WASHINGTON (AP) — The NCAA and former college athletes are getting ready to play ball at the Supreme Court.

With the March Madness basketball tournament ongoing, the high court will hear arguments Wednesday in a case about how colleges can reward athletes who play Division I basketball and football. The NCAA says if the former college students who brought the case win, it could erase the distinction between professional and college sports.

Under current NCAA rules, students can’t be paid, and the scholarship money colleges can offer is capped at the cost of attending the school. The NCAA defends its rules as necessary to preserving the amateur nature of college sports.

But if the Supreme Court sides with the former students, those caps on educational benefits could go away. If individual athletic conferences agree, schools could offer tens of thousands of dollars in education benefits for things such as postgraduate scholarships, tutoring, study abroad opportunities, vocational school payments. That could create a bidding war for the best players.

The former athletes who brought the case, including former West Virginia football player Shawne Alston, say the NCAA’s current rules deprive students of the ability to be rewarded for their athletic talents and hard work because most of them will never play professional sports. So far, the former players have won every round of the case. Lower courts agreed that the NCAA’s rules capping the education-related benefits schools can violate a federal antitrust law.

Whatever happens at the high court, how college athletes are compensated is already likely changing. The NCAA is in the process of trying to amend its longstanding rules to allow athletes to profit from their names, images and likenesses. That would allow athletes to earn money for things like sponsorship deals, online endorsement and personal appearances. For the top athletes, those amounts could dwarf any education-related benefits.

The former college athletes have some big-time supporters. The players associations of the NFL, NBA and WNBA are all urging the justices to side with the former athletes, as is the Biden administration.

The justices are hearing arguments by phone in the case as they have been doing for almost a year because of the coronavirus pandemic. They will almost certainly issue a decision in the case before they leave for their summer break at the end of June.

The NCAA wasn’t happy with the outcome the last time its rules were before the Supreme Court. In 1984, the high court rejected NCAA rules restricting the broadcast of college football. The justices’ ruling transformed college sports, helping it become the multibillion-dollar business it is today.

WASHINGTON (AP) — The NCAA and former college athletes are getting ready to play ball at the Supreme Court.With the March Madness basketball tournament ongoing, the high court will hear arguments Wednesday in a case about how colleges can reward athletes who play Division I basketball and football. The NCAA says if the former college students who brought the case win, it could erase the distinction between professional and college sports.Under current NCAA rules, students can’t be paid, and the scholarship money colleges can offer is capped at the cost of attending the school. The NCAA defends its rules as necessary to preserving the amateur nature of college sports.But if the Supreme Court sides with the former students, those caps on educational benefits could go away. If individual athletic conferences agree, schools could offer tens of thousands of dollars in education benefits for things such as postgraduate scholarships, tutoring, study abroad opportunities, vocational school payments. That could create a bidding war for the best players.The former athletes who brought the case, including former West Virginia football player Shawne Alston, say the NCAA’s current rules deprive students of the ability to be rewarded for their athletic talents and hard work because most of them will never play professional sports. So far, the former players have won every round of the case. Lower courts agreed that the NCAA’s rules capping the education-related benefits schools can violate a federal antitrust law.Whatever happens at the high court, how college athletes are compensated is already likely changing. The NCAA is in the process of trying to amend its longstanding rules to allow athletes to profit from their names, images and likenesses. That would allow athletes to earn money for things like sponsorship deals, online endorsement and personal appearances. For the top athletes, those amounts could dwarf any education-related benefits.The former college athletes have some big-time supporters. The players associations of the NFL, NBA and WNBA are all urging the justices to side with the former athletes, as is the Biden administration.The justices are hearing arguments by phone in the case as they have been doing for almost a year because of the coronavirus pandemic. They will almost certainly issue a decision in the case before they leave for their summer break at the end of June.The NCAA wasn’t happy with the outcome the last time its rules were before the Supreme Court. In 1984, the high court rejected NCAA rules restricting the broadcast of college football. The justices’ ruling transformed college sports, helping it become the multibillion-dollar business it is today.

Ball in their court: Justices take on NCAA restrictions


A narrow loss and a blowout was part of opening day for the Great
Bend Panther baseball team Tuesday in Junction City.


Great Bend dropped a tough 10-9 decision in 9-innings to the host
Blue Jays before falling 10-0 to the McPherson Bullpups.


The Panthers (0-2) return to action Tuesday when they host Hutchinson
in a double header that starts at 4pm at the Great Bend Sports
Complex.

A narrow loss and a blowout was part of opening day for the Great
Bend Panther baseball team Tuesday in Junction City.
Great Bend dropped a tough 10-9 decision in 9-innings to the host
Blue Jays before falling 10-0 to the McPherson Bullpups.
The Panthers (0-2) return to action Tuesday when they host Hutchinson
in a double header that starts at 4pm at the Great Bend Sports
Complex.

Panther Baseball opens season with a pair of losses

The Great Bend Lady Panther softball team began the 2021 season on the road Tuesday in Manhattan where they played McPherson and the host Indians.

McPherson defeated Great Bend 3-0 before the Lady Panthers fell to Manhattan 6-0.

Great Bend (0-2) returns to action Thursday at Newton where they will play Valley Center and the host Railers.

First pitch is scheduled for 2pm.&nbsp; &nbsp;

The Great Bend Lady Panther softball team began the 2021 season on the road Tuesday in Manhattan where they played McPherson and the host Indians.McPherson defeated Great Bend 3-0 before the Lady Panthers fell to Manhattan 6-0.Great Bend (0-2) returns to action Thursday at Newton where they will play Valley Center and the host Railers. First pitch is scheduled for 2pm.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Lady Panthers swept at Manhattan

INDIANAPOLIS (AP) — Drew Timme provided 15 of his 23 points while top-seeded Gonzaga outscored Southern Cal, 49-30 in the first half of an 85-66 win over the Trojans. Jalen Suggs just missed a triple-double for the 30-0 Zags, delivering 18 points, 10 rebounds and eight assists as Gonzaga advanced to the Final Four of the NCAA Tournament. All-American Corey Kispert had 18 points and eight boards on an “off” night, hitting just six of his 19 shots from the floor.

INDIANAPOLIS (AP) — UCLA survived a series of nail-biting misses by top-seeded Michigan in the closing seconds for a 51-49 victory that made the Bruins the fifth No. 11 seed ever to reach the Final Four of the NCAA men's basketball tournament. Johnny Juzang poured in 28 points while playing most of the second half on a sore ankle. Tyger Campbell added 11 points for the Bruins, who will face Gonzaga in the national semifinals.

SAN ANTONIO (AP) — Stanford and South Carolina have joined UConn and Arizona in the NCAA Women's Final Four. Zia Cooke scored 16 points and the Gamecocks used their stifling defense to advance to the Final Four for the third time, shutting down Texas, 62-34. Lexie Hull scored 21 points and Stanford reached the Final Four for the 14th time by rallying for a 78-63 victory over Louisville.

UNDATED (AP) — The NFL regular-season schedule is expanding from 16 to 17 games, the first increase since the league went from 14 to 16 games before the 1978 season. Team owners approved the 17th game today as expected, with the extra contest being an interconference matchup based on where teams finished in the previous season. The Super Bowl now will move back a week to Feb. 13, which places it directly in the middle of the Winter Olympics in Beijing. NBC is the rights holder for both events.

UNDATED (AP) — An NCAA survey of Division I basketball conferences shows 82% of scheduled men’s and women’s games were played despite many stops and starts because of the pandemic. The Missouri Valley played all 90 of its men's games. It was the only league to play all of them. The Big 12 led women's conferences with 89 of 90 games played. The conferences playing the fewest games was the Colonial on the men's side and the Southern on the women's. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616937246167.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>INDIANAPOLIS (AP) — Drew Timme provided 15 of his 23 points while top-seeded Gonzaga outscored Southern Cal, 49-30 in the first half of an 85-66 win over the Trojans. Jalen Suggs just missed a triple-double for the 30-0 Zags, delivering 18 points, 10 rebounds and eight assists as Gonzaga advanced to the Final Four of the NCAA Tournament. All-American Corey Kispert had 18 points and eight boards on an “off” night, hitting just six of his 19 shots from the floor.INDIANAPOLIS (AP) — UCLA survived a series of nail-biting misses by top-seeded Michigan in the closing seconds for a 51-49 victory that made the Bruins the fifth No. 11 seed ever to reach the Final Four of the NCAA men's basketball tournament. Johnny Juzang poured in 28 points while playing most of the second half on a sore ankle. Tyger Campbell added 11 points for the Bruins, who will face Gonzaga in the national semifinals.SAN ANTONIO (AP) — Stanford and South Carolina have joined UConn and Arizona in the NCAA Women's Final Four. Zia Cooke scored 16 points and the Gamecocks used their stifling defense to advance to the Final Four for the third time, shutting down Texas, 62-34. Lexie Hull scored 21 points and Stanford reached the Final Four for the 14th time by rallying for a 78-63 victory over Louisville.UNDATED (AP) — The NFL regular-season schedule is expanding from 16 to 17 games, the first increase since the league went from 14 to 16 games before the 1978 season. Team owners approved the 17th game today as expected, with the extra contest being an interconference matchup based on where teams finished in the previous season. The Super Bowl now will move back a week to Feb. 13, which places it directly in the middle of the Winter Olympics in Beijing. NBC is the rights holder for both events.UNDATED (AP) — An NCAA survey of Division I basketball conferences shows 82% of scheduled men’s and women’s games were played despite many stops and starts because of the pandemic. The Missouri Valley played all 90 of its men's games. It was the only league to play all of them. The Big 12 led women's conferences with 89 of 90 games played. The conferences playing the fewest games was the Colonial on the men's side and the Southern on the women's. TUESDAY SCORESINTERLEAGUEFinal	Atlanta	5	Boston	3	Final	Milwaukee	6	Texas	3	Final	Colorado	2	Chicago White Sox	1	Final	Arizona	3	Cleveland	2	Final	L.A. Dodgers	6	L.A. Angels	4	Final	Pittsburgh	1	Minnesota	1	AMERICAN LEAGUEFinal	Tampa Bay	5	Detroit	0	TOP-25 COLLEGE BASKETBALLFinal	(1)Gonzaga	85	(23)Southern Cal	66	Final	UCLA	51	(4)Michigan	49	NATIONAL BASKETBALL ASSOCIATIONFinal	Charlotte	114	Washington	104	Final	Denver	104	Philadelphia	95	Final	Phoenix	117	Atlanta	110	Final	Orlando	103	L.A. Clippers	96

Wednesday Sports Headlines and Scores presented by Barton Community College

The 7th ranked Barton County Community College men's team put up a fight Friday in Arkansas City, Kansas, but the nation's 2nd ranked Tigers of Cowley College prevailed in a 9-0 victory.

The Cougars' next action will be Thursday in a 1:00 p.m. first serve at Rockhurst University.

D1: Samrakshyak Bajracharya / Eduardo Morais lost to Jack Clements / Takeshi Taco 8-2

D2: James Kaoma / Barnabas Kalaba lost to Alejandro Orihuela / Aymeric Bruno 8-5

D3: Victor Pestana / Yordi Ponce def. Andoni Garmendia / Carlos Castillo

S1: Samrakshyak Bajracharya lost to #2 Jack Clements 6-4, 6-1

S2: James Kaoma lost to Aymeric Bruno 6-1, 6-4

S3: Eduardo Morais lost to #33 Alejandro Orihuela 6-3, 6-0

S4: Victor Pestana lost to Andoni Garmendia 6-1, 6-2

S5: Barnabas Kalaba lost to Javi Pla 7-5, 6-2

S6: Leonel Caspe lost to Andreas Lavdas 6-3, 7-5

The 7th ranked Barton County Community College men's team put up a fight Friday in Arkansas City, Kansas, but the nation's 2nd ranked Tigers of Cowley College prevailed in a 9-0 victory.The Cougars' next action will be Thursday in a 1:00 p.m. first serve at Rockhurst University.Doubles Results:D1: Samrakshyak Bajracharya / Eduardo Morais lost to Jack Clements / Takeshi Taco 8-2D2: James Kaoma / Barnabas Kalaba lost to Alejandro Orihuela / Aymeric Bruno 8-5D3: Victor Pestana / Yordi Ponce def. Andoni Garmendia / Carlos CastilloSingles Results:S1: Samrakshyak Bajracharya lost to #2 Jack Clements 6-4, 6-1S2: James Kaoma lost to Aymeric Bruno 6-1, 6-4S3: Eduardo Morais lost to #33 Alejandro Orihuela 6-3, 6-0S4: Victor Pestana lost to Andoni Garmendia 6-1, 6-2S5: Barnabas Kalaba lost to Javi Pla 7-5, 6-2S6: Leonel Caspe lost to Andreas Lavdas 6-3, 7-5

Seventh ranked Cougar Tennis drops road match at No. 2 Cowley

It’s not easy to bury a team as good as USC, let alone in a half, no matter how easy Gonzaga made it look. Somehow, coach Mark Few called it in advance.

While everyone was fixating on the top-seeded Bulldogs’ make-it-rain offense, one reporter took the opposite tack. He asked Few the day before their game against the high-flying Trojans whether his defense was getting lost in the shuffle. He replied like he’d been waiting days for that question.

“I think,” Few said, “we’ve had some excellent, I mean, off-the-chart performances, and some terrific halves.”

Gonzaga’s defense dropped one of those like an anvil on No. 6 USC in Tuesday night’s Elite Eight contest. Michigan, the bracket’s other No. 1 seed in action, played decent defense against everyone in a UCLA jersey except No. 3, Johnny Juzang, and man, did he make them pay.

The Zags won’t make that mistake when they face the Bruins in one Final Four matchup come Saturday with the chance to extend their perfect (30-0) season. Baylor, the other top seed still standing and the likeliest giant-killer left, plays No. 2 Houston in the other.

Juzang scored 14 of UCLA’s first 16 points and finished with 28, more than half the total in a 51-49 win, He had five more than the Bruins’ four other starters combined and the bench wasn’t much help either. Five teammates took just three shots in 34 minutes and contributed zero points to the effort. Yet that proved enough after Michigan missed its last eight tries, including four in the final 11 seconds that would have put them ahead.

“There’s one or two possessions that can either help you or hurt you and for us,” as coach Juwaan Howard charitably put it, “we came up short.”

The Zags in full flight are something to behold. They were up 7-0 after just two minutes, 15-4 after five and 49-30 at the half. Barely two minutes past intermission, it was 56-34. The rest of the second half was more a formality than a competitive game. Final score: 85-66.

If you’re sensing a pattern here, you should be. Most of the traffic is going one way.

The Zags scored inside, in transition and from behind the 3-point line. They’re so easy on the eyes with the ball in their hands that it’s easy to overlook how often they got it back without a made USC basket. Unless, that is, you had an assistant coach charting turnovers (seven of their 10 total in the opening 12 minutes), steals, offensive rebounds and desperation shots that probably weren’t a good idea in the first place.

Trojans coach Andy Enfield had that breakdown within arm’s reach when he sat for the postgame press conference. USC shot just 39% from the field, 27% from behind the arc and grabbed a dozen less rebounds. He didn’t need to look.

“It was a little surprising,” he shrugged, “because we’d been playing great basketball.”

So has Baylor, which showed plenty of firepower and some of the same grit on the other end while de-fanging No. 3 Arkansas a night earlier. The Bears have forced plenty of turnovers against three previous tournament rivals — Wisconsin, Villanova and the aforementioned Razorbacks (15) — with a reputation for taking care of the ball.

Guard Davion Mitchell, a buzzsaw with the ball in his hands, often winds up drawing the toughest defensive assignment, too.

“Obviously, I think he’s the best defender in the country,” Baylor coach Scott Drew said. He added: “We call him Off Night, because people tend to have off nights with him. But he’s a nightmare to bring the ball up against. And he sets the tone for our defense.”

Gonzaga and Baylor were scheduled to play in early December before the Zags program ran afoul of the sport’s COVID-19 protocol. Both were in a separate class from the rest of college basketball at the time. Then Baylor’s bout with the virus came late in the season, requiring a pause of three weeks plus.

After everything else fans weathered throughout this wacky season, a few more days might finally deliver a national championship game worth the wait.

It’s not easy to bury a team as good as USC, let alone in a half, no matter how easy Gonzaga made it look. Somehow, coach Mark Few called it in advance.While everyone was fixating on the top-seeded Bulldogs’ make-it-rain offense, one reporter took the opposite tack. He asked Few the day before their game against the high-flying Trojans whether his defense was getting lost in the shuffle. He replied like he’d been waiting days for that question.“I think,” Few said, “we’ve had some excellent, I mean, off-the-chart performances, and some terrific halves.”Gonzaga’s defense dropped one of those like an anvil on No. 6 USC in Tuesday night’s Elite Eight contest. Michigan, the bracket’s other No. 1 seed in action, played decent defense against everyone in a UCLA jersey except No. 3, Johnny Juzang, and man, did he make them pay.The Zags won’t make that mistake when they face the Bruins in one Final Four matchup come Saturday with the chance to extend their perfect (30-0) season. Baylor, the other top seed still standing and the likeliest giant-killer left, plays No. 2 Houston in the other.Juzang scored 14 of UCLA’s first 16 points and finished with 28, more than half the total in a 51-49 win, He had five more than the Bruins’ four other starters combined and the bench wasn’t much help either. Five teammates took just three shots in 34 minutes and contributed zero points to the effort. Yet that proved enough after Michigan missed its last eight tries, including four in the final 11 seconds that would have put them ahead.“There’s one or two possessions that can either help you or hurt you and for us,” as coach Juwaan Howard charitably put it, “we came up short.”The Zags in full flight are something to behold. They were up 7-0 after just two minutes, 15-4 after five and 49-30 at the half. Barely two minutes past intermission, it was 56-34. The rest of the second half was more a formality than a competitive game. Final score: 85-66.If you’re sensing a pattern here, you should be. Most of the traffic is going one way.The Zags scored inside, in transition and from behind the 3-point line. They’re so easy on the eyes with the ball in their hands that it’s easy to overlook how often they got it back without a made USC basket. Unless, that is, you had an assistant coach charting turnovers (seven of their 10 total in the opening 12 minutes), steals, offensive rebounds and desperation shots that probably weren’t a good idea in the first place.Trojans coach Andy Enfield had that breakdown within arm’s reach when he sat for the postgame press conference. USC shot just 39% from the field, 27% from behind the arc and grabbed a dozen less rebounds. He didn’t need to look.“It was a little surprising,” he shrugged, “because we’d been playing great basketball.”So has Baylor, which showed plenty of firepower and some of the same grit on the other end while de-fanging No. 3 Arkansas a night earlier. The Bears have forced plenty of turnovers against three previous tournament rivals — Wisconsin, Villanova and the aforementioned Razorbacks (15) — with a reputation for taking care of the ball.Guard Davion Mitchell, a buzzsaw with the ball in his hands, often winds up drawing the toughest defensive assignment, too.“Obviously, I think he’s the best defender in the country,” Baylor coach Scott Drew said. He added: “We call him Off Night, because people tend to have off nights with him. But he’s a nightmare to bring the ball up against. And he sets the tone for our defense.”Gonzaga and Baylor were scheduled to play in early December before the Zags program ran afoul of the sport’s COVID-19 protocol. Both were in a separate class from the rest of college basketball at the time. Then Baylor’s bout with the virus came late in the season, requiring a pause of three weeks plus.After everything else fans weathered throughout this wacky season, a few more days might finally deliver a national championship game worth the wait.

Final Four set, a question left: Can anybody beat Gonzaga?

Nearly four months after the 2020 season finished, the Kansas Jayhawks are set to return to the field Tuesday to open spring practice.

The Jayhawks will practice 15 times leading up to the May 1 Spring Game.

The team arrived back on campus in January after winter break and have been working with strength and conditioning coach Ben Iannacchione and his staff to prepare for spring ball. The first five or so weeks of the offseason conditioning period with Iannacchione were spent building strength after the season and long winter break, while also focusing on speed and explosion.

“We really wanted to focus on getting them strong again,” Iannacchione said. “I’m also a big believer in body composition. I want our guys not to be carrying around a lot of non-functioning mass. So we focused on that during the early offseason.”

Iannacchione continued on what’s next: “We would like to continue to try to get strong, to try to get more powerful. We’ll start doing a lot more of our Olympic lifting and incorporating that into the weight room as well, and really just build upon the foundation we’ve already laid during the first few weeks.”

Iannacchione singled out the defensive line as a group that has excelled during the offseason conditioning. That group is a deep and talented one that had strong production last season. It features a mix of upperclassmen (Caleb Sampson, Sam Burt, Malcolm Lee) with several promising underclassmen (Marcus Harris, Da’Jon Terry, Jereme Robinson, Caleb Taylor and Kenean Caldwell).

“Our D-Line has been phenomenal,” Iannacchione said. “Marcus Harris, Da’Jon Terry, Caleb Sampson, Jereme Robinson, Caleb Taylor, Sam Burt, that whole group has been really, really good. I’m excited for our defensive line.”

This year’s team will also benefit from the added leadership of eight super-seniors who are using their extra year of eligibility to suit up for the Jayhawks again. On the offensive side, Kansas will welcome back receiver Kwamie Lassiter, offensive linemen Chris Hughes, Malik Clark and Adagio Lopeti, while Burt, linebacker Kyron Johnson and safeties Ricky Thomas and Nate Betts will return on defense.

On the flip side, the Jayhawks have several freshmen who enrolled mid-year to participate in spring ball. Quarterbacks Ben Easters and Conrad Hawley will both go through spring practice, as will offensive linemen De’Kedrick Sterns and Larson Workman on offense. Defensively, safeties OJ Burroughs and Jayson Gilliom will join cornerback DeVonte Wilson as enrollees. Also joining the Jayhawks this spring is transfer offensive lineman Colin Grunhard from Notre Dame and walk-ons Kevin Terry (wide receiver) and Kwinton Lassiter (cornerback).

“They’ve been awesome,” Iannacchione said of the newcomers. “We have a lot of young (defensive backs). We have some older DBs who have taken them under their wings as well. They’ve been doing a great job.”

The Jayhawks will hit the practice field at 3:55 p.m., Tuesday to start it all off. Practices are closed to the public. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599480844957.jpeg" alt="Kansas Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Kansas Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>Nearly four months after the 2020 season finished, the Kansas Jayhawks are set to return to the field Tuesday to open spring practice.The Jayhawks will practice 15 times leading up to the May 1 Spring Game.The team arrived back on campus in January after winter break and have been working with strength and conditioning coach Ben Iannacchione and his staff to prepare for spring ball. The first five or so weeks of the offseason conditioning period with Iannacchione were spent building strength after the season and long winter break, while also focusing on speed and explosion.“We really wanted to focus on getting them strong again,” Iannacchione said. “I’m also a big believer in body composition. I want our guys not to be carrying around a lot of non-functioning mass. So we focused on that during the early offseason.”Iannacchione continued on what’s next: “We would like to continue to try to get strong, to try to get more powerful. We’ll start doing a lot more of our Olympic lifting and incorporating that into the weight room as well, and really just build upon the foundation we’ve already laid during the first few weeks.”Iannacchione singled out the defensive line as a group that has excelled during the offseason conditioning. That group is a deep and talented one that had strong production last season. It features a mix of upperclassmen (Caleb Sampson, Sam Burt, Malcolm Lee) with several promising underclassmen (Marcus Harris, Da’Jon Terry, Jereme Robinson, Caleb Taylor and Kenean Caldwell).“Our D-Line has been phenomenal,” Iannacchione said. “Marcus Harris, Da’Jon Terry, Caleb Sampson, Jereme Robinson, Caleb Taylor, Sam Burt, that whole group has been really, really good. I’m excited for our defensive line.”This year’s team will also benefit from the added leadership of eight super-seniors who are using their extra year of eligibility to suit up for the Jayhawks again. On the offensive side, Kansas will welcome back receiver Kwamie Lassiter, offensive linemen Chris Hughes, Malik Clark and Adagio Lopeti, while Burt, linebacker Kyron Johnson and safeties Ricky Thomas and Nate Betts will return on defense.On the flip side, the Jayhawks have several freshmen who enrolled mid-year to participate in spring ball. Quarterbacks Ben Easters and Conrad Hawley will both go through spring practice, as will offensive linemen De’Kedrick Sterns and Larson Workman on offense. Defensively, safeties OJ Burroughs and Jayson Gilliom will join cornerback DeVonte Wilson as enrollees. Also joining the Jayhawks this spring is transfer offensive lineman Colin Grunhard from Notre Dame and walk-ons Kevin Terry (wide receiver) and Kwinton Lassiter (cornerback).“They’ve been awesome,” Iannacchione said of the newcomers. “We have a lot of young (defensive backs). We have some older DBs who have taken them under their wings as well. They’ve been doing a great job.”The Jayhawks will hit the practice field at 3:55 p.m., Tuesday to start it all off. Practices are closed to the public.

Jayhawks Set to Open Spring Practice

The Barton Community College baseball team finished off a four-game sweep over Dodge City Community College on Sunday, taking the twinbill at Cavalier Field 10-6 in extra innings and 18-4.

The victories were the sixth straight for the Cougars, improving to 7-5 in conference play and 19-6 overall. Dodge City drops to 2-6 in league and 12-8 on the year.

Barton will step out of conference play for its next four-game series, traveling to Region VI member Coffeyville Community College on Thursday before welcoming the Ravens to Lawson-Biggs Field on Saturday. A 1:00 p.m. first pitch is slated for each day's doubleheader.

The Cougars pounded out 24 hits in the fifteen innings played including 7 home runs. Two of the big flies came from Connor Scott in game one with his second putting Barton on top leading off the extra frame's 8th inning sparking the Cougars five runs.

On the mound, Zach Thornton struck out a career high 10 batters in five innings of game one with Carson Cornelius throwing the final three frames in striking out three to pick up his first collegiate victory. Game two reliever Logan Phillips nearly pitched a perfect 4.1 innings on the hill, striking out a career high six in keeping the Dodge City bats silent with no hits with one walk and two hit batsmen impriving to 2-1 on the year.

Scott went 6-for-10 on the afternoon while Shawn Marquis' four connections in seven plate appearances drove in a team high 6 RBIs.

Wade Reynolds, Jackson Hartley, and Jace Stewart also contributed to the home run total, connecting for their first collegiate fence clearers helping Barton to the big 18-4 game two victory.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1617101512057.jpeg" alt="Barton Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Barton Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>The Barton Community College baseball team finished off a four-game sweep over Dodge City Community College on Sunday, taking the twinbill at Cavalier Field 10-6 in extra innings and 18-4.The victories were the sixth straight for the Cougars, improving to 7-5 in conference play and 19-6 overall. Dodge City drops to 2-6 in league and 12-8 on the year.Barton will step out of conference play for its next four-game series, traveling to Region VI member Coffeyville Community College on Thursday before welcoming the Ravens to Lawson-Biggs Field on Saturday. A 1:00 p.m. first pitch is slated for each day's doubleheader.The Cougars pounded out 24 hits in the fifteen innings played including 7 home runs. Two of the big flies came from Connor Scott in game one with his second putting Barton on top leading off the extra frame's 8th inning sparking the Cougars five runs.On the mound, Zach Thornton struck out a career high 10 batters in five innings of game one with Carson Cornelius throwing the final three frames in striking out three to pick up his first collegiate victory. Game two reliever Logan Phillips nearly pitched a perfect 4.1 innings on the hill, striking out a career high six in keeping the Dodge City bats silent with no hits with one walk and two hit batsmen impriving to 2-1 on the year.Scott went 6-for-10 on the afternoon while Shawn Marquis' four connections in seven plate appearances drove in a team high 6 RBIs.Wade Reynolds, Jackson Hartley, and Jace Stewart also contributed to the home run total, connecting for their first collegiate fence clearers helping Barton to the big 18-4 game two victory.

Barton completes series sweep over Dodge City

Barton Men 63 Hutchinson 59; Barton Women 77 Hutchinson 58

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1612867320038.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Barton Men 63 Hutchinson 59; Barton Women 77 Hutchinson 58<div><iframe width="100%" height="265" src="https://clyp.it/podicmm1/widget" frameborder="0"></iframe></div>

NEW YORK (AP) — Card games, car pools and eating at restaurants may be back in the major leagues later this season. Trips to church and sponsor events may return, too.

Mask use would be dropped from dugouts and bullpens, and electronic tracing devices would be eliminated when 85% of major league players and primary field staff are vaccinated against the coronavirus. Communal clubhouse video would return before and after games. Pool tables would be restored, along with team saunas.

A three-page memorandum from Major League Baseball and the players’ association sent to players and staff on Monday and obtained by The Associated Press also stated “all players and staff are strongly encouraged to receive one of the approved COVID-19 vaccines when eligible.”

“For purposes of this memo, individuals are considered ‘fully vaccinated’ two weeks after receiving their second dose of a two-dose vaccine (Pfizer or Moderna) or two weeks after their first dose of a single dose vaccine (Johnson &amp; Johnson),” the memo stated.

Not many players have been vaccinated, according to MLB, but it expects the pace to increase after teams return to their home cities from spring training. Opening day is Thursday.

The St. Louis Cardinals and Houston Astros said Monday their players will be offered vaccines before openers and the San Francisco Giants said some of their players already had received vaccination shots.

MLB’s Tier 1 restrictions in place since last summer cover players, managers, coaches, bullpen catchers, team physicians, athletic trainers, physical therapists, and strength and conditioning coaches.

While clubhouse video rules would loosen before and after games, in-game use will remain covered by rules restricting in-game use to MLB-issued iPads with catcher’s signals blocked, regulations put in place in response to the Houston Astros sign-stealing scandal.

Once the 85% threshold is reached, fully vaccinated players and staff would be able to eat and drink on flights. They would be able to gather in indoor spaces such as hotels without masks or social distancing as long as non-vaccinated people aren’t present, and they would be able to carpool or use Uber or Lyft. The relaxation would not apply to gatherings in group facilities at ballparks, such as clubhouses.

Fully vaccinated people who have close contact with someone with COVID-19 would not have to quarantine unless they exhibit symptoms.

Vaccinated players and staff would have the option to reduce PCR saliva testing to twice weekly, similar to Tier 2 staff, such as front office and clubhouse employees, owners and groundskeepers.

Family members who are fully vaccinated and children who are not vaccinated would be able to stay with players and staff in hotel rooms during road trips, though MLB and the union cautioned that the Centers for Disease Control advised not to use commercial travel and to stay home unless necessary. Families also would be able to sit anywhere in ballparks and not be restricted to pods, subject to local laws and policies.

Players and staff would be able to meet outdoors with anyone on road trips, eliminating the restriction limiting them to household and family. They also would no longer be required to let club compliance officers know when they are leaving team hotels, and they would be allowed to stay at personal homes on road trips without a need for family quarantines or testing.

While attending religious services would be allowed, attending outdoor services would be encouraged.

Indians manager Terry Francona, who recently received his second vaccine, was pleased there weren’t many issues associated with the coronavirus during camp.

“You really haven’t heard a whole lot about it,” said Francona, who was aware of the memo but said he hadn’t read through it. “In the beginning, I think everybody had their hopes up that when we get here you could just go back to normal. It took a few days for everybody to realize that’s not the way it’s going to be.

“The rules are in place. We’ve told them, whether you agree or disagree, if you have a positive, you’re going to get sent home and probably take somebody with you.”

NEW YORK (AP) — Card games, car pools and eating at restaurants may be back in the major leagues later this season. Trips to church and sponsor events may return, too.Mask use would be dropped from dugouts and bullpens, and electronic tracing devices would be eliminated when 85% of major league players and primary field staff are vaccinated against the coronavirus. Communal clubhouse video would return before and after games. Pool tables would be restored, along with team saunas.A three-page memorandum from Major League Baseball and the players’ association sent to players and staff on Monday and obtained by The Associated Press also stated “all players and staff are strongly encouraged to receive one of the approved COVID-19 vaccines when eligible.”“For purposes of this memo, individuals are considered ‘fully vaccinated’ two weeks after receiving their second dose of a two-dose vaccine (Pfizer or Moderna) or two weeks after their first dose of a single dose vaccine (Johnson &amp; Johnson),” the memo stated.Not many players have been vaccinated, according to MLB, but it expects the pace to increase after teams return to their home cities from spring training. Opening day is Thursday.The St. Louis Cardinals and Houston Astros said Monday their players will be offered vaccines before openers and the San Francisco Giants said some of their players already had received vaccination shots.MLB’s Tier 1 restrictions in place since last summer cover players, managers, coaches, bullpen catchers, team physicians, athletic trainers, physical therapists, and strength and conditioning coaches.While clubhouse video rules would loosen before and after games, in-game use will remain covered by rules restricting in-game use to MLB-issued iPads with catcher’s signals blocked, regulations put in place in response to the Houston Astros sign-stealing scandal.Once the 85% threshold is reached, fully vaccinated players and staff would be able to eat and drink on flights. They would be able to gather in indoor spaces such as hotels without masks or social distancing as long as non-vaccinated people aren’t present, and they would be able to carpool or use Uber or Lyft. The relaxation would not apply to gatherings in group facilities at ballparks, such as clubhouses.Fully vaccinated people who have close contact with someone with COVID-19 would not have to quarantine unless they exhibit symptoms.Vaccinated players and staff would have the option to reduce PCR saliva testing to twice weekly, similar to Tier 2 staff, such as front office and clubhouse employees, owners and groundskeepers.Family members who are fully vaccinated and children who are not vaccinated would be able to stay with players and staff in hotel rooms during road trips, though MLB and the union cautioned that the Centers for Disease Control advised not to use commercial travel and to stay home unless necessary. Families also would be able to sit anywhere in ballparks and not be restricted to pods, subject to local laws and policies.Players and staff would be able to meet outdoors with anyone on road trips, eliminating the restriction limiting them to household and family. They also would no longer be required to let club compliance officers know when they are leaving team hotels, and they would be allowed to stay at personal homes on road trips without a need for family quarantines or testing.While attending religious services would be allowed, attending outdoor services would be encouraged.Indians manager Terry Francona, who recently received his second vaccine, was pleased there weren’t many issues associated with the coronavirus during camp.“You really haven’t heard a whole lot about it,” said Francona, who was aware of the memo but said he hadn’t read through it. “In the beginning, I think everybody had their hopes up that when we get here you could just go back to normal. It took a few days for everybody to realize that’s not the way it’s going to be.“The rules are in place. We’ve told them, whether you agree or disagree, if you have a positive, you’re going to get sent home and probably take somebody with you.”

MLB to relax virus protocols when 85% on field vaccinated

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Local organizers of the College World Series are opening its talent search for national anthem singers to everyone in the country.

Soloists, duos and groups can submit videos for consideration. Fourteen will be chosen, with the top 12 shown on the video boards at TD Ameritrade Park at the first 12 games. Additional videos will be used if there are 13th and 14th games.

Submissions can be a cappella or with accompaniment or audio engineering tools. Unlike previous years, performers will not need to be in Omaha at any point in the process.

Applications can be found online at www.cwsomaha.com. Deadline is 11:59 p.m. April 18. Winners will be notified via email by mid-May.

The CWS is scheduled for June 19-29 or 30.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Local organizers of the College World Series are opening its talent search for national anthem singers to everyone in the country.Soloists, duos and groups can submit videos for consideration. Fourteen will be chosen, with the top 12 shown on the video boards at TD Ameritrade Park at the first 12 games. Additional videos will be used if there are 13th and 14th games.Submissions can be a cappella or with accompaniment or audio engineering tools. Unlike previous years, performers will not need to be in Omaha at any point in the process.Applications can be found online at www.cwsomaha.com. Deadline is 11:59 p.m. April 18. Winners will be notified via email by mid-May.The CWS is scheduled for June 19-29 or 30.

Video auditions deciding College World Series anthem singers

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Kansas City Chiefs and defensive tackle Jarran Reed agreed to a $5 million, one-year contract that could be worth up to $7 million and gives the AFC champions another interior pass rusher to play alongside Chris Jones.

The deal was reached late Sunday and represents another big step toward improving the Chiefs’ meager pass rush.

The 28-year-old Reed was a second-round pick by the Seahawks in the 2016 draft. He’s spent his entire career in Seattle, where he had a reputation as a run-stuffer but showed he could get to the quarterback. Reed had 10 1/2 sacks in 2018 and and 6 1/2 sacks last season.

He also was suspended the first six games of the 2019 season in connection with an alleged domestic disturbance.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Kansas City Chiefs and defensive tackle Jarran Reed agreed to a $5 million, one-year contract that could be worth up to $7 million and gives the AFC champions another interior pass rusher to play alongside Chris Jones.The deal was reached late Sunday and represents another big step toward improving the Chiefs’ meager pass rush.The 28-year-old Reed was a second-round pick by the Seahawks in the 2016 draft. He’s spent his entire career in Seattle, where he had a reputation as a run-stuffer but showed he could get to the quarterback. Reed had 10 1/2 sacks in 2018 and and 6 1/2 sacks last season.He also was suspended the first six games of the 2019 season in connection with an alleged domestic disturbance.

Chiefs bolster pass rush with deal for tackle Jarran Reed

The Barton Community College women's track and field team posted fourteen national qualifying performances Saturday competing in the Cowley Invite held in Arkansas City, KS.

The Cougars won eight events during the one day meet, continuing to assault the program record book with seven top ten performances.

Just missing getting into the 400m hurdle school top ten last week, Lashanna Graham jumped into the seventh spot by clocking a winning 1:00.05 time.

Ana da Silva had another big day in the throws, winning two events with record book implications. Already No. 2 on the indoor shot put chart, Da Silva's first meet in the outdoor season produced a program third best mark at 15.27m (50-01.25), while her 56.27m (184-7) hammer throw mark improved her program second best marking by nearly four feet.

Annia Ashley and Nia Robinson battled for the first time in the outdoor season of the high and long jump events, producing 1-2 placings exceeding national qualification specifications. Ashley coming out on top Saturday in both the events, taking the high jump at 1.70m and long jump at 5.94 as Robinson rose to a 1.65m height and flew to a 5.90m distance.

Other event winners were Ashanti Harvey in the 100m hurdles (14.43) and Kayan Green in the 1500m (4:48.02) and the 4x400m relay tandem of Jayda Dillon, Graham, Dayjsha Fanning, and Shemia Odaine clocking a national qualifying winning time of 3:55.48.

Barton will next head to Canyon, Texas for its next meet, competing in the two-day Jo Meaker Classic and Multi on Friday hosted by West Texas A&amp;M University.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1617031209794.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Barton Community College women's track and field team posted fourteen national qualifying performances Saturday competing in the Cowley Invite held in Arkansas City, KS.The Cougars won eight events during the one day meet, continuing to assault the program record book with seven top ten performances.Just missing getting into the 400m hurdle school top ten last week, Lashanna Graham jumped into the seventh spot by clocking a winning 1:00.05 time.Ana da Silva had another big day in the throws, winning two events with record book implications. Already No. 2 on the indoor shot put chart, Da Silva's first meet in the outdoor season produced a program third best mark at 15.27m (50-01.25), while her 56.27m (184-7) hammer throw mark improved her program second best marking by nearly four feet.Annia Ashley and Nia Robinson battled for the first time in the outdoor season of the high and long jump events, producing 1-2 placings exceeding national qualification specifications. Ashley coming out on top Saturday in both the events, taking the high jump at 1.70m and long jump at 5.94 as Robinson rose to a 1.65m height and flew to a 5.90m distance.Other event winners were Ashanti Harvey in the 100m hurdles (14.43) and Kayan Green in the 1500m (4:48.02) and the 4x400m relay tandem of Jayda Dillon, Graham, Dayjsha Fanning, and Shemia Odaine clocking a national qualifying winning time of 3:55.48.Barton will next head to Canyon, Texas for its next meet, competing in the two-day Jo Meaker Classic and Multi on Friday hosted by West Texas A&amp;M University.

Big day for Barton women's track and field at Cowley Invitational

The Barton Community College men's track and field team posted seven national qualifying performances Saturday competing in the Cowley Tiger Invite held in Arkansas City, KS.

The Cougars won seven of the events during the one-day meet with two performances impacting the storied Barton record book.

Shakwon Coke highlighted the day's events, competing in the outdoor long jump for the first time donning a Cougar uniform and making a national impact soaring to the 3rd best ever NJCAA distance at 8.16m (26-09.25), while ranking tied for second in Barton history with Clayton Latham ('02) and behind a half inch behind Walter Davis' 2000 top spot.

Last week in Louisiana, Fabio Hessling marked a program second best hammer throw. Saturday in Kansas Hessling rewrote his mark by six and a half feet in launching a 65.96m (216-5) throw to easily win the event. With the recent breaking of Alencar Pereira's national record of 70.21m (230-04), Hessling now sits at No. 3 in NJCAA outdoor history.

Other event winners included Denzel Feagin leading a 1-2 finish in the 100m with Caleb Boger as Feagin's 10.334 time was a .001 ahead of Boger.

Additional first line crossers were Almighty Williamson taking the 110m hurdles in 14.29, Tyrese Reid's winning 400m time of 48.78, and the 4x100m relay of Williamson, Feagin, Gamali Felix, and Boger clocking a nation's second best time of 40.43.

Fred Moudani's streak of consecutive breaking of school records ended on Saturday, winning the shot put with a still program top ten throw of 18.05m (59-02.75).

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1617031002508.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Barton Community College men's track and field team posted seven national qualifying performances Saturday competing in the Cowley Tiger Invite held in Arkansas City, KS.The Cougars won seven of the events during the one-day meet with two performances impacting the storied Barton record book.Shakwon Coke highlighted the day's events, competing in the outdoor long jump for the first time donning a Cougar uniform and making a national impact soaring to the 3rd best ever NJCAA distance at 8.16m (26-09.25), while ranking tied for second in Barton history with Clayton Latham ('02) and behind a half inch behind Walter Davis' 2000 top spot.Last week in Louisiana, Fabio Hessling marked a program second best hammer throw. Saturday in Kansas Hessling rewrote his mark by six and a half feet in launching a 65.96m (216-5) throw to easily win the event. With the recent breaking of Alencar Pereira's national record of 70.21m (230-04), Hessling now sits at No. 3 in NJCAA outdoor history.Other event winners included Denzel Feagin leading a 1-2 finish in the 100m with Caleb Boger as Feagin's 10.334 time was a .001 ahead of Boger.Additional first line crossers were Almighty Williamson taking the 110m hurdles in 14.29, Tyrese Reid's winning 400m time of 48.78, and the 4x100m relay of Williamson, Feagin, Gamali Felix, and Boger clocking a nation's second best time of 40.43.Fred Moudani's streak of consecutive breaking of school records ended on Saturday, winning the shot put with a still program top ten throw of 18.05m (59-02.75).Barton will next head to Canyon, Texas for its next meet, competing in the two-day Jo Meaker Classic and Multi on Friday hosted by West Texas A&amp;M University.

Barton men's track and field records seven national qualifying performances

OWINGS MILLS, Md. (AP) — Wide receiver Sammy Watkins, who won a Super Bowl with Kansas City, has agreed to a one-year contract with the Baltimore Ravens.

Watkins must pass a physical exam before signing.

Entering his eighth NFL season, Watkins has been a solid target for Buffalo (2014-16), the Los Angeles Rams (2017) and the Chiefs (2018-20). He was the fourth overall selection in the 2014 draft by the Bills, who traded him to the Rams in 2017. Watkins joined the Chiefs in 2018 as a free agent.

Watkins has 321 career receptions for 4,665 yards and 33 touchdowns. His teams have reached the postseason in each of the past four seasons, and in seven total playoff games and the Super Bowl, he’s made 26 receptions for 500 yards and one touchdown.

He becomes an additional receiver for Lamar Jackson in Baltimore. The Ravens have been among the top rushing teams in the NFL with Jackson at quarterback but have needed an upgrade in their passing game.

OWINGS MILLS, Md. (AP) — Wide receiver Sammy Watkins, who won a Super Bowl with Kansas City, has agreed to a one-year contract with the Baltimore Ravens.Watkins must pass a physical exam before signing.Entering his eighth NFL season, Watkins has been a solid target for Buffalo (2014-16), the Los Angeles Rams (2017) and the Chiefs (2018-20). He was the fourth overall selection in the 2014 draft by the Bills, who traded him to the Rams in 2017. Watkins joined the Chiefs in 2018 as a free agent.Watkins has 321 career receptions for 4,665 yards and 33 touchdowns. His teams have reached the postseason in each of the past four seasons, and in seven total playoff games and the Super Bowl, he’s made 26 receptions for 500 yards and one touchdown.He becomes an additional receiver for Lamar Jackson in Baltimore. The Ravens have been among the top rushing teams in the NFL with Jackson at quarterback but have needed an upgrade in their passing game.

Ravens adding wide receiver Sammy Watkins in 1-year deal

The Barton Community College men's bowling team turned in a pair of strong outings this past weekend at the Southwest Intercollegiate Bowling Circuit III &amp; IV tournaments held inside Firelake Bowl.

Kicking off the weekend in the SWIBC III consisting of four team games and 10 Baker games, the Cougars managed an overall score of 5,456, good for eighth place in the 11-team field. Wichita State won the team title with a score of 6,625.

Tracey Hill posted his fourth top-10 performance of the season rolling to a runner-up finish in Sunday's SWIBC IV. The sophomore totaled 1,430 pins in his six rolled games falling just 44 pins back of Arizona State University's Alec Johnson for the individual crown. Hill turned in an average score of 238 per 10-frames, eclipsing the 200 mark in all six games with a highest round of 264 coming in the fourth game.

As a team, Barton improved their previous days' performance blasting down 284 more pins leaping three spots up the leader board for a fifth place finish carding in a 5,740 mark. Wichita State paced the 11-team field winning their second team crown in as many days rolling a score of 6586.

The Cougars will prepare over the next week and a half for the 2021 NJCAA Bowling Championships held April 7th-9th at the Royal Scot Golf and Bowl in Lansing, MI.

Competing one final time in the regular season, the Barton Community College women's bowling team found success this past weekend in the Southwest Intercollegiate Bowling Circuit III &amp; IV in Shawnee, OK.

The Cougars opened the weekend with a fifth place finish in the SWIBC III posting a team score of 5,481 over four team games and 10 Baker games. Stephen F. Austin toppled the eight-team field with a score of 6,172.

Unlike their counterparts, the Barton women slipped two spots in Sunday's action of the SWIBC IV tallying 5,308 pins falling 173 pins shy of Saturday's performance securing a seventh place outing. Claiming the team title was Wichita State University besting the loaded field with 6,446 pins.

Alexandria Newell paced Barton individually finishing 22nd knocking over 1,135 pins in six games tossed. The sophomore eclipsed the 200 mark three times while leading the squad with an average score of 189.Taylor Cessna fell a spot back of Newell blasting down 1,112 pins marking the highest individual score for the Cougars with a third game round of 216.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1617014052141.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Barton MenThe Barton Community College men's bowling team turned in a pair of strong outings this past weekend at the Southwest Intercollegiate Bowling Circuit III &amp; IV tournaments held inside Firelake Bowl.Kicking off the weekend in the SWIBC III consisting of four team games and 10 Baker games, the Cougars managed an overall score of 5,456, good for eighth place in the 11-team field. Wichita State won the team title with a score of 6,625.Tracey Hill posted his fourth top-10 performance of the season rolling to a runner-up finish in Sunday's SWIBC IV. The sophomore totaled 1,430 pins in his six rolled games falling just 44 pins back of Arizona State University's Alec Johnson for the individual crown. Hill turned in an average score of 238 per 10-frames, eclipsing the 200 mark in all six games with a highest round of 264 coming in the fourth game.As a team, Barton improved their previous days' performance blasting down 284 more pins leaping three spots up the leader board for a fifth place finish carding in a 5,740 mark. Wichita State paced the 11-team field winning their second team crown in as many days rolling a score of 6586.The Cougars will prepare over the next week and a half for the 2021 NJCAA Bowling Championships held April 7th-9th at the Royal Scot Golf and Bowl in Lansing, MI.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1617014102139.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Barton WomenCompeting one final time in the regular season, the Barton Community College women's bowling team found success this past weekend in the Southwest Intercollegiate Bowling Circuit III &amp; IV in Shawnee, OK.The Cougars opened the weekend with a fifth place finish in the SWIBC III posting a team score of 5,481 over four team games and 10 Baker games. Stephen F. Austin toppled the eight-team field with a score of 6,172.Unlike their counterparts, the Barton women slipped two spots in Sunday's action of the SWIBC IV tallying 5,308 pins falling 173 pins shy of Saturday's performance securing a seventh place outing. Claiming the team title was Wichita State University besting the loaded field with 6,446 pins.Alexandria Newell paced Barton individually finishing 22nd knocking over 1,135 pins in six games tossed. The sophomore eclipsed the 200 mark three times while leading the squad with an average score of 189.Taylor Cessna fell a spot back of Newell blasting down 1,112 pins marking the highest individual score for the Cougars with a third game round of 216.The Cougars will prepare over the next week and a half for the 2021 NJCAA Bowling Championships held April 7th-9th at the Royal Scot Golf and Bowl in Lansing, MI.

Barton Cougar Bowling Results

INDIANAPOLIS (AP) — Top-seeded Gonzaga did against Creighton what it’s done throughout this unblemished season. Drew Timme scored 22 points and the top-seeded Bulldogs rolled past the fifth-seeded Bluejays with versatile offense and efficient defense to win 83-65 in the Sweet 16 of the NCAA Tournament. Andrew Nembhard added 17 points for the Bulldogs, who have won a school-record 33 consecutive games and extended their Division I record to 26 straight double-digit wins. The Bulldogs will face sixth-seeded Southern California on Tuesday in the West regional final. Marcus Zegarowski scored 19 points to lead the Bluejays, who were trying to reach their first Elite Eight since 1941.

INDIANAPOLIS (AP) — Top seed Michigan scored its first 30 points of the second half from close range and coasted to a 76-58 rout of Florida to reach the NCAA regional finals. Hunter Dickinson scored 14 points and Franz Wagner had 13 points and 10 rebounds for Michigan. The Wolverines improved to 23-4 and moved to the regional finals for the first time since 2018.

INDIANAPOLIS (AP) — Jaime Jaquez Jr. hit two big jumpers early in overtime and finished with 17 points as 11th-seeded UCLA downed No. 2 Alabama, 88-78. Jacquez and David Singleton took control in overtime after star guard Johnny Juzang fouled out. Singleton’s two free throws made it 79-70 with under a minute to go.

INDIANAPOLIS (AP) — Sixth seed Southern Cal became the third Pac-12 team to reach the Elite Eight as the Trojans knocked off conference rival Oregon, 82-68. Isaiah White scored 22 points and the Trojans shot 10 of 17 from 3-point range to reach the regional finals for the first time since 2001. USC used an early 17-2 run to go up 14 before settling for a 41-26 halftime lead.

FRISCO, Texas (AP) — Boogie Ellis scored 23 points and Memphis beat Mississippi State 77-64 in the NIT championship game. The Tigers have a title in Penny Hardaway’s third season coaching his alma mater after just missing out on the NCAA Tournament. They also were NIT champs in 2002.

UNDATED (AP) — Milwaukee Brewers reliever Justin Topa will open the season on the injured list after undergoing an MRI on his elbow. Brewers manager Craig Counsell says Topa threw just three pitches in a simulated game yesterday before leaving with elbow discomfort. The Brewers are awaiting results on an MRI. The 30-year-old Topa made his major league debut last season and went 0-1 with a 2.35 ERA and 12 strikeouts in 7 2/3 innings.

AUSTIN, Texas (AP) — It’s an All-American final for the third straight time in the Dell Technologies Match Play. Scottie Scheffler delivered the clutch putt with a 10-foot birdie on the 17th hole. That led to a 1-up victory over Matt Kuchar. In the other semifinal this morning, Billy Horschel beat Victor Perez of France in 16 holes. Kuchar was trying to match Tiger Woods’ record by reaching the championship match for the fourth time. But he couldn’t buy a putt, and he missed an 8-footer on the 18th to extend the match. The longest putt Kuchar made was just over 3 feet.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616937246167.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>INDIANAPOLIS (AP) — Top-seeded Gonzaga did against Creighton what it’s done throughout this unblemished season. Drew Timme scored 22 points and the top-seeded Bulldogs rolled past the fifth-seeded Bluejays with versatile offense and efficient defense to win 83-65 in the Sweet 16 of the NCAA Tournament. Andrew Nembhard added 17 points for the Bulldogs, who have won a school-record 33 consecutive games and extended their Division I record to 26 straight double-digit wins. The Bulldogs will face sixth-seeded Southern California on Tuesday in the West regional final. Marcus Zegarowski scored 19 points to lead the Bluejays, who were trying to reach their first Elite Eight since 1941.INDIANAPOLIS (AP) — Top seed Michigan scored its first 30 points of the second half from close range and coasted to a 76-58 rout of Florida to reach the NCAA regional finals. Hunter Dickinson scored 14 points and Franz Wagner had 13 points and 10 rebounds for Michigan. The Wolverines improved to 23-4 and moved to the regional finals for the first time since 2018.INDIANAPOLIS (AP) — Jaime Jaquez Jr. hit two big jumpers early in overtime and finished with 17 points as 11th-seeded UCLA downed No. 2 Alabama, 88-78. Jacquez and David Singleton took control in overtime after star guard Johnny Juzang fouled out. Singleton’s two free throws made it 79-70 with under a minute to go.INDIANAPOLIS (AP) — Sixth seed Southern Cal became the third Pac-12 team to reach the Elite Eight as the Trojans knocked off conference rival Oregon, 82-68. Isaiah White scored 22 points and the Trojans shot 10 of 17 from 3-point range to reach the regional finals for the first time since 2001. USC used an early 17-2 run to go up 14 before settling for a 41-26 halftime lead.FRISCO, Texas (AP) — Boogie Ellis scored 23 points and Memphis beat Mississippi State 77-64 in the NIT championship game. The Tigers have a title in Penny Hardaway’s third season coaching his alma mater after just missing out on the NCAA Tournament. They also were NIT champs in 2002.UNDATED (AP) — Milwaukee Brewers reliever Justin Topa will open the season on the injured list after undergoing an MRI on his elbow. Brewers manager Craig Counsell says Topa threw just three pitches in a simulated game yesterday before leaving with elbow discomfort. The Brewers are awaiting results on an MRI. The 30-year-old Topa made his major league debut last season and went 0-1 with a 2.35 ERA and 12 strikeouts in 7 2/3 innings.AUSTIN, Texas (AP) — It’s an All-American final for the third straight time in the Dell Technologies Match Play. Scottie Scheffler delivered the clutch putt with a 10-foot birdie on the 17th hole. That led to a 1-up victory over Matt Kuchar. In the other semifinal this morning, Billy Horschel beat Victor Perez of France in 16 holes. Kuchar was trying to match Tiger Woods’ record by reaching the championship match for the fourth time. But he couldn’t buy a putt, and he missed an 8-footer on the 18th to extend the match. The longest putt Kuchar made was just over 3 feet.SUNDAY SCORESTOP-25 COLLEGE BASKETBALLFinal	(1)Gonzaga	83	(19)Creighton	65	Final	(4)Michigan	76	(14)Florida St.	58	Final	UCLA	88	(5)Alabama	78	Final	(23)Southern Cal	82	Oregon	68	INTERLEAGUEFinal	Pittsburgh	2	Baltimore	1	Final	Philadelphia	6	N.Y. Yankees	2	Final	Tampa Bay	16	Atlanta	5	Final	Texas	12	Chicago Cubs	8	Final	Chicago White Sox	7	Arizona	4	Final	Oakland	9	San Francisco	3	Final	Kansas City	6	Colorado	3	Final	L.A. Angels	6	L.A. Dodgers	5	Final	San Diego	3	Cleveland	3	AMERICAN LEAGUEFinal	Boston	8	Minnesota	3	Final	Detroit	4	Toronto	4	NATIONAL LEAGUEFinal	Miami	10	N.Y. Mets	2	Final	Washington	11	St. Louis	3	Final	Milwaukee	7	Cincinnati	1	NATIONAL BASKETBALL ASSOCIATIONFinal OT	Phoenix	101	Charlotte	97	Final	Portland	122	Toronto	117	Final	Denver	126	Atlanta	102	Final	L.A. Lakers	96	Orlando	93

Monday Sports Headlines and Scores presented by Barton Community College

The 19th ranked Barton Community College Wrestling team hosted a seven team Mock Regional Championships held in Hoisington, KS.

The Cougars mounted an overall record of 25-27, securing seven placers including a pair of runner-up finishes.

Jumping into the latest polls ranked 6th, Drew Burgoon began his runner-up finish with an opening round bye before earning a 9-0 major decision over Pratt's Carsyn Schooler. Burgoon then won his semifinal bout in a six point 8-2 decision over Dalton Burdick of Northeastern Oklahoma A&amp;M. The sophomore's hopes of a second open title on the year came up short dropping an 8-4 decision to defending national champion Blake Gonzalez of NEO.

Dawson Chavez opened his day with a first round bye before securing an 8-3 victory over Neosho County's Samuel Son in the quarterfinals. Looking to lock up a spot in the championship, Chavez squeezed out a 5-3 decision over NEO's Joshua Parks. Chavez suffered a 1:30 fall to 3rd ranked Dayton Porsch of Pratt in the championship match earning a second place finish.

Stephen Duffy and Bryan Ford earned bronze honors in the 165 and 174 divisions respectively, with each recording 3-1 days on the mats. Duffy's lone loss of the day came in a 5:45 fall to Cowley's Alex Rodriguez before wrapping the day with a narrow 5-3 decision over Donnie Hurd III of Labette. Ford's lone defeat of the day came in the semifinals dropping a 13-7 decision before earning a convincing 13-7 decision on Cayden Atkins of Pratt.

Cody Liles had to settle for fourth place concluding his day with a 3-2 mark. Liles dropped his semifinal matchup to top ranked Jake Beeson of Pratt in a 9-1 major decision. Rebounding with a 6-4 decision in the consolation semifinals, Liles ended the day on the short end of a 6-3 decision to NEO's Dylan Brown.

Silas Pineda and Davontai Robinson managed sixth place finishes in the 133 and 184 divisions. Pineda concluded his day with a 1-3 mark while battling with 3rd ranked Jason Henschel of Pratt dropping a 7-1 decision. Robinson concluded his day with a 2-3 mark with victories coming in the opening round and quarterfinals.

The Cougars will conclude conference duals on Thursday with a trip to Colby taking on the host Trojans and Labette Community College.

The 19th ranked Barton Community College Wrestling team hosted a seven team Mock Regional Championships held in Hoisington, KS.The Cougars mounted an overall record of 25-27, securing seven placers including a pair of runner-up finishes.Jumping into the latest polls ranked 6th, Drew Burgoon began his runner-up finish with an opening round bye before earning a 9-0 major decision over Pratt's Carsyn Schooler. Burgoon then won his semifinal bout in a six point 8-2 decision over Dalton Burdick of Northeastern Oklahoma A&amp;M. The sophomore's hopes of a second open title on the year came up short dropping an 8-4 decision to defending national champion Blake Gonzalez of NEO.Dawson Chavez opened his day with a first round bye before securing an 8-3 victory over Neosho County's Samuel Son in the quarterfinals. Looking to lock up a spot in the championship, Chavez squeezed out a 5-3 decision over NEO's Joshua Parks. Chavez suffered a 1:30 fall to 3rd ranked Dayton Porsch of Pratt in the championship match earning a second place finish.Stephen Duffy and Bryan Ford earned bronze honors in the 165 and 174 divisions respectively, with each recording 3-1 days on the mats. Duffy's lone loss of the day came in a 5:45 fall to Cowley's Alex Rodriguez before wrapping the day with a narrow 5-3 decision over Donnie Hurd III of Labette. Ford's lone defeat of the day came in the semifinals dropping a 13-7 decision before earning a convincing 13-7 decision on Cayden Atkins of Pratt.Cody Liles had to settle for fourth place concluding his day with a 3-2 mark. Liles dropped his semifinal matchup to top ranked Jake Beeson of Pratt in a 9-1 major decision. Rebounding with a 6-4 decision in the consolation semifinals, Liles ended the day on the short end of a 6-3 decision to NEO's Dylan Brown.Silas Pineda and Davontai Robinson managed sixth place finishes in the 133 and 184 divisions. Pineda concluded his day with a 1-3 mark while battling with 3rd ranked Jason Henschel of Pratt dropping a 7-1 decision. Robinson concluded his day with a 2-3 mark with victories coming in the opening round and quarterfinals.The Cougars will conclude conference duals on Thursday with a trip to Colby taking on the host Trojans and Labette Community College.

Seven Cougars' place at Mock Regional Championships

The Barton Community College women's golf team placed second in their second straight tournament of the season, finishing second in the conference opener Saturday hosted by Coffeyville Community College at the Emporia Golf Course.

The Cougars trailed by ten shots on a +53 over 344 first round, carding a 337 on Saturday to finish at 113-over 681 in placing second behind 8th ranked Dodge City Community College's winning 97-over 665 (334-331). Fort Scott Community College placed third at 225-over 793.

Barton placed four players in the top eight of the 22-player field, led by Mia Trousdale finishing third overall at 24-over on the par 71 course carding rounds of 84 and 82 for a 166 total.

Paulina Villavicencio and Mathanee Pandee took different paths to a tie for 4th place 27-over 169. Villavicencio posted rounds of 87 and 82 while Pandee had more consistent rounds, carding an 85 and 84.

Paige Barnes was two shots ahead of Pawinee Sukasem for the 7th slot, putting together rounds of 88 and 89 for a 335-over 177 while Sukasem cared 89 and 90 rounds for a 179.

Haleigh Spray led the Barton individuals with a 13th place 55-over 197 behind rounds of 97 and 100. Cailee McMullen faded from a 10th place day one score of 96 in slipping five spots to 15th overall on a 103 to accumulate a 57-over 199. Drue Davis finished 21st overall with a 74-over 216 on twin 108 rounds.

Barton will host the second conference meet of the season, beginning at 1:00 p.m. on Friday at Stoneridge Golf Course with Saturday's final round slated for a 9:00 a.m. tee off.

The Barton Community College women's golf team placed second in their second straight tournament of the season, finishing second in the conference opener Saturday hosted by Coffeyville Community College at the Emporia Golf Course.The Cougars trailed by ten shots on a +53 over 344 first round, carding a 337 on Saturday to finish at 113-over 681 in placing second behind 8th ranked Dodge City Community College's winning 97-over 665 (334-331). Fort Scott Community College placed third at 225-over 793.Barton placed four players in the top eight of the 22-player field, led by Mia Trousdale finishing third overall at 24-over on the par 71 course carding rounds of 84 and 82 for a 166 total.Paulina Villavicencio and Mathanee Pandee took different paths to a tie for 4th place 27-over 169. Villavicencio posted rounds of 87 and 82 while Pandee had more consistent rounds, carding an 85 and 84.Paige Barnes was two shots ahead of Pawinee Sukasem for the 7th slot, putting together rounds of 88 and 89 for a 335-over 177 while Sukasem cared 89 and 90 rounds for a 179.Haleigh Spray led the Barton individuals with a 13th place 55-over 197 behind rounds of 97 and 100. Cailee McMullen faded from a 10th place day one score of 96 in slipping five spots to 15th overall on a 103 to accumulate a 57-over 199. Drue Davis finished 21st overall with a 74-over 216 on twin 108 rounds.Barton will host the second conference meet of the season, beginning at 1:00 p.m. on Friday at Stoneridge Golf Course with Saturday's final round slated for a 9:00 a.m. tee off.

Barton women's golf runner-up in conference opener at Emporia

The Barton Community College softball team struggled to find enough offensive firepower Saturday on the road at Garden City Community College as the Broncbusters took the pair of conference contests 10-0 in five innings and 12-5.

The Cougars drop to 1-7 in conference play and 5-17 on the season while Garden City improves its conference mark to 8-2 and 14-10 overall.

Barton will welcome in the conference leading and 5th ranked Grizzlies of Butler Community College Monday for a 1:00 p.m. doubleheader.

The Barton Community College softball team struggled to find enough offensive firepower Saturday on the road at Garden City Community College as the Broncbusters took the pair of conference contests 10-0 in five innings and 12-5.The Cougars drop to 1-7 in conference play and 5-17 on the season while Garden City improves its conference mark to 8-2 and 14-10 overall.Barton will welcome in the conference leading and 5th ranked Grizzlies of Butler Community College Monday for a 1:00 p.m. doubleheader.

Cougars' Softball drops two in Garden City

Barton Baseball protects home turf earning doubleheader sweep over Dodge City

The Barton Community College Baseball squad protected home turf Saturday afternoon at Lawson-Biggs Field earning a sweep over Dodge City Community College. The Cougars fought of a late Conquistador rally in the opener earning an 8-5 win, while getting a solid start in the nightcap cruising to a 9-3 victory.

Barton's fourth straight win improves the Cougars to .500 in the conference at 5-5 and 17-6 on the year with Dodge City slipping to 2-4 in league and 12-6 overall.

The series will shift to Dodge City on Sunday to finish the four game set, as Thursday's original scheduled contest at Cavalier Field was washed out. First pitch of the doubleheader between the Cougars and Conquistadors is schedule for a 1:00 p.m. first pitch.&nbsp;

Barton Baseball protects home turf earning doubleheader sweep over Dodge CityThe Barton Community College Baseball squad protected home turf Saturday afternoon at Lawson-Biggs Field earning a sweep over Dodge City Community College. The Cougars fought of a late Conquistador rally in the opener earning an 8-5 win, while getting a solid start in the nightcap cruising to a 9-3 victory.Barton's fourth straight win improves the Cougars to .500 in the conference at 5-5 and 17-6 on the year with Dodge City slipping to 2-4 in league and 12-6 overall.The series will shift to Dodge City on Sunday to finish the four game set, as Thursday's original scheduled contest at Cavalier Field was washed out. First pitch of the doubleheader between the Cougars and Conquistadors is schedule for a 1:00 p.m. first pitch.&nbsp;

Barton Baseball sweeps Dodge City

Pratt Men 77 Barton 73; Barton Women 72 Pratt 57

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1612867320038.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>Pratt Men 77 Barton 73; Barton Women 72 Pratt 57<div><iframe width="100%" height="265" src="https://clyp.it/wy5atzpz/widget" frameborder="0"></iframe></div>

LAKE FOREST, Ill. (AP) — The Chicago Bears signed former Kansas City Chiefs running back and Super Bowl 54 star Damien Williams to a one-year contract on Friday, giving them depth to go with David Montgomery.

Williams, who opted out last season because of COVID-19 concerns and to spend time with his mother as she battled stage 4 cancer, was released by the Chiefs on March 16. He ran for 498 yards and five touchdowns in 2019 and played a huge role in Kansas City’s 31-20 Super Bowl victory over San Francisco. He scored two TDs in the closing minutes on a 5-yard catch and 38-yard run, and finished with 104 yards rushing in the game.

Williams has 1,231 yards rushing and 12 touchdowns in six seasons with Miami and Kansas City. He has 1,106 yards receiving and 10 TD catches.

Williams also has 11 touchdowns in six playoff games, running for six scores and catching five.

LAKE FOREST, Ill. (AP) — The Chicago Bears signed former Kansas City Chiefs running back and Super Bowl 54 star Damien Williams to a one-year contract on Friday, giving them depth to go with David Montgomery.Williams, who opted out last season because of COVID-19 concerns and to spend time with his mother as she battled stage 4 cancer, was released by the Chiefs on March 16. He ran for 498 yards and five touchdowns in 2019 and played a huge role in Kansas City’s 31-20 Super Bowl victory over San Francisco. He scored two TDs in the closing minutes on a 5-yard catch and 38-yard run, and finished with 104 yards rushing in the game.Williams has 1,231 yards rushing and 12 touchdowns in six seasons with Miami and Kansas City. He has 1,106 yards receiving and 10 TD catches.Williams also has 11 touchdowns in six playoff games, running for six scores and catching five.

Bears sign former Chiefs RB Williams to 1-year contract

Title hopes slipped through the Barton Community College volleyball team's grasp Friday night in front of a large boisterous crowd at the Barton Gym as match point was answered by three straight Saints' points giving 10th ranked Seward County Community College the victory 19-25, 25-13, 25-21, 24-26, and 16-14.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616850412559.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Title hopes slipped through the Barton Community College volleyball team's grasp Friday night in front of a large boisterous crowd at the Barton Gym as match point was answered by three straight Saints' points giving 10th ranked Seward County Community College the victory 19-25, 25-13, 25-21, 24-26, and 16-14.Having their eleven match win streak snapped, Barton finishes second in the conference standings at 14-2 and 22-4 overall. Seward County extended a pair of streaks with the victory as their ninth straight win sealed their fifth conference title in a row improving to 15-1 and 20-4.Barton will next set their sights on a bigger prize beginning 6:30 p.m. Tuesday in hosting the first round of Region VI playoffs against Dodge City Community College. Should the Cougars win, the final four of the region will meet in Liberal on Friday to determine the champion and berth in the NJCAA National Tournament.Maria Santos led the Cougars with 16 kills and six blocks. Carol Melo led the 21 Cougar blocks on the night with seven denials to go with 12 kills on a .476 attack. Isabella Guedes captained the first wave of the 6-2 offense with 27 assists with Alyssa Herter putting up 19 as the Cougars fell below their season average in mustering just a .199 percentage with twenty-four errors for their second straight sub-.200 attack.Mylena Testoni fell a kill shy of her fourth straight double-double, putting down 9 kills and leading the defensive line with 20 digs. Tasiah Nunnery and Hanna Miller each recorded 18 digs. Joelle LaForce finished with seven kills and four blocks, tying Melo for the team lead in solo rejections at two each.