KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Pablo Lopez pitched seven sparkling innings, Royce Lewis homered before leaving with an injury, and the Twins beat the Royals 4-1 to begin defense of their AL Central crown. 

Carlos Correa added three hits and two RBIs for Minnesota. That was plenty of support for Lopez, who gave up a homer to Maikel Garcia, the first batter he faced, but little else on a warm and sunny afternoon. He allowed four hits and struck out seven without a walk. 

Cole Ragans struck out nine, a Royals record for opening day, but still took the loss after pitching six strong innings..

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1711667585037.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Royals' Maikel Garcia celebrates after hitting a solo home run during the first inning of a baseball game against the Minnesota Twins Thursday, March 28, 2024, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Royals' Maikel Garcia celebrates after hitting a solo home run during the first inning of a baseball game against the Minnesota Twins Thursday, March 28, 2024, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Pablo Lopez pitched seven sparkling innings, Royce Lewis homered before leaving with an injury, and the Twins beat the Royals 4-1 to begin defense of their AL Central crown. Carlos Correa added three hits and two RBIs for Minnesota. That was plenty of support for Lopez, who gave up a homer to Maikel Garcia, the first batter he faced, but little else on a warm and sunny afternoon. He allowed four hits and struck out seven without a walk. Cole Ragans struck out nine, a Royals record for opening day, but still took the loss after pitching six strong innings..

⚾ Lopez shuts down Royals as Twins begin defense of AL Central title with 4-1 win

With the game tied at 68-68 and five seconds left, Minnesota State's Natalie Bremer fired a pass on the baseline to Emily Herzberg, who hit a reverse layup as time expired, lifting the Mavericks to a 70-68 win over Cal State-San Marcos in the Final Four Wednesday night at Civic Arena.

Minnesota State (32-5), who opened the NCAA tournament by beating Missouri Western, has punched their ticket to the national title for the first time since 2009, which is when Minnesota State won it all.

Bremer led Minnesota State with a game-high 29 points to reach 1,000 points in her career. She also led her team with nine rebounds. Herzberg and Joey Batt each had 13 points.

Minnesota State, who ranks No. 1 in the country in turnovers forced per game, scored 24 points off of 27 Cal State turnovers.

Minnesota State will have a formidable challenge in the national championship.

Texas Woman's University (34-4) led by 17 at halftime and rolled to a 68-52 win over Ferris State in the first semifinal game Wednesday.

The Pioneers have set a school record for number of wins in a single season and have reached the national championship for the first time in program history.

Scout Huffman led Texas Woman's with 18 points. Jada Celsur had 14 points, while Ashley Ingram had a double-double with 13 points and 10 rebounds.

Texas Woman's and Minnesota State do battle on Friday night at 7 at Civic Arena. The game will be televised on CBS Sports Network.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1711599138880.jpeg" alt="Emily Herzberg (40) had the winning layup with 0.2 seconds left to lift Minnesota State to a 70-68 win over Cal State-San Marcos in the Final Four on Wednesday night at Civic Arena. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Emily Herzberg (40) had the winning layup with 0.2 seconds left to lift Minnesota State to a 70-68 win over Cal State-San Marcos in the Final Four on Wednesday night at Civic Arena. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostWith the game tied at 68-68 and five seconds left, Minnesota State's Natalie Bremer fired a pass on the baseline to Emily Herzberg, who hit a reverse layup as time expired, lifting the Mavericks to a 70-68 win over Cal State-San Marcos in the Final Four Wednesday night at Civic Arena.Minnesota State (32-5), who opened the NCAA tournament by beating Missouri Western, has punched their ticket to the national title for the first time since 2009, which is when Minnesota State won it all.Bremer led Minnesota State with a game-high 29 points to reach 1,000 points in her career. She also led her team with nine rebounds. Herzberg and Joey Batt each had 13 points.Minnesota State, who ranks No. 1 in the country in turnovers forced per game, scored 24 points off of 27 Cal State turnovers.Minnesota State will have a formidable challenge in the national championship.Texas Woman's University (34-4) led by 17 at halftime and rolled to a 68-52 win over Ferris State in the first semifinal game Wednesday.The Pioneers have set a school record for number of wins in a single season and have reached the national championship for the first time in program history.Scout Huffman led Texas Woman's with 18 points. Jada Celsur had 14 points, while Ashley Ingram had a double-double with 13 points and 10 rebounds.Texas Woman's and Minnesota State do battle on Friday night at 7 at Civic Arena. The game will be televised on CBS Sports Network.Photo album<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fstjoepost%2Fposts%2Fpfbid0Hye8gMqU9sEYj1kZAdChYQg1kJc72adyGBh8JfPFxxCgzX3RcN23Dgum2upsyP2Nl&show_text=true&width=500" width="500" height="773" 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.

Minnesota State, Texas Woman's advance to national title after Final Four wins in St. Joseph

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Royals owner John Sherman said jokingly that he doesn't sleep very well under normal circumstances, so just imagine how his nights are going these days, with opening day on deck and a key vote for a downtown ballpark coming up next week.

The Royals play AL Central rival Minnesota on Thursday in their opening three-game series. After an offseason spending spree resulted in a revamped starting rotation, rebuilt bullpen and revitalized lineup, expectations in Kansas City are the highest in years for a club that lost 106 games last season.

“I'm trying not to play the expectation game,” Sherman said Wednesday before a public workout at Kauffman Stadium, the 51-year old building affectionately known as “the K” that the Royals want to replace with a downtown ballpark by 2028.

“We've done a lot to make this team better,” Sherman said. “I'm particularly encouraged by the mix of veterans in the clubhouse, the energy, setting an example for the younger guys. I would say my expectations are high. Time will tell.”

The biggest additions were starters Seth Lugo, who signed a $45 million, three-year deal, and Michael Wacha, who got a $32 million, two-year contract. They will fill out an rotation headlined by opening day starter Cole Ragans, who arrived last year in a trade with Texas, along with Brady Singer and Alec Marsh, who won the final job in spring training.

More money was spilled on the bullpen, where the Royals signed left-hander Will Smith — a three-time World Series champion — to a $5 million deal to close out games, and right-hander Chris Stratton to a $4 million deal to hold onto leads.

The biggest lineup addition is outfielder Hunter Renfroe, who signed a $13 million, two-year deal to provide some pop.

In all, just seven players are left on the 26-man roster from the club that struggled so mightily lsat season.

“That's a pretty significant revamp,” Sherman said.

One of those seven back? Bobby Witt Jr., the Royals' brilliant young shortstop, who committed to their future by signing an 11-year deal worth more than $288.7 million guaranteed to serve as their cornerstone going forward.

That deal also sent notice to weary Royals fans, many of whom will vote Tuesday, that they are serious about winning.

On the ballot in Jackson County, Missouri, is the renewal of a 3/8-cent sales tax that has been paying for the upkeep of Kauffman Stadium and neighboring Arrowhead Stadium, the home of the Super Bowl-champion Chiefs.

The Royals want to use their share of future money to help pay for a $2 billion ballpark and entertainment district in a section of Kansas City known as the Crossroads, just south of the T-Mobile Center and Power &amp; Light District. The Chiefs plan to use their share to help with an $800 million renovation to Arrowhead Stadium after the 2026 World Cup is played there.

“What keeps me up at night? It's really thinking about this decision, this process for our ownership group,” Sherman said. “This is the most important thing we'll probably do while we are the stewards of this franchise.”

Neither the Royals nor the Chiefs have said what they would do should the ballot measure fail. But Sherman is doing his best to allay concerns among voters, which range from traffic to parking to what would happen to current Crossroads businesses. He spent last weekend knocking on doors, attending a church service and taking part in a neighborhood meeting in the 18th &amp; Vine district, which is near the Crossroads and home to the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum.

“I've got my ear to the ground,” said Sherman, who joked that his wife went to a restaurant in the Brookside neighborhood of Kansas City recently and “she had four yeses, three nos and a couple of maybes" in her informal polling.

Royals manager Matt Quatraro made his opinion clear, wearing a shirt Wednesday that read “Vote Yes on 1.”

“When you travel around to different cities in the league, the downtown ballparks put a ton of energy into the city. The players enjoy it. The fans soak that kind of thing in,” Quatraro said. “And what a new ballpark could bring our team — the amenities, the facilities underneath (Kauffman Stadium) are smaller. The operation is continuing to grow, and players need certain things that are hard to provide here. From a player-development standpoint, I think it would be a great thing for the team.”

In the meantime, Quatraro is much like Sherman in that his expectations are high for a better season in Kansas City.

“We came into last year with great expectations as well. We don't come into any season thinking it's not going to be good,” he said. “From a team concept, we expect these guys to go out and try to win every game.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1705687592823.jpeg" alt="File Photo- (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel, File)" />
 <figcaption>File Photo- (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel, File)</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Royals owner John Sherman said jokingly that he doesn't sleep very well under normal circumstances, so just imagine how his nights are going these days, with opening day on deck and a key vote for a downtown ballpark coming up next week.The Royals play AL Central rival Minnesota on Thursday in their opening three-game series. After an offseason spending spree resulted in a revamped starting rotation, rebuilt bullpen and revitalized lineup, expectations in Kansas City are the highest in years for a club that lost 106 games last season.“I'm trying not to play the expectation game,” Sherman said Wednesday before a public workout at Kauffman Stadium, the 51-year old building affectionately known as “the K” that the Royals want to replace with a downtown ballpark by 2028.“We've done a lot to make this team better,” Sherman said. “I'm particularly encouraged by the mix of veterans in the clubhouse, the energy, setting an example for the younger guys. I would say my expectations are high. Time will tell.”The biggest additions were starters Seth Lugo, who signed a $45 million, three-year deal, and Michael Wacha, who got a $32 million, two-year contract. They will fill out an rotation headlined by opening day starter Cole Ragans, who arrived last year in a trade with Texas, along with Brady Singer and Alec Marsh, who won the final job in spring training.More money was spilled on the bullpen, where the Royals signed left-hander Will Smith — a three-time World Series champion — to a $5 million deal to close out games, and right-hander Chris Stratton to a $4 million deal to hold onto leads.The biggest lineup addition is outfielder Hunter Renfroe, who signed a $13 million, two-year deal to provide some pop.In all, just seven players are left on the 26-man roster from the club that struggled so mightily lsat season.“That's a pretty significant revamp,” Sherman said.One of those seven back? Bobby Witt Jr., the Royals' brilliant young shortstop, who committed to their future by signing an 11-year deal worth more than $288.7 million guaranteed to serve as their cornerstone going forward.That deal also sent notice to weary Royals fans, many of whom will vote Tuesday, that they are serious about winning.On the ballot in Jackson County, Missouri, is the renewal of a 3/8-cent sales tax that has been paying for the upkeep of Kauffman Stadium and neighboring Arrowhead Stadium, the home of the Super Bowl-champion Chiefs.The Royals want to use their share of future money to help pay for a $2 billion ballpark and entertainment district in a section of Kansas City known as the Crossroads, just south of the T-Mobile Center and Power &amp; Light District. The Chiefs plan to use their share to help with an $800 million renovation to Arrowhead Stadium after the 2026 World Cup is played there.“What keeps me up at night? It's really thinking about this decision, this process for our ownership group,” Sherman said. “This is the most important thing we'll probably do while we are the stewards of this franchise.”Neither the Royals nor the Chiefs have said what they would do should the ballot measure fail. But Sherman is doing his best to allay concerns among voters, which range from traffic to parking to what would happen to current Crossroads businesses. He spent last weekend knocking on doors, attending a church service and taking part in a neighborhood meeting in the 18th &amp; Vine district, which is near the Crossroads and home to the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum.“I've got my ear to the ground,” said Sherman, who joked that his wife went to a restaurant in the Brookside neighborhood of Kansas City recently and “she had four yeses, three nos and a couple of maybes" in her informal polling.Royals manager Matt Quatraro made his opinion clear, wearing a shirt Wednesday that read “Vote Yes on 1.”“When you travel around to different cities in the league, the downtown ballparks put a ton of energy into the city. The players enjoy it. The fans soak that kind of thing in,” Quatraro said. “And what a new ballpark could bring our team — the amenities, the facilities underneath (Kauffman Stadium) are smaller. The operation is continuing to grow, and players need certain things that are hard to provide here. From a player-development standpoint, I think it would be a great thing for the team.”In the meantime, Quatraro is much like Sherman in that his expectations are high for a better season in Kansas City.“We came into last year with great expectations as well. We don't come into any season thinking it's not going to be good,” he said. “From a team concept, we expect these guys to go out and try to win every game.”

⚾ Royals ready for opening day, key vote next week to help fund downtown ballpark

Leading up to an Elite Eight matchup with Grand Valley State in March 2022, a video feature about Candi Whitaker went viral on the Missouri Western athletics' Twitter page.

It was&nbsp;a six-minute feature, spotlighting Whitaker's unique and at times challenging journey in coaching.

Whitaker was fired as the head coach of her alma mater, Texas Tech, on New Year's Day 2018 while eight weeks pregnant. She told Griffon Sports Insider about that experience in 2022, recalling, "I was still searching my soul. Do I want to jump back into this profession?"

"Ultimately, I didn't know if I wanted to coach again," she said, recalling getting offered Missouri Western in 2019.

"So, I felt like until I coach again, I won't know if I want to coach again. So, I took the job."

The athletic director who gave her the chance, Josh Looney, left Missouri Western in August 2021 to take the A.D. role at Division I North Alabama.

Whitaker, who has 11 years of experience as a Division I head coach, is joining Looney there. <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/2d7a1e70-209e-4807-aa1c-23ab926ff51b">The Lions hired Whitaker Monday</a> to become their next head women's basketball coach after Missy Tiber's contract was not renewed after 11 seasons.

North Alabama women's basketball finished with a 12-18 mark this past season.

It wasn't the deciding factor, but it put Whitaker at ease, knowing she'd get to work for Looney - the one who reignited her love of coaching.

"There's less curiosity," Whitaker said in a sit-down interview with KFEQ Radio on Tuesday. "When you work for someone you don't know, you don't exactly know how that might go. So, that clearly played a role in me feeling comfortable at North Alabama and taking this opportunity."

Whitaker goes to a North Alabama program that made the switch from DII to DI in 2018. UNA is a member of the ASUN Conference. The school is located in Florence, Alabama - a small, but growing city located in a quad cities area known as the Shoals in the northwest part of the state.

Whitaker went to visit the campus last week - several days after Missouri Western's loss in the first round of the NCAA tournament to Minnesota State on March 15.

Whitaker said Monday that two questions had to be answered before she accepted the job - can she win there, and is it the right move for her husband, Matt, and their sons, Weston, Will, and Callahan?

Whitaker believes North Alabama met that criteria and then some.

"I think Josh (Looney) has made a tremendous impact in a short amount of time," Whitaker said. "The campus is booming, which is a great sign in these times where a lot of universities are struggling. Everything is pointing to growth and ability there to do something special."

Whitaker says she'll head back to Florence as soon as next week. Her introductory press conference will be scheduled in the coming days.

As Whitaker reflects on five largely successful years at Missouri Western, she wants Griffon fans to know her and her family's gratitude for their time in St. Joseph.

"I first want people to know how grateful we are for our time here and the opportunity," she said.

Whitaker went 100-47 in five years with the Griffons, leading the team to 21 wins or more in four out of her five seasons. Western won a minimum 24 games in each of the last three years under her leadership.

She led the Griffons to a Central Region championship and Elite Eight berth in 2022, and then an outright MIAA regular season title in 2024.

The MIAA title was enough to earn Whitaker the Coach of the Year nod from the conference this past season as well.

The wins and the trophies are nice, but Whitaker hopes Griffon fans and onlookers also remember how her teams were able to be so successful.

"I think our teams have played really great basketball," she said. "I've been a fan of watching them play, how they share the ball, how they pass the ball and just how they played the game."

"That was always a big focus for us. We wanted to play a great and upbeat style - a style that people would appreciate. I think we did that and we won doing it."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1711483689316.jpeg" alt="Candi Whitaker was named the 2024 MIAA Coach of the Year. Photo by A.J. Robbins." />
 <figcaption>Candi Whitaker was named the 2024 MIAA Coach of the Year. Photo by A.J. Robbins.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostLeading up to an Elite Eight matchup with Grand Valley State in March 2022, a video feature about Candi Whitaker went viral on the Missouri Western athletics' Twitter page.It was&nbsp;a six-minute feature, spotlighting Whitaker's unique and at times challenging journey in coaching.Whitaker was fired as the head coach of her alma mater, Texas Tech, on New Year's Day 2018 while eight weeks pregnant. She told Griffon Sports Insider about that experience in 2022, recalling, "I was still searching my soul. Do I want to jump back into this profession?""Ultimately, I didn't know if I wanted to coach again," she said, recalling getting offered Missouri Western in 2019."So, I felt like until I coach again, I won't know if I want to coach again. So, I took the job."The athletic director who gave her the chance, Josh Looney, left Missouri Western in August 2021 to take the A.D. role at Division I North Alabama.Whitaker, who has 11 years of experience as a Division I head coach, is joining Looney there. <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/2d7a1e70-209e-4807-aa1c-23ab926ff51b">The Lions hired Whitaker Monday</a> to become their next head women's basketball coach after Missy Tiber's contract was not renewed after 11 seasons.North Alabama women's basketball finished with a 12-18 mark this past season.It wasn't the deciding factor, but it put Whitaker at ease, knowing she'd get to work for Looney - the one who reignited her love of coaching."There's less curiosity," Whitaker said in a sit-down interview with KFEQ Radio on Tuesday. "When you work for someone you don't know, you don't exactly know how that might go. So, that clearly played a role in me feeling comfortable at North Alabama and taking this opportunity."Whitaker goes to a North Alabama program that made the switch from DII to DI in 2018. UNA is a member of the ASUN Conference. The school is located in Florence, Alabama - a small, but growing city located in a quad cities area known as the Shoals in the northwest part of the state.Whitaker went to visit the campus last week - several days after Missouri Western's loss in the first round of the NCAA tournament to Minnesota State on March 15.Whitaker said Monday that two questions had to be answered before she accepted the job - can she win there, and is it the right move for her husband, Matt, and their sons, Weston, Will, and Callahan?Whitaker believes North Alabama met that criteria and then some."I think Josh (Looney) has made a tremendous impact in a short amount of time," Whitaker said. "The campus is booming, which is a great sign in these times where a lot of universities are struggling. Everything is pointing to growth and ability there to do something special."Whitaker says she'll head back to Florence as soon as next week. Her introductory press conference will be scheduled in the coming days.As Whitaker reflects on five largely successful years at Missouri Western, she wants Griffon fans to know her and her family's gratitude for their time in St. Joseph."I first want people to know how grateful we are for our time here and the opportunity," she said.Whitaker went 100-47 in five years with the Griffons, leading the team to 21 wins or more in four out of her five seasons. Western won a minimum 24 games in each of the last three years under her leadership.She led the Griffons to a Central Region championship and Elite Eight berth in 2022, and then an outright MIAA regular season title in 2024.The MIAA title was enough to earn Whitaker the Coach of the Year nod from the conference this past season as well.The wins and the trophies are nice, but Whitaker hopes Griffon fans and onlookers also remember how her teams were able to be so successful."I think our teams have played really great basketball," she said. "I've been a fan of watching them play, how they share the ball, how they pass the ball and just how they played the game.""That was always a big focus for us. We wanted to play a great and upbeat style - a style that people would appreciate. I think we did that and we won doing it."Full interview<div><iframe src="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kfeq-sports/embed/episodes/Candi-Whitaker---32624-e2hjq6o" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1711483304773.jpeg" alt="Candi Whitaker knocked off ten teams ranked in the top 25 during her time at Missouri Western. One of those was a 66-63 win over No. 5 Central Missouri on January 21, 2023. Photo by Arianne Boma." />
 <figcaption>Candi Whitaker knocked off ten teams ranked in the top 25 during her time at Missouri Western. One of those was a 66-63 win over No. 5 Central Missouri on January 21, 2023. Photo by Arianne Boma.</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Whitaker to MWSU community: 'I want people to know how grateful we are'

The Central Region champion Minnesota State women’s basketball team is onto the Final Four after a 93-88 win over Georgia Southwestern at Civic Arena in St. Joseph late Monday night.

The Mavericks (30-5), who beat Missouri Western in the first round of the NCAA tournament on March 15, will now face Cal State-San Marcos (27-6) on Wednesday night at 8:30 in the national semifinals.

Cal State-San Marcos defeated Gannon 85-80, Monday evening.

Other results Ferris State 60 Tampa 53 Texas Woman’s 76 Daemen 44

Texas Woman’s (33-4) and Ferris (26-5) will meet in the Final Four on Wednesday night at 6.

The national title game is set for Friday night at 7. The national title and the semifinals Wednesday will be televised nationally on CBS Sports Network.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1711481156233.jpeg" alt="Photo by Brent Martin." />
 <figcaption>Photo by Brent Martin.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThe Central Region champion Minnesota State women’s basketball team is onto the Final Four after a 93-88 win over Georgia Southwestern at Civic Arena in St. Joseph late Monday night.The Mavericks (30-5), who beat Missouri Western in the first round of the NCAA tournament on March 15, will now face Cal State-San Marcos (27-6) on Wednesday night at 8:30 in the national semifinals.Cal State-San Marcos defeated Gannon 85-80, Monday evening.Other results Ferris State 60 Tampa 53 Texas Woman’s 76 Daemen 44Texas Woman’s (33-4) and Ferris (26-5) will meet in the Final Four on Wednesday night at 6.The national title game is set for Friday night at 7. The national title and the semifinals Wednesday will be televised nationally on CBS Sports Network.

Division II Final Four matchups set for Wednesday night in St. Joseph

Candi Whitaker will coach women's basketball at the Division I level again.

Whitaker, who had led Missouri Western women's basketball since 2019, will become the next head coach at the University of North Alabama.

The news was made official in press releases by both schools late Monday afternoon.

"Coach Whitaker informed me of her decision and I am so appreciative of her character, class and leadership," MWSU Director of Athletics Andy Carter said in a statement.

"She truly made an impact at Missouri Western, elevating our program back to where it belongs in the national spotlight. I know Griffon Nation wishes her and her family the best in their new role."

North Alabama, located in Florence, Alabama, is a member of the ASUN Conference and became a Division I program in 2018 after more than 50 years as a DII institution.

North Alabama athletic director Josh Looney was Missouri Western's A.D. from 2017-2021.

It was <a href="https://gogriffons.com/news/2019/4/16/candi-whitaker-named-head-womens-basketball-coach.aspx">Looney who hired Whitaker</a> at Missouri Western in April 2019.

"We're bringing a difference maker to North Alabama with the addition of Coach Whitaker," Looney in a written statement. "Candi is a talented coach whose leadership impact expands beyond her basketball program. I'm fortunate to have worked alongside Candi previously and experienced her championship approach to program building."

"From her positive interactions as a role model for the women in her program, to her influence and engagement with University colleagues and the community at large, Coach Whitaker will make a difference at UNA and her family will be an asset to the Shoals community. We're excited to welcome Candi, (husband) Matt, (and children) Westin, William, and Callahan to The Pride!"

Whitaker, a Canyon, Texas native, had great success with the Griffons, leading them to a 100-47 record during her tenure, including a 73-39 mark in the MIAA.

Whitaker led Missouri Western to four 2o-plus win seasons in five years in St. Joseph, including a minimum 24 wins in each of the last three seasons.

"This is a bittersweet day," Whitaker said. "I am excited about the opportunity ahead, but this was a decision that was very difficult for me, Matt and the boys. Missouri Western reignited my passion for coaching and for that I will be forever grateful."

"These past five years have been special. The MWSU staff, the St. Joseph community and our players brought to life all the things that the coaching profession should be. Our on-court success is a direct byproduct of our support system."

Whitaker led the Griffons to a <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/bd52098b-95eb-4f12-99ef-a85a735773c3">Central Region championship</a> and Elite Eight appearance in 2022. She led Western to an MIAA regular season title in 2024, and was named <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/68c27b50-9bb2-4359-a011-5a2af8c904be">MIAA Coach of the Year</a> this year as well.

Whitaker's career record in 16 years as a head coach is 231-225. She got her head coaching start just down the road at UMKC, taking over the Roos at age 26 in 2006.

She led UMKC to a 22-win season and WNIT berth in 2012. Whitaker accumulated 83 wins at UMKC, becoming that program's second most winningest coach.

She became associate head coach at Oklahoma State the following year and was then named the head coach at her alma mater, Texas Tech, in 2013.

After a little more than four seasons in Lubbock, Whitaker was fired by Tech on New Year's Day 2018. She was 54-82 in her time with the Lady Raiders, including a 13-61 mark in Big 12 play.

After taking a little more than a year off from coaching, Whitaker was hired by Western in April 2019, where she had instant success. She led Western to a 21-8 campaign in the 2019-20 season.

After only six wins in a COVID-riddled 2020-21 campaign, Whitaker engineered one of the most impressive turnarounds in Missouri Western history, leading the Griffons to a 24-win season and a Central Region championship the following year.

Whitaker led Western to a 24-7 mark in 2022-23. That team finished third in the MIAA, <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/cfde74cd-7ca6-41b9-864f-0cd6ee5c2e7c">but still missed the NCAA tournament</a>.

Whitaker's team in 2023-24 <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/f26b72fb-b94a-484d-8502-0dcead8ecf81">won the MIAA regular season championship</a> outright&nbsp; - the first time the Griffons had done that since 2016.

Missouri Western won its last 14 games of the regular season this year. The Griffons lost to Pittsburg State in the MIAA tournament semifinals, and then <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/d122a368-28f9-4d97-bccc-4ece597a7106">lost to Minnesota State in the first round</a> of the NCAA tournament this month in Bethany, Oklahoma.

Following the loss to Minnesota State, Whitaker said on Missouri Western's Hey Coach! Show at Hi-Ho Bar and Grill on March 18, "I'm fortunate to have come up here, not knowing if I wanted to coach again or not, and really enjoying my time."

"It's because of our players and support at Missouri Western. For me, everything is about my family and trying to win. Those are my two focuses, and it's been good here."

North Alabama athletics&nbsp;<a href="https://roarlions.com/news/2024/3/11/womens-basketball-una-opts-not-to-renew-contract-of-coach-missy-tiber.aspx">put out a press release on March 11</a>, saying former coach Missy Tiber's contract would not be renewed.

Tiber guided UNA to a 172-147 record over 11 seasons. The Lions went 12-18 this past year.

"My family and I could not be more excited to join the UNA family and the Shoals community," Whitaker said. "I was blown away by the campus and the city of Florence on my first visit. The community support and the rapid growth of UNA's campus and success makes it an exciting time to be a Lion."

I'd like to thank President Ken Kitts, Dr. Josh Looney and the hiring committee for this opportunity, and I am ready to get to work."

Whitaker told Griffon Sports Insider in March 2022 that before Looney offered her the job at Missouri Western, "Ultimately, I didn't know if I wanted to coach again. So, I felt like until I coach again, I won't know if I want to coach again. So, I took the job."

Whitaker helped Texas Tech to back-to-back Sweet 16 appearances as a player from 2000-02. She started and played in all 64 games over two seasons under head coach Marsha Sharp while totaling 232 points, 249 assists and 87 steals. 

Prior to playing at Texas Tech, Whitaker played two seasons at Seward County Community College where she averaged 10.2 points and 10.8 assists and was named Honorable Mention NJCAA All-American.

 Whitaker's 577 career assists at Seward County is still a record and she ranks third all-time with 225 steals.

Whitaker graduated from Texas Tech in 2002 with a degree in Exercise Sports Science and earned her Master's in Sports Administration at Valparaiso in 2004. She and her husband, Matt, have three sons, Westin, William and Callahan.&nbsp;&nbsp;

As for Missouri Western, a national search is underway, as Carter seeks Whitaker's successor.

"I couldn't be more excited about the trajectory of our program," Carter said. "The stage is set for us to continue an upward trend. Coach Whitaker's legacy is now a valued part of our history, and our story is still being written."

"Consider this next chapter the start of our national search. We anticipate an elite-level pool of potential candidates. We will be diligent and deliberate in finding the right fit who will continue our momentum."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1711398750410.jpeg" alt="Former MWSU athletic director Josh Looney (left) hired Candi Whitaker (right) at Missouri Western in April 2019. Looney left for North Alabama in August 2021. Stock photo via MWSU athletics." />
 <figcaption>Former MWSU athletic director Josh Looney (left) hired Candi Whitaker (right) at Missouri Western in April 2019. Looney left for North Alabama in August 2021. Stock photo via MWSU athletics.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostCandi Whitaker will coach women's basketball at the Division I level again.Whitaker, who had led Missouri Western women's basketball since 2019, will become the next head coach at the University of North Alabama.The news was made official in press releases by both schools late Monday afternoon."Coach Whitaker informed me of her decision and I am so appreciative of her character, class and leadership," MWSU Director of Athletics Andy Carter said in a statement."She truly made an impact at Missouri Western, elevating our program back to where it belongs in the national spotlight. I know Griffon Nation wishes her and her family the best in their new role."North Alabama, located in Florence, Alabama, is a member of the ASUN Conference and became a Division I program in 2018 after more than 50 years as a DII institution.North Alabama athletic director Josh Looney was Missouri Western's A.D. from 2017-2021.It was <a href="https://gogriffons.com/news/2019/4/16/candi-whitaker-named-head-womens-basketball-coach.aspx">Looney who hired Whitaker</a> at Missouri Western in April 2019. "We're bringing a difference maker to North Alabama with the addition of Coach Whitaker," Looney in a written statement. "Candi is a talented coach whose leadership impact expands beyond her basketball program. I'm fortunate to have worked alongside Candi previously and experienced her championship approach to program building.""From her positive interactions as a role model for the women in her program, to her influence and engagement with University colleagues and the community at large, Coach Whitaker will make a difference at UNA and her family will be an asset to the Shoals community. We're excited to welcome Candi, (husband) Matt, (and children) Westin, William, and Callahan to The Pride!"Whitaker, a Canyon, Texas native, had great success with the Griffons, leading them to a 100-47 record during her tenure, including a 73-39 mark in the MIAA.Whitaker led Missouri Western to four 2o-plus win seasons in five years in St. Joseph, including a minimum 24 wins in each of the last three seasons."This is a bittersweet day," Whitaker said. "I am excited about the opportunity ahead, but this was a decision that was very difficult for me, Matt and the boys. Missouri Western reignited my passion for coaching and for that I will be forever grateful.""These past five years have been special. The MWSU staff, the St. Joseph community and our players brought to life all the things that the coaching profession should be. Our on-court success is a direct byproduct of our support system."Whitaker led the Griffons to a <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/bd52098b-95eb-4f12-99ef-a85a735773c3">Central Region championship</a> and Elite Eight appearance in 2022. She led Western to an MIAA regular season title in 2024, and was named <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/68c27b50-9bb2-4359-a011-5a2af8c904be">MIAA Coach of the Year</a> this year as well.Whitaker's career record in 16 years as a head coach is 231-225. She got her head coaching start just down the road at UMKC, taking over the Roos at age 26 in 2006.She led UMKC to a 22-win season and WNIT berth in 2012. Whitaker accumulated 83 wins at UMKC, becoming that program's second most winningest coach.She became associate head coach at Oklahoma State the following year and was then named the head coach at her alma mater, Texas Tech, in 2013.After a little more than four seasons in Lubbock, Whitaker was fired by Tech on New Year's Day 2018. She was 54-82 in her time with the Lady Raiders, including a 13-61 mark in Big 12 play.After taking a little more than a year off from coaching, Whitaker was hired by Western in April 2019, where she had instant success. She led Western to a 21-8 campaign in the 2019-20 season.After only six wins in a COVID-riddled 2020-21 campaign, Whitaker engineered one of the most impressive turnarounds in Missouri Western history, leading the Griffons to a 24-win season and a Central Region championship the following year.Whitaker led Western to a 24-7 mark in 2022-23. That team finished third in the MIAA, <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/cfde74cd-7ca6-41b9-864f-0cd6ee5c2e7c">but still missed the NCAA tournament</a>.Whitaker's team in 2023-24 <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/f26b72fb-b94a-484d-8502-0dcead8ecf81">won the MIAA regular season championship</a> outright&nbsp; - the first time the Griffons had done that since 2016.Missouri Western won its last 14 games of the regular season this year. The Griffons lost to Pittsburg State in the MIAA tournament semifinals, and then <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/d122a368-28f9-4d97-bccc-4ece597a7106">lost to Minnesota State in the first round</a> of the NCAA tournament this month in Bethany, Oklahoma.Following the loss to Minnesota State, Whitaker said on Missouri Western's Hey Coach! Show at Hi-Ho Bar and Grill on March 18, "I'm fortunate to have come up here, not knowing if I wanted to coach again or not, and really enjoying my time.""It's because of our players and support at Missouri Western. For me, everything is about my family and trying to win. Those are my two focuses, and it's been good here."North Alabama athletics&nbsp;<a href="https://roarlions.com/news/2024/3/11/womens-basketball-una-opts-not-to-renew-contract-of-coach-missy-tiber.aspx">put out a press release on March 11</a>, saying former coach Missy Tiber's contract would not be renewed.Tiber guided UNA to a 172-147 record over 11 seasons. The Lions went 12-18 this past year."My family and I could not be more excited to join the UNA family and the Shoals community," Whitaker said. "I was blown away by the campus and the city of Florence on my first visit. The community support and the rapid growth of UNA's campus and success makes it an exciting time to be a Lion."I'd like to thank President Ken Kitts, Dr. Josh Looney and the hiring committee for this opportunity, and I am ready to get to work."Whitaker told Griffon Sports Insider in March 2022 that before Looney offered her the job at Missouri Western, "Ultimately, I didn't know if I wanted to coach again. So, I felt like until I coach again, I won't know if I want to coach again. So, I took the job."Whitaker helped Texas Tech to back-to-back Sweet 16 appearances as a player from 2000-02. She started and played in all 64 games over two seasons under head coach Marsha Sharp while totaling 232 points, 249 assists and 87 steals. Prior to playing at Texas Tech, Whitaker played two seasons at Seward County Community College where she averaged 10.2 points and 10.8 assists and was named Honorable Mention NJCAA All-American. Whitaker's 577 career assists at Seward County is still a record and she ranks third all-time with 225 steals.Whitaker graduated from Texas Tech in 2002 with a degree in Exercise Sports Science and earned her Master's in Sports Administration at Valparaiso in 2004. She and her husband, Matt, have three sons, Westin, William and Callahan.&nbsp;&nbsp;As for Missouri Western, a national search is underway, as Carter seeks Whitaker's successor."I couldn't be more excited about the trajectory of our program," Carter said. "The stage is set for us to continue an upward trend. Coach Whitaker's legacy is now a valued part of our history, and our story is still being written.""Consider this next chapter the start of our national search. We anticipate an elite-level pool of potential candidates. We will be diligent and deliberate in finding the right fit who will continue our momentum."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1711401487430.jpeg" alt="Missouri Western women's basketball won the MIAA regular season championship outright in the 2023-24 season. Photo by A.J. Robbins." />
 <figcaption>Missouri Western women's basketball won the MIAA regular season championship outright in the 2023-24 season. Photo by A.J. Robbins.</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Candi Whitaker leaving MWSU for North Alabama, reuniting with Josh Looney

Eight different teams from eight different states arrive in St. Joseph this weekend for the 2024 NCAA Division II women's basketball Elite Eight at Civic Arena - the sixth time since 2003 that this event will be at this venue.

&nbsp;Brett Esely, tournament director and director of the St. Joseph Sports Commission, says this coming week will be busy, but also a great opportunity to welcome in the eight best teams in women's basketball in the nation at the DII level.

"Every team in the country on the women's basketball side at the DII level in the NCAA had the goal of making it to St. Joseph," Esely said on KFEQ Radio. "Eight realized that goal. We look forward to a great week. We get to roll out the red carpet and we're excited about that."

The eight teams in the field are Minnesota State, Gannon, Tampa, Ferris State, Texas Woman's University, Cal State-San Marcos, Daemen University and Georgia Southwestern. The teams arrive Saturday with practice set to start on Sunday.

The event is put on by the St. Joseph Sports Commission, in conjunction with the NCAA and Missouri Western State University.

Ryan Menley, associate athletic director of external relations at Missouri Western, says this event has returned to St. Joseph several times through the years, because of the city's reputation when it comes to hosting events like this.

"We've done it well," Menley said of the Elite Eight. "Brett does a great job, but it's a Missouri Western event and a national event. Another national event in St. Joseph, Missouri."

Esely says hosting this Elite Eight at a time when women's basketball is more popular than ever makes it that much more appealing, citing breakout stars like Iowa's Caitlin Clark and LSU's Angel Reese - players who have broken NCAA records and have caused women's basketball to set new attendance and TV ratings records.

"You have people who are following women's basketball right now that probably never have previously," he said. "It's always been a great game, but people like greatness and legendary. As a biproduct of that, they expand their horizons to other games and opportunities. What you're going to see at Civic is the best of the best."

Play gets started on Monday with four quarterfinal games. The first session includes games at noon and 2:30 p.m. The noon game puts No. 3 Ferris State (25-5) against Tampa (31-6). The 2:30 contest is No. 2 Texas Woman's (32-4) versus Daemen (23-7).

The second session includes games at 6 and 8:30 p.m. The first of those two is No. 1 Gannon (35-2) against No. 8 Cal State-San Marcos (26-6). The nightcap on Monday is No. 5 seed and Central region champion Minnesota State (29-5) versus No. 4 Georgia Southwestern (29-3).

The semifinals are Wednesday night at 6 and 8:30 p.m. with the championship set for 7 p.m. on Friday, March 29.

The national title, which hasn't been in St. Joseph since 2011, was in Dallas last year due to the NCAA's 50-year celebration of Title IX.

The festivities officially get rolling on Saturday with the Hoop City Tip-off at East Hills Shopping Center. 

This event, held from 11 a.m. - 2 p.m., is open to kids of all ages with various basketball-related contests, skill challenges, prizes, a mini clinic and more. The Missouri Western men's basketball staff will be on hand.

The Jackie Stiles Youth Clinic returns this year as well. That'll be held Tuesday, March 26 from 5:30 - 7:30 p.m. at the MWSU Fieldhouse. That clinic required sign up beforehand, and is full with 150 participants.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1711129129819.jpeg" alt="Stock photo." />
 <figcaption>Stock photo.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostEight different teams from eight different states arrive in St. Joseph this weekend for the 2024 NCAA Division II women's basketball Elite Eight at Civic Arena - the sixth time since 2003 that this event will be at this venue.&nbsp;Brett Esely, tournament director and director of the St. Joseph Sports Commission, says this coming week will be busy, but also a great opportunity to welcome in the eight best teams in women's basketball in the nation at the DII level."Every team in the country on the women's basketball side at the DII level in the NCAA had the goal of making it to St. Joseph," Esely said on KFEQ Radio. "Eight realized that goal. We look forward to a great week. We get to roll out the red carpet and we're excited about that."The eight teams in the field are Minnesota State, Gannon, Tampa, Ferris State, Texas Woman's University, Cal State-San Marcos, Daemen University and Georgia Southwestern. The teams arrive Saturday with practice set to start on Sunday.The event is put on by the St. Joseph Sports Commission, in conjunction with the NCAA and Missouri Western State University.Ryan Menley, associate athletic director of external relations at Missouri Western, says this event has returned to St. Joseph several times through the years, because of the city's reputation when it comes to hosting events like this."We've done it well," Menley said of the Elite Eight. "Brett does a great job, but it's a Missouri Western event and a national event. Another national event in St. Joseph, Missouri."Esely says hosting this Elite Eight at a time when women's basketball is more popular than ever makes it that much more appealing, citing breakout stars like Iowa's Caitlin Clark and LSU's Angel Reese - players who have broken NCAA records and have caused women's basketball to set new attendance and TV ratings records."You have people who are following women's basketball right now that probably never have previously," he said. "It's always been a great game, but people like greatness and legendary. As a biproduct of that, they expand their horizons to other games and opportunities. What you're going to see at Civic is the best of the best."Play gets started on Monday with four quarterfinal games. The first session includes games at noon and 2:30 p.m. The noon game puts No. 3 Ferris State (25-5) against Tampa (31-6). The 2:30 contest is No. 2 Texas Woman's (32-4) versus Daemen (23-7).The second session includes games at 6 and 8:30 p.m. The first of those two is No. 1 Gannon (35-2) against No. 8 Cal State-San Marcos (26-6). The nightcap on Monday is No. 5 seed and Central region champion Minnesota State (29-5) versus No. 4 Georgia Southwestern (29-3).The semifinals are Wednesday night at 6 and 8:30 p.m. with the championship set for 7 p.m. on Friday, March 29.The national title, which hasn't been in St. Joseph since 2011, was in Dallas last year due to the NCAA's 50-year celebration of Title IX.The festivities officially get rolling on Saturday with the Hoop City Tip-off at East Hills Shopping Center. This event, held from 11 a.m. - 2 p.m., is open to kids of all ages with various basketball-related contests, skill challenges, prizes, a mini clinic and more. The Missouri Western men's basketball staff will be on hand.The Jackie Stiles Youth Clinic returns this year as well. That'll be held Tuesday, March 26 from 5:30 - 7:30 p.m. at the MWSU Fieldhouse. That clinic required sign up beforehand, and is full with 150 participants.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1711129893645.jpeg" alt="Courtesy photo." />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photo.</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Elite Eight field is set, activities start this weekend with games on Monday

The Tennessee Titans are finalizing a deal to acquire cornerback L'Jarius Sneed from the Kansas City Chiefs for a pair of draft picks, a person familiar with the negotiations told The Associated Press on Friday night.

The deal still requires Sneed to pass a physical and a new contract for the cornerback who the Chiefs placed the $19.8 million non-exclusive franchise tag on earlier this month.

Kansas City was unable to come to terms on a long-term deal, leading to this trade. Under terms of the deal, Tennessee would send its third-round pick in the 2025 draft and also flip seventh-round selections with the Chiefs in the draft next month.

The 27-year-old Sneed has developed into one of the top cornerbacks in the league since being drafted in the fourth round in 2020. He was a key part of a defense that helped Kansas City win back-to-back Super Bowl titles.

Sneed often followed top receivers all over the field and excelled at holding them in check. He allowed a passer of just 55.9 on throws when he was in coverage in the regular season, according to Pro Football Focus, ranking fifth best among cornerbacks.

He didn’t allow a single TD pass until the playoffs against Buffalo and only Davante Adams of the Raiders had more than two catches in a game when Sneed was in coverage.

Sneed had two interceptions and 14 passes defensed in 16 games last season, giving him 10 interceptions and 40 passes defensed in his four-year career.

The Titans signed Cincinnati cornerback Chidobe Awuzie to a three-year deal for $36 million with $23 million guaranteed to help kick off free agency.

New defensive coordinator Dennard Wilson needs help with Caleb Farley, the team's 22nd overall pick in 2021 who has been limited to just 12 games in his career because of injuries. The Titans ranked 18th in pass defense, giving up 227.4 yards per game. But they were last in interception rate with only six all of 2023.

Tennessee competes in an AFC South filled with young, talented quarterbacks from C.J. Stroud in Houston, Trevor Lawrence in Jacksonville and Anthony Richardson in Indianapolis.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1711168273452.jpeg" alt="FILE - Kansas City Chiefs cornerback L'Jarius Sneed looks on during the first half of the AFC Championship NFL football game against the Baltimore Ravens, in Baltimore, Jan. 28, 2024. A person familiar with the negotiations said Friday, March 22, that the Tennessee Titans are finalizing a deal to trade a pair of draft picks to Kansas City for cornerback Sneed. (AP Photo/Terrance Williams, File)" />
 <figcaption>FILE - Kansas City Chiefs cornerback L'Jarius Sneed looks on during the first half of the AFC Championship NFL football game against the Baltimore Ravens, in Baltimore, Jan. 28, 2024. A person familiar with the negotiations said Friday, March 22, that the Tennessee Titans are finalizing a deal to trade a pair of draft picks to Kansas City for cornerback Sneed. (AP Photo/Terrance Williams, File)</figcaption>
 </figure>The Tennessee Titans are finalizing a deal to acquire cornerback L'Jarius Sneed from the Kansas City Chiefs for a pair of draft picks, a person familiar with the negotiations told The Associated Press on Friday night.The deal still requires Sneed to pass a physical and a new contract for the cornerback who the Chiefs placed the $19.8 million non-exclusive franchise tag on earlier this month.Kansas City was unable to come to terms on a long-term deal, leading to this trade. Under terms of the deal, Tennessee would send its third-round pick in the 2025 draft and also flip seventh-round selections with the Chiefs in the draft next month.The 27-year-old Sneed has developed into one of the top cornerbacks in the league since being drafted in the fourth round in 2020. He was a key part of a defense that helped Kansas City win back-to-back Super Bowl titles.Sneed often followed top receivers all over the field and excelled at holding them in check. He allowed a passer of just 55.9 on throws when he was in coverage in the regular season, according to Pro Football Focus, ranking fifth best among cornerbacks.He didn’t allow a single TD pass until the playoffs against Buffalo and only Davante Adams of the Raiders had more than two catches in a game when Sneed was in coverage.Sneed had two interceptions and 14 passes defensed in 16 games last season, giving him 10 interceptions and 40 passes defensed in his four-year career.The Titans signed Cincinnati cornerback Chidobe Awuzie to a three-year deal for $36 million with $23 million guaranteed to help kick off free agency.New defensive coordinator Dennard Wilson needs help with Caleb Farley, the team's 22nd overall pick in 2021 who has been limited to just 12 games in his career because of injuries. The Titans ranked 18th in pass defense, giving up 227.4 yards per game. But they were last in interception rate with only six all of 2023.Tennessee competes in an AFC South filled with young, talented quarterbacks from C.J. Stroud in Houston, Trevor Lawrence in Jacksonville and Anthony Richardson in Indianapolis.

Titans finalizing deal with Chiefs to acquire cornerback L'Jarius Sneed

Benton scored four runs in the second inning, four more in the fourth and then sealed the deal with three runs in the fifth as the Cardinals (3-0) run ruled Lafayette, 11-1, on Wednesday at Phil Welch Stadium.

Benton breezed its way through the round robin, following up a 13-2 win over Central last Friday and a 19-4 drubbing of Bishop LeBlond on Monday.

The Cardinals drew first blood in the bottom of the second, scoring four runs on a pair of hits and a wild pitch. A two-run RBI double by senior Treigh Nowak blew things open, giving Benton a 4-0 lead.

After leaving the bases loaded to end the third inning, Benton essentially put it away in the fourth, scoring four more runs on three hits, including RBI doubles by Jackson Kanacsky and Carson Davis.

Leading 10-1 in the bottom of the fifth with the bases juiced, junior Bryson Brown called game with an RBI single to right, ending the game via run rule.

Benton had eight total hits while drawing 12 walks.

All the while, Benton's starting pitcher, freshman Zaidyn Woodward, tossed a complete game, holding Lafayette (2-1) to just three hits. He struck out four batters and walked three.

"I was keeping the ball down and able to spot up on the outside corner," Woodward said. "I just stayed right there, forced ground balls, pop flies, weak contact."&nbsp;

Expectations are high for Benton in 2024, as the Cardinals return the bulk of their roster from last season - a team that had no seniors in 2023.

 Benton has also been reassigned to Class 4 District 16, joining MEC foes Cameron, Lafayette, Maryville and Savannah. With 11 seniors in the program this year, the Cardinals are hoping to do something special.

Even if they don't express that outwardly.

"They don't talk about state and championships," Benton head coach Johnny Coy said. "It's in the back of everyone's mind. That's what everyone wants to do. But, they know they have to take it game-by-game and just have fun and enjoy the process."

"There's a lot of guys that are playing their last year of baseball forever. I told them to just enjoy every single day. Don't worry about tomorrow, worry about today and everything will fall into place the way it's supposed to."

Benton is home to Pembroke Hill on Friday at 4:30. Lafayette will host Savannah next Wednesday at 4:30.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710983253387.jpeg" alt="Jaxson Rich (22) and Talan McDowell (24) head for home in an 11-1 win over Lafayette in the city round robin at Phil Welch Stadium Wednesday. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Jaxson Rich (22) and Talan McDowell (24) head for home in an 11-1 win over Lafayette in the city round robin at Phil Welch Stadium Wednesday. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostBenton scored four runs in the second inning, four more in the fourth and then sealed the deal with three runs in the fifth as the Cardinals (3-0) run ruled Lafayette, 11-1, on Wednesday at Phil Welch Stadium.Benton breezed its way through the round robin, following up a 13-2 win over Central last Friday and a 19-4 drubbing of Bishop LeBlond on Monday.The Cardinals drew first blood in the bottom of the second, scoring four runs on a pair of hits and a wild pitch. A two-run RBI double by senior Treigh Nowak blew things open, giving Benton a 4-0 lead.After leaving the bases loaded to end the third inning, Benton essentially put it away in the fourth, scoring four more runs on three hits, including RBI doubles by Jackson Kanacsky and Carson Davis.Leading 10-1 in the bottom of the fifth with the bases juiced, junior Bryson Brown called game with an RBI single to right, ending the game via run rule.Benton had eight total hits while drawing 12 walks.All the while, Benton's starting pitcher, freshman Zaidyn Woodward, tossed a complete game, holding Lafayette (2-1) to just three hits. He struck out four batters and walked three."I was keeping the ball down and able to spot up on the outside corner," Woodward said. "I just stayed right there, forced ground balls, pop flies, weak contact."&nbsp;Expectations are high for Benton in 2024, as the Cardinals return the bulk of their roster from last season - a team that had no seniors in 2023. Benton has also been reassigned to Class 4 District 16, joining MEC foes Cameron, Lafayette, Maryville and Savannah. With 11 seniors in the program this year, the Cardinals are hoping to do something special.Even if they don't express that outwardly."They don't talk about state and championships," Benton head coach Johnny Coy said. "It's in the back of everyone's mind. That's what everyone wants to do. But, they know they have to take it game-by-game and just have fun and enjoy the process.""There's a lot of guys that are playing their last year of baseball forever. I told them to just enjoy every single day. Don't worry about tomorrow, worry about today and everything will fall into place the way it's supposed to."Benton is home to Pembroke Hill on Friday at 4:30. Lafayette will host Savannah next Wednesday at 4:30.Photo Album<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fstjoepost%2Fposts%2Fpfbid0WqS3VhfdPnQ4LDMatukfgDhZvpnmAcYyesXEAnzTg8VXpi7K2e3gygYjEKsbL3H1l&show_text=true&width=500" width="500" height="683" 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.

Benton run rules Lafayette to win city round robin Wednesday

BETHANY, OK - Missouri Western started by missing 11 of its first 13 shot attempts. They also turned the ball over 12 times in the first 10 minutes.

Minnesota State (27-5) pounced, going up 28-6 early and essentially cruising to a 78-58 win over the Griffons on Friday at the Sawyer Center in Bethany, Oklahoma.

Missouri Western (25-6) showed signs of life, getting back to within 35-20 midway through the second, but the Mavericks still led 43-25 at the break.

Both teams traded baskets for the first half of the third quarter, but the lethal blow was a 7-0 run by the Mavericks in the final 2:37 of the third. Minnesota State was up 63-37 by the start of the fourth quarter.

Both teams committed 25 turnovers, but Minnesota State scored 29 points off of giveaways. Missouri Western scored only four.

The Griffons also never got going from three, finishing 2-of-22 from deep. Minnesota State was 7-20 from long range.

Destinee Bursch led three Mavericks in double figures with 19 points. Natalie Bremer had 18. Joey Batt had 13. All three of those players are first-team all-NSIC Conference selections.

Minnesota State, despite winning 25 of their last 26 games and winning the NSIC regular season and conference tournament championship, somehow drew only the No. 7 seed.

Junior Alyssa Bonilla got her first start since January 20 and led the Griffons with 15 points on 6-of-9 shooting. Brionna Budgets, in her final Missouri Western game, scored 12 points, but went 0-of-8 from three.

Connie Clarke, also playing in her final game as a Griffon, had 10 points and a game-high nine rebounds. Clarke ends her Griffon career with 1,239 points and 788 career rebounds in three years.

Budgets, who made her 100th career start Friday, ends with 1,449 points and 204 career three-pointers.

Western was held to 34.4% shooting overall. The Griffons got outrebounded 42-33, including 18-12 on the offensive glass.

Minnesota State advances to regional semifinals to face Fort Hays State on Saturday at 5 p.m. Hays beat Northwest Missouri State Friday, 62-47. The Bearcats end their season at 23-8.

Missouri Western, who's went 'one-and-done' in the NCAA tournament for the seventh times since 1998, ends a strong season with its most wins since 2015-16, its first MIAA regular season title since 2016, the second most conference wins in program history and its third consecutive season of 24 or more wins.

The Griffons say goodbye to six seniors in Budgets, Clarke, Johnni Gonzalez, Camille Evans, Mary Fultz and Jordan Cunningham. All six seniors played and scored in their final game Friday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710542428717.jpeg" alt="Alyssa Bonilla led the Griffons with 15 points in a 78-58 loss to Minnesota State on Friday. Stock photo." />
 <figcaption>Alyssa Bonilla led the Griffons with 15 points in a 78-58 loss to Minnesota State on Friday. Stock photo.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostBETHANY, OK - Missouri Western started by missing 11 of its first 13 shot attempts. They also turned the ball over 12 times in the first 10 minutes.Minnesota State (27-5) pounced, going up 28-6 early and essentially cruising to a 78-58 win over the Griffons on Friday at the Sawyer Center in Bethany, Oklahoma.Missouri Western (25-6) showed signs of life, getting back to within 35-20 midway through the second, but the Mavericks still led 43-25 at the break.Both teams traded baskets for the first half of the third quarter, but the lethal blow was a 7-0 run by the Mavericks in the final 2:37 of the third. Minnesota State was up 63-37 by the start of the fourth quarter.Both teams committed 25 turnovers, but Minnesota State scored 29 points off of giveaways. Missouri Western scored only four.The Griffons also never got going from three, finishing 2-of-22 from deep. Minnesota State was 7-20 from long range.Destinee Bursch led three Mavericks in double figures with 19 points. Natalie Bremer had 18. Joey Batt had 13. All three of those players are first-team all-NSIC Conference selections.Minnesota State, despite winning 25 of their last 26 games and winning the NSIC regular season and conference tournament championship, somehow drew only the No. 7 seed.Junior Alyssa Bonilla got her first start since January 20 and led the Griffons with 15 points on 6-of-9 shooting. Brionna Budgets, in her final Missouri Western game, scored 12 points, but went 0-of-8 from three.Connie Clarke, also playing in her final game as a Griffon, had 10 points and a game-high nine rebounds. Clarke ends her Griffon career with 1,239 points and 788 career rebounds in three years.Budgets, who made her 100th career start Friday, ends with 1,449 points and 204 career three-pointers.Western was held to 34.4% shooting overall. The Griffons got outrebounded 42-33, including 18-12 on the offensive glass.Minnesota State advances to regional semifinals to face Fort Hays State on Saturday at 5 p.m. Hays beat Northwest Missouri State Friday, 62-47. The Bearcats end their season at 23-8.Missouri Western, who's went 'one-and-done' in the NCAA tournament for the seventh times since 1998, ends a strong season with its most wins since 2015-16, its first MIAA regular season title since 2016, the second most conference wins in program history and its third consecutive season of 24 or more wins.The Griffons say goodbye to six seniors in Budgets, Clarke, Johnni Gonzalez, Camille Evans, Mary Fultz and Jordan Cunningham. All six seniors played and scored in their final game Friday.Full audio broadcast<div><iframe src="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kfeq-sports/embed/episodes/MWSU-WBB-vs--Minnesota-State---31524-e2h51fr/a-ab2qsip" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>Emily Wacker postgame<div><iframe src="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kfeq-sports/embed/episodes/Emily-Wacker-postgame---31524-e2h51on/a-ab2qt8p" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

MWSU WBB gets off to tough starts, falls in NCAA tournament to Minnesota State

BETHANY, OK - When the Missouri Western women's basketball team watched the NCAA tournament selection show on March 6, 2022, there was a sense of uncertainty in the room.

It seemed like that Griffon team, which won 21 regular season games and finished fifth in the MIAA, had done just enough to get to the big dance.

 Beating Central Missouri three times helped.

Sure enough, the Griffons were the No. 7 seed and went onto win the Central Region championship at Gross Memorial Coliseum in Hays, Kansas, making the Elite Eight for the first time since 1995.

That run started with a <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/d4d3afca-6d7c-495a-8e5c-ef6a7c0bdcab">111-77 walloping of the No. 2 seed</a> and Great American Conference champion Southwestern Oklahoma State.

"We got in and were probably better than what people knew," Missouri Western coach Candi Whitaker recalled, "but with our record and our finish (in the MIAA standings), where else would you have put us, but a 7?"

In 2024, roles are reversed. Missouri Western was a lock this year. The Griffons (25-5) reeled off 15 straight wins to secure an MIAA regular season title and a No. 2 seed in the Central Region.

Their-first round challenge - No. 7 seed Minnesota State-Mankato. The Mavericks (26-5), though, are no Cinderella.

Minnesota State won the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference regular season and conference tournament championship, going 20-2 in league play and rattling off 19 straight wins at one point.

Missouri Western, the No. 2 seed in the region, is ranked No. 20 in the coaches' poll. Minnesota State? They're 13th. The No. 1 seed and regional host Southern Nazarene, is ranked 10th.

"It's very different when you're a (conference) tournament champion and conference (regular season) champion and you get a seven seed," Whitaker said of Minnesota State.

"With the WBCA (coaches' poll), they're 13th. We're 20th. It's interesting. I think DII is interesting. Regionalization is interesting. I think every game is tough, so I don't know if there's an advantage of what seed you're in. Everyone is 0-0 and you have to go compete."

Minnesota State and Missouri Western match up on Friday at 2:30 p.m. central at the Sawyer Center in Bethany, Oklahoma on the campus of Southern Nazarene University.

Should the Griffons win Friday, they'd play either No. 3 Fort Hays State (24-7) or No. 6 Northwest Missouri State (23-7) in regional semifinals Saturday.

But, this first-round game is as scary as they come for the Griffons.

 Minnesota State's lead scorer and first-team all-region guard Joey Batt, missed the first five games of the season, and the Mavs started 2-4.

Batt came back, won NSIC Defensive Player of the Year for a third time in her career and the Mavs have gone 24-2 since November 21.

 Minnesota State ranks fourth in the nation in scoring (83.3), first in turnover margin (+13.52), second in made field goals (976) second in takeaways per game (28), fourth in scoring margin (+20.4) and seventh in offensive rebounding (16.5 per game).

"I'm excited about the matchup," Whitaker said. "(Minnesota State) plays a unique style which is a little like (Southwestern Oklahoma State) a couple years ago."

I think (Minnesota State) is better (than SWOSU) as far as depth, motor, relentlessness. They're going to press you for 40 minutes, they're going to run and jump. It's a bit chaotic."

These teams have a lot in common. Missouri Western also overcame a slow start, going 19-2 down the stretch after starting 5-3.

The Griffons are seventh in the country in scoring margin (+18.3), fifth in assist-to-turnover ratio (1.27), 14th in field goal percentage (45%) and field goal percentage defense (35.3%), 20th in scoring (74.8) and 17th in turnover margin (+5.27).

The Griffons also have a player in Connie Clarke, who's won multiple Defensive Player of the Year honors in her respective league. She's done it the last two years.

These teams are equally impressive on paper and play comparable styles. Fast, transition offense. Stellar, takeaway-heavy defense. High shooting percentage. Both teams play a lot of people.

Missouri Western has nine players who average 15 minutes or more per game. Minnesota State has 10.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710466048622.jpeg" alt="Missouri Western, the MIAA regular season champion in 2024, enters this NCAA tournament as a potential regional favorite after making a Cinderella-type run to the Elite Eight in 2022. Photo by A.J. Robbins." />
 <figcaption>Missouri Western, the MIAA regular season champion in 2024, enters this NCAA tournament as a potential regional favorite after making a Cinderella-type run to the Elite Eight in 2022. Photo by A.J. Robbins.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostBETHANY, OK - When the Missouri Western women's basketball team watched the NCAA tournament selection show on March 6, 2022, there was a sense of uncertainty in the room.It seemed like that Griffon team, which won 21 regular season games and finished fifth in the MIAA, had done just enough to get to the big dance. Beating Central Missouri three times helped.Sure enough, the Griffons were the No. 7 seed and went onto win the Central Region championship at Gross Memorial Coliseum in Hays, Kansas, making the Elite Eight for the first time since 1995.That run started with a <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/d4d3afca-6d7c-495a-8e5c-ef6a7c0bdcab">111-77 walloping of the No. 2 seed</a> and Great American Conference champion Southwestern Oklahoma State."We got in and were probably better than what people knew," Missouri Western coach Candi Whitaker recalled, "but with our record and our finish (in the MIAA standings), where else would you have put us, but a 7?"In 2024, roles are reversed. Missouri Western was a lock this year. The Griffons (25-5) reeled off 15 straight wins to secure an MIAA regular season title and a No. 2 seed in the Central Region.Their-first round challenge - No. 7 seed Minnesota State-Mankato. The Mavericks (26-5), though, are no Cinderella.Minnesota State won the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference regular season and conference tournament championship, going 20-2 in league play and rattling off 19 straight wins at one point.Missouri Western, the No. 2 seed in the region, is ranked No. 20 in the coaches' poll. Minnesota State? They're 13th. The No. 1 seed and regional host Southern Nazarene, is ranked 10th."It's very different when you're a (conference) tournament champion and conference (regular season) champion and you get a seven seed," Whitaker said of Minnesota State."With the WBCA (coaches' poll), they're 13th. We're 20th. It's interesting. I think DII is interesting. Regionalization is interesting. I think every game is tough, so I don't know if there's an advantage of what seed you're in. Everyone is 0-0 and you have to go compete."Minnesota State and Missouri Western match up on Friday at 2:30 p.m. central at the Sawyer Center in Bethany, Oklahoma on the campus of Southern Nazarene University.Should the Griffons win Friday, they'd play either No. 3 Fort Hays State (24-7) or No. 6 Northwest Missouri State (23-7) in regional semifinals Saturday.But, this first-round game is as scary as they come for the Griffons. Minnesota State's lead scorer and first-team all-region guard Joey Batt, missed the first five games of the season, and the Mavs started 2-4.Batt came back, won NSIC Defensive Player of the Year for a third time in her career and the Mavs have gone 24-2 since November 21. Minnesota State ranks fourth in the nation in scoring (83.3), first in turnover margin (+13.52), second in made field goals (976) second in takeaways per game (28), fourth in scoring margin (+20.4) and seventh in offensive rebounding (16.5 per game).And they're the No. 7 seed?"I'm excited about the matchup," Whitaker said. "(Minnesota State) plays a unique style which is a little like (Southwestern Oklahoma State) a couple years ago."I think (Minnesota State) is better (than SWOSU) as far as depth, motor, relentlessness. They're going to press you for 40 minutes, they're going to run and jump. It's a bit chaotic."These teams have a lot in common. Missouri Western also overcame a slow start, going 19-2 down the stretch after starting 5-3.The Griffons are seventh in the country in scoring margin (+18.3), fifth in assist-to-turnover ratio (1.27), 14th in field goal percentage (45%) and field goal percentage defense (35.3%), 20th in scoring (74.8) and 17th in turnover margin (+5.27).The Griffons also have a player in Connie Clarke, who's won multiple Defensive Player of the Year honors in her respective league. She's done it the last two years.These teams are equally impressive on paper and play comparable styles. Fast, transition offense. Stellar, takeaway-heavy defense. High shooting percentage. Both teams play a lot of people.Missouri Western has nine players who average 15 minutes or more per game. Minnesota State has 10.Missouri Western freshman Tiani Ellison knows the Mavs are a big challenge and it's a solid matchup, but she has full faith the Griffons can get it done."They're pretty good," Ellison said of the next opponent. "I watched them, but we're definitely better and I know we can be better. (Minnesota State) doesn't take possessions off. They 'run-and-jump' press the whole game. We've never seen that. It's unique, but if we go out there and take care of the ball, we know what we need to do to get the job done."No one, at least on the outside, expected Missouri Western to cut down nets in Hays as the No. 7 seed two years ago.Minnesota State might feel slighted this year after winning one of the toughest DII leagues in the nation, and getting seeded seventh.The Central Region is always stout. This year is no exception, with half of the field, four of the eight teams, being MIAA members.But, as is the case with any postseason tournament, it's quite literally the start of a new season. And in this Central Region bracket, any of these eight teams are plenty capable of getting to Civic Arena and the Elite Eight."It's a new opportunity and season," Whitaker said. "We all know we're win and advance, or lose and go home. You always see people play with more sense of urgency in their prep and in games this time of year. I think our group is excited about the opportunity in front of them."Friday's game will be heard on KFEQ Radio (680, 95.3, 680kfeq.com, KFEQ app). Coverage will start at 2 p.m. Tip-off at 2:30.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710466177809.jpeg" alt="Photo by Arianne Boma." />
 <figcaption>Photo by Arianne Boma.</figcaption>
 </figure>Candi Whitaker interview<div><iframe src="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kfeq-sports/embed/episodes/Candi-Whitaker---31424-e2h3oqh" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>Johnni Gonzalez interview<div><iframe src="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kfeq-sports/embed/episodes/MWSU-senior-Johnni-Gonzalez-e2h3on7/a-ab2ng9k" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>Tiani Ellison interview<div><iframe src="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kfeq-sports/embed/episodes/MWSU-freshman-Tiani-Ellison-e2h3ooh/a-ab2ngc2" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>Season highlight reel<div><iframe src="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kfeq-sports/embed/episodes/MWSU-WBB-2023-24-radio-montage-e2gp1rj/a-ab1s81v" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.