Neither team scored a point in the fourth quarter until there was 2:04 left in the game.

Fortunately for Bishop LeBlond, they had built themselves a 10-point lead by that point.

That was enough for the Golden Eagles (15-2), ranked No. 9 in Class 3, to fend off North Platte, 40-28, in a girls' basketball contest on Wednesday night at Grace Gymnasium in St. Joseph.

Turnovers were North Platte's demise throughout, as the Panthers (16-4), ranked No. 9 in Class 2, had 19 giveaways unofficially.

North Platte's defense turned the pressure up in the second half, and turned LeBlond over 18 times, but the Golden Eagles made eight three-pointers and won most of the rebounding battles to atone for that.

"North Platte is ranked for a reason," LeBlond head coach Jackie Steltenpohl said. "They're a physical team and can shoot and light it up. We tried to focus defensively on shutting them down and hoping that our offensive game would light up at some point."

"We had some good runs and streaks of getting some offense going. Luckily enough, we were able to keep a decent lead and play comfortably."

LeBlond was also a sound 8-of-11 at the free throw line. North Platte was just 4-of-15.

The Panthers, despite their troubles, kept the game from getting completely out of hand, and got to within single digits late in the fourth, but LeBlond's Kayla Beam nailed two open three-pointers in the final two minutes to put it out of reach.

Beam finished with nine points, while Kyla Conard scored a game-high 17.

Kenedie Summers led North Platte with nine points. Brianna DeBord tallied eight.

The win Wednesday was LeBlond's fifth straight, as the Golden Eagles were coming off of a Richmond Winter Classic championship this past weekend.

LeBlond has a busy road ahead before districts, as they'll play eight more regular season games - all by February 15. They start by going to Savannah on Friday for a 6 p.m. game.

"Our girls have to be physically and mentally ready," Steltenpohl said. "It's something where going to have to draw even closer together as a team and have that chemistry click right now."

North Platte will be at Plattsburg on Friday at 6 p.m.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1706754305609.jpeg" alt="North Platte's Kenedie Summers (13) tries to work through traffic in a game at Bishop LeBlond on Wednesday. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>North Platte's Kenedie Summers (13) tries to work through traffic in a game at Bishop LeBlond on Wednesday. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostNeither team scored a point in the fourth quarter until there was 2:04 left in the game.Fortunately for Bishop LeBlond, they had built themselves a 10-point lead by that point.That was enough for the Golden Eagles (15-2), ranked No. 9 in Class 3, to fend off North Platte, 40-28, in a girls' basketball contest on Wednesday night at Grace Gymnasium in St. Joseph.Turnovers were North Platte's demise throughout, as the Panthers (16-4), ranked No. 9 in Class 2, had 19 giveaways unofficially.North Platte's defense turned the pressure up in the second half, and turned LeBlond over 18 times, but the Golden Eagles made eight three-pointers and won most of the rebounding battles to atone for that."North Platte is ranked for a reason," LeBlond head coach Jackie Steltenpohl said. "They're a physical team and can shoot and light it up. We tried to focus defensively on shutting them down and hoping that our offensive game would light up at some point.""We had some good runs and streaks of getting some offense going. Luckily enough, we were able to keep a decent lead and play comfortably."LeBlond was also a sound 8-of-11 at the free throw line. North Platte was just 4-of-15.The Panthers, despite their troubles, kept the game from getting completely out of hand, and got to within single digits late in the fourth, but LeBlond's Kayla Beam nailed two open three-pointers in the final two minutes to put it out of reach.Beam finished with nine points, while Kyla Conard scored a game-high 17.Kenedie Summers led North Platte with nine points. Brianna DeBord tallied eight.The win Wednesday was LeBlond's fifth straight, as the Golden Eagles were coming off of a Richmond Winter Classic championship this past weekend.LeBlond has a busy road ahead before districts, as they'll play eight more regular season games - all by February 15. They start by going to Savannah on Friday for a 6 p.m. game."Our girls have to be physically and mentally ready," Steltenpohl said. "It's something where going to have to draw even closer together as a team and have that chemistry click right now."North Platte will be at Plattsburg on Friday at 6 p.m.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1706755245128.jpeg" alt="Allie Welter." />
 <figcaption>Allie Welter.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1706755274386.jpeg" alt="Kaleigh Ziesel (left)." />
 <figcaption>Kaleigh Ziesel (left).</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1706755304079.jpeg" alt="Kendall Cathcart (left)." />
 <figcaption>Kendall Cathcart (left).</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1706755329923.jpeg" alt="Lindsay Ramsey (left)." />
 <figcaption>Lindsay Ramsey (left).</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1706755350772.jpeg" alt="Rilyn Conard." />
 <figcaption>Rilyn Conard.</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

LeBlond leans on three-point shooting, defense in win over North Platte 

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Kansas City Royals and utility man Adam Frazier agreed to a $4.5 million, one-year contract to provide the club with a left-handed bat and some versatility in the lineup, a person with knowledge of the deal told The Associated Press on Saturday.

Frazier will make $2 million this season with an $8.5 million mutual option for next season and a $2.5 million buyout, according to the person who spoke to the AP on condition of anonymity because the deal was pending a physical.

The 32-year-old Fraizer spent last season with the AL East champion Orioles, hitting .240 with career highs of 13 homers and 60 RBIs across 141 games. He primarily played second base in Baltimore, but the Royals envision using him at several spots — he also has played shortstop, third base and all three outfield positions in his career.

Frazier was an All-Star in 2021, when he began the season with Pittsburgh and was traded to San Diego in July. He hit .305 that season and showcased a low strikeout rate that should play well in the Kansas City lineup and Kauffman Stadium.

The Royals appeared set with their lineup as they headed toward spring training.

Rising star Bobby Witt Jr. is entrenched at shortstop, Michael Massey is expected to man second base and Maikel Garcia, another young cornerstone, will handle the primary duties at third base. The Royals added Hunter Renfroe in free agency to provide some pop to the lineup and solidify the outfield, while Drew Waters, Kyle Isbel and MJ Melendez will compete for at-bats.

But after injuries played a big part in another 100-loss season for the Royals in 2023, the relatively low-risk deal to add Frazier to the mix makes sense. He could capably fill in at a variety of spots if Kansas City loses anybody for an extended period.

The Royals already had been among the busiest teams in free agency.

Along with signing Renfroe and utility man Garrett Hampson to fortify the lineup, they almost completely revamped their pitching staff. They signed Seth Lugo to a $45 million, three-year deal and fellow starter Michael Wacha to a $32 million, two-year contract, which filled two glaring holes in the rotation. They also signed left-hander Will Smith to a $5 million deal to close out games and right-handed reliever Chris Stratton to a $4 million deal to hold onto leads.

The Royals also acquired right-handed starter Kyle Wright, who will be ready in 2025 after rehabbing from shoulder surgery.

Royals trade utility player Samad Taylor to Seattle Mariners

SEATTLE (AP) — The Seattle Mariners acquired infielder/outfielder Samad Taylor from the Kansas City Royals on Tuesday for a player to be named or cash.

Taylor made his major league debut last season, appearing in 31 games for the Royals. He hit .200 with 11 runs scored and eight stolen bases in 31 games. Taylor flourished at Triple-A Omaha batting .302 with 23 doubles, 55 RBIs, 43 stolen bases and an .884 OPS in 89 games last season.

Taylor, 25, also played four different positions after being called up to Kansas City. He appeared in 15 games in left field, 12 at second base, two at third base and one in center field.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1706642527362.jpeg" alt="FILE - Baltimore Orioles second baseman Adam Frazier takes a throw down to second base during the first inning of a baseball game against the Arizona Diamondbacks Friday, Sept. 1, 2023, in Phoenix. The Kansas City Royals and Frazier agreed to a $4.5 million, one-year contract to provide the club with a left-handed bat and some versatility in the lineup, a person with knowledge of the deal told The Associated Press on Saturday, Jan. 27, 2024. (AP Photo/Ross D. Franklin, File)" />
 <figcaption>FILE - Baltimore Orioles second baseman Adam Frazier takes a throw down to second base during the first inning of a baseball game against the Arizona Diamondbacks Friday, Sept. 1, 2023, in Phoenix. The Kansas City Royals and Frazier agreed to a $4.5 million, one-year contract to provide the club with a left-handed bat and some versatility in the lineup, a person with knowledge of the deal told The Associated Press on Saturday, Jan. 27, 2024. (AP Photo/Ross D. Franklin, File)</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Kansas City Royals and utility man Adam Frazier agreed to a $4.5 million, one-year contract to provide the club with a left-handed bat and some versatility in the lineup, a person with knowledge of the deal told The Associated Press on Saturday.Frazier will make $2 million this season with an $8.5 million mutual option for next season and a $2.5 million buyout, according to the person who spoke to the AP on condition of anonymity because the deal was pending a physical.The 32-year-old Fraizer spent last season with the AL East champion Orioles, hitting .240 with career highs of 13 homers and 60 RBIs across 141 games. He primarily played second base in Baltimore, but the Royals envision using him at several spots — he also has played shortstop, third base and all three outfield positions in his career.Frazier was an All-Star in 2021, when he began the season with Pittsburgh and was traded to San Diego in July. He hit .305 that season and showcased a low strikeout rate that should play well in the Kansas City lineup and Kauffman Stadium.The Royals appeared set with their lineup as they headed toward spring training.Rising star Bobby Witt Jr. is entrenched at shortstop, Michael Massey is expected to man second base and Maikel Garcia, another young cornerstone, will handle the primary duties at third base. The Royals added Hunter Renfroe in free agency to provide some pop to the lineup and solidify the outfield, while Drew Waters, Kyle Isbel and MJ Melendez will compete for at-bats.But after injuries played a big part in another 100-loss season for the Royals in 2023, the relatively low-risk deal to add Frazier to the mix makes sense. He could capably fill in at a variety of spots if Kansas City loses anybody for an extended period.The Royals already had been among the busiest teams in free agency.Along with signing Renfroe and utility man Garrett Hampson to fortify the lineup, they almost completely revamped their pitching staff. They signed Seth Lugo to a $45 million, three-year deal and fellow starter Michael Wacha to a $32 million, two-year contract, which filled two glaring holes in the rotation. They also signed left-hander Will Smith to a $5 million deal to close out games and right-handed reliever Chris Stratton to a $4 million deal to hold onto leads.The Royals also acquired right-handed starter Kyle Wright, who will be ready in 2025 after rehabbing from shoulder surgery.Royals trade utility player Samad Taylor to Seattle MarinersSEATTLE (AP) — The Seattle Mariners acquired infielder/outfielder Samad Taylor from the Kansas City Royals on Tuesday for a player to be named or cash.Taylor made his major league debut last season, appearing in 31 games for the Royals. He hit .200 with 11 runs scored and eight stolen bases in 31 games. Taylor flourished at Triple-A Omaha batting .302 with 23 doubles, 55 RBIs, 43 stolen bases and an .884 OPS in 89 games last season.Taylor, 25, also played four different positions after being called up to Kansas City. He appeared in 15 games in left field, 12 at second base, two at third base and one in center field.

Royals sign utilityman Adam Frazier, trade Samad Taylor to Seattle

BALTIMORE— Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce were at their absolute best in the first half, Kansas City's defense delivered another masterpiece and the Chiefs have reached the Super Bowl for the fourth time in five years with a 17-10 victory win over the Baltimore Ravens in the AFC championship game Sunday.

Kelce caught 11 passes for 116 yards and a touchdown. Mahomes was an impressive 30/39 through the air with for 241 yards and the lone score to Kelce.

Kelce surpassed Jerry Rice for most postseason receptions in NFL history. He now has 161 in 21 career postseason games.

“The Chiefs are still the Chiefs,” said Kelce in an interview with Jim Nantz during the Lamar Hunt trophy presentation.

“And believe it — you’ve got to fight for your right to party! Believe it, baby, we’re going to Las Vegas. To get us another one!"

Running back Isiah Pacheco toted the rock 24 times for 68 yards and a touchdown after being limited in practice the whole week.

Kansas City (14-6) will face San Francisco on Feb. 11, setting up a rematch of Super Bowl 54, where the Chiefs beat the 49ers, 31-20.

A win would make the Chiefs the first team to win it all in back-to-back seasons since the New England Patriots did so in 2003-04.

Aside from Kelce, Mahomes hasn't had the receiving playmakers he's enjoyed in years past this season.

Instead, the defense has been a big part of why Kansas City won the AFC West and eventually prevailed in two straight road playoff games against Buffalo and Baltimore to win the conference.

"It’s been a heck of a year. We’ve been underdogs the last few games,” Mahomes said. “We never feel like underdogs. We’ve got a lot of guys on this team that know how to win. When the playoffs get around, they’re here to make it happen. And now we’re in the Super Bowl. The job’s not done.”

The Chiefs led 17-7 at halftime, and Justin Tucker's 43-yard field goal with 2:34 to play was the only scoring of the second half.

Baltimore (14-5) committed two turnovers in the loss. Their quarterback, Lamar Jackson, who has this year's MVP award all but locked up, was 20/37 for 272 yards, a touchdown and a pick. He was sacked four times.

Baltimore made undisciplined mistakes all game, while Kansas City looked the part of the team making its sixth straight appearance in the conference title game.

With the Ravens down by 10 in the third quarter, rookie Zay Flowers caught a 54-yard pass to the Kansas City 10, but then was flagged for taunting after the play. Moments later, he fumbled near the goal line and the Ravens ended up with no points.

That was one of several frustrating moments for Baltimore fans, whose city was hosting an AFC championship game for the first time since January 1971.

Super Bowl 58 is set for Sunday, February 11 in Las Vegas. Kickoff is set for 5:30 central. The game will be carried on KFEQ Radio (680, 95.3) and Q Country 92.7 FM in St. Joseph.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1706485311012.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce (87) celebrates his touchdown against the Baltimore Ravens during the first half of an AFC Championship NFL football game, Sunday, Jan. 28, 2024, in Baltimore. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)." />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce (87) celebrates his touchdown against the Baltimore Ravens during the first half of an AFC Championship NFL football game, Sunday, Jan. 28, 2024, in Baltimore. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon).</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostBALTIMORE— Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce were at their absolute best in the first half, Kansas City's defense delivered another masterpiece and the Chiefs have reached the Super Bowl for the fourth time in five years with a 17-10 victory win over the Baltimore Ravens in the AFC championship game Sunday.Kelce caught 11 passes for 116 yards and a touchdown. Mahomes was an impressive 30/39 through the air with for 241 yards and the lone score to Kelce.Kelce surpassed Jerry Rice for most postseason receptions in NFL history. He now has 161 in 21 career postseason games.“The Chiefs are still the Chiefs,” said Kelce in an interview with Jim Nantz during the Lamar Hunt trophy presentation.“And believe it — you’ve got to fight for your right to party! Believe it, baby, we’re going to Las Vegas. To get us another one!"Running back Isiah Pacheco toted the rock 24 times for 68 yards and a touchdown after being limited in practice the whole week.Kansas City (14-6) will face San Francisco on Feb. 11, setting up a rematch of Super Bowl 54, where the Chiefs beat the 49ers, 31-20.A win would make the Chiefs the first team to win it all in back-to-back seasons since the New England Patriots did so in 2003-04.Aside from Kelce, Mahomes hasn't had the receiving playmakers he's enjoyed in years past this season.Instead, the defense has been a big part of why Kansas City won the AFC West and eventually prevailed in two straight road playoff games against Buffalo and Baltimore to win the conference."It’s been a heck of a year. We’ve been underdogs the last few games,” Mahomes said. “We never feel like underdogs. We’ve got a lot of guys on this team that know how to win. When the playoffs get around, they’re here to make it happen. And now we’re in the Super Bowl. The job’s not done.”The Chiefs led 17-7 at halftime, and Justin Tucker's 43-yard field goal with 2:34 to play was the only scoring of the second half.Baltimore (14-5) committed two turnovers in the loss. Their quarterback, Lamar Jackson, who has this year's MVP award all but locked up, was 20/37 for 272 yards, a touchdown and a pick. He was sacked four times.Baltimore made undisciplined mistakes all game, while Kansas City looked the part of the team making its sixth straight appearance in the conference title game.With the Ravens down by 10 in the third quarter, rookie Zay Flowers caught a 54-yard pass to the Kansas City 10, but then was flagged for taunting after the play. Moments later, he fumbled near the goal line and the Ravens ended up with no points.That was one of several frustrating moments for Baltimore fans, whose city was hosting an AFC championship game for the first time since January 1971.Super Bowl 58 is set for Sunday, February 11 in Las Vegas. Kickoff is set for 5:30 central. The game will be carried on KFEQ Radio (680, 95.3) and Q Country 92.7 FM in St. Joseph.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1706485355782.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes (15) passes under pressure from Baltimore Ravens defensive tackle Broderick Washington (96) during the second half of the AFC Championship NFL football game, Sunday, Jan. 28, 2024, in Baltimore. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)." />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes (15) passes under pressure from Baltimore Ravens defensive tackle Broderick Washington (96) during the second half of the AFC Championship NFL football game, Sunday, Jan. 28, 2024, in Baltimore. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum).</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1706485443263.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Chiefs defensive tackle Chris Jones (95) sacks Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson (8) during the first half of an AFC Championship NFL football game, Sunday, Jan. 28, 2024, in Baltimore. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)." />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Chiefs defensive tackle Chris Jones (95) sacks Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson (8) during the first half of an AFC Championship NFL football game, Sunday, Jan. 28, 2024, in Baltimore. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon).</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1706487730402.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Chiefs defensive tackle Chris Jones (95) celebrates winning the AFC Championship NFL football game against the Baltimore Ravens, Sunday, Jan. 28, 2024, in Baltimore. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)." />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Chiefs defensive tackle Chris Jones (95) celebrates winning the AFC Championship NFL football game against the Baltimore Ravens, Sunday, Jan. 28, 2024, in Baltimore. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum).</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1706487803853.jpeg" alt="Taylor Swift, left, and Donna Kelce watch the Kansas City Chiefs receive the Lamar Hunt trophey after an AFC Championship NFL football game between the Baltimore Ravens and the Kansas City Chiefs, Sunday, Jan. 28, 2024, in Baltimore. The Kansas City Chiefs won 17-10. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)." />
 <figcaption>Taylor Swift, left, and Donna Kelce watch the Kansas City Chiefs receive the Lamar Hunt trophey after an AFC Championship NFL football game between the Baltimore Ravens and the Kansas City Chiefs, Sunday, Jan. 28, 2024, in Baltimore. The Kansas City Chiefs won 17-10. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez).</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1706487840927.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes (15) holds up the Lamar Hunt Trophy next to Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce (87) after the AFC Championship NFL football game against the Baltimore Ravens, Sunday, Jan. 28, 2024, in Baltimore. The Chiefs won 17-10. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)." />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes (15) holds up the Lamar Hunt Trophy next to Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce (87) after the AFC Championship NFL football game against the Baltimore Ravens, Sunday, Jan. 28, 2024, in Baltimore. The Chiefs won 17-10. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum).</figcaption>
 </figure>The Associated Press contributed to this report.

Kansas City headed to the Super Bowl, Chiefs shut down Ravens in AFC title game

WARRENSBURG - Connie Clarke led Missouri Western with a double-double and the Griffon women's basketball team scored a 77-69 win at No. 16 Central Missouri on Saturday at the UCM Multipurpose Building in Warrensburg.

The Griffons (15-4, 10-3 MIAA) were in a tight battle throughout, but never trailed by more than three points and held a lead for more than 33 minutes.

Missouri Western shot the ball consistently well throughout, hitting 52.6% (30-of-57) from the field. Clarke led the Griffs with her third double-double of the season, dropping 13 points and 11 rebounds.

Tiani Ellison was again impressive, scoring 12 points on 5-of-7 shooting off the bench. Brionna Budgets finished with 11 and Johnni Gonzalez had 10.

Things got a little tense for Missouri Western in the fourth. The Griffons led 64-54, but UCM (14-5, 8-5 MIAA) went on a 10-0 run to knot the game midway through the final period.

A Mackenzie Hart three-pointer coming out of a Candi Whitaker timeout, though, put the Griffons back in front and they never trailed again.

Saturday's game featured nine ties and seven lead changes.

Missouri Western has now won five straight games and 10 of their last 11. They've also beaten Central Missouri in each of the last five meetings.

The Griffons are also 2-0 against ranked opponents so far this season - both of those wins coming on the road.

Connie Clarke, Candi Whitaker interview

Griffons start slow, rally falls short at Central Missouri

The Missouri Western men's basketball team made only one of their first 12 shot attempts against Central Missouri.

The Griffons trailed by 11 points on two separate occasions, and rallied each time to get back to within single digits, but the Mules (10-8, 5-7 MIAA) held off Missouri Western in a 68-60 decision at the UCM Multipurpose Building.

The Griffons (14-5, 8-5 MIAA) trailed by five at halftime, and got it to within four points on four separate occasions in the second half.

But, never once in that second half did Missouri Western trail by any less than four points. The Griffons only led for 1:56 of Saturday's game.

Missouri Western somewhat overcame a morbid shooting start, but still only shot 34.5% (19-of-55) on the day, including 6-of-21 from three.

Central Missouri was a solid 22-of-44 from the floor, but only 3-of-16 from three. The Mules went 20-of-25 at the free throw line to help secure the win, including 15-of-21 in the second half.

Missouri Western knocked down 16-of-19 free throws themselves.

Taye Fields led Missouri Western with 12 points and 11 rebounds. Julius Dixon had nine points. Justin Bubak and Kiani Saxon each scored eight.

The Griffons committed 15 turnovers, which led to 20 UCM turnovers. The Mules committed 13 turnovers themselves, but Missouri Western only scored nine points off of those.

UCM also outscored Western in the paint, 36-18. Jalen Knott led three Mules in double figures with 17 points. He was 10-of-13 at the foul line.

Missouri Western has now lost each of their last three games against Central Missouri, and the Griffon men haven't won in Warrensburg since December 2019

 Missouri Western is also now 2-4 in MIAA road games this season.

Both Griffon teams return home for big time games against Fort Hays State on Thursday. The women's game is at 5:30, the men's at 7:30. Both are on KFEQ Radio (680, 95.3, 680kfeq.com, KFEQ app).

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1706402041833.jpeg" alt="Photo by Derek Zimmerman-Guyer." />
 <figcaption>Photo by Derek Zimmerman-Guyer.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostWARRENSBURG - Connie Clarke led Missouri Western with a double-double and the Griffon women's basketball team scored a 77-69 win at No. 16 Central Missouri on Saturday at the UCM Multipurpose Building in Warrensburg.The Griffons (15-4, 10-3 MIAA) were in a tight battle throughout, but never trailed by more than three points and held a lead for more than 33 minutes.Missouri Western shot the ball consistently well throughout, hitting 52.6% (30-of-57) from the field. Clarke led the Griffs with her third double-double of the season, dropping 13 points and 11 rebounds.Tiani Ellison was again impressive, scoring 12 points on 5-of-7 shooting off the bench. Brionna Budgets finished with 11 and Johnni Gonzalez had 10.Things got a little tense for Missouri Western in the fourth. The Griffons led 64-54, but UCM (14-5, 8-5 MIAA) went on a 10-0 run to knot the game midway through the final period.A Mackenzie Hart three-pointer coming out of a Candi Whitaker timeout, though, put the Griffons back in front and they never trailed again.Saturday's game featured nine ties and seven lead changes.Missouri Western has now won five straight games and 10 of their last 11. They've also beaten Central Missouri in each of the last five meetings.The Griffons are also 2-0 against ranked opponents so far this season - both of those wins coming on the road.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1706403095163.jpeg" alt="Johnni Gonzalez (2) had 10 points to go with four assists in Saturday's game. Photo by Derek Zimmerman-Guyer." />
 <figcaption>Johnni Gonzalez (2) had 10 points to go with four assists in Saturday's game. Photo by Derek Zimmerman-Guyer.</figcaption>
 </figure>Connie Clarke, Candi Whitaker interview<div><iframe src="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kfeq-sports/embed/episodes/Candi-Whitaker---Lincoln-postgame-e2etn5a/a-aastk2e" 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--16-UCM---12724-e2f19ra/a-aat82dr" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>Griffons start slow, rally falls short at Central MissouriThe Missouri Western men's basketball team made only one of their first 12 shot attempts against Central Missouri.The Griffons trailed by 11 points on two separate occasions, and rallied each time to get back to within single digits, but the Mules (10-8, 5-7 MIAA) held off Missouri Western in a 68-60 decision at the UCM Multipurpose Building.The Griffons (14-5, 8-5 MIAA) trailed by five at halftime, and got it to within four points on four separate occasions in the second half.But, never once in that second half did Missouri Western trail by any less than four points. The Griffons only led for 1:56 of Saturday's game.Missouri Western somewhat overcame a morbid shooting start, but still only shot 34.5% (19-of-55) on the day, including 6-of-21 from three.Central Missouri was a solid 22-of-44 from the floor, but only 3-of-16 from three. The Mules went 20-of-25 at the free throw line to help secure the win, including 15-of-21 in the second half.Missouri Western knocked down 16-of-19 free throws themselves.Taye Fields led Missouri Western with 12 points and 11 rebounds. Julius Dixon had nine points. Justin Bubak and Kiani Saxon each scored eight.The Griffons committed 15 turnovers, which led to 20 UCM turnovers. The Mules committed 13 turnovers themselves, but Missouri Western only scored nine points off of those.UCM also outscored Western in the paint, 36-18. Jalen Knott led three Mules in double figures with 17 points. He was 10-of-13 at the foul line.Missouri Western has now lost each of their last three games against Central Missouri, and the Griffon men haven't won in Warrensburg since December 2019 Missouri Western is also now 2-4 in MIAA road games this season.Both Griffon teams return home for big time games against Fort Hays State on Thursday. The women's game is at 5:30, the men's at 7:30. Both are on KFEQ Radio (680, 95.3, 680kfeq.com, KFEQ app).<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1706403943128.png" alt="Zion Swader (2) had seven points and six rebounds in a 68-60 loss at Central Missouri Saturday. Photo by Derek Zimmerman-Guyer." />
 <figcaption>Zion Swader (2) had seven points and six rebounds in a 68-60 loss at Central Missouri Saturday. Photo by Derek Zimmerman-Guyer.</figcaption>
 </figure>Will Martin interview<div><iframe src="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kfeq-sports/embed/episodes/Will-Martin---UCM-postgame-e2f1a0g/a-aat82uv" 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--UCM---12724-e2f19uo/a-aat82su" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

MWSU women's basketball takes down #16 UCM, Griffon men fall to Mules

St. Joseph Central senior and golf standout Jackson "Jax" Patterson is continuing his playing career at the next level in his home city.

Patterson put pen to paper Friday, signing his national letter of intent to play golf at Missouri Western in St. Joseph, fulfilling a goal he had set out to achieve since he entered high school.

"I came into high school, and that's all I wanted to do," Patterson told reporters. "Playing golf at the next level."

Patterson had a breakout season his junior year in 2023, finishing fifth in districts and earning a spot in the Class 5 state meet at&nbsp;Silo Ridge Golf and Country Club in Bolivar last May.

Patterson also placed second in the&nbsp;Suburban Red Conference Championship meet played at Moila Country Club in St. Joseph - also last May.

"I played well, so that was fun," Patterson said of last season. "Seeing my name in the top five (on the leaderboard) was pretty cool, too."

Patterson joins a Missouri Western roster that's loaded with talent and local flavor. St. Joseph native and Bishop LeBlond alum <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/788f0e83-68eb-4633-ae2d-1886a063955b">Jeffrey Johnston</a>&nbsp;is a junior on the team.

LeBlond alum <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/382094ec-34bd-4b98-9e75-71f3808f459e">Sam Schoeberl</a> is a freshman for the Griffons. LeBlond seniors <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/32d8b655-7c7f-40f8-9adc-3745a0d9b4f7">Tim and Pat Johnston and Davis Jungbluth</a> will join Patterson at Western in this recruiting class.

"I already have a lot of friends over at Missouri Western," Patterson said. "I'm going to fit in really well. I know a lot of guys on the team as well. So, it's going to be fun."

Daniel Love, a Central alum, played his first two years of college golf at Missouri Western as well.

Another former Central golfer, Jake Mikesch, played his college golf for the Griffons, too. He's now an assistant coach on Matt Thrasher's staff.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1706298241669.jpeg" alt="Jax Patterson (middle) signs his national letter of intent to play golf at Missouri Western Friday. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Jax Patterson (middle) signs his national letter of intent to play golf at Missouri Western Friday. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostSt. Joseph Central senior and golf standout Jackson "Jax" Patterson is continuing his playing career at the next level in his home city.Patterson put pen to paper Friday, signing his national letter of intent to play golf at Missouri Western in St. Joseph, fulfilling a goal he had set out to achieve since he entered high school."I came into high school, and that's all I wanted to do," Patterson told reporters. "Playing golf at the next level."Patterson had a breakout season his junior year in 2023, finishing fifth in districts and earning a spot in the Class 5 state meet at&nbsp;Silo Ridge Golf and Country Club in Bolivar last May.Patterson also placed second in the&nbsp;Suburban Red Conference Championship meet played at Moila Country Club in St. Joseph - also last May."I played well, so that was fun," Patterson said of last season. "Seeing my name in the top five (on the leaderboard) was pretty cool, too."Patterson joins a Missouri Western roster that's loaded with talent and local flavor. St. Joseph native and Bishop LeBlond alum <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/788f0e83-68eb-4633-ae2d-1886a063955b">Jeffrey Johnston</a>&nbsp;is a junior on the team.LeBlond alum <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/382094ec-34bd-4b98-9e75-71f3808f459e">Sam Schoeberl</a> is a freshman for the Griffons. LeBlond seniors <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/32d8b655-7c7f-40f8-9adc-3745a0d9b4f7">Tim and Pat Johnston and Davis Jungbluth</a> will join Patterson at Western in this recruiting class."I already have a lot of friends over at Missouri Western," Patterson said. "I'm going to fit in really well. I know a lot of guys on the team as well. So, it's going to be fun."Daniel Love, a Central alum, played his first two years of college golf at Missouri Western as well.Another former Central golfer, Jake Mikesch, played his college golf for the Griffons, too. He's now an assistant coach on Matt Thrasher's staff.You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Central golfer Jax Patterson signs letter of intent for Missouri Western golf

JEFFERSON CITY, MO - The Missouri Western women's basketball team used a big second quarter to build a comfortable halftime lead and ultimately roll to a 90-51 win at Lincoln University Wednesday in Jefferson City.

Missouri Western (14-4, 9-3 MIAA) led 21-14 after the first quarter and buried the Blue Tigers in the second, outscoring them 28-10 in that period to go up 49-25 at intermission.

The Griffons shot the ball consistently well throughout, hitting 56.1% (37-of-66) from the field, including 9-of-20 from three. Missouri Western had 25 assists to just 12 turnovers and scored 29 fast break points.

The Griffons outscored the Blue Tigers in the paint by a whopping 50-16 margin.

Connie Clarke and Brionna Budgets led Missouri Western with 18 points each. Budgets was 4-of-9 from long range. Jayme Jackson added 12 points. Kassandra Caron and Tiani Ellison both came off the bench to score 10.

Missouri Western, once again, played lockdown defense, holding Lincoln (6-12, 2-10 MIAA) to just 32.1% shooting (17-of-53) overall and a 3-of-18 mark from three.

The Griffons also forced 24 turnovers by the Blue Tigers, turning those giveaways into 33 points.

Missouri Western has won four straight games and nine of their last 10 overall. The Griffons have also won each of the last 10 meetings against Lincoln.

Wednesday marked the final regular season game against Lincoln as MIAA foes. The Blue Tigers are joining the Great Lakes Valley Conference in the upcoming school year.

MWSU men fall behind in second half, see win streak end at Lincoln

Missouri Western was in a back-and-forth battle at Lincoln in the first half Wednesday.

Heck, the Griffons even had a lead for about eight minutes.

The Griffons got down by five points at halftime, and then by 10 with 12:37 to go. The deficit inflated to 17 points with three minutes left ,and Missouri Western fell at Lincoln, 76-66, on Wednesday at Jason Gym.

The Griffons (14-4, 8-4 MIAA), ranked No. 22 in this week's coaches' poll, saw a six-game winning streak come to an end, as they played their first game in Jefferson City since December 2021.

The first half featured seven ties and five lead changes, but Lincoln held Missouri Western without a made field goal for the final 4:57 of the first half, allowing the Blue Tigers to take a 32-27 lead at the break.

Missouri Western opened the second half on a 5-0 run to tie the game at 32-32 with 18:04 to go, but the Griffons never tasted a lead in the last 20 minutes.

The Griffons had a 4.5 minute scoring drought in the latter portion of the second half as well, allowing Lincoln to go up 59-45 with 7:02 remaining.

Lincoln (12-6, 7-5) shot 60.9% in the second half and only turned the ball over nine times. Eleven turnovers by the Griffons led to 17 points for the Blue Tigers.

Lincoln also outscored Missouri Western in the paint, 36-26.

Missouri Western missed nine free throws (16-of-25) in the loss. The Griffons shot 40.4% (21-of-52) on the night, hitting on 8-of-21 attempts from three.

JaRon Thames had a game-high 19 points to lead Missouri Western. Kiani Saxon added 12, while Zion Swader had 11.

Elijah Farr led four Blue Tigers in double figures with 18 points.

Both Missouri Western teams are on the road to face Central Missouri on Saturday. The women's game starts at 1 p.m., the men's game follows at 3. Both games are on KFEQ Radio (680, 95.3, 680kfeq.com, KFEQ app).

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1706168867157.jpeg" alt="Connie Clarke (10) looks to go up for a layup in a game at Lincoln University on Wednesday. Photo by Derek Zimmerman-Guyer." />
 <figcaption>Connie Clarke (10) looks to go up for a layup in a game at Lincoln University on Wednesday. Photo by Derek Zimmerman-Guyer.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostJEFFERSON CITY, MO - The Missouri Western women's basketball team used a big second quarter to build a comfortable halftime lead and ultimately roll to a 90-51 win at Lincoln University Wednesday in Jefferson City.Missouri Western (14-4, 9-3 MIAA) led 21-14 after the first quarter and buried the Blue Tigers in the second, outscoring them 28-10 in that period to go up 49-25 at intermission.The Griffons shot the ball consistently well throughout, hitting 56.1% (37-of-66) from the field, including 9-of-20 from three. Missouri Western had 25 assists to just 12 turnovers and scored 29 fast break points.The Griffons outscored the Blue Tigers in the paint by a whopping 50-16 margin.Connie Clarke and Brionna Budgets led Missouri Western with 18 points each. Budgets was 4-of-9 from long range. Jayme Jackson added 12 points. Kassandra Caron and Tiani Ellison both came off the bench to score 10.Missouri Western, once again, played lockdown defense, holding Lincoln (6-12, 2-10 MIAA) to just 32.1% shooting (17-of-53) overall and a 3-of-18 mark from three.The Griffons also forced 24 turnovers by the Blue Tigers, turning those giveaways into 33 points.Missouri Western has won four straight games and nine of their last 10 overall. The Griffons have also won each of the last 10 meetings against Lincoln.Wednesday marked the final regular season game against Lincoln as MIAA foes. The Blue Tigers are joining the Great Lakes Valley Conference in the upcoming school year.Candi Whitaker interview<div><iframe src="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kfeq-sports/embed/episodes/Candi-Whitaker---Lincoln-postgame-e2etn5a/a-aastk2e" 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--Lincoln---12424-e2etn3n/a-aastk07" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>MWSU men fall behind in second half, see win streak end at Lincoln<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1706171258277.jpeg" alt="JaRon Thames (24) goes up for a dunk during a game at Lincoln University Wednesday. Photo by Derek Zimmerman-Guyer." />
 <figcaption>JaRon Thames (24) goes up for a dunk during a game at Lincoln University Wednesday. Photo by Derek Zimmerman-Guyer.</figcaption>
 </figure>Missouri Western was in a back-and-forth battle at Lincoln in the first half Wednesday.Heck, the Griffons even had a lead for about eight minutes.The Griffons got down by five points at halftime, and then by 10 with 12:37 to go. The deficit inflated to 17 points with three minutes left ,and Missouri Western fell at Lincoln, 76-66, on Wednesday at Jason Gym.The Griffons (14-4, 8-4 MIAA), ranked No. 22 in this week's coaches' poll, saw a six-game winning streak come to an end, as they played their first game in Jefferson City since December 2021.The first half featured seven ties and five lead changes, but Lincoln held Missouri Western without a made field goal for the final 4:57 of the first half, allowing the Blue Tigers to take a 32-27 lead at the break.Missouri Western opened the second half on a 5-0 run to tie the game at 32-32 with 18:04 to go, but the Griffons never tasted a lead in the last 20 minutes.The Griffons had a 4.5 minute scoring drought in the latter portion of the second half as well, allowing Lincoln to go up 59-45 with 7:02 remaining.Lincoln (12-6, 7-5) shot 60.9% in the second half and only turned the ball over nine times. Eleven turnovers by the Griffons led to 17 points for the Blue Tigers.Lincoln also outscored Missouri Western in the paint, 36-26.Missouri Western missed nine free throws (16-of-25) in the loss. The Griffons shot 40.4% (21-of-52) on the night, hitting on 8-of-21 attempts from three.JaRon Thames had a game-high 19 points to lead Missouri Western. Kiani Saxon added 12, while Zion Swader had 11.Elijah Farr led four Blue Tigers in double figures with 18 points.Both Missouri Western teams are on the road to face Central Missouri on Saturday. The women's game starts at 1 p.m., the men's game follows at 3. Both games are on KFEQ Radio (680, 95.3, 680kfeq.com, KFEQ app).Will Martin interview<div><iframe src="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kfeq-sports/embed/episodes/Will-Martin---Lincoln-postgame-e2etna2/a-aastkg1" 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--Lincoln---12424-e2etn6a/a-aastk6v" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

MWSU women's basketball rolls at Lincoln, Griffon men's win streak ends

ORCHARD PARK, N.Y. (AP) — No matter the setting — Arrowhead Stadium or Orchard Park — Patrick Mahomes and the Kansas City Chiefs keep finding ways to beat Josh Allen and Buffalo Bills in the playoffs.

Mahomes threw two touchdown passes to Travis Kelce and the defending Super Bowl champion Chiefs advanced to their sixth straight AFC championship game with a 27-24 win over the Bills on Sunday night.

The Chiefs move on to Baltimore to face Lamar Jackson and the conference’s top-seeded Ravens, who beat Houston 34-10 on Saturday.

Kansas City is 0-1 in the playoffs against the Ravens, following a 30-7 loss in the 2010 wild-card round. Baltimore defeated Kansas City 36-35 in their most recent regular-season matchup in Week 2 of the 2021 season.

“There’s no weakness there,” Mahomes said of the Ravens. “It’s going to take our best effort. Defense, offense, special teams, they do it all. It’s always a great challenge and that stadium’s going to be rocking, so we’re excited for the challenge.”

Mahomes passed his first test by winning his first true road playoff game — not including Super Bowl neutral sites — and improving his postseason record to 13-3.

“First of all, this is a great environment, man,” Mahomes said of Buffalo. “It really is. We did hear it all week, man, about playing a road game, and we’re here to prove a point and show that we can play anywhere.”

The Chiefs are accustomed to ending the Bills' season, having done it now in three of the past four playoffs, with the first two wins coming at home in the 2020 AFC championship game and the 2021 divisional round.

“All-time classic again. Any time we play Sean’s teams, it comes right down to the end,” Chiefs coach Andy Reid said, referring to Bills coach Sean McDermott.

The Chiefs scored on five of their first six possessions, not including a kneeldown at halftime, and went ahead for good on Isiah Pacheco's 4-yard touchdown run 40 seconds into the fourth quarter.

Neither team led by more than seven points and they traded leads five times. The outcome was decided when Buffalo kicker Tyler Bass missed a potential game-tying field goal wide right from 44 yards, allowing the Chiefs to run out the remaining 1:47.

“Ultimately, completely on me,” said Bass, who had a field goal blocked and missed from 27 yards in a playoff-opening 31-17 win over Pittsburgh last week. “I feel terrible. I love this team, man. It hurts. This one hurts bad.”

Allen blamed himself for having Buffalo’s final drive stall at the Chiefs 26 following two incompletions — the last a throwaway after he was flushed out of the pocket.

“I wish he wouldn’t have been put in that situation. You win as a team you lose as a team. One play doesn’t define a game, doesn’t define a season,” Allen said. “Losing sucks. Losing to them, losing to anybody.”

The Bills keep finding different ways to lose to the Chiefs. After being blown out 38-24 at Kansas City in the 2020 season AFC championship game, Buffalo came up short in a 42-36 overtime loss in the divisional round a year later.

The game has since been dubbed “13 Seconds” because that’s how much time was left for Mahomes to march the Chiefs 44 yards on two plays to set up Harrison Butker’s 49-yard field goal. Mahomes then clinched the win with a 9-yard touchdown pass to — who else? — Kelce.

The tight end didn’t stick around to address reporters after this win, as he was perhaps busy rushing out to visit with girlfriend, pop music superstar Taylor Swift, and his brother Jason, who celebrated watching his two-TD outing from a suite.

Travis Kelce celebrated his first touchdown catch — a 22-yarder — by making a heart gesture with his hands and directed toward Swift’s suite at the opposite end of the field. And Jason Kelce celebrated the touchdown shirtless while holding a can of beer.

Mahomes was 17 of 23 for 215 yards, and the two TD passes to Kelce were the 15th and 16th times they’ve combined for scores in the playoffs. They have one more than Tom Brady and Rob Gronkowski for the NFL record for most playoff TDs for a quarterback-receiver combination.

“It speaks to Travis and his work, to be able to go out there and make plays in big games,” Mahomes said. “Passing anything that has Brady and Gronk in it is special. Because those are two of the greatest players.”

Allen went 26 of 39 for 186 yards and a touchdown, and also ran for two scores. His team-leading 72 yards rushing increased his career playoff total to 563, the second most among NFL quarterbacks in league history and trailing only Steve Young (594).

It was another disappointing finish for a Bills team that won its fourth consecutive AFC East title, and was on a six-game roll since a 20-17 win at Kansas City on Dec. 10.

“Just lost in the playoffs to a team that’s kicked us out,” safety Jordan Poyer said. “It’s tough. You work so hard throughout the season to fight and claw back, our backs against the wall, everybody doubting us midway through the season and we get here and just that close.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1705900377653.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce (87) scores a touchdown against the Buffalo Bills during the second quarter of an NFL AFC division playoff football game, Sunday, Jan. 21, 2024, in Orchard Park, N.Y. (AP Photo/Adrian Kraus)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce (87) scores a touchdown against the Buffalo Bills during the second quarter of an NFL AFC division playoff football game, Sunday, Jan. 21, 2024, in Orchard Park, N.Y. (AP Photo/Adrian Kraus)</figcaption>
 </figure>ORCHARD PARK, N.Y. (AP) — No matter the setting — Arrowhead Stadium or Orchard Park — Patrick Mahomes and the Kansas City Chiefs keep finding ways to beat Josh Allen and Buffalo Bills in the playoffs.Mahomes threw two touchdown passes to Travis Kelce and the defending Super Bowl champion Chiefs advanced to their sixth straight AFC championship game with a 27-24 win over the Bills on Sunday night.The Chiefs move on to Baltimore to face Lamar Jackson and the conference’s top-seeded Ravens, who beat Houston 34-10 on Saturday.Kansas City is 0-1 in the playoffs against the Ravens, following a 30-7 loss in the 2010 wild-card round. Baltimore defeated Kansas City 36-35 in their most recent regular-season matchup in Week 2 of the 2021 season.“There’s no weakness there,” Mahomes said of the Ravens. “It’s going to take our best effort. Defense, offense, special teams, they do it all. It’s always a great challenge and that stadium’s going to be rocking, so we’re excited for the challenge.”Mahomes passed his first test by winning his first true road playoff game — not including Super Bowl neutral sites — and improving his postseason record to 13-3.“First of all, this is a great environment, man,” Mahomes said of Buffalo. “It really is. We did hear it all week, man, about playing a road game, and we’re here to prove a point and show that we can play anywhere.”The Chiefs are accustomed to ending the Bills' season, having done it now in three of the past four playoffs, with the first two wins coming at home in the 2020 AFC championship game and the 2021 divisional round.“All-time classic again. Any time we play Sean’s teams, it comes right down to the end,” Chiefs coach Andy Reid said, referring to Bills coach Sean McDermott.The Chiefs scored on five of their first six possessions, not including a kneeldown at halftime, and went ahead for good on Isiah Pacheco's 4-yard touchdown run 40 seconds into the fourth quarter.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1705900489019.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Chiefs running back Isiah Pacheco (10) reacts after scoring a touchdown against the Buffalo Bills during the fourth quarter of an NFL AFC division playoff football game, Sunday, Jan. 21, 2024, in Orchard Park, N.Y. (AP Photo/Jeffrey T. Barnes)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Chiefs running back Isiah Pacheco (10) reacts after scoring a touchdown against the Buffalo Bills during the fourth quarter of an NFL AFC division playoff football game, Sunday, Jan. 21, 2024, in Orchard Park, N.Y. (AP Photo/Jeffrey T. Barnes)</figcaption>
 </figure>Neither team led by more than seven points and they traded leads five times. The outcome was decided when Buffalo kicker Tyler Bass missed a potential game-tying field goal wide right from 44 yards, allowing the Chiefs to run out the remaining 1:47.“Ultimately, completely on me,” said Bass, who had a field goal blocked and missed from 27 yards in a playoff-opening 31-17 win over Pittsburgh last week. “I feel terrible. I love this team, man. It hurts. This one hurts bad.”Allen blamed himself for having Buffalo’s final drive stall at the Chiefs 26 following two incompletions — the last a throwaway after he was flushed out of the pocket.“I wish he wouldn’t have been put in that situation. You win as a team you lose as a team. One play doesn’t define a game, doesn’t define a season,” Allen said. “Losing sucks. Losing to them, losing to anybody.”The Bills keep finding different ways to lose to the Chiefs. After being blown out 38-24 at Kansas City in the 2020 season AFC championship game, Buffalo came up short in a 42-36 overtime loss in the divisional round a year later.The game has since been dubbed “13 Seconds” because that’s how much time was left for Mahomes to march the Chiefs 44 yards on two plays to set up Harrison Butker’s 49-yard field goal. Mahomes then clinched the win with a 9-yard touchdown pass to — who else? — Kelce.The tight end didn’t stick around to address reporters after this win, as he was perhaps busy rushing out to visit with girlfriend, pop music superstar Taylor Swift, and his brother Jason, who celebrated watching his two-TD outing from a suite.Travis Kelce celebrated his first touchdown catch — a 22-yarder — by making a heart gesture with his hands and directed toward Swift’s suite at the opposite end of the field. And Jason Kelce celebrated the touchdown shirtless while holding a can of beer.Mahomes was 17 of 23 for 215 yards, and the two TD passes to Kelce were the 15th and 16th times they’ve combined for scores in the playoffs. They have one more than Tom Brady and Rob Gronkowski for the NFL record for most playoff TDs for a quarterback-receiver combination.“It speaks to Travis and his work, to be able to go out there and make plays in big games,” Mahomes said. “Passing anything that has Brady and Gronk in it is special. Because those are two of the greatest players.”Allen went 26 of 39 for 186 yards and a touchdown, and also ran for two scores. His team-leading 72 yards rushing increased his career playoff total to 563, the second most among NFL quarterbacks in league history and trailing only Steve Young (594).It was another disappointing finish for a Bills team that won its fourth consecutive AFC East title, and was on a six-game roll since a 20-17 win at Kansas City on Dec. 10.“Just lost in the playoffs to a team that’s kicked us out,” safety Jordan Poyer said. “It’s tough. You work so hard throughout the season to fight and claw back, our backs against the wall, everybody doubting us midway through the season and we get here and just that close.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1705900440127.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce (87) reacts after scoring a touchdown against the Buffalo Bills during the second quarter of an NFL AFC division playoff football game, Sunday, Jan. 21, 2024, in Orchard Park, N.Y. (AP Photo/Adrian Kraus)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce (87) reacts after scoring a touchdown against the Buffalo Bills during the second quarter of an NFL AFC division playoff football game, Sunday, Jan. 21, 2024, in Orchard Park, N.Y. (AP Photo/Adrian Kraus)</figcaption>
 </figure>

Kelce scores twice and Chiefs beat Bills 27-24 to advance to face Ravens in AFC championship

Missouri Western forced 30 turnovers and the Griffon women's basketball team dominated in a 73-49 win over Central Oklahoma on Saturday at the MWSU Fieldhouse in St. Joseph.

Missouri Western (13-4, 8-3 MIAA) outscored UCO 22-8 in the second quarter and led 37-14 by halftime.

Central Oklahoma (4-14, 3-9 MIAA), trailing 56-25 at the start of the fourth, made a late push and got back to within 17 points, but Missouri Western drained five three-pointers in the fourth to put the game on ice.

Brionna Budgets dropped a season-high 21 points on a 5-of-15 effort from beyond the arc. Connie Clarke was outstanding with 17 points, seven rebounds, eight assists, seven steals and two blocks. Mary Fultz had 12 points and five rebounds.

Tiani Ellison came off the bench for 10 points and six rebounds.

Missouri Western's defense was particularly potent, as the Griffons forced 30 turnovers and scored 40 points off of those. Missouri nabbed 16 steals and held UCO to 34 percent shooting.

The Missouri Western women are now 8-1 at home and have won eight of their last nine games.

The Griffons remain tied with Central Missouri and Fort Hays State for second place in the MIAA with an 8-3 league record.

Griffon men block go-ahead shot from Jaden Wells, fend off Bronchos

Missouri Western used an 11-0 second half run to grab a late lead and the Griffons blocked a go-ahead shot from Central Oklahoma's Jaden Wells to eek out a 57-56 win over the Bronchos at the MWSU Fieldhouse Saturday.

UCO (14-6, 6-6 MIAA) led 48-42 with 9:31 to play, but would not score again until there was 2:47 remaining.

Missouri Western (14-3, 8-3 MIAA) led 57-52 with 51 seconds left after a huge jumper by Zion Swader, but the Bronchos got back to within one points after a couple of layups by Wells.

Missouri Western was put on the line for a one-and-one with six seconds left, but Taye Fields missed the first free throw and Wells rebounded.

Wells went up the floor himself and tried for a step-back bunny at the buzzer, but he was blocked by Fields.

Wells led UCO with a game-high 24 points. JaRon Thames led Missouri Western with 18 points and 11 rebounds. Swader had another strong showing with 13 points, six rebounds, four steals and three assists.

Justin Bubak came off the bench with six points, eight rebounds and two blocks.

The Griffons outrebounded UCO 41-30 and held the Bronchos to 36.4 percent shooting (20-of-55). Missouri Western also benefitted from eight missed free throws by UCO (12-of-20).

The game featured 10 lead changes and five ties. UCO held a lead for 15 minutes, while MWSU led for a little more than 20.

Missouri Western's win streak is now six games, as they get their first win over UCO in St. Joseph since 2016. At 8-3 in the league, the Griffons are just a half-game out of first place in the MIAA.

Missouri Western is on the road to face Lincoln University in Jefferson City Wednesday. The women's game starts at 5:30, the men's at 7:30. Both games are on KFEQ Radio (680, 95.3).

Will Martin, Justin Bubak interview

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1705798678779.jpeg" alt="Connie Clarke (left) scored 17 points to go with seven rebounds, eight assists, seven steals and two blocks in a 73-49 drubbing of Central Oklahoma Saturday. Photo by Arianne Boma." />
 <figcaption>Connie Clarke (left) scored 17 points to go with seven rebounds, eight assists, seven steals and two blocks in a 73-49 drubbing of Central Oklahoma Saturday. Photo by Arianne Boma.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostMissouri Western forced 30 turnovers and the Griffon women's basketball team dominated in a 73-49 win over Central Oklahoma on Saturday at the MWSU Fieldhouse in St. Joseph.Missouri Western (13-4, 8-3 MIAA) outscored UCO 22-8 in the second quarter and led 37-14 by halftime.Central Oklahoma (4-14, 3-9 MIAA), trailing 56-25 at the start of the fourth, made a late push and got back to within 17 points, but Missouri Western drained five three-pointers in the fourth to put the game on ice.Brionna Budgets dropped a season-high 21 points on a 5-of-15 effort from beyond the arc. Connie Clarke was outstanding with 17 points, seven rebounds, eight assists, seven steals and two blocks. Mary Fultz had 12 points and five rebounds.Tiani Ellison came off the bench for 10 points and six rebounds.Missouri Western's defense was particularly potent, as the Griffons forced 30 turnovers and scored 40 points off of those. Missouri nabbed 16 steals and held UCO to 34 percent shooting.The Missouri Western women are now 8-1 at home and have won eight of their last nine games.The Griffons remain tied with Central Missouri and Fort Hays State for second place in the MIAA with an 8-3 league record.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1705802191126.jpeg" alt="Brionna Budgets (23) knocked down five three-pointers in the win." />
 <figcaption>Brionna Budgets (23) knocked down five three-pointers in the win.</figcaption>
 </figure>Candi Whitaker interview<div><iframe src="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kfeq-sports/embed/episodes/Candi-Whitaker---UCO-postgame-e2enem3/a-aasatan" 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--UCO---12024-e2eneiv/a-aasat75" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>Griffon men block go-ahead shot from Jaden Wells, fend off BronchosMissouri Western used an 11-0 second half run to grab a late lead and the Griffons blocked a go-ahead shot from Central Oklahoma's Jaden Wells to eek out a 57-56 win over the Bronchos at the MWSU Fieldhouse Saturday.UCO (14-6, 6-6 MIAA) led 48-42 with 9:31 to play, but would not score again until there was 2:47 remaining.Missouri Western (14-3, 8-3 MIAA) led 57-52 with 51 seconds left after a huge jumper by Zion Swader, but the Bronchos got back to within one points after a couple of layups by Wells.Missouri Western was put on the line for a one-and-one with six seconds left, but Taye Fields missed the first free throw and Wells rebounded.Wells went up the floor himself and tried for a step-back bunny at the buzzer, but he was blocked by Fields.Wells led UCO with a game-high 24 points. JaRon Thames led Missouri Western with 18 points and 11 rebounds. Swader had another strong showing with 13 points, six rebounds, four steals and three assists.Justin Bubak came off the bench with six points, eight rebounds and two blocks.The Griffons outrebounded UCO 41-30 and held the Bronchos to 36.4 percent shooting (20-of-55). Missouri Western also benefitted from eight missed free throws by UCO (12-of-20).The game featured 10 lead changes and five ties. UCO held a lead for 15 minutes, while MWSU led for a little more than 20.Missouri Western's win streak is now six games, as they get their first win over UCO in St. Joseph since 2016. At 8-3 in the league, the Griffons are just a half-game out of first place in the MIAA.Missouri Western is on the road to face Lincoln University in Jefferson City Wednesday. The women's game starts at 5:30, the men's at 7:30. Both games are on KFEQ Radio (680, 95.3).<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1705798604962.jpeg" alt="Photo by Arianne Boma." />
 <figcaption>Photo by Arianne Boma.</figcaption>
 </figure>Will Martin, Justin Bubak interview<div><iframe src="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kfeq-sports/embed/episodes/Will-Martin--Justin-Bubak---UCO-postgame-e2enetg/a-aasaug6" 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--UCO---12024-e2enepr/a-aasau8q" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

MWSU women's basketball dominates UCO, Griffon men hold on against Bronchos

The St. Joe Bucks are starting preparations for their upcoming 2024 season. The Bucks are holding player tryouts this Saturday at 1 p.m. at the Hitmen Indoor Sports Complex in St. Joseph.

The Bucks, members of the Midwest Regional Football League, are gearing up for their third season of competition this spring. They fell short in the championship game in 2022, but ran the table in 2023.

"We have a lot of area athletes here and our purpose is to give back to the St. Joseph community as much as we can," said Bucks head coach David Hershberger - a King City native and Missouri Western alum. He founded the Bucks in 2020 with his wife, Makayla.

"Not only do we have fun playing football and fueling our needs there, but the guys do a good job of giving back in the community and finding events they can help out with. Cleaning up the streets and stuff like that."

Player tryouts are open for anyone, ages 18 and up. There's a $35 fee to try out, but any player who makes the team gets the money back. The Bucks are also holding cheerleader and mascot tryouts Saturday as well.

Hershberger encourages any player who wants to try out Saturday to get to the Hitmen Indoor Sports Complex by noon to get registered.

The Bucks will play about 9-10 regular season games, using the St. Joseph School District's high school fields for home contests. Their first game is Saturday, March 30 at Warrensburg.

The Midwest Regional Football League features eight teams in all, including teams in Maryville (Bearcats) and three in the Kansas City metro.

The St. Joe Bucks aren't the only semi-pro team in the city. T<a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/7076b69b-40c0-4238-9e10-4ca8232b5ffa">he St. Joseph Swarm played their second season</a> in the spring and summer of 2023, and they're members of the Heartland Football Association.

The St. Joe Bucks have a Facebook page and a website, <a href="https://www.bucksfootball.org/">bucksfootball.org</a>, for anyone who wants to learn more.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1705688930463.jpeg" alt="Photo courtesy of&nbsp; KQTV." />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy of&nbsp; KQTV.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThe St. Joe Bucks are starting preparations for their upcoming 2024 season. The Bucks are holding player tryouts this Saturday at 1 p.m. at the Hitmen Indoor Sports Complex in St. Joseph.The Bucks, members of the Midwest Regional Football League, are gearing up for their third season of competition this spring. They fell short in the championship game in 2022, but ran the table in 2023."We have a lot of area athletes here and our purpose is to give back to the St. Joseph community as much as we can," said Bucks head coach David Hershberger - a King City native and Missouri Western alum. He founded the Bucks in 2020 with his wife, Makayla."Not only do we have fun playing football and fueling our needs there, but the guys do a good job of giving back in the community and finding events they can help out with. Cleaning up the streets and stuff like that."Player tryouts are open for anyone, ages 18 and up. There's a $35 fee to try out, but any player who makes the team gets the money back. The Bucks are also holding cheerleader and mascot tryouts Saturday as well.Hershberger encourages any player who wants to try out Saturday to get to the Hitmen Indoor Sports Complex by noon to get registered.The Bucks will play about 9-10 regular season games, using the St. Joseph School District's high school fields for home contests. Their first game is Saturday, March 30 at Warrensburg.The Midwest Regional Football League features eight teams in all, including teams in Maryville (Bearcats) and three in the Kansas City metro.The St. Joe Bucks aren't the only semi-pro team in the city. T<a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/7076b69b-40c0-4238-9e10-4ca8232b5ffa">he St. Joseph Swarm played their second season</a> in the spring and summer of 2023, and they're members of the Heartland Football Association.The St. Joe Bucks have a Facebook page and a website, <a href="https://www.bucksfootball.org/">bucksfootball.org</a>, for anyone who wants to learn more.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1705689928297.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1705689950118.jpeg" alt="Courtesy photo." />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photo.</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Semi-pro football team, St. Joe Bucks, holding player tryouts Saturday

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Jackson County Executive Frank White vetoed an ordinance Thursday that would have put a 3/8th-cent sales tax renewal on the April ballot to fund sports stadiums for the Kansas City Chiefs and the Kansas City Royals.

“This proposed sales tax would generate over $2 billion from our residents, yet there is no clear understanding or assurance regarding the teams’ commitments and contributions to the county,” White said in a news release, the Kansas City Star reported. “It’s not a good deal for taxpayers and I cannot support an agreement that is not in their best interest.”

Shortly after the veto announcement, four county legislators said they sided with White. In order to override White's veto, the County Legislature — which has nine members — would need six votes. They are approaching a Jan. 23 deadline to put the stadium tax decision in front of voters this spring.

The Royals and Chiefs released a joint statement after White's veto that said, “We respect the County Executive’s veto authority. We will continue working with the legislators to ensure that this ordinance is on the ballot on April 2 so that Jackson County voters have the opportunity to decide on the extension of the current 3/8th-cent sales tax.”

The Royals are seeking to use the sales tax to help fund building a new downtown ballpark, though they have not yet announced their location. The Chiefs have consistently stated their intentions to renovate Arrowhead Stadium.

The current stadium leases at the Truman Sports Complex expire in 2031. Although some legislators pointed out Thursday that April isn’t the only ballot in 2024 or in the years ahead of that expiration date, both teams have targeted April for the measure. They are said to have support from the current governor’s office, which has pushed their urgency.

On Jan. 8, county legislators voted 8-1 to approve ballot language for the new 3/8th-cent sales tax to replace the current one that expires in September 2031. White wasn’t in favor of that at the time and wanted more time to get additional concessions from the teams for the county in the deal.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1705687592823.jpeg" alt="FILE - Members of the Kansas City Royals' grounds crew work off the field in preparation for the baseball season March 29, 2023, at Kauffman stadium in Kansas City, Mo. Jackson County Executive Frank White vetoed an ordinance Thursday, Jan. 18, 2024, that would have put a 3/8th-cent sales tax renewal on the April ballot to fund sports stadiums for the Kansas City Chiefs and the Royals. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel, File)" />
 <figcaption>FILE - Members of the Kansas City Royals' grounds crew work off the field in preparation for the baseball season March 29, 2023, at Kauffman stadium in Kansas City, Mo. Jackson County Executive Frank White vetoed an ordinance Thursday, Jan. 18, 2024, that would have put a 3/8th-cent sales tax renewal on the April ballot to fund sports stadiums for the Kansas City Chiefs and the Royals. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel, File)</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Jackson County Executive Frank White vetoed an ordinance Thursday that would have put a 3/8th-cent sales tax renewal on the April ballot to fund sports stadiums for the Kansas City Chiefs and the Kansas City Royals.“This proposed sales tax would generate over $2 billion from our residents, yet there is no clear understanding or assurance regarding the teams’ commitments and contributions to the county,” White said in a news release, the Kansas City Star reported. “It’s not a good deal for taxpayers and I cannot support an agreement that is not in their best interest.”Shortly after the veto announcement, four county legislators said they sided with White. In order to override White's veto, the County Legislature — which has nine members — would need six votes. They are approaching a Jan. 23 deadline to put the stadium tax decision in front of voters this spring.The Royals and Chiefs released a joint statement after White's veto that said, “We respect the County Executive’s veto authority. We will continue working with the legislators to ensure that this ordinance is on the ballot on April 2 so that Jackson County voters have the opportunity to decide on the extension of the current 3/8th-cent sales tax.”The Royals are seeking to use the sales tax to help fund building a new downtown ballpark, though they have not yet announced their location. The Chiefs have consistently stated their intentions to renovate Arrowhead Stadium.The current stadium leases at the Truman Sports Complex expire in 2031. Although some legislators pointed out Thursday that April isn’t the only ballot in 2024 or in the years ahead of that expiration date, both teams have targeted April for the measure. They are said to have support from the current governor’s office, which has pushed their urgency.On Jan. 8, county legislators voted 8-1 to approve ballot language for the new 3/8th-cent sales tax to replace the current one that expires in September 2031. White wasn’t in favor of that at the time and wanted more time to get additional concessions from the teams for the county in the deal.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1669408667473.png" alt="A red-clad crowd packs Arrowhead Stadium to watch the Kansas City Chiefs play (Eric Thomas/Kansas Reflector)." />
 <figcaption>A red-clad crowd packs Arrowhead Stadium to watch the Kansas City Chiefs play (Eric Thomas/Kansas Reflector).</figcaption>
 </figure>

A county official vetoes a stadium tax for an April ballot, affecting Kansas City Chiefs and Royals

Missouri Western women's basketball set the tone from the beginning, going up 28-4 by the end of the first quarter and rolling to a 108-45 win over Newman on Thursday night at the MWSU Fieldhouse in St. Joseph.

The Griffons' onslaught continued, as Missouri Western was up 58-17 by halftime.

Missouri Western (12-4, 7-3 MIAA) shot 54.9% from the field, including an excellent 14-of-26 from three. Brionna Budgets and Kassandra Caron led the Griffons with 16 points each.

Jayme Jackson scored 14, while Connie Clarke and Tiani Ellison chipped in 10. Alyssa Bonilla, who got the start, scored six points to go with seven rebounds, seven assists and three steals.

Missouri Western dominated every major statistical category, outrebounding Newman (2-15, 1-10 MIAA) 54-23. The Griffons had 26 assists, scored 53 bench points and cashed in 35 points off of 22 Newman turnovers.

Newman was held to 30.2 percent shooting and suffered their largest margin of defeat so far this season.

The Missouri Western women, meanwhile, set a new record for most points ever scored against an MIAA opponent.

The Griffons have now won seven of their last eight games and sit just one game out of first place in the MIAA standings.

Griffon men light it up from three, thrash Newman Thursday

No. 25 Missouri Western built a 22-point lead by halftime and shot north of 60 percent from long range in a 97-58 win over Newman (6-10, 3-8 MIAA) at the MWSU Fieldhouse on Thursday.

A 16-3 run in the first half put Missouri Western (13-3, 7-3 MIAA) ahead 22-8 with 9:57 left before halftime.

The Griffons never looked back after that, outscoring Newman 53-36 over the final 20 minutes.

Missouri Western shot 60 percent (36-of-60) from the field Thursday, including a blistering 14-of-23 from three. Julius Dixon led four Griffons in double figures with 22 points. He alone was 6-of-8 from three.

JaRon Thames scored 18 points on 8-of-12 shooting. Zion Swader was nearly flawless, scoring 15 points on 6-of-7 shooting. He had seven rebounds, five assists, four steals and no turnovers.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1705640602811.jpeg" alt="Missouri Western women's basketball celebrates a 108-45 over Newman on Thursday night at the MWSU Fieldhouse. Photo by Arianne Boma." />
 <figcaption>Missouri Western women's basketball celebrates a 108-45 over Newman on Thursday night at the MWSU Fieldhouse. Photo by Arianne Boma.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostMissouri Western women's basketball set the tone from the beginning, going up 28-4 by the end of the first quarter and rolling to a 108-45 win over Newman on Thursday night at the MWSU Fieldhouse in St. Joseph.The Griffons' onslaught continued, as Missouri Western was up 58-17 by halftime.Missouri Western (12-4, 7-3 MIAA) shot 54.9% from the field, including an excellent 14-of-26 from three. Brionna Budgets and Kassandra Caron led the Griffons with 16 points each.Jayme Jackson scored 14, while Connie Clarke and Tiani Ellison chipped in 10. Alyssa Bonilla, who got the start, scored six points to go with seven rebounds, seven assists and three steals.Missouri Western dominated every major statistical category, outrebounding Newman (2-15, 1-10 MIAA) 54-23. The Griffons had 26 assists, scored 53 bench points and cashed in 35 points off of 22 Newman turnovers.Newman was held to 30.2 percent shooting and suffered their largest margin of defeat so far this season.The Missouri Western women, meanwhile, set a new record for most points ever scored against an MIAA opponent.The Griffons have now won seven of their last eight games and sit just one game out of first place in the MIAA standings.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1705641116806.jpeg" alt="Kassandra Caron (left)." />
 <figcaption>Kassandra Caron (left).</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1705641152528.jpeg" alt="Alyssa Bonilla." />
 <figcaption>Alyssa Bonilla.</figcaption>
 </figure>Candi Whitaker interview<div><iframe src="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kfeq-sports/embed/episodes/Candi-Whitaker---Newman-postgame---11824-e2el1l9/a-aas44rp" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>Brionna Budgets interview<div><iframe src="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kfeq-sports/embed/episodes/Brionna-Budgets---Newman-postgame---11824-e2el1n8/a-aas452f" 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--Newman---11824-e2el1hk/a-aas44om" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>Griffon men light it up from three, thrash Newman ThursdayNo. 25 Missouri Western built a 22-point lead by halftime and shot north of 60 percent from long range in a 97-58 win over Newman (6-10, 3-8 MIAA) at the MWSU Fieldhouse on Thursday.A 16-3 run in the first half put Missouri Western (13-3, 7-3 MIAA) ahead 22-8 with 9:57 left before halftime.The Griffons never looked back after that, outscoring Newman 53-36 over the final 20 minutes.Missouri Western shot 60 percent (36-of-60) from the field Thursday, including a blistering 14-of-23 from three. Julius Dixon led four Griffons in double figures with 22 points. He alone was 6-of-8 from three.JaRon Thames scored 18 points on 8-of-12 shooting. Zion Swader was nearly flawless, scoring 15 points on 6-of-7 shooting. He had seven rebounds, five assists, four steals and no turnovers.Reese Glover came off the bench to score 11 points to go with four steals. The Griffons had 27 assists to just 12 turnovers, as Missouri Western has now won five straight games - the longest active winning streak in the MIAA.Missouri Western scored 31 points off of 17 Newman turnovers, helping the Griffons put up a season-high scoring effort.The Missouri Western men are now tied for second place in the MIAA standings - in a three-way tie with Washburn and Fort Hays State.Both Missouri Western teams are home to face Central Oklahoma on Saturday. The women's game tips off at 1:30 p.m., and the men's follows at 3:30. Both games are on KFEQ Radio (680, 95.3, 680kfeq.com, KFEQ app).The UCO women beat Northwest Missouri State Thursday, 71-57. The 24th -ranked Northwest men beat UCO, 71-56.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1705640642817.jpeg" alt="Taye Fields had six points, nine rebounds and eight assists in Thursday's win over Newman. Photo by Arianne Boma." />
 <figcaption>Taye Fields had six points, nine rebounds and eight assists in Thursday's win over Newman. Photo by Arianne Boma.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1705641791684.jpeg" alt="Julius Dixon." />
 <figcaption>Julius Dixon.</figcaption>
 </figure>Will Martin, Julius Dixon interview<div><iframe src="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kfeq-sports/embed/episodes/Will-Martin--Julius-Dixon---Newman-postgame-e2el1r3/a-aas45gf" 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--Newman---11824-e2el1of/a-aas45b5" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.