By GARY VAN CLEAVE Special to Great Bend Post

Scoring 13 touchdowns last year was “pretty good” according to Central Plains senior fullback Eli Hurley, but not good enough.

“My mindset is to never settle for less, always go get some more,” the Oiler freight train locomotive said.

The Hurley Express is about to leave the Claflin Depot Station. His chuggernaut mentality is ready to wreak havoc on opposing defenses whether he’s running the football plowing through defensive lines or opening up holes big enough for the next locomotive.

“When I block just like when carrying I’m gonna hit you in the mouth,” the 5-foot-9, 170-pound Hurley said.&nbsp;

“Eli has this kind of mentality that is different from anyone else I’ve ever played with,” Oiler junior running back Isaac Heredia said. “It’s like a kill or be killed mentality. He won’t stop until he gets what he wants and what he wants is that touchdown with the ball in his hands.”

“Eli brings power and knowledge to the table,” graduated senior and Cloud County track signee Blaine Hickel said. “He’s such a knowledgeable fullback that he knows when to make the smallest adjustments in the middle of a play to make it work for him. On the power side he will run through anyone that steps in the hole and he’s great with yards after contact.”

Hurley rushed for 706 yards and added 113 receiving yards for 819 yards of offense.

Notable numbers for a fullback whose goals this year include reaching 1,000 yards rushing.

“A thousand yard season would mean so much to me,” Hurley said. “As a fullback, a thousand yard season doesn’t really happen very much so that would be great if I could get that thousand yards. It’s gonna take a lot of hard work and dedication, but I feel like I could get it.”

“It’s a tough task that’s for sure but if anyone can get a 1,000, he will be the guy to do it,” Hickel, a 1,000-yard rusher last year for the Oilers, said. “It all comes with knowing what defense you face every week and how you can make adjustments to your game to get them yards, but at the end of the day it’s about the big guys up front making holes and lanes for you to run through.”

The school single-season rushing record is 1,500 yards.

“Oh I would love that man,” Hurley said of the school record. “That would mean so much to me and to do it as a fullback would mean even more.”

“I’m a faster fullback than most people think,” Hurley said. “I’m one of the guys that once that ball is snapped, I’m coming across that line and I am going to hit you in the mouth every play. I’m gonna make sure no one wants to go against me or tackle me at all.”

That ferocious mentality comes naturally.&nbsp;

“Oh that’s 100% my dad. He was just like that when he was my age,” Hurley said. “He was a hard worker and one of the kids that’s gonna hit you like you better know that he is coming every play. College football would be awesome. I would love to play, my dad played for Garden City and that’s the big reason I want to go play just to prove that I can do it too.”

Hurley also stands out in track where he runs the 100, 200, 4X1 as well as long jump and triple jump. He went to state in triple and got 11th.

He has received interest from Bethel and Gardner-Webb (NC) for football.

“Last year was a big step up for my high school career. I got faster, stronger and way more agile,” Hurley said. “I got a lot of touches so I just kinda put confidence in myself that I can go get that extra yard. That extra yard turned into 10 extra yards so that’s just like showing that I can do way more than people think I can. I give that to my O-line, without an O-line no ball carrying even happens.”

“Anytime we need a block, he’s the guy to go up and hit stick him and keep going and getting more blocks,” sophomore quarterback Brodie Crites said. “When he has the ball, he is a straight freight train and he’s gonna hit you and keep running until he has two or three guys on trying to take him down. He can still keep going, he is a really good ball player and a great teammate.”

“Mean and fun to watch,” graduated senior lineman Connor Freis said of Hurley.

Hurley runs a 4.74/40 and benches 225 pounds, cleans 235 and squats 305.

“My mindset is no one is touching the guy that’s running that ball,” Hurley said. “If it takes sacrificing my body then that’s what I’ll do.”

“He's an absolute dog, he is strong and agile and very explosive,” senior back Joel Schreiber, who scored six rushing touchdowns, said. “I wouldn't want to take him because he can lay a hit.”

“He is a very strong fullback and can outrun almost every single defensive player he comes up against,” Heredia said.

“Eli is a hard-working man who pushes everyone to be the best they can be and is an all around great human being,” junior defensive end Armando Vasquez said.

“I want to leave here knowing that people are going to remember not just a good football player, but also me as a good person,” Hurley said. “I don’t want to be the guy that was always talking trash. I want to be the guy that was helping everybody up and saying good job stuff like that.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721051642461.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By GARY VAN CLEAVE Special to Great Bend PostScoring 13 touchdowns last year was “pretty good” according to Central Plains senior fullback Eli Hurley, but not good enough.“My mindset is to never settle for less, always go get some more,” the Oiler freight train locomotive said.The Hurley Express is about to leave the Claflin Depot Station. His chuggernaut mentality is ready to wreak havoc on opposing defenses whether he’s running the football plowing through defensive lines or opening up holes big enough for the next locomotive.“When I block just like when carrying I’m gonna hit you in the mouth,” the 5-foot-9, 170-pound Hurley said.&nbsp;“Eli has this kind of mentality that is different from anyone else I’ve ever played with,” Oiler junior running back Isaac Heredia said. “It’s like a kill or be killed mentality. He won’t stop until he gets what he wants and what he wants is that touchdown with the ball in his hands.”“Eli brings power and knowledge to the table,” graduated senior and Cloud County track signee Blaine Hickel said. “He’s such a knowledgeable fullback that he knows when to make the smallest adjustments in the middle of a play to make it work for him. On the power side he will run through anyone that steps in the hole and he’s great with yards after contact.”Hurley rushed for 706 yards and added 113 receiving yards for 819 yards of offense.Notable numbers for a fullback whose goals this year include reaching 1,000 yards rushing.“A thousand yard season would mean so much to me,” Hurley said. “As a fullback, a thousand yard season doesn’t really happen very much so that would be great if I could get that thousand yards. It’s gonna take a lot of hard work and dedication, but I feel like I could get it.”“It’s a tough task that’s for sure but if anyone can get a 1,000, he will be the guy to do it,” Hickel, a 1,000-yard rusher last year for the Oilers, said. “It all comes with knowing what defense you face every week and how you can make adjustments to your game to get them yards, but at the end of the day it’s about the big guys up front making holes and lanes for you to run through.”The school single-season rushing record is 1,500 yards.“Oh I would love that man,” Hurley said of the school record. “That would mean so much to me and to do it as a fullback would mean even more.”Hurley isn’t an average fullback.“I’m a faster fullback than most people think,” Hurley said. “I’m one of the guys that once that ball is snapped, I’m coming across that line and I am going to hit you in the mouth every play. I’m gonna make sure no one wants to go against me or tackle me at all.”That ferocious mentality comes naturally.&nbsp;“Oh that’s 100% my dad. He was just like that when he was my age,” Hurley said. “He was a hard worker and one of the kids that’s gonna hit you like you better know that he is coming every play. College football would be awesome. I would love to play, my dad played for Garden City and that’s the big reason I want to go play just to prove that I can do it too.”Hurley also stands out in track where he runs the 100, 200, 4X1 as well as long jump and triple jump. He went to state in triple and got 11th.He has received interest from Bethel and Gardner-Webb (NC) for football.“Last year was a big step up for my high school career. I got faster, stronger and way more agile,” Hurley said. “I got a lot of touches so I just kinda put confidence in myself that I can go get that extra yard. That extra yard turned into 10 extra yards so that’s just like showing that I can do way more than people think I can. I give that to my O-line, without an O-line no ball carrying even happens.”“Anytime we need a block, he’s the guy to go up and hit stick him and keep going and getting more blocks,” sophomore quarterback Brodie Crites said. “When he has the ball, he is a straight freight train and he’s gonna hit you and keep running until he has two or three guys on trying to take him down. He can still keep going, he is a really good ball player and a great teammate.”“Mean and fun to watch,” graduated senior lineman Connor Freis said of Hurley.Hurley runs a 4.74/40 and benches 225 pounds, cleans 235 and squats 305.“My mindset is no one is touching the guy that’s running that ball,” Hurley said. “If it takes sacrificing my body then that’s what I’ll do.”“He's an absolute dog, he is strong and agile and very explosive,” senior back Joel Schreiber, who scored six rushing touchdowns, said. “I wouldn't want to take him because he can lay a hit.”“He is a very strong fullback and can outrun almost every single defensive player he comes up against,” Heredia said.“Eli is a hard-working man who pushes everyone to be the best they can be and is an all around great human being,” junior defensive end Armando Vasquez said.“I want to leave here knowing that people are going to remember not just a good football player, but also me as a good person,” Hurley said. “I don’t want to be the guy that was always talking trash. I want to be the guy that was helping everybody up and saying good job stuff like that.”

Central Plains Oiler fullback chugs through defense

LONDON (AP) — At age 18, a decade before Barbora Krejcikova won Wimbledon on Saturday, she was done with junior tennis and couldn’t decide whether to pursue a professional tennis career or move on, go to school and find a different path.

So Krejcikova wrote a letter to one of her idols, 1998 Wimbledon champion Jana Novotna, and dropped it off at her home in their native Czech Republic. Not only did Novotna tell Krejcikova she had talent and should stick with the sport, but she also became a mentor until dying of cancer in 2017.

“Before she passed away,” Krejcikova said, “she told me to go and win a Slam.”

How about two? Krejcikova was an unseeded, surprising winner at the French Open three years ago and added to her trophy case with a 6-2, 2-6, 6-4 victory over Jasmine Paolini in the final at the All England Club. Shortly after Saturday’s match ended, Krejcikova went and looked at her just-printed name on the list of Wimbledon champions posted in a Centre Court hallway — and saw Novotna’s there, too.

“The only thing that was going through my head,” Krejcikova said of that moment, “was that I miss Jana a lot. It was just very, very emotional. ... I think she would be proud.”

Even after holding on to win on her third match point, Krejcikova insisted that nobody — not her friends, not her family, not even herself — would believe what she’s accomplished. It was relatively unlikely, after all, given that she dealt with a back injury and illness this season and her record in 2024 was just 7-9 when she arrived at the grass-court major.

Krejcikova was the 31st of 32 seeded women at the All England Club. Then came a three-setter in the first round last week, adding to the doubts.

But by the end of the fortnight, there stood the seventh-seeded Paolini, telling Krejcikova: “You play such beautiful tennis.”

Krejcikova is the eighth woman to leave Wimbledon as the champion in the past eight editions of the event. Last year’s champion also is from the Czech Republic: unseeded Marketa Vondrousova, who lost in the first round last week.

Paolini, the runner-up to Iga Swiatek at the French Open last month, is the first woman since Serena Williams in 2016 to get to the finals at Roland Garros and Wimbledon in the same season — and the first since Venus Williams in 2002 to lose both.

“If I keep this level,” said Paolini, a 28-year-old from Italy, “I think I can have the chance to do great things.”

This match was as back-and-forth as could be.

Fittingly, the last game took 14 points to decide, with Krejcikova needing to fend off a pair of break chances. She eventually converted her third match point when Paolini missed a backhand.

“I was just telling myself to be brave,” said Krejcikova, who also owns seven Grand Slam titles in women’s doubles, including two at Wimbledon, and three in mixed doubles.

She was great at the outset, taking 10 of the initial 11 points and five of the initial six games as the crowd, likely hoping to see a more competitive contest, pulled loudly for Paolini, yelling “Forza!” (“Let’s go!”), the way she often does, or “Calma!” (“Be calm!”).

“She was taking the ball earlier,” Paolini said, “and she was moving me."

In the early going, Paolini looked very much like someone burdened by residual fatigue from the longest women’s semifinal in Wimbledon history, her 2-hour, 51-minute win over Donna Vekic on Thursday.

But after a trip to the locker room before the second set, Paolini took charge, controlling more of the longer baseline exchanges, while Krejcikova’s errors mounted.

From 3-all in the final set, Paolini faltered, double-faulting for the only time all afternoon to get broken. Krejcikova then held at love for 5-3 and soon was serving out the championship, no matter how tough things got down the stretch.

During the trophy ceremony, much as she did following her singles triumph in Paris in 2021, Krejcikova spoke about Novotna’s influence on her tennis life — and her life, in general.

Later Saturday, at Krejcikova’s news conference, she said Novotna frequently appears in her dreams. They’ll converse with each other, she explained.

A reporter asked Krejcikova what she’d like to say to Novotna now that they both are Wimbledon champions.

“Well, I think I would turn it around,” Krejcikova said with a smile. “I would like to hear what she would tell me.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1720916943413.png" alt="Barbora Krejcikova of the Czech Republic kisses her trophy after defeating Jasmine Paolini of Italy in the women's singles final at the Wimbledon tennis Championships in London. (AP photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)" />
 <figcaption>Barbora Krejcikova of the Czech Republic kisses her trophy after defeating Jasmine Paolini of Italy in the women's singles final at the Wimbledon tennis Championships in London. (AP photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)</figcaption>
 </figure>LONDON (AP) — At age 18, a decade before Barbora Krejcikova won Wimbledon on Saturday, she was done with junior tennis and couldn’t decide whether to pursue a professional tennis career or move on, go to school and find a different path.So Krejcikova wrote a letter to one of her idols, 1998 Wimbledon champion Jana Novotna, and dropped it off at her home in their native Czech Republic. Not only did Novotna tell Krejcikova she had talent and should stick with the sport, but she also became a mentor until dying of cancer in 2017.“Before she passed away,” Krejcikova said, “she told me to go and win a Slam.”How about two? Krejcikova was an unseeded, surprising winner at the French Open three years ago and added to her trophy case with a 6-2, 2-6, 6-4 victory over Jasmine Paolini in the final at the All England Club. Shortly after Saturday’s match ended, Krejcikova went and looked at her just-printed name on the list of Wimbledon champions posted in a Centre Court hallway — and saw Novotna’s there, too.“The only thing that was going through my head,” Krejcikova said of that moment, “was that I miss Jana a lot. It was just very, very emotional. ... I think she would be proud.”Even after holding on to win on her third match point, Krejcikova insisted that nobody — not her friends, not her family, not even herself — would believe what she’s accomplished. It was relatively unlikely, after all, given that she dealt with a back injury and illness this season and her record in 2024 was just 7-9 when she arrived at the grass-court major.Krejcikova was the 31st of 32 seeded women at the All England Club. Then came a three-setter in the first round last week, adding to the doubts.But by the end of the fortnight, there stood the seventh-seeded Paolini, telling Krejcikova: “You play such beautiful tennis.”Krejcikova is the eighth woman to leave Wimbledon as the champion in the past eight editions of the event. Last year’s champion also is from the Czech Republic: unseeded Marketa Vondrousova, who lost in the first round last week.Paolini, the runner-up to Iga Swiatek at the French Open last month, is the first woman since Serena Williams in 2016 to get to the finals at Roland Garros and Wimbledon in the same season — and the first since Venus Williams in 2002 to lose both.“If I keep this level,” said Paolini, a 28-year-old from Italy, “I think I can have the chance to do great things.”This match was as back-and-forth as could be.Fittingly, the last game took 14 points to decide, with Krejcikova needing to fend off a pair of break chances. She eventually converted her third match point when Paolini missed a backhand.“I was just telling myself to be brave,” said Krejcikova, who also owns seven Grand Slam titles in women’s doubles, including two at Wimbledon, and three in mixed doubles.She was great at the outset, taking 10 of the initial 11 points and five of the initial six games as the crowd, likely hoping to see a more competitive contest, pulled loudly for Paolini, yelling “Forza!” (“Let’s go!”), the way she often does, or “Calma!” (“Be calm!”).“She was taking the ball earlier,” Paolini said, “and she was moving me."In the early going, Paolini looked very much like someone burdened by residual fatigue from the longest women’s semifinal in Wimbledon history, her 2-hour, 51-minute win over Donna Vekic on Thursday.But after a trip to the locker room before the second set, Paolini took charge, controlling more of the longer baseline exchanges, while Krejcikova’s errors mounted.From 3-all in the final set, Paolini faltered, double-faulting for the only time all afternoon to get broken. Krejcikova then held at love for 5-3 and soon was serving out the championship, no matter how tough things got down the stretch.During the trophy ceremony, much as she did following her singles triumph in Paris in 2021, Krejcikova spoke about Novotna’s influence on her tennis life — and her life, in general.Later Saturday, at Krejcikova’s news conference, she said Novotna frequently appears in her dreams. They’ll converse with each other, she explained.A reporter asked Krejcikova what she’d like to say to Novotna now that they both are Wimbledon champions.“Well, I think I would turn it around,” Krejcikova said with a smile. “I would like to hear what she would tell me.”

Krejcikova wins Wimbledon for her second Grand Slam trophy

BOSTON (AP) — Kutter Crawford took a one-hitter into the eighth inning, Rafael Devers hit a solo homer and the Boston Red Sox beat potential AL All-Star starter Seth Lugo in a 5-0 victory over the Kansas City Royals on Saturday.

Crawford (6-7) struck out four and walked one, throwing 76 of his 96 pitches for strikes. He gave up Maikel Garcia’s leadoff single in the eighth before manager Alex Cora lifted him. The righty walked off to a standing ovation.

“It feels good when you can kind of go to your back pocket and anything you throw is going to be around the zone,” said Crawford, who is 3-0 with a 0.45 ERA in his last three starts.

The Red Sox improved to 19-8 since June 12. Kansas City’s four-game winning streak was snapped.

“Throwing strikes, man,” Cora said. “Pounding the strike zone with all of his pitches, efficient.”

All-Star Devers homered into the first row of Green Monster seats against Lugo (11-4) to make it 5-0 in the fifth. It was his 22nd of the season and 194th of his career, which passed former catcher and current coach Jason Varitek for 11th on the club’s all-time list.

Lugo gave up five runs on 10 hits in five innings. He entered the day with a MLB-best ERA of 2.21 that rose to 2.48. He’s second in the majors in victories, one behind Atlanta’s Chris Sale (12-3).

“I made a few mistakes out there and didn’t really give the guys a chance to win,” Lugo said. “I couldn’t really locate glove side, wasn’t getting inside well until like about the fourth, fifth inning. I think that’s when I finally started finding a little grove for myself.”

Before the game, Royals manager Matt Quatraro lobbied for the 34-year-old righty to be named the starter for Tuesday’s All-Star Game in Arlington, Texas.

“That be awesome,” Lugo said. “I think everybody in the league wants that, me included. That be cool.”

Zack Kelly threw a double-play ball on his first pitch and finished the eighth before getting the final three outs of the combined four-hitter, which was Boston’s majors’ best 11th shutout.

“It’s one of the higher strike percentages I’ve seen in a long time,” Royals manager Quatraro said of Crawford. “He kept us on our heels. The cutter was outstanding. ... Just kept us off the barrel for the most part.”

Coming off seven shutout innings when he threw just 68 pitches in a victory over the Yankees in his previous start last Sunday night, Crawford threw his first 13 pitches for strikes on Saturday.

Royals: C Salvador Perez, who left Friday’s game due to cramping, was the DH. “We said he wouldn’t catch today after the cramping,” Quatraro said. “He wasn’t going to catch all three games. We’ll see how he feels after (the game).”

Red Sox: Cora gave OF Tyler O’Neill the day off. … RHP Chris Martin (injured list, right elbow inflammation) threw Friday but Cora said he didn’t feel well afterward. “He played catch. He didn’t feel great,” Cora said. “Not concerned, but he’s going to take longer than we expected.”

RHP Brady Singer (5-5, 2.93 ERA) is scheduled start Sunday’s series finale for the Royals against Red Sox RHP Brayan Bello (9-5, 5.40).

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1720916632331.png" alt="Boston's Wilyer Abreu scores against Royals catcher Freddy Fermin on a two-run single in the third inning of Saturday's game in Boston. (AP Photo/Michael Dwyer)" />
 <figcaption>Boston's Wilyer Abreu scores against Royals catcher Freddy Fermin on a two-run single in the third inning of Saturday's game in Boston. (AP Photo/Michael Dwyer)</figcaption>
 </figure>BOSTON (AP) — Kutter Crawford took a one-hitter into the eighth inning, Rafael Devers hit a solo homer and the Boston Red Sox beat potential AL All-Star starter Seth Lugo in a 5-0 victory over the Kansas City Royals on Saturday.Crawford (6-7) struck out four and walked one, throwing 76 of his 96 pitches for strikes. He gave up Maikel Garcia’s leadoff single in the eighth before manager Alex Cora lifted him. The righty walked off to a standing ovation.“It feels good when you can kind of go to your back pocket and anything you throw is going to be around the zone,” said Crawford, who is 3-0 with a 0.45 ERA in his last three starts.The Red Sox improved to 19-8 since June 12. Kansas City’s four-game winning streak was snapped.“Throwing strikes, man,” Cora said. “Pounding the strike zone with all of his pitches, efficient.”All-Star Devers homered into the first row of Green Monster seats against Lugo (11-4) to make it 5-0 in the fifth. It was his 22nd of the season and 194th of his career, which passed former catcher and current coach Jason Varitek for 11th on the club’s all-time list.Lugo gave up five runs on 10 hits in five innings. He entered the day with a MLB-best ERA of 2.21 that rose to 2.48. He’s second in the majors in victories, one behind Atlanta’s Chris Sale (12-3).“I made a few mistakes out there and didn’t really give the guys a chance to win,” Lugo said. “I couldn’t really locate glove side, wasn’t getting inside well until like about the fourth, fifth inning. I think that’s when I finally started finding a little grove for myself.”Before the game, Royals manager Matt Quatraro lobbied for the 34-year-old righty to be named the starter for Tuesday’s All-Star Game in Arlington, Texas.“That be awesome,” Lugo said. “I think everybody in the league wants that, me included. That be cool.”Zack Kelly threw a double-play ball on his first pitch and finished the eighth before getting the final three outs of the combined four-hitter, which was Boston’s majors’ best 11th shutout.“It’s one of the higher strike percentages I’ve seen in a long time,” Royals manager Quatraro said of Crawford. “He kept us on our heels. The cutter was outstanding. ... Just kept us off the barrel for the most part.”Coming off seven shutout innings when he threw just 68 pitches in a victory over the Yankees in his previous start last Sunday night, Crawford threw his first 13 pitches for strikes on Saturday.<h2>TRAINER’S ROOM</h2>Royals: C Salvador Perez, who left Friday’s game due to cramping, was the DH. “We said he wouldn’t catch today after the cramping,” Quatraro said. “He wasn’t going to catch all three games. We’ll see how he feels after (the game).”Red Sox: Cora gave OF Tyler O’Neill the day off. … RHP Chris Martin (injured list, right elbow inflammation) threw Friday but Cora said he didn’t feel well afterward. “He played catch. He didn’t feel great,” Cora said. “Not concerned, but he’s going to take longer than we expected.”<h2>UP NEXT</h2>RHP Brady Singer (5-5, 2.93 ERA) is scheduled start Sunday’s series finale for the Royals against Red Sox RHP Brayan Bello (9-5, 5.40).

Royals nearly no-hit in 5-0 loss against Red Sox

BOSTON (AP) — Bobby Witt Jr. and MJ Melendez each had solo home runs, Cole Ragans allowed one run over seven innings and the Kansas City Royals beat the Boston Red Sox 6-1 on Friday night for their fourth consecutive victory.

Adam Frazier, Vinnie Pasquantino and Salvador Perez (with two) all added RBIs for Kansas City, which opened the three-game series a game back of Boston for the AL’s final wild-card spot.

“Every win is huge, whether it’s April or July,” Royals manager Matt Quatraro said. “But when you’re squarely right behind a team and you beat them, that’s a good step forward for us.”

It was the 16th homer of the season for Witt, an All-Star who will be competing in Monday’s Home Run Derby. The ball, which landed in the center field portion of the seats atop the Green Monster, was claimed by a Royals’ fan.

“I knew the wind was helping a little bit, luckily,” Witt said. “I just try to put good swing on it.”

There was nothing happening by chance for Ragans (6-6). He struck out seven and allowed four hits to earn his first victory since June 24 at Miami.

“I thought overall I commanded it pretty well,” Ragans said. “I missed a few, but overall I thought it was pretty good.”

Ceddanne Rafaela had an RBI for the Red Sox.

Cooper Criswell (3-4) threw a career-high 104 pitches over six innings, yielding eight hits and five runs, but only two – including Witt’s home run – were earned.

In their last 27 games, the Red Sox are 1-8 against left-handed starting pitchers. That compares to 17-1 against right-handers. All-Stars Rafael Devers and Jarren Duran were a combined 1 for 8 on Friday.

“Obviously the production of Raffy and Jarren is lower. We’ve just got to find a way to do it,” manager Alex Cora said. “We’ve just got to be patient and keep working.”

The Royals opened the game with three consecutive singles to load the bases with no outs, and then took a 1-0 lead on a sacrifice fly by Perez. But Criswell got Michael Massey on a groundout and Hunter Renfroe on a flyout to get out of the inning.

In the second inning Kansas City took advantage of a fielding error by first baseman Romy Gonzalez, plus a walk and hit batter by Criswell to add three unearned runs and increase the lead to 4-0.

Red Sox: Placed RHP Justin Slaten on the 15-day IL retroactive to July 9 with right elbow inflammation. The reliever is 5-2 with a 3.38 ERA in 31 games this season. LHP Cam Booser was called up from Triple-A Worcester to take the roster spot.

Royals: RHP Seth Lugo (11-3, 2.21 ERA) has the lowest ERA by a Royal over his first 19 starts with the franchise. He is 0-1 with a 5.40 ERA in three career appearances against Boston.

Red Sox: RHP Kutter Crawford (5-7, 3.24) is making his 19th start of the season. He’s lost both of his career starts against Kansas City, tallying an 8.64 ERA.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1720878775187.png" alt="MJ Melendez celebrates after his solo home run Friday night in Boston. Bobby Witt Jr. also homered to help the Royals to a 6-1 win against the Red Sox. (AP photo/Michael Dwyer).png" />
 <figcaption>MJ Melendez celebrates after his solo home run Friday night in Boston. Bobby Witt Jr. also homered to help the Royals to a 6-1 win against the Red Sox. (AP photo/Michael Dwyer).png</figcaption>
 </figure>BOSTON (AP) — Bobby Witt Jr. and MJ Melendez each had solo home runs, Cole Ragans allowed one run over seven innings and the Kansas City Royals beat the Boston Red Sox 6-1 on Friday night for their fourth consecutive victory.Adam Frazier, Vinnie Pasquantino and Salvador Perez (with two) all added RBIs for Kansas City, which opened the three-game series a game back of Boston for the AL’s final wild-card spot.“Every win is huge, whether it’s April or July,” Royals manager Matt Quatraro said. “But when you’re squarely right behind a team and you beat them, that’s a good step forward for us.”It was the 16th homer of the season for Witt, an All-Star who will be competing in Monday’s Home Run Derby. The ball, which landed in the center field portion of the seats atop the Green Monster, was claimed by a Royals’ fan.“I knew the wind was helping a little bit, luckily,” Witt said. “I just try to put good swing on it.”There was nothing happening by chance for Ragans (6-6). He struck out seven and allowed four hits to earn his first victory since June 24 at Miami.“I thought overall I commanded it pretty well,” Ragans said. “I missed a few, but overall I thought it was pretty good.”Ceddanne Rafaela had an RBI for the Red Sox.Cooper Criswell (3-4) threw a career-high 104 pitches over six innings, yielding eight hits and five runs, but only two – including Witt’s home run – were earned.In their last 27 games, the Red Sox are 1-8 against left-handed starting pitchers. That compares to 17-1 against right-handers. All-Stars Rafael Devers and Jarren Duran were a combined 1 for 8 on Friday.“Obviously the production of Raffy and Jarren is lower. We’ve just got to find a way to do it,” manager Alex Cora said. “We’ve just got to be patient and keep working.”The Royals opened the game with three consecutive singles to load the bases with no outs, and then took a 1-0 lead on a sacrifice fly by Perez. But Criswell got Michael Massey on a groundout and Hunter Renfroe on a flyout to get out of the inning.Criswell’s luck didn’t last.In the second inning Kansas City took advantage of a fielding error by first baseman Romy Gonzalez, plus a walk and hit batter by Criswell to add three unearned runs and increase the lead to 4-0.<h2>TRAINER’S ROOM</h2>Red Sox: Placed RHP Justin Slaten on the 15-day IL retroactive to July 9 with right elbow inflammation. The reliever is 5-2 with a 3.38 ERA in 31 games this season. LHP Cam Booser was called up from Triple-A Worcester to take the roster spot.<h2>UP NEXT</h2>Royals: RHP Seth Lugo (11-3, 2.21 ERA) has the lowest ERA by a Royal over his first 19 starts with the franchise. He is 0-1 with a 5.40 ERA in three career appearances against Boston.Red Sox: RHP Kutter Crawford (5-7, 3.24) is making his 19th start of the season. He’s lost both of his career starts against Kansas City, tallying an 8.64 ERA.

Witt, Melendez homer to lift Royals past Red Sox

It didn’t take long for Brodie Crites to experience his first high school passing touchdown.

It came in the 2023 season opener against Ness City as the freshman Central Plains Oiler QB played in his first game.

“It was an amazing feeling. I was excited and it’s what I wanted to do since I saw my brother do it when I was young,” said Crites of his 10-yard scoring strike to Paxton Dody.

Older brother Braedan also starred as an Oiler signal-caller before he played one year at Hutchinson.

“He did a good job of adjusting to the high school game and playing kids three to four years older than him,” said Braedan, who threw for over 5,000 yards and 100 touchdowns as an Oiler. “He learned the playbook quickly and did a good job of knowing where to go with the ball and when to take shots down the field.”

“It was very fun and challenging. I enjoyed it with my teammates and I have learned a lot from last season,” Brodie said.

He threw for 945 yards and 19 touchdowns to just three interceptions as a freshman and notched a nifty 109.8 quarterback rating in Central Plains’ 7-3 season.

“I am happy with those numbers, but I know I can work harder and do better with it,” Brodie said. “With the help of my teammates, I know I can do better.”

“Brodie was a great leader for the football team,” graduated senior center Connor Freis said. “He would come to the huddle and tell the guys how much he trusted and loved us. Also talk to us about what’s going on the field and help fixed it. If the o-line did not let him get touched by the other team he would bring doughnuts for the whole team.”

“Brodie has very good leadership skills, he had a big role that he had to step up to being a starting quarterback as a freshman,” graduated senior tight end Hunter Klima said. “A lot of guys wouldn't be able to do what he did by keeping his cool as well as making sure the rest of us did as well. His play was better, Brodie proved a lot of people wrong this year by doing what he did. The best part is he's got room to improve. Brodie is a solid athlete and also a great leader/teammate.”

“For a freshman, Brodie is quite a bit better than some people his age around here. He knows the game and can put a ball on his targets,” senior fullback Eli Hurley said. “As a freshman there is still lots to learn. Most of our starting eight are seniors so Brodie leads as best as he can. He picks his teammates up and does what a quarterback should.”&nbsp;

Brodie deflected the attention of his 19-TD season to his offensive linemen. They include Landon Daniels, Freis, Aiden Hekele and Logan Stroede.

“I couldn’t have that season without my o-line in front of me,” Brodie said. “They kept me protected and they don’t get thanked enough.”

His progression from Week One to Week 10 was noticed by everyone.

“He’s improved a lot each year he’s played football, so I’d say there’s no limit on what he can achieve,” Braedan said.

“He improved a lot and he built a lot of confidence in himself and the team,” Freis said.

“Very rapid, game one he knew he had some things to improve on and as he progressed throughout the season he just became more fluid with what he did,” Klima said. “Brodie is an all-around athlete and adapted and overcame everything he was up against.”

“He was kinda timid at the start of the year. I mean I’ve been there before and as the year went on he improved in confidence and in the smarts of the game and knew what passes to throw and what not to,” Hurley said. “As the year went on he also was ok with getting hit a little because at the start he didn’t really want to get hit at all, but at the end of the year when he had to scramble he could actually take a hit.”

“Brodie was a great QB because the way he was very calm for being a freshman in the pocket, knowing what to do and throwing the ball away when he needs to,” Freis said. “The amount of energy he brought on game days was great. I believe over time he’s going to get better and be so good.”

“He has very good potential with the stuff he has,” Klima said. “I think by his senior year, if he keeps developing he’ll be top 10 in 8-man.”

“I’m looking to improve my running game this summer by getting faster, bigger, stronger,” Brodie noted.

He’s excelled in baseball where he plays shortstop and outfield.

“Baseball was fun both high school and summer ball. I mostly play shortstop, but I can play wherever they need me,” said Brodie, a varsity standout in basketball as well. “We made it to state in school baseball and that was fun. Summer baseball was really fun, this was the best year we have had and everyone improved a lot.”

“He was a great outfielder. We could really move him around anywhere in the outfield whenever we needed to,” incoming junior Mason Martin said. “At the start of the year his stick wasn’t the best but he started to come around and was one of our best contact hitters. He’s a great player and has a lot of room to grow throughout his next three years.”

“Coming in as a freshman, he had a really high baseball IQ,” incoming senior Rhen Galla said. “He just knows the game and is one of the more athletic guys we have.”

“Brodie is a great outfielder. He’s always on the ball and always ready,” incoming senior Preston Roat said. “He sees a ball hit in the OF and he’s on it right away doesn’t matter if it’s 20 feet in front or 20 feet behind him. He’s getting that ball. He’s a great batter, always makes good contact and comes in when we really need him to.”

How can he become a better football player?

“By being a better leader and putting the work in the weight room and pushing my teammates to be the best they can be,” Brodie said.

“I’ll give him advice here and there, but honestly he’s figured it out himself mostly so I can’t take too much credit,” Braedan said. “He really likes to compete and I think that drives him to be as good as he possibly can be.”

“Success to me is not only when I do my best at something, but when my teammates are at their best,” Brodie said. “We are all on the same page going for the same ending goal by putting in the work and helping each other up.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1720798696459.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By GARY VAN CLEAVE Special to Great Bend PostIt didn’t take long for Brodie Crites to experience his first high school passing touchdown.It came in the 2023 season opener against Ness City as the freshman Central Plains Oiler QB played in his first game.“It was an amazing feeling. I was excited and it’s what I wanted to do since I saw my brother do it when I was young,” said Crites of his 10-yard scoring strike to Paxton Dody.Older brother Braedan also starred as an Oiler signal-caller before he played one year at Hutchinson.“He did a good job of adjusting to the high school game and playing kids three to four years older than him,” said Braedan, who threw for over 5,000 yards and 100 touchdowns as an Oiler. “He learned the playbook quickly and did a good job of knowing where to go with the ball and when to take shots down the field.”“It was very fun and challenging. I enjoyed it with my teammates and I have learned a lot from last season,” Brodie said.He threw for 945 yards and 19 touchdowns to just three interceptions as a freshman and notched a nifty 109.8 quarterback rating in Central Plains’ 7-3 season.“I am happy with those numbers, but I know I can work harder and do better with it,” Brodie said. “With the help of my teammates, I know I can do better.”“Brodie was a great leader for the football team,” graduated senior center Connor Freis said. “He would come to the huddle and tell the guys how much he trusted and loved us. Also talk to us about what’s going on the field and help fixed it. If the o-line did not let him get touched by the other team he would bring doughnuts for the whole team.”“Brodie has very good leadership skills, he had a big role that he had to step up to being a starting quarterback as a freshman,” graduated senior tight end Hunter Klima said. “A lot of guys wouldn't be able to do what he did by keeping his cool as well as making sure the rest of us did as well. His play was better, Brodie proved a lot of people wrong this year by doing what he did. The best part is he's got room to improve. Brodie is a solid athlete and also a great leader/teammate.”“For a freshman, Brodie is quite a bit better than some people his age around here. He knows the game and can put a ball on his targets,” senior fullback Eli Hurley said. “As a freshman there is still lots to learn. Most of our starting eight are seniors so Brodie leads as best as he can. He picks his teammates up and does what a quarterback should.”&nbsp;Brodie deflected the attention of his 19-TD season to his offensive linemen. They include Landon Daniels, Freis, Aiden Hekele and Logan Stroede.“I couldn’t have that season without my o-line in front of me,” Brodie said. “They kept me protected and they don’t get thanked enough.”His progression from Week One to Week 10 was noticed by everyone.“He’s improved a lot each year he’s played football, so I’d say there’s no limit on what he can achieve,” Braedan said.“He improved a lot and he built a lot of confidence in himself and the team,” Freis said.“Very rapid, game one he knew he had some things to improve on and as he progressed throughout the season he just became more fluid with what he did,” Klima said. “Brodie is an all-around athlete and adapted and overcame everything he was up against.”“He was kinda timid at the start of the year. I mean I’ve been there before and as the year went on he improved in confidence and in the smarts of the game and knew what passes to throw and what not to,” Hurley said. “As the year went on he also was ok with getting hit a little because at the start he didn’t really want to get hit at all, but at the end of the year when he had to scramble he could actually take a hit.”So how good is he?&nbsp;“Brodie was a great QB because the way he was very calm for being a freshman in the pocket, knowing what to do and throwing the ball away when he needs to,” Freis said. “The amount of energy he brought on game days was great. I believe over time he’s going to get better and be so good.”“He has very good potential with the stuff he has,” Klima said. “I think by his senior year, if he keeps developing he’ll be top 10 in 8-man.”“I’m looking to improve my running game this summer by getting faster, bigger, stronger,” Brodie noted.He’s excelled in baseball where he plays shortstop and outfield.“Baseball was fun both high school and summer ball. I mostly play shortstop, but I can play wherever they need me,” said Brodie, a varsity standout in basketball as well. “We made it to state in school baseball and that was fun. Summer baseball was really fun, this was the best year we have had and everyone improved a lot.”“He was a great outfielder. We could really move him around anywhere in the outfield whenever we needed to,” incoming junior Mason Martin said. “At the start of the year his stick wasn’t the best but he started to come around and was one of our best contact hitters. He’s a great player and has a lot of room to grow throughout his next three years.”“Coming in as a freshman, he had a really high baseball IQ,” incoming senior Rhen Galla said. “He just knows the game and is one of the more athletic guys we have.”“Brodie is a great outfielder. He’s always on the ball and always ready,” incoming senior Preston Roat said. “He sees a ball hit in the OF and he’s on it right away doesn’t matter if it’s 20 feet in front or 20 feet behind him. He’s getting that ball. He’s a great batter, always makes good contact and comes in when we really need him to.”How can he become a better football player?“By being a better leader and putting the work in the weight room and pushing my teammates to be the best they can be,” Brodie said.“I’ll give him advice here and there, but honestly he’s figured it out himself mostly so I can’t take too much credit,” Braedan said. “He really likes to compete and I think that drives him to be as good as he possibly can be.”“Success to me is not only when I do my best at something, but when my teammates are at their best,” Brodie said. “We are all on the same page going for the same ending goal by putting in the work and helping each other up.”

Central Plains Oiler super soph aims for continued success

MILWAUKEE (AP) — Paul Skenes struck out 11 in seven no-hit innings in another dominant performance, and the Pittsburgh Pirates beat the Milwaukee Brewers 1-0 on Thursday. Skenes threw 99 pitches&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/paul-skenes-pirates-mlb-all-star-game-dc07706ac4a68fd3f0b9d1f74b2a81fe">in his 11th major league start</a>, 65 for strikes. The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/skenes-allstar-phillies-7433cd08541a54bfe575b3367c245ff3">All-Star</a>&nbsp;right-hander walked one while lowering his ERA to 1.90. Colin Holderman replaced Skenes (6-0) and surrendered a leadoff single to Jake Bauers for Milwaukee’s first hit in the eighth. The Brewers loaded the bases with two down, but Holderman escaped the jam when he struck out William Contreras swinging. Aroldis Chapman handled the ninth for his fourth save, finishing a two-hitter for Pittsburgh.

TAMPA, Fla. (AP) — Monte Kiffin, the longtime NFL and college assistant coach whose Tampa Bay defenses routinely ranked among the league’s best, died Thursday. He was 84. One of the architects of the ultra successful Tampa 2 defensive scheme, Kiffin spent 13 seasons as defensive coordinator of the Bucs under former coaches Tony Dungy and Jon Gruden from 1996 to 2008 and helped the franchise win the first of its two Super Bowl titles. The University of Mississippi football program announced on the social media platform X that Kiffin, once the head coach at North Carolina State, died surrounded by family and friends in Oxford, Mississippi, where Kiffin’s son, Lane, is coach of the Rebels.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) — Uruguay striker Luis Suárez defended his teammates’ decision to enter the stands following&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/copa-america-uruguay-colombia-score-2bd3d039ca650b415bb43974d503e709">a 1-0 loss to Colombia in the Copa America semifinals,</a>&nbsp;saying the action was necessary to defend families and supporters. After a physical and emotional game that included seven yellow cards and one red card, players exchanged words and shoves at midfield of Bank of America Stadium on Wednesday night. Uruguay players, including Darwin Núñez, noticed an altercation behind the team’s bench and about a dozen or so players then&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/FOXSoccer/status/1811220757583659384" target="_blank">climbed into the stands</a>&nbsp;as the melee continued. Some players were seen throwing punches before Charlotte Mecklenburg Police officers and stadium security restored order after about 10 minutes. “Obviously when one has your woman, your little child, your father, elderly people you want to go and see if they’re OK,” Suárez said. “Here these things, it’s an image that no one wants to have created but obviously if someone is attacking your family you want to go and defend them. But that doesn’t justify the image that it created. We had to protect our families that were there.”

LOS ANGELES (AP) — Led by host Serena Williams, The ESPYS celebrated a landmark year for women’s sports, with Simone Biles, A’ja Wilson, Caitlin Clark, Dawn Staley and JuJu Watkins among the honorees on Thursday night. Staley, coach of the national champion South Carolina women’s basketball team, received the Jimmy V Award for Perseverance. Her friend, Tennessee standout Nicki McCray-Penson, died of breast cancer and Staley’s sister was diagnosed with leukemia. Staley’s Gamecocks won the best team award. Wilson of the Las Vegas Aces won as best women’s sports athlete and as best WNBA player. The best men’s sports athlete was Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes. He also claimed best NFL player.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707734642080.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>MILWAUKEE (AP) — Paul Skenes struck out 11 in seven no-hit innings in another dominant performance, and the Pittsburgh Pirates beat the Milwaukee Brewers 1-0 on Thursday. Skenes threw 99 pitches&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/paul-skenes-pirates-mlb-all-star-game-dc07706ac4a68fd3f0b9d1f74b2a81fe">in his 11th major league start</a>, 65 for strikes. The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/skenes-allstar-phillies-7433cd08541a54bfe575b3367c245ff3">All-Star</a>&nbsp;right-hander walked one while lowering his ERA to 1.90. Colin Holderman replaced Skenes (6-0) and surrendered a leadoff single to Jake Bauers for Milwaukee’s first hit in the eighth. The Brewers loaded the bases with two down, but Holderman escaped the jam when he struck out William Contreras swinging. Aroldis Chapman handled the ninth for his fourth save, finishing a two-hitter for Pittsburgh.TAMPA, Fla. (AP) — Monte Kiffin, the longtime NFL and college assistant coach whose Tampa Bay defenses routinely ranked among the league’s best, died Thursday. He was 84. One of the architects of the ultra successful Tampa 2 defensive scheme, Kiffin spent 13 seasons as defensive coordinator of the Bucs under former coaches Tony Dungy and Jon Gruden from 1996 to 2008 and helped the franchise win the first of its two Super Bowl titles. The University of Mississippi football program announced on the social media platform X that Kiffin, once the head coach at North Carolina State, died surrounded by family and friends in Oxford, Mississippi, where Kiffin’s son, Lane, is coach of the Rebels.CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) — Uruguay striker Luis Suárez defended his teammates’ decision to enter the stands following&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/copa-america-uruguay-colombia-score-2bd3d039ca650b415bb43974d503e709">a 1-0 loss to Colombia in the Copa America semifinals,</a>&nbsp;saying the action was necessary to defend families and supporters. After a physical and emotional game that included seven yellow cards and one red card, players exchanged words and shoves at midfield of Bank of America Stadium on Wednesday night. Uruguay players, including Darwin Núñez, noticed an altercation behind the team’s bench and about a dozen or so players then&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/FOXSoccer/status/1811220757583659384" target="_blank">climbed into the stands</a>&nbsp;as the melee continued. Some players were seen throwing punches before Charlotte Mecklenburg Police officers and stadium security restored order after about 10 minutes. “Obviously when one has your woman, your little child, your father, elderly people you want to go and see if they’re OK,” Suárez said. “Here these things, it’s an image that no one wants to have created but obviously if someone is attacking your family you want to go and defend them. But that doesn’t justify the image that it created. We had to protect our families that were there.”LOS ANGELES (AP) — Led by host Serena Williams, The ESPYS celebrated a landmark year for women’s sports, with Simone Biles, A’ja Wilson, Caitlin Clark, Dawn Staley and JuJu Watkins among the honorees on Thursday night. Staley, coach of the national champion South Carolina women’s basketball team, received the Jimmy V Award for Perseverance. Her friend, Tennessee standout Nicki McCray-Penson, died of breast cancer and Staley’s sister was diagnosed with leukemia. Staley’s Gamecocks won the best team award. Wilson of the Las Vegas Aces won as best women’s sports athlete and as best WNBA player. The best men’s sports athlete was Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes. He also claimed best NFL player.THURSDAY'S SCORES MAJOR LEAGUE BASEBALLAMERICAN LEAGUEDetroit 10, Cleveland 1Tampa Bay 5, NY Yankees 4Boston 7, Oakland 0Seattle 11, LA Angels 0NATIONAL LEAGUECincinnati 8, Colorado 1NY Mets 7, Washington 0Pittsburgh 1, Milwaukee 0Philadelphia 5, LA Dodgers 1Arizona 1, Atlanta 0INTERLEAGUEToronto 5, San Francisco 3Chicago Cubs 8, Baltimore 0Houston 6, Miami 3

Friday Sports Headlines and Scores presented by Barton Community College

LAWRENCE, Kan. – Kansas' upcoming men's basketball's non-conference schedule once again features a loaded slate as the Jayhawks celebrate the 70th season inside historic Allen Fieldhouse in 2024-25.

Fans will get a first look at an enhanced Allen Fieldhouse at the 40th Annual Late Night in the Phog on Friday, October 18. Details on Late Night will be released at a later date.

Following a home exhibition contest against Washburn on Tuesday, Oct. 29, Kansas will open the regular season by hosting Howard on Monday, Nov. 4. The Howard game will mark the second-consecutive season that KU begins the year hosting an HBCU opponent. The contest celebrates University of Kansas alum and legendary coach John McClendon and the McLendon Leadership Initiative. Last season, Kansas hosted North Carolina Central.

In its second game of the 2024-25 campaign, KU will host fellow Blue Blood North Carolina on Friday, Nov. 8. It will be the two schools' first contest since the 2022 NCAA National Championship title game won by the Jayhawks.

Kansas will play Michigan State in the Champions Classic on Tuesday, Nov. 12, in Atlanta at State Farm Arena. Following the Michigan State contest, Kansas will return home for two games against Oakland on Saturday, Nov. 16 and UNC-Wilmington on Tuesday, Nov. 19.

KU will face another fellow Blue Blood when it plays Duke on Tuesday, Nov. 26, at the Vegas Showdown in Las Vegas. In the second game of the Vegas Showdown, Kansas will host Furman on Saturday, Nov. 30 at Allen Fieldhouse.

KU will play at Creighton on Dec. 4, in the Big 12-Big EAST Battle. The Jayhawks will then play at former conference foe Missouri on Sunday, Dec. 8, at Mizzou Arena.

Kansas will close out the non-conference portion of the season hosting NC State on Saturday, Dec. 14, and Brown on Sunday, Dec. 22.

In 2023-24, Kansas ranked third in NCAA Division I in strength of schedule, marking the 10th time under head coach Bill Self the Jayhawks have recorded a top-three toughest schedule in the nation. Under Self, Kansas has been ranked in the top 10 in strength of schedule 14 times in his 21 seasons at KU.

In late June, the Big 12 announced its men's basketball opponent matrix for this upcoming season, which will combine with the non-conference schedule. In the 20-game league schedule, Kansas will host Arizona, Arizona State, Oklahoma State, Texas Tech and West Virginia as home only opponents and will have league road games at BYU, Utah, TCU, Baylor and Cincinnati. KU will play home-and-home conference contests against Colorado, Iowa State, Kansas State, Houston and UCF. Specific dates and times for the Big 12 slate, along with television details will be announced later. The conference men's basketball schedule will begin in late December with the Big 12 Championship running March 11-15 at T-Mobile Center in Kansas City, Missouri.

Kansas finished the 2023-24 season with a 23-11 (10-8 Big 12) record. Preseason No. 1, Kansas was ranked in every Associated Press Poll in 2023-24, including 17 weeks in the AP Top 10. Additionally, Kansas advanced to its 51st all-time NCAA Tournament, including its 34th in the last 35 seasons.

Kansas Men's Basketball 2024-25 Schedule (Home games in ALL CAPS; Times and TV to be announced later)

Oct. 18 (Fri.) – LATE NIGHT IN THE PHOG

Nov. 12 (Tue.) – vs. Michigan State (Champions Classic, Atlanta)

Nov. 26 (Tue.) – vs. Duke (Vegas Showdown, Las Vegas)

Nov. 30 (Sat.) – FURMAN (Vegas Showdown)

Dec. 4 (Wed.) – at Creighton (Big 12-Big EAST Challenge)

Big 12 Scheduling Opponent Matrix (20-game schedule)

Home opponents only - Arizona, Arizona State, Oklahoma State, Texas Tech, West Virginia

Road opponents only - BYU, Utah, TCU, Baylor, Cincinnati

Home-and-Home opponents - Colorado, Iowa State, Kansas State, Houston, UCF

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1720716831612.jpeg" alt="Kansas Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Kansas Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>LAWRENCE, Kan. – Kansas' upcoming men's basketball's non-conference schedule once again features a loaded slate as the Jayhawks celebrate the 70th season inside historic Allen Fieldhouse in 2024-25.Fans will get a first look at an enhanced Allen Fieldhouse at the 40th Annual Late Night in the Phog on Friday, October 18. Details on Late Night will be released at a later date.Following a home exhibition contest against Washburn on Tuesday, Oct. 29, Kansas will open the regular season by hosting Howard on Monday, Nov. 4. The Howard game will mark the second-consecutive season that KU begins the year hosting an HBCU opponent. The contest celebrates University of Kansas alum and legendary coach John McClendon and the McLendon Leadership Initiative. Last season, Kansas hosted North Carolina Central.In its second game of the 2024-25 campaign, KU will host fellow Blue Blood North Carolina on Friday, Nov. 8. It will be the two schools' first contest since the 2022 NCAA National Championship title game won by the Jayhawks.Kansas will play Michigan State in the Champions Classic on Tuesday, Nov. 12, in Atlanta at State Farm Arena. Following the Michigan State contest, Kansas will return home for two games against Oakland on Saturday, Nov. 16 and UNC-Wilmington on Tuesday, Nov. 19.KU will face another fellow Blue Blood when it plays Duke on Tuesday, Nov. 26, at the Vegas Showdown in Las Vegas. In the second game of the Vegas Showdown, Kansas will host Furman on Saturday, Nov. 30 at Allen Fieldhouse.KU will play at Creighton on Dec. 4, in the Big 12-Big EAST Battle. The Jayhawks will then play at former conference foe Missouri on Sunday, Dec. 8, at Mizzou Arena.Kansas will close out the non-conference portion of the season hosting NC State on Saturday, Dec. 14, and Brown on Sunday, Dec. 22.In 2023-24, Kansas ranked third in NCAA Division I in strength of schedule, marking the 10th time under head coach Bill Self the Jayhawks have recorded a top-three toughest schedule in the nation. Under Self, Kansas has been ranked in the top 10 in strength of schedule 14 times in his 21 seasons at KU.In late June, the Big 12 announced its men's basketball opponent matrix for this upcoming season, which will combine with the non-conference schedule. In the 20-game league schedule, Kansas will host Arizona, Arizona State, Oklahoma State, Texas Tech and West Virginia as home only opponents and will have league road games at BYU, Utah, TCU, Baylor and Cincinnati. KU will play home-and-home conference contests against Colorado, Iowa State, Kansas State, Houston and UCF. Specific dates and times for the Big 12 slate, along with television details will be announced later. The conference men's basketball schedule will begin in late December with the Big 12 Championship running March 11-15 at T-Mobile Center in Kansas City, Missouri.Kansas finished the 2023-24 season with a 23-11 (10-8 Big 12) record. Preseason No. 1, Kansas was ranked in every Associated Press Poll in 2023-24, including 17 weeks in the AP Top 10. Additionally, Kansas advanced to its 51st all-time NCAA Tournament, including its 34th in the last 35 seasons.Kansas Men's Basketball 2024-25 Schedule (Home games in ALL CAPS; Times and TV to be announced later)Oct. 18 (Fri.) – LATE NIGHT IN THE PHOGOct. 29 (Tue.) – WASHBURN (EXHIBITION)Nov. 4 (Mon.) – HOWARDNov. 8 (Fri.) – NORTH CAROLINANov. 12 (Tue.) – vs. Michigan State (Champions Classic, Atlanta)Nov. 16 (Sat.) – OAKLANDNov. 19 (Tue.) – UNC-WILMINGTONNov. 26 (Tue.) – vs. Duke (Vegas Showdown, Las Vegas)Nov. 30 (Sat.) – FURMAN (Vegas Showdown)Dec. 4 (Wed.) – at Creighton (Big 12-Big EAST Challenge)Dec. 8 (Sun.) – at MissouriDec. 14 (Sat.) – NC STATEDec. 22 (Sun.) – BROWNBig 12 Scheduling Opponent Matrix (20-game schedule)Home opponents only - Arizona, Arizona State, Oklahoma State, Texas Tech, West VirginiaRoad opponents only - BYU, Utah, TCU, Baylor, CincinnatiHome-and-Home opponents - Colorado, Iowa State, Kansas State, Houston, UCF

Basketball Schedule Loaded as KU Celebrates the 70th Season in Allen Fieldhouse

LAS VEGAS (AP) — Colorado coach Deion Sanders took some time at the start of his first Big 12 media days appearance Wednesday to salute some of the other coaches in the league.

The Pro Football Hall of Fame player, now going into his second season coaching in a power conference, then told everyone that he has to operate under an entirely different umbrella.

“I’m judged on a different scale,” Sanders said. “My wins are totally different than your wins. Your wins, you just judge football, that’s why I start out (talking about) education and academics and so forth. I have to give you those things so you understand there’s a greater scope.”

Sanders touted the team's GPA, the 16 Buffs coaches and staff members with NFL experience, a 20% increase in student applications to Colorado and a “crazy” economic impact for the school.

After Sanders led HBCU school Jackson State to a 27-6 record over three seasons, including 23-3 with back-to-back Southwestern Athletic Conference titles the last two, he got off to a fast start at Colorado winning his first three games last season before going on to finish 4-8. Colorado was picked to finish 11th in the Big 12 preseason media poll.

“I can’t win nine games and our GPA suffers,” Sanders said. “Our GPA can’t be high and we lose another eight games. We can’t not go and grab high school players, and you’ve got a bunch of guys in the portal, out of the portal getting incarcerated. My wins are different. We have to win in every area. That’s the way we’re judged.”

Sanders' sons, senior quarterback Shedeur and graduate safety Shilo, also took part in Big 12 media days.

Shedeur Sanders threw for a school-record 3,230 yards with 27 touchdowns in his first season at the FBS level while completing 69% of his passes. But he was also the most-sacked quarterback (52) in the country.

“I remember first media day when I was in HBCU, I said we won’t lose the game. I’m undefeated in the SWAC, so I already know what the expectation comes with, I know we’re everybody’s Super Bowl," he said. "So, I always stay level-headed, stay grounded because I would never want to be that guy, look back, and not being able to take advantage of the moment that we have right now.”

Shilo Sanders is going through a bankruptcy case he filed last October because he faces a nearly $11.9 million judgment stemming from an alleged assault against a Dallas school security guard who was trying to confiscate his phone in 2015. Shilo Sanders, now 24, was 15 at the time.

The security guard said he suffered a broken spine and nerve damage after getting elbowed in the neck. He immediately filed a police report, sued in a Texas court the next year and was awarded the judgement after Shilo Sanders didn’t show up for hearings in 2022.

“Honestly, that kind of stuff, you’re not gonna win a court case on social media,” Shilo Sanders said when asked about it Wednesday. "And at the end of the day everybody is gonna know the truth about everything. So there’s no point just going out of my way to just do that. So everything’s good.”

While on the main podium, Deion Sanders spoke about Shedeur being recruited by Gus Malzahn when the current UCF coach was still at Auburn, and the younger Sanders playing in high school for current Texas Tech coach Joey McGuire.

“I’m just highlighting a couple of the coaches because they’ve been so kind, they’ve been so considerate. They’ve been so wonderful to me,” Deion Sanders said. ”I remember going there to Auburn and (Malzahn) just has been the same consistent man since. He’s a phenomenal coach.”

Sanders called both Mike Gundy, who is going into his 20th season at Oklahoma State, and Big 12 Commissioner Brett Yormark legends. He also expressed his love for McGuire.

“Joey has been the same consistent great coach that he’s always been. Joey, if you out there, I love you, I appreciate you. You keep on doing what you do,” Sanders said. "Except when we come to play you, I want you to keep on doing your thing. But I love you, man, I really do. And you’re doing a wonderful work down there at Texas Tech.”

The Buffaloes, who open the season Aug. 29 at home against FCS power North Dakota State, play at Texas Tech on Nov. 9.

The Big 12 will be a 16-team league with Arizona, Arizona State, Colorado and Utah officially becoming members at the start of August.

LAS VEGAS (AP) — Colorado coach Deion Sanders took some time at the start of his first Big 12 media days appearance Wednesday to salute some of the other coaches in the league.The Pro Football Hall of Fame player, now going into his second season coaching in a power conference, then told everyone that he has to operate under an entirely different umbrella.“I’m judged on a different scale,” Sanders said. “My wins are totally different than your wins. Your wins, you just judge football, that’s why I start out (talking about) education and academics and so forth. I have to give you those things so you understand there’s a greater scope.”Sanders touted the team's GPA, the 16 Buffs coaches and staff members with NFL experience, a 20% increase in student applications to Colorado and a “crazy” economic impact for the school.After Sanders led HBCU school Jackson State to a 27-6 record over three seasons, including 23-3 with back-to-back Southwestern Athletic Conference titles the last two, he got off to a fast start at Colorado winning his first three games last season before going on to finish 4-8. Colorado was picked to finish 11th in the Big 12 preseason media poll.“I can’t win nine games and our GPA suffers,” Sanders said. “Our GPA can’t be high and we lose another eight games. We can’t not go and grab high school players, and you’ve got a bunch of guys in the portal, out of the portal getting incarcerated. My wins are different. We have to win in every area. That’s the way we’re judged.”Sanders' sons, senior quarterback Shedeur and graduate safety Shilo, also took part in Big 12 media days.Shedeur Sanders threw for a school-record 3,230 yards with 27 touchdowns in his first season at the FBS level while completing 69% of his passes. But he was also the most-sacked quarterback (52) in the country.“I remember first media day when I was in HBCU, I said we won’t lose the game. I’m undefeated in the SWAC, so I already know what the expectation comes with, I know we’re everybody’s Super Bowl," he said. "So, I always stay level-headed, stay grounded because I would never want to be that guy, look back, and not being able to take advantage of the moment that we have right now.”Shilo Sanders is going through a bankruptcy case he filed last October because he faces a nearly $11.9 million judgment stemming from an alleged assault against a Dallas school security guard who was trying to confiscate his phone in 2015. Shilo Sanders, now 24, was 15 at the time.The security guard said he suffered a broken spine and nerve damage after getting elbowed in the neck. He immediately filed a police report, sued in a Texas court the next year and was awarded the judgement after Shilo Sanders didn’t show up for hearings in 2022.“Honestly, that kind of stuff, you’re not gonna win a court case on social media,” Shilo Sanders said when asked about it Wednesday. "And at the end of the day everybody is gonna know the truth about everything. So there’s no point just going out of my way to just do that. So everything’s good.”While on the main podium, Deion Sanders spoke about Shedeur being recruited by Gus Malzahn when the current UCF coach was still at Auburn, and the younger Sanders playing in high school for current Texas Tech coach Joey McGuire.“I’m just highlighting a couple of the coaches because they’ve been so kind, they’ve been so considerate. They’ve been so wonderful to me,” Deion Sanders said. ”I remember going there to Auburn and (Malzahn) just has been the same consistent man since. He’s a phenomenal coach.”Sanders called both Mike Gundy, who is going into his 20th season at Oklahoma State, and Big 12 Commissioner Brett Yormark legends. He also expressed his love for McGuire.“Joey has been the same consistent great coach that he’s always been. Joey, if you out there, I love you, I appreciate you. You keep on doing what you do,” Sanders said. "Except when we come to play you, I want you to keep on doing your thing. But I love you, man, I really do. And you’re doing a wonderful work down there at Texas Tech.”The Buffaloes, who open the season Aug. 29 at home against FCS power North Dakota State, play at Texas Tech on Nov. 9.The Big 12 will be a 16-team league with Arizona, Arizona State, Colorado and Utah officially becoming members at the start of August.

Prime Time in Big 12, with Colorado's Deion Sanders giving props to other league coaches

By GARY VAN CLEAVE Special to Great Bend Post&nbsp;

When watching the Russell Broncos this fall, avoid blinking when possible. Especially when Walker Middleton has the football.

“It seems like once you blink,” junior lineman Ian Strobel said, “he is already down the field.

“He is an electrifying player who keeps his head down and works hard on and off the field,” Strobel continued. “He lets his playing do all of the talking.”

“I am a quiet leader and leads by example and let my playing do the talking,” said Middleton, who as a sophomore last year caught seven touchdown passes and totaled 541 receiving yards on 50 catches.

“When someone tries to tackle him, he always finds a way out of the tackle,” junior receiver Dominick Hernandez said. “Whether it’s a juke move or he simply just out-runs him.”

“His explosiveness, he’s a very elusive playmaker,” sophomore defensive end sack specialist Brody Pfannenstiel said. “Even if there isn’t great a great block, he can still make a play.”

Middleton also carried 19 times for 171 yds and a pair of rushing touchdowns to go with a pick six.

“I mean he’s got wheels and he’s tough to bring down,” graduated senior Seth Schneider noted. “Trying to tackle him was a nightmare.”

“He is a really fast talented back. He is also very shifty and hard to tackle, hard to bring down when you wrap him up,” senior receiver Landon Robinson said.

“He’s very quick on his feet and very reactive,” senior fullback Brayden Suchy said. “He’s good with finding openings in the defense to get us a good amount of yards.”

One of Middleton’s TD catches went for 72 yards.

“I caught a five-yard reception then cut back into middle of the field then cut back to the sideline then just took off,” Middleton said.

“It felt pretty good because it was our second game against Plainville and later in that game we came back and won it,” Middleton added of his seven-catch, 130-yard, two TD game.

In the season opener against Ellis, he accounted for three touchdowns.

“His football IQ is off the charts,” senior quarterback Mason Rohr said. “I know he will find the open spots and make the plays we need. He also knows how to use his strengths on the football field and be a go-to guy for us at all times.”

“Walker is overall a great kid, he puts in the work day in and day out,” junior tight end Alex Krug said. “He is a great leader and will get any job done he is tasked with. Walker can out-run all opponents with his speed and athleticism. I would choose him as my teammate any day of the week.”

“He’s the quickest and fastest reacting guy I’ve ever seen on a football field,” junior receiver Sam Thielen said.

Trey Zorn, backup junior quarterback, called Middleton ‘unstoppable’ in the open field.

“Very natural athlete, very shifty, size doesn’t matter to him and very coachable kid,” Zorn said.

“Gone. He’s there then gone,” junior fullback Slayde Nuss said. “Walker is very quick and also smart, he also loves to compete to make people better.”

The Broncos look to improve on last year’s 4-5 season in which they capped with a 57-6 beating of Southwestern Heights.

“We can be one of the best in the state because we have a lot of experience returning back,” Middleton said. “That’s what we lacked last year.”

“Walker’s speed is some of the quickest fast twitch I’ve ever seen, his change of direction is unlike anyone else,” graduated senior Peyton Pfannenstiel said. “I don’t know too much about this year with him putting in work, but he’s always been a hard worker. He’s one of those guys who really understands the game and I think that’s why he’s so talented.”

“Whatever goals you and the team have set and you exceed past those goals, that is what success means to me,” Middleton said.

“It feels good to watch him bust a big play after I set the edge or blocking in the open field and watch him take off,” Strobel said.

“I hope to leave a winning mentality and hope the younger classes continue on the mentality and culture,” Middleton said. “I’m just excited to be playing football again and can’t wait to see what I can do this year.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1720705193977.jpeg" alt="Walker Middleton is preparing for his junior year at Russell High School." />
 <figcaption>Walker Middleton is preparing for his junior year at Russell High School.</figcaption>
 </figure>By GARY VAN CLEAVE Special to Great Bend Post&nbsp;When watching the Russell Broncos this fall, avoid blinking when possible. Especially when Walker Middleton has the football.“It seems like once you blink,” junior lineman Ian Strobel said, “he is already down the field.“He is an electrifying player who keeps his head down and works hard on and off the field,” Strobel continued. “He lets his playing do all of the talking.”“I am a quiet leader and leads by example and let my playing do the talking,” said Middleton, who as a sophomore last year caught seven touchdown passes and totaled 541 receiving yards on 50 catches.“When someone tries to tackle him, he always finds a way out of the tackle,” junior receiver Dominick Hernandez said. “Whether it’s a juke move or he simply just out-runs him.”“His explosiveness, he’s a very elusive playmaker,” sophomore defensive end sack specialist Brody Pfannenstiel said. “Even if there isn’t great a great block, he can still make a play.”Middleton also carried 19 times for 171 yds and a pair of rushing touchdowns to go with a pick six.“I mean he’s got wheels and he’s tough to bring down,” graduated senior Seth Schneider noted. “Trying to tackle him was a nightmare.”“He is a really fast talented back. He is also very shifty and hard to tackle, hard to bring down when you wrap him up,” senior receiver Landon Robinson said.“He’s very quick on his feet and very reactive,” senior fullback Brayden Suchy said. “He’s good with finding openings in the defense to get us a good amount of yards.”One of Middleton’s TD catches went for 72 yards.“I caught a five-yard reception then cut back into middle of the field then cut back to the sideline then just took off,” Middleton said.“It felt pretty good because it was our second game against Plainville and later in that game we came back and won it,” Middleton added of his seven-catch, 130-yard, two TD game.In the season opener against Ellis, he accounted for three touchdowns.“His football IQ is off the charts,” senior quarterback Mason Rohr said. “I know he will find the open spots and make the plays we need. He also knows how to use his strengths on the football field and be a go-to guy for us at all times.”“Walker is overall a great kid, he puts in the work day in and day out,” junior tight end Alex Krug said. “He is a great leader and will get any job done he is tasked with. Walker can out-run all opponents with his speed and athleticism. I would choose him as my teammate any day of the week.”“He’s the quickest and fastest reacting guy I’ve ever seen on a football field,” junior receiver Sam Thielen said.Trey Zorn, backup junior quarterback, called Middleton ‘unstoppable’ in the open field.“Very natural athlete, very shifty, size doesn’t matter to him and very coachable kid,” Zorn said.“Gone. He’s there then gone,” junior fullback Slayde Nuss said. “Walker is very quick and also smart, he also loves to compete to make people better.”The Broncos look to improve on last year’s 4-5 season in which they capped with a 57-6 beating of Southwestern Heights.“We can be one of the best in the state because we have a lot of experience returning back,” Middleton said. “That’s what we lacked last year.”“Walker’s speed is some of the quickest fast twitch I’ve ever seen, his change of direction is unlike anyone else,” graduated senior Peyton Pfannenstiel said. “I don’t know too much about this year with him putting in work, but he’s always been a hard worker. He’s one of those guys who really understands the game and I think that’s why he’s so talented.”Middleton defines success like this.“Whatever goals you and the team have set and you exceed past those goals, that is what success means to me,” Middleton said.“It feels good to watch him bust a big play after I set the edge or blocking in the open field and watch him take off,” Strobel said.“I hope to leave a winning mentality and hope the younger classes continue on the mentality and culture,” Middleton said. “I’m just excited to be playing football again and can’t wait to see what I can do this year.”

Speedy Middleton looking for more Russell football success

2nd Half Standings TEAM&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; CONF&nbsp; &nbsp; ALL&nbsp; &nbsp;GB Hutch Monarchs&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 8-2&nbsp; &nbsp; 19-7&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;- Dirtbag Baseball&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 6-2&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;8-12&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;1.0 Derby Twins&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 6-3&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;17-9&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;1.5 Kansas Cannons&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;5-4&nbsp; &nbsp; 17-8&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;2.5 Great Bend Bat Cats&nbsp; 5-4&nbsp; &nbsp;16-9&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;2.5 Kingman Islanders&nbsp; &nbsp; 3-4&nbsp; &nbsp;8-13&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 3.5 Haysville Aviators&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 3-7&nbsp; &nbsp;16-10&nbsp; &nbsp; 5.0 Diamond Kings&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 2-6&nbsp; 5-16&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 5.0 Newton Rebels&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;1-7&nbsp; &nbsp;4-21&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 6.0 * Kansas Cannons 1st half Champions. Automatic berth into NBC World Series Wednesday Scores Great Bend 9, Haysville 0 Kingman 7, Diamond Kings 4 Dirtbag Baseball 10, Derby 8 Hutchinson 15, Newton 2 Thursday Schedule Dirtbag Baseball @ Great Bend Kansas Cannons @ Newton Wellington @ Derby Friday Schedule Great Bend @ Dirtbag Baseball (Wichita) Derby @ Kingman Newton @ Kansas Cannons Diamond Kings @ Hutchinson

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688644906611.png" alt="Jayhawk Collegiate League Standings, Scores, Schedule" />
 <figcaption>Jayhawk Collegiate League Standings, Scores, Schedule</figcaption>
 </figure>2nd Half Standings TEAM&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; CONF&nbsp; &nbsp; ALL&nbsp; &nbsp;GB Hutch Monarchs&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 8-2&nbsp; &nbsp; 19-7&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;- Dirtbag Baseball&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 6-2&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;8-12&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;1.0 Derby Twins&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 6-3&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;17-9&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;1.5 Kansas Cannons&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;5-4&nbsp; &nbsp; 17-8&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;2.5 Great Bend Bat Cats&nbsp; 5-4&nbsp; &nbsp;16-9&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;2.5 Kingman Islanders&nbsp; &nbsp; 3-4&nbsp; &nbsp;8-13&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 3.5 Haysville Aviators&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 3-7&nbsp; &nbsp;16-10&nbsp; &nbsp; 5.0 Diamond Kings&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 2-6&nbsp; 5-16&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 5.0 Newton Rebels&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;1-7&nbsp; &nbsp;4-21&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 6.0 * Kansas Cannons 1st half Champions. Automatic berth into NBC World Series Wednesday Scores Great Bend 9, Haysville 0 Kingman 7, Diamond Kings 4 Dirtbag Baseball 10, Derby 8 Hutchinson 15, Newton 2 Thursday Schedule Dirtbag Baseball @ Great Bend Kansas Cannons @ Newton Wellington @ Derby Friday Schedule Great Bend @ Dirtbag Baseball (Wichita) Derby @ Kingman Newton @ Kansas Cannons Diamond Kings @ Hutchinson