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.

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

<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.”

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.”

<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.”

Royals make official SS Bobby Witt Jr.'s mammoth 11-year, $288 million-plus contract

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Kansas City Royals and star shortstop Bobby Witt Jr. agreed Monday to an 11-year contract worth about $291 million guaranteed, two people familiar with the agreement told The Associated Press on Monday.

The deal includes three years of team options that could drive the value to about $377 million and keep Witt in Kansas City through the 2037 season, according to the people who spoke to the AP on condition of anonymity because the financial terms were not disclosed. Witt's guarantee salary would make it the 16th largest deal in Major League Baseball history and the second-biggest pre-arbitration extension behind the 14-year, $340 million contract the Padres gave to Fernando Tatis Jr. last April.

The Royals planned a Tuesday news conference to discuss the longest and richest contract in club history.

“From the moment I was drafted in 2019, the entire Royals organization and fans have treated me and my family like their own,” Witt said in a statement issued by the club. “This city and this team have felt like home since Day 1."

The 23-year-old Witt became the first Royals player to enter the 30-30 club last year, when he hit 30 homers and stole 49 bases. The only other American League shortstop to accomplish the feat by Witt's age was Alex Rodriguez in 1998.

Witt's breakthrough season, which resulted in him landing seventh in AL MVP voting, came after he hit 20 homers and stole 30 bases as a rookie. No player in big league history has hit 50 homers and stole 79 bases through his first two seasons.

“From the day we drafted him we felt confident Bobby would become one of our game’s brightest stars and biggest talents,” Royals general manager J.J. Picollo said. “These last two seasons have been confirmation of that talent, and proof that he’s an even better teammate. We know he wants to win here for our fans as much as we do.”

The Royals have spent more than $100 million in free agency this offseason, hoping to turn around the fortunes of a club coming off a disheartening 106-loss season. That investment, coupled with Witt's massive contract, comes as the Royals not only are trying to convince a weary fanbase that they are serious about winning, but also as they attempt to persuade voters in Jackson County, Missouri, to extend a sales tax that would help to pay for a new downtown ballpark.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1690602644842.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Royals' Bobby Witt Jr., right, celebrates with Nicky Lopez at home plate after hitting a grand slam against the Minnesota Twins during the 10th inning of a baseball game in Kansas City, Mo., Friday, July 28, 2023. (AP Photo/Colin E. Braley)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Royals' Bobby Witt Jr., right, celebrates with Nicky Lopez at home plate after hitting a grand slam against the Minnesota Twins during the 10th inning of a baseball game in Kansas City, Mo., Friday, July 28, 2023. (AP Photo/Colin E. Braley)</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Kansas City Royals and star shortstop Bobby Witt Jr. agreed Monday to an 11-year contract worth about $291 million guaranteed, two people familiar with the agreement told The Associated Press on Monday.The deal includes three years of team options that could drive the value to about $377 million and keep Witt in Kansas City through the 2037 season, according to the people who spoke to the AP on condition of anonymity because the financial terms were not disclosed. Witt's guarantee salary would make it the 16th largest deal in Major League Baseball history and the second-biggest pre-arbitration extension behind the 14-year, $340 million contract the Padres gave to Fernando Tatis Jr. last April.The Royals planned a Tuesday news conference to discuss the longest and richest contract in club history.“From the moment I was drafted in 2019, the entire Royals organization and fans have treated me and my family like their own,” Witt said in a statement issued by the club. “This city and this team have felt like home since Day 1."The 23-year-old Witt became the first Royals player to enter the 30-30 club last year, when he hit 30 homers and stole 49 bases. The only other American League shortstop to accomplish the feat by Witt's age was Alex Rodriguez in 1998.Witt's breakthrough season, which resulted in him landing seventh in AL MVP voting, came after he hit 20 homers and stole 30 bases as a rookie. No player in big league history has hit 50 homers and stole 79 bases through his first two seasons.“From the day we drafted him we felt confident Bobby would become one of our game’s brightest stars and biggest talents,” Royals general manager J.J. Picollo said. “These last two seasons have been confirmation of that talent, and proof that he’s an even better teammate. We know he wants to win here for our fans as much as we do.”The Royals have spent more than $100 million in free agency this offseason, hoping to turn around the fortunes of a club coming off a disheartening 106-loss season. That investment, coupled with Witt's massive contract, comes as the Royals not only are trying to convince a weary fanbase that they are serious about winning, but also as they attempt to persuade voters in Jackson County, Missouri, to extend a sales tax that would help to pay for a new downtown ballpark.

Royals agree with SS Bobby Witt Jr. on record deal that could keep him in KC for 14 seasons

The Missouri Western women's basketball team, while likely not intentionally, used the same formula for victory that they did against No. 15 Fort Hays State two days prior.

Getting behind in the first half, and staging an impressive second half comeback. Only this time, the Griffons didn't wait until the fourth quarter, and didn't get down by 15.

Western (17-4, 12-3 MIAA) trailed by nine in the first half, but exploded out of halftime with 32 third quarter points - more than enough to secure a 73-61 win over the Lopers on Saturday in St. Joseph.

Missouri Western shot 4-of-14 the second quarter, but a remarkable 12-of-15 in the third, while holding UNK (15-6, 9-6 MIAA) to just eight third quarter points on 3-of-14 shooting.

The Griffons led 59-40 with 9:19 remaining. Kearney got to within 10 late, but never closer.

Brionna Budgets led Western with 14 points. She also had three assists and four rebounds. Jayme Jackson ended up with 12 points. All eleven Griffons who played scored a minimum of four points.

Six bench players combined to score 32 for the Griffons Saturday. Mackenzie Hart had eight, and Jordan Cunningham had six. Mary Fultz, who started, had eight points as well.

Shiloh McCool led UNK with 15 points and 10 rebounds. Jillian Aschoff had 13 points, six boards, and four steals. Kearney was held to 22-of-61 (36.1%) shooting, including 3-of-19 from three. The Lopers also missed seven free throws (14-of-21).

The Griffons were strong at the foul line (10-of-13) and ended up at 46.8% from the field (29-of-62).

Missouri Western has now won seven straight games overall, nine straight at home and 12 of their last 13.

Missouri Western men start strong, hold off Nebraska-Kearney

The Missouri Western men's basketball team raced out to a 23-5 start in the first half against Nebraska-Kearney.

The Griffons (15-6, 9-6 MIAA) led 57-39 with 9:01 to play, and essentially rode that momentum to a 72-60 win over the Lopers on Saturday at the MWSU Fieldhouse.

Missouri Western snapped a three-game losing streak and never trailed, earning a season series split with UNK.

Kearney (5-15, 2-13 MIAA) lost their 1oth straight, but made it a game a couple of times, only trailing 32-23 going into halftime.

The Lopers then got it to within 10, 67-57, with just over two minutes left, but by that point, the Griffons were in the double-bonus and were able to make enough free throws to close it out.

Taye Fields led the way with a season-high 22 points and 10 rebounds - his fifth double-double this season, the 17th of his career and his fifth career DD against Nebraska-Kearney.

JaRon Thames settled for 14 points to go with five rebounds, three assists and three steals.

Kiani Saxon tallied 10 points and six boards. Julius Dixon and Zion Swader each scored seven.

Missouri Western goes back on the road this coming week, taking on Washburn on Wednesday in Topeka. The women's game is at 5:30, the men's at 7:30. Both are on KFEQ Radio (680, 95.3). Coverage starts at 5 p.m.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707008088018.jpeg" alt="Jordan Cunningham (right) scored six points off the bench in a 73-61 win over Nebraska-Kearney on Saturday at the MWSU Fieldhouse. Photo by Arianne Boma." />
 <figcaption>Jordan Cunningham (right) scored six points off the bench in a 73-61 win over Nebraska-Kearney on Saturday at the MWSU Fieldhouse. Photo by Arianne Boma.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThe Missouri Western women's basketball team, while likely not intentionally, used the same formula for victory that they did against No. 15 Fort Hays State two days prior.Getting behind in the first half, and staging an impressive second half comeback. Only this time, the Griffons didn't wait until the fourth quarter, and didn't get down by 15.Western (17-4, 12-3 MIAA) trailed by nine in the first half, but exploded out of halftime with 32 third quarter points - more than enough to secure a 73-61 win over the Lopers on Saturday in St. Joseph.Missouri Western shot 4-of-14 the second quarter, but a remarkable 12-of-15 in the third, while holding UNK (15-6, 9-6 MIAA) to just eight third quarter points on 3-of-14 shooting.The Griffons led 59-40 with 9:19 remaining. Kearney got to within 10 late, but never closer.Brionna Budgets led Western with 14 points. She also had three assists and four rebounds. Jayme Jackson ended up with 12 points. All eleven Griffons who played scored a minimum of four points.Six bench players combined to score 32 for the Griffons Saturday. Mackenzie Hart had eight, and Jordan Cunningham had six. Mary Fultz, who started, had eight points as well.Shiloh McCool led UNK with 15 points and 10 rebounds. Jillian Aschoff had 13 points, six boards, and four steals. Kearney was held to 22-of-61 (36.1%) shooting, including 3-of-19 from three. The Lopers also missed seven free throws (14-of-21).The Griffons were strong at the foul line (10-of-13) and ended up at 46.8% from the field (29-of-62).Missouri Western has now won seven straight games overall, nine straight at home and 12 of their last 13.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707008114389.jpeg" alt="Mackenzie Hart (right) and Brionna Budgets (23) celebrate in the second half. Photo by A.J. Robbins." />
 <figcaption>Mackenzie Hart (right) and Brionna Budgets (23) celebrate in the second half. Photo by A.J. Robbins.</figcaption>
 </figure>Candi Whitaker interview<div><iframe src="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kfeq-sports/embed/episodes/Candi-Whitaker---UNK-postgame-e2fb0uc/a-aau4bo5" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>Jayme Jackson interview<div><iframe src="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kfeq-sports/embed/episodes/Jayme-Jackson---UNK-postgame-e2fb0vt/a-aau4bsq" 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--Nebraska-Kearney---2324-e2fb0t6/a-aau4bjd" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>Missouri Western men start strong, hold off Nebraska-Kearney<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707008884267.jpeg" alt="Photo by Arianne Boma." />
 <figcaption>Photo by Arianne Boma.</figcaption>
 </figure>The Missouri Western men's basketball team raced out to a 23-5 start in the first half against Nebraska-Kearney.The Griffons (15-6, 9-6 MIAA) led 57-39 with 9:01 to play, and essentially rode that momentum to a 72-60 win over the Lopers on Saturday at the MWSU Fieldhouse.Missouri Western snapped a three-game losing streak and never trailed, earning a season series split with UNK.Kearney (5-15, 2-13 MIAA) lost their 1oth straight, but made it a game a couple of times, only trailing 32-23 going into halftime.The Lopers then got it to within 10, 67-57, with just over two minutes left, but by that point, the Griffons were in the double-bonus and were able to make enough free throws to close it out.Taye Fields led the way with a season-high 22 points and 10 rebounds - his fifth double-double this season, the 17th of his career and his fifth career DD against Nebraska-Kearney.JaRon Thames settled for 14 points to go with five rebounds, three assists and three steals.Kiani Saxon tallied 10 points and six boards. Julius Dixon and Zion Swader each scored seven.Missouri Western goes back on the road this coming week, taking on Washburn on Wednesday in Topeka. The women's game is at 5:30, the men's at 7:30. Both are on KFEQ Radio (680, 95.3). Coverage starts at 5 p.m.Will Martin interview<div><iframe src="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kfeq-sports/embed/episodes/Will-Martin---UNK-postgame-e2fb12i/a-aau4c8p" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>Kiani Saxon interview<div><iframe src="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kfeq-sports/embed/episodes/Kiani-Saxon---UNK-postgame-e2fb13b/a-aau4cbi" 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--Nebraska-Kearney---2424-e2fb10q/a-aau4c2t" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Missouri Western men's, women's basketball pick up wins over Nebraska-Kearney

About 800 athletes will participate in the West Regional Basketball Tournament in St. Joseph for Special Olympics Missouri from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. on Saturday, February 3. Games will be held at the following locations:

The mission of Special Olympics Missouri is to provide year-round sports training and athletic competition in a variety of Olympic-type sports for children and adults with intellectual disabilities.

It provides opportunities to develop physical fitness, demonstrate courage, experience joy and participate in a sharing of gifts, skills and friendship with their families, other Special Olympics athletes and the community.

By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostAbout 800 athletes will participate in the West Regional Basketball Tournament in St. Joseph for Special Olympics Missouri from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. on Saturday, February 3. Games will be held at the following locations:<ul>
 <li>Spring Garden Middle School (5802 S 22nd&nbsp;Street)</li><li>Benton High School (5655 S 4th&nbsp;Street)</li><li>Bode Middle School (720 N Noyes Blvd)</li><li>Lafayette High School (412 E Highland Ave)</li><li>The Rec Center (2701 Southwest Pkwy)</li>
 </ul>The mission of Special Olympics Missouri is to provide year-round sports training and athletic competition in a variety of Olympic-type sports for children and adults with intellectual disabilities.It provides opportunities to develop physical fitness, demonstrate courage, experience joy and participate in a sharing of gifts, skills and friendship with their families, other Special Olympics athletes and the community.

St. Joseph Hosting Special Olympics West Regional Basketball Tournament Saturday

Missouri Western women's basketball overcame a 15-point deficit and had an at times dominant fourth quarter, going up 67-59 with 58 seconds left.

Fort Hays State went on a 7-0 run in 41 seconds to get back to within a point in the closing seconds, and the Tigers had a chance at a tying layup in the closing seconds, but Katie Wagner's shot missed short and the Griffons (16-4, 11-3 MIAA) held off No. 15 Hays, 68-66, on Thursday night at the MWSU Fieldhouse in St. Joseph.

Missouri Western, now winners of six straight games, didn't have a lead in the game until there was 3:08 to go. The Griffons outscored the Tigers in the fourth quarter, 31-18, and shot 73.3% (11-of-15) in the final period.

Missouri Western trailed 48-37 when the fourth quarter began. Johnni Gonzalez got things started with a three-pointer to pull it to within 48-40 with 9:31 remaining.

Hays (16-4, 10-4 MIAA) pushed their lead back to nine with 6:01 to go, but then Jayme Jackson hit a three to get it back to two possessions.

Then, Gonzalez hit another triple to make it a 55-52 contest with 4:52 left. Hart's jumper with 3:08 to go put the Griffons ahead 58-57, and the Griffons never trailed after.

Connie Clarke led Missouri Western with 20 points and seven rebounds. Gonzalez had 12 points on a 4-of-4 performance from three.

Tiani Ellison had another key effort off the bench scoring 10 points on 4-of-6 shooting, marking seven straight games where she's scored in double figures.

Wagner led Hays with a game-high 30 points to go with 10 rebounds. Kate Dilsaver scored 12 off the bench, as Hays lost a game in St. Joseph for the first time since January 2020.

Missouri Western outrebounded Hays 37-29, and made 13-of-15 shots at the free throw line. The Griffons held the Tigers to 40 percent shooting (24-of-60), as their winning streak is now up to six games. The Griffons have also won eight straight at home and 11 of their last 12.

What's more, Missouri Western has scored a regular season sweep over Fort Hays State in women's basketball for the first time since the 2006-07 season.

Griffon men play hard defensively, but fall behind in loss to Hays

The Fort Hays State men's basketball team boasts the No. 1 scoring defense in NCAA Division II.

The Tigers turned Missouri Western over 16 times, held the Griffons to a 30.4% shooting effort and Hays scored a 55-40 win at the MWSU Fieldhouse on Thursday.

Hays, ranked No. 24 in the latest coaches' poll, had a season-low scoring effort, while simultaneously giving up the fewest amount of points in a single game this season.

It's also the fewest points scored by Missouri Western in a single game in the Will Martin era.

Missouri Western (14-6, 8-6 MIAA) held their own for the first 33 minutes, leading by as many six points in the first half, and only trailing 22-21 at halftime.

The Griffons got down nine early in the second half, but got it back to within four at 39-35 with 7:55 remaining.

But, a minute-and-a-half later, Hays was back up 46-35 with 6:17 to play. The Tigers led by double digits the rest of the way, and Hays outscored Western 33-19 in the second half.

The Tigers shot just 35.7% (20-of-56) in the game, but they were a solid 13-of-25 in the second half.

Missouri Western was held to 14-of-46 shooting in the game, and just 5-of-21 in the second half. Hays scored 24 points off of Missouri Western's 16 turnovers. The Tigers, meanwhile, had only seven giveaways.

The Griffons were held to 2-of-15 shooting from long range, and they also went 10-of-17 at the free throw line.

Taye Fields led Missouri Western with 10 points and 10 rebounds. Elijah Nnanabu led Hays with 15 points. Kaleb Hammeke added 10.

Hays has won four straight games and seven of their last eight. Missouri Western is now on a season-long three-game losing streak.

The Griffons stay home to face Nebraska-Kearney on Saturday. The women play at 1:30, the men follow at 3:30. Both games are on KFEQ Radio (680, 95.3, 680kfeq.com, KFEQ app) with coverage starting at 1 p.m.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1706850637708.jpeg" alt="Jordan Cunningham (40) blocked four shots in a 68-66 win over No. 15 Fort Hays State on Thursday at the MWSU Fieldhouse. Photo by Arianne Boma." />
 <figcaption>Jordan Cunningham (40) blocked four shots in a 68-66 win over No. 15 Fort Hays State on Thursday at the MWSU Fieldhouse. Photo by Arianne Boma.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostMissouri Western women's basketball overcame a 15-point deficit and had an at times dominant fourth quarter, going up 67-59 with 58 seconds left.Fort Hays State went on a 7-0 run in 41 seconds to get back to within a point in the closing seconds, and the Tigers had a chance at a tying layup in the closing seconds, but Katie Wagner's shot missed short and the Griffons (16-4, 11-3 MIAA) held off No. 15 Hays, 68-66, on Thursday night at the MWSU Fieldhouse in St. Joseph.Missouri Western, now winners of six straight games, didn't have a lead in the game until there was 3:08 to go. The Griffons outscored the Tigers in the fourth quarter, 31-18, and shot 73.3% (11-of-15) in the final period.Missouri Western trailed 48-37 when the fourth quarter began. Johnni Gonzalez got things started with a three-pointer to pull it to within 48-40 with 9:31 remaining.Hays (16-4, 10-4 MIAA) pushed their lead back to nine with 6:01 to go, but then Jayme Jackson hit a three to get it back to two possessions.Then, Gonzalez hit another triple to make it a 55-52 contest with 4:52 left. Hart's jumper with 3:08 to go put the Griffons ahead 58-57, and the Griffons never trailed after.Connie Clarke led Missouri Western with 20 points and seven rebounds. Gonzalez had 12 points on a 4-of-4 performance from three.Tiani Ellison had another key effort off the bench scoring 10 points on 4-of-6 shooting, marking seven straight games where she's scored in double figures.Wagner led Hays with a game-high 30 points to go with 10 rebounds. Kate Dilsaver scored 12 off the bench, as Hays lost a game in St. Joseph for the first time since January 2020.Missouri Western outrebounded Hays 37-29, and made 13-of-15 shots at the free throw line. The Griffons held the Tigers to 40 percent shooting (24-of-60), as their winning streak is now up to six games. The Griffons have also won eight straight at home and 11 of their last 12.What's more, Missouri Western has scored a regular season sweep over Fort Hays State in women's basketball for the first time since the 2006-07 season.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1706852266728.jpeg" alt="Connie Clarke (10) had a team-high 20 points and seven rebounds in a 68-66 win over No. 15 Fort Hays State on Thursday. Photo by Arianne Boma." />
 <figcaption>Connie Clarke (10) had a team-high 20 points and seven rebounds in a 68-66 win over No. 15 Fort Hays State on Thursday. Photo by Arianne Boma.</figcaption>
 </figure>Candi Whitaker interview<div><iframe src="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kfeq-sports/embed/episodes/Candi-Whitaker---FHSU-postgame-e2f8p1u/a-aattui7" 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--15-Fort-Hays-State---2124-e2f8ovh/a-aattucv" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>Griffon men play hard defensively, but fall behind in loss to Hays<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1706852389904.jpeg" alt="Photo by Arianne Boma." />
 <figcaption>Photo by Arianne Boma.</figcaption>
 </figure>The Fort Hays State men's basketball team boasts the No. 1 scoring defense in NCAA Division II.That defense was on display Thursday.The Tigers turned Missouri Western over 16 times, held the Griffons to a 30.4% shooting effort and Hays scored a 55-40 win at the MWSU Fieldhouse on Thursday.Hays, ranked No. 24 in the latest coaches' poll, had a season-low scoring effort, while simultaneously giving up the fewest amount of points in a single game this season.It's also the fewest points scored by Missouri Western in a single game in the Will Martin era.Missouri Western (14-6, 8-6 MIAA) held their own for the first 33 minutes, leading by as many six points in the first half, and only trailing 22-21 at halftime.The Griffons got down nine early in the second half, but got it back to within four at 39-35 with 7:55 remaining.But, a minute-and-a-half later, Hays was back up 46-35 with 6:17 to play. The Tigers led by double digits the rest of the way, and Hays outscored Western 33-19 in the second half.The Tigers shot just 35.7% (20-of-56) in the game, but they were a solid 13-of-25 in the second half.Missouri Western was held to 14-of-46 shooting in the game, and just 5-of-21 in the second half. Hays scored 24 points off of Missouri Western's 16 turnovers. The Tigers, meanwhile, had only seven giveaways.The Griffons were held to 2-of-15 shooting from long range, and they also went 10-of-17 at the free throw line.Taye Fields led Missouri Western with 10 points and 10 rebounds. Elijah Nnanabu led Hays with 15 points. Kaleb Hammeke added 10.Hays has won four straight games and seven of their last eight. Missouri Western is now on a season-long three-game losing streak.The Griffons stay home to face Nebraska-Kearney on Saturday. The women play at 1:30, the men follow at 3:30. Both games are on KFEQ Radio (680, 95.3, 680kfeq.com, KFEQ app) with coverage starting at 1 p.m.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1706852307797.jpeg" alt="Photo by Arianne Boma." />
 <figcaption>Photo by Arianne Boma.</figcaption>
 </figure>Will Martin interview<div><iframe src="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kfeq-sports/embed/episodes/Will-Martin---FHSU-postgame-e2f8p4p/a-aattupm" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>Audio broadcast<div><iframe src="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kfeq-sports/embed/episodes/MWSU-MBB-vs--24-FHSU---2124-e2f8p37/a-aattune" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

MWSU WBB knocks off No. 15 Fort Hays State, Griffon men fall to No. 24 Tigers Thursday

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.

<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.

<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.

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