MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;–&nbsp;Kansas State fans will have a couple of additional incentives to order or renew their 2022 football season tickets before the priority deadline of April 22, as K-State has announced that all season ticket accounts will receive one free Collin Klein and Arthur Brown dual&nbsp;bobblehead&nbsp;– celebrating the 10th&nbsp;anniversary of the 2012 Big 12 Championship – while K-State will also have 12 days of prize drawings beginning on Monday, April 11.

Every day from April 11 to April 22, fans who have reserved their season tickets for the 2022 slate will be entered to win that day’s prize, and the schedule of giveaways can be viewed by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/feature/22FBPriority" target="_blank">clicking here</a>. Prizes include official team gear, a recruit-style photoshoot, seat upgrades, a shopping spree and more.

Fans will be notified via email if they have won that day’s prize, while a running list of winners will be kept at the link above. Fans can only win once during the 12-day period and are encouraged to order or renew now to be included in all 12 prize drawings.

The April 22 priority deadline is the final day for 2021 season ticket holders to keep their seat and parking locations, for all season ticket holders to be part of the online seat upgrade process in May and to request additional single-game tickets. It is also the last day for the five-month payment plan.

​Fans can order or renew season tickets – starting at just $150 – via the link above, by visiting&nbsp;<a href="http://www.k-statesports.com/tickets" target="_blank">www.k-statesports.com/tickets</a>&nbsp;or by calling 1-800-221-CATS.

By Ryan Lackey - Assistant Athletic Director for Communications

MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;–&nbsp;Kansas State fans will have a couple of additional incentives to order or renew their 2022 football season tickets before the priority deadline of April 22, as K-State has announced that all season ticket accounts will receive one free Collin Klein and Arthur Brown dual&nbsp;bobblehead&nbsp;– celebrating the 10th&nbsp;anniversary of the 2012 Big 12 Championship – while K-State will also have 12 days of prize drawings beginning on Monday, April 11.Every day from April 11 to April 22, fans who have reserved their season tickets for the 2022 slate will be entered to win that day’s prize, and the schedule of giveaways can be viewed by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/feature/22FBPriority" target="_blank">clicking here</a>. Prizes include official team gear, a recruit-style photoshoot, seat upgrades, a shopping spree and more.Fans will be notified via email if they have won that day’s prize, while a running list of winners will be kept at the link above. Fans can only win once during the 12-day period and are encouraged to order or renew now to be included in all 12 prize drawings.The April 22 priority deadline is the final day for 2021 season ticket holders to keep their seat and parking locations, for all season ticket holders to be part of the online seat upgrade process in May and to request additional single-game tickets. It is also the last day for the five-month payment plan.​Fans can order or renew season tickets – starting at just $150 – via the link above, by visiting&nbsp;<a href="http://www.k-statesports.com/tickets" target="_blank">www.k-statesports.com/tickets</a>&nbsp;or by calling 1-800-221-CATS.By Ryan Lackey - Assistant Athletic Director for Communications

Bobblehead and Twelve Days of Drawings Highlight K-State Football Season Ticket Priority Deadline

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Not since the Kansas City Royals were winning back-to-back American League pennants in 2014 and ’15 under former manager Ned Yost, and went on to win their first World Series in three decades, has the long-suffering, small-market franchise begun a season with the same amount of optimism that they carry into Thursday’s opener against Cleveland at Kauffman Stadium. Zach Greinke will be back on the mound, the game's No. 1 prospect will be at third base and manager Mike Matheny and the young, exciting club will take the first step toward what they hope is a return to the playoffs.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Not since the Kansas City Royals were winning back-to-back American League pennants in 2014 and ’15 under former manager Ned Yost, and went on to win their first World Series in three decades, has the long-suffering, small-market franchise begun a season with the same amount of optimism that they carry into Thursday’s opener against Cleveland at Kauffman Stadium. Zach Greinke will be back on the mound, the game's No. 1 prospect will be at third base and manager Mike Matheny and the young, exciting club will take the first step toward what they hope is a return to the playoffs.

Royals open their season Thursday

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Bobby Witt Jr., widely considered the best prospect in baseball, has made the Kansas City roster and will start at third base in the Royals’ season opener against the Cleveland Guardians on Thursday at Kauffman Stadium. The move with the 21-year-old infielder was widely expected, especially after he hit well in spring training. 

Witt hit .290 with 33 homers and 29 steals across Double-A and Triple-A last season.

You can listen to the Royals on 107.9 FM / 1420 KJCK AM.&nbsp; The pregame broadcast on Thursday begins at 2:30 p.m.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Bobby Witt Jr., widely considered the best prospect in baseball, has made the Kansas City roster and will start at third base in the Royals’ season opener against the Cleveland Guardians on Thursday at Kauffman Stadium. The move with the 21-year-old infielder was widely expected, especially after he hit well in spring training. Witt hit .290 with 33 homers and 29 steals across Double-A and Triple-A last season.You can listen to the Royals on 107.9 FM / 1420 KJCK AM.&nbsp; The pregame broadcast on Thursday begins at 2:30 p.m.

Witt will start for the Royals

MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;–&nbsp;Stan Parrish, the 31st&nbsp;head coach in K-State football history who was at the helm of the Wildcat program from 1986 to 1988, passed away Sunday at the age of 75.

Nicknamed “Air Parrish” for his multiple, pass-oriented offensive strategy, Parrish came to Manhattan in 1986 after serving the previous two seasons as the head coach at Marshall.

Parrish’s career began at Windham High School in Windham, Ohio, before serving as a graduate assistant for two years at Purdue and one season as an assistant coach at Division III Wabash College in Crawfordsville, Indiana. He quickly took over as head coach of the Little Giants in 1978, putting together a 42-3-1 record over five seasons, which included a perfect 10-0 mark in his final season in 1982.

Following his time at K-State, Parrish worked for six years at Rutgers before serving as the quarterbacks coach at Michigan from 1996 to 2001. While in Ann Arbor, he tutored future NFL quarterbacks Brian Griese and Tom Brady, while he helped the Wolverines win a national championship in 1997.

Parrish moved on to the NFL, serving as the quarterbacks coach for Tampa Bay in 2002 and 2003, helping the Buccaneers win Super Bowl XXXVI. He moved back to the college ranks in 2005 to coach at Ball State, a place he stayed for six seasons, which included the final three years as head coach. His last stint as a football coach came at Eastern Michigan, where he was the offensive coordinator and later the interim head coach in 2013.

Parrish is survived by his wife, the former Ruth Purdy, son Andrew and daughter Libby. He earned his bachelor’s degree from Heidelberg in 1969, where he played defensive back from 1965-68.

Assistant Athletics Director for Communications

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1649178626591.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;–&nbsp;Stan Parrish, the 31st&nbsp;head coach in K-State football history who was at the helm of the Wildcat program from 1986 to 1988, passed away Sunday at the age of 75.Nicknamed “Air Parrish” for his multiple, pass-oriented offensive strategy, Parrish came to Manhattan in 1986 after serving the previous two seasons as the head coach at Marshall.Parrish’s career began at Windham High School in Windham, Ohio, before serving as a graduate assistant for two years at Purdue and one season as an assistant coach at Division III Wabash College in Crawfordsville, Indiana. He quickly took over as head coach of the Little Giants in 1978, putting together a 42-3-1 record over five seasons, which included a perfect 10-0 mark in his final season in 1982.Following his time at K-State, Parrish worked for six years at Rutgers before serving as the quarterbacks coach at Michigan from 1996 to 2001. While in Ann Arbor, he tutored future NFL quarterbacks Brian Griese and Tom Brady, while he helped the Wolverines win a national championship in 1997.Parrish moved on to the NFL, serving as the quarterbacks coach for Tampa Bay in 2002 and 2003, helping the Buccaneers win Super Bowl XXXVI. He moved back to the college ranks in 2005 to coach at Ball State, a place he stayed for six seasons, which included the final three years as head coach. His last stint as a football coach came at Eastern Michigan, where he was the offensive coordinator and later the interim head coach in 2013.Parrish is survived by his wife, the former Ruth Purdy, son Andrew and daughter Libby. He earned his bachelor’s degree from Heidelberg in 1969, where he played defensive back from 1965-68.By Ryan LackeyAssistant Athletics Director for Communications

Former K-State Head Coach Stan Parrish Passes Away

NEW ORLEANS (AP) — The Great Kansas Comeback is about more than just one scintillating, stifling 20-minute stretch of Jayhawks basketball. The championship KU captured Monday night had roots back in 2020, when the Jayhawks were a team that looked headed for the program’s fourth national title. Instead, it was KU’s come-from-behind 72-69 victory over North Carolina on Monday that brought that fourth championship banner back to Allen Fieldhouse. The Jayhawks insisted they’d share it with the 2020 team, too.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1649155572347.png" alt="Fans at Allen Fieldhouse celebrate the Jayhawk victory Monday night" />
 <figcaption>Fans at Allen Fieldhouse celebrate the Jayhawk victory Monday night</figcaption>
 </figure>NEW ORLEANS (AP) — The Great Kansas Comeback is about more than just one scintillating, stifling 20-minute stretch of Jayhawks basketball. The championship KU captured Monday night had roots back in 2020, when the Jayhawks were a team that looked headed for the program’s fourth national title. Instead, it was KU’s come-from-behind 72-69 victory over North Carolina on Monday that brought that fourth championship banner back to Allen Fieldhouse. The Jayhawks insisted they’d share it with the 2020 team, too.

Kansas Jayhawks are the national champions

NEW ORLEANS (AP) — David McCormack muscled his way to 25 points, Ochai Agbaji added 21 and hot-shooting Kansas withstood every Villanova run for a 81-65 victory Saturday night that sent the Jayhawks back to the national title game .

Christian Braun also had 10 points for the Jayhawks, including a key 3-pointer to ward off a comeback late in the game. Now, they hope to follow a familiar pattern against North Carolina in the national championship game on Monday night. The Tar Heels defeated Duke 81-77.

The last three times that Kansas and Villanova have met in the tournament, the winner has gone on to win it all. Collin Gillespie had 17 points and Brandon Slater had 16 for the Wildcats, who struggled early without injured guard Justin Moore and never could come all the way back.

NEW ORLEANS (AP) — David McCormack muscled his way to 25 points, Ochai Agbaji added 21 and hot-shooting Kansas withstood every Villanova run for a 81-65 victory Saturday night that sent the Jayhawks back to the national title game .Christian Braun also had 10 points for the Jayhawks, including a key 3-pointer to ward off a comeback late in the game. Now, they hope to follow a familiar pattern against North Carolina in the national championship game on Monday night. The Tar Heels defeated Duke 81-77.The last three times that Kansas and Villanova have met in the tournament, the winner has gone on to win it all. Collin Gillespie had 17 points and Brandon Slater had 16 for the Wildcats, who struggled early without injured guard Justin Moore and never could come all the way back.

Jayhawks will go to the national championship game

By TYLER HENRY Little Apple Post contributor

The Salina Liberty manhandled the Sioux City Asylum in the team's non-league exhibition on Saturday, turning in a resounding 50-18 victory.

Offensively, the Liberty didn’t miss a beat, even without reigning MVP Tracy Brooks, striking on the first play of the game with a 22-yard connection from Tyrie Adams to Ed Smith and never looking back.

Tre Griffin, who has done an excellent job filling in for the injured Brooks, looked unstoppable again, punching in two more scores as part of a run that put Salina up 35-0 at halftime.

On defense, the Liberty looked just as good, locking up the Asylum offense with two picks and a safety in the first half alone.

With a big lead and little to lose, Salina began experimenting with different personnel on both sides of the ball, giving Anthony Love a chance to run the offense, and Travis Taylor some touches in the backfield.

The test run was a resounding success as each would add a touchdown before the end of the contest.

“Travis is a guy that said he wanted to run the football and to get him three carries and a rushing touchdown was really cool to see,” Liberty HC Heron O’Neal said. “Seeing Anthony Love get some reps at quarterback was important for us as well.”

While the offense and defense put on a show, the special teams lagged behind just a bit and will remain the biggest focal point for Salina heading into week five.

“We had a couple of kickoffs that got away from us and we need to get that fixed up and be ready to go,” O’Neal said. “On kick return, we still aren’t taking anything to the house so we’ll look to make some corrections moving forward.”

The Liberty will return to the road next weekend for a Sunday game in Billings as Salina gets set to take on the Outlaws.

By TYLER HENRY Little Apple Post contributor<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1617387097958.png" alt="Coverage of Liberty football is presented by Ryan Roofing" />
 <figcaption>Coverage of Liberty football is presented by Ryan Roofing</figcaption>
 </figure>The Salina Liberty manhandled the Sioux City Asylum in the team's non-league exhibition on Saturday, turning in a resounding 50-18 victory.Offensively, the Liberty didn’t miss a beat, even without reigning MVP Tracy Brooks, striking on the first play of the game with a 22-yard connection from Tyrie Adams to Ed Smith and never looking back.Tre Griffin, who has done an excellent job filling in for the injured Brooks, looked unstoppable again, punching in two more scores as part of a run that put Salina up 35-0 at halftime.On defense, the Liberty looked just as good, locking up the Asylum offense with two picks and a safety in the first half alone.With a big lead and little to lose, Salina began experimenting with different personnel on both sides of the ball, giving Anthony Love a chance to run the offense, and Travis Taylor some touches in the backfield.The test run was a resounding success as each would add a touchdown before the end of the contest.“Travis is a guy that said he wanted to run the football and to get him three carries and a rushing touchdown was really cool to see,” Liberty HC Heron O’Neal said. “Seeing Anthony Love get some reps at quarterback was important for us as well.”While the offense and defense put on a show, the special teams lagged behind just a bit and will remain the biggest focal point for Salina heading into week five.“We had a couple of kickoffs that got away from us and we need to get that fixed up and be ready to go,” O’Neal said. “On kick return, we still aren’t taking anything to the house so we’ll look to make some corrections moving forward.”The Liberty will return to the road next weekend for a Sunday game in Billings as Salina gets set to take on the Outlaws.

Liberty lock down Asylum in non-CIF exhibition

By TYLER HENRY Little Apple Post contributor

The Salina Liberty will host the Queen City Asylum on Saturday, April 2nd in their one non-league game of the season.

Kickoff is set for 6:35 PM as one of just two remaining undefeated CIF teams prepares to take on the pride of Springfield Missouri, fresh off a 64-6 win over the Missouri Monarchs.

The Liberty enter this game on a roll with wins of 54-33 over the Topeka Tropics and a 36-31 come from behind victory over the Omaha Beef in hand.

“If I had to sum up what I was most proud of in that Omaha game in one word it would be perseverance,” Liberty HC Heron O’Neal said. “To deal with all of the things that went on and a back and forth game, it showed that we have that clutch gene.”

Salina will have to cope without their reigning league MVP in Tracy Brooks, who will be sidelined with an arm injury sustained on the opening drive against Omaha for at least six weeks.

In Brooks’ stead, the Liberty will turn to Tre Griffin, who has put on a show in his first two CIF games with four touchdowns on the ground already, to add to his prowess as a pass-catcher.

“I’m very comfortable with Tre taking that mantle,” O’Neal said. “He’s established himself as one of the most dangerous guys with the ball in his hands through these first few games.”

While this game will not count towards the CIF standings, it does provide Salina with an opportunity to iron out a few things in their game before league play resumes next week.

“We still need to work on our focus and on playing a full game,” he said. “We haven’t done that in any of the three elements of the game and we have a lot of things we need to clean up and work on.”

This game will also take place at the Tony’s Pizza Events Center, which has become one of the best atmospheres in the CIF for football games this year.

“Our crowd is a huge benefit,” O’Neal said. “The crowd in the Omaha game was the biggest that we’ve ever had and we’ve seen so much growth in our fanbase over the years. It’s great to have that energy and for them to be so loud that it affects the ballgame.”

Kickoff is set for 6:35 pm in Salina, 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 to Liberty football games, 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 Salina Liberty will host the Queen City Asylum on Saturday, April 2nd in their one non-league game of the season.Kickoff is set for 6:35 PM as one of just two remaining undefeated CIF teams prepares to take on the pride of Springfield Missouri, fresh off a 64-6 win over the Missouri Monarchs.The Liberty enter this game on a roll with wins of 54-33 over the Topeka Tropics and a 36-31 come from behind victory over the Omaha Beef in hand.“If I had to sum up what I was most proud of in that Omaha game in one word it would be perseverance,” Liberty HC Heron O’Neal said. “To deal with all of the things that went on and a back and forth game, it showed that we have that clutch gene.”Salina will have to cope without their reigning league MVP in Tracy Brooks, who will be sidelined with an arm injury sustained on the opening drive against Omaha for at least six weeks.In Brooks’ stead, the Liberty will turn to Tre Griffin, who has put on a show in his first two CIF games with four touchdowns on the ground already, to add to his prowess as a pass-catcher.“I’m very comfortable with Tre taking that mantle,” O’Neal said. “He’s established himself as one of the most dangerous guys with the ball in his hands through these first few games.”While this game will not count towards the CIF standings, it does provide Salina with an opportunity to iron out a few things in their game before league play resumes next week.“We still need to work on our focus and on playing a full game,” he said. “We haven’t done that in any of the three elements of the game and we have a lot of things we need to clean up and work on.”This game will also take place at the Tony’s Pizza Events Center, which has become one of the best atmospheres in the CIF for football games this year.“Our crowd is a huge benefit,” O’Neal said. “The crowd in the Omaha game was the biggest that we’ve ever had and we’ve seen so much growth in our fanbase over the years. It’s great to have that energy and for them to be so loud that it affects the ballgame.”Kickoff is set for 6:35 pm in Salina, 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 to Liberty football games, click <a href="https://salinaliberty.com/">HERE</a>.

Liberty look to tame Asylum in non-league exhibition

MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;– Former Kansas State men’s basketball coach&nbsp;Bob Huggins&nbsp;was officially announced as one of 13 individuals in the Class of 2022 of the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame.

Although Huggins spent just one season (2006-07) as the Wildcats’ head coach, he helped resuscitate a program that had not enjoyed a 20-win season or postseason appearance in eight years upon his arrival. He guided K-State to a 23-12 overall record, including a 10-6 mark in Big 12 play, and to the second round of the NIT. The 23 wins in 2006-07 were the most in a single season since the 1987-88 team had a then school-record 25 victories.

Currently sitting with 916 career victories in his 40-year head coaching career, Huggins is one of only six Division I coaches all-time with 900 or more career victories, which includes stints at Walsh College (1980-83), Akron (1984-89), Cincinnati (1989-2005), K-State and West Virginia (2007-present).

Huggins is one of 13 members of the Class of 2022, including NBA stars&nbsp;Manu Ginobili&nbsp;and&nbsp;Tim Hardaway, WNBA icons&nbsp;Swin Cash&nbsp;and&nbsp;Lindsay Whalen, former longtime NBA head coach&nbsp;George Karl, standout college and WNBA head coach&nbsp;Marianne Stanley&nbsp;and longtime NBA official&nbsp;Hugh Evans.

MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;– Former Kansas State men’s basketball coach&nbsp;Bob Huggins&nbsp;was officially announced as one of 13 individuals in the Class of 2022 of the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame.Although Huggins spent just one season (2006-07) as the Wildcats’ head coach, he helped resuscitate a program that had not enjoyed a 20-win season or postseason appearance in eight years upon his arrival. He guided K-State to a 23-12 overall record, including a 10-6 mark in Big 12 play, and to the second round of the NIT. The 23 wins in 2006-07 were the most in a single season since the 1987-88 team had a then school-record 25 victories.Currently sitting with 916 career victories in his 40-year head coaching career, Huggins is one of only six Division I coaches all-time with 900 or more career victories, which includes stints at Walsh College (1980-83), Akron (1984-89), Cincinnati (1989-2005), K-State and West Virginia (2007-present).Huggins is one of 13 members of the Class of 2022, including NBA stars&nbsp;Manu Ginobili&nbsp;and&nbsp;Tim Hardaway, WNBA icons&nbsp;Swin Cash&nbsp;and&nbsp;Lindsay Whalen, former longtime NBA head coach&nbsp;George Karl, standout college and WNBA head coach&nbsp;Marianne Stanley&nbsp;and longtime NBA official&nbsp;Hugh Evans.

Huggins Named to Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame

KU prepares for Villanova in the Final Four

<a>MANHATTAN, Kan.</a>&nbsp;– First-year Kansas State head coach&nbsp;Jerome Tang&nbsp;made another addition to his coaching staff on Friday (April 1) with the selection of veteran assistant coach&nbsp;Ulric Maligi&nbsp;(pronounced&nbsp;YUR-ick MAL-uh-ghee) as the program’s associate head coach.

<a>“We are excited to welcome Ulric, his wife Courtney and son JJ to the K-State Family,” said Tang. “When I began the process of building my staff, Ulric was at top of my list. He is not only one of the best recruiters that I have ever been around, but he is one of the top basketball minds in the country, having learned from some of the best in the business. In addition to his talents as a coach, he is also an outstanding husband and father and will be a perfect fit in helping me and the rest of the staff elevate this program.”</a>

Maligi is the third announced member of Tang’s inaugural coaching staff at K-State following&nbsp;Jareem Dowling, who was named an assistant coach on Tuesday (March 29) and&nbsp;Marco Borne, who was named Chief of Staff on Wednesday (March 30). Other additions will be announced as they become official.

An assistant coach with 15 years of experience and deep ties to the state of Texas, Maligi arrives at K-State after spending the last three seasons on staff with head coach&nbsp;Chris Beard&nbsp;at both Texas Tech (2019-21) and Texas (2021-22). In addition to his time with the Red Raiders and Longhorns, he has also been an assistant at UT-Arlington (2006-07), Stephen F. Austin (2007-10), Houston (2010-12), SMU (2012-15) and Texas A&amp;M (2016-19).

<a>MANHATTAN, Kan.</a>&nbsp;– First-year Kansas State head coach&nbsp;Jerome Tang&nbsp;made another addition to his coaching staff on Friday (April 1) with the selection of veteran assistant coach&nbsp;Ulric Maligi&nbsp;(pronounced&nbsp;YUR-ick MAL-uh-ghee) as the program’s associate head coach.<a>“We are excited to welcome Ulric, his wife Courtney and son JJ to the K-State Family,” said Tang. “When I began the process of building my staff, Ulric was at top of my list. He is not only one of the best recruiters that I have ever been around, but he is one of the top basketball minds in the country, having learned from some of the best in the business. In addition to his talents as a coach, he is also an outstanding husband and father and will be a perfect fit in helping me and the rest of the staff elevate this program.”</a>Maligi is the third announced member of Tang’s inaugural coaching staff at K-State following&nbsp;Jareem Dowling, who was named an assistant coach on Tuesday (March 29) and&nbsp;Marco Borne, who was named Chief of Staff on Wednesday (March 30). Other additions will be announced as they become official.An assistant coach with 15 years of experience and deep ties to the state of Texas, Maligi arrives at K-State after spending the last three seasons on staff with head coach&nbsp;Chris Beard&nbsp;at both Texas Tech (2019-21) and Texas (2021-22). In addition to his time with the Red Raiders and Longhorns, he has also been an assistant at UT-Arlington (2006-07), Stephen F. Austin (2007-10), Houston (2010-12), SMU (2012-15) and Texas A&amp;M (2016-19).

Tang Names Ulric Maligi as Associate Head Coach

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

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.

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