefs captured their third Super Bowl title in five years.

The NFL’s first Super Bowl in Las Vegas was a sloppy, mistake-filled affair that was mostly boring until the back-and-forth fourth quarter and OT.

It was the second of 58 Super Bowls to go to overtime - the last was in 2017 when the Patriots came back from a 28-3 deficit to stun the Falcons.

The Chiefs trailed 22-19 after Jake Moody kicked a 27-yard field goal on the first possession of overtime, but Mahomes rallied the Chiefs, completing another impressive comeback in a rematch of Super Bowl 54.

Mahomes ran eight yards on fourth-and-1 to keep the Chiefs' chances alive and then scrambled 19 yards to set up the game-winning score which came 14:57 into the extra period — just before what would have been the second OT.

“With all the adversity we’ve been through this season to come through tonight...I’m proud of the guys,” said Mahomes, who was named MVP. “This is awesome. Legendary.”

After he connected with a wide-open Hardman, the Chiefs ran on the field as red-and-yellow confetti fell on the turf.

The most excitement in the first half came when a frustrated Kelce&nbsp;bumped Andy Reid&nbsp;on the sideline, knocking the Chiefs' 65-year-old coach a few steps back after teammate Isiah Pacheco fumbled inside the red zone during the second quarter.

“You guys saw that?” Kelce said. “I’m going to keep it between us unless my ‘mic’d up’ tells the world. I was just telling him how much I loved him.”

The action picked up after a crucial blunder by San Francisco’s special teams set up Mahomes’ 16-yard TD pass to Marquez Valdes-Scantling for a 13-10 lead.

Brock Purdy and the 49ers answered, but they couldn’t make enough plays, denying Mr. Irrelevant an opportunity to go from last pick in the 2022 NFL draft to Super Bowl champion.

Purdy finished 23-of-38 through the air for 255 yards and a score.

Mahomes and Reid are now halfway to Tom Brady and Bill Belichick, who won six championships in 20 years together with the New England Patriots and were the most recent team to go back-to-back following the 2003-04 seasons.

The 28-year-old Mahomes becomes the fourth starting QB to win three Super Bowls — joining Brady, Joe Montana, Terry Bradshaw and Troy Aikman — and second-youngest.

Niners wide receiver Jauan Jennings threw a TD pass and caught one, joining Eagles quarterback Nick Foles six years ago as the only players to do both in the Super Bowl.

After Moody’s 53-yard field goal gave the 49ers a 19-16 lead with 1:53 remaining, Mahomes and Kelce went to work. Mahomes connected with Kelce for a 22-yard gain to set up Butker’s tying kick, a 29-yarder with 3 seconds left.

A holding call on Kansas City’s Trent McDuffie extended San Francisco’s opening drive of overtime and Purdy made key throws to drive the 49ers to the Chiefs 9. But, San Francisco settled for a field goal.

Purdy, Christian McCaffrey and the Niners jumped ahead 10-0, but that’s no big deal for Mahomes and the Chiefs in the Super Bowl, as history has shown. They’ve trailed by 10 points in all three of their victories, including last year’s 38-35 win over Philadelphia.

Mahomes wasn’t at his best early and threw an interception. But, with the game on the line, he was a magician once again. He finished 34 of 46 for 333 yards and two TDs. Kelce caught nine passes for 93 yards.

Mahomes was the team's leading rusher with 66 yards on nine carries.

The Chiefs were hardly dominant during the regular season and entered the playoffs as the AFC's No. 3 seed. They won at Buffalo and at Baltimore in the postseason — the first road playoff games of Mahomes' career — and entered the Super Bowl as 2.5-point underdogs, according to&nbsp;FanDuel Sportsbook.

“The Kansas City Chiefs are never underdogs. Just know that,” Mahomes said on the podium with CBS' Jim Nantz.

Mahomes wasn’t at his best early and threw an interception. But, with the game on the line, he was a magician once again. He finished 34 of 46 for 333 yards and two TDs.

The game turned when San Francisco’s Ray-Ray McCloud couldn’t scoop a punt that hit teammate Darrell Luter Jr.’s leg and the Chiefs recovered at the 49ers 16, leading to Mahomes' go-ahead TD pass to Valdes-Scantling.

The Niners answered on the next possession with Purdy tossing a 10-yard TD pass to Jennings for a 16-13 lead. Moody’s extra point was blocked.

Niners coach Kyle Shanahan gambled on fourth-and-3 from the Chiefs 15, passing up a chance for a tying field goal. Purdy hit George Kittle for a 4-yard gain and then found Jennings for the score.

Shanahan resorted to trickery for the only touchdown in the first half.

Jennings, a wide receiver who had never thrown a pass in an NFL game, tossed a 21-yard TD to McCaffrey. He was hit as he threw, but McCaffrey snagged the wobbly pass across the field and sprinted to the end zone.

Shanahan fell to 0-2 as a head coach in Super Bowls and 0-3 overall, including a loss when he was offensive coordinator for Atlanta. That was the game in which Brady and the Patriots rallied from a 28-3 deficit to win in OT.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707711773553.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes (15) celebrates after the NFL Super Bowl 58 football game against the San Francisco 49ers, Sunday, Feb. 11, 2024, in Las Vegas. The Kansas City Chiefs won 25-22 against the San Francisco 49ers. (AP Photo/John Locher)." />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes (15) celebrates after the NFL Super Bowl 58 football game against the San Francisco 49ers, Sunday, Feb. 11, 2024, in Las Vegas. The Kansas City Chiefs won 25-22 against the San Francisco 49ers. (AP Photo/John Locher).</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostLAS VEGAS (AP) — Patrick Mahomes, Travis Kelce and the Kansas City Chiefs are back-to-back Super Bowl champions.Can't really debate the whole dynasty thing anymore.Mahomes threw a three-yard touchdown pass to Mecole Hardman with three seconds left in overtime, and the Chiefs rallied to beat the San Francisco 49ers, 25-22, on Sunday in the second overtime game in Super Bowl history at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas.The Chiefs become the first repeat champions in the Super Bowl in 19 years and the ninth overall.Mahomes also captured his third Super Bowl MVP title with 399 total yards of offense. With pop star Taylor Swift watching boyfriend Kelce from a suite, the Chiefs captured their third Super Bowl title in five years.The NFL’s first Super Bowl in Las Vegas was a sloppy, mistake-filled affair that was mostly boring until the back-and-forth fourth quarter and OT. It was the second of 58 Super Bowls to go to overtime - the last was in 2017 when the Patriots came back from a 28-3 deficit to stun the Falcons.The Chiefs trailed 22-19 after Jake Moody kicked a 27-yard field goal on the first possession of overtime, but Mahomes rallied the Chiefs, completing another impressive comeback in a rematch of Super Bowl 54.Mahomes ran eight yards on fourth-and-1 to keep the Chiefs' chances alive and then scrambled 19 yards to set up the game-winning score which came 14:57 into the extra period — just before what would have been the second OT.“With all the adversity we’ve been through this season to come through tonight...I’m proud of the guys,” said Mahomes, who was named MVP. “This is awesome. Legendary.”After he connected with a wide-open Hardman, the Chiefs ran on the field as red-and-yellow confetti fell on the turf.The most excitement in the first half came when a frustrated Kelce&nbsp;bumped Andy Reid&nbsp;on the sideline, knocking the Chiefs' 65-year-old coach a few steps back after teammate Isiah Pacheco fumbled inside the red zone during the second quarter.“You guys saw that?” Kelce said. “I’m going to keep it between us unless my ‘mic’d up’ tells the world. I was just telling him how much I loved him.”The action picked up after a crucial blunder by San Francisco’s special teams set up Mahomes’ 16-yard TD pass to Marquez Valdes-Scantling for a 13-10 lead.Brock Purdy and the 49ers answered, but they couldn’t make enough plays, denying Mr. Irrelevant an opportunity to go from last pick in the 2022 NFL draft to Super Bowl champion.Purdy finished 23-of-38 through the air for 255 yards and a score.Mahomes and Reid are now halfway to Tom Brady and Bill Belichick, who won six championships in 20 years together with the New England Patriots and were the most recent team to go back-to-back following the 2003-04 seasons.The 28-year-old Mahomes becomes the fourth starting QB to win three Super Bowls — joining Brady, Joe Montana, Terry Bradshaw and Troy Aikman — and second-youngest.Niners wide receiver Jauan Jennings threw a TD pass and caught one, joining Eagles quarterback Nick Foles six years ago as the only players to do both in the Super Bowl.After Moody’s 53-yard field goal gave the 49ers a 19-16 lead with 1:53 remaining, Mahomes and Kelce went to work. Mahomes connected with Kelce for a 22-yard gain to set up Butker’s tying kick, a 29-yarder with 3 seconds left.A holding call on Kansas City’s Trent McDuffie extended San Francisco’s opening drive of overtime and Purdy made key throws to drive the 49ers to the Chiefs 9. But, San Francisco settled for a field goal.Purdy, Christian McCaffrey and the Niners jumped ahead 10-0, but that’s no big deal for Mahomes and the Chiefs in the Super Bowl, as history has shown. They’ve trailed by 10 points in all three of their victories, including last year’s 38-35 win over Philadelphia.Mahomes wasn’t at his best early and threw an interception. But, with the game on the line, he was a magician once again. He finished 34 of 46 for 333 yards and two TDs. Kelce caught nine passes for 93 yards.Mahomes was the team's leading rusher with 66 yards on nine carries.The Chiefs were hardly dominant during the regular season and entered the playoffs as the AFC's No. 3 seed. They won at Buffalo and at Baltimore in the postseason — the first road playoff games of Mahomes' career — and entered the Super Bowl as 2.5-point underdogs, according to&nbsp;FanDuel Sportsbook.“The Kansas City Chiefs are never underdogs. Just know that,” Mahomes said on the podium with CBS' Jim Nantz.Mahomes wasn’t at his best early and threw an interception. But, with the game on the line, he was a magician once again. He finished 34 of 46 for 333 yards and two TDs.The game turned when San Francisco’s Ray-Ray McCloud couldn’t scoop a punt that hit teammate Darrell Luter Jr.’s leg and the Chiefs recovered at the 49ers 16, leading to Mahomes' go-ahead TD pass to Valdes-Scantling.The Niners answered on the next possession with Purdy tossing a 10-yard TD pass to Jennings for a 16-13 lead. Moody’s extra point was blocked.Niners coach Kyle Shanahan gambled on fourth-and-3 from the Chiefs 15, passing up a chance for a tying field goal. Purdy hit George Kittle for a 4-yard gain and then found Jennings for the score.Shanahan resorted to trickery for the only touchdown in the first half.Jennings, a wide receiver who had never thrown a pass in an NFL game, tossed a 21-yard TD to McCaffrey. He was hit as he threw, but McCaffrey snagged the wobbly pass across the field and sprinted to the end zone.Shanahan fell to 0-2 as a head coach in Super Bowls and 0-3 overall, including a loss when he was offensive coordinator for Atlanta. That was the game in which Brady and the Patriots rallied from a 28-3 deficit to win in OT.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707712573182.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes, center, celebrates with wide receiver Mecole Hardman Jr. (12) after throwing the game-wining touchdown during overtime of the NFL Super Bowl 58 football game against the San Francisco 49ers Sunday, Feb. 11, 2024, in Las Vegas. (AP Photo/David J. Phillip)." />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes, center, celebrates with wide receiver Mecole Hardman Jr. (12) after throwing the game-wining touchdown during overtime of the NFL Super Bowl 58 football game against the San Francisco 49ers Sunday, Feb. 11, 2024, in Las Vegas. (AP Photo/David J. Phillip).</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707710305314.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Marquez Valdes-Scantling (11) celebrates his touchdown against the San Francisco 49ers during the second half of the NFL Super Bowl 58 football game Sunday, Feb. 11, 2024, in Las Vegas. (AP Photo/Ashley Landis)." />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Marquez Valdes-Scantling (11) celebrates his touchdown against the San Francisco 49ers during the second half of the NFL Super Bowl 58 football game Sunday, Feb. 11, 2024, in Las Vegas. (AP Photo/Ashley Landis).</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707710371282.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce yells after a play during the second half of the NFL Super Bowl 58 football game against the San Francisco 49ers, Sunday, Feb. 11, 2024, in Las Vegas. (AP Photo/Brynn Anderson)." />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce yells after a play during the second half of the NFL Super Bowl 58 football game against the San Francisco 49ers, Sunday, Feb. 11, 2024, in Las Vegas. (AP Photo/Brynn Anderson).</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707710199636.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes (15) runs against the San Francisco 49ers during the second half of the NFL Super Bowl 58 football game Sunday, Feb. 11, 2024, in Las Vegas. (AP Photo/George Walker IV)." />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes (15) runs against the San Francisco 49ers during the second half of the NFL Super Bowl 58 football game Sunday, Feb. 11, 2024, in Las Vegas. (AP Photo/George Walker IV).</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Mahomes rallies Chiefs to second straight Super Bowl win, 25-22 over 49ers in OT

EMPORIA, KS - Missouri Western women's basketball held a lead for nearly 35 minutes at Emporia State Saturday.

The Hornets (10-13, 7-10 MIAA), for the most part, never trailed by much. In fact, Emporia tied the game six times and even had a two-point lead for a fleeting 48 seconds late in the third quarter.

The fourth, however, belonged to the Griffons, as Missouri Western (19-4, 14-3 MIAA) outscored Emporia 20-10 over the final 10 minutes in a 61-51 win at White Auditorium in Emporia, Kansas Saturday.

The Griffons got outrebounded 21-12 in the first half, including 6-1 on the offensive glass, but came back to even the rebounding at 34 boards apiece.

Western's defense was also rock solid throughout, holding the Hornets to 34 percent shooting (18-of-53) and 26.1 percent (6-of-23) from long range.

With the game tied at 41 entering the fourth, Missouri Western made eight of their last 12 shots from the field, including a pair of critical three-pointers. The Griffons also outrebounded the Hornets in the fourth, 9-3.

Connie Clarke led the Griffons to their ninth straight win with 16 points, five rebounds, two assists, three steals and a block - all while picking up a third foul early in the second half.

Brionna Budgets was close behind with 14 points on 4-of-10 shooting from three. Mackenzie Hart came off the bench for 11 points on 4-of-8 shooting. LaJahda Boyland had six points and a career-high eight rebounds off the bench as well.

Missouri Western committed only eight turnovers, while scoring 17 points off of 12 Hornet giveaways.

The Griffons, winners in 14 of their last 15 games, are now in first place in the MIAA standings.

Missouri Southern, who had won 15 straight games entering Saturday, lost at home to Central Missouri, 78-65.

Both the Griffons and Lions are 14-3 in the league, but Missouri Western holds the tiebreaker, thanks to a 73-55 win over MoSo in St. Joseph back on Dec. 2.

Missouri Western has also won four straight against Emporia State and five of their last six against the Hornets.

Griffon men fall behind at halftime, turnovers fuel Hornets' win

Missouri Western went scoreless for the final 2:40 of the first half, and fell behind, 35-22, at halftime against Emporia State on Saturday.

The Griffons shot a respectable 12-of-25 in the second half, but Emporia also shot 12-of-25 the second half, and hit five three-pointers in that span as well.

In other words, Missouri Western never could make up their deficit, and the Griffons (15-8, 9-8 MIAA) fell at Emporia State, 70-56, on Saturday at White Auditorium.

The Hornets (15-10, 8-9 MIAA), who were without three of their original starters Saturday due to a plethora of injuries, turned Western over 16 times and scored 17 points off those.

The Hornets, meanwhile, turned it over only twice all game. Atavian Butler led the attack for Emporia with a game-high 23 points on 9-of-13 shooting. Drew Tennial scored 15, while Alijah Comithier had 12.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707612766131.jpeg" alt="Connie Clarke led Missouri Western with 18 points, eight rebounds and five assists in a 61-51 win at Emporia State Saturday. Stock photo." />
 <figcaption>Connie Clarke led Missouri Western with 18 points, eight rebounds and five assists in a 61-51 win at Emporia State Saturday. Stock photo.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostEMPORIA, KS - Missouri Western women's basketball held a lead for nearly 35 minutes at Emporia State Saturday.The Hornets (10-13, 7-10 MIAA), for the most part, never trailed by much. In fact, Emporia tied the game six times and even had a two-point lead for a fleeting 48 seconds late in the third quarter.The fourth, however, belonged to the Griffons, as Missouri Western (19-4, 14-3 MIAA) outscored Emporia 20-10 over the final 10 minutes in a 61-51 win at White Auditorium in Emporia, Kansas Saturday.The Griffons got outrebounded 21-12 in the first half, including 6-1 on the offensive glass, but came back to even the rebounding at 34 boards apiece.Western's defense was also rock solid throughout, holding the Hornets to 34 percent shooting (18-of-53) and 26.1 percent (6-of-23) from long range.With the game tied at 41 entering the fourth, Missouri Western made eight of their last 12 shots from the field, including a pair of critical three-pointers. The Griffons also outrebounded the Hornets in the fourth, 9-3.Connie Clarke led the Griffons to their ninth straight win with 16 points, five rebounds, two assists, three steals and a block - all while picking up a third foul early in the second half.Brionna Budgets was close behind with 14 points on 4-of-10 shooting from three. Mackenzie Hart came off the bench for 11 points on 4-of-8 shooting. LaJahda Boyland had six points and a career-high eight rebounds off the bench as well.Missouri Western committed only eight turnovers, while scoring 17 points off of 12 Hornet giveaways.The Griffons, winners in 14 of their last 15 games, are now in first place in the MIAA standings.Missouri Southern, who had won 15 straight games entering Saturday, lost at home to Central Missouri, 78-65.Both the Griffons and Lions are 14-3 in the league, but Missouri Western holds the tiebreaker, thanks to a 73-55 win over MoSo in St. Joseph back on Dec. 2.Missouri Western has also won four straight against Emporia State and five of their last six against the Hornets.Candi Whitaker interview<div><iframe src="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kfeq-sports/embed/episodes/Candi-Whitaker---ESU-postgame---21024-e2fkh4s/a-aauv53l" 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--Emporia-State---21024-e2fkgvs/a-aauv4pd" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>Griffon men fall behind at halftime, turnovers fuel Hornets' win<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707614133969.jpeg" alt="Taye Fields (13) had 18 points, eight rebounds and five assists in a 61-51 loss at Emporia State Saturday. Stock photo." />
 <figcaption>Taye Fields (13) had 18 points, eight rebounds and five assists in a 61-51 loss at Emporia State Saturday. Stock photo.</figcaption>
 </figure>Missouri Western went scoreless for the final 2:40 of the first half, and fell behind, 35-22, at halftime against Emporia State on Saturday.The Griffons shot a respectable 12-of-25 in the second half, but Emporia also shot 12-of-25 the second half, and hit five three-pointers in that span as well.In other words, Missouri Western never could make up their deficit, and the Griffons (15-8, 9-8 MIAA) fell at Emporia State, 70-56, on Saturday at White Auditorium.The Hornets (15-10, 8-9 MIAA), who were without three of their original starters Saturday due to a plethora of injuries, turned Western over 16 times and scored 17 points off those.The Hornets, meanwhile, turned it over only twice all game. Atavian Butler led the attack for Emporia with a game-high 23 points on 9-of-13 shooting. Drew Tennial scored 15, while Alijah Comithier had 12.Missouri Western, who's dropped five of their last six overall and now four straight MIAA road games, shot 20-of-47 (42.6 percent) from the field and 6-of-13 from three. The Griffs were also 10-of-11 at the foul line.Taye Fields had 18 points, eight rebounds and five assists - falling just short of what would have been a fifth consecutive double-double.Kiani Saxon ended up with 13 points. JaRon Thames had 12 points and eight boards. The loss also breaks what was a four-game winning streak against the Hornets for the Griffon men.Both Missouri Western teams are back home Thursday for their final stretch of home games this season. The Griffons host Northeastern State on Thursday, Feb. 15.The women tip at 5:30, the men at 7:30. Both games are on KFEQ Radio (680, 95.3).Will Martin interview<div><iframe src="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kfeq-sports/embed/episodes/Will-Martin---Emporia-State-postgame---21024-e2fkh7s/a-aauv5cu" 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-MBB--Emporia-State---21024-e2fkh63/a-aauv5a9" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.