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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Royals unveil plans, location for new downtown ballpark site

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

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

Kansas City Chiefs Back 2 Back Champions Remix

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

Can't really debate the whole dynasty thing anymore.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Missouri Western, who's dropped five of their last six overall and now four straight MIAA road games, shot 20-of-47 (42.6 percent) from the field and 6-of-13 from three. The Griffs were also 10-of-11 at the foul line.

Taye Fields had 18 points, eight rebounds and five assists - falling just short of what would have been a fifth consecutive double-double.

Kiani Saxon ended up with 13 points. JaRon Thames had 12 points and eight boards. The loss also breaks what was a four-game winning streak against the Hornets for the Griffon men.

Both Missouri Western teams are back home Thursday for their final stretch of home games this season. The Griffons host Northeastern State on Thursday, Feb. 15.

The women tip at 5:30, the men at 7:30. Both games are on KFEQ Radio (680, 95.3).

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

MWSU women beat Emporia for ninth straight win, Griffon MBB falls at ESU

Sports have always taken center stage in Aaron Bell’s life.

A Kansas City native, he’s in his second year as wide receivers coach at Missouri Western State University. A job that keeps him busy enough. He just finished securing the commitment of six new wideouts on National Signing Day.

Bell is also a father of four - three sons and a daughter. All varying ages. All gifted athletes.

His oldest son, Ronnie, is a rookie wide receiver for the San Francisco 49ers - picked in the 7th round of the NFL Draft, 253rd overall, out of Michigan.

Bell made the 53-man roster, and finished the regular season with six catches - half of those were for touchdowns. Now, Ronnie and the 49ers get set to face the Kansas City Chiefs in Super Bowl 58 in Las Vegas on Sunday.

Ronnie’s father, Aaron, will be in the stands, smiling and cheering, as any proud dad would.

"(Ronnie) motivated himself to make the team, first of all," Bell told KFEQ Radio. "To put himself in position to be drafted and then to sit back and learn and get better day-by-day. So, it was good to watch and hear from him on how he was doing, and knowing all of the hard work he put in paid off."

Last month, Aaron Bell saw one of his younger sons, Kendrick, win a national championship with Michigan when they defeated Washington in the college football title game in Houston.

Kendrick didn’t play as a true freshman, but Aaron was still happy for his son and the many Michigan players who had been teammates with both of his sons.

"A lot of those guys came in with Ronnie," Bell said. "His (Kendrick's) teammates, I actually know personally. Again, to see the hard work they put in, it was good to see it finally paid off. Then, to know some of the things they told me about Kendrick and all of the work he's put in, it's been fun to follow."

Aaron Bell’s office at the Griffon Indoor Sports Complex in St. Joseph is littered with pictures - many are of the receivers he coaches at Missouri Western.

Many more, though, are of his children. His third son, Kendrick’s twin brother Marqueas, plays Division I basketball at Southeast Missouri State.

His youngest, 11-year-old daughter Laila, is a budding basketball star herself.

Ask Missouri Western head football coach Tyler Fenwick, and he’ll tell you it’s the females in the Bell family who are the real stars. That includes Aaron’s wife Renee - a standout basketball player at Fort Scott Community College.

"We always joke around that his youngest one, 11-year-old daughter Laila is probably the best athlete of all of them," Fenwick grinned. "And we obviously joke around that, they're not getting their athleticism from him. It's from his wife."

Also hanging in Aaron Bell’s office is a framed 49ers jersey. No. 10.&nbsp; It's his son, Ronnie’s.

The date on the bottom of the frame is September 21, 2023. New York Giants at San Francisco.

The 49ers won 30-12. The first touchdown of that game was also the first of Ronnie's NFL career - a nine-yard grab to put the 9ers up 10-3.

The jersey Ronnie wore in that game, you might have guessed, is the one that hangs in his father's office. The white numbers on the front still bear some faint, brown scuff marks.

Bell raised his family in Kansas City. He works at the University where the Chiefs hold their summer training camp. Chiefs coaches will even borrow Bell’s office during that time.

"Imma have to take that jersey down when they come back, I know that," he laughed.

Still, Aaron will proudly root for the 49ers on Sunday. And he’ll root for Michigan. He’ll root for his sons. And his daughter. Wherever they're playing.

All while trying to help Missouri Western football reach the highest summit in Division II.

"I mean...it's another one," he said of the big game. "Unfortunately, it happened to be the Chiefs. I wanna have a national championship ring in the house, a Super Bowl ring in the house and I wanna have a Division II national championship ring in the house."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707503012349.jpeg" alt="Ronnie Bell is the eldest of Aaron Bell's four children. A five-year letter winner at Michigan, Bell was drafted in the seventh round, made the roster and will suit up against the Kansas City Chiefs on Sunday. Courtesy photo." />
 <figcaption>Ronnie Bell is the eldest of Aaron Bell's four children. A five-year letter winner at Michigan, Bell was drafted in the seventh round, made the roster and will suit up against the Kansas City Chiefs on Sunday. Courtesy photo.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostSports have always taken center stage in Aaron Bell’s life.A Kansas City native, he’s in his second year as wide receivers coach at Missouri Western State University. A job that keeps him busy enough. He just finished securing the commitment of six new wideouts on National Signing Day.Bell is also a father of four - three sons and a daughter. All varying ages. All gifted athletes.His oldest son, Ronnie, is a rookie wide receiver for the San Francisco 49ers - picked in the 7th round of the NFL Draft, 253rd overall, out of Michigan.Bell made the 53-man roster, and finished the regular season with six catches - half of those were for touchdowns. Now, Ronnie and the 49ers get set to face the Kansas City Chiefs in Super Bowl 58 in Las Vegas on Sunday.Ronnie’s father, Aaron, will be in the stands, smiling and cheering, as any proud dad would."(Ronnie) motivated himself to make the team, first of all," Bell told KFEQ Radio. "To put himself in position to be drafted and then to sit back and learn and get better day-by-day. So, it was good to watch and hear from him on how he was doing, and knowing all of the hard work he put in paid off."Last month, Aaron Bell saw one of his younger sons, Kendrick, win a national championship with Michigan when they defeated Washington in the college football title game in Houston.Kendrick didn’t play as a true freshman, but Aaron was still happy for his son and the many Michigan players who had been teammates with both of his sons."A lot of those guys came in with Ronnie," Bell said. "His (Kendrick's) teammates, I actually know personally. Again, to see the hard work they put in, it was good to see it finally paid off. Then, to know some of the things they told me about Kendrick and all of the work he's put in, it's been fun to follow."Aaron Bell’s office at the Griffon Indoor Sports Complex in St. Joseph is littered with pictures - many are of the receivers he coaches at Missouri Western.Many more, though, are of his children. His third son, Kendrick’s twin brother Marqueas, plays Division I basketball at Southeast Missouri State.His youngest, 11-year-old daughter Laila, is a budding basketball star herself.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707503725848.jpeg" alt="Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707503940542.jpeg" alt="Marqueas Bell has played in 18 games for Southeast Missouri State this season, averaging 3.2 points and 1.6 rebounds per game. Photo courtesy of SEMO athletics." />
 <figcaption>Marqueas Bell has played in 18 games for Southeast Missouri State this season, averaging 3.2 points and 1.6 rebounds per game. Photo courtesy of SEMO athletics.</figcaption>
 </figure>Ask Missouri Western head football coach Tyler Fenwick, and he’ll tell you it’s the females in the Bell family who are the real stars. That includes Aaron’s wife Renee - a standout basketball player at Fort Scott Community College."We always joke around that his youngest one, 11-year-old daughter Laila is probably the best athlete of all of them," Fenwick grinned. "And we obviously joke around that, they're not getting their athleticism from him. It's from his wife."Also hanging in Aaron Bell’s office is a framed 49ers jersey. No. 10.&nbsp; It's his son, Ronnie’s.The date on the bottom of the frame is September 21, 2023. New York Giants at San Francisco.The 49ers won 30-12. The first touchdown of that game was also the first of Ronnie's NFL career - a nine-yard grab to put the 9ers up 10-3.The jersey Ronnie wore in that game, you might have guessed, is the one that hangs in his father's office. The white numbers on the front still bear some faint, brown scuff marks.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707503772359.jpeg" alt="Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>Bell raised his family in Kansas City. He works at the University where the Chiefs hold their summer training camp. Chiefs coaches will even borrow Bell’s office during that time."Imma have to take that jersey down when they come back, I know that," he laughed.Still, Aaron will proudly root for the 49ers on Sunday. And he’ll root for Michigan. He’ll root for his sons. And his daughter. Wherever they're playing.All while trying to help Missouri Western football reach the highest summit in Division II."I mean...it's another one," he said of the big game. "Unfortunately, it happened to be the Chiefs. I wanna have a national championship ring in the house, a Super Bowl ring in the house and I wanna have a Division II national championship ring in the house."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707503694543.jpeg" alt="Aaron Bell took part in the celebration back in November when Missouri Western beat No. 2 Pittsburg State 31-30. Courtesy photo." />
 <figcaption>Aaron Bell took part in the celebration back in November when Missouri Western beat No. 2 Pittsburg State 31-30. Courtesy photo.</figcaption>
 </figure>Aaron Bell interview<div><iframe src="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kfeq-sports/embed/episodes/MWSU-WR-coach-Aaron-Bell-e2fhthq" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

MWSU receivers coach Vegas bound to cheer on his son - a rookie receiver for the 49ers

When Missouri Western head football coach Tyler Fenwick signed his first recruiting class with the Griffons last year, he had only been on the job for a couple of months.

Having now been in St. Joseph for over a year, Fenwick and his staff made the most of that time, signing a class of 28 players on National Signing Day Wednesday.

The Griffons signed six receivers, five offensive and defensive linemen, three tight ends, three defensive backs, one linebacker, one running back, one quarterback and a kicker, long snapper and punter.

The Griffons lose two veteran defensive linemen - C.J. Ravenell and Dakari Streeter - both of whom have long lists of MIAA and all-American honors.

Western also loses four starting offensive linemen from last season. Fenwick says reloading up front was one of the top priorities. That's why he also signed three O-line transfers this offseason as well.

"We crushed it with the offensive line," Fenwick said of his signees. "Feel good about the future. Now, bringing in three transfers, it'll help us replace some guys, have some of the guys who were redshirt freshmen this year who played a little bit get in the mix and be able to compete."

Fenwick also expressed the desire to recruit more speed in the wide receiver room. The Griffons have done that, signing six pass catchers in this class - the most recruited position by the staff this year.

Missouri Western signed nine transfers at semester - two of them receivers.

Griffons' wide receivers coach Aaron Bell has plenty of talent coming back in 2024, namely all-MIAA receivers Jonas Bennett and Traveon James. They also bring back Jake Berrey and Tyler Carey. Those guys were the top four receivers in 2023.

But, Bell is excited about the new crop coming in.

"It's going to be good to watch these guys grow together," Bell noted. "They're going to have a foundation of what's expected in this room, because I've been here for a year. So now, the older guys like Jonas and Tray (Traveon James), those guys can tell the younger guys what to expect and can go out and do it. So, it's going to be fun to watch."

Missouri Western signed two immediately local players - North Platte tight end and linebacker John Winkler and St. Joseph Central defensive lineman Lance Peters.

"He's got a frame that he's going to fill out and grow," Fenwick said of Peters. "He's a homegrown guy that loves Missouri Western. I got a chance to watch (Central) play a little bit. He's got a lot of untapped talent."

Winkler had 395 receiving yards, two touchdowns to go with 33 tackles and two pass breakups in a 12-2 state runner-up season with the Panthers this past fall.

The quarterback situation will be an interesting one for Missouri Western this spring and fall. Veteran and dual threat Reagan Jones transferred to MIAA rival Nebraska-Kearney in the offseason.

The Griffons have six quarterbacks on roster. They signed Southeastern Oklahoma State transfer&nbsp;Kane Donovan, and Blue Springs product Ben Baker.

St. Joseph native and Lafayette graduate Jaron Saunders, who played in three games in 2023, is back, along with Ty Baker, Brody Meyer and Eli Scott.

The big question right now is 2023 starter and all-MIAA QB Armani Edden, who transferred in from Hawaii last summer and started every game under center last fall for Missouri Western.

Edden, who started his playing career in 2018 at the junior college level, submitted a waiver to play an extra year in St. Joseph. That waiver was apparently denied by the NCAA, but Missouri Western has appealed. They're waiting for an answer on that.

Whatever happens, Fenwick looks forward to a strong QB competition this year.

"If Armani is back, he'll still have to compete for that spot," Fenwick said, "and improve and get better and take the next step in the offense. We'll see when that comes down, but we have a plan in case that doesn't happen."

The Griffons released their 2024 schedule Thursday. Missouri Western opens with a Week 0 game on Thursday, August 29 at Northeastern State. That will count as a non-conference game, as the Riverhawks will be independent in football for the time being.

Kickoff times are to be determined. The full schedule is below.

Missouri Western will have a bye week on October 26 and will host Quincy to end the regular season on November 16 - a Great Lakes Valley Conference and Super Region III opponent.

The NCAA, during its January meetings, approved legislation that now allows Division II football teams to play a "Week 0" game. It also allows them to have a bye week. In other words, schools are given 12 weeks to play 11 games.

"For us to be able to play a Week 0 and have a bye week...this conference is just so physical and can be exhausting," Fenwick admitted. "To be able to give us a chance, as a conference, to be able to get healthy and recharge and finish up strong and hopefully catapult us into the playoff race. I think that's a huge advantage for us."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707435500307.jpeg" alt="Courtesy photo." />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photo.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostWhen Missouri Western head football coach Tyler Fenwick signed his first recruiting class with the Griffons last year, he had only been on the job for a couple of months.Having now been in St. Joseph for over a year, Fenwick and his staff made the most of that time, signing a class of 28 players on National Signing Day Wednesday.The Griffons signed six receivers, five offensive and defensive linemen, three tight ends, three defensive backs, one linebacker, one running back, one quarterback and a kicker, long snapper and punter.The Griffons lose two veteran defensive linemen - C.J. Ravenell and Dakari Streeter - both of whom have long lists of MIAA and all-American honors.Western also loses four starting offensive linemen from last season. Fenwick says reloading up front was one of the top priorities. That's why he also signed three O-line transfers this offseason as well."We crushed it with the offensive line," Fenwick said of his signees. "Feel good about the future. Now, bringing in three transfers, it'll help us replace some guys, have some of the guys who were redshirt freshmen this year who played a little bit get in the mix and be able to compete."Fenwick also expressed the desire to recruit more speed in the wide receiver room. The Griffons have done that, signing six pass catchers in this class - the most recruited position by the staff this year.Missouri Western signed nine transfers at semester - two of them receivers.Griffons' wide receivers coach Aaron Bell has plenty of talent coming back in 2024, namely all-MIAA receivers Jonas Bennett and Traveon James. They also bring back Jake Berrey and Tyler Carey. Those guys were the top four receivers in 2023.But, Bell is excited about the new crop coming in."It's going to be good to watch these guys grow together," Bell noted. "They're going to have a foundation of what's expected in this room, because I've been here for a year. So now, the older guys like Jonas and Tray (Traveon James), those guys can tell the younger guys what to expect and can go out and do it. So, it's going to be fun to watch."Missouri Western signed two immediately local players - North Platte tight end and linebacker John Winkler and St. Joseph Central defensive lineman Lance Peters."He's got a frame that he's going to fill out and grow," Fenwick said of Peters. "He's a homegrown guy that loves Missouri Western. I got a chance to watch (Central) play a little bit. He's got a lot of untapped talent."Winkler had 395 receiving yards, two touchdowns to go with 33 tackles and two pass breakups in a 12-2 state runner-up season with the Panthers this past fall.The quarterback situation will be an interesting one for Missouri Western this spring and fall. Veteran and dual threat Reagan Jones transferred to MIAA rival Nebraska-Kearney in the offseason.The Griffons have six quarterbacks on roster. They signed Southeastern Oklahoma State transfer&nbsp;Kane Donovan, and Blue Springs product Ben Baker.St. Joseph native and Lafayette graduate Jaron Saunders, who played in three games in 2023, is back, along with Ty Baker, Brody Meyer and Eli Scott.The big question right now is 2023 starter and all-MIAA QB Armani Edden, who transferred in from Hawaii last summer and started every game under center last fall for Missouri Western.Edden, who started his playing career in 2018 at the junior college level, submitted a waiver to play an extra year in St. Joseph. That waiver was apparently denied by the NCAA, but Missouri Western has appealed. They're waiting for an answer on that.Whatever happens, Fenwick looks forward to a strong QB competition this year."If Armani is back, he'll still have to compete for that spot," Fenwick said, "and improve and get better and take the next step in the offense. We'll see when that comes down, but we have a plan in case that doesn't happen."2024 scheduleThe Griffons released their 2024 schedule Thursday. Missouri Western opens with a Week 0 game on Thursday, August 29 at Northeastern State. That will count as a non-conference game, as the Riverhawks will be independent in football for the time being.Kickoff times are to be determined. The full schedule is below.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707435185948.jpeg" alt="Courtesy MWSU athletics." />
 <figcaption>Courtesy MWSU athletics.</figcaption>
 </figure>Missouri Western will have a bye week on October 26 and will host Quincy to end the regular season on November 16 - a Great Lakes Valley Conference and Super Region III opponent.The NCAA, during its January meetings, approved legislation that now allows Division II football teams to play a "Week 0" game. It also allows them to have a bye week. In other words, schools are given 12 weeks to play 11 games."For us to be able to play a Week 0 and have a bye week...this conference is just so physical and can be exhausting," Fenwick admitted. "To be able to give us a chance, as a conference, to be able to get healthy and recharge and finish up strong and hopefully catapult us into the playoff race. I think that's a huge advantage for us."You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Missouri Western football finalizes 2024 signing class, releases 2024 schedule

Missouri Western women's basketball led by double digits for a substantial amount of time at Washburn Wednesday, and yet, could never seem to quite put the game out of reach.

At the same time, Washburn never really got back in it. The Ichabods (11-11, 6-10 MIAA) trailed by as many as 17, shot only 32.8% from the field and the Griffons scored a 72-59 win over the Ichabods at Lee Arena in Topeka Wednesday.

Missouri Western (18-4, 13-3 MIAA) led for over 38 minutes, and shot 41.7% from the field. The Griffons went somewhat cold from three, hitting only 5-of-20, but were a reliable 17-of-22 at the free throw line.

Freshman Tiani Ellison was once again stellar for Western, scoring a game-high 15 points off the bench on a 7-of-10 shooting effort. She also corralled a career-high eight rebounds and logged a career-high four blocked shots.

Brionna Budgets added 14 points and four boards. Jayme Jackson contributed 11 points, making 6-of-8 at the free throw line.

Missouri Western outrebounded Washburn 41-36, and held the Ichabods to just 3-of-14 shooting from long range.

Missouri Western pushes their win streak to eight games. They've also won each of their last six meetings against Washburn.

Tiani Ellison, Candi Whitaker interview

MWSU men get off to fast start, lose in heartbreaking fashion late

The Missouri Western men's basketball team raced out to a 10-point lead in the first half and made six of their first 10 shots from the three -point line in a battle at Washburn Wednesday.

The Griffons were unable to maintain that clip, though, as Washburn went up 52-47 with 8:22 to play. Missouri Western weathered the storm, and turned the game into a back-and-forth affair in the closing minutes.

With the game tied at 63-63 in the final 12 seconds, Washburn's Jarmell Johnson got fouled on an offensive rebound and went to the foul line for two shots with less than three seconds to go.

Johnson missed the first free throw, but made the second, leaving the Griffons with 2.7 seconds. Western's Taye Fields heaved a long pass inbounds that was picked off by Washburn's Brady Christiansen and the Ichabods (15-7, 11-5 MIAA) survived, 64-63, at Lee Arena Wednesday.

The game featured nine ties and seven lead changes, but it was Washburn, who trailed 38-30 at the break, but outscored the Griffons 34-25 in the second half.

Missouri Western (15-7, 9-7 MIAA) was held to just 9-of-26 shooting in the second half, including just 1-of-9 from long range. The Griffons also committed 15 turnovers, which led to 19 Washburn points.

Andrew Orr led the Ichabods with a game-high 25 points on 11-of-19 shooting. Taye Fields led Missouri Western with 19 points and 14 rebounds - his fourth consecutive double-double.

Zion Swader scored 10 points. JaRon Thames had 9, while Kiani Saxon and Julius Dixon each had 7.

Both Missouri Western teams stay on the road Saturday to face Emporia State. The women's game is at 1:30, the men's at 3:30. Both games are on KFEQ Radio (680, 95.3, 680kfeq.com, KFEQ app).

The Northwest women beat Emporia Wednesday, 86-52. The 12th-ranked Bearcat men held off the Hornets, 64-61 on Wednesday as well.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707375084271.jpeg" alt="Jayme Jackson (11) scored 11 points in a 72-59 win at Washburn on Wednesday night. Photo by Derek Zimmerman-Guyer." />
 <figcaption>Jayme Jackson (11) scored 11 points in a 72-59 win at Washburn on Wednesday night. Photo by Derek Zimmerman-Guyer.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostMissouri Western women's basketball led by double digits for a substantial amount of time at Washburn Wednesday, and yet, could never seem to quite put the game out of reach.At the same time, Washburn never really got back in it. The Ichabods (11-11, 6-10 MIAA) trailed by as many as 17, shot only 32.8% from the field and the Griffons scored a 72-59 win over the Ichabods at Lee Arena in Topeka Wednesday.Missouri Western (18-4, 13-3 MIAA) led for over 38 minutes, and shot 41.7% from the field. The Griffons went somewhat cold from three, hitting only 5-of-20, but were a reliable 17-of-22 at the free throw line.Freshman Tiani Ellison was once again stellar for Western, scoring a game-high 15 points off the bench on a 7-of-10 shooting effort. She also corralled a career-high eight rebounds and logged a career-high four blocked shots.Brionna Budgets added 14 points and four boards. Jayme Jackson contributed 11 points, making 6-of-8 at the free throw line.Missouri Western outrebounded Washburn 41-36, and held the Ichabods to just 3-of-14 shooting from long range.Missouri Western pushes their win streak to eight games. They've also won each of their last six meetings against Washburn.Tiani Ellison, Candi Whitaker interview<div><iframe src="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kfeq-sports/embed/episodes/Tiani-Ellison--Candi-Whitaker---Washburn-postgame-e2fguod/a-aaulfaa" 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--Washburn---2724-e2fgun8/a-aaulf92" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>MWSU men get off to fast start, lose in heartbreaking fashion late<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707375716004.jpeg" alt="JaRon Thames (24) tries to drive in a Wednesday game at Washburn. Photo by Derek Zimmerman-Guyer." />
 <figcaption>JaRon Thames (24) tries to drive in a Wednesday game at Washburn. Photo by Derek Zimmerman-Guyer.</figcaption>
 </figure>The Missouri Western men's basketball team raced out to a 10-point lead in the first half and made six of their first 10 shots from the three -point line in a battle at Washburn Wednesday.The Griffons were unable to maintain that clip, though, as Washburn went up 52-47 with 8:22 to play. Missouri Western weathered the storm, and turned the game into a back-and-forth affair in the closing minutes.With the game tied at 63-63 in the final 12 seconds, Washburn's Jarmell Johnson got fouled on an offensive rebound and went to the foul line for two shots with less than three seconds to go.Johnson missed the first free throw, but made the second, leaving the Griffons with 2.7 seconds. Western's Taye Fields heaved a long pass inbounds that was picked off by Washburn's Brady Christiansen and the Ichabods (15-7, 11-5 MIAA) survived, 64-63, at Lee Arena Wednesday.The game featured nine ties and seven lead changes, but it was Washburn, who trailed 38-30 at the break, but outscored the Griffons 34-25 in the second half.Missouri Western (15-7, 9-7 MIAA) was held to just 9-of-26 shooting in the second half, including just 1-of-9 from long range. The Griffons also committed 15 turnovers, which led to 19 Washburn points.Andrew Orr led the Ichabods with a game-high 25 points on 11-of-19 shooting. Taye Fields led Missouri Western with 19 points and 14 rebounds - his fourth consecutive double-double.Zion Swader scored 10 points. JaRon Thames had 9, while Kiani Saxon and Julius Dixon each had 7.Will Martin interview<div><iframe src="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kfeq-sports/embed/episodes/Will-Martin---Washburn-postgame-e2fgurb/a-aaulfjj" 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--Washburn---2724-e2fgupo/a-aaulfg7" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>Both Missouri Western teams stay on the road Saturday to face Emporia State. The women's game is at 1:30, the men's at 3:30. Both games are on KFEQ Radio (680, 95.3, 680kfeq.com, KFEQ app).The Northwest women beat Emporia Wednesday, 86-52. The 12th-ranked Bearcat men held off the Hornets, 64-61 on Wednesday as well.You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

MWSU women's basketball wins at Washburn, Griffon men lose heartbreaker

The last time Lafayette girls' basketball beat Benton, Ryan Madison was the head coach. It was February 2017. He left Lafayette the following year.

Now, in Madison's first season back in the North Side, the Irish (15-5) scored a 48-43 win over the Cardinals at Springer Gymnasium on Tuesday night.

Lafayette assistant coach, Tray Byrd, was a junior for the Irish the last time they beat their South Side rivals.

Her younger sister, Talicia, helped break that streak on Tuesday.

"It had been a long time (since we beat Benton)," coach Madison said. "(Benton) has been the standard in the city and the state, really. They've been Final Four bound several years. They have a great group with great players."

Benton had beaten Lafayette not only in eight consecutive meetings, but also in the jamboree at the MWSU Fieldhouse this past November, 19-18, on a buzzer beater.

"The kids had kind of circled this (game) as a chance to come down here and get a big win," Madison added.

Benton (12-8) had the slight edge early, leading 10-8 at the end of the first quarter, 20-19 at halftime and 29-28 at the start of the fourth.

Lafayette, however, grabbed a 33-29 lead early in the final quarter, and outscored the Cardinals 19-11 over the final eight minutes.

Freshmen center Laniya Carriger had seven of her nine points in the fourth quarter. She also blocked several shots from Benton's Andrea Simmons.

Another Lafayette freshman, Emery Omon, scored 10 points - all in the second half.&nbsp;

Benton, who's gone 3-4 in their last seven games, was held to just three made field goals in the fourth quarter. The Cardinals also missed six free throws in the fourth as well.

"We kept getting stops," Madison said. "I told them, if we can get a couple of those in a row and get someone to step up and make a play, then we've got a chance to win."

"Thrilled we were able to make enough stops and take care of the ball well enough and score enough points to get a huge win over a good Benton team."

Senior Talicia Byrd led Lafayette with 17 points - 15 of that from three-point land. The Irish have won five of their last six and have gone 3-0 against Midland Empire Conference teams so far.

Andrea Simmons and Eliana Arambula led Benton with 12 points each. Avery Morlock and Jalynn Brown each had eight.

Benton boys get off to hot start, outlast Lafayette for 11th straight win

Benton raced out to a 36-16 halftime lead against Lafayette behind a 24-point second quarter on Tuesday night.

Lafayette stayed the course, made some adjustments on defense, got good shots at the rim, and clawed their way back in, trailing only 46-39 with 6:26 to play.

Benton (16-5), however, got a couple of key buckets late from Mach Mayom and Lincoln Goodwin, and the Cardinals came away with a 65-49 win over the Irish in the South Side Tuesday night.

It's just the third win against Lafayette for Benton boys' basketball since 2007.

"I thought we got very, very stagnant in the third quarter," Benton head coach Jared Boone said, as the Cardinals made only two field goals in that period.

"It's something we definitely have to fix, but we were able to weather the storm. (Lafayette) went on a few runs, we answered when we could, we were able to weather the storm and close the game out with a run of our own."

Antonio Williams led the comeback for the Irish (10-9), as he scored 19 of his game-high 25 points in the second half. He got to the foul line often, making 9-of-11 attempts from the charity stripe.

Mayom, who had 11 points in the first half for Benton, was held scoreless in the third quarter, but came through with two big layups in the closing minutes.

Goodwin put things away for good with two corner three-pointers in the waning minutes as well. The sophomore sharp shooter led the Cardinals with 23 points. Mayom, the 6'9" forward, came off the bench and had 18.

Along with a strong supporting cast of Myles Bachali, Carson Schmidt, Zach Smith and Talan McDowell, the Cardinals have reeled off 11 straight wins - all since December 29.

Benton also sits at 4-0 in Midland Empire Conference play with games against Maryville, Savannah and Bishop LeBlond still out there.

"This dub is very special to us," Mayom said. "Everybody knows (Lafayette) beat Benton. We beat them once (in February 2022), but in the rivalry, they were ahead of us. So, getting this dub is very special to Benton."

"The halls were buzzing with excitement about coming to the games," Boone said, with Springer Gymnasium filled to the rafters Tuesday night. "That's what it's about. That South Side pride coming back and being restored. I appreciate it, the boys appreciate it and I know the school appreciates it."

Both Benton teams are at Maryville Friday. Both Lafayette teams stay in the city to visit Bishop LeBlond on Thursday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707279022624.jpeg" alt="Eliana Arambula (middle) tries to get between two Lafayette defenders in Tuesday's game at Benton High School. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Eliana Arambula (middle) tries to get between two Lafayette defenders in Tuesday's game at Benton High School. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThe last time Lafayette girls' basketball beat Benton, Ryan Madison was the head coach. It was February 2017. He left Lafayette the following year.Now, in Madison's first season back in the North Side, the Irish (15-5) scored a 48-43 win over the Cardinals at Springer Gymnasium on Tuesday night.Lafayette assistant coach, Tray Byrd, was a junior for the Irish the last time they beat their South Side rivals.Her younger sister, Talicia, helped break that streak on Tuesday."It had been a long time (since we beat Benton)," coach Madison said. "(Benton) has been the standard in the city and the state, really. They've been Final Four bound several years. They have a great group with great players."Benton had beaten Lafayette not only in eight consecutive meetings, but also in the jamboree at the MWSU Fieldhouse this past November, 19-18, on a buzzer beater."The kids had kind of circled this (game) as a chance to come down here and get a big win," Madison added.Benton (12-8) had the slight edge early, leading 10-8 at the end of the first quarter, 20-19 at halftime and 29-28 at the start of the fourth.Lafayette, however, grabbed a 33-29 lead early in the final quarter, and outscored the Cardinals 19-11 over the final eight minutes.Freshmen center Laniya Carriger had seven of her nine points in the fourth quarter. She also blocked several shots from Benton's Andrea Simmons.Another Lafayette freshman, Emery Omon, scored 10 points - all in the second half.&nbsp;Benton, who's gone 3-4 in their last seven games, was held to just three made field goals in the fourth quarter. The Cardinals also missed six free throws in the fourth as well."We kept getting stops," Madison said. "I told them, if we can get a couple of those in a row and get someone to step up and make a play, then we've got a chance to win.""Thrilled we were able to make enough stops and take care of the ball well enough and score enough points to get a huge win over a good Benton team."Senior Talicia Byrd led Lafayette with 17 points - 15 of that from three-point land. The Irish have won five of their last six and have gone 3-0 against Midland Empire Conference teams so far.Andrea Simmons and Eliana Arambula led Benton with 12 points each. Avery Morlock and Jalynn Brown each had eight.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707281408435.jpeg" alt="Emery Omon (13)." />
 <figcaption>Emery Omon (13).</figcaption>
 </figure>Benton boys get off to hot start, outlast Lafayette for 11th straight win<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707278958690.jpeg" alt="Myles Bachali (1) goes up for a layup against Lafayette on Tuesday night. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Myles Bachali (1) goes up for a layup against Lafayette on Tuesday night. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>Benton raced out to a 36-16 halftime lead against Lafayette behind a 24-point second quarter on Tuesday night.Lafayette stayed the course, made some adjustments on defense, got good shots at the rim, and clawed their way back in, trailing only 46-39 with 6:26 to play.Benton (16-5), however, got a couple of key buckets late from Mach Mayom and Lincoln Goodwin, and the Cardinals came away with a 65-49 win over the Irish in the South Side Tuesday night.It's just the third win against Lafayette for Benton boys' basketball since 2007."I thought we got very, very stagnant in the third quarter," Benton head coach Jared Boone said, as the Cardinals made only two field goals in that period."It's something we definitely have to fix, but we were able to weather the storm. (Lafayette) went on a few runs, we answered when we could, we were able to weather the storm and close the game out with a run of our own."Antonio Williams led the comeback for the Irish (10-9), as he scored 19 of his game-high 25 points in the second half. He got to the foul line often, making 9-of-11 attempts from the charity stripe.Mayom, who had 11 points in the first half for Benton, was held scoreless in the third quarter, but came through with two big layups in the closing minutes.Goodwin put things away for good with two corner three-pointers in the waning minutes as well. The sophomore sharp shooter led the Cardinals with 23 points. Mayom, the 6'9" forward, came off the bench and had 18.Along with a strong supporting cast of Myles Bachali, Carson Schmidt, Zach Smith and Talan McDowell, the Cardinals have reeled off 11 straight wins - all since December 29.Benton also sits at 4-0 in Midland Empire Conference play with games against Maryville, Savannah and Bishop LeBlond still out there."This dub is very special to us," Mayom said. "Everybody knows (Lafayette) beat Benton. We beat them once (in February 2022), but in the rivalry, they were ahead of us. So, getting this dub is very special to Benton.""The halls were buzzing with excitement about coming to the games," Boone said, with Springer Gymnasium filled to the rafters Tuesday night. "That's what it's about. That South Side pride coming back and being restored. I appreciate it, the boys appreciate it and I know the school appreciates it."Both Benton teams are at Maryville Friday. Both Lafayette teams stay in the city to visit Bishop LeBlond on Thursday.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707281460694.jpeg" alt="Antonio Williams (3)." />
 <figcaption>Antonio Williams (3).</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707281485345.jpeg" alt="Talan McDowell (13)." />
 <figcaption>Talan McDowell (13).</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707281522436.jpeg" alt="Mach Mayom guarded by Lafayette's Chris Holmquist." />
 <figcaption>Mach Mayom guarded by Lafayette's Chris Holmquist.</figcaption>
 </figure>Complete photo album<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fstjoepost%2Fposts%2Fpfbid0r5Ri1bUuPJcDBvgN9UjR6tkUkXkMozToG4qEk8Vs9HbCAR4Xsd4t2oRNzgYWVstgl&show_text=true&width=500" width="500" height="606" 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.

Lafayette girls, Benton boys victorious in crosstown rivalry Tuesday

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Royals owner John Sherman remembers hanging along the fence at spring training in Arizona back in 2020, shortly after he had purchased the club from David Glass, and watching top prospect Bobby Witt Jr. rip line drives to every part of the field.

Sherman had a suspicion even then that he was watching something special.

Over the next few years, Witt shot through the minors like one of those hard-hit line drives. He made his big league debut in 2022 and hit 20 homers and stole 30 bases. And he followed with a sophomore season to remember, finishing seventh in MVP voting while doing things last year that put him on rarified lists alongside Joe DiMaggio and Mickey Mantle.

Now, Witt will be doing those things in Kansas City for the foreseeable future.

The Royals officially signed the 23-year-old shortstop to a mammoth 11-year deal worth more than $288.7 million guaranteed on Tuesday, easily the longest and richest contract in club history. It includes a three-year, $89 million team option that would drive the value to more than $377 million and keep Witt with the Royals through the 2037 season.

“We wanted to get this done before the season, and ideally before spring training, and this was the time to do it,” Sherman said during a news conference at Kauffman Stadium. “It's really, really hard to draft and develop generational talent in this business, and it's even harder to keep them in the same uniform, and that's what this is really all about.”

The Royals approached Witt about a long-term deal last September, when he had just wrapped up a season that proved he could be the cornerstone of a rebuilding effort for a 106-loss team. The negotiations began in earnest during the winter meetings, and some creativity from both sides allowed them to find a middle ground this past weekend.

Witt's deal riffs on his lucky No. 7 jersey by including a signing bonus of $7,777,777, payable in seven installments, with the first within 60 days of the contract’s approval by the commissioner’s office. Witt will receive $2 million this year, then in the three years he would have been eligible for arbitration: $7 million in 2025, $13 million in 2026 and $19 million in 2027. Witt will then earn $30 million in 2028 and $35 million each of the next two years.

Then there is some flexibility built into the contract: Witt has four player options at $35 million annually from 2031-34, giving him the chance to redo his deal with Kansas City or test free agency. The Royals' three-year team option follows and would pay $33 million in 2035 and $28 million each in 2036 and the concluding year.

If all the options are included, Witt would be 37 by the time the contract expires.

“It's been amazing, all the text messages I was getting — seeing, ‘Breaking News!’ and it was me,'” Witt said. "It was pretty special to see the text messages from the guys; the one from Patrick Mahomes is pretty cool. And just the support from around the city.

“We were out at fanfest this past weekend,” Witt recalled, “and they were like, ‘When are you going to get that contract done? We want you in Kansas City forever.’ So it was special to see all that support and all of that love."

The contract, and the offseason in general, represents a seismic shift for a notoriously frugal, small-market ballclub.

The Royals’ previous record contract was a four-year, $82 million deal given to All-Star catcher Salvador Perez. Yet over the past few months, they have committed more than $100 million to free agents, almost completely revamping their starting rotation and destitute bullpen while adding Hunter Renfroe and Brandon Frazier to fill out the depth chart.

Those deals will not only help Kansas City compete in a wide open AL Central but were important to Witt's negotiation.

“We needed to make some moves,” Royals general manager J.J. Picollo admitted. "Going back to the September meeting, the most important thing to Bobby was being in a place he thought he could win. That was the No. 1 message we took out of that.

“When you're as talented as he is,” Picollo said, “the finances will take care of themselves. But he was talking about the culture of winning. That really resonated with John and me, and was probably the driving factor when we got to the finish line that we had done some things that showed we wanted to win.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707242756048.jpeg" alt="FILE - Kansas City Royals' Bobby Witt Jr. watches his two-run home run against the New York Yankees during the seventh inning of a baseball game in Kansas City, Mo., Friday, Sept. 29, 2023. The Kansas City Royals and shortstop Bobby Witt Jr. agreed Monday to the longest contract in franchise history, an 11-year pact that includes three years of team options that could keep the rising star with the ballclub through the 2037 season.(AP Photo/Colin E. Braley)" />
 <figcaption>FILE - Kansas City Royals' Bobby Witt Jr. watches his two-run home run against the New York Yankees during the seventh inning of a baseball game in Kansas City, Mo., Friday, Sept. 29, 2023. The Kansas City Royals and shortstop Bobby Witt Jr. agreed Monday to the longest contract in franchise history, an 11-year pact that includes three years of team options that could keep the rising star with the ballclub through the 2037 season.(AP Photo/Colin E. Braley)</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Royals owner John Sherman remembers hanging along the fence at spring training in Arizona back in 2020, shortly after he had purchased the club from David Glass, and watching top prospect Bobby Witt Jr. rip line drives to every part of the field.Sherman had a suspicion even then that he was watching something special.Over the next few years, Witt shot through the minors like one of those hard-hit line drives. He made his big league debut in 2022 and hit 20 homers and stole 30 bases. And he followed with a sophomore season to remember, finishing seventh in MVP voting while doing things last year that put him on rarified lists alongside Joe DiMaggio and Mickey Mantle.Now, Witt will be doing those things in Kansas City for the foreseeable future.The Royals officially signed the 23-year-old shortstop to a mammoth 11-year deal worth more than $288.7 million guaranteed on Tuesday, easily the longest and richest contract in club history. It includes a three-year, $89 million team option that would drive the value to more than $377 million and keep Witt with the Royals through the 2037 season.“We wanted to get this done before the season, and ideally before spring training, and this was the time to do it,” Sherman said during a news conference at Kauffman Stadium. “It's really, really hard to draft and develop generational talent in this business, and it's even harder to keep them in the same uniform, and that's what this is really all about.”The Royals approached Witt about a long-term deal last September, when he had just wrapped up a season that proved he could be the cornerstone of a rebuilding effort for a 106-loss team. The negotiations began in earnest during the winter meetings, and some creativity from both sides allowed them to find a middle ground this past weekend.Witt's deal riffs on his lucky No. 7 jersey by including a signing bonus of $7,777,777, payable in seven installments, with the first within 60 days of the contract’s approval by the commissioner’s office. Witt will receive $2 million this year, then in the three years he would have been eligible for arbitration: $7 million in 2025, $13 million in 2026 and $19 million in 2027. Witt will then earn $30 million in 2028 and $35 million each of the next two years.Then there is some flexibility built into the contract: Witt has four player options at $35 million annually from 2031-34, giving him the chance to redo his deal with Kansas City or test free agency. The Royals' three-year team option follows and would pay $33 million in 2035 and $28 million each in 2036 and the concluding year.If all the options are included, Witt would be 37 by the time the contract expires.“It's been amazing, all the text messages I was getting — seeing, ‘Breaking News!’ and it was me,'” Witt said. "It was pretty special to see the text messages from the guys; the one from Patrick Mahomes is pretty cool. And just the support from around the city.“We were out at fanfest this past weekend,” Witt recalled, “and they were like, ‘When are you going to get that contract done? We want you in Kansas City forever.’ So it was special to see all that support and all of that love."The contract, and the offseason in general, represents a seismic shift for a notoriously frugal, small-market ballclub.The Royals’ previous record contract was a four-year, $82 million deal given to All-Star catcher Salvador Perez. Yet over the past few months, they have committed more than $100 million to free agents, almost completely revamping their starting rotation and destitute bullpen while adding Hunter Renfroe and Brandon Frazier to fill out the depth chart.Those deals will not only help Kansas City compete in a wide open AL Central but were important to Witt's negotiation.“We needed to make some moves,” Royals general manager J.J. Picollo admitted. "Going back to the September meeting, the most important thing to Bobby was being in a place he thought he could win. That was the No. 1 message we took out of that.“When you're as talented as he is,” Picollo said, “the finances will take care of themselves. But he was talking about the culture of winning. That really resonated with John and me, and was probably the driving factor when we got to the finish line that we had done some things that showed we wanted to win.”The Royals also are trying to show voters in Jackson County, Missouri, that they want to win. The voters will cast ballots in April on a referendum to extend a sales tax that would help to pay for a new billion-dollar-plus downtown ballpark.The Royals' aim has been to move into the new stadium in time for opening day of the 2028 season.Witt should be there. And for many years afterward.“This is where I wanted to be, and if I wanted to do something, I wanted it to be here. That was the main goal,” he said, adding: “I like where we're at right now, and today, and I'm looking forward to this team and going about this year.”