LAWRENCE, Kan. – Kansas guard Johnny Furphy was the 35th overall selection and Kevin McCullar was selected 56th overall in the 2024 NBA Draft Thursday afternoon conducted from ESPN studios in New York City.

Furphy was selected by the San Antonio Spurs and his pick was later part of a proposed trade with the Indiana Pacers. McCullar was selected by the Phoenix Suns and was then part of a proposed trade to the New York Knicks.

With the pair of selections, Kansas now has 89 all-time NBA Draft selections, including 31 in the Self era. Since the NBA adopted a two-round draft in 1989, Kansas has had 29 first-round selections and 44 total draft picks.

“Last night was a very tough and humbling night for Johnny,” KU head coach Bill Self said. “The anticipation of being in the Green Room and the assurance that he and his representation had been told that he would be drafted didn’t turn out that way. It was a tough night and I thought Johnny handled it very maturely and very well, but it was not easy for he or his family.

“For him to come back, get drafted and find out he is traded to the Pacers is great,” Self continued. “It’s an up and coming franchise. They’ve got really good players. I spoke with them (the Pacers) this morning and they were very excited about Johnny. They ended up trading up a pick to get him.

“I’m excited for Johnny,” Self added. “I think they will do a great job in developing him. Johnny knows that he needs time to improve his strength for the NBA game. I think it’s a good landing place for him.”

A 2024 Big 12 All-Freshman and All-Big 12 Honorable Mention selection, Furphy averaged 9.0 points and 4.9 rebounds per game for Kansas this past season. The Melbourne, Australia native started 19 games, including 18 of the last 19 contests. Furphy averaged 11.4 points and 6.1 rebounds in Big 12 play and led Kansas with 44 three-point field goals made last season.

Prior to Kansas, Furphy played prep basketball for Centre of Excellence (CoE) – Australia’s development program hosted at the Australian Institute of Sport alongside NBA Global Academy. He reclassified for the 2023 class and garnered attention when he participated in various NBA Academy events in the United States. Additionally, Furphy played for Victoria at the 2023 Australia-U20 Championship.

“Kevin is a first-round player and I think anybody that saw him healthy this year would agree to that,” Self said. “Kevin will play in the league for a long time and the Knicks got one of the toughest players we have had in our program. We are all excited that Kevin heard his named called. He will be a great fit to a playoff team and such a storied franchise.

“Unfortunately, Kevin got injured at the end of January wasn’t the same the rest of the season and had a setback after the season as well,” Self added. “He wants it bad and he will respond. He will do well in New York.”

A 2024 All-America Honorable Mention and All-Big 12 First Team selection, McCullar led the conference in scoring in 2023-24 with an 18.3 points per game average. The San Antonio native was a 2024 finalist for the Jerry West Shooting Guard of the Year award and, including 2023-24, was a three-time semifinalist for the Naismith Defensive Player of the Year award. This past season, McCullar posted back-to-back triple doubles, which were the third and fourth in Kansas history and the first time in NCAA history since the 2007-08 season.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719568213961.jpeg" alt="Kansas Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Kansas Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>LAWRENCE, Kan. – Kansas guard Johnny Furphy was the 35th overall selection and Kevin McCullar was selected 56th overall in the 2024 NBA Draft Thursday afternoon conducted from ESPN studios in New York City.Furphy was selected by the San Antonio Spurs and his pick was later part of a proposed trade with the Indiana Pacers. McCullar was selected by the Phoenix Suns and was then part of a proposed trade to the New York Knicks.With the pair of selections, Kansas now has 89 all-time NBA Draft selections, including 31 in the Self era. Since the NBA adopted a two-round draft in 1989, Kansas has had 29 first-round selections and 44 total draft picks.“Last night was a very tough and humbling night for Johnny,” KU head coach Bill Self said. “The anticipation of being in the Green Room and the assurance that he and his representation had been told that he would be drafted didn’t turn out that way. It was a tough night and I thought Johnny handled it very maturely and very well, but it was not easy for he or his family.“For him to come back, get drafted and find out he is traded to the Pacers is great,” Self continued. “It’s an up and coming franchise. They’ve got really good players. I spoke with them (the Pacers) this morning and they were very excited about Johnny. They ended up trading up a pick to get him.“I’m excited for Johnny,” Self added. “I think they will do a great job in developing him. Johnny knows that he needs time to improve his strength for the NBA game. I think it’s a good landing place for him.”A 2024 Big 12 All-Freshman and All-Big 12 Honorable Mention selection, Furphy averaged 9.0 points and 4.9 rebounds per game for Kansas this past season. The Melbourne, Australia native started 19 games, including 18 of the last 19 contests. Furphy averaged 11.4 points and 6.1 rebounds in Big 12 play and led Kansas with 44 three-point field goals made last season.Prior to Kansas, Furphy played prep basketball for Centre of Excellence (CoE) – Australia’s development program hosted at the Australian Institute of Sport alongside NBA Global Academy. He reclassified for the 2023 class and garnered attention when he participated in various NBA Academy events in the United States. Additionally, Furphy played for Victoria at the 2023 Australia-U20 Championship.“Kevin is a first-round player and I think anybody that saw him healthy this year would agree to that,” Self said. “Kevin will play in the league for a long time and the Knicks got one of the toughest players we have had in our program. We are all excited that Kevin heard his named called. He will be a great fit to a playoff team and such a storied franchise.“Unfortunately, Kevin got injured at the end of January wasn’t the same the rest of the season and had a setback after the season as well,” Self added. “He wants it bad and he will respond. He will do well in New York.”A 2024 All-America Honorable Mention and All-Big 12 First Team selection, McCullar led the conference in scoring in 2023-24 with an 18.3 points per game average. The San Antonio native was a 2024 finalist for the Jerry West Shooting Guard of the Year award and, including 2023-24, was a three-time semifinalist for the Naismith Defensive Player of the Year award. This past season, McCullar posted back-to-back triple doubles, which were the third and fourth in Kansas history and the first time in NCAA history since the 2007-08 season.

Furphy and McCullar Selected on Day 2 of the 2024 NBA Draft

ATLANTA (AP) — Tim Weah threw an inexcusable punch, and the United States took a huge blow to its hopes of advancing at the Copa America.

José Fajardo beat backup goalkeeper Ethan Horvath in the 83rd minute to give Panama a 2-1 victory on Thursday night over the shorthanded Americans, putting the host country in danger of elimination if it doesn't beat Uruguay in its first-round finale.

The U.S. played most of the game a man down after Weah was sent off in the 18th minute.

“You never mean to get a red card. Under no type of circumstances,” teammate Tyler Adams said. "He apologized to the team.”

Weah issued a public apology on social media.

“I let my team and my country down,” he said. “A moment of frustration let to an irreversible consequence, and for that I am deeply sorry to my teammates, coaches, family and our fans.”

Weah was sent off by Salvadoran referee Iván Barton with a straight red card for punching Roderick Miller in the back of the head.

“A silly, silly decision by Timmy that leaves us shorthanded,” coach Gregg Berhalter said.

Folarin Balogun put the U.S. ahead in the 22nd minute but César Blackman tied the score in the 26th.

Horvath, who replaced injured Matt Turner at halftime, couldn’t prevent Fajardo's close-range shot from going through his arms, and Panama beat the U.S. for just the third time in 27 meetings.

“A win tonight would have put us in a great position, and unfortunately the opposite happened,” American captain Christian Pulisic said. “I'm proud of the effort that we responded with after obviously what happened (with Weah), but just really disappointed that’s the way we did it.”

The U.S., which opened with a 2-0 win against Bolivia, plays 15-time Copa champion Uruguay on Monday at Kansas City, Missouri.

For U.S. to advance, it must either beat Uruguay and have a greater goal difference than Panama if Panama beats Bolivia; tie Uruguay while Panama and Bolivia also draw; or lose to Bolivia while finishing with a better goal difference than Panama and Bolivia. The U.S. is plus-one, Panama minus-one and Bolivia plus-seven.

“We believe in this group,” Berhalter said. “It's a strong team. I think if we stay focused and stick to and execute a game plan, we’ll be OK.”

But failing to advance in the biggest test for the Americans ahead of the 2026 World Cup certainly would raise questions about whether Berhalter should remain in charge.

He got that very query not long after the final whistle.

“If we don’t qualify for the next round, should my job be in the line?” Berhalter said, cutting right to the point. “That’s not for me to determine.”

Weston McKennie appeared to put the U.S. ahead in the fifth minute but the goal was disallowed for offside.

Panama also finished a man short after Adalberto Carrasquilla was given a red card in the 88th for chopping down Pulisic from behind. The U.S. threw everyone forward in a desperate attempt to tie the game -- including Horvath -- but Panama held.

Panama lost to Uruguay 3-1 in its opene r and closes group play in Orlando, Florida, against Bolivia, a team with 14 straight Copa America losses after a 5-0 rout by the Uruguayans in the late game Thursday night.

“I’m super happy with the victory," Panama coach Thomas Christiansen said. “I think it’s also well deserved, because we have read the game rightly. Even though they were missing a player for a long time, you had to score the goals to win this game. And when the score was 1-0, the situation was complicated, even if you played with one more, with the quality that the United States has shown.”

Now, it's the Panamanians — not the Americans — who have the upper hand to move on.

“I have clear ideas, my team also has clear ideas, about what it is capable of doing," Christiansen said. "We have achieved three fabulous points”.

A pro-American crowd of 59,145 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium was irate after Weah's ejection, especially after several other calls went against the home team, but there was little question that the U.S. player deserved the red card.

Chris Richards’ header from Pulisic’s corner kick was deflected off the crossbar by goalkeeper Orlando Mosquera, and a video review determined Tim Ream was offside when he poked the ball to McKennie, who put the ball in from near the penalty spot.

Blackman did not receive a card when he collided in the 12th minute with a leaping Turner, who landed awkwardly on his right arm and was down for several minutes while being tended to by medical personnel.

Balogun scored after a sloppy clearance. Antonee Robinson dribbled into the penalty area and passed to the striker. Balogun exchanged taps with Robinson and curled a shot from the edge of the area off the inside of the far post and in for his fifth goal in 14 appearances.

Blackman tied the score in the 26th when he took a pass from Carrasquilla at the arc, dribbled around Robinson and shot through the legs of Richards and just past Turner’s outstretched arm.

Berhalter made three substitutions to start the second half. Turner left with a bruised left leg and Horvath entered in his first game for club or country since May 4.

Turner's status for the next match is not known. Weah won't dress because of the red card.

The Americans benefitted from a video review in the 63rd minute after Cameron Carter-Vickers, another substitute, was whistled for taking down Fajardo in the area. The call was reversed when a video review showed Fajardo already had crossed the ball when Carter-Vickers made contact.

ATLANTA (AP) — Tim Weah threw an inexcusable punch, and the United States took a huge blow to its hopes of advancing at the Copa America.José Fajardo beat backup goalkeeper Ethan Horvath in the 83rd minute to give Panama a 2-1 victory on Thursday night over the shorthanded Americans, putting the host country in danger of elimination if it doesn't beat Uruguay in its first-round finale.The U.S. played most of the game a man down after Weah was sent off in the 18th minute.“You never mean to get a red card. Under no type of circumstances,” teammate Tyler Adams said. "He apologized to the team.”Weah issued a public apology on social media.“I let my team and my country down,” he said. “A moment of frustration let to an irreversible consequence, and for that I am deeply sorry to my teammates, coaches, family and our fans.”Weah was sent off by Salvadoran referee Iván Barton with a straight red card for punching Roderick Miller in the back of the head.“A silly, silly decision by Timmy that leaves us shorthanded,” coach Gregg Berhalter said.Folarin Balogun put the U.S. ahead in the 22nd minute but César Blackman tied the score in the 26th.Horvath, who replaced injured Matt Turner at halftime, couldn’t prevent Fajardo's close-range shot from going through his arms, and Panama beat the U.S. for just the third time in 27 meetings.“A win tonight would have put us in a great position, and unfortunately the opposite happened,” American captain Christian Pulisic said. “I'm proud of the effort that we responded with after obviously what happened (with Weah), but just really disappointed that’s the way we did it.”The U.S., which opened with a 2-0 win against Bolivia, plays 15-time Copa champion Uruguay on Monday at Kansas City, Missouri.For U.S. to advance, it must either beat Uruguay and have a greater goal difference than Panama if Panama beats Bolivia; tie Uruguay while Panama and Bolivia also draw; or lose to Bolivia while finishing with a better goal difference than Panama and Bolivia. The U.S. is plus-one, Panama minus-one and Bolivia plus-seven.“We believe in this group,” Berhalter said. “It's a strong team. I think if we stay focused and stick to and execute a game plan, we’ll be OK.”But failing to advance in the biggest test for the Americans ahead of the 2026 World Cup certainly would raise questions about whether Berhalter should remain in charge.He got that very query not long after the final whistle.“If we don’t qualify for the next round, should my job be in the line?” Berhalter said, cutting right to the point. “That’s not for me to determine.”Weston McKennie appeared to put the U.S. ahead in the fifth minute but the goal was disallowed for offside.Panama also finished a man short after Adalberto Carrasquilla was given a red card in the 88th for chopping down Pulisic from behind. The U.S. threw everyone forward in a desperate attempt to tie the game -- including Horvath -- but Panama held.Panama lost to Uruguay 3-1 in its opene r and closes group play in Orlando, Florida, against Bolivia, a team with 14 straight Copa America losses after a 5-0 rout by the Uruguayans in the late game Thursday night.“I’m super happy with the victory," Panama coach Thomas Christiansen said. “I think it’s also well deserved, because we have read the game rightly. Even though they were missing a player for a long time, you had to score the goals to win this game. And when the score was 1-0, the situation was complicated, even if you played with one more, with the quality that the United States has shown.”Now, it's the Panamanians — not the Americans — who have the upper hand to move on.“I have clear ideas, my team also has clear ideas, about what it is capable of doing," Christiansen said. "We have achieved three fabulous points”.A pro-American crowd of 59,145 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium was irate after Weah's ejection, especially after several other calls went against the home team, but there was little question that the U.S. player deserved the red card.Chris Richards’ header from Pulisic’s corner kick was deflected off the crossbar by goalkeeper Orlando Mosquera, and a video review determined Tim Ream was offside when he poked the ball to McKennie, who put the ball in from near the penalty spot.Blackman did not receive a card when he collided in the 12th minute with a leaping Turner, who landed awkwardly on his right arm and was down for several minutes while being tended to by medical personnel.Balogun scored after a sloppy clearance. Antonee Robinson dribbled into the penalty area and passed to the striker. Balogun exchanged taps with Robinson and curled a shot from the edge of the area off the inside of the far post and in for his fifth goal in 14 appearances.Blackman tied the score in the 26th when he took a pass from Carrasquilla at the arc, dribbled around Robinson and shot through the legs of Richards and just past Turner’s outstretched arm.Berhalter made three substitutions to start the second half. Turner left with a bruised left leg and Horvath entered in his first game for club or country since May 4.Turner's status for the next match is not known. Weah won't dress because of the red card.The Americans benefitted from a video review in the 63rd minute after Cameron Carter-Vickers, another substitute, was whistled for taking down Fajardo in the area. The call was reversed when a video review showed Fajardo already had crossed the ball when Carter-Vickers made contact.

Panama scores late goal, beats shorthanded U.S. 2-1 at Copa America

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Kyle Isbel and Maikel Garcia hit back-to-back triples to start a sixth-inning rally, and Vinnie Pasquantino delivered the go-ahead sacrifice fly that sent the Kansas City Royals to a 2-1 win over the AL Central-leading Cleveland Guardians on Thursday night.

Sam Long (2-1) earned the win in relief, wiggling his way out of Michael Wacha's jam in the sixth and then retiring the side in the seventh. John Schreiber handled the eighth before James McArthur worked a perfect ninth for his 14th save.

Kansas City is eight games behind Cleveland but can make up some ground during this four-game series.

“There's some expectations in this division right now,” Long said. “We're right there with them.”

Ben Lively (7-4) got some help against one of his former teams from a Cleveland defense that turned a pair of double plays to wipe away leadoff singles. The right-hander wound up allowing two runs on six hits and a walk over six innings.

“He was outstanding. Just attacking the zone, efficient with his pitches. Unfortunate there in the sixth, but still got through six,” Guardians manager Stephen Vogt said. “I thought he was great.”

Wacha permitted one run on seven hits and two walks over 5 1/3 innings while striking out six.

“I mean, we know the pro he is,” Royals manager Matt Quatraro said. “Just for him to keep pounding the zone — they made him work. I mean, his pitch count got up there. But he just works extremely hard.”

Quatraro watched the go-ahead rally from the clubhouse after he was ejected by third base umpire Tripp Gibson for arguing a call during the fifth inning. Nick Loftin appeared to evade a tag on a grounder by Hunter Renfroe, but Gibson said Loftin went out of the basepath — even though he was never farther outside than if he were rounding third and heading home.

Quatraro argued for a minute, then had turned to walk back to the dugout when Gibson threw him out.

The Guardians were clinging to a 1-0 lead Daniel Schneemann provided with his sacrifice fly in the fifth when Isbel led off the sixth with a triple to right field, narrowly beating Schneemann's throw to third. Garcia followed with his own triple to right field, sliding in just ahead of Schneemann's throw again and tying the game.

Pasquantino followed two batters later with a sacrifice fly to send Kansas City to its third win in four games.

Both teams squandered plenty of chances. The Guardians left the bases loaded in the second inning and again in the sixth, and stranded nine runners in all. And the Royals had leadoff singles in three straight innings but nothing to show for them.

“We should have scored more runs tonight. Wish we could have,” Vogt said, “but these nights happen.”

The Guardians agreed to a deal Thursday with LHP Matthew Boyd, a person familiar with the agreement told The Associated Press. The person spoke on condition of anonymity because the 33-year-old Boyd, who underwent reconstructive elbow surgery last year, must still pass a physical. He went 5-5 with a 5.45 ERA in 15 starts for Detroit last season.

The Guardians placed OF Will Brennan (rib inflammation) on the injured list, retroactive to Tuesday. They recalled INF José Tena and RHP Darren McCaughan from Triple-A Columbus. RHP Xzavion Curry was optioned to the same club Wednesday night.

Cleveland RHP Triston McKenzie (3-4, 4.66 ERA) faces Kansas City RHP Alec Marsh (5-5, 4.40) on Friday night.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719567893523.jpeg" alt="&nbsp;Kansas City Royals pitcher Michael Wacha watches a throw to a Cleveland Guardians batter during the first inning of a baseball game in Kansas City, Mo., Thursday, June 27, 2024. (AP Photo/Colin E. Braley)" />
 <figcaption>&nbsp;Kansas City Royals pitcher Michael Wacha watches a throw to a Cleveland Guardians batter during the first inning of a baseball game in Kansas City, Mo., Thursday, June 27, 2024. (AP Photo/Colin E. Braley)</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Kyle Isbel and Maikel Garcia hit back-to-back triples to start a sixth-inning rally, and Vinnie Pasquantino delivered the go-ahead sacrifice fly that sent the Kansas City Royals to a 2-1 win over the AL Central-leading Cleveland Guardians on Thursday night.Sam Long (2-1) earned the win in relief, wiggling his way out of Michael Wacha's jam in the sixth and then retiring the side in the seventh. John Schreiber handled the eighth before James McArthur worked a perfect ninth for his 14th save.Kansas City is eight games behind Cleveland but can make up some ground during this four-game series.“There's some expectations in this division right now,” Long said. “We're right there with them.”Ben Lively (7-4) got some help against one of his former teams from a Cleveland defense that turned a pair of double plays to wipe away leadoff singles. The right-hander wound up allowing two runs on six hits and a walk over six innings.“He was outstanding. Just attacking the zone, efficient with his pitches. Unfortunate there in the sixth, but still got through six,” Guardians manager Stephen Vogt said. “I thought he was great.”Wacha permitted one run on seven hits and two walks over 5 1/3 innings while striking out six.“I mean, we know the pro he is,” Royals manager Matt Quatraro said. “Just for him to keep pounding the zone — they made him work. I mean, his pitch count got up there. But he just works extremely hard.”Quatraro watched the go-ahead rally from the clubhouse after he was ejected by third base umpire Tripp Gibson for arguing a call during the fifth inning. Nick Loftin appeared to evade a tag on a grounder by Hunter Renfroe, but Gibson said Loftin went out of the basepath — even though he was never farther outside than if he were rounding third and heading home.Quatraro argued for a minute, then had turned to walk back to the dugout when Gibson threw him out.It sure seemed to ignite Kansas City.The Guardians were clinging to a 1-0 lead Daniel Schneemann provided with his sacrifice fly in the fifth when Isbel led off the sixth with a triple to right field, narrowly beating Schneemann's throw to third. Garcia followed with his own triple to right field, sliding in just ahead of Schneemann's throw again and tying the game.Pasquantino followed two batters later with a sacrifice fly to send Kansas City to its third win in four games.Both teams squandered plenty of chances. The Guardians left the bases loaded in the second inning and again in the sixth, and stranded nine runners in all. And the Royals had leadoff singles in three straight innings but nothing to show for them.“We should have scored more runs tonight. Wish we could have,” Vogt said, “but these nights happen.”HELP ON THE WAYThe Guardians agreed to a deal Thursday with LHP Matthew Boyd, a person familiar with the agreement told The Associated Press. The person spoke on condition of anonymity because the 33-year-old Boyd, who underwent reconstructive elbow surgery last year, must still pass a physical. He went 5-5 with a 5.45 ERA in 15 starts for Detroit last season.ROSTER MOVESThe Guardians placed OF Will Brennan (rib inflammation) on the injured list, retroactive to Tuesday. They recalled INF José Tena and RHP Darren McCaughan from Triple-A Columbus. RHP Xzavion Curry was optioned to the same club Wednesday night.UP NEXTCleveland RHP Triston McKenzie (3-4, 4.66 ERA) faces Kansas City RHP Alec Marsh (5-5, 4.40) on Friday night.

Royals rally to beat AL Central-rival Guardians, 2-1

KANSAS CITY, Mo.
(AP) — Kyle Isbel and Maikel Garcia hit back-to-back triples to
start a sixth-inning rally, and Vinnie Pasquantino delivered the
go-ahead sacrifice fly that sent the Kansas City Royals to a 2-1 win
over the Cleveland Guardians. Sam Long earned the win, wiggling his
way out of Michael Wacha’s jam in the sixth and retiring the side
in the seventh. John Schreiber handled the eighth before James
McArthur worked a perfect ninth for his 14th save. Ben Lively took
the loss for Cleveland, allowing two runs on six hits and a walk over
six innings. The Guardians wound up leaving nine runners on base.

ST. LOUIS (AP) —
Jonathan India had two hits to extend his hitting streak to nine
games, Spencer Steer homered and the Cincinnati Reds beat the St.
Louis Cardinals 11-4 on Thursday night. India had his sixth straight
multi-hit game. He had reached safely in 11 consecutive at-bats
before finally being retired Wednesday. Reds starter Andrew Abbott
(7-6) was the winner, allowing two runs on two hits and six walks in
five innings. Cincinnati won for the second time in six games. Miles
Mikolas (6-7) lasted 4 1/3 innings, allowing at least one run in each
inning he pitched in. He gave up a career-high 10 runs, nine of them
earned, on 12 hits and a walk.

PHILADELPHIA (AP) —
Bryce Harper limped off the field with an apparent hamstring injury
after making the final out for the Philadelphia Phillies in their 7-4
loss to the Miami Marlins. Hustling down the line as he tried to beat
out a grounder to the right side, Harper reached for his left
hamstring after crossing first base and hobbled toward the dugout. He
will undergo imaging Friday. Earlier in the day, the slugger was
elected by fans to start at first base for the National League in the
July 16 All-Star Game at Texas. Philadelphia teammate Kyle Schwarber
also got hurt, exiting in the ninth inning after experiencing left
groin tightness. Schwarber, normally a designated hitter, started in
left field — just his third game in the field all season.

ATLANTA (AP) —
José Fajardo beat backup goalkeeper Ethan Horvath in the 83rd minute
to give Panama a 2-1 victory over the United States at the Copa
America and put the Americans in danger of elimination if they don’t
beat Uruguay in their first-round finale. The U.S. played nearly the
entire game a man down after a silly foul by Tim Weah in the 18th
minute. Folarin Balogun put the short-handed U.S. ahead in the 22nd
minute but César Blackman tied the score in the 26th. Horvath, who
replaced injured Matt Turner at halftime, couldn’t prevent
Fajardo’s close-range shot and Panama beat the U.S. for just the
third time in 27 meetings.

NEW YORK (AP) —
The NBA draft was completed on a second day in a second borough of
New York, with the Toronto Raptors taking Jonathan Mogbo of San
Francisco with the No. 31 pick. The league went to a two-day format
this year instead of having its draft drag too late into the night.
The second round was held Thursday at ESPN’s Seaport District
studios in Manhattan after the first round took place as usual at
Barclays Center in Brooklyn. Ten players and their families attended,
sitting in a room off the studio set, though the two players who were
left in the green room at the end of the first round, Duke’s Kyle
Filipowski and Johnny Furphy of Kansas, didn’t return.

LOS ANGELES (AP) —
A jury in U.S. District Court ordered the NFL to pay nearly $4.8
billion in damages Thursday after ruling that the league violated
antitrust laws in distributing out-of-market Sunday afternoon games
on a premium subscription service. The jury awarded $4.7 billion in
damages to the residential class and $96 million in damages to the
commercial class. The lawsuit covered 2.4 million residential
subscribers and 48,000 businesses who paid for the package of
out-of-market games from the 2011 through 2022 seasons on DirecTV.

EUGENE, Ore. (AP) —
Sha’Carri Richardson never made it to the start, let alone the
finish, of the 200 meters at the last Olympic trials. At these
trials, even in the opening round of what’s really her second-best
race, she flashed another glimpse of the kind of sprinter who has
emerged from all that trouble three years ago. Bursting from the
starting block and turning the curve into her own, personal
glidepath, Richardson was able to slow down over the final 20 meters
and still won her opening round in 21.99 seconds. Noah Lyles and
Gabby Thomas also cruised through their opening rounds of the 200,
while Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone ran 53.07 seconds to win her first
round of the 400-meter hurdles.

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) —
Fred Richard and Brody Malone moved closer to a trip to the Olympics
with solid performances during the opening night of the U.S. Olympic
gymnastics trials. Richard, a junior at Michigan, posted an
all-around score of 85.600 on Thursday night to lead Malone, a
three-time national champion, by a half-point. Malone is at 85.100.
Shane Wiskus, a 2020 Olympian along with Malone, is third at 84.300.
The five-man U.S. Olympic team will be announced shortly after the
trials end on Saturday night.

LAS VEGAS (AP) —
Colorado Avalanche center Nathan MacKinnon was the big winner at
Thursday’s NHL awards show, taking home the Hart Memorial Trophy as
the league’s MVP as the Ted Lindsay Award as the league’s most
outstanding player as decided by the NHL Players Association. Chicago
Blackhawks center Connor Bedard was selected as the league’s top
rookie, winning the Calder Memorial Trophy. Connor Hellebuyck of the
Winnipeg Jets won the Vezina Trophy as the top goalie. Quinn Hughes
of the Vancouver Canucks was named winner of the James Norris
Memorial Trophy as the top defenseman.

UNDATED (AP) — A
small Texas university has gone to court to object to the $2.77
billion settlement proposal that would erase a set of antitrust
claims against the NCAA and the nation’s largest conferences and
clear the way for schools to begin steering millions of dollars
directly to athletes as soon as fall 2025. Houston Christian filed
its motion in federal court in California, arguing the settlement
would divert funds from academics and marginalized and underserved
populations as well as putting big-money college sports the over the
needs of non-athlete students.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718617262520.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo.
(AP) — Kyle Isbel and Maikel Garcia hit back-to-back triples to
start a sixth-inning rally, and Vinnie Pasquantino delivered the
go-ahead sacrifice fly that sent the Kansas City Royals to a 2-1 win
over the Cleveland Guardians. Sam Long earned the win, wiggling his
way out of Michael Wacha’s jam in the sixth and retiring the side
in the seventh. John Schreiber handled the eighth before James
McArthur worked a perfect ninth for his 14th save. Ben Lively took
the loss for Cleveland, allowing two runs on six hits and a walk over
six innings. The Guardians wound up leaving nine runners on base.ST. LOUIS (AP) —
Jonathan India had two hits to extend his hitting streak to nine
games, Spencer Steer homered and the Cincinnati Reds beat the St.
Louis Cardinals 11-4 on Thursday night. India had his sixth straight
multi-hit game. He had reached safely in 11 consecutive at-bats
before finally being retired Wednesday. Reds starter Andrew Abbott
(7-6) was the winner, allowing two runs on two hits and six walks in
five innings. Cincinnati won for the second time in six games. Miles
Mikolas (6-7) lasted 4 1/3 innings, allowing at least one run in each
inning he pitched in. He gave up a career-high 10 runs, nine of them
earned, on 12 hits and a walk.PHILADELPHIA (AP) —
Bryce Harper limped off the field with an apparent hamstring injury
after making the final out for the Philadelphia Phillies in their 7-4
loss to the Miami Marlins. Hustling down the line as he tried to beat
out a grounder to the right side, Harper reached for his left
hamstring after crossing first base and hobbled toward the dugout. He
will undergo imaging Friday. Earlier in the day, the slugger was
elected by fans to start at first base for the National League in the
July 16 All-Star Game at Texas. Philadelphia teammate Kyle Schwarber
also got hurt, exiting in the ninth inning after experiencing left
groin tightness. Schwarber, normally a designated hitter, started in
left field — just his third game in the field all season.ATLANTA (AP) —
José Fajardo beat backup goalkeeper Ethan Horvath in the 83rd minute
to give Panama a 2-1 victory over the United States at the Copa
America and put the Americans in danger of elimination if they don’t
beat Uruguay in their first-round finale. The U.S. played nearly the
entire game a man down after a silly foul by Tim Weah in the 18th
minute. Folarin Balogun put the short-handed U.S. ahead in the 22nd
minute but César Blackman tied the score in the 26th. Horvath, who
replaced injured Matt Turner at halftime, couldn’t prevent
Fajardo’s close-range shot and Panama beat the U.S. for just the
third time in 27 meetings.NEW YORK (AP) —
The NBA draft was completed on a second day in a second borough of
New York, with the Toronto Raptors taking Jonathan Mogbo of San
Francisco with the No. 31 pick. The league went to a two-day format
this year instead of having its draft drag too late into the night.
The second round was held Thursday at ESPN’s Seaport District
studios in Manhattan after the first round took place as usual at
Barclays Center in Brooklyn. Ten players and their families attended,
sitting in a room off the studio set, though the two players who were
left in the green room at the end of the first round, Duke’s Kyle
Filipowski and Johnny Furphy of Kansas, didn’t return.LOS ANGELES (AP) —
A jury in U.S. District Court ordered the NFL to pay nearly $4.8
billion in damages Thursday after ruling that the league violated
antitrust laws in distributing out-of-market Sunday afternoon games
on a premium subscription service. The jury awarded $4.7 billion in
damages to the residential class and $96 million in damages to the
commercial class. The lawsuit covered 2.4 million residential
subscribers and 48,000 businesses who paid for the package of
out-of-market games from the 2011 through 2022 seasons on DirecTV.EUGENE, Ore. (AP) —
Sha’Carri Richardson never made it to the start, let alone the
finish, of the 200 meters at the last Olympic trials. At these
trials, even in the opening round of what’s really her second-best
race, she flashed another glimpse of the kind of sprinter who has
emerged from all that trouble three years ago. Bursting from the
starting block and turning the curve into her own, personal
glidepath, Richardson was able to slow down over the final 20 meters
and still won her opening round in 21.99 seconds. Noah Lyles and
Gabby Thomas also cruised through their opening rounds of the 200,
while Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone ran 53.07 seconds to win her first
round of the 400-meter hurdles.MINNEAPOLIS (AP) —
Fred Richard and Brody Malone moved closer to a trip to the Olympics
with solid performances during the opening night of the U.S. Olympic
gymnastics trials. Richard, a junior at Michigan, posted an
all-around score of 85.600 on Thursday night to lead Malone, a
three-time national champion, by a half-point. Malone is at 85.100.
Shane Wiskus, a 2020 Olympian along with Malone, is third at 84.300.
The five-man U.S. Olympic team will be announced shortly after the
trials end on Saturday night.LAS VEGAS (AP) —
Colorado Avalanche center Nathan MacKinnon was the big winner at
Thursday’s NHL awards show, taking home the Hart Memorial Trophy as
the league’s MVP as the Ted Lindsay Award as the league’s most
outstanding player as decided by the NHL Players Association. Chicago
Blackhawks center Connor Bedard was selected as the league’s top
rookie, winning the Calder Memorial Trophy. Connor Hellebuyck of the
Winnipeg Jets won the Vezina Trophy as the top goalie. Quinn Hughes
of the Vancouver Canucks was named winner of the James Norris
Memorial Trophy as the top defenseman.UNDATED (AP) — A
small Texas university has gone to court to object to the $2.77
billion settlement proposal that would erase a set of antitrust
claims against the NCAA and the nation’s largest conferences and
clear the way for schools to begin steering millions of dollars
directly to athletes as soon as fall 2025. Houston Christian filed
its motion in federal court in California, arguing the settlement
would divert funds from academics and marginalized and underserved
populations as well as putting big-money college sports the over the
needs of non-athlete students.THURSDAY SCORESMAJOR LEAGUE
BASEBALLINTERLEAGUEFinal	Chicago White
Sox	1	Atlanta	0	Final	Minnesota	13	Arizona	6	AMERICAN LEAGUEFinal	Baltimore	11	Texas	2	Final	Toronto	9	N.Y.
Yankees	2	Final	Kansas
City	2	Cleveland	1	Final	L.A.
Angels	5	Detroit	0	NATIONAL LEAGUEFinal	Chicago
Cubs	5	San Francisco	3	Final	Miami	7	Philadelphia	4

Friday Sports Headlines and Scores presented by Barton Community College

LAWRENCE, Kan. – The Big 12 has announced its 20-game men’s basketball league opponent matrix for the upcoming 2024-25 schedule. Each conference team will host five opponents, play five foes on the road and have five home-and-home matchups.

Specific dates and times, along with television details will be announced later. The conference men’s basketball schedule will begin in late December with the Big 12 Championship running March 11-15 at T-Mobile Center in Kansas City, Missouri.

Kansas will host Arizona, Arizona State, Oklahoma State, Texas Tech and West Virginia in Allen Fieldhouse. KU will travel to BYU, Utah, TCU, Baylor and Cincinnati. The Jayhawks will play home-and-home contests against Colorado, Iowa State, Kansas State, Houston and UCF.

Historically, the upcoming 20-game conference schedule is the largest in Kansas basketball history. As members of the Missouri Valley Conference (1908-28), the number of league games varied with the most being 18 played in 1920, 1921, 1926 and 1928. As members of the Big Six Conference (1929-47), the league played 10 conference games. The Big Seven (1948-58) played a 12-game league schedule and the Big Eight (1959-96) a 14-game conference slate. The Big 12 had a 16-game league format from its inception in 1997 until 2011. Since, from 2012 to 2024, it has been an 18-game conference schedule.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719515738114.jpeg" alt="Kansas Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Kansas Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>LAWRENCE, Kan. – The Big 12 has announced its 20-game men’s basketball league opponent matrix for the upcoming 2024-25 schedule. Each conference team will host five opponents, play five foes on the road and have five home-and-home matchups.Specific dates and times, along with television details will be announced later. The conference men’s basketball schedule will begin in late December with the Big 12 Championship running March 11-15 at T-Mobile Center in Kansas City, Missouri.Kansas will host Arizona, Arizona State, Oklahoma State, Texas Tech and West Virginia in Allen Fieldhouse. KU will travel to BYU, Utah, TCU, Baylor and Cincinnati. The Jayhawks will play home-and-home contests against Colorado, Iowa State, Kansas State, Houston and UCF.Historically, the upcoming 20-game conference schedule is the largest in Kansas basketball history. As members of the Missouri Valley Conference (1908-28), the number of league games varied with the most being 18 played in 1920, 1921, 1926 and 1928. As members of the Big Six Conference (1929-47), the league played 10 conference games. The Big Seven (1948-58) played a 12-game league schedule and the Big Eight (1959-96) a 14-game conference slate. The Big 12 had a 16-game league format from its inception in 1997 until 2011. Since, from 2012 to 2024, it has been an 18-game conference schedule.

KU to Play 20-Game Big 12 Slate in 2024-25

MANHATTAN, Kan. – Visits by NCAA Tournament participants Arizona, Colorado, Houston and Texas Tech, along with home-and-home matchups with Arizona State, Cincinnati, Iowa State, Kansas and Oklahoma State, highlight Kansas State's home-and-away opponents for the 2024-25 Big 12 men's basketball season released Thursday morning (June 27).

Big 12 schools will embark on a new 20-game league schedule with 10 games at home and on the road as the conference expands to 16 teams in 2024-25 with the additions of Arizona, Arizona State, Colorado and Utah.

Dates, tipoff teams and television information will be released at a later date.

In addition to its permanent home-and-home series with Kansas in the Dillons Sunflower Showdown, K-State will also play home-and-home series against Arizona State, Cincinnati, Iowa State and Oklahoma State.

In all, the 10-game home Big 12 schedule will include visits by Arizona, Arizona State, Cincinnati, Colorado, Houston, Iowa State, Kansas, Oklahoma State, Texas Tech and West Virginia. The Wildcats will make trips to Arizona State, Baylor, BYU, UCF, Cincinnati, Iowa State, Kansas, Oklahoma State, TCU and Utah.

Thirteen of the 16 Big 12 teams won at least 17 games in 2023-24 with 11 winning at least 20 games, including 32 wins by league champion Houston. Thirteen made the postseason a season ago, including NCAA Tournament appearances by Arizona, Baylor, BYU, Colorado, Houston, Iowa State, Kansas, TCU and Texas Tech.

Season tickets for the 2024-25 season are currently on sale with a variety of ticket options. Fans can purchase tickets by calling toll free at (800) 221.CATS (2287) and/or online at www.kstatesports.com/tickets.

K-State finished the 2023-24 season with a 19-15 record, including a tie for ninth in the Big 12 with an 8-10 mark, and advanced to the NIT. Among the Wildcats' 19 victories were 4 over Top 25 teams, including 3 in the Top 10. The team has won 45 games in head coach Jerome Tang's tenure, including consecutive postseason appearances.

The Big 12 will play a 20-game league schedule in 2024-25, playing 10 at home and 10 on the road... It is the largest conference schedule in school history, as it has evolved from 10 games in the Big Six (1928-47) to 12 games in the Big Seven (1947-58) to 14 games in the Big Eight (1958-96) to 16 (1997-2011), 18 (2012-24) and now 20 in the Big 12 era.

K-State will play Arizona for the first time since 2014, Arizona State for the first time since 2017, Colorado for the first time since 2020 and Utah for the first time since 1983.

K-State will host Arizona for the first time since 1981 with the Purple Wildcats winning all 5 previous meetings at home in the series... The schools have met just 14 times in their respective histories, most recently in the 2014 Maui Invitational, with K-State holding an 8-6 advantage.

K-State will host Arizona State for the first time since 1982, while the Wildcats will visit Tempe for the first time since 1980... The schools have met 9 times previously with the Sun Devils holding a 5-4 edge.

K-State and Colorado will meet for the 145th time in 2024-25 and the first time since 2020. All but 2 meetings have come as conference foes, starting with the Big Seven in 1948 followed by the Big Eight (1959-96) and Big 12 (1997-2011, 2024-25).

K-State and Utah will meet for just the fourth time in 2024-25 and the first time since 1983... The Wildcats will travel to Salt Lake City for the second time and the first time since a 65-59 win in 1972.

K-State and Kansas have played home-and-home every year since 1912 and have played at least once every year since 1907... It is the sixth-most played rivalry (301) in Division I men's basketball.

K-State and Iowa State have met home-and-away every year since 1918 with the series dating to 1909.

The series with Oklahoma State dates to 1922 while the schools have played home-and-home as Big Eight members (1959-96) and since 2010 when the Big 12 switched to a round-robin schedule.

Cincinnati will visit Manhattan for the third time and the first time since 1967.

Houston will visit Manhattan for the third time and the first time since 1971.

K-State will visit UCF for the first time and play for the third time overall.

The rest of the 2024-25 men's basketball schedule will be released as it becomes official.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719515533854.jpeg" alt="K-State Athletics" />
 <figcaption>K-State Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>MANHATTAN, Kan. – Visits by NCAA Tournament participants Arizona, Colorado, Houston and Texas Tech, along with home-and-home matchups with Arizona State, Cincinnati, Iowa State, Kansas and Oklahoma State, highlight Kansas State's home-and-away opponents for the 2024-25 Big 12 men's basketball season released Thursday morning (June 27).Big 12 schools will embark on a new 20-game league schedule with 10 games at home and on the road as the conference expands to 16 teams in 2024-25 with the additions of Arizona, Arizona State, Colorado and Utah.Dates, tipoff teams and television information will be released at a later date.In addition to its permanent home-and-home series with Kansas in the Dillons Sunflower Showdown, K-State will also play home-and-home series against Arizona State, Cincinnati, Iowa State and Oklahoma State.In all, the 10-game home Big 12 schedule will include visits by Arizona, Arizona State, Cincinnati, Colorado, Houston, Iowa State, Kansas, Oklahoma State, Texas Tech and West Virginia. The Wildcats will make trips to Arizona State, Baylor, BYU, UCF, Cincinnati, Iowa State, Kansas, Oklahoma State, TCU and Utah.Thirteen of the 16 Big 12 teams won at least 17 games in 2023-24 with 11 winning at least 20 games, including 32 wins by league champion Houston. Thirteen made the postseason a season ago, including NCAA Tournament appearances by Arizona, Baylor, BYU, Colorado, Houston, Iowa State, Kansas, TCU and Texas Tech.Season tickets for the 2024-25 season are currently on sale with a variety of ticket options. Fans can purchase tickets by calling toll free at (800) 221.CATS (2287) and/or online at www.kstatesports.com/tickets.K-State finished the 2023-24 season with a 19-15 record, including a tie for ninth in the Big 12 with an 8-10 mark, and advanced to the NIT. Among the Wildcats' 19 victories were 4 over Top 25 teams, including 3 in the Top 10. The team has won 45 games in head coach Jerome Tang's tenure, including consecutive postseason appearances.SCHEDULE NOTESThe Big 12 will play a 20-game league schedule in 2024-25, playing 10 at home and 10 on the road... It is the largest conference schedule in school history, as it has evolved from 10 games in the Big Six (1928-47) to 12 games in the Big Seven (1947-58) to 14 games in the Big Eight (1958-96) to 16 (1997-2011), 18 (2012-24) and now 20 in the Big 12 era.K-State will play Arizona for the first time since 2014, Arizona State for the first time since 2017, Colorado for the first time since 2020 and Utah for the first time since 1983.K-State will host Arizona for the first time since 1981 with the Purple Wildcats winning all 5 previous meetings at home in the series... The schools have met just 14 times in their respective histories, most recently in the 2014 Maui Invitational, with K-State holding an 8-6 advantage.K-State will host Arizona State for the first time since 1982, while the Wildcats will visit Tempe for the first time since 1980... The schools have met 9 times previously with the Sun Devils holding a 5-4 edge.K-State and Colorado will meet for the 145th time in 2024-25 and the first time since 2020. All but 2 meetings have come as conference foes, starting with the Big Seven in 1948 followed by the Big Eight (1959-96) and Big 12 (1997-2011, 2024-25).K-State and Utah will meet for just the fourth time in 2024-25 and the first time since 1983... The Wildcats will travel to Salt Lake City for the second time and the first time since a 65-59 win in 1972.K-State and Kansas have played home-and-home every year since 1912 and have played at least once every year since 1907... It is the sixth-most played rivalry (301) in Division I men's basketball.K-State and Iowa State have met home-and-away every year since 1918 with the series dating to 1909.The series with Oklahoma State dates to 1922 while the schools have played home-and-home as Big Eight members (1959-96) and since 2010 when the Big 12 switched to a round-robin schedule.Cincinnati will visit Manhattan for the third time and the first time since 1967.Houston will visit Manhattan for the third time and the first time since 1971.K-State will visit UCF for the first time and play for the third time overall.The rest of the 2024-25 men's basketball schedule will be released as it becomes official.

Big 12 Announces 2024-25 Conference Opponent Pairings

The Big East Conference will expand to having games on three networks and see a significant increase in revenues under a new six-year media rights deal announced on Thursday.

Fox Sports will remain as the conference's lead network under the new agreement, which begins with the 2025-26 season, while NBC and TNT will carry Big East games for the first time.

The conferences's 12-year deal with Fox and CBS expires at the end of the upcoming 2024-25 season and averaged $41.67 million per year. With the increased revenue, the Big East should also be on better financial footing with the Power Four conferences, especially since it doesn't have football.

The Big East though is considered one of nation's premier basketball conferences and features two-time defending men's champion Connecticut among its 11 members. UConn also returned to the Women's Final Four this past season.

Fox signed a deal with the Big East after the seven Catholic schools separated from the football schools to form a basketball-centric conference in 2013. Butler, Xavier and Creighton also joined the conference and UConn returned in 2020.

The new agreement will see more than 150 men's regular season games aired, including all league contests and conference tournament games. It will also see up to 65 women's regular season and tournament games, which is more than triple the previous deal.

Fox will air at least 80 men's and women's games, including the conference tournament, on Fox, FS1 and FS2 under the new agreement. The men's tournament final will also remain on Fox.

NBC will get an early start on its Big East deal with 25 regular-season men's games and five tournament contests being streamed on Peacock this upcoming season. Beginning in 2025-26, Peacock and NBC will carry more than 60 men’s and women’s regular season and conference tournament games.

Fox and NBC also carry Big Ten basketball under a rights agreement that started this past season.

By JOE REEDY AP Sports WriterThe Big East Conference will expand to having games on three networks and see a significant increase in revenues under a new six-year media rights deal announced on Thursday.Fox Sports will remain as the conference's lead network under the new agreement, which begins with the 2025-26 season, while NBC and TNT will carry Big East games for the first time.The conferences's 12-year deal with Fox and CBS expires at the end of the upcoming 2024-25 season and averaged $41.67 million per year. With the increased revenue, the Big East should also be on better financial footing with the Power Four conferences, especially since it doesn't have football.The Big East though is considered one of nation's premier basketball conferences and features two-time defending men's champion Connecticut among its 11 members. UConn also returned to the Women's Final Four this past season.Fox signed a deal with the Big East after the seven Catholic schools separated from the football schools to form a basketball-centric conference in 2013. Butler, Xavier and Creighton also joined the conference and UConn returned in 2020.The new agreement will see more than 150 men's regular season games aired, including all league contests and conference tournament games. It will also see up to 65 women's regular season and tournament games, which is more than triple the previous deal.Fox will air at least 80 men's and women's games, including the conference tournament, on Fox, FS1 and FS2 under the new agreement. The men's tournament final will also remain on Fox.NBC will get an early start on its Big East deal with 25 regular-season men's games and five tournament contests being streamed on Peacock this upcoming season. Beginning in 2025-26, Peacock and NBC will carry more than 60 men’s and women’s regular season and conference tournament games.Fox and NBC also carry Big Ten basketball under a rights agreement that started this past season.

Big East signs 6-year rights agreement with Fox Sports, NBC and TNT

By ANNE M. PETERSON AP Soccer Writer

Veteran forward Alex Morgan won't be going to the Paris Olympics after surprisingly being left off the roster by U.S. national team coach Emma Hayes.

Morgan, a three-time Olympian and two-time Women's World Cup winner, was the most notable absence on the 18-player list announced Wednesday by Hayes.

The roster, the youngest for the U.S. since 2008, signals a shift in the team as it looks toward the 2027 Women's World Cup under Hayes.

"First off, I want to talk about what an amazing player and human that Alex Morgan has been. I’ve only had one opportunity to work with her, in the last camp, and I saw first-hand not just her qualities but her professionalism, and her record speaks for itself," Hayes said. “Second of all, it’s not easy making a decision that there’s only 16 outfield players and two goalkeepers on a roster of 18. So, it was a tough decision, of course, especially considering Alex’s history and record with this team. But I felt that I wanted to go in another direction.”

The 34-year-old Morgan missed more than a month with the San Diego Wave after she injured her left ankle on April 19, but she had since returned. She also was named to the squad Hayes assembled for a pair of U.S. friendlies against South Korea earlier this month.

Morgan, who has 123 goals in 224 appearances with the national team, missed the latest Wave match last weekend as an excused absence.

“Today, I’m disappointed about not having the opportunity to represent our country on the Olympic stage,” Morgan posted on X. “This will always be a tournament that is close to my heart and I take immense pride any time I put on the crest.”

The Olympic roster is smaller than the 23 players who are included on teams for the Women's World Cup and other competitions.

Hayes, who had been coaching English club Chelsea, was named the coach of the United States in November but finished the Women's Super League season. After her arrival in May, she coached the national team's matches against South Korea.

Versatile veteran Crystal Dunn, who in recent years has played on the back line, was included as a forward, along with Trinity Rodman, Sophia Smith, Mallory Swanson and 19-year-old Jaedyn Shaw.

Goalkeeper Alyssa Naeher was included on the squad despite a recent thigh injury that kept her out of the team's last two matches. Naeher recently returned to play for her NWSL team, the Chicago Red Stars.

Hayes also selected goalkeeper Casey Murphy, while Jane Campbell was included among the team's four alternates, with midfielders Hal Harshfelt and Croix Bethune, and forward Lynn Williams.

Former coach Vlatko Andonovski resigned from the U.S. team following last year’s disappointing finish at the Women’s World Cup. Twila Kilgore led the team in the interim while awaiting Hayes' return, and now serves as an assistant coach.

Ten players who were on the World Cup roster were included on the Olympic team. The United States has won four Olympic gold medals, more than any other team, but has not won gold since the 2012 London Games. The U.S. was eliminated by Sweden in the quarterfinals at the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Games before earning the bronze in Tokyo.

The United States fell to No. 5 in the latest FIFA rankings, its lowest rank ever.

“There’s no denying the history of this program has been hugely successful. But the reality is it’s going to take a lot of work for us to get to that top level again," Hayes said on a conference call. “I think looking through the sort of cap accumulation of the team, there has been a lack of development of putting some of the less experienced players in positions where they can develop that experience. And I think it’s important that we have to do that to take the next step.”

Morgan was also left off the roster for the CONCACAF Gold Cup earlier this year, but was added to the squad when Mia Fishel tore her ACL.

Hayes also included midfielder Korbin Albert, who was criticized earlier this year for past anti-LGBTQ+ social media posts, including a video she shared of a church sermon that described being gay and “feeling transgender” as wrong. Albert apologized for the posts and they were deleted, but she has been booed at U.S. matches.

Hayes said she's spoken with Albert, who has struggled with the criticism.

“I’m not going to go into to that in great detail because that’s between Korbin and I," Hayes said. "But the conversations we have had has been to talk about the importance of what we have to be mindful of and how we are all part of an environment that appreciates and understands the damage that that can do."

The Americans will play a pair of send-off matches before leaving for France. They'll play Mexico on July 13 at Red Bull Arena in New Jersey, and then Costa Rica at Audi Field in Washington on July 16.

The United States opens the Olympic tournament on July 25 against Zambia in Nice.

Goalkeepers: Casey Murphy (North Carolina Courage), Alyssa Naeher (Chicago Red Stars)

Defenders: Tierna Davidson (Gotham), Emily Fox (Arsenal), Naomi Girma (San Diego Wave), Casey Krueger (Washington Spirit), Jenna Nighswonger (Gotham), Emily Sonnett (Gotham)

Midfielders: Korbin Albert (Paris Saint-Germain), Sam Coffey (Portland Thorns), Lindsey Horan (Lyon), Rose Lavelle (Gotham), Catarina Macario (Chelsea)

Forwards: Crystal Dunn (Gotham), Trinity Rodman (Washington Spirit), Jaedyn Shaw (San Diego Wave), Sophia Smith (Portland Thorns), Mallory Swanson (Chicago Red Stars)

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719514876625.jpeg" alt="&nbsp;United States women's national team head coach Emma Hayes, left, looks on with forward Alex Morgan (13) as players warm up before facing South Korea in an international friendly soccer game Saturday, June 1, 2024, in Commerce City, Colo. (AP Photo/David Zalubowski)" />
 <figcaption>&nbsp;United States women's national team head coach Emma Hayes, left, looks on with forward Alex Morgan (13) as players warm up before facing South Korea in an international friendly soccer game Saturday, June 1, 2024, in Commerce City, Colo. (AP Photo/David Zalubowski)</figcaption>
 </figure>By ANNE M. PETERSON AP Soccer WriterVeteran forward Alex Morgan won't be going to the Paris Olympics after surprisingly being left off the roster by U.S. national team coach Emma Hayes.Morgan, a three-time Olympian and two-time Women's World Cup winner, was the most notable absence on the 18-player list announced Wednesday by Hayes.The roster, the youngest for the U.S. since 2008, signals a shift in the team as it looks toward the 2027 Women's World Cup under Hayes."First off, I want to talk about what an amazing player and human that Alex Morgan has been. I’ve only had one opportunity to work with her, in the last camp, and I saw first-hand not just her qualities but her professionalism, and her record speaks for itself," Hayes said. “Second of all, it’s not easy making a decision that there’s only 16 outfield players and two goalkeepers on a roster of 18. So, it was a tough decision, of course, especially considering Alex’s history and record with this team. But I felt that I wanted to go in another direction.”The 34-year-old Morgan missed more than a month with the San Diego Wave after she injured her left ankle on April 19, but she had since returned. She also was named to the squad Hayes assembled for a pair of U.S. friendlies against South Korea earlier this month.Morgan, who has 123 goals in 224 appearances with the national team, missed the latest Wave match last weekend as an excused absence.“Today, I’m disappointed about not having the opportunity to represent our country on the Olympic stage,” Morgan posted on X. “This will always be a tournament that is close to my heart and I take immense pride any time I put on the crest.”The Olympic roster is smaller than the 23 players who are included on teams for the Women's World Cup and other competitions.Hayes, who had been coaching English club Chelsea, was named the coach of the United States in November but finished the Women's Super League season. After her arrival in May, she coached the national team's matches against South Korea.Versatile veteran Crystal Dunn, who in recent years has played on the back line, was included as a forward, along with Trinity Rodman, Sophia Smith, Mallory Swanson and 19-year-old Jaedyn Shaw.Goalkeeper Alyssa Naeher was included on the squad despite a recent thigh injury that kept her out of the team's last two matches. Naeher recently returned to play for her NWSL team, the Chicago Red Stars.Hayes also selected goalkeeper Casey Murphy, while Jane Campbell was included among the team's four alternates, with midfielders Hal Harshfelt and Croix Bethune, and forward Lynn Williams.Former coach Vlatko Andonovski resigned from the U.S. team following last year’s disappointing finish at the Women’s World Cup. Twila Kilgore led the team in the interim while awaiting Hayes' return, and now serves as an assistant coach.Ten players who were on the World Cup roster were included on the Olympic team. The United States has won four Olympic gold medals, more than any other team, but has not won gold since the 2012 London Games. The U.S. was eliminated by Sweden in the quarterfinals at the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Games before earning the bronze in Tokyo.The United States fell to No. 5 in the latest FIFA rankings, its lowest rank ever.“There’s no denying the history of this program has been hugely successful. But the reality is it’s going to take a lot of work for us to get to that top level again," Hayes said on a conference call. “I think looking through the sort of cap accumulation of the team, there has been a lack of development of putting some of the less experienced players in positions where they can develop that experience. And I think it’s important that we have to do that to take the next step.”Morgan was also left off the roster for the CONCACAF Gold Cup earlier this year, but was added to the squad when Mia Fishel tore her ACL.Hayes also included midfielder Korbin Albert, who was criticized earlier this year for past anti-LGBTQ+ social media posts, including a video she shared of a church sermon that described being gay and “feeling transgender” as wrong. Albert apologized for the posts and they were deleted, but she has been booed at U.S. matches.Hayes said she's spoken with Albert, who has struggled with the criticism.“I’m not going to go into to that in great detail because that’s between Korbin and I," Hayes said. "But the conversations we have had has been to talk about the importance of what we have to be mindful of and how we are all part of an environment that appreciates and understands the damage that that can do."The Americans will play a pair of send-off matches before leaving for France. They'll play Mexico on July 13 at Red Bull Arena in New Jersey, and then Costa Rica at Audi Field in Washington on July 16.The United States opens the Olympic tournament on July 25 against Zambia in Nice.U.S. Olympic team:Goalkeepers: Casey Murphy (North Carolina Courage), Alyssa Naeher (Chicago Red Stars)Defenders: Tierna Davidson (Gotham), Emily Fox (Arsenal), Naomi Girma (San Diego Wave), Casey Krueger (Washington Spirit), Jenna Nighswonger (Gotham), Emily Sonnett (Gotham)Midfielders: Korbin Albert (Paris Saint-Germain), Sam Coffey (Portland Thorns), Lindsey Horan (Lyon), Rose Lavelle (Gotham), Catarina Macario (Chelsea)Forwards: Crystal Dunn (Gotham), Trinity Rodman (Washington Spirit), Jaedyn Shaw (San Diego Wave), Sophia Smith (Portland Thorns), Mallory Swanson (Chicago Red Stars)

Alex Morgan left off the 18-player U.S. soccer roster

The Barton Community College Cougar Booster Club's 12th annual Cougar Open will take place Aug. 9, 2024 at Lake Barton Golf Club.

Signups for the four-person teams are being accepted for $125 per person, which includes golf cart and fees. The proceeds of the tournament benefit Barton student athletes. Hole sponsorships are available for individuals or businesses.

Announcements for the tournament begin at 9:45 a.m. with a shotgun start at 10 a.m.

The day will include a grab-and-go lunch, silent auction, hole prizes and a raffle.

For more information, contact Eric Gotsche (620-617-8600), Ron Mason (620-282-9569), Chuck Fellhoelter (620-786-4231), Rob Bowman (620-282-1532) or Kevin Sundahl (620-793-2224).

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719511043322.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Barton Community College Cougar Booster Club's 12th annual Cougar Open will take place Aug. 9, 2024 at Lake Barton Golf Club.Signups for the four-person teams are being accepted for $125 per person, which includes golf cart and fees. The proceeds of the tournament benefit Barton student athletes. Hole sponsorships are available for individuals or businesses.Announcements for the tournament begin at 9:45 a.m. with a shotgun start at 10 a.m.The day will include a grab-and-go lunch, silent auction, hole prizes and a raffle.For more information, contact Eric Gotsche (620-617-8600), Ron Mason (620-282-9569), Chuck Fellhoelter (620-786-4231), Rob Bowman (620-282-1532) or Kevin Sundahl (620-793-2224).

Barton Cougar Booster Club golf tournament is Aug. 9

AMERICAN LEAGUEEast DivisionW	L	Pct	GBNew
York	52	30	.634	—Baltimore	50	30	.625	1Boston	43	37	.538	8Tampa
Bay	40	41	.494	11½Toronto	36	43	.456	14½Central DivisionCleveland	51	27	.654	—Minnesota	44	36	.550	8Kansas
City	44	38	.537	9Detroit	37	43	.463	15Chicago	21	61	.256	32West DivisionSeattle	46	37	.554	—Houston	40	40	.500	4½Texas	37	43	.463	7½Los
Angeles	33	46	.418	11Oakland	29	54	.349	17NATIONAL LEAGUEEast DivisionW	L	Pct	GBPhiladelphia	53	27	.663	—Atlanta	44	34	.564	8New
York	39	39	.500	13Washington	38	42	.475	15Miami	28	52	.350	25Central DivisionMilwaukee	48	33	.593	—St.
Louis	41	38	.519	6Pittsburgh	39	41	.488	8½Cincinnati	37	43	.463	10½Chicago	37	44	.457	11West DivisionLos
Angeles	51	31	.622	—San
Diego	44	41	.518	8½Arizona	39	41	.488	11San
Francisco	39	42	.481	11½

MLB Standings

NEW YORK (AP) — First, Victor Wembanyama, now Zaccharie Risacher.

These days, American college players have to wait their turn in the NBA draft. It's someone else's time at the top.

The Atlanta Hawks took Risacher with the No. 1 pick Wednesday night and France landed three players in the top six in a historic night for the country.

“That’s amazing," Risacher said. “We try to represent our country and so, glad to be a part of it. You know there is more players coming in.”

Risacher doesn't come with the enormous height or hype of Wembanyama, the towering center who went to San Antonio last year and went on to win the Rookie of the Year award.

But the Hawks saw him as the best choice in what has been viewed as a draft absent of elite talent.

The 19-year-old forward was the winner of the best young player award in the French League last season and beat out fellow Frenchman Alex Sarr in the race to be the top pick.

When he did, it made NBA draft history. This is the first time that the draft has gone consecutive years without the No. 1 pick being someone who played at an American college.

“Shows the amount of talent we have in France," Sarr said. “Really excited for Zach. I think our national team is going to be really good.”

Sarr went second to the Washington Wizards after playing last year with Perth in Australia's National Basketball League.

The Hawks had only a 3% chance of winning the lottery to earn the No. 1 pick, and there was no obvious choice waiting once they did. Most mock drafts were split between Risacher and Sarr, and Atlanta also worked out UConn center Donovan Clingan.

Houston made Kentucky freshman Reed Sheppard the No. 3 pick. A one-and-done college player had topped the draft for 13 straight years from 2010-22 before Wembanyama ended that streak.

Stephon Castle of the two-time reigning national champion Huskies made it two straight college freshmen when San Antonio took him at No. 4, the Spurs' first of two picks in the top 10. They also held the No. 8 selection — though they dealt the rights to that pick, Kentucky guard Rob Dillingham, to Minnesota.

But the Spurs are holding onto Castle, who had a phone call with Wembanyama and can now throw passes to him to ease his transition from Dan Hurley in his old home to Gregg Popovich in his new one.

“I was just playing for the best coach in college basketball and now flipping to the NBA and going to play for a legendary coach like Coach Pop, it’s a blessing,” Castle said.

The Detroit Pistons took Ron Holland of the G League Ignite with the fifth pick before the Hornets took Tidjane Salaun, who played last year for Cholet Basket in France.

“I think the basketball in France is improved that’s why we are here in this draft," Saluan said.

Clingan, who won titles in both seasons in Storrs, finally went to Portland at No. 7.

The draft moved to a two-night format this year, with the first round being held as usual at Barclays Center in Brooklyn and the second round to be held Thursday at ESPN’s Seaport District studios.

The green room was filled with a number of unfamiliar faces who will head to the NBA from other leagues or other countries. A player who would have been one of the most recognizable was not in the arena: Zach Edey, the two-time AP Player of the Year from Purdue, was taken at No. 9 by Memphis.

Another All-American, Tennessee's Dalton Knecht, went lower than predicted, after dropping from an expected lottery pick to the Los Angeles Lakers at No. 17.

The Knicks had back-to-back picks as the round dragged toward the finish, but their fans had much more to cheer with the moves they made before the draft. New York made a deal to acquire Mikal Bridges from Brooklyn on Tuesday, then got OG Anunoby to agree to stay with the team on a five-year contract worth more than $210 million on Wednesday.

Bronny James was not drafted in the first round, though LeBron James' son had one of his USC teammates taken just before the night ended, with Isaiah Collier going to Utah with the No. 29 selection.

NEW YORK (AP) — First, Victor Wembanyama, now Zaccharie Risacher.These days, American college players have to wait their turn in the NBA draft. It's someone else's time at the top.Vive la France!The Atlanta Hawks took Risacher with the No. 1 pick Wednesday night and France landed three players in the top six in a historic night for the country.“That’s amazing," Risacher said. “We try to represent our country and so, glad to be a part of it. You know there is more players coming in.”Risacher doesn't come with the enormous height or hype of Wembanyama, the towering center who went to San Antonio last year and went on to win the Rookie of the Year award.But the Hawks saw him as the best choice in what has been viewed as a draft absent of elite talent.The 19-year-old forward was the winner of the best young player award in the French League last season and beat out fellow Frenchman Alex Sarr in the race to be the top pick.When he did, it made NBA draft history. This is the first time that the draft has gone consecutive years without the No. 1 pick being someone who played at an American college.“Shows the amount of talent we have in France," Sarr said. “Really excited for Zach. I think our national team is going to be really good.”Sarr went second to the Washington Wizards after playing last year with Perth in Australia's National Basketball League.The Hawks had only a 3% chance of winning the lottery to earn the No. 1 pick, and there was no obvious choice waiting once they did. Most mock drafts were split between Risacher and Sarr, and Atlanta also worked out UConn center Donovan Clingan.Houston made Kentucky freshman Reed Sheppard the No. 3 pick. A one-and-done college player had topped the draft for 13 straight years from 2010-22 before Wembanyama ended that streak.Now the draft is under French rule.Stephon Castle of the two-time reigning national champion Huskies made it two straight college freshmen when San Antonio took him at No. 4, the Spurs' first of two picks in the top 10. They also held the No. 8 selection — though they dealt the rights to that pick, Kentucky guard Rob Dillingham, to Minnesota.But the Spurs are holding onto Castle, who had a phone call with Wembanyama and can now throw passes to him to ease his transition from Dan Hurley in his old home to Gregg Popovich in his new one.“I was just playing for the best coach in college basketball and now flipping to the NBA and going to play for a legendary coach like Coach Pop, it’s a blessing,” Castle said.The Detroit Pistons took Ron Holland of the G League Ignite with the fifth pick before the Hornets took Tidjane Salaun, who played last year for Cholet Basket in France.“I think the basketball in France is improved that’s why we are here in this draft," Saluan said.Clingan, who won titles in both seasons in Storrs, finally went to Portland at No. 7.The draft moved to a two-night format this year, with the first round being held as usual at Barclays Center in Brooklyn and the second round to be held Thursday at ESPN’s Seaport District studios.The green room was filled with a number of unfamiliar faces who will head to the NBA from other leagues or other countries. A player who would have been one of the most recognizable was not in the arena: Zach Edey, the two-time AP Player of the Year from Purdue, was taken at No. 9 by Memphis.Another All-American, Tennessee's Dalton Knecht, went lower than predicted, after dropping from an expected lottery pick to the Los Angeles Lakers at No. 17.The Knicks had back-to-back picks as the round dragged toward the finish, but their fans had much more to cheer with the moves they made before the draft. New York made a deal to acquire Mikal Bridges from Brooklyn on Tuesday, then got OG Anunoby to agree to stay with the team on a five-year contract worth more than $210 million on Wednesday.Bronny James was not drafted in the first round, though LeBron James' son had one of his USC teammates taken just before the night ended, with Isaiah Collier going to Utah with the No. 29 selection.

Hawks make Zaccharie Risacher second straight Frenchman taken No. 1 in NBA draft

KANSAS CITY, Mo.
(AP) — Salvador Perez highlighted a five-run, two-out rally with a
go-ahead double in the eighth inning, and the Royals went on to beat
the Marlins 5-1 on Wednesday. The Royals had been shut down by
Valente Bellozo, making his big league debut, and the Miami bullpen
until that point. Perez got his timely hit off Huascar Brazoban after
a double by Bobby Witt Jr. and Vinnie Pasquantino's tying single.
Angel Zerpa (1-0) got the final two outs of the eighth for Kansas
City in relief of Brady Singer, who allowed an RBI single to Vidal
Bruján in the second but little else of 7 1/3 innings. James
McArthur handled the ninth to wrap up the win.

ST. LOUIS (AP) —
Matthew Liberatore pitched six shutout innings in a spot start and
Alec Burleson hit a go-ahead, two-run double to lead the St. Louis
Cardinals over the Atlanta Braves 4-1 Wednesday for a day-night
doubleheader split. Jarred Kelenic had three hits, including his
eighth home run, and three RBIs as the Braves won the opener 6-2.
Kelenic was 6 for 9 with four RBIs in the doubleheader and is hitting
.362 with four homers and 10 RBIs since being moved to the leadoff
spot in the batting order. Liberatore gave up two hits and struck out
eight in his fifth start.

CHICAGO (AP) —
Shohei Ohtani is rolling along for the Los Angeles Dodgers at the
moment. When it comes to the Home Run Derby, well, stay tuned. Ohtani
hit a leadoff drive against the Chicago White Sox for the second
straight night, extending his RBI streak to a franchise-record 10
games. The two-time AL MVP is batting .310 with 11 homers, 23 RBIs
and 24 runs in 23 games this month. Ohtani’s latest tear has him
contemplating another try at the Derby on July 15 as part of the
All-Star festivities at Globe Life Field in Texas. Ohtani says he has
to talk to “a lot of people” before deciding on the marquee
event.

NEW YORK (AP) —
Francisco Alvarez went 3 for 3 with a homer and three RBIs, Tyrone
Taylor added a three-run drive and the surging New York Mets routed
the Yankees 12-2 for a two-game Subway Series sweep. Harrison Bader
also went deep and delivered an RBI double for the Mets, who chased
Luis Gil in the fifth inning. They pounded Yankees pitching for seven
homers and 21 runs over two nights at Citi Field. With their 15th
victory in 19 games, the Mets climbed back to .500 for the first time
since May 9. The struggling Yankees, who lead the AL East, have lost
four consecutive series and eight of 10 games overall. Following an
87-minute rain delay, Aaron Judge launched a two-run homer with the
Yankees trailing 7-0 in the sixth.

NEW YORK (AP) —
The Atlanta Hawks took Zaccharie Risacher with the No. 1 pick in the
NBA draft on Wednesday night, the second straight year a player from
France was the first player selected. Risacher doesn’t come with
the enormous height or hype of Victor Wembanyama, the towering center
who went to San Antonio last year and went on to win the Rookie of
the Year award. But the Hawks saw him as the best choice in what has
been viewed as a draft absent of elite talent. This is the first time
that the draft has gone consecutive years without the No. 1 pick
being someone who played at an American college.

NEW YORK (AP) —
The players selected in the first round of the NBA draft. French
teenager Zaccharie Risacher goes first overall to the Atlanta Hawks,
followed by another French teen in 7-footer Alex Sarr to Washington
at No. 2. They were the first of three Frenchmen in the top 10 and
four in the first round. Charlotte took Tidjane Salaun at No. 6
overall while Pacome Dadiet went at No. 25 to New York. Two-time
reigning national champion UConn had guard Stephon Castle go fourth
to San Antonio and big man Donovan Clingan go seventh to Portland.
Kentucky also had two top-10 picks.

NEW YORK (AP) — A
person with knowledge of the details says OG Anunoby will stay with
the New York Knicks on a five-year contract worth more than $210
million. Keeping the swingman was a priority for the Knicks after
they flourished when Anunoby was in the lineup after arriving in
December in a trade with Toronto. The deal was first reported by
ESPN, which said Anunoby’s deal would be worth $212.5 million. The
person confirmed the details to The Associated Press on condition of
anonymity because the contract is not yet official. The Knicks went
20-3 with Anunoby in the lineup in the regular season.

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) —
USA Gymnastics believes it is building momentum toward a better
future as the 2024 Olympics near. The organization has undergone a
massive overhaul in the last six years in the wake of the Larry
Nassar scandal. President Li Li Leung and her team have placed an
emphasis on transparency and support in hoping to re-establish trust
in athletes, coaches and gym owners alike. Superstar Simone Biles
says the leadership at USA Gymnastics has changed because “they've
done the work” to make the organization a better place. The
organization will be in the spotlight this weekend at the U.S.
Olympic trials.

UNDATED (AP) —
U.S. national team forward Alex Morgan has been left off coach Emma
Hayes’ roster for the Paris Olympics. Morgan was the most notable
absence on the 18-player list. The 34-year-old Morgan is a three-time
Olympian but missed more than a month with the San Diego Wave after
injuring her left ankle on April 19. She had since returned. Morgan
also was named to the squad Hayes assembled for a pair of U.S.
friendlies against South Korea earlier this month. Morgan has 123
goals in 224 appearances with the national team. Hayes says “there
is no denying that it was an extremely competitive process.”

Final	L.A.
Dodgers	4	Chicago White Sox	0	

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718617262520.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo.
(AP) — Salvador Perez highlighted a five-run, two-out rally with a
go-ahead double in the eighth inning, and the Royals went on to beat
the Marlins 5-1 on Wednesday. The Royals had been shut down by
Valente Bellozo, making his big league debut, and the Miami bullpen
until that point. Perez got his timely hit off Huascar Brazoban after
a double by Bobby Witt Jr. and Vinnie Pasquantino's tying single.
Angel Zerpa (1-0) got the final two outs of the eighth for Kansas
City in relief of Brady Singer, who allowed an RBI single to Vidal
Bruján in the second but little else of 7 1/3 innings. James
McArthur handled the ninth to wrap up the win.ST. LOUIS (AP) —
Matthew Liberatore pitched six shutout innings in a spot start and
Alec Burleson hit a go-ahead, two-run double to lead the St. Louis
Cardinals over the Atlanta Braves 4-1 Wednesday for a day-night
doubleheader split. Jarred Kelenic had three hits, including his
eighth home run, and three RBIs as the Braves won the opener 6-2.
Kelenic was 6 for 9 with four RBIs in the doubleheader and is hitting
.362 with four homers and 10 RBIs since being moved to the leadoff
spot in the batting order. Liberatore gave up two hits and struck out
eight in his fifth start.CHICAGO (AP) —
Shohei Ohtani is rolling along for the Los Angeles Dodgers at the
moment. When it comes to the Home Run Derby, well, stay tuned. Ohtani
hit a leadoff drive against the Chicago White Sox for the second
straight night, extending his RBI streak to a franchise-record 10
games. The two-time AL MVP is batting .310 with 11 homers, 23 RBIs
and 24 runs in 23 games this month. Ohtani’s latest tear has him
contemplating another try at the Derby on July 15 as part of the
All-Star festivities at Globe Life Field in Texas. Ohtani says he has
to talk to “a lot of people” before deciding on the marquee
event.NEW YORK (AP) —
Francisco Alvarez went 3 for 3 with a homer and three RBIs, Tyrone
Taylor added a three-run drive and the surging New York Mets routed
the Yankees 12-2 for a two-game Subway Series sweep. Harrison Bader
also went deep and delivered an RBI double for the Mets, who chased
Luis Gil in the fifth inning. They pounded Yankees pitching for seven
homers and 21 runs over two nights at Citi Field. With their 15th
victory in 19 games, the Mets climbed back to .500 for the first time
since May 9. The struggling Yankees, who lead the AL East, have lost
four consecutive series and eight of 10 games overall. Following an
87-minute rain delay, Aaron Judge launched a two-run homer with the
Yankees trailing 7-0 in the sixth.NEW YORK (AP) —
The Atlanta Hawks took Zaccharie Risacher with the No. 1 pick in the
NBA draft on Wednesday night, the second straight year a player from
France was the first player selected. Risacher doesn’t come with
the enormous height or hype of Victor Wembanyama, the towering center
who went to San Antonio last year and went on to win the Rookie of
the Year award. But the Hawks saw him as the best choice in what has
been viewed as a draft absent of elite talent. This is the first time
that the draft has gone consecutive years without the No. 1 pick
being someone who played at an American college.NEW YORK (AP) —
The players selected in the first round of the NBA draft. French
teenager Zaccharie Risacher goes first overall to the Atlanta Hawks,
followed by another French teen in 7-footer Alex Sarr to Washington
at No. 2. They were the first of three Frenchmen in the top 10 and
four in the first round. Charlotte took Tidjane Salaun at No. 6
overall while Pacome Dadiet went at No. 25 to New York. Two-time
reigning national champion UConn had guard Stephon Castle go fourth
to San Antonio and big man Donovan Clingan go seventh to Portland.
Kentucky also had two top-10 picks.NEW YORK (AP) — A
person with knowledge of the details says OG Anunoby will stay with
the New York Knicks on a five-year contract worth more than $210
million. Keeping the swingman was a priority for the Knicks after
they flourished when Anunoby was in the lineup after arriving in
December in a trade with Toronto. The deal was first reported by
ESPN, which said Anunoby’s deal would be worth $212.5 million. The
person confirmed the details to The Associated Press on condition of
anonymity because the contract is not yet official. The Knicks went
20-3 with Anunoby in the lineup in the regular season.MINNEAPOLIS (AP) —
USA Gymnastics believes it is building momentum toward a better
future as the 2024 Olympics near. The organization has undergone a
massive overhaul in the last six years in the wake of the Larry
Nassar scandal. President Li Li Leung and her team have placed an
emphasis on transparency and support in hoping to re-establish trust
in athletes, coaches and gym owners alike. Superstar Simone Biles
says the leadership at USA Gymnastics has changed because “they've
done the work” to make the organization a better place. The
organization will be in the spotlight this weekend at the U.S.
Olympic trials.UNDATED (AP) —
U.S. national team forward Alex Morgan has been left off coach Emma
Hayes’ roster for the Paris Olympics. Morgan was the most notable
absence on the 18-player list. The 34-year-old Morgan is a three-time
Olympian but missed more than a month with the San Diego Wave after
injuring her left ankle on April 19. She had since returned. Morgan
also was named to the squad Hayes assembled for a pair of U.S.
friendlies against South Korea earlier this month. Morgan has 123
goals in 224 appearances with the national team. Hayes says “there
is no denying that it was an extremely competitive process.”WEDNESDAY SCORESMAJOR LEAGUE
BASEBALLINTERLEAGUEFinal	Philadelphia	6	Detroit	2	Final	Kansas
City	5	Miami	1	Final	Houston	7	Colorado	1	Final	Milwaukee	6	Texas	5	Final	L.A.
Dodgers	4	Chicago White Sox	0	Final	N.Y.
Mets	12	N.Y. Yankees	2	Final	Minnesota	8	Arizona	3	AMERICAN LEAGUEFinal	Seattle	5	Tampa
Bay	2	Final	L.A.
Angels	5	Oakland	2	Final	Baltimore	4	Cleveland	2	NATIONAL LEAGUEFinal	Pittsburgh	6	Cincinnati	1	Final	Atlanta	6	St.
Louis	2	Final	San
Diego	8	Washington	5	Final	St.
Louis	4	Atlanta	1

Thursday Sports Headlines and Scores presented by Barton Community College

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Salvador Perez highlighted a five-run, two-out rally in the eighth inning with a go-ahead double down the left-field line, and the Kansas City Royals went on to beat the Miami Marlins 5-1 on Wednesday to pick up the series win.

Angel Zerpa (1-0) got the final two outs of the eighth in relief of Brady Singer, who allowed an RBI single to Vidal Bruján in the second inning but little else on a sunny afternoon at Kauffman Stadium. James McArthur handled the ninth to finish it off.

“Just incredible,” Singer said. “For those guys to grind back, that's how we're going to win games.”

Indeed, Kansas City had been shut down by Valente Bellozo and the Miami bullpen until the eighth, when Bobby Witt Jr. started the rally with a triple off Huascar Brazoban (0-1). Vinnie Pasquantino followed with a tying single, and after pinch runner Dairon Blanco swiped second, Perez delivered the double that gave Kansas City the lead.

Nick Loftin added an RBI single and Freddy Fermin drove in two more runs to provide McArthur some breathing room.

“We had been pretty dead offensively,” Royals manager Matt Quatraro said. “Two outs, nobody on, right? Just the quality of what they were swinging at, too. The guys put some really good swings on it.”

The outbreak came after Kansas City had scored two runs or fewer in five of its last seven games.

“Momentum is huge, and that's who we are,” Witt said. “It was just a matter of time.”

Singer allowed five hits and a walk while striking out five, though he again was victimized by poor run support: The Royals have scored two runs or fewer in 12 of his 16 starts, and he has not won since May 19 against Oakland.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719480901169.jpeg" alt="&nbsp;Miami Marlins center fielder Jazz Chisholm Jr. runs down this fly ball off the batt of Kansas City Royals Bobby Witt Jr. during the third inning of a baseball game, Wednesday, June 26, 2024, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Reed Hoffmann)" />
 <figcaption>&nbsp;Miami Marlins center fielder Jazz Chisholm Jr. runs down this fly ball off the batt of Kansas City Royals Bobby Witt Jr. during the third inning of a baseball game, Wednesday, June 26, 2024, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Reed Hoffmann)</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Salvador Perez highlighted a five-run, two-out rally in the eighth inning with a go-ahead double down the left-field line, and the Kansas City Royals went on to beat the Miami Marlins 5-1 on Wednesday to pick up the series win.Angel Zerpa (1-0) got the final two outs of the eighth in relief of Brady Singer, who allowed an RBI single to Vidal Bruján in the second inning but little else on a sunny afternoon at Kauffman Stadium. James McArthur handled the ninth to finish it off.“Just incredible,” Singer said. “For those guys to grind back, that's how we're going to win games.”Indeed, Kansas City had been shut down by Valente Bellozo and the Miami bullpen until the eighth, when Bobby Witt Jr. started the rally with a triple off Huascar Brazoban (0-1). Vinnie Pasquantino followed with a tying single, and after pinch runner Dairon Blanco swiped second, Perez delivered the double that gave Kansas City the lead.Nick Loftin added an RBI single and Freddy Fermin drove in two more runs to provide McArthur some breathing room.“We had been pretty dead offensively,” Royals manager Matt Quatraro said. “Two outs, nobody on, right? Just the quality of what they were swinging at, too. The guys put some really good swings on it.”The outbreak came after Kansas City had scored two runs or fewer in five of its last seven games.“Momentum is huge, and that's who we are,” Witt said. “It was just a matter of time.”Singer allowed five hits and a walk while striking out five, though he again was victimized by poor run support: The Royals have scored two runs or fewer in 12 of his 16 starts, and he has not won since May 19 against Oakland.“The efficiency of him was the most impressive thing," said Quatraro, whose team had lost four straight series and been 2-7 in series-deciding games this season. “He wanted to keep going. He had it in his mind that he was going to carry us.”Meanwhile, Bellozo was dominant in his big league debut for Miami, pitching five innings of two-hit ball.The only bit of trouble the 24-year-old from Mexico ran into came in the second inning, and it wasn't entirely his fault: Hunter Renfroe hit a two-out single, then Bruján lost Fermin's popup in the sun and it landed for a double. But Bellozo promptly struck out Garrett Hampson to leave the runners on second and third.He then retired his final 10 hitters before getting a swarm of high-fives in the Marlins dugout.“I had a lot of adrenalin, a little nervous, but we controlled the game and did a really good job,” Bellozo said. ”Play with the zone, attack with the breaking balls and make all my pitches work.”ROSTER MOVESMarlins: LHP Kent Emanuel was designated for assignment to clear space for Bellozo on the roster. Emanuel had allowed eight runs, seven earned, while appearing in five games this season.UP NEXTMarlins: Head to Philadelphia to open a four-game series Thursday night with Trevor Rogers (1-8, 4.90 ERA) on the mound.Royals: Welcome Cleveland to town Thursday night with RHP Michael Wacha (4-6, 4.07) getting the start.