Track and field will be the focus for the Blue Jays and Lady Jays when they host the JCHS Invitational on Friday. In addition to Junction City other competing teams will participate from Manhattan, Flint Hills Christian, Great Bend, Hutchinson, Salina Central, Salina South and Tonganoxie. Competition begins at 3:30 p.m.

Track and field will be the focus for the Blue Jays and Lady Jays when they host the JCHS Invitational on Friday. In addition to Junction City other competing teams will participate from Manhattan, Flint Hills Christian, Great Bend, Hutchinson, Salina Central, Salina South and Tonganoxie. Competition begins at 3:30 p.m.

JCHS Invitational is set for Friday

MANHATTAN, Kan. (WIBW) - K-State Wildcats guard Nijel Pack has entered the transfer portal.

<a href="https://www.espn.com/" target="_blank">ESPN&nbsp;</a>college basketball insider Jeff Borzello reported on Thursday morning, March 31, that Kansas State Wildcats guard Nijel Pack has entered the transfer portal.

Borzello noted the addition to the transfer list is “huge” with Pack averaging 17.4 points and 3.8 rebounds. Pack also shoots 43.6% from the 3-point range.

Pack was honored as the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wibw.com/2022/03/07/kansas-kansas-state-players-given-conference-honors/" target="_blank">Big 12′s Most Improved Player&nbsp;</a>and was named to the All-Big 12 First Team.

&nbsp; On March 22,<a href="https://www.wibw.com/2022/03/23/k-states-nijel-pack-testing-nba-waters/" target="_blank">&nbsp;Pack had indicated&nbsp;</a>he would enter his name in the 2022 NBA draft.&nbsp;&nbsp;

By WIBW TVMANHATTAN, Kan. (WIBW) - K-State Wildcats guard Nijel Pack has entered the transfer portal.<a href="https://www.espn.com/" target="_blank">ESPN&nbsp;</a>college basketball insider Jeff Borzello reported on Thursday morning, March 31, that Kansas State Wildcats guard Nijel Pack has entered the transfer portal.Borzello noted the addition to the transfer list is “huge” with Pack averaging 17.4 points and 3.8 rebounds. Pack also shoots 43.6% from the 3-point range.Pack was honored as the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wibw.com/2022/03/07/kansas-kansas-state-players-given-conference-honors/" target="_blank">Big 12′s Most Improved Player&nbsp;</a>and was named to the All-Big 12 First Team.&nbsp; On March 22,<a href="https://www.wibw.com/2022/03/23/k-states-nijel-pack-testing-nba-waters/" target="_blank">&nbsp;Pack had indicated&nbsp;</a>he would enter his name in the 2022 NBA draft.&nbsp;&nbsp;

K-State's Nijel Pack enters the transfer portal

TOPEKA, Kan. (WIBW) - Two more K-State basketball players have entered the transfer portal.

The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansas.com/sports/college/big-12/kansas-state/article259919645.html" target="_blank">Wichita Eagle reports</a>&nbsp;that Luke Kasubke and Carlton Linguard are both entering the transfer portal.

The pair join Miguel Selton, who entered the portal last week, as the third Wildcat to look for a transfer since the hiring of new coach Jerome Tang.

The team will also miss Nijel Pack, who last week announced his plans to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wibw.com/2022/03/23/k-states-nijel-pack-testing-nba-waters/" target="_blank">enter the NBA draft</a>.

By WIBW TVTOPEKA, Kan. (WIBW) - Two more K-State basketball players have entered the transfer portal.The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansas.com/sports/college/big-12/kansas-state/article259919645.html" target="_blank">Wichita Eagle reports</a>&nbsp;that Luke Kasubke and Carlton Linguard are both entering the transfer portal.The pair join Miguel Selton, who entered the portal last week, as the third Wildcat to look for a transfer since the hiring of new coach Jerome Tang.The team will also miss Nijel Pack, who last week announced his plans to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wibw.com/2022/03/23/k-states-nijel-pack-testing-nba-waters/" target="_blank">enter the NBA draft</a>.

Two more KSU players will enter the transfer portal

MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;– First-year Kansas State head coach&nbsp;Jerome Tang&nbsp;continued to build out his coaching staff on Wednesday (March 30) with the addition of veteran head coach&nbsp;Marco Borne&nbsp;as his Chief of Staff.

<a></a><a>“Much like Jareem (Dowling), Marco is another great addition to the staff and I’m excited to welcome him and his wife Genean to K-State,” said Tang. “He is someone that I have known for a long time, having recruited high school players in both Texas and Louisiana where Marco has coached extensively over the last 20 years. His experience as a head coach at both the high school and NAIA levels as well as his time with the Haitian Junior and National Teams will be a huge asset to me as I transition to being a head coach for the first time at the college level.”&nbsp;</a>

Borne is the second announced member of Tang’s inaugural coaching staff at K-State, as&nbsp;Jareem Dowling&nbsp;was named an assistant coach on Tuesday (March 29).

MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;– First-year Kansas State head coach&nbsp;Jerome Tang&nbsp;continued to build out his coaching staff on Wednesday (March 30) with the addition of veteran head coach&nbsp;Marco Borne&nbsp;as his Chief of Staff.<a></a><a>“Much like Jareem (Dowling), Marco is another great addition to the staff and I’m excited to welcome him and his wife Genean to K-State,” said Tang. “He is someone that I have known for a long time, having recruited high school players in both Texas and Louisiana where Marco has coached extensively over the last 20 years. His experience as a head coach at both the high school and NAIA levels as well as his time with the Haitian Junior and National Teams will be a huge asset to me as I transition to being a head coach for the first time at the college level.”&nbsp;</a>Borne is the second announced member of Tang’s inaugural coaching staff at K-State, as&nbsp;Jareem Dowling&nbsp;was named an assistant coach on Tuesday (March 29).

Tang Selects Marco Borne as Chief of Staff

WICHITA –&nbsp;For the third time in as many Kansas Conference matches the Kansas Wesleyan men's tennis team has beaten a team 7-0. The Coyotes bested the Falcons to improve to 3-0 in the KCAC on Tuesday at Riverside Tennis Complex.

Doubles play was a clean sweep for the Coyotes to earn the point.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/23/8/12994">Daniel Harkin</a>&nbsp;(FR/Manhattan) and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/23/8/12996">Alex Sherer</a>&nbsp;(FR/Rossville) won over Franco Iozzo and Hugo Prats Nicholas 6-3 at No. 1,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/23/8/12995">Bryce Ware</a>&nbsp;(FR/Amarillo, Texas) and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/23/8/12997">Garrison Wright</a>&nbsp;(FR/Maize) beat Kerry Dunn and Christian Martin 6-0 at No. 2 and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/23/8/12998">Braeden Lewis</a>&nbsp;(FR/Edmond, Okla.) and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/23/8/12999">Luke Craft</a>&nbsp;(FR/Manhattan) beat Jonah Schoneger and Nathan Watson 6-4.

In singles, KWU went 6-0 as well. Harkin beat Prats Nicolas 6-7, 6-4, 10-4 at No. 1. Ware beat Dunn 6-1, 6-2 at No. 2, Sherer beat Iozzo 6-4 6-1 at No. 3, Wright beat Martin 6-0, 6-0 at No. 4,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/23/8/12373">Rodrigo Vera</a>&nbsp;(SR/Lima, Peru) beat Watson 6-3, 6-3 at No. 5 and Lewis beat Ethan Chouinard 6-3, 6-1 at No. 6.

KWU returns to action on Saturday at Tabor.

-<a href="http://kwucoyotes.com">kwucoyotes.com</a>-

KWU AthleticsWICHITA –&nbsp;For the third time in as many Kansas Conference matches the Kansas Wesleyan men's tennis team has beaten a team 7-0. The Coyotes bested the Falcons to improve to 3-0 in the KCAC on Tuesday at Riverside Tennis Complex.Doubles play was a clean sweep for the Coyotes to earn the point.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/23/8/12994">Daniel Harkin</a>&nbsp;(FR/Manhattan) and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/23/8/12996">Alex Sherer</a>&nbsp;(FR/Rossville) won over Franco Iozzo and Hugo Prats Nicholas 6-3 at No. 1,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/23/8/12995">Bryce Ware</a>&nbsp;(FR/Amarillo, Texas) and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/23/8/12997">Garrison Wright</a>&nbsp;(FR/Maize) beat Kerry Dunn and Christian Martin 6-0 at No. 2 and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/23/8/12998">Braeden Lewis</a>&nbsp;(FR/Edmond, Okla.) and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/23/8/12999">Luke Craft</a>&nbsp;(FR/Manhattan) beat Jonah Schoneger and Nathan Watson 6-4.In singles, KWU went 6-0 as well. Harkin beat Prats Nicolas 6-7, 6-4, 10-4 at No. 1. Ware beat Dunn 6-1, 6-2 at No. 2, Sherer beat Iozzo 6-4 6-1 at No. 3, Wright beat Martin 6-0, 6-0 at No. 4,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/23/8/12373">Rodrigo Vera</a>&nbsp;(SR/Lima, Peru) beat Watson 6-3, 6-3 at No. 5 and Lewis beat Ethan Chouinard 6-3, 6-1 at No. 6.KWU returns to action on Saturday at Tabor.-<a href="http://kwucoyotes.com">kwucoyotes.com</a>-

Manhattan's Harkin, Craft continue to help KWU tennis win

LAWRENCE, Kan. (AP) — The 2020 Kansas team may have been the best coach Bill Self has ever put together. It never had a chance to prove it because the NCAA Tournament was canceled in the pandemic. Two years later, a few members of that team are headed to the Final Four with a chance to win it all. There are also veteran players on Duke, North Carolina and Villanova getting the same chance. Kansas and Villanova face each other on Saturday night in the national semifinals at the Superdome.

LAWRENCE, Kan. (AP) — The 2020 Kansas team may have been the best coach Bill Self has ever put together. It never had a chance to prove it because the NCAA Tournament was canceled in the pandemic. Two years later, a few members of that team are headed to the Final Four with a chance to win it all. There are also veteran players on Duke, North Carolina and Villanova getting the same chance. Kansas and Villanova face each other on Saturday night in the national semifinals at the Superdome.

Veteran players get an opportunity in the NCAA Tournament

MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;– Newly-minted Kansas State head coach&nbsp;Jerome Tang&nbsp;announced the first member of his coaching staff on Tuesday (March 29) with the addition of&nbsp;Jareem Dowling&nbsp;as assistant coach.

<a>“Jareem is an outstanding addition to the staff and I’m excited to welcome him, his wife Cierra and daughter Laiya to K-State,” said Tang. “I have known Jareem for a long time, and I always envisioned him as part of my staff when I became a head coach. He has extensive experience at nearly every level of basketball, both in college and internationally, including an incredible run at North Texas with&nbsp;Grant McCasland&nbsp;the past five years. He fits in perfectly with the rest of the staff and I can’t wait for us to get started.”</a>

An assistant coach with 16 years of experience as well as 12 years of international head coaching experience, Dowling arrives at K-State after spending the last six seasons on staff with McCasland at both Arkansas State (2016-17) and North Texas (2017-22). In addition to his time with the Red Wolves and Mean Green, he has also been an assistant at the NJCAA level at Cecil College in Maryland (2005-08), the Division II level at Slippery Rock (2008-11) as well as Morehead State (2011-12) and Southern Miss (2012-15).

Dowling also brings extensive international experience having served as the head coach for the U.S. Virgin Islands Junior National Team as well as an assistant coach on the Senior National Team since 2007. During his time with the junior team, he has guided them to two silver medals (2008 U16 Centrobasket and 2015 U17 Centrobasket) and two bronze medals (2009 and 2011 U17 Centrobasket) at international competitions.

Dowling has been a part of coaching staffs that have won 361 games – averaging nearly 23 wins per season in his coaching career – and advanced to the postseason on nine occasions, including the 2006 NJCAA Division II National Championship, three trips to the NIT (2013, 2014, 2022) and a memorable run to the Second Round of the 2021 NCAA Tournament with North Texas. He has also helped teams to 12 seasons of at least 20 wins, including three 30-win campaigns, and collect four conference titles (2014, 2020, 2021, 2022).

In addition, Dowling has head coaching experience at the prep school level, guiding Scotland Performance Institute in Scotland, Pennsylvania to 19 wins in 2015-16.

“In this new chapter of my life, I’m excited to work for a proven winner in Coach Tang,” said Dowling. “He has been remarkably successful as a head high school coach and has been instrumental in building of one of the top basketball programs in the entire nation as the top assistant for the Baylor Bears. More importantly, he has been a role model for me ever since we met several years ago. He is a man of God, his faith, the way he lives his life has helped me become a better man, husband and father. I’m looking forward to our journey together as we chance and compete for championships.”

Dowling has been praised for his abilities to recruit at a high level especially at North Texas, where he played a significant role in the recruitment of&nbsp;Javion Hamlet, the 2020 C-USA Player of the Year and Male Student-Athlete of the Year as well as 2021 C-USA Tournament MVP, as well as&nbsp;Roosevelt Smart, who became the program’s single-season scoring record holder with 742 points (19.5 ppg.) in 2017-18. This past season, four Mean Green players earned All-Conference USA honors, including Newcomer of the Year and First Team selection&nbsp;Tylor Perry.

Dowling just completed a five-year stint (2017-22) at North Texas, where he helped the Mean Green set the school single-season records for overall wins (25) and conference wins (16) en route to collecting a third consecutive Conference USA Championship in 2021-22. In addition, the team ended the season with the nation’s best scoring defense (55.7 ppg.), which was the best such mark in Conference USA history.

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

MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;– Newly-minted Kansas State head coach&nbsp;Jerome Tang&nbsp;announced the first member of his coaching staff on Tuesday (March 29) with the addition of&nbsp;Jareem Dowling&nbsp;as assistant coach.<a>“Jareem is an outstanding addition to the staff and I’m excited to welcome him, his wife Cierra and daughter Laiya to K-State,” said Tang. “I have known Jareem for a long time, and I always envisioned him as part of my staff when I became a head coach. He has extensive experience at nearly every level of basketball, both in college and internationally, including an incredible run at North Texas with&nbsp;Grant McCasland&nbsp;the past five years. He fits in perfectly with the rest of the staff and I can’t wait for us to get started.”</a>An assistant coach with 16 years of experience as well as 12 years of international head coaching experience, Dowling arrives at K-State after spending the last six seasons on staff with McCasland at both Arkansas State (2016-17) and North Texas (2017-22). In addition to his time with the Red Wolves and Mean Green, he has also been an assistant at the NJCAA level at Cecil College in Maryland (2005-08), the Division II level at Slippery Rock (2008-11) as well as Morehead State (2011-12) and Southern Miss (2012-15).Dowling also brings extensive international experience having served as the head coach for the U.S. Virgin Islands Junior National Team as well as an assistant coach on the Senior National Team since 2007. During his time with the junior team, he has guided them to two silver medals (2008 U16 Centrobasket and 2015 U17 Centrobasket) and two bronze medals (2009 and 2011 U17 Centrobasket) at international competitions.Dowling has been a part of coaching staffs that have won 361 games – averaging nearly 23 wins per season in his coaching career – and advanced to the postseason on nine occasions, including the 2006 NJCAA Division II National Championship, three trips to the NIT (2013, 2014, 2022) and a memorable run to the Second Round of the 2021 NCAA Tournament with North Texas. He has also helped teams to 12 seasons of at least 20 wins, including three 30-win campaigns, and collect four conference titles (2014, 2020, 2021, 2022).In addition, Dowling has head coaching experience at the prep school level, guiding Scotland Performance Institute in Scotland, Pennsylvania to 19 wins in 2015-16.“In this new chapter of my life, I’m excited to work for a proven winner in Coach Tang,” said Dowling. “He has been remarkably successful as a head high school coach and has been instrumental in building of one of the top basketball programs in the entire nation as the top assistant for the Baylor Bears. More importantly, he has been a role model for me ever since we met several years ago. He is a man of God, his faith, the way he lives his life has helped me become a better man, husband and father. I’m looking forward to our journey together as we chance and compete for championships.”Dowling has been praised for his abilities to recruit at a high level especially at North Texas, where he played a significant role in the recruitment of&nbsp;Javion Hamlet, the 2020 C-USA Player of the Year and Male Student-Athlete of the Year as well as 2021 C-USA Tournament MVP, as well as&nbsp;Roosevelt Smart, who became the program’s single-season scoring record holder with 742 points (19.5 ppg.) in 2017-18. This past season, four Mean Green players earned All-Conference USA honors, including Newcomer of the Year and First Team selection&nbsp;Tylor Perry.Dowling just completed a five-year stint (2017-22) at North Texas, where he helped the Mean Green set the school single-season records for overall wins (25) and conference wins (16) en route to collecting a third consecutive Conference USA Championship in 2021-22. In addition, the team ended the season with the nation’s best scoring defense (55.7 ppg.), which was the best such mark in Conference USA history.TOM GILBERT Director for Men’s Basketball Communications | K-State Athletics&nbsp;&nbsp;

Tang Names Jareem Dowling as Assistant Coach

Kansas Wesleyan's&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/23/8/12994">Daniel Harkin</a>&nbsp;(FR/Manhattan, Kan.) posted a 2-0 record in singles and a 2-0 record in doubles to earn KCAC Men's Tennis Player of the Week honors as selected by conference sports information directors.

Harkin had a great week for the Coyotes. He went 2-0 at both singles and doubles on the week.

He had a huge win in singles over Oklahoma Wesleyan's Jose Catala in three sets. Then, he teamed up with&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/23/8/12996">Alex Sherer</a>&nbsp;(FR/Rossville, Kan.) to beat Jose Catala and Jose Catala Ortiz in doubles 6-3.

On Saturday, he beat Hash from Sterling 6-0, 6-1, then teamed up with Sherer in doubles again to beat Lee and Hash 6-1.

Harkin is 3-4 this spring in singles and 3-4 in doubles, but has won three straight matches. He's helped the Coyotes to a 3-5 record overall in spring duals and a 2-0 Kansas Conference mark.

The Coyotes take on Friends on Tuesday in Wichita.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1648577919780.jpeg" alt="Image courtesy <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com">kwucoyotes.com</a>" />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com">kwucoyotes.com</a></figcaption>
 </figure>KWU AthleticsKansas Wesleyan's&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/23/8/12994">Daniel Harkin</a>&nbsp;(FR/Manhattan, Kan.) posted a 2-0 record in singles and a 2-0 record in doubles to earn KCAC Men's Tennis Player of the Week honors as selected by conference sports information directors.Harkin had a great week for the Coyotes. He went 2-0 at both singles and doubles on the week.He had a huge win in singles over Oklahoma Wesleyan's Jose Catala in three sets. Then, he teamed up with&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/23/8/12996">Alex Sherer</a>&nbsp;(FR/Rossville, Kan.) to beat Jose Catala and Jose Catala Ortiz in doubles 6-3.On Saturday, he beat Hash from Sterling 6-0, 6-1, then teamed up with Sherer in doubles again to beat Lee and Hash 6-1.Harkin is 3-4 this spring in singles and 3-4 in doubles, but has won three straight matches. He's helped the Coyotes to a 3-5 record overall in spring duals and a 2-0 Kansas Conference mark.The Coyotes take on Friends on Tuesday in Wichita.-<a href="http://kwucoyotes.com">kwucoyotes.com</a>-

KWU's Harkin KCAC Men's Tennis Player of the Week

Duke and North Carolina are likely to get the most attention going into the men's Final Four this weekend. Yet the most dominant team so far in the NCAA Tournament just might be Kansas. The Jayhawks have dominated two of their four games, including a regional final win over Miami. They are also the only No. 1 seed left in the tournament. Kansas will play Villanova on Saturday. The winner advances to next Monday night's title game.

Duke and North Carolina are likely to get the most attention going into the men's Final Four this weekend. Yet the most dominant team so far in the NCAA Tournament just might be Kansas. The Jayhawks have dominated two of their four games, including a regional final win over Miami. They are also the only No. 1 seed left in the tournament. Kansas will play Villanova on Saturday. The winner advances to next Monday night's title game.

Jayhawks are the lone No. 1 seed left in the NCAA Tournament

CHICAGO (AP) — Ochai Agbaji, David McCormack and Christian Braun powered a dazzling second half for Kansas, and the top-seeded Jayhawks pounded Miami 76-50 to advance to the program’s 16th Final Four. Agbaji scored 18 points, McCormack had 15 and Braun finished with 12, helping Kansas rally after a lackluster start. The Jayhawks trailed by six points at halftime but outscored Miami 47-15 in the final 20 minutes. Kansas is the only No. 1 seed left in the NCAA Tournament. The Jayhawks won the Midwest Region for the 13th time with their ninth consecutive victory overall. Next up is the national semifinals and a matchup with Villanova on Saturday in New Orleans.

CHICAGO (AP) — Ochai Agbaji, David McCormack and Christian Braun powered a dazzling second half for Kansas, and the top-seeded Jayhawks pounded Miami 76-50 to advance to the program’s 16th Final Four. Agbaji scored 18 points, McCormack had 15 and Braun finished with 12, helping Kansas rally after a lackluster start. The Jayhawks trailed by six points at halftime but outscored Miami 47-15 in the final 20 minutes. Kansas is the only No. 1 seed left in the NCAA Tournament. The Jayhawks won the Midwest Region for the 13th time with their ninth consecutive victory overall. Next up is the national semifinals and a matchup with Villanova on Saturday in New Orleans.

Kansas will go to the Final Four

By TYLER HENRY Little Apple Post contributor

The CIF championship rematch did not disappoint, but at the final whistle, it was the Liberty who squeaked out a 36-31 win at home over the defending champion Omaha Beef.

“It feels great, especially with all the adversity we went through before the game,” Liberty HC Heron O’Neal said. “Our defense made big plays when we needed them and I love the way our offensive line rebounded late.”

Tyrie Adams started the fireworks with a six-yard touchdown run to cap off the first drive of the game, but Omaha would fire back with a connection from Andrew Jackson to Tyler Jones to even the score at 6.

From there, both defenses stepped up their game as the two teams combined for just three more touchdowns before the intermission, with the Beef holding a narrow 19-16 lead into the half.

Out of the break, it was Omaha who delivered the first blow on a strike from Jackson to Alex Noble.

Tre Griffin would get those six back on a goal-line rushing touchdown but Jackson responded in kind with a QB sneak to give Omaha their biggest lead of the game up 31-23 in the fourth quarter.

The Liberty, feeling the pressure of a late deficit, went to work on offense as Tyrie Adams manufactured another big drive, finishing the job with a five-yard connection to Ed Smith to claw within two.

That touchdown was a shot in the arm not only for the players on the field, but for the fans in the stands who rattled the usually up-tempo Omaha offense late.

“The crowd was amazing. All the false starts, all the burned timeouts, I don’t know what the numbers were but this was the best crowd we’ve ever had,” O’Neal said. “I love how we’re growing in this community and how involved they get in these games.”

Up until this point, Andrew Jackson had been on his game but as the Omaha quarterback looked to put the game out of reach, veteran DB Kendrick Harper snatched a pass out of the air to give the Liberty life with 6:18 to play.

Adams got to work again and this time it was Tre Griffin who finished the job on a 15-yard scamper to the house to put Salina on top 36-31.

With one final shot at reclaiming the lead, the Omaha offense took to the field, but Andrew Jackson would be picked off again, this time by Dewayne Autry, and two more first downs would secure the victory for Salina.

The Liberty move to 2-0 and are one of just two remaining undefeated teams in the league after a chaotic three weeks of play.

Salina will be back in action to take on the Arlington Longhorns next Saturday, for tickets click <a href="https://salinaliberty.com/">HERE</a>.

By TYLER HENRY Little Apple Post contributor<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1617387097958.png" alt="Coverage of Salina Liberty football is presented by Ryan Roofing" />
 <figcaption>Coverage of Salina Liberty football is presented by Ryan Roofing</figcaption>
 </figure>The CIF championship rematch did not disappoint, but at the final whistle, it was the Liberty who squeaked out a 36-31 win at home over the defending champion Omaha Beef.“It feels great, especially with all the adversity we went through before the game,” Liberty HC Heron O’Neal said. “Our defense made big plays when we needed them and I love the way our offensive line rebounded late.”Tyrie Adams started the fireworks with a six-yard touchdown run to cap off the first drive of the game, but Omaha would fire back with a connection from Andrew Jackson to Tyler Jones to even the score at 6.From there, both defenses stepped up their game as the two teams combined for just three more touchdowns before the intermission, with the Beef holding a narrow 19-16 lead into the half.Out of the break, it was Omaha who delivered the first blow on a strike from Jackson to Alex Noble.Tre Griffin would get those six back on a goal-line rushing touchdown but Jackson responded in kind with a QB sneak to give Omaha their biggest lead of the game up 31-23 in the fourth quarter.The Liberty, feeling the pressure of a late deficit, went to work on offense as Tyrie Adams manufactured another big drive, finishing the job with a five-yard connection to Ed Smith to claw within two.That touchdown was a shot in the arm not only for the players on the field, but for the fans in the stands who rattled the usually up-tempo Omaha offense late.“The crowd was amazing. All the false starts, all the burned timeouts, I don’t know what the numbers were but this was the best crowd we’ve ever had,” O’Neal said. “I love how we’re growing in this community and how involved they get in these games.”Up until this point, Andrew Jackson had been on his game but as the Omaha quarterback looked to put the game out of reach, veteran DB Kendrick Harper snatched a pass out of the air to give the Liberty life with 6:18 to play.Adams got to work again and this time it was Tre Griffin who finished the job on a 15-yard scamper to the house to put Salina on top 36-31.With one final shot at reclaiming the lead, the Omaha offense took to the field, but Andrew Jackson would be picked off again, this time by Dewayne Autry, and two more first downs would secure the victory for Salina.The Liberty move to 2-0 and are one of just two remaining undefeated teams in the league after a chaotic three weeks of play.Salina will be back in action to take on the Arlington Longhorns next Saturday, for tickets click <a href="https://salinaliberty.com/">HERE</a>.

Fourth quarter comeback pushes Liberty past Beef

Kansas Wesleyan men's tennis picked up its second Kansas Conference sweep in as many days as the Coyotes picked up a 7-0 win over the Sterling College Warriors on Saturday at Salina Central High School.

The Coyotes won all three doubles matches as&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/23/8/12994">Daniel Harkin</a>&nbsp;(FR/Manhattan, Kan.) and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/23/8/12996">Alex Sherer</a>&nbsp;(FR/Rossville, Kan.) beat Hunter Lee and Zach Hash 6-1;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/23/8/12995">Bryce Ware</a>&nbsp;(FR/Amarillo, Texas) and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/23/8/12997">Garrison Wright</a>&nbsp;(FR/Maize, Kan.) beat Kyle Redmon and Alejandro Castillo 6-2; and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/23/8/12999">Luke Craft</a>&nbsp;(FR/Manhattan, Kan.) and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/23/8/12998">Braeden Lewis</a>&nbsp;(FR/Edmond, Okla.) beat Jayce Blede and Kamran Jones 6-0.

Harkin beat Hash 6-0, 6-1; Ware beat Lee 6-1, 6-0; Sherer beat Redmon 6-0, 6-0; Wright beat Castillo 6-0, 6-2;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/23/8/12373">Rodrigo Vera</a>&nbsp;(SR/Lima, Peru) beat Blede 6-0, 6-2; and Craft beat Jones 6-2, 6-3.

The Coyotes are back in action on Wednesday at Friends, and at Tabor on Saturday.

-<a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/">kwucoyotes.com</a>-

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1648398720712.jpeg" alt="&nbsp; KWU men's tennis photo courtesy&nbsp;<a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/">kwucoyotes.com</a>" />
 <figcaption>&nbsp; KWU men's tennis photo courtesy&nbsp;<a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/">kwucoyotes.com</a></figcaption>
 </figure>KWU AthleticsKansas Wesleyan men's tennis picked up its second Kansas Conference sweep in as many days as the Coyotes picked up a 7-0 win over the Sterling College Warriors on Saturday at Salina Central High School.The Coyotes won all three doubles matches as&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/23/8/12994">Daniel Harkin</a>&nbsp;(FR/Manhattan, Kan.) and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/23/8/12996">Alex Sherer</a>&nbsp;(FR/Rossville, Kan.) beat Hunter Lee and Zach Hash 6-1;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/23/8/12995">Bryce Ware</a>&nbsp;(FR/Amarillo, Texas) and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/23/8/12997">Garrison Wright</a>&nbsp;(FR/Maize, Kan.) beat Kyle Redmon and Alejandro Castillo 6-2; and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/23/8/12999">Luke Craft</a>&nbsp;(FR/Manhattan, Kan.) and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/23/8/12998">Braeden Lewis</a>&nbsp;(FR/Edmond, Okla.) beat Jayce Blede and Kamran Jones 6-0.At singles, KWU won all six matches.Harkin beat Hash 6-0, 6-1; Ware beat Lee 6-1, 6-0; Sherer beat Redmon 6-0, 6-0; Wright beat Castillo 6-0, 6-2;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/23/8/12373">Rodrigo Vera</a>&nbsp;(SR/Lima, Peru) beat Blede 6-0, 6-2; and Craft beat Jones 6-2, 6-3.The Coyotes are back in action on Wednesday at Friends, and at Tabor on Saturday.-<a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/">kwucoyotes.com</a>-

Manhattan's Harkin, Craft help KWU to sweep of Sterling

CHICAGO (AP) — Miami coach Jim Larrañaga has another double-digit seed on the brink of the Final Four. Standing in his way is Kansas and Bill Self, another highly successful coach looking to make his own history. Larrañaga and Self have never faced off as head coaches, but that changes Sunday when the 10th-seeded Hurricanes and top-seeded Jayhawks meet in the Elite Eight. Larrañaga directed 11th-seeded George Mason to a memorable Final Four run in 2006. Self is looking for his first Final Four since 2018 and No. 4 overall in 19 seasons at Kansas.

CHICAGO (AP) — Miami coach Jim Larrañaga has another double-digit seed on the brink of the Final Four. Standing in his way is Kansas and Bill Self, another highly successful coach looking to make his own history. Larrañaga and Self have never faced off as head coaches, but that changes Sunday when the 10th-seeded Hurricanes and top-seeded Jayhawks meet in the Elite Eight. Larrañaga directed 11th-seeded George Mason to a memorable Final Four run in 2006. Self is looking for his first Final Four since 2018 and No. 4 overall in 19 seasons at Kansas.

Miami and Kansas will meet in Elite Eight

Kansas Wesleyan Men's Tennis opened its Kansas Conference schedule on Friday with a 7-0 win over Oklahoma Wesleyan at The Pines Tennis Courts in Salina.

KWU swept the doubles matches to win the doubles point.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/23/8/12994">Daniel Harkin</a>&nbsp;(FR/Manhattan) and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/23/8/12996">Alex Sherer</a>&nbsp;(FR/Rossville) beat Jose Catala and Jorge Catala Ortiz 6-3 at No. 1;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/23/8/12995">Bryce Ware</a>&nbsp;(FR/Amarillo, Texas) and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/23/8/12997">Garrison Wright</a>&nbsp;(FR/Maize) beat Logan Reece and Clement Martin 6-2 at No. 2 and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/23/8/12999">Luke Craft</a>&nbsp;(FR/Manhattan) and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/23/8/12998">Braeden Lewis</a>&nbsp;(FR/Edmond, Okla.) beat Brenner McDougal and Adam Spencer 6-0 at No. 3.

In singles, KWU won all six matches. Harkin beat Catala 7-6, 4-6, 6-4 at No. 1. Ware beat Martin 6-4, 6-1 at No. 2. Sherer beat Catala Ortiz 7-5, 6-1 at No. 3. Wright beat McDougal 6-1, 6-0 at No. 4.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/23/8/12373">Rodrigo Vera</a>&nbsp;(SR/Lima, Peru) beat Spencer 8-2; and Lewis beat Reece 8-2.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1648339684722.jpeg" alt="Photo courtesy&nbsp;<a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/">kwucoyotes.com</a>" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy&nbsp;<a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/">kwucoyotes.com</a></figcaption>
 </figure>KWU AthleticsKansas Wesleyan Men's Tennis opened its Kansas Conference schedule on Friday with a 7-0 win over Oklahoma Wesleyan at The Pines Tennis Courts in Salina.KWU swept the doubles matches to win the doubles point.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/23/8/12994">Daniel Harkin</a>&nbsp;(FR/Manhattan) and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/23/8/12996">Alex Sherer</a>&nbsp;(FR/Rossville) beat Jose Catala and Jorge Catala Ortiz 6-3 at No. 1;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/23/8/12995">Bryce Ware</a>&nbsp;(FR/Amarillo, Texas) and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/23/8/12997">Garrison Wright</a>&nbsp;(FR/Maize) beat Logan Reece and Clement Martin 6-2 at No. 2 and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/23/8/12999">Luke Craft</a>&nbsp;(FR/Manhattan) and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/23/8/12998">Braeden Lewis</a>&nbsp;(FR/Edmond, Okla.) beat Brenner McDougal and Adam Spencer 6-0 at No. 3.In singles, KWU won all six matches. Harkin beat Catala 7-6, 4-6, 6-4 at No. 1. Ware beat Martin 6-4, 6-1 at No. 2. Sherer beat Catala Ortiz 7-5, 6-1 at No. 3. Wright beat McDougal 6-1, 6-0 at No. 4.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/23/8/12373">Rodrigo Vera</a>&nbsp;(SR/Lima, Peru) beat Spencer 8-2; and Lewis beat Reece 8-2.

2 from Manhattan pick up wins for Kansas Wesleyan tennis

By TYLER HENRY Little Apple Post contributor

Fans of the Champions Indoor Football League won’t be kept waiting long for a championship rematch as the Salina Liberty open the home portion of their schedule hosting the reigning champion Omaha Beef in week three.

Saturday’s primetime matchup sees both teams returning to form at 1-0 after the Liberty took care of the Tropics 54-33 and the Beef weathered the Storm 36-18 but only one can remain undefeated after Saturday.

While the memories of that final 2021 game remain on the minds of the Liberty, Salina’s focus is the same this week as it has been and will be in any other week in the regular season.

“This can’t be a revenge game because we’re not playing them in the game that means something,” Liberty HC Heron O’Neal said. “This is just a regular-season opponent and they’re the defending champs but you don’t get any more points for winning this one than you would for winning any other game this time of year.”

While the Salina offense picked up right where it left off last week, the defense and special teams stumbled out of the gates, and the Liberty hope the momentum those groups found in the second half can translate to the start of this contest.

“We need to get off to a better start on defense and our special teams need to improve with our returns,” O’Neal said. “We’re looking for more explosiveness and our defense needs to be more consistent overall as we continue to do what we do offensively.”

This game will feature one of the best quarterback duels in the league as reigning Rookie of the Year Tyrie Adams will go toe to toe with Andrew Jackson.&nbsp;

The two have combined for over 300 yards through the air this season and sit second and third in the league in that respect through one game.

“Andrew Jackson is the driving force to what they’re doing offensively and it looks like he’s the one calling a lot of their plays on the field,” he said. “He’s going to be a focal point for us and what we can do to contain him will determine how successful we are this week.”

On the flipside, the Liberty will need to be on their A-Game against one of the best secondaries in the league after struggling to post their usual 40+ against the Beef last season.

“Our offense has to continue to score points against this team,” O’Neal said. “The last two times out we haven’t been able to put up more than 39 and we have to get back to understanding what they want to do to us and taking advantage of that.”

With two high-flying offenses and two ball-hawking secondaries, the stage is set for one of the most exciting games of the year, and for early season supremacy between two of the league's preseason front runners.

“You know they’re going to throw the football 40 times a game and it’s easier said than done but you have to find a way to stop that,” he said. “They didn’t bring Jackson in to hand off the football and I think the battle between both sets of receivers and defensive backs will determine who wins this ballgame.”

Kickoff between the Liberty and Beef is scheduled for 6:35 PM at Tony’s Pizza Events Center and as always the game can be heard on KINA (910 AM or 107.5 FM) courtesy of Eagle Radio.

To purchase single game or season tickets click <a href="https://salinaliberty.com/">HERE</a>.

By TYLER HENRY Little Apple 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>Fans of the Champions Indoor Football League won’t be kept waiting long for a championship rematch as the Salina Liberty open the home portion of their schedule hosting the reigning champion Omaha Beef in week three.Saturday’s primetime matchup sees both teams returning to form at 1-0 after the Liberty took care of the Tropics 54-33 and the Beef weathered the Storm 36-18 but only one can remain undefeated after Saturday.While the memories of that final 2021 game remain on the minds of the Liberty, Salina’s focus is the same this week as it has been and will be in any other week in the regular season.“This can’t be a revenge game because we’re not playing them in the game that means something,” Liberty HC Heron O’Neal said. “This is just a regular-season opponent and they’re the defending champs but you don’t get any more points for winning this one than you would for winning any other game this time of year.”While the Salina offense picked up right where it left off last week, the defense and special teams stumbled out of the gates, and the Liberty hope the momentum those groups found in the second half can translate to the start of this contest.“We need to get off to a better start on defense and our special teams need to improve with our returns,” O’Neal said. “We’re looking for more explosiveness and our defense needs to be more consistent overall as we continue to do what we do offensively.”This game will feature one of the best quarterback duels in the league as reigning Rookie of the Year Tyrie Adams will go toe to toe with Andrew Jackson.&nbsp;The two have combined for over 300 yards through the air this season and sit second and third in the league in that respect through one game.“Andrew Jackson is the driving force to what they’re doing offensively and it looks like he’s the one calling a lot of their plays on the field,” he said. “He’s going to be a focal point for us and what we can do to contain him will determine how successful we are this week.”On the flipside, the Liberty will need to be on their A-Game against one of the best secondaries in the league after struggling to post their usual 40+ against the Beef last season.“Our offense has to continue to score points against this team,” O’Neal said. “The last two times out we haven’t been able to put up more than 39 and we have to get back to understanding what they want to do to us and taking advantage of that.”With two high-flying offenses and two ball-hawking secondaries, the stage is set for one of the most exciting games of the year, and for early season supremacy between two of the league's preseason front runners.“You know they’re going to throw the football 40 times a game and it’s easier said than done but you have to find a way to stop that,” he said. “They didn’t bring Jackson in to hand off the football and I think the battle between both sets of receivers and defensive backs will determine who wins this ballgame.”Kickoff between the Liberty and Beef is scheduled for 6:35 PM at Tony’s Pizza Events Center and as always the game can be heard on KINA (910 AM or 107.5 FM) courtesy of Eagle Radio.To purchase single game or season tickets click <a href="https://salinaliberty.com/">HERE</a>.

Liberty host Beef for championship rematch

CHICAGO (AP) — Remy Martin scored a season-high 23 points and Kansas did its part as the only No. 1 seed left in the NCAA Tournament, holding Providence to 17 first-half points and hanging on for a 66-61 victory on Friday night to reach the Elite Eight. The Jayhawks made it farther than fellow No. 1 seeds Gonzaga, Arizona and Baylor. They will face either Miami or Iowa State in the Midwest Region final on Sunday. Jalen Wilson added 16 points and 11 rebounds for the Jayhawks, who are back in a regional final for the first time since 2018, when they reached their 15th Final Four. Al Durham led Providence with 21 points.

CHICAGO (AP) — Remy Martin scored a season-high 23 points and Kansas did its part as the only No. 1 seed left in the NCAA Tournament, holding Providence to 17 first-half points and hanging on for a 66-61 victory on Friday night to reach the Elite Eight. The Jayhawks made it farther than fellow No. 1 seeds Gonzaga, Arizona and Baylor. They will face either Miami or Iowa State in the Midwest Region final on Sunday. Jalen Wilson added 16 points and 11 rebounds for the Jayhawks, who are back in a regional final for the first time since 2018, when they reached their 15th Final Four. Al Durham led Providence with 21 points.

Kansas advances to Elite 8 in the NCAA Tournament

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Kansas City Chiefs have agreed with wide receiver Marquez Valdes-Scantling on a $30 million, three-year contract to help replace the departed Tyreek Hill, a person familiar with the contract told The Associated Press. The person spoke to the AP on condition of anonymity because the deal was pending a physical. The move came one day after the Chiefs traded Hill, a three-time All-Pro and one of the league’s most dangerous downfield threats, to the Dolphins for a package of five draft picks. It also comes less than a week after the Chiefs landed JuJu Smith-Schuster with a club-friendly one-year deal in the hopes that he’ll bounce back from a shoulder injury.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Kansas City Chiefs have agreed with wide receiver Marquez Valdes-Scantling on a $30 million, three-year contract to help replace the departed Tyreek Hill, a person familiar with the contract told The Associated Press. The person spoke to the AP on condition of anonymity because the deal was pending a physical. The move came one day after the Chiefs traded Hill, a three-time All-Pro and one of the league’s most dangerous downfield threats, to the Dolphins for a package of five draft picks. It also comes less than a week after the Chiefs landed JuJu Smith-Schuster with a club-friendly one-year deal in the hopes that he’ll bounce back from a shoulder injury.

Chiefs sign Marquez Valdes-Scantling

Jerome Tang was introduced as the 25th men's head basketball coach at Kansas State University today. 

During a press conference at Bramlage Coliseum he made it clear this is not a rebuilding job at Kansas State, saying this is just the start of some big things that will happen. "With everyone's help, with all of the K-State family. Wildcat nation, we're going to accomplish great things together and it's not going to take long. It is not going to take long. I didn't come to rebuild, alright, came to elevate." Tang said the Wildcats will play smart and aggressive.&nbsp;

Tang remembered KSU Athletic Director Gene Taylor's comments. "He looked me in the eyes and he said, look Jerome I want you to be my head coach of our basketball program and I trust you that you're going to do the right thing and help us win. I feel it in all my heart." During the press conference Tang thanked Taylor for those comments.

Tang spent the past 19 years at Baylor on both the winning and losing sides in ballgames. "What I really remember is the ( K-State ) student body. I remember how it was to come watch them running in and I remember them tearing up the paper, throwing it up in the air and going man, that's so cool." Tang added the environment at the games are things you remember.

&nbsp; Tang, 55,&nbsp; has agreed to a 6-year contract, which was approved by the K-State Athletics, Inc., Board of Directors and President&nbsp;Richard Linton.&nbsp;Tang&nbsp;will be paid $2.1 million in 2022-23 and will receive a $100,000 base salary increase each year remaining on the contract ($2.2 million in 2023-24, $2.3 million in 2024-25, $2.4 million in 2025-26, $2.5 million in 2026-27 and $2.6 million in 2027-28).&nbsp;&nbsp;

During his time at Baylor, Tang has helped the Bears post a 397-222 (.641) overall record, including a 168-155 (.520) mark in Big 12 play, to go with 13 postseason appearances (10 NCAA Tournaments, 3 NITs), one NCAA title (2021), one NIT title (2013) and one NIT runner-up finish (2009).&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1648165200967.jpeg" alt="( L-R ) KSU Athletic Director Gene Taylor and K-State Men's Head Basketball Coach Jerome Tang" />
 <figcaption>( L-R ) KSU Athletic Director Gene Taylor and K-State Men's Head Basketball Coach Jerome Tang</figcaption>
 </figure>By Dewey TerrillJC PostJerome Tang was introduced as the 25th men's head basketball coach at Kansas State University today. During a press conference at Bramlage Coliseum he made it clear this is not a rebuilding job at Kansas State, saying this is just the start of some big things that will happen. "With everyone's help, with all of the K-State family. Wildcat nation, we're going to accomplish great things together and it's not going to take long. It is not going to take long. I didn't come to rebuild, alright, came to elevate." Tang said the Wildcats will play smart and aggressive.&nbsp;Tang remembered KSU Athletic Director Gene Taylor's comments. "He looked me in the eyes and he said, look Jerome I want you to be my head coach of our basketball program and I trust you that you're going to do the right thing and help us win. I feel it in all my heart." During the press conference Tang thanked Taylor for those comments.Tang spent the past 19 years at Baylor on both the winning and losing sides in ballgames. "What I really remember is the ( K-State ) student body. I remember how it was to come watch them running in and I remember them tearing up the paper, throwing it up in the air and going man, that's so cool." Tang added the environment at the games are things you remember.&nbsp; Tang, 55,&nbsp; has agreed to a 6-year contract, which was approved by the K-State Athletics, Inc., Board of Directors and President&nbsp;Richard Linton.&nbsp;Tang&nbsp;will be paid $2.1 million in 2022-23 and will receive a $100,000 base salary increase each year remaining on the contract ($2.2 million in 2023-24, $2.3 million in 2024-25, $2.4 million in 2025-26, $2.5 million in 2026-27 and $2.6 million in 2027-28).&nbsp;&nbsp;During his time at Baylor, Tang has helped the Bears post a 397-222 (.641) overall record, including a 168-155 (.520) mark in Big 12 play, to go with 13 postseason appearances (10 NCAA Tournaments, 3 NITs), one NCAA title (2021), one NIT title (2013) and one NIT runner-up finish (2009).&nbsp;

Jerome Tang assumes the reins of Kansas State men's basketball

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — A person familiar with the moves says the Kansas City Chiefs have traded wide receiver Tyreek Hill to Miami for a package of draft picks and the Dolphins are giving the three-time All-Pro a $120 million, four-year contract extension. The Chiefs will get the Dolphins’ first- and second-round picks along with their fourth-rounder in this year’s draft, and fourth- and sixth-round picks next year. The person spoke to The Associated Press of condition of anonymity because terms of the deal were not announced. Hill’s agent, Drew Rosenhaus, said the next extension from Miami includes $72.2 million guaranteed.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — A person familiar with the moves says the Kansas City Chiefs have traded wide receiver Tyreek Hill to Miami for a package of draft picks and the Dolphins are giving the three-time All-Pro a $120 million, four-year contract extension. The Chiefs will get the Dolphins’ first- and second-round picks along with their fourth-rounder in this year’s draft, and fourth- and sixth-round picks next year. The person spoke to The Associated Press of condition of anonymity because terms of the deal were not announced. Hill’s agent, Drew Rosenhaus, said the next extension from Miami includes $72.2 million guaranteed.

Chiefs trade Tyreek Hill

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Kansas City Royals have agreed to a $3 million contract with shortstop Adalberto Mondesi and five other players for the upcoming season, avoiding arbitration before Tuesday’s deadline for teams and players to submit numbers. 

The Royals also agreed to terms with right-hander Brad Keller on a $4.825 million contract, reliever Scott Barlow on a $2.4 million deal, newly acquired pitcher Amir Garrett for $2.025 million, first baseman Ryan O’Hearn at $1.3 million and backup catcher Cam Gallagher for $885,000. The Royals only have outfielder Andrew Benintendi and second baseman Nicky Lopez among their unsigned arbitration-eligible players.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Kansas City Royals have agreed to a $3 million contract with shortstop Adalberto Mondesi and five other players for the upcoming season, avoiding arbitration before Tuesday’s deadline for teams and players to submit numbers. The Royals also agreed to terms with right-hander Brad Keller on a $4.825 million contract, reliever Scott Barlow on a $2.4 million deal, newly acquired pitcher Amir Garrett for $2.025 million, first baseman Ryan O’Hearn at $1.3 million and backup catcher Cam Gallagher for $885,000. The Royals only have outfielder Andrew Benintendi and second baseman Nicky Lopez among their unsigned arbitration-eligible players.

Royals agree to contracts with six players

RALEIGH, N.C. (AP) — Kayla Jones scored 18 points to help top-seeded North Carolina State beat Kansas State 89-57 in Monday’s second round of the NCAA Tournament, earning a fourth straight trip to the Sweet 16. Raina Perez and Diamond Johnson each added 15 points for the Wolfpack. N.C. State shot 55% and made 9 of 19 3-pointers. By the end, all 13 players had scored for the Bridgeport Region's top seed. Serena Sundell scored 17 points to lead the ninth-seeded Wildcats, who shot just 39%. This is N.C. State's fourth straight trip to the Sweet 16. Kansas State was trying to reach its first since 2002.

RALEIGH, N.C. (AP) — Kayla Jones scored 18 points to help top-seeded North Carolina State beat Kansas State 89-57 in Monday’s second round of the NCAA Tournament, earning a fourth straight trip to the Sweet 16. Raina Perez and Diamond Johnson each added 15 points for the Wolfpack. N.C. State shot 55% and made 9 of 19 3-pointers. By the end, all 13 players had scored for the Bridgeport Region's top seed. Serena Sundell scored 17 points to lead the ninth-seeded Wildcats, who shot just 39%. This is N.C. State's fourth straight trip to the Sweet 16. Kansas State was trying to reach its first since 2002.

K-State falls to North Carolina State in NCAA Tournament

Kansas Wesleyan's&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/23/8/12994">Daniel Harkin</a>&nbsp;(FR/Manhattan) has been selected to the Kansas Conference Men's Tennis Preseason All-KCAC team as selected by conference coaches.

Harkin has been an impact player as a freshman for the Coyotes this season, playing at the No. 1 singles spot and playing No. 1 and No. 2 doubles.

Last fall, Harkin reached the semifinals of the ITA Central Regional Tournament, becoming the first-ever KWU player to reach the Regional Semifinal. Harkin was also ranked in the NAIA Top 50 singles in December.

Harkin was the lone freshman named to the Preseason Team.

2022 KCAC Men's Tennis Preseason Team Michael Beltran, McPherson David Moral-Tebar, Southwestern Michael Cech, Bethel <a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/23/8/12994">Daniel Harkin</a>, Kansas Wesleyan Milan Bucek, Bethel Martin Millos, McPherson

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1647896576010.jpeg" alt="Daniel Harkin. Photo courtesy <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com">kwucoyotes.com</a>" />
 <figcaption>Daniel Harkin. Photo courtesy <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com">kwucoyotes.com</a></figcaption>
 </figure>KWU AthleticsKansas Wesleyan's&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/23/8/12994">Daniel Harkin</a>&nbsp;(FR/Manhattan) has been selected to the Kansas Conference Men's Tennis Preseason All-KCAC team as selected by conference coaches.Harkin has been an impact player as a freshman for the Coyotes this season, playing at the No. 1 singles spot and playing No. 1 and No. 2 doubles.Last fall, Harkin reached the semifinals of the ITA Central Regional Tournament, becoming the first-ever KWU player to reach the Regional Semifinal. Harkin was also ranked in the NAIA Top 50 singles in December.Harkin was the lone freshman named to the Preseason Team.2022 KCAC Men's Tennis Preseason Team Michael Beltran, McPherson David Moral-Tebar, Southwestern Michael Cech, Bethel <a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/23/8/12994">Daniel Harkin</a>, Kansas Wesleyan Milan Bucek, Bethel Martin Millos, McPherson-<a href="http://kwucoyotes.com">kwucoyotes.com</a>-

Manhattan's Harkin selected to KCAC preseason team

<a>MANHATTAN, Kan.</a>&nbsp;–&nbsp;Jerome Tang, one of the architects in helping build Baylor into a national powerhouse in his 19 seasons as an assistant and associate head coach, has been selected as the 25th&nbsp;head men’s basketball coach at Kansas State, Director of Athletics&nbsp;Gene Taylor&nbsp;announced Monday afternoon (March 21).

Tang will be formally introduced to the public during a news conference on Thursday in the Shamrock Zone on the north concourse of Bramlage Coliseum. The news conference will be streamed on Big 12 Now on ESPN+ as well as K-State social channels. It will also be carried on the K-State Sports Network.

Further details on the news conference will be announced as soon as they are finalized.

Tang agreed to a 6-year contract, which was approved by the K-State Athletics, Inc., Board of Directors and President&nbsp;Richard Linton. Tang will be paid $2.1 million in 2022-23 and will receive a $100,000 base salary increase each year remaining on the contract ($2.2 million in 2023-24, $2.3 million in 2024-25, $2.4 million in 2025-26, $2.5 million in 2026-27 and $2.6 million in 2027-28).

<a>“I am beyond excited to be the next head basketball coach at Kansas State,” said Tang. “Having the opportunity to build on a program with a rich basketball history at a prestigious university is truly a blessing. We look forward to bringing an exciting style of basketball to K-State while helping our student-athletes succeed on the court and in life. My family and I can’t wait to get to Manhattan and form deep relationships with our students, former players, alumni and Wildcat fans everywhere. We look forward to making the Octagon of Doom the best home court advantage in the country!”</a>

Tang, 55, was an original member of head coach&nbsp;Scott Drew’s&nbsp;coaching staff and played an instrumental role in building the Bears program from one rocked by scandal and NCAA probation into one that has developed into one of the nation’s top programs highlighted by the 2021 NCAA Championship and consecutive Big 12 regular-season titles in 2021 and 2022. He served his first 14 seasons (2003-17) on staff as an assistant coach before being promoted to associate head coach in 2017.

﻿“I am extremely excited to welcome Jerome, Careylyen, Seven and Aylyn to Manhattan and K-State,” Taylor said. “As we conducted a national search to find our next head coach, we wanted to identify an individual who can lead our program to consistently high levels while maintaining the integrity that our program is known for. When we first met with Jerome, he was very impressive, and that continued throughout the duration of our search.”

During his time at Baylor, Tang has helped the Bears post a 397-222 (.641) overall record, including a 168-155 (.520) mark in Big 12 play, to go with 13 postseason appearances (10 NCAA Tournaments, 3 NITs), one NCAA title (2021), one NIT title (2013) and one NIT runner-up finish (2009). In the process, he has helped coach 11 All-Americans, including consensus selections&nbsp;Johnathan Motley&nbsp;(2017) and&nbsp;Jared Butler&nbsp;(2021), a National Defensive Player of the Year in&nbsp;Davion Mitchell&nbsp;(2021) and 58 All-Big 12 honorees, including nine on the First Team.

In addition to prowess on the bench, Tang has helped construct nine consensus Top 25 recruiting classes while at Baylor, including 2010 (Jones III), 2011 (Miller and&nbsp;Deuce Bello), 2012 (Isaiah Austin, Prince and&nbsp;Rico Gathers), 2013 (Ishmail Wainright,&nbsp;Al Freeman&nbsp;and Motley) and the highest-ranked class in program history at No. 4 in 2021 (Kendall Brown,&nbsp;Langston Love&nbsp;and&nbsp;Jeremy Sochan).

“From a detailed recruiting plan and familiarity with our league, his knack for building and maintaining tremendous relationships with everyone he comes in contact with, to offensive and defensive philosophies, he has what it takes to be a successful leader,” said Taylor. “His vision for our program is something that all K-Staters will be excited about and one that helped build a Baylor program from the ground up, culminating with a national championship. With him at the helm, I know that great days are ahead for K-State basketball.”

Tang will be the first Black men’s head basketball coach in school history and just the fourth minority men’s head coach in school history, following former baseball coach&nbsp;Dave Baker&nbsp;(1978-83), former football coach&nbsp;Ron Prince&nbsp;(2006-08) and current women’s tennis coach&nbsp;Jordan Smith&nbsp;(2018-present).

<a>“We want to personally welcome Jerome, his wife and two children to the K-State family,” University president&nbsp;Richard Linton&nbsp;said. “I have high confidence that his leadership will produce a very competitive men’s basketball program. He deeply values community, family and a strong work ethic, values that are all directly in line with the K-State way.”</a>

The head coaching role will not be new for Tang, who built a powerhouse at Heritage Christian Academy in Cleveland, Texas over a 10-year period (1993-2003) before starting his tenure at Baylor in 2003. He also stepped in on four occasions as the Bears’ interim head coach, winning the first two games of the 2012-13 Big 12 schedule at home against Texas, 86-79 in overtime, and on the road at Texas Tech, 82-48, and the first two games of the 2020-21 national title season in Las Vegas against Louisiana-Lafayette (112-82) and Washington (86-52).

Since the 2007-08 season, Tang has been pivotal in helping Baylor to a stretch of 15 consecutive seasons of at least 18 wins, including a school-record 30 in 2011-12, en route to a 361-153 (.702) record and 10 NCAA Tournament appearances. Since 2010, the Bears have appeared in the NCAA Tournament Sweet 16 five times (2010, 2012, 2014, 2017, 2021), three times advancing to the Elite Eight (2010, 2012, 2021) and once to the Final Four (2021).

Additionally, 13 players from those seasons have gone on to play in the NBA, including&nbsp;Quincy Acy,&nbsp;Jared Butler,&nbsp;Freddie Gillespie,&nbsp;Pierre Jackson,&nbsp;Cory Jefferson,&nbsp;Perry Jones III,&nbsp;Quincy Miller,&nbsp;Davion Mitchell,&nbsp;Johnathan Motley,&nbsp;Royce O’Neale,&nbsp;Taurean Prince,&nbsp;MaCio Teague&nbsp;and&nbsp;Ekpe Udoh.

In the last three seasons alone, Baylor has tallied an 81-13 (.862) record, including a 43-8 (.843) mark in Big 12 play, with 22 wins over ranked opponents highlighted by the Bears’ first National Championship in 2021, as they defeated No. 1 ranked Gonzaga, 86-70, in the national title game. The 2021 Bears also won their first Big 12 Championship in the league’s 25-year history, which was the school’s first conference title in 71 years, then followed it up with a second-straight crown in 2022 by winning their last 5 conference games.

Baylor’s 55-9 (.859) record over the last two seasons is the nation’s best among power conference teams, while the 81-13 (.862) record since 2019-20 is the second-best nationally, trailing only Gonzaga (90-6). In that span, the Bears were ranked in the top 5 for 29 consecutive AP Top 25 polls and finished the 2021-22 season with the nation’s third-longest active streak of 56-straight weeks ranked.

Prior to his time at Baylor, Tang built a powerhouse at Heritage Christian Academy, a birth-through-high school private school in Cleveland, Texas, as both the head boys’ basketball coach and athletic director, guiding the Eagles to four state championships from 1993 to 2003. His program gained national attention in 2001 when junior&nbsp;Cedrick Hensley&nbsp;scored 101 points in a game.

Tang and Heritage Christian became known for producing Division I athletes, including his most-publicized recruit&nbsp;Vakeaton “Von” Wafer, a 2003 McDonald’s All-American who played at Florida State and was drafted with the 39th&nbsp;pick by the L.A. Lakers in the 2005 NBA Draft. His last two teams featured a number of Division I signees including Hensley (Houston),&nbsp;Elijah Miller&nbsp;(Houston),&nbsp;Marlon Pompey&nbsp;(Texas A&amp;M),&nbsp;Lamar Hurd&nbsp;(Oregon State),&nbsp;Tim Mayes&nbsp;(Richmond) and&nbsp;Tyler Jones&nbsp;(St. John’s).

Tang earned a bachelor’s degree from Charter Oak State College in 2007.

Tang was born in San Fernando, Trinidad, West Indies on October 7, 1966. He migrated with his parents (names) to St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands until age 10 when his family moved to Texas. He and his wife,&nbsp;Careylyen&nbsp;(Rae) have a son,&nbsp;Seven, and a daughter,&nbsp;Aylyn.

Tang will take over a Kansas State program that recently finished the 2021-22 season with a 14-17 overall record, including a ninth-place finish in the Big 12 with a 6-12 mark. The hard-luck Wildcats lost 12 games by single digits, including 7 by one possession. Three players earned All-Big 12 honors, including First Team selection and Most Improved Player&nbsp;Nijel Pack&nbsp;and honorable mention and All-Defensive Team member&nbsp;Markquis Nowell.

Head Coach, Heritage Christian Academy (1993-2003)

Bachelor of Science, Charter Oak State College, 2007

Born:&nbsp;October 7, 1966, in San Fernando, Trinidad, West Indies

Children:&nbsp;son Seven (freshman at Baylor) and daughter Aylyn (pronounced ‘island’)

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

<a>MANHATTAN, Kan.</a>&nbsp;–&nbsp;Jerome Tang, one of the architects in helping build Baylor into a national powerhouse in his 19 seasons as an assistant and associate head coach, has been selected as the 25th&nbsp;head men’s basketball coach at Kansas State, Director of Athletics&nbsp;Gene Taylor&nbsp;announced Monday afternoon (March 21).Tang will be formally introduced to the public during a news conference on Thursday in the Shamrock Zone on the north concourse of Bramlage Coliseum. The news conference will be streamed on Big 12 Now on ESPN+ as well as K-State social channels. It will also be carried on the K-State Sports Network.Further details on the news conference will be announced as soon as they are finalized.Tang agreed to a 6-year contract, which was approved by the K-State Athletics, Inc., Board of Directors and President&nbsp;Richard Linton. Tang will be paid $2.1 million in 2022-23 and will receive a $100,000 base salary increase each year remaining on the contract ($2.2 million in 2023-24, $2.3 million in 2024-25, $2.4 million in 2025-26, $2.5 million in 2026-27 and $2.6 million in 2027-28).<a>“I am beyond excited to be the next head basketball coach at Kansas State,” said Tang. “Having the opportunity to build on a program with a rich basketball history at a prestigious university is truly a blessing. We look forward to bringing an exciting style of basketball to K-State while helping our student-athletes succeed on the court and in life. My family and I can’t wait to get to Manhattan and form deep relationships with our students, former players, alumni and Wildcat fans everywhere. We look forward to making the Octagon of Doom the best home court advantage in the country!”</a>Tang, 55, was an original member of head coach&nbsp;Scott Drew’s&nbsp;coaching staff and played an instrumental role in building the Bears program from one rocked by scandal and NCAA probation into one that has developed into one of the nation’s top programs highlighted by the 2021 NCAA Championship and consecutive Big 12 regular-season titles in 2021 and 2022. He served his first 14 seasons (2003-17) on staff as an assistant coach before being promoted to associate head coach in 2017.﻿“I am extremely excited to welcome Jerome, Careylyen, Seven and Aylyn to Manhattan and K-State,” Taylor said. “As we conducted a national search to find our next head coach, we wanted to identify an individual who can lead our program to consistently high levels while maintaining the integrity that our program is known for. When we first met with Jerome, he was very impressive, and that continued throughout the duration of our search.”During his time at Baylor, Tang has helped the Bears post a 397-222 (.641) overall record, including a 168-155 (.520) mark in Big 12 play, to go with 13 postseason appearances (10 NCAA Tournaments, 3 NITs), one NCAA title (2021), one NIT title (2013) and one NIT runner-up finish (2009). In the process, he has helped coach 11 All-Americans, including consensus selections&nbsp;Johnathan Motley&nbsp;(2017) and&nbsp;Jared Butler&nbsp;(2021), a National Defensive Player of the Year in&nbsp;Davion Mitchell&nbsp;(2021) and 58 All-Big 12 honorees, including nine on the First Team.In addition to prowess on the bench, Tang has helped construct nine consensus Top 25 recruiting classes while at Baylor, including 2010 (Jones III), 2011 (Miller and&nbsp;Deuce Bello), 2012 (Isaiah Austin, Prince and&nbsp;Rico Gathers), 2013 (Ishmail Wainright,&nbsp;Al Freeman&nbsp;and Motley) and the highest-ranked class in program history at No. 4 in 2021 (Kendall Brown,&nbsp;Langston Love&nbsp;and&nbsp;Jeremy Sochan).“From a detailed recruiting plan and familiarity with our league, his knack for building and maintaining tremendous relationships with everyone he comes in contact with, to offensive and defensive philosophies, he has what it takes to be a successful leader,” said Taylor. “His vision for our program is something that all K-Staters will be excited about and one that helped build a Baylor program from the ground up, culminating with a national championship. With him at the helm, I know that great days are ahead for K-State basketball.”Tang will be the first Black men’s head basketball coach in school history and just the fourth minority men’s head coach in school history, following former baseball coach&nbsp;Dave Baker&nbsp;(1978-83), former football coach&nbsp;Ron Prince&nbsp;(2006-08) and current women’s tennis coach&nbsp;Jordan Smith&nbsp;(2018-present).<a>“We want to personally welcome Jerome, his wife and two children to the K-State family,” University president&nbsp;Richard Linton&nbsp;said. “I have high confidence that his leadership will produce a very competitive men’s basketball program. He deeply values community, family and a strong work ethic, values that are all directly in line with the K-State way.”</a>The head coaching role will not be new for Tang, who built a powerhouse at Heritage Christian Academy in Cleveland, Texas over a 10-year period (1993-2003) before starting his tenure at Baylor in 2003. He also stepped in on four occasions as the Bears’ interim head coach, winning the first two games of the 2012-13 Big 12 schedule at home against Texas, 86-79 in overtime, and on the road at Texas Tech, 82-48, and the first two games of the 2020-21 national title season in Las Vegas against Louisiana-Lafayette (112-82) and Washington (86-52).Since the 2007-08 season, Tang has been pivotal in helping Baylor to a stretch of 15 consecutive seasons of at least 18 wins, including a school-record 30 in 2011-12, en route to a 361-153 (.702) record and 10 NCAA Tournament appearances. Since 2010, the Bears have appeared in the NCAA Tournament Sweet 16 five times (2010, 2012, 2014, 2017, 2021), three times advancing to the Elite Eight (2010, 2012, 2021) and once to the Final Four (2021).Additionally, 13 players from those seasons have gone on to play in the NBA, including&nbsp;Quincy Acy,&nbsp;Jared Butler,&nbsp;Freddie Gillespie,&nbsp;Pierre Jackson,&nbsp;Cory Jefferson,&nbsp;Perry Jones III,&nbsp;Quincy Miller,&nbsp;Davion Mitchell,&nbsp;Johnathan Motley,&nbsp;Royce O’Neale,&nbsp;Taurean Prince,&nbsp;MaCio Teague&nbsp;and&nbsp;Ekpe Udoh.In the last three seasons alone, Baylor has tallied an 81-13 (.862) record, including a 43-8 (.843) mark in Big 12 play, with 22 wins over ranked opponents highlighted by the Bears’ first National Championship in 2021, as they defeated No. 1 ranked Gonzaga, 86-70, in the national title game. The 2021 Bears also won their first Big 12 Championship in the league’s 25-year history, which was the school’s first conference title in 71 years, then followed it up with a second-straight crown in 2022 by winning their last 5 conference games.Baylor’s 55-9 (.859) record over the last two seasons is the nation’s best among power conference teams, while the 81-13 (.862) record since 2019-20 is the second-best nationally, trailing only Gonzaga (90-6). In that span, the Bears were ranked in the top 5 for 29 consecutive AP Top 25 polls and finished the 2021-22 season with the nation’s third-longest active streak of 56-straight weeks ranked.Prior to his time at Baylor, Tang built a powerhouse at Heritage Christian Academy, a birth-through-high school private school in Cleveland, Texas, as both the head boys’ basketball coach and athletic director, guiding the Eagles to four state championships from 1993 to 2003. His program gained national attention in 2001 when junior&nbsp;Cedrick Hensley&nbsp;scored 101 points in a game.Tang and Heritage Christian became known for producing Division I athletes, including his most-publicized recruit&nbsp;Vakeaton “Von” Wafer, a 2003 McDonald’s All-American who played at Florida State and was drafted with the 39th&nbsp;pick by the L.A. Lakers in the 2005 NBA Draft. His last two teams featured a number of Division I signees including Hensley (Houston),&nbsp;Elijah Miller&nbsp;(Houston),&nbsp;Marlon Pompey&nbsp;(Texas A&amp;M),&nbsp;Lamar Hurd&nbsp;(Oregon State),&nbsp;Tim Mayes&nbsp;(Richmond) and&nbsp;Tyler Jones&nbsp;(St. John’s).Tang earned a bachelor’s degree from Charter Oak State College in 2007.Tang was born in San Fernando, Trinidad, West Indies on October 7, 1966. He migrated with his parents (names) to St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands until age 10 when his family moved to Texas. He and his wife,&nbsp;Careylyen&nbsp;(Rae) have a son,&nbsp;Seven, and a daughter,&nbsp;Aylyn.Tang will take over a Kansas State program that recently finished the 2021-22 season with a 14-17 overall record, including a ninth-place finish in the Big 12 with a 6-12 mark. The hard-luck Wildcats lost 12 games by single digits, including 7 by one possession. Three players earned All-Big 12 honors, including First Team selection and Most Improved Player&nbsp;Nijel Pack&nbsp;and honorable mention and All-Defensive Team member&nbsp;Markquis Nowell.Coaching ExperienceHead Coach, Heritage Christian Academy (1993-2003)Assistant Coach, Baylor (2003-17)Associate Head Coach, Baylor (2017-22)Head Coach, Kansas State (2022-present)EducationBachelor of Science, Charter Oak State College, 2007PersonalBorn:&nbsp;October 7, 1966, in San Fernando, Trinidad, West IndiesWife:&nbsp;Careylyen (Rae)Children:&nbsp;son Seven (freshman at Baylor) and daughter Aylyn (pronounced ‘island’)TOM GILBERT Director for Men’s Basketball Communications | K-State Athletics

K-State names a new head basketball coach

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Kansas State has settled on Baylor assistant Jerome Tang to be its next head coach, The Associated Press has learned. 

Kansas State athletic director Gene Taylor flew to Texas to meet with Tang on Sunday, one day after the top-seeded Bears lost to North Carolina. Tang played a key role in building the Baylor program into a powerhouse. He would replace Bruce Weber, who resigned after Kansas State lost in the first round of the Big 12 Tournament.

The two planned to meet again Monday with the expectation that one of the nation's most sought-after assistant coaches, who helped the Bears win last year's national championship, was headed to Manhattan.

“Coach Tang and I have been together for 19 years, and he's had opportunities before,” Baylor coach Scott Drew said over the weekend, “but obviously each year those opportunities grow, and deservedly so. He's done a remarkable job.”

Tang was part of Drew's initial staff at Baylor in 2003, when the program was reeling from crippling NCAA penalties that included an inability to play a nonconference schedule. They've built a juggernaut in Waco, a rise to national prominence that culminated last season with Baylor beating Gonzaga 86-70 in the national title game.

The Bears also won their first Big 12 title last season — their first championship in any conference in 71 years — and shared the award with Kansas this season before an early exit in the league tournament.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Kansas State has settled on Baylor assistant Jerome Tang to be its next head coach, The Associated Press has learned. Kansas State athletic director Gene Taylor flew to Texas to meet with Tang on Sunday, one day after the top-seeded Bears lost to North Carolina. Tang played a key role in building the Baylor program into a powerhouse. He would replace Bruce Weber, who resigned after Kansas State lost in the first round of the Big 12 Tournament.The two planned to meet again Monday with the expectation that one of the nation's most sought-after assistant coaches, who helped the Bears win last year's national championship, was headed to Manhattan.“Coach Tang and I have been together for 19 years, and he's had opportunities before,” Baylor coach Scott Drew said over the weekend, “but obviously each year those opportunities grow, and deservedly so. He's done a remarkable job.”Tang was part of Drew's initial staff at Baylor in 2003, when the program was reeling from crippling NCAA penalties that included an inability to play a nonconference schedule. They've built a juggernaut in Waco, a rise to national prominence that culminated last season with Baylor beating Gonzaga 86-70 in the national title game.The Bears also won their first Big 12 title last season — their first championship in any conference in 71 years — and shared the award with Kansas this season before an early exit in the league tournament.

K-State focuses on Baylor assistant in coaching search

RALEIGH, N.C. (AP) — All-Americans Elissa Cunane of top-seeded North Carolina State and Ayoka Lee of ninth-seeded Kansas State are set for a rematch on Monday in the second round of the NCAA women's basketball tournament. The teams met in November at Reynolds Coliseum in Raleigh, North Carolina, also the site of Monday's game, and the Wolfpack dominated, winning 90-69 and holding Lee to just 10 points on 5-of-12 shooting in the game’s first 30 minutes while the Wolfpack pulled away. Lee finished with 19 points, one more than Cunane. N.C. State is eyeing its fourth straight trip to the Sweet 16.

RALEIGH, N.C. (AP) — All-Americans Elissa Cunane of top-seeded North Carolina State and Ayoka Lee of ninth-seeded Kansas State are set for a rematch on Monday in the second round of the NCAA women's basketball tournament. The teams met in November at Reynolds Coliseum in Raleigh, North Carolina, also the site of Monday's game, and the Wolfpack dominated, winning 90-69 and holding Lee to just 10 points on 5-of-12 shooting in the game’s first 30 minutes while the Wolfpack pulled away. Lee finished with 19 points, one more than Cunane. N.C. State is eyeing its fourth straight trip to the Sweet 16.