After many months of hard work, preparation and anticipation, the week is finally here.

The city of St. Joseph, in conjunction with the St. Joseph Sports Commission and Missouri Western State University, is all set to host the 2023 NCAA Division II women's basketball Elite Eight tournament. This is the fifth time the city has hosted this event, and the first time since 2011.

Brett Esely, director of both the St. Joseph Sports Commission and DII women's basketball Elite Eight tournament, says the biggest project undertaken to get ready for this event was the renovation of the venue itself - Civic Arena.

"That transformation began almost a year ago," Esely said on KFEQ's The Hotline. "Between the city of St. Joseph and some kind work from the Hillyard companies here in town. For those who don't know, Hillyard is a leader in gym floor finish. They essentially took on the refurbishing of the Civic Arena court."

A half-cent sales tax increase approved by St. Joseph voters in August 2021 is expected to raise $50-$60 million for the city's parks and recreation facilities before it sunsets in 2031. About $2.1 million of that is going toward the arena.

First opening in 1980, Civic Arena now looks like a new building inside.

Hillyard, Inc. refurbished and repainted the floor. New, LED lights were installed. New hoops were put in a few months ago. About 80 percent of the 3,800 seats have been replaced. New electronic scorers' tables don the courtside.

Esely says, though, there's one change at Civic Arena that shines brighter than the rest.

"I would say the crown jewel of the aesthetic renovation is the new center-hung scoreboard," he said. "It's LED. When you walk into major venues, nine times out of ten, that's the kind of scoreboard you see. So, that gives it a new look in itself."

As for the teams competing this week, this field of eight is quite elite indeed. Catawba, Assumption, University of Texas-Tyler, defending national champion Glenville State, Cal State Dominguez Hills, Minnesota-Duluth, undefeated Ashland and Tampa are the eight teams vying for a national title this year.

Coming in from eight different states over this past weekend, Esely says this field is as strong as it gets.

"This is a national tournament and that field couldn't get any more national than this," Esely remarked. "Five of those teams have won more than 30 games, one of them is undefeated. We have the defending national champion in the field."

Seven of the teams competing were the No. 1 seed in their respective regional tournaments. The games this week will be split into three sessions spread out over two days.

Each session consists of two games. The first session begins Monday at noon, with the first game pinning Catawba against Cal State Dominguez Hills. The second game Monday is at 2:30, featuring Assumption against Minnesota-Duluth.

The second session on Monday starts at 6 p.m., with Texas-Tyler playing Ashland. That'll be followed Glenville State versus Tampa at 8:30.

Wednesday features the third and final session, with the two semifinal games being played at 6 and 8:30 p.m. Fans can purchase a ticket bundle for all three sessions, or all six games, for $40 total.

Single-game tickets on Ticketmaster are $20 for adults and $10 for students and seniors. Tickets can also be purchased at StJoMoSports.com, or by calling 816-271-4717.

The national championship game be played not in St. Joseph, but in Dallas, Texas on April 1 at the American Airlines Center - the same city, venue and weekend as the DI and DIII women's basketball national title games. This is being done to commemorate the 50-year anniversary of Title IX.

The DII women's basketball Elite Eight will be back in St. Joseph in 2024, and Civic Arena will host the national title game next year as well.

 Even with the national title being played in Dallas this year, Esely says the games on Monday and Wednesday this week provide a rare opportunity to see high level basketball right in St. Joseph's downtown.

"This is a national championship event," Esely pointed out. "Six games for $40. I'm not great at math, but that's like $6.99 apiece for the games. Which, for anywhere for a championship level event, that's a pretty good price."

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679251865103.jpeg" alt="St. Joseph's Civic Arena has been completely refurbished over the last year or so, with a newly renovated floor, new scoreboard, new electronic scorers' tables, new seats, new hoops and more. Photo courtesy of the St. Joseph Sports Commission." />
 <figcaption>St. Joseph's Civic Arena has been completely refurbished over the last year or so, with a newly renovated floor, new scoreboard, new electronic scorers' tables, new seats, new hoops and more. Photo courtesy of the St. Joseph Sports Commission.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostAfter many months of hard work, preparation and anticipation, the week is finally here.The city of St. Joseph, in conjunction with the St. Joseph Sports Commission and Missouri Western State University, is all set to host the 2023 NCAA Division II women's basketball Elite Eight tournament. This is the fifth time the city has hosted this event, and the first time since 2011.Brett Esely, director of both the St. Joseph Sports Commission and DII women's basketball Elite Eight tournament, says the biggest project undertaken to get ready for this event was the renovation of the venue itself - Civic Arena."That transformation began almost a year ago," Esely said on KFEQ's The Hotline. "Between the city of St. Joseph and some kind work from the Hillyard companies here in town. For those who don't know, Hillyard is a leader in gym floor finish. They essentially took on the refurbishing of the Civic Arena court."A half-cent sales tax increase approved by St. Joseph voters in August 2021 is expected to raise $50-$60 million for the city's parks and recreation facilities before it sunsets in 2031. About $2.1 million of that is going toward the arena.First opening in 1980, Civic Arena now looks like a new building inside.Hillyard, Inc. refurbished and repainted the floor. New, LED lights were installed. New hoops were put in a few months ago. About 80 percent of the 3,800 seats have been replaced. New electronic scorers' tables don the courtside.Esely says, though, there's one change at Civic Arena that shines brighter than the rest."I would say the crown jewel of the aesthetic renovation is the new center-hung scoreboard," he said. "It's LED. When you walk into major venues, nine times out of ten, that's the kind of scoreboard you see. So, that gives it a new look in itself."As for the teams competing this week, this field of eight is quite elite indeed. Catawba, Assumption, University of Texas-Tyler, defending national champion Glenville State, Cal State Dominguez Hills, Minnesota-Duluth, undefeated Ashland and Tampa are the eight teams vying for a national title this year.Coming in from eight different states over this past weekend, Esely says this field is as strong as it gets."This is a national tournament and that field couldn't get any more national than this," Esely remarked. "Five of those teams have won more than 30 games, one of them is undefeated. We have the defending national champion in the field."Seven of the teams competing were the No. 1 seed in their respective regional tournaments. The games this week will be split into three sessions spread out over two days.Each session consists of two games. The first session begins Monday at noon, with the first game pinning Catawba against Cal State Dominguez Hills. The second game Monday is at 2:30, featuring Assumption against Minnesota-Duluth.The second session on Monday starts at 6 p.m., with Texas-Tyler playing Ashland. That'll be followed Glenville State versus Tampa at 8:30.Wednesday features the third and final session, with the two semifinal games being played at 6 and 8:30 p.m. Fans can purchase a ticket bundle for all three sessions, or all six games, for $40 total.Single-game tickets on Ticketmaster are $20 for adults and $10 for students and seniors. Tickets can also be purchased at StJoMoSports.com, or by calling 816-271-4717.The national championship game be played not in St. Joseph, but in Dallas, Texas on April 1 at the American Airlines Center - the same city, venue and weekend as the DI and DIII women's basketball national title games. This is being done to commemorate the 50-year anniversary of Title IX.The DII women's basketball Elite Eight will be back in St. Joseph in 2024, and Civic Arena will host the national title game next year as well. Even with the national title being played in Dallas this year, Esely says the games on Monday and Wednesday this week provide a rare opportunity to see high level basketball right in St. Joseph's downtown."This is a national championship event," Esely pointed out. "Six games for $40. I'm not great at math, but that's like $6.99 apiece for the games. Which, for anywhere for a championship level event, that's a pretty good price."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679254611518.jpeg" alt="A look at the new electronic, video capable scoreboard inside Civic Arena. Courtesy photo." />
 <figcaption>A look at the new electronic, video capable scoreboard inside Civic Arena. Courtesy photo.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679254772016.jpeg" alt="Courtesy photo." />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photo.</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

St. Joseph, and new-look Civic Arena, ready to host NCAA DII WBB Elite Eight this week

SPRINGFIELD - Friday's game had everything you could have asked for in a state championship, and likely more.

No. 1 Vashon. No. 2 Benton. Best-on-best. Momentum changes. Big runs. Overtime. Controversial calls. The whole smash.

Sadly, for Benton, the thriller didn't have the desired ending.

The Cardinals led 55-44 with 4:03 left in the fourth quarter, but Vashon went on a 15-4 run to force overtime.

The Wolverines never trailed in either overtime period, and Vashon held on to win 79-77 in double overtime in the Class 4 girls' state basketball championship at Great Southern Bank Arena in Springfield Friday.

"My girls are going to fight until the very end in everything that they do," Benton coach Chris Michaels said after. "They'll never going to give up. These are the people you want to come interview for applications for jobs and all of those things. These are the girls you want working for you."

The Cardinals (28-4) rallied early after getting down 15-6 in the first quarter. Benton got it to within 18-14 at the end of the first, but Vashon still held a 26-21 at halftime.

The Cardinals came out on fire in the third quarter, starting the second half on an 11-0 run. Benton grabbed its first lead of the game, 28-26, with 6:37 left in the third after a three-pointer by freshman Eliana Arambula.

Benton's third quarter lead grew to 40-33, but Vashon got it to within 40-38 by the start of the fourth quarter.

The Cardinals' biggest advantage came midway through the fourth when senior Peyton Anderson converted on an 'and-one' to put Benton up 55-44 with 4:03 left.

After that, however, Vashon proceeded to hit a trio of three-pointers and the Wolverines got back to within 59-53.

"You're not going to hold them down," Michaels said on the challenge of defending a Vashon team that has two Division I commits and three 1,000+ point scorers in the starting lineup.

"You're just going to have to try and control how fast they score, and we changed up a lot of defenses and threw a lot of things at them to try and keep them guessing at what may be coming. I thought my girls executed the game plan, and (Vashon) made one more shot than we did."

A couple minutes later, after a flurry of missed free throws by Benton, Vashon's Raychel Jones tied the game at 59-59 with an unassisted layup with 28 seconds left in regulation.

After another Benton turnover, Vashon had a chance at a winning three in the closing seconds, but the shot was off the mark, and the game went into the first OT.

The Cardinals had chances to ice the game in regulation, but were held scoreless for the final 2:27 of the fourth quarter. Benton also missed their last six free throw attempts in a row to end the fourth.

After halftime, Benton was 6-for-21 at the free throw line, finishing 10-for-26 on the day. Vashon made 17-of-25.

Benton was held without a made field goal for the first 4:32 of the first overtime. Down 65-62 with 31 seconds left, Anderson inbounded the ball to an open Avery Morlock, who buried a corner three to knot the game at 65 and send it to a second OT.

Once again, the Cardinals were unable to score a field goal for the first four minutes of the second overtime. In that same time, Vashon made a three-pointer and seven free throws to go up 75-66 with just 1:03 to go.

Benton never quit. Layups by Arambula and sophomore Andrea Simmons got it to within 75-70 with 43 seconds left.

Vashon missed four free throws themselves within the final 50 seconds of the second OT, but the Wolverines made a critical pair of them to go up 77-70 with 39 seconds left.

Arambula hit a late three, and Kelsey Johnson a late layup, but Benton simply ran out of time, and Vashon held on to win their first ever state championship in girls' basketball. It marked the Wolverines' first appearance in a girls' state title game as well.

All five Benton starters finished in double figures. Senior Kelsey Johnson ended her final varsity game with 23 points, eight rebounds, four assists, four assists, three steals and two blocks.

Arambula had her best game of the season with 19 points. Simmons logged a double-double with 15 points and 16 rebounds.

Morlock and Anderson, who fouled out in the second OT, each scored 10 points.

It marked the final game for Anderson, Johnson and senior reserves Andee Magness and Seanna Campbell.

"Here's all that needs to be said to every girl who stands on that floor and they just need to know I love them," Michaels said gratefully. "I love them so much."

Benton so badly wanted the first place trophy after a fourth place finish at the Final Four in 2021, and a runner-up finish last year, too.

Friday's contest was a thrilling, hard fought, epic battle between the two best teams in the state. It didn't the way Benton had hoped, but Michaels reminds his team - there's so much to be proud of.

The only team in St. Joseph history, boys or girls, to make three straight Final Fours. The most wins in a single season since 2015-16. And the fourth ever appearance in a state title game in program history.

"Everybody who paid to get in here got their money's worth and that's what we want to do every time we come out," Michaels said. "We want to play until the very end so these people who come and watch us...they drove all the way from St. Joe to watch, and we might as well give them the best game that we can, and my girls take that to heart."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679099644103.jpeg" alt="Photo by Clifton Grooms." />
 <figcaption>Photo by Clifton Grooms.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostSPRINGFIELD - Friday's game had everything you could have asked for in a state championship, and likely more.No. 1 Vashon. No. 2 Benton. Best-on-best. Momentum changes. Big runs. Overtime. Controversial calls. The whole smash.Sadly, for Benton, the thriller didn't have the desired ending.The Cardinals led 55-44 with 4:03 left in the fourth quarter, but Vashon went on a 15-4 run to force overtime.The Wolverines never trailed in either overtime period, and Vashon held on to win 79-77 in double overtime in the Class 4 girls' state basketball championship at Great Southern Bank Arena in Springfield Friday."My girls are going to fight until the very end in everything that they do," Benton coach Chris Michaels said after. "They'll never going to give up. These are the people you want to come interview for applications for jobs and all of those things. These are the girls you want working for you."The Cardinals (28-4) rallied early after getting down 15-6 in the first quarter. Benton got it to within 18-14 at the end of the first, but Vashon still held a 26-21 at halftime.The Cardinals came out on fire in the third quarter, starting the second half on an 11-0 run. Benton grabbed its first lead of the game, 28-26, with 6:37 left in the third after a three-pointer by freshman Eliana Arambula.Benton's third quarter lead grew to 40-33, but Vashon got it to within 40-38 by the start of the fourth quarter.The Cardinals' biggest advantage came midway through the fourth when senior Peyton Anderson converted on an 'and-one' to put Benton up 55-44 with 4:03 left.After that, however, Vashon proceeded to hit a trio of three-pointers and the Wolverines got back to within 59-53."You're not going to hold them down," Michaels said on the challenge of defending a Vashon team that has two Division I commits and three 1,000+ point scorers in the starting lineup."You're just going to have to try and control how fast they score, and we changed up a lot of defenses and threw a lot of things at them to try and keep them guessing at what may be coming. I thought my girls executed the game plan, and (Vashon) made one more shot than we did."A couple minutes later, after a flurry of missed free throws by Benton, Vashon's Raychel Jones tied the game at 59-59 with an unassisted layup with 28 seconds left in regulation.After another Benton turnover, Vashon had a chance at a winning three in the closing seconds, but the shot was off the mark, and the game went into the first OT.The Cardinals had chances to ice the game in regulation, but were held scoreless for the final 2:27 of the fourth quarter. Benton also missed their last six free throw attempts in a row to end the fourth.After halftime, Benton was 6-for-21 at the free throw line, finishing 10-for-26 on the day. Vashon made 17-of-25.Benton was held without a made field goal for the first 4:32 of the first overtime. Down 65-62 with 31 seconds left, Anderson inbounded the ball to an open Avery Morlock, who buried a corner three to knot the game at 65 and send it to a second OT.Once again, the Cardinals were unable to score a field goal for the first four minutes of the second overtime. In that same time, Vashon made a three-pointer and seven free throws to go up 75-66 with just 1:03 to go.Benton never quit. Layups by Arambula and sophomore Andrea Simmons got it to within 75-70 with 43 seconds left.Vashon missed four free throws themselves within the final 50 seconds of the second OT, but the Wolverines made a critical pair of them to go up 77-70 with 39 seconds left.Arambula hit a late three, and Kelsey Johnson a late layup, but Benton simply ran out of time, and Vashon held on to win their first ever state championship in girls' basketball. It marked the Wolverines' first appearance in a girls' state title game as well.All five Benton starters finished in double figures. Senior Kelsey Johnson ended her final varsity game with 23 points, eight rebounds, four assists, four assists, three steals and two blocks.Arambula had her best game of the season with 19 points. Simmons logged a double-double with 15 points and 16 rebounds.Morlock and Anderson, who fouled out in the second OT, each scored 10 points.It marked the final game for Anderson, Johnson and senior reserves Andee Magness and Seanna Campbell."Here's all that needs to be said to every girl who stands on that floor and they just need to know I love them," Michaels said gratefully. "I love them so much."Benton so badly wanted the first place trophy after a fourth place finish at the Final Four in 2021, and a runner-up finish last year, too.Friday's contest was a thrilling, hard fought, epic battle between the two best teams in the state. It didn't the way Benton had hoped, but Michaels reminds his team - there's so much to be proud of.The only team in St. Joseph history, boys or girls, to make three straight Final Fours. The most wins in a single season since 2015-16. And the fourth ever appearance in a state title game in program history."Everybody who paid to get in here got their money's worth and that's what we want to do every time we come out," Michaels said. "We want to play until the very end so these people who come and watch us...they drove all the way from St. Joe to watch, and we might as well give them the best game that we can, and my girls take that to heart."Full game broadcast<div><iframe src="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/tommy-rezac/embed/episodes/Benton-vs--Vashon---Class-4-girls-state-basketball-championship---31723-e20l08f" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>Chris Michaels interview<div><iframe src="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/tommy-rezac/embed/episodes/Benton-coach-Chris-Michaels-postgame---31723-e20l0bi" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679100178380.jpeg" alt="Andrea Simmons (23) goes up for a shot." />
 <figcaption>Andrea Simmons (23) goes up for a shot.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679100214186.jpeg" alt="Kelsey Johnson (2)." />
 <figcaption>Kelsey Johnson (2).</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679100239108.jpeg" alt="Peyton Anderson. Photos by Clifton Grooms." />
 <figcaption>Peyton Anderson. Photos by Clifton Grooms.</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Benton comes up just short against Vashon in 2 OT state championship thriller

SPRINGFIELD - Some might think it's the luck of the Irish.

Lafayette boys' basketball coach Kevin Bristol doesn't. What he saw Friday is what he believe his team could be all season long.

"Today, we got back to the formula that got us here," Bristol said. "It's good to see everyone get back on track. Like I always say, it's who we are."

The Irish (23-8) buried 16 three-pointers, and shot 53.7 percent from the field in a 78-57 takedown of No. 6 Father Tolton Regional Catholic (Columbia) in the Class 4' boys basketball third place game at the Hammons Student Center in Springfield Friday.

Lafayette had an impressive turnaround after falling 82-57 to Central Park Hills in state semifinals less than 24 hours prior.

Lafayette used a 10-0 run in the first quarter to grab a 21-14 lead through the first eight minutes.

Father Tolton (21-11) managed to tie the game at 26-26 with 3:32 left in the second. But again, Lafayette found a run, this time an 11-2 burst to end the half, and the Irish went up 37-28 at intermission.

Father Tolton gave it one last push midway through the third when senior Izaak Porter knocked down a three to make it a 43-34 contest with 4:45 left in the third.

Lafayette essentially called game after that. Back-to-back threes from senior Camden Bennett and another from senior Quinn Lowe sparked an 11-0 run and the Irish went up 52-34 with 2:26 to go in the third.

Bennett made four threes in the third quarter alone, and he finished his final high school game with 21 points. He was 5-of-6 from beyond the arc.

Friday, though, may have belonged to fellow senior George Galloway, who lit up the scoreboard with four three-pointers in the first half alone.

After another made three in the third quarter, Galloway helped put the game out of reach with three more triples in the final three minutes of the game, putting Lafayette ahead 78-55 with 90 seconds to go.

After his eighth made three of the game, Bristol called timeout to send the subs in, and to give his seniors and starters a big hug.

Galloway finished with a game-high 26 points on a remarkable 8-of-12 shooting effort from long range.

"That's how George looks in practice every day," Bristol said. "And I'm so proud of him. Started beginning of the season, loses his job, but sticks with it, plays with it and when we needed him most, he stepped up all through the playoffs."

Senior Mikey Thomas was also impressive with 12 points, nine assists, four steals and a blocked shot. Senior Connor Zeit and sophomore Antonio Williams finished with seven points each.

After leading by nine at half, Lafayette outscored Father Tolton 41-29 over the final two quarters. The Irish also turned the Trailblazers over 13 times in the victory.

Some might say it's a lucky thing, being the team who's wearing green and bearing the name 'Irish' in a state tournament game on St. Patrick's Day.

But, Bristol will tell you - Friday's game was a conscious choice by his team to send their seven seniors out right, and to end a terrific 2022-23 season on a high note.

"All through the year we talked about - what are you going to say yourself when you're looking at yourself in the mirror?" Bristol said. "Did I give it my all? Or, man I could have done more. I think today, they left it all on the floor and we couldn't ask any more of them."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679073104393.jpeg" alt="Photo by Clifton Grooms." />
 <figcaption>Photo by Clifton Grooms.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostSPRINGFIELD - Some might think it's the luck of the Irish.Lafayette boys' basketball coach Kevin Bristol doesn't. What he saw Friday is what he believe his team could be all season long."Today, we got back to the formula that got us here," Bristol said. "It's good to see everyone get back on track. Like I always say, it's who we are."The Irish (23-8) buried 16 three-pointers, and shot 53.7 percent from the field in a 78-57 takedown of No. 6 Father Tolton Regional Catholic (Columbia) in the Class 4' boys basketball third place game at the Hammons Student Center in Springfield Friday.Lafayette had an impressive turnaround after falling 82-57 to Central Park Hills in state semifinals less than 24 hours prior.Lafayette used a 10-0 run in the first quarter to grab a 21-14 lead through the first eight minutes.Father Tolton (21-11) managed to tie the game at 26-26 with 3:32 left in the second. But again, Lafayette found a run, this time an 11-2 burst to end the half, and the Irish went up 37-28 at intermission.Father Tolton gave it one last push midway through the third when senior Izaak Porter knocked down a three to make it a 43-34 contest with 4:45 left in the third.Lafayette essentially called game after that. Back-to-back threes from senior Camden Bennett and another from senior Quinn Lowe sparked an 11-0 run and the Irish went up 52-34 with 2:26 to go in the third.Bennett made four threes in the third quarter alone, and he finished his final high school game with 21 points. He was 5-of-6 from beyond the arc.Friday, though, may have belonged to fellow senior George Galloway, who lit up the scoreboard with four three-pointers in the first half alone.After another made three in the third quarter, Galloway helped put the game out of reach with three more triples in the final three minutes of the game, putting Lafayette ahead 78-55 with 90 seconds to go.After his eighth made three of the game, Bristol called timeout to send the subs in, and to give his seniors and starters a big hug.Galloway finished with a game-high 26 points on a remarkable 8-of-12 shooting effort from long range."That's how George looks in practice every day," Bristol said. "And I'm so proud of him. Started beginning of the season, loses his job, but sticks with it, plays with it and when we needed him most, he stepped up all through the playoffs."Senior Mikey Thomas was also impressive with 12 points, nine assists, four steals and a blocked shot. Senior Connor Zeit and sophomore Antonio Williams finished with seven points each.After leading by nine at half, Lafayette outscored Father Tolton 41-29 over the final two quarters. The Irish also turned the Trailblazers over 13 times in the victory.Some might say it's a lucky thing, being the team who's wearing green and bearing the name 'Irish' in a state tournament game on St. Patrick's Day.But, Bristol will tell you - Friday's game was a conscious choice by his team to send their seven seniors out right, and to end a terrific 2022-23 season on a high note."All through the year we talked about - what are you going to say yourself when you're looking at yourself in the mirror?" Bristol said. "Did I give it my all? Or, man I could have done more. I think today, they left it all on the floor and we couldn't ask any more of them."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679074690761.jpeg" alt="Mikey Thomas." />
 <figcaption>Mikey Thomas.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679074722166.jpeg" alt="George Galloway (14)." />
 <figcaption>George Galloway (14).</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679074753676.jpeg" alt="Camden Bennett." />
 <figcaption>Camden Bennett.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679074780039.jpeg" alt="Lafayette coach Kevin Bristol and George Galloway embrace during the medal ceremony. Photos by Clifton Grooms." />
 <figcaption>Lafayette coach Kevin Bristol and George Galloway embrace during the medal ceremony. Photos by Clifton Grooms.</figcaption>
 </figure>Kevin Bristol interview<div><iframe src="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/tommy-rezac/embed/episodes/Lafayette-coach-Kevin-Bristol---31723-e20kegp" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

An Irish blessing - Lafayette hits 16 threes, beats Father Tolton for 3rd place in Class 4

SPRINGFIELD - Benton was in a position Thursday that they really hadn't been in all season long.

Down by double digits in the second half.

Trailing 39-24 with 2:21 left in the third quarter, the Cardinals (27-3) ended the third on a 7-0 run to get it back to within single digits.

That was just the start, as Benton ended the game on a 31-9 run and topped Central Park Hills 55-48 in overtime in Class 4 state semifinals at Great Southern Bank Arena in Springfield on Thursday.

"We're really, really proud of our girls," Benton coach Chris Michaels said. "To come back from not a very good half, and to be truthfully honest, what we told them (at halftime) is 'they're outrebounding you, and you're not playing Benton defense.'"

The biggest difference down the stretch, Michaels said, was the rebounding. The Cardinals were outrebounded 13-6 in the first half, but Benton managed to pull down 20 rebounds in the second half.

"We tied (with Central Park Hills) in rebounds the second half," Michaels said. "I think that's what it really came down to. We didn't give them second chances."

Benton tied the game twice in the fourth quarter. The second time, it was an Andrea Simmons three-pointer with 45 seconds left in regulation to knot it at 44-44.&nbsp;

Each team had a look at a game winning shot in the closing moments of regulation, but both missed and the game went to overtime.

Benton grabbed its first lead of the game just 25 seconds into the OT period, when Peyton Anderson went 1-for-2 on a free throw trip.

The Cardinals led 45-44 with 3:35 left in OT, and never trailed again.

Anderson and Johnson in overtime combined to hit six free throws in a row to put the game on ice. Simmons also had a layup with 30 seconds left to put Benton up 53-48.

What's more, Central Park Hills was just 1-of-4 from the field in overtime.

Simmons and Johnson led Benton with 16 points each. Johnson also had eight rebounds and two blocks. Anderson had 10 points, while freshman Eliana Arambula had 10 as well.

Benton shot 48.7 percent from the field Thursday, and the Cardinals were a stellar 12-of-15 at the free throw line. Defensively, Benton held Central Park Hills to 38.1 percent shooting, and the Rebels finished with 15 turnovers.

Benton now advances to a state championship game in girls' basketball for the fourth time in program history. Benton will now see No. 1 ranked Vashon (26-5) for the title on Friday at 4 p.m.

The game will be broadcast on StJosephPost.com. <a href="https://radio.securenetsystems.net/cwa/SJPOST">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN</a>.

After finishing fourth at state in 2021, and second in 2022, Benton is more determined than ever to hang another state championship banner at Springer Gymnasium. It'd be the first one since 2016 and the third one all time.

"You've been working for one thing and one thing only and that is to play in this game tomorrow," Michaels said, "put your best effort forward and whatever happens happens for us. Obviously, we're proud of them no matter what, but we will be disappointed if we're not holding the big trophy when it's all said and done."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679011371069.jpeg" alt="Eliana Arambula brings the ball up the floor during Benton's game against Central Park Hills in Class 4 state semifinals in Springfield Thursday. Photo by Clifton Grooms." />
 <figcaption>Eliana Arambula brings the ball up the floor during Benton's game against Central Park Hills in Class 4 state semifinals in Springfield Thursday. Photo by Clifton Grooms.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostSPRINGFIELD - Benton was in a position Thursday that they really hadn't been in all season long.Down by double digits in the second half.Trailing 39-24 with 2:21 left in the third quarter, the Cardinals (27-3) ended the third on a 7-0 run to get it back to within single digits.That was just the start, as Benton ended the game on a 31-9 run and topped Central Park Hills 55-48 in overtime in Class 4 state semifinals at Great Southern Bank Arena in Springfield on Thursday."We're really, really proud of our girls," Benton coach Chris Michaels said. "To come back from not a very good half, and to be truthfully honest, what we told them (at halftime) is 'they're outrebounding you, and you're not playing Benton defense.'"The biggest difference down the stretch, Michaels said, was the rebounding. The Cardinals were outrebounded 13-6 in the first half, but Benton managed to pull down 20 rebounds in the second half."We tied (with Central Park Hills) in rebounds the second half," Michaels said. "I think that's what it really came down to. We didn't give them second chances."Benton tied the game twice in the fourth quarter. The second time, it was an Andrea Simmons three-pointer with 45 seconds left in regulation to knot it at 44-44.&nbsp;Each team had a look at a game winning shot in the closing moments of regulation, but both missed and the game went to overtime.Benton grabbed its first lead of the game just 25 seconds into the OT period, when Peyton Anderson went 1-for-2 on a free throw trip.The Cardinals led 45-44 with 3:35 left in OT, and never trailed again.Anderson and Johnson in overtime combined to hit six free throws in a row to put the game on ice. Simmons also had a layup with 30 seconds left to put Benton up 53-48.What's more, Central Park Hills was just 1-of-4 from the field in overtime.Simmons and Johnson led Benton with 16 points each. Johnson also had eight rebounds and two blocks. Anderson had 10 points, while freshman Eliana Arambula had 10 as well.Benton shot 48.7 percent from the field Thursday, and the Cardinals were a stellar 12-of-15 at the free throw line. Defensively, Benton held Central Park Hills to 38.1 percent shooting, and the Rebels finished with 15 turnovers.Benton now advances to a state championship game in girls' basketball for the fourth time in program history. Benton will now see No. 1 ranked Vashon (26-5) for the title on Friday at 4 p.m.The game will be broadcast on StJosephPost.com. <a href="https://radio.securenetsystems.net/cwa/SJPOST">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN</a>.After finishing fourth at state in 2021, and second in 2022, Benton is more determined than ever to hang another state championship banner at Springer Gymnasium. It'd be the first one since 2016 and the third one all time."You've been working for one thing and one thing only and that is to play in this game tomorrow," Michaels said, "put your best effort forward and whatever happens happens for us. Obviously, we're proud of them no matter what, but we will be disappointed if we're not holding the big trophy when it's all said and done."Chris Michaels interview<div><iframe src="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/tommy-rezac/embed/episodes/Benton-GBB-coach-Chris-Michaels---Park-Hills-Central-postgame-31623-e20iq5i" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>Full game broadcast<div><iframe src="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/tommy-rezac/embed/episodes/Benton-GBB-vs--Central-Park-Hills---Class-4-state-semifinal-31623-e20ipv3" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>Photos by Clifton Grooms.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679011448426.jpeg" alt="Andrea Simmons (23)." />
 <figcaption>Andrea Simmons (23).</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679011467775.jpeg" alt="Kelsey Johnson." />
 <figcaption>Kelsey Johnson.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679011491412.jpeg" alt="Chris Michaels." />
 <figcaption>Chris Michaels.</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Benton stages comeback, beats Central Park Hills in OT to advance to state title

SPRINGFIELD - Park Hills Central started their day with a 10-0 run in the first quarter, and that was a microcosm of what was to come.

The Rebels (28-3) jumped on Lafayette from the start and never let up, as the Irish fell 82-57 in Class 4 state semifinals at Great Southern Bank Arena in Springfield Thursday.

"Who we've been in this playoff, we didn't show up today," Lafayette coach Kevin Bristol said. "Defensively, we weren't very good. Offensively, we were selfish. We just didn't show up to play."

Lafayette (22-8) shot only 8-of-28 from the field in the first half and the irish committed nine first half turnovers, allowing Park Hills Central to go up 47-23 at the break.

The Rebels were crisp from the floor all game long, shooting 59.6 percent from the field. Junior Jobe Bryant was outstanding for Park Hills Central with 20 points, seven assists, six steals and six rebounds.

Senior Camden Bennett led Lafayette with 20 points - 18 of that in the second half. Senior Mikey Thomas and sophomore Antonio Williams each finished with 10.

The Irish shot just 37.5 percent on the day, and they were outrebounded 38-21, including 27-12 on the defensive glass.

Lafayette will now play for third place in Class 4 on Friday morning at 10 a.m. against Father Tolton (21-10). The game will be broadcast on StJosephPost.com. <a href="https://radio.securenetsystems.net/cwa/SJPOST">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN</a>.

Bristol knows another tough test awaits his team Friday, but he also knows it's a chance to go out strong.

"The pressure is off somewhat, simply because that first place is out of the equation now," Bristol said. "So, hopefully we can show up and be who we are. Sad thing is, whoever we face tomorrow is better than these guys (Park Hills) tonight. So, it's going to be a difficult task."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1678993413389.jpeg" alt="Lafayette's Camden Bennett (35) looks to drive the lane against Park Hills Central in Thursday's Class 4 state semifinal game at Great Southern Bank Arena in Springfield. Photo by Clifton Grooms." />
 <figcaption>Lafayette's Camden Bennett (35) looks to drive the lane against Park Hills Central in Thursday's Class 4 state semifinal game at Great Southern Bank Arena in Springfield. Photo by Clifton Grooms.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostSPRINGFIELD - Park Hills Central started their day with a 10-0 run in the first quarter, and that was a microcosm of what was to come.The Rebels (28-3) jumped on Lafayette from the start and never let up, as the Irish fell 82-57 in Class 4 state semifinals at Great Southern Bank Arena in Springfield Thursday."Who we've been in this playoff, we didn't show up today," Lafayette coach Kevin Bristol said. "Defensively, we weren't very good. Offensively, we were selfish. We just didn't show up to play."Lafayette (22-8) shot only 8-of-28 from the field in the first half and the irish committed nine first half turnovers, allowing Park Hills Central to go up 47-23 at the break.The Rebels were crisp from the floor all game long, shooting 59.6 percent from the field. Junior Jobe Bryant was outstanding for Park Hills Central with 20 points, seven assists, six steals and six rebounds.Senior Camden Bennett led Lafayette with 20 points - 18 of that in the second half. Senior Mikey Thomas and sophomore Antonio Williams each finished with 10.The Irish shot just 37.5 percent on the day, and they were outrebounded 38-21, including 27-12 on the defensive glass.Lafayette will now play for third place in Class 4 on Friday morning at 10 a.m. against Father Tolton (21-10). The game will be broadcast on StJosephPost.com. <a href="https://radio.securenetsystems.net/cwa/SJPOST">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN</a>.Bristol knows another tough test awaits his team Friday, but he also knows it's a chance to go out strong."The pressure is off somewhat, simply because that first place is out of the equation now," Bristol said. "So, hopefully we can show up and be who we are. Sad thing is, whoever we face tomorrow is better than these guys (Park Hills) tonight. So, it's going to be a difficult task."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1678993503325.jpeg" alt="Antonio Williams (4) came off the bench to score 10 points on 4-of-6 shooting Thursday. Photo by Clifton Grooms." />
 <figcaption>Antonio Williams (4) came off the bench to score 10 points on 4-of-6 shooting Thursday. Photo by Clifton Grooms.</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Lafayette gets in early hole, Irish fall to Park Hills Central in state semis Thursday

By MATT PIKE St. Joseph Post

Two contributors to the Kansas City Chiefs 2022 Super Bowl season are heading elsewhere after signing deals with different teams. &nbsp;

After one year in Kansas City, wide receiver Juju Smith Schuster signed a three-year deal with the New England Patriots.&nbsp; The move announced during the NFL's tampering period. &nbsp;

Smith-Schuster was second on the team behind tight end Travis Kelce in targets, receptions and receiving yards in a season that resembled his first four years as a member of the Pittsburgh Steelers. &nbsp;

The Patriots were seeking to replace Jakobi Meyers, their leading receiver, after he signed a three-year deal with the Las Vegas Raiders.&nbsp; Smith-Schuster shares a similar skill set with Meyers, which made the Patriots show specific interest in acquiring the former Chiefs receiver. &nbsp;

Also announced during the tampering period is the departure of defensive tackle Khalen Saunders, a former third round pick of the Chiefs who spent four years with the team and was part of both Super bowl champion teams.&nbsp;

Saunders signed a three-year deal with the New Orleans Saints after hitting the free agent market for the first time since his rookie deal expired.&nbsp;

Through four seasons with Kansas City, Saunders played in 38 games and complied 4.5 sacks.&nbsp; His best season with the Chiefs came during this past season when he played in 16 games and having 15 quarterback pressures.&nbsp;

By MATT PIKE St. Joseph PostTwo contributors to the Kansas City Chiefs 2022 Super Bowl season are heading elsewhere after signing deals with different teams. &nbsp;After one year in Kansas City, wide receiver Juju Smith Schuster signed a three-year deal with the New England Patriots.&nbsp; The move announced during the NFL's tampering period. &nbsp;Smith-Schuster was second on the team behind tight end Travis Kelce in targets, receptions and receiving yards in a season that resembled his first four years as a member of the Pittsburgh Steelers. &nbsp;The Patriots were seeking to replace Jakobi Meyers, their leading receiver, after he signed a three-year deal with the Las Vegas Raiders.&nbsp; Smith-Schuster shares a similar skill set with Meyers, which made the Patriots show specific interest in acquiring the former Chiefs receiver. &nbsp;Also announced during the tampering period is the departure of defensive tackle Khalen Saunders, a former third round pick of the Chiefs who spent four years with the team and was part of both Super bowl champion teams.&nbsp;Saunders signed a three-year deal with the New Orleans Saints after hitting the free agent market for the first time since his rookie deal expired.&nbsp;Through four seasons with Kansas City, Saunders played in 38 games and complied 4.5 sacks.&nbsp; His best season with the Chiefs came during this past season when he played in 16 games and having 15 quarterback pressures.&nbsp;

Chiefs lose Smith-Schuster, DT Saunders to free agency

Lafayette’s Jay Greiner and Bishop LeBlond’s Tatum Studer were named the male and female St. Joseph Scholar Athletes of the Year Tuesday night at a ceremony held on the Missouri Western campus.

In addition, Benton girls’ basketball coach Chris Michaels was named the St. Joseph Sports, Inc. Coach of the Year. He was a nominee for the award last year.

The St. Joseph Sports Commission also named Lafayette’s Erin Lotspeich and Central’s Andrew Gerstner as winners of the inaugural Student-Athlete Community Service Award.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1678880202639.jpeg" alt="Photo courtesy of KQTV." />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy of KQTV.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostLafayette’s Jay Greiner and Bishop LeBlond’s Tatum Studer were named the male and female St. Joseph Scholar Athletes of the Year Tuesday night at a ceremony held on the Missouri Western campus.In addition, Benton girls’ basketball coach Chris Michaels was named the St. Joseph Sports, Inc. Coach of the Year. He was a nominee for the award last year.The St. Joseph Sports Commission also named Lafayette’s Erin Lotspeich and Central’s Andrew Gerstner as winners of the inaugural Student-Athlete Community Service Award.

Tatum Studer, Jay Greiner win Scholar Athlete of the Year honors

The St. Joseph Mustangs have officially unveiled their 2023 roster.

The roster features a number of returning players from previous seasons, including catcher Oscar Pegg and infielders Ike Book, Noah Bodenhausen, Michael Paule, Cole Slibowski and Mason Holton.

Outfielders returning include Trevor McCollum, Dakota Spicer and Will Dryburg. The pitching staff will also return Braden Berry, Jay Greco, Tanner Scmidt, Jack Wells, Michael Infranca, Tyson Hilsabeck and Jaren Guck.

Local schools like Benton, Lafayette, Bishop LeBlond, Platte County, Kearney and Savannah all have alums who will play for the Mustangs this summer.

Mustangs' Opening Day is scheduled for Wednesday, May 31, with a game against the Baldwin City Blues at Phil Welch Stadium.

Catchers Ben Click- William Jewell University Oscar Pegg- Lincoln Trail University

1st base Ike Book – Washburn University (Lafayette) Ryan Callahan-Johnson County

2nd base Noah Bodenhausen- Northwest Missouri State (Savannah) Michael Paule – McKendree University

Shortstop Cole Slibowski- Northwest Missouri State (Lafayette)

3rd base Mason Holton- Coffeyville CC Jayden Little- Highland CC (Lafayette)

Outfield Trevor McCollum- Washburn University Dakota Spicer- Truman State (Bishop LeBlond) Brayden Luikart- Johnson County CC (Lafayette) Will Dryburg- Kansas Wesleyan (Bishop LeBlond) Easton Bruce- Washburn University Aron Harrington- Western Illinois

Pitchers Braden Berry- Incarnate Word University (Savannah) Jay Greco- Southwestern Oklahoma State University 		 Tanner Schmidt- North Central (Benton) Jack Wells- William Jewell University Mason Holton- Emporia State University 			 Michael Infranca- Washburn University Tyson Hilsabeck- Northwest Missouri State (Savannah) Brayden Luikart- Johnson County CC (Lafayette) Jaren Guck- Truman State (Bishop LeBlond) Jayden Little- Highland CC (Lafayette) Ryker Curry-Pitt State University	 Brandon Stone- Johnson County CC Landon Fulk- Johnson County CC Luc Fladda-Oklahoma University Aron Harrington-Western Illinois Andrew Clark-Northwest Missouri State University

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1678821765600.jpeg" alt="Stock photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Stock photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThe St. Joseph Mustangs have officially unveiled their 2023 roster.The roster features a number of returning players from previous seasons, including catcher Oscar Pegg and infielders Ike Book, Noah Bodenhausen, Michael Paule, Cole Slibowski and Mason Holton.Outfielders returning include Trevor McCollum, Dakota Spicer and Will Dryburg. The pitching staff will also return Braden Berry, Jay Greco, Tanner Scmidt, Jack Wells, Michael Infranca, Tyson Hilsabeck and Jaren Guck.Local schools like Benton, Lafayette, Bishop LeBlond, Platte County, Kearney and Savannah all have alums who will play for the Mustangs this summer.Mustangs' Opening Day is scheduled for Wednesday, May 31, with a game against the Baldwin City Blues at Phil Welch Stadium.The full roster is listed below:Catchers Ben Click- William Jewell University Oscar Pegg- Lincoln Trail University 1st base Ike Book – Washburn University (Lafayette) Ryan Callahan-Johnson County 2nd base Noah Bodenhausen- Northwest Missouri State (Savannah) Michael Paule – McKendree University Shortstop Cole Slibowski- Northwest Missouri State (Lafayette)3rd base Mason Holton- Coffeyville CC Jayden Little- Highland CC (Lafayette)Outfield Trevor McCollum- Washburn University Dakota Spicer- Truman State (Bishop LeBlond) Brayden Luikart- Johnson County CC (Lafayette) Will Dryburg- Kansas Wesleyan (Bishop LeBlond) Easton Bruce- Washburn University Aron Harrington- Western IllinoisPitchers Braden Berry- Incarnate Word University (Savannah) Jay Greco- Southwestern Oklahoma State University 		 Tanner Schmidt- North Central (Benton) Jack Wells- William Jewell University Mason Holton- Emporia State University 			 Michael Infranca- Washburn University Tyson Hilsabeck- Northwest Missouri State (Savannah) Brayden Luikart- Johnson County CC (Lafayette) Jaren Guck- Truman State (Bishop LeBlond) Jayden Little- Highland CC (Lafayette) Ryker Curry-Pitt State University	 Brandon Stone- Johnson County CC Landon Fulk- Johnson County CC Luc Fladda-Oklahoma University Aron Harrington-Western Illinois Andrew Clark-Northwest Missouri State University

St. Joseph Mustangs officially unveil 2023 roster, numerous locals included

MARYVILLE - The&nbsp; 15th-ranked Southern Nazarene Crimson Storm scored a stunning 61-57 win over the three-time defending national champion Northwest Missouri State men's basketball team in the NCAA Central Regional semifinals at Bearcat Arena Sunday. The Crimson Storm snapped Northwest's 18-game NCAA tournament win streak, shooting 59.5% from the field, including 62.5% in the second half. SNU outscored Northwest 36-25 in the second half. Northwest junior&nbsp;Wes Dreamer&nbsp;buried a three-pointer on the right wing with 42.2 left to even the game at 57-57. SNU freshman guard Javon Jackson, who poured in a game-high 24 points, hit the go-ahead jumper from the baseline with 14.8 left to give SNU a 59-57 lead. The Crimson Storm hit a couple more free throws with 2.1 remaining to seal the deal.

Senior and St. Joseph native Diego Bernard&nbsp;scored a team-high 14 points in only the fourth loss at home in his storied collegiate career, which includes over 150 wins, over 2000 points and three national titles. Southern Nazarene will take on Minnesota Duluth on Tuesday at 7 p.m. in the Central Region Final at Bearcat Arena.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1678706969755.jpeg" alt="Courtesy of Northwest athletics." />
 <figcaption>Courtesy of Northwest athletics.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostMARYVILLE - The&nbsp; 15th-ranked Southern Nazarene Crimson Storm scored a stunning 61-57 win over the three-time defending national champion Northwest Missouri State men's basketball team in the NCAA Central Regional semifinals at Bearcat Arena Sunday. The Crimson Storm snapped Northwest's 18-game NCAA tournament win streak, shooting 59.5% from the field, including 62.5% in the second half. SNU outscored Northwest 36-25 in the second half. Northwest junior&nbsp;Wes Dreamer&nbsp;buried a three-pointer on the right wing with 42.2 left to even the game at 57-57. SNU freshman guard Javon Jackson, who poured in a game-high 24 points, hit the go-ahead jumper from the baseline with 14.8 left to give SNU a 59-57 lead. The Crimson Storm hit a couple more free throws with 2.1 remaining to seal the deal. Senior and St. Joseph native Diego Bernard&nbsp;scored a team-high 14 points in only the fourth loss at home in his storied collegiate career, which includes over 150 wins, over 2000 points and three national titles. Southern Nazarene will take on Minnesota Duluth on Tuesday at 7 p.m. in the Central Region Final at Bearcat Arena.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Northwest Missouri State's MBB season ends with loss to Southern Nazarene

The Doniphan West girls' basketball team defeated Quinter 55-49 in Dodge City Saturday to capture the Class 1A-Division I state championship - the first state title in program history for the Mustangs.

Kyra Johnson led the way with 22 points and 13 rebounds.&nbsp;Avery Weathersbee finished with 12. Doniphan West ends the historic season at 21-5 overall.

Riverside falls in state title game, Cyclones conclude historic run

In their first ever appearance in a state championship game, the Riverside girls' basketball team fell to No. 2 seed Berean Academy 48-31 in the Class 2A girls' title game at Bramlage Coliseum in Manhattan, Kansas Saturday.

The Cyclones got off to an 11-2 start, but got down 34-22 by the end of the third quarter after being held to just two second quarter points.

 Taylor Weishaar led Riverside with 16 points. The Cyclones end an incredible season at 22-4. It was their first state tournament appearance in history after capturing their first sub-state title in history this season as well.

Class 2 boys' 3rd place in Missouri Plattsburg 59 Hartville 48. Plattsburg ends an incredible year at 31-1. It was just their second Final Four appearance in program history.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1678597803526.jpeg" alt="Doniphan West captured their first ever state championship in girls' basketball after only their second appearance in state semifinals in school history. Photo courtesy of KSHSAA Covered." />
 <figcaption>Doniphan West captured their first ever state championship in girls' basketball after only their second appearance in state semifinals in school history. Photo courtesy of KSHSAA Covered.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThe Doniphan West girls' basketball team defeated Quinter 55-49 in Dodge City Saturday to capture the Class 1A-Division I state championship - the first state title in program history for the Mustangs.Kyra Johnson led the way with 22 points and 13 rebounds.&nbsp;Avery Weathersbee finished with 12. Doniphan West ends the historic season at 21-5 overall.Riverside falls in state title game, Cyclones conclude historic runIn their first ever appearance in a state championship game, the Riverside girls' basketball team fell to No. 2 seed Berean Academy 48-31 in the Class 2A girls' title game at Bramlage Coliseum in Manhattan, Kansas Saturday.The Cyclones got off to an 11-2 start, but got down 34-22 by the end of the third quarter after being held to just two second quarter points. Taylor Weishaar led Riverside with 16 points. The Cyclones end an incredible season at 22-4. It was their first state tournament appearance in history after capturing their first sub-state title in history this season as well.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1678599067575.jpeg" alt="Photo courtesy of Sports in Kansas." />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy of Sports in Kansas.</figcaption>
 </figure>Class 2 boys' 3rd place in Missouri Plattsburg 59 Hartville 48. Plattsburg ends an incredible year at 31-1. It was just their second Final Four appearance in program history.You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Doniphan West wins title, Riverside runners-up, Plattsburg comes home 3rd

SPRINGFIELD - After losing to Bishop LeBlond 39-35 in Bolivar back in January, Tipton was not going to be denied this time around.

Tipton (31-1) jumped out to an early lead, and never trailed in a 55-36 win over the Golden Eagles in the Class 2 girls' state basketball championship game at Great Southern Bank Arena in Springfield on Saturday night.

Tipton got off to a 10-2 start, and led 15-7 at the end of the first quarter. LeBlond (28-4) got down 29-18 late in the first half, but big buckets by Shae Lewis and Kaleigh Ziesel in the closing seconds of the second quarter made it a 29-21 ballgame at halftime.

LeBlond held Tipton to just three made field goals in the third quarter, but the Golden Eagles themselves were limited to just seven third quarter points.

Down 39-28 entering the fourth, LeBlond was unable to close the gap, and Tipton outscored the Eagles 16-8 over the final eight minutes.

"Unfortunately, (Tipton) was so aggressive that we couldn't pull through and pull the foul and try to disrupt their defense," LeBlond head coach Jackie Steltenpohl said after. "Overall, we just had to execute and we didn't."

Tipton shot 54.3 percent from the field through the entire game, including 64.3 percent in the second half. LeBlond shot 35.9 percent Saturday, including just 5-of-18 in the second half.

LeBlond was 3-of-16 from three, including 0-of-7 in the second half.&nbsp;

"Our shots weren't falling," Steltenpohl said. "So, that kind of mentally just us down. But, they stuck with it and fought to the end."

Myra Claas, a Lincoln University signee, led Tipton with 23 points and five steals. Fellow senior Briar Cox had 12 points and 14 rebounds.

Lewis and Ziesel led LeBlond with 10 points each. Senior Tatum Studer had nine points, four steals and two assists. Junior Kyla Conard had six points on a pair of made threes. Lewis led the team with six rebounds.

It didn't end the way they had hoped, but LeBlond has much to be proud of, as the 2022-23 season comes to a close.

Lewis, Studer and fellow seniors Emma Raines and Katie Beam helped rewrite the history book for LeBlond girls' basketball the last three seasons, capturing three straight district titles, three state quarterfinal appearances, and now the first Final Four berth since 1986, and the first state title game appearance since '83.

"These seniors definitely deserve it," Steltenpohl said, "and the rest of the team, because they've worked hard all season. We can't discredit the season we had."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1678594649884.jpeg" alt="Bishop LeBlond girls' basketball is the Class 2 state runner-up in 2023. Photo by Kimberly Huss." />
 <figcaption>Bishop LeBlond girls' basketball is the Class 2 state runner-up in 2023. Photo by Kimberly Huss.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostSPRINGFIELD - After losing to Bishop LeBlond 39-35 in Bolivar back in January, Tipton was not going to be denied this time around.Tipton (31-1) jumped out to an early lead, and never trailed in a 55-36 win over the Golden Eagles in the Class 2 girls' state basketball championship game at Great Southern Bank Arena in Springfield on Saturday night.Tipton got off to a 10-2 start, and led 15-7 at the end of the first quarter. LeBlond (28-4) got down 29-18 late in the first half, but big buckets by Shae Lewis and Kaleigh Ziesel in the closing seconds of the second quarter made it a 29-21 ballgame at halftime.LeBlond held Tipton to just three made field goals in the third quarter, but the Golden Eagles themselves were limited to just seven third quarter points.Down 39-28 entering the fourth, LeBlond was unable to close the gap, and Tipton outscored the Eagles 16-8 over the final eight minutes."Unfortunately, (Tipton) was so aggressive that we couldn't pull through and pull the foul and try to disrupt their defense," LeBlond head coach Jackie Steltenpohl said after. "Overall, we just had to execute and we didn't."Tipton shot 54.3 percent from the field through the entire game, including 64.3 percent in the second half. LeBlond shot 35.9 percent Saturday, including just 5-of-18 in the second half.LeBlond was 3-of-16 from three, including 0-of-7 in the second half.&nbsp;"Our shots weren't falling," Steltenpohl said. "So, that kind of mentally just us down. But, they stuck with it and fought to the end."Myra Claas, a Lincoln University signee, led Tipton with 23 points and five steals. Fellow senior Briar Cox had 12 points and 14 rebounds.Lewis and Ziesel led LeBlond with 10 points each. Senior Tatum Studer had nine points, four steals and two assists. Junior Kyla Conard had six points on a pair of made threes. Lewis led the team with six rebounds.It didn't end the way they had hoped, but LeBlond has much to be proud of, as the 2022-23 season comes to a close.Lewis, Studer and fellow seniors Emma Raines and Katie Beam helped rewrite the history book for LeBlond girls' basketball the last three seasons, capturing three straight district titles, three state quarterfinal appearances, and now the first Final Four berth since 1986, and the first state title game appearance since '83."These seniors definitely deserve it," Steltenpohl said, "and the rest of the team, because they've worked hard all season. We can't discredit the season we had."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1678597043468.jpeg" alt="Shae Lewis (22) puts up a contested shot. Photo by Chris Roush." />
 <figcaption>Shae Lewis (22) puts up a contested shot. Photo by Chris Roush.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1678597084970.jpeg" alt="Kaleigh Ziesel hugs Jackie Steltenpohl during the medal presentation. Photo by Jake Meikel." />
 <figcaption>Kaleigh Ziesel hugs Jackie Steltenpohl during the medal presentation. Photo by Jake Meikel.</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

LeBlond falls to Tipton in state title, Eagles end historic season with runner-up finish

SEDALIA - Benton raced out to a 21-5 lead at the end of the first quarter, and the game pretty much felt in hand for the remainder of the time.

The Cardinals (26-3) controlled the tempo from start to finish, leading by as many as 21 points in the fourth quarter before Nevada got some late buckets on Benton's reserves.

Still, Benton won 53-45 Saturday in state quarterfinals at State Fair Community College in Sedalia. The Cardinals have punched their ticket to the Class 4 Final Four for a record third consecutive season.

"It's amazing," said senior and Missouri Western signee Kelsey Johnson. "I'm glad we're going three times in a row. Hopefully, we can bring home the ring this time!"

Johnson sparked Benton early with 10 points in the first quarter alone. Johnson and fellow senior Peyton Anderson combined for three made triples in the first to fuel the big start.

"We knew we had to come out and play as hard as we possibly can and not get down," Johnson said.

Nevada (22-7) pulled a bit closer in the second quarter, but Benton still led 31-18 at halftime.

Defensively, Benton wore Nevada out down the stretch, as the Tigers were held to just two made field goals in the third quarter. The Cardinals pushed their lead to 49-28 with 3:56 left in the game.

Not long after, after a steal and fastbreak layup by Simmons in the closing minutes, head coach Chris Michaels called timeout, and the starters came off the floor with smiles on their faces and a roaring cheer behind them.&nbsp;

"It was so fun," Simmons said. "I love it whenever our crowd travels with us. They're one of the best fanbases around."

"I mean, they drove 2.5 hours for us, so you can't get any better than that," Johnson concurred.

Johnson led all scorers with 18 points. Simmons was right behind with 15. Anderson and junior Avery Morlock had seven, while freshman Eliana Arambula finished with six.

Benton made history Saturday, becoming the first high school basketball team, boys or girls, in St. Joseph history to qualify for three consecutive Final Fours.

The Cardinals will now shoot for more history in Springfield this coming week, trying to give the program its third ever state title and first since 2016.

Benton finished fourth at Springfield in 2021 and then runner-up just last year.

"Third time's a charm," Simmons grinned. "You never know!"

Benton will face Central Park Hills (27-3) in state semifinals on Thursday at 4 p.m. at Great Southern Bank Arena on the Missouri State campus.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1678565038393.jpeg" alt="Benton's Avery Morlock (3) drives the lane in the first half of the Cardinals' Class 4 state quarterfinal game against Nevada at State Fair Community College in Sedalia Saturday. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Benton's Avery Morlock (3) drives the lane in the first half of the Cardinals' Class 4 state quarterfinal game against Nevada at State Fair Community College in Sedalia Saturday. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostSEDALIA - Benton raced out to a 21-5 lead at the end of the first quarter, and the game pretty much felt in hand for the remainder of the time.The Cardinals (26-3) controlled the tempo from start to finish, leading by as many as 21 points in the fourth quarter before Nevada got some late buckets on Benton's reserves.Still, Benton won 53-45 Saturday in state quarterfinals at State Fair Community College in Sedalia. The Cardinals have punched their ticket to the Class 4 Final Four for a record third consecutive season."It's amazing," said senior and Missouri Western signee Kelsey Johnson. "I'm glad we're going three times in a row. Hopefully, we can bring home the ring this time!"Johnson sparked Benton early with 10 points in the first quarter alone. Johnson and fellow senior Peyton Anderson combined for three made triples in the first to fuel the big start."We knew we had to come out and play as hard as we possibly can and not get down," Johnson said.Nevada (22-7) pulled a bit closer in the second quarter, but Benton still led 31-18 at halftime.Defensively, Benton wore Nevada out down the stretch, as the Tigers were held to just two made field goals in the third quarter. The Cardinals pushed their lead to 49-28 with 3:56 left in the game.Not long after, after a steal and fastbreak layup by Simmons in the closing minutes, head coach Chris Michaels called timeout, and the starters came off the floor with smiles on their faces and a roaring cheer behind them.&nbsp;"It was so fun," Simmons said. "I love it whenever our crowd travels with us. They're one of the best fanbases around.""I mean, they drove 2.5 hours for us, so you can't get any better than that," Johnson concurred.Johnson led all scorers with 18 points. Simmons was right behind with 15. Anderson and junior Avery Morlock had seven, while freshman Eliana Arambula finished with six.Benton made history Saturday, becoming the first high school basketball team, boys or girls, in St. Joseph history to qualify for three consecutive Final Fours.The Cardinals will now shoot for more history in Springfield this coming week, trying to give the program its third ever state title and first since 2016.Benton finished fourth at Springfield in 2021 and then runner-up just last year."Third time's a charm," Simmons grinned. "You never know!"Benton will face Central Park Hills (27-3) in state semifinals on Thursday at 4 p.m. at Great Southern Bank Arena on the Missouri State campus.&nbsp;Postgame interviews<div><iframe src="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/tommy-rezac/embed/episodes/Bentons-Andrea-Simmons-and-Kelsey-Johnson---Nevada-postgame-e208enq" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1678566227742.jpeg" alt="Andrea Simmons (23) puts up a layup." />
 <figcaption>Andrea Simmons (23) puts up a layup.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1678566250363.jpeg" alt="Peyton Anderson (12)." />
 <figcaption>Peyton Anderson (12).</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1678566268672.jpeg" alt="Eliana Arambula (5)." />
 <figcaption>Eliana Arambula (5).</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1678566294785.jpeg" alt="Kelsey Johnson (2) drives toward the hoop in the second half." />
 <figcaption>Kelsey Johnson (2) drives toward the hoop in the second half.</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Benton grabs big lead early, controls Nevada to ensure third straight Final Four trip

SPRINGFIELD - Bishop LeBlond rushed out to an 8-0 start, but then led only 11-8 at the end of the first quarter.

By the halfway point of the second, though, it was apparent that New Haven would not be able to keep up.

The Golden Eagles (28-3) drained 11 three-pointers and dominated on the defensive end as well in a 45-23 victory over the Shamrocks of New Haven in a Class 2 state semifinal at the Hammons Student Center in Springfield Friday.

Senior Tatum Studer was simply on fire to start the game, scoring all of her game-high 16 points in the first half, helping the Golden Eagles grab a 24-12 halftime lead. Studer had 10 in the second quarter alone.

"After I felt that first three go in, I knew I was going to be hitting them," Studer said happily. "That first half at least. As soon as I got it, I looked to shoot and if it was open, I just pulled it."

LeBlond leaned on its defense out of the gate in the second half, holding New Haven to only two third quarter points. The Shamrocks, in fact, only scored six total points in the second and third quarters combined.

"When I think of basketball a lot of times, I think of defense," senior Shae Lewis said. "I love playing defense, and I think that's what important for this team is we're good defenders. We have active hands, so I think it's defense that helps us win most of these games."

LeBlond added 15 more points to its total in the fourth quarter, including two more threes from senior Katie Beam and another from Lewis.

Lewis and Beam each finished Friday with 12 points. Lewis scored 10 of that in the second half. Beam scored all of her points on four made threes.

The Eagles were 11-of-25 from three, while New Haven was just 2-of-12. The Shamrocks were held to just 29.4 percent shooting as a team. LeBlond also forced 16 turnovers, including 10 steals.

LeBlond now advances to the Class 2 state championship game on Saturday night at 8 p.m. to face Tipton (30-1) at Great Southern Bank Arena. The game will be on KFEQ Radio (680, 95.3, 680kfeq.com, KFEQ app) with pregame starting at 7:45.

This marks the first time since 1983 that the LeBlond girls have advanced to a state title game. That just so happens to be the first, and so far only year, that the Golden Eagles won it all in girls' basketball.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1678500310732.jpeg" alt="Bishop LeBlond's Tatum Studer (14) brings the ball up the floor during the Golden Eagles' Class 2 state semifinal against New Haven Friday. Photo by Clifton Grooms." />
 <figcaption>Bishop LeBlond's Tatum Studer (14) brings the ball up the floor during the Golden Eagles' Class 2 state semifinal against New Haven Friday. Photo by Clifton Grooms.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostSPRINGFIELD - Bishop LeBlond rushed out to an 8-0 start, but then led only 11-8 at the end of the first quarter.By the halfway point of the second, though, it was apparent that New Haven would not be able to keep up.The Golden Eagles (28-3) drained 11 three-pointers and dominated on the defensive end as well in a 45-23 victory over the Shamrocks of New Haven in a Class 2 state semifinal at the Hammons Student Center in Springfield Friday.Senior Tatum Studer was simply on fire to start the game, scoring all of her game-high 16 points in the first half, helping the Golden Eagles grab a 24-12 halftime lead. Studer had 10 in the second quarter alone."After I felt that first three go in, I knew I was going to be hitting them," Studer said happily. "That first half at least. As soon as I got it, I looked to shoot and if it was open, I just pulled it."LeBlond leaned on its defense out of the gate in the second half, holding New Haven to only two third quarter points. The Shamrocks, in fact, only scored six total points in the second and third quarters combined."When I think of basketball a lot of times, I think of defense," senior Shae Lewis said. "I love playing defense, and I think that's what important for this team is we're good defenders. We have active hands, so I think it's defense that helps us win most of these games."LeBlond added 15 more points to its total in the fourth quarter, including two more threes from senior Katie Beam and another from Lewis.Lewis and Beam each finished Friday with 12 points. Lewis scored 10 of that in the second half. Beam scored all of her points on four made threes.The Eagles were 11-of-25 from three, while New Haven was just 2-of-12. The Shamrocks were held to just 29.4 percent shooting as a team. LeBlond also forced 16 turnovers, including 10 steals.LeBlond now advances to the Class 2 state championship game on Saturday night at 8 p.m. to face Tipton (30-1) at Great Southern Bank Arena. The game will be on KFEQ Radio (680, 95.3, 680kfeq.com, KFEQ app) with pregame starting at 7:45.This marks the first time since 1983 that the LeBlond girls have advanced to a state title game. That just so happens to be the first, and so far only year, that the Golden Eagles won it all in girls' basketball."We just have to remember it's just another game," Studer said. "It is our last game, which I'm blessed we made it this far. We just have to remember it's another game and we have to buckle down and we have to play."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1678502869560.jpeg" alt="Katie Beam finished Friday's game with 12 points on four made threes in a Class 2 state semifinal win over New Haven. Photo by Clifton Grooms." />
 <figcaption>Katie Beam finished Friday's game with 12 points on four made threes in a Class 2 state semifinal win over New Haven. Photo by Clifton Grooms.</figcaption>
 </figure>Full game broadcast<div><iframe src="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/tommy-rezac/embed/episodes/LeBlond-vs--New-Haven-GBB---Class-2-state-semifinal---31023-e2075ae" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>Shae Lewis, Tatum Studer postgame interview<div><iframe src="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/tommy-rezac/embed/episodes/LeBlond-vs--New-Haven-GBB-postgame---Shae-Lewis-and-Tatum-Studer-e2075d4" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>Other area state basketball resultsClass 1 3rd place game - GBB in Missouri Platte Valley 46 Leeton 42 Class 1 3rd place game - BBB in Missouri Platte Valley 81 Glasgow 45 Class 2 state semis - BBB in Missouri Principia 65 Plattsburg 63. It's Plattsburg's first loss of the season. At 30-1, the Tigers face Hartville for 3rd place on Saturday at 10 a.m. Class 4 state quarterfinals - BBB in Missouri Lafayette 61 Center 41. Camden Bennett had 23 points. Mikey Thomas had 15. The Irish are back in the Final Four for the first time since 2016. The Irish will face Central Park Hills (27-3) in state semifinals on Thursday at noon.Class 1A Division I - GBB in Kansas Doniphan West 52 Norwich 38. The Mustangs play in Dodge City at 2 p.m. Saturday for the title. They'll face Quinter (22-3).Class 2A - GBB in Kansas Riverside 45 Pittsburg St. Mary's Colgan 42 - OT. St. Mary's Colgan was the No. 1 seed and 23-0 previously. Riverside will face&nbsp;Elbing-Berean Academy (23-1) or Hillsboro (21-3) for the title on Saturday at 6:15 in Manhattan. This marks Riverside's first appearance in a girls' basketball state title game.You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.