LAWRENCE, Kan. –&nbsp;The Oklahoma Sports Hall of Fame (OSHOF) and Jim Thorpe Association released the prestigious Paycom Jim Thorpe Award Preseason Watch List, which features Kansas senior cornerback&nbsp;Cobee Bryant&nbsp;for the second straight season.

This is the second preseason watch list for Bryant in the past two days, after he was recognized by the Bronko Nagurski Award on Wednesday. The watch list for the Jim Thorpe Award includes 42 of the nation's best defensive backs, representing nine conferences and one independent university.

The Paycom Jim Thorpe Award is awarded to the best defensive back in college football based on performance on the field, athletic ability and character. The award was established in 1986 and is named after history's greatest all-around athlete, Jim Thorpe. Thorpe excelled as a running back, passer and kicker on the offensive side of the ball, but also stood out as a defensive back. In addition to his legendary performance on the football field, Thorpe played professional baseball and won Olympic gold medals in the decathlon and pentathlon. The Paycom Jim Thorpe Award is universally accepted as one of the nation's top collegiate sports honors.

A two-time All-Big 12 First Team selection, Bryant is tied for eighth in school history with nine interceptions and he's tied for the school record with two career interceptions returned for a touchdown. The Evergreen, Alabama, native has been named a preseason All-Big 12 selection after finishing the 2023 season with 32 tackles, 4 interceptions and 9 pass breakups.

The preseason watch list is selected by a screening committee whose members compile a list of up to 50 players based on previous performance in NCAA Division I college football and preseason All-America lists. This list is not final, and players who have outstanding seasons may be added to the semifinalists and finalists lists as the season progresses.

Kansas will play all six home games in the Kansas City Metro area as work continues on the University of Kansas Gateway District, beginning on Thursday, August 29, against Lindenwood at Children's Mercy Park in Kansas City, Kansas.

2024 Kansas Football Preseason Watch Lists: Maxwell Award – QB&nbsp;<a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/football/roster/jalon-daniels/1362">Jalon Daniels</a>, RB&nbsp;<a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/football/roster/devin-neal/1356">Devin Neal</a>&nbsp; Patrick Mannelly Award – LS&nbsp;<a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/football/roster/luke-hosford/1447">Luke Hosford</a> Bronko Nagurski Award – CB&nbsp;<a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/football/roster/cobee-bryant/1350">Cobee Bryant</a> Paycom Jim Thorpe Award – CB&nbsp;<a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/football/roster/cobee-bryant/1350">Cobee Bryant</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1722525966736.jpeg" alt="Kansas Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Kansas Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>LAWRENCE, Kan. –&nbsp;The Oklahoma Sports Hall of Fame (OSHOF) and Jim Thorpe Association released the prestigious Paycom Jim Thorpe Award Preseason Watch List, which features Kansas senior cornerback&nbsp;Cobee Bryant&nbsp;for the second straight season.This is the second preseason watch list for Bryant in the past two days, after he was recognized by the Bronko Nagurski Award on Wednesday. The watch list for the Jim Thorpe Award includes 42 of the nation's best defensive backs, representing nine conferences and one independent university.The Paycom Jim Thorpe Award is awarded to the best defensive back in college football based on performance on the field, athletic ability and character. The award was established in 1986 and is named after history's greatest all-around athlete, Jim Thorpe. Thorpe excelled as a running back, passer and kicker on the offensive side of the ball, but also stood out as a defensive back. In addition to his legendary performance on the football field, Thorpe played professional baseball and won Olympic gold medals in the decathlon and pentathlon. The Paycom Jim Thorpe Award is universally accepted as one of the nation's top collegiate sports honors.A two-time All-Big 12 First Team selection, Bryant is tied for eighth in school history with nine interceptions and he's tied for the school record with two career interceptions returned for a touchdown. The Evergreen, Alabama, native has been named a preseason All-Big 12 selection after finishing the 2023 season with 32 tackles, 4 interceptions and 9 pass breakups.The preseason watch list is selected by a screening committee whose members compile a list of up to 50 players based on previous performance in NCAA Division I college football and preseason All-America lists. This list is not final, and players who have outstanding seasons may be added to the semifinalists and finalists lists as the season progresses.Kansas will play all six home games in the Kansas City Metro area as work continues on the University of Kansas Gateway District, beginning on Thursday, August 29, against Lindenwood at Children's Mercy Park in Kansas City, Kansas.2024 Kansas Football Preseason Watch Lists: Maxwell Award – QB&nbsp;<a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/football/roster/jalon-daniels/1362">Jalon Daniels</a>, RB&nbsp;<a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/football/roster/devin-neal/1356">Devin Neal</a>&nbsp; Patrick Mannelly Award – LS&nbsp;<a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/football/roster/luke-hosford/1447">Luke Hosford</a> Bronko Nagurski Award – CB&nbsp;<a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/football/roster/cobee-bryant/1350">Cobee Bryant</a> Paycom Jim Thorpe Award – CB&nbsp;<a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/football/roster/cobee-bryant/1350">Cobee Bryant</a>

Bryant added to Jim Thorpe Award Watch List

By MATT PIKE St. Joseph Post

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. - It was a hot and steamy day at Missouri Western State University as the Chiefs returned to practice after a day off on Tuesday.

Temperatures were up near the 100's and there were a handful of players that left practice with injuries, luckily none heat related.

Head Coach Andy Reid says the work to keep players on the field in the heat starts before practice making sure guys are staying hydrated

"We don't have very many of the hydration issues, which is a positive, our trainers do a nice job of that," Reid tells reporter's post-practice. "And then during practice we water break them, so we'll go a certain number of plays, then you'll see the people run the water in and give them a quick shot, and then hop back out."

During training camp fans and coaches have had their eyes on one receiver looking to make an impact in his second year in the league.

After spending last season on the injury list, Nikko Remigio has been making big plays in the offense and on special teams

Remigio says the mentality he takes to get through camp is to just be resilient.

"And that's really been kind of the moral of my entire journey is just staying resilient and continuing to punch," Remigio explains. "I've always been an underdog at every single level of football that I've played at, so being in this position is nothing new to me, so just making sure that I'm still fighting and being the best version of myself every single day."

Head Coach Andy Reid says he's been impressed with the development of Remigio.

"He's getting better every rep he gets, so that's a positive thing for us," Reid says.

Remigio also worked during the offseason with quarterback Patrick Mahomes. Special Teams Coach Dave Toub has been especially impressed with him on punt and kick return.

The Chiefs return to practice Thursday at 9:15 a.m.

The Chiefs lost a handful of players during Wednesday's practice but did see the return of one player from the physically unable to perform list.

Justin Reid, Justin Watson, and Nazeeh Johnson were all still absent from practicing, though they were all present on the practice fields, as they continue to recover from injuries.

Head Coach Andy Reid reports that tight end Izaiah Gathings left practice Wednesday with a hamstring injury. Wide receiver Kadarius Toney, offensive lineman Chukwuebuka Godrick, and offensive lineman McKade Mettauer all left with ankle injuries.

Middle linebacker Nick Bolton went down during 11-on-11 drills, Reid reports Bolton left practice with an elbow injury.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1722526145464.jpeg" alt="&nbsp;Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce, quarterback Patrick Mahomes, and receivers Hollywood Brown and Rashee Rice during practice/ Photo by Alexis Starks" />
 <figcaption>&nbsp;Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce, quarterback Patrick Mahomes, and receivers Hollywood Brown and Rashee Rice during practice/ Photo by Alexis Starks</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKE St. Joseph PostST. JOSEPH, Mo. - It was a hot and steamy day at Missouri Western State University as the Chiefs returned to practice after a day off on Tuesday.Temperatures were up near the 100's and there were a handful of players that left practice with injuries, luckily none heat related.Head Coach Andy Reid says the work to keep players on the field in the heat starts before practice making sure guys are staying hydrated"We don't have very many of the hydration issues, which is a positive, our trainers do a nice job of that," Reid tells reporter's post-practice. "And then during practice we water break them, so we'll go a certain number of plays, then you'll see the people run the water in and give them a quick shot, and then hop back out."During training camp fans and coaches have had their eyes on one receiver looking to make an impact in his second year in the league.After spending last season on the injury list, Nikko Remigio has been making big plays in the offense and on special teamsRemigio says the mentality he takes to get through camp is to just be resilient."And that's really been kind of the moral of my entire journey is just staying resilient and continuing to punch," Remigio explains. "I've always been an underdog at every single level of football that I've played at, so being in this position is nothing new to me, so just making sure that I'm still fighting and being the best version of myself every single day."Head Coach Andy Reid says he's been impressed with the development of Remigio."He's getting better every rep he gets, so that's a positive thing for us," Reid says.Remigio also worked during the offseason with quarterback Patrick Mahomes. Special Teams Coach Dave Toub has been especially impressed with him on punt and kick return.The Chiefs return to practice Thursday at 9:15 a.m.Injury ReportThe Chiefs lost a handful of players during Wednesday's practice but did see the return of one player from the physically unable to perform list.Justin Reid, Justin Watson, and Nazeeh Johnson were all still absent from practicing, though they were all present on the practice fields, as they continue to recover from injuries.Head Coach Andy Reid reports that tight end Izaiah Gathings left practice Wednesday with a hamstring injury. Wide receiver Kadarius Toney, offensive lineman Chukwuebuka Godrick, and offensive lineman McKade Mettauer all left with ankle injuries.Middle linebacker Nick Bolton went down during 11-on-11 drills, Reid reports Bolton left practice with an elbow injury.

Chiefs push through heat as they return to practice Wednesday

LAWRENCE, Kan. –&nbsp;Fall camp is underway in Lawrence after the Kansas Jayhawks took to the field on Tuesday morning for their first practice of fall camp presented by Country Financial. Under the direction of head coach&nbsp;Lance Leipold, the Jayhawks are looking to build upon the success of back-to-back bowl game appearances and a 9-4 record in 2023.

"I thought we had a very solid first day," Leipold said after practice on Tuesday. "We're started. This is the '24 season, and we will be evaluated on what happens here moving forward. We have to stay focused on where we're going because we've got a lot more we need to do to be the consistent program we want to become."

The first practice of the season featured KU's 120 players running through individual drills and team-related work for 90 minutes on the grass practice fields before returning to the newly renovated Anderson Family Football Complex for the rest of the day's activities.

Players got their first look at the renovated Anderson Family Football Complex on Monday night and saw firsthand the upgrades, which include a new entry lobby, positional meetings rooms, a players lounge and state-of-the-art sports medicine area.

The 2024 season is set to be an unprecedented one for Kansas Football, which will play all six of its home games in the Kansas City Metro area as work continues on the University of Kansas Gateway District. The Jayhawks are set to open the year on Thursday, Aug. 29, against Lindenwood at Children's Mercy Park in Kansas City, Kansas.

Leipold, one of 21 college football coaches named to the preseason watch list for the 2024 Dodd Trophy, guided Kansas to its first bowl win since 2008 last season as the Jayhawks defeated UNLV 49-36 in the Guaranteed Rate Bowl. KU has now made consecutive bowl appearances for only the second time in program history (2007-08), and the Jayhawks were picked fourth in the Big 12 preseason poll, which is the program's highest preseason ranking since the league went to a non-divisional format in 2011.

Four Kansas players have been recognized on preseason watch lists this week. Quarterback&nbsp;<a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/football/roster/jalon-daniels/1362">Jalon Daniels</a>&nbsp;and running back&nbsp;<a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/football/roster/devin-neal/1356">Devin Neal</a>&nbsp;earned spots on the Maxwell Award's watch list on Monday, while longsnapper&nbsp;<a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/football/roster/luke-hosford/1447">Luke Hosford</a>&nbsp;was named to the Patrick Mannelly Award watch list. Shortly after the conclusion of KU's first practice on Tuesday, cornerback&nbsp;<a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/football/roster/cobee-bryant/1350">Cobee Bryant</a>&nbsp;received his spot on the Bronko Nagurski watch list for the second consecutive season.

Fans can purchase the 2024 Kansas Football 4-game season ticket package that includes all home games at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. The season ticket package features prices starting as low as $230 for general stadium seating.

Single game tickets to the contest played at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium will become available early-August. For those interested in getting more information from the Kansas Athletics Ticket Office on ticket options for the 2024 season, please click&nbsp;<a href="https://forms.fanthreesixty.com/2024_ticket_interest_form_waitlist?mnemonic=ku">here</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1722465869543.jpeg" alt="Kansas Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Kansas Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>LAWRENCE, Kan. –&nbsp;Fall camp is underway in Lawrence after the Kansas Jayhawks took to the field on Tuesday morning for their first practice of fall camp presented by Country Financial. Under the direction of head coach&nbsp;Lance Leipold, the Jayhawks are looking to build upon the success of back-to-back bowl game appearances and a 9-4 record in 2023."I thought we had a very solid first day," Leipold said after practice on Tuesday. "We're started. This is the '24 season, and we will be evaluated on what happens here moving forward. We have to stay focused on where we're going because we've got a lot more we need to do to be the consistent program we want to become."The first practice of the season featured KU's 120 players running through individual drills and team-related work for 90 minutes on the grass practice fields before returning to the newly renovated Anderson Family Football Complex for the rest of the day's activities.Players got their first look at the renovated Anderson Family Football Complex on Monday night and saw firsthand the upgrades, which include a new entry lobby, positional meetings rooms, a players lounge and state-of-the-art sports medicine area.The 2024 season is set to be an unprecedented one for Kansas Football, which will play all six of its home games in the Kansas City Metro area as work continues on the University of Kansas Gateway District. The Jayhawks are set to open the year on Thursday, Aug. 29, against Lindenwood at Children's Mercy Park in Kansas City, Kansas.Leipold, one of 21 college football coaches named to the preseason watch list for the 2024 Dodd Trophy, guided Kansas to its first bowl win since 2008 last season as the Jayhawks defeated UNLV 49-36 in the Guaranteed Rate Bowl. KU has now made consecutive bowl appearances for only the second time in program history (2007-08), and the Jayhawks were picked fourth in the Big 12 preseason poll, which is the program's highest preseason ranking since the league went to a non-divisional format in 2011.Four Kansas players have been recognized on preseason watch lists this week. Quarterback&nbsp;<a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/football/roster/jalon-daniels/1362">Jalon Daniels</a>&nbsp;and running back&nbsp;<a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/football/roster/devin-neal/1356">Devin Neal</a>&nbsp;earned spots on the Maxwell Award's watch list on Monday, while longsnapper&nbsp;<a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/football/roster/luke-hosford/1447">Luke Hosford</a>&nbsp;was named to the Patrick Mannelly Award watch list. Shortly after the conclusion of KU's first practice on Tuesday, cornerback&nbsp;<a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/football/roster/cobee-bryant/1350">Cobee Bryant</a>&nbsp;received his spot on the Bronko Nagurski watch list for the second consecutive season.Fans can purchase the 2024 Kansas Football 4-game season ticket package that includes all home games at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. The season ticket package features prices starting as low as $230 for general stadium seating.Single game tickets to the contest played at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium will become available early-August. For those interested in getting more information from the Kansas Athletics Ticket Office on ticket options for the 2024 season, please click&nbsp;<a href="https://forms.fanthreesixty.com/2024_ticket_interest_form_waitlist?mnemonic=ku">here</a>.

KU opens fall training camp

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (AP) — The Kansas City Chiefs know what they have with their No. 1 cornerback in Trent McDuffie.

McDuffie, who was a first-team All-Pro in 2023, is atop the depth chart after the offseason trade of cornerback L’Jarius Sneed to the Tennessee Titans.

Figuring out the order after McDuffie, however, remains in flux as the Chiefs are in the third week of training camp.

“We certainly miss LJ (Sneed), but somebody’s got to step up there and take that,” Chiefs defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo said. “But I’m waiting for somebody to, you know, assert themselves and say, ‘I’m that guy that can do it.’”

There are no shortages of candidates for the Chiefs to consider.

Spagnuolo has rotated Joshua Williams, the Chiefs’ fourth-round pick in 2022, and Kelvin Joseph, who signed in January, in training camp alongside McDuffie.

Second-year pro Chamarri Conner, who started seven games in 2023, has also rotated with the first-team defense’s nickel package at the slot.

But the Chiefs are dealing with injuries in the defensive backfield as Nazeeh Johnson has missed time with a knee injury and Jaylen Watson, who started eight games over the past two seasons, remains on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list.

“We know who our No. 1 is, right? We all know that,” Spagnuolo said. “We’re just trying to find guys. We’re going to have to find our next two best players, however that works out.

“I mean we know NJ (Johnson) is dealing with his little injury right now. Josh (Williams) has been out there, Kelvin (Joseph) — it’s a lot of guys mixing in there, but somebody’s got to surface. And if not, it gets tough.”

While the Chiefs need players to get healthy to effectively evaluate the position group, the absences of Watson and Johnson have allowed the coaching staff to get a closer look at other players.

For example, second-year pro Ekow Boye-Doe and rookie Miles Battle have gained valuable work as outside cornerbacks with the second-team unit.

“It’s good for the young guys to get some reps in there,” Chiefs coach Andy Reid said.

Nevertheless, the Chiefs would likely hope to settle the order at cornerback sooner than later, especially when considering last season's defensive rankings.

Kansas City’s run to its second straight Super Bowl title was helped by one of the NFL’s best defenses, which ranked second in total defense and fourth against the pass (176.5 yards allowed per game).

The departure of Sneed leaves not just one hole, but possibly two in the defense. The Chiefs coveted Sneed’s versatility to line up either as an outside cornerback or inside to defend against a slot wide receiver.

But Conner, who can play safety and cornerback, believes the Chiefs have the right personnel to find the answer.

“This scheme is great for hybrid players that can play defensive backs,” Conner said. “Not just safety, not just corner, but a defensive back that can play all over the field. It’s definitely been great for me.”

As for who assumes the responsibility to cover an opponent’s top wide receiver, the Chiefs won’t need to look far to find the answer.

“I told Spags (Spagnuolo) wherever he needs me,” McDuffie said. “Like I always said, that’s where you can put me.

“I’m going against the best of the best, you know, that’s why we play this game, to go against the best of the best. Being able to compete, no matter who it’s against, I’m ready to do that.”

Outside of McDuffie and perhaps Conner, the hope for the Chiefs is for three or four cornerbacks to step up to the challenge and seize the opportunity to become entrenched as a contributor.

“It’s a lot of guys mixing in there, but somebody’s got to surface and if not, it gets tough,” Spagnuolo said. “You know, you can have the best pass rush in the world, but these receivers get open quick if you’re not able to cover them so. We got some developing to do.”

NOTES: Wide receiver Kadarius Toney (ankle), linebacker Nick Bolton (elbow), tackle Chukwuebuka Godrick (ankle) and guard McKade Mettauer (ankle) left Wednesday’s practice with injuries. … Defensive tackle Chris Jones, who missed Monday’s practice with a groin injury, returned to work Wednesday.

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (AP) — The Kansas City Chiefs know what they have with their No. 1 cornerback in Trent McDuffie.McDuffie, who was a first-team All-Pro in 2023, is atop the depth chart after the offseason trade of cornerback L’Jarius Sneed to the Tennessee Titans.Figuring out the order after McDuffie, however, remains in flux as the Chiefs are in the third week of training camp.“We certainly miss LJ (Sneed), but somebody’s got to step up there and take that,” Chiefs defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo said. “But I’m waiting for somebody to, you know, assert themselves and say, ‘I’m that guy that can do it.’”There are no shortages of candidates for the Chiefs to consider.Spagnuolo has rotated Joshua Williams, the Chiefs’ fourth-round pick in 2022, and Kelvin Joseph, who signed in January, in training camp alongside McDuffie.Second-year pro Chamarri Conner, who started seven games in 2023, has also rotated with the first-team defense’s nickel package at the slot.But the Chiefs are dealing with injuries in the defensive backfield as Nazeeh Johnson has missed time with a knee injury and Jaylen Watson, who started eight games over the past two seasons, remains on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list.“We know who our No. 1 is, right? We all know that,” Spagnuolo said. “We’re just trying to find guys. We’re going to have to find our next two best players, however that works out.“I mean we know NJ (Johnson) is dealing with his little injury right now. Josh (Williams) has been out there, Kelvin (Joseph) — it’s a lot of guys mixing in there, but somebody’s got to surface. And if not, it gets tough.”While the Chiefs need players to get healthy to effectively evaluate the position group, the absences of Watson and Johnson have allowed the coaching staff to get a closer look at other players.For example, second-year pro Ekow Boye-Doe and rookie Miles Battle have gained valuable work as outside cornerbacks with the second-team unit.“It’s good for the young guys to get some reps in there,” Chiefs coach Andy Reid said.Nevertheless, the Chiefs would likely hope to settle the order at cornerback sooner than later, especially when considering last season's defensive rankings.Kansas City’s run to its second straight Super Bowl title was helped by one of the NFL’s best defenses, which ranked second in total defense and fourth against the pass (176.5 yards allowed per game).The departure of Sneed leaves not just one hole, but possibly two in the defense. The Chiefs coveted Sneed’s versatility to line up either as an outside cornerback or inside to defend against a slot wide receiver.But Conner, who can play safety and cornerback, believes the Chiefs have the right personnel to find the answer.“This scheme is great for hybrid players that can play defensive backs,” Conner said. “Not just safety, not just corner, but a defensive back that can play all over the field. It’s definitely been great for me.”As for who assumes the responsibility to cover an opponent’s top wide receiver, the Chiefs won’t need to look far to find the answer.“I told Spags (Spagnuolo) wherever he needs me,” McDuffie said. “Like I always said, that’s where you can put me.“I’m going against the best of the best, you know, that’s why we play this game, to go against the best of the best. Being able to compete, no matter who it’s against, I’m ready to do that.”Outside of McDuffie and perhaps Conner, the hope for the Chiefs is for three or four cornerbacks to step up to the challenge and seize the opportunity to become entrenched as a contributor.“It’s a lot of guys mixing in there, but somebody’s got to surface and if not, it gets tough,” Spagnuolo said. “You know, you can have the best pass rush in the world, but these receivers get open quick if you’re not able to cover them so. We got some developing to do.”NOTES: Wide receiver Kadarius Toney (ankle), linebacker Nick Bolton (elbow), tackle Chukwuebuka Godrick (ankle) and guard McKade Mettauer (ankle) left Wednesday’s practice with injuries. … Defensive tackle Chris Jones, who missed Monday’s practice with a groin injury, returned to work Wednesday.

Chiefs looking for cornerback depth options at training camp

CHICAGO (AP) —
Freddy Fermin launched a two-run homer among his four hits and the
Kansas City Royals pounded the White Sox 10-3, extending Chicago’s
franchise-record losing streak to 17 games. Vinnie Pasquantino added
a two-run shot and finished with three RBIs. Salvador Perez had three
hits and drove in two runs as the Royals won their third straight.
Major league batting leader Bobby Witt Jr. lengthened his hitting
streak to 13 games with two infield singles, raising his average to
.349. The star shortstop walked twice, scored three runs and stole
his 24th base. Andrew Benintendi drove in two runs with a double and
finished with two hits for the major league-worst White Sox, whose
slide is the longest since Arizona dropped 17 straight games in 2021.

ST. LOUIS (AP) —
Tommy Pham started in left field for St. Louis, getting three hits
and two RBIs, and Michael McGreevy pitched seven innings in his MLB
debut to lift the Cardinals to a 10-1 victory over the Texas Rangers
on Wednesday. Brendan Donovan drove in three runs, and Michael Siani
and Alec Burleson each had two RBIs. Nolan Arenado and Paul
Goldschmidt added two hits apiece, and the Cardinals scattered 14
hits against four pitchers. Marcus Semien had two of the Rangers five
hits.

BALTIMORE (AP) —
Top-ranked prospect Jackson Holliday hit a grand slam in his first
game back from the minors. The Baltimore Orioles recalled Holliday
from Triple-A Norfolk, giving the infielder his second shot at the
major leagues. Holliday was the No. 1 pick in the 2022 draft. After
grounding out his first two times up against Toronto, Holliday hit a
439-foot drive to right field that was so obviously gone he paused a
bit before starting his trot. Holliday then waved to the crowd from
the dugout. It was his first career home run.

EASTLAKE, Ohio (AP)
— Travis Bazzana, the top pick in this month’s amateur draft, hit
a grand slam for his first professional home run in High-A Lake
County’s 17-5 rout of Beloit in the Midwest League. The 21-year-old
Australian, selected by Cleveland on July 14, homered on a drive to
right-center in the fifth inning against left-hander Caleb Wurster, a
25-year-old left-hander on the Miami Marlins farm team. Batting
leadoff, Bazzana also singled, walked twice and scored three runs.
Bazzana is hitting .364 with a home, five RBIs, five runs and a
stolen base in three games.

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (AP)
— The Kansas City Chiefs know what they have with their No. 1
cornerback in Trent McDuffie. McDuffie, who was a first-team All-Pro
in 2023, is atop the depth chart after the offseason trade of
cornerback L’Jarius Sneed to the Tennessee Titans. Figuring out the
order after McDuffie, however, remains in flux as the Chiefs are in
the third week of training camp.

LOS ANGELES (AP) —
The judge who presided over the class-action lawsuit filed by “Sunday
Ticket” subscribers against the NFL said the jury did not follow
his instructions in determining damages. U.S. District Judge Philip
Gutierrez made the remark as he heard the NFL’s post-trial motion
asking that Gutierrez rule for the league if he finds the plaintiffs
did not prove their case. Gutierrez could also order a new trial
because the eight-person jury came up with its own calculations for
damages. The NFL has said it would appeal the verdict. That appeal
would go to the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals and then possibly the
Supreme Court.


VILLENEUVE-D’ASCQ, France (AP) — The U.S. men's basketball team
had an easier time with South Sudan in the rematch than it did when
the teams first met a couple of weeks ago. Easier. Not easy. The U.S.
clinched a trip to the quarterfinals at the Paris Olympics by beating
South Sudan 103-86 on Wednesday night — a game that wasn’t ever
really in doubt but was no romp either. Bam Adebayo scored 18 points
and Kevin Durant scored 14 for the Americans, who took control with a
25-4 run in the first half.


NANTERRE, France (AP) — Turns out, those comparisons to Michael
Phelps weren’t farfetched at all when it comes to Léon Marchand.
They certainly weren’t a burden for the 22-year-old Frenchman.
Marchand has completed one of the most audacious doubles in swimming
history, winning the 200-meter butterfly and the 200 breaststroke
about two hours apart at the Paris Games. Two grueling races. Two
very different strokes. Two Olympic records. Two gold medals. Take
that, Phelps. Thrilling the home fans and claiming the spotlight even
on a night when Katie Ledecky romped to another gold medal, Marchand
claimed his second and third victories at La Defense Arena and
stamped himself as one of the faces of these Games.


NANTERRE, France (AP) — Katie Ledecky has tied one of swimming’s
most impressive records. Chances are, she’ll have it all to herself
by the time she finishes the Paris Olympics. The 27-year-old Ledecky
bumped her career total to 12 medals with a dominating victory in the
1,500-meter freestyle. She equaled three fellow Americans for the
most ever by a female swimmer. Here's what's next for Ledecky: She is
expected to compete in the final of the 4x200 freestyle relay on
Thursday. The U.S. took silver in that event at the Tokyo Games. She
also has the 800 freestyle, where she'll be going for her fourth
straight gold medal.

PARIS (AP) — Coco
Gauff has lost in women’s doubles at the Paris Olympics a day after
her tearful exit in singles. Gauff and her U.S. teammate, Jessica
Pegula, were the top-seeded women’s pair but were eliminated in the
second round by the Czech duo of Karolina Muchova and Linda Noskova
2-6, 6-4, 10-5 in a match tiebreaker on Wednesday. Gauff was defeated
Tuesday by Donna Vekic of Croatia in straight sets in the third round
of singles, where the American was seeded second. Gauff got into an
argument with the chair umpire close to the finish of that match over
an officiating decision.

TEAHUPO’O, Tahiti
(AP) — Tahiti is hosting the surfing competition for the Paris
Olympics and has been a coveted destination for the sport for
decades, but it’s only in more recent years that local surf culture
and talent begun to develop among younger generations. Residents say
local professional surfers have been critical in the development of
local surfing talent and culture. Two French Polynesian surfers
competing in the 2024 Olympics has been a boost for the promotion and
development of local surfing. The surfing community expects local
interest in the sport to grow.

Final	Kansas
City	10	Chicago White Sox	3	

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721294994442.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>CHICAGO (AP) —
Freddy Fermin launched a two-run homer among his four hits and the
Kansas City Royals pounded the White Sox 10-3, extending Chicago’s
franchise-record losing streak to 17 games. Vinnie Pasquantino added
a two-run shot and finished with three RBIs. Salvador Perez had three
hits and drove in two runs as the Royals won their third straight.
Major league batting leader Bobby Witt Jr. lengthened his hitting
streak to 13 games with two infield singles, raising his average to
.349. The star shortstop walked twice, scored three runs and stole
his 24th base. Andrew Benintendi drove in two runs with a double and
finished with two hits for the major league-worst White Sox, whose
slide is the longest since Arizona dropped 17 straight games in 2021.ST. LOUIS (AP) —
Tommy Pham started in left field for St. Louis, getting three hits
and two RBIs, and Michael McGreevy pitched seven innings in his MLB
debut to lift the Cardinals to a 10-1 victory over the Texas Rangers
on Wednesday. Brendan Donovan drove in three runs, and Michael Siani
and Alec Burleson each had two RBIs. Nolan Arenado and Paul
Goldschmidt added two hits apiece, and the Cardinals scattered 14
hits against four pitchers. Marcus Semien had two of the Rangers five
hits.BALTIMORE (AP) —
Top-ranked prospect Jackson Holliday hit a grand slam in his first
game back from the minors. The Baltimore Orioles recalled Holliday
from Triple-A Norfolk, giving the infielder his second shot at the
major leagues. Holliday was the No. 1 pick in the 2022 draft. After
grounding out his first two times up against Toronto, Holliday hit a
439-foot drive to right field that was so obviously gone he paused a
bit before starting his trot. Holliday then waved to the crowd from
the dugout. It was his first career home run.EASTLAKE, Ohio (AP)
— Travis Bazzana, the top pick in this month’s amateur draft, hit
a grand slam for his first professional home run in High-A Lake
County’s 17-5 rout of Beloit in the Midwest League. The 21-year-old
Australian, selected by Cleveland on July 14, homered on a drive to
right-center in the fifth inning against left-hander Caleb Wurster, a
25-year-old left-hander on the Miami Marlins farm team. Batting
leadoff, Bazzana also singled, walked twice and scored three runs.
Bazzana is hitting .364 with a home, five RBIs, five runs and a
stolen base in three games.ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (AP)
— The Kansas City Chiefs know what they have with their No. 1
cornerback in Trent McDuffie. McDuffie, who was a first-team All-Pro
in 2023, is atop the depth chart after the offseason trade of
cornerback L’Jarius Sneed to the Tennessee Titans. Figuring out the
order after McDuffie, however, remains in flux as the Chiefs are in
the third week of training camp.LOS ANGELES (AP) —
The judge who presided over the class-action lawsuit filed by “Sunday
Ticket” subscribers against the NFL said the jury did not follow
his instructions in determining damages. U.S. District Judge Philip
Gutierrez made the remark as he heard the NFL’s post-trial motion
asking that Gutierrez rule for the league if he finds the plaintiffs
did not prove their case. Gutierrez could also order a new trial
because the eight-person jury came up with its own calculations for
damages. The NFL has said it would appeal the verdict. That appeal
would go to the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals and then possibly the
Supreme Court.Olympics
VILLENEUVE-D’ASCQ, France (AP) — The U.S. men's basketball team
had an easier time with South Sudan in the rematch than it did when
the teams first met a couple of weeks ago. Easier. Not easy. The U.S.
clinched a trip to the quarterfinals at the Paris Olympics by beating
South Sudan 103-86 on Wednesday night — a game that wasn’t ever
really in doubt but was no romp either. Bam Adebayo scored 18 points
and Kevin Durant scored 14 for the Americans, who took control with a
25-4 run in the first half.
NANTERRE, France (AP) — Turns out, those comparisons to Michael
Phelps weren’t farfetched at all when it comes to Léon Marchand.
They certainly weren’t a burden for the 22-year-old Frenchman.
Marchand has completed one of the most audacious doubles in swimming
history, winning the 200-meter butterfly and the 200 breaststroke
about two hours apart at the Paris Games. Two grueling races. Two
very different strokes. Two Olympic records. Two gold medals. Take
that, Phelps. Thrilling the home fans and claiming the spotlight even
on a night when Katie Ledecky romped to another gold medal, Marchand
claimed his second and third victories at La Defense Arena and
stamped himself as one of the faces of these Games.
NANTERRE, France (AP) — Katie Ledecky has tied one of swimming’s
most impressive records. Chances are, she’ll have it all to herself
by the time she finishes the Paris Olympics. The 27-year-old Ledecky
bumped her career total to 12 medals with a dominating victory in the
1,500-meter freestyle. She equaled three fellow Americans for the
most ever by a female swimmer. Here's what's next for Ledecky: She is
expected to compete in the final of the 4x200 freestyle relay on
Thursday. The U.S. took silver in that event at the Tokyo Games. She
also has the 800 freestyle, where she'll be going for her fourth
straight gold medal.PARIS (AP) — Coco
Gauff has lost in women’s doubles at the Paris Olympics a day after
her tearful exit in singles. Gauff and her U.S. teammate, Jessica
Pegula, were the top-seeded women’s pair but were eliminated in the
second round by the Czech duo of Karolina Muchova and Linda Noskova
2-6, 6-4, 10-5 in a match tiebreaker on Wednesday. Gauff was defeated
Tuesday by Donna Vekic of Croatia in straight sets in the third round
of singles, where the American was seeded second. Gauff got into an
argument with the chair umpire close to the finish of that match over
an officiating decision.TEAHUPO’O, Tahiti
(AP) — Tahiti is hosting the surfing competition for the Paris
Olympics and has been a coveted destination for the sport for
decades, but it’s only in more recent years that local surf culture
and talent begun to develop among younger generations. Residents say
local professional surfers have been critical in the development of
local surfing talent and culture. Two French Polynesian surfers
competing in the 2024 Olympics has been a boost for the promotion and
development of local surfing. The surfing community expects local
interest in the sport to grow.WEDNESDAY SCORESMAJOR LEAGUE
BASEBALLINTERLEAGUEFinal	Miami	6	Tampa
Bay	2	Final	N.Y.
Yankees	6	Philadelphia	5	Final	Minnesota	8	N.Y.
Mets	3	Final	St.
Louis	10	Texas	1	Final	Houston	5	Pittsburgh	4	Final	San
Francisco	1	Oakland	0	Final	Colorado	2	L.A.
Angels	1	AMERICAN LEAGUEFinal	Baltimore	10	Toronto	4	Final	Kansas
City	10	Chicago White Sox	3	Final	Boston	3	Seattle	2	NATIONAL LEAGUEFinal	Atlanta	6	Milwaukee	2	Final	Arizona	5	Washington	4	Final	Chicago
Cubs	13	Cincinnati	4

Thursday Sports Headlines and Scores presented by Barton Community College

CHICAGO (AP) — Freddy Fermin launched a two-run homer among his four hits and the Kansas City Royals pounded the White Sox 10-3 on Wednesday, extending Chicago’s franchise-record losing streak to 17 games.

Vinnie Pasquantino added a two-run shot and finished with three RBIs. Salvador Perez had three hits and drove in two runs in his 1,500th career game as the Royals won their third straight.

Perez joked that Fermin had his first four-hit game in the majors because the two natives of Venezuela chatted beforehand. Fermin appreciated the humor, then went to work.

“Just created my plan and tried to make a good swing and I did,” said Fermin, who is getting increased playing time and raised his batting average to .304. “I just want to continue to do that.”

Major league batting leader Bobby Witt Jr. lengthened his hitting streak to 13 games with two infield singles, boosting his average to .349. The star shortstop walked twice, scored three runs and stole his 24th base as the middle of the Royals lineup produced.

“That's why they are the heart of the order,” manager Matt Quatraro said. “That's what we need from them and they know that. When they're driving in runs and getting on base, we're a deep lineup.”

Andrew Benintendi drove in two runs with a double and finished with two hits for the major league-worst White Sox, whose slide is the longest since Arizona dropped 17 straight games in 2021.

“Show up in Minnesota,” Benintendi suggested as a way to end the skid. “I mean, if you dwell on it too long, I guess it will eat you up. So focus on the next one.”

Chicago (27-84) is 57 games below .500 for the first time and on pace for a worse finish than the 1962 New York Mets, whose 40-120 mark during their inaugural season is the poorest in baseball’s modern era (since 1900).

Brady Singer (8-6) allowed three runs on six hits over seven innings in his third straight win. The right-hander struck out four, walked none and was touched up only when Chicago scored three times in the second.

Singer settled down and retired 17 of his last 19 hitters.

“I was struggling a little bit at the beginning of the year,” he said. “I'm happy to get deep into ballgames toward the end of the year here.”

Kansas City is 60-49, a 26-win improvement over 2023 through 109 games, and holds an AL wild card.

White Sox rookie Drew Thorpe (3-3) yielded six runs and seven hits over five innings in a second consecutive rough outing following five quality starts.

The Royals jumped ahead 1-0 in the first on Pasquantino’s single. Fermin’s sixth homer in the second upped it to 3-0.

The White Sox tied it in the bottom half. Benintendi drove in two runs with his double and scored on Dominic Fletcher’s single.

Witt came home on Perez’s single in the third to put Kansas City back on top 4-3.

The Royals increased it to 6-3 in the fifth. Perez’s liner rolled out of Fletcher's glove in center for a double to drive in a run. Hunter Renfroe followed with a sacrifice fly.

Pasquantino's 12th homer iced it in a four-run eighth.

Kansas City RHP Michael Lorenzen, acquired from Texas in a trade Monday, will start Saturday at Detroit.

Lorenzen will fill the slot of righty Alec Marsh, who was optioned to Triple-A Omaha. Marsh was sent down to make room for reliever Lucas Erceg, who reported to the Royals and pitched a perfect eighth following a trade from Oakland.

White Sox 3B Yoán Moncada, out since April 9 with a left adductor strain, is “ramping up” activity at the team’s Arizona training facility, manager Pedro Grifol said.

Royals: RHP Seth Lugo (12-5, 2.66 ERA) faces Tigers RHP Keider Montero (1-4, 6.38) in Detroit on Thursday.

White Sox: RHP Davis Martin (0-0, 3.38 ERA) makes his first start since returning from Tommy John surgery against Twins RHP Joe Ryan (6-7, 3.69) on Friday in Minnesota.

CHICAGO (AP) — Freddy Fermin launched a two-run homer among his four hits and the Kansas City Royals pounded the White Sox 10-3 on Wednesday, extending Chicago’s franchise-record losing streak to 17 games.Vinnie Pasquantino added a two-run shot and finished with three RBIs. Salvador Perez had three hits and drove in two runs in his 1,500th career game as the Royals won their third straight.Perez joked that Fermin had his first four-hit game in the majors because the two natives of Venezuela chatted beforehand. Fermin appreciated the humor, then went to work.“Just created my plan and tried to make a good swing and I did,” said Fermin, who is getting increased playing time and raised his batting average to .304. “I just want to continue to do that.”Major league batting leader Bobby Witt Jr. lengthened his hitting streak to 13 games with two infield singles, boosting his average to .349. The star shortstop walked twice, scored three runs and stole his 24th base as the middle of the Royals lineup produced.“That's why they are the heart of the order,” manager Matt Quatraro said. “That's what we need from them and they know that. When they're driving in runs and getting on base, we're a deep lineup.”Andrew Benintendi drove in two runs with a double and finished with two hits for the major league-worst White Sox, whose slide is the longest since Arizona dropped 17 straight games in 2021.“Show up in Minnesota,” Benintendi suggested as a way to end the skid. “I mean, if you dwell on it too long, I guess it will eat you up. So focus on the next one.”Chicago (27-84) is 57 games below .500 for the first time and on pace for a worse finish than the 1962 New York Mets, whose 40-120 mark during their inaugural season is the poorest in baseball’s modern era (since 1900).Brady Singer (8-6) allowed three runs on six hits over seven innings in his third straight win. The right-hander struck out four, walked none and was touched up only when Chicago scored three times in the second.Singer settled down and retired 17 of his last 19 hitters.“I was struggling a little bit at the beginning of the year,” he said. “I'm happy to get deep into ballgames toward the end of the year here.”Kansas City is 60-49, a 26-win improvement over 2023 through 109 games, and holds an AL wild card.White Sox rookie Drew Thorpe (3-3) yielded six runs and seven hits over five innings in a second consecutive rough outing following five quality starts.The Royals jumped ahead 1-0 in the first on Pasquantino’s single. Fermin’s sixth homer in the second upped it to 3-0.The White Sox tied it in the bottom half. Benintendi drove in two runs with his double and scored on Dominic Fletcher’s single.Witt came home on Perez’s single in the third to put Kansas City back on top 4-3.The Royals increased it to 6-3 in the fifth. Perez’s liner rolled out of Fletcher's glove in center for a double to drive in a run. Hunter Renfroe followed with a sacrifice fly.Pasquantino's 12th homer iced it in a four-run eighth.RETOOLED ROTATIONKansas City RHP Michael Lorenzen, acquired from Texas in a trade Monday, will start Saturday at Detroit.Lorenzen will fill the slot of righty Alec Marsh, who was optioned to Triple-A Omaha. Marsh was sent down to make room for reliever Lucas Erceg, who reported to the Royals and pitched a perfect eighth following a trade from Oakland.TRAINER’S ROOMWhite Sox 3B Yoán Moncada, out since April 9 with a left adductor strain, is “ramping up” activity at the team’s Arizona training facility, manager Pedro Grifol said.UP NEXTRoyals: RHP Seth Lugo (12-5, 2.66 ERA) faces Tigers RHP Keider Montero (1-4, 6.38) in Detroit on Thursday.White Sox: RHP Davis Martin (0-0, 3.38 ERA) makes his first start since returning from Tommy John surgery against Twins RHP Joe Ryan (6-7, 3.69) on Friday in Minnesota.

Royals hand White Sox 17th straight loss, 10-3

(All times
Eastern) Schedule subject to change and/or blackouts


10 a.m. USA — Individual: Round of 64, 32


12:15 p.m. E! — Individual: Round of 32


6:30 a.m. E! — Women’s Doubles: Quarterfinals (Taped)


1 a.m. USA — Men’s Group C: USA vs. South Sudan (Taped)


2:45 p.m. USA — Women’s Group C: Belgium vs. USA


11:30 a.m. USA — Women’s Pool Play: USA vs. Australia (Taped)


1 p.m. USA — Men’s Pool Play: Lithuania vs. USA


3:40 p.m. E! — Women’s Pool Play: Spain vs. USA


5:05 p.m. NBC — Men’s Pool Play: Lithuania vs. USA


3 a.m. USA — Men’s Pool C: GER (Ehlers/Wickler) vs. AUS
(Hodges/Schubert)


6 p.m. USA — Women’s Pool A: BRA (Ana Patricia/Duda) vs. ITA
(Gottardi/Menegatti) (Taped)


7 p.m. USA — Women’s Pool B: USA (Nuss/Kloth) vs. CHN (Xue/X.Y.
Xia) (Taped)


4:45 p.m. USA — Men’s Light Quarterfinals &amp; more (Taped)


11:30 a.m. E! — Slalom: Men’s Kayak Final


E! — Women’s Team Foil Bronze/Gold Finals


USA — Women’s Pool B: USA vs. Great Britain

3 a.m. GOLF — Men’s Round 1: Part 1

7 a.m. GOLF — Men’s Round 1: Part 2


12:15 p.m. NBC — Women’s All-Around Final


8 p.m. USA — Women’s Group B: Angola vs. France (Taped)


5:40 a.m. E! — Finals: Double Sculls &amp; more


5:30 p.m. USA — Finals: Double Sculls, Four


5 a.m. USA — Heats: Men’s 50m Free &amp; more


10:15 a.m. NBC — Heats: Men’s 50m Free &amp; more (Taped)


2:30 p.m. NBC — Finals: Women’s 200m Fly &amp; more


4 a.m. E! — M&amp;W Singles: Round of 16 (taped)


9 a.m. E! — Women’s Singles: Quarterfinals


8:30 a.m. USA — Men’s 20km Race Walk


7 a.m. E! — Women’s Pool B: Brazil vs. Japan


1:30 p.m. USA — Women’s Pool C: Italy vs. Netherlands (Taped)


4:30 a.m. E! — Men’s Group: Greece vs. USA


5:30 p.m. NBC — Men’s Group: Greece vs. USA (Taped)

(All times
Eastern) Schedule subject to change and/or blackoutsThursday, Aug. 1ARCHERY
10 a.m. USA — Individual: Round of 64, 32
12:15 p.m. E! — Individual: Round of 32BADMINTON
6:30 a.m. E! — Women’s Doubles: Quarterfinals (Taped)BASKETBALL
1 a.m. USA — Men’s Group C: USA vs. South Sudan (Taped)
2:45 p.m. USA — Women’s Group C: Belgium vs. USABASKETBALL 3X3
4 a.m. USA — Men’s Pool Play
7 a.m. USA — Pool Play
11:30 a.m. USA — Women’s Pool Play: USA vs. Australia (Taped)
1 p.m. USA — Men’s Pool Play: Lithuania vs. USA
3:40 p.m. E! — Women’s Pool Play: Spain vs. USA
5:05 p.m. NBC — Men’s Pool Play: Lithuania vs. USA
9 p.m. USA — Pool Play (Taped)BEACH VOLLEYBALL
3 a.m. USA — Men’s Pool C: GER (Ehlers/Wickler) vs. AUS
(Hodges/Schubert)
4:05 p.m. NBC — Pool Play
6 p.m. USA — Women’s Pool A: BRA (Ana Patricia/Duda) vs. ITA
(Gottardi/Menegatti) (Taped)
7 p.m. USA — Women’s Pool B: USA (Nuss/Kloth) vs. CHN (Xue/X.Y.
Xia) (Taped)BOXING
4:45 p.m. USA — Men’s Light Quarterfinals &amp; more (Taped)CANOE &amp; KAYAK
11:30 a.m. E! — Slalom: Men’s Kayak FinalCYCLING
10 p.m. USA — BMX Racing, ShootingEQUESTRIAN
4 p.m. E! — Jumping: Team QualifierFENCING
1:25 p.m. 

E! — Women’s Team Foil Bronze/Gold FinalsFIELD HOCKEY
USA — Women’s Pool B: USA vs. Great BritainGOLF
3 a.m. GOLF — Men’s Round 1: Part 1
7 a.m. GOLF — Men’s Round 1: Part 2GYMNASTICS
12:15 p.m. NBC — Women’s All-Around FinalHANDBALL
8 p.m. USA — Women’s Group B: Angola vs. France (Taped)ROWING
5:40 a.m. E! — Finals: Double Sculls &amp; more
5:30 p.m. USA — Finals: Double Sculls, FourSHOOTING
10 p.m. USA — BMX Racing, ShootingSWIMMING
5 a.m. USA — Heats: Men’s 50m Free &amp; more
10:15 a.m. NBC — Heats: Men’s 50m Free &amp; more (Taped)
2:30 p.m. NBC — Finals: Women’s 200m Fly &amp; moreTABLE TENNIS
4 a.m. E! — M&amp;W Singles: Round of 16 (taped)
9 a.m. E! — Women’s Singles: QuarterfinalsTRACK &amp; FIELD
8:30 a.m. USA — Men’s 20km Race Walk
10 a.m. E! — Women’s 20km Race WalkVOLLEYBALL
7 a.m. E! — Women’s Pool B: Brazil vs. Japan
1:30 p.m. USA — Women’s Pool C: Italy vs. Netherlands (Taped)WATER POLO
4:30 a.m. E! — Men’s Group: Greece vs. USA
5:30 p.m. NBC — Men’s Group: Greece vs. USA (Taped)

Olympics on TV for Thursday, Aug. 1

CHICAGO (AP) — Right-hander Michael Lorenzen, acquired by Kansas City in a trade from Texas on Monday, will join the Royals rotation and start on Saturday at Detroit, manager Matt Quatraro said before Wednesday's game against the White Sox in Chicago.

Lorenzen will fill the slot of righty Alec Marsh, who was optioned to Triple-A Omaha on Wednesday. Marsh, who appeared in 20 games this season (19 starts) was sent down to make room for reliever Lucas Erceg, who reported to the Royals on Wednesday after a trade from Oakland.

Infielder Paul DeJong, acquired from the White Sox on Tuesday, was in Kansas City's starting lineup on Wednesday at third base and batting seventh.

Lorenzen went 5-6 with a 3.81 ERA in 19 games (18 starts) for the Rangers. In his last start Saturday, he allowed four runs and five hits while recording only two outs at Toronto. He then threw four innings in relief Sunday.

The 32-year-old Lorenzen was a first-time All-Star last season with Detroit, and threw a no-hitter for Philadelphia after being traded. He signed a $4.5 million, one-year contract with Texas on March 23. Primarily a starter the past three seasons, Lorenzen is 45-44 with a 4.08 ERA over 361 career games (87 starts) with Cincinnati, Philadelphia, Texas, the Los Angeles Angels and Detroit.

Quatraro said Monday he looked forward to the “depth and versatility” the righty would provide.

Marsh, in his second season, is 7-7 with a 4.71 ERA through 101 1/3 innings.

“What we think is the best thing for him is to maybe back off his innings a little bit,” Quatraro said. “He's still going to start some innings down there, but maybe throw fewer innings at a time.”

Quatraro said Marsh could be recalled later this season.

“Things change here minute to minute, so we're not putting any sort of timeline on it,” Quatraro said.

The Royals entered Wednesday at 59-49, a 26-win improvement over 2023, and in the third AL wild card slot.

The major league-worst White Sox were on franchise record 16-game losing streak.

Here are the trade the Royals made this month:

July 14 - Acquired pitcher Hunter Harvey from the Nationals for third baseman Cayden Wallace and the #39 pick in the draft

July 29 - Acquired pitcher Michael Lorenzen from the Rangers for pitcher Walter Pennington

July 30 - Acquired pitcher Lucas Erceg from the Athletics for pitchers Mason Barnett and Will Klein and outfielder Jared Dickey

July 30 - Acquired infielder Paul DeJong from the White Sox for pitcher Jarold Rosado

With Harvey and Erceg, the Royals addressed their biggest need - relievers who can strike hitters out. Combined, the two pitchers have struck out 26 percent of hitters they have faced this year. And the Royals will not just enjoy their services this year - Harvey isn’t a free agent until after next year, and Erceg is under club control through 2029. Now Erceg is already 29 years old, so his age combined with the short shelf life of relievers makes it less likely he will be good that entire time, but the Royals can cut him or non-tender him at any time and not worry about it.

What Erceg gives the Royals right now is velocity. His heater is the ninth-fastest in baseball. But he also features a killer slider that opponents are hitting just .067 against, a change up with a 33 percent whiff rate, and an overall 50 percent groundball rate. He immediately becomes the best reliever the Royals have in their bullpen and the team already views him as a potential future closer.

Harvey has looked a bit shaky in his first few outings in a Royals uniform, but has flashed a terrific splitter that has a whiff rate of nearly 40 percent along with a 97 mph fastball. He’ll need to command that heater better, and his struggles this month both in a Nationals and Royals uniform are a bit concerning, but he has higher upside than any of the other arms the Royals began the season with.

CHICAGO (AP) — Right-hander Michael Lorenzen, acquired by Kansas City in a trade from Texas on Monday, will join the Royals rotation and start on Saturday at Detroit, manager Matt Quatraro said before Wednesday's game against the White Sox in Chicago.Lorenzen will fill the slot of righty Alec Marsh, who was optioned to Triple-A Omaha on Wednesday. Marsh, who appeared in 20 games this season (19 starts) was sent down to make room for reliever Lucas Erceg, who reported to the Royals on Wednesday after a trade from Oakland.Infielder Paul DeJong, acquired from the White Sox on Tuesday, was in Kansas City's starting lineup on Wednesday at third base and batting seventh.Lorenzen went 5-6 with a 3.81 ERA in 19 games (18 starts) for the Rangers. In his last start Saturday, he allowed four runs and five hits while recording only two outs at Toronto. He then threw four innings in relief Sunday.The 32-year-old Lorenzen was a first-time All-Star last season with Detroit, and threw a no-hitter for Philadelphia after being traded. He signed a $4.5 million, one-year contract with Texas on March 23. Primarily a starter the past three seasons, Lorenzen is 45-44 with a 4.08 ERA over 361 career games (87 starts) with Cincinnati, Philadelphia, Texas, the Los Angeles Angels and Detroit.Quatraro said Monday he looked forward to the “depth and versatility” the righty would provide.Marsh, in his second season, is 7-7 with a 4.71 ERA through 101 1/3 innings.“What we think is the best thing for him is to maybe back off his innings a little bit,” Quatraro said. “He's still going to start some innings down there, but maybe throw fewer innings at a time.”Quatraro said Marsh could be recalled later this season.“Things change here minute to minute, so we're not putting any sort of timeline on it,” Quatraro said.The Royals entered Wednesday at 59-49, a 26-win improvement over 2023, and in the third AL wild card slot.The major league-worst White Sox were on franchise record 16-game losing streak.Here are the trade the Royals made this month:July 14 - Acquired pitcher Hunter Harvey from the Nationals for third baseman Cayden Wallace and the #39 pick in the draftJuly 29 - Acquired pitcher Michael Lorenzen from the Rangers for pitcher Walter PenningtonJuly 30 - Acquired pitcher Lucas Erceg from the Athletics for pitchers Mason Barnett and Will Klein and outfielder Jared DickeyJuly 30 - Acquired infielder Paul DeJong from the White Sox for pitcher Jarold RosadoWith Harvey and Erceg, the Royals addressed their biggest need - relievers who can strike hitters out. Combined, the two pitchers have struck out 26 percent of hitters they have faced this year. And the Royals will not just enjoy their services this year - Harvey isn’t a free agent until after next year, and Erceg is under club control through 2029. Now Erceg is already 29 years old, so his age combined with the short shelf life of relievers makes it less likely he will be good that entire time, but the Royals can cut him or non-tender him at any time and not worry about it.What Erceg gives the Royals right now is velocity. His heater is the ninth-fastest in baseball. But he also features a killer slider that opponents are hitting just .067 against, a change up with a 33 percent whiff rate, and an overall 50 percent groundball rate. He immediately becomes the best reliever the Royals have in their bullpen and the team already views him as a potential future closer.Harvey has looked a bit shaky in his first few outings in a Royals uniform, but has flashed a terrific splitter that has a whiff rate of nearly 40 percent along with a 97 mph fastball. He’ll need to command that heater better, and his struggles this month both in a Nationals and Royals uniform are a bit concerning, but he has higher upside than any of the other arms the Royals began the season with.

Michael Lorenzen joins Royals rotation, Alec Marsh sent to Triple-A

By BRANDON SMITH Barton Sports Info

A pair of National Championships and six other top-5 finishes helped highlight another strong year for the Barton Community College athletic department as the Cougars finished among the top three in the annual NATYCAA Daktronics Cup standings for the seventh straight year.

Additionally, the year's accomplishment also earned Barton a fourth placing overall to finish inside the top four for the fourth time in five years in the Learfield Directors' Cup standings. Established in 2011-12, the LEARFIELD Directors' Cup also uses the same point system while combining all divisions for a final compiled standings.

Presented annually since 2004, the National Alliance of Two Year College Athletics Administrators (NATYCAA) recognizes the combined excellence of two-year college athletics based on success in championship competition across all sports.

Barton's compiled 173.0 points toward the Scholarship Division Cup standings during the 2023-2024 academic year, finishing runner-up behind winner Iowa Western Community College's 181.5 points and ahead of third place New Mexico Junior College's 162.5 total.

The nation's two-year colleges are divided into three divisions with Rowan College of South Jersey winning the Non-Scholarship Division and Mt. San Antonio College earning the State Association Division's top spot.

The Daktronics Cup recognizes the outstanding overall programs in each of the levels of the country with the NATYCAA organization representing two-year colleges. Each college is allowed to score points from their top-five programs per gender in the highest level of competition within their division. Each sport is treated equally so that the champion of each sport earns 20 points towards their Cup total. Second place finishes earn 19 points, third place earns 18 points, etc. This is the fifth year Daktronics has sponsored this award in conjunction with the NATYCAA.

The Cougar points were led by the pair of national championships claimed in women's indoor track and field, along with the program's first men's basketball title. Barton's next best finishes came with a national runner-up in women's outdoor track and field while the women's swimming team concluded the top-three finishes with a third placing. Four of Barton's teams placed fourth, on the men's side swimming, indoor and outdoor track and field while on the women's side, the bowling team. The Cougar's final point totals were rounded out by both tennis teams with a sixth-place finish on the men's side and seventh placing on the women's.

Competing at the national tournament but landing outside the program's five contributing highest placings were both men's and women's golf and soccer programs. 

Daktronics Cup Standings (Complete Standings)

LEARFIELD Directors' Cup Standings – Top Ten (Complete Standings)

1. Rowan College of South Jersey, 184.90 points

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1722419101022.jpeg" alt="Barton Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Barton Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRANDON SMITH Barton Sports InfoA pair of National Championships and six other top-5 finishes helped highlight another strong year for the Barton Community College athletic department as the Cougars finished among the top three in the annual NATYCAA Daktronics Cup standings for the seventh straight year.Additionally, the year's accomplishment also earned Barton a fourth placing overall to finish inside the top four for the fourth time in five years in the Learfield Directors' Cup standings. Established in 2011-12, the LEARFIELD Directors' Cup also uses the same point system while combining all divisions for a final compiled standings.Presented annually since 2004, the National Alliance of Two Year College Athletics Administrators (NATYCAA) recognizes the combined excellence of two-year college athletics based on success in championship competition across all sports.Barton's compiled 173.0 points toward the Scholarship Division Cup standings during the 2023-2024 academic year, finishing runner-up behind winner Iowa Western Community College's 181.5 points and ahead of third place New Mexico Junior College's 162.5 total.The nation's two-year colleges are divided into three divisions with Rowan College of South Jersey winning the Non-Scholarship Division and Mt. San Antonio College earning the State Association Division's top spot.The Daktronics Cup recognizes the outstanding overall programs in each of the levels of the country with the NATYCAA organization representing two-year colleges. Each college is allowed to score points from their top-five programs per gender in the highest level of competition within their division. Each sport is treated equally so that the champion of each sport earns 20 points towards their Cup total. Second place finishes earn 19 points, third place earns 18 points, etc. This is the fifth year Daktronics has sponsored this award in conjunction with the NATYCAA.The Cougar points were led by the pair of national championships claimed in women's indoor track and field, along with the program's first men's basketball title. Barton's next best finishes came with a national runner-up in women's outdoor track and field while the women's swimming team concluded the top-three finishes with a third placing. Four of Barton's teams placed fourth, on the men's side swimming, indoor and outdoor track and field while on the women's side, the bowling team. The Cougar's final point totals were rounded out by both tennis teams with a sixth-place finish on the men's side and seventh placing on the women's.Competing at the national tournament but landing outside the program's five contributing highest placings were both men's and women's golf and soccer programs. Daktronics Cup Standings (Complete Standings)NJCAA Scholarship Division Top-101. Iowa Western CC, 181.5 points2. Barton CC, 1733. New Mexico JC, 162.504. College of Dupage, 1585. Cowley College, 138.506. Iowa Central CC, 131.507. Salt Lake CC, 131.508. Hutchinson CC, 104.509. Indian Hills, 97.510. Eastern Florida State, 94.75LEARFIELD Directors' Cup Standings – Top Ten (Complete Standings)1. Rowan College of South Jersey, 184.90 points2. Iowa Western CC, 184.253. Mt. San Antonio College, 183.504. Barton CC, 175.755. New Mexico JC, 165.256. Riverside City College, 1627. College of Dupage, 160.758. Herkimer County CC, 147.409. Harper College, 147.4010. Orange Coast College, 146.50

Barton finishes high in academic cup standings

Schedule and Scores Saturday, July 27&nbsp;(Baseball ‘Round the Clock) San Diego Stars 7, Boulder Collegians 5 Derby Twins 9, Liberal Bee Jays 6 Seattle Cheney Studs 5, TPA Texas 1 Santa Barbara Foresters 3,&nbsp;Seattle Blackfins 2 (F11) Tulsa Sandlot 7, Hutchinson 6 Sunday, July 28 (Baseball ‘Round the Clock) Haysville Aviators 7, GPS Legends 6 Lonestar Baseball Club 11, Air Capital Flyers 1 Derby Twins 8, Boulder Collegians 3 Hays Larks 11, Kansas Cannons 8 Liberal Bee Jays 11, San Diego Stars 8 Monday Schedule Tulsa Sandlot 4, TPA Texas 0 Santa Barbara Foresters 12, Haysville Aviators 6 Seattle Cheney Studs 17, Hutchinson Monarchs 6 GPS Legends 9, Seattle Blackfins 3 Tuesday Schedule San Diego Stars 6, Derby Twins 3 Kansas Cannons 9, Air Capital Flyers 0 Hays Larks 9, Lonestar Baseball 0 Liberal Bee Jays 13, Boulder Collegians 9

(Top 3 teams in each pool will advance to single-elimination bracket play starting 7/31) Final Pool Play Records Pool A Seattle Cheney Studs 3-0 Tulsa Sandlot 2-1 Hutchinson Monarchs 1-2 TPA Texas 0-3 (Eliminated) Pool B Santa Barbara Foresters 3-0 Haysville Aviators 2-1 GPS Legends 1-2 Seattle Blackfins 0-3&nbsp;(Eliminated) Pool C Derby Twins 2-1 San Diego Stars 2-1 Liberal Bee Jays 2-1 Boulder Collegians 0-3&nbsp;(Eliminated) Pool D Hays Larks 3-0 Lonestar Baseball Club 2-1 Kansas Cannons 1-2 Air Capital Flyers 0-3&nbsp;(Eliminated) TEAMS&nbsp; Hutchinson Monarchs – Jayhawk League – 2023 NBC champions Santa Barbara Foresters – California Collegiate League&nbsp; Seattle Cheney Studs – Pacific International League Seattle Black Fins – Pacific International League Boulder Collegians – Mile High Collegiate Baseball League Haysville Aviators – Jayhawk League Top Prospect Academy Texas -Stan Musial Texas World Series Champion Liberal Bee Jays – Rocky Mountain Collegiate Baseball League Hays Larks – Rocky Mountain Collegiate Baseball League San Diego Stars- Western Baseball Association Lonestar Baseball Club – North – CenTex Collegiate Baseball League Kansas Cannons – Jayhawk League Tulsa Sandlot – AABC – Stan Musial Oklahoma World Series Champion GPS Legends – CenTex Collegiate Baseball League Derby Twins – Jayhawk League Air Capital Flyers – Hap Dumont Tournament Winner

Schedule and Scores Saturday, July 27&nbsp;(Baseball ‘Round the Clock) San Diego Stars 7, Boulder Collegians 5 Derby Twins 9, Liberal Bee Jays 6 Seattle Cheney Studs 5, TPA Texas 1 Santa Barbara Foresters 3,&nbsp;Seattle Blackfins 2 (F11) Tulsa Sandlot 7, Hutchinson 6 Sunday, July 28 (Baseball ‘Round the Clock) Haysville Aviators 7, GPS Legends 6 Lonestar Baseball Club 11, Air Capital Flyers 1 Derby Twins 8, Boulder Collegians 3 Hays Larks 11, Kansas Cannons 8 Liberal Bee Jays 11, San Diego Stars 8 Monday Schedule Tulsa Sandlot 4, TPA Texas 0 Santa Barbara Foresters 12, Haysville Aviators 6 Seattle Cheney Studs 17, Hutchinson Monarchs 6 GPS Legends 9, Seattle Blackfins 3 Tuesday Schedule San Diego Stars 6, Derby Twins 3 Kansas Cannons 9, Air Capital Flyers 0 Hays Larks 9, Lonestar Baseball 0 Liberal Bee Jays 13, Boulder Collegians 9(Top 3 teams in each pool will advance to single-elimination bracket play starting 7/31) Final Pool Play Records Pool A Seattle Cheney Studs 3-0 Tulsa Sandlot 2-1 Hutchinson Monarchs 1-2 TPA Texas 0-3 (Eliminated) Pool B Santa Barbara Foresters 3-0 Haysville Aviators 2-1 GPS Legends 1-2 Seattle Blackfins 0-3&nbsp;(Eliminated) Pool C Derby Twins 2-1 San Diego Stars 2-1 Liberal Bee Jays 2-1 Boulder Collegians 0-3&nbsp;(Eliminated) Pool D Hays Larks 3-0 Lonestar Baseball Club 2-1 Kansas Cannons 1-2 Air Capital Flyers 0-3&nbsp;(Eliminated) TEAMS&nbsp; Hutchinson Monarchs – Jayhawk League – 2023 NBC champions Santa Barbara Foresters – California Collegiate League&nbsp; Seattle Cheney Studs – Pacific International League Seattle Black Fins – Pacific International League Boulder Collegians – Mile High Collegiate Baseball League Haysville Aviators – Jayhawk League Top Prospect Academy Texas -Stan Musial Texas World Series Champion Liberal Bee Jays – Rocky Mountain Collegiate Baseball League Hays Larks – Rocky Mountain Collegiate Baseball League San Diego Stars- Western Baseball Association Lonestar Baseball Club – North – CenTex Collegiate Baseball League Kansas Cannons – Jayhawk League Tulsa Sandlot – AABC – Stan Musial Oklahoma World Series Champion GPS Legends – CenTex Collegiate Baseball League Derby Twins – Jayhawk League Air Capital Flyers – Hap Dumont Tournament Winner

NBC World Series  - Pool Play Standings/Scores

PARIS (AP) — Simone Biles, Jordan Chiles and Sunisa Lee spent the night before perhaps the biggest gymnastics meet of their lives restless.

There was a tension in the air. They'd all been in the Olympic spotlight before, experiences that left them with medals but also the kind of scars — be they physical, psychological or both — that heal but never really go away.

And here they were in Paris, the leaders of a star-laden U.S. team everyone expected to finish atop the medal stand, and something wasn't right.

In a different time, in a different era, it might have festered. Might have followed them onto the floor at Bercy Arena and into the history books, too.

This is not a different time. This is not a different era. This is now.

So the oldest team the U.S. has ever sent to the Olympics, including a trio that has spent their respective careers breaking barriers about what a female gymnast can and can't do, what they can and can't be, did something they never used to do.

They talked, with Biles — three years removed from a Tokyo Games that dragged the conversation around mental health and sports kicking and screaming into the light — right in the middle of it.

“I think there was a little bit of struggle,” she said. “So it was really needed.”

By the time they walked onto the floor for the Olympic final, the tension was gone, largely replaced with joy.

The self-described “Redemption Tour," the moniker given to a team filled with women who wanted to return to the Games for deeply personal reasons, ended with Biles and the Americans where they have almost always been since she burst onto the scene 11 years ago: on top of the podium, the rest of the world looking up.

Eight years after winning gold in Rio with a team that called Aly Raisman grandma because she was all of 22, Biles — now 27 and married — was back again with Jade Carey (24), Chiles (23), Lee (21) and teenager Hezly Rivera at her side.

“We don’t have to be put in the box anymore,” Biles said about a group that has dubbed itself “The Golden Girls.”

With Biles at her show-stopping best, the Americans' total of 171.296 was well clear of Italy and Brazil and the exclamation point of a yearlong run in which Biles has cemented her legacy as the greatest ever in her sport, and among the best in the history of the Olympics.

“She's the greatest of all greats,” said Chiles, who now has gold to go with the team silver she, Lee and Biles earned in Tokyo, when Biles removed herself from the team final to protect herself.

Chiles, who seemed like a longshot to make it this spring after injuries piled up, was pretty good in her own right. She began the night by drilling her double-twisting Yurchenko vault, sending the Americans on a four-apparatus stop on their “Tour” that felt equal parts coronation and celebration.

By the time Biles, the left calf that bothered her during qualifying heavily taped, stepped onto the floor for the final event — a floor exercise set to music by Taylor Swift and Beyonce — it was over.

She joked she knew she simply needed to stay on her feet to win. She did more than that, providing an exclamation point on the U.S.'s third gold in its last four trips to the Games.

The Americans remain peerless (if not flawless, this is gymnastics after all) when at their best.

And over two hours in front of a crowd that included everyone from tennis great Serena Williams to actor Natalie Portman, Biles left little doubt about anything.

Her status as the sport's greatest of all time. Her ability to move past the “twisties” that derailed her in Japan. Her spot in the pantheon of the U.S. Olympic movement.

She now has a staggering 38 medals in major international competitions. Eight of those have come under the Olympic rings, moving her past Shannon Miller for the most by an American gymnast.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1722419329208.jpeg" alt="&nbsp;Members of Team USA celebrate after winning the gold medal in the women's artistic gymnastics team finals round at Bercy Arena at the 2024 Summer Olympics, Tuesday, July 30, 2024, in Paris, France. (AP Photo/Natacha Pisarenko)" />
 <figcaption>&nbsp;Members of Team USA celebrate after winning the gold medal in the women's artistic gymnastics team finals round at Bercy Arena at the 2024 Summer Olympics, Tuesday, July 30, 2024, in Paris, France. (AP Photo/Natacha Pisarenko)</figcaption>
 </figure>PARIS (AP) — Simone Biles, Jordan Chiles and Sunisa Lee spent the night before perhaps the biggest gymnastics meet of their lives restless.There was a tension in the air. They'd all been in the Olympic spotlight before, experiences that left them with medals but also the kind of scars — be they physical, psychological or both — that heal but never really go away.And here they were in Paris, the leaders of a star-laden U.S. team everyone expected to finish atop the medal stand, and something wasn't right.In a different time, in a different era, it might have festered. Might have followed them onto the floor at Bercy Arena and into the history books, too.This is not a different time. This is not a different era. This is now.So the oldest team the U.S. has ever sent to the Olympics, including a trio that has spent their respective careers breaking barriers about what a female gymnast can and can't do, what they can and can't be, did something they never used to do.They talked, with Biles — three years removed from a Tokyo Games that dragged the conversation around mental health and sports kicking and screaming into the light — right in the middle of it.“I think there was a little bit of struggle,” she said. “So it was really needed.”By the time they walked onto the floor for the Olympic final, the tension was gone, largely replaced with joy.And not soon after, gold.The self-described “Redemption Tour," the moniker given to a team filled with women who wanted to return to the Games for deeply personal reasons, ended with Biles and the Americans where they have almost always been since she burst onto the scene 11 years ago: on top of the podium, the rest of the world looking up.Eight years after winning gold in Rio with a team that called Aly Raisman grandma because she was all of 22, Biles — now 27 and married — was back again with Jade Carey (24), Chiles (23), Lee (21) and teenager Hezly Rivera at her side.“We don’t have to be put in the box anymore,” Biles said about a group that has dubbed itself “The Golden Girls.”No, they don't.With Biles at her show-stopping best, the Americans' total of 171.296 was well clear of Italy and Brazil and the exclamation point of a yearlong run in which Biles has cemented her legacy as the greatest ever in her sport, and among the best in the history of the Olympics.“She's the greatest of all greats,” said Chiles, who now has gold to go with the team silver she, Lee and Biles earned in Tokyo, when Biles removed herself from the team final to protect herself.Chiles, who seemed like a longshot to make it this spring after injuries piled up, was pretty good in her own right. She began the night by drilling her double-twisting Yurchenko vault, sending the Americans on a four-apparatus stop on their “Tour” that felt equal parts coronation and celebration.By the time Biles, the left calf that bothered her during qualifying heavily taped, stepped onto the floor for the final event — a floor exercise set to music by Taylor Swift and Beyonce — it was over.She joked she knew she simply needed to stay on her feet to win. She did more than that, providing an exclamation point on the U.S.'s third gold in its last four trips to the Games.The Americans remain peerless (if not flawless, this is gymnastics after all) when at their best.And over two hours in front of a crowd that included everyone from tennis great Serena Williams to actor Natalie Portman, Biles left little doubt about anything.Her status as the sport's greatest of all time. Her ability to move past the “twisties” that derailed her in Japan. Her spot in the pantheon of the U.S. Olympic movement.She now has a staggering 38 medals in major international competitions. Eight of those have come under the Olympic rings, moving her past Shannon Miller for the most by an American gymnast.Yet her return wasn't so much about winning. That's never really been the point anyway, just a byproduct of her unparalleled excellence. It was about a joy she had lost somewhere along the way.It seems to have returned. She leaned into the crowd that roared at every flip, every leap and, yes, every twist. With her husband — on break from NFL training camp — waving an American flag while sitting next to her parents, Biles did what she has done so well for so long save for a couple of difficult days in Japan during a pandemic: she dominated.Biles met with her therapist in the morning to put her in the right mindset. There was brief — very brief — moment of trepidation as she raced down the vault runway, the event that began to spin out of control in Tokyo.Only this time, she essentially stuck her Cheng vault, the one that sends her spinning through the air in a fraction of a second.Afterward, she exhaled.“I was like ‘Yes, please no flashbacks or anything,'” Biles said. “But I did feel a lot of relief. And as soon as I landed I was like ’Oh yeah, we’re going to do this.'"Yes they were. Just like always.The only real drama centered on who would finish next to the Americans on the medal stand.Italy, which was a surprising second to the U.S. during qualifying, returned to the podium for the first time since 1928 by holding off Brazil for silver.Yet there was no question about the top spot. There rarely ever is when Biles is involved.The road back to this moment has been difficult at times. Uncertain. They felt the weight of everything on Monday night. Rather than let it weigh them down, they shed it.