KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Kansas City Chiefs began practicing Tuesday for their regular-season finale against the Las Vegas Raiders, which could ultimately earn the AFC West champions the No. 1 playoff seed in the conference in an unprecedented situation for the NFL.

Just as the Chiefs were warming up, the league announced that Week 18 games would be played as scheduled, including Kansas City's visit to Las Vegas on Saturday.

But the league also said the Bills-Bengals game from Monday night, which was suspended when Buffalo safety Damar Hamlin went into cardiac arrest, would not be resumed this week.

The Bills, who are 12-3 and beat Kansas City in their head-to-head matchup, needed to beat the Bengals to keep pace with the Chiefs (13-3) for the best record in the AFC, and with it the top seed and lone first-round postseason bye.

Chiefs coach Andy Reid and quarterback Patrick Mahomes were scheduled to speak to reporters Tuesday, but the team pushed back their availability out of respect for Hamlin, who remains in critical condition in a Cincinnati hospital.

They are now scheduled to address reporters on Wednesday.

Mahomes was among many Chiefs players who tweeted they were “praying hard” for Hamlin, who collapsed after making a tackle in the first quarter of Monday night's game. Hamlin was surrounded by team and independent medical staff within seconds, and along with local paramedics, they spent about 20 minutes providing emergency care on the field.

The Bills said that Hamlin's heartbeat was restored before the 24-year-old safety was transferred by ambulance to the University of Cincinnati Medical Center, where he remained sedated in the intensive care unit Tuesday.

The Chiefs tweeted they were “sending thoughts and prayers to @HamlinIsland and the @BuffaloBills,” while Frank Clark offered “prayers for Damar” and fellow defensive end Carlos Dunlap tweeted it was “bigger than ball at this point.”

Chiefs wide receiver Marquez Valdes-Scantling tweeted: “Man I hope he’s OK man. We risk our lives daily for this game. And y’all take that ... for granted. Send as many prayers up for him. Lord protect him.”

In a letter sent from Roger Goodell to all teams, and obtained by The Associated Press, the NFL commissioner said: “We advised Buffalo and Cincinnati that last night’s game will not be resumed this week. No decision has been made regarding the possible resumption of the game at a later date and we have not announced any changes to this weekend’s schedule.

“We will promptly advise all clubs of any decisions that are made regarding these matters,” Goodell said.

If the Bills-Bengals game is not completed, and each team is left with a 16-game regular season, it could cost Buffalo the No. 1 seed — even though it beat the Chiefs in October. The Bills are scheduled to play the Patriots on Sunday, but if Kansas City beats the Raiders a day earlier, Buffalo could finish no better than a half-game behind the Chiefs in the standings.

The Bengals, who also beat the Chiefs, would win the AFC North and lock in the No. 3 seed with a win over Baltimore on Sunday.

Not that anyone was worried about the playoffs Tuesday. The focus across the league remained on Hamlin's well-being.

“Please please please be okay,” Chiefs safety Justin Reid tweeted.

NOTES: Chiefs LG Joe Thuney (ankle) and WR Skyy Moore (hand) watched practice from the sideline Tuesday, but did not participate in the portion open to reporters. Both were hurt in last Sunday's win over Denver. Cornerback L'Jarius Sneed (hip) was not seen on the field. ... WR Mecole Hardman was at practice. The Chiefs hoped he would play against the Broncos before a setback in his recovery from an abdominal injury. They must activate him Wednesday or place him on season-ending injured reserve. ... The Chiefs placed practice squad WR Cornell Powell on the injured list and resigned RB Jerrion Ealy.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Kansas City Chiefs began practicing Tuesday for their regular-season finale against the Las Vegas Raiders, which could ultimately earn the AFC West champions the No. 1 playoff seed in the conference in an unprecedented situation for the NFL.Just as the Chiefs were warming up, the league announced that Week 18 games would be played as scheduled, including Kansas City's visit to Las Vegas on Saturday.But the league also said the Bills-Bengals game from Monday night, which was suspended when Buffalo safety Damar Hamlin went into cardiac arrest, would not be resumed this week.The Bills, who are 12-3 and beat Kansas City in their head-to-head matchup, needed to beat the Bengals to keep pace with the Chiefs (13-3) for the best record in the AFC, and with it the top seed and lone first-round postseason bye.Chiefs coach Andy Reid and quarterback Patrick Mahomes were scheduled to speak to reporters Tuesday, but the team pushed back their availability out of respect for Hamlin, who remains in critical condition in a Cincinnati hospital.They are now scheduled to address reporters on Wednesday.Mahomes was among many Chiefs players who tweeted they were “praying hard” for Hamlin, who collapsed after making a tackle in the first quarter of Monday night's game. Hamlin was surrounded by team and independent medical staff within seconds, and along with local paramedics, they spent about 20 minutes providing emergency care on the field.The Bills said that Hamlin's heartbeat was restored before the 24-year-old safety was transferred by ambulance to the University of Cincinnati Medical Center, where he remained sedated in the intensive care unit Tuesday.The Chiefs tweeted they were “sending thoughts and prayers to @HamlinIsland and the @BuffaloBills,” while Frank Clark offered “prayers for Damar” and fellow defensive end Carlos Dunlap tweeted it was “bigger than ball at this point.”Chiefs wide receiver Marquez Valdes-Scantling tweeted: “Man I hope he’s OK man. We risk our lives daily for this game. And y’all take that ... for granted. Send as many prayers up for him. Lord protect him.”In a letter sent from Roger Goodell to all teams, and obtained by The Associated Press, the NFL commissioner said: “We advised Buffalo and Cincinnati that last night’s game will not be resumed this week. No decision has been made regarding the possible resumption of the game at a later date and we have not announced any changes to this weekend’s schedule.“We will promptly advise all clubs of any decisions that are made regarding these matters,” Goodell said.If the Bills-Bengals game is not completed, and each team is left with a 16-game regular season, it could cost Buffalo the No. 1 seed — even though it beat the Chiefs in October. The Bills are scheduled to play the Patriots on Sunday, but if Kansas City beats the Raiders a day earlier, Buffalo could finish no better than a half-game behind the Chiefs in the standings.The Bengals, who also beat the Chiefs, would win the AFC North and lock in the No. 3 seed with a win over Baltimore on Sunday.Not that anyone was worried about the playoffs Tuesday. The focus across the league remained on Hamlin's well-being.“Please please please be okay,” Chiefs safety Justin Reid tweeted.NOTES: Chiefs LG Joe Thuney (ankle) and WR Skyy Moore (hand) watched practice from the sideline Tuesday, but did not participate in the portion open to reporters. Both were hurt in last Sunday's win over Denver. Cornerback L'Jarius Sneed (hip) was not seen on the field. ... WR Mecole Hardman was at practice. The Chiefs hoped he would play against the Broncos before a setback in his recovery from an abdominal injury. They must activate him Wednesday or place him on season-ending injured reserve. ... The Chiefs placed practice squad WR Cornell Powell on the injured list and resigned RB Jerrion Ealy.

Chiefs begin prep with Week 18 set to go on as scheduled

BALTIMORE (AP) — The Baltimore Orioles acquired first baseman Ryan O'Hearn from the Kansas City Royals for cash Tuesday.

The 29-year-old O'Hearn hit .239 with a home run and 16 RBIs last season. He's spent his first five big league seasons with the Royals.

O'Hearn has played mostly first base in his career, but he's also spent time in the corner outfield spots.

O'Hearn led the majors last year with 11 hits as a pinch-hitter.

The Orioles designated right-hander Chris Vallimont for assignment. Their 40-man roster is currently full.

BALTIMORE (AP) — The Baltimore Orioles acquired first baseman Ryan O'Hearn from the Kansas City Royals for cash Tuesday.The 29-year-old O'Hearn hit .239 with a home run and 16 RBIs last season. He's spent his first five big league seasons with the Royals.O'Hearn has played mostly first base in his career, but he's also spent time in the corner outfield spots.O'Hearn led the majors last year with 11 hits as a pinch-hitter.The Orioles designated right-hander Chris Vallimont for assignment. Their 40-man roster is currently full.

Orioles acquire 1B-OF Ryan O'Hearn from Royals for cash

AUSTIN, Texas (AP) — Markquis Nowell had 36 points and nine assists as Kansas State beat No. 6 Texas 116-103 on Tuesday night, setting a school scoring record with a stunning offensive outburst that gave first-year Wildcats coach Jerome Tang his biggest victory.

The Wildcats poured in 58 points in the first half behind 64% shooting and eight 3-pointers. Kansas State then held off a Texas rally as the Longhorns made 11 consecutive shots in the second half and shaved a 20-point deficit under 10 with just under five minutes left.

“We wanted to be aggressive the first five minutes,” said Nowell, who was one assist shy of being the first Kansas State player with at least 30 points and 10 assists. “We’re a really dangerous team when we get it going downhill.”

And they never let up, especially in the second half as the teams traded basket after basket.

Nowell and Kansas State also showed enough poise to get the big shots they needed late to close out the win. Nowell's two free throws with 3:23 remaining made it 100-88 before he swished a step-back 3-pointer on the next possession to put an exclamation point on the night for the Wildcats.

Keyontae Johnson added 28 points and nine rebounds for the Wildcats (13-1, 2-0 Big 12), whose free-flowing offense with Nowell leading the way found just about any open shot the team wanted. Nowell came into the game No. 2 nationally in assists, and his shifty drives and nifty passing had Texas defenders looking for the ball all game.

“People who complain about scoring in college basketball, I think they got to see a whole bunch of scoring tonight. Those of us who consider ourselves defensive coaches? It was a headache,” Tang said. “But it was a lot of fun.”

The scoring display is sure to grab the attention of the rest of the Big 12.

“Every game is a statement game for us," Johnson said. “We were picked last in the conference. We have to keep proving people wrong.”

Tyrese Hunter scored 29 points and Marcus Carr had 27 for the Longhorns, handed their first loss in their new arena, the Moody Center.

Kansas State also sent the Longhorns (12-2, 1-1) to their first loss since head coach Chris Beard was suspended indefinitely without pay following his Dec. 12 arrest on a felony family violence charge. Assistant coach Rodney Terry has been acting head coach since then and had led Texas to five straight wins, including a victory at Oklahoma in the Big 12 opener.

The 116 points were the most Texas has permitted in a Big 12 game.

“We'll work hard to get a lot better defensively,” Terry said. “(Nowell) put his will on the game.”

Sir’Jabari Rice’s three-point play pulled Texas to 77-65 with 11:28 to play and a Longhorns rally was on. A block by Rice against Nowell set up another Longhorns 3-pointer. But the Wildcats kept answering, usually behind Nowell.

“Every time the crowd got into it, our guys were able to silence it,” Tang said. “That was huge.”

Texas has smothered a lot of opponents with aggressive defense that often leads to turnovers and points in transition. Kansas State committed just 12 turnovers, though, and only three in the second half. That sort of ball control kept the Longhorns from getting extra possessions. Texas scored just nine points off K-State turnovers.

“This was a game where both teams' players were making big shots," Tang said. “As long as you don’t turn it over, the ball is going in the hole.”

Kansas State: Made 31 of 33 free throws to maintain a comfortable cushion in the second half.

Texas: School officials have provided no updates on Beard's status with the program. His legal case is scheduled for its first court hearing on Jan. 18. His fiancée issued a Dec. 23 statement saying he did not choke her during the Dec. 12 incident, contradicting what the arrest warrant affidavit said she initially told police. Beard's attorney has said the coach is innocent.

AUSTIN, Texas (AP) — Markquis Nowell had 36 points and nine assists as Kansas State beat No. 6 Texas 116-103 on Tuesday night, setting a school scoring record with a stunning offensive outburst that gave first-year Wildcats coach Jerome Tang his biggest victory.The Wildcats poured in 58 points in the first half behind 64% shooting and eight 3-pointers. Kansas State then held off a Texas rally as the Longhorns made 11 consecutive shots in the second half and shaved a 20-point deficit under 10 with just under five minutes left.“We wanted to be aggressive the first five minutes,” said Nowell, who was one assist shy of being the first Kansas State player with at least 30 points and 10 assists. “We’re a really dangerous team when we get it going downhill.”And they never let up, especially in the second half as the teams traded basket after basket.Nowell and Kansas State also showed enough poise to get the big shots they needed late to close out the win. Nowell's two free throws with 3:23 remaining made it 100-88 before he swished a step-back 3-pointer on the next possession to put an exclamation point on the night for the Wildcats.Keyontae Johnson added 28 points and nine rebounds for the Wildcats (13-1, 2-0 Big 12), whose free-flowing offense with Nowell leading the way found just about any open shot the team wanted. Nowell came into the game No. 2 nationally in assists, and his shifty drives and nifty passing had Texas defenders looking for the ball all game.“People who complain about scoring in college basketball, I think they got to see a whole bunch of scoring tonight. Those of us who consider ourselves defensive coaches? It was a headache,” Tang said. “But it was a lot of fun.”The scoring display is sure to grab the attention of the rest of the Big 12.“Every game is a statement game for us," Johnson said. “We were picked last in the conference. We have to keep proving people wrong.”Tyrese Hunter scored 29 points and Marcus Carr had 27 for the Longhorns, handed their first loss in their new arena, the Moody Center.Kansas State also sent the Longhorns (12-2, 1-1) to their first loss since head coach Chris Beard was suspended indefinitely without pay following his Dec. 12 arrest on a felony family violence charge. Assistant coach Rodney Terry has been acting head coach since then and had led Texas to five straight wins, including a victory at Oklahoma in the Big 12 opener.The 116 points were the most Texas has permitted in a Big 12 game.“We'll work hard to get a lot better defensively,” Terry said. “(Nowell) put his will on the game.”Sir’Jabari Rice’s three-point play pulled Texas to 77-65 with 11:28 to play and a Longhorns rally was on. A block by Rice against Nowell set up another Longhorns 3-pointer. But the Wildcats kept answering, usually behind Nowell.“Every time the crowd got into it, our guys were able to silence it,” Tang said. “That was huge.”KEEPING IT CLEANTexas has smothered a lot of opponents with aggressive defense that often leads to turnovers and points in transition. Kansas State committed just 12 turnovers, though, and only three in the second half. That sort of ball control kept the Longhorns from getting extra possessions. Texas scored just nine points off K-State turnovers.“This was a game where both teams' players were making big shots," Tang said. “As long as you don’t turn it over, the ball is going in the hole.”BIG PICTUREKansas State: Made 31 of 33 free throws to maintain a comfortable cushion in the second half.Texas: School officials have provided no updates on Beard's status with the program. His legal case is scheduled for its first court hearing on Jan. 18. His fiancée issued a Dec. 23 statement saying he did not choke her during the Dec. 12 incident, contradicting what the arrest warrant affidavit said she initially told police. Beard's attorney has said the coach is innocent.UP NEXTKansas State plays at No. 19 Baylor.Texas visits Oklahoma State.

Nowell scores 36 as K-State rolls over No. 6 Texas 116-103

LUBBOCK, Texas (AP) — KJ Adams scored the last of his 16 points on a breakaway dunk with 7 seconds remaining, and No. 3 Kansas fought off Texas Tech 75-72 on Tuesday night, ending the Red Raiders’ home winning streak at 29 games.

Texas Tech failed to produce a shot on its final possession as Pop Isaacs lost the ball on a drive following contact in the key. The Jayhawks came up with the loose ball, setting the stage for Adams' dunk as defending national champion Kansas won its seventh consecutive game.

“We didn’t have much left,” Kansas coach Bill Self said following a second down-to-the-wire Big 12 game. “If it had gone to overtime, it probably wouldn’t have been a good thing for us today. We played well. Anytime you score 75 points on the road it’s a good thing, especially against a team that guards like Texas Tech.”

Dajuan Harris scored 18 points for the Jayhawks (13-1, 2-0 Big 12), who had rallied to beat Oklahoma State 69-67 on Saturday. Kansas led by a dozen points early in the second half but allowed the Red Raiders to make it close at the finish. Jalen Wilson had 14 points and Gradey Dick scored 11.

Kevin Obanor scored 26 points for Texas Tech, which had not lost at home since falling to West Virginia in February of 2021. Isaacs added 18 points.

“There was a lot of contact, but that’s a good refereeing crew,” Red Raiders coach Mark Adams said of the final sequence. “We hoped we’d get that call, but the guys played their hearts out tonight, and they really responded in the second half.”

The Red Raiders (10-4, 0-2) trailed 67-57 with seven minutes left but got within 71-70 on Lamar Washington’s layup with 1:43 remaining. Texas Tech trailed 73-72 in the final minute when Isaacs' turnover set up Adams’ slam.

“Give them credit. They made shots tonight,” Self said.

Kansas put together a strong offensive flurry toward the end of the first half, outscoring Texas Tech 11-2 over the final four minutes and taking a 43-36 lead at intermission. Adams keyed the surge with eight points, capped by a 10-footer in the lane.

“The most positive things about tonight was we had a great crowd and the guys responded to the crowd,” Mark Adams said. “They also responded to Kansas and played well, particularly in the second half, and that’s something we can build on.”

Kansas: Harris connected on all five of his 3-point attempts, accounting for almost half of the Jayhawks’ total of 11.

Texas Tech: The Red Raiders outscored Kansas 12-5 in the final 3:53.

Kansas: At West Virginia on Saturday.

Texas Tech: Hosts Oklahoma on Saturday

LUBBOCK, Texas (AP) — KJ Adams scored the last of his 16 points on a breakaway dunk with 7 seconds remaining, and No. 3 Kansas fought off Texas Tech 75-72 on Tuesday night, ending the Red Raiders’ home winning streak at 29 games.Texas Tech failed to produce a shot on its final possession as Pop Isaacs lost the ball on a drive following contact in the key. The Jayhawks came up with the loose ball, setting the stage for Adams' dunk as defending national champion Kansas won its seventh consecutive game.“We didn’t have much left,” Kansas coach Bill Self said following a second down-to-the-wire Big 12 game. “If it had gone to overtime, it probably wouldn’t have been a good thing for us today. We played well. Anytime you score 75 points on the road it’s a good thing, especially against a team that guards like Texas Tech.”Dajuan Harris scored 18 points for the Jayhawks (13-1, 2-0 Big 12), who had rallied to beat Oklahoma State 69-67 on Saturday. Kansas led by a dozen points early in the second half but allowed the Red Raiders to make it close at the finish. Jalen Wilson had 14 points and Gradey Dick scored 11.Kevin Obanor scored 26 points for Texas Tech, which had not lost at home since falling to West Virginia in February of 2021. Isaacs added 18 points.“There was a lot of contact, but that’s a good refereeing crew,” Red Raiders coach Mark Adams said of the final sequence. “We hoped we’d get that call, but the guys played their hearts out tonight, and they really responded in the second half.”The Red Raiders (10-4, 0-2) trailed 67-57 with seven minutes left but got within 71-70 on Lamar Washington’s layup with 1:43 remaining. Texas Tech trailed 73-72 in the final minute when Isaacs' turnover set up Adams’ slam.“Give them credit. They made shots tonight,” Self said.Kansas put together a strong offensive flurry toward the end of the first half, outscoring Texas Tech 11-2 over the final four minutes and taking a 43-36 lead at intermission. Adams keyed the surge with eight points, capped by a 10-footer in the lane.“The most positive things about tonight was we had a great crowd and the guys responded to the crowd,” Mark Adams said. “They also responded to Kansas and played well, particularly in the second half, and that’s something we can build on.”BIG PICTUREKansas: Harris connected on all five of his 3-point attempts, accounting for almost half of the Jayhawks’ total of 11.Texas Tech: The Red Raiders outscored Kansas 12-5 in the final 3:53.UP NEXTKansas: At West Virginia on Saturday.Texas Tech: Hosts Oklahoma on Saturday

No. 3 Kansas ends Texas Tech's 29-game home win streak 75-72

Smoky Valley Boys 40 Hoisington 34; Smoky Valley Girls 43 Hoisington 39

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1581739911992.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Smoky Valley Boys 40 Hoisington 34; Smoky Valley Girls 43 Hoisington 39<div><iframe width="100%" height="265" src="https://clyp.it/qblxnuqx/widget" frameborder="0"></iframe></div>

Kapaun Mount Carmel 62, Wichita Bishop Carroll 43

Metro Academy 78, Bishop Seabury Academy 39

Northeast Christian Homeschool 56, Cornerstone Family 32

Flint Hills Christian 19, Veritas Christian 18

Northeast Christian Homeschool 55, Cornerstone Family 21

Tuesday AP ScoresTUESDAY BOYS SCORESAndale 57, Nickerson 31Anderson County 68, Fredonia 49Arkansas City 54, Rose Hill 46Axtell 66, Onaga 47Basehor-Linwood 39, Leavenworth 28Beloit 82, Phillipsburg 50Bennington 75, Marion 45Cheney 55, Hesston 37Chetopa def. Altoona-Midway, forfeitClifton-Clyde 72, Blue Valley 64Colby 59, Hoxie 41Concordia 62, Republic County 38Dighton 45, Ness City 31Dodge City 67, Garden Plain 57Doniphan West 34, Frankfort 31, OTEllinwood 62, Central Plains 21Ellsworth 60, Larned 22Eudora 41, Louisburg 34Fort Scott 50, Iola 46Girard 46, Baxter Springs 20Halstead 52, Clearwater 30Hanover 57, Linn 44Haven 53, Chaparral 41Hodgeman County 56, Spearville 48Horton 53, Oskaloosa 42Jayhawk Linn 49, Crest 46KC Piper 76, KC Turner 42Kapaun Mount Carmel 62, Wichita Bishop Carroll 43Labette County 50, Chanute 38Logan/Palco 52, Lakeside 39Metro Academy 78, Bishop Seabury Academy 39Mission Valley 47, Council Grove 42Northeast Christian Homeschool 56, Cornerstone Family 32Olathe East 65, SM West 40Olpe 52, Burlingame 36Osage City 68, Central Heights 52Osborne 51, Thunder Ridge 45Oswego 53, Yates Center 44Pike Valley 57, Tescott 30Pittsburg 75, Parsons 52Plainville 55, Victoria 49Pratt 49, Kingman 44Red Cloud, Neb. 51, Rock Hills 42Rock Creek 63, Riley County 37Salina Sacred Heart 64, Minneapolis 54Silver Lake 50, Rossville 43Smith Center 62, Stockton 19Smoky Valley 40, Hoisington 34St. Mary's Academy 53, Abilene 43Stafford 55, Otis-Bison 24Sterling 51, Inman 50Wamego 60, St. Mary's 55Washburn Rural 64, Junction City 58Wichita Classical 67, Berean Academy 43Wichita Heights 63, Wichita Southeast 41Wichita Independent 90, Eureka 31Wilson 60, Natoma 20POSTPONEMENTS AND CANCELLATIONSNorton vs. Cambridge, Neb., ppd.TUESDAY GIRLS SCORESAndale 57, Nickerson 31Anderson County 39, Fredonia 21Arkansas City 51, Rose Hill 33Axtell 46, Onaga 40Berean Academy 47, Wichita Classical 14Central Plains 50, Ellinwood 30Cheney 42, Hesston 38Cherryvale 61, Erie 28Clearwater 47, Halstead 30Clifton-Clyde 55, Blue Valley 28Colby 55, Hoxie 44Concordia 51, Republic County 39Conway Springs 44, Belle Plaine 36Ellsworth 46, Larned 33Emporia 43, Topeka Hayden 34Fairfield 52, Chase 20Flint Hills Christian 19, Veritas Christian 18Fort Scott 50, Iola 25Frankfort 48, Doniphan West 43Garden Plain 33, Dodge City 22Girard 63, Baxter Springs 20Hanover 62, Linn 43Haven 54, Chaparral 41Hodgeman County 54, Spearville 41Independence 28, Coffeyville 20KC Piper 42, KC Turner 17Labette County 42, Chanute 30Marion 37, Bennington 34Marmaton Valley 31, Uniontown 22Meade 44, Sublette 35Minneapolis 53, Salina Sacred Heart 18Mission Valley 47, Council Grove 33Moundridge 46, Oxford 11Ness City 43, Dighton 26Northeast Christian Homeschool 55, Cornerstone Family 21Olpe 30, Burlingame 24Osborne 43, Thunder Ridge 36Otis-Bison 42, Stafford 28Phillipsburg 77, Beloit 27Pratt 61, Kingman 60Rawlins County 37, Northern Valley 32Red Cloud, Neb. 51, Rock Hills 42Red Cloud, S.D. 40, Rock Hills 32Rock Creek 36, Riley County 19Smith Center 71, Stockton 24Smoky Valley 43, Hoisington 39St. Paul 55, Southeast 21Stanton County 33, Southwestern Hts. 31Tescott 33, Pike Valley 29Valley Heights 52, Washington County 34Victoria 37, Plainville 27Wallace County 54, Wheatland-Grinnell 33Washburn Rural 50, Junction City 9Wichita Bishop Carroll 46, Kapaun Mount Carmel 33Wichita County 40, Golden Plains 20Wichita South 70, Wichita North 16Wichita Southeast 52, Wichita Heights 48Wilson 50, Natoma 37POSTPONEMENTS AND CANCELLATIONSNorton vs. Cambridge, Neb., ppd.

Tuesday Statewide Scores

Ellsworth Boys 60 Larned 22; Ellsworth Girls 46 Larned 33

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1600485516602.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Ellsworth Boys 60 Larned 22; Ellsworth Girls 46 Larned 33<div><iframe width="100%" height="265" src="https://clyp.it/v5ts5q1t/widget" frameborder="0"></iframe></div>

AUSTIN, Texas (AP) —
Markquis Nowell had 36 points and nine assists as Kansas State beat
No. 6 Texas 116-103, setting a school scoring record with a stunning
offensive outburst that gave first-year Wildcats coach Jerome Tang
his biggest victory. The Wildcats poured in 58 points in the first
half behind 64% shooting and eight 3-pointers. Kansas State then had
to a hold off a Texas rally as the Longhorns shaved a 20-point
deficit to under 10 with just under five minutes left. Keyontae
Johnson scored 28 points for Kansas State. Tyrese Hunter led Texas
with 29.

LUBBOCK, Texas (AP)
— KJ Adams scored the last of his 16 points on a breakaway dunk
with 7 seconds remaining, and No. 3 Kansas fought off Texas Tech
75-72, ending the Red Raiders’ home winning streak at 29 games.
Dajuan Harris scored 18 points for the Jayhawks, who led by a dozen
points early in the second half but allowed the Red Raiders to make
it close at the finish. Jalen Wilson had 14 points and Gradey Dick
scored 11. Kevin Obanor scored 26 points for Texas Tech, which had
not lost at home since February of 2021. Pop Isaacs added 18 points.

BALTIMORE (AP) —
The Baltimore Orioles have acquired first baseman Ryan O’Hearn from
the Kansas City Royals for cash. The 29-year-old O’Hearn hit .239
with a home run and 16 RBIs last season. He’s spent his first five
big league seasons with the Royals. O’Hearn has played mostly first
base in his career, but he’s also spent time in the corner outfield
spots. O’Hearn led the majors last year with 11 hits as a
pinch-hitter. The Orioles designated right-hander Chris Vallimont for
assignment. Their 40-man roster is currently full.

OKLAHOMA CITY. (AP)
— A football player at Fort Hays State University was shot and
killed outside an Oklahoma City bar on New Year's Day. Oklahoma City
police say 22-year-old Daniel Howard died and four others were
injured in the shooting outside Sunset Patio Lounge. Police say the
shooting occurred after a fight broke out inside the bar and several
people were kicked out. Shots were fired when the argument continued
in a nearby parking lot. Police said some of the injured were
bystanders. Howard played two seasons at Northeastern Oklahoma A&amp;M
before transferring to Fort Hays State in Kansas in the spring of
2022.

FORT WORTH, Texas
(AP) — The TCU Horned Frogs are already hearing again just how big
and physical their next opponent is. They heard a lot of the same
things going into the College Football Playoff semifinal game they
won against Big Ten champion Michigan. The Horned Frogs are bigger
underdogs going into Monday night's title game against defending
national champion Georgia. TCU is listed as 13 1/2-point underdogs
against Georgia after going into the Fiesta Bowl as 7 1/2-point
underdogs.

UNDATED (AP) —
Georgia’s Stetson Bennett and TCU’s Max Duggan share similar
stories as quarterbacks who needed to disprove doubters before
finding starring roles in the national championship game. It’s no
surprise Bennett says he immediately liked Duggan when the two spent
time together at the Heisman Trophy ceremony last month. Bennett says
“Max is an awesome dude.” Duggan was the runner-up to USC
quarterback Caleb Williams in the Heisman voting. Bennett finished
fourth. While Duggan lost his starting job at the start of the
season, Bennett was a walk-on before leaving school and returning to
land the starting job.

KANSAS CITY, Mo.
(AP) — The Kansas City Chiefs began practicing Tuesday for their
regular-season finale against the Las Vegas Raiders, which could earn
the AFC West champions the No. 1 playoff seed in the conference in an
unprecedented situation for the NFL. The league announced Week 18
games would be played as scheduled, including the Chiefs' visit to
Las Vegas on Saturday. But the league also said the Bills-Bengals
game from Monday night, which was suspended when Buffalo safety Damar
Hamlin went into cardiac arrest, would not be resumed this week.

UNDATED (AP) — The
NFL and its fans are rallying in support of Buffalo Bills safety
Damar Hamlin, who remains in critical condition at a Cincinnati
hospital after going into cardiac arrest on the field. Players and
coaches from around the league were overcome with emotion while
watching Hamlin be resuscitated back to life Monday night during
Buffalo’s game at Cincinnati. Hamlin's uncle, Dorrian Glenn, told
CNN that his nephew had to have his heart re-started twice — once
on the field, and once at the hospital. Glenn says there were some
encouraging signs Tuesday, including doctors reducing the amount of
oxygen Hamlin was receiving.

UNDATED (AP) — The
NFL has informed the Bills and Bengals their suspended game will not
be resumed this week while the Week 18 schedule remains unchanged.
The NFL has made no decision regarding the possible resumption of the
pivotal Bills-Bengals game at a later date. The game was suspended
Monday night in the first quarter when Bills safety Damar Hamlin
suffered cardiac arrest. The 24-year-old Hamlin remained in critical
condition a day after the Bills said his heart stopped after making a
tackle in the opening quarter of a game against the Bengals. Medical
staff restored his heartbeat during frantic moments on the field
before he was loaded into an ambulance. Players from both teams were
crying and praying during an emotional scene on the field.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP)
— According to a person familiar with the situation, Carolina
Panthers owner David Tepper has talked to University of Michigan
football coach Jim Harbaugh about the team’s head coaching
position. The person characterized the talks as a conversation, not a
job interview. The person spoke to The Associated Press on condition
of anonymity on Tuesday because the team does not normally release
details of its coaching search. The Panthers were eliminated from
playoff contention on Sunday after a 30-24 loss to Tampa Bay. Steve
Wilks is currently serving Panthers interim head coach. Under
Harbaugh, the San Francisco 49ers reached the NFC championship game
three straight years from 2011 to 2013 and lost Super Bowl 47 to
Baltimore.

UNDATED (AP) — The
NCAA Division I transformation committee has released its final
report. It is recommending more sport-by-sport governance in college
sports, enhanced expectations for D-1 schools to create a more
uniform experience for athletes across all schools and allowing 25%
of teams in the most-sponsored sports to compete in championship
events. That could mean a March Madness tournament with 90 teams
instead of the current 68. The report will be presented to the
Division I Board of Directors for consideration ahead of next week’s
NCAA convention in San Antonio.

KAPALUA, Hawaii (AP)
— Every new year brings a mixture of mystery and optimism on the
PGA Tour, and that's never more true than now, says AP Golf Writer
Doug Ferguson. Among six topics to contemplate for 2023 is whether
the Saudi-funded LIV Golf can sustain any momentum by signing top
players and finding a broadcast partner. For Tiger Woods, the
question is not so much when he will play but how much he can play.
At the Masters, anticipation is sure to build on how the lengthened
par-5 13th hole will play and whether Rory McIlroy can finally win a
green jacket with the career Grand Slam at stake.

Final	(8)Tennessee	87	Mississippi
St.	53	

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1672310479832.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>AUSTIN, Texas (AP) —
Markquis Nowell had 36 points and nine assists as Kansas State beat
No. 6 Texas 116-103, setting a school scoring record with a stunning
offensive outburst that gave first-year Wildcats coach Jerome Tang
his biggest victory. The Wildcats poured in 58 points in the first
half behind 64% shooting and eight 3-pointers. Kansas State then had
to a hold off a Texas rally as the Longhorns shaved a 20-point
deficit to under 10 with just under five minutes left. Keyontae
Johnson scored 28 points for Kansas State. Tyrese Hunter led Texas
with 29.LUBBOCK, Texas (AP)
— KJ Adams scored the last of his 16 points on a breakaway dunk
with 7 seconds remaining, and No. 3 Kansas fought off Texas Tech
75-72, ending the Red Raiders’ home winning streak at 29 games.
Dajuan Harris scored 18 points for the Jayhawks, who led by a dozen
points early in the second half but allowed the Red Raiders to make
it close at the finish. Jalen Wilson had 14 points and Gradey Dick
scored 11. Kevin Obanor scored 26 points for Texas Tech, which had
not lost at home since February of 2021. Pop Isaacs added 18 points.BALTIMORE (AP) —
The Baltimore Orioles have acquired first baseman Ryan O’Hearn from
the Kansas City Royals for cash. The 29-year-old O’Hearn hit .239
with a home run and 16 RBIs last season. He’s spent his first five
big league seasons with the Royals. O’Hearn has played mostly first
base in his career, but he’s also spent time in the corner outfield
spots. O’Hearn led the majors last year with 11 hits as a
pinch-hitter. The Orioles designated right-hander Chris Vallimont for
assignment. Their 40-man roster is currently full.OKLAHOMA CITY. (AP)
— A football player at Fort Hays State University was shot and
killed outside an Oklahoma City bar on New Year's Day. Oklahoma City
police say 22-year-old Daniel Howard died and four others were
injured in the shooting outside Sunset Patio Lounge. Police say the
shooting occurred after a fight broke out inside the bar and several
people were kicked out. Shots were fired when the argument continued
in a nearby parking lot. Police said some of the injured were
bystanders. Howard played two seasons at Northeastern Oklahoma A&amp;M
before transferring to Fort Hays State in Kansas in the spring of
2022.FORT WORTH, Texas
(AP) — The TCU Horned Frogs are already hearing again just how big
and physical their next opponent is. They heard a lot of the same
things going into the College Football Playoff semifinal game they
won against Big Ten champion Michigan. The Horned Frogs are bigger
underdogs going into Monday night's title game against defending
national champion Georgia. TCU is listed as 13 1/2-point underdogs
against Georgia after going into the Fiesta Bowl as 7 1/2-point
underdogs.UNDATED (AP) —
Georgia’s Stetson Bennett and TCU’s Max Duggan share similar
stories as quarterbacks who needed to disprove doubters before
finding starring roles in the national championship game. It’s no
surprise Bennett says he immediately liked Duggan when the two spent
time together at the Heisman Trophy ceremony last month. Bennett says
“Max is an awesome dude.” Duggan was the runner-up to USC
quarterback Caleb Williams in the Heisman voting. Bennett finished
fourth. While Duggan lost his starting job at the start of the
season, Bennett was a walk-on before leaving school and returning to
land the starting job.KANSAS CITY, Mo.
(AP) — The Kansas City Chiefs began practicing Tuesday for their
regular-season finale against the Las Vegas Raiders, which could earn
the AFC West champions the No. 1 playoff seed in the conference in an
unprecedented situation for the NFL. The league announced Week 18
games would be played as scheduled, including the Chiefs' visit to
Las Vegas on Saturday. But the league also said the Bills-Bengals
game from Monday night, which was suspended when Buffalo safety Damar
Hamlin went into cardiac arrest, would not be resumed this week.UNDATED (AP) — The
NFL and its fans are rallying in support of Buffalo Bills safety
Damar Hamlin, who remains in critical condition at a Cincinnati
hospital after going into cardiac arrest on the field. Players and
coaches from around the league were overcome with emotion while
watching Hamlin be resuscitated back to life Monday night during
Buffalo’s game at Cincinnati. Hamlin's uncle, Dorrian Glenn, told
CNN that his nephew had to have his heart re-started twice — once
on the field, and once at the hospital. Glenn says there were some
encouraging signs Tuesday, including doctors reducing the amount of
oxygen Hamlin was receiving.UNDATED (AP) — The
NFL has informed the Bills and Bengals their suspended game will not
be resumed this week while the Week 18 schedule remains unchanged.
The NFL has made no decision regarding the possible resumption of the
pivotal Bills-Bengals game at a later date. The game was suspended
Monday night in the first quarter when Bills safety Damar Hamlin
suffered cardiac arrest. The 24-year-old Hamlin remained in critical
condition a day after the Bills said his heart stopped after making a
tackle in the opening quarter of a game against the Bengals. Medical
staff restored his heartbeat during frantic moments on the field
before he was loaded into an ambulance. Players from both teams were
crying and praying during an emotional scene on the field.CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP)
— According to a person familiar with the situation, Carolina
Panthers owner David Tepper has talked to University of Michigan
football coach Jim Harbaugh about the team’s head coaching
position. The person characterized the talks as a conversation, not a
job interview. The person spoke to The Associated Press on condition
of anonymity on Tuesday because the team does not normally release
details of its coaching search. The Panthers were eliminated from
playoff contention on Sunday after a 30-24 loss to Tampa Bay. Steve
Wilks is currently serving Panthers interim head coach. Under
Harbaugh, the San Francisco 49ers reached the NFC championship game
three straight years from 2011 to 2013 and lost Super Bowl 47 to
Baltimore.UNDATED (AP) — The
NCAA Division I transformation committee has released its final
report. It is recommending more sport-by-sport governance in college
sports, enhanced expectations for D-1 schools to create a more
uniform experience for athletes across all schools and allowing 25%
of teams in the most-sponsored sports to compete in championship
events. That could mean a March Madness tournament with 90 teams
instead of the current 68. The report will be presented to the
Division I Board of Directors for consideration ahead of next week’s
NCAA convention in San Antonio.KAPALUA, Hawaii (AP)
— Every new year brings a mixture of mystery and optimism on the
PGA Tour, and that's never more true than now, says AP Golf Writer
Doug Ferguson. Among six topics to contemplate for 2023 is whether
the Saudi-funded LIV Golf can sustain any momentum by signing top
players and finding a broadcast partner. For Tiger Woods, the
question is not so much when he will play but how much he can play.
At the Masters, anticipation is sure to build on how the lengthened
par-5 13th hole will play and whether Rory McIlroy can finally win a
green jacket with the career Grand Slam at stake.TUESDAY SCORESTOP-25 COLLEGE
BASKETBALLFinal	(3)Kansas	75	Texas
Tech	72	Final	Kansas
St.	116	(6)Texas	103	Final	(7)Alabama	84	Mississippi	62	Final	(8)Tennessee	87	Mississippi
St.	53	Final	Pittsburgh	68	(11)Virginia	65	Final	(14)Wisconsin	63	Minnesota	60	Final	Fresno
St.	71	(21)New Mexico	67NATIONAL
BASKETBALL ASSOCIATIONFinal	Oklahoma
City	150	Boston	117	Final	Milwaukee	123	Washington	113	Final	Sacramento	117	Utah	115	NATIONAL HOCKEY
LEAGUEFinal	Ottawa	4	Columbus	0	Final	N-Y
Rangers	5	Carolina	3	Final	Florida	5	Arizona	3	Final SO	St.
Louis	6	Toronto	5	Final
OT	Buffalo	5	Washington	4	Final	Winnipeg	3	Calgary	2	Final	Nashville	6	Montreal	3	Final	Tampa
Bay	4	Chicago	1	Final	Seattle	5	Edmonton	2	Final	N-Y
Islanders	6	Vancouver	2	Final	Los
Angeles	3	Dallas	2

Wednesday Sports Headlines and Scores presented by Barton Community College

- Great Bend Tribune Sports Editor Jim Misunas

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1663183818995.jpeg" alt="Presented By" />
 <figcaption>Presented By</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/hiinQ_kae8g" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>- Voice of the Cougars Cole Reif- Great Bend Tribune Sports Editor Jim Misunas- Sounds of the New Year's Weekend- Tuesday Sports Headlines

Tuesday on Sports Day (Watch) 

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Kansas City Chiefs keep winning and Patrick Mahomes keeps making history.

Both are doing so despite some difficult offseason decisions that have prolonged their ability to do so.

The biggest, of course, was the decision to trade Tyreek Hill to the Dolphins, rather than lavish on the game-breaking wide receiver a massive contract that would have made it difficult to maneuver financially for years to come.

The Chiefs not only gained salary cap flexibility with the move, but also five draft picks that helped to fortify other areas of the roster.

That includes the defense, which is vastly improved and has helped the Chiefs squeak out wins — such as their 27-24 victory over the Denver Broncos on Sunday — even when their high-octane offense starts to sputter.

“When you win and you don’t play your best ball — you don’t feel like you play your best ball — that’s always a good thing,” Mahomes said afterward. "Fourth quarter, we played well. But at the end of the day we have to find a way that for four quarters we play our best football whenever we get to the playoffs, and I feel like we still haven’t done that yet.”

Yet they've played well enough to start the season 13-3, clinch the AFC West with plenty of time to spare, and head into their regular-season finale Saturday in Las Vegas knowing a win could give them the No. 1 seed and a postseason bye.

Not many thought the Chiefs would be in that situation when they traded Hill in the offseason.

Nor did many people think Mahomes would put up MVP-caliber numbers again.

He's thrown for 5,048 yards to join Drew Brees and Tom Brady as the only quarterbacks with multiple seasons of at least 5,000 yards. He has 40 touchdown tosses, joining Brees as the only QBs with two seasons of 5,000 yards and 40 TD passes. And he needs 186 yards running and passing to surpass Brees for the most combined in an NFL season.

“He ended up 28 for 41, still over 100.0 passer rating and 322 yards,” Chiefs coach Andy Reid said after the win over the Broncos. “There were some plays that he definitely would like to have back, but that’s how picky we are, right? You start nitpicking these things, as he does. But that’s what great players do.”

The Chiefs were desperate to improve one of the league's worst pass rushes in the offseason, so they drafted George Karlaftis in the first round and signed Carlos Dunlap in free agency. Both have been hits. Karlaftis in particular has five sacks in his past six games, and the Chiefs have 49 on the season, trailing only the Eagles, Patriots and Cowboys.

The Chiefs committed two more turnovers Sunday and both were costly. Mahomes threw an interception in the end zone to keep Kansas City from extending its lead and Kadarius Toney fumbled a punt return deep in his own territory, which Russell Wilson immediately turned into a 16-yard touchdown run for the Broncos.

Jerick McKinnon's stock continues to soar. He has eight touchdowns total in the past five games, and with two TD catches Sunday, he became the first running back since 1947 with at least one in five consecutive games.

Rookie cornerback Joshua Williams struggled in crunch time Sunday. On the drive that Denver scored to make it 27-24 with 6:14 to go, Williams was flagged twice: the first for pass interference on a third-down incompletion that kept the drive alive, and the second for illegal hands to the face when Nick Bolton had intercepted a fourth-down throw.

LG Joe Thuney, who reinjured his left ankle against the Broncos, was due for an MRI; he tried to return to the game but was soon ruled out. WR Skyy Moore also was ruled out with a laceration on the inside of his right hand.

808 — Travis Kelce had seven catches against Denver to pass Jason Witten (806) for the most receptions by an NFL tight end in his first 10 seasons. Kelce did it despite missing 15 games of his rookie season to a knee injury, too.

The Raiders-Chiefs game was one of two that the NFL moved to Saturday. That means Buffalo, which also is in the running for the No. 1 seed, will know its situation before taking the field against New England on Sunday.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Kansas City Chiefs keep winning and Patrick Mahomes keeps making history.Both are doing so despite some difficult offseason decisions that have prolonged their ability to do so.The biggest, of course, was the decision to trade Tyreek Hill to the Dolphins, rather than lavish on the game-breaking wide receiver a massive contract that would have made it difficult to maneuver financially for years to come.The Chiefs not only gained salary cap flexibility with the move, but also five draft picks that helped to fortify other areas of the roster.That includes the defense, which is vastly improved and has helped the Chiefs squeak out wins — such as their 27-24 victory over the Denver Broncos on Sunday — even when their high-octane offense starts to sputter.“When you win and you don’t play your best ball — you don’t feel like you play your best ball — that’s always a good thing,” Mahomes said afterward. "Fourth quarter, we played well. But at the end of the day we have to find a way that for four quarters we play our best football whenever we get to the playoffs, and I feel like we still haven’t done that yet.”Yet they've played well enough to start the season 13-3, clinch the AFC West with plenty of time to spare, and head into their regular-season finale Saturday in Las Vegas knowing a win could give them the No. 1 seed and a postseason bye.Not many thought the Chiefs would be in that situation when they traded Hill in the offseason.Nor did many people think Mahomes would put up MVP-caliber numbers again.He's thrown for 5,048 yards to join Drew Brees and Tom Brady as the only quarterbacks with multiple seasons of at least 5,000 yards. He has 40 touchdown tosses, joining Brees as the only QBs with two seasons of 5,000 yards and 40 TD passes. And he needs 186 yards running and passing to surpass Brees for the most combined in an NFL season.“He ended up 28 for 41, still over 100.0 passer rating and 322 yards,” Chiefs coach Andy Reid said after the win over the Broncos. “There were some plays that he definitely would like to have back, but that’s how picky we are, right? You start nitpicking these things, as he does. But that’s what great players do.”WHAT’S WORKINGThe Chiefs were desperate to improve one of the league's worst pass rushes in the offseason, so they drafted George Karlaftis in the first round and signed Carlos Dunlap in free agency. Both have been hits. Karlaftis in particular has five sacks in his past six games, and the Chiefs have 49 on the season, trailing only the Eagles, Patriots and Cowboys.WHAT NEEDS HELPThe Chiefs committed two more turnovers Sunday and both were costly. Mahomes threw an interception in the end zone to keep Kansas City from extending its lead and Kadarius Toney fumbled a punt return deep in his own territory, which Russell Wilson immediately turned into a 16-yard touchdown run for the Broncos.STOCK UPJerick McKinnon's stock continues to soar. He has eight touchdowns total in the past five games, and with two TD catches Sunday, he became the first running back since 1947 with at least one in five consecutive games.STOCK DOWNRookie cornerback Joshua Williams struggled in crunch time Sunday. On the drive that Denver scored to make it 27-24 with 6:14 to go, Williams was flagged twice: the first for pass interference on a third-down incompletion that kept the drive alive, and the second for illegal hands to the face when Nick Bolton had intercepted a fourth-down throw.INJUREDLG Joe Thuney, who reinjured his left ankle against the Broncos, was due for an MRI; he tried to return to the game but was soon ruled out. WR Skyy Moore also was ruled out with a laceration on the inside of his right hand.KEY NUMBER808 — Travis Kelce had seven catches against Denver to pass Jason Witten (806) for the most receptions by an NFL tight end in his first 10 seasons. Kelce did it despite missing 15 games of his rookie season to a knee injury, too.NEXT STEPSThe Raiders-Chiefs game was one of two that the NFL moved to Saturday. That means Buffalo, which also is in the running for the No. 1 seed, will know its situation before taking the field against New England on Sunday.

Chiefs keep stacking wins after difficult offseason decision

Western Athletic Conference Dodge City @ Garden Plain

Central Kansas League Smoky Valley @ Hoisington Larned @ Ellsworth Pratt @ Kingman Cheney @ Hesston Nickerson @ Andale Clearwater @ Halstead Chaparral @ Haven Hillsboro @ Hutch Trinity

Central Prairie League Central Plains @ Ellinwood Kinsley @ St. John Otis-Bison @ Stafford Ness City @ Dighton Victoria @ Plainville

Other Area Games Chase @ Fairfield Bucklin @ Pawnee Heights Hodgeman County @ Spearville Wilson @ Natoma Inman @ Sterling

Area Schedule January, 3Western Athletic Conference Dodge City @ Garden PlainCentral Kansas League Smoky Valley @ Hoisington Larned @ Ellsworth Pratt @ Kingman Cheney @ Hesston Nickerson @ Andale Clearwater @ Halstead Chaparral @ Haven Hillsboro @ Hutch TrinityCentral Prairie League Central Plains @ Ellinwood Kinsley @ St. John Otis-Bison @ Stafford Ness City @ Dighton Victoria @ PlainvilleOther Area Games Chase @ Fairfield Bucklin @ Pawnee Heights Hodgeman County @ Spearville Wilson @ Natoma Inman @ Sterling

Tuesday High School Basketball Schedule (1/3/23)

Purdue solidified its No. 1 ranking in The Associated Press men’s college basketball poll following UConn’s first loss of the season while No. 23 Charleston moved into the rankings for the first time in 20 years. The Boilermakers remained No. 1 for the fourth straight week. They received all but one first-place vote from a 61-person media panel in the poll released Monday. No. 2 Houston and No. 3 Kansas each moved up a spot, and No. 4 UConn dropped two spots after losing to Xavier. Arizona rounded out the top five.

Others receiving votes: LSU 83, San Diego St. 72, Mississippi St. 62, Kentucky 53, Kansas St 41, Illinois 21, Marquette 20, Providence 14, Virginia Tech 7, Memphis 6, Michigan St. 5, West Virginia 5, FAU 3, Saint Mary's (Cal) 3, Creighton 1.

Purdue solidified its No. 1 ranking in The Associated Press men’s college basketball poll following UConn’s first loss of the season while No. 23 Charleston moved into the rankings for the first time in 20 years. The Boilermakers remained No. 1 for the fourth straight week. They received all but one first-place vote from a 61-person media panel in the poll released Monday. No. 2 Houston and No. 3 Kansas each moved up a spot, and No. 4 UConn dropped two spots after losing to Xavier. Arizona rounded out the top five.	Record	Pts	Prv1. Purdue (60)	13-0	1524	12. Houston	14-1	1417	33. Kansas	12-1	1351	44. UConn (1)	14-1	1342	25. Arizona	13-1	1334	56. Texas	12-1	1185	67. Alabama	11-2	1132	88. Tennessee	11-2	1114	79. Gonzaga	12-3	1003	1010. UCLA	13-2	993	1111. Virginia	10-2	926	1312. Miami	13-1	814	1413. Arkansas	11-2	717	914. Wisconsin	10-2	639	1515. Indiana	10-3	558	1616. Duke	11-3	554	1717. TCU	12-1	545	1818. Xavier	12-3	531	2219. Baylor	10-3	520	1220. Missouri	12-1	329	-21. New Mexico	14-0	290	2222. Auburn	11-2	287	2023. Coll of Charleston	14-1	116	-24. Ohio St.	10-3	114	-25. Iowa St.	10-2	94	-Others receiving votes: LSU 83, San Diego St. 72, Mississippi St. 62, Kentucky 53, Kansas St 41, Illinois 21, Marquette 20, Providence 14, Virginia Tech 7, Memphis 6, Michigan St. 5, West Virginia 5, FAU 3, Saint Mary's (Cal) 3, Creighton 1.

Kansas No. 3 in new AP Poll

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The coach making all the important decisions on the Denver sideline was different Sunday.

So was the one calling the offensive plays from a booth high above Arrowhead Stadium.

Less than a week after the beaten-down Broncos fired first-year head coach Nathaniel Hackett, and put 67-year-old career assistant Jerry Rosburg in charge, they fumbled through another game they could've won. Their defense collapsed when it mattered the most, and their offense made many familiar mistakes, in a 27-24 loss to the Kansas City Chiefs.

It was the seventh loss in eight games for a once-proud franchise that will once again miss the playoffs.

“The only way this streak thing that I keep getting asked about is going to stop,” Rosburg said, “is if we stop making errors down the stretch in the game, or we stop making errors at the beginning of the game that put us behind the 8-ball.

"Those got to stop. I made a commitment to those guys to be a better coach. I've got to be better and they've got to be better, and pay more attention to the details that put us in those situations.”

What has been one of the league's most inept offenses didn't look a whole lot better most of the game, despite offensive coordinator Justin Outten becoming the third different voice in Russell Wilson's headset calling the plays.

They went three-and-out to open the game. Fumbled the ball away on a strip-sack later in the first half. Had another three-and-out early in the second half, when it had a chance to build on a 17-13 lead and Courtland Sutton was hit with a dubious offensive pass interference call on what would have been a third-down conversion.

The biggest error may have come on the Broncos' next possession, though.

The Chiefs had just regained the lead on Patrick Mahomes' third touchdown pass of the game when Wilson dropped back to pass. Under pressure, the quarterback with the $165 million guaranteed extension threw a wobbly pass high into the air and into the hands of Chiefs cornerback L'Jarius Sneed, setting up Kansas City's clinching touchdown.

“Sneed's play was a big play for us,” Chiefs coach Andy Reid acknowledged. “He did a nice job there.”

Wilson finished with 222 yards passing and a touchdown along with two TD runs. But the rest of the Denver offense did little to help him out, going 3 for 12 on third down and gaining just 307 total yards.

“I give my all every day. I don't know any less,” an emotional Wilson said afterward. “All I want to do is help this team win, and I know we're going to find a way to overcome those obstacles. And I'm not going to blink, because I know who I am and I know the dedication I have for this game and how much it means to me.”

The one bright spot most of the season for Denver has been its defense, and even that collapsed in crunch time Sunday.

The Broncos, who picked off Mahomes three times three weeks ago in Denver, were once again causing him problems when Kansas City took over midway through the third quarter.

Mahomes promptly led them downfield, going 4 for 4 with a touchdown throw to Blake Bell, then led them to pay dirt again after Wilson's interception moments later.

“We have a lot of talent in that room and these guys have been getting ripped," said Rosburg, an 18-year NFL coaching vet. “I see a bunch of talented players that need to come together and need to play with fundamentals and need to understand complementary football. That was my mission this week. We made some progress but it wasn’t good enough. These players deserve and need to win a football game. We’re planting seeds here. We want this thing to grow.”

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The coach making all the important decisions on the Denver sideline was different Sunday.So was the one calling the offensive plays from a booth high above Arrowhead Stadium.The result was very much the same.Less than a week after the beaten-down Broncos fired first-year head coach Nathaniel Hackett, and put 67-year-old career assistant Jerry Rosburg in charge, they fumbled through another game they could've won. Their defense collapsed when it mattered the most, and their offense made many familiar mistakes, in a 27-24 loss to the Kansas City Chiefs.It was the seventh loss in eight games for a once-proud franchise that will once again miss the playoffs.“The only way this streak thing that I keep getting asked about is going to stop,” Rosburg said, “is if we stop making errors down the stretch in the game, or we stop making errors at the beginning of the game that put us behind the 8-ball."Those got to stop. I made a commitment to those guys to be a better coach. I've got to be better and they've got to be better, and pay more attention to the details that put us in those situations.”What has been one of the league's most inept offenses didn't look a whole lot better most of the game, despite offensive coordinator Justin Outten becoming the third different voice in Russell Wilson's headset calling the plays.They went three-and-out to open the game. Fumbled the ball away on a strip-sack later in the first half. Had another three-and-out early in the second half, when it had a chance to build on a 17-13 lead and Courtland Sutton was hit with a dubious offensive pass interference call on what would have been a third-down conversion.The biggest error may have come on the Broncos' next possession, though.The Chiefs had just regained the lead on Patrick Mahomes' third touchdown pass of the game when Wilson dropped back to pass. Under pressure, the quarterback with the $165 million guaranteed extension threw a wobbly pass high into the air and into the hands of Chiefs cornerback L'Jarius Sneed, setting up Kansas City's clinching touchdown.“Sneed's play was a big play for us,” Chiefs coach Andy Reid acknowledged. “He did a nice job there.”Wilson finished with 222 yards passing and a touchdown along with two TD runs. But the rest of the Denver offense did little to help him out, going 3 for 12 on third down and gaining just 307 total yards.“I give my all every day. I don't know any less,” an emotional Wilson said afterward. “All I want to do is help this team win, and I know we're going to find a way to overcome those obstacles. And I'm not going to blink, because I know who I am and I know the dedication I have for this game and how much it means to me.”The one bright spot most of the season for Denver has been its defense, and even that collapsed in crunch time Sunday.The Broncos, who picked off Mahomes three times three weeks ago in Denver, were once again causing him problems when Kansas City took over midway through the third quarter.Mahomes promptly led them downfield, going 4 for 4 with a touchdown throw to Blake Bell, then led them to pay dirt again after Wilson's interception moments later.“We have a lot of talent in that room and these guys have been getting ripped," said Rosburg, an 18-year NFL coaching vet. “I see a bunch of talented players that need to come together and need to play with fundamentals and need to understand complementary football. That was my mission this week. We made some progress but it wasn’t good enough. These players deserve and need to win a football game. We’re planting seeds here. We want this thing to grow.”

Despite changes, Broncos stuck with same old result in KC

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Patrick Mahomes threw for 328 yards and three touchdowns, two of them to Jerick McKinnon, and the Kansas City Chiefs overcame another sloppy start to hold off the Denver Broncos 27-24 on Sunday.

Isiah Pacheco and Blake Bell also scored for the Chiefs (13-3), who overcame a 17-13 third-quarter deficit to beat the Broncos for the 15th consecutive time while keeping alive their hopes for the AFC's No. 1 seed and lone postseason bye.

The Chiefs began the day tied with the Bills, who play Cincinnati on Monday night, for the conference's best record.

For a while the Broncos (4-12) looked as if they would cap a chaotic week that began with the firing of first-year head coach Nathaniel Hackett in a stunning victory. But a late letdown by one of the league's best defenses, and another interception by embattled quarterback Russell Wilson, resulted in the first loss for interim coach Jerry Rosburg.

Wilson threw for 222 yards and a touchdown while also running for a pair of scores, the second of them — after two costly penalties on the Kansas City defense — pulling Denver within 27-24 with 6:14 left in the game.

The Broncos got the ball back with just under four minutes to go, too, and picked up a quick first down. But the Kansas City defense stiffened near midfield, and Chris Jones sacked Wilson on fourth-and-2 to effectively end the game.

The Chiefs' sluggish start against the downtrodden Broncos wasn't all that surprising. For all their success this season, they have habitually played down to the opposition, whether it was in their overtime win at Houston or their 34-28 victory over the Broncos just three weeks ago.

Kansas City fumbled a hold on an early PAT. Mahomes threw an interception in the end zone. And Kadarius Toney fumbled a punt return deep in Kansas City territory, setting up Wilson's touchdown run that gave Denver a 10-6 lead.

But the Chiefs also have proven over the years their ability to strike quickly, and they did that after falling behind for the first time Sunday. Mahomes answered with long passes to Toney and McKinnon, a penalty on third down gave them a fresh set of downs, and McKinnon turned a screen pass into a touchdown reception for the fifth straight game.

That streak is the longest for an NFL running back since Bill Dudley of the Lions in 1947.

The Chiefs struggled to maintain momentum after halftime, though, going three-and-out on their first three possessions. And the Broncos, with their third play-caller of the season in offensive coordinator Justin Outten, capitalized with a 63-yard touchdown drive that gave them a 17-13 lead late in the third quarter.

Then the Chiefs began looking like the Chiefs. And the Broncos like the Broncos.

Mahomes led the AFC West champs briskly downfield before hitting Bell from 17 yards for his first regular-season touchdown catch. And on the very next play, Wilson threw a wobbler under pressure that L'Jarius Sneed picked off, setting up McKinnon's second touchdown catch of the day and his eighth in the past five games.

The Broncos scored in the fourth quarter to give themselves a chance before Kansas City put the game away.

Broncos: RB Marlon Mack (hamstring) left in the first quarter and LG Dalton Risner (elbow) in the third. CB Damarri Mathis went into the concussion protocol in the second. LB Baron Browning (back) and DL D.J. Jones (knee) were inactive.

Chiefs: LG Joe Thuney (ankle) left late in the third quarter and WR Skyy Moore (hand) in the fourth. Sneed also hurt his hip on his interception return in the fourth.

The Broncos conclude their season next Sunday against the Chargers.

The Chiefs visit the Raiders on Sunday in their regular-season finale.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Patrick Mahomes threw for 328 yards and three touchdowns, two of them to Jerick McKinnon, and the Kansas City Chiefs overcame another sloppy start to hold off the Denver Broncos 27-24 on Sunday.Isiah Pacheco and Blake Bell also scored for the Chiefs (13-3), who overcame a 17-13 third-quarter deficit to beat the Broncos for the 15th consecutive time while keeping alive their hopes for the AFC's No. 1 seed and lone postseason bye.The Chiefs began the day tied with the Bills, who play Cincinnati on Monday night, for the conference's best record.For a while the Broncos (4-12) looked as if they would cap a chaotic week that began with the firing of first-year head coach Nathaniel Hackett in a stunning victory. But a late letdown by one of the league's best defenses, and another interception by embattled quarterback Russell Wilson, resulted in the first loss for interim coach Jerry Rosburg.Wilson threw for 222 yards and a touchdown while also running for a pair of scores, the second of them — after two costly penalties on the Kansas City defense — pulling Denver within 27-24 with 6:14 left in the game.The Broncos got the ball back with just under four minutes to go, too, and picked up a quick first down. But the Kansas City defense stiffened near midfield, and Chris Jones sacked Wilson on fourth-and-2 to effectively end the game.The Chiefs' sluggish start against the downtrodden Broncos wasn't all that surprising. For all their success this season, they have habitually played down to the opposition, whether it was in their overtime win at Houston or their 34-28 victory over the Broncos just three weeks ago.Kansas City fumbled a hold on an early PAT. Mahomes threw an interception in the end zone. And Kadarius Toney fumbled a punt return deep in Kansas City territory, setting up Wilson's touchdown run that gave Denver a 10-6 lead.But the Chiefs also have proven over the years their ability to strike quickly, and they did that after falling behind for the first time Sunday. Mahomes answered with long passes to Toney and McKinnon, a penalty on third down gave them a fresh set of downs, and McKinnon turned a screen pass into a touchdown reception for the fifth straight game.That streak is the longest for an NFL running back since Bill Dudley of the Lions in 1947.The Chiefs struggled to maintain momentum after halftime, though, going three-and-out on their first three possessions. And the Broncos, with their third play-caller of the season in offensive coordinator Justin Outten, capitalized with a 63-yard touchdown drive that gave them a 17-13 lead late in the third quarter.Then the Chiefs began looking like the Chiefs. And the Broncos like the Broncos.Mahomes led the AFC West champs briskly downfield before hitting Bell from 17 yards for his first regular-season touchdown catch. And on the very next play, Wilson threw a wobbler under pressure that L'Jarius Sneed picked off, setting up McKinnon's second touchdown catch of the day and his eighth in the past five games.The Broncos scored in the fourth quarter to give themselves a chance before Kansas City put the game away.INJURIESBroncos: RB Marlon Mack (hamstring) left in the first quarter and LG Dalton Risner (elbow) in the third. CB Damarri Mathis went into the concussion protocol in the second. LB Baron Browning (back) and DL D.J. Jones (knee) were inactive.Chiefs: LG Joe Thuney (ankle) left late in the third quarter and WR Skyy Moore (hand) in the fourth. Sneed also hurt his hip on his interception return in the fourth.UP NEXTThe Broncos conclude their season next Sunday against the Chargers.The Chiefs visit the Raiders on Sunday in their regular-season finale.

Sluggish Chiefs beat Broncos for 15th straight time, 27-24

After the best semifinal day in the nine-year history of the College Football Playoff, the title game will match the defending national champion against the closest thing the sport has had in years to a Cinderella team.

It will be No. 1 Georgia (14-0) looking for its second straight championship against upstart and No. 3 TCU on Jan. 9 at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California.

The four-team playoff has been littered with lopsided semifinal games, but Saturday — and into early Sunday and the new year — delivered two thrillers and a combined 179 points.

The Bulldogs came from 14 points down in the second half to beat No. 4 Ohio State 42-41 in the Peach Bowl and advance to the CFP championship game for the third time under coach Kirby Smart.

“If we want any chance of winning a national championship, we have to play a lot better football than we played tonight, but we have to keep the resiliency and composure along with us,” Smart said.

The Bulldogs and Buckeyes played a classic that came down to a missed field goal by Ohio State with three seconds left. Amazingly, it was even better than the wild opener of the semifinal doubleheader between No. 3 TCU and No. 2 Michigan.

The Horned Frogs (13-1) upset the Wolverines 51-45 in the Fiesta Bowl, the second-highest scoring CFP game ever.

“We’re going to celebrate it,” TCU quarterback Max Duggan said. “Obviously, we’re excited, but we know we got a big one coming up.”

TCU, the first Big 12 to win a playoff game, will be looking for its first national title since 1938. Under coach Dutch Meyer, the Horned Frogs beat Carnegie Tech 15-7 in the Sugar Bowl to complete a 10-0 season.

The Southeastern Conference champion Bulldogs opened as a 13 1/2-point favorites, according to FanDuel Sportsbook, in what will be the fifth meeting between the schools.

Georgia has won them all, including the last in the 2016 Liberty Bowl.

Coming off a 5-7 season in 2021 and picked to finish seventh in their conference before the season, the Horned Frogs have embraced the underdog role and thrived on being doubted.

“We know we’re going to hear it again. It’s not going to stop now,” first-year coach Sonny Dykes said. "We got to do what we did this game (against Michigan). We’ve got to answer that criticism and show up and do what we’re supposed to do.

“If we think that’s going away, I think you guys all know that’s not. That’s just the way it is.”

TCU would be the first team to win a national championship the year after having a losing season since Michigan State in 1965.

Georgia, No. 1 for most of the season, is looking for its third national title, trying to become the first back-to-back champion in the CFP era and the first since Alabama won the BCS in 2011 and '12.

It will be a matchup of Heisman Trophy finalist quarterbacks, with Duggan and Georgia's Stetson Bennett.

Neither is a future NFL draft first-rounder, and both had ups and down in the semifinal but came through in the biggest spots.

Duggan ran for two scores and threw two TD passes as the Frogs held back a surging Michigan in the second half.

Bennett threw for 398 yards and two touchdowns in the fourth quarter, including the game winner with 54 seconds left.

These Bulldogs rely more on Bennett and their offense than last year's championship team, which fielded one of the best defenses college football has had in recent history. Georgia ranked fifth in the nation in yards per play (6.97) coming into the playoff.

The Frogs have have a powerful offense, too, with Duggan and star receiver Quentin Johnston, who had 163 yards on six catches against the Wolverines.

This is the penultimate season of the four-team version of the playoff before it expands to 12 teams in the 2024 season.

Before Saturday, only three of 16 semifinals had been decided by single digits, and all those blowouts helped fuel a desire to grow the field in the hope of creating some more interesting postseason games.

This New Year's Eve, the four-team playoff turned out to be an eight-hour college football party.

After losing to TCU, Michigan coach Jim Harbaugh summed up his team's game, and as it turns out, the day.

“The winner," he said, "was football.”

After the best semifinal day in the nine-year history of the College Football Playoff, the title game will match the defending national champion against the closest thing the sport has had in years to a Cinderella team.It will be No. 1 Georgia (14-0) looking for its second straight championship against upstart and No. 3 TCU on Jan. 9 at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California.The four-team playoff has been littered with lopsided semifinal games, but Saturday — and into early Sunday and the new year — delivered two thrillers and a combined 179 points.The Bulldogs came from 14 points down in the second half to beat No. 4 Ohio State 42-41 in the Peach Bowl and advance to the CFP championship game for the third time under coach Kirby Smart.“If we want any chance of winning a national championship, we have to play a lot better football than we played tonight, but we have to keep the resiliency and composure along with us,” Smart said.The Bulldogs and Buckeyes played a classic that came down to a missed field goal by Ohio State with three seconds left. Amazingly, it was even better than the wild opener of the semifinal doubleheader between No. 3 TCU and No. 2 Michigan.The Horned Frogs (13-1) upset the Wolverines 51-45 in the Fiesta Bowl, the second-highest scoring CFP game ever.“We’re going to celebrate it,” TCU quarterback Max Duggan said. “Obviously, we’re excited, but we know we got a big one coming up.”TCU, the first Big 12 to win a playoff game, will be looking for its first national title since 1938. Under coach Dutch Meyer, the Horned Frogs beat Carnegie Tech 15-7 in the Sugar Bowl to complete a 10-0 season.The Southeastern Conference champion Bulldogs opened as a 13 1/2-point favorites, according to FanDuel Sportsbook, in what will be the fifth meeting between the schools.Georgia has won them all, including the last in the 2016 Liberty Bowl.Coming off a 5-7 season in 2021 and picked to finish seventh in their conference before the season, the Horned Frogs have embraced the underdog role and thrived on being doubted.“We know we’re going to hear it again. It’s not going to stop now,” first-year coach Sonny Dykes said. "We got to do what we did this game (against Michigan). We’ve got to answer that criticism and show up and do what we’re supposed to do.“If we think that’s going away, I think you guys all know that’s not. That’s just the way it is.”TCU would be the first team to win a national championship the year after having a losing season since Michigan State in 1965.Georgia, No. 1 for most of the season, is looking for its third national title, trying to become the first back-to-back champion in the CFP era and the first since Alabama won the BCS in 2011 and '12.It will be a matchup of Heisman Trophy finalist quarterbacks, with Duggan and Georgia's Stetson Bennett.Neither is a future NFL draft first-rounder, and both had ups and down in the semifinal but came through in the biggest spots.Duggan ran for two scores and threw two TD passes as the Frogs held back a surging Michigan in the second half.Bennett threw for 398 yards and two touchdowns in the fourth quarter, including the game winner with 54 seconds left.These Bulldogs rely more on Bennett and their offense than last year's championship team, which fielded one of the best defenses college football has had in recent history. Georgia ranked fifth in the nation in yards per play (6.97) coming into the playoff.The Frogs have have a powerful offense, too, with Duggan and star receiver Quentin Johnston, who had 163 yards on six catches against the Wolverines.This is the penultimate season of the four-team version of the playoff before it expands to 12 teams in the 2024 season.Before Saturday, only three of 16 semifinals had been decided by single digits, and all those blowouts helped fuel a desire to grow the field in the hope of creating some more interesting postseason games.This New Year's Eve, the four-team playoff turned out to be an eight-hour college football party.After losing to TCU, Michigan coach Jim Harbaugh summed up his team's game, and as it turns out, the day.“The winner," he said, "was football.”

Defending champion Georgia vs. Cinderella TCU for CFP title

WICHITA, Kan. (AP) — Brandon Johnson had 17 points in East Carolina's 79-69 victory against Wichita State on Saturday night.

Johnson had eight rebounds for the Pirates (10-5, 1-1 American Athletic). Ezra Ausar scored 16 points and added five rebounds. Javon Small recorded 14 points.

The Shockers (7-7, 0-2) were led by Kenny Pohto, who posted 21 points, 11 rebounds and two blocks. Shammah Scott added 19 points for Wichita State. Jaron Pierre Jr. also had 12 points.

East Carolina took the lead for good with 9:30 remaining in the second half on a 3-pointer from Jaden Walker to make it a 59-56 game.

WICHITA, Kan. (AP) — Brandon Johnson had 17 points in East Carolina's 79-69 victory against Wichita State on Saturday night.Johnson had eight rebounds for the Pirates (10-5, 1-1 American Athletic). Ezra Ausar scored 16 points and added five rebounds. Javon Small recorded 14 points.The Shockers (7-7, 0-2) were led by Kenny Pohto, who posted 21 points, 11 rebounds and two blocks. Shammah Scott added 19 points for Wichita State. Jaron Pierre Jr. also had 12 points.East Carolina took the lead for good with 9:30 remaining in the second half on a 3-pointer from Jaden Walker to make it a 59-56 game.

Johnson scores 17, East Carolina beats Wichita State 79-69

MANHATTAN, Kan. (AP) — Markquis Nowell had a game-high 23 points and 10 assists, Keyontae Johnson scored 18, and Abayomi Iyiola added a career-best 14 points as Kansas State rallied from a 14-point deficit to beat No. 24 West Virginia 82-76 in overtime in the Big 12 opener for both teams on Saturday night.

The Wildcats (12-1) scored the first six points in overtime after West Virginia forced the extra period on a tying 3-pointer by Keadrian Johnson (nine points) with one second left in regulation. It was West Virginia’s third 3-pointer in the game.

Nowell took over in the extra period, scoring five points and helping Kansas State hold off the Mountaineers.

“He is just such a competitor,” Kansas State coach Jerome Tang said. “We are both competitors and we both want to win and you’ll never fault him for effort. I am so proud of him.”

Tre Mitchell scored 16 points and Emmitt Matthews Jr. added 12 for West Virginia (10-3, 0-1), which had 20 turnovers. The Wildcats scored 22 points off those miscues.

MANHATTAN, Kan. (AP) — Markquis Nowell had a game-high 23 points and 10 assists, Keyontae Johnson scored 18, and Abayomi Iyiola added a career-best 14 points as Kansas State rallied from a 14-point deficit to beat No. 24 West Virginia 82-76 in overtime in the Big 12 opener for both teams on Saturday night.The Wildcats (12-1) scored the first six points in overtime after West Virginia forced the extra period on a tying 3-pointer by Keadrian Johnson (nine points) with one second left in regulation. It was West Virginia’s third 3-pointer in the game.Nowell took over in the extra period, scoring five points and helping Kansas State hold off the Mountaineers.“He is just such a competitor,” Kansas State coach Jerome Tang said. “We are both competitors and we both want to win and you’ll never fault him for effort. I am so proud of him.”Tre Mitchell scored 16 points and Emmitt Matthews Jr. added 12 for West Virginia (10-3, 0-1), which had 20 turnovers. The Wildcats scored 22 points off those miscues.“They outplayed us and we had some guys do some really stupid things that enabled them to get back in the games,” West Virginia coach Bob Huggins said. “At the start of the game, we were passing the ball, defending, but we gave up too many point-blank shots because we are out of position. We gave this game away.”The Wildcats shot 29 of 69 (42%) from the field, while West Virginia was 26 of 63 (41%).“I said this to the team, ‘How do you miss a one-footer? How do you continue to miss that many free throws,’” Huggins said. “The bad news is that this is probably one the easiest places to play in the league.”Kansas State took its first lead eight minutes into the second half at 44-42 after going nearly six minutes without a basket at the start of the game.“I am very proud of the guys and I know we had fight in us,” Tang said. “I told the guys let’s settle down and for us to just continue and rebound.”BIG PICTUREWest Virginia: The Mountaineers went cold in the second half and lost a double-digit halftime lead. They will need to work on not turning the ball over after having 20 in the loss.Kansas State: Despite the slow start, the Wildcats found a way to win. The 21-point first half was the team's lowest scoring half this season.UP NEXTWest Virginia: Travels to Oklahoma State on Monday .Kansas State: Travels to Texas on Tuesday.