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Local Sports Archives for 2023-06

Royals Trade Aroldis Chapman to Rangers

 

The Kansas City Royals have dealt one of their top bullpen pieces to Texas in a trade.

 

Left-handed arm Aroldis Chapman has been traded to the Texas Rangers in exchange for left-hander Cole Ragans and outfielder Roni Cabrera.

 

The primary piece of the deal is Ragans, a 25 year old pitcher from Gainsville, Florida, who was a first round pick of the Rangers in 2016. The Royals intend to use Ragans as a starter, and he will report to Triple-A Omaha.

 

Cabrera is an outfielder in the Dominican Summer League, signed by the Rangers last year. After a struggle-filled first season in pro ball, Cabrera has been impressive this year in 16 games, walking nearly twice as much as striking out, and an OPS well over 1.000.

 

Chapman had a 2.45 ERA and 53 strikeouts for the Royals this season after signing a one year deal in January.

Lady Raven Basketball Looking for Assistant Coach

 

The women's basketball program at Coffeyville Community College is looking for an assistant coach.

 

The Lady Ravens are looking for an individual to join Tony Turner's staff for the upcoming season.

 

Assistant coach Sierra McBride says the coach will receive pay from working in the dorms.

 

The Red Ravens are reigning Region VI runner ups and once again feature a talented team capable of going on a deep tournament run.

 

McBride says this is a great opportunity to join a group that emphasizes a family culture.

 

For more information, email McBride at mcbride.sierra@coffeyville.edu.

 

*photo courtesy of CCC Athletics*

CCC Volleyball to Host Summer Skills Camp

 

Coffeyville Community College Volleyball will be holding a summer skills camp in mid July.

 

The camp will take place at Nellis Hall East Gymnasium on both July 18th and 19th.

 

Red Raven Volleyball coach Deardin Kelly says she has been asked about putting on this camp for a few weeks.

 

Grades 4-12 are eligible for the camp, with 4th through 7th graders having an 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. time slot, and 8th grade through 12th grade having camp from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

 

Kelley says no matter your age or experience, everyone will improve their skills during the camp.

 

Registration is $40 per player, with checks payable to Coffeyville Community College Volleyball.

 

*photo courtesy of CCC Athletics*

Red Ravens Men's Soccer Schedule Released

 

The Coffeyville Community College Men's Soccer Program is entering a new era with a new head coach, and the 2023 schedule has been officially released.

 

CCC is coming off of a 9-8-1 season, and are now led by new head coach Steven Harrison. Coach Harrison most recently served as the head men's and women's soccer coach at Central Wyoming College, setting program records for wins and qualifying for the NJCAA Region 9 postseason for the first time ever.

 

The Red Ravens will open their season at home against Northeastern Oklahoma A&M on August 17th. The Ravens will open with three of their first four matches at home in August, as well as a stretch at the end of September into early October with six of seven matches in front of the home crowd.

 

Coffeyville will play each of the other five Division 1 schools twice this season, with those schools being KCK, Barton, Cowley, Dodge City, and Garden City. The program will not face rivals Johnson County or Neosho County this season, due to their move to Division 2.

 

The full 2023 Men's Soccer Schedule can be found HERE.

 

*photo courtesy of Coffeyville Community College*

Red Raven Women's Soccer Schedule Released

 

The Coffeyville Community College Women's Soccer team has released the 2023 schedule.

 

The Red Ravens will embark on their season beginning on August 19th with a non-conference match with Crowder College. The Lady Ravens will see five straight home matches to close out the month of September.

 

CCC will play two matches against each of the seven other Division 1 schools in the KJCCC, which are Butler, KCK, Barton, Hutchinson, Cowley, Dodge City, and Garden City. The Ravens will not be playing rivals Johnson County or Neosho County this season, due to their move to Division 2.

 

Coffeyville is led by 10th year head coach Jerrid Schicke, who has a career record of 94-65-5 at CCC. The Lady Ravens tied the program record with 14 wins last season, reaching the NJCAA Division 1 Plains District Semifinals, where they would lose to the Barton Cougars on penalty kicks.

 

The full 2023 Red Raven Women's Soccer Schedule can be found HERE.

 

*photo courtesy of Coffeyville Community College*

KSHSAA Approves Changes to State Championships

 

The Kansas State High School Activities Association has approved changes to state championships beginning next season.

 

In previous years, state football championship games were held in different locations for each class. Beginning in the 2024 season, three different state championship games will take place at three locations each.

 

The new state format for football will be a two day event, with one championship on Friday night and two more championship games on Saturday night at each location. All locations are still to be determined at this time.

 

Additionally, high school soccer will have changes to the postseason, with championships taking place at one location beginning with the 2024 season.

 

State wrestling is also seeing a change, with 6A and 5A championships following the model to 4A and 3-1A, with a three day tournament at Hartman Arena in Park City from February 22-24 of 2024.

Domingo German Throws 24th Perfect Game in MLB History

 

Major League Baseball has the first perfect game since the 2012 season.

 

Yankees right-hander Domingo German recorded 27 consecutive outs in an 11-0 victory over the Oakland Athletics last night. German becomes the fourth Yankee to throw a perfect game, and the 24th perfect game overall.

 

WFAN's Justin Shackil had the call of the final out that cemented German in baseball history.

 

German also becomes the first Domincan born player in the history of Major League Baseball to throw a perfect game. He joins Don Larsen, David Wells, and David Cone as Yankees to accomplish the near impossible feat.

 

The most recent perfect game prior to last night came on August 15th, 2012 when Felix Hernandez retired 27 in a row for the Seattle Mariners.

Travis Kelce Says Winning More Important than Money

 

Chefs star tight end Travis Kelce is constantly reminded how underpaid he is compared to what he could make.

 

Kelce admits he has thought about just how much career earnings he could have secured if he had chased the biggest contract, but is committed to winning with the organization that gave him a shot at professional football.

 

Last offseason, wide receiver Tyreek Hill demanded a trade of out Kansas City due to contract disputes. Hill would end up signing a four year, $120 million deal with the Miami Dolphins, with $72.2 million guaranteed.

 

Kelce is scheduled to make $11.25 million this season, which is the 52nd highest among NFL players and the third highest among tight ends, behind San Francisco's George Kittle and New York's Darren Waller.

 

Although he could have undoubtedly earned more money, Kelce says he has no issues with the organization, and still enjoys coming to work every single day.

 

Kelce has followed a similar example as quarterback Patrick Mahomes, with both players having low base salaries compared to others in their position group, which has allowed the Chiefs to build a pair of Super Bowl winning rosters in the past four seasons.

Former Arkansas Quarterback Dies in Drowning

 

A former Arkansas star quarterback and NFL veteran has died following an apparent drowning.

 

Ryan Mallett played two seasons for the Arkansas Razorbacks in both 2009 and 2010, becoming one of the most accomplished quarterbacks in school history. He finished his career with 7.493 passing yards and 62 touchdown passes in less than 30 career starts.

 

Mallett was drafted by the New England Patriots in the third round of the 2011 NFL Draft. Legendary NFL coach Bill Belichick called Mallett "a winner everywhere he's been" as well as an "impressive guy to talk to."

 

Following seven NFL seasons, Mallett went to the coaching side of football, serving as the head coach at White Hall High School in his home state of Arkansas.

 

Mallett finished seventh in the Heisman Trophy voting in 2010. He was 35 years old.

Top Kansas High School Player Talks KSU Visit

 

The top high school football player in the state of Kansas has narrowed his decision down to five schools, and visited the Kansas State Wildcats earlier this week.

 

Linebacker Michael Boganowski, an incoming senior from Junction City High School, has been highly sought after by numerous programs across the region and the country for two years.

 

Boganowski visited Manhattan this week, and details the activities the program had him participate in.

 

The linebacker revealed that Kansas State would have him play strong side linebacker in the SAM role if he elected to commit to the program.

 

Boganowski says the next step is to come to a decision.

 

The star linebacker has also visited Stanford, Kansas, and Oklahoma.

Former Kansas Football Coach has Wins Vacated

 

A former Kansas football coach has 37 wins vacated from his career, making him ineligible for the College Football Hall of Fame.

 

Les Miles served as Jayhawk head football coach for two seasons, but is widely known for his tenure with the LSU Tigers.

 

Miles is having 37 wins removed from his accolades between the years 2012-2015 due to offensive lineman Vadal Alexander playing his entire collegiate career ineligible. Alexander reportedly received over $180,000 in improper benefits from a former assistant AD.

 

A head coach must have won 60% of games in their career to be eligible for the Hall of Fame. Miles had been at 66.5%, but the vacated wins take his career mark down to 59.6%.

 

Miles was fired after two seasons in Lawrence due to sexual misconduct allegations.

Royals Pitcher Beginning to Find Form

 

The Royals have endured a frustrating season to date, but one of their young starters is beginning to find a groove at the big league level.

 

Former top prospect Daniel Lynch had a delayed start to the season after injuring his shoulder at the end of Spring Training. However, since returning from injury, he has given the team innings and quality outings.

 

Lynch says a key for him has been trusting the defense to make plays behind him.

 

The left-handed pitcher has only allowed one earned run in his last 13 innings pitched, and has only allowed more than three runs in a start once this season.

 

Manager Matt Quatraro says Lynch was sharp again in his toughest test of the season against the Tampa Bay Rays.

 

The 26 year old has a 3.96 ERA and a team best three quality starts on the season.

West Virginia Transfer to Visit Kansas State

 

A key member of last season's West Virginia backcourt is in the transfer portal, and will visit Kansas State later this week.

 

Senior guard Joe Toussaint elected to enter the portal following the resignation of former WVU head coach Bob Huggins two weeks ago. According to CBS Sports' Jon Rothstein, it appears that Toussaint will remain in the Big 12 conference.

 

Toussaint is currently in Lubbock visiting the Texas Tech Red Raiders, and will make a trip to Manhattan on Thursday.

 

The guard appeared in all 36 games for the Mountaineers last season, and averaged 9.4 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 2.6 assists per game as a consistent presence off the bench.

 

The Wildcats have already added guard Tylor Perry and forward Arthur Kaluma in the transfer portal this offseason.

Jayhawks Land Returning Center

 

The roller coaster offseason for the Kansas Jayhawks continues, after a big man from last year's team announced his plan to return weeks after committing to another school.

 

San Antonio product Zach Clemence had originally entered the transfer portal and elected to transfer to UC Santa Barbara. As the weeks went by, however, he began to question if he had made the right decision.

 

Jayhawks head coach Bill Self says Clemence decided to return to Lawrence to improve as a player.

 

Clemence has played in 44 games in his two seasons at KU. He played in 24 games in the National Championship season in 2021-22.

Travis Kelce, Ja'Marr Chase Exchange Words

 

The rivalry between the Kansas City Chiefs and Cincinnati Bengals continues to reach new levels of tension.

 

Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce and Bengals wide receiver Ja'Marr Chase are the subjects of a week's worth of verbal jabs back and forth, following Chase making a comment about Patrick Mahomes.

 

Kelce's older brother Jason, an offensive lineman for the Philadelphia Eagles, explains the situation on the New Heights Podcast.

 

While Chase may be just standing up for his quarterback, Mahomes and Kelce don't seem to care for the way he said it. Kelce says he hopes Chase can back up the talk.

 

Kelce and the Chiefs take on Chase and the Bengals on New Years Eve in Kansas City, with a likely chance of a potential playoff matchup for the third consecutive season.

Gradey Dick Drafted by Toronto Raptors

 

A Wichita native and Jayhawks star has been drafted by the Toronto Raptors in the NBA Draft.

 

The six-foot-six guard was the 13th overall pick in the 1st round of the 2023 draft. Kansas coach Bill Self says he knew Dick would be an NBA player, but never thought it would happen so fast.

 

The wing has displayed a wide variety of skills on the court, being a premiere sharpshooter, but also showing impressive size, explosiveness, and finishing ability around the rim.

 

Dick will have an immediate opportunity to make an impact in Toronto, after the Raptors were the worst 3-point shooting team in the NBA last season.

Wildcat Stars Hope to Hear Names Called

 

NBA Draft night has finally arrived, and a pair of Kansas State stars are hoping to hear their names called.

 

Both guard Markquis Nowell and forward Keyontae Johnson are listed among the nearly 100 draft eligible players fighting for the right to be one of the 60 draft selections.

 

Johnson and Nowell have both been meeting with teams and completing private workouts over the past serveral weeks. Wildcats head coach Jerome Tang says he's heard nothing but good things about his guys.

 

Johnson is currently projected as a 2nd-round pick, with Bleacher Report projecting him to go to the Atlanta Hawks 46th overall. Nowell is currently projected to go undrafted.

Kansas State Alumni Team Announced for TBT

 

There will be a Kansas State alumni team taking part in The Basketball Tournament for a one-million dollar prize later this summer.

 

Team Purple and Black will be comprised of Wildcat legends from a variety of different eras, coming together to play in one of the biggest basketball events of the year. The roster, which was announced yesterday, includes Henry Walker, Martavious Irving, Marcus Foster, DJ Johnson, Jacob Pullen, and Khalid Thomas.

 

The alumni team will be coached by Jordan Henriquez-Roberts, with Clent Steward and Curtis Kelly serving as assistant coaches. Rodney McGruder is serving as the team's general manager.

 

Team Purple and Black is the 2-seed in the Wichita Regional of the TBT tournament, and will play in the regional from July 20-25.

Tyreek Hill Under Investigation After Marina Incident

 

Former Kansas City Chief and current Miami Dolphins star wide receiver Tyreek Hill is under investigation.

 

Hill is facing allegations of assault and battery after an incident at a marina in Miami Beach, where he allegedly struck an employee during a disagreement. Miami sports radio host Andy Slater reports that Hill slapped the employee on the back of the head, but the employee will not pursue pressing charges at this time.

 

The Dolphins released a statement addressing the allegations, stating "We are aware of the situation and have been in contact with Tyreek, his representatives, and the NFL. We will reserve further comment at this time."

 

Hill had 119 catches for over 1,700 yards in his first season in Miami. He spent his first six seasons in the NFL with the Chiefs.

Independence High School Names New Football Coach

 

A new era of Independence High School football is officially here with the announcement of a new head coach.

 

The district named Kendall Fiscus as the newest Bulldogs head coach, following the departure of last season's coach Robert Henderson. Fiscus spent the previous three years as the head coach at Phillipsburg High School.

 

Fiscus has ties to Southeast Kansas, graduating from Fredonia in 2008. He says he is excited about returning to the region and competing.

 

Independence will look to elevate the football program after a difficult 1-8 season that saw plenty of defensive struggles. Fiscus says he is looking foward to continue making adjustments to improve the team's defensive success.

 

Fiscus will also teach social studies in the district, along with is duties as head football coach.

 

FULL INTERVIEW w/ Coach Fiscus

Chiefs in Extension Talks with Chris Jones

 

One of the most important pieces of the Kansas City Chiefs defense is looking for a new long-term contract.

 

Defensive tackle Chris Jones was absent from both mandatory minicamp last week, as well as the ring ceremony for the team. The latter, however, was due to Jones being sick, according to his agent.

 

Chiefs General Manager Brett Veach says he's confident they will work out a deal in time.

 

Jones has said in the past he wants to be a Chief for his entire career. He is currently the seventh highest paid defensive tackle in the NFL.

 

Veach says that the organization has worked well with Jones's agent in the past, and both sides will negotiate in good faith.

 

Jones was a finalist for Defensive Player of the Year last season, with a career high 15.5 sacks, 29 quarterback hits, and 17 tackles for loss.

Memorable Debut for Royals Rookie

 

A Royals rookie was the hero in a comeback win against the Angels on Saturday.

 

Kansas City trailed 8-2 in the 7th inning, looking to avoid their 11th consecutive loss. The team battled back to tie the game at 9-9 going to the bottom of the ninth inning.

 

Rookie Samad Taylor, making his MLB debut, made the most of his first big league hit.

 

Taylor had been just promoted from Triple-A Omaha, where he hit .304 with 37 runs batted in and 34 stolen bases.

 

He says this is something he couldn't even dream of.

 

The Royals would lose two of three games to the Angels, and will embark on a road trip this week, with the first stop to battle the division rival Detroit Tigers.

Bob Huggins Resigns as West Virginia Coach

 

West Virginia head men's basketball coach Bob Huggins has announced his resignation after 16 seasons leading the program.

 

The announcement comes days following a Friday night arrest for allegedly driving under the influence.

 

ESPN writer Pete Thamel says it was the only decision West Virginia could make.

 

The last few months of his coaching career in Morgantown were surrounded by controversy. He was facing a three game suspension and significant pay cut for the use of an anti-gay slur on a Cincinnati radio station.

 

Thamel says the Moutaineers have already begun the process of finding a new coach.

 

Huggins won 935 games in his career, coached in 26 NCAA Tournaments, and reached a pair of Final Fours.

Three Wichita State Alum to be Inducted to Kansas Sports Hall of Fame

 

A trio of Wichita State athletes were named to the 2023 class of the Kansas Sports Hall of Fame.

 

Lynbert Johnson, Sara Lungren Walkup, and Brent Kemnitz all were announced to the annual Hall of Fame class last week.

 

Johnson had a prestigious career on the Shockers basketball team, scoring over 1900 points and a Top 5 scorer in school history. He was three-time all-conference and an honorable mention for the All-American honor in 1979. Johnson was inducted into the Wichita State Sports Hall of Fame in 1986.

 

Walkup was a dominant outside hitter for the Shocker volleyball program. She was Missouri Valley Conference Player of the Year in both her junior and senior seasons, and was an honorable mention All-American in her senior year in 2007.

 

She now serves as the head coach at Cheney High School, in her 11th season, and has taken the program to a pair of Class 3A runner-ups.

 

Kemnitz still serves with the Shockers as the assistant athletic director, but his legacy lies on the baseball field. He spent 38 seasons as the pitching coach of Shocker baseball, and helped the program reach seven College World Series appearaces, including a national championship in 1989.

 

The three alumni, along with the rest of the Class of 2023, will be inducted on October 1st.

Chiefs Unveil Super Bowl Rings

 

The Kansas City Chiefs have revealed their 2023 Super Bowl Championship rings.

 

According to Jostens, the company that designed the rings, each one contains 613 total diamonds. There are 609 round diamonds and four marquise diamonds, plus 35 rubies totaling over 16 carats.

 

Additional features of the rings include the teams logo with 16 rubies, representing the 16 division titles in franchise history. There is also 16 baguette diamonds at the base of the ring, to highlight the 16 players who scored a touchdown in the regular season.

 

Fifty-four diamonds are along the top to showcase the total point deficit the team overcame to win their two most recent Super Bowls.

 

Finally, each player's name is written in gold along with a row of diamonds, in order to personalize each individual ring.

One of Nation's Best Recruits Visits Kansas State

 

Just days after securing one of the transfer portal's top wings in Arthur Kaluma, Jerome Tang is chasing one of the top wings in the Class of 2024.

 

Derrion Reid, a four-star forward from Grovetown, Georgia, is widely considered one of the top forwards available in next year's high school class. Reid is ranked the 24th best player by On3, 26 by Rivals, and 40 at 247Sports.

 

While visiting Manhattan yesterday, Reid said he has enjoyed the connection with Tang and the staff, and that the Wildcats program is in frequent contact with him.

 

Reid is averaging 17.9 points and 6.5 rebounds per game playing for Team Thad in the Nike Circuit. He has 19 scholarship offers already, including from schools such as Alabama, Georgia, Indiana, Kansas, and Ohio State.

 

The Wildcats have signed one player to the Class of 2024 thus far, Bartlesville star guard David Castillo.

A Dozen Jayhawks Named to Preseason All-Conference

 

The Kansas Jayhawks have plenty of preseason buzz, with insider Phil Steele naming 12 different players to preseason all-conference teams.


A trio of players were named preseason 1st team; running back Devin Neal, defensive back Cobee Bryant, and safety Kenny Logan Jr. Neal is the only returning 1,000 yard rusher in the Big 12, while Bryant led the team in interceptions, passes defensed, and was All-Big 12 First Team in 2022. Logan has led the Jayhawks in tackles each of the past two seasons.

 

Three additional Jayhawks were named preseason 2nd team; quarterback Jalon Daniels, and offensive linemen Mike Novitsky and Dominick Puni. Daniels will be the star of the KU offense, and could emerge as a darkhorse Heisman trophy contender. Novitsky and Puni will be anchors on an experienced line that has the makeup to be one of America's best.

 

Additionally, tight end Mason Fairchild and long snapper Luke Hosford were named preseason 3rd team. Kicker Seth Keller, linebacker Craig Young, wide receiver Lawrence Arnold, and edge rusher Devin Phillips were preseason 4th team.

 

The Jayhawks continue to take steps forward under Lance Leipold, and the 2023 football roster could be the most talented on paper since the 2007 run to the Orange Bowl.

Royals Young Star Out for Season

 

A season where nothing has seemed to go the Royals way just got a little tougher this week.

 

Young star first baseman Vinnie Pasquantino will undergo surgery to repair a torn labrum in his shoulder and will miss the remainder of the 2023 season.

 

Pasquantino was placed on the injured list on Saturday with shoulder instability, and further MRIs revealed structural damage. He says it is a horrible feeling to not be able to help the team improve.

 

An 11th-round pick in the 2019 draft, Pasquantino is viewed as a leader and captain-type player in the Royals clubhouse, just one season into his career. He says he intends to continue helping the team in a leadership role moving forward.

 

With Pasquantino out, the Royals will give every day at-bats to another promising young hitter, with Nick Pratto expected to assume that role.

Red Raven Volleyball Schedule Released

 

The 2023 Red Raven Volleyball schedule has been released.

 

The Ravens will open their season at the two day Southeast Community College Tournament in Beatrice, Nebraska on both August 18th and 19th.

 

Red Raven coach Deardin Kelley says they will participate in a set of scrimmages at Butler Community College to prepare for the regular season.

 

The first home match of the 2023 campaign will be against NEO on August 30th at Nellis Hall.

 

Kelley will enter her second season as head coach, after an impressive 26-10 first year that resulted in a fourth place finish. She says that the incoming freshman class is eager to get started.

 

The full 2023 Red Raven volleyball schedule can be found here.

Burrow Calls Mahomes NFL's Best

 

There are plenty of NFL debates and discussions that may never be resolved, but the league's best quarterback seems to be decided for the moment.

 

Chiefs star signal caller Patrick Mahomes is coming off of a second MVP season and second Super Bowl championship. However, with star talent such as Jalen Hurts, Josh Allen, and Justin Herbert, the debate for best QB is a constant argument.

 

Bengals star quarterback Joe Burrow, who is also in that conversation, says that the NFL's best is obvious.

 

The Bengals and Chiefs have ignited a must-watch rivalry over the past two seasons, trading trips to the Super Bowl and squaring off in four games total in 14 months.

 

A good portion of football fans consider Burrow either the best or second best quarterback in football, but at least for now, Burrow says the title belongs to Mahomes.

Jayhawk Football a "Wildcard" in the Big 12

 

An anonymous Big 12 football coach has exciting words regarding Kansas football this season.

 

The Jayhawks are a team on the rise under coach Lance Leipold, and that has begun to garner attention from fellow conference opposition.

 

According to an anonymous coach, "What Lance [Leipold] showed last year is that they’re going to raise the floor to being a really hard team to shut down and to scheme for, and then if they can keep recruiting and developing, the ceiling is a lot higher than we thought for Kansas. … They’re a wildcard this season."

 

Kansas had their best season as a program since 2008, winning six games and losing a bowl game in triple overtime against Arkansas. Leipold has landed major recruits all offseason, and the Jayhawks may be closer to competing than many thought.

Emporia State Hires New Baseball Coach

 

A former Jayhawks assistant and Kansas State head coach is the new head coach at Emporia State.

 

Brad Hill was introduced as the fifth head coach of Emporia State in the last 50 years.

 

Hill served as an assistant at Kansas from 1991-94 before serving as the head coach in Manhattan from 2004-18. He is the all-time winningest coach in KSU baseball history.

 

The resume for Hill is impressive, boasting two Big 12 Coach of the Year awards, four NCAA regionals, and the first conference title for Kansas State in 2013. He also won a national championship with D2 Central Missouri in 2003.

 

Hill is an Emporia State alumnus and has overseen 64 players be drafted to the MLB in his time at Kansas State and Central Missouri.

Kansas State Lands Former Creighton Star

 

Jerome Tang has been patient all offseason in the transfer portal, and once again, it's paid off in a big way for the Wildcats.

 

Kansas State is the new home for star forward Arthur Kaluma, who chose the Wildcats over Alabama and Kentucky. Tang was able to strike quickly, securing the commitment before Kaluma was scheduled to meet with Kentucky and Alabama this week.

 

A 6-foot-8 forward who has played internationally for Uganda in multiple tournaments, was rated the top transfer still available, as well as a top 100 player in the NBA draft pool.

 

Kaluma averaged 11.8 points and six rebounds last season as a starter for a Top 10 Creighton team. He put up 10+ points in all four of the Blue Jays NCAA Tournament games.

 

Kaluma also has seen success against the Kansas Jayhawks, scoring 24 points with 12 rebounds in the 2022 NCAA Tournament, in what many consider the best game of his career. The forward joins Nae'Qwan Tomlin, Tylor Perry, Cam Carter, and David N'Guessan as the backbone of the 2023-24 Kansas State Wildcats.

Chiefs Backup Sees Signs of Brady in Mahomes

 

The newest member of the Chiefs quarterback room has some high praise for the reigning MVP.

 

Former Missouri Tiger Blaine Gabbert signed with Kansas City to serve as a back up to Patrick Mahomes, following four seasons in Tampa Bay serving the same role for Tom Brady.

 

According to Gabbert, however, there isn't much of a difference between the two quarterbacks. He says that Brady and Mahomes both take preparation very seriously, and that translates to the field.

 

Brady and Mahomes play with very different styles, but both are incredibly effective. Gabbert says it's obvious why they both succeed at the highest level.

 

Mahomes threw for 5250 yards and 41 touchdowns last season, winning the league MVP award before leading the Chiefs to his second Super Bowl championship.

CCC Athletics to Host Annual Golf Tournament

 

The Coffeyville Community College Athletic Department is making the most of the summer months by hosting a golf tournament.

 

The 2023 CCC Golf Classic will be played at Coffeyville Country Club on July 22nd. The tournament will feature four person teams playing a scramble format, with the team's lowest score counting on the card.

 

There will also be prizes and giveaways available during the day for accomplishments on the course. Feature Holes include longest drive, longest putt, and closest to pin. There will be a grand prize of a vehicle for a hole-in-one courtesy of John Lay Truck and Auto Sales.

 

The entry deadline for the outing is July 14th, with the fee $75 per person. All proceeds benefit the CCC Athletic Department. For questions or additional information, visit the CCC Athletic website.

 

CCC Volleyball Building Culture around Mental Health

 

Mental health among athletes is becoming more prevalent and outspoken in modern college athletics, including Coffeyville Community College.

 

Fans of collegiate athletes, including the CCC Red Ravens, have grown accustomed to only seeing a player on the field or court. The truth is the process of training, balancing school and sport, and nerves of competing at a high level all contribute to what can be a difficult mental health journey.

 

Red Raven volleyball coach Deardin Kelley says that while all athletes experience emotion, it's expressing those emotions that looms large.

 

A number of athletes may be playing away from home, or adjusting to life as a young adult, which adds stress and anxiety. Kelley says she had to learn how to ask for help as a college athlete herself.

 

The biggest piece of the culture that Kelley is building at CCC is that of honesty and sincerity. She says that she gives and takes with her players so that everyone can feel heard.

 

Kelley has already experienced success on the court, winning 26 games and reaching the Plains District A Finals in her first season as head coach. But the program building she's doing off the court may be leading to greater success in the near future.

Chiefs Receiver to Hold Celebrity Softball Game

 

A wide receiver for the Kansas City Chiefs is raising money for charity with a celebrity softball game.

 

Marquez Valdes-Scantling is hosting the game to raise money for his Humble Beginnings Foundation. Many members of the Chiefs roster are helping out by playing in the game this week.

 

The game will feature Team Offense against Team Defense, with stars on both sides of the ball. Team Offense features Patrick Mahomes, Clyde Edwards-Helaire, KaDarius Toney, and new offensive tackle Jawaan Taylor. Team Defense showcases Justin Reid, Trent McDuffie, Nick Bolton, and first round pick Felix Anudike-Uzomah.

 

The game is June 9th at Legends Field in Kansas City. Tickets are on sale at MonarchsBaseball.com and start at $25. Tickets will also be available on game day at the Field Box Office.

Kansas Football and Basketball to Receive Facility Upgrades

 

The Kansas Jayhawks are eager to return to the football field and basketball court, and will do so with some upgrades to the facilities.

 

Athletic Director Travis Goff recently sent a mass email to Jayhawk fans providing an update on these changes and how they will improve the athletics at the university.

 

The Gateway Project will be a major renovation project that includes a gateway to campus, non-football amenities, and a new and improved football stadium. Goff mentions in the email that a construction manager has been hired to help refine cost and timeline for the project.

 

The full vision for the Gateway Project will be revealed later this year.

 

There is also a two-phase remodel of Allen Fieldhouse, which is currently underway, and will conclude following the end of the upcoming season.

 

Currently, upgrades to the men's staff suite, east side entrance, and premium donor spaces are being worked on. There will also be improved concourses, a new "Jayhawk Pub", and a new team store.

 

These changes are expected to be finished by the start of basketball season in November.

 

 

 

Kansas State Football Legend named to Hall of Fame Ballot

 

One of the greatest football players in Kansas State history has been named to the College Football Hall of Fame ballot for the 2024 class.

 

Terence Newman, a Salina native, and one of the most dominant defensive backs in the prolific history of the Wildcats football program. Newman was one of 78 players and nine coaches from the FBS to be named to the ballot.

 

The corner was a unanimous First Team All-American in 2002 as well as the Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year, and the winner of the Thorpe Award for best defensive back in the country. Newman was a team captain and MVP and one of only two players in KSU history to score on a kickoff return and punt return in the same season.

 

Additional notable names on the 2024 Hall of Fame ballot are Boise State quarterback Kellen Moore, Colorado running back and former Chiefs offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy, California running back Marshawn Lynch, and Pittsburgh wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald.

 

The 2024 College Football Hall of Fame class will be officially inducted at the NFF Annual Awards Dinner on Dec 10, 2024 in Atlanta. They will also be celebrated at their respective alma maters with an On-Campus Salute during the 2024 season.

Shockers and Jayhawks to Meet for First Time in 30 Years

 

One of the largest in-state rivalries is renewing their bad blood on the basketball court.

 

The Wichita State Shockers and the Kansas Jayhawks are scheduled to face off on December 29th at T-Mobile Center in Kansas City. It will be the first regular season men's basketball game between the two schools since 1993.

 

The Jayhawks won eight of nine games against Wichita State in an annual battle from 1984-1993. The last time the two programs faced off, the Shockers emerged victorious 78-65 in the second round of the 2015 NCAA Tournament.

 

Kansas will enter the season as one of the favorites to win the national championship, while Wichita State embarks on a new era under 1st year head coach Paul Mills, looking to play spoiler against their rivals.

 

The Shockers are also slated to play Jerome Tang and the Kansas State Wildcats on December 22nd.

 

 

Super Bowl Champs at White House Today

 

Fresh off of the third Super Bowl championship in franchise history, the Kansas City Chiefs are in Washington today to visit the nation's capitol.

 

Despite this being the third Super Bowl for the Chiefs, this will be the first visit to the White House in team history. KMBC reporter Dennis Evans says they were unable to go following the first two victories.

 

President Joe Biden took to social media following the Chiefs victory over the Philadelphia Eagles, saying “Congrats to the Kansas City Chiefs on their Super Bowl win and to MVP Patrick Mahomes on leading the team to victory. Through injury and obstacles, you showed grit and true resilience.”

 

The visit to the White House will be one of the final activities to celebrate the 2023 season. Kansas City wraps up offseason workouts this week, and will look ahead to training camp and kicking off another Super Bowl campaign.

Kansas State Reveals Big XII Championship Rings

 

The Big XII Champion Kansas State Wildcats got their official championship rings following the overtime thriller win over TCU.

 

The front of the ring displays a Powercat in front of a conference championship trophy. The front also shows Big 12 Champions along the edge.

 

One side of the ring has a purple script CATS, while the other side has a Big 12 logo and a 2022 year mark.

 

The inside of the ring features the 31-28 final score, in which the Wildcats made a goal line stand to win the conference championship in overtime against an undefeated TCU team.

 

Championship rings will be distributed to all players, coaches, and personnel.

Star Junction City Recruit Nearing Decision

 

A star linebacker from Junction City is nearing his college decision, with the Kansas Jayhawks and Kansas State Wildcats among the finalists.

 

Michael Boganowski is considered by many to be the top high school football prospect in the state of Kansas for the class of 2024.

 

Boganowski recently finished a summer skills camp in Salina, and will embark on a trip to visit his five finalist schools, with the goal of coming to a decision. A few of the key factors for the star defender are playing time, coach relationship, and direction of the program.

 

The five schools in the mix are Kansas, Oklahoma, Stanford, Florida State, and Kansas State.

 

Early speculation has Kansas State and Oklahoma as the favorites, but the upcoming senior has kept his thoughts very private over the recruiting process.

Chiefs Matriarch Norma Hunt Passes Away

 

Norma Hunt, wife of the late Kansas City Chiefs founder Lamar Hunt, passed away this weekend at the age of 85.

 

The Hunt family made a statement regarding her passing:

"Kind, generous and unfailingly positive, mom was one of a kind. Her joy and zeal for life were infectious. She loved caring for others, and she had a rare ability to make everyone she encountered feel valued and at ease."

 

Numerous Chiefs players expressed their condolences on social media, including star quarterback Patrick Mahomes. NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell, who knew Hunt for over 40 years, says he was "always struck by her warmth and grace."

 

Hunt was the only woman in NFL history to have attended all 57 Super Bowls.

Mike Moustakas Returns to Kansas City

 

A Royals fan favorite and World Series champion made his return to Kauffman Stadium this weekend.

 

Mike Moustakas took the field for yesterday's series finale with the Colorado Rockies, and received a standing ovation from the Royals faithful.

 

Moustakas spent the first seven seasons of his career in Kansas City, winning American League Comeback Player of the Year, and serving as a crucial part of the lineup that won back to back AL pennants in 2014 and 2015.

 

Moustakas had two hits on the afternoon, but the Royals were able to secure a 2-0 win to salvage the series finale.

 

The third baseman is hitting .244 with two home runs and 13 runs batted in as a part-time player for the Rockies.

Wildcats to Open Season Against Hyped USC Team

 

The NCAA has rewarded Kansas State for their fantastic season a year ago, with a nationally hyped matchup to open the season in Las Vegas.

 

The Wildcats will travel to Sin City and battle the USC Trojans at T-Mobile Arena, according to a report from CBS Sports' Jon Rothstein. The matchup is part of a two game showcase, also featuring the Oregon Ducks and Georgia Bulldogs.

 

The Trojans are maybe the most anticipated team in America, featuring freshman guard Bronny James, the oldest son of NBA superstar LeBron James. Bronny was the #22 ranked prospect in the country in the class of 2023.

 

USC also welcomes a second talented freshman in Isaiah Collier, the top ranked recruit in the 2023 class. Collier, along with James, join a roster that returns All-Pac 12 player Boogie Ellis and others from a team that made the NCAA Tournament last season.

 

The star power will be on full display on opening night, when Nae'Qwan Tomlin, Tylor Perry and the Kansas State Wildcats battle Bronny James, Isaiah Collier, and the rising USC Trojans.

Wildcats Star Returning for Senior Season

 

One of the superstars from the Elite Eight team last season is returning to Manhattan for his senior season.

 

Nae'Qwan Tomlin announced yesterday that he will remove his name from the NBA Draft and will finish his career at Kansas State. Forward Keyontae Johnson was medically cleared and will remain in the NBA Draft.

 

Tomlin is considered a world class athlete, standing 6-feet-10 inches tall and starring at junior college Chipola College in Florida before his career with the Wildcats.

 

The forward averaged 10.4 points and 5.9 rebounds per game last season for Kansas State, and will look to take on a larger role with the departure of Johnson.

 

Kansas State will enter the 2023-24 season with Tomlin and new addition Tylor Perry as the top scoring options for a team looking to replicate the success from last season.

New Jayhawks Star Dickinson Praised by Bill Self

 

Bringing in the top transfer available in Hunter Dickinson has Jayhawks fans excited for the potential of the program, including their own head coach.

 

Bill Self has historically seen great success with the center being the focal point of the Kansas offense, featuring NBA talents such as Joel Embiid, Marcus Morris, and Markieff Morris. Self says however, that Dickinson could be one of the most skilled centers he's ever coached.

 

Dickinson averaged 18.5 points and nine rebounds per game at Michigan last season. He can also spread the floor and shoot, with a consistent mid-range jumper, and shooting 42% from beyond the arc last year.

 

Self says that Dickinson's shooting ability will be crucial to the success of the Jayhawk offense.

 

Kansas was ranked the top team in the power rankings by ESPN last week, and will look to Dickinson to produce at an elite level as the Jayhawks chase another Final Four and national championship.

Chris Klieman Focused on Assistants Before Extension

 

Kansas State football coach Chris Klieman had the entire coaching staff in mind before signing his extension.

 

Klieman signed a $44 million contract extension that will keep him in charge of the Wildcats football program through the 2030 season. Klieman notes, however, that his salary was not the top priority, and that he wanted to make sure his assistant coaches got fair salaries as well.

 

A key value of Chris Klieman's culture at KSU is loyalty, with him stating that he wanted the Wildcats to be able to keep top-notch coordinators like Collin Klein.

 

Klieman also added that he anticipates ending his career at Kansas State, and that he is beyond happy with the current state of Wildcat football. His 30 wins in Manhattan are the most in the first four seasons by any Wildcat football coach in school history.

Half of Wichita State Baseball Roster in Transfer Portal

 

Wichita State baseball is experiencing exteme roster reconstruction following the end of the 2023 season.

 

As of earlier today, the Shockers are down to eight players on the active roster, with the remaining players entering the transfer portal.

 

Recently named American Athletic Conference Player of the Year Brock Rodden announced his intent to depart earlier in the week, with the belief he will be drafted in July. Wichita native and star pitcher Grant Adler also is transferring, after posting a 2.55 ERA in 77.2 innings for the Shockers last season.

 

Wichita State will undergo a national search for the program's next head coach, after electing not to retain interim coach Loren Hibbs. The Shockers finished 30-25 and were eliminated from the conference tournament following losses to Memphis and Houston.

Bill Self Unsure About Future of Transfer Portal

 

After losing eight players from last year's roster, Kansas coach Bill Self expressed his opinion on the transfer portal.

 

Self joined Rob Dauster and Jeff Goodman on the Field of 68 Podcast to discuss the latest with the Jayhawks program.

 

Kansas received a major piece this week with the announced return of Kevin McCullar Jr. Self says that bringing McCullar back into the fold adds a nice veteran mix to a really talented roster.

 

The Jayhawks have had a roller coaster offseason relationship with the transfer portal. Seven notable names from last year's roster, including Bobby Pettiford, Joseph Yesufu, Ernest Udeh Jr, and Zuby Ejiofor all left via the portal.

 

Even after landing star forward Hunter Dickinson, as well as Arterio Morris, Parker Braun, and Nick Timberlake, Self isn't excited about the value of the portal. He says he thinks the transfer portal will damage college basketball in the long term.

 

The Jayhawks currently have the top rated transfer class in the nation at the start of June.

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