By TYLER HENRY Salina Post contributor

The Champions Indoor Football League has officially released their picks for week ten players of the week and the Liberty are right back in the mix thanks to another stellar performance by Travis Taylor.

The Liberty stalwart proved instrumental in Salina's 52-31 win over the Southwest Kansas Storm, as he collected a pair of monstrous sacks and a huge fumble recovery on the day.

With 10.5 sacks on the season, Taylor now leads the whole CIF, ranking second in tackles for good measure with 33.

The Liberty will be off this week for their bye but will return to the field for a home game against Sioux City on May 20th.

By TYLER HENRY Salina Post contributor<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616853961118.png" alt="Coverage of Liberty football is presented by Ryan Roofing" />
 <figcaption>Coverage of Liberty football is presented by Ryan Roofing</figcaption>
 </figure>The Champions Indoor Football League has officially released their picks for week ten players of the week and the Liberty are right back in the mix thanks to another stellar performance by Travis Taylor.The Liberty stalwart proved instrumental in Salina's 52-31 win over the Southwest Kansas Storm, as he collected a pair of monstrous sacks and a huge fumble recovery on the day.With 10.5 sacks on the season, Taylor now leads the whole CIF, ranking second in tackles for good measure with 33.The Liberty will be off this week for their bye but will return to the field for a home game against Sioux City on May 20th.

Salina's Travis Taylor named CIF Defensive Player of the Week

By MARC BOWMAN Associated Press

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Nick Pratto homered and Brad Keller won for the first time in nearly a month as the Kansas City Royals beat the Chicago White Sox 9-1 on Wednesday night.

Keller (3-3), who leads the majors with 32 walks allowed, got into immediate trouble walking the first two batters he faced, but escaped first-inning damage with a double play and strikeout.

Gavin Sheets walked to lead off the second and scored on Hanser Alberto's single to left for the White Sox lone run off Keller.

Keller finished five innings, allowing one run on three hits and four walks, striking out four to earn his first win since April 12.

The Royals batted around in the first, collecting six hits, including Pratto's two-out RBI single, grabbing a 4-0 lead while forcing Lance Lynn (1-5) to toss 37 pitches in the inning.

Lynn surrendered seven runs on nine hits two walks, fanning four over five innings.

Pratto's homer, a two-run shot to right, gave Kansas City a 7-1 lead in the fifth.

Michael Massey opened the fourth with his first home run of the season and Edward Olivares opened the seventh with his third homer. Massey and Vinnie Pasquantino each produced three hits.

Four Royals relievers fanned seven over four scoreless innings.

Chicago had six hits, all singles. Luis Robert Jr. struck out four times, snapping an eight-game hitting streak.

White Sox OF Billy Hamilton was placed on the 10-day injured list retroactive to May 7 with a left hamstring strain.

White Sox RHP Nick Padilla was recalled from Triple-A Charlotte, OF Jake Marisnick's contract was selected from Charlotte, and RHP Alexander Colomé was designated for assignment.

RHP Mike Clevinger (2-3, 4.84 ERA) will oppose RHP Brady Singer (2-4, 8.82) in Thursday's series finale.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683772730654.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Royals' Edward Olivares (14) celebrates with Nick Pratto after hitting a solo home run during the seventh inning of the game against the Chicago White Sox Wednesday in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Royals' Edward Olivares (14) celebrates with Nick Pratto after hitting a solo home run during the seventh inning of the game against the Chicago White Sox Wednesday in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)</figcaption>
 </figure>By MARC BOWMAN Associated PressKANSAS CITY, Mo. — Nick Pratto homered and Brad Keller won for the first time in nearly a month as the Kansas City Royals beat the Chicago White Sox 9-1 on Wednesday night.Keller (3-3), who leads the majors with 32 walks allowed, got into immediate trouble walking the first two batters he faced, but escaped first-inning damage with a double play and strikeout.Gavin Sheets walked to lead off the second and scored on Hanser Alberto's single to left for the White Sox lone run off Keller.Keller finished five innings, allowing one run on three hits and four walks, striking out four to earn his first win since April 12.The Royals batted around in the first, collecting six hits, including Pratto's two-out RBI single, grabbing a 4-0 lead while forcing Lance Lynn (1-5) to toss 37 pitches in the inning.Lynn surrendered seven runs on nine hits two walks, fanning four over five innings.Pratto's homer, a two-run shot to right, gave Kansas City a 7-1 lead in the fifth.Michael Massey opened the fourth with his first home run of the season and Edward Olivares opened the seventh with his third homer. Massey and Vinnie Pasquantino each produced three hits.Four Royals relievers fanned seven over four scoreless innings.Chicago had six hits, all singles. Luis Robert Jr. struck out four times, snapping an eight-game hitting streak.TRAINER'S ROOMWhite Sox OF Billy Hamilton was placed on the 10-day injured list retroactive to May 7 with a left hamstring strain.TRANSACTIONSWhite Sox RHP Nick Padilla was recalled from Triple-A Charlotte, OF Jake Marisnick's contract was selected from Charlotte, and RHP Alexander Colomé was designated for assignment.UP NEXTRHP Mike Clevinger (2-3, 4.84 ERA) will oppose RHP Brady Singer (2-4, 8.82) in Thursday's series finale.

Pratto, Massey, Olivares homer as Royals blast White Sox 9-1

By ROB MAADDI AP Pro Football Writer

Trevor Lawrence and the Jacksonville Jaguars will become the first NFL team to play two international games in the same season when they spend back-to-back weeks in London this year.

The Jaguars will "host" the Atlanta Falcons at Wembley Stadium on Oct. 1 and "visit" the Buffalo Bills at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on Oct. 8. The Jaguars were set to play two designated home games in London in 2020 but the pandemic canceled those plans.

"Hosting the Falcons at Wembley Stadium will be awesome only to be followed by playing on the road against the Bills at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium," Lawrence said in a statement. "I'm pumped for the experience and know the support from Duval will be strong at both games."

The Jaguars have played nine games in London, including a 21-17 loss to the Denver Broncos last October in front of an NFL-record international crowd of 86,215 fans at Wembley Stadium. Under first-year coach Doug Pederson, who guided Philadelphia to a Super Bowl title in 2017, the Jaguars last year became the first team to win a playoff game after having the worst record the previous season.

The NFL also announced dates for three other international games.

The Tennessee Titans will "host" the Baltimore Ravens at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on Oct. 15. It'll be the second trip to London for the Titans.

"It's exciting to witness and play a role in the NFL's rise in popularity across the globe," Ravens president Sashi Brown said. "This is an incredible opportunity to play in front of and connect with Ravens fans in the United Kingdom and throughout Europe."

NFL MVP Patrick Mahomes and the defending Super Bowl champion Kansas City Chiefs will "host" the Miami Dolphins in Germany at Eintracht Frankfurt Stadium on Nov. 5. The New England Patriots will "host" the Indianapolis Colts on Nov. 12, also in Frankfurt.

"We are thrilled to be headed to Frankfurt this fall to play the Dolphins," Chiefs owner Clark Hunt said. "The Chiefs have a long history of helping to grow the game of football around the world, and we have been eagerly anticipating our chance to play in Germany."

The Patriots are 3-0 in international games while the Chiefs are 2-0.

"Germany has some of the most passionate sports fans in the world and has always been an international leader in enthusiasm for American football and the NFL," Patriots owner Robert Kraft said. "I'm thrilled to play a home game in this new market and to continue to build upon our team's long history and engagement with German fans. Our goal is to connect with fans at the local level and I look forward to expanding that fan base and fostering additional relationships and opportunities for partnership in Germany as well as Austria and Switzerland."

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers defeated the Seattle Seahawks in Munich in the NFL's first regular-season game in Germany last season.

There will be no international game in Mexico in 2023 because of renovations taking place at Estadio Azteca in Mexico City.

The five international games in 2022 set record-breaking attendance and viewership. Each game was sold out with a total of 356,116 in attendance.

"We are excited to bring three games to London once again, a city with a huge love for the sport and a passionate fan base across the UK," said Peter O'Reilly, NFL executive vice president, club business, major events and international. "We are also pleased to confirm that the two games in Germany will be played in Frankfurt, a city steeped in NFL heritage. We look forward to staging both games at Eintracht Frankfurt's Stadium, building on the incredible atmosphere experienced at last season's game in Munich."

The NFL's expansion to 17 regular-season games in 2021 gives teams a ninth home game in alternating seasons. Up to four of the teams from the conference whose teams are eligible for that ninth regular-season home game are designated to play a neutral-site international game each year.

The Jaguars host a game at Wembley Stadium as part of their multi-year commitment to playing in Britain.

"The addition of the road contest against Buffalo allows us to maximize the logistical efficiency of our travels to and from the United Kingdom, while maintaining a strong slate of games in our true home at TIAA Bank Field," Jaguars President Mark Lamping said in a statement.

AP Pro Football Writer Mark Long contributed to this report.

By ROB MAADDI AP Pro Football WriterTrevor Lawrence and the Jacksonville Jaguars will become the first NFL team to play two international games in the same season when they spend back-to-back weeks in London this year.The Jaguars will "host" the Atlanta Falcons at Wembley Stadium on Oct. 1 and "visit" the Buffalo Bills at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on Oct. 8. The Jaguars were set to play two designated home games in London in 2020 but the pandemic canceled those plans."Hosting the Falcons at Wembley Stadium will be awesome only to be followed by playing on the road against the Bills at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium," Lawrence said in a statement. "I'm pumped for the experience and know the support from Duval will be strong at both games."The Jaguars have played nine games in London, including a 21-17 loss to the Denver Broncos last October in front of an NFL-record international crowd of 86,215 fans at Wembley Stadium. Under first-year coach Doug Pederson, who guided Philadelphia to a Super Bowl title in 2017, the Jaguars last year became the first team to win a playoff game after having the worst record the previous season.The NFL also announced dates for three other international games.The Tennessee Titans will "host" the Baltimore Ravens at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on Oct. 15. It'll be the second trip to London for the Titans."It's exciting to witness and play a role in the NFL's rise in popularity across the globe," Ravens president Sashi Brown said. "This is an incredible opportunity to play in front of and connect with Ravens fans in the United Kingdom and throughout Europe."NFL MVP Patrick Mahomes and the defending Super Bowl champion Kansas City Chiefs will "host" the Miami Dolphins in Germany at Eintracht Frankfurt Stadium on Nov. 5. The New England Patriots will "host" the Indianapolis Colts on Nov. 12, also in Frankfurt."We are thrilled to be headed to Frankfurt this fall to play the Dolphins," Chiefs owner Clark Hunt said. "The Chiefs have a long history of helping to grow the game of football around the world, and we have been eagerly anticipating our chance to play in Germany."The Patriots are 3-0 in international games while the Chiefs are 2-0."Germany has some of the most passionate sports fans in the world and has always been an international leader in enthusiasm for American football and the NFL," Patriots owner Robert Kraft said. "I'm thrilled to play a home game in this new market and to continue to build upon our team's long history and engagement with German fans. Our goal is to connect with fans at the local level and I look forward to expanding that fan base and fostering additional relationships and opportunities for partnership in Germany as well as Austria and Switzerland."The Tampa Bay Buccaneers defeated the Seattle Seahawks in Munich in the NFL's first regular-season game in Germany last season.There will be no international game in Mexico in 2023 because of renovations taking place at Estadio Azteca in Mexico City.The five international games in 2022 set record-breaking attendance and viewership. Each game was sold out with a total of 356,116 in attendance."We are excited to bring three games to London once again, a city with a huge love for the sport and a passionate fan base across the UK," said Peter O'Reilly, NFL executive vice president, club business, major events and international. "We are also pleased to confirm that the two games in Germany will be played in Frankfurt, a city steeped in NFL heritage. We look forward to staging both games at Eintracht Frankfurt's Stadium, building on the incredible atmosphere experienced at last season's game in Munich."The NFL's expansion to 17 regular-season games in 2021 gives teams a ninth home game in alternating seasons. Up to four of the teams from the conference whose teams are eligible for that ninth regular-season home game are designated to play a neutral-site international game each year.The Jaguars host a game at Wembley Stadium as part of their multi-year commitment to playing in Britain."The addition of the road contest against Buffalo allows us to maximize the logistical efficiency of our travels to and from the United Kingdom, while maintaining a strong slate of games in our true home at TIAA Bank Field," Jaguars President Mark Lamping said in a statement.AP Pro Football Writer Mark Long contributed to this report.

NFL: Chiefs vs. Dolphins in Germany; Jags play twice in London

By DAVID SMALE Associated Press

KANSAS CITY, Mo — Andrew Vaughn's two-run homer in the sixth inning broke a 1-1 tie and lifted the Chicago White Sox to a 4-2 victory over the Kansas City Royals on Tuesday night.

Lucas Giolito (2-2) allowed two runs on five hits over six innings in a game that started two hours late because of rain.

Kendall Graveman worked the ninth for his first save. He said the delay played into his hands.

"It was a bonus for me pitching at 9 at night because I'm a night owl," he said. "I was right at home. It was one of those nights when the stuff was a little bit better, velocity-wise."

Jordan Lyles (0-6) threw a complete game, the first by a Royals pitcher in more than two years, allowing four runs on six hits with no walks. Brad Keller was the last Kansas City starter to go the distance, in his 11-0 shutout of Pittsburgh on Sept. 13, 2020.

"He's incredible," Royals manager Matt Quatraro said of Lyles. "He always wants the next inning, whether he pitches five, six, seven, eight. He always wants one more.

"His stuff was good. They got to him for a couple homers. But that's a huge thing for us to refresh the bullpen. And at the same time, he gave us a chance to win the game, too."

Vinnie Pasquantino homered in the first and drove in both of the Royals' runs.

"I got a little angry giving up that home run in the first inning," Giolito said. "For me, pitching angry can go one way or the other. Tonight, we were able to channel that into aggression in the strike zone."

Once the game got started, it moved quickly. The first five innings took just 1:01 to complete. Giolito gave up one run on three hits through five while Lyles gave up a run on two hits. But both pitchers ran into trouble in the sixth.

Lenys Sosa led off the Chicago sixth with a double and with one out, Vaughn hit a sinker from Lyles 422 feet into the bullpen in left.

"I think all of Vaughn's home runs have either tied or put us ahead," White Sox manager Pedro Grifol said. "He's been Mr. Clutch. Every time he hits one it's a big one."

Bobby Witt Jr. led off the bottom of the inning with a triple down the right-field line. He was clocked at 11.09 seconds from the plate to third — the second-fastest triple in the majors this season behind Arizona's Corbin Carroll (10.91 seconds) on April 25, also at Kansas City. Witt scored on a bloop hit Pasquantino.

Giolito then walked two of the next three batters, loading the bases with one out. But he got Hunter Dozier to pop out and Freddy Fermin to hit into a fielder's choice.

Seby Zavala had a two-out RBI single in the seventh for Chicago.

Luis Robert made it 1-1 in the fourth when he lined the first pitch from Lyles 430 feet into the bullpen in left. It was the first baserunner Lyles allowed.

Royals LHP Ryan Yarbrough, who was placed on the 15-day injured list Monday with broken bones in his face after taking a 106-mph line drive off the bat of Oakland's Ryan Noda on Sunday, was released from the hospital Monday night. Quatraro said Yarbrough had a follow-up Tuesday and will not need surgery. He'll have another follow-up in a month before he can return to more strenuous activity.

Chicago RHP Lance Lynn (1-4, 6.68 ERA) faces Kansas City's Brad Keller (2-3, 4.67) in the third game of the four-game series.

By DAVID SMALE Associated PressKANSAS CITY, Mo — Andrew Vaughn's two-run homer in the sixth inning broke a 1-1 tie and lifted the Chicago White Sox to a 4-2 victory over the Kansas City Royals on Tuesday night.Lucas Giolito (2-2) allowed two runs on five hits over six innings in a game that started two hours late because of rain.Kendall Graveman worked the ninth for his first save. He said the delay played into his hands."It was a bonus for me pitching at 9 at night because I'm a night owl," he said. "I was right at home. It was one of those nights when the stuff was a little bit better, velocity-wise."Jordan Lyles (0-6) threw a complete game, the first by a Royals pitcher in more than two years, allowing four runs on six hits with no walks. Brad Keller was the last Kansas City starter to go the distance, in his 11-0 shutout of Pittsburgh on Sept. 13, 2020."He's incredible," Royals manager Matt Quatraro said of Lyles. "He always wants the next inning, whether he pitches five, six, seven, eight. He always wants one more."His stuff was good. They got to him for a couple homers. But that's a huge thing for us to refresh the bullpen. And at the same time, he gave us a chance to win the game, too."Vinnie Pasquantino homered in the first and drove in both of the Royals' runs."I got a little angry giving up that home run in the first inning," Giolito said. "For me, pitching angry can go one way or the other. Tonight, we were able to channel that into aggression in the strike zone."Once the game got started, it moved quickly. The first five innings took just 1:01 to complete. Giolito gave up one run on three hits through five while Lyles gave up a run on two hits. But both pitchers ran into trouble in the sixth.Lenys Sosa led off the Chicago sixth with a double and with one out, Vaughn hit a sinker from Lyles 422 feet into the bullpen in left."I think all of Vaughn's home runs have either tied or put us ahead," White Sox manager Pedro Grifol said. "He's been Mr. Clutch. Every time he hits one it's a big one."Bobby Witt Jr. led off the bottom of the inning with a triple down the right-field line. He was clocked at 11.09 seconds from the plate to third — the second-fastest triple in the majors this season behind Arizona's Corbin Carroll (10.91 seconds) on April 25, also at Kansas City. Witt scored on a bloop hit Pasquantino.Giolito then walked two of the next three batters, loading the bases with one out. But he got Hunter Dozier to pop out and Freddy Fermin to hit into a fielder's choice.Seby Zavala had a two-out RBI single in the seventh for Chicago.Luis Robert made it 1-1 in the fourth when he lined the first pitch from Lyles 430 feet into the bullpen in left. It was the first baserunner Lyles allowed.TRAINER'S ROOMRoyals LHP Ryan Yarbrough, who was placed on the 15-day injured list Monday with broken bones in his face after taking a 106-mph line drive off the bat of Oakland's Ryan Noda on Sunday, was released from the hospital Monday night. Quatraro said Yarbrough had a follow-up Tuesday and will not need surgery. He'll have another follow-up in a month before he can return to more strenuous activity.UP NEXTChicago RHP Lance Lynn (1-4, 6.68 ERA) faces Kansas City's Brad Keller (2-3, 4.67) in the third game of the four-game series.

Vaughn's homer lifts White Sox over Royals, 4-2

KANSAS CITY, Mo. –&nbsp;With the 2023 Kansas City Chiefs schedule set to be released on Thursday evening, single-game and group tickets for all home games at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium will go on sale Friday.

Tickets may be purchased at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.chiefs.com/" target="_blank">www.chiefs.com</a>&nbsp;by the public beginning at 11 a.m. Friday. Season Ticket Members will have an exclusive online presale beginning at 10 a.m. Friday. The club has notified Season Ticket Members via email with instructions on how to purchase single-game tickets.

In continuation of the team’s long-standing policy, the taxpayers of Jackson County, Missouri, will have a presale opportunity to purchase tickets for the 2023 season opener beginning at 8 a.m. Friday. The Jackson County taxpayer presale will take place online only and purchasers must use a credit card with a billing zip code within Jackson County to participate.

Ticket and parking pass delivery for games at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium will be mobile only. The ticket office will not be open for any walk-up sales. All single-game and group tickets for Chiefs home games are subject to availability and dynamic pricing. Parking can be purchased during the ticket purchase process or in advance of the game at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.chiefs.com/parking" target="_blank">www.chiefs.com/parking</a>. Advance parking pass purchase is required as cash will not be accepted at the tollgates.

The NFL has confirmed that the full 2023 schedule will be unveiled on NFL Network, the NFL App, NFL+ and&nbsp;<a href="http://www.nfl.com/" target="_blank">www.NFL.com</a>&nbsp;beginning at 7 p.m. CT on Thursday, May 11. The club will announce its 2023 schedule presented by Ticketmaster on the team’s official&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/Chiefs" target="_blank">Twitter</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/chiefs/" target="_blank">Instagram</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/KansasCityChiefs/" target="_blank">Facebook</a>&nbsp;channels at 7 p.m. CT on Thursday. Fans can check&nbsp;<a href="http://www.chiefs.com/" target="_blank">www.chiefs.com</a>&nbsp;or the official&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/c/KansasCityChiefs/videos" target="_blank">Chiefs YouTube</a>&nbsp;page after the schedule release for a special edition of the Defending the Kingdom Podcast breaking down the entire 2023 Chiefs schedule.

Kansas City ChiefsKANSAS CITY, Mo. –&nbsp;With the 2023 Kansas City Chiefs schedule set to be released on Thursday evening, single-game and group tickets for all home games at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium will go on sale Friday.Tickets may be purchased at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.chiefs.com/" target="_blank">www.chiefs.com</a>&nbsp;by the public beginning at 11 a.m. Friday. Season Ticket Members will have an exclusive online presale beginning at 10 a.m. Friday. The club has notified Season Ticket Members via email with instructions on how to purchase single-game tickets.In continuation of the team’s long-standing policy, the taxpayers of Jackson County, Missouri, will have a presale opportunity to purchase tickets for the 2023 season opener beginning at 8 a.m. Friday. The Jackson County taxpayer presale will take place online only and purchasers must use a credit card with a billing zip code within Jackson County to participate.Ticket and parking pass delivery for games at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium will be mobile only. The ticket office will not be open for any walk-up sales. All single-game and group tickets for Chiefs home games are subject to availability and dynamic pricing. Parking can be purchased during the ticket purchase process or in advance of the game at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.chiefs.com/parking" target="_blank">www.chiefs.com/parking</a>. Advance parking pass purchase is required as cash will not be accepted at the tollgates.The NFL has confirmed that the full 2023 schedule will be unveiled on NFL Network, the NFL App, NFL+ and&nbsp;<a href="http://www.nfl.com/" target="_blank">www.NFL.com</a>&nbsp;beginning at 7 p.m. CT on Thursday, May 11. The club will announce its 2023 schedule presented by Ticketmaster on the team’s official&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/Chiefs" target="_blank">Twitter</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/chiefs/" target="_blank">Instagram</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/KansasCityChiefs/" target="_blank">Facebook</a>&nbsp;channels at 7 p.m. CT on Thursday. Fans can check&nbsp;<a href="http://www.chiefs.com/" target="_blank">www.chiefs.com</a>&nbsp;or the official&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/c/KansasCityChiefs/videos" target="_blank">Chiefs YouTube</a>&nbsp;page after the schedule release for a special edition of the Defending the Kingdom Podcast breaking down the entire 2023 Chiefs schedule.

Chiefs schedule out Thursday; single-game, group tickets on sale Friday

MANHATTAN –&nbsp;K-State women’s basketball head coach Jeff Mittie has added frontcourt assistance as the Wildcats have added forward Imani Lester for the 2023-24 season. Lester will have four seasons of eligibility, as she will be a redshirt freshman.

Lester, a product of Raleigh, N.C., joins K-State after spending a season at Louisville. Lester did not suit up for the Cardinals in the 2022-23 season.

Coming out of North Raleigh Christian Academy, Lester was rated as a four-star prospect and was ranked No.57 overall in the nation and the eighth best post player by espnW HoopGurlz.

During her prep career, which started in seventh grade, Lester reached 1,000 career points by her freshman season. At the conclusion of her freshman season in high school, Lester was named to the 2019 North Carolina Independent Schools Athletics Association (NCISAA) 4A All-State team and collected 2019 Triangle Independent Schools Athletic Conference (TISAC) Player of the Year honors.

In her senior season in 2022, Lester was named to the&nbsp;Charlotte Observer&nbsp;North Carolina First Team Super Team while aiding her team to a 25-8 record and the 2022 NCISAA state title which included 23 points, 15 rebounds and four blocks in the championship game.

In her junior season in 2021, Lester averaged 16.7 points, 12.6 rebounds, 4.4 blocks, 4.3 assists and 2.7 steals a game and North Raleigh Christian Academy finished with a 19-2 record and secured a runner-up finish in the NCISAA state tournament.

K-State concluded its 55th season of action with a 19-17 record and the 33rd postseason appearance in program history with its seventh bid into the WNIT. Earlier this season, the Wildcats became the 19th program in NCAA Division I history to surpass the 1,000-win mark.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683662899599.png" alt="Image courtesy <a href="http://kstatesports.com">kstatesports.com</a>" />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy <a href="http://kstatesports.com">kstatesports.com</a></figcaption>
 </figure>K-State SportsMANHATTAN –&nbsp;K-State women’s basketball head coach Jeff Mittie has added frontcourt assistance as the Wildcats have added forward Imani Lester for the 2023-24 season. Lester will have four seasons of eligibility, as she will be a redshirt freshman.Lester, a product of Raleigh, N.C., joins K-State after spending a season at Louisville. Lester did not suit up for the Cardinals in the 2022-23 season.Coming out of North Raleigh Christian Academy, Lester was rated as a four-star prospect and was ranked No.57 overall in the nation and the eighth best post player by espnW HoopGurlz.During her prep career, which started in seventh grade, Lester reached 1,000 career points by her freshman season. At the conclusion of her freshman season in high school, Lester was named to the 2019 North Carolina Independent Schools Athletics Association (NCISAA) 4A All-State team and collected 2019 Triangle Independent Schools Athletic Conference (TISAC) Player of the Year honors.In her senior season in 2022, Lester was named to the&nbsp;Charlotte Observer&nbsp;North Carolina First Team Super Team while aiding her team to a 25-8 record and the 2022 NCISAA state title which included 23 points, 15 rebounds and four blocks in the championship game.In her junior season in 2021, Lester averaged 16.7 points, 12.6 rebounds, 4.4 blocks, 4.3 assists and 2.7 steals a game and North Raleigh Christian Academy finished with a 19-2 record and secured a runner-up finish in the NCISAA state tournament.K-State concluded its 55th season of action with a 19-17 record and the 33rd postseason appearance in program history with its seventh bid into the WNIT. Earlier this season, the Wildcats became the 19th program in NCAA Division I history to surpass the 1,000-win mark.

K-State women's basketball adds forward Imani Lester

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — MJ Melendez homered and drove in four runs, Nick Pratto had a three-run double during an eight-run sixth inning, and the Kansas City Royals beat the Chicago White Sox 12-5 on Monday night.

Melendez hit a 431-foot, two-run shot in the fourth against Dylan Cease and then had a two-run single in the sixth as the Royals turned a 4-4 game into a rout. Kansas City had its highest-scoring game this season and won consecutive home games for the first time since winning four straight at Kauffman Stadium last Sept. 20-23.

Jose Cuas (2-0) relieved Zack Greinke with two out in the sixth and retired the only batter he faced, then watched as Kansas City's offense handed him the victory.

Cease (2-2) gave up seven runs on nine hits in five-plus innings as his ERA rose from 4.58 to 5.58. The right-hander had a 2.20 ERA in 32 starts last season, when he finished second in AL Cy Young Award voting.

Gavin Sheets homered for the White Sox, a 423-foot drive to center off Greinke in the sixth that tied the game at 4-4. Andrew Vaughn had a two-run double for Chicago in the third that made it 3-1.

Jackie Bradley Jr. had a two-run double in the sixth for the Royals and finished 3-for-4 with two runs scored.

Cease gave up a single, a hit batter and a walk to start the sixth. Reliever Aaron Bummer allowed an RBI single by Michael Massey, followed by Bradley's double. After two outs and a walk, Melendez came through with his big hit to chase Bummer. Jimmy Lambert came on, issued a walk and gave up Pratto's bases-clearing double.

Royals: Placed LHP Ryan Yarbrough on the 15-day injured list with broken bones in his face after he took a 106-mph line drive off the bat of Oakland's Ryan Yoda on Sunday. Manager Matt Qatraro said Yarbrough had three non-displaced fractures in different spots around his right eye. Yarbrough never lost consciousness and was responding well to treatment. ... Recalled RHP Jose Cuas from Triple-A Omaha. ... Acquired RHP James McArthur from the Phillies for minor league INF Junior Marin. McArthur was assigned to Omaha.

White Sox 3B Yoan Moncado may rejoin the team during this series, but it will more likely be when Chicago returns home to host Houston on Friday. Moncada, who has been on the 10-day IL with back tightness, is on a rehab assignment with Triple-A Charlotte.

Royals INF Nicky Lopez resumed light activity after going on the 10-day IL for an appendectomy on May 2. ... LHP Daniel Lynch threw 3 1/3 innings in a rehab start with Omaha on Sunday. He is scheduled to make one more rehab start.

The teams continue their four-game series on Tuesday night with Chicago's Lucas Giolito (1-2, 3.67 ERA) opposing Kansas City's Jordan Lyles (0-5, 6.69).

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683602599695.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Royals' MJ Melendez watches his two-run single during the sixth inning of the game against the Chicago White Sox Monday in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Royals' MJ Melendez watches his two-run single during the sixth inning of the game against the Chicago White Sox Monday in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)</figcaption>
 </figure>By DAVID SMALE Associated PressKANSAS CITY, Mo. — MJ Melendez homered and drove in four runs, Nick Pratto had a three-run double during an eight-run sixth inning, and the Kansas City Royals beat the Chicago White Sox 12-5 on Monday night.Melendez hit a 431-foot, two-run shot in the fourth against Dylan Cease and then had a two-run single in the sixth as the Royals turned a 4-4 game into a rout. Kansas City had its highest-scoring game this season and won consecutive home games for the first time since winning four straight at Kauffman Stadium last Sept. 20-23.Jose Cuas (2-0) relieved Zack Greinke with two out in the sixth and retired the only batter he faced, then watched as Kansas City's offense handed him the victory.Cease (2-2) gave up seven runs on nine hits in five-plus innings as his ERA rose from 4.58 to 5.58. The right-hander had a 2.20 ERA in 32 starts last season, when he finished second in AL Cy Young Award voting.Gavin Sheets homered for the White Sox, a 423-foot drive to center off Greinke in the sixth that tied the game at 4-4. Andrew Vaughn had a two-run double for Chicago in the third that made it 3-1.Jackie Bradley Jr. had a two-run double in the sixth for the Royals and finished 3-for-4 with two runs scored.Cease gave up a single, a hit batter and a walk to start the sixth. Reliever Aaron Bummer allowed an RBI single by Michael Massey, followed by Bradley's double. After two outs and a walk, Melendez came through with his big hit to chase Bummer. Jimmy Lambert came on, issued a walk and gave up Pratto's bases-clearing double.TRANSACTIONSRoyals: Placed LHP Ryan Yarbrough on the 15-day injured list with broken bones in his face after he took a 106-mph line drive off the bat of Oakland's Ryan Yoda on Sunday. Manager Matt Qatraro said Yarbrough had three non-displaced fractures in different spots around his right eye. Yarbrough never lost consciousness and was responding well to treatment. ... Recalled RHP Jose Cuas from Triple-A Omaha. ... Acquired RHP James McArthur from the Phillies for minor league INF Junior Marin. McArthur was assigned to Omaha.TRAINER'S ROOMWhite Sox 3B Yoan Moncado may rejoin the team during this series, but it will more likely be when Chicago returns home to host Houston on Friday. Moncada, who has been on the 10-day IL with back tightness, is on a rehab assignment with Triple-A Charlotte.Royals INF Nicky Lopez resumed light activity after going on the 10-day IL for an appendectomy on May 2. ... LHP Daniel Lynch threw 3 1/3 innings in a rehab start with Omaha on Sunday. He is scheduled to make one more rehab start.UP NEXTThe teams continue their four-game series on Tuesday night with Chicago's Lucas Giolito (1-2, 3.67 ERA) opposing Kansas City's Jordan Lyles (0-5, 6.69).

Melendez has 4 RBIs, Royals score 8 in 6th, beat ChiSox 12-5

By DAVE SKRETTA AP Sports Writer

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Kansas State and Chris Klieman are finalizing a new contract that would give the football coach a substantial pay raise while keeping him tied to the program for the next eight seasons, a person familiar with the deal told The Associated Press on Monday.

The contract will have a total value of $44 million, making Klieman one of the better-paid coaches in the Big 12, according to the person, who spoke on condition of anonymity because signatures were still needed on paperwork to make it official. The agreement was first reported by ESPN.

Klieman's previous contract ended after the 2026 season, so the new deal adds four years to it. His average pay will go from $4 million annually to $5.5 million per year, or slightly more than Texas is paying coach Steve Sarkisian.

The 55-year-old Klieman led the Wildcats to a Big 12 championship last season, beating TCU in the title game before the Horned Frogs went on to play in the College Football Playoff. It was the first conference title for K-State since 2012, when Hall of Fame coach Bill Snyder was in his second tenure in Manhattan, and a big breakthrough for the Wildcats.

Klieman went 8-5 in his first season before slipping to 4-6 during the pandemic-shortened 2020 season. The Wildcats went 8-5 again the following year, winning the Texas Bowl, before going 10-4 last season with a Sugar Bowl loss to Alabama.

Kansas State athletic director Gene Taylor has been aggressively pushed the school forward in its biggest revenue-producing sports. Along with hiring Klieman, Taylor also hired men's basketball coach Jerome Tang, and negotiations have begun on a new contract for him after leading the Wildcats to the Elite Eight of the NCAA Tournament during his first season.

Kansas State has also invested heavily in the football program itself. It recently opened a new indoor training facility, and new artificial turf is currently being installed at Bill Snyder Family Stadium.

The Wildcats lost All-American running back Deuce Vaughn and defensive player of the year Felix Anudike-Uzomah to the NFL from last year's team, but they return all five offensive linemen along with quarterback Will Howard. Their Big 12 title run last year has led to a solid recruiting class of both freshmen and transfers to fill the biggest holes on the roster.

Kansas State opens the season Sept. 2 against Southeast Missouri State.

By DAVE SKRETTA AP Sports WriterKANSAS CITY, Mo. — Kansas State and Chris Klieman are finalizing a new contract that would give the football coach a substantial pay raise while keeping him tied to the program for the next eight seasons, a person familiar with the deal told The Associated Press on Monday.The contract will have a total value of $44 million, making Klieman one of the better-paid coaches in the Big 12, according to the person, who spoke on condition of anonymity because signatures were still needed on paperwork to make it official. The agreement was first reported by ESPN.Klieman's previous contract ended after the 2026 season, so the new deal adds four years to it. His average pay will go from $4 million annually to $5.5 million per year, or slightly more than Texas is paying coach Steve Sarkisian.The 55-year-old Klieman led the Wildcats to a Big 12 championship last season, beating TCU in the title game before the Horned Frogs went on to play in the College Football Playoff. It was the first conference title for K-State since 2012, when Hall of Fame coach Bill Snyder was in his second tenure in Manhattan, and a big breakthrough for the Wildcats.Klieman went 8-5 in his first season before slipping to 4-6 during the pandemic-shortened 2020 season. The Wildcats went 8-5 again the following year, winning the Texas Bowl, before going 10-4 last season with a Sugar Bowl loss to Alabama.Kansas State athletic director Gene Taylor has been aggressively pushed the school forward in its biggest revenue-producing sports. Along with hiring Klieman, Taylor also hired men's basketball coach Jerome Tang, and negotiations have begun on a new contract for him after leading the Wildcats to the Elite Eight of the NCAA Tournament during his first season.Kansas State has also invested heavily in the football program itself. It recently opened a new indoor training facility, and new artificial turf is currently being installed at Bill Snyder Family Stadium.The Wildcats lost All-American running back Deuce Vaughn and defensive player of the year Felix Anudike-Uzomah to the NFL from last year's team, but they return all five offensive linemen along with quarterback Will Howard. Their Big 12 title run last year has led to a solid recruiting class of both freshmen and transfers to fill the biggest holes on the roster.Kansas State opens the season Sept. 2 against Southeast Missouri State.

AP source: K-State close to $44 million new deal for Klieman

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — The rookie class that Chiefs general manager Brett Veach and coach Andy Reid brought to Kansas City last season set the bar mighty high for each group of first-year players that is expected to follow them.

The Chiefs had 10 draft picks and all of them appeared in at least one game. Many of them, such as first-round picks Trent McDuffie and George Karlaftis, became starters or regulars by the midpoint of the season. And others, such as seventh-round pick Isiah Pacheco, played important roles in the Chiefs beating the Philadelphia Eagles in the Super Bowl.

"The job that (Veach) did with his guys was second to none," Reid acknowledged.

The first shot at following up that performance began in earnest over the weekend, when the Chiefs brought in their latest draft class along with a group of undrafted free agents and select players for a three-day minicamp. Little could be gleaned from a series of workouts in shorts, particularly given the brutally hot conditions not unlike those that will greet the Chiefs at training camp, but it was nonetheless the first step for many of them toward an NFL career.

Felix Anudike-Uzomah, their first-round pick from Kansas State, was somewhat limited in what he could do after having surgery on his thumb before the draft. But even Anudike-Uzomah had a helmet on for the final workout Monday.

Asked what he wanted to see from the newcomers, whether it be effort or ability or something else, Reid replied: "All of the above."

"Getting into the huddle on the offensive side to these long play calls to the amount of work you're going to end up getting," Reid continued, "and just the magnitude of it. You're going against real good people, the best player you've played against, and every day you're doing it. You have to up your game a bunch."

The Chiefs went into last season banking that their rookie class would be able to fill some significant holes.

Karlaftis wound up having six sacks and carving out a regular role. McDuffie was the ring leader for a group of first-year defensive backs that included Jaylen Watson and Joshua Williams, all of whom were active in the Super Bowl. Second-round pick Skyy Moore had a crucial punt return that helped Kansas City set up the go-ahead field goal against the Eagles, and Pacheco took over the lead running back duties from the injured Clyde Edwards-Helaire and never let them go.

The Chiefs cut Frank Clark to save salary cap space, and Carlos Dunlap hit free agency, leaving Anudike-Uzomah to fill a big role in the pass rush. The local defender played down the road at Kansas State, where he was the Big 12 defensive player of the year.

"To start off now, I just want to learn the playbook and I just want to be present and learn from the guys that already won a Super Bowl," he said. "And if I have the opportunity to play or start, anything like that, I'll be gladly appreciative. But as of right now, I want to work on learning the playbook and work on getting tips from the older guys."

Rashee Rice, their second-round pick, will be counted on to catch some of the passes that went to JuJu Smith-Schuster and Mecole Hardman last season. The Chiefs still have Marquez Valdes-Scantling, Kadarius Toney and Moore to go with newcomer Richie James, but there are still plenty of balls available for the rookie wide receiver.

"I know I'm in for a lot, to be honest," Rice said. "I'm ready for it."

The rest of the draft class could also seeing playing time early. Third-round pick Wanya Morris could push for playing time at offensive tackle, fourth-rounder Chamarri Conner could get reps in the secondary and on special teams, while linebacker B.J. Thompson, defensive tackle Keondre Coburn and cornerback Nic Jones will have a chance to earn some playing time.

They took their first steps toward it this past weekend.

Now, they have a few weeks of voluntary workouts ahead of them before the Chiefs congregate for a mandatory minicamp the second week of June.

"I just want to show that I can belong," Jones said. "I feel like this is step one to showing that I belong, and I really just want to take it one moment, one day at a time, so I feel like every day I'm here, that's another step toward showing I belong."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683595928792.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Chiefs defensive end Felix Anudike-Uzomah (97) participates in a drill during the team's rookie minicamp Monday in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Chiefs defensive end Felix Anudike-Uzomah (97) participates in a drill during the team's rookie minicamp Monday in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)</figcaption>
 </figure>By DAVE SKRETTA AP Sports WriterKANSAS CITY, Mo. — The rookie class that Chiefs general manager Brett Veach and coach Andy Reid brought to Kansas City last season set the bar mighty high for each group of first-year players that is expected to follow them.The Chiefs had 10 draft picks and all of them appeared in at least one game. Many of them, such as first-round picks Trent McDuffie and George Karlaftis, became starters or regulars by the midpoint of the season. And others, such as seventh-round pick Isiah Pacheco, played important roles in the Chiefs beating the Philadelphia Eagles in the Super Bowl."The job that (Veach) did with his guys was second to none," Reid acknowledged.The first shot at following up that performance began in earnest over the weekend, when the Chiefs brought in their latest draft class along with a group of undrafted free agents and select players for a three-day minicamp. Little could be gleaned from a series of workouts in shorts, particularly given the brutally hot conditions not unlike those that will greet the Chiefs at training camp, but it was nonetheless the first step for many of them toward an NFL career.Felix Anudike-Uzomah, their first-round pick from Kansas State, was somewhat limited in what he could do after having surgery on his thumb before the draft. But even Anudike-Uzomah had a helmet on for the final workout Monday.Asked what he wanted to see from the newcomers, whether it be effort or ability or something else, Reid replied: "All of the above.""Getting into the huddle on the offensive side to these long play calls to the amount of work you're going to end up getting," Reid continued, "and just the magnitude of it. You're going against real good people, the best player you've played against, and every day you're doing it. You have to up your game a bunch."The Chiefs went into last season banking that their rookie class would be able to fill some significant holes.Karlaftis wound up having six sacks and carving out a regular role. McDuffie was the ring leader for a group of first-year defensive backs that included Jaylen Watson and Joshua Williams, all of whom were active in the Super Bowl. Second-round pick Skyy Moore had a crucial punt return that helped Kansas City set up the go-ahead field goal against the Eagles, and Pacheco took over the lead running back duties from the injured Clyde Edwards-Helaire and never let them go.As for this year's rookie class?The Chiefs cut Frank Clark to save salary cap space, and Carlos Dunlap hit free agency, leaving Anudike-Uzomah to fill a big role in the pass rush. The local defender played down the road at Kansas State, where he was the Big 12 defensive player of the year."To start off now, I just want to learn the playbook and I just want to be present and learn from the guys that already won a Super Bowl," he said. "And if I have the opportunity to play or start, anything like that, I'll be gladly appreciative. But as of right now, I want to work on learning the playbook and work on getting tips from the older guys."Rashee Rice, their second-round pick, will be counted on to catch some of the passes that went to JuJu Smith-Schuster and Mecole Hardman last season. The Chiefs still have Marquez Valdes-Scantling, Kadarius Toney and Moore to go with newcomer Richie James, but there are still plenty of balls available for the rookie wide receiver."I know I'm in for a lot, to be honest," Rice said. "I'm ready for it."The rest of the draft class could also seeing playing time early. Third-round pick Wanya Morris could push for playing time at offensive tackle, fourth-rounder Chamarri Conner could get reps in the secondary and on special teams, while linebacker B.J. Thompson, defensive tackle Keondre Coburn and cornerback Nic Jones will have a chance to earn some playing time.They took their first steps toward it this past weekend.Now, they have a few weeks of voluntary workouts ahead of them before the Chiefs congregate for a mandatory minicamp the second week of June."I just want to show that I can belong," Jones said. "I feel like this is step one to showing that I belong, and I really just want to take it one moment, one day at a time, so I feel like every day I'm here, that's another step toward showing I belong."

Chiefs rookies get started trying to live up to expectations

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Kansas City Royals left-hander Ryan Yarbrough was placed on the 15-day injured list with what was classified as "head fractures" after taking a 106-mph line drive off the right side of his face Sunday. Royals manager Matt Quatraro said Yarbrough has three non-displaced fractures in different spots around his right eye.

"He's stable, improving," Quatraro said before Monday's game. "He never lost consciousness. He's very aware of what's going on around him. We don't think at this time will require surgery. He's getting further testing and we'll have a better idea (of his prognosis) in the next 24 hours."

Quatraro was one of several Royals who stopped by the hospital after Sunday's game against the Athletics.

"If you weren't looking at him, the conversations were totally normal," Quatraro said, "you wouldn't know anything was going on."

Athletics' first baseman Ryan Noda lined the ball back up the middle in the sixth inning Sunday. It caromed off Yarbrough's head and bounced back to catcher Salvador Perez, who easily threw out Noda at first base. Quatraro said that Noda reached out to Yarbrough via social media.

"Out on the mound at the time, what he said was, 'I think I'm done. My head is ringing,'" Quatraro said. "That makes perfect sense.

"We're going to have a lot better idea in the next day or so. If you think about broken bones that don't require surgery, they heal within four to six weeks. But that's just for those bones. He has to have activity and those types of things."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683595419738.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Royals starting pitcher Ryan Yarbrough, front left, is tended to by training staff and Royals Manager Matt Quatraro, top, after being hit by a ball off the bat of the Oakland Athletics' Ryan Noda during the sixth inning of a baseball game Sunday in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Reed Hoffmann)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Royals starting pitcher Ryan Yarbrough, front left, is tended to by training staff and Royals Manager Matt Quatraro, top, after being hit by a ball off the bat of the Oakland Athletics' Ryan Noda during the sixth inning of a baseball game Sunday in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Reed Hoffmann)</figcaption>
 </figure>By DAVID SMALE Associated PressKANSAS CITY, Mo. — Kansas City Royals left-hander Ryan Yarbrough was placed on the 15-day injured list with what was classified as "head fractures" after taking a 106-mph line drive off the right side of his face Sunday. Royals manager Matt Quatraro said Yarbrough has three non-displaced fractures in different spots around his right eye."He's stable, improving," Quatraro said before Monday's game. "He never lost consciousness. He's very aware of what's going on around him. We don't think at this time will require surgery. He's getting further testing and we'll have a better idea (of his prognosis) in the next 24 hours."Quatraro was one of several Royals who stopped by the hospital after Sunday's game against the Athletics."If you weren't looking at him, the conversations were totally normal," Quatraro said, "you wouldn't know anything was going on."Athletics' first baseman Ryan Noda lined the ball back up the middle in the sixth inning Sunday. It caromed off Yarbrough's head and bounced back to catcher Salvador Perez, who easily threw out Noda at first base. Quatraro said that Noda reached out to Yarbrough via social media."Out on the mound at the time, what he said was, 'I think I'm done. My head is ringing,'" Quatraro said. "That makes perfect sense."We're going to have a lot better idea in the next day or so. If you think about broken bones that don't require surgery, they heal within four to six weeks. But that's just for those bones. He has to have activity and those types of things."

Royals place Yarbrough on injured list with 'head fractures'

MANHATTAN&nbsp;– Departing senior&nbsp;Markquis Nowell&nbsp;was recently selected among 45 prospects to attend the 2023 NBA G League Elite Camp, which is set for May 13-14 at Wintrust Arena in Chicago.

The Bob Cousy Award winner will have an opportunity to display his skills in in front of NBA and NBA G League scouts, coaches and front-office executives over the course of the camp by playing in 5-on-5 games and participating in strength and agility drills.

Based on their play, a select group of players from the camp will be invited to participate in the Microsoft Surface NBA Draft Combine 2023, which will be held May 15-21 at Wintrust Arena.

Nowell will be joined at the camp by North Carolina’s&nbsp;Leaky Black, UCLA’s&nbsp;Tyger Campbell, Florida’s&nbsp;Colin Castleton, Detroit’s&nbsp;Antoine Davis, Memphis’&nbsp;Kendric Davis, Michigan State’s&nbsp;Joey Hauser, Missouri’s&nbsp;D’Moi Hodge, TCU’s&nbsp;Emanuel Miller&nbsp;and Texas’&nbsp;Sir’Jabari Rice&nbsp;among others.

The 5-foot-7, 160-pound point guard from Harlem, N.Y., was named a Third Team All-American by The Associated Press,&nbsp;The Sporting News, NABC and USBWA after averaging a team-best 17.6 points, 8.3 assists, 3.5 rebounds and 2.6 steals in 36.9 minutes per game en route to helping K-State to a 26-win season.

The school’s single-season leader in total assists and steals, Nowell finished second nationally in assists/game (8.3 apg.), total assists (297) and total steals (92), while he ranked among the top-15 in 4 other categories.

Nowell finished his college career with a magical run through the NCAA Tournament in helping K-State advance to its 13th&nbsp;Elite Eight. He averaged 23.5 points, 13.5 assists and 4.0 steals during his 4-game NCAA Tournament run, including averaging 25 points and 15.5 assists in the games against Michigan State and Florida Atlantic en route to earning Most Outstanding Player honors for the NCAA East Regional.

The G League Camp has been a proving ground over the years, including 2022-23 Kia NBA G League Rookie of the Year and Memphis Grizzlies forward&nbsp;Kenneth Lofton Jr., New Orleans Pelicans guard&nbsp;Jose Alvarado, Indiana Pacers forward&nbsp;Oshae Brissett, L.A. Clippers guard&nbsp;Terance Mann&nbsp;and Miami Heat guard&nbsp;Max Strus.

K-State SportsMANHATTAN&nbsp;– Departing senior&nbsp;Markquis Nowell&nbsp;was recently selected among 45 prospects to attend the 2023 NBA G League Elite Camp, which is set for May 13-14 at Wintrust Arena in Chicago.The Bob Cousy Award winner will have an opportunity to display his skills in in front of NBA and NBA G League scouts, coaches and front-office executives over the course of the camp by playing in 5-on-5 games and participating in strength and agility drills.Based on their play, a select group of players from the camp will be invited to participate in the Microsoft Surface NBA Draft Combine 2023, which will be held May 15-21 at Wintrust Arena.Nowell will be joined at the camp by North Carolina’s&nbsp;Leaky Black, UCLA’s&nbsp;Tyger Campbell, Florida’s&nbsp;Colin Castleton, Detroit’s&nbsp;Antoine Davis, Memphis’&nbsp;Kendric Davis, Michigan State’s&nbsp;Joey Hauser, Missouri’s&nbsp;D’Moi Hodge, TCU’s&nbsp;Emanuel Miller&nbsp;and Texas’&nbsp;Sir’Jabari Rice&nbsp;among others.The 5-foot-7, 160-pound point guard from Harlem, N.Y., was named a Third Team All-American by The Associated Press,&nbsp;The Sporting News, NABC and USBWA after averaging a team-best 17.6 points, 8.3 assists, 3.5 rebounds and 2.6 steals in 36.9 minutes per game en route to helping K-State to a 26-win season.The school’s single-season leader in total assists and steals, Nowell finished second nationally in assists/game (8.3 apg.), total assists (297) and total steals (92), while he ranked among the top-15 in 4 other categories.Nowell finished his college career with a magical run through the NCAA Tournament in helping K-State advance to its 13th&nbsp;Elite Eight. He averaged 23.5 points, 13.5 assists and 4.0 steals during his 4-game NCAA Tournament run, including averaging 25 points and 15.5 assists in the games against Michigan State and Florida Atlantic en route to earning Most Outstanding Player honors for the NCAA East Regional.The G League Camp has been a proving ground over the years, including 2022-23 Kia NBA G League Rookie of the Year and Memphis Grizzlies forward&nbsp;Kenneth Lofton Jr., New Orleans Pelicans guard&nbsp;Jose Alvarado, Indiana Pacers forward&nbsp;Oshae Brissett, L.A. Clippers guard&nbsp;Terance Mann&nbsp;and Miami Heat guard&nbsp;Max Strus.

Nowell to attend 2023 NBA G League Elite Camp in Chicago

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - Kansas City Chiefs Head Coach Andy Reid and select players fielded media questions before Rookie Minicamp practice Monday. From <a href="https://www.facebook.com/KansasCityChiefs">The Kansas City Chiefs Facebook page</a>:

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - Kansas City Chiefs Head Coach Andy Reid and select players fielded media questions before Rookie Minicamp practice Monday. From <a href="https://www.facebook.com/KansasCityChiefs">The Kansas City Chiefs Facebook page</a>:<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=314&href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FKansasCityChiefs%2Fvideos%2F941040950433271%2F&show_text=false&width=560&t=0" width="560" height="314" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div>

🎥Chiefs' Reid, players field questions Monday

KANSAS CITY, Mo.—The Kansas City Royals announced this morning that they have acquired right-handed pitcher&nbsp;James McArthur&nbsp;from the Philadelphia Phillies for minor league outfielder&nbsp;Junior Marin&nbsp;and cash considerations. McArthur, 26, was designated for assignment by Philadelphia last Thursday. He will be optioned to Triple-A Omaha.

To make room for McArthur on the 40-man roster,&nbsp;Franmil Reyes&nbsp;was designated for assignment.

McArthur has made 5 appearances (4 starts) with Triple-A Lehigh Valley this season, after being limited to just 13 starts last year due to injury. He was selected to Philadelphia’s 40-man roster in November 2021, after recording a 4.25 ERA (37 ER in 78.1 IP) with 83 strikeouts (9.5 K/9) in 20 outings (15 starts) between High-A Jersey Shore and Double-A Reading.

A 12th-round pick by the Phillies in the 2018 First-Year Player Draft out of the University of Mississippi, the 6-foot-7 McArthur has recorded 289 strikeouts in 268.1 innings (9.7 K/9) over 73 appearances (51 starts) in his minor league career.

Marin, 19, signed with the Royals as an international free agent out of Venezuela in March 2021.

Reyes, 27, made the Royals Opening Day roster this season, but hit .186 (11-for-59) in 19 games before being optioned to Triple-A Omaha last Tuesday.

Kansas City RoyalsKANSAS CITY, Mo.—The Kansas City Royals announced this morning that they have acquired right-handed pitcher&nbsp;James McArthur&nbsp;from the Philadelphia Phillies for minor league outfielder&nbsp;Junior Marin&nbsp;and cash considerations. McArthur, 26, was designated for assignment by Philadelphia last Thursday. He will be optioned to Triple-A Omaha.To make room for McArthur on the 40-man roster,&nbsp;Franmil Reyes&nbsp;was designated for assignment.McArthur has made 5 appearances (4 starts) with Triple-A Lehigh Valley this season, after being limited to just 13 starts last year due to injury. He was selected to Philadelphia’s 40-man roster in November 2021, after recording a 4.25 ERA (37 ER in 78.1 IP) with 83 strikeouts (9.5 K/9) in 20 outings (15 starts) between High-A Jersey Shore and Double-A Reading.A 12th-round pick by the Phillies in the 2018 First-Year Player Draft out of the University of Mississippi, the 6-foot-7 McArthur has recorded 289 strikeouts in 268.1 innings (9.7 K/9) over 73 appearances (51 starts) in his minor league career.Marin, 19, signed with the Royals as an international free agent out of Venezuela in March 2021.Reyes, 27, made the Royals Opening Day roster this season, but hit .186 (11-for-59) in 19 games before being optioned to Triple-A Omaha last Tuesday.

Royals get RHP McArthur from Phillies for cash considerations

After a hard-fought first half, the Salina Liberty turned on the jets on Saturday, leaving Southwest Kansas in the dust in a 52-31 win over the Storm.

With this victory, the Liberty move to 6-2, having now won five of their last six league bouts, while the Storm fall to 2-6.

This win also secures Salina a spot in the top four of this year’s CIF playoffs, ensuring that the Liberty will at the very least host one postseason game at Tony’s Pizza Events Center.

After a strong performance in a non-league contest a week ago, the Liberty came into this one rested and ready, and wasted no time getting on the board as Ed Crouch found D-Wash on a fourth and seven to open the scoring.

Salina muted the Storm altogether until the second quarter, but Southwest Kansas battled back, as Josh Hollins walked in a touchdown from the goal line to even the score at 21-all going into the intermission.

From there, the Salina defense would tighten the screws, as the Liberty outscored their in-state foe 31-10 the rest of the way, cruising to their sixth win of the campaign by a 52-31 final.

Defensively, Salina did a much better job of corralling Josh Hollins, who ran wild on them in their first meeting, but mustered just three total touchdowns and a fumble in the rematch.

On offense, Ed Crouch continues to impress, completing 60% of his passes in this game for a trio of touchdowns including a pair to Anthony Love, and over 100 total yards on the day.

The Liberty will take a much-deserved bye week to rest up but will return to the gridiron for two final regular season games, hosting Sioux City on the 20th and traveling to Gillette on the 27th.

For continuing coverage of Liberty football all season long, stay tuned to the Salina, JC, and Little Apple Posts.

By TYLER HENRY Salina Post contributor<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1618021366432.png" alt="Coverage of Liberty football is presented by Ryan Roofing" />
 <figcaption>Coverage of Liberty football is presented by Ryan Roofing</figcaption>
 </figure>After a hard-fought first half, the Salina Liberty turned on the jets on Saturday, leaving Southwest Kansas in the dust in a 52-31 win over the Storm.With this victory, the Liberty move to 6-2, having now won five of their last six league bouts, while the Storm fall to 2-6.This win also secures Salina a spot in the top four of this year’s CIF playoffs, ensuring that the Liberty will at the very least host one postseason game at Tony’s Pizza Events Center.After a strong performance in a non-league contest a week ago, the Liberty came into this one rested and ready, and wasted no time getting on the board as Ed Crouch found D-Wash on a fourth and seven to open the scoring.Salina muted the Storm altogether until the second quarter, but Southwest Kansas battled back, as Josh Hollins walked in a touchdown from the goal line to even the score at 21-all going into the intermission.From there, the Salina defense would tighten the screws, as the Liberty outscored their in-state foe 31-10 the rest of the way, cruising to their sixth win of the campaign by a 52-31 final.Defensively, Salina did a much better job of corralling Josh Hollins, who ran wild on them in their first meeting, but mustered just three total touchdowns and a fumble in the rematch.On offense, Ed Crouch continues to impress, completing 60% of his passes in this game for a trio of touchdowns including a pair to Anthony Love, and over 100 total yards on the day.The Liberty will take a much-deserved bye week to rest up but will return to the gridiron for two final regular season games, hosting Sioux City on the 20th and traveling to Gillette on the 27th.For continuing coverage of Liberty football all season long, stay tuned to the Salina, JC, and Little Apple Posts.

Liberty complete sweep of Storm with 52-31 win

SEATTLE (AP) — Erik Thommy had a goal and an assist, Alan Pulido scored his first goal in nearly two years and Sporting Kansas City stunned the Western Conference-leading Seattle Sounders with a 2-1 victory on Sunday.

Sporting KC (1-7-3) picked up its first win of the season after entering play with just three points through its first 10 matches, equaling the worst start in league history. Sporting KC is also the first team with as many red cards (3) as goals through the first 10 matches.

Thommy provided an early spark for Sporting KC when he took passes from Gadi Kinda and Dániel Sallói in the 4th minute and scored for the first time this season. It was the first goal allowed by Stefan Frei and the Sounders in six home matches this season. Seattle tied a league record with five straight clean sheets at home to begin a season.

Thommy picked up an assist on a goal by Pulido in the 31st minute and Sporting KC took a 2-0 lead into halftime. It was Pulido's first goal in league play since scoring in a 2-0 victory over FC Dallas on August 14, 2021. Pulido missed all of last season with a knee injury.

The lone goal for Seattle (6-3-2) came on a penalty kick by Nicolás Lodeiro in the 66th minute.

Jordan Morris was held without a goal after scoring four times in the Sounders' 4-1 road win over Sporting KC in March. Morris is tied for the league lead with eight goals this season, although he hasn't found the net in six straight matches.

Both teams took 11 shots with Sporting KC holding a 5-3 edge in shots on goal.

Tim Melia finished with two saves for Sporting KC. Frei saved three shots for the Sounders.

The Sounders have only beaten Sporting KC in back-to-back matches once — a pair of 1-0 wins in the 2013-14 seasons.

Seattle travels to play the Houston Dynamo on Saturday. Sporting KC returns home to host Minnesota United on Saturday.

SEATTLE (AP) — Erik Thommy had a goal and an assist, Alan Pulido scored his first goal in nearly two years and Sporting Kansas City stunned the Western Conference-leading Seattle Sounders with a 2-1 victory on Sunday.Sporting KC (1-7-3) picked up its first win of the season after entering play with just three points through its first 10 matches, equaling the worst start in league history. Sporting KC is also the first team with as many red cards (3) as goals through the first 10 matches.Thommy provided an early spark for Sporting KC when he took passes from Gadi Kinda and Dániel Sallói in the 4th minute and scored for the first time this season. It was the first goal allowed by Stefan Frei and the Sounders in six home matches this season. Seattle tied a league record with five straight clean sheets at home to begin a season.Thommy picked up an assist on a goal by Pulido in the 31st minute and Sporting KC took a 2-0 lead into halftime. It was Pulido's first goal in league play since scoring in a 2-0 victory over FC Dallas on August 14, 2021. Pulido missed all of last season with a knee injury.The lone goal for Seattle (6-3-2) came on a penalty kick by Nicolás Lodeiro in the 66th minute.Jordan Morris was held without a goal after scoring four times in the Sounders' 4-1 road win over Sporting KC in March. Morris is tied for the league lead with eight goals this season, although he hasn't found the net in six straight matches.Both teams took 11 shots with Sporting KC holding a 5-3 edge in shots on goal.Tim Melia finished with two saves for Sporting KC. Frei saved three shots for the Sounders.The Sounders have only beaten Sporting KC in back-to-back matches once — a pair of 1-0 wins in the 2013-14 seasons.Seattle travels to play the Houston Dynamo on Saturday. Sporting KC returns home to host Minnesota United on Saturday.

Sporting KC beats Sounders 2-1 for first victory of season

KANSAS CITY, Kan. — Denny Hamlin had walked out of victory lane after winning a thrilling NASCAR Cup Series duel over Kyle Larson with a last-lap pass at Kansas Speedway on Sunday just in time to hear his crew chief, Chris Gabehart, make a bold proclamation.

"He's the most talented race car driver in the world," Gabehart was saying.

Awkward, because Gabehart wasn't talking about his own driver.

"Tells you what he thinks about me," Hamlin said with a wry grin.

Gabehart was talking about Larson, who was leading in the closing laps on a sizzling day in the heartland. But it was Hamlin who was better this time. He spent about 30 laps stalking Larson before making a couple of failed attempts at the lead in the closing laps. Finally, heading onto the backstretch on the final one, Hamlin pulled alongside Larson and made the slightest of contact, sending him bumping into the outside wall and giving Hamlin a clear path to the finish line.

The victory ended a 33-race winless drought for Hamlin dating to last year's Coca-Cola 600. And along with giving Hamlin a record fourth win at Kansas, it gave Joe Gibbs Racing its 400th win overall in NASCAR's top series.

"I was sideways. He was sideways. I knew it was going to be close whether he could clear me," Hamlin said. "I was grinding his left side, trying to keep the side-draft as much as I could. It's such a super-sensitive part and I hooked him at the end."

Hamlin said he planned to speak with Larson about the finish at some point.

"I was really loose," Larson said. "He was able to finally get my inside off two. It seemed he was side-drafting me aggressively. I don't know if he finally got me turned sideways, but turned me into the outside wall and he got the win."

So what does Gabehart think of his own driver?

"I'm so proud of Denny to work over — in my view — the most talented race car driver in the world," he said.

Larson finished second and William Byron, who was two laps down for more than 50 laps during the middle portion of the race, rallied to join his Hendrick Motorsports teammate in the top three. Bubba Wallace, who won the fall race at Kansas, was fourth while Ross Chastain rounded out the top five before tempers flew on pit road.

Chastain, who has drawn the ire of many drivers this season with his aggressiveness on the track, found himself in another heated confrontation Sunday. He had gotten into Noah Gragson with about 60 laps to go and sent him for a spin, and Gragson walked up to the Trackhouse Racing driver afterward to make his displeasure known.

Gragson put his hands on Chastain, who responded with a sweeping right hook that appeared to connect. Gragson tried to return the punch, but he was pulled away by security and NASCAR officials.

"I'm sick and tired of it," Gragson said of Chastain's driving style. "The guy runs into everyone. When you have guys like Chase Elliott and other guys telling you to beat his ass, everyone is just sick of him."

Chastain accepted some of the blame for the spin but didn't have much to say about the punch.

"I got tight off four for sure," Chastain said. "Noah and I have a very similar attitude on the race track. We train together, we prepare together, we know every little bit about each other. I definitely crowded him out of four."

Kyle Busch had railed against Chastain over the radio before crashing out of the race on a restart. Afterward, Busch seemed to take aim at the performance of the Next Gen car, which he said made it too difficult to pass.

"Not racing like it once used to be," he said after dropping an on-air expletive. "You're faster than a guy, you run him down three-tenths a lap and you stall when you get there. Part of it's the car. They can aero block you, pinch you, burn up your tires and do everything else to hold their position and then you get passed from behind. Very frustrating."

Hamlin took the opening stage for his second of the season, and Martin Truex Jr. finished second after his win in last Monday's rain-delayed race at Dover. The top four spots and six of the top seven in the stage belonged to Toyota.

The second stage ended in a mess when a caution flew and the leaders pit with eight laps to go. Joey Logano took the lead, tying the Kansas Speedway record with the 26th change in the race. And when the green flag dropped, Busch jammed behind a four-wide move and went for a spin, bringing out another caution and giving Logano the stage win.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683510689786.jpeg" alt="Denny Hamlin celebrates after winning a NASCAR Cup Series auto race at Kansas Speedway in Kansas City, Kan., Sunday. (AP Photo/Colin E. Braley)" />
 <figcaption>Denny Hamlin celebrates after winning a NASCAR Cup Series auto race at Kansas Speedway in Kansas City, Kan., Sunday. (AP Photo/Colin E. Braley)</figcaption>
 </figure>By DAVE SKRETTA AP Sports WriterKANSAS CITY, Kan. — Denny Hamlin had walked out of victory lane after winning a thrilling NASCAR Cup Series duel over Kyle Larson with a last-lap pass at Kansas Speedway on Sunday just in time to hear his crew chief, Chris Gabehart, make a bold proclamation."He's the most talented race car driver in the world," Gabehart was saying.Awkward, because Gabehart wasn't talking about his own driver."Tells you what he thinks about me," Hamlin said with a wry grin.Gabehart was talking about Larson, who was leading in the closing laps on a sizzling day in the heartland. But it was Hamlin who was better this time. He spent about 30 laps stalking Larson before making a couple of failed attempts at the lead in the closing laps. Finally, heading onto the backstretch on the final one, Hamlin pulled alongside Larson and made the slightest of contact, sending him bumping into the outside wall and giving Hamlin a clear path to the finish line.The victory ended a 33-race winless drought for Hamlin dating to last year's Coca-Cola 600. And along with giving Hamlin a record fourth win at Kansas, it gave Joe Gibbs Racing its 400th win overall in NASCAR's top series."I was sideways. He was sideways. I knew it was going to be close whether he could clear me," Hamlin said. "I was grinding his left side, trying to keep the side-draft as much as I could. It's such a super-sensitive part and I hooked him at the end."Hamlin said he planned to speak with Larson about the finish at some point."I was really loose," Larson said. "He was able to finally get my inside off two. It seemed he was side-drafting me aggressively. I don't know if he finally got me turned sideways, but turned me into the outside wall and he got the win."So what does Gabehart think of his own driver?"I'm so proud of Denny to work over — in my view — the most talented race car driver in the world," he said.Larson finished second and William Byron, who was two laps down for more than 50 laps during the middle portion of the race, rallied to join his Hendrick Motorsports teammate in the top three. Bubba Wallace, who won the fall race at Kansas, was fourth while Ross Chastain rounded out the top five before tempers flew on pit road.Chastain, who has drawn the ire of many drivers this season with his aggressiveness on the track, found himself in another heated confrontation Sunday. He had gotten into Noah Gragson with about 60 laps to go and sent him for a spin, and Gragson walked up to the Trackhouse Racing driver afterward to make his displeasure known.Gragson put his hands on Chastain, who responded with a sweeping right hook that appeared to connect. Gragson tried to return the punch, but he was pulled away by security and NASCAR officials."I'm sick and tired of it," Gragson said of Chastain's driving style. "The guy runs into everyone. When you have guys like Chase Elliott and other guys telling you to beat his ass, everyone is just sick of him."Chastain accepted some of the blame for the spin but didn't have much to say about the punch."I got tight off four for sure," Chastain said. "Noah and I have a very similar attitude on the race track. We train together, we prepare together, we know every little bit about each other. I definitely crowded him out of four."Kyle Busch had railed against Chastain over the radio before crashing out of the race on a restart. Afterward, Busch seemed to take aim at the performance of the Next Gen car, which he said made it too difficult to pass."Not racing like it once used to be," he said after dropping an on-air expletive. "You're faster than a guy, you run him down three-tenths a lap and you stall when you get there. Part of it's the car. They can aero block you, pinch you, burn up your tires and do everything else to hold their position and then you get passed from behind. Very frustrating."STAGE WINNERSHamlin took the opening stage for his second of the season, and Martin Truex Jr. finished second after his win in last Monday's rain-delayed race at Dover. The top four spots and six of the top seven in the stage belonged to Toyota.The second stage ended in a mess when a caution flew and the leaders pit with eight laps to go. Joey Logano took the lead, tying the Kansas Speedway record with the 26th change in the race. And when the green flag dropped, Busch jammed behind a four-wide move and went for a spin, bringing out another caution and giving Logano the stage win.PENALTY SITUATIONTyler Reddick's car failed inspection twice on Saturday, resulting in the ejection of car chief Michael Hobson, while Brennan Poole lost car chief Dave Jones when his car also failed twice. Ricky Stenhouse Jr. started at the back after having to change his water pump gauge and Corey LaJoie joined him in the rear after making some pre-race adjustments.UP NEXTNext week is the "Throwback Weekend" at Darlington, and it's increasingly become a family affair. Elliott's No. 9 car for Hendrick Motorsports will look like his father Bill Elliott's car from 2003; Ryan Blaney's No. 12 will pay homage to father Dave Blaney's old sprint car; and the No. 21 of Harrison Burton will look like father Jeff Burton's old paint scheme.