Kansas basketball guard Ochai Agbaji and Oklahoma softball player Jocelyn Alo were named 2022 Big 12 Athletes of the Year, after each led their teams to national championships. Agbaji is the fourth Kansas male to win the award, and first since 2017. Alo, who was a unanimous selection, is the third consecutive Sooner female to win the award, and the eighth overall.

Nominees are submitted by Big 12 institutions and selected based on athletic performance during the 2021-22 school year by a media panel. Nominees must be in good academic standing.

Agbaji was the Most Outstanding Player of the 2022 NCAA Men’s Final Four as the Jayhawks captured their sixth national title. The Kansas City, Missouri native was the unanimous Big 12 Player of the Year and a Consensus All-America First Team selection, leading the Conference with 18.8 points per game. He was the Most Outstanding Player at the Phillips 66 Big 12 Men’s Basketball Championship, averaging 18.7 points in three contests.

Agbaji was selected by Cleveland with the 14th overall pick in the 2022 NBA Draft, and leaves Lawrence with the school record for consecutive games with a 3-pointer made (53). He ranks in the program’s career top-10 for 3-pointers made (250), consecutive starts (98) and minutes played (3,978).

Alo was the Most Outstanding Player of the 2022 NCAA Women’s College World Series, as the Sooners captured a second consecutive NCAA title, and the program’s sixth. The Big 12 Player of the Year, Alo won the Honda Sport Award for Softball, the ESPY for Best College Athlete - Women’s Sports and USA Softball Collegiate Player of the Year. She led the NCAA in home runs (34), batting average (.515) and slugging percentage (1.212).

The Hauula, Hawaii native set an NCAA career record with 122 home runs, breaking the record in her home state in March. She is currently a member of the United States national softball team.

Other candidates for Big 12 Female Athlete of the Year were NaLyssa Smith (Baylor basketball), Ashley Joens (Iowa State basketball), Alexandra Emilianov (Kansas track and field), Ayoka Lee (Kansas State basketball), Taylor Roe (Oklahoma State cross country and track), Lauren Kellett (TCU soccer), Peyton Stearns (Texas tennis), Ruth Usoro (Texas Tech track and field) and Ceili McCabe (West Virginia cross country and track).

Big 12 Male Athlete of the Year candidates included: Jalen Pitre (Baylor football), Breece Hall (Iowa State football), Deuce Vaughn (Kansas State football), Chris Gotterup (Oklahoma golf), Eugenio Chacarra (Oklahoma State golf), Chengetayi (Du) Mapaya (TCU track and field), Ivan Melendez (Texas baseball), Ludvig Aberg (Texas Tech golf) and Zach Fraizer (West Virginia football).

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658828499938.png" alt="Big 12 Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Big 12 Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas basketball guard Ochai Agbaji and Oklahoma softball player Jocelyn Alo were named 2022 Big 12 Athletes of the Year, after each led their teams to national championships. Agbaji is the fourth Kansas male to win the award, and first since 2017. Alo, who was a unanimous selection, is the third consecutive Sooner female to win the award, and the eighth overall.Nominees are submitted by Big 12 institutions and selected based on athletic performance during the 2021-22 school year by a media panel. Nominees must be in good academic standing.Agbaji was the Most Outstanding Player of the 2022 NCAA Men’s Final Four as the Jayhawks captured their sixth national title. The Kansas City, Missouri native was the unanimous Big 12 Player of the Year and a Consensus All-America First Team selection, leading the Conference with 18.8 points per game. He was the Most Outstanding Player at the Phillips 66 Big 12 Men’s Basketball Championship, averaging 18.7 points in three contests.Agbaji was selected by Cleveland with the 14th overall pick in the 2022 NBA Draft, and leaves Lawrence with the school record for consecutive games with a 3-pointer made (53). He ranks in the program’s career top-10 for 3-pointers made (250), consecutive starts (98) and minutes played (3,978).Alo was the Most Outstanding Player of the 2022 NCAA Women’s College World Series, as the Sooners captured a second consecutive NCAA title, and the program’s sixth. The Big 12 Player of the Year, Alo won the Honda Sport Award for Softball, the ESPY for Best College Athlete - Women’s Sports and USA Softball Collegiate Player of the Year. She led the NCAA in home runs (34), batting average (.515) and slugging percentage (1.212).The Hauula, Hawaii native set an NCAA career record with 122 home runs, breaking the record in her home state in March. She is currently a member of the United States national softball team.Other candidates for Big 12 Female Athlete of the Year were NaLyssa Smith (Baylor basketball), Ashley Joens (Iowa State basketball), Alexandra Emilianov (Kansas track and field), Ayoka Lee (Kansas State basketball), Taylor Roe (Oklahoma State cross country and track), Lauren Kellett (TCU soccer), Peyton Stearns (Texas tennis), Ruth Usoro (Texas Tech track and field) and Ceili McCabe (West Virginia cross country and track).Big 12 Male Athlete of the Year candidates included: Jalen Pitre (Baylor football), Breece Hall (Iowa State football), Deuce Vaughn (Kansas State football), Chris Gotterup (Oklahoma golf), Eugenio Chacarra (Oklahoma State golf), Chengetayi (Du) Mapaya (TCU track and field), Ivan Melendez (Texas baseball), Ludvig Aberg (Texas Tech golf) and Zach Fraizer (West Virginia football).

Kansas’ Agbaji, Oklahoma’s Alo Named Big 12 Athletes of the Year

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Zack Greinke is getting to the point in his career where it seems as though just about every start brings with it some kind of record, even those that the former Cy Young winner never anticipated seeing.

Like his name climbing the career strikeouts list.

Hardly known for his overpowering stuff, Greinke nevertheless moved into the top 20 on Monday night while combining with four Kansas City Royals relievers to hold the scuffling Los Angeles Angels to five hits in a 7-0 victory.

“It's crazy. I never really thought about any of this stuff, but it's been interesting stuff happening the last couple of starts,” said the 38-year-old Greinke, who is nearing the end of his 19th big league season. “I've never really thought about it.”

Greinke scattered three hits over five innings before giving the ball to Amir Garrett (2-1), who worked around a leadoff double in the sixth. Jose Cuas handled the seventh, Scott Barlow the eighth and Josh Staumont finished off the ninth.

All the support came after Greinke departed: Michael A. Taylor drove in three runs, Emmanuel Rivera drove in a run during a four-run seventh, and MJ Melendez capped the rout with a two-run homer in the eighth.

The Angels’ Noah Syndergaard (5-8) went 5 2/3 innings, allowing one run on six hits and two walks with six strikeouts.

“Deserved a better fate,” Angels interim manager Phil Nevin said.

Now, the Royals will go for their first four-game win streak of the season on Tuesday night.

“We're playing better baseball,” Royals manager Mike Matheny admitted. “You see those pieces coming together.”

It started with Greinke on Monday night. He navigated an error by Whit Merrifield in the first, worked around Shohei Ohtani's double in the third and picked off Luis Rengifo for the final out of the fourth. Along the way, Greinke punched out Andrew Velazquez for his 2,856th strikeout, moving him past Jim Bunning and into the top 20 on the career list.

“It's just amazing he's still able to get outs at the big league level the way that he does,” Garrett said. “The game's not going to push him out. When he wants to be done with the game, he'll be done.”

Ohtani's double came moments after he fouled a pitch off his leg and needed several minutes to walk it off.

Syndergaard also dodged trouble through five innings, leaving runners in scoring position in four of them. But the Royals finally caught up to him in the sixth, when Taylor delivered a two-out single to break up a scoreless game.

The Royals added four more runs off Aaron Loup and Ryan Tepera, thanks in part to an error and two wild pitches, before Melendez went deep off Austin Warren to put the game out of reach.

“Just kind of one guy after another,” Matheny said. “That was a great effort late.”

The Royals' Nicky Lopez thought he had a leadoff triple in the fifth when Jo Adell failed to catch his fly ball to left field, but the call was overturned upon review and ruled a foul ball. Then in the sixth, the Angels' Jared Walsh tried to reach third on a fielders' choice and was initially ruled safe before a review once again overturned the call.

Angels: CF Mike Trout (rib inflammation), who was eligible to come off the injured list Monday, remained there after his cortisone shot in his back last week. “Progressing like we think. Basically, it’s a lot of rest right now as we manage our way through his IL days,” Nevin said. “It’s more of a day-to-day thing.”

Royals: C Salvador Perez (thumb surgery) will begin a rehab assignment at Triple-A Omaha on Tuesday. “He's been going about it pretty hard here for a while,” Matheny said. “Watching everything he's doing, he feels right.” ... INF Bobby Witt Jr. was out of the lineup Monday after tweaking his hamstring over the weekend.

UP NEXT Angles LHP Jose Suarez (1-4, 5.60) ERA) gets the start Tuesday night while the Royals plan to bring back LHP Angel Zerpa (2-0, 1.29) from Double-A Northwest Arkansas to take the mound.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Zack Greinke is getting to the point in his career where it seems as though just about every start brings with it some kind of record, even those that the former Cy Young winner never anticipated seeing.Like his name climbing the career strikeouts list.Hardly known for his overpowering stuff, Greinke nevertheless moved into the top 20 on Monday night while combining with four Kansas City Royals relievers to hold the scuffling Los Angeles Angels to five hits in a 7-0 victory.“It's crazy. I never really thought about any of this stuff, but it's been interesting stuff happening the last couple of starts,” said the 38-year-old Greinke, who is nearing the end of his 19th big league season. “I've never really thought about it.”Greinke scattered three hits over five innings before giving the ball to Amir Garrett (2-1), who worked around a leadoff double in the sixth. Jose Cuas handled the seventh, Scott Barlow the eighth and Josh Staumont finished off the ninth.All the support came after Greinke departed: Michael A. Taylor drove in three runs, Emmanuel Rivera drove in a run during a four-run seventh, and MJ Melendez capped the rout with a two-run homer in the eighth.The Angels’ Noah Syndergaard (5-8) went 5 2/3 innings, allowing one run on six hits and two walks with six strikeouts.“Deserved a better fate,” Angels interim manager Phil Nevin said.Now, the Royals will go for their first four-game win streak of the season on Tuesday night.“We're playing better baseball,” Royals manager Mike Matheny admitted. “You see those pieces coming together.”It started with Greinke on Monday night. He navigated an error by Whit Merrifield in the first, worked around Shohei Ohtani's double in the third and picked off Luis Rengifo for the final out of the fourth. Along the way, Greinke punched out Andrew Velazquez for his 2,856th strikeout, moving him past Jim Bunning and into the top 20 on the career list.“It's just amazing he's still able to get outs at the big league level the way that he does,” Garrett said. “The game's not going to push him out. When he wants to be done with the game, he'll be done.”Ohtani's double came moments after he fouled a pitch off his leg and needed several minutes to walk it off.Syndergaard also dodged trouble through five innings, leaving runners in scoring position in four of them. But the Royals finally caught up to him in the sixth, when Taylor delivered a two-out single to break up a scoreless game.The Royals added four more runs off Aaron Loup and Ryan Tepera, thanks in part to an error and two wild pitches, before Melendez went deep off Austin Warren to put the game out of reach.“Just kind of one guy after another,” Matheny said. “That was a great effort late.”OVERTURNED AT THIRD (TWICE)The Royals' Nicky Lopez thought he had a leadoff triple in the fifth when Jo Adell failed to catch his fly ball to left field, but the call was overturned upon review and ruled a foul ball. Then in the sixth, the Angels' Jared Walsh tried to reach third on a fielders' choice and was initially ruled safe before a review once again overturned the call.TRAINER'S ROOMAngels: CF Mike Trout (rib inflammation), who was eligible to come off the injured list Monday, remained there after his cortisone shot in his back last week. “Progressing like we think. Basically, it’s a lot of rest right now as we manage our way through his IL days,” Nevin said. “It’s more of a day-to-day thing.”Royals: C Salvador Perez (thumb surgery) will begin a rehab assignment at Triple-A Omaha on Tuesday. “He's been going about it pretty hard here for a while,” Matheny said. “Watching everything he's doing, he feels right.” ... INF Bobby Witt Jr. was out of the lineup Monday after tweaking his hamstring over the weekend.UP NEXT Angles LHP Jose Suarez (1-4, 5.60) ERA) gets the start Tuesday night while the Royals plan to bring back LHP Angel Zerpa (2-0, 1.29) from Double-A Northwest Arkansas to take the mound.

Greinke's helps Royals cruise past Angels 7-0

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658773191378.png" alt="Bat Cat Podcast for 7/25" />
 <figcaption>Bat Cat Podcast for 7/25</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe width="100%" height="265" src="https://clyp.it/nxuavczw/widget" frameborder="0"></iframe></div>

Bat Cat baseball talk with Roger Ward (7/25)

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Kris Bubic went seven strong innings, Hunter Dozier and MJ Melendez had late-inning RBIs and the Kansas City Royals beat Tampa Bay 4-2 on Sunday, winning a series against the Rays for the first time in five years.

Dozier snapped a 2-all tie with two outs in the seventh when he singled off Brooks Raley (1-1) to score Whit Merrifield. Melendez added an insurance run with a double down the left-field line in the eighth.

The Royals overcame the loss of Bobby Witt Jr. for their first series win against the Rays since 2017. They broke an 11-series losing streak to the American League East.

“Just a great series. That is a good team and to walk out with a series win is a big deal for us,” Royals manager Mike Matheny said. “We had so many guys on base and we had a lot of missed opportunities today and those are ones that usually slip away, but our guys just kept with it and got some big hits late.”

Bubic (2-6) tied with a season high by pitching seven innings. He gave up two runs on four hits, walked three and struck out four.

“Solid outing, to be able to pitch deep into a game like that in back-to-back outings is nice," Bubic said. "It’s good to give the bullpen a little break and the defense picked me up in some crucial situations. All around every facet was good today.”

For the second straight game, the Royals lost a lead but found some timely hits late to prevail.

Witt hit an RBI single in the first inning, but exited the game before the next half-inning even started. The 22-year-old rookie stole second but then gingerly ran to third on a fly ball to center field and was removed with right hamstring tightness. He is considered day to day.

“They told me as of now it’s just sore, tight hamstrings," Witt said. "Hopefully I will be back in there soon.”

He has a hit in 14 of his last 16 games with 12 RBIs and eight stolen bases while hitting over .360 in that stretch.

Nick Pratto made it 2-0 in the second with a sacrifice fly to center field that scored Michael A. Taylor.

Tampa Bay responded, as Yandy Diaz hit a 434-foot homer to center field for his first since May 14. The Rays tied the game in the sixth on a sac fly by Luke Raley.

“I was very happy I was able to hit that home run," Diaz said. "I wasn’t looking for it, it is not what I go for, but I was happy it happened.”

Taylor Clarke got his second save of the season.

Rays: Reinstated RHP Jeffrey Springs (right lower leg tightness) from the 15-day injured list and optioned RHP Luis Patino to Triple-A Durham.

Royals: RHP Jonathan Heasley (right shoulder tendinitis) and LHP Daniel Lynch (blister) will begin rehab assignments in Triple-A Omaha.

Tampa Bay will start a four-game series in Baltimore on Monday with right-hander Corey Kluber (6-5, 3.73 ERA) on the mound. The Royals continue their homestand when they host the Angels on Monday with right-hander Zack Greinke (3-6, 4.64 ERA) getting the start.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Kris Bubic went seven strong innings, Hunter Dozier and MJ Melendez had late-inning RBIs and the Kansas City Royals beat Tampa Bay 4-2 on Sunday, winning a series against the Rays for the first time in five years.Dozier snapped a 2-all tie with two outs in the seventh when he singled off Brooks Raley (1-1) to score Whit Merrifield. Melendez added an insurance run with a double down the left-field line in the eighth.The Royals overcame the loss of Bobby Witt Jr. for their first series win against the Rays since 2017. They broke an 11-series losing streak to the American League East.“Just a great series. That is a good team and to walk out with a series win is a big deal for us,” Royals manager Mike Matheny said. “We had so many guys on base and we had a lot of missed opportunities today and those are ones that usually slip away, but our guys just kept with it and got some big hits late.”Bubic (2-6) tied with a season high by pitching seven innings. He gave up two runs on four hits, walked three and struck out four.“Solid outing, to be able to pitch deep into a game like that in back-to-back outings is nice," Bubic said. "It’s good to give the bullpen a little break and the defense picked me up in some crucial situations. All around every facet was good today.”For the second straight game, the Royals lost a lead but found some timely hits late to prevail.Witt hit an RBI single in the first inning, but exited the game before the next half-inning even started. The 22-year-old rookie stole second but then gingerly ran to third on a fly ball to center field and was removed with right hamstring tightness. He is considered day to day.“They told me as of now it’s just sore, tight hamstrings," Witt said. "Hopefully I will be back in there soon.”He has a hit in 14 of his last 16 games with 12 RBIs and eight stolen bases while hitting over .360 in that stretch.Nick Pratto made it 2-0 in the second with a sacrifice fly to center field that scored Michael A. Taylor.Tampa Bay responded, as Yandy Diaz hit a 434-foot homer to center field for his first since May 14. The Rays tied the game in the sixth on a sac fly by Luke Raley.“I was very happy I was able to hit that home run," Diaz said. "I wasn’t looking for it, it is not what I go for, but I was happy it happened.”Taylor Clarke got his second save of the season.ROSTER MOVESRays: Reinstated RHP Jeffrey Springs (right lower leg tightness) from the 15-day injured list and optioned RHP Luis Patino to Triple-A Durham.TRAINER’S ROOMRoyals: RHP Jonathan Heasley (right shoulder tendinitis) and LHP Daniel Lynch (blister) will begin rehab assignments in Triple-A Omaha.UP NEXTTampa Bay will start a four-game series in Baltimore on Monday with right-hander Corey Kluber (6-5, 3.73 ERA) on the mound. The Royals continue their homestand when they host the Angels on Monday with right-hander Zack Greinke (3-6, 4.64 ERA) getting the start.

Bubic goes 7, Royals edge Rays 4-2 to win series

PITTSBURG, Ks - For the First time since 2001, the Kansas Shrine Bowl game ended in a
tie. The West and East battled to a 10-10 stalemate Saturday night at
Pittsburg State's Carnie-Smith Stadium.

The West team drove the field and settled for a 29-yard field goal by
Dodge City’s Emanuel Aguilar with 23 seconds remaining. The
only touchdown scored by the West team came in the first quarter when
Sedgwick quarterback Lance Hoffsommer, an Emporia State signee,
scrambled and scored from 10 yards out for a 7-0 lead late in the
first quarter. The East team took the lead in the third
quarter on a seven yard TD run by Basehor-Linwood’s Zack Sisemore.
The extra point was good at it was 10-7 with 7:08 remaining in the
fourth quarter.


Shawnee Mission Northwest quarterback Blake Reeder was named the East
MVP after completing 15 of 25 passes for 192 yards and adding 22
rushing yards. The West MVP was Cimarron defensive back Braxton
Harrison, a Fort Hays State signee who finished with a team-high nine
tackles and a pass breakup.

PITTSBURG, Ks - For the First time since 2001, the Kansas Shrine Bowl game ended in a
tie. The West and East battled to a 10-10 stalemate Saturday night at
Pittsburg State's Carnie-Smith Stadium.
The West team drove the field and settled for a 29-yard field goal by
Dodge City’s Emanuel Aguilar with 23 seconds remaining. The
only touchdown scored by the West team came in the first quarter when
Sedgwick quarterback Lance Hoffsommer, an Emporia State signee,
scrambled and scored from 10 yards out for a 7-0 lead late in the
first quarter. The East team took the lead in the third
quarter on a seven yard TD run by Basehor-Linwood’s Zack Sisemore.
The extra point was good at it was 10-7 with 7:08 remaining in the
fourth quarter.
Shawnee Mission Northwest quarterback Blake Reeder was named the East
MVP after completing 15 of 25 passes for 192 yards and adding 22
rushing yards. The West MVP was Cimarron defensive back Braxton
Harrison, a Fort Hays State signee who finished with a team-high nine
tackles and a pass breakup.

Shrine Bowl ends in a 10-10 tie

By Steve Webster Great Bend Post

After
record crowds came to Al Burns Field this summer to watch Great Bend
Bat Cat baseball, a promising summer is ending with frustration.

The
Bat Cats, who had their entire four game series with the Wichita
Lobo's canceled after the Lobo's forfeited, were dealt another blow
over the weekend as Liberal pulled out of Tuesday's game in Great
Bend. The contest was to be the final game of the regular season and
a way for fans to celebrate what has been a great season.

Great
Bend elected not to play in the Sunflower Collegiate League
Tournament in the Wichita area this weekend. Manager Roger Ward had
hoped to play at least a couple of games at home in that tournament
but the six teams, Hutchinson, Newton, Cheney, Kingman, Haysville and
Derby elected to have all the games played in the Wichita area.


The Bat Cats regular season ends with a record of 30-11 overall and a
third place finish in the SCL at 26-10. The Cats were 21-2 at home.


There will be two informal scrimmages on Saturday and Sunday July 30
and 31 at 7pm. Fans attending will be treated to free food, beverages
and giveaways.


The Bat Cats will not play in the NBC World Series this season,
instead electing to play in the Summerball Showdown in Goddard Aug.
3-7 at the fully turfed Genisis Sports Complex.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1654864243069.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By Steve Webster Great Bend PostAfter
record crowds came to Al Burns Field this summer to watch Great Bend
Bat Cat baseball, a promising summer is ending with frustration.The
Bat Cats, who had their entire four game series with the Wichita
Lobo's canceled after the Lobo's forfeited, were dealt another blow
over the weekend as Liberal pulled out of Tuesday's game in Great
Bend. The contest was to be the final game of the regular season and
a way for fans to celebrate what has been a great season.Great
Bend elected not to play in the Sunflower Collegiate League
Tournament in the Wichita area this weekend. Manager Roger Ward had
hoped to play at least a couple of games at home in that tournament
but the six teams, Hutchinson, Newton, Cheney, Kingman, Haysville and
Derby elected to have all the games played in the Wichita area.


The Bat Cats regular season ends with a record of 30-11 overall and a
third place finish in the SCL at 26-10. The Cats were 21-2 at home.
There will be two informal scrimmages on Saturday and Sunday July 30
and 31 at 7pm. Fans attending will be treated to free food, beverages
and giveaways.
The Bat Cats will not play in the NBC World Series this season,
instead electing to play in the Summerball Showdown in Goddard Aug.
3-7 at the fully turfed Genisis Sports Complex.

Bat Cats regular season comes to an abrupt end

LAWRENCE, Kan.  – Kansas Athletics has announced a significant and one-of-a-kind multimedia rights (MMR) agreement with incumbent partner LEARFIELD.

LEARFIELD has managed the Jayhawks’ multimedia rights since 2007. A notable component of the expanded relationship includes custom content creation for Jayhawk fans on multiple university-official platforms. LEARFIELD Studios, in collaboration with Rock Chalk Video, developed brand new content initiatives with the launching of SELF MADE, the newest KU project for the 2022 National Championship basketball program. The storytelling series debuted with Ochai Agbaji, a lottery pick selected 14th overall by the Cleveland Cavaliers in the NBA Draft. THE BLUEPRINT series, featuring Kansas Football in preparation for its upcoming 2022 season, launched in the spring with a four-episode, behind-the-scenes look at Lance Leipold’s program build.

LEARFIELD has also increased its commitment to the staff infrastructure at Kansas with the hiring of three newly created positions, including Director of Business Development, Supervising Producer with LEARFIELD Studios, and Manager of Partner Services.

"“Our partnership with LEARFIELD is one of the strongest and most innovative in the industry,” said Director of Athletics Travis Goff. “This extended and expanded agreement is critical to Kansas Athletics’ future success as we increase revenue generation, content creation and storytelling, and bolster our commitment to fan engagement. In evaluating our future in the MMR space, it is imperative that we position ourselves to be cutting edge and fully prepared to capitalize on the ever-evolving world of intercollegiate athletics. We are thrilled to build upon our partnership with LEARFIELD for the next decade as we enter an era of exceptional growth and success for Kansas Athletics.”"

TRAVIS GOFF, DIRECTOR OF ATHLETICS

The new comprehensive agreement also includes an extension of Kansas’ relationship with longtime partner CLC, a LEARFIELD company that oversees the university’s licensing and trademark management. Kansas has worked with CLC to develop customized merchandise and marketing programs that have increased brand exposure and delivered new product categories to Jayhawks fans such as NFTs and athlete name, image and likeness (NIL) co-branded programs.

Other highlights include Kansas Athletics’ use of Fanbase, a LEARFIELD service that provides pertinent data related to fan connectivity in order to promote effective and efficient communications with Kansas fans. The data points and insights collected from Fanbase will allow KU and LEARFIELD’s Jayhawk Sports Properties team to better understand fan behaviors leading to new revenue growth opportunities across the athletics department and in extending fan engagement for corporate sponsors. Furthermore, this broadened LEARFIELD partnership will assist Kansas Athletics in providing additional support in the many evolving areas related to name, image and likeness.

LEARFIELD’s dedicated Jayhawk Sports Properties team, led by Vice President and General Manager Marc Tuttle, will continue to manage all aspects of the multimedia rights relationship and corporate partner platform in collaboration with athletics administration and the external affairs department.

“We’re honored for the opportunity to work alongside Travis and his team as we continue to bolster the Jayhawk brand locally, regionally and nationally,” said Mike Hamilton, LEARFIELD Executive Vice President, University Partnership Group. “Kansas has a global passionate fanbase, and we’re excited about the new areas of engagement and access we’ve put forth in this agreement to give fans more of their Jayhawks in new and innovative ways. We’re certainly proud to represent Kansas and excited for what’s ahead.”

Kansas AthleticsLAWRENCE, Kan. – Kansas Athletics has announced a significant and one-of-a-kind multimedia rights (MMR) agreement with incumbent partner LEARFIELD.LEARFIELD has managed the Jayhawks’ multimedia rights since 2007. A notable component of the expanded relationship includes custom content creation for Jayhawk fans on multiple university-official platforms. LEARFIELD Studios, in collaboration with Rock Chalk Video, developed brand new content initiatives with the launching of SELF MADE, the newest KU project for the 2022 National Championship basketball program. The storytelling series debuted with Ochai Agbaji, a lottery pick selected 14th overall by the Cleveland Cavaliers in the NBA Draft. THE BLUEPRINT series, featuring Kansas Football in preparation for its upcoming 2022 season, launched in the spring with a four-episode, behind-the-scenes look at Lance Leipold’s program build.LEARFIELD has also increased its commitment to the staff infrastructure at Kansas with the hiring of three newly created positions, including Director of Business Development, Supervising Producer with LEARFIELD Studios, and Manager of Partner Services."“Our partnership with LEARFIELD is one of the strongest and most innovative in the industry,” said Director of Athletics Travis Goff. “This extended and expanded agreement is critical to Kansas Athletics’ future success as we increase revenue generation, content creation and storytelling, and bolster our commitment to fan engagement. In evaluating our future in the MMR space, it is imperative that we position ourselves to be cutting edge and fully prepared to capitalize on the ever-evolving world of intercollegiate athletics. We are thrilled to build upon our partnership with LEARFIELD for the next decade as we enter an era of exceptional growth and success for Kansas Athletics.”"TRAVIS GOFF, DIRECTOR OF ATHLETICSThe new comprehensive agreement also includes an extension of Kansas’ relationship with longtime partner CLC, a LEARFIELD company that oversees the university’s licensing and trademark management. Kansas has worked with CLC to develop customized merchandise and marketing programs that have increased brand exposure and delivered new product categories to Jayhawks fans such as NFTs and athlete name, image and likeness (NIL) co-branded programs.Other highlights include Kansas Athletics’ use of Fanbase, a LEARFIELD service that provides pertinent data related to fan connectivity in order to promote effective and efficient communications with Kansas fans. The data points and insights collected from Fanbase will allow KU and LEARFIELD’s Jayhawk Sports Properties team to better understand fan behaviors leading to new revenue growth opportunities across the athletics department and in extending fan engagement for corporate sponsors. Furthermore, this broadened LEARFIELD partnership will assist Kansas Athletics in providing additional support in the many evolving areas related to name, image and likeness.LEARFIELD’s dedicated Jayhawk Sports Properties team, led by Vice President and General Manager Marc Tuttle, will continue to manage all aspects of the multimedia rights relationship and corporate partner platform in collaboration with athletics administration and the external affairs department.“We’re honored for the opportunity to work alongside Travis and his team as we continue to bolster the Jayhawk brand locally, regionally and nationally,” said Mike Hamilton, LEARFIELD Executive Vice President, University Partnership Group. “Kansas has a global passionate fanbase, and we’re excited about the new areas of engagement and access we’ve put forth in this agreement to give fans more of their Jayhawks in new and innovative ways. We’re certainly proud to represent Kansas and excited for what’s ahead.”

Kansas Athletics Announces 10-Year Extension with LEARFIELD

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Brady Singer struck out a career-high 12, Michael A. Taylor and Bobby Witt Jr. homered off Ryan Yarbrough in a three-run eighth inning and the Kansas City Royals beat the Tampa Bay Rays 6-3 on Saturday night.

Singer, a 25-year-old right-hander in his third major league season, allowed two runs — one earned — three hits and two walks in six innings.

“One of the best we’ve ever seen from Brady. Everything was working, it took him just a little time to find that first base side with the sinker and then he found it," Royals' manager Mike Matheny said.

"He threw some really good changeups but the slider was wipeout today. To get 12 strikeouts, it had to be one of those disappearing sliders and throwing it in the right part of the zone and strikes when we wanted to. One of the best we've seen from him, it was a great job.”

Singer sat down seven with the slider but also found a rhythm with a wide array of his arsenal as the game wore on.

“In the first few innings, I didn’t think I had much command of anything," Singer said. "The slider was working early but throughout the game, I felt a lot better and felt like I got the fastball gloveside, the changeup worked out really well but the slider was the key.”

With the score 3-3, Taylor hit his sixth home run this season and first since June 25. Witt hit a two-run drive off Yarbrough (0-5), who has given up seven home runs this season.

“It was unfortunate because (Yarbrough) did give us a chance right there," Rays' manager Kevin Cash said. "I liked the matchup with all the lefties they had loaded up there and the one righty they pinch hit for kind of came back to bite us.”

Witt had three RBIs for the Royals, who stopped a four-game losing streak. Whit Merrifield hit a two-run double in a three-run third.

Scott Barlow (4-2) allowed three hits in two scoreless innings.

Tampa Bay's Luis Patiño gave up three runs and seven hits in four innings. The Rays lost for the second time in eight games.

The Rays rebounded from a 3-0 deficit when Luke Raley hit a run-scoring single in the sixth and Roman Quinn hit a two-run triple in the seventh.

Kansas City agreed to a contract with Virginia Tech OF Gavin Cross, the ninth overall pick in last weekend's amateur draft.

Rays: Tampa Bay has 16 players on the injured list, second to Cincinnati. Only seven players from the opening day roster have remained active all season.

LHP Jeffery Springs (3-2, 2.53 ERA) will take the mound for the Rays in the series finale Sunday. LHP Kris Bubic (1-6, 5.87 ERA) is expected to start for Kansas City.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Brady Singer struck out a career-high 12, Michael A. Taylor and Bobby Witt Jr. homered off Ryan Yarbrough in a three-run eighth inning and the Kansas City Royals beat the Tampa Bay Rays 6-3 on Saturday night.Singer, a 25-year-old right-hander in his third major league season, allowed two runs — one earned — three hits and two walks in six innings.“One of the best we’ve ever seen from Brady. Everything was working, it took him just a little time to find that first base side with the sinker and then he found it," Royals' manager Mike Matheny said."He threw some really good changeups but the slider was wipeout today. To get 12 strikeouts, it had to be one of those disappearing sliders and throwing it in the right part of the zone and strikes when we wanted to. One of the best we've seen from him, it was a great job.”Singer sat down seven with the slider but also found a rhythm with a wide array of his arsenal as the game wore on.“In the first few innings, I didn’t think I had much command of anything," Singer said. "The slider was working early but throughout the game, I felt a lot better and felt like I got the fastball gloveside, the changeup worked out really well but the slider was the key.”With the score 3-3, Taylor hit his sixth home run this season and first since June 25. Witt hit a two-run drive off Yarbrough (0-5), who has given up seven home runs this season.“It was unfortunate because (Yarbrough) did give us a chance right there," Rays' manager Kevin Cash said. "I liked the matchup with all the lefties they had loaded up there and the one righty they pinch hit for kind of came back to bite us.”Witt had three RBIs for the Royals, who stopped a four-game losing streak. Whit Merrifield hit a two-run double in a three-run third.Scott Barlow (4-2) allowed three hits in two scoreless innings.Tampa Bay's Luis Patiño gave up three runs and seven hits in four innings. The Rays lost for the second time in eight games.The Rays rebounded from a 3-0 deficit when Luke Raley hit a run-scoring single in the sixth and Roman Quinn hit a two-run triple in the seventh.DRAFT DEALINGSKansas City agreed to a contract with Virginia Tech OF Gavin Cross, the ninth overall pick in last weekend's amateur draft.TRAINER’S ROOMRays: Tampa Bay has 16 players on the injured list, second to Cincinnati. Only seven players from the opening day roster have remained active all season.UP NEXTLHP Jeffery Springs (3-2, 2.53 ERA) will take the mound for the Rays in the series finale Sunday. LHP Kris Bubic (1-6, 5.87 ERA) is expected to start for Kansas City.

Singer strikes out career-high 12, Royals beat Rays 6-3

By COLE REIF Great Bend Post

After graduating from Ellsworth High School, Kaden Davis had
one offer to play junior college football. The former Class 3A football player
from Ellsworth, Kansas is now competing for a roster spot in the NFL for the
Denver Broncos. 
 
Davis noted there were moments during his sophomore and junior years at
Ellsworth that told him he wanted to keep pursuing football past high school. 
 
“I found out through track that I have the speed to do this,” said Davis. “I
thought with my athletic ability, playing three sports, I had the potential to
make it this far. I just had to stick to the process.” 
 
Davis broke his wrist his junior year at Ellsworth and missed a few games
because of the injury. Watching his teammates play only reinforced his love for
the game. 
 
“I was able to train at the Sharp Performance in Salina that summer, and they
were able to help me reach my potential,” said Davis. “They helped me see a
vision that it would be possible to do all this.”

Davis had 29 receptions for 837 yards and 15 touchdowns in nine games his
senior year at Ellsworth. In 2017, he became the fourth player in Ellsworth
school history, and first since 1992, to be selected to the Kansas Shrine Bowl.
 
 
Talking with collegiate coaches, Davis was told he didn’t get the exposure
other kids were getting at bigger schools and colleges questioned the athletes he was
facing. With a few walk-on opportunities, Davis took his lone offer from Butler
Community College to play wide receiver. 
 
“Arriving to fall camp at Butler was overwhelming for the first couple of
weeks,” said Davis. “That was my first time learning a college offense. I was
adjusting to playing against press coverage and guys that may have been Division
I bounce backs and more developed.” 
 
Primarily used as a punt returner his first year at Butler, Davis had 21
catches for 245 yards and a touchdown his sophomore year for the Grizzlies. 
 
“I had a pretty good idea of what I would be going against for that sophomore
year,” said Davis. “I put my foot on the gas that offseason so I could get
myself to a good program after Butler.”

After leaving Butler, Kansas State University wanted Davis to walk-on to their
football program. Davis also had offers from Northwest Missouri State
University, Emporia State University and Pittsburg State University. 
 
“I took a visit out to Northwest Missouri and really enjoyed the culture,” said
Davis. “They had good facilities allowing you to train all through the winter." 
 
Davis became a Bearcat again, spending three years at Northwest Missouri. The
Division II university in Maryville, Missouri is a national powerhouse in
football, having won six national championships. 
 
“I didn’t have a great junior year at Northwest,” said Davis. “I didn’t have
much on the stat sheet or much for film. I just stuck to the process, kept
grinding the next couple of years, knowing my opportunity was going to come
soon.” 
 
Davis had a COVID-19 pandemic year in 2020-2021 where there was no official
season. His fifth year out of high school, and senior year at Northwest, Davis
led the Bearcats with 10 touchdown receptions while gaining 703 yards receiving.
Northwest finished 11-2 and made a run in the Division II playoffs.

“Not being at a Division I school kind of hurts for getting looks at the NFL,”
said Davis. “My grandpa and family always told me ‘if you’re good enough, they
will find you.’ That’s what happened.” 
 
Almost immediately after his senior season at Northwest, Davis was getting in
contact with Michael Johnson Performance in Texas to train. Davis also competed
in the College Gridiron Showcase last January in Fort Worth, Texas. 
 
“That showcase allowed me to go against Division I, FBS, Power 5 guys,” said
Davis. “That showcase allowed me to get looks and speak with NFL scouts.” 
 
When the NFL Draft rolled around in late April, Davis was hopeful to hear his
name called. Out of the 262 selections made in seven rounds, Davis was not
selected by an NFL team. 
 
“A couple teams told me I was on their board,” said Davis. “I got my first call
at the end of the sixth round, and I thought that was going to be a pick. It
turned out to be my first offer for free agency.” 
 
Going undrafted, Davis had a few teams to choose from to work out as a free
agent, but ultimately chose Denver. 
 
“Denver reached out to me during the seventh round,” said Davis. “I got to talk
with head coach Nathaniel Hackett. I felt comfortable with the things he was
telling me. It felt like a good fit.”

Davis arrived to Denver and spent five weeks going through the team’s organized
team activities (OTAs) and minicamp. The boy from Ellsworth, Kansas, whom
received one offer to play collegiate football, practicing with NFL veterans at
the highest level. 
 
“My first day was surreal,” said Davis. “It’s everything you dream about as a
kid and then you’re finally in the facility doing it for real. It felt good.” 
 
Out of all the Broncos players Davis has worked out with so far, he said cornerback
Pat Surtain II has impressed him the most. 
 
Now waiting for Denver’s training camp to start, Davis has returned to Texas to
train. A typical day has him waking up at seven o’clock and looking at the
playbook. 
 
“Around 9 o’clock, I usually run routes with some guys and do that for an hour
or hour and a half,” said Davis. “I come back home, check out my playbook some
more. I hit the gym in the afternoon. Then I’ll go back to the field and work
on footwork and do a walkthrough of the plays.” 
 
Operating mostly with no huddle throughout college, Davis acknowledged it’s a
lot different going into an NFL huddle and hearing the plays. He now rehearses saying the play, lines up and runs through each play. 
 
“The playbook is really big,” said Davis. “You really have to know everything
because in Denver the receivers play all three positions. You have to know
where to line up and what your assignment is every play.”

Davis said the Broncos coaching staff has discussed his role with the team would have an
emphasis as a punt and kick returner and special teams member. 
 
Every NFL team is allowed 90 players on their roster at this point of the offseason. Following the final preseason game in August, rosters will be trimmed
to 53. 
 
“I feel good about my chances to make the final team,” said Davis. “There is a
lot of work left to put in, but I feel good about it right now. I’m ready to
get back there and show them.” 
 
The Broncos training camp begins July 27 in Dove Valley, Colorado
and the team plays their first preseason game Aug. 13 against Dallas. 
 
The Ellsworth native continues to follow what his grandpa told him, “if you’re
good enough, they will find you.” 
 
“I just continue to work and bet on myself,” added Davis.

Listen below to the full interview with Davis and Eagle Radio's Cole Reif.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658429673509.png" alt="2017 Ellsworth High School graduate Kaden Davis is working out with the Denver Broncos this offseason. (Denver Broncos Football Club photo, <a href="https://www.denverbroncos.com/">denverbroncos.com</a>)" />
 <figcaption>2017 Ellsworth High School graduate Kaden Davis is working out with the Denver Broncos this offseason. (Denver Broncos Football Club photo, <a href="https://www.denverbroncos.com/">denverbroncos.com</a>)</figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostAfter graduating from Ellsworth High School, Kaden Davis had
one offer to play junior college football. The former Class 3A football player
from Ellsworth, Kansas is now competing for a roster spot in the NFL for the
Denver Broncos. 
 
Davis noted there were moments during his sophomore and junior years at
Ellsworth that told him he wanted to keep pursuing football past high school. 
 
“I found out through track that I have the speed to do this,” said Davis. “I
thought with my athletic ability, playing three sports, I had the potential to
make it this far. I just had to stick to the process.” 
 
Davis broke his wrist his junior year at Ellsworth and missed a few games
because of the injury. Watching his teammates play only reinforced his love for
the game. 
 
“I was able to train at the Sharp Performance in Salina that summer, and they
were able to help me reach my potential,” said Davis. “They helped me see a
vision that it would be possible to do all this.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658429771323.jpeg" alt="Kaden Davis (Denver Broncos Football Club photo)" />
 <figcaption>Kaden Davis (Denver Broncos Football Club photo)</figcaption>
 </figure>Davis had 29 receptions for 837 yards and 15 touchdowns in nine games his
senior year at Ellsworth. In 2017, he became the fourth player in Ellsworth
school history, and first since 1992, to be selected to the Kansas Shrine Bowl.
 
 
Talking with collegiate coaches, Davis was told he didn’t get the exposure
other kids were getting at bigger schools and colleges questioned the athletes he was
facing. With a few walk-on opportunities, Davis took his lone offer from Butler
Community College to play wide receiver. 
 
“Arriving to fall camp at Butler was overwhelming for the first couple of
weeks,” said Davis. “That was my first time learning a college offense. I was
adjusting to playing against press coverage and guys that may have been Division
I bounce backs and more developed.” 
 
Primarily used as a punt returner his first year at Butler, Davis had 21
catches for 245 yards and a touchdown his sophomore year for the Grizzlies. 
 
“I had a pretty good idea of what I would be going against for that sophomore
year,” said Davis. “I put my foot on the gas that offseason so I could get
myself to a good program after Butler.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658429832027.jpeg" alt="Kaden Davis (#13) - (Denver Broncos Football Club photo)" />
 <figcaption>Kaden Davis (#13) - (Denver Broncos Football Club photo)</figcaption>
 </figure>After leaving Butler, Kansas State University wanted Davis to walk-on to their
football program. Davis also had offers from Northwest Missouri State
University, Emporia State University and Pittsburg State University. 
 
“I took a visit out to Northwest Missouri and really enjoyed the culture,” said
Davis. “They had good facilities allowing you to train all through the winter." 
 
Davis became a Bearcat again, spending three years at Northwest Missouri. The
Division II university in Maryville, Missouri is a national powerhouse in
football, having won six national championships. 
 
“I didn’t have a great junior year at Northwest,” said Davis. “I didn’t have
much on the stat sheet or much for film. I just stuck to the process, kept
grinding the next couple of years, knowing my opportunity was going to come
soon.” 
 
Davis had a COVID-19 pandemic year in 2020-2021 where there was no official
season. His fifth year out of high school, and senior year at Northwest, Davis
led the Bearcats with 10 touchdown receptions while gaining 703 yards receiving.
Northwest finished 11-2 and made a run in the Division II playoffs.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658429904211.jpeg" alt="Kaden Davis (Denver Broncos Football Club photo)" />
 <figcaption>Kaden Davis (Denver Broncos Football Club photo)</figcaption>
 </figure>“Not being at a Division I school kind of hurts for getting looks at the NFL,”
said Davis. “My grandpa and family always told me ‘if you’re good enough, they
will find you.’ That’s what happened.” 
 
Almost immediately after his senior season at Northwest, Davis was getting in
contact with Michael Johnson Performance in Texas to train. Davis also competed
in the College Gridiron Showcase last January in Fort Worth, Texas. 
 
“That showcase allowed me to go against Division I, FBS, Power 5 guys,” said
Davis. “That showcase allowed me to get looks and speak with NFL scouts.” 
 
When the NFL Draft rolled around in late April, Davis was hopeful to hear his
name called. Out of the 262 selections made in seven rounds, Davis was not
selected by an NFL team. 
 
“A couple teams told me I was on their board,” said Davis. “I got my first call
at the end of the sixth round, and I thought that was going to be a pick. It
turned out to be my first offer for free agency.” 
 
Going undrafted, Davis had a few teams to choose from to work out as a free
agent, but ultimately chose Denver. 
 
“Denver reached out to me during the seventh round,” said Davis. “I got to talk
with head coach Nathaniel Hackett. I felt comfortable with the things he was
telling me. It felt like a good fit.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658429965066.jpeg" alt="Kaden Davis playing for Ellsworth High School" />
 <figcaption>Kaden Davis playing for Ellsworth High School</figcaption>
 </figure>Davis arrived to Denver and spent five weeks going through the team’s organized
team activities (OTAs) and minicamp. The boy from Ellsworth, Kansas, whom
received one offer to play collegiate football, practicing with NFL veterans at
the highest level. 
 
“My first day was surreal,” said Davis. “It’s everything you dream about as a
kid and then you’re finally in the facility doing it for real. It felt good.” 
 
Out of all the Broncos players Davis has worked out with so far, he said cornerback
Pat Surtain II has impressed him the most. 
 
Now waiting for Denver’s training camp to start, Davis has returned to Texas to
train. A typical day has him waking up at seven o’clock and looking at the
playbook. 
 
“Around 9 o’clock, I usually run routes with some guys and do that for an hour
or hour and a half,” said Davis. “I come back home, check out my playbook some
more. I hit the gym in the afternoon. Then I’ll go back to the field and work
on footwork and do a walkthrough of the plays.” 
 
Operating mostly with no huddle throughout college, Davis acknowledged it’s a
lot different going into an NFL huddle and hearing the plays. He now rehearses saying the play, lines up and runs through each play. 
 
“The playbook is really big,” said Davis. “You really have to know everything
because in Denver the receivers play all three positions. You have to know
where to line up and what your assignment is every play.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658430094738.jpeg" alt="Kaden Davis (Denver Broncos Football Club photo)" />
 <figcaption>Kaden Davis (Denver Broncos Football Club photo)</figcaption>
 </figure>Davis said the Broncos coaching staff has discussed his role with the team would have an
emphasis as a punt and kick returner and special teams member. 
 
Every NFL team is allowed 90 players on their roster at this point of the offseason. Following the final preseason game in August, rosters will be trimmed
to 53. 
 
“I feel good about my chances to make the final team,” said Davis. “There is a
lot of work left to put in, but I feel good about it right now. I’m ready to
get back there and show them.” 
 
The Broncos training camp begins July 27 in Dove Valley, Colorado
and the team plays their first preseason game Aug. 13 against Dallas. 
 
The Ellsworth native continues to follow what his grandpa told him, “if you’re
good enough, they will find you.” 
 
“I just continue to work and bet on myself,” added Davis.Listen below to the full interview with Davis and Eagle Radio's Cole Reif.<div><iframe width="100%" height="265" src="https://clyp.it/u4q10xm2/widget" frameborder="0"></iframe></div>

🎧From Ellsworth to the NFL: Davis 'betting on himself'

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (AP) — Andy Reid isn't sure when Pro Bowl left tackle Orlando Brown Jr. will report to training camp with the Kansas City Chiefs.

For that matter, neither is Patrick Mahomes.

The Chiefs quarterback said Friday he has exchanged text messages with his blindside protector all offseason, even though Brown skipped all team activities while negotiating a contract. But with the deadline passed for a deal to get done, Brown is left with the prospect of playing this season for about $16.7 million under the franchise tag.

Until he signs that tender, though, Brown doesn't have to report to Missouri Western State University.

“You want him to be here, I mean, just because of the guy he is,” said Mahomes, who reported along with the other QBs and rookies for a couple of days of work before the rest of the team shows up Monday afternoon.

“But at the same time,” Mahomes said, “when it comes to money and then contracts or stuff like that, I'll never kind of force you to do anything, because I know you're trying to provide for your family long-term. But as a teammate, as a friend, you want him to be here and be part of this. You want him to be out here and in the building and together.”

The Chiefs offered Brown a six-year, $140 million contract with more than $30 million guaranteed at signing, which would have made him one of the league's highest-paid left tackles. But the rest of the guaranteed money in the deal wasn't what Brown and his new representatives were seeking, so they allowed last week's negotiating deadline to lapse.

Now, it's up to Brown to prove this season — just his second at left tackle — that he's worthy of that kind of money.

Skipping the start of training camp probably isn't the best way to get started.

“I would tell you, when you miss, you miss,” Reid acknowledged. “I mean, it's hard to make that up. That's just logical. To say he doesn't have a foundation — he has a great foundation of plays that we run and the things we do. But he's missed all off OTAs and all the new stuff that we put in. And that's where he would have to catch up.”

Reid said that left guard Joe Thuney is capable of sliding to left tackle, though that just leaves another spot open along the offensive line. Other options include Geron Christian, a former third-round pick who started 14 games over the past two years in Houston, and fifth-round pick Darian Kinnard, who played right tackle at Kentucky.

None of them provides Mahomes with the same sense of comfort as Brown, though.

“He's one of the smartest football players I think I've ever played with,” Mahomes said. “He has a high IQ. I mean, even when he wasn't at OTAs, he'd be asking me questions. He's watching the film, doing everything to make sure that when he starts here, he's ready to go. And I think that comes with having his dad playing in the league. He's been around the sport for his whole life. And you ask anybody on this team, he's one of the best guys on the scene.”

In other news, Reid said right tackle Lucas Niang is recovering from knee surgery, cornerback Rashad Fenton is rehabbing after shoulder surgery and wide receiver Justyn Ross is out for the start of camp following foot surgery.

All of them are expected to land on the physically unable-to-perform list.

In more positive injury news, second-round draft pick Skyy Moore — who is expected to help the Chiefs overcome the loss of Tyreek Hill — said he was fully recovered from a hamstring injury that caused him to miss most of the offseason.

“I'm fully ready to go,” Moore said. "I felt like it was just a bit of like, the transition from combine prep to the season. It was like, a little over use. But that's all behind me now. I'm ready to contribute.”

Indeed, Moore was all smiles Friday, even though his first NFL training camp got off to an inauspicious start.

“I actually forgot everything I had,” he explained. “I had to wake up at 3:30 a.m. for a 5 a.m. flight and I like, locked myself out of my hotel in Tampa. So I got to get my suitcase shipped overnight. So yeah, I forget everything. I guess I'm just going to rock out with the team gear and hopefully it'll get here tomorrow.”

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (AP) — Andy Reid isn't sure when Pro Bowl left tackle Orlando Brown Jr. will report to training camp with the Kansas City Chiefs.For that matter, neither is Patrick Mahomes.The Chiefs quarterback said Friday he has exchanged text messages with his blindside protector all offseason, even though Brown skipped all team activities while negotiating a contract. But with the deadline passed for a deal to get done, Brown is left with the prospect of playing this season for about $16.7 million under the franchise tag.Until he signs that tender, though, Brown doesn't have to report to Missouri Western State University.“You want him to be here, I mean, just because of the guy he is,” said Mahomes, who reported along with the other QBs and rookies for a couple of days of work before the rest of the team shows up Monday afternoon.“But at the same time,” Mahomes said, “when it comes to money and then contracts or stuff like that, I'll never kind of force you to do anything, because I know you're trying to provide for your family long-term. But as a teammate, as a friend, you want him to be here and be part of this. You want him to be out here and in the building and together.”The Chiefs offered Brown a six-year, $140 million contract with more than $30 million guaranteed at signing, which would have made him one of the league's highest-paid left tackles. But the rest of the guaranteed money in the deal wasn't what Brown and his new representatives were seeking, so they allowed last week's negotiating deadline to lapse.Now, it's up to Brown to prove this season — just his second at left tackle — that he's worthy of that kind of money.Skipping the start of training camp probably isn't the best way to get started.“I would tell you, when you miss, you miss,” Reid acknowledged. “I mean, it's hard to make that up. That's just logical. To say he doesn't have a foundation — he has a great foundation of plays that we run and the things we do. But he's missed all off OTAs and all the new stuff that we put in. And that's where he would have to catch up.”Reid said that left guard Joe Thuney is capable of sliding to left tackle, though that just leaves another spot open along the offensive line. Other options include Geron Christian, a former third-round pick who started 14 games over the past two years in Houston, and fifth-round pick Darian Kinnard, who played right tackle at Kentucky.None of them provides Mahomes with the same sense of comfort as Brown, though.“He's one of the smartest football players I think I've ever played with,” Mahomes said. “He has a high IQ. I mean, even when he wasn't at OTAs, he'd be asking me questions. He's watching the film, doing everything to make sure that when he starts here, he's ready to go. And I think that comes with having his dad playing in the league. He's been around the sport for his whole life. And you ask anybody on this team, he's one of the best guys on the scene.”In other news, Reid said right tackle Lucas Niang is recovering from knee surgery, cornerback Rashad Fenton is rehabbing after shoulder surgery and wide receiver Justyn Ross is out for the start of camp following foot surgery.All of them are expected to land on the physically unable-to-perform list.In more positive injury news, second-round draft pick Skyy Moore — who is expected to help the Chiefs overcome the loss of Tyreek Hill — said he was fully recovered from a hamstring injury that caused him to miss most of the offseason.“I'm fully ready to go,” Moore said. "I felt like it was just a bit of like, the transition from combine prep to the season. It was like, a little over use. But that's all behind me now. I'm ready to contribute.”Indeed, Moore was all smiles Friday, even though his first NFL training camp got off to an inauspicious start.“I actually forgot everything I had,” he explained. “I had to wake up at 3:30 a.m. for a 5 a.m. flight and I like, locked myself out of my hotel in Tampa. So I got to get my suitcase shipped overnight. So yeah, I forget everything. I guess I'm just going to rock out with the team gear and hopefully it'll get here tomorrow.”

Chiefs hit camp with Pro Bowl LT Brown's future uncertain

MANHATTAN, Kan. (AP) — Kansas State women's basketball coach Jeff Mittie agreed to a two-year extension Friday that will pay him $2,745,000 in base salary over the next four years and includes several potentially lucrative bonus provisions.

Mittie will be entering his ninth season with the Wildcats. He is coming off his fourth NCAA Tournament appearance, but it also was just his third 20-win season in Manhattan and came on the heels of a 9-18 record during the 2020-21 season.

Mittie, who also spent 15 seasons with TCU, is 145-110 since taking over the Wildcats.

His contract includes a $25,000 bonus for being Big 12 coach of the year and $50,000 for national coach of the year. Mittie can also earn percentages of his base salary based on postseason success, beginning with 2% for reaching the WNIT and 8% for making the NCAA Tournament all the way up to 32% for winning the national championship.

MANHATTAN, Kan. (AP) — Kansas State women's basketball coach Jeff Mittie agreed to a two-year extension Friday that will pay him $2,745,000 in base salary over the next four years and includes several potentially lucrative bonus provisions.Mittie will be entering his ninth season with the Wildcats. He is coming off his fourth NCAA Tournament appearance, but it also was just his third 20-win season in Manhattan and came on the heels of a 9-18 record during the 2020-21 season.Mittie, who also spent 15 seasons with TCU, is 145-110 since taking over the Wildcats.His contract includes a $25,000 bonus for being Big 12 coach of the year and $50,000 for national coach of the year. Mittie can also earn percentages of his base salary based on postseason success, beginning with 2% for reaching the WNIT and 8% for making the NCAA Tournament all the way up to 32% for winning the national championship.

K-State women's hoops coach Mittie agrees to extension

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Jim Lynch, the hard-hitting linebacker who helped the Kansas City Chiefs beat the Minnesota Vikings in the 1970 Super Bowl following a standout career at Notre Dame, has died. He was 76.

Lynch’s family announced that he died Thursday but did not provide a cause.

“I am often asked who was the best player to coach and Jim Lynch always comes to mind,” the late Notre Dame coach Ara Parseghian once said. “He was All-America in every sense: talented, hard-nosed and honest.”

Lynch grew up in Lima, Ohio, and starred for Central Catholic High School before heading to Notre Dame, where he became one of the most dominant players in school history. Lynch led the Fighting Irish in tackles in 1965 and ‘66, when he won the Maxwell Award as the nation’s best college player while serving as captain of the national championship team.

The Chiefs selected him in the second round of the 1967 draft and Lynch quickly became a staple in the lineup, helping them to three playoff appearances and their first Super Bowl title. He wound up playing 11 seasons in the NFL, all in Kansas City, and finished his career with 17 interceptions, 18 sacks and 14 fumble recoveries.

Lynch was inducted into the Chiefs' Hall of Fame in 1990 and the College Football Hall of Fame in 1992.

He is survived by his wife, Georgia, daughters Megan and Kara, son Jake and nine grandchildren.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Jim Lynch, the hard-hitting linebacker who helped the Kansas City Chiefs beat the Minnesota Vikings in the 1970 Super Bowl following a standout career at Notre Dame, has died. He was 76.Lynch’s family announced that he died Thursday but did not provide a cause.“I am often asked who was the best player to coach and Jim Lynch always comes to mind,” the late Notre Dame coach Ara Parseghian once said. “He was All-America in every sense: talented, hard-nosed and honest.”Lynch grew up in Lima, Ohio, and starred for Central Catholic High School before heading to Notre Dame, where he became one of the most dominant players in school history. Lynch led the Fighting Irish in tackles in 1965 and ‘66, when he won the Maxwell Award as the nation’s best college player while serving as captain of the national championship team.The Chiefs selected him in the second round of the 1967 draft and Lynch quickly became a staple in the lineup, helping them to three playoff appearances and their first Super Bowl title. He wound up playing 11 seasons in the NFL, all in Kansas City, and finished his career with 17 interceptions, 18 sacks and 14 fumble recoveries.Lynch was inducted into the Chiefs' Hall of Fame in 1990 and the College Football Hall of Fame in 1992.He is survived by his wife, Georgia, daughters Megan and Kara, son Jake and nine grandchildren.

Jim Lynch, member of Chiefs' 1970 champions, dies at 76

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Two-time All-Star Whit Merrifield of the Kansas City Royals apologized Friday for “poorly articulated” comments about the COVID-19 vaccine after missing the team's trip to Canada.

Merrifield was among 10 Royals players who didn't travel to Toronto because of their vaccination status for a four-game series against the Blue Jays before the All-Star break last week.

The 33-year-old outfielder/second baseman has been a fan favorite in Kansas City. But backlash came quickly and harshly after Merrifield said “the vaccine, what it’s supposed to do, it’s not doing. If it was doing what it was supposed to do and stopping the spread of COVID (then) I would have a little more willingness to take it, but it’s not doing that.”

He tried to clear up those comments before the Royals opened the second half with a home game against Tampa Bay.

“I’m sorry that I poorly articulated the point I was trying to make,” Merrifield said. “It’s an uncomfortable topic and I started rambling on and trying to make a point about my passion for winning that had no relevance to the topic that was being discussed. For that I am truly sorry.”

Merrifield has played his entire career for Kansas City, but some fans were not happy about a comment suggesting he might get the vaccine if he were traded to a contender.

“I didn’t say people misunderstood it, I poorly articulated the point I was trying to say,” Merrifield said. “If what was standing between me and the playoffs was this vaccine, I would consider getting it. I didn’t say I would get it for another team, or wouldn’t get it for this team, it was simply a point about showing how much I value playing in the playoffs.”

Royals manager Mike Matheny said Merrifield addressed the team about his comments and his love for Kansas City.

“He has talked with everybody, the group here and individually and we’ve moved on,” Matheny said. “It’s time to play baseball and guys are going to have to address comments made and address the fans and teammates and I believe Whit is doing his best to have those conversations and move forward."

Merrifield is hitting .240 with 36 RBIs and 14 stolen bases.

Kansas City left almost 40% of its 26-man roster at home for an extended All-Star break, including All-Star outfielder Andrew Benintendi, and several young players.

Rookies Kyle Isbel and MJ Melendez were two of those players who didn’t make the trip. Five prospects made their debuts as the Royals lost three of four to Toronto.

In total, only 25 players in Major League Baseball hadn't made the trip to Canada due to vaccination status. The Royals bumped that number up to 35.

“Unfortunately, I didn’t really realize what I said,” Merrifield said. “It took me reading it to understand how it could come across … I’ve wanted to play in the playoffs since the time I put on cleats and that feeling is strong. The vaccine thing … people have very strong feelings about it and I feel the way I feel about it.”

Merrifield said he's ready for any reaction he might get from Royals fans.

“These guys in here know me and know what I’m all about and how much I care for them,” Merrifield said. “Every time I’ve taken the field and stepped between the lines I’ve given it everything I had every day. If people feel a need to express their feelings towards me, that’s perfectly fine.”

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Two-time All-Star Whit Merrifield of the Kansas City Royals apologized Friday for “poorly articulated” comments about the COVID-19 vaccine after missing the team's trip to Canada.Merrifield was among 10 Royals players who didn't travel to Toronto because of their vaccination status for a four-game series against the Blue Jays before the All-Star break last week.The 33-year-old outfielder/second baseman has been a fan favorite in Kansas City. But backlash came quickly and harshly after Merrifield said “the vaccine, what it’s supposed to do, it’s not doing. If it was doing what it was supposed to do and stopping the spread of COVID (then) I would have a little more willingness to take it, but it’s not doing that.”He tried to clear up those comments before the Royals opened the second half with a home game against Tampa Bay.“I’m sorry that I poorly articulated the point I was trying to make,” Merrifield said. “It’s an uncomfortable topic and I started rambling on and trying to make a point about my passion for winning that had no relevance to the topic that was being discussed. For that I am truly sorry.”Merrifield has played his entire career for Kansas City, but some fans were not happy about a comment suggesting he might get the vaccine if he were traded to a contender.“I didn’t say people misunderstood it, I poorly articulated the point I was trying to say,” Merrifield said. “If what was standing between me and the playoffs was this vaccine, I would consider getting it. I didn’t say I would get it for another team, or wouldn’t get it for this team, it was simply a point about showing how much I value playing in the playoffs.”Royals manager Mike Matheny said Merrifield addressed the team about his comments and his love for Kansas City.“He has talked with everybody, the group here and individually and we’ve moved on,” Matheny said. “It’s time to play baseball and guys are going to have to address comments made and address the fans and teammates and I believe Whit is doing his best to have those conversations and move forward."Merrifield is hitting .240 with 36 RBIs and 14 stolen bases.Kansas City left almost 40% of its 26-man roster at home for an extended All-Star break, including All-Star outfielder Andrew Benintendi, and several young players.Rookies Kyle Isbel and MJ Melendez were two of those players who didn’t make the trip. Five prospects made their debuts as the Royals lost three of four to Toronto.In total, only 25 players in Major League Baseball hadn't made the trip to Canada due to vaccination status. The Royals bumped that number up to 35.“Unfortunately, I didn’t really realize what I said,” Merrifield said. “It took me reading it to understand how it could come across … I’ve wanted to play in the playoffs since the time I put on cleats and that feeling is strong. The vaccine thing … people have very strong feelings about it and I feel the way I feel about it.”Merrifield said he's ready for any reaction he might get from Royals fans.“These guys in here know me and know what I’m all about and how much I care for them,” Merrifield said. “Every time I’ve taken the field and stepped between the lines I’ve given it everything I had every day. If people feel a need to express their feelings towards me, that’s perfectly fine.”

Royals' Merrifield says he 'poorly articulated' vax remarks

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Yandy Diaz hit a three-run double, Drew Rasmussen allowed one run over five innings and the Tampa Bay Rays returned from the All-Star break with a 7-3 victory over the Kansas City Royals on Friday night.

Diaz capped a four-run fourth inning with his bases-loaded bloop down the left-field line to give the Rays a 5-1 lead. He has driven in a run in five of the last eight games and tied a season high with his three RBIs.

“I feel happy that it looks like the bats are going to get going,” Diaz said. “People try to prepare a little bit more with runners on base and that's what I did today and what I try to do.”

Rasmussen (6-3) allowed an earned run and seven hits, walked one and struck out four.

“I felt pretty good,” he said. “They battled and they did a really good job of fouling off good pitches with two strikes and finding some holes. I gave up one hard hit ball in the second, but other than that I didn't think I allowed many.”

Francisco Mejia went 2 for 4 with two RBIs, while Randy Arozarena and Brandon Lowe each had one.

Royals All-Star Andrew Benintendi had two hits and two RBIs. Hunter Dozier added an RBI, scoring Bobby Witt Jr. in the seventh.

“We put up 12 hits but went 1 for 9 with runners in scoring position,” Royals manager Mike Matheny said. "We just were missing the big hit. I saw some good at-bats all the way around, but we couldn’t get the ones right on top of each other to get a rally going.”

In his first start in 11 days, Brad Keller (5-10) had one of his worst outings to date, tying a career worst with five walks and hitting a batter. He allowed four earned runs in four innings and struck out one.

“When you can’t find the feel for your fastball it’s just going to be a long night,” Matheny said. “Right from the top, he just had a tough time getting any kind of rhythm. Starting the first four innings off with guys on base is only going to make it tougher. He was trying to make the adjustments he needed to make he just couldn’t find it.”

Keller explained what he thought went wrong in his outing.

“That was not good,” he said. “I didn’t have much command of anything but just tried to compete and get as many outs as I could.”

Tampa Bay has won seven of its last eight games and leads the American League wild-card standings. It’s the first time they Rays have won a road series opener since May 6, breaking a nine-series streak.

“It was nice to see that we picked up where we left off offensively,” Rays manager Kevin Cash said. “Yandy (Diaz) has been such a big part of our team in the first half and he's putting together a great season...We had a lot of good at bats.”

Rays: OF Harold Ramirez (right thumb fracture) was placed on the 15-day injured list, retroactive to July 18, and OF Roman Quinn was signed to a major league contract. RHP Cristofer Ogando was designated for assignment.

Royals: OF Edward Olivares was placed on the 10-day injured list and Nick Pratto was recalled from Triple-A. LHP Jake Brentz had successful left elbow UCL reconstruction surgery and is out for the rest of the 2022 season.

The Rays send Luis Patino (0-1, 6.75 ERA) to the mound against Royals righty Brady Singer (4-3, 4.02 ERA) on Saturday.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Yandy Diaz hit a three-run double, Drew Rasmussen allowed one run over five innings and the Tampa Bay Rays returned from the All-Star break with a 7-3 victory over the Kansas City Royals on Friday night.Diaz capped a four-run fourth inning with his bases-loaded bloop down the left-field line to give the Rays a 5-1 lead. He has driven in a run in five of the last eight games and tied a season high with his three RBIs.“I feel happy that it looks like the bats are going to get going,” Diaz said. “People try to prepare a little bit more with runners on base and that's what I did today and what I try to do.”Rasmussen (6-3) allowed an earned run and seven hits, walked one and struck out four.“I felt pretty good,” he said. “They battled and they did a really good job of fouling off good pitches with two strikes and finding some holes. I gave up one hard hit ball in the second, but other than that I didn't think I allowed many.”Francisco Mejia went 2 for 4 with two RBIs, while Randy Arozarena and Brandon Lowe each had one.Royals All-Star Andrew Benintendi had two hits and two RBIs. Hunter Dozier added an RBI, scoring Bobby Witt Jr. in the seventh.“We put up 12 hits but went 1 for 9 with runners in scoring position,” Royals manager Mike Matheny said. "We just were missing the big hit. I saw some good at-bats all the way around, but we couldn’t get the ones right on top of each other to get a rally going.”In his first start in 11 days, Brad Keller (5-10) had one of his worst outings to date, tying a career worst with five walks and hitting a batter. He allowed four earned runs in four innings and struck out one.“When you can’t find the feel for your fastball it’s just going to be a long night,” Matheny said. “Right from the top, he just had a tough time getting any kind of rhythm. Starting the first four innings off with guys on base is only going to make it tougher. He was trying to make the adjustments he needed to make he just couldn’t find it.”Keller explained what he thought went wrong in his outing.“That was not good,” he said. “I didn’t have much command of anything but just tried to compete and get as many outs as I could.”Tampa Bay has won seven of its last eight games and leads the American League wild-card standings. It’s the first time they Rays have won a road series opener since May 6, breaking a nine-series streak.“It was nice to see that we picked up where we left off offensively,” Rays manager Kevin Cash said. “Yandy (Diaz) has been such a big part of our team in the first half and he's putting together a great season...We had a lot of good at bats.”TRAINER’S ROOMRays: OF Harold Ramirez (right thumb fracture) was placed on the 15-day injured list, retroactive to July 18, and OF Roman Quinn was signed to a major league contract. RHP Cristofer Ogando was designated for assignment.Royals: OF Edward Olivares was placed on the 10-day injured list and Nick Pratto was recalled from Triple-A. LHP Jake Brentz had successful left elbow UCL reconstruction surgery and is out for the rest of the 2022 season.UP NEXTThe Rays send Luis Patino (0-1, 6.75 ERA) to the mound against Royals righty Brady Singer (4-3, 4.02 ERA) on Saturday.

Diaz has big hit, Rasmussen sharp as Rays beat Royals 7-3

Colby Community College announced the hiring of Jerrod Stanford to lead the men's basketball program next season. He fills the position vacated by Rusty Elmore, who resigned in June.

Stanford begins his new role this week. He is no stranger to the Jayhawk Conference, as he spent the last seven years as the head men's coach at Division II Labette Community College, compiling a record of 83-92. His 2020-21 squad won Labette's first regular-season conference title. He took teams to the Region VI championship game in 2018 and 2021, the school's only appearances since 1961.

The St. John native is familiar with CCC basketball. He coached former Trojan and All-KJCCC guard Carson Konrade at Spearville High School, where Konrade was twice named to the Class 2A All-State team by the Kansas Basketball Coaches Association.

Colby Athletic Director Mike Saddler said the new coach is qualified in many ways.

"Jerrod brings a great background with him," said Saddler. "He spent time coaching in western Kansas at both the high school and college level and has years of experience as a head coach in the Jayhawk Conference. His background makes him an outstanding fit for Colby Community College, and we look for him to continue to help guide the program forward. We are really looking forward to getting Jerrod and his family to Colby."

"My family and I are excited to be part of the Colby community," said Stanford. "I look forward to continuing to build a strong Trojans program."

Stanford and his wife of nine years, Traci, are parents to three children, Ivy, age 8; Justus, 4; and one-year-old Raef.&nbsp;

"Fatherhood is the best blessing I could've ever asked for," Stanford added.

Outside coaching, he enjoys cooking, being outside and making memories with his family. He is active in his Catholic faith and teaches his children about the church's saints and sacraments.

Stanford earned a bachelor's degree from Sterling College and a master's degree when he was a graduate assistant on the Fort Hays State University basketball staff.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658429337993.jpeg" alt="Jerrod Stanford" />
 <figcaption>Jerrod Stanford</figcaption>
 </figure>Colby Community CollegeColby Community College announced the hiring of Jerrod Stanford to lead the men's basketball program next season. He fills the position vacated by Rusty Elmore, who resigned in June.Stanford begins his new role this week. He is no stranger to the Jayhawk Conference, as he spent the last seven years as the head men's coach at Division II Labette Community College, compiling a record of 83-92. His 2020-21 squad won Labette's first regular-season conference title. He took teams to the Region VI championship game in 2018 and 2021, the school's only appearances since 1961.The St. John native is familiar with CCC basketball. He coached former Trojan and All-KJCCC guard Carson Konrade at Spearville High School, where Konrade was twice named to the Class 2A All-State team by the Kansas Basketball Coaches Association.Colby Athletic Director Mike Saddler said the new coach is qualified in many ways."Jerrod brings a great background with him," said Saddler. "He spent time coaching in western Kansas at both the high school and college level and has years of experience as a head coach in the Jayhawk Conference. His background makes him an outstanding fit for Colby Community College, and we look for him to continue to help guide the program forward. We are really looking forward to getting Jerrod and his family to Colby.""My family and I are excited to be part of the Colby community," said Stanford. "I look forward to continuing to build a strong Trojans program."Stanford and his wife of nine years, Traci, are parents to three children, Ivy, age 8; Justus, 4; and one-year-old Raef.&nbsp;"Fatherhood is the best blessing I could've ever asked for," Stanford added.Outside coaching, he enjoys cooking, being outside and making memories with his family. He is active in his Catholic faith and teaches his children about the church's saints and sacraments.Stanford earned a bachelor's degree from Sterling College and a master's degree when he was a graduate assistant on the Fort Hays State University basketball staff.

St. John native takes reins of Colby CC men's basketball program

Team&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; SCL&nbsp; &nbsp;All&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;GB Cheney Diamond Dawgs&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;30-6&nbsp; &nbsp;33-6&nbsp; &nbsp; -&nbsp; Hutchinson Monarchs&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;29-7&nbsp; 29-8&nbsp; &nbsp; 1.0 Great Bend Bat Cats&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 26-10 30-11 4.0 Derby Twins&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;23-12 26-13&nbsp; 6.5 Haysville Aviators&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;17-17 20-18&nbsp; 12.0 Newton Rebels&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 15-15 17-16&nbsp; 13.0 Kingman Islanders&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;12-19&nbsp; 12-19&nbsp; 15.5 Wednesday Scores Great Bend @ Wichita Lobos -&nbsp;Wichita&nbsp;Forfeits Derby 5 Kingman 3 Kingman 7 Derby 5 Cheney 10 Haysville 9 Hutchinson 7 Newton 3 Thursday Scores Wichita Lobos @ Great Bend - Wichita Forfeits Newton 7 Hutchinson 5&nbsp; Cheney 12 Haysville 8

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1654959853967.jpeg" alt="Sunflower League Standings" />
 <figcaption>Sunflower League Standings</figcaption>
 </figure>Team&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; SCL&nbsp; &nbsp;All&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;GB Cheney Diamond Dawgs&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;30-6&nbsp; &nbsp;33-6&nbsp; &nbsp; -&nbsp; Hutchinson Monarchs&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;29-7&nbsp; 29-8&nbsp; &nbsp; 1.0 Great Bend Bat Cats&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 26-10 30-11 4.0 Derby Twins&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;23-12 26-13&nbsp; 6.5 Haysville Aviators&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;17-17 20-18&nbsp; 12.0 Newton Rebels&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 15-15 17-16&nbsp; 13.0 Kingman Islanders&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;12-19&nbsp; 12-19&nbsp; 15.5 Wednesday Scores Great Bend @ Wichita Lobos -&nbsp;Wichita&nbsp;Forfeits Derby 5 Kingman 3 Kingman 7 Derby 5 Cheney 10 Haysville 9 Hutchinson 7 Newton 3 Thursday Scores Wichita Lobos @ Great Bend - Wichita Forfeits Newton 7 Hutchinson 5&nbsp; Cheney 12 Haysville 8

Final Sunflower Collegiate League Standings - Cheney claims crown

LAWRENCE, Kan. –&nbsp;Kansas running back Devin Neal has been named a preseason candidate for the 2022 Doak Walker Award, the PwC SMU Athletic Forum announced Wednesday morning.

Neal, a rising sophomore, burst onto the scene last year as a true freshman with 707 rushing yards and eight touchdowns on 158 carries, averaging 4.2 yards per carry in his debut season. The Doak Walker Award recognizes the top running back in the country and is the only major collegiate award that requires all candidates to be in good academic standing and on schedule to graduate.

Neal, entering his second season with the Jayhawks, has thrived on and off the field since donning the crimson and blue. One of the team’s most active community service attendees, Neal had some of his biggest games last year against some of the best competition.

Against Oklahoma, Neal ran for 100 yards and two touchdowns, before going off for a career best 143 yards and three touchdowns at Texas in a 57-56 overtime win.

He was named Co-Big 12 Newcomer of the Week following the Oklahoma game and was then named Big 12 Offensive Player of the Week after the Texas win. He was also named Honorable Mention All-Big 12 after the season.

A Lawrence native, Neal also proved he was capable catching passes, with seven catches for 57 yards and a touchdown, which came against the Longhorns.

Neal is the first Jayhawk to be named a preseason candidate for the Doak Walker Award since James Sims in 2013.

Neal and the Jayhawks will open the season Sept. 2 at home against Tennessee Tech.

kuathletics.comLAWRENCE, Kan. –&nbsp;Kansas running back Devin Neal has been named a preseason candidate for the 2022 Doak Walker Award, the PwC SMU Athletic Forum announced Wednesday morning.Neal, a rising sophomore, burst onto the scene last year as a true freshman with 707 rushing yards and eight touchdowns on 158 carries, averaging 4.2 yards per carry in his debut season. The Doak Walker Award recognizes the top running back in the country and is the only major collegiate award that requires all candidates to be in good academic standing and on schedule to graduate.Neal, entering his second season with the Jayhawks, has thrived on and off the field since donning the crimson and blue. One of the team’s most active community service attendees, Neal had some of his biggest games last year against some of the best competition.Against Oklahoma, Neal ran for 100 yards and two touchdowns, before going off for a career best 143 yards and three touchdowns at Texas in a 57-56 overtime win.He was named Co-Big 12 Newcomer of the Week following the Oklahoma game and was then named Big 12 Offensive Player of the Week after the Texas win. He was also named Honorable Mention All-Big 12 after the season.A Lawrence native, Neal also proved he was capable catching passes, with seven catches for 57 yards and a touchdown, which came against the Longhorns.Neal is the first Jayhawk to be named a preseason candidate for the Doak Walker Award since James Sims in 2013.Neal and the Jayhawks will open the season Sept. 2 at home against Tennessee Tech.