MANHATTAN, Kan. – Gene Taylor, who has led K-State Athletics since 2017, has agreed to a contract extension through the 2026-27 academic year, President Richard Myers and the Kansas State Athletics, Inc., Board of Directors announced in a media release Wednesday. The agreement extends Taylor's contract through June 30, 2027, with an annual salary of $925,000 beginning in the 2021-2022 academic year. The contract also includes performance and retention incentives. "Gene Taylor has been a steady guiding force during a challenging time for Kansas State Athletics," said Myers. "The trajectory of our programs is moving in the right direction and he has demonstrated the ability to manage the budget with integrity under extraordinary circumstances. We see a bright future for K-State under his leadership." Taylor, who in June 2020 was named the eighth-best Athletic Director among FBS programs by Stadium, has seen the football program qualify for three bowls, the men's basketball team win a Big 12 Championship, earn an Elite 8 appearance and advance to two NCAA tournaments and the women's track and field team win back-to-back Big 12 Outdoor championships. Additionally, Taylor and staff have fundraised and begun to implement a department-wide facility master plan that will benefit all Wildcat teams including the newly completed baseball and soccer projects in addition to Building Champions, a $105 million initiative focused on the South End Zone of BIll Snyder&nbsp;Family Stadium, a new volleyball arena, an Olympic training Center and a football indoor practice facility. "Our family is extremely fortunate to call K-State and Manhattan home," Taylor said. "I appreciate President Myers, the KSA Board and the Kansas Board of Regents for their trust in me continuing to lead such a phenomenal athletics program. We have the best fans and donors in the country and a group of coaches, staff and student-athletes who are committed to competing at the highest level, and I am looking forward to the years ahead as we continue to elevate our program." Taylor has implemented a strategic plan for the department which places an emphasis on the student-athlete experience, while his leadership in navigating the COVID-19 crisis, in addition to enhancing the department's already-strong diversity and inclusion program, has been well documented. Most recently, Taylor and his leadership team grew K-State Athletics' diversity and inclusion program with the implementation of 10 new action items to begin in the 2020-21 season. With the support of fans and donors, K-State Athletics has also continued to be financially self-sufficient and does not receive support from the university. In FY 2019, a year earlier than anticipated, the program ended the practice of receiving student privilege fees in support of the program. This move makes Taylor's program one of eight across the country to operate with no direct or indirect university and student funding or state support.&nbsp; In addition to achieving a budget surplus for the ninth, 10th and 11th straight years, the department also saw fans and donors contributing $44.4 million in total giving in FY 2019, which is the second-largest figure in department history and marked only the second time ever to eclipse the $40 million mark, while $18.3 million was designated for the department's annual fund. Fans also contributed in FY 2018 a total of $30.9 million, of which a record $18.9 million was designated for the Ahearn Fund annual giving program surpassing its budgeted goal. This past year has presented significant challenges for intercollegiate athletics departments across the nation due to the COVID pandemic, but Taylor's leadership kept the department operating in an efficient manner. In fact, K-State was one of very few programs in the Big 12 to not eliminate positions in the department during the pandemic. Hiring and retaining top coaches is also a critical function of the program. Taylor hired Chris Klieman&nbsp;to replace hall of fame coach Bill Snyder&nbsp;after winning four national titles in five seasons at North Dakota State, and in his first two seasons has qualified for consecutive bowl games while also knocking off Oklahoma (ranked No. 5 and No. 3) in back-to-back years. Taylor has also hired Jordan Smith&nbsp;to take over the tennis program and Pete Hughes&nbsp;in baseball, who took the Wildcats back to the Big 12 Championship in his first year on the job. Graduating student-athletes remains the top priority for the department and academic success has continued under Taylor's guidance as K-State continues to rank among the top schools in the Big 12 in APR and graduation success rate.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616609882700.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>MANHATTAN, Kan. – Gene Taylor, who has led K-State Athletics since 2017, has agreed to a contract extension through the 2026-27 academic year, President Richard Myers and the Kansas State Athletics, Inc., Board of Directors announced in a media release Wednesday. The agreement extends Taylor's contract through June 30, 2027, with an annual salary of $925,000 beginning in the 2021-2022 academic year. The contract also includes performance and retention incentives. "Gene Taylor has been a steady guiding force during a challenging time for Kansas State Athletics," said Myers. "The trajectory of our programs is moving in the right direction and he has demonstrated the ability to manage the budget with integrity under extraordinary circumstances. We see a bright future for K-State under his leadership." Taylor, who in June 2020 was named the eighth-best Athletic Director among FBS programs by Stadium, has seen the football program qualify for three bowls, the men's basketball team win a Big 12 Championship, earn an Elite 8 appearance and advance to two NCAA tournaments and the women's track and field team win back-to-back Big 12 Outdoor championships. Additionally, Taylor and staff have fundraised and begun to implement a department-wide facility master plan that will benefit all Wildcat teams including the newly completed baseball and soccer projects in addition to Building Champions, a $105 million initiative focused on the South End Zone of BIll Snyder&nbsp;Family Stadium, a new volleyball arena, an Olympic training Center and a football indoor practice facility. "Our family is extremely fortunate to call K-State and Manhattan home," Taylor said. "I appreciate President Myers, the KSA Board and the Kansas Board of Regents for their trust in me continuing to lead such a phenomenal athletics program. We have the best fans and donors in the country and a group of coaches, staff and student-athletes who are committed to competing at the highest level, and I am looking forward to the years ahead as we continue to elevate our program." Taylor has implemented a strategic plan for the department which places an emphasis on the student-athlete experience, while his leadership in navigating the COVID-19 crisis, in addition to enhancing the department's already-strong diversity and inclusion program, has been well documented. Most recently, Taylor and his leadership team grew K-State Athletics' diversity and inclusion program with the implementation of 10 new action items to begin in the 2020-21 season. With the support of fans and donors, K-State Athletics has also continued to be financially self-sufficient and does not receive support from the university. In FY 2019, a year earlier than anticipated, the program ended the practice of receiving student privilege fees in support of the program. This move makes Taylor's program one of eight across the country to operate with no direct or indirect university and student funding or state support.&nbsp; In addition to achieving a budget surplus for the ninth, 10th and 11th straight years, the department also saw fans and donors contributing $44.4 million in total giving in FY 2019, which is the second-largest figure in department history and marked only the second time ever to eclipse the $40 million mark, while $18.3 million was designated for the department's annual fund. Fans also contributed in FY 2018 a total of $30.9 million, of which a record $18.9 million was designated for the Ahearn Fund annual giving program surpassing its budgeted goal. This past year has presented significant challenges for intercollegiate athletics departments across the nation due to the COVID pandemic, but Taylor's leadership kept the department operating in an efficient manner. In fact, K-State was one of very few programs in the Big 12 to not eliminate positions in the department during the pandemic. Hiring and retaining top coaches is also a critical function of the program. Taylor hired Chris Klieman&nbsp;to replace hall of fame coach Bill Snyder&nbsp;after winning four national titles in five seasons at North Dakota State, and in his first two seasons has qualified for consecutive bowl games while also knocking off Oklahoma (ranked No. 5 and No. 3) in back-to-back years. Taylor has also hired Jordan Smith&nbsp;to take over the tennis program and Pete Hughes&nbsp;in baseball, who took the Wildcats back to the Big 12 Championship in his first year on the job. Graduating student-athletes remains the top priority for the department and academic success has continued under Taylor's guidance as K-State continues to rank among the top schools in the Big 12 in APR and graduation success rate.&nbsp;&nbsp;

K-State AD Gene Taylor receives contract extension

MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;– Three Kansas State men’s basketball players were selected to the Academic All-Big 12 Teams, including two on the First Team, as the league office announced its 58-member all-academic teams on Tuesday (March 23).

Sophomores&nbsp;Kaosi Ezeagu&nbsp;and&nbsp;Joe Petrakis&nbsp;were named to the league’s 42-member first team, which consists of those student-athletes who have maintained a 3.20 or better GPA. Fellow sophomore&nbsp;DaJuan Gordon&nbsp;was selected to the 16-member second team, which honors those with a GPA of 3.0 to 3.19.

It is the first career academic honors for all three student-athletes.

In head coach&nbsp;Bruce Weber’s&nbsp;tenure at K-State, he has now seen 19 student-athletes earn Academic All-Big 12 honors a total of 26 times. The individual honors continue another solid academic year for the Wildcats, as Ezeagu and Petrakis were among eight players named to the Fall 2020 Big 12 Commissioner’s Honor Roll.

Nominated by each institution’s director of student-athlete support services and the media relations offices, the academic all-league men’s basketball team consisted of 19 first team members combined with 13 on the second team.&nbsp; First team members consist of those who have maintained a 3.20 or better GPA, and the second team are those who have a 3.00 to 3.19 GPA.

To qualify student-athletes must maintain a 3.00 GPA or higher either cumulative or the two previous semesters and must have participated in 60 percent of his team’s scheduled contests.&nbsp; Freshmen and transfers are not eligible in their first year of academic residence.&nbsp; Senior student-athletes who have participated for a minimum of two years and meet all the criteria except percent of participation are also eligible.

TOM GILBERT Director for Men’s Basketball Communications | K-State Athletics

MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;– Three Kansas State men’s basketball players were selected to the Academic All-Big 12 Teams, including two on the First Team, as the league office announced its 58-member all-academic teams on Tuesday (March 23).Sophomores&nbsp;Kaosi Ezeagu&nbsp;and&nbsp;Joe Petrakis&nbsp;were named to the league’s 42-member first team, which consists of those student-athletes who have maintained a 3.20 or better GPA. Fellow sophomore&nbsp;DaJuan Gordon&nbsp;was selected to the 16-member second team, which honors those with a GPA of 3.0 to 3.19.It is the first career academic honors for all three student-athletes.In head coach&nbsp;Bruce Weber’s&nbsp;tenure at K-State, he has now seen 19 student-athletes earn Academic All-Big 12 honors a total of 26 times. The individual honors continue another solid academic year for the Wildcats, as Ezeagu and Petrakis were among eight players named to the Fall 2020 Big 12 Commissioner’s Honor Roll.Nominated by each institution’s director of student-athlete support services and the media relations offices, the academic all-league men’s basketball team consisted of 19 first team members combined with 13 on the second team.&nbsp; First team members consist of those who have maintained a 3.20 or better GPA, and the second team are those who have a 3.00 to 3.19 GPA.To qualify student-athletes must maintain a 3.00 GPA or higher either cumulative or the two previous semesters and must have participated in 60 percent of his team’s scheduled contests.&nbsp; Freshmen and transfers are not eligible in their first year of academic residence.&nbsp; Senior student-athletes who have participated for a minimum of two years and meet all the criteria except percent of participation are also eligible.TOM GILBERT Director for Men’s Basketball Communications | K-State Athletics

MBB: Three Wildcats Named to Academic All-Big 12 Teams

<a>MANHATTAN, Kan.</a>&nbsp;– Kansas State men’s basketball received some good news on Tuesday afternoon (March 23) when senior&nbsp;Mike McGuirl&nbsp;announced that he was utilizing his extra season of eligibility and returning to the Wildcats for the 2021-22 season.

“This was an easy decision for me,” said McGuirl. “The coaches and the Kansas State community have been so great to me and I wanted another year with my brothers on the team.”

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the NCAA announced in October that they had agreed to grant fall and winter sport student-athletes an additional year to complete their eligibility.

An All-Big 12 Honorable Mention selection, McGuirl is coming off solid senior season in 2020-21, in which, the Ellington, Connecticut native either led or was tied for the team lead in 12 categories, including points (342), double-digit scoring games (20), field goals made (112) and attempted (315), 3-point field goals made (60) and attempted (190), free throws made (58) and attempted (76), assists (103), steals (30) and minutes (34.3). He was second in scoring (11.8 ppg.) to freshman teammate&nbsp;Nijel Pack.

“We are excited to have Mike back for his extra year,” said head coach&nbsp;Bruce Weber. “I have said many times how bad I felt that he didn’t get a freshman season since we had to pull his redshirt late in the year due to some injuries.&nbsp;I told him, ‘God has a path for you, and now you have an opportunity to get your freshman year back’.

Obviously, he had a memorable experience in the NCAA Tournament with his great game against Creighton, helping us advance to the Elite Eight.

“Mike showed so much commitment and sacrifice this year. Despite everything going on, he didn’t miss one practice or game. I’m happy that he has the opportunity to build on the progress that he made this season and hopefully continue how he finished the year (double-figure scoring in 5 of the last 6 games). He has the chance to become one of the elite guards in the Big 12 next season.”

McGuirl’s 20 double-digit scoring games doubled his entire career total (10) that he had entering the 2020-21 season. He opened the year with his first career 20-point game vs. Drake on November 25 with 22 points then equaled it against Fort Hays State on December 8, while he had a team-high 19 points in the upset of No. 7/8 Oklahoma on February 23 that included a career-best 5 3-pointers. Of his 705 career points, 542 have come in the last two seasons in 58 games played with 49 starts (9.3 ppg.).

The only player to start all 29 games, McGuirl showed his versatility by leading the Wildcats in scoring a team-best 11 times, while he also pacing the team in rebounding 4 times, in assists 14 times and in steals on 10 occasions. He led the team in scoring (16), rebounding (9) and assists (5) in the win over TCU on February 20, a win which started the team’s late surge to end the season (4 wins in the last 6 games).

In addition to his scoring, McGuirl also set up his teammates, dishing out a team-best 103 assists (to 77 turnovers) in 2020-21. He had 11 games at least 5 assists this season, including a career-best 8 against Milwaukee on December 11, while he had 7 assists in the narrow 74-68 loss to No. 2/2 Baylor in the quarterfinals of the Big 12 Championship on March 11. He is the 40th&nbsp;Wildcat to tally 100 assists in a single season, while he is the 28th&nbsp;player in school history to eclipse 200 in his career.

Entering the 2021-22 season, McGuirl has scored 705 career points in 104 games played with 51 starts on 37.3 percent (235-of-630) shooting, including 32.4 percent (118-of-364) from 3-point range, to go with 247 rebounds (2.4 rpg.), 209 assists (2.0 apg.) and 85 steals (0.8 spg.).

<a>MANHATTAN, Kan.</a>&nbsp;– Kansas State men’s basketball received some good news on Tuesday afternoon (March 23) when senior&nbsp;Mike McGuirl&nbsp;announced that he was utilizing his extra season of eligibility and returning to the Wildcats for the 2021-22 season.“This was an easy decision for me,” said McGuirl. “The coaches and the Kansas State community have been so great to me and I wanted another year with my brothers on the team.”Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the NCAA announced in October that they had agreed to grant fall and winter sport student-athletes an additional year to complete their eligibility.An All-Big 12 Honorable Mention selection, McGuirl is coming off solid senior season in 2020-21, in which, the Ellington, Connecticut native either led or was tied for the team lead in 12 categories, including points (342), double-digit scoring games (20), field goals made (112) and attempted (315), 3-point field goals made (60) and attempted (190), free throws made (58) and attempted (76), assists (103), steals (30) and minutes (34.3). He was second in scoring (11.8 ppg.) to freshman teammate&nbsp;Nijel Pack.“We are excited to have Mike back for his extra year,” said head coach&nbsp;Bruce Weber. “I have said many times how bad I felt that he didn’t get a freshman season since we had to pull his redshirt late in the year due to some injuries.&nbsp;I told him, ‘God has a path for you, and now you have an opportunity to get your freshman year back’.Obviously, he had a memorable experience in the NCAA Tournament with his great game against Creighton, helping us advance to the Elite Eight.“Mike showed so much commitment and sacrifice this year. Despite everything going on, he didn’t miss one practice or game. I’m happy that he has the opportunity to build on the progress that he made this season and hopefully continue how he finished the year (double-figure scoring in 5 of the last 6 games). He has the chance to become one of the elite guards in the Big 12 next season.”McGuirl’s 20 double-digit scoring games doubled his entire career total (10) that he had entering the 2020-21 season. He opened the year with his first career 20-point game vs. Drake on November 25 with 22 points then equaled it against Fort Hays State on December 8, while he had a team-high 19 points in the upset of No. 7/8 Oklahoma on February 23 that included a career-best 5 3-pointers. Of his 705 career points, 542 have come in the last two seasons in 58 games played with 49 starts (9.3 ppg.).The only player to start all 29 games, McGuirl showed his versatility by leading the Wildcats in scoring a team-best 11 times, while he also pacing the team in rebounding 4 times, in assists 14 times and in steals on 10 occasions. He led the team in scoring (16), rebounding (9) and assists (5) in the win over TCU on February 20, a win which started the team’s late surge to end the season (4 wins in the last 6 games).In addition to his scoring, McGuirl also set up his teammates, dishing out a team-best 103 assists (to 77 turnovers) in 2020-21. He had 11 games at least 5 assists this season, including a career-best 8 against Milwaukee on December 11, while he had 7 assists in the narrow 74-68 loss to No. 2/2 Baylor in the quarterfinals of the Big 12 Championship on March 11. He is the 40th&nbsp;Wildcat to tally 100 assists in a single season, while he is the 28th&nbsp;player in school history to eclipse 200 in his career.Entering the 2021-22 season, McGuirl has scored 705 career points in 104 games played with 51 starts on 37.3 percent (235-of-630) shooting, including 32.4 percent (118-of-364) from 3-point range, to go with 247 rebounds (2.4 rpg.), 209 assists (2.0 apg.) and 85 steals (0.8 spg.).

McGuirl to Return for Extra Season in 2021-22

INDIANAPOLIS (AP) —Isaiah Mobley scored 17 points, younger brother Evan had 10 points and 13 rebounds, and No. 6 seed Southern California routed Kansas 85-51 to reach the Sweet 16. It was the worst loss in 49 trips to the NCAA Tournament for the No. 3 seed Jayhawks. USC ended the first half on an 11-0 run to take a 40-21 lead and never looked back. Marcus Garrett scored 15 points to lead Kansas, which was out-rebounded 43-27.

INDIANAPOLIS (AP) —Isaiah Mobley scored 17 points, younger brother Evan had 10 points and 13 rebounds, and No. 6 seed Southern California routed Kansas 85-51 to reach the Sweet 16. It was the worst loss in 49 trips to the NCAA Tournament for the No. 3 seed Jayhawks. USC ended the first half on an 11-0 run to take a 40-21 lead and never looked back. Marcus Garrett scored 15 points to lead Kansas, which was out-rebounded 43-27.

Jayhawks lose in NCAA Tournament

LOS ANGELES (AP) — Elgin Baylor, the Lakers' 11-time NBA All-Star, has died. The Lakers said Monday that Baylor died of natural causes in Los Angeles with his wife and daughter by his side. 

With a silky-smooth jumper and fluid athleticism, Baylor played a major role in revolutionizing basketball from a ground-bound sport into an aerial show. He was the first NBA player to surpass 70 points in a game. 

Lakers great Jerry West called him "one of the most spectacular shooters the world has ever seen." Baylor's second career as a personnel executive with the Los Angeles Clippers was much less successful. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616445851151.png" alt="Baylor on the cover of a Los Angeles Lakers program on March 21, 1969 which was dubbed "Elgin Baylor Night." Public domain photo" />
 <figcaption>Baylor on the cover of a Los Angeles Lakers program on March 21, 1969 which was dubbed "Elgin Baylor Night." Public domain photo</figcaption>
 </figure>LOS ANGELES (AP) — Elgin Baylor, the Lakers' 11-time NBA All-Star, has died. The Lakers said Monday that Baylor died of natural causes in Los Angeles with his wife and daughter by his side. With a silky-smooth jumper and fluid athleticism, Baylor played a major role in revolutionizing basketball from a ground-bound sport into an aerial show. He was the first NBA player to surpass 70 points in a game. Lakers great Jerry West called him "one of the most spectacular shooters the world has ever seen." Baylor's second career as a personnel executive with the Los Angeles Clippers was much less successful. Elgin Baylor was 86 years old.

Lakers Hall of Famer Elgin Baylor dies at 86

KANSAS CITY (AP) — The Kansas City Royals have given six-time All-Star catcher Salvador Pérez the richest contract in club history, an $82 million, four-year deal that begins in 2022. 

he contract includes a club option worth an additional $13.5 million and has a $2 million buyout for 2026. The deal surpasses the four-year, $72 million contract the Royals gave to outfielder Alex Gordon in 2016. That deal wound up being a disappointment and Gordon retired after last season. Pérez is coming off a season in which he won his third Silver Slugger. He is also a five-time Gold Glove winner.

KANSAS CITY (AP) — The Kansas City Royals have given six-time All-Star catcher Salvador Pérez the richest contract in club history, an $82 million, four-year deal that begins in 2022. he contract includes a club option worth an additional $13.5 million and has a $2 million buyout for 2026. The deal surpasses the four-year, $72 million contract the Royals gave to outfielder Alex Gordon in 2016. That deal wound up being a disappointment and Gordon retired after last season. Pérez is coming off a season in which he won his third Silver Slugger. He is also a five-time Gold Glove winner.

Royals give Salvador Perez a big contract

Deadline to enter the B.A.S.S. Nation Central Regional Tournament at Milford Lake is this Tuesday. The tournament, which runs April 21-23,&nbsp; will be headquartered at Acorns Resort. Starting time will be 6:30 a.m. and weigh-in at 2:30 p.m.

The tournament is sponsored by the Geary County CVB.

Deadline to enter the B.A.S.S. Nation Central Regional Tournament at Milford Lake is this Tuesday. The tournament, which runs April 21-23,&nbsp; will be headquartered at Acorns Resort. Starting time will be 6:30 a.m. and weigh-in at 2:30 p.m.The tournament is sponsored by the Geary County CVB.

Signup for B.A.S.S. Nation Tournament nears

The final spring football practice at Kansas State, scheduled for the morning of Saturday, April 3, will be open to the public, K-State Athletics officials have announced.

Gate B on the west side of Bill Snyder Family Stadium will open at 11 a.m. for the free event with parking available in the west lot, and fans can watch practice from seats in the lower bowl on the west side of the stadium. Practice is expected to run until 12 p.m., and there is no autograph session afterwards.

To comply with Riley County and University policies, fans are required to wear masks for the entirety of the practice and asked to practice social distancing guidelines.

Season tickets for the 2021 season are on sale now, and Kansas State anticipates a return to a more normal football season this fall. K-State looks forward to welcoming back its full fanbase in 2021 and reintroducing several gameday traditions and policies, including tailgating beginning five hours prior to kickoff and standard exiting and re-entry to the stadium. Full season ticket options starting at just over $20 per game can be found at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kstatesports.com/tickets" target="_blank">www.kstatesports.com/tickets</a>.

K-State begins its 2021 season by taking on Stanford in the Allstate Kickoff Classic on September 4 inside AT&amp;T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. The game is one of just eight non-conference games during the opening week that features two Power 5 teams and one of four that will be held at a neutral site. Fans interested in requesting tickets for the game are encouraged to log into their&nbsp;<a href="https://kstatesports.evenue.net/cgi-bin/ncommerce3/GetApps?linkID=kansuse&amp;linkSource=SR&amp;caller=appList" target="_blank">online ticket account</a>.

The Wildcats’ first game of 2021 inside Bill Snyder Family Stadium is September 11 as they host Southern Illinois. K-State then faces Nevada a week later. The Big 12 home schedule in 2021 includes games against Oklahoma, Iowa State, TCU, West Virginia and Baylor.

Assistant Athletics Director for Communications

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616191171173.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The final spring football practice at Kansas State, scheduled for the morning of Saturday, April 3, will be open to the public, K-State Athletics officials have announced.Gate B on the west side of Bill Snyder Family Stadium will open at 11 a.m. for the free event with parking available in the west lot, and fans can watch practice from seats in the lower bowl on the west side of the stadium. Practice is expected to run until 12 p.m., and there is no autograph session afterwards.To comply with Riley County and University policies, fans are required to wear masks for the entirety of the practice and asked to practice social distancing guidelines.Season tickets for the 2021 season are on sale now, and Kansas State anticipates a return to a more normal football season this fall. K-State looks forward to welcoming back its full fanbase in 2021 and reintroducing several gameday traditions and policies, including tailgating beginning five hours prior to kickoff and standard exiting and re-entry to the stadium. Full season ticket options starting at just over $20 per game can be found at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kstatesports.com/tickets" target="_blank">www.kstatesports.com/tickets</a>.K-State begins its 2021 season by taking on Stanford in the Allstate Kickoff Classic on September 4 inside AT&amp;T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. The game is one of just eight non-conference games during the opening week that features two Power 5 teams and one of four that will be held at a neutral site. Fans interested in requesting tickets for the game are encouraged to log into their&nbsp;<a href="https://kstatesports.evenue.net/cgi-bin/ncommerce3/GetApps?linkID=kansuse&amp;linkSource=SR&amp;caller=appList" target="_blank">online ticket account</a>.The Wildcats’ first game of 2021 inside Bill Snyder Family Stadium is September 11 as they host Southern Illinois. K-State then faces Nevada a week later. The Big 12 home schedule in 2021 includes games against Oklahoma, Iowa State, TCU, West Virginia and Baylor.RYAN LACKEYAssistant Athletics Director for Communications

Final K-State spring football practice will be open to the public

MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;– Sophomore guard&nbsp;DaJuan Gordon&nbsp;and junior guard&nbsp;Rudi Williams&nbsp;have opted to enter the transfer portal, head coach&nbsp;Bruce Weber&nbsp;announced Friday (March 19).

<a>“After several conversations with DaJaun and his family following the season, he informed me of his decision,” Weber said. “Although DaJuan has played significant minutes and started most games the past two seasons, he indicated his desire to have a larger role offensively. Obviously, we are disappointed with his decision, but we wish him the best in basketball and life.”</a>

A 6-foot-4 guard from Chicago, Gordon played in 57 games with 33 starts in his two-year career with the Wildcats, averaging 7.5 points on 40.6 percent (159-of-392) shooting, including 26.9 percent (42-of-156) from 3-point range, with 4.4 rebounds, 1.0 assists and 1.2 steals in 26.0 minutes per game. This past season, he played in 25 games with 22 starts and averaged 9.1 points on 37.5 percent (81-of-216) shooting with 5.5 rebounds, 1.4 assists and 1.2 steals in 28.5 minutes per game as a sophomore.

Williams played one season for the Wildcats.

“We recruited and signed Rudi during the early part of the (COVID-19) pandemic without him even visiting campus and getting a feeling for our program, so this gives him the opportunity to evaluate what type of school will be best for him moving forward. We wish him well,” Weber added.

A 6-foot-3 guard from Hamilton, Ontario played in 27 games with 4 starts as a junior in 2020-21, averaging 4.8 points on 40.3 percent (50-of-124) shooting, including 29.4 percent (15-of-51) from 3-point range, with 2.6 rebounds and 1.4 assists in 18.2 minutes per game.&nbsp;

“These are two quality young men and I appreciate their hard work and contributions to our program during their time here,” Weber said.

MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;– Sophomore guard&nbsp;DaJuan Gordon&nbsp;and junior guard&nbsp;Rudi Williams&nbsp;have opted to enter the transfer portal, head coach&nbsp;Bruce Weber&nbsp;announced Friday (March 19).<a>“After several conversations with DaJaun and his family following the season, he informed me of his decision,” Weber said. “Although DaJuan has played significant minutes and started most games the past two seasons, he indicated his desire to have a larger role offensively. Obviously, we are disappointed with his decision, but we wish him the best in basketball and life.”</a>A 6-foot-4 guard from Chicago, Gordon played in 57 games with 33 starts in his two-year career with the Wildcats, averaging 7.5 points on 40.6 percent (159-of-392) shooting, including 26.9 percent (42-of-156) from 3-point range, with 4.4 rebounds, 1.0 assists and 1.2 steals in 26.0 minutes per game. This past season, he played in 25 games with 22 starts and averaged 9.1 points on 37.5 percent (81-of-216) shooting with 5.5 rebounds, 1.4 assists and 1.2 steals in 28.5 minutes per game as a sophomore.Williams played one season for the Wildcats.“We recruited and signed Rudi during the early part of the (COVID-19) pandemic without him even visiting campus and getting a feeling for our program, so this gives him the opportunity to evaluate what type of school will be best for him moving forward. We wish him well,” Weber added.A 6-foot-3 guard from Hamilton, Ontario played in 27 games with 4 starts as a junior in 2020-21, averaging 4.8 points on 40.3 percent (50-of-124) shooting, including 29.4 percent (15-of-51) from 3-point range, with 2.6 rebounds and 1.4 assists in 18.2 minutes per game.&nbsp;“These are two quality young men and I appreciate their hard work and contributions to our program during their time here,” Weber said.

K-State's Gordon, Williams to Transfer

WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. (AP) — Joseph Yesufu scored 21 points and Drake beat Wichita State 53-52 in the First Four. It was Bulldogs’ first NCAA Tournament win in a half-century. 

Drake’s last tournament victory had been 50 years ago to the day —- March 18, 1971, against Notre Dame. The Bulldogs came in with 25 wins, second most in the tournament. Their tense matchup with a longtime Missouri Valley Conference rival brought some early drama to the pandemic-affected tourney. Wichita State had a chance to win at the buzzer but Alterique Gilbert settled for a long 3-pointer that hit the front rim.

WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. (AP) — Joseph Yesufu scored 21 points and Drake beat Wichita State 53-52 in the First Four. It was Bulldogs’ first NCAA Tournament win in a half-century. Drake’s last tournament victory had been 50 years ago to the day —- March 18, 1971, against Notre Dame. The Bulldogs came in with 25 wins, second most in the tournament. Their tense matchup with a longtime Missouri Valley Conference rival brought some early drama to the pandemic-affected tourney. Wichita State had a chance to win at the buzzer but Alterique Gilbert settled for a long 3-pointer that hit the front rim.

Wichita State falls in First Four matchup

The Kansas City Chiefs are planning to sign defensive lineman Taco Charlton and running back Darrel Williams to one-year deals, according to a person familiar with the situation. The Chiefs also have tendered wide receiver Byron Pringle and offensive lineman Andrew Wylie. That's according to the person who spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity Wednesday because deals cannot be completed until later in the day. 

That’s when the Chiefs can also finalize a five-year, $80 million contract with former Patriots offensive lineman Joe Thuney.

The Kansas City Chiefs are planning to sign defensive lineman Taco Charlton and running back Darrel Williams to one-year deals, according to a person familiar with the situation. The Chiefs also have tendered wide receiver Byron Pringle and offensive lineman Andrew Wylie. That's according to the person who spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity Wednesday because deals cannot be completed until later in the day. That’s when the Chiefs can also finalize a five-year, $80 million contract with former Patriots offensive lineman Joe Thuney.

Chiefs are making personnel moves

MANHATTAN, Kan. — Kansas State University Offensive Coordinator Courtney Messingham, as well as Wildcat student-athletes spoke to local media via Zoom Tuesday to recap the start of spring practices and look ahead to the fall season.&nbsp;

One of the position groups that has received the most attention of late is the wide receivers. Coach Messingham shared his thoughts:&nbsp;

“Well, I’ve been really happy with Keenan Garber, has come to work every single day, has made plays for us. He’s shown, even though he’s a lighter guy, that he’s not afraid to throw it in there and block some. So, I’ve been really happy with him," said Messingham. "Obviously, Malik (Knowles) and (Phillip) Brooks know so much about our offense now after being here for two seasons. They’ve been easy to coach, and they’ve done a good job trying to help some of the younger guys. So, in general, I’ve been happy with them.”

Messingham went further into detail on his most veteran receiver, Malik Knowles, stating, "One of the things for me isn’t so much myself changing things for him, it’s him understanding that the offseason is so important for his development for game week. Meaning, if he’ll listen to our strength and conditioning staff, if he’ll listen to our nutrition people, if he’ll do the things before we ever get to gameday, he’s going to be that much better. To this point, I feel like he’s been doing that. He hasn’t missed one rep so far in spring ball, and if he can keep working the way he’s working, we’ll be in good shape.”

Knowles battled with injuries during the 2020 campaign, but came on late as a major contributor for the Wildcat offense.&nbsp;

"It was the focus. During the season I was going through a lot of stuff off the field, and just being able to really focus, and when the team needed me the most, I was able to push through," said Knowles of his late-season progress.

The receiving core for K-State has a lot of young talent, such as the previously mentioned Keenan Garber, but Knowles' role as a leader is one that's clear, and he seems more than prepared for the workload.&nbsp;

"I’m taking a lot of the young guys under our wings, and I’m always up here doing extra work like jugs catches, watching film and just trying to make them a part of the game," said Knowles.

K-State coaches and players will routinely speak with media throughout the spring practice calendar. Stay tuned for updates each week.

MANHATTAN, Kan. — Kansas State University Offensive Coordinator Courtney Messingham, as well as Wildcat student-athletes spoke to local media via Zoom Tuesday to recap the start of spring practices and look ahead to the fall season.&nbsp;One of the position groups that has received the most attention of late is the wide receivers. Coach Messingham shared his thoughts:&nbsp;“Well, I’ve been really happy with Keenan Garber, has come to work every single day, has made plays for us. He’s shown, even though he’s a lighter guy, that he’s not afraid to throw it in there and block some. So, I’ve been really happy with him," said Messingham. "Obviously, Malik (Knowles) and (Phillip) Brooks know so much about our offense now after being here for two seasons. They’ve been easy to coach, and they’ve done a good job trying to help some of the younger guys. So, in general, I’ve been happy with them.”Messingham went further into detail on his most veteran receiver, Malik Knowles, stating, "One of the things for me isn’t so much myself changing things for him, it’s him understanding that the offseason is so important for his development for game week. Meaning, if he’ll listen to our strength and conditioning staff, if he’ll listen to our nutrition people, if he’ll do the things before we ever get to gameday, he’s going to be that much better. To this point, I feel like he’s been doing that. He hasn’t missed one rep so far in spring ball, and if he can keep working the way he’s working, we’ll be in good shape.”Knowles battled with injuries during the 2020 campaign, but came on late as a major contributor for the Wildcat offense.&nbsp;"It was the focus. During the season I was going through a lot of stuff off the field, and just being able to really focus, and when the team needed me the most, I was able to push through," said Knowles of his late-season progress.The receiving core for K-State has a lot of young talent, such as the previously mentioned Keenan Garber, but Knowles' role as a leader is one that's clear, and he seems more than prepared for the workload.&nbsp;"I’m taking a lot of the young guys under our wings, and I’m always up here doing extra work like jugs catches, watching film and just trying to make them a part of the game," said Knowles. K-State coaches and players will routinely speak with media throughout the spring practice calendar. Stay tuned for updates each week.

K-State Spring Football Update

Junction City had three players receiving all Centennial League recognition in basketball. Chris Dixon was named to the all-conference second team, while Howard Johnson and Terrence Tedder received all-league honorable mention.

For Manhattan three players received recognition including Owen Braxmeyer was named to the second team while Cameron Carr and Jack Wilson received honorable mention.

Joe Berry – Washburn Rural – Sr. Trevion Alexander – Topeka West – Sr.

Marque Wilkerson – Topeka West – Sr. CJ Powell – Highland Park – Sr.

Elijah Brooks – Topeka West – Jr. Charles Snyder – Emporia – Sr.

Ty Henry – Seaman – Jr. Jack Hutchinson – Washburn Rural – Sr.

Chris Dixon – Junction City – Sr. Owen Braxmeyer – Manhattan – Sr.

JuanTario Roberts – Highland Park – Jr. Jalen Smith – Topeka High – Sr.

Howard Johnson – Junction City – Jr.

Cameron Carr – Manhattan – So.

Terrance Tedder – Junction City – Jr.

Newcomer of the year – Zander Putthoff – Topeka West – Jr.

Player of the year – Trevion Alexander – Topeka West – Sr.

(3-way tie) Marquee Wilkerson – Topeka West – Sr.

Coach of the year – Rick Bloomquist – Topeka West

Junction City had three players receiving all Centennial League recognition in basketball. Chris Dixon was named to the all-conference second team, while Howard Johnson and Terrence Tedder received all-league honorable mention.For Manhattan three players received recognition including Owen Braxmeyer was named to the second team while Cameron Carr and Jack Wilson received honorable mention.1st Team All-LeagueJoe Berry – Washburn Rural – Sr. Trevion Alexander – Topeka West – Sr.Marque Wilkerson – Topeka West – Sr. CJ Powell – Highland Park – Sr.Elijah Brooks – Topeka West – Jr. Charles Snyder – Emporia – Sr.2nd Team All-LeagueTy Henry – Seaman – Jr. Jack Hutchinson – Washburn Rural – Sr.Chris Dixon – Junction City – Sr. Owen Braxmeyer – Manhattan – Sr.JuanTario Roberts – Highland Park – Jr. Jalen Smith – Topeka High – Sr.Honorable Mention All-LeagueJahi Peppers – Highland Park – Sr.Howard Johnson – Junction City – Jr.Cameron Carr – Manhattan – So.Joe Otting – Hayden – So.Mateo Hyman – Seaman – Jr.Zander Putthoff – Topeka West – Jr.Jack Wilson – Manhattan – So.Kaeden Bonner – Seaman – So.Jack Bachelor – Washburn Rural – So.Terrance Tedder – Junction City – Jr.Newcomer of the year – Zander Putthoff – Topeka West – Jr.Player of the year – Trevion Alexander – Topeka West – Sr.(3-way tie) Marquee Wilkerson – Topeka West – Sr.Joe Berry – Washburn Rural – Sr.Coach of the year – Rick Bloomquist – Topeka West

2020-2021 Centennial League All League Boys Basketball Selections

MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;– Sophomore forward&nbsp;Antonio Gordon&nbsp;has opted to enter the transfer portal and has been released from his scholarship at Kansas State, head coach&nbsp;Bruce Weber&nbsp;announced Monday (March 15).

“Antonio has entered the transfer portal,” said Weber. “I appreciate his contributions to our program the past two seasons especially this season with all his health-related challenges. We wish him the best as he moves forward in his college career.”

A 6-foot-9 forward from Lawton, Oklahoma, Gordon played in 47 games with 21 starts in his two-year career with the Wildcats, averaging 4.9 points on 41.8 percent (89-of-213) shooting, including 22.2 percent (18-of-81) from 3-point range, with 4.6 rebounds in 20.5 minutes per game. This past season, he played in 21 games with 12 starts and averaged 5.8 points on 43.8 percent (49-of-112) shooting with 5.8 rebounds in 24.4 minutes per game as a sophomore.

MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;– Sophomore forward&nbsp;Antonio Gordon&nbsp;has opted to enter the transfer portal and has been released from his scholarship at Kansas State, head coach&nbsp;Bruce Weber&nbsp;announced Monday (March 15).“Antonio has entered the transfer portal,” said Weber. “I appreciate his contributions to our program the past two seasons especially this season with all his health-related challenges. We wish him the best as he moves forward in his college career.”A 6-foot-9 forward from Lawton, Oklahoma, Gordon played in 47 games with 21 starts in his two-year career with the Wildcats, averaging 4.9 points on 41.8 percent (89-of-213) shooting, including 22.2 percent (18-of-81) from 3-point range, with 4.6 rebounds in 20.5 minutes per game. This past season, he played in 21 games with 12 starts and averaged 5.8 points on 43.8 percent (49-of-112) shooting with 5.8 rebounds in 24.4 minutes per game as a sophomore.

Antonio Gordon to Transfer

Kansas will be a number three seed in the men's NCAA Basketball Tournament in the West Regional. The Jayhawks have drawn 14th-seeded Eastern Washington in round one Saturday in Indianapolis, Indiana.

Gonzaga is the number one seed in the region.

Wichita State receives an at large berth. The Shockers will play in the First Four against Drake on Thursday. Both teams are number 11 seeds.

Kansas will be a number three seed in the men's NCAA Basketball Tournament in the West Regional. The Jayhawks have drawn 14th-seeded Eastern Washington in round one Saturday in Indianapolis, Indiana.Gonzaga is the number one seed in the region.--Wichita State receives an at large berth. The Shockers will play in the First Four against Drake on Thursday. Both teams are number 11 seeds.

KU and Wichita State will play in the NCAA Men's Basketball Championship competition

St. Thomas Aquinas 52, Andover Central 44

BOYS PREP BASKETBALL=Class 1A DI=State Championship=Olpe 54, South Gray 47Class 1A DII=State Championship=Hanover 52, Elyria Christian 40Class 2A=State Championship=Hillsboro 59, Wabaunsee 50Class 3A=State Championship=Hesston 45, Galena 36Class 4A=State Championship=Bishop Miege 94, Louisburg 40Class 5A=State Championship=Maize 55, Topeka West 43Class 6A=State Championship=BV North 67, Wichita Campus 59GIRLS PREP BASKETBALL=Class 1A Division I=State Championship=Olpe 42, Norwich 25Class 1A Division II=State Championship=Central Plains 39, Cunningham 35Class 2A=State Championship=Sterling 52, Pittsburg Colgan 36Class 3A=State Championship=Cheney 60, Sabetha 54Class 4A=State Championship=Bishop Miege 51, McPherson 36Class 5A=State Championship=St. Thomas Aquinas 52, Andover Central 44Class 6A=State Championship=SM Northwest 61, Topeka 54___

High School basketball state championship game results

BOYS PREP BASKETBALL=Class 1A Division I=State Semifinal=Olpe 75, Little River 66South Gray 69, Ness City 58Class 1A Division II=State Semifinal=Elyria Christian 55, Pawnee Heights 42Hanover 85, Northern Valley 58Class 3A=State Semifinal=Galena 48, Rock Creek 41Hesston 64, Hays-TMP-Marian 55Class 5A=State Semifinal=Maize 74, KC Washington 58Topeka West 61, DeSoto 57GIRLS PREP BASKETBALL=Class 2A=State Semifinal=Pittsburg Colgan 40, Valley Heights 38Sterling 69, Garden Plain 52Class 3A=State Semifinal=Hesston 64, Hays-TMP-Marian 55Class 4A=State Semifinal=Bishop Miege 55, Andale 40McPherson 58, Louisburg 46Class 5A=State Semifinal=Andover Central 65, Salina Central 56Class 6A=State Semifinal=SM Northwest 59, Olathe West 45Topeka 54, Dodge City 37

Friday state tournament semifinal round scores

KANSAS CITY, Mo (AP) — Kirsten Deans scored seven points in the last 36 seconds, including a layup at the buzzer, and No. 17 West Virginia rallied to defeat 10th-seeded Kansas State 58-56 in the quarterfinals of the Big 12 Tournament. 

The Mountaineers trailed by seven as the clock ticked under a minute before Kysre Gondrezick hit a 3-pointer to make it 55-51. The Wildcats made 1 of 2 free throws before getting out-scrapped for a rebound on the other end with Deans hitting a step-back 3-pointer at 18.8 seconds.  Trying an inbound lob to the middle of the key, the ball was knocked away for K-State’s 22nd turnover, and Deans went the length of the court for the winner.

KANSAS CITY, Mo (AP) — Kirsten Deans scored seven points in the last 36 seconds, including a layup at the buzzer, and No. 17 West Virginia rallied to defeat 10th-seeded Kansas State 58-56 in the quarterfinals of the Big 12 Tournament. The Mountaineers trailed by seven as the clock ticked under a minute before Kysre Gondrezick hit a 3-pointer to make it 55-51. The Wildcats made 1 of 2 free throws before getting out-scrapped for a rebound on the other end with Deans hitting a step-back 3-pointer at 18.8 seconds. Trying an inbound lob to the middle of the key, the ball was knocked away for K-State’s 22nd turnover, and Deans went the length of the court for the winner.

K-State falls in Women's Big 12 Tournament

LAWRENCE, Kan. — The University of Kansas basketball team with be forced to withdraw from the 2021 Big 12 Basketball Tournament due to a positive COVID-19 test within the team.

The news broke Friday, just one night after Kansas defeated Oklahoma in the Quarterfinal round. The Jayhawks were scheduled to take on Texas in the Semifinals Friday night.&nbsp;

Bill Self released a statement on the cancelation of the semifinal matchup:

"Obviously we are disappointed and our players are disappointed that they can't continue to compete for the Big 12 Championship," Head Coach Bill Self said. "While we have been fortunate to avoid this throughout the season, there are daily risks with this virus that everybody participating is trying to avoid. We have followed the daily testing and additional protocols that have been setup for us, unfortunately we caught a bad break at the wrong time. I look forward to preparing my team in probably a unique way for next week's NCAA Tournament."

The Big 12 Conference also released a statement on the cancelation:

"The Big 12 Conference announced today that the Kansas vs. Texas men’s basketball championship semifinal game has been canceled. The game was scheduled to be played on Friday, March 12 at 8:30 p.m. CT.&nbsp;

The cancellation follows a positive test, subsequent quarantining, and contact tracing within the Kansas men’s basketball program. As a result of&nbsp;the&nbsp;uncontested outcome Texas advances to the Phillips 66 Big 12 men’s basketball championship game and will play the winner of tonight’s Baylor vs. Oklahoma State game."

The Jayhawks for now, will look ahead to an NCAA Tournament appearance.&nbsp;

By Jackson SchneiderLAWRENCE, Kan. — The University of Kansas basketball team with be forced to withdraw from the 2021 Big 12 Basketball Tournament due to a positive COVID-19 test within the team.The news broke Friday, just one night after Kansas defeated Oklahoma in the Quarterfinal round. The Jayhawks were scheduled to take on Texas in the Semifinals Friday night.&nbsp;Bill Self released a statement on the cancelation of the semifinal matchup:"Obviously we are disappointed and our players are disappointed that they can't continue to compete for the Big 12 Championship," Head Coach Bill Self said. "While we have been fortunate to avoid this throughout the season, there are daily risks with this virus that everybody participating is trying to avoid. We have followed the daily testing and additional protocols that have been setup for us, unfortunately we caught a bad break at the wrong time. I look forward to preparing my team in probably a unique way for next week's NCAA Tournament."The Big 12 Conference also released a statement on the cancelation:"The Big 12 Conference announced today that the Kansas vs. Texas men’s basketball championship semifinal game has been canceled. The game was scheduled to be played on Friday, March 12 at 8:30 p.m. CT.&nbsp;The cancellation follows a positive test, subsequent quarantining, and contact tracing within the Kansas men’s basketball program. As a result of&nbsp;the&nbsp;uncontested outcome Texas advances to the Phillips 66 Big 12 men’s basketball championship game and will play the winner of tonight’s Baylor vs. Oklahoma State game."The Jayhawks for now, will look ahead to an NCAA Tournament appearance.&nbsp;

KU out of Big 12 Tournament due to positive COVID test

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Christianna Carr scored 22 points, Ayoka Lee added 21 with 12 rebounds and seven blocked shots and Kansas State upended Texas Tech 75-65 in the second round of the Big 12 women’s tourney. Tenth-seeded Kansas State will take on second-seeded — and No. 17-ranked — West Virginia in Friday’s quarterfinal round.

 Lexi Gordon scored 19 points with five steals, Vivian Gray scored 15 with eight rebounds and three blocked shots and Bryn Gerlich scored 13 and eight assists off the bench for seventh-seeded Texas Tech. Gray scored a layup with under a minute remaining as Texas Tech came within 66-65. K-State got a dagger of a 3-pointer from Rachel Ranke. Lee, Carr and Sydney Goodson made six free throws in the waning seconds.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Christianna Carr scored 22 points, Ayoka Lee added 21 with 12 rebounds and seven blocked shots and Kansas State upended Texas Tech 75-65 in the second round of the Big 12 women’s tourney. Tenth-seeded Kansas State will take on second-seeded — and No. 17-ranked — West Virginia in Friday’s quarterfinal round. Lexi Gordon scored 19 points with five steals, Vivian Gray scored 15 with eight rebounds and three blocked shots and Bryn Gerlich scored 13 and eight assists off the bench for seventh-seeded Texas Tech. Gray scored a layup with under a minute remaining as Texas Tech came within 66-65. K-State got a dagger of a 3-pointer from Rachel Ranke. Lee, Carr and Sydney Goodson made six free throws in the waning seconds.

K-State wins in women's Big 12 Basketball Tournament

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Ochai Agbaji scored a career-high 26 points, Marcus Garrett added 17, and No. 11 Kansas held on after blowing most of a 20-point halftime lead to beat No. 25 Oklahoma 69-62 in the quarterfinals of the Big 12 Tournament. 

Mitch Lightfoot added 11 points for the No. 2 seed Jayhawks, who played without big man David McCormack and backup forward Tristan Enaruna. Both players were caught up in COVID-19 protocols leading up to the tournament. Kansas will play Texas or Texas Tech in the semifinals. Brady Manek and Austin Reaves scored 19 points apiece to lead Oklahoma.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Ochai Agbaji scored a career-high 26 points, Marcus Garrett added 17, and No. 11 Kansas held on after blowing most of a 20-point halftime lead to beat No. 25 Oklahoma 69-62 in the quarterfinals of the Big 12 Tournament. Mitch Lightfoot added 11 points for the No. 2 seed Jayhawks, who played without big man David McCormack and backup forward Tristan Enaruna. Both players were caught up in COVID-19 protocols leading up to the tournament. Kansas will play Texas or Texas Tech in the semifinals. Brady Manek and Austin Reaves scored 19 points apiece to lead Oklahoma.

Jayhawks win in Big 12 Tournament

Wichita Campus 42, Lawrence Free State 37

Cunningham 52, St. John's Beloit-Tipton 31

BOYS PREP BASKETBALL=Class 2A=State Semifinal=Hillsboro 51, Lyndon 45Wabaunsee 73, Hoxie 56Class 4A=State Semifinal=Bishop Miege 78, McPherson 51Louisburg 58, Augusta 55Class 6A=State Semifinal=BV North 71, Lawrence 63Wichita Campus 42, Lawrence Free State 37GIRLS PREP BASKETBALL=Class 1A Division I=State Semifinal=Norwich 54, Doniphan West 49Olpe 38, Hodgeman County 21Class 1A Division II=State Semifinal=Central Plains 50, Golden Plains 39Cunningham 52, St. John's Beloit-Tipton 31Class 3A=State Semifinal=Cheney 62, Frontenac 46Sabetha 57, Hugoton 55Class 5A=State Semifinal=Andover Central 65, Salina Central 56St. Thomas Aquinas 64, Lansing 44

Thursday state semifinal high school basketball results

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Kansas State raised eyebrows nationwide on Thursday afternoon, hanging tough with the #2-ranked team in the country in the Big 12 Tournament Quarterfinals.

Baylor held off an upset-minded Wildcat squad 74-68 inside the T-Mobile Center.&nbsp;

“We came here with big dreams and hopes, but at the same time, I told the guys all I cared about was playing with courage,” said Head Coach Bruce Weber postgame. “We played on a turnaround of what, 14-15 hours, with not a whole lot of prep, with playing a hard-fought game last night, and gave them everything we had.”&nbsp;

Kansas State had previously played Baylor twice this season, losing both games by an average of 39.5 points. Thursday afternoon, the Cats stood their ground.&nbsp;

The Bears shot 55% from the field in the first half, yet only held a two point lead over the 9th-seeded Wildcats.&nbsp;

“It felt great to give them a run for their money,” said Freshman Nijel Pack. “Everybody probably looked over us. Didn’t expect it to be a good game. It felt good to be able to give people what they wanted, felt good for us to have courage, and show our improvement of what we made from the beginning of the year to now.”&nbsp;

In the second half, the Wildcats would snatch brief leads two separate times, but the Bears seemingly always had the answer. Midway through the second half, Baylor would go on a run that seemed inevitable.&nbsp;

With Baylor holding a 68-56 lead with under 6 minutes to play, all hope was lost from the outside looking in, but K-State refused to fold.&nbsp;

“For me, as a leader, it’s about the players,” said Weber. “No matter how bad it got, or what we had to deal with, I had to be there to lead them, and help them, and keep them believing, and giving them hope, and giving them love, and that’s what we tried to do.”&nbsp;

Kansas State closed the game on a 12-6 run, but were unable to close the gap in the end.&nbsp;

Defeat is never fun, nor is it easy to swallow, but for once, there were far more positives to take away than negatives following the season-ending loss.&nbsp;

Kansas State will likely return most, if not all, of its major role players next season. Players like Nijel Pack, who scored 18 points on 6-of-9 shooting from long range in the effort, as well as Freshman Davion Bradford, who also tallied 18 points.&nbsp;

Sophomore Dajuan Gordon added 15 points and five rebounds. He’ll most likely return to lead a team that he says is night and day from the beginning of this season.&nbsp;

“We came a long way,” said Gordon. “We’ve come from being one of the worst in the country to, you know, pretty good. I feel like we can compete with anybody in the country right now.”&nbsp;

Kansas State ends it’s season at 9-20 overall, which at the surface level doesn’t look promising, but the ‘Cats closed the season winning four of their last six contests, and took one of the nation’s top teams to the wire.&nbsp;

The potential is there, and Bruce Weber says he isn’t going anywhere.

“I love K-State. I love coaching. I think, obviously, we haven’t won as many games the last two years as you’d always hope, but it’s been a long time since they have won championships,” said Weber. “And I think we have a great nucleus, hopefully this group wants to stay together, and this gave them a lot of hope, and drive, and motivation, and we can continue moving forward.”

<a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/k-state-players-postgame-3-11">Players Nijel Pack and Dajuan Gordon</a>

<a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/bruce-weber-postgame-3-11">Head Coach Bruce Weber</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/aDOhNsXlEjiroiOwcJcRAadsMtXdtc0VUpQEBFNwj_QLJgJZE0LcQ9_fl-2WbAJsz8EYVQibVtkKR-JwrPFivGNPRqjXiydqrqRPZz42iwm0FaoSInagxCMIecqR8wz58G-kYPVo" alt="K-State's Mike McGuirl defends Baylor's Jared Butler in the Quarterfinals of the Big 12 Tournament. (Photo by Denny Medley)" />
 <figcaption>K-State's Mike McGuirl defends Baylor's Jared Butler in the Quarterfinals of the Big 12 Tournament. (Photo by Denny Medley)</figcaption>
 </figure>By Jackson SchneiderKANSAS CITY, Mo. — Kansas State raised eyebrows nationwide on Thursday afternoon, hanging tough with the #2-ranked team in the country in the Big 12 Tournament Quarterfinals.Baylor held off an upset-minded Wildcat squad 74-68 inside the T-Mobile Center.&nbsp;“We came here with big dreams and hopes, but at the same time, I told the guys all I cared about was playing with courage,” said Head Coach Bruce Weber postgame. “We played on a turnaround of what, 14-15 hours, with not a whole lot of prep, with playing a hard-fought game last night, and gave them everything we had.”&nbsp;Kansas State had previously played Baylor twice this season, losing both games by an average of 39.5 points. Thursday afternoon, the Cats stood their ground.&nbsp;The Bears shot 55% from the field in the first half, yet only held a two point lead over the 9th-seeded Wildcats.&nbsp;“It felt great to give them a run for their money,” said Freshman Nijel Pack. “Everybody probably looked over us. Didn’t expect it to be a good game. It felt good to be able to give people what they wanted, felt good for us to have courage, and show our improvement of what we made from the beginning of the year to now.”&nbsp;In the second half, the Wildcats would snatch brief leads two separate times, but the Bears seemingly always had the answer. Midway through the second half, Baylor would go on a run that seemed inevitable.&nbsp;With Baylor holding a 68-56 lead with under 6 minutes to play, all hope was lost from the outside looking in, but K-State refused to fold.&nbsp;“For me, as a leader, it’s about the players,” said Weber. “No matter how bad it got, or what we had to deal with, I had to be there to lead them, and help them, and keep them believing, and giving them hope, and giving them love, and that’s what we tried to do.”&nbsp;Kansas State closed the game on a 12-6 run, but were unable to close the gap in the end.&nbsp;Defeat is never fun, nor is it easy to swallow, but for once, there were far more positives to take away than negatives following the season-ending loss.&nbsp;Kansas State will likely return most, if not all, of its major role players next season. Players like Nijel Pack, who scored 18 points on 6-of-9 shooting from long range in the effort, as well as Freshman Davion Bradford, who also tallied 18 points.&nbsp;Sophomore Dajuan Gordon added 15 points and five rebounds. He’ll most likely return to lead a team that he says is night and day from the beginning of this season.&nbsp;“We came a long way,” said Gordon. “We’ve come from being one of the worst in the country to, you know, pretty good. I feel like we can compete with anybody in the country right now.”&nbsp;Kansas State ends it’s season at 9-20 overall, which at the surface level doesn’t look promising, but the ‘Cats closed the season winning four of their last six contests, and took one of the nation’s top teams to the wire.&nbsp;The potential is there, and Bruce Weber says he isn’t going anywhere.“I love K-State. I love coaching. I think, obviously, we haven’t won as many games the last two years as you’d always hope, but it’s been a long time since they have won championships,” said Weber. “And I think we have a great nucleus, hopefully this group wants to stay together, and this gave them a lot of hope, and drive, and motivation, and we can continue moving forward.”POSTGAME AUDIO<a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/k-state-players-postgame-3-11">Players Nijel Pack and Dajuan Gordon</a><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/bruce-weber-postgame-3-11">Head Coach Bruce Weber</a>

Upset-minded Cats fall short of Baylor

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — On March 11, 2020, Kansas State defeated TCU 53-49, for it’s second-straight win. The victory advanced them to the Big 12 Tournament Quarterfinals against Baylor. The game would never be played.&nbsp;

Wednesday night, 364 days removed from that night, the Wildcats would once again beat the Horned Frogs, this time by a score of 71-50.

The Wildcats will advance to the Big 12 Tournament Quarterfinals, where they will face Baylor at 1:30 Thursday afternoon.

Although things in the world seem to be moving closer to normal, Senior Mike McGuirl says he noticed it’s not the same Big 12 Tournament atmosphere.&nbsp;

“It did feel different, I can’t lie. It felt different out there. Not too many fans, rather quiet, but it had that Big 12 Tournament intensity out there, and that’s what’s most important,” said Mike.

On the court, it was undoubtedly Kansas State’s best all-around performance of this season.&nbsp; 

K-State shot 48% from the field overall, made 7 of 21 threes, and held TCU to just 30% shooting on the night.&nbsp;

“Where we’ve come from to where we are now is amazing,” said Weber. “Our defense again was the thing that gave us a chance to win.”

Freshman Nijel Pack led all scorers with 23 points, hitting 5-of-6 three point shots and 6-of-7 free throws for his third career 20+ point contest.&nbsp;

“I was really disappointed for Nijel,” said Weber, referring to his freshman being snubbed off the Big 12 All-Freshman Team. “I told him, we all told him to use it as motivation.”

Pack, mature beyond his years, said he didn’t take it personally.&nbsp;

“I try not to look at the politics, things like that, somebody else’s opinion. I mean, I believe, whatever I can do, I can do,” said Pack, confidently. “Whatever another person said doesn’t define the person that I am. I feel like if we win, it doesn’t matter.”

In his first-ever appearance in the league tournament, Pack led the charge, but he didn’t go in alone. Mike McGuirl added 17 points, five assists, three rebounds, and K-State’s only block in the game.&nbsp;

“He has made huge strides,” said Weber of his lone senior.

The trouble of the situation for the ‘Cats is that the last time Baylor and K-State met, the Bears rolled to a 107- 59 win in Waco. The defeat was the worst loss, in terms of margin of defeat, in Kansas State’s program history.&nbsp;

“We’re a much improved team since then,” said McGuirl in the postgame presser. “we’re going to be locking in on the scouting report, listen to what the coaches have to say, listen to the game plan, and going out there and competing. We’ve really picked up our defense, and that’s what’s really been our mainstay since we’ve got going.”&nbsp;

McGuirl is right. Since that defeat, K-State has played 11 games, winning four of them, and holding their opponents to less than 64 points on average. Kansas State’s offense may still have great areas for improvement, but it’s defense should give them every reason to feel confident.&nbsp;

“You know, we talk about playing hard and defending, and that gives us a chance,” said Weber. “Obviously we’ve got a tough task, quick turnaround, got them going back, get some food, get a shower, and then see if we can have good preparation for Baylor tomorrow.”

Kansas State improved to 9-19 overall on the season with it’s win over TCU.&nbsp;

“I’m very excited to play tomorrow. This is like, as a basketball player, this is what you dream of. March Madness. We’re about to play probably the best team in the country in the Big 12 Tournament tomorrow, so this is very exciting," said McGuirl looking forward to the challenge.

<a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/k-state-players-postgame-3-10">Kansas State Players Mike McGuirl and Nijel Pack</a>

<a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/bruce-weber-postgame-3-10">Kansas State Head Coach Bruce Weber</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/AQ8hg6cBrzEXi4FUFGxNCbxuFCJxaDha_StG4gNyuoMrUjicLucDyZ0Y2oAq-VcHxpUBcdVRJuCO9wZ2iF9oQuvfK8MhMa5F12k-gDL1WuJGbL6TnEfJebS-uWKR2kqjUO7id8pA" alt="K-State's Kaosi Ezeagu dunks over TCU's P.J. Fuller in the Wildcats' 71-50 win in the big 12 Tournament. (Photo by Denny Medley)" />
 <figcaption>K-State's Kaosi Ezeagu dunks over TCU's P.J. Fuller in the Wildcats' 71-50 win in the big 12 Tournament. (Photo by Denny Medley)</figcaption>
 </figure>By Jackson SchneiderKANSAS CITY, Mo. — On March 11, 2020, Kansas State defeated TCU 53-49, for it’s second-straight win. The victory advanced them to the Big 12 Tournament Quarterfinals against Baylor. The game would never be played.&nbsp;Wednesday night, 364 days removed from that night, the Wildcats would once again beat the Horned Frogs, this time by a score of 71-50.The Wildcats will advance to the Big 12 Tournament Quarterfinals, where they will face Baylor at 1:30 Thursday afternoon.Although things in the world seem to be moving closer to normal, Senior Mike McGuirl says he noticed it’s not the same Big 12 Tournament atmosphere.&nbsp;“It did feel different, I can’t lie. It felt different out there. Not too many fans, rather quiet, but it had that Big 12 Tournament intensity out there, and that’s what’s most important,” said Mike.On the court, it was undoubtedly Kansas State’s best all-around performance of this season.&nbsp; K-State shot 48% from the field overall, made 7 of 21 threes, and held TCU to just 30% shooting on the night.&nbsp;“Where we’ve come from to where we are now is amazing,” said Weber. “Our defense again was the thing that gave us a chance to win.”Freshman Nijel Pack led all scorers with 23 points, hitting 5-of-6 three point shots and 6-of-7 free throws for his third career 20+ point contest.&nbsp;“I was really disappointed for Nijel,” said Weber, referring to his freshman being snubbed off the Big 12 All-Freshman Team. “I told him, we all told him to use it as motivation.”Pack, mature beyond his years, said he didn’t take it personally.&nbsp;“I try not to look at the politics, things like that, somebody else’s opinion. I mean, I believe, whatever I can do, I can do,” said Pack, confidently. “Whatever another person said doesn’t define the person that I am. I feel like if we win, it doesn’t matter.”In his first-ever appearance in the league tournament, Pack led the charge, but he didn’t go in alone. Mike McGuirl added 17 points, five assists, three rebounds, and K-State’s only block in the game.&nbsp;“He has made huge strides,” said Weber of his lone senior.The trouble of the situation for the ‘Cats is that the last time Baylor and K-State met, the Bears rolled to a 107- 59 win in Waco. The defeat was the worst loss, in terms of margin of defeat, in Kansas State’s program history.&nbsp;“We’re a much improved team since then,” said McGuirl in the postgame presser. “we’re going to be locking in on the scouting report, listen to what the coaches have to say, listen to the game plan, and going out there and competing. We’ve really picked up our defense, and that’s what’s really been our mainstay since we’ve got going.”&nbsp;McGuirl is right. Since that defeat, K-State has played 11 games, winning four of them, and holding their opponents to less than 64 points on average. Kansas State’s offense may still have great areas for improvement, but it’s defense should give them every reason to feel confident.&nbsp;“You know, we talk about playing hard and defending, and that gives us a chance,” said Weber. “Obviously we’ve got a tough task, quick turnaround, got them going back, get some food, get a shower, and then see if we can have good preparation for Baylor tomorrow.”Kansas State improved to 9-19 overall on the season with it’s win over TCU.&nbsp;“I’m very excited to play tomorrow. This is like, as a basketball player, this is what you dream of. March Madness. We’re about to play probably the best team in the country in the Big 12 Tournament tomorrow, so this is very exciting," said McGuirl looking forward to the challenge.POSTGAME AUDIO<a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/k-state-players-postgame-3-10">Kansas State Players Mike McGuirl and Nijel Pack</a><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/bruce-weber-postgame-3-10">Kansas State Head Coach Bruce Weber</a>

K-State Dominates TCU in Big 12 Tournament

LAWRENCE, Kan. — According to multiple sources, the University of Kansas has removed Athletics Director Jeff Long of his duties.&nbsp;

Brett McMurphy, a college football reporter and analyst with Stadium, reported the firing via Twitter on Wednesday afternoon, less than 48 hours after Kansas and Head Football Coach Les Miles "mutually agreed to part ways."

The tweet from McMurphy breaking the news can be viewed <a href="https://twitter.com/Brett_McMurphy/status/1369746634146521089">here</a>.

An official release has yet to come from the Kansas Athletic Department, but one is expected in the near future. The lead priority for the next AD will be to lead the search for the next head football coach of the Jayhawks

Kansas Athletics released statements following the removal of Jeff Long as Athletic Director.&nbsp;

In his statement, an open letter to Jayhawk fans, Long stated that he and Kansas Chancellor Douglas Girod mutually agreed that it was in the best interest of the university that he step away from his post.&nbsp;

"It is not easy, but I leave KU with a heavy heart and profound confidence that I have always acted in the best interests of Kansas Athletics. I have done everything in my control to move Kansas Athletics forward in a positive manner, that’s what makes this most difficult," said Long in the release.&nbsp;

Long went on to thank the University of Kansas, student-athletes, and Jayhawk fans for their support during his time at the helm of the athletic department.&nbsp;

Chancellor Girod also released a statement on the leadership change, doubling down that Long and the University of Kansas mutually agreed that it was in KU's best interest to have him step away.&nbsp;

"I want to wholeheartedly thank Jeff for his service to KU. When we hired Jeff, he was charged with modernizing our athletics department and ensuring our coaches and student-athletes continue to have the resources they need to succeed. This was no easy task, and he far exceeded our expectations," stated the Kansas Chancellor in the release. "Jeff guided Kansas Athletics to progress in student-athlete healthcare, diversity and inclusion, and student-athlete academic achievement, all while managing significant challenges not of his own making. Most important, Jeff was unwaveringly dedicated to students, coaches and staff, and he represented KU with integrity and compassion. For that, we thank him, and we wish him the very best."

Girod went on to name Kurt Watson as interim Athletic Director at Kansas, stating that Watson is, "one of KU’s most trusted advisors."&nbsp;

Kansas will begin an immediate search for its next Athletic Director, lead by Chancellor Girod and a team of alumni advisors consisting of Linda Ellis Sims, Ray Evans, John Ballard, and Wayne Simien.&nbsp;

"Once a new athletics director is in place, that individual will determine next steps related to our football coach position. To assist the new athletics director make that determination once he or she arrives, I am assembling a committee of advisors who will be ready to help when called upon," said Girod.&nbsp;

The full release, with open letters from Jeff Long and Douglas Girod can be read <a href="https://kuathletics.com/a-message-from-jeff-long/">here</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1615410056663.png" alt="Jeff Long during a zoom meeting with the media during the 2020 football season" />
 <figcaption>Jeff Long during a zoom meeting with the media during the 2020 football season</figcaption>
 </figure>By Jackson SchneiderLAWRENCE, Kan. — According to multiple sources, the University of Kansas has removed Athletics Director Jeff Long of his duties.&nbsp;Brett McMurphy, a college football reporter and analyst with Stadium, reported the firing via Twitter on Wednesday afternoon, less than 48 hours after Kansas and Head Football Coach Les Miles "mutually agreed to part ways."The tweet from McMurphy breaking the news can be viewed <a href="https://twitter.com/Brett_McMurphy/status/1369746634146521089">here</a>.An official release has yet to come from the Kansas Athletic Department, but one is expected in the near future. The lead priority for the next AD will be to lead the search for the next head football coach of the JayhawksUPDATE --&nbsp;Kansas Athletics released statements following the removal of Jeff Long as Athletic Director.&nbsp;In his statement, an open letter to Jayhawk fans, Long stated that he and Kansas Chancellor Douglas Girod mutually agreed that it was in the best interest of the university that he step away from his post.&nbsp;"It is not easy, but I leave KU with a heavy heart and profound confidence that I have always acted in the best interests of Kansas Athletics. I have done everything in my control to move Kansas Athletics forward in a positive manner, that’s what makes this most difficult," said Long in the release.&nbsp;Long went on to thank the University of Kansas, student-athletes, and Jayhawk fans for their support during his time at the helm of the athletic department.&nbsp;Chancellor Girod also released a statement on the leadership change, doubling down that Long and the University of Kansas mutually agreed that it was in KU's best interest to have him step away.&nbsp;"I want to wholeheartedly thank Jeff for his service to KU. When we hired Jeff, he was charged with modernizing our athletics department and ensuring our coaches and student-athletes continue to have the resources they need to succeed. This was no easy task, and he far exceeded our expectations," stated the Kansas Chancellor in the release. "Jeff guided Kansas Athletics to progress in student-athlete healthcare, diversity and inclusion, and student-athlete academic achievement, all while managing significant challenges not of his own making. Most important, Jeff was unwaveringly dedicated to students, coaches and staff, and he represented KU with integrity and compassion. For that, we thank him, and we wish him the very best."Girod went on to name Kurt Watson as interim Athletic Director at Kansas, stating that Watson is, "one of KU’s most trusted advisors."&nbsp;Kansas will begin an immediate search for its next Athletic Director, lead by Chancellor Girod and a team of alumni advisors consisting of Linda Ellis Sims, Ray Evans, John Ballard, and Wayne Simien.&nbsp;"Once a new athletics director is in place, that individual will determine next steps related to our football coach position. To assist the new athletics director make that determination once he or she arrives, I am assembling a committee of advisors who will be ready to help when called upon," said Girod.&nbsp;The full release, with open letters from Jeff Long and Douglas Girod can be read <a href="https://kuathletics.com/a-message-from-jeff-long/">here</a>.

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