TOPEKA, KS - The Missouri Western women's basketball team built a 47-23 lead over Washburn with 4:51 left in the third quarter.

What followed was a span they'd perhaps like to forget.

The Griffons, after committing just seven turnovers in the first half, committed 17 second half turnovers and were outscored 21-10 over the final 14:51.

Washburn (4-5, 1-3 MIAA) got to within 52-44 with 1:19 remaining, but the Griffons (8-4, 3-2 MIAA) ended the game on a 5-0 run and came away with a 57-44 win over the Ichabods on Saturday afternoon at Lee Arena in Topeka.

It goes down as a win, and the Griffons for the most part dominated the first 2.5 quarters, but the way it ended left a sour taste.

"I just think we lack a lot of discipline," Missouri Western coach Candi Whitaker said. "And I think that leads to our inconsistency. I mean, how many balls can we throw out of bounds? And just forcing things. I just, I don't know what it's going to take for our team to understand that every possession matters."

The Griffons dominated on the glass 43-26, nabbed 12 steals and scored 18 points in the fast break, but they also committed a season-high 24 turnovers. Conversely, Western was able to score 23 points off of 24 Washburn giveaways.

Missouri Western was led in scoring by junior Brionna Budgets, who had 14 points and three steals. Sophomore Abby Bala scored 12 points off the bench, as she knocked down three triples in the first half.

Connie Clarke scored 11 points and managed a career-high 18 rebounds for her sixth double-double of the season. Aubree Dewey led Washburn with a game-high 16 points.&nbsp;

MWSU men fall to a hot shooting Washburn team coming off shutdown

The Missouri Western men came ready Saturday. After not playing for 14 days, and after just two practices following a COVID-19 shutdown the week prior, the Griffons hung in.

Heck, the Griffons were up 21-15 with 7:26 left in the first half. Washburn, at that point, called timeout, and things turned around in a hurry.

The Ichabods (4-6, 1-3 MIAA) ended the first half on a 22-5 run and then reeled off a 17-0 barrage in the second half to down the Griffons 76-51 on Saturday afternoon at Lee Arena.

Missouri Western (5-3, 2-1 MIAA) hadn't played since a Dec. 3 matchup at Missouri Southern in Joplin. Their scheduled games on Dec. 8 and 10 against Nebraska-Kearney and Fort Hays State were postponed due to COVID protocol within the Griffon program.

The loss Saturday ended what was a four-game winning streak for Missouri Western, but Martin saw resiliency in his team, as they came into a tough matchup and situation.

"Any time you're shut down, it's hard to get your lungs back and your conditioning back," Martin said. "It's hard to get your cadence and rhythm back offensively and defensively. I thought we had upperclassmen who have been through this and led our group."

Sophomore Reed Kemp led the Griffons with 15 points off the bench. Junior Will Eames had eight points, six rebounds and four assists.

Tyler Nelson paced four Ichabods in double figures with 19 points. He also had seven rebounds, six assists and six steals. Washburn shot a scorching 12-of-24 from three and outrebounded the Griffons 43-30.

Washburn scored 20 points in the fast break and tallied 16 points off of 16 Griffon turnovers. The Ichabods also had 16 second chance points.

"When you look at the second chance opportunities off of (offensive) boards and the fast break, that's 40 points we gave up," Martin pointed out. "Credit to Washburn. They're a good team, they're well coached. They're extremely disciplined. We'll find a way to get better because of this."

"This is a time for us. We're going to be judged by how we respond in these difficult times and have another one Monday. It's got to be a quick response."

Both the Missouri Western men and women are back in action Monday at Emporia State. The women tip at 1:30 and the men at 3:30. Coverage starts at 1 p.m. on KFEQ Radio (680, 95.3, 680kfeq.com).

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671332150362.jpeg" alt="Stock photo by Arianne Boma." />
 <figcaption>Stock photo by Arianne Boma.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostTOPEKA, KS - The Missouri Western women's basketball team built a 47-23 lead over Washburn with 4:51 left in the third quarter.What followed was a span they'd perhaps like to forget.The Griffons, after committing just seven turnovers in the first half, committed 17 second half turnovers and were outscored 21-10 over the final 14:51.Washburn (4-5, 1-3 MIAA) got to within 52-44 with 1:19 remaining, but the Griffons (8-4, 3-2 MIAA) ended the game on a 5-0 run and came away with a 57-44 win over the Ichabods on Saturday afternoon at Lee Arena in Topeka.It goes down as a win, and the Griffons for the most part dominated the first 2.5 quarters, but the way it ended left a sour taste."I just think we lack a lot of discipline," Missouri Western coach Candi Whitaker said. "And I think that leads to our inconsistency. I mean, how many balls can we throw out of bounds? And just forcing things. I just, I don't know what it's going to take for our team to understand that every possession matters."The Griffons dominated on the glass 43-26, nabbed 12 steals and scored 18 points in the fast break, but they also committed a season-high 24 turnovers. Conversely, Western was able to score 23 points off of 24 Washburn giveaways.Missouri Western was led in scoring by junior Brionna Budgets, who had 14 points and three steals. Sophomore Abby Bala scored 12 points off the bench, as she knocked down three triples in the first half.Connie Clarke scored 11 points and managed a career-high 18 rebounds for her sixth double-double of the season. Aubree Dewey led Washburn with a game-high 16 points.&nbsp;MWSU men fall to a hot shooting Washburn team coming off shutdownThe Missouri Western men came ready Saturday. After not playing for 14 days, and after just two practices following a COVID-19 shutdown the week prior, the Griffons hung in.Heck, the Griffons were up 21-15 with 7:26 left in the first half. Washburn, at that point, called timeout, and things turned around in a hurry.The Ichabods (4-6, 1-3 MIAA) ended the first half on a 22-5 run and then reeled off a 17-0 barrage in the second half to down the Griffons 76-51 on Saturday afternoon at Lee Arena.Missouri Western (5-3, 2-1 MIAA) hadn't played since a Dec. 3 matchup at Missouri Southern in Joplin. Their scheduled games on Dec. 8 and 10 against Nebraska-Kearney and Fort Hays State were postponed due to COVID protocol within the Griffon program.The loss Saturday ended what was a four-game winning streak for Missouri Western, but Martin saw resiliency in his team, as they came into a tough matchup and situation."Any time you're shut down, it's hard to get your lungs back and your conditioning back," Martin said. "It's hard to get your cadence and rhythm back offensively and defensively. I thought we had upperclassmen who have been through this and led our group."Sophomore Reed Kemp led the Griffons with 15 points off the bench. Junior Will Eames had eight points, six rebounds and four assists.Tyler Nelson paced four Ichabods in double figures with 19 points. He also had seven rebounds, six assists and six steals. Washburn shot a scorching 12-of-24 from three and outrebounded the Griffons 43-30.Washburn scored 20 points in the fast break and tallied 16 points off of 16 Griffon turnovers. The Ichabods also had 16 second chance points."When you look at the second chance opportunities off of (offensive) boards and the fast break, that's 40 points we gave up," Martin pointed out. "Credit to Washburn. They're a good team, they're well coached. They're extremely disciplined. We'll find a way to get better because of this.""This is a time for us. We're going to be judged by how we respond in these difficult times and have another one Monday. It's got to be a quick response."Both the Missouri Western men and women are back in action Monday at Emporia State. The women tip at 1:30 and the men at 3:30. Coverage starts at 1 p.m. on KFEQ Radio (680, 95.3, 680kfeq.com).You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

MWSU women win, Griffon men fall at Washburn Saturday

Missouri Western athletic director Andy Carter named Jacob Plocher as the sixth head women's soccer coach in program history Friday.&nbsp; "We were impressed by the caliber of coaches who expressed interest in this position," said Carter in a statement. "Jacob Plocher's strong track record speaks for itself, and we are excited to see what he will do as the new leader of Griffon soccer." Plocher comes to Missouri Western after six highly successful seasons at Eastern Oregon University, an NAIA institution in the Cascade Collegiate Conference (CCC). Previous to taking the reins at EOU, Plocher&nbsp;spent four years at Presentation College.&nbsp; "I am excited and ready to get to work," said Plocher. "I would like to thank Andy Carter and the search committee. I am grateful for this opportunity to lead this program and looking forward to being back in Missouri and the MIAA." Plocher&nbsp;took the EOU Women's Soccer program to new heights, qualifying for the NAIA National Championship Tournament four of the six years he was in charge, the only four times EOU has qualified for the National Championships.

Plocher's teams never posted a sub-.500 record and climbed as high as No. 6 in the NAIA Poll. Twice his team made it to the NAIA quarterfinals, and EOU won two regular season CCC titles and two CCC Tournament titles. Plocher's teams finished ranked in the top 15 of the NAIA polls twice.

Plocher was named CCC Coach of the year in 2017. Plocher also coached Kiara Fontanilla, a goalkeeper on the Philippines National Team who competed for the country in the World Cup.&nbsp; During his stint at Presentation College, Plocher compiled 27 wins. During the 2016 campaign, he guided the Saints to an 11-6-2 record, the best in program history. Under his leadership, Presentation College broke nearly every offensive school record this past season, including goals (42), assists (29), points (119), shots (354), shots on goal (191), and game-winners (10). Prior to Presentation College, Plocher coached at Kansas Wesleyan University, William Penn University and West Plains High School. He served as an assistant coach to both the men's and women's soccer programs at Kansas Wesleyan. Plocher began his coaching career in West Plains, Missouri, where he was the assistant coach for the West Plains High School boys' varsity soccer team. He directed the squad to a third-place finish at the state tournament for the first time in school history. He also served as the head coach for the school's junior varsity team. During his playing days, Plocher was a team captain at William Penn after transferring from Missouri Southern. He ultimately earned his Bachelor of Arts in Wellness, Recreation, and Physical Education, and he later added a Master of Business Leadership degree.

Plocher succeeds interim head coach Leah Stringer, who took over the Griffons after former head coach Damian Macias stepped down this past July.

Macias was hired by Missouri Western in 2020, and his first season was canceled due to COVID-19. In the spring of 2021, an unofficial season, he guided the Griffons to an 8-3-2 record overall and a 4-1 mark in the MIAA Northwest division.

His first and only official season in the fall of 2021 saw Western go 9-8-2 overall and 6-5 in the MIAA. At one point, the Griffons were ranked 13th in the country - the best ranking in program history. 

Stringer, who spent three total years on staff at Missouri Western, guided the Griffons to a 5-10-4 record this past fall, including a 3-6-2 mark in MIAA play.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671228657908.png" alt="Courtesy MWSU athletics." />
 <figcaption>Courtesy MWSU athletics.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostMissouri Western athletic director Andy Carter named Jacob Plocher as the sixth head women's soccer coach in program history Friday.&nbsp; "We were impressed by the caliber of coaches who expressed interest in this position," said Carter in a statement. "Jacob Plocher's strong track record speaks for itself, and we are excited to see what he will do as the new leader of Griffon soccer." Plocher comes to Missouri Western after six highly successful seasons at Eastern Oregon University, an NAIA institution in the Cascade Collegiate Conference (CCC). Previous to taking the reins at EOU, Plocher&nbsp;spent four years at Presentation College.&nbsp; "I am excited and ready to get to work," said Plocher. "I would like to thank Andy Carter and the search committee. I am grateful for this opportunity to lead this program and looking forward to being back in Missouri and the MIAA." Plocher&nbsp;took the EOU Women's Soccer program to new heights, qualifying for the NAIA National Championship Tournament four of the six years he was in charge, the only four times EOU has qualified for the National Championships.Plocher's teams never posted a sub-.500 record and climbed as high as No. 6 in the NAIA Poll. Twice his team made it to the NAIA quarterfinals, and EOU won two regular season CCC titles and two CCC Tournament titles. Plocher's teams finished ranked in the top 15 of the NAIA polls twice.Plocher was named CCC Coach of the year in 2017. Plocher also coached Kiara Fontanilla, a goalkeeper on the Philippines National Team who competed for the country in the World Cup.&nbsp; During his stint at Presentation College, Plocher compiled 27 wins. During the 2016 campaign, he guided the Saints to an 11-6-2 record, the best in program history. Under his leadership, Presentation College broke nearly every offensive school record this past season, including goals (42), assists (29), points (119), shots (354), shots on goal (191), and game-winners (10). Prior to Presentation College, Plocher coached at Kansas Wesleyan University, William Penn University and West Plains High School. He served as an assistant coach to both the men's and women's soccer programs at Kansas Wesleyan. Plocher began his coaching career in West Plains, Missouri, where he was the assistant coach for the West Plains High School boys' varsity soccer team. He directed the squad to a third-place finish at the state tournament for the first time in school history. He also served as the head coach for the school's junior varsity team. During his playing days, Plocher was a team captain at William Penn after transferring from Missouri Southern. He ultimately earned his Bachelor of Arts in Wellness, Recreation, and Physical Education, and he later added a Master of Business Leadership degree.Plocher succeeds interim head coach Leah Stringer, who took over the Griffons after former head coach Damian Macias stepped down this past July.Macias was hired by Missouri Western in 2020, and his first season was canceled due to COVID-19. In the spring of 2021, an unofficial season, he guided the Griffons to an 8-3-2 record overall and a 4-1 mark in the MIAA Northwest division.His first and only official season in the fall of 2021 saw Western go 9-8-2 overall and 6-5 in the MIAA. At one point, the Griffons were ranked 13th in the country - the best ranking in program history. Stringer, who spent three total years on staff at Missouri Western, guided the Griffons to a 5-10-4 record this past fall, including a 3-6-2 mark in MIAA play.

Missouri Western names Jacob Plocher as the new women's soccer coach Friday

Missouri Western head football coach Tyler Fenwick is starting to piece together his coaching staff. The Griffons announced a flurry of new hires Friday and are also retaining one assistant from Matt Williamson's staff.

Patrick St. Louis, a 2008 graduate of Missouri Western, had served as offensive line coach since 2017. St. Louis was the only full-time coach retained after Williamson's dismissal on November 13.

St. Louis will stay on staff with Fenwick and will coach running backs.

"I know Coach St. Louis from his time as a player, and I know he has the respect of our team," said Fenwick in a release. "I am happy that he will be staying on staff and remaining a vitally important part of the Griffon football program."

Missouri Western athletic director Andy Carter was complimentary of the job St. Louis did holding things together during the University's 24-day search for a new head coach.

"He loves the program and is an alum," Carter said of coach St. Louis. "He's done a fantastic job for us and keeping things on the rails and moving forward and communicating with our recruits and student-athletes. At the end of the day, coach Fenwick will decide who's on staff."

Fenwick was <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/a28c5fdd-308e-43b5-985a-b685b936874d">officially introduced</a> as the seventh Missouri Western head football coach on December 8.

Erik Johnson will join the Griffon football staff as defensive coordinator after spending the last two seasons at Southeastern Oklahoma State with Fenwick. Johnson was also Fenwick's linebackers coach each of the last two seasons. Johnson has almost 30 years of coaching experience under his belt, with a five year-stint as defensive backs coach at Claremont College in California, and a long tenure at Occidental College, where he served as defensive coordinator from 2002-2012. He also coached at various high schools from 1991-2001.

Two more defensive assistants were announced Friday.

Eriq Moore will join the staff as the defensive backs coach. Moore most recently served as the defensive secondary coach and special teams coordinator at Emporia State the last two seasons. "Coach Moore has experience at a winning program in the MIAA and I've had the opportunity to match up against his defenses the last two postseasons," said Fenwick. "He will be a tremendous addition to the Griffon program."

Fenwick's Southeastern Oklahoma State teams met Emporia State in the Live United Bowl in Texarkana, Arkansas each of the last two seasons. Emporia won that game this year 48-27, but Southeastern won 37-34 in 2021. Over the past two seasons, Moore helped lead the Hornets to a 15-6 overall record and two appearances in the postseason. Emporia's defense allowed 21.7 points per game this season, ranking third in the MIAA. Moore previously served as defensive backs coach at Southern Arkansas for two seasons and Chadron State for one after his playing days. A three-year starter at Southeast Missouri State, Moore earned a scholarship after walking on to the team as a freshman and was twice voted by his peers as a team captain.

Coach St. Louis isn't the only former Griffon joining the fold.&nbsp;

Michael Gallo will return to his alma mater and serve as defensive line coach. &nbsp;&nbsp; A two-year letter winner for the Griffons in 2016 and 2017, Gallo has spent the last two seasons coaching the defensive line at Missouri Southern. Prior to his time in Joplin, Gallo spent two years at Southwestern Oklahoma State, where he helped coach inside linebackers for the Bulldogs. Gallo started his coaching career in St. Joseph, serving as the freshman offensive coordinator and assistant defensive line coach at Central High School.

The offensive coordinator and several other assistants are yet to be announced. Missouri Western's last day of the fall semester was Friday, and more assistant coaches are expected to be announced shortly after New Year's Day.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671227945272.jpeg" alt="Missouri Western football coach Tyler Fenwick announced the hiring of four assistant coaches Friday. He's seen here during his introductory press conference on December 8. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Missouri Western football coach Tyler Fenwick announced the hiring of four assistant coaches Friday. He's seen here during his introductory press conference on December 8. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostMissouri Western head football coach Tyler Fenwick is starting to piece together his coaching staff. The Griffons announced a flurry of new hires Friday and are also retaining one assistant from Matt Williamson's staff.Patrick St. Louis, a 2008 graduate of Missouri Western, had served as offensive line coach since 2017. St. Louis was the only full-time coach retained after Williamson's dismissal on November 13.St. Louis will stay on staff with Fenwick and will coach running backs."I know Coach St. Louis from his time as a player, and I know he has the respect of our team," said Fenwick in a release. "I am happy that he will be staying on staff and remaining a vitally important part of the Griffon football program."Missouri Western athletic director Andy Carter was complimentary of the job St. Louis did holding things together during the University's 24-day search for a new head coach."He loves the program and is an alum," Carter said of coach St. Louis. "He's done a fantastic job for us and keeping things on the rails and moving forward and communicating with our recruits and student-athletes. At the end of the day, coach Fenwick will decide who's on staff."Fenwick was <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/a28c5fdd-308e-43b5-985a-b685b936874d">officially introduced</a> as the seventh Missouri Western head football coach on December 8.Erik Johnson will join the Griffon football staff as defensive coordinator after spending the last two seasons at Southeastern Oklahoma State with Fenwick. Johnson was also Fenwick's linebackers coach each of the last two seasons. Johnson has almost 30 years of coaching experience under his belt, with a five year-stint as defensive backs coach at Claremont College in California, and a long tenure at Occidental College, where he served as defensive coordinator from 2002-2012. He also coached at various high schools from 1991-2001.Two more defensive assistants were announced Friday.Eriq Moore will join the staff as the defensive backs coach. Moore most recently served as the defensive secondary coach and special teams coordinator at Emporia State the last two seasons. "Coach Moore has experience at a winning program in the MIAA and I've had the opportunity to match up against his defenses the last two postseasons," said Fenwick. "He will be a tremendous addition to the Griffon program."Fenwick's Southeastern Oklahoma State teams met Emporia State in the Live United Bowl in Texarkana, Arkansas each of the last two seasons. Emporia won that game this year 48-27, but Southeastern won 37-34 in 2021. Over the past two seasons, Moore helped lead the Hornets to a 15-6 overall record and two appearances in the postseason. Emporia's defense allowed 21.7 points per game this season, ranking third in the MIAA. Moore previously served as defensive backs coach at Southern Arkansas for two seasons and Chadron State for one after his playing days. A three-year starter at Southeast Missouri State, Moore earned a scholarship after walking on to the team as a freshman and was twice voted by his peers as a team captain. Coach St. Louis isn't the only former Griffon joining the fold.&nbsp;

Michael Gallo will return to his alma mater and serve as defensive line coach. &nbsp;&nbsp; A two-year letter winner for the Griffons in 2016 and 2017, Gallo has spent the last two seasons coaching the defensive line at Missouri Southern. Prior to his time in Joplin, Gallo spent two years at Southwestern Oklahoma State, where he helped coach inside linebackers for the Bulldogs. Gallo started his coaching career in St. Joseph, serving as the freshman offensive coordinator and assistant defensive line coach at Central High School.The offensive coordinator and several other assistants are yet to be announced. Missouri Western's last day of the fall semester was Friday, and more assistant coaches are expected to be announced shortly after New Year's Day.You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Missouri Western football announces several assistant coach hires Friday

SAVANNAH - Savannah High School saw a pair of female student-athletes sign their national letters of intent for collegiate sports this week.

On Thursday, senior swimmer Makenzie Kurre signed her NLI to continue her swimming career at Division I Missouri State in Springfield.

Kurre, owner of multiple state medals already, including three gold medals, is also a state record holder in the 100-yard freestyle, winning that event this past February with a time of 51.38 seconds.

She also won state this past year in the 200 freestyle with a time of 1:52.79. When she had a chance to visit Missouri State, she knew it was a place she'd want to go.

"I really had a fun time with the team," Kurre said. "We've always had great chemistry and it's been a fun experience to swim other girls. On some of my competitive teams, there aren't many girls."&nbsp;

Kurre was also on a 200-yard freestyle relay team with Lana Rhoads, Corinna Stewart and Canica Rodriguez that qualified for state this past season and finished 15th.

"I really hope our relay teams get down and get faster times so we can get to state in all three relays," she said. "Last year, we went in one and I feel like we could get all three this year."

On Friday, Savannah golfer Mollee Olszowka signed her letter of intent to North Central Missouri College in Trenton. Olszowka concluded her varsity golf career this past fall, going to state in all four years of high school.

"I'm proud of myself and I think I did pretty good," Olszowka said. "I have a big drive to play golf and I just have the ability to go out and want to be there and have fun."

Olszowka finished second overall in the MEC meet this past fall and posted a top three score in districts to get to state for a fourth straight year.

Olszowka won the MEC tournament in 2021, and placed 18th at state her junior year.

"I'll miss my coaches a lot," Olszowka said. "They've always supported me and I really just wouldn't have wanted to be anywhere else."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671225246373.jpeg" alt="Photo courtesy of KQTV." />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy of KQTV.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostSAVANNAH - Savannah High School saw a pair of female student-athletes sign their national letters of intent for collegiate sports this week.On Thursday, senior swimmer Makenzie Kurre signed her NLI to continue her swimming career at Division I Missouri State in Springfield.Kurre, owner of multiple state medals already, including three gold medals, is also a state record holder in the 100-yard freestyle, winning that event this past February with a time of 51.38 seconds.She also won state this past year in the 200 freestyle with a time of 1:52.79. When she had a chance to visit Missouri State, she knew it was a place she'd want to go."I really had a fun time with the team," Kurre said. "We've always had great chemistry and it's been a fun experience to swim other girls. On some of my competitive teams, there aren't many girls."&nbsp;Kurre was also on a 200-yard freestyle relay team with Lana Rhoads, Corinna Stewart and Canica Rodriguez that qualified for state this past season and finished 15th."I really hope our relay teams get down and get faster times so we can get to state in all three relays," she said. "Last year, we went in one and I feel like we could get all three this year."On Friday, Savannah golfer Mollee Olszowka signed her letter of intent to North Central Missouri College in Trenton. Olszowka concluded her varsity golf career this past fall, going to state in all four years of high school."I'm proud of myself and I think I did pretty good," Olszowka said. "I have a big drive to play golf and I just have the ability to go out and want to be there and have fun."Olszowka finished second overall in the MEC meet this past fall and posted a top three score in districts to get to state for a fourth straight year.Olszowka won the MEC tournament in 2021, and placed 18th at state her junior year."I'll miss my coaches a lot," Olszowka said. "They've always supported me and I really just wouldn't have wanted to be anywhere else."<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-partner="tweetdeck">Savannah Senior Mollee Olszowka signing her NLI to NCMC (<a href="https://twitter.com/NCMCAthletics?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NCMCAthletics</a>) to continue her Golf career! <a href="https://twitter.com/KQ2SPORTS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KQ2SPORTS</a> I <a href="https://twitter.com/SavageAthletic2?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SavageAthletic2</a> I <a href="https://twitter.com/golf_savage?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@golf_savage</a> <a href="https://t.co/MDwu60ZfDa">pic.twitter.com/MDwu60ZfDa</a>&mdash; Mitchell Riberal - KQ2 (@Mitch_Riberal) <a href="https://twitter.com/Mitch_Riberal/status/1603796588987650053?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 16, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Savannah's Mollee Olszowka, Makenzie Kurre sign NLIs for swimming, golf

Bishop LeBlond senior and multi-sport athlete Emma Raines signed her letter of intent for Culver-Stockton women's soccer on Friday.

Raines, who's had a fruitful athletic career for the Golden Eagles in volleyball and girls' basketball as well, has played on defense for LeBlond in soccer, helping the Eagles to a district title in 2021 and a 12-7 record in 2022.

"This is really exciting for me," Raines said of her signing. "Especially going to the school my mom graduated from really means a lot to me. Glad I get to continue my soccer career and education at a school that I know will be really beneficial to me."

For Raines, the dream of playing soccer at the next level has been on her mind for the better part of 10 years.

"I don't want to stop playing this sport after high school," she said. "All of the other sports, I'd be okay with stopping after high school was over. But, this sport just stuck with me for a really long time and I enjoy it more than the other ones."

Raines played at a camp at Culver-Stockton in Canton, Missouri last summer. She says it was really then that she felt like the Wildcats were a fit for her.

Raines still has her senior season ahead of her this spring, and hopes to leave her mark on a program that's had some of its best years during her time at LeBlond.

"LeBlond has always been really family based with the soccer team," Raines said. "There were a lot of second place finishes and being close to winning districts. My sophomore year we got it done and it was a really good feeling and I just wasn't ready to stop there."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671218882737.jpeg" alt="Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostBishop LeBlond senior and multi-sport athlete Emma Raines signed her letter of intent for Culver-Stockton women's soccer on Friday.Raines, who's had a fruitful athletic career for the Golden Eagles in volleyball and girls' basketball as well, has played on defense for LeBlond in soccer, helping the Eagles to a district title in 2021 and a 12-7 record in 2022."This is really exciting for me," Raines said of her signing. "Especially going to the school my mom graduated from really means a lot to me. Glad I get to continue my soccer career and education at a school that I know will be really beneficial to me."For Raines, the dream of playing soccer at the next level has been on her mind for the better part of 10 years."I don't want to stop playing this sport after high school," she said. "All of the other sports, I'd be okay with stopping after high school was over. But, this sport just stuck with me for a really long time and I enjoy it more than the other ones."Raines played at a camp at Culver-Stockton in Canton, Missouri last summer. She says it was really then that she felt like the Wildcats were a fit for her.Raines still has her senior season ahead of her this spring, and hopes to leave her mark on a program that's had some of its best years during her time at LeBlond."LeBlond has always been really family based with the soccer team," Raines said. "There were a lot of second place finishes and being close to winning districts. My sophomore year we got it done and it was a really good feeling and I just wasn't ready to stop there."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671219666148.jpeg" alt="Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

LeBlond's Emma Raines signs letter of intent to Culver-Stockton soccer

The St. Joseph Mustangs will return to Phil Welch Stadium in the summer of 2023, as they chase their fourth straight championship and tenth overall.

The Mustangs will begin with Fan Fest at Phil Welch Stadium on Tuesday, May 30. This free, fan friendly experience is open to the public. The team will conduct batting practice, on-field interviews, autographs and more. Additional details on the event will be released on the team's social media accounts and website.

The team will officially kick off the season at home the following night. The Mustangs host the Baldwin City Blues from Baldwin City, Kansas on May 31. The Mustangs will play 26 regular season home games this summer. The MINK League All-Star game will be in Chillicothe on July 9. The MINK League playoffs start July 24.

“There is nothing like summer in St. Joe at Phil Welch Stadium," said Mustangs president and owner Ky Turner. "It is two full months of just pure magic. The tradition of baseball blended in with some of the fun things that we do, maybe a fireworks show or dressing up like a dinosaur, home run derbies, or anything else that we dream up.

"St. Joe is a destination for collegiate baseball players all over the globe. Fans as well, last year we sold tickets to over 21 states, from California to Massachusetts, as well as a few international countries. We are blessed to have such a great community that we have right here in St. Joseph, Missouri, and the surrounding area. That also includes the incredible job our manager, Johnny Coy, and his staff perform each summer."

The Mustangs (37-15) won their third consecutive MINK League championship and their eighth since 2009 <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/e3280f33-7af4-4c42-8074-3f65558017bf">with an 11-1 victory over the Joplin Outlaws</a> in the third and final game of the league championship series at Phil Welch Stadium on July 30 to finish the 2022 season.

"Last year had so many dramatic and thrilling walk off victories," Turner said. "We don’t need to manufacture entertainment with Tiktoks on the field like other teams- these players play out their heart and soul for this team, and it is so refreshing to see.”

The Mustangs open MINK League player on Saturday, June 3rd. Additional highlights include the annual patriotic celebrations on both July 3, versus the Chillicothe Mudcats, and July 4th, against the Sedalia Bombers. The final home game of the regular season will be on Saturday, July 22nd.

The Mustangs Alumni will return to Phil Welch on July 7. The team will take on a new opponent that night- the U.S. Military WarDogs. WarDogs Military Baseball takes the Military's best ball players and travels the U.S., playing Major, Minor and Collegiate teams in order to raise money and awareness for Veterans dealing with PTSD, suicide, unemployment and disability.

Season tickets for the 2023 season can be purchased online through the team’s website or by calling 816.279.STJO (7856).

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671138703755.jpeg" alt="The Mustangs celebrate yet another MINK League title in July 2022. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>The Mustangs celebrate yet another MINK League title in July 2022. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThe St. Joseph Mustangs will return to Phil Welch Stadium in the summer of 2023, as they chase their fourth straight championship and tenth overall.The Mustangs will begin with Fan Fest at Phil Welch Stadium on Tuesday, May 30. This free, fan friendly experience is open to the public. The team will conduct batting practice, on-field interviews, autographs and more. Additional details on the event will be released on the team's social media accounts and website.The team will officially kick off the season at home the following night. The Mustangs host the Baldwin City Blues from Baldwin City, Kansas on May 31. The Mustangs will play 26 regular season home games this summer. The MINK League All-Star game will be in Chillicothe on July 9. The MINK League playoffs start July 24.“There is nothing like summer in St. Joe at Phil Welch Stadium," said Mustangs president and owner Ky Turner. "It is two full months of just pure magic. The tradition of baseball blended in with some of the fun things that we do, maybe a fireworks show or dressing up like a dinosaur, home run derbies, or anything else that we dream up."St. Joe is a destination for collegiate baseball players all over the globe. Fans as well, last year we sold tickets to over 21 states, from California to Massachusetts, as well as a few international countries. We are blessed to have such a great community that we have right here in St. Joseph, Missouri, and the surrounding area. That also includes the incredible job our manager, Johnny Coy, and his staff perform each summer."The Mustangs (37-15) won their third consecutive MINK League championship and their eighth since 2009 <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/e3280f33-7af4-4c42-8074-3f65558017bf">with an 11-1 victory over the Joplin Outlaws</a> in the third and final game of the league championship series at Phil Welch Stadium on July 30 to finish the 2022 season."Last year had so many dramatic and thrilling walk off victories," Turner said. "We don’t need to manufacture entertainment with Tiktoks on the field like other teams- these players play out their heart and soul for this team, and it is so refreshing to see.”The Mustangs open MINK League player on Saturday, June 3rd. Additional highlights include the annual patriotic celebrations on both July 3, versus the Chillicothe Mudcats, and July 4th, against the Sedalia Bombers. The final home game of the regular season will be on Saturday, July 22nd.The Mustangs Alumni will return to Phil Welch on July 7. The team will take on a new opponent that night- the U.S. Military WarDogs. WarDogs Military Baseball takes the Military's best ball players and travels the U.S., playing Major, Minor and Collegiate teams in order to raise money and awareness for Veterans dealing with PTSD, suicide, unemployment and disability.Season tickets for the 2023 season can be purchased online through the team’s website or by calling 816.279.STJO (7856).Full schedule<figure>
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St. Joseph Mustangs release 2023 schedule

The Missouri Western men's basketball team saw their season put on pause for a third consecutive season last week due to COVID-19 protocols.

The Griffon men were scheduled to play home games against Nebraska-Kearney and Fort Hays State, but it was announced last Tuesday that the games would be postponed to future dates still to be determined.

Missouri Western men's basketball coach Will Martin says the biggest task during that shutdown time was simply keeping the team connected.

"We've done a really good job with guys being out making them feel connected and making sure we don't lose any type of momentum," Martin said.

As Missouri Western returned to practice this week, Martin says the biggest key was just getting that everyday rhythm and routine back.

"The monotony of your offense and your defense and your coverages and your spacing and just being in rhythm with everybody, that takes time," Martin said. "When we get back to practice, the guys will probably hate me, because it's going to be very maniacal, it's going to be mundane, it's going to be boring just getting our rhythm and cadence back."&nbsp;

The Missouri Western men are 5-2 overall and 2-0 in the MIAA, most recently winning at Missouri Southern 79-65 on December 3 in Joplin - their fourth consecutive win.

Next up for the Griffons is a road game at Washburn (3-6) this Saturday. Martin says that first game back, that first game in 14 days, presents a formidable challenge.

"It will be the toughest game of the year," he said. "If you just look at it holistically. The fact that (Washburn) is 0-3 (in the MIAA), they have an overtime loss and they just had a loss where they were up 18 points at Rogers State. They're going to be ready to go and playing urgent. You add in the fact we've been shut down for a bit."

The Griffon men and women both play at Washburn Saturday (1 p.m. and 3 p.m.) and, then at Emporia State Monday (1:30 p.m. and 3:30 p.m.).

All games will be on KFEQ Radio (680, 95.3, 680kfeq.com).

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671135549562.jpeg" alt="Missouri Western's Taye Fields had a go-ahead dunk with three seconds left in a 66-65 win at Pittsburg State on Dec. 1 in the first MIAA game of the season. Photo by Arianne Boma." />
 <figcaption>Missouri Western's Taye Fields had a go-ahead dunk with three seconds left in a 66-65 win at Pittsburg State on Dec. 1 in the first MIAA game of the season. Photo by Arianne Boma.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThe Missouri Western men's basketball team saw their season put on pause for a third consecutive season last week due to COVID-19 protocols.The Griffon men were scheduled to play home games against Nebraska-Kearney and Fort Hays State, but it was announced last Tuesday that the games would be postponed to future dates still to be determined.Missouri Western men's basketball coach Will Martin says the biggest task during that shutdown time was simply keeping the team connected."We've done a really good job with guys being out making them feel connected and making sure we don't lose any type of momentum," Martin said.As Missouri Western returned to practice this week, Martin says the biggest key was just getting that everyday rhythm and routine back."The monotony of your offense and your defense and your coverages and your spacing and just being in rhythm with everybody, that takes time," Martin said. "When we get back to practice, the guys will probably hate me, because it's going to be very maniacal, it's going to be mundane, it's going to be boring just getting our rhythm and cadence back."&nbsp;The Missouri Western men are 5-2 overall and 2-0 in the MIAA, most recently winning at Missouri Southern 79-65 on December 3 in Joplin - their fourth consecutive win.Next up for the Griffons is a road game at Washburn (3-6) this Saturday. Martin says that first game back, that first game in 14 days, presents a formidable challenge."It will be the toughest game of the year," he said. "If you just look at it holistically. The fact that (Washburn) is 0-3 (in the MIAA), they have an overtime loss and they just had a loss where they were up 18 points at Rogers State. They're going to be ready to go and playing urgent. You add in the fact we've been shut down for a bit."The Griffon men and women both play at Washburn Saturday (1 p.m. and 3 p.m.) and, then at Emporia State Monday (1:30 p.m. and 3:30 p.m.).All games will be on KFEQ Radio (680, 95.3, 680kfeq.com).You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

MWSU men's basketball ready for return to action after COVID pause

Bishop LeBlond senior Shae Lewis is continuing what now feels like a sort of tradition - a Golden Eagle playing basketball at Benedictine.

Lewis signed her letter of intent to play for the Ravens Thursday, becoming the fourth LeBlond girls' basketball player to officially commit to Benedictine.

She joins former high school teammate Kianna Herrera, who's a freshman on the team now, along with Nicole Fields (Reilly), who graduated from there in 2008, and current LeBlond head coach Jackie Steltenpohl (Ziesel), who graduated from Benedictine in 2015.

All of them played, are playing, or will be playing, for current Benedictine head coach Chad Folsom, who's led the Ravens to NAIA National Tournament appearances in seven of the last 10 seasons.

"When I went down there, I could tell it was definitely like a family and community," Lewis said. "I loved being close to home. I'm really close to my parents and that's all I could ask for. The basketball team is great and welcoming and I can't wait to start my future down there."

Lewis, who plans to study biology at Benedictine, has played a key role for the Golden Eagles each of the last several years, helping the Golden Eagles to consecutive district titles in 2021 and 2022.

Lewis averaged 11.1 points, 4.6 rebounds, 2.2 assists and 2 steals per game last season in her junior year, helping the Eagles to a 22-8 mark.

LeBlond picked up where they left off last season, racing off to a 6-0 start in 2022-23.

"We need to not expect to go so far and just take it game by game," Lewis said, "and just realize we're going to win some and lose some and just take it game by game."

For Steltenpohl, it's a point of pride to send a second player who she's coached down to Atchison to play for her alma mater.

"It's definitely rewarding as a coach to see," she said. "That these athletes want to continue playing and it just shows that our program has changed so much in the last 5-6 years I've been coaching. It all comes from the players and how hard they work. We wouldn't be where we are today without these players here."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671132344879.jpeg" alt="Shae Lewis (22) is the fourth Bishop LeBlond girls' basketball player to sign to Benedictine women's basketball. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Shae Lewis (22) is the fourth Bishop LeBlond girls' basketball player to sign to Benedictine women's basketball. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostBishop LeBlond senior Shae Lewis is continuing what now feels like a sort of tradition - a Golden Eagle playing basketball at Benedictine.Lewis signed her letter of intent to play for the Ravens Thursday, becoming the fourth LeBlond girls' basketball player to officially commit to Benedictine.She joins former high school teammate Kianna Herrera, who's a freshman on the team now, along with Nicole Fields (Reilly), who graduated from there in 2008, and current LeBlond head coach Jackie Steltenpohl (Ziesel), who graduated from Benedictine in 2015.All of them played, are playing, or will be playing, for current Benedictine head coach Chad Folsom, who's led the Ravens to NAIA National Tournament appearances in seven of the last 10 seasons."When I went down there, I could tell it was definitely like a family and community," Lewis said. "I loved being close to home. I'm really close to my parents and that's all I could ask for. The basketball team is great and welcoming and I can't wait to start my future down there."Lewis, who plans to study biology at Benedictine, has played a key role for the Golden Eagles each of the last several years, helping the Golden Eagles to consecutive district titles in 2021 and 2022.Lewis averaged 11.1 points, 4.6 rebounds, 2.2 assists and 2 steals per game last season in her junior year, helping the Eagles to a 22-8 mark.LeBlond picked up where they left off last season, racing off to a 6-0 start in 2022-23."We need to not expect to go so far and just take it game by game," Lewis said, "and just realize we're going to win some and lose some and just take it game by game."For Steltenpohl, it's a point of pride to send a second player who she's coached down to Atchison to play for her alma mater."It's definitely rewarding as a coach to see," she said. "That these athletes want to continue playing and it just shows that our program has changed so much in the last 5-6 years I've been coaching. It all comes from the players and how hard they work. We wouldn't be where we are today without these players here."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671133885425.jpeg" alt="Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671133931809.jpeg" alt="The LeBlond girls' basketball team poses with Shae Lewis after her signing." />
 <figcaption>The LeBlond girls' basketball team poses with Shae Lewis after her signing.</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

LeBlond's Shae Lewis signs with Benedictine women's basketball Thursday

The St. Joseph Sports Commission, in partnership with the Junior League of St. Joseph, announced the creation of the inaugural St. Joseph, Missouri Marathon which will be held on Saturday, September 23, 2023.

The race will feature five different distances for participants to choose from, including a full marathon (26.2 miles), half marathon (13.1 miles), 10K race (6.2 miles), 5K race (3.1 miles) and a relay team element that encompasses the full route. Full marathon participants will have the opportunity to achieve a Boston Marathon qualifying time as the course will be officially certified.

This scenic and challenging race route, which begins and ends behind Civic Center Park in downtown St. Joseph, will take participants from north to south. The route includes numerous St. Joseph landmarks like Krug Park, Hyde Park, Lovers Lane, Ashland Avenue, Pony Express Museum, the Museum Hill Area, all incorporating the 12 miles of the city’s historic parkway system.

Race weekend begins with a Packet Pick-Up Community and Fitness Expo which will be held at Civic Arena on Friday, September 22. On race day, pre and post event activities will be staged in Civic Center Park within easy access to the start and finish line.

“In the continued quest of creating or attracting events that have interest, fit and niche in our community, the establishment of a true, community wide, marathon type of event quickly gained traction among many earlier this year,” said Brett Esely, Director of the St. Joseph Sports Commission.

“The vision for this event not only encompasses our local and regional running community but will be a true tourism event that will potentially attract participants from all over the country. These events are major undertakings with a lot of moving parts, hundreds of volunteers, people working together and is a great way to showcase our community.”

The partnership with Junior League of St. Joseph expands on a decade-long foundation they’ve created with the former Pony Express Run, which included a half marathon and most recently a 5K race.

A portion of the St. Joseph Marathon’s proceeds will benefit Junior League’s initiatives which include; Cinderella’s Closet, Hope Totes, Community Assistance and Literacy Grants along with their support of the United Way of Greater St. Joseph.

Registration and pricing information for the St. Joseph Marathon will be announced and open in mid-January 2023.

Sponsorship and expo booth information will also be available at that time. Volunteer opportunities for individuals and groups will be available in early spring.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671057614710.png" alt="St. Joseph Marathon logo. Courtesy of the St. Joseph Sports Commission and St. Joseph Convention and Visitors Bureau." />
 <figcaption>St. Joseph Marathon logo. Courtesy of the St. Joseph Sports Commission and St. Joseph Convention and Visitors Bureau.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThe St. Joseph Sports Commission, in partnership with the Junior League of St. Joseph, announced the creation of the inaugural St. Joseph, Missouri Marathon which will be held on Saturday, September 23, 2023.The race will feature five different distances for participants to choose from, including a full marathon (26.2 miles), half marathon (13.1 miles), 10K race (6.2 miles), 5K race (3.1 miles) and a relay team element that encompasses the full route. Full marathon participants will have the opportunity to achieve a Boston Marathon qualifying time as the course will be officially certified.This scenic and challenging race route, which begins and ends behind Civic Center Park in downtown St. Joseph, will take participants from north to south. The route includes numerous St. Joseph landmarks like Krug Park, Hyde Park, Lovers Lane, Ashland Avenue, Pony Express Museum, the Museum Hill Area, all incorporating the 12 miles of the city’s historic parkway system.Race weekend begins with a Packet Pick-Up Community and Fitness Expo which will be held at Civic Arena on Friday, September 22. On race day, pre and post event activities will be staged in Civic Center Park within easy access to the start and finish line.“In the continued quest of creating or attracting events that have interest, fit and niche in our community, the establishment of a true, community wide, marathon type of event quickly gained traction among many earlier this year,” said Brett Esely, Director of the St. Joseph Sports Commission.“The vision for this event not only encompasses our local and regional running community but will be a true tourism event that will potentially attract participants from all over the country. These events are major undertakings with a lot of moving parts, hundreds of volunteers, people working together and is a great way to showcase our community.”The partnership with Junior League of St. Joseph expands on a decade-long foundation they’ve created with the former Pony Express Run, which included a half marathon and most recently a 5K race.A portion of the St. Joseph Marathon’s proceeds will benefit Junior League’s initiatives which include; Cinderella’s Closet, Hope Totes, Community Assistance and Literacy Grants along with their support of the United Way of Greater St. Joseph.Registration and pricing information for the St. Joseph Marathon will be announced and open in mid-January 2023.Sponsorship and expo booth information will also be available at that time. Volunteer opportunities for individuals and groups will be available in early spring.

St. Joseph Sports Commission unveils city's first marathon coming in 2023

Boys’ basketball Lafayette 58 Mid-Buchanan 25. <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/36fd593b-6ad7-4d4c-af8d-de707a5711e7">Full coverage here</a>. Park Hill South 56 Benton 46 St. Joseph Christian 84 King City 71 Truman 62 St. Joseph Central 50 North Andrew 46 Worth County 33 Stewartsville-Osborn @ DeKalb - missing Mound City 37 North Platte 34 Rock Port 65 South Holt 44

Girls’ basketball East Buchanan 38 Savannah 25 Benton 59 St. Michael the Archangel 47. The Cardinals are now 6-0. King City 34 St. Joseph Christian 33 Truman 57 St. Joseph Central 35 North Andrew 50 Worth County 23 Stewartsville-Osborn @ DeKalb - missing North Platte 63 Mound City 30 South Holt 48 Rock Port 46

Wrestling The Mid-Buchanan boys and girls' teams scored wins at home over Savannah. Mid-Buch's Clancey Woodward picked up his 100th career victory as well.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671022930217.jpeg" alt="Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostBoys’ basketball Lafayette 58 Mid-Buchanan 25. <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/36fd593b-6ad7-4d4c-af8d-de707a5711e7">Full coverage here</a>. Park Hill South 56 Benton 46 St. Joseph Christian 84 King City 71 Truman 62 St. Joseph Central 50 North Andrew 46 Worth County 33 Stewartsville-Osborn @ DeKalb - missing Mound City 37 North Platte 34 Rock Port 65 South Holt 44Girls’ basketball East Buchanan 38 Savannah 25 Benton 59 St. Michael the Archangel 47. The Cardinals are now 6-0. King City 34 St. Joseph Christian 33 Truman 57 St. Joseph Central 35 North Andrew 50 Worth County 23 Stewartsville-Osborn @ DeKalb - missing North Platte 63 Mound City 30 South Holt 48 Rock Port 46Wrestling The Mid-Buchanan boys and girls' teams scored wins at home over Savannah. Mid-Buch's Clancey Woodward picked up his 100th career victory as well.

KFEQ/St. Joseph Post area high school scoreboard - December 13, 2022

FAUCETT - The Lafayette boys' basketball team got off to an 11-2 start, locked down on defense all night and rolled to a 58-25 win at Mid-Buchanan on Tuesday night.

Leading 15-7 at the end of the first quarter, the Irish (3-2) outscored the Dragons 14-2 in the second to go up 29-9 at the break.

Things never got closer after that, as Mid-Buchanan (4-4) was held to just nine made field goals offensively. The Dragons also turned the ball over 16 times.

"I thought we played pretty good," Lafayette senior Camden Bennett said after leading his team Tuesday with 19 points. "We ran out in transition and got easy buckets. We played really good defense tonight, and I'm just proud of my team for that."

Lafayette, now on a three-game winning streak, spread the scoring out among seven different players. Sophomore Antonio Williams came off the bench and scored 15 points. Senior Mikey Thomas finished with 10.

"All around, we played really good," Williams said. "It started with defense, really. We got a lot of traps and a lot of deflections to turn into offensive points. On the offensive side, we passed the ball a lot and everyone got to touch it. Our offense was just flowing really good. Everyone was knocking down shots and stuff."

Mid-Buchanan was led in scoring by junior Jackson Sauvage, who logged 10 points, including a pair of made three-pointers. The Dragons suffered a tough injury midway through the second quarter when freshman Raife Smith was helped off the floor with an apparent left foot injury.

After playing their first five games in eight days, Lafayette will get an eight-day break before returning to action on December 21 against St. Joseph Central at Civic Arena in the inaugural St. Joseph Area Sports Hall of Fame Holiday Hoops Classic.

"We just want to keep gradually getting better and getting better," Lafayette coach Kevin Bristol said. "I think we took another step tonight of getting better and reaching the goal we want to get to."

Mid-Buchanan stays home to host North Platte on Friday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1670991452726.jpeg" alt="Lafayette's Caleb Bennett (35) goes up for a layup during the Irish's 58-25 win at Mid-Buchanan Tuesday. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Lafayette's Caleb Bennett (35) goes up for a layup during the Irish's 58-25 win at Mid-Buchanan Tuesday. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostFAUCETT - The Lafayette boys' basketball team got off to an 11-2 start, locked down on defense all night and rolled to a 58-25 win at Mid-Buchanan on Tuesday night.Leading 15-7 at the end of the first quarter, the Irish (3-2) outscored the Dragons 14-2 in the second to go up 29-9 at the break.Things never got closer after that, as Mid-Buchanan (4-4) was held to just nine made field goals offensively. The Dragons also turned the ball over 16 times."I thought we played pretty good," Lafayette senior Camden Bennett said after leading his team Tuesday with 19 points. "We ran out in transition and got easy buckets. We played really good defense tonight, and I'm just proud of my team for that."Lafayette, now on a three-game winning streak, spread the scoring out among seven different players. Sophomore Antonio Williams came off the bench and scored 15 points. Senior Mikey Thomas finished with 10."All around, we played really good," Williams said. "It started with defense, really. We got a lot of traps and a lot of deflections to turn into offensive points. On the offensive side, we passed the ball a lot and everyone got to touch it. Our offense was just flowing really good. Everyone was knocking down shots and stuff."Mid-Buchanan was led in scoring by junior Jackson Sauvage, who logged 10 points, including a pair of made three-pointers. The Dragons suffered a tough injury midway through the second quarter when freshman Raife Smith was helped off the floor with an apparent left foot injury.After playing their first five games in eight days, Lafayette will get an eight-day break before returning to action on December 21 against St. Joseph Central at Civic Arena in the inaugural St. Joseph Area Sports Hall of Fame Holiday Hoops Classic."We just want to keep gradually getting better and getting better," Lafayette coach Kevin Bristol said. "I think we took another step tonight of getting better and reaching the goal we want to get to."Mid-Buchanan stays home to host North Platte on Friday.<div><iframe src="https://anchor.fm/tommy-rezac/embed/episodes/Lafayettes-Antonio-Williams---121322-e1s7n43" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div><div><iframe src="https://anchor.fm/tommy-rezac/embed/episodes/Lafayettes-Camden-Bennett---121322-e1s7n5c" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div><div><iframe src="https://anchor.fm/tommy-rezac/embed/episodes/Lafayette-boys-basketball-coach-Kevin-Bristol---121322-e1s7n6n" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1670991522982.jpeg" alt="Antonio Williams (4) pulls up for a shot." />
 <figcaption>Antonio Williams (4) pulls up for a shot.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1670991551634.jpeg" alt="Joe Clark." />
 <figcaption>Joe Clark.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1670991577555.jpeg" alt="Mikey Thomas." />
 <figcaption>Mikey Thomas.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1670991594421.jpeg" alt="Quinn Lowe." />
 <figcaption>Quinn Lowe.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1670991614607.jpeg" alt="Jackson Sauvage (10)." />
 <figcaption>Jackson Sauvage (10).</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1670991640535.jpeg" alt="Ian Wegenka (5)." />
 <figcaption>Ian Wegenka (5).</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Lafayette scores big win at Mid-Buchanan Tuesday, Irish win third game in a row

STARKVILLE, MS(AP) —Mike Leach, the gruff, pioneering and unfiltered college football coach who helped revolutionize the passing game with&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/nfl-college-football-sports-mike-leach-texas-dc84b9b6c1f92acb64d1c5f37f82dd59">the Air Raid offense,</a>&nbsp;has died following complications from a heart condition, Mississippi State said Tuesday. He was 61.

Leach, who was in his third season as head coach at Mississippi State, fell ill Sunday at his home in Starkville, Mississippi. He was treated at a local hospital before being airlifted to University of Mississippi Medical Center in Jackson, about 120 miles (200 kilometers) away.

“Mike was a giving and attentive husband, father and grandfather. He was able to participate in organ donation at UMMC as a final act of charity," the family said in a statement issued by Mississippi State. "We are supported and uplifted by the outpouring of love and prayers from family, friends, Mississippi State University, the hospital staff, and football fans around the world. Thank you for sharing in the joy of our beloved husband and father’s life.”

Leach fought through a bout with pneumonia late in this season, coughing uncontrollably at times during news conferences, but seemed to be improving, according to those who worked with him.

News of him falling gravely ill swept through college football the past few days and left many who knew him stunned,&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/Holgorsendana/status/1602140964742696961">hoping and praying</a>&nbsp;for Leach's recovery under grim circumstances.

His impact on college football over the last two decades runs deep and will continue for years to come.

Leach was known for his pass-happy offenses, wide-ranging interests — he wrote a book about Native American leader Geronimo, had a passion for pirates, a taught a class about insurgent warfare — and rambling, off-the-cuff news conferences.

Leach’s teams were consistent winners at programs where success did not come easy. In 21 seasons as a head coach at Texas Tech, Washington State and Mississippi State, Leach went 158-107. And his quarterbacks put up massive passing statistics, running a relatively simple offense called the Air Raid that he did not invent but certainly mastered.

An interview with Leach was as likely to veer off into politics, wedding planning or hypothetical mascot fights as it was to stick to football. He considered Donald Trump a friend before the billionaire businessman ran for president and then campaigned for him in 2016.

He traveled all over the world and his curiosity knew no bounds. He most appreciated those who stepped outside of their expertise.

“One of the biggest things I admire about Michael Jordan, he got condemned a lot for playing baseball. I completely admired that,” Leach told The Associated Press last spring. “I mean, you’re gonna be dead in 100 years anyway. You’ve mastered basketball and you’re gonna go try to master something else, and stick your neck out and you’re not afraid to do it, and know that a lot of people are gonna be watching you while you do it. I thought it was awesome.”

As much as Leach enjoyed digging into topics other than football, he was excellent at the Xs and Os.

Six of the 20 best passing seasons in major college football history were by quarterbacks who played for Leach, including four of the top six.

Calling plays from a folded piece of paper smaller than an index card, Leach turned passers such as B.J. Symons (448.7 yards per game), Graham Harrell (438.8), Connor Halliday (430.3) and Anthony Gordon (429.2) into record-setters and Heisman Trophy contenders.

“You have to make choices and limit what you’re going to teach and what you’re going to do. That’s the hard part,” Leach told the AP about the Air Raid’s economical playbook.

STARKVILLE, MS(AP) —Mike Leach, the gruff, pioneering and unfiltered college football coach who helped revolutionize the passing game with&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/nfl-college-football-sports-mike-leach-texas-dc84b9b6c1f92acb64d1c5f37f82dd59">the Air Raid offense,</a>&nbsp;has died following complications from a heart condition, Mississippi State said Tuesday. He was 61.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">MSU Bulldog family, college football community mourns the death of Coach Mike Leach<a href="https://t.co/LzWyLyX3xM">https://t.co/LzWyLyX3xM</a>&mdash; Mississippi State Football (@HailStateFB) <a href="https://twitter.com/HailStateFB/status/1602664206389706755?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 13, 2022</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Leach, who was in his third season as head coach at Mississippi State, fell ill Sunday at his home in Starkville, Mississippi. He was treated at a local hospital before being airlifted to University of Mississippi Medical Center in Jackson, about 120 miles (200 kilometers) away.“Mike was a giving and attentive husband, father and grandfather. He was able to participate in organ donation at UMMC as a final act of charity," the family said in a statement issued by Mississippi State. "We are supported and uplifted by the outpouring of love and prayers from family, friends, Mississippi State University, the hospital staff, and football fans around the world. Thank you for sharing in the joy of our beloved husband and father’s life.”Leach fought through a bout with pneumonia late in this season, coughing uncontrollably at times during news conferences, but seemed to be improving, according to those who worked with him.News of him falling gravely ill swept through college football the past few days and left many who knew him stunned,&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/Holgorsendana/status/1602140964742696961">hoping and praying</a>&nbsp;for Leach's recovery under grim circumstances.His impact on college football over the last two decades runs deep and will continue for years to come.Leach was known for his pass-happy offenses, wide-ranging interests — he wrote a book about Native American leader Geronimo, had a passion for pirates, a taught a class about insurgent warfare — and rambling, off-the-cuff news conferences.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Forever one of the most innovative minds in history. Our entire department mourns the passing of Coach Leach. <a href="https://t.co/wcsXhDMLTK">pic.twitter.com/wcsXhDMLTK</a>&mdash; Texas Tech Red Raiders (@TechAthletics) <a href="https://twitter.com/TechAthletics/status/1602672740309270530?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 13, 2022</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Leach’s teams were consistent winners at programs where success did not come easy. In 21 seasons as a head coach at Texas Tech, Washington State and Mississippi State, Leach went 158-107. And his quarterbacks put up massive passing statistics, running a relatively simple offense called the Air Raid that he did not invent but certainly mastered.An interview with Leach was as likely to veer off into politics, wedding planning or hypothetical mascot fights as it was to stick to football. He considered Donald Trump a friend before the billionaire businessman ran for president and then campaigned for him in 2016.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Sending our deepest condolences to the family of Coach Leach and the entire <a href="https://twitter.com/HailStateFB?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@HailStateFB</a> program this morning. Incredibly sad day for the entire college football community.&mdash; Lance Leipold (@CoachLeipold) <a href="https://twitter.com/CoachLeipold/status/1602684997688852480?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 13, 2022</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>He traveled all over the world and his curiosity knew no bounds. He most appreciated those who stepped outside of their expertise.“One of the biggest things I admire about Michael Jordan, he got condemned a lot for playing baseball. I completely admired that,” Leach told The Associated Press last spring. “I mean, you’re gonna be dead in 100 years anyway. You’ve mastered basketball and you’re gonna go try to master something else, and stick your neck out and you’re not afraid to do it, and know that a lot of people are gonna be watching you while you do it. I thought it was awesome.”As much as Leach enjoyed digging into topics other than football, he was excellent at the Xs and Os.Six of the 20 best passing seasons in major college football history were by quarterbacks who played for Leach, including four of the top six.Calling plays from a folded piece of paper smaller than an index card, Leach turned passers such as B.J. Symons (448.7 yards per game), Graham Harrell (438.8), Connor Halliday (430.3) and Anthony Gordon (429.2) into record-setters and Heisman Trophy contenders.“You have to make choices and limit what you’re going to teach and what you’re going to do. That’s the hard part,” Leach told the AP about the Air Raid’s economical playbook.

Mississippi State football coach Mike Leach dies at 61

DENVER (AP) — The Kansas City Chiefs own the Denver Broncos — even when Patrick Mahomes throws three interceptions and a 27-0 lead turns into a nail-biter.

Mahomes counterbalanced his mistakes with a trio of touchdown passes and the Chiefs (10-3) outlasted the Broncos 34-28 on Sunday. Russell Wilson left with a concussion early in the fourth quarter as Denver (3-10) lost to Kansas City for the 14th consecutive time.

“Just three bad decisions,” Mahomes said. “Luckily for me, the rest of the team stepped up. Defense made a lot of stops in some critical moments when we were putting them in some bad situations. Even my special teams. (Punter) Tommy (Townsend) flipped the field a couple of times for us.”

Mahomes improved to 10-0 against Denver, becoming the fourth QB to ever beat one team 10 times without a loss. The Chiefs reached double digits in wins for the eighth straight season and they inched closer to their seventh consecutive AFC West crown.

The Broncos, well, they came up short again and lost a one-score game for the seventh time this season under rookie coach Nathaniel Hackett.

The Broncos, who have lost five straight overall and eight consecutive AFC West games for the first time since divisional play began with the 1970 AFL-NFL merger, turned their 27-0 deficit into a ballgame by scoring three touchdowns over a 3 1/2-minute stretch spanning halftime.

Jeudy's third TD came from backup Brett Rypien, making it 34-28 shortly after the Broncos&nbsp;lost Wilson to a concussion&nbsp;on a 14-yard scramble to the Chiefs 2.

Rypien had a chance to put the Broncos ahead following linebacker Josey Jewell's second interception of the game with just under six minutes left. But Rypien was hit by Chris Jones just as he released a deep throw toward Jeudy, and cornerback L'Jarius Sneed picked off the high pass with 4:21 remaining.

A personal foul on Frank Clark after that interception pushed the Chiefs back to their 15-yard line, but Mahomes &amp; Co. chewed up the rest of the clock, never letting the Broncos get another crack at the upset.

Mahomes threw for 352 yards and one of his three touchdowns was a&nbsp;no-look hook pass&nbsp;to Jerick McKinnon, who had two TD catches.

Mahomes was scrambling for a first down when he shook defensive lineman D.J. Jones and flung a pass across his body to a wide-open McKinnon, who raced down Denver's dejected sideline for a 56-yard touchdown and a 13-0 lead.

“I was committed to running,” Mahomes said, “and I saw I was about to get hit like I did last week in Cincinnati, so I just kind of flicked it. I was just trying to get it to him whatever way possible.”

Mahomes and McKinnon connected on a more traditional 10-yard TD on Kansas City's next possession. At that point, Mahomes had 224 passing yards to Wilson's 33, but things would get even worse for Denver's scuffling quarterback before they got better.

On fourth-and-2 at his own 45-yard line, Wilson tried to throw a screen pass to Brandon Johnson but didn't get it high enough. Linebacker Willie Gay reached up and&nbsp;deflected the throw, corralled the ball in his left hand and stiff-armed Wilson with his right, sending him tumbling as he raced 47 yards for the touchdown.

“I was an athlete all through high school,” Gay said, “so I knew I was going to be able to get that.”

His pick-6 put the Chiefs in charge at 27-0 with 4:32 left in the half.

Jeudy caught his first two touchdown passes, from 18 and 5 yards out, after Mahomes uncharacteristically threw interceptions — to Josey Jewell and Patrick Surtain II — on consecutive possessions, making it 27-14 at the half.

On the opening drive after halftime, running back&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/Broncos/status/1602076235122630658">Marlon Mack</a>&nbsp;caught a short pass from Wilson and raced 66 yards for the end zone to pull Denver within 27-21.

Mahomes countered with a 4-yard TD strike to JuJu Smith-Schuster.

“Luckily we got the win,” Mahomes said. “But you don't win a lot of games when you've got three interceptions.”

By improving to 10-0 against the Broncos, Mahomes joined Andrew Luck, who started 11-0 against the Titans; Tom Brady, who went 10-0 against the Falcons; and John Elway, who won his first 10 against the Patriots.

Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce and Mahomes had a difficult day connecting, but coach Andy Reid said, “you've got to give a couple of shout-outs to Kelce” after he caught four passes (out of nine targets) for 71 yards.

That made Kelce the first tight end in NFL history to record seven straight 1,000-yard seasons, and he became the fifth tight end to top 10,000 yards, joining Tony Gonzalez, Jason Witten, Antonio Gates and Shannon Sharpe.

“Honestly," Kelce said, “right now the winning means more than any of those stats.”

The Chiefs play at Houston this Sunday at noon. The game will be on KFEQ (680, 95.3) and Q Country 92.7 FM in St. Joseph.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1670846811726.jpeg" alt="Willie Gay (50) had a pick-six in the first half of the Chiefs' 34-28 win at Denver. Courtesy photo." />
 <figcaption>Willie Gay (50) had a pick-six in the first half of the Chiefs' 34-28 win at Denver. Courtesy photo.</figcaption>
 </figure>St. Joseph PostDENVER (AP) — The Kansas City Chiefs own the Denver Broncos — even when Patrick Mahomes throws three interceptions and a 27-0 lead turns into a nail-biter.Mahomes counterbalanced his mistakes with a trio of touchdown passes and the Chiefs (10-3) outlasted the Broncos 34-28 on Sunday. Russell Wilson left with a concussion early in the fourth quarter as Denver (3-10) lost to Kansas City for the 14th consecutive time.“Just three bad decisions,” Mahomes said. “Luckily for me, the rest of the team stepped up. Defense made a lot of stops in some critical moments when we were putting them in some bad situations. Even my special teams. (Punter) Tommy (Townsend) flipped the field a couple of times for us.”Mahomes improved to 10-0 against Denver, becoming the fourth QB to ever beat one team 10 times without a loss. The Chiefs reached double digits in wins for the eighth straight season and they inched closer to their seventh consecutive AFC West crown.The Broncos, well, they came up short again and lost a one-score game for the seventh time this season under rookie coach Nathaniel Hackett.The Broncos, who have lost five straight overall and eight consecutive AFC West games for the first time since divisional play began with the 1970 AFL-NFL merger, turned their 27-0 deficit into a ballgame by scoring three touchdowns over a 3 1/2-minute stretch spanning halftime.Jeudy's third TD came from backup Brett Rypien, making it 34-28 shortly after the Broncos&nbsp;lost Wilson to a concussion&nbsp;on a 14-yard scramble to the Chiefs 2.Rypien had a chance to put the Broncos ahead following linebacker Josey Jewell's second interception of the game with just under six minutes left. But Rypien was hit by Chris Jones just as he released a deep throw toward Jeudy, and cornerback L'Jarius Sneed picked off the high pass with 4:21 remaining.A personal foul on Frank Clark after that interception pushed the Chiefs back to their 15-yard line, but Mahomes &amp; Co. chewed up the rest of the clock, never letting the Broncos get another crack at the upset.Mahomes threw for 352 yards and one of his three touchdowns was a&nbsp;no-look hook pass&nbsp;to Jerick McKinnon, who had two TD catches.Mahomes was scrambling for a first down when he shook defensive lineman D.J. Jones and flung a pass across his body to a wide-open McKinnon, who raced down Denver's dejected sideline for a 56-yard touchdown and a 13-0 lead.“I was committed to running,” Mahomes said, “and I saw I was about to get hit like I did last week in Cincinnati, so I just kind of flicked it. I was just trying to get it to him whatever way possible.”Mahomes and McKinnon connected on a more traditional 10-yard TD on Kansas City's next possession. At that point, Mahomes had 224 passing yards to Wilson's 33, but things would get even worse for Denver's scuffling quarterback before they got better.On fourth-and-2 at his own 45-yard line, Wilson tried to throw a screen pass to Brandon Johnson but didn't get it high enough. Linebacker Willie Gay reached up and&nbsp;deflected the throw, corralled the ball in his left hand and stiff-armed Wilson with his right, sending him tumbling as he raced 47 yards for the touchdown.“I was an athlete all through high school,” Gay said, “so I knew I was going to be able to get that.”His pick-6 put the Chiefs in charge at 27-0 with 4:32 left in the half.Jeudy caught his first two touchdown passes, from 18 and 5 yards out, after Mahomes uncharacteristically threw interceptions — to Josey Jewell and Patrick Surtain II — on consecutive possessions, making it 27-14 at the half.On the opening drive after halftime, running back&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/Broncos/status/1602076235122630658">Marlon Mack</a>&nbsp;caught a short pass from Wilson and raced 66 yards for the end zone to pull Denver within 27-21.Mahomes countered with a 4-yard TD strike to JuJu Smith-Schuster.“Luckily we got the win,” Mahomes said. “But you don't win a lot of games when you've got three interceptions.”SELECT COMPANYBy improving to 10-0 against the Broncos, Mahomes joined Andrew Luck, who started 11-0 against the Titans; Tom Brady, who went 10-0 against the Falcons; and John Elway, who won his first 10 against the Patriots.KELCE 10KChiefs tight end Travis Kelce and Mahomes had a difficult day connecting, but coach Andy Reid said, “you've got to give a couple of shout-outs to Kelce” after he caught four passes (out of nine targets) for 71 yards.That made Kelce the first tight end in NFL history to record seven straight 1,000-yard seasons, and he became the fifth tight end to top 10,000 yards, joining Tony Gonzalez, Jason Witten, Antonio Gates and Shannon Sharpe.“Honestly," Kelce said, “right now the winning means more than any of those stats.”The Chiefs play at Houston this Sunday at noon. The game will be on KFEQ (680, 95.3) and Q Country 92.7 FM in St. Joseph.

Mahomes, Chiefs outlast the Broncos in Denver Sunday

The Missouri Western women's basketball team went blow-for-blow with Fort Hays State in the first half, and the Griffons opened the second half on a 10-0 run to go up 35-27 with 7:54 left in the third.

Hays (7-3, 3-0 MIAA) hit back with runs of their own, including a 13-3 run midway through the fourth quarter, and the Tigers prevailed 64-58 at the MWSU Fieldhouse Saturday.

The Griffons (7-4, 2-2 MIAA) trailed by only two entering the fourth, but fell behind 52-44 with 6:02 remaining, and then back-to-back buckets by Hays' Olivia Hollenbeck put the Tigers up 56-47 with 3:33 left.

Missouri Western got back to within five, but never any closer.

"I thought we had people just nowhere to be found in the building that we depend on," Missouri Western women's basketball coach Candi Whitaker said. "I thought we made a lot of mistakes defensively that created offense for them in the first half."

Fort Hays State outrebounded Missouri Western in the fourth quarter 12-4, including 6-1 on the offensive glass. In fact, 10 of Fort Hays State's 13 offensive boards came in the second half.

The Tigers also turned 14 Missouri Western turnovers into 19 points the other way.

Fort Hays State also cashed in on 15-of-23 free throw attempts, while Missouri Western was just 4-of-7 at the line. Three-point shooting was also a factor.

The Griffons made just two of their first 20 three-point attempts and finished 4-of-24 from downtown. Hays was 9-of-24.

"Had some moments of good things, but too many turnovers," Whitaker said. "We couldn't make a shot for the longest time. When you can't make a shot, you have to find your way to the foul line, and obviously we did not."

Freshman Cleao Murray led the Griffons with a career-high 17 points. Junior Connie Clarke had 13 points and six rebounds. Junior Trinity Knapp logged eight points and six boards.

"Trinity Knapp was unbelievable in the first half defensively," Whitaker said. "She was taking things away from all over and not just Hollenbeck."

"Really proud of (Cleao) and really thought her last two games have been fantastic."

Sophomore Katie Wagner led Fort Hays State with 17 points and nine rebounds. Sophomore Olivia Hollenbeck scored 13 points, nine of that in the second half, to go with seven rebounds.

Missouri Western is on the road on Saturday, December 17 at Washburn. The women will play at 1 p.m., the men at 3 p.m. Both games will be on KFEQ Radio (680, 95.3).

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1670712462263.jpeg" alt="Missouri Western's Kassandra Caron (42) tries to shoot over a defender during the Griffons' 65-58 loss to Fort Hays State on Saturday. Courtesy photo." />
 <figcaption>Missouri Western's Kassandra Caron (42) tries to shoot over a defender during the Griffons' 65-58 loss to Fort Hays State on Saturday. Courtesy photo.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThe Missouri Western women's basketball team went blow-for-blow with Fort Hays State in the first half, and the Griffons opened the second half on a 10-0 run to go up 35-27 with 7:54 left in the third.Hays (7-3, 3-0 MIAA) hit back with runs of their own, including a 13-3 run midway through the fourth quarter, and the Tigers prevailed 64-58 at the MWSU Fieldhouse Saturday.The Griffons (7-4, 2-2 MIAA) trailed by only two entering the fourth, but fell behind 52-44 with 6:02 remaining, and then back-to-back buckets by Hays' Olivia Hollenbeck put the Tigers up 56-47 with 3:33 left.Missouri Western got back to within five, but never any closer."I thought we had people just nowhere to be found in the building that we depend on," Missouri Western women's basketball coach Candi Whitaker said. "I thought we made a lot of mistakes defensively that created offense for them in the first half."Fort Hays State outrebounded Missouri Western in the fourth quarter 12-4, including 6-1 on the offensive glass. In fact, 10 of Fort Hays State's 13 offensive boards came in the second half.The Tigers also turned 14 Missouri Western turnovers into 19 points the other way.Fort Hays State also cashed in on 15-of-23 free throw attempts, while Missouri Western was just 4-of-7 at the line. Three-point shooting was also a factor.The Griffons made just two of their first 20 three-point attempts and finished 4-of-24 from downtown. Hays was 9-of-24."Had some moments of good things, but too many turnovers," Whitaker said. "We couldn't make a shot for the longest time. When you can't make a shot, you have to find your way to the foul line, and obviously we did not."Freshman Cleao Murray led the Griffons with a career-high 17 points. Junior Connie Clarke had 13 points and six rebounds. Junior Trinity Knapp logged eight points and six boards."Trinity Knapp was unbelievable in the first half defensively," Whitaker said. "She was taking things away from all over and not just Hollenbeck.""Really proud of (Cleao) and really thought her last two games have been fantastic."Sophomore Katie Wagner led Fort Hays State with 17 points and nine rebounds. Sophomore Olivia Hollenbeck scored 13 points, nine of that in the second half, to go with seven rebounds.Missouri Western is on the road on Saturday, December 17 at Washburn. The women will play at 1 p.m., the men at 3 p.m. Both games will be on KFEQ Radio (680, 95.3).You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.