Rivalry game tonight in Junction City! Manhattan High boys and girls visit Blue Jay Event Center for their second Centennial League game of the year.&nbsp;Girls tip-off at 6:00 p.m., and the boys to follow at 7:30 p.m.&nbsp;

You can hear both games on 107.9 FM / 1420 AM KJCK Radio. Or by <a href="https://streamdb9web.securenetsystems.net/cirrusencore/KJCKAM">clicking here.&nbsp;</a>

Girls game - Manhattan (6-2) at Junction City (1-7). Watch the game <a href="https://www.youtube.com/live/z6B3t3kXY8E?si=xMbY3cAfWCHtRI0h">by clicking here.</a> Livestream provided by BlueJayMedia.&nbsp;

Boys game - Manhattan (7-1) at Junction City (4-3). Watch the game <a href="https://www.youtube.com/live/MeJs-fG4Rx8?si=xJZ-t0MgxxmauJxQ">by clicking here.</a>&nbsp;Livestream provided by BlueJayMedia.

Rivalry game tonight in Junction City! Manhattan High boys and girls visit Blue Jay Event Center for their second Centennial League game of the year.&nbsp;Girls tip-off at 6:00 p.m., and the boys to follow at 7:30 p.m.&nbsp;You can hear both games on 107.9 FM / 1420 AM KJCK Radio. Or by <a href="https://streamdb9web.securenetsystems.net/cirrusencore/KJCKAM">clicking here.&nbsp;</a>Girls game - Manhattan (6-2) at Junction City (1-7). Watch the game <a href="https://www.youtube.com/live/z6B3t3kXY8E?si=xMbY3cAfWCHtRI0h">by clicking here.</a> Livestream provided by BlueJayMedia.&nbsp;Boys game - Manhattan (7-1) at Junction City (4-3). Watch the game <a href="https://www.youtube.com/live/MeJs-fG4Rx8?si=xJZ-t0MgxxmauJxQ">by clicking here.</a>&nbsp;Livestream provided by BlueJayMedia.

🏀 WATCH/LISTEN LIVE: Junction City hosting Manhattan High tonight

KANSAS CITY, Mo.—The Kansas City Royals announced today Kauffman Stadium’s outfield wall is being moved in for the 2026 season.

This change will likely create more home runs (and robbed home runs), more extra-base hits, and more exciting action on the field – while bringing fans closer to seeing it. The decision was made by Baseball Operations for competitive reasons, including to bring The K more in line with other Major League ballparks.

Work on the project has begun, and will be complete ahead of the Royals home opener vs the Twins on Monday, March 30.

“We’ve discussed this possibility for years, and after much work by our Research &amp; Development department, believe this will be a positive change for our baseball team,” Royals Executive Vice President and General Manager J.J. Picollo said. “We wanted more consistency throughout the season, while making sure the specifics put us in the best position to succeed.”

The wall will come in 8 to 10 feet starting near each foul pole – the gaps will go from 387 feet to 379 – and taper back toward centerfield, which will remain 410 feet. The height of the wall will also change, from 10 feet tall in most places to 8 ½ feet. About 150 seats will be added in left field and about 80 new drinkrail seats in right.

The club’s research estimates the changes will take the run value of fly balls at The K from the bottom third of MLB ballparks to the middle, primarily through more extra-base hits.

Over the last three seasons, these specific changes would have benefitted the Royals overall, even accounting for more extra-base hits by opponents.

“Making this a fairer ballpark will help with roster construction, but more importantly will allow our players to keep the same approach regardless of where we play,” Royals Vice President – Research &amp; Development/Assistant GM Dr. Daniel Mack said. “Our approach was carefully considered to account for as many factors as possible. We believe this will ultimately reduce the constraints within Kauffman Stadium.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1768320255230.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy Kansas City Royals" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Kansas City Royals</figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas City RoyalsKANSAS CITY, Mo.—The Kansas City Royals announced today Kauffman Stadium’s outfield wall is being moved in for the 2026 season.This change will likely create more home runs (and robbed home runs), more extra-base hits, and more exciting action on the field – while bringing fans closer to seeing it. The decision was made by Baseball Operations for competitive reasons, including to bring The K more in line with other Major League ballparks.Work on the project has begun, and will be complete ahead of the Royals home opener vs the Twins on Monday, March 30.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1768320463164.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy Kansas City Royals" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Kansas City Royals</figcaption>
 </figure>“We’ve discussed this possibility for years, and after much work by our Research &amp; Development department, believe this will be a positive change for our baseball team,” Royals Executive Vice President and General Manager J.J. Picollo said. “We wanted more consistency throughout the season, while making sure the specifics put us in the best position to succeed.”The wall will come in 8 to 10 feet starting near each foul pole – the gaps will go from 387 feet to 379 – and taper back toward centerfield, which will remain 410 feet. The height of the wall will also change, from 10 feet tall in most places to 8 ½ feet. About 150 seats will be added in left field and about 80 new drinkrail seats in right.The club’s research estimates the changes will take the run value of fly balls at The K from the bottom third of MLB ballparks to the middle, primarily through more extra-base hits.Over the last three seasons, these specific changes would have benefitted the Royals overall, even accounting for more extra-base hits by opponents.“Making this a fairer ballpark will help with roster construction, but more importantly will allow our players to keep the same approach regardless of where we play,” Royals Vice President – Research &amp; Development/Assistant GM Dr. Daniel Mack said. “Our approach was carefully considered to account for as many factors as possible. We believe this will ultimately reduce the constraints within Kauffman Stadium.”

⚾ Royals announce new dimensions for Kauffman Stadium

TEMPE, Ariz. (AP) — Massamba Diop scored 17 of his 21 points in the second half, Moe Odum also scored 21 and Arizona State held off Kansas State 87-84 on Saturday to snap a four-game losing streak and pick up its first Big 12 win this season.

Diop, a 7-foot-1 freshman, was 8-of-10 shooting, grabbed nine rebounds and blocked five shots. Anthony Johnson added 18 points, Santiago Trouet had 10 points and 10 rebounds and Allen Mukeba also scored 10 points for ASU (10-6, 1-2).

P.J. Haggerty, coming in seventh in the nation in scoring at 22.7 ppg, finished with 25 points, and Abdi Bashir Jr. made 6 of 12 3-point tries in finishing with 22 points for the Wildcats (9-7, 0-3), who lost their third straight.

Kansas State had a 64-58 lead midway through the second half but then went over five minutes without a field goal when ASU scored 10 straight points to begin a 18-3 run capped by Diop's dunk to lead 76-67 with less than five minutes left.

Khamari McGriff's follow with 16.6 seconds remaining got Kansas State within three. After a Johnson free throw, Haggerty banked in a long 3-pointer with five seconds remaining and the Wildcats were within a point. They quickly fouled Odum, who made both free throws. But coming out of a timeout, Haggerty was short on a half-court attempt.

ASU made only 3 of 22 3-point attempts while Kansas State hit 13 of 31. But ASU outscored the Wildcats 50-28 in the paint and made nine more free throws.

Kansas State is home against No. 25 UCF on Wednesday.

Arizona State is at top-ranked Arizona on Wednesday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1768093586352.png" alt="Photo K-State Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo K-State Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>TEMPE, Ariz. (AP) — Massamba Diop scored 17 of his 21 points in the second half, Moe Odum also scored 21 and Arizona State held off Kansas State 87-84 on Saturday to snap a four-game losing streak and pick up its first Big 12 win this season.Diop, a 7-foot-1 freshman, was 8-of-10 shooting, grabbed nine rebounds and blocked five shots. Anthony Johnson added 18 points, Santiago Trouet had 10 points and 10 rebounds and Allen Mukeba also scored 10 points for ASU (10-6, 1-2).P.J. Haggerty, coming in seventh in the nation in scoring at 22.7 ppg, finished with 25 points, and Abdi Bashir Jr. made 6 of 12 3-point tries in finishing with 22 points for the Wildcats (9-7, 0-3), who lost their third straight.Kansas State had a 64-58 lead midway through the second half but then went over five minutes without a field goal when ASU scored 10 straight points to begin a 18-3 run capped by Diop's dunk to lead 76-67 with less than five minutes left.Khamari McGriff's follow with 16.6 seconds remaining got Kansas State within three. After a Johnson free throw, Haggerty banked in a long 3-pointer with five seconds remaining and the Wildcats were within a point. They quickly fouled Odum, who made both free throws. But coming out of a timeout, Haggerty was short on a half-court attempt.ASU made only 3 of 22 3-point attempts while Kansas State hit 13 of 31. But ASU outscored the Wildcats 50-28 in the paint and made nine more free throws.The Wildcats led 38-36 at halftime.<h2>Up next</h2>Kansas State is home against No. 25 UCF on Wednesday.Arizona State is at top-ranked Arizona on Wednesday.

🏀 Diop and Odum lead Arizona State to win over Kansas State

MORGANTOWN, W.Va. (AP) — Honor Huff scored 17 of his 23 points in the second half, Brenen Lorient added 18 points and West Virginia used a big second-half run to defeat No. 22 Kansas 86-75 on Saturday.

The Mountaineers (11-5, 2-1 Big 12) beat the Jayhawks (11-5, 1-2) for the third straight time, improving to 8-4 in games played in Morgantown.

Treysen Eaglestaff scored 12 points and Harlan Obioha had 11 points and 10 rebounds for West Virginia.

Freshman Darryn Peterson scored 23 points, Tre White added 18 and Melvin Council Jr. had 11 for Kansas, which lost its second straight road game.

White’s 3-pointer gave Kansas its largest lead, 59-51, before West Virginia scored 16 unanswered points to move ahead to stay. Jasper Floyd, held scoreless until that point, had seven points during the run that put the Mountaineers ahead 67-59 with 8:36 left.

Kansas got no closer than six points the rest of the game. West Virginia made 11 of 12 free throws over the final two minutes.

The Jayhawks were outrebounded 38-32 for the game and shot just 31% (9 of 29) after halftime.

West Virginia entered the game with the nation’s fifth-best scoring defense, allowing 61.5 points per game. But Kansas scored 30 points in the paint in the first half alone.

The lead changed seven times over a three-minute span late in the first half before Peterson, who made just one of his first six shots, closed the first half strong. He scored seven points over the final four minutes, including a 3-pointer at the halftime buzzer for a 43-39 lead.

Kansas hosts No. 3 Iowa State on Tuesday.

West Virginia plays three of its next four on the road, starting Tuesday at No. 7 Houston.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1768076007757.png" alt="Photo West Virginia Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo West Virginia Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>MORGANTOWN, W.Va. (AP) — Honor Huff scored 17 of his 23 points in the second half, Brenen Lorient added 18 points and West Virginia used a big second-half run to defeat No. 22 Kansas 86-75 on Saturday.The Mountaineers (11-5, 2-1 Big 12) beat the Jayhawks (11-5, 1-2) for the third straight time, improving to 8-4 in games played in Morgantown.Treysen Eaglestaff scored 12 points and Harlan Obioha had 11 points and 10 rebounds for West Virginia.Freshman Darryn Peterson scored 23 points, Tre White added 18 and Melvin Council Jr. had 11 for Kansas, which lost its second straight road game.White’s 3-pointer gave Kansas its largest lead, 59-51, before West Virginia scored 16 unanswered points to move ahead to stay. Jasper Floyd, held scoreless until that point, had seven points during the run that put the Mountaineers ahead 67-59 with 8:36 left.Kansas got no closer than six points the rest of the game. West Virginia made 11 of 12 free throws over the final two minutes.The Jayhawks were outrebounded 38-32 for the game and shot just 31% (9 of 29) after halftime.West Virginia entered the game with the nation’s fifth-best scoring defense, allowing 61.5 points per game. But Kansas scored 30 points in the paint in the first half alone.The lead changed seven times over a three-minute span late in the first half before Peterson, who made just one of his first six shots, closed the first half strong. He scored seven points over the final four minutes, including a 3-pointer at the halftime buzzer for a 43-39 lead.<h2>Up next</h2>Kansas hosts No. 3 Iowa State on Tuesday.West Virginia plays three of its next four on the road, starting Tuesday at No. 7 Houston.___

🏀 Huff and Lorient help West Virginia beat Kansas 

TUCSON, Ariz. (AP) — Brayden Burries scored 28 points, Motiejus Krivas added a career-high 25 and No. 1 Arizona remained unbeaten with a 101-76 win over Kansas State on Wednesday night.

Arizona (15-0, 2-0 Big 12) is off to its best start since winning the first 21 games of the 2013-14 season. Arizona won by at least 18 points for the 10th consecutive game, matching a mark Michigan had earlier this season that tied for the longest such run since 2003-04.

Burries had his fifth 20-point game and matched his career high by going 12 for 16 from the field while adding nine rebounds. Krivas was 7 of 10, making 11 of 13 free throws, and had 12 rebounds.

Koa Peat had 15 points and 10 rebounds and Tobe Awaka added nine and 11 as Arizona outrebounded Kansas State 55-32. Arizona shot 49.3% from the field but was just 3 of 16 from 3-point range.

Kansas State (9-6, 0-2) went 8 for 36 from deep and shot 33.8% overall. PJ Haggerty led the way with 19 points on 8-of-20 shooting, while Nate Johnson added 15 and Dorin Buca 12.

Down 15 at the half, Kansas State pulled within 58-49 with 16:09 left on a 3-pointer by Johnson. Arizona responded with a 6-0 run and kept the margin at least 12 the rest of the way. Back-to-back dunks by Burries and Peat and a corner 3-pointer by Jaden Bradley keyed a 13-0 run to put Arizona ahead 92-65 with 3:31 remaining.

Arizona built a 10-point lead less than six minutes into the game and upped it to 20 with 2:52 left in the first half. Burries had 16 before halftime.

Kansas State plays at Arizona State on Saturday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1767869531294.png" alt="K-State Athletics" />
 <figcaption>K-State Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>TUCSON, Ariz. (AP) — Brayden Burries scored 28 points, Motiejus Krivas added a career-high 25 and No. 1 Arizona remained unbeaten with a 101-76 win over Kansas State on Wednesday night.Arizona (15-0, 2-0 Big 12) is off to its best start since winning the first 21 games of the 2013-14 season. Arizona won by at least 18 points for the 10th consecutive game, matching a mark Michigan had earlier this season that tied for the longest such run since 2003-04.Burries had his fifth 20-point game and matched his career high by going 12 for 16 from the field while adding nine rebounds. Krivas was 7 of 10, making 11 of 13 free throws, and had 12 rebounds.Koa Peat had 15 points and 10 rebounds and Tobe Awaka added nine and 11 as Arizona outrebounded Kansas State 55-32. Arizona shot 49.3% from the field but was just 3 of 16 from 3-point range.Kansas State (9-6, 0-2) went 8 for 36 from deep and shot 33.8% overall. PJ Haggerty led the way with 19 points on 8-of-20 shooting, while Nate Johnson added 15 and Dorin Buca 12.Down 15 at the half, Kansas State pulled within 58-49 with 16:09 left on a 3-pointer by Johnson. Arizona responded with a 6-0 run and kept the margin at least 12 the rest of the way. Back-to-back dunks by Burries and Peat and a corner 3-pointer by Jaden Bradley keyed a 13-0 run to put Arizona ahead 92-65 with 3:31 remaining.Arizona built a 10-point lead less than six minutes into the game and upped it to 20 with 2:52 left in the first half. Burries had 16 before halftime.<h2>Up next</h2>Kansas State plays at Arizona State on Saturday.Arizona plays at TCU on Saturday.

🏀 Arizona remains unbeaten with win over Kansas State

LAWRENCE, Kan. (AP) — Darryn Peterson scored 32 points, including three crucial free throws in regulation to the tie the game, and No. 22 Kansas erased a double-digit deficit to outlast TCU 104-100 in overtime on Tuesday night.

Kansas (11-4, 1-1 Big 12) trailed by 16 points midway through the second half, but cut the TCU lead to three with 34 seconds left in regulation.

The Jayhawks' next trip down the court was fruitless, leading to a foul and two free throws by TCU’s Liutauras Lelevicius. Kansas' Flory Bidunga cut the lead back to three on a tip in with just over six seconds remaining.

After a turnover on the ensuing TCU inbounds play, the Jayhawks got the ball to Peterson, who drew a foul beyond the arc and knocked down all three free throws to tie the game at the end of regulation.

Kansas held the lead throughout overtime and ultimately secured the game at the free-throw line, converting 9 of 11. TCU (11-4, 1-1) went 2 for 4 in the same frame. Kansas guard Melvin Council Jr. scored nine of his 18 points during overtime.

Lelevicius led the Horned Frogs with a career-high 23 points. He shot 7 for 9 and hit five 3-pointers, another career high. He entered the game averaging just 8.5 points per game and shooting 35.8% from 3-point range.

Lelevicius outscored sophomore David Punch, who recorded his 10th consecutive double-digit performance with 20 points. He also pulled down a team-high nine rebounds.

Tre White and Bidunga also finished in double figures for the Jayhawks, recording 22 and 16, respectively.

Kansas: Plays at West Virginia on Saturday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1767783302388.png" alt="Photo Kansas Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Kansas Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>LAWRENCE, Kan. (AP) — Darryn Peterson scored 32 points, including three crucial free throws in regulation to the tie the game, and No. 22 Kansas erased a double-digit deficit to outlast TCU 104-100 in overtime on Tuesday night.Kansas (11-4, 1-1 Big 12) trailed by 16 points midway through the second half, but cut the TCU lead to three with 34 seconds left in regulation.The Jayhawks' next trip down the court was fruitless, leading to a foul and two free throws by TCU’s Liutauras Lelevicius. Kansas' Flory Bidunga cut the lead back to three on a tip in with just over six seconds remaining.After a turnover on the ensuing TCU inbounds play, the Jayhawks got the ball to Peterson, who drew a foul beyond the arc and knocked down all three free throws to tie the game at the end of regulation.Kansas held the lead throughout overtime and ultimately secured the game at the free-throw line, converting 9 of 11. TCU (11-4, 1-1) went 2 for 4 in the same frame. Kansas guard Melvin Council Jr. scored nine of his 18 points during overtime.Lelevicius led the Horned Frogs with a career-high 23 points. He shot 7 for 9 and hit five 3-pointers, another career high. He entered the game averaging just 8.5 points per game and shooting 35.8% from 3-point range.Lelevicius outscored sophomore David Punch, who recorded his 10th consecutive double-digit performance with 20 points. He also pulled down a team-high nine rebounds.Tre White and Bidunga also finished in double figures for the Jayhawks, recording 22 and 16, respectively.<h2>Up next</h2>Kansas: Plays at West Virginia on Saturday.TCU: Hosts Arizona on Saturday.

🏀 Kansas erases 16-point deficit, beats TCU in overtime

<a>MANHATTAN, Kan.</a>&nbsp;–&nbsp;Brian Lepak, who has had a hand in K-State’s offensive success since his arrival in 2021, will remain at Kansas State and move back to coaching the Wildcat tight ends, head coach&nbsp;Collin Klein&nbsp;announced Monday.

Lepak (pronounced luh-PACK) arrived in Manhattan in 2021 as a Senior Offensive Quality Control Coach and also tutored the Wildcat offensive line in 2025, while he spent the 2022 through 2024 seasons coaching the K-State tight ends.

“I am excited to continue to represent Kansas State University under Coach Klein’s leadership,” said Lepak. “I look forward to implementing Coach Klein’s vision and build on the tradition of this program.”

Lepak and Klein worked together on staff for three seasons, which included K-State’s 2022 Big 12 Championship campaign in 2022.

Lepak has found quick success during his first four years as a full-time coach for the Wildcats, tutoring tight end Ben Sinnott to All-Big 12 First Team accolades in both 2022 and 2023, while the Wildcats had two tight ends pick up All-Big 12 honors in 2024 in Garrett Oakley (second team) and Will Swanson (honorable mention). It was the first time since 1997 that the Wildcats had a pair of All-Big 12 tight ends in the same season, while Oakley’s second-team designation marked the first time in the Big 12 era that K-State had a first- or second-team all-conference tight end in three straight seasons.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1767653561151.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>KSU<a>MANHATTAN, Kan.</a>&nbsp;–&nbsp;Brian Lepak, who has had a hand in K-State’s offensive success since his arrival in 2021, will remain at Kansas State and move back to coaching the Wildcat tight ends, head coach&nbsp;Collin Klein&nbsp;announced Monday.Lepak (pronounced luh-PACK) arrived in Manhattan in 2021 as a Senior Offensive Quality Control Coach and also tutored the Wildcat offensive line in 2025, while he spent the 2022 through 2024 seasons coaching the K-State tight ends.“I am excited to continue to represent Kansas State University under Coach Klein’s leadership,” said Lepak. “I look forward to implementing Coach Klein’s vision and build on the tradition of this program.”Lepak and Klein worked together on staff for three seasons, which included K-State’s 2022 Big 12 Championship campaign in 2022.Lepak has found quick success during his first four years as a full-time coach for the Wildcats, tutoring tight end Ben Sinnott to All-Big 12 First Team accolades in both 2022 and 2023, while the Wildcats had two tight ends pick up All-Big 12 honors in 2024 in Garrett Oakley (second team) and Will Swanson (honorable mention). It was the first time since 1997 that the Wildcats had a pair of All-Big 12 tight ends in the same season, while Oakley’s second-team designation marked the first time in the Big 12 era that K-State had a first- or second-team all-conference tight end in three straight seasons.

Brian Lepak to Remain at K-State, Coach Tight Ends

Junction City native and former Kansas State Wildcat running back DJ Giddens wrapped up his rookie season on Sunday with the Indianapolis Colts. Giddens carried the ball eight times for 30 yards in a 38–30 loss to the Houston Texans.

For the season, Giddens ran the ball 26 times for 96 yards, averaging 3.69 yards per carry.

Giddens graduated from Junction City High School in the spring of 2021. He played three seasons at Kansas State before foregoing his senior year and was selected with the 151st pick in the 2025 NFL Draft.

The Colts finished the season with a record of 8-9 and missed the playoffs.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1767633623530.jpeg" alt="DJ Giddens vs Texans - Photo - Indianapolis Colts" />
 <figcaption>DJ Giddens vs Texans - Photo - Indianapolis Colts</figcaption>
 </figure>By Anthony GorgesJC/Little Apple PostJunction City native and former Kansas State Wildcat running back DJ Giddens wrapped up his rookie season on Sunday with the Indianapolis Colts. Giddens carried the ball eight times for 30 yards in a 38–30 loss to the Houston Texans.For the season, Giddens ran the ball 26 times for 96 yards, averaging 3.69 yards per carry.Giddens graduated from Junction City High School in the spring of 2021. He played three seasons at Kansas State before foregoing his senior year and was selected with the 151st pick in the 2025 NFL Draft.The Colts finished the season with a record of 8-9 and missed the playoffs.&nbsp;

Junction City native and former K-State Wildcat DJ Giddens finishes off rookie season with the Colts

By MARK ANDERSON&nbsp; AP Sports Writer

LAS VEGAS (AP) — Daniel Carlson made a career-long 60-yard field goal with eight seconds left to give Las Vegas a 14-12 victory over the Kansas City Chiefs on Sunday and end the Raiders' 10-game losing streak.

Carlson and Kansas City's Harrison Butker each made four field goals, with Butker hitting a 41-yarder with 1:01 left to give the Chiefs a short-lived 12-11 lead.

This was the first victory for the Raiders (3-14) over the Chiefs (6-11) at Allegiant Stadium. The Chiefs, who had won all five previous meetings in Las Vegas, lost their sixth straight game and eighth in 10.

Las Vegas' Ashton Jeanty rushed for 87 yards, giving him 975 for the season that is second among Raiders rookies to the 1,150 yards Josh Jacobs gained in 2019. Jeanty's 1,321 yards from scrimmage broke the club rookie record set by Jacobs (1,316).

Much of the intrigue about the outcome was eliminated before kickoff when the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/cowboys-giants-score-jaxson-dart-d25b1d9cbb8f9ac00bd6e953924bfa93?utm_source=copy&amp;utm_medium=share">New York Giants defeated the Dallas Cowboys 34-17</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/las-vegas-raiders-nfl-draft-2026-708f08b50bcd7b519c5ba132d03cedaf?utm_source=copy&amp;utm_medium=share">guaranteeing the Raiders the top pick</a>&nbsp;in this year's NFL draft. A Giants loss would have meant that Las Vegas would get that selection only with a loss to the Chiefs.

Less certain is the future of Raiders coach Pete Carroll, who was hired about a year ago with the hopes that his championship pedigree of a Super Bowl title in Seattle and two college championships at Southern California would translate to Las Vegas. There was no immediate indication whether he would return, but the typical coach's day-after news conference was not on the club's media schedule.

This also could be have the final game for Kansas City's Travis Kelce. The 36-year-old, who became the third tight end to reach 13,000 yards in his career, has not said if he will retire after playing all 13 seasons in Kansas City.

Both teams in large ways treated the finale like a preseason game.

Whether for injuries or other reasons, the Chiefs sat wide receiver Xavier Worthy, running back Isiah Pacheco and defensive ends George Karlaftis and Tyreke Smith among others, and the Raiders had a number of players hurt that included running back Raheem Mostert, guard Dylan Parham and defensive tackle Adam Butler.

Kansas City entered the game without quarterbacks Patrick Mahomes and Gardner Minshew, each out with knee injuries. The Chiefs hope to get Mahomes back by early next season in what they hope is the return to becoming more like the team that appeared in five of the previous six Super Bowls, three ending in championships.

Chris Oladokun started for the Chiefs and completed 11 of 17 passes for 58 yards before giving way to Shane Buechele in the second half. Buechele was 7 of 14 for 88 yards.

The Raiders were without quarterback Geno Smith, out with an ankle injury that also might have ended his playing days in Las Vegas after just a season. Kenny Pickett started and was replaced by Aidan O'Connell in the second quarter as expected. Pickett was just 1 of 4 for 3 yards with an interception, and O'Connell completed 10 of 22 passes for 102 yards.

Tyree Wilson had two sacks for the Raiders, including a fourth-quarter safety for an 11-6 lead. He also forced two fumbles.

Chris Jones recorded two sacks to give him 86 1/2 for third most in Chiefs history.

Chiefs: RG Trey Smith (ankle) did not play.

Raiders: QB Geno Smith (ankle), DT Adam Butler (bicep), LT Kolton Miller (ankle), RB Raheem Mostert (ankle/knee) and G Dylan Parham (illness) did not play. ... S Isaiah Pola-Mao (shoulder) went out late in the second quarter.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1767611639756.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce heads off the field following an NFL football game against the Las Vegas Raiders Sunday, Jan. 4, 2026, in Las Vegas. (AP Photo/David Becker)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce heads off the field following an NFL football game against the Las Vegas Raiders Sunday, Jan. 4, 2026, in Las Vegas. (AP Photo/David Becker)</figcaption>
 </figure>By MARK ANDERSON&nbsp; AP Sports WriterLAS VEGAS (AP) — Daniel Carlson made a career-long 60-yard field goal with eight seconds left to give Las Vegas a 14-12 victory over the Kansas City Chiefs on Sunday and end the Raiders' 10-game losing streak.Carlson and Kansas City's Harrison Butker each made four field goals, with Butker hitting a 41-yarder with 1:01 left to give the Chiefs a short-lived 12-11 lead.This was the first victory for the Raiders (3-14) over the Chiefs (6-11) at Allegiant Stadium. The Chiefs, who had won all five previous meetings in Las Vegas, lost their sixth straight game and eighth in 10.Las Vegas' Ashton Jeanty rushed for 87 yards, giving him 975 for the season that is second among Raiders rookies to the 1,150 yards Josh Jacobs gained in 2019. Jeanty's 1,321 yards from scrimmage broke the club rookie record set by Jacobs (1,316).Much of the intrigue about the outcome was eliminated before kickoff when the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/cowboys-giants-score-jaxson-dart-d25b1d9cbb8f9ac00bd6e953924bfa93?utm_source=copy&amp;utm_medium=share">New York Giants defeated the Dallas Cowboys 34-17</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/las-vegas-raiders-nfl-draft-2026-708f08b50bcd7b519c5ba132d03cedaf?utm_source=copy&amp;utm_medium=share">guaranteeing the Raiders the top pick</a>&nbsp;in this year's NFL draft. A Giants loss would have meant that Las Vegas would get that selection only with a loss to the Chiefs.Less certain is the future of Raiders coach Pete Carroll, who was hired about a year ago with the hopes that his championship pedigree of a Super Bowl title in Seattle and two college championships at Southern California would translate to Las Vegas. There was no immediate indication whether he would return, but the typical coach's day-after news conference was not on the club's media schedule.This also could be have the final game for Kansas City's Travis Kelce. The 36-year-old, who became the third tight end to reach 13,000 yards in his career, has not said if he will retire after playing all 13 seasons in Kansas City.Both teams in large ways treated the finale like a preseason game.Whether for injuries or other reasons, the Chiefs sat wide receiver Xavier Worthy, running back Isiah Pacheco and defensive ends George Karlaftis and Tyreke Smith among others, and the Raiders had a number of players hurt that included running back Raheem Mostert, guard Dylan Parham and defensive tackle Adam Butler.Kansas City entered the game without quarterbacks Patrick Mahomes and Gardner Minshew, each out with knee injuries. The Chiefs hope to get Mahomes back by early next season in what they hope is the return to becoming more like the team that appeared in five of the previous six Super Bowls, three ending in championships.Chris Oladokun started for the Chiefs and completed 11 of 17 passes for 58 yards before giving way to Shane Buechele in the second half. Buechele was 7 of 14 for 88 yards.The Raiders were without quarterback Geno Smith, out with an ankle injury that also might have ended his playing days in Las Vegas after just a season. Kenny Pickett started and was replaced by Aidan O'Connell in the second quarter as expected. Pickett was just 1 of 4 for 3 yards with an interception, and O'Connell completed 10 of 22 passes for 102 yards.Tyree Wilson had two sacks for the Raiders, including a fourth-quarter safety for an 11-6 lead. He also forced two fumbles.Chris Jones recorded two sacks to give him 86 1/2 for third most in Chiefs history.<h2>Injuries</h2>Chiefs: RG Trey Smith (ankle) did not play.Raiders: QB Geno Smith (ankle), DT Adam Butler (bicep), LT Kolton Miller (ankle), RB Raheem Mostert (ankle/knee) and G Dylan Parham (illness) did not play. ... S Isaiah Pola-Mao (shoulder) went out late in the second quarter.

🏈 Daniel Carlson's 60-yard field goal lifts Raiders over the Chiefs

ORLANDO, Fla. (AP) — Riley Kugel had 19 points and a crucial three-point play with less than 10 seconds remaining to lead UCF over No. 17 Kansas 81-75 on Saturday.

Themus Fulks had 16 points and Jordan Burks scored 14 for UCF (12-1, 1-0 Big 12), which is off to its best start since 14-0 in 2010-11.

Kansas (10-4, 0-1) played most of the second half without star guard Darryn Peterson, who scored 23 of his 26 points in the first half. Peterson missed the previous two games with cramps and missed seven prior games with a hamstring injury.

Without him, the Jayhawks struggled to find much offense. He checked out for the final time with the game tied at 59 and 10:55 remaining.

Kansas found itself enough to tie the game with 3:02 to play after a 9-0 run. Burks made a 3-pointer to pull UCF ahead for good.

Melvin Council Jr. had 20 points, and Tre White had 14 points and 11 rebounds for Kansas.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1767478767438.png" alt="Photo Kansas Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Kansas Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>ORLANDO, Fla. (AP) — Riley Kugel had 19 points and a crucial three-point play with less than 10 seconds remaining to lead UCF over No. 17 Kansas 81-75 on Saturday.Themus Fulks had 16 points and Jordan Burks scored 14 for UCF (12-1, 1-0 Big 12), which is off to its best start since 14-0 in 2010-11.Kansas (10-4, 0-1) played most of the second half without star guard Darryn Peterson, who scored 23 of his 26 points in the first half. Peterson missed the previous two games with cramps and missed seven prior games with a hamstring injury.Without him, the Jayhawks struggled to find much offense. He checked out for the final time with the game tied at 59 and 10:55 remaining.Kansas found itself enough to tie the game with 3:02 to play after a 9-0 run. Burks made a 3-pointer to pull UCF ahead for good.Melvin Council Jr. had 20 points, and Tre White had 14 points and 11 rebounds for Kansas.<h2>Up next</h2>Kansas: Hosts TCU on Tuesday.UCF: Visits Oklahoma State on Tuesday.

🏀 UCF pulls off win over KU to earn best start since 2010-11

MANHATTAN, Kan. (AP) — A.J. Dybantsa had 24 points to offset seven turnovers in his Big 12 Conference debut, Robert Wright III added 18 points and No. 10 BYU held off Kansas State 83-73 on Saturday to extend the Cougars' longest winning streak since 2010.

Richie Saunders had 13 points and Keba Keita pulled down 16 rebounds for the Cougars (13-1, 1-0), whose 10th win since a two-point loss to fourth-ranked UConn in late November is their best unbeaten stretch since Jimmer Fredette's senior season.

P.J. Haggerty led the Wildcats (9-5, 0-1) with 24 points, seven rebounds and six assists. Abdi Bashir Jr. added 16 points, David Castillo scored 13 and Khamari McGriff finished with 12 points and eight boards.

Not only was the game a rare matchup of BYU and Kansas State — just the 11th time the schools met — it was a showdown between Dybantsa, the nation's second-leading scorer at 23.1 points per game, and Haggerty, who came in third at 22.9 per game.

The two stars, one a freshman and the other a fourth-year junior, lived up to the billing.

Dybantsa scored 14 of his points in the first half, mostly on the kind of midrange jumpers that could soon make him a fortune in the NBA. Haggerty answered with 14 of his own, most of those coming on physical drives to the basket.

The Cougars had the better supporting cast, though, and built a 45-35 lead by halftime.

Kansas State tried to mount a comeback in the second half, and Bashir had an open 3-point look to cut the lead to three with about 14 minutes to go. But after his shot rimmed out, Wright drilled a 3 at the other end for BYU — a six-point swing in a matter of seconds.

The Cougars never allowed the Wildcats to make another run over the final 10 minutes.

BYU plays Arizona State on Wednesday night.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1767477506730.png" alt="Photo K-State Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo K-State Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>MANHATTAN, Kan. (AP) — A.J. Dybantsa had 24 points to offset seven turnovers in his Big 12 Conference debut, Robert Wright III added 18 points and No. 10 BYU held off Kansas State 83-73 on Saturday to extend the Cougars' longest winning streak since 2010.Richie Saunders had 13 points and Keba Keita pulled down 16 rebounds for the Cougars (13-1, 1-0), whose 10th win since a two-point loss to fourth-ranked UConn in late November is their best unbeaten stretch since Jimmer Fredette's senior season.P.J. Haggerty led the Wildcats (9-5, 0-1) with 24 points, seven rebounds and six assists. Abdi Bashir Jr. added 16 points, David Castillo scored 13 and Khamari McGriff finished with 12 points and eight boards.Not only was the game a rare matchup of BYU and Kansas State — just the 11th time the schools met — it was a showdown between Dybantsa, the nation's second-leading scorer at 23.1 points per game, and Haggerty, who came in third at 22.9 per game.The two stars, one a freshman and the other a fourth-year junior, lived up to the billing.Dybantsa scored 14 of his points in the first half, mostly on the kind of midrange jumpers that could soon make him a fortune in the NBA. Haggerty answered with 14 of his own, most of those coming on physical drives to the basket.The Cougars had the better supporting cast, though, and built a 45-35 lead by halftime.Kansas State tried to mount a comeback in the second half, and Bashir had an open 3-point look to cut the lead to three with about 14 minutes to go. But after his shot rimmed out, Wright drilled a 3 at the other end for BYU — a six-point swing in a matter of seconds.The Cougars never allowed the Wildcats to make another run over the final 10 minutes.<h2>Up next</h2>BYU plays Arizona State on Wednesday night.

🏀 Dybantsa scores 24 to lead BYU over Kansas State

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Kansas City Chiefs coach Andy Reid said Monday that he plans to return next season, batting away any thought of an impending retirement by making a tongue-in-cheek joke about his status with a franchise he has led to three Super Bowl titles.

“I mean, I think I’m coming back, right?” Reid told local Kansas City reporters on a Zoom call. “If they’ll have me back, I’ll come back. You never know in this business. That’s a tough one. But I plan on it, yeah.”

The 67-year-old Reid is accustomed to answering questions about his future in February, after the Chiefs have played in the Super Bowl, which they had done each of the past three years. But he’s less familiar with facing those questions in the final days of December, when the Chiefs have long since been eliminated from postseason contention.

Kansas City is 6-10 as it prepares for its season finale this weekend in Las Vegas.

Reid, who signed a five-year, $100 million extension with the Chiefs in April 2024, spent his first 14 seasons as an NFL head coach in Philadelphia, where he led the Eagles to 130 regular-season wins and 10 more in the playoffs. That included four seasons that ended in the NFC title game and another that ended with a loss in the Super Bowl.

Reid’s past 13 years have come in Kansas City, where he has won at an even greater clip.

With Alex Smith at quarterback the first five years and Patrick Mahomes under center since, the Chiefs have piled up 149 regular-season wins and gone 18-8 in the playoffs. This season will end streaks of 10 consecutive playoff trips, nine straight AFC West titles, seven consecutive AFC title game appearances and the past three years in the Super Bowl.

In five trips to the big game, Reid and Co. have brought three Lombardi Trophies back to Kansas City. Bill Belichick is the only coach with more Super Bowl rings, capturing six of them with Tom Brady and the Patriots.

Reid has 307 wins overall. He needs 18 to pass George Halas for third on the NFL’s career list behind Belichick and Don Shula.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1762867637580.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Chiefs head coach Andy Reid speaks during a news conference following an NFL football game against the Buffalo Bills Sunday, Nov. 2, 2025, in Orchard Park. N.Y. (AP Photo/Adrian Kraus)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Chiefs head coach Andy Reid speaks during a news conference following an NFL football game against the Buffalo Bills Sunday, Nov. 2, 2025, in Orchard Park. N.Y. (AP Photo/Adrian Kraus)</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Kansas City Chiefs coach Andy Reid said Monday that he plans to return next season, batting away any thought of an impending retirement by making a tongue-in-cheek joke about his status with a franchise he has led to three Super Bowl titles.“I mean, I think I’m coming back, right?” Reid told local Kansas City reporters on a Zoom call. “If they’ll have me back, I’ll come back. You never know in this business. That’s a tough one. But I plan on it, yeah.”The 67-year-old Reid is accustomed to answering questions about his future in February, after the Chiefs have played in the Super Bowl, which they had done each of the past three years. But he’s less familiar with facing those questions in the final days of December, when the Chiefs have long since been eliminated from postseason contention.Kansas City is 6-10 as it prepares for its season finale this weekend in Las Vegas.Reid, who signed a five-year, $100 million extension with the Chiefs in April 2024, spent his first 14 seasons as an NFL head coach in Philadelphia, where he led the Eagles to 130 regular-season wins and 10 more in the playoffs. That included four seasons that ended in the NFC title game and another that ended with a loss in the Super Bowl.Reid’s past 13 years have come in Kansas City, where he has won at an even greater clip.With Alex Smith at quarterback the first five years and Patrick Mahomes under center since, the Chiefs have piled up 149 regular-season wins and gone 18-8 in the playoffs. This season will end streaks of 10 consecutive playoff trips, nine straight AFC West titles, seven consecutive AFC title game appearances and the past three years in the Super Bowl.In five trips to the big game, Reid and Co. have brought three Lombardi Trophies back to Kansas City. Bill Belichick is the only coach with more Super Bowl rings, capturing six of them with Tom Brady and the Patriots.Reid has 307 wins overall. He needs 18 to pass George Halas for third on the NFL’s career list behind Belichick and Don Shula.&nbsp;&nbsp;

🏈 Andy Reid plans to return as Chiefs coach next season

MANHATTAN, Kan. (AP) — PJ Haggerty scored 23 of his 24 points in the second half as Kansas State held on to defeat Louisiana-Monroe, 94-85 on Sunday.

Haggerty, who was third in the nation in scoring (22.8 points per game) entering the game, was 0-for-6 from the field in the first half. He went 7-for-10 (9-for-9 on free throws) the rest of the way to earn his ninth 20-point game of the year. He also grabbed eight rebounds to pace K-State.

Nate Johnson added 14 points and Abdi Bashir Jr. scored 11 for the Wildcats (9-4) as they finished their non-conference slate on a four-game winning streak.

ULM led for much of the first half until the Wildcats took the lead for good on David Castillo's three-pointer that started an 8-0 run. K-State led 46-36 at the half, and stretched their lead to as many as 20 points in the second frame.

The Warhawks (3-11) were led by Krystian Lewis (25 points) and Lavell Brodnex (21 points, eight rebounds), and MJ Russell chipped in with 17 points.

K-State shot 47% from the field and 29% from deep, out-rebounded ULM 43-30, and got 28 bench points to ULM's 8.

Kansas State begins their Big 12 schedule on Saturday when they host BYU.

Louisiana-Monroe hosts Southern Miss on Thursday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1766959257356.png" alt="K-State Athletics" />
 <figcaption>K-State Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>MANHATTAN, Kan. (AP) — PJ Haggerty scored 23 of his 24 points in the second half as Kansas State held on to defeat Louisiana-Monroe, 94-85 on Sunday.Haggerty, who was third in the nation in scoring (22.8 points per game) entering the game, was 0-for-6 from the field in the first half. He went 7-for-10 (9-for-9 on free throws) the rest of the way to earn his ninth 20-point game of the year. He also grabbed eight rebounds to pace K-State.Nate Johnson added 14 points and Abdi Bashir Jr. scored 11 for the Wildcats (9-4) as they finished their non-conference slate on a four-game winning streak.ULM led for much of the first half until the Wildcats took the lead for good on David Castillo's three-pointer that started an 8-0 run. K-State led 46-36 at the half, and stretched their lead to as many as 20 points in the second frame.The Warhawks (3-11) were led by Krystian Lewis (25 points) and Lavell Brodnex (21 points, eight rebounds), and MJ Russell chipped in with 17 points.K-State shot 47% from the field and 29% from deep, out-rebounded ULM 43-30, and got 28 bench points to ULM's 8.<h2>Up next</h2>Kansas State begins their Big 12 schedule on Saturday when they host BYU.Louisiana-Monroe hosts Southern Miss on Thursday.

🏀 Haggerty's big second-half leads K-State past Louisiana-Monroe

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Broncos coach Sean Payton sent his offense back onto the field on fourth down Thursday night, the ball inside the Kansas City Chiefs' 10-yard line and less than 2 minutes left on the clock — and no intention of ever snapping it.

Chiefs defensive tackle Chris Jones didn't know that. And when he jumped, and the offsides penalty gave Denver a fresh set of down, Bo Nix needed a mere three more plays to hit R.J. Harvey with the go-ahead touchdown pass in a 20-13 victory Thursday night.

One secured when the Broncos made one last stop in the closing second at their end of the field.

“We were going to take the delay-of-game,” Payton said afterward. “Obviously that changed the complexion of the clock, and that was a big play. We were going to take the penalty and kick the field goal. That was the plan.”

Now, the Broncos (13-3) are one step closer to locking up the AFC West, which they can do while watching at home if Houston beats the Chargers on Saturday. They also have a chance to still land the No. 1 seed and first-round playoff bye.

“It would be relaxing,” Payton said of clinching this weekend. “It would be nice.”

Nix also ran for a touchdown while throwing for 182 yards as the Broncos beat the Chiefs in Arrowhead Stadium for the first time since September 17, 2015. They also have won four of the last five in the series following a string of 16 consecutive losses.

“It's great to get that win," Payton said. “You always have to remember this: You're playing the heart of a champion, Andy Reid and this team. I don't care who comes out of that locker room. This is a team that basically has been at the top of our league for the better part of this century, and there's a ton of respect we have for what they've been able to accomplish.”

Third-string quarterback Chris Oladokun and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-city-chiefs-travis-kelce-fc73aef71f5c8d0a026cdf486d885cf8">tight end Travis Kelce</a>&nbsp;tried to give Kansas City a chance in the final seconds, driving quickly down field after the Broncos had taken the lead. But a third-down pass at the Denver 26 was just out of Kelce's reach, and Oladokun overthrew Marquise Brown in the end zone on fourth down to seal the outcome.

The Chiefs (6-10) were missing Patrick Mahomes and backup quarterback Gardner Minshew, both of whom tore ligaments in their knees in back-to-back weeks, and were left to watch the game together from a suite. They also were missing Rashee Rice and several players on both sides of the ball that had been so crucial to their three straight Super Bowl trips.

Oladokun wound up with 66 yards passing. Kelce had five catches for 36 of those yards in what might have been the last game played by the Pro Bowl tight end at Arrowhead Stadium — he plans to announce soon after the season whether he is retiring.

“I’ll let that be a decision I’ll make with my family, friends, the Chiefs organization when the time comes," Kelce said.

The Broncos were nearly two-touchdown favorites, according to BetMGM, yet the Chiefs may have been inspired by hearing about the Vikings, who earlier in the day&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/lions-vikings-score-3d9f572ff2afb9031d1a1b5b63140887">knocked off the favored Lions</a>&nbsp;behind their defense and their own third-string quarterback.

After giving up a grinding, 14-play drive that soaked up more than half the first quarter and net the Broncos a field goal, Kansas City allowed little else through the first 30 minutes. And along the way, a defense put its top two cornerbacks on injured reserve this week managed to pick off Nix, setting up a short field that Oladokun converted into his first career touchdown throw.

It also happened to be Brashard Smith's first career touchdown catch.

The Broncos tried to answer with another 8-plus minute drive late in the half, but Courtland Sutton dropped a would-be touchdown toss in the closing seconds, and Wil Lutz had to kick his second chip-shot field goal to make it 7-6 at the break.

Denver finally got one of its long, time-consuming drives into the end zone in the third quarter, though. The Chiefs had pushed the lead to 10-6 when the Broncos churned through 72 yards in nearly 10 minutes, and Nix finished by scrambling nine yards for the score.

And the inability of the Kansas City offense to do much of anything was its undoing.

The Chiefs managed just 16 yards on their first three possessions of the second half, and that gave the Broncos a chance. They drove 65 yards late in the fourth quarter, twice converting on third down and then getting a fourth-down gift when Jones went early inside the 10-yard line, allowing Nix to find Harvey in the back of the end zone for the eventual winning score.

“We just did what we had to do,” Nix said.

Broncos: C Luke Wattenberg (shoulder) was placed on injured reserve earlier in the day.

Chiefs: WR Nikko Remigio (knee) was placed on IR. OL Jaylon Moore (knee) and DT Derrick Nnadi (illness) were inactive.

Denver wraps up the regular season next week against the Chargers.

Kansas City finishes its season next week in Las Vegas.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1766746328379.png" alt="Photo courtesy Denver Broncos" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy Denver Broncos</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Broncos coach Sean Payton sent his offense back onto the field on fourth down Thursday night, the ball inside the Kansas City Chiefs' 10-yard line and less than 2 minutes left on the clock — and no intention of ever snapping it.Chiefs defensive tackle Chris Jones didn't know that. And when he jumped, and the offsides penalty gave Denver a fresh set of down, Bo Nix needed a mere three more plays to hit R.J. Harvey with the go-ahead touchdown pass in a 20-13 victory Thursday night.One secured when the Broncos made one last stop in the closing second at their end of the field.“We were going to take the delay-of-game,” Payton said afterward. “Obviously that changed the complexion of the clock, and that was a big play. We were going to take the penalty and kick the field goal. That was the plan.”Now, the Broncos (13-3) are one step closer to locking up the AFC West, which they can do while watching at home if Houston beats the Chargers on Saturday. They also have a chance to still land the No. 1 seed and first-round playoff bye.“It would be relaxing,” Payton said of clinching this weekend. “It would be nice.”Nix also ran for a touchdown while throwing for 182 yards as the Broncos beat the Chiefs in Arrowhead Stadium for the first time since September 17, 2015. They also have won four of the last five in the series following a string of 16 consecutive losses.“It's great to get that win," Payton said. “You always have to remember this: You're playing the heart of a champion, Andy Reid and this team. I don't care who comes out of that locker room. This is a team that basically has been at the top of our league for the better part of this century, and there's a ton of respect we have for what they've been able to accomplish.”Third-string quarterback Chris Oladokun and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-city-chiefs-travis-kelce-fc73aef71f5c8d0a026cdf486d885cf8">tight end Travis Kelce</a>&nbsp;tried to give Kansas City a chance in the final seconds, driving quickly down field after the Broncos had taken the lead. But a third-down pass at the Denver 26 was just out of Kelce's reach, and Oladokun overthrew Marquise Brown in the end zone on fourth down to seal the outcome.The Chiefs (6-10) were missing Patrick Mahomes and backup quarterback Gardner Minshew, both of whom tore ligaments in their knees in back-to-back weeks, and were left to watch the game together from a suite. They also were missing Rashee Rice and several players on both sides of the ball that had been so crucial to their three straight Super Bowl trips.Oladokun wound up with 66 yards passing. Kelce had five catches for 36 of those yards in what might have been the last game played by the Pro Bowl tight end at Arrowhead Stadium — he plans to announce soon after the season whether he is retiring.“I’ll let that be a decision I’ll make with my family, friends, the Chiefs organization when the time comes," Kelce said.The Broncos were nearly two-touchdown favorites, according to BetMGM, yet the Chiefs may have been inspired by hearing about the Vikings, who earlier in the day&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/lions-vikings-score-3d9f572ff2afb9031d1a1b5b63140887">knocked off the favored Lions</a>&nbsp;behind their defense and their own third-string quarterback.After giving up a grinding, 14-play drive that soaked up more than half the first quarter and net the Broncos a field goal, Kansas City allowed little else through the first 30 minutes. And along the way, a defense put its top two cornerbacks on injured reserve this week managed to pick off Nix, setting up a short field that Oladokun converted into his first career touchdown throw.It also happened to be Brashard Smith's first career touchdown catch.The Broncos tried to answer with another 8-plus minute drive late in the half, but Courtland Sutton dropped a would-be touchdown toss in the closing seconds, and Wil Lutz had to kick his second chip-shot field goal to make it 7-6 at the break.Denver finally got one of its long, time-consuming drives into the end zone in the third quarter, though. The Chiefs had pushed the lead to 10-6 when the Broncos churned through 72 yards in nearly 10 minutes, and Nix finished by scrambling nine yards for the score.And the inability of the Kansas City offense to do much of anything was its undoing.The Chiefs managed just 16 yards on their first three possessions of the second half, and that gave the Broncos a chance. They drove 65 yards late in the fourth quarter, twice converting on third down and then getting a fourth-down gift when Jones went early inside the 10-yard line, allowing Nix to find Harvey in the back of the end zone for the eventual winning score.“We just did what we had to do,” Nix said.<h2>Injuries</h2>Broncos: C Luke Wattenberg (shoulder) was placed on injured reserve earlier in the day.Chiefs: WR Nikko Remigio (knee) was placed on IR. OL Jaylon Moore (knee) and DT Derrick Nnadi (illness) were inactive.<h2>Up next</h2>Denver wraps up the regular season next week against the Chargers.Kansas City finishes its season next week in Las Vegas.

🏈 Defense lifts Broncos to win over the Chiefs on Christmas

LAWRENCE, Kan. (AP) — Tre White and Flory Bidunga each had 18 points and eight rebounds as No. 17 Kansas used balanced scoring to beat Davidson 90-61 on Monday night.

Six players finished in double figures for the Jayhawks (10-3), including all five starters. Bryson Tiller added 11 points and Jamari McDowell scored 10. Melvin Council Jr. had 10 points, nine assists and seven rebounds.

Kohl Rosario provided 13 points off the bench as Kansas shot 58% from the field, including 11 for 21 (52%) on 3-pointers. The Jayhawks had 27 assists on 37 baskets and outrebounded Davidson 42-31. White nabbed four of the team's 13 steals.

Roberts Blums was the only player in double figures for the Wildcats (8-4) with 13 points off the bench. Davidson was limited to 36% shooting from the floor and went 2 for 6 at the free-throw line.

Kansas played its second consecutive game without Darryn Peterson. The freshman star, who missed seven straight games earlier this season due to injury, is averaging 25 points in four games.

Kansas led by 19 before Davidson went on a 10-2 run to trim it to 36-25. The Wildcats hit six straight shots during one stretch, though they never cut the deficit to single digits. When White hit his fourth 3 of the first half, the lead was back up to 46-26.

Kansas went to the locker room with a 51-30 cushion. The Jayhawks were led by White’s 16 points. Bidunga and Council each had 10.

The second half didn't start much better for Davidson, as the Wildcats were outscored 7-2 in the first 2:51, leading coach Matt McKillup to exhaust his timeouts with 17:09 left.

Kansas wasted no time distancing itself from the overmatched Wildcats. When Bidunga threw down an alley-oop dunk with 13:03 left in the opening half, the Jayhawks already had stretched the lead to 17-6. Davidson didn't reach double figures until 10:36 remained in the first half.

Kansas is off until starting Big 12 play Jan. 3 at UCF.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1766455346133.jpeg" alt="Photo Kansas Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Kansas Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>LAWRENCE, Kan. (AP) — Tre White and Flory Bidunga each had 18 points and eight rebounds as No. 17 Kansas used balanced scoring to beat Davidson 90-61 on Monday night.Six players finished in double figures for the Jayhawks (10-3), including all five starters. Bryson Tiller added 11 points and Jamari McDowell scored 10. Melvin Council Jr. had 10 points, nine assists and seven rebounds.Kohl Rosario provided 13 points off the bench as Kansas shot 58% from the field, including 11 for 21 (52%) on 3-pointers. The Jayhawks had 27 assists on 37 baskets and outrebounded Davidson 42-31. White nabbed four of the team's 13 steals.Roberts Blums was the only player in double figures for the Wildcats (8-4) with 13 points off the bench. Davidson was limited to 36% shooting from the floor and went 2 for 6 at the free-throw line.Kansas played its second consecutive game without Darryn Peterson. The freshman star, who missed seven straight games earlier this season due to injury, is averaging 25 points in four games.But the Jayhawks barely missed him.Kansas led by 19 before Davidson went on a 10-2 run to trim it to 36-25. The Wildcats hit six straight shots during one stretch, though they never cut the deficit to single digits. When White hit his fourth 3 of the first half, the lead was back up to 46-26.Kansas went to the locker room with a 51-30 cushion. The Jayhawks were led by White’s 16 points. Bidunga and Council each had 10.The second half didn't start much better for Davidson, as the Wildcats were outscored 7-2 in the first 2:51, leading coach Matt McKillup to exhaust his timeouts with 17:09 left.Kansas wasted no time distancing itself from the overmatched Wildcats. When Bidunga threw down an alley-oop dunk with 13:03 left in the opening half, the Jayhawks already had stretched the lead to 17-6. Davidson didn't reach double figures until 10:36 remained in the first half.<h2>Up next</h2>Davidson hosts Duquesne on Dec. 30.Kansas is off until starting Big 12 play Jan. 3 at UCF.

🏀Kansas uses balanced scoring to defeat Davidson 

TOPEKA – Gov. Laura Kelly&nbsp;and the&nbsp;Kansas City Chiefs&nbsp;today announced that an agreement has been reached to build a domed stadium and a mixed-use entertainment district, as well as a new team headquarters, training facility and mixed-use development in Kansas. The project will be a massive economic win for the state, with the construction phase alone creating over 20,000 jobs and $4.4 billion in economic impact for Kansas. From there, the stadium will bring over $1 billion in annual impact.

The agreement includes two distinct parts: (1) a $3 billion stadium in Wyandotte County, which will open at the start of the 2031 NFL season; and (2) a new Chiefs headquarters and training facility in the City of Olathe in Johnson County. Both sites will have mixed-use developments that could include sports, entertainment, dining, shopping, office, hotel and residential properties.

“This agreement to bring the Chiefs to Kansas takes our state to the next level. With this new stadium, we’re creating thousands of jobs, bringing in tourists from around the world, attracting young people, and most importantly, we’re continuing to make Kansas the best place in America to raise a family,”&nbsp;Gov. Kelly said. “This is a game-changer for Kansas, and it’s a signal to America and the world that our state’s future is very bright.”

The agreement was approved today by the Legislative Coordinating Council (LCC) with strong bipartisan support.&nbsp; It will be a public-private partnership between the state and the Chiefs organization – and it will require no funds from the current state budget and no new taxes on Kansans. A fact sheet of the agreement and the independent Economic Impact Study can be&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kansascommerce.gov/chiefs-media-kit" target="_blank">found here</a>.

“Today is an extraordinary day in the history of the Kansas City Chiefs,”&nbsp;Chiefs Chairman and CEO Clark Hunt&nbsp;said. “We are excited to partner with the State of Kansas to bring a world-class stadium to our fans. This project represents another step in our legacy of innovation and our fan-first mentality, which started with my father, Lamar Hunt. The stadium, practice facility, and surrounding development will benefit the entire region, and further elevate Kansas City in the eyes of the country and the world.”

“This is a great day for Kansas City Chiefs fans,” said&nbsp;NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell. “This public-private partnership, the result of a thoughtful and deliberate process, will build upon the Hunts’ generational legacy by boldly investing in one of America’s greatest fan bases. The Chiefs’ new enclosed stadium will be a stage for unforgettable moments, whether it’s playoff games, concerts or championship events. We congratulate the Chiefs and the Kansas City community on this important achievement.”

The Chiefs announcement adds to the Kelly-Toland administration’s unprecedented streak of winning business investment projects that create jobs and grow Kansas’ economy. Since 2019, Kansas has attracted more than $30 billion committed capital investment and created or retained almost 78,000 jobs.

“Kansas has had a streak of big economic wins, but nothing is bigger than this. This is truly once-in-a-generation,” said&nbsp;Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland, who led the state team that negotiated the deal with the Chiefs. “This happened because we brought Democrats and Republicans together to do what was best for Kansas – landing our state a huge economic win, without requiring a single dollar from the state budget or a tax increase on Kansans. This historic win is the latest in a series of major economic wins for Kansas, including the Panasonic headquarters, which all tell the same story: the future for Kansas, its workers and its economy is very exciting.”&nbsp;

“This is an extraordinary economic win for our state thanks to the effort of Governor Kelly and Lieutenant Governor Toland,” said&nbsp;Christal Watson, Mayor &amp; CEO Unified Government of Wyandotte KCK. “All of us in Wyandotte and Kansas City, Kansas are excited to work with the Chiefs and are committed to driving results that strengthen our region and uplift our community.”

“This deal is a once-in-a-generation type of opportunity for our community and region. Having the Chiefs headquarters and training facilities here in Johnson County will be huge for our local economy - and a lot of fun for our families,” said&nbsp;John Bacon, Mayor of Olathe. “We’re eager to get to work, and are committed to ensuring the process – and the result – are first class, something everyone in Olathe – and all across Chiefs Kingdom – can be proud of."

“Today, Kansas won the Super Bowl,” said&nbsp;Senate President Ty Masterson. “This is a huge win for Kansas. Now, we get to watch our beloved Chiefs play right here at home, keeping jobs and tax dollars right here in Kansas. Best of all, this will not cost one more penny for Kansas taxpayers.”

“Here in Kansas, we love the Chiefs, and we also love a good deal for taxpayers. So this is a win-win,”&nbsp;House Speaker Dan Hawkins said.

The project will be financed through a public-private partnership (60% public - 40% private). The public portion is funded through&nbsp;Sales Tax and Revenue (STAR) bonds&nbsp;and the&nbsp;Attracting Professional Sports to Kansas Fund&nbsp;– both funding mechanisms established specifically for this purpose – to ensure that there will be no new state taxes and no impact on the state budget.&nbsp; The STAR bonds were authorized today by a bipartisan vote of the Legislative Coordinating Council. The STAR bonds have two components: (1) It allows the state to designate a portion of new state sales tax revenues generated by this project in neighboring communities to fund this project; (2) It allows Wyandotte County and the City of Olathe to designate a portion of their local sales tax revenue generated by this project to pay for it. For more on STAR bonds,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansascommerce.gov/program/community-programs/star-bonds/">click here</a>.

The Attracting Professional Sports to Kansas Fund was established by the legislature to dedicate revenue generated from iLottery and sports betting to recruit professional sports teams.

The Hunt Family is also committing to $1 billion in additional development, a portion of which can also be incentivized by STAR bonds.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1766440185668.jpeg" alt="Kansas Governor Laura Kelly and Kansas City Chiefs Chairman and CEO Clark Hunt hold a Chiefs jersey ahead of their announcement of a new stadium in Kansas. (Courtesy photo - Media Release - State of Kansas)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas Governor Laura Kelly and Kansas City Chiefs Chairman and CEO Clark Hunt hold a Chiefs jersey ahead of their announcement of a new stadium in Kansas. (Courtesy photo - Media Release - State of Kansas)</figcaption>
 </figure>For Immediate ReleaseBy  Olivia Taylor-PuckettTOPEKA – Gov. Laura Kelly&nbsp;and the&nbsp;Kansas City Chiefs&nbsp;today announced that an agreement has been reached to build a domed stadium and a mixed-use entertainment district, as well as a new team headquarters, training facility and mixed-use development in Kansas. The project will be a massive economic win for the state, with the construction phase alone creating over 20,000 jobs and $4.4 billion in economic impact for Kansas. From there, the stadium will bring over $1 billion in annual impact.The agreement includes two distinct parts: (1) a $3 billion stadium in Wyandotte County, which will open at the start of the 2031 NFL season; and (2) a new Chiefs headquarters and training facility in the City of Olathe in Johnson County. Both sites will have mixed-use developments that could include sports, entertainment, dining, shopping, office, hotel and residential properties.“This agreement to bring the Chiefs to Kansas takes our state to the next level. With this new stadium, we’re creating thousands of jobs, bringing in tourists from around the world, attracting young people, and most importantly, we’re continuing to make Kansas the best place in America to raise a family,”&nbsp;Gov. Kelly said. “This is a game-changer for Kansas, and it’s a signal to America and the world that our state’s future is very bright.”The agreement was approved today by the Legislative Coordinating Council (LCC) with strong bipartisan support.&nbsp; It will be a public-private partnership between the state and the Chiefs organization – and it will require no funds from the current state budget and no new taxes on Kansans. A fact sheet of the agreement and the independent Economic Impact Study can be&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kansascommerce.gov/chiefs-media-kit" target="_blank">found here</a>.“Today is an extraordinary day in the history of the Kansas City Chiefs,”&nbsp;Chiefs Chairman and CEO Clark Hunt&nbsp;said. “We are excited to partner with the State of Kansas to bring a world-class stadium to our fans. This project represents another step in our legacy of innovation and our fan-first mentality, which started with my father, Lamar Hunt. The stadium, practice facility, and surrounding development will benefit the entire region, and further elevate Kansas City in the eyes of the country and the world.”“This is a great day for Kansas City Chiefs fans,” said&nbsp;NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell. “This public-private partnership, the result of a thoughtful and deliberate process, will build upon the Hunts’ generational legacy by boldly investing in one of America’s greatest fan bases. The Chiefs’ new enclosed stadium will be a stage for unforgettable moments, whether it’s playoff games, concerts or championship events. We congratulate the Chiefs and the Kansas City community on this important achievement.”The Chiefs announcement adds to the Kelly-Toland administration’s unprecedented streak of winning business investment projects that create jobs and grow Kansas’ economy. Since 2019, Kansas has attracted more than $30 billion committed capital investment and created or retained almost 78,000 jobs.“Kansas has had a streak of big economic wins, but nothing is bigger than this. This is truly once-in-a-generation,” said&nbsp;Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland, who led the state team that negotiated the deal with the Chiefs. “This happened because we brought Democrats and Republicans together to do what was best for Kansas – landing our state a huge economic win, without requiring a single dollar from the state budget or a tax increase on Kansans. This historic win is the latest in a series of major economic wins for Kansas, including the Panasonic headquarters, which all tell the same story: the future for Kansas, its workers and its economy is very exciting.”&nbsp;“This is an extraordinary economic win for our state thanks to the effort of Governor Kelly and Lieutenant Governor Toland,” said&nbsp;Christal Watson, Mayor &amp; CEO Unified Government of Wyandotte KCK. “All of us in Wyandotte and Kansas City, Kansas are excited to work with the Chiefs and are committed to driving results that strengthen our region and uplift our community.”“This deal is a once-in-a-generation type of opportunity for our community and region. Having the Chiefs headquarters and training facilities here in Johnson County will be huge for our local economy - and a lot of fun for our families,” said&nbsp;John Bacon, Mayor of Olathe. “We’re eager to get to work, and are committed to ensuring the process – and the result – are first class, something everyone in Olathe – and all across Chiefs Kingdom – can be proud of."“Today, Kansas won the Super Bowl,” said&nbsp;Senate President Ty Masterson. “This is a huge win for Kansas. Now, we get to watch our beloved Chiefs play right here at home, keeping jobs and tax dollars right here in Kansas. Best of all, this will not cost one more penny for Kansas taxpayers.”“Here in Kansas, we love the Chiefs, and we also love a good deal for taxpayers. So this is a win-win,”&nbsp;House Speaker Dan Hawkins said.The project will be financed through a public-private partnership (60% public - 40% private). The public portion is funded through&nbsp;Sales Tax and Revenue (STAR) bonds&nbsp;and the&nbsp;Attracting Professional Sports to Kansas Fund&nbsp;– both funding mechanisms established specifically for this purpose – to ensure that there will be no new state taxes and no impact on the state budget.&nbsp; The STAR bonds were authorized today by a bipartisan vote of the Legislative Coordinating Council. The STAR bonds have two components: (1) It allows the state to designate a portion of new state sales tax revenues generated by this project in neighboring communities to fund this project; (2) It allows Wyandotte County and the City of Olathe to designate a portion of their local sales tax revenue generated by this project to pay for it. For more on STAR bonds,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansascommerce.gov/program/community-programs/star-bonds/">click here</a>.The Attracting Professional Sports to Kansas Fund was established by the legislature to dedicate revenue generated from iLottery and sports betting to recruit professional sports teams.The Hunt Family is also committing to $1 billion in additional development, a portion of which can also be incentivized by STAR bonds.&nbsp;

Gov. Kelly and Kansas City Chiefs Announce Agreement On Plans for State-of-the-Art Domed Stadium in Kansas

Wichita State University men’s basketball head coach Paul Mills is sharing a deeply personal story after surviving a life-threatening cardiac emergency earlier this month—an experience he says could have ended very differently had even a few circumstances changed.

Mills explained that two weeks ago, following a road game at Northern Iowa, he began experiencing severe chest pain and difficulty breathing immediately after the final buzzer.

“I realized something wasn’t right,” Mills said. “It felt like my chest had a skeletal fracture, and it was extremely hard to breathe.”

Despite the pain, Mills completed postgame responsibilities before sitting down in the locker room, exhausted and struggling to move. With a winter storm impacting travel plans, the team ultimately boarded a late-night flight rather than returning by bus. Mills said that decision may have saved his life.

After landing shortly after 1 a.m., Mills told his wife he needed to go to the hospital. Doctors immediately performed an EKG and identified abnormalities, admitting him overnight while a cardiac team was called in. Mills said the next thing he remembers is waking up after undergoing emergency cardiac surgery.

Doctors later told Mills his right coronary artery was 100 percent blocked and had gone without blood flow for approximately six hours. Multiple stents were inserted to restore circulation.

According to his cardiologist, survival rates for that type of cardiac event drop to about 50 percent if treatment is not received within the first hour.

“There were so many moments where this could have gone the other way,” Mills said. “If we had gotten on a bus, if I had gone to a hotel, if I had gone to the wrong hospital, or if I had ignored the pain and gone to sleep—I likely wouldn’t be here.”

Mills credited what he described as a series of providential circumstances for his survival, noting that he does not drink or smoke and runs regularly.

“I thought I was doing everything right,” he said. “What I didn’t realize was that about 80 percent of my cholesterol issue was hereditary.”

Despite being released from the intensive care unit on a Wednesday, Mills returned to the bench just days later for Wichita State’s game against DePaul, under strict medical supervision and while wearing heart-monitoring equipment.

“I wouldn’t recommend getting out of the ICU on a Wednesday and coaching on a Saturday,” Mills said. “But I wanted to show up for our players.”

Mills said doctors initially warned his wife they were uncertain about his long-term quality of life, and a chaplain was brought in following surgery. Today, however, Mills says he feels better than he has in years.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1766374573296.png" alt="Wichita State University Head Men's Basketball addresses the media following their game versus Eastern Kentucky on Dec. 21, 2025 (Photo from Wichita State University Youtube video)" />
 <figcaption>Wichita State University Head Men's Basketball addresses the media following their game versus Eastern Kentucky on Dec. 21, 2025 (Photo from Wichita State University Youtube video)</figcaption>
 </figure>MARC JACOBS Hutch PostWichita State University men’s basketball head coach Paul Mills is sharing a deeply personal story after surviving a life-threatening cardiac emergency earlier this month—an experience he says could have ended very differently had even a few circumstances changed.Mills explained that two weeks ago, following a road game at Northern Iowa, he began experiencing severe chest pain and difficulty breathing immediately after the final buzzer.“I realized something wasn’t right,” Mills said. “It felt like my chest had a skeletal fracture, and it was extremely hard to breathe.”Despite the pain, Mills completed postgame responsibilities before sitting down in the locker room, exhausted and struggling to move. With a winter storm impacting travel plans, the team ultimately boarded a late-night flight rather than returning by bus. Mills said that decision may have saved his life.After landing shortly after 1 a.m., Mills told his wife he needed to go to the hospital. Doctors immediately performed an EKG and identified abnormalities, admitting him overnight while a cardiac team was called in. Mills said the next thing he remembers is waking up after undergoing emergency cardiac surgery.Doctors later told Mills his right coronary artery was 100 percent blocked and had gone without blood flow for approximately six hours. Multiple stents were inserted to restore circulation.According to his cardiologist, survival rates for that type of cardiac event drop to about 50 percent if treatment is not received within the first hour.“There were so many moments where this could have gone the other way,” Mills said. “If we had gotten on a bus, if I had gone to a hotel, if I had gone to the wrong hospital, or if I had ignored the pain and gone to sleep—I likely wouldn’t be here.”Mills credited what he described as a series of providential circumstances for his survival, noting that he does not drink or smoke and runs regularly.“I thought I was doing everything right,” he said. “What I didn’t realize was that about 80 percent of my cholesterol issue was hereditary.”Despite being released from the intensive care unit on a Wednesday, Mills returned to the bench just days later for Wichita State’s game against DePaul, under strict medical supervision and while wearing heart-monitoring equipment.“I wouldn’t recommend getting out of the ICU on a Wednesday and coaching on a Saturday,” Mills said. “But I wanted to show up for our players.”Mills said doctors initially warned his wife they were uncertain about his long-term quality of life, and a chaplain was brought in following surgery. Today, however, Mills says he feels better than he has in years.“It’s like living your whole life with low water pressure and suddenly everything is wide open,” he said. “I had no idea how restricted my blood flow was.”Mills said the experience has changed his perspective on life and work, and he urged others—especially young people—not to ignore warning signs or skip routine medical checkups.“There are two conditions,” Mills said. “There’s death, and there’s life. And I have life. For that, I’m grateful.”He closed his remarks by reflecting on the meaning of the holiday season.“Christmas is both sacred and solemn,” Mills said. “Some families have empty chairs at the table. We almost had that. Don’t take a single day for granted.”Mills ended with a message he said now carries deeper meaning than ever before: