IOWA CITY, Iowa&nbsp;- With a 12-0 run in the final three minutes, K-State upset (2/2) Iowa at Carver-Hawkeye Arena on Thursday night, 65-58. 

This was K-State's second win over a top-5 ranked Iowa squad, as the Wildcats downed the fourth-ranked Hawkeyes in Manhattan last season.

With the win, K-State registered its second-ever win over an Associated Press second-ranked team as the Wildcats defeated Old Dominion in Manhattan on December 4, 1982.

HOW IT HAPPENED- Trailing by five points following a free throw from the Hawkeyes with 2:40 remaining in the fourth quarter, K-State (3-0) started its rally with a layup from&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/womens-basketball/roster/gabby-gregory/11191">Gabby Gregory</a>.

After a defensive stop,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/womens-basketball/roster/ayoka-lee/11193">Ayoka Lee</a>&nbsp;finished a layup in traffic with 1:40 remaining.- Lee was then fouled on her next attempt and buried her two free throws to give the Wildcats a 59-58 lead with 1:12 left.

Lee ended the night with 22 points on 9-of-14 shooting, 12 rebounds and two blocked shots.- Another defensive stop by K-State resulted in a Gregory free throw line jumper with 30 seconds left to give the Wildcats a 61-58 lead.- 

After an Iowa (3-1) missed 3-pointer, freshman&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/womens-basketball/roster/taryn-sides/11198">Taryn Sides</a>&nbsp;hauled in the rebound and was fouled with nine seconds to play. She calmly made two free throws to send the game to a two-possession margin, 63-58.

A long rebound and fastbreak layup by redshirt freshman&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/womens-basketball/roster/zyanna-walker/11200">Zyanna Walker</a>&nbsp;was the icing on the cake for the Wildcats. Walker notched 12 points on 5-of-10 shooting, while Sides carded eight points, six rebounds and three assists.- Defensively, K-State held Iowa to 36.1 percent (22-of-61) shooting including 2-of-21 (.095) from 3-point range. The Hawkeyes were led by 2023 National Player of the Year Caitlin Clark with 24 points on 9-of-32 shooting.

QUICK FACTS- K-State is 6-1 in the series against Iowa. The Wildcats are 75-60 against current members of the Big Ten Conference.- The Wildcats are 288-321 all-time in road games. K-State is 39-64 in road contests in the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/womens-basketball/roster/coaches/jeff-mittie/2161">Jeff Mittie</a>&nbsp;era.- K-State head coach&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/womens-basketball/roster/coaches/jeff-mittie/2161">Jeff Mittie</a>&nbsp;owns a career record of 621-362 (.632) and is 167-127 (.568) during his 10-seasons at K-State.- The Wildcats are 88-238 against Associated Press top-25 opponents, including a 2-10 mark against teams ranked second in the poll. K-State has defeated an AP top-10 foe in three straight seasons.TEAM NOTES- K-State's starting five consisted of guards:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/womens-basketball/roster/jaelyn-glenn/11189">Jaelyn Glenn</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/womens-basketball/roster/serena-sundell/11197">Serena Sundell</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/womens-basketball/roster/brylee-glenn/11188">Brylee Glenn</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/womens-basketball/roster/gabby-gregory/11191">Gabby Gregory</a>&nbsp;and center&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/womens-basketball/roster/ayoka-lee/11193">Ayoka Lee</a>. This was the third time this starting five has been used this season. This was the 90th career start for Lee, the 81st collegiate career start and the 35th start at K-State for Gregory, the 72nd career start for Sundell, the 68th career start for&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/womens-basketball/roster/jaelyn-glenn/11189">Jaelyn Glenn</a>&nbsp;and the 62nd career start for&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/womens-basketball/roster/brylee-glenn/11188">Brylee Glenn</a>.- K-State held Iowa to 58 points, 34 points below their season average entering play on Thursday. The 58 points were the fewest Iowa has scored during Clark's 103 career games with the Hawkeyes.PLAYER NOTES- With her double-double on Thursday, Lee registered the 51st of her career. This was Lee's 26th career double-double with 20 or more points and 10 or more rebounds.- With her 22 points on Thursday, Lee tallied her 39th career game with 20 or more points. This was Lee's 82nd career game with 10 or more points.- With her 12 rebounds on Thursday, Lee moved into fifth in K-State women's basketball history with 916 career rebounds passing Shalee Lehning (2005-09; 914).- Redshirt freshman&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/womens-basketball/roster/zyanna-walker/11200">Zyanna Walker</a>&nbsp;carded her third career double figure scoring game with 12 points. Walker has made five or more field goals in a game twice this season.FROM THE HEAD COACHK-State Head Coach&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/womens-basketball/roster/coaches/jeff-mittie/2161">Jeff Mittie</a>Opening statement..."I think you know, hard fought game, not a very clean game. Offensively, both teams struggled. I think both teams had a lot to do with that. It was a really gutty performance by our group. Really proud of them. We had some players really step up that didn't necessarily have great nights but made big shots late.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/womens-basketball/roster/gabby-gregory/11191">Gabby Gregory</a>, you know has gotten off to a rough start this year, but boy, you just trust her. She's a competitor. Wants the ball in her hands. Most players that shoot an air ball that misses by about six feet don't have the confidence to shoot the next one but by gosh Gabby does and big turnaround in the middle and then&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/womens-basketball/roster/taryn-sides/11198">Taryn Sides</a>. Our young one from Phillipsburg, Kansas makes two big free throws so just a lot of tough plays down the stretch."On defensive stops..."It's an interesting question I think we did because at one point we had five but I don't know what the final numbers were. But the way we finished the game, I'd be surprised if we didn't you know I will say this. We were able to keep them from getting the easy run out. Stuelke didn't get the easy ones. Marshall had such a great game on Sunday where she got a lot of threes in transition. We wanted to try to make that as hard as we could on them and that's easier said than done, but you know, we talk a lot about shot recognition. And I think for the most part, our team was pretty sound in that."On finishing the game strong..."That's a good question. I think you know what, I talked to them with three minutes to go, we were down and I said you know, we made a great push in Manhattan last year. Let's finish this game the same way but it's got to start with a stop down here at this end. Gabby made two tough plays. I think we got one or two from Yokie in there on a rebound putback maybe. I don't know. I think our team is really developing some trust in each other. And we've got a big number on this roster that didn't play last year. So this was a big win for us in a lot of ways because you know Zy Walker only played four games a year ago,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/womens-basketball/roster/taryn-sides/11198">Taryn Sides</a>&nbsp;was in high school. Obviously,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/womens-basketball/roster/gisela-sanchez/11196">Gisela Sanchez</a>&nbsp;was out with an injury. Yokie was out with an injury so I knew we were going to learn a lot from our basketball team. What I learned was that we can survive a bad stretch like that and we've got enough trust to fight through it and boy that as a coach that's always good to see."On last season to this season in women's basketball..."Coming off last year I thought last year was such an exciting year. I'm sure it was pretty exciting around these parts of the country right and so good for women's basketball but I think you're just seeing so many great players play this game right now. And we're probably reaping the benefit a little bit of that COVID extra year where you've got some great players that have hung around and veterans and teams that are older and some of that's been really fun to watch. From our perspective, you know, we had a lot of injuries last year. This is a team that we felt like could be a really good basketball team. And to be a part of it now and to have this opportunity and to do some things in playing well enough to have an opportunity to win at the end and to finish it is pretty special. And it's really special to watch. You hurt for the players when they're injured. It's such a tough thing and we had Sanchez play tonight, who didn't play in a year. Yokie and you watch them put the work in and you go into the training room with them and you're watching it and then you watch tonight it's pretty special to watch and pretty fun and and a great crowd. This is something that's pretty special. I know the people around here don't take that for granted. But that's a great crowd. That's a great atmosphere. That's a knowledgeable crowd. So yeah, it was a great game. Not necessarily a well played game, but a great competitive basketball game."On slowing Caitlin Clark..."I don't know the answer. What I would tell you is that I thought&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/womens-basketball/roster/jaelyn-glenn/11189">Jaelyn Glenn</a>&nbsp;and Zy Walker had excellent defensive games on her. I thought that when we switched out on her, we were pretty sound with it. Serena got switched out on a little bit.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/womens-basketball/roster/taryn-sides/11198">Taryn Sides</a>&nbsp;got switched out on her a little bit. We weren't going to guard her with one player because we knew that in transition. We were probably going to have to guard her in waves. And we knew that if she got past the first wave. We were going to bring somebody else to get her and peel off and go get somebody else. And that was our game plan going in. It sounds great when it works. But the challenge of that is everybody has to be on point of what we're doing. So I don't know if we were good at what we wanted to do. And sometimes with Caitlin it doesn't matter how good you are, you know, she can still knock shots down. So we were fortunate to do our job and have her covered."FROM THE FLOORK-State Senior Center&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/womens-basketball/roster/ayoka-lee/11193">Ayoka Lee</a>On playing with early foul trouble..."I knew I had to be smart. But that was like a part of our scout too. So I mean, obviously not happy to get the two quick ones. But just kind of staying the course trusting the scout and just being more mindful. And then just communicating well with the guards and, you know, having them try and help me out a little bit more and I think they did great. I think we did good. I stayed in the game, so that's good.&nbsp;On holding Iowa to 58 points..."I think this year, I mean every year, I think we want to take a lot of pride in our defense. So I think it's coming in with that mentality. We want to get three stops in a row, seven times and narrows the gap. We get that seven times. And that's like our goal. So I think having that mentality talking, executing well, and just knowing the matchups knowing where everyone's at on the floor. We knew that this one would be one in transition. We had to have transition D and I think it fell apart sometimes. But we did a good job of picking it back up after it fell apart to get those seven stops."On getting this win after missing last season..."It was definitely a year. It felt like a year. I think just the opportunity to play tonight made it so worth it. And just to pull through with the win with my teammates beyond the score, be able to celebrate with them be able to be in the huddle with them. Be able to talk to them when we're falling like crazy and be able to talk to them when we're not scoring. Like I think all those moments just like matter so much. And I mean, I probably don't know it in the moment. They probably don't know it in the moment. So much gratitude for like everyone who stuck with me that year. Everyone who went through the workouts with me that year. And yeah, it just means a lot."UP NEXTK-State returns to Bramlage Coliseum on Sunday afternoon, as the Wildcats host Wisconsin at 4 p.m. Sunday's game is Pack the House day. All advance-purchase general admission tickets and select concessions are just $2 each. The first 1,000 fans will receive a free purple light-up stick. Sunday's game will also feature a halftime performance by Christian and Scooby.Sunday's game can be seen live on Big 12 Now on ESPN+ and can be heard on the K-State Sports Network, on the K-State Sports app and on kstatesports.com.<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/news/2023/11/16/womens-basketball-cats-run-past-2-2-iowa-65-58.aspx?print=true">Print Friendly Version</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1700222091461.png" alt="Photo KSU Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo KSU Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>IOWA CITY, Iowa&nbsp;- With a 12-0 run in the final three minutes, K-State upset (2/2) Iowa at Carver-Hawkeye Arena on Thursday night, 65-58. This was K-State's second win over a top-5 ranked Iowa squad, as the Wildcats downed the fourth-ranked Hawkeyes in Manhattan last season.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Gotta hydrate before the flight home ✈️<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KStateWBB?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KStateWBB</a> <a href="https://t.co/ZLBquNErwW">pic.twitter.com/ZLBquNErwW</a>&mdash; K-State Women&#39;s Basketball (@KStateWBB) <a href="https://twitter.com/KStateWBB/status/1725379096669045035?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 17, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>With the win, K-State registered its second-ever win over an Associated Press second-ranked team as the Wildcats defeated Old Dominion in Manhattan on December 4, 1982.HOW IT HAPPENED- Trailing by five points following a free throw from the Hawkeyes with 2:40 remaining in the fourth quarter, K-State (3-0) started its rally with a layup from&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/womens-basketball/roster/gabby-gregory/11191">Gabby Gregory</a>. After a defensive stop,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/womens-basketball/roster/ayoka-lee/11193">Ayoka Lee</a>&nbsp;finished a layup in traffic with 1:40 remaining.- Lee was then fouled on her next attempt and buried her two free throws to give the Wildcats a 59-58 lead with 1:12 left. Lee ended the night with 22 points on 9-of-14 shooting, 12 rebounds and two blocked shots.- Another defensive stop by K-State resulted in a Gregory free throw line jumper with 30 seconds left to give the Wildcats a 61-58 lead.- After an Iowa (3-1) missed 3-pointer, freshman&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/womens-basketball/roster/taryn-sides/11198">Taryn Sides</a>&nbsp;hauled in the rebound and was fouled with nine seconds to play. She calmly made two free throws to send the game to a two-possession margin, 63-58. A long rebound and fastbreak layup by redshirt freshman&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/womens-basketball/roster/zyanna-walker/11200">Zyanna Walker</a>&nbsp;was the icing on the cake for the Wildcats. Walker notched 12 points on 5-of-10 shooting, while Sides carded eight points, six rebounds and three assists.- Defensively, K-State held Iowa to 36.1 percent (22-of-61) shooting including 2-of-21 (.095) from 3-point range. The Hawkeyes were led by 2023 National Player of the Year Caitlin Clark with 24 points on 9-of-32 shooting.QUICK FACTS- K-State is 6-1 in the series against Iowa. The Wildcats are 75-60 against current members of the Big Ten Conference.- The Wildcats are 288-321 all-time in road games. K-State is 39-64 in road contests in the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/womens-basketball/roster/coaches/jeff-mittie/2161">Jeff Mittie</a>&nbsp;era.- K-State head coach&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/womens-basketball/roster/coaches/jeff-mittie/2161">Jeff Mittie</a>&nbsp;owns a career record of 621-362 (.632) and is 167-127 (.568) during his 10-seasons at K-State.- The Wildcats are 88-238 against Associated Press top-25 opponents, including a 2-10 mark against teams ranked second in the poll. K-State has defeated an AP top-10 foe in three straight seasons.TEAM NOTES- K-State's starting five consisted of guards:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/womens-basketball/roster/jaelyn-glenn/11189">Jaelyn Glenn</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/womens-basketball/roster/serena-sundell/11197">Serena Sundell</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/womens-basketball/roster/brylee-glenn/11188">Brylee Glenn</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/womens-basketball/roster/gabby-gregory/11191">Gabby Gregory</a>&nbsp;and center&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/womens-basketball/roster/ayoka-lee/11193">Ayoka Lee</a>. This was the third time this starting five has been used this season. This was the 90th career start for Lee, the 81st collegiate career start and the 35th start at K-State for Gregory, the 72nd career start for Sundell, the 68th career start for&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/womens-basketball/roster/jaelyn-glenn/11189">Jaelyn Glenn</a>&nbsp;and the 62nd career start for&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/womens-basketball/roster/brylee-glenn/11188">Brylee Glenn</a>.- K-State held Iowa to 58 points, 34 points below their season average entering play on Thursday. The 58 points were the fewest Iowa has scored during Clark's 103 career games with the Hawkeyes.PLAYER NOTES- With her double-double on Thursday, Lee registered the 51st of her career. This was Lee's 26th career double-double with 20 or more points and 10 or more rebounds.- With her 22 points on Thursday, Lee tallied her 39th career game with 20 or more points. This was Lee's 82nd career game with 10 or more points.- With her 12 rebounds on Thursday, Lee moved into fifth in K-State women's basketball history with 916 career rebounds passing Shalee Lehning (2005-09; 914).- Redshirt freshman&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/womens-basketball/roster/zyanna-walker/11200">Zyanna Walker</a>&nbsp;carded her third career double figure scoring game with 12 points. Walker has made five or more field goals in a game twice this season.FROM THE HEAD COACHK-State Head Coach&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/womens-basketball/roster/coaches/jeff-mittie/2161">Jeff Mittie</a>Opening statement..."I think you know, hard fought game, not a very clean game. Offensively, both teams struggled. I think both teams had a lot to do with that. It was a really gutty performance by our group. Really proud of them. We had some players really step up that didn't necessarily have great nights but made big shots late.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/womens-basketball/roster/gabby-gregory/11191">Gabby Gregory</a>, you know has gotten off to a rough start this year, but boy, you just trust her. She's a competitor. Wants the ball in her hands. Most players that shoot an air ball that misses by about six feet don't have the confidence to shoot the next one but by gosh Gabby does and big turnaround in the middle and then&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/womens-basketball/roster/taryn-sides/11198">Taryn Sides</a>. Our young one from Phillipsburg, Kansas makes two big free throws so just a lot of tough plays down the stretch."On defensive stops..."It's an interesting question I think we did because at one point we had five but I don't know what the final numbers were. But the way we finished the game, I'd be surprised if we didn't you know I will say this. We were able to keep them from getting the easy run out. Stuelke didn't get the easy ones. Marshall had such a great game on Sunday where she got a lot of threes in transition. We wanted to try to make that as hard as we could on them and that's easier said than done, but you know, we talk a lot about shot recognition. And I think for the most part, our team was pretty sound in that."On finishing the game strong..."That's a good question. I think you know what, I talked to them with three minutes to go, we were down and I said you know, we made a great push in Manhattan last year. Let's finish this game the same way but it's got to start with a stop down here at this end. Gabby made two tough plays. I think we got one or two from Yokie in there on a rebound putback maybe. I don't know. I think our team is really developing some trust in each other. And we've got a big number on this roster that didn't play last year. So this was a big win for us in a lot of ways because you know Zy Walker only played four games a year ago,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/womens-basketball/roster/taryn-sides/11198">Taryn Sides</a>&nbsp;was in high school. Obviously,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/womens-basketball/roster/gisela-sanchez/11196">Gisela Sanchez</a>&nbsp;was out with an injury. Yokie was out with an injury so I knew we were going to learn a lot from our basketball team. What I learned was that we can survive a bad stretch like that and we've got enough trust to fight through it and boy that as a coach that's always good to see."On last season to this season in women's basketball..."Coming off last year I thought last year was such an exciting year. I'm sure it was pretty exciting around these parts of the country right and so good for women's basketball but I think you're just seeing so many great players play this game right now. And we're probably reaping the benefit a little bit of that COVID extra year where you've got some great players that have hung around and veterans and teams that are older and some of that's been really fun to watch. From our perspective, you know, we had a lot of injuries last year. This is a team that we felt like could be a really good basketball team. And to be a part of it now and to have this opportunity and to do some things in playing well enough to have an opportunity to win at the end and to finish it is pretty special. And it's really special to watch. You hurt for the players when they're injured. It's such a tough thing and we had Sanchez play tonight, who didn't play in a year. Yokie and you watch them put the work in and you go into the training room with them and you're watching it and then you watch tonight it's pretty special to watch and pretty fun and and a great crowd. This is something that's pretty special. I know the people around here don't take that for granted. But that's a great crowd. That's a great atmosphere. That's a knowledgeable crowd. So yeah, it was a great game. Not necessarily a well played game, but a great competitive basketball game."On slowing Caitlin Clark..."I don't know the answer. What I would tell you is that I thought&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/womens-basketball/roster/jaelyn-glenn/11189">Jaelyn Glenn</a>&nbsp;and Zy Walker had excellent defensive games on her. I thought that when we switched out on her, we were pretty sound with it. Serena got switched out on a little bit.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/womens-basketball/roster/taryn-sides/11198">Taryn Sides</a>&nbsp;got switched out on her a little bit. We weren't going to guard her with one player because we knew that in transition. We were probably going to have to guard her in waves. And we knew that if she got past the first wave. We were going to bring somebody else to get her and peel off and go get somebody else. And that was our game plan going in. It sounds great when it works. But the challenge of that is everybody has to be on point of what we're doing. So I don't know if we were good at what we wanted to do. And sometimes with Caitlin it doesn't matter how good you are, you know, she can still knock shots down. So we were fortunate to do our job and have her covered."FROM THE FLOORK-State Senior Center&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/womens-basketball/roster/ayoka-lee/11193">Ayoka Lee</a>On playing with early foul trouble..."I knew I had to be smart. But that was like a part of our scout too. So I mean, obviously not happy to get the two quick ones. But just kind of staying the course trusting the scout and just being more mindful. And then just communicating well with the guards and, you know, having them try and help me out a little bit more and I think they did great. I think we did good. I stayed in the game, so that's good.&nbsp;On holding Iowa to 58 points..."I think this year, I mean every year, I think we want to take a lot of pride in our defense. So I think it's coming in with that mentality. We want to get three stops in a row, seven times and narrows the gap. We get that seven times. And that's like our goal. So I think having that mentality talking, executing well, and just knowing the matchups knowing where everyone's at on the floor. We knew that this one would be one in transition. We had to have transition D and I think it fell apart sometimes. But we did a good job of picking it back up after it fell apart to get those seven stops."On getting this win after missing last season..."It was definitely a year. It felt like a year. I think just the opportunity to play tonight made it so worth it. And just to pull through with the win with my teammates beyond the score, be able to celebrate with them be able to be in the huddle with them. Be able to talk to them when we're falling like crazy and be able to talk to them when we're not scoring. Like I think all those moments just like matter so much. And I mean, I probably don't know it in the moment. They probably don't know it in the moment. So much gratitude for like everyone who stuck with me that year. Everyone who went through the workouts with me that year. And yeah, it just means a lot."UP NEXTK-State returns to Bramlage Coliseum on Sunday afternoon, as the Wildcats host Wisconsin at 4 p.m. Sunday's game is Pack the House day. All advance-purchase general admission tickets and select concessions are just $2 each. The first 1,000 fans will receive a free purple light-up stick. Sunday's game will also feature a halftime performance by Christian and Scooby.Sunday's game can be seen live on Big 12 Now on ESPN+ and can be heard on the K-State Sports Network, on the K-State Sports app and on kstatesports.com.<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/news/2023/11/16/womens-basketball-cats-run-past-2-2-iowa-65-58.aspx?print=true">Print Friendly Version</a>

Kansas State upsets Caitlin Clark and No. 2 Iowa on the road

LAWRENCE, Kan. (AP) — The Sunflower Showdown between Kansas State and Kansas hasn’t been much of a showdown over the past decade or so.

That's because the Jayhawks have rarely shown up.

The Wildcats have not lost to their rival since the 2008 season, just before Hall of Fame coach Bill Snyder returned for his second stint in charge. And nothing changed when Chris Klieman took over four years ago, adding four wins to make it 14 straight and by an average margin of more than four touchdowns per game.

Yet few think their matchup Saturday will be just another blowout.

While the No. 23 Wildcats (7-3, 5-2 Big 12) are tied for second in the conference and still in the hunt to defend their Big 12 title, the Jayhawks (7-3, 4-3) are among the teams one game back. And with identical overall records, the two teams are on remarkably even footing as they resume the fourth-oldest continuously played rivalry in the Bowl Subdivision.

“We're just going to keep working on closing that gap and see where it turns out,” Jayhawks coach Lance Leipold said. “It was our responsibility to make this rivalry a better game and I think we're taking those steps, but we have to go out and play that way.”

It won't be easy if the Jayhawks are missing Jason Bean.

Bean was No. 2 on the depth chart to start the season, but he's deftly guided Kansas most of the way while starter Jalon Daniels deals with a back injury. Then came last Saturday's game against Texas Tech, when Bean sustained what Leipold called “a head injury” and walk-on freshman Cole Ballard played the rest of the way in a last-minute 16-13 loss.

Leipold expressed optimism Monday that Bean would be able to play, then backtracked the following day on a local radio show, saying that "Cole will be ready to go, and that’s probably the direction we’re going to have to plan on at this moment.”

Klieman doesn't think the Jayhawks' approach will change no matter who is under center.

“I know it was a smaller sample size,” Klieman said, “but I really didn't think they changed a whole lot offensively when (Ballard) came in last week. It's still what they do. They're having a lot of success on offense with whomever played quarterback, so in my mind, those kids offensively believe in what they're doing. Why would you change it?”

One thing the Jayhawks would like to change: Their losing streak in the series.

“We know how important the game is,” Klieman said. “All those things don't have to be said, don't have to be talked about. But it still comes down to you better not take any shortcuts, you better focus on your preparation and attack today.”

Kansas State could still wiggle its way back into the Big 12 title game but needs to beat Kansas and Iowa State the next two weeks and get some help. The Wildcats and Cyclones are in a logjam of 5-2 teams with Oklahoma and Oklahoma State, one of the two conference teams — Big 12-leading Texas is the other — to beat Kansas State this season.

Along with Bean, the Jayhawks are uncertain whether they will have reliable wide receiver Luke Grimm available. Kansas State will be without Jake Clifton, who joined fellow linebackers Daniel Green and Asa Newsome with season-ending injuries.

It will be the final game for many Jayhawks, such as safety Kenny Logan Jr., who helped to turn around the program. Logan played two seasons under Les Miles before he was fired, then played for Leipold the past three. This will be the first time in his five years on campus that the Jayhawks will finish with a winning record.

The game also will be the last game at Memorial Stadium, which opened in October 1921 and is among the oldest in major college football, before a massive renovation completely transforms it. The construction will begin after the game and continue through next season before finishing up in time for the start of the 2025 season.

Kansas State has won all five of its home games easily this season, but the road has been a different matter. They lost on a last-second 62-yard field goal at Missouri, then fell behind early at Oklahoma State and Texas before comeback bids came up short. Their only road win came at Texas Tech, when they trailed in the third quarter before scoring three unanswered touchdowns.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1700218475002.png" alt="KU FB vs K-State '23 - Sunflower Showdown" />
 <figcaption>KU FB vs K-State '23 - Sunflower Showdown</figcaption>
 </figure>LAWRENCE, Kan. (AP) — The Sunflower Showdown between Kansas State and Kansas hasn’t been much of a showdown over the past decade or so.That's because the Jayhawks have rarely shown up.The Wildcats have not lost to their rival since the 2008 season, just before Hall of Fame coach Bill Snyder returned for his second stint in charge. And nothing changed when Chris Klieman took over four years ago, adding four wins to make it 14 straight and by an average margin of more than four touchdowns per game.Yet few think their matchup Saturday will be just another blowout.While the No. 23 Wildcats (7-3, 5-2 Big 12) are tied for second in the conference and still in the hunt to defend their Big 12 title, the Jayhawks (7-3, 4-3) are among the teams one game back. And with identical overall records, the two teams are on remarkably even footing as they resume the fourth-oldest continuously played rivalry in the Bowl Subdivision.“We're just going to keep working on closing that gap and see where it turns out,” Jayhawks coach Lance Leipold said. “It was our responsibility to make this rivalry a better game and I think we're taking those steps, but we have to go out and play that way.”It won't be easy if the Jayhawks are missing Jason Bean.Bean was No. 2 on the depth chart to start the season, but he's deftly guided Kansas most of the way while starter Jalon Daniels deals with a back injury. Then came last Saturday's game against Texas Tech, when Bean sustained what Leipold called “a head injury” and walk-on freshman Cole Ballard played the rest of the way in a last-minute 16-13 loss.Leipold expressed optimism Monday that Bean would be able to play, then backtracked the following day on a local radio show, saying that "Cole will be ready to go, and that’s probably the direction we’re going to have to plan on at this moment.”Klieman doesn't think the Jayhawks' approach will change no matter who is under center.“I know it was a smaller sample size,” Klieman said, “but I really didn't think they changed a whole lot offensively when (Ballard) came in last week. It's still what they do. They're having a lot of success on offense with whomever played quarterback, so in my mind, those kids offensively believe in what they're doing. Why would you change it?”One thing the Jayhawks would like to change: Their losing streak in the series.“We know how important the game is,” Klieman said. “All those things don't have to be said, don't have to be talked about. But it still comes down to you better not take any shortcuts, you better focus on your preparation and attack today.”TITLE PICTUREKansas State could still wiggle its way back into the Big 12 title game but needs to beat Kansas and Iowa State the next two weeks and get some help. The Wildcats and Cyclones are in a logjam of 5-2 teams with Oklahoma and Oklahoma State, one of the two conference teams — Big 12-leading Texas is the other — to beat Kansas State this season.INJURY UPDATEAlong with Bean, the Jayhawks are uncertain whether they will have reliable wide receiver Luke Grimm available. Kansas State will be without Jake Clifton, who joined fellow linebackers Daniel Green and Asa Newsome with season-ending injuries.SENIOR SEND-OFFIt will be the final game for many Jayhawks, such as safety Kenny Logan Jr., who helped to turn around the program. Logan played two seasons under Les Miles before he was fired, then played for Leipold the past three. This will be the first time in his five years on campus that the Jayhawks will finish with a winning record.STADIUM SEND-OFFThe game also will be the last game at Memorial Stadium, which opened in October 1921 and is among the oldest in major college football, before a massive renovation completely transforms it. The construction will begin after the game and continue through next season before finishing up in time for the start of the 2025 season.ROADKILLKansas State has won all five of its home games easily this season, but the road has been a different matter. They lost on a last-second 62-yard field goal at Missouri, then fell behind early at Oklahoma State and Texas before comeback bids came up short. Their only road win came at Texas Tech, when they trailed in the third quarter before scoring three unanswered touchdowns.

🏈 No. 23 K-State still has eyes on a Big 12 title shot as its trip to rival Kansas arrives

While exact dates and times for the upcoming 2024 Arena Football League remain to be determined, the matchups, including those for the Salina Liberty have officially been announced.

The full slate of games for the Liberty can be found below

Week One: vs. SWKS Storm Week Two: at Wichita Regulators Week Three: at Oregon Blackbears Week Four: at Iowa Rampage Week Five: vs. Rapid City Marshalls Week Six: at SWKS Storm Week Seven: vs. Iowa Rampage Week Eight: vs. Washington Wolfpack Week Nine: at Rapid City Marshalls Week Ten: vs. Wichita Regulators

While exact dates and times for the upcoming 2024 Arena Football League remain to be determined, the matchups, including those for the Salina Liberty have officially been announced.The full slate of games for the Liberty can be found belowWeek One: vs. SWKS Storm Week Two: at Wichita Regulators Week Three: at Oregon Blackbears Week Four: at Iowa Rampage Week Five: vs. Rapid City Marshalls Week Six: at SWKS Storm Week Seven: vs. Iowa Rampage Week Eight: vs. Washington Wolfpack Week Nine: at Rapid City Marshalls Week Ten: vs. Wichita Regulators

Salina Liberty AFL Matchups Unveiled

By TYLER HENRY Lead Sportswriter - Salina Post

The Wamego Red Raiders kept the good times rolling last week in a dominant 49-0 win over Wellington, sending the Crusaders packing and punching their ticket to a second-straight 4A semifinal.

“Any time your defense scores two touchdowns that gives you a ton of momentum and it really does change an offense's gameplan,” Raider head coach Weston Moody said. “We changed the trajectory of that game right away and offensively we were able to take care of the football and manage the clock.”

To return to the 4A championship game for a second time in as many years, Wamego (9-2) will have to overcome a familiar foe, as Andover Central (8-3) travels to Boom Town for what should be a thrilling finale to this postseason trilogy.

These two have met in each of the last three 4A brackets, with the Jaguars getting the better of the Raiders 48-0 in 2021, but finding themselves on the receiving end of a 42-7 beatdown a year ago.

Just as they have in previous seasons, the Jaguars come into this contest with numbers that may lead the casual fan astray, after facing a steady diet of 5A foes throughout the year.

“Andover Central has played a lot of good competition and we feel like this is a pretty even matchup,” Moody said. “You can compare scores as much as you want but everybody at this point is a good team and if you make mistakes you’ll lose, it’s that simple.”

To take care of business and end a Jaguar run for the second year running, Wamego will need to find an answer for the two-headed monster of quarterback Jace Jefferson, and tailback Maddox Archibald, who have spearheaded a balanced attack all season long.

“Their playmakers are athletic and we’ll have to be prepared to defend the run and the pass,” he said. “Our guys won’t be shocked by anything, but we will have to be ready to make adjustments throughout the game.”

While Andover Central’s offense has shown flashes of greatness throughout the season, they’ve also been prone to giving up free possessions turning the ball over 17 times, and will have to be exceptionally cautious against an elite Wamego defensive unit.

“Our guys are seasoned veterans and when they smell blood in the water they’ll attack,” Moody said.

On the other side of the ball, the Raiders will have to contend with a Jaguar defense that has varied up their looks throughout the course of the year, but as with everything Wamego does, flexibility will be the name of the game.

“We prepare based on what we see on film and what we see in the numbers but until the first series or two, you don’t really know what a team is going to throw at you,” he said. “We’ve gotten better at making those adjustments throughout the season and we’ll have to be ready to adjust again on Friday night.”

Despite graduating a ton of talent, this year’s Raiders look every bit as sharp as the 4A runners-up from a season ago, and the confidence in the Wamego locker room has not wavered despite some hard lessons learned throughout their campaign.

“This team has been hardened by a few tough losses and they didn’t like that feeling,” Moody said. “But being forced to make adjustments has made us a better team and we’re pretty confident.”

Kickoff between the Raiders and Jaguars is set for 7:00 at Wamego High School with the winner advancing to the state championship game to take on either St. Thomas Aquinas (8-3), or Tonganoxie (9-2).

By TYLER HENRY Lead Sportswriter - Salina PostThe Wamego Red Raiders kept the good times rolling last week in a dominant 49-0 win over Wellington, sending the Crusaders packing and punching their ticket to a second-straight 4A semifinal.“Any time your defense scores two touchdowns that gives you a ton of momentum and it really does change an offense's gameplan,” Raider head coach Weston Moody said. “We changed the trajectory of that game right away and offensively we were able to take care of the football and manage the clock.”To return to the 4A championship game for a second time in as many years, Wamego (9-2) will have to overcome a familiar foe, as Andover Central (8-3) travels to Boom Town for what should be a thrilling finale to this postseason trilogy.These two have met in each of the last three 4A brackets, with the Jaguars getting the better of the Raiders 48-0 in 2021, but finding themselves on the receiving end of a 42-7 beatdown a year ago.Just as they have in previous seasons, the Jaguars come into this contest with numbers that may lead the casual fan astray, after facing a steady diet of 5A foes throughout the year.“Andover Central has played a lot of good competition and we feel like this is a pretty even matchup,” Moody said. “You can compare scores as much as you want but everybody at this point is a good team and if you make mistakes you’ll lose, it’s that simple.”To take care of business and end a Jaguar run for the second year running, Wamego will need to find an answer for the two-headed monster of quarterback Jace Jefferson, and tailback Maddox Archibald, who have spearheaded a balanced attack all season long.“Their playmakers are athletic and we’ll have to be prepared to defend the run and the pass,” he said. “Our guys won’t be shocked by anything, but we will have to be ready to make adjustments throughout the game.”While Andover Central’s offense has shown flashes of greatness throughout the season, they’ve also been prone to giving up free possessions turning the ball over 17 times, and will have to be exceptionally cautious against an elite Wamego defensive unit.“Our guys are seasoned veterans and when they smell blood in the water they’ll attack,” Moody said.On the other side of the ball, the Raiders will have to contend with a Jaguar defense that has varied up their looks throughout the course of the year, but as with everything Wamego does, flexibility will be the name of the game.“We prepare based on what we see on film and what we see in the numbers but until the first series or two, you don’t really know what a team is going to throw at you,” he said. “We’ve gotten better at making those adjustments throughout the season and we’ll have to be ready to adjust again on Friday night.”Despite graduating a ton of talent, this year’s Raiders look every bit as sharp as the 4A runners-up from a season ago, and the confidence in the Wamego locker room has not wavered despite some hard lessons learned throughout their campaign.“This team has been hardened by a few tough losses and they didn’t like that feeling,” Moody said. “But being forced to make adjustments has made us a better team and we’re pretty confident.”Kickoff between the Raiders and Jaguars is set for 7:00 at Wamego High School with the winner advancing to the state championship game to take on either St. Thomas Aquinas (8-3), or Tonganoxie (9-2).

Raiders Host Andover Central for Semifinal Finale of Playoff Trilogy

CHICAGO, Ill. (AP)&nbsp;— Hunter Dickinson had a game-high 27 points and a career-high 21 rebounds as No. 1 Kansas overcame a 14-point second half deficit to beat No. 17 Kentucky 89-84 in the Champions Classic on Tuesday night at the United Center.

“What he does is he takes pressure off everybody else by having everybody else focused on him,” Kansas coach Bill Self said. “So that’s a big bonus.”

Kevin McCullar Jr. finished with a triple-double of 12 points, 10 rebounds and a career-high 10 assists for the third official triple-double in Kansas history and the first since Jeff Withey on Nov. 26, 2012.

Dajuan Harris Jr. added a career-high 23 points for the Jayhawks, while KJ Adams Jr. scored 16 points.

Kansas (3-0) closed the game on an 11-1 run. Harris opened the decisive stretch with a 3-pointer and two foul shots. Dickinson then put the Jayhawks in front for good with two free throws that made it 85-83 with 2:04 to go.

Kentucky (2-1) had a couple chances to tie the game in the final 1:02, but it came up empty each time. After Reed Sheppard missed a 3-point with 6 seconds left, Jamari McDowell made two foul shots to help close it out for the Jayhawks.

Antonio Reeves scored 24 points for Kentucky, but he went 3-of-17 from 3-point range. Adou Thiero finished with 16 points and 13 boards.

Rob Dillingham, a part of another stellar group of freshmen for the Wildcats, scored 16 of his 18 points in the first half. He was whistled for his fourth foul midway through the second half and eventually fouled out.

It was Kansas’ first game in Chicago since it stopped in the Windy City on its way to the 2022 NCAA championship. The Jayhawks beat Miami&nbsp;76-50&nbsp;in the Midwest Region final at the United Center that year.

Kansas had a 25-21 lead before Dillingham began to take over. The flashy freshman made 3-pointers on four straight Kentucky possessions and then dished to Reeves for another 3, giving the Wildcats a 36-30 lead with 4:37 left in the first half.

The Jayhawks were staring at a double-digit halftime deficit before Dickinson hit two foul shots and a 3, making it 48-41 at the break. Dickinson had 13 points and 10 rebounds in the first half.

BIG PICTUREKansas: While Dickinson had a big night, it’s clear the Jayhawks have some work to do when it comes to getting used to each other. They finished with 14 turnovers, and a couple of them occurred when they tried to force the ball inside to their new center.

Kentucky: It was the first big test for the new kids on the Wildcats, and there was a lot to like. They had just eight turnovers. If Calipari can teach them how to finish close games, they could be in line for a big season.

UP NEXTKansas: Plays Chaminade in the opening round of the Maui Invitational on Monday night.

Kentucky: Hosts Stonehill on Friday night.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1700046720809.png" alt="Kansas center Hunter Dickinson (1) pumps his fist after scoring a basket in an NCAA basketball game against Kentucky in Chicago, Ill., Tuesday, November 14, 2023. (Kansas Athletics photo)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas center Hunter Dickinson (1) pumps his fist after scoring a basket in an NCAA basketball game against Kentucky in Chicago, Ill., Tuesday, November 14, 2023. (Kansas Athletics photo)</figcaption>
 </figure>CHICAGO, Ill. (AP)&nbsp;— Hunter Dickinson had a game-high 27 points and a career-high 21 rebounds as No. 1 Kansas overcame a 14-point second half deficit to beat No. 17 Kentucky 89-84 in the Champions Classic on Tuesday night at the United Center.“What he does is he takes pressure off everybody else by having everybody else focused on him,” Kansas coach Bill Self said. “So that’s a big bonus.”Kevin McCullar Jr. finished with a triple-double of 12 points, 10 rebounds and a career-high 10 assists for the third official triple-double in Kansas history and the first since Jeff Withey on Nov. 26, 2012.Dajuan Harris Jr. added a career-high 23 points for the Jayhawks, while KJ Adams Jr. scored 16 points.Kansas (3-0) closed the game on an 11-1 run. Harris opened the decisive stretch with a 3-pointer and two foul shots. Dickinson then put the Jayhawks in front for good with two free throws that made it 85-83 with 2:04 to go.Kentucky (2-1) had a couple chances to tie the game in the final 1:02, but it came up empty each time. After Reed Sheppard missed a 3-point with 6 seconds left, Jamari McDowell made two foul shots to help close it out for the Jayhawks.Antonio Reeves scored 24 points for Kentucky, but he went 3-of-17 from 3-point range. Adou Thiero finished with 16 points and 13 boards.Rob Dillingham, a part of another stellar group of freshmen for the Wildcats, scored 16 of his 18 points in the first half. He was whistled for his fourth foul midway through the second half and eventually fouled out.It was Kansas’ first game in Chicago since it stopped in the Windy City on its way to the 2022 NCAA championship. The Jayhawks beat Miami&nbsp;76-50&nbsp;in the Midwest Region final at the United Center that year.Kansas had a 25-21 lead before Dillingham began to take over. The flashy freshman made 3-pointers on four straight Kentucky possessions and then dished to Reeves for another 3, giving the Wildcats a 36-30 lead with 4:37 left in the first half.The Jayhawks were staring at a double-digit halftime deficit before Dickinson hit two foul shots and a 3, making it 48-41 at the break. Dickinson had 13 points and 10 rebounds in the first half.BIG PICTUREKansas: While Dickinson had a big night, it’s clear the Jayhawks have some work to do when it comes to getting used to each other. They finished with 14 turnovers, and a couple of them occurred when they tried to force the ball inside to their new center.Kentucky: It was the first big test for the new kids on the Wildcats, and there was a lot to like. They had just eight turnovers. If Calipari can teach them how to finish close games, they could be in line for a big season.UP NEXTKansas: Plays Chaminade in the opening round of the Maui Invitational on Monday night.Kentucky: Hosts Stonehill on Friday night.

🏀 Dickinson Stars as No. 1 Kansas Edges No. 17 Kentucky

MANHATTAN, Kan. (AP) — Cam Carter scored 25 points, Tylor Perry added 22 and the pair combined for 10 3-pointers to lead Kansas State to a 91-68 victory over South Dakota State on Monday night.

Carter shot 10 of 20 from the floor and 4 of 8 from long range. Perry was 7-of-9 shooting and made 6 of 8 from beyond the arc. R.J. Jones added 14 points and Will McNair Jr. scored 10 for Kansas State (2-1).

K-State built a double-digit lead about seven minutes into the game and led 38-29 at the break. South Dakota State pulled within eight points early in the second half before a 23-13 Wildcats' surge stretched the lead to 66-48 with 10:35 to play. It was their largest lead of the game. Jones and Perry each hit a pair of 3s during the run.

Kansas State shot 57% overall (35 of 61). Carter and Perry also combined for 11 of 24 Wildcats assists.

Charlie Easley scored 21 points on 9-of-15 shooting to lead South Dakota State (1-2). Luke Appel chipped in 16 points and seven rebounds. Zeke Mayo finished with 11 points.

Kansas State plays Providence in the Baha Mar Hoops in Nassau, Bahamas on Friday.

South Dakota State faces UCF in St. Augustine, Florida on Sunday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1699961777395.jpeg" alt="Kansas State's Cam Carter (5) shoots a 3-pointer in the second half of an NCAA basketball game against South Dakota State in Manhattan, Kan., Monday, November 13, 2023. (Kansas State Athletics photo)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas State's Cam Carter (5) shoots a 3-pointer in the second half of an NCAA basketball game against South Dakota State in Manhattan, Kan., Monday, November 13, 2023. (Kansas State Athletics photo)</figcaption>
 </figure>MANHATTAN, Kan. (AP) — Cam Carter scored 25 points, Tylor Perry added 22 and the pair combined for 10 3-pointers to lead Kansas State to a 91-68 victory over South Dakota State on Monday night.Carter shot 10 of 20 from the floor and 4 of 8 from long range. Perry was 7-of-9 shooting and made 6 of 8 from beyond the arc. R.J. Jones added 14 points and Will McNair Jr. scored 10 for Kansas State (2-1).K-State built a double-digit lead about seven minutes into the game and led 38-29 at the break. South Dakota State pulled within eight points early in the second half before a 23-13 Wildcats' surge stretched the lead to 66-48 with 10:35 to play. It was their largest lead of the game. Jones and Perry each hit a pair of 3s during the run.Kansas State shot 57% overall (35 of 61). Carter and Perry also combined for 11 of 24 Wildcats assists.Charlie Easley scored 21 points on 9-of-15 shooting to lead South Dakota State (1-2). Luke Appel chipped in 16 points and seven rebounds. Zeke Mayo finished with 11 points.Kansas State plays Providence in the Baha Mar Hoops in Nassau, Bahamas on Friday.South Dakota State faces UCF in St. Augustine, Florida on Sunday.

🏀 Carter, Perry combine for 10 3-pointers to lead K-State over South Dakota State

by BECKY GOFF Little Apple Post

HILLSBORO - For the second year in a row, the Manhattan Eagles football team has won the <a href="https://www.kshsaa.org/public/general/whatisanapprovedschool.cfm">Kansas Approved Schools Championship</a>(KASC) game.

The Eagles travelled to Hillsboro on Saturday to take on the Wichita Warriors for the championship game.

The Eagles won the match-up with a score of 52-6 over the Warriors.

Leading the Eagles was Corbin Goff with 280 yards rushing, 5 touchdowns, 2 tackles and recovering a fumble following a goal-line strip.&nbsp;

Other leaders on the team include: -Conor Mericle with 44 yards rushing, 1 touchdown and 2 tackles -Francis Rutledge with 56 yards rushing and 3 tackles -Brecken Wertenberger with 39 yards rushing, 1 touchdown, and 3 tackles -Luke Zimmerman with 11 yards rushing and 7 tackles -Harrison Corn with 6 tackles -Noah Thurman with 6 tackles -Isaac Amerin with 26 yards receiving and 5 tackles

Luke Zimmerman was named MVP of the KASC Championship game.

Look back at last year's championship game <a href="https://littleapplepost.com/posts/61dc6b24-0f4b-4e21-9fc8-da0f43f15595">can be found here</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1699896457434.jpeg" alt="Manhattan Eagles 2023 State Champs, photo courtesy Laura Nobles" />
 <figcaption>Manhattan Eagles 2023 State Champs, photo courtesy Laura Nobles</figcaption>
 </figure>by BECKY GOFF Little Apple PostHILLSBORO - For the second year in a row, the Manhattan Eagles football team has won the <a href="https://www.kshsaa.org/public/general/whatisanapprovedschool.cfm">Kansas Approved Schools Championship</a>(KASC) game.The Eagles travelled to Hillsboro on Saturday to take on the Wichita Warriors for the championship game.The Eagles won the match-up with a score of 52-6 over the Warriors.Leading the Eagles was Corbin Goff with 280 yards rushing, 5 touchdowns, 2 tackles and recovering a fumble following a goal-line strip.&nbsp;Other leaders on the team include: -Conor Mericle with 44 yards rushing, 1 touchdown and 2 tackles -Francis Rutledge with 56 yards rushing and 3 tackles -Brecken Wertenberger with 39 yards rushing, 1 touchdown, and 3 tackles -Luke Zimmerman with 11 yards rushing and 7 tackles -Harrison Corn with 6 tackles -Noah Thurman with 6 tackles -Isaac Amerin with 26 yards receiving and 5 tacklesLuke Zimmerman was named MVP of the KASC Championship game.Look back at last year's championship game <a href="https://littleapplepost.com/posts/61dc6b24-0f4b-4e21-9fc8-da0f43f15595">can be found here</a>.

📷: Manhattan Eagles Football are back-to-back State Champs

<a>MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;–</a>&nbsp;The Big 12 Conference and&nbsp;<a></a><a>its television partners announced Monday morning that time and television designation for Kansas State’s Senior Day contest against Iowa State on November 25 will be announced after play concludes this weekend.</a>

Kansas State will be in search of its second-straight win over Iowa State following a 10-9 victory last year in Ames. The Wildcats have not had consecutive wins over the Cyclones since a 10-game winning streak from 2008 to 2017. K-State is also looking for its first home victory over ISU since a 27-17 win to close out the 2019 regular season.

<a>MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;–</a>&nbsp;The Big 12 Conference and&nbsp;<a></a><a>its television partners announced Monday morning that time and television designation for Kansas State’s Senior Day contest against Iowa State on November 25 will be announced after play concludes this weekend.</a>Kansas State will be in search of its second-straight win over Iowa State following a 10-9 victory last year in Ames. The Wildcats have not had consecutive wins over the Cyclones since a 10-game winning streak from 2008 to 2017. K-State is also looking for its first home victory over ISU since a 27-17 win to close out the 2019 regular season.RYAN LACKEY

K-State’s Senior Day Game Held for Six-Day Pick

<a>MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;–</a>&nbsp;The Big 12 Conference and&nbsp;<a></a><a>FOX announced late Saturday night that the 2023 edition of the Dillons’ Sunflower Showdown between Kansas State and Kansas next weekend in Lawrence will kick off at 6 p.m. and be televised by FS1.</a>

The Wildcats have won each of the last 14 games in the series, including each of the last seven at Kansas. This is the 113th-consecutive year of the Sunflower Showdown dating back to 1911, which is the fourth-longest uninterrupted series in FBS history. It is also the ninth-most played rivalry in FBS history with the 121st meeting on tap.

<a>MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;–</a>&nbsp;The Big 12 Conference and&nbsp;<a></a><a>FOX announced late Saturday night that the 2023 edition of the Dillons’ Sunflower Showdown between Kansas State and Kansas next weekend in Lawrence will kick off at 6 p.m. and be televised by FS1.</a>The Wildcats have won each of the last 14 games in the series, including each of the last seven at Kansas. This is the 113th-consecutive year of the Sunflower Showdown dating back to 1911, which is the fourth-longest uninterrupted series in FBS history. It is also the ninth-most played rivalry in FBS history with the 121st meeting on tap.RYAN LACKEY

Sunflower Showdown Set for Primetime Matchup

MANHATTAN, Kan. (AP) — Will Howard became the all-time leader in touchdown passes in Kansas State history, leading the Wildcats past Baylor 59-19 on Saturday afternoon.

Howard was 19-of-29 for 235 yards and three touchdowns. He moved past Josh Freeman with 45 career touchdown passes. It was Howard's fifth game this season with at least three TD passes, tying Freeman for the school record.

Kansas State (7-3, 5-2 Big 12) has scored at least 40 points in all six home games (6-0) this season.

Blake Shapen was was 22-of-45 for 253 yards and four touchdowns for Baylor (3-7, 2-5 Big 12).

K-State extended its 35-13 halftime lead early in the third quarter on a 33-yard field goal by Chris Tennant.

Shapen hit Drake Dabney for a 63-yard touchdown. After a pair of laterals, Shapen found Dabney, who eluded the K-State defense. The Wildcats responded with a nine-play, 73-yard touchdown drive, capped by Treshaun Ward's 4-yard run.

Keenan Garber then picked off Shapen and returned it 45 yards for a pick-6.

Avery Johnson hit Garrett Oakley and Shapen hit Monaray Baldwin for K-State's final touchdowns.

K-State took the opening kickoff and scored on a 19-yard screen pass from Howard to DJ Giddens, capping a 12-play, 81-yard drive. But Baylor responded immediately with a five-play, 72-yard drive to tie it. Shapen found Dawson Pendergrass for a 13-yard touchdown.

Howard found Ben Sinnott in the end zone for a 14-yard touchdown as the Wildcats regained the lead, 14-7.

Desmond Purnell scored a defensive touchdown to extend the lead to 21-7. Cody Stufflebean hit Shapen from behind, forcing a fumble that Purnell picked up and ran 15 yards untouched into the end zone.

Howard then plunged in from the 1-yard line on fourth down early in the second quarter to add to the lead. Things only got worse for Baylor. Palmer Williams fumbled the snap on a punt and was tackled at the 2. Howard then found Christian Moore on a 2-yard pass for a 35-7 lead with 13:07 left in the half. Howard's third TD pass of the game gave him the career mark.

After Josh Cameron's 70-yard punt return set up Baylor at the K-State 16, Shapen hit Pendergrass on a 1-yard TD pass. The 2-point conversion failed.

Baylor: The Bears hit the road for the final time this season with a game at TCU.

Kansas State: The Wildcats will face in-state rival Kansas in Lawrence, Kan.

MANHATTAN, Kan. (AP) — Will Howard became the all-time leader in touchdown passes in Kansas State history, leading the Wildcats past Baylor 59-19 on Saturday afternoon.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Game changers <a href="https://t.co/HfFh4Jdlz2">pic.twitter.com/HfFh4Jdlz2</a>&mdash; K-State Football (@KStateFB) <a href="https://twitter.com/KStateFB/status/1723495095310176743?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 12, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Howard was 19-of-29 for 235 yards and three touchdowns. He moved past Josh Freeman with 45 career touchdown passes. It was Howard's fifth game this season with at least three TD passes, tying Freeman for the school record.Kansas State (7-3, 5-2 Big 12) has scored at least 40 points in all six home games (6-0) this season.Blake Shapen was was 22-of-45 for 253 yards and four touchdowns for Baylor (3-7, 2-5 Big 12).K-State extended its 35-13 halftime lead early in the third quarter on a 33-yard field goal by Chris Tennant.Shapen hit Drake Dabney for a 63-yard touchdown. After a pair of laterals, Shapen found Dabney, who eluded the K-State defense. The Wildcats responded with a nine-play, 73-yard touchdown drive, capped by Treshaun Ward's 4-yard run.Keenan Garber then picked off Shapen and returned it 45 yards for a pick-6.Avery Johnson hit Garrett Oakley and Shapen hit Monaray Baldwin for K-State's final touchdowns.K-State took the opening kickoff and scored on a 19-yard screen pass from Howard to DJ Giddens, capping a 12-play, 81-yard drive. But Baylor responded immediately with a five-play, 72-yard drive to tie it. Shapen found Dawson Pendergrass for a 13-yard touchdown.Howard found Ben Sinnott in the end zone for a 14-yard touchdown as the Wildcats regained the lead, 14-7.Desmond Purnell scored a defensive touchdown to extend the lead to 21-7. Cody Stufflebean hit Shapen from behind, forcing a fumble that Purnell picked up and ran 15 yards untouched into the end zone.Howard then plunged in from the 1-yard line on fourth down early in the second quarter to add to the lead. Things only got worse for Baylor. Palmer Williams fumbled the snap on a punt and was tackled at the 2. Howard then found Christian Moore on a 2-yard pass for a 35-7 lead with 13:07 left in the half. Howard's third TD pass of the game gave him the career mark.After Josh Cameron's 70-yard punt return set up Baylor at the K-State 16, Shapen hit Pendergrass on a 1-yard TD pass. The 2-point conversion failed.UP NEXT:Baylor: The Bears hit the road for the final time this season with a game at TCU.Kansas State: The Wildcats will face in-state rival Kansas in Lawrence, Kan.

Will Howard sets K-State TD pass record, Wildcats dominate Baylor 

LAWRENCE, Kan. (AP) — Gino Garcia hit a game-winning 30-yard field goal with 3 seconds to play and Texas Tech upset No. 19 Kansas 16-13 on Saturday as the Jayhawks struggled after losing quarterback Jason Bean in the first half.

Behren Morton completed passes of 16, 14 and 32 yards as Texas Tech went 63 yards in 20 seconds to set up the game-deciding kick.

“Those were day one installs,” Morton said. “Jerand (Bradley) went up and got that last ball and I just tried to put it where only he could get it.”

Tahj Brooks ran for 133 yards and a touchdown as the Red Raiders (5-5, 4-3 Big 12) came back after Kansas (7-3, 4-3) tied the game on a 22-yard field goal by Seth Keller with 26 seconds left in regulation.

“We go up against our defense every day so I had faith they'd do the job,” Brooks said. “They came up big for us with those stops.”

Texas Tech stopped Kansas after they had several chances to score inside the 10-yard line and take the lead.

“We battled and found a way to tie it up late but credit them for driving down the field,” Kansas coach Lance Leipold said. “Our defense found a way to get stops and responded well when challenged. Offensively, I don’t think we ever fully got set today.”

Texas Tech opened a 10-0 lead in the first quarter as Brooks scored early in a 5-yard TD run. Garcia added a 32-yard field goal late in the quarter.

The Red Raiders extended their lead to 13-0 early in the third quarter on Garcia's second field goal before Kansas got back in the game on a Devin Neal 60-yard touchdown run early in the fourth quarter.

The Jayhawks marched 71 yards later in the fourth quarter and got within three points on a 24-yard field goal by Keller. He tied the game late but Texas Tech found a way to win as Morton was 19 of 25 for 176 yards.

Bean went down with an injury in the second quarter and returned for just one drive the rest of the game. Cole Ballard finished up and was 9 of 20 for 124 yards and an interception.

Texas Tech is a win away from being bowl eligible.

“We haven't been able to win on the road this year, we've played well, but haven't got many wins to show for it,” Texas Tech coach Joey McGuire said. “Kansas is a good team and now we need one more win to make it to a bowl.”

Texas Tech: Their run game was too much for the Jayhawk defense to handle in the first half, but their offense struggled in the second half before the winning drive in the final minute.

Kansas: Without their quarterback, Kansas struggled to move the ball and had its Big 12 Conference hopes smashed.

Texas Tech: Returns home to face UCF next Saturday.

LAWRENCE, Kan. (AP) — Gino Garcia hit a game-winning 30-yard field goal with 3 seconds to play and Texas Tech upset No. 19 Kansas 16-13 on Saturday as the Jayhawks struggled after losing quarterback Jason Bean in the first half.Behren Morton completed passes of 16, 14 and 32 yards as Texas Tech went 63 yards in 20 seconds to set up the game-deciding kick.“Those were day one installs,” Morton said. “Jerand (Bradley) went up and got that last ball and I just tried to put it where only he could get it.”Tahj Brooks ran for 133 yards and a touchdown as the Red Raiders (5-5, 4-3 Big 12) came back after Kansas (7-3, 4-3) tied the game on a 22-yard field goal by Seth Keller with 26 seconds left in regulation.“We go up against our defense every day so I had faith they'd do the job,” Brooks said. “They came up big for us with those stops.”Texas Tech stopped Kansas after they had several chances to score inside the 10-yard line and take the lead.“We battled and found a way to tie it up late but credit them for driving down the field,” Kansas coach Lance Leipold said. “Our defense found a way to get stops and responded well when challenged. Offensively, I don’t think we ever fully got set today.”Texas Tech opened a 10-0 lead in the first quarter as Brooks scored early in a 5-yard TD run. Garcia added a 32-yard field goal late in the quarter.The Red Raiders extended their lead to 13-0 early in the third quarter on Garcia's second field goal before Kansas got back in the game on a Devin Neal 60-yard touchdown run early in the fourth quarter.The Jayhawks marched 71 yards later in the fourth quarter and got within three points on a 24-yard field goal by Keller. He tied the game late but Texas Tech found a way to win as Morton was 19 of 25 for 176 yards.Bean went down with an injury in the second quarter and returned for just one drive the rest of the game. Cole Ballard finished up and was 9 of 20 for 124 yards and an interception.Texas Tech is a win away from being bowl eligible.“We haven't been able to win on the road this year, we've played well, but haven't got many wins to show for it,” Texas Tech coach Joey McGuire said. “Kansas is a good team and now we need one more win to make it to a bowl.”THE TAKEAWAYTexas Tech: Their run game was too much for the Jayhawk defense to handle in the first half, but their offense struggled in the second half before the winning drive in the final minute.Kansas: Without their quarterback, Kansas struggled to move the ball and had its Big 12 Conference hopes smashed.UP NEXTTexas Tech: Returns home to face UCF next Saturday.

Texas Tech upsets No. 19 Kansas

The Wamego Red Raiders handled their business last week in yet another playoff blowout, easily defeating Rose Hill 42-14 en route to their fourth consecutive regional championship.

“We came out pretty strong on both sides of the ball and captured some momentum,” Raider head coach Weston Moody said. “We had some struggles in the second quarter but we were able to make some adjustments and do well in the second half.”

Now, Wamego (8-2) will turn its attention to the Wellington Crusaders (8-2), who knocked off Coffeyville 27-20 last week.

While the Raiders did enter this season with a much different squad than the one they brought into 2022, each and every player on this team, from varsity starters to JV backups, has been integrated into, and added to the winning culture of football in Wamego.

“These guys have a lot of experience and these seniors have been a part of four straight regional championships now,” Moody said. “They’ve been around success all throughout their time here and being in this game is all they’ve known.”

In order to continue that success, Wamego will have to take down a dangerous, but volatile Wellington squad that has made its living winning shootouts in 2023.

The Crusaders rank among the state’s best offensive units, boasting the second-best passing offense (257 yds/g), third-best total offense (381 yds/g), and sixth-best scoring offense (34.5 ppg) in Class 4A.

Much of that success has come on the back of junior quarterback Dusty Bannister, who leads the Crusaders with 2,451 passing yards and 30 total touchdowns.

“Wellington can chuck it around the yard,” Moody said. “That’s been their MO all year and we’ll have to be able to stop what they’re good at. It’s all about making teams play left-handed if you can and offensively we just want to take what they give us and attack.”

That elite offense has not come without a caveat however, as the Crusaders have built a bit of a glass cannon, and rank in the bottom six of Class 4A in scoring defense, allowing 35.8 points per game.

Of late, Wellington has done their best to slow rushing offenses like Wamego’s down, but following a five-touchdown performance for their passing game last week, the Raiders have proven to be just as potent through the air.

“They’ve been trying to make teams pass the ball by packing the box and that’s fine,” he said. “We’re a run-first team and we won’t shy away from that but we’re balanced enough to let teams take away what they want to take away and still have success.”

In front of the Boom Town faithful for a third straight playoff round, the Raiders have an opportunity to do something few teams in the state of Kansas can boast; punch a ticket to a state semifinal for a second consecutive season.

“Playing at home is always a huge motivation of ours,” Moody said. “We want to make teams come to us and have to listen to our rowdy crowd and the boom town fireworks.”

Kickoff between the Raiders and Crusaders is set for 7:00 on the campus of Wamego High School.

The winner of this game will advance to the semis to square off with either McPherson (7-3), or Andover Central (7-3).

By TYLER HENRY Lead Sportswriter - Salina PostThe Wamego Red Raiders handled their business last week in yet another playoff blowout, easily defeating Rose Hill 42-14 en route to their fourth consecutive regional championship.“We came out pretty strong on both sides of the ball and captured some momentum,” Raider head coach Weston Moody said. “We had some struggles in the second quarter but we were able to make some adjustments and do well in the second half.”Now, Wamego (8-2) will turn its attention to the Wellington Crusaders (8-2), who knocked off Coffeyville 27-20 last week.While the Raiders did enter this season with a much different squad than the one they brought into 2022, each and every player on this team, from varsity starters to JV backups, has been integrated into, and added to the winning culture of football in Wamego.“These guys have a lot of experience and these seniors have been a part of four straight regional championships now,” Moody said. “They’ve been around success all throughout their time here and being in this game is all they’ve known.”In order to continue that success, Wamego will have to take down a dangerous, but volatile Wellington squad that has made its living winning shootouts in 2023.The Crusaders rank among the state’s best offensive units, boasting the second-best passing offense (257 yds/g), third-best total offense (381 yds/g), and sixth-best scoring offense (34.5 ppg) in Class 4A.Much of that success has come on the back of junior quarterback Dusty Bannister, who leads the Crusaders with 2,451 passing yards and 30 total touchdowns.“Wellington can chuck it around the yard,” Moody said. “That’s been their MO all year and we’ll have to be able to stop what they’re good at. It’s all about making teams play left-handed if you can and offensively we just want to take what they give us and attack.”That elite offense has not come without a caveat however, as the Crusaders have built a bit of a glass cannon, and rank in the bottom six of Class 4A in scoring defense, allowing 35.8 points per game.Of late, Wellington has done their best to slow rushing offenses like Wamego’s down, but following a five-touchdown performance for their passing game last week, the Raiders have proven to be just as potent through the air.“They’ve been trying to make teams pass the ball by packing the box and that’s fine,” he said. “We’re a run-first team and we won’t shy away from that but we’re balanced enough to let teams take away what they want to take away and still have success.”In front of the Boom Town faithful for a third straight playoff round, the Raiders have an opportunity to do something few teams in the state of Kansas can boast; punch a ticket to a state semifinal for a second consecutive season.“Playing at home is always a huge motivation of ours,” Moody said. “We want to make teams come to us and have to listen to our rowdy crowd and the boom town fireworks.”Kickoff between the Raiders and Crusaders is set for 7:00 on the campus of Wamego High School.The winner of this game will advance to the semis to square off with either McPherson (7-3), or Andover Central (7-3).

Raiders Return to Boom Town to Host Wellington for a Spot in the 4A Semis

<a></a><a>M</a>ANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;–&nbsp;Kansas State offensive lineman&nbsp;Cooper Beebe&nbsp;and tight end&nbsp;Ben Sinnott&nbsp;have accepted invitations to play in the 2024 Reese’s Senior Bowl, one of the most important steps on the way to the 2024 NFL Draft.

It will mark the second-straight year the Wildcats will be represented in the game held annually in Mobile, Alabama, after cornerback Julius Brents – a 2023 second-round selection of the Indianapolis Colts – participated in the game a year ago. It is the second postseason all-star game invitation for Beebe and Sinnott in as many weeks as they were also invited to play in the East-West Shrine Bowl.

A product of Kansas City, Kansas, Beebe has started 44 career games along the Wildcat offensive front, including each of the last 41 contests. He has led the way for a K-State rushing attack that ranks 12th&nbsp;nationally by averaging 204.2 yards per game, while the Wildcats are 21st&nbsp;in total offense (452.7 yards per game) and 17th&nbsp;in scoring offense (36.6 points per game).

A versatile offensive lineman, Beebe has started every game at left guard with 522 total snaps at the position in addition to playing at right tackle (106 snaps) and left tackle (20 snaps).

Sinnott, a former walk-on from Waterloo, Iowa, is one of the top tight ends in the country as he ranks fourth nationally at the position with 433 receiving yards. A career 25-game starter with starts in every game since the beginning of the 2022 season, Sinnott enters this week’s game against Baylor tied for fifth in school history among tight ends in receiving touchdowns (3) and catches (32), while he is eighth in receiving yards (433). His career totals also rank in the top 10 in school history at the position as he is second in receiving touchdowns (7), and fourth in both yards (895) and receptions (65).

No. 25 K-State hosts Baylor on Saturday inside Bill Snyder Family Stadium. The game, which kicks off at 2 p.m., will be shown on Big 12 Now on ESPN+. Standing-room only tickets for the game against the Bears are on sale for $62 and can be purchased at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.k-statesports.com/tickets" target="_blank">www.k-statesports.com/tickets</a>. Fans looking to purchase tickets through the secondary market are encouraged to do so through SeatGeek, K-State’s official secondary ticket partner.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1699562400894.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a></a><a>M</a>ANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;–&nbsp;Kansas State offensive lineman&nbsp;Cooper Beebe&nbsp;and tight end&nbsp;Ben Sinnott&nbsp;have accepted invitations to play in the 2024 Reese’s Senior Bowl, one of the most important steps on the way to the 2024 NFL Draft.It will mark the second-straight year the Wildcats will be represented in the game held annually in Mobile, Alabama, after cornerback Julius Brents – a 2023 second-round selection of the Indianapolis Colts – participated in the game a year ago. It is the second postseason all-star game invitation for Beebe and Sinnott in as many weeks as they were also invited to play in the East-West Shrine Bowl.A product of Kansas City, Kansas, Beebe has started 44 career games along the Wildcat offensive front, including each of the last 41 contests. He has led the way for a K-State rushing attack that ranks 12th&nbsp;nationally by averaging 204.2 yards per game, while the Wildcats are 21st&nbsp;in total offense (452.7 yards per game) and 17th&nbsp;in scoring offense (36.6 points per game).A versatile offensive lineman, Beebe has started every game at left guard with 522 total snaps at the position in addition to playing at right tackle (106 snaps) and left tackle (20 snaps).Sinnott, a former walk-on from Waterloo, Iowa, is one of the top tight ends in the country as he ranks fourth nationally at the position with 433 receiving yards. A career 25-game starter with starts in every game since the beginning of the 2022 season, Sinnott enters this week’s game against Baylor tied for fifth in school history among tight ends in receiving touchdowns (3) and catches (32), while he is eighth in receiving yards (433). His career totals also rank in the top 10 in school history at the position as he is second in receiving touchdowns (7), and fourth in both yards (895) and receptions (65).No. 25 K-State hosts Baylor on Saturday inside Bill Snyder Family Stadium. The game, which kicks off at 2 p.m., will be shown on Big 12 Now on ESPN+. Standing-room only tickets for the game against the Bears are on sale for $62 and can be purchased at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.k-statesports.com/tickets" target="_blank">www.k-statesports.com/tickets</a>. Fans looking to purchase tickets through the secondary market are encouraged to do so through SeatGeek, K-State’s official secondary ticket partner.&nbsp;

K-State’s Beebe, Sinnott Accept Senior Bowl Invitations

LAWRENCE, Kan. (AP) — Kansas coach Bill Self signed a lifetime contract Tuesday that will pay him $53 million over the first five years, easily surpassing Kentucky coach John Calipari for the richest deal ever given to a college basketball coach at a public university.

Self will make more than $13 million this season in base pay, professional services and royalties along with a one-time signing bonus and retention payments, including some that were deferred during the pandemic. At the conclusion of each year, another is added to the deal, and Self will earn a one-time, $5 million retention bonus if he serves out the first five.

The deal includes a provision that allows the renegotiation of terms, including Self's pay package, after the 2025-26 season. It already surpasses the deal signed by Calipari that will pay him $8.5 million to lead the Wildcats this season.

“Bill Self is undoubtedly the most consistent coach in college basketball, and a restructuring of his contract terms were long overdue,” Kansas athletic director Travis Goff said. “In an ever-changing collegiate athletics environment, our strong commitment to Coach Self positions KU basketball to maintain and enhance its status as the most storied program in the country."

The top-ranked Jayhawks opened this season by routing North Carolina Central on Monday night.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1699390154366.png" alt="Photo courtesy Kansas Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy Kansas Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>LAWRENCE, Kan. (AP) — Kansas coach Bill Self signed a lifetime contract Tuesday that will pay him $53 million over the first five years, easily surpassing Kentucky coach John Calipari for the richest deal ever given to a college basketball coach at a public university.Self will make more than $13 million this season in base pay, professional services and royalties along with a one-time signing bonus and retention payments, including some that were deferred during the pandemic. At the conclusion of each year, another is added to the deal, and Self will earn a one-time, $5 million retention bonus if he serves out the first five.The deal includes a provision that allows the renegotiation of terms, including Self's pay package, after the 2025-26 season. It already surpasses the deal signed by Calipari that will pay him $8.5 million to lead the Wildcats this season.“Bill Self is undoubtedly the most consistent coach in college basketball, and a restructuring of his contract terms were long overdue,” Kansas athletic director Travis Goff said. “In an ever-changing collegiate athletics environment, our strong commitment to Coach Self positions KU basketball to maintain and enhance its status as the most storied program in the country."The top-ranked Jayhawks opened this season by routing North Carolina Central on Monday night.

Bill Self signs richest college basketball contract ever given by a public university

By W.G. RAMIREZ Associated Press

LAS VEGAS (AP) — Boogie Ellis had 24 points and eight rebounds as No. 21 Southern California defeated Kansas State 82-69 in the season opener for both teams Monday night.

The Trojans led by 19 with 6:33 left, but that margin was trimmed to eight with 1:41 remaining before USC held on.

“We've got a lot of vets and people that are experienced and been through it,” Ellis said. “So we just stayed calm and came together.”

Touted freshman&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/USC_Hoops/status/1721767783053332528">Isaiah Collier made his USC debut</a>&nbsp;with 18 points, including 15 in the first half. He added six assists and received a standing ovation when he went to the bench after fouling out with 4:50 to play.

“I thought Isaiah played a great first half, first game on the big stage here in Las Vegas. I thought it was important for us to get out to a fast start,” USC coach Andy Enfield said. “I thought Boogie and Isaiah really controlled the tempo in the first half. Isaiah got downhill and was able to get to the rim, made some great passes. ... I was proud of the six assists and 7 of 9 from the field. Very efficient tonight.”

<a href="https://twitter.com/USC_Hoops/status/1721757894662840355">Kobe Johnson</a>&nbsp;finished with 16 points for the Trojans, and Joshua Morgan had 11. USC shot 31 of 60 from the floor (51.7%).

Tyler Perry led Kansas State with 22 points. Cam Carter scored 15, and David N’Guessan had 10 points and 10 rebounds.

“This is exactly why we came here,” Wildcats coach Jerome Tang said. “This is a really good USC team. High-level players. The great thing is that we don’t have to wait for a month or two weeks or before the Big 12 to find out the things that we need to work on. It was very much exposed. ... We did a couple of good things and a whole bunch of not-so-good things.”

A strong defensive team last season, the Trojans limited the Wildcats to 31% shooting (22 of 71).

USC held its opponents under 40% in 19 of 33 games last season and finished eighth in the country in field goal percentage defense at 39.3%.

Kansas State, which reached the Elite Eight in March, dropped to 4-2 all-time against the Trojans.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/usc-trojans-bronny-james-lebron-565ce3030ea6ef45d935114eb58c5e00">Bronny James wore grey team sweats</a>&nbsp;and cheered his USC teammates from the bench. The son of NBA career scoring leader LeBron James is still on his way back from suffering a cardiac arrest during a summer workout. LeBron James said last month that his son had surgery to repair a congenital heart condition that caused the collapse.

Kansas State: The Wildcats opened their season away from home for the first time since losing 73-64 to BYU in 2002. Kansas State dropped to 12-17 when starting outside Manhattan, Kansas.

USC: Collier’s performance came on the heels of an impressive one by fellow freshman JuJu Watkins, who led USC’s 21st-ranked women’s team to an 83-74 win over No. 7 Ohio State. Collier and Watkins were considered by many the consensus No. 1 recruits for 2023.

USC hosts Cal State Bakersfield on Thursday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1699357649999.jpeg" alt="Kansas State guard Tylor Perry shoots the ball in an NCAA basketball game NCAA college basketball game against USC, Monday, Nov. 6, 2023, in Las Vegas. (Kansas State Athletics photo)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas State guard Tylor Perry shoots the ball in an NCAA basketball game NCAA college basketball game against USC, Monday, Nov. 6, 2023, in Las Vegas. (Kansas State Athletics photo)</figcaption>
 </figure>By W.G. RAMIREZ Associated PressLAS VEGAS (AP) — Boogie Ellis had 24 points and eight rebounds as No. 21 Southern California defeated Kansas State 82-69 in the season opener for both teams Monday night.The Trojans led by 19 with 6:33 left, but that margin was trimmed to eight with 1:41 remaining before USC held on.“We've got a lot of vets and people that are experienced and been through it,” Ellis said. “So we just stayed calm and came together.”Touted freshman&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/USC_Hoops/status/1721767783053332528">Isaiah Collier made his USC debut</a>&nbsp;with 18 points, including 15 in the first half. He added six assists and received a standing ovation when he went to the bench after fouling out with 4:50 to play.“I thought Isaiah played a great first half, first game on the big stage here in Las Vegas. I thought it was important for us to get out to a fast start,” USC coach Andy Enfield said. “I thought Boogie and Isaiah really controlled the tempo in the first half. Isaiah got downhill and was able to get to the rim, made some great passes. ... I was proud of the six assists and 7 of 9 from the field. Very efficient tonight.”<a href="https://twitter.com/USC_Hoops/status/1721757894662840355">Kobe Johnson</a>&nbsp;finished with 16 points for the Trojans, and Joshua Morgan had 11. USC shot 31 of 60 from the floor (51.7%).Tyler Perry led Kansas State with 22 points. Cam Carter scored 15, and David N’Guessan had 10 points and 10 rebounds.“This is exactly why we came here,” Wildcats coach Jerome Tang said. “This is a really good USC team. High-level players. The great thing is that we don’t have to wait for a month or two weeks or before the Big 12 to find out the things that we need to work on. It was very much exposed. ... We did a couple of good things and a whole bunch of not-so-good things.”A strong defensive team last season, the Trojans limited the Wildcats to 31% shooting (22 of 71).USC held its opponents under 40% in 19 of 33 games last season and finished eighth in the country in field goal percentage defense at 39.3%.Kansas State, which reached the Elite Eight in March, dropped to 4-2 all-time against the Trojans.<a href="https://apnews.com/article/usc-trojans-bronny-james-lebron-565ce3030ea6ef45d935114eb58c5e00">Bronny James wore grey team sweats</a>&nbsp;and cheered his USC teammates from the bench. The son of NBA career scoring leader LeBron James is still on his way back from suffering a cardiac arrest during a summer workout. LeBron James said last month that his son had surgery to repair a congenital heart condition that caused the collapse.BIG PICTUREKansas State: The Wildcats opened their season away from home for the first time since losing 73-64 to BYU in 2002. Kansas State dropped to 12-17 when starting outside Manhattan, Kansas.USC: Collier’s performance came on the heels of an impressive one by fellow freshman JuJu Watkins, who led USC’s 21st-ranked women’s team to an 83-74 win over No. 7 Ohio State. Collier and Watkins were considered by many the consensus No. 1 recruits for 2023.UP NEXTKansas State hosts Bellarmine on Friday.USC hosts Cal State Bakersfield on Thursday.

🏀 Wildcats drop opener to No, 21 USC

By DAVE SKRETTA&nbsp; AP Basketball Writer

LAWRENCE, Kan. (AP) — Hunter Dickinson had seven points, two rebounds and a block in the first 90 seconds of his Kansas career Monday night, then made a trio of 3-pointers that showed the 7-foot-2 transfer from Michigan is more than just a beast on the block.

Not surprisingly, his newfound fans inside Allen Fieldhouse responded with waves of adulation.

“I was telling somebody, ‘I’m used to the opposing fans being this loud and more boos than cheers,'" Dickinson said after leading the top-ranked Jayhawks to a 99-56 wipeout of North Carolina Central on college basketball's opening night.

“It was real fun to have people on my side for once,” added Dickinson, whose decision to leave the Wolverines left angry fans in his wake. “The atmosphere was insane. I've been hearing about it during my recruiting, and when I committed, and I was hearing so much about Allen Fieldhouse. And it lived up to it.”

Dickinson lived up to the hype, too, finishing with 21 points, eight boards and five assists.

Nic Timberlake had 13 points, KJ Adams scored 12 and Dajuan Harris Jr. dished out 10 assists for the Jayhawks, who led 59-17 by halftime before coasting over the final 20 minutes to their 51st consecutive home-opening win.

Ja'Darius Harris had 12 points to lead the Eagles.

“We have 10 new guys who really, none of them have really played Division I basketball," longtime NC Central coach LeVelle Moton said. “You play this type of game, you get their attention early.”

Any doubt about the outcome was gone midway through the first half, when the Jayhawks went on a 20-2 run to take a 40-11 lead. McCullar scored eight during the spurt, and transfer forward Parker Braun added a highlight ally-oop dunk.

"The first 25 minutes, that ball moved" Jayhawks coach Bill Self said. "Seemed to me we got everything we wanted, even when we didn’t score."

Dickinson had 17 points, seven boards and four assists by halftime; the Eagles had 18 points, eight rebounds and two assists.

“You have to pray, You have to go to church and get a strong service in,” Moton said of matching up with Dickinson. “He's going to be a problem, and he's not just going to be a problem for North Carolina Central. He's going to be a problem for everyone.”

As impressive as the Jayhawks were offensively, piling up 34 assists on 39 field goals while shooting nearly 70% from the field, they were just as good on defense. NC Central was just 6 of 23 from 3 and shot 23% from the field.

“Coach has been on us pretty much every practice, just getting the defense right,” Timberlake said. “We came out storming.”

Kansas guard Johnny Furphy played with no limitations after dealing with shin splints during the preseason. Fellow freshman Jamari McDowell was not suited up after a minor injury in practice but should be back this week.

NC Central will find life much easier in the MEAC, where the Eagles were picked to finish third this season.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1699355788306.png" alt="Kansas center Hunter Dickinson celebrates against North Carolina Central during the first half of an NCAA college basketball game in Lawrence, Kan., Monday, Nov. 6, 2023. (Kansas Athletics photo)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas center Hunter Dickinson celebrates against North Carolina Central during the first half of an NCAA college basketball game in Lawrence, Kan., Monday, Nov. 6, 2023. (Kansas Athletics photo)</figcaption>
 </figure>By DAVE SKRETTA&nbsp; AP Basketball WriterLAWRENCE, Kan. (AP) — Hunter Dickinson had seven points, two rebounds and a block in the first 90 seconds of his Kansas career Monday night, then made a trio of 3-pointers that showed the 7-foot-2 transfer from Michigan is more than just a beast on the block.Not surprisingly, his newfound fans inside Allen Fieldhouse responded with waves of adulation.“I was telling somebody, ‘I’m used to the opposing fans being this loud and more boos than cheers,'" Dickinson said after leading the top-ranked Jayhawks to a 99-56 wipeout of North Carolina Central on college basketball's opening night.“It was real fun to have people on my side for once,” added Dickinson, whose decision to leave the Wolverines left angry fans in his wake. “The atmosphere was insane. I've been hearing about it during my recruiting, and when I committed, and I was hearing so much about Allen Fieldhouse. And it lived up to it.”Dickinson lived up to the hype, too, finishing with 21 points, eight boards and five assists.Nic Timberlake had 13 points, KJ Adams scored 12 and Dajuan Harris Jr. dished out 10 assists for the Jayhawks, who led 59-17 by halftime before coasting over the final 20 minutes to their 51st consecutive home-opening win.Ja'Darius Harris had 12 points to lead the Eagles.“We have 10 new guys who really, none of them have really played Division I basketball," longtime NC Central coach LeVelle Moton said. “You play this type of game, you get their attention early.”Any doubt about the outcome was gone midway through the first half, when the Jayhawks went on a 20-2 run to take a 40-11 lead. McCullar scored eight during the spurt, and transfer forward Parker Braun added a highlight ally-oop dunk."The first 25 minutes, that ball moved" Jayhawks coach Bill Self said. "Seemed to me we got everything we wanted, even when we didn’t score."Dickinson had 17 points, seven boards and four assists by halftime; the Eagles had 18 points, eight rebounds and two assists.“You have to pray, You have to go to church and get a strong service in,” Moton said of matching up with Dickinson. “He's going to be a problem, and he's not just going to be a problem for North Carolina Central. He's going to be a problem for everyone.”As impressive as the Jayhawks were offensively, piling up 34 assists on 39 field goals while shooting nearly 70% from the field, they were just as good on defense. NC Central was just 6 of 23 from 3 and shot 23% from the field.“Coach has been on us pretty much every practice, just getting the defense right,” Timberlake said. “We came out storming.”INJURY UPDATEKansas guard Johnny Furphy played with no limitations after dealing with shin splints during the preseason. Fellow freshman Jamari McDowell was not suited up after a minor injury in practice but should be back this week.BIG PICTURENC Central will find life much easier in the MEAC, where the Eagles were picked to finish third this season.Kansas had struggled in exhibitions against Illinois and Fort Hays State from beyond the 3-point line but went 13 of 23 against the Eagles. That included a 9-of-12 mark in the first half.UP NEXTNC Central plays Virginia-Lynchburg on Thursday night.Kansas plays Manhattan on Friday night.