Kansas State will play West Virginia in the opening game of the Phillips 66&nbsp; Big 12 Men's Basketball Championship at 6 p.m. Wednesday. The tournament is being played at the T-Mobile Center in Kansas City, Missouri.

K-State is seeded 8th and West Virginia 9th in the tournament. The winner of their contest will advance to meet top seed Kansas at 2 p.m. Thursday. Other first round games on Thursday include TCU vs. Texas, Baylor against Oklahoma, and Texas Tech will square off against Iowa State. The tournament continues Friday and Saturday.

Kansas State will play West Virginia in the opening game of the Phillips 66&nbsp; Big 12 Men's Basketball Championship at 6 p.m. Wednesday. The tournament is being played at the T-Mobile Center in Kansas City, Missouri.K-State is seeded 8th and West Virginia 9th in the tournament. The winner of their contest will advance to meet top seed Kansas at 2 p.m. Thursday. Other first round games on Thursday include TCU vs. Texas, Baylor against Oklahoma, and Texas Tech will square off against Iowa State. The tournament continues Friday and Saturday.

Big 12 Men's Basketball Tournament is set for this week

IRVING, Texas (AP) — Kansas junior guard Ochai Agbaji is the unanimous pick by the Big 12 coaches as the league’s player of the year. Baylor’s Scott Drew was selected by his peers as the Big 12′s top coach for the third season in a row. The reigning national champion Bears shared the Big 12 regular-season title with Kansas. 

Agbaji is the league’s top scorer at 19.8 points per game. Agbaji and Texas Tech forward Bryson Williams were unanimous picks on the All-Big 12 first team. The other first-teamers are guards Izaiah Brockington from Iowa State, James Akinjo from Baylor and Nijel Pack from Kansas State.

IRVING, Texas (AP) — Kansas junior guard Ochai Agbaji is the unanimous pick by the Big 12 coaches as the league’s player of the year. Baylor’s Scott Drew was selected by his peers as the Big 12′s top coach for the third season in a row. The reigning national champion Bears shared the Big 12 regular-season title with Kansas. Agbaji is the league’s top scorer at 19.8 points per game. Agbaji and Texas Tech forward Bryson Williams were unanimous picks on the All-Big 12 first team. The other first-teamers are guards Izaiah Brockington from Iowa State, James Akinjo from Baylor and Nijel Pack from Kansas State.

Big 12 coaches pick all conference team

MANHATTAN, Kan. (AP) — Umoja Gibson hit a seven 3-pointers and finished with 29 points on 9-of-14 shooting to help Oklahoma beat Kansas State 78-71 in the regular-season finale for both teams. Tanner Groves added 14 points for Oklahoma. The Sooners have won three straight to keep their NCAA Tournament hopes alive. There were seven ties and nine lead changes before Groves made a layup to give Oklahoma the lead for good amid a 7-0 spurt that made it 52-47 with 12:27 to play. Smith led Kansas State with 22 points and nine rebounds. Mike McGuirl added 21 points, five assists and three steals.

MANHATTAN, Kan. (AP) — Umoja Gibson hit a seven 3-pointers and finished with 29 points on 9-of-14 shooting to help Oklahoma beat Kansas State 78-71 in the regular-season finale for both teams. Tanner Groves added 14 points for Oklahoma. The Sooners have won three straight to keep their NCAA Tournament hopes alive. There were seven ties and nine lead changes before Groves made a layup to give Oklahoma the lead for good amid a 7-0 spurt that made it 52-47 with 12:27 to play. Smith led Kansas State with 22 points and nine rebounds. Mike McGuirl added 21 points, five assists and three steals.

Wildcats fall to Oklahoma on Senior Day

St. Thomas Aquinas 60, St. James Academy 51

St. John's Beloit-Tipton 56, Logan/Palco 21

Hutchinson Central Christian 28, Elyria Christian 26

GIRLS PREP BASKETBALL=Sub-State=Championship=Class 5A=East=Sub-State 1=St. Thomas Aquinas 60, St. James Academy 51Sub-State 2=Lansing 43, Mill Valley 33Sub-State 3=Spring Hill 40, Leavenworth 26Sub-State 4=DeSoto 43, Basehor-Linwood 36West=Sub-State 1=Salina Central 63, Hays 33Sub-State 2=Wichita Bishop Carroll 50, Andover 42Sub-State 3=Emporia 48, Kapaun Mount Carmel 30Sub-State 4=Andover Central 52, Topeka Seaman 38Class 3A=Fredonia=Cherryvale 59, Neodesha 53Goodland=Goodland 40, Phillipsburg 33Kingman=Hugoton 49, Cimarron 34Minneapolis=Southeast Saline 37, Riley County 30Nickerson=Nickerson 48, Hesston 37Prairie View=Frontenac 60, Eureka 56Silver Lake=Silver Lake 59, Nemaha Central 54West Franklin=Santa Fe Trail 58, West Franklin 26Class 2A=Dexter=Garden Plain 52, West Elk 28Lyndon=Mission Valley 41, Northern Heights 35Plainville=Smith Center 58, Cheylin 38Remington=Berean Academy 50, Remington 22Republic County=Valley Heights 51, St. Mary’s 37Sublette=Sterling 74, Elkhart 43Uniontown=Pittsburg Colgan 55, Uniontown 27Valley Falls=Jackson Heights 44, Jefferson North 23Class 1A Division 1=Clifton Clyde=Clifton-Clyde 36, Washington County 31Frankfort=Centralia 44, Frankfort 39Jetmore=Hodgeman County 52, Ness City 42Lucas Unified=Osborne 68, Rawlins County 56Olpe=Burlington 44, St. Paul 39South Gray=Spearville 49, South Central 36Udall=Pretty Prairie 38, Norwich 16Class 1A Division 2=Axtell=Hanover 60, Linn 44Beloit=St. John's Beloit-Tipton 56, Logan/Palco 21Caldwell=South Haven 44, Attica 43Central Plains=Central Plains 68, Rural Vista 15Fowler=Bucklin 31, Ashland 28Lebo=Lebo 53, Waverly 33Stafford=Hutchinson Central Christian 28, Elyria Christian 26Wallace County=Golden Plains 46, Wheatland-Grinnell 45

Saturday night high school girls basketball results

BOYS PREP BASKETBALL=Sub-State=Championship=Class 6A=East=Sub-State 1=BV Northwest 63, BV North 57Sub-State 2=Olathe West 73, Lawrence 69Sub-State 3=SM Northwest 59, Blue Valley 42Sub-State 4=Olathe North 56, SM East 47West=Sub-State 1=Lawrence Free State 53, Hutchinson 37Sub-State 2=Wichita Heights 54, Junction City 39Sub-State 3=Dodge City 56, Washburn Rural 49Sub-State 4=Derby 47, Manhattan 27Class 4A=East=Sub-State 1=Eudora 68, Labette County 42Sub-State 2=Bishop Miege 79, Atchison 37Sub-State 3=Paola 51, Tonganoxie 37Sub-State 4=Topeka Hayden 52, Wamego 37West=Sub-State 1=McPherson 60, Pratt 39Sub-State 2=Buhler 44, El Dorado 41Sub-State 3=Andale 62, Rose Hill 52Sub-State 4=Abilene 64, Rock Creek 57, OTClass 3A=Fredonia=Columbus 39, Galena 22Goodland=Hays-TMP-Marian 46, Norton 39Kingman=Hugoton 59, Chaparral 19Minneapolis=Southeast Saline 71, Council Grove 48Nickerson=Hesston 49, Cheney 41Prairie View=Girard 41, Burlington 34Silver Lake=Royal Valley 54, Sabetha 23West Franklin=Osage City 61, Pleasant Ridge 55Class 2A=Dexter=Wichita Independent 51, Sedan 40Lyndon=Lyndon 71, Chase County 54Plainville=Trego 64, Plainville 46Remington=Hillsboro 42, Inman 35Republic County=St. Mary's 64, Wabaunsee 57, OTSublette=Sterling 48, Ellinwood 42Uniontown=Pittsburg Colgan 76, Southeast 48Valley Falls=Valley Falls 53, Atchison County 50Class 1A Division 1=Clyde-Clifton=Solomon 53, Clifton-Clyde 50Frankfort=Troy 58, Cair Paravel 57Jetmore=Ness City 70, Hodgeman County 56Lucas Unified=Osborne 46, Lakeside 41Olpe=Olpe 49, Burlingame 33South Gray=South Gray 36, Meade 31Udall=Norwich 43, Wichita Classical 26Class 1A Division 2=Axtell=Axtell 55, Hanover 35Beloit=Northern Valley 62, Logan/Palco 58Caldwell=Caldwell 45, Attica 44Central Plains=Central Plains 46, Centre 41Fowler=Bucklin 80, Ingalls 47Lebo=Waverly 33, Lebo 22Stafford=Pawnee Heights 43, Stafford 34Wallace County=Greeley County 72, Wheatland-Grinnell 54

Saturday night high school boys basketball results

Manhattan ( 9-13 ) will play Lawrence Free State ( 21-1 ) in the first round of the boys Class 6A&nbsp; State Tournament at 2 p.m. Thursday. The tournament is being played at Koch Arena in Wichita.

Other&nbsp; first round pairings find Blue Valley ( 19-3 ) vs. Shawnee Mission Northwest ( 18-4 ), Wichita Heights ( 20-2 ) vs. Olathe North ( 11-11 ) and Dodge City ( 19-3 ) will play Olathe West ( 14-8 ).&nbsp;

The tournament will continue Friday and Saturday.

Manhattan ( 9-13 ) will play Lawrence Free State ( 21-1 ) in the first round of the boys Class 6A&nbsp; State Tournament at 2 p.m. Thursday. The tournament is being played at Koch Arena in Wichita.Other&nbsp; first round pairings find Blue Valley ( 19-3 ) vs. Shawnee Mission Northwest ( 18-4 ), Wichita Heights ( 20-2 ) vs. Olathe North ( 11-11 ) and Dodge City ( 19-3 ) will play Olathe West ( 14-8 ).&nbsp;The tournament will continue Friday and Saturday.

Manhattan advances to the boys Class 6A State Tournament

It's sub-state championship Saturday and five of our area teams will look to punch one of eight tickets to state in their respective classes throughout the evening.

Here you can find finals and matchup information for the Wamego, Rock Creek, and Riley County boys and girls basketball teams.

The clock struck midnight on the Rock Creek boy's Cinderella run after they took Abilene into an overtime thriller but came up just short 64-57. The Mustangs season comes to an end at 9-13 while the Cowboys are on to the state tournament in Salina next week.

The #9 Wamego boys basketball team was upset by Topeka-Hayden in the sub-state championship game 37-52. The Red Raiders season comes to an end at 14-8 while the Wildcats advance to the state tournament in Salina next week.

The Rock Creek girl's basketball team fell to McPherson in a tragic upset loss in the sub-state final 43-38. The Lady Mustangs conclude an impressive 2021-22 campaign 17-5 while the Bullpups clinch a spot in the state tournament for the 28th time in 31 years.

The Wamego girl's basketball team became the first team in the area to punch their ticket to state with a commanding 53-26 victory over Holton. The Wildcat's season comes to an end at the hands of Wamego for a second straight season as Holton wraps up their 2021-22 campaign 14-8.

Riley County's Cinderella run continued on Friday night with a 39-28 upset of the 2-seed in Smoky Valley. The Vikings finish their season 15-7 while the Falcons move on to the sub-state championship game to face either Southeast of Saline or Beloit on Saturday.

Rock Creek held on to win a last-second nailbiter 61-60, pulling off a shock upset of 5-seeded Concordia. The Panthers will conclude their campaign 14-7 while the Mustangs advance to face Abilene in the sub-state championship game on Saturday.

The #9 Wamego boys basketball team took care of Coffeyville in their sub-state semifinal 58-39. The Golden Tornado season ends at 7-14 while the Red Raiders advance to the sub-state final to take on Holton or Topeka Hayden.

The #4 Wamego girls basketball team collected a big 55-34 win over Tonganoxie to advance to the sub-state final. The Chieftans wrap up their season 6-15 while the Red Raiders will take on Holton on Friday for a trip to state.

The Riley County girls basketball team pulled an upset of Minneapolis with a 42-33 victory on Tuesday. The Lady Lions season comes to an end at 12-8 while the Lady Falcons advance to take on Smoky Valley in the sub-state semis on Friday.

The #7 Rock Creek girls basketball team soundly defeated Buhler in the sub-state semis by a final score of 57-18. The Crusaders wrap up their campaign 4-17 while the Mustangs advance to the sub-state final to take on McPherson for a spot in the state tournament.

The Riley County boys basketball team was defeated by Beloit in the opening round of sub-state 57-42. The Falcons will conclude their season at 5-15 while the Trojans advance to face Council Grove in the semifinals.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599179528888.png" alt="This sub-state roundup is presented by Salina Ortho: Quality orthopedic care when you need it!" />
 <figcaption>This sub-state roundup is presented by Salina Ortho: Quality orthopedic care when you need it!</figcaption>
 </figure>It's sub-state championship Saturday and five of our area teams will look to punch one of eight tickets to state in their respective classes throughout the evening.Here you can find finals and matchup information for the Wamego, Rock Creek, and Riley County boys and girls basketball teams.State Bound #4 Wamego girlsSaturday, March 5thThe clock struck midnight on the Rock Creek boy's Cinderella run after they took Abilene into an overtime thriller but came up just short 64-57. The Mustangs season comes to an end at 9-13 while the Cowboys are on to the state tournament in Salina next week.The #9 Wamego boys basketball team was upset by Topeka-Hayden in the sub-state championship game 37-52. The Red Raiders season comes to an end at 14-8 while the Wildcats advance to the state tournament in Salina next week.Friday, March 4thThe Rock Creek girl's basketball team fell to McPherson in a tragic upset loss in the sub-state final 43-38. The Lady Mustangs conclude an impressive 2021-22 campaign 17-5 while the Bullpups clinch a spot in the state tournament for the 28th time in 31 years.The Wamego girl's basketball team became the first team in the area to punch their ticket to state with a commanding 53-26 victory over Holton. The Wildcat's season comes to an end at the hands of Wamego for a second straight season as Holton wraps up their 2021-22 campaign 14-8.Riley County's Cinderella run continued on Friday night with a 39-28 upset of the 2-seed in Smoky Valley. The Vikings finish their season 15-7 while the Falcons move on to the sub-state championship game to face either Southeast of Saline or Beloit on Saturday.Wednesday, March 2ndRock Creek held on to win a last-second nailbiter 61-60, pulling off a shock upset of 5-seeded Concordia. The Panthers will conclude their campaign 14-7 while the Mustangs advance to face Abilene in the sub-state championship game on Saturday.The #9 Wamego boys basketball team took care of Coffeyville in their sub-state semifinal 58-39. The Golden Tornado season ends at 7-14 while the Red Raiders advance to the sub-state final to take on Holton or Topeka Hayden.Tuesday, March 1stThe #4 Wamego girls basketball team collected a big 55-34 win over Tonganoxie to advance to the sub-state final. The Chieftans wrap up their season 6-15 while the Red Raiders will take on Holton on Friday for a trip to state.The Riley County girls basketball team pulled an upset of Minneapolis with a 42-33 victory on Tuesday. The Lady Lions season comes to an end at 12-8 while the Lady Falcons advance to take on Smoky Valley in the sub-state semis on Friday.The #7 Rock Creek girls basketball team soundly defeated Buhler in the sub-state semis by a final score of 57-18. The Crusaders wrap up their campaign 4-17 while the Mustangs advance to the sub-state final to take on McPherson for a spot in the state tournament.Monday, February 28th&nbsp;The Riley County boys basketball team was defeated by Beloit in the opening round of sub-state 57-42. The Falcons will conclude their season at 5-15 while the Trojans advance to face Council Grove in the semifinals.

Area hoops sub-state round up 

By TYLER HENRY Little Apple Post contributor

The Abilene and Rock Creek boys basketball teams will meet in the 4A sub-state championship game on Saturday to wrap up a wild 2022 sub-state tournament.

These teams took different routes to get here with the Cowboys defeating Augusta soundly in the semifinal 53-31 while the Mustangs pulled out a shocking upset of Concordia 61-60.

“We battled well for the boards inside which had been a focus for us,” Rock Creek head coach Jim Johnston said. “I was really pleased with how we went after loose balls and defensively we stuck to our gameplan of doubling Concordia’s bigs and recovering on our rotations.”

Rock Creek will have their work cut out for them against an Abilene team that pounded the Mustangs 68-27 back in December.

“It was our press that worked for us that night,” Cowboy head coach Erik Graefe said. “Early on it was a close game but we got some steals and hit some threes and the wheels kind of came off for Rock Creek.”

The Mustangs have worked with an incredibly young roster this season, and the rendition of the team that will play tonight is nothing like the one that lost by 41 to Abilene earlier this season.

“We’ve grown a lot and we’ve cut down on our turnovers,” Johnston said. “When something bad happens we go to the next play instead of hanging our heads. Offensively we know where our shots are coming from and we’re moving the ball a lot better and defensively we’re moving much more quickly.”

That growth has been recognized by Abilene as well, who are expecting a much tougher fight against a battle-hardened Mustang team.

“Rock Creek is playing fearlessly,” Graefe said. “they trust each other, spread it well, and take their shots with confidence. Coach Johnston is the man, I can’t say enough good things about what he’s done and I knew we were lucky to play them early because they didn’t have a lot of experience and we knew they’d be formidable by the end of the season.”

For the Mustangs, slowing down Kaleb Becker will be a huge key in this game. The Senior star has given opposing defenses fits this season and was critical in Abilene’s earlier win over Rock Creek this year.

“Becker is a very good player and he’s long and athletic,” Johnston said. “We have to control him and we have to know where their shooters are and make sure we get back on defense. We’ll have to make their shooters put it on the floor and we’ll have to help in the paint.”

As for Abilene, the Cowboys hope they can continue to find buckets in transition, pressuring Rock Creek again in front of a big home crowd.

“It means everything to play this game on our home floor,” Graefe said. “Our band is incredible and our guys thrive on the atmosphere and tradition inside that building. We play up-tempo and with a lot of pressure and that home crowd is invaluable in that.”

Tip-off between Abilene and Rock Creek is set for 6 pm this evening at Abilene High School.

For continuing coverage of both teams at sub-state and beyond stay tuned to the Salina and Little Apple Post.

By TYLER HENRY Little Apple Post contributorThe Abilene and Rock Creek boys basketball teams will meet in the 4A sub-state championship game on Saturday to wrap up a wild 2022 sub-state tournament.These teams took different routes to get here with the Cowboys defeating Augusta soundly in the semifinal 53-31 while the Mustangs pulled out a shocking upset of Concordia 61-60.“We battled well for the boards inside which had been a focus for us,” Rock Creek head coach Jim Johnston said. “I was really pleased with how we went after loose balls and defensively we stuck to our gameplan of doubling Concordia’s bigs and recovering on our rotations.”Rock Creek will have their work cut out for them against an Abilene team that pounded the Mustangs 68-27 back in December.“It was our press that worked for us that night,” Cowboy head coach Erik Graefe said. “Early on it was a close game but we got some steals and hit some threes and the wheels kind of came off for Rock Creek.”The Mustangs have worked with an incredibly young roster this season, and the rendition of the team that will play tonight is nothing like the one that lost by 41 to Abilene earlier this season.“We’ve grown a lot and we’ve cut down on our turnovers,” Johnston said. “When something bad happens we go to the next play instead of hanging our heads. Offensively we know where our shots are coming from and we’re moving the ball a lot better and defensively we’re moving much more quickly.”That growth has been recognized by Abilene as well, who are expecting a much tougher fight against a battle-hardened Mustang team.“Rock Creek is playing fearlessly,” Graefe said. “they trust each other, spread it well, and take their shots with confidence. Coach Johnston is the man, I can’t say enough good things about what he’s done and I knew we were lucky to play them early because they didn’t have a lot of experience and we knew they’d be formidable by the end of the season.”For the Mustangs, slowing down Kaleb Becker will be a huge key in this game. The Senior star has given opposing defenses fits this season and was critical in Abilene’s earlier win over Rock Creek this year. “Becker is a very good player and he’s long and athletic,” Johnston said. “We have to control him and we have to know where their shooters are and make sure we get back on defense. We’ll have to make their shooters put it on the floor and we’ll have to help in the paint.”As for Abilene, the Cowboys hope they can continue to find buckets in transition, pressuring Rock Creek again in front of a big home crowd.“It means everything to play this game on our home floor,” Graefe said. “Our band is incredible and our guys thrive on the atmosphere and tradition inside that building. We play up-tempo and with a lot of pressure and that home crowd is invaluable in that.”Tip-off between Abilene and Rock Creek is set for 6 pm this evening at Abilene High School.For continuing coverage of both teams at sub-state and beyond stay tuned to the Salina and Little Apple Post.

Mustangs seeking revenge over Abilene in sub-state championship

By TYLER HENRY Little Apple Post contributor

The Southeast of Saline and Riley County girls basketball teams will meet in the sub-state championship game on Saturday with a ticket to the state tournament in Hutch next week on the line.

These two teams have taken drastically different routes to get here, with the #7 ranked Lady Trojans entering as the 1-seed at 19-3 while the Lady Falcons look for a third-straight upset at 10-10.

Southeast wrapped up a 39-28 come from behind victory over Beloit in their semifinal matchup, defeating the Trojans for a third straight time this season.

“We weren’t making baskets early and we weren’t taking shots or attacking the rim but eventually we wore them down,” SES head coach Shauna Smith said. “That pressure is what we’ve hung our hats on this year.”

For Riley County, upset wins over Minneapolis and Smoky Valley have given the team droves of momentum and confidence ahead of Saturday’s championship game.

“We were confident in our girls that if they executed the game plan we would be in a position to win,” Falcon head coach Kelsey Nelson said. “They came out in both of these games and executed to perfection, staying within themselves and controlling the game from start to finish.”

While Riley County may have entered the bracket as the 7-seed, teams like Southeast of Saline know better than to treat them like others in the Falcon’s position.

“We’re not surprised to see Riley County here,” Smith said. “At one point they could have been our first-round matchup and we didn’t want that. They play in a tough league and they’re a really tough team as a result.”

While the Falcons have looked good in their first two matchups, Riley County will have to amp up the intensity if they want to unseat a Lady Trojan team that rides a 12-game win streak into this game.

“SES is a better team than what we faced in the first two games,” Nelson said. “They are sound in what they do and very well-coached and you can see that reflected on the court.

This game will show off a contrast in styles of play, with Southeast of Saline wanting to use their pressure to work in transition, and Riley County remaining patient and jumping on mistakes.

“They’re going to make us work hard on defense,” Smith said. “They run offensive sets until they get a good look and they’ll get easy layups if you make any mistakes.”

For the Falcons, controlling the tempo will be paramount against a Trojan team that has made big runs in most of their games this season.

“Offensively we'll need to be able to handle their full-court pressure and have to attack when the opportunity presents itself,” Nelson said. “Early in the game, we'll have to get our girls into their plays and allow them to get comfortable while looking for good shot opportunities.”

A lot rides on this game for both programs, the last time SES clinched a spot in the state tournament was in 2016, just a season before the last Riley County run in 2017.

“I would be very proud of these girls if they were able to make it state, some of them have been waiting for their opportunity to play for four years due to the good classes ahead of them,” Nelson said. “If these girls are able to get over that hump and make it to state it would be great for our team, our school, and our community.”

Riley County will look to avoid falling in the sub-state final for a third consecutive year while the Lady Trojans will look to take the next step after falling short last season without a single senior on the roster.

“We’ve been talking about this since last March ever since we lost to Hesston,” Smith said. “These senior girls have worked their tails off and they deserve this, we have a fun group and we’ve talked about taking the next step all season.”

Tip-off between the Lady Trojans and Falcons is set for 7 pm at Minneapolis High School, with the winner moving on to Hutch next week to compete for a state title.

Tonight’s game can be heard on KINA (910 AM or 107.5 FM) or streamed live on the Salina Post courtesy of Bennington State Bank.

For continuing coverage of both teams at sub-state, stay tuned to the Salina Post.

By TYLER HENRY Little Apple Post contributorThe Southeast of Saline and Riley County girls basketball teams will meet in the sub-state championship game on Saturday with a ticket to the state tournament in Hutch next week on the line.These two teams have taken drastically different routes to get here, with the #7 ranked Lady Trojans entering as the 1-seed at 19-3 while the Lady Falcons look for a third-straight upset at 10-10.Southeast wrapped up a 39-28 come from behind victory over Beloit in their semifinal matchup, defeating the Trojans for a third straight time this season.“We weren’t making baskets early and we weren’t taking shots or attacking the rim but eventually we wore them down,” SES head coach Shauna Smith said. “That pressure is what we’ve hung our hats on this year.”For Riley County, upset wins over Minneapolis and Smoky Valley have given the team droves of momentum and confidence ahead of Saturday’s championship game.“We were confident in our girls that if they executed the game plan we would be in a position to win,” Falcon head coach Kelsey Nelson said. “They came out in both of these games and executed to perfection, staying within themselves and controlling the game from start to finish.”While Riley County may have entered the bracket as the 7-seed, teams like Southeast of Saline know better than to treat them like others in the Falcon’s position.“We’re not surprised to see Riley County here,” Smith said. “At one point they could have been our first-round matchup and we didn’t want that. They play in a tough league and they’re a really tough team as a result.”While the Falcons have looked good in their first two matchups, Riley County will have to amp up the intensity if they want to unseat a Lady Trojan team that rides a 12-game win streak into this game.“SES is a better team than what we faced in the first two games,” Nelson said. “They are sound in what they do and very well-coached and you can see that reflected on the court.This game will show off a contrast in styles of play, with Southeast of Saline wanting to use their pressure to work in transition, and Riley County remaining patient and jumping on mistakes.“They’re going to make us work hard on defense,” Smith said. “They run offensive sets until they get a good look and they’ll get easy layups if you make any mistakes.”For the Falcons, controlling the tempo will be paramount against a Trojan team that has made big runs in most of their games this season.“Offensively we'll need to be able to handle their full-court pressure and have to attack when the opportunity presents itself,” Nelson said. “Early in the game, we'll have to get our girls into their plays and allow them to get comfortable while looking for good shot opportunities.”A lot rides on this game for both programs, the last time SES clinched a spot in the state tournament was in 2016, just a season before the last Riley County run in 2017.“I would be very proud of these girls if they were able to make it state, some of them have been waiting for their opportunity to play for four years due to the good classes ahead of them,” Nelson said. “If these girls are able to get over that hump and make it to state it would be great for our team, our school, and our community.”Riley County will look to avoid falling in the sub-state final for a third consecutive year while the Lady Trojans will look to take the next step after falling short last season without a single senior on the roster.“We’ve been talking about this since last March ever since we lost to Hesston,” Smith said. “These senior girls have worked their tails off and they deserve this, we have a fun group and we’ve talked about taking the next step all season.”Tip-off between the Lady Trojans and Falcons is set for 7 pm at Minneapolis High School, with the winner moving on to Hutch next week to compete for a state title.Tonight’s game can be heard on KINA (910 AM or 107.5 FM) or streamed live on the Salina Post courtesy of Bennington State Bank.For continuing coverage of both teams at sub-state, stay tuned to the Salina Post.

Riley County takes on #7 SES in sub-state championship

Wichita Independent 48, Cedar Vale/Dexter Co-op 35

Valley Falls 67, Maur Hill - Mount Academy 51

BOYS PREP BASKETBALL=Sub-State=Championship=Class 5A=East=Sub-State 4=BV Southwest 70, Pittsburg 42Sub-State 1=St. James Academy 52, Basehor-Linwood 35Sub-State 3=DeSoto 50, Shawnee Heights 37Highland Park 89, KC Piper 52West=Sub-State 1=Topeka Seaman 61, Hays 44Sub-State 2=Kapaun Mount Carmel 61, Valley Center 42Sub-State 3=Topeka West 73, Andover 59Sub-State 4=Maize 59, Andover Central 50Semifinal=Class 2A=Dexter=Sedan 31, Conway Springs 30Wichita Independent 48, Cedar Vale/Dexter Co-op 35Lyndon=Chase County 54, Mission Valley 44Lyndon 62, KC Christian 28Plainville=Plainville 48, Hill City 36Trego 52, Hoxie 35Remington=Hillsboro 60, Sedgwick 26Inman 43, Moundridge 40Republic County=St. Mary's 78, Bennington 51Wabaunsee 57, Salina Sacred Heart 51Sublette=Ellinwood 63, Sublette 44Sterling 66, Medicine Lodge 54Uniontown=Pittsburg Colgan 62, Erie 35Southeast 44, Yates Center 28Valley Falls=Atchison County 39, Jefferson North 24Valley Falls 67, Maur Hill - Mount Academy 51

Friday night boys substate finals basketball results

Following a 55-39 victory over Coffeyville in the sub-state semifinal on Wednesday, the Wamego boys basketball team will host Topeka-Hayden in the championship game on Saturday.

The Red Raiders, still ranked #9 in Class 4A, will enter this game with an overall record of 14-7 while the Wildcats come in at 8-13.

Wamego struggled from the field on Wednesday but played solid defense to take home an expected victory over the Golden Tornado.

“We took care of the ball against Coffeyville and won the rebounding battle,” Red Raider head coach Troy Hemphill said. “That really allowed us to survive a subpar shooting night.”

Wamego will need to step up their game against a frisky Wildcat team that upset 4-seeded Holton 53-43 in their semifinal on Wednesday.

“Hayden has a solid team,” Hemphill said. “They have a really impressive inside presence and their guards make good decisions.”

The Wildcats have been led all season by a trio of Jake Muller, Trent Duffey, and Joe Otting.

Otting and Duffey have been able to use their size to give opposing defenses fits this season and the Raiders will need to pack the lane to prevent big nights from the Hayden posts.

While the records tell the story of a wild upset earlier this week, a closer examination of the Topeka-Hayden schedule tells the story of a team that has prepared for this very moment by scheduling teams others in their league wouldn’t go near.

“Hayden winning the first-round game is in no way an upset,” Hemphill said. “They bang heads with 5A and 6A teams all year and have beaten some of them. Their record is not relevant in the post-season. They are as experienced and talented as any team in 4A.”

That schedule includes wins over 6A schools like Manhattan and Topeka, and 5A teams like Emporia, as well as several close losses to larger opponents that have prepared the Wildcats for March.

While Topeka-Hayden is no normal 12-seed, Wamego has prepared for this moment all season as well, and is still the favorite on paper to survive and advance to the state tournament for the first time since 2018.

“We are excited for the opportunity to earn a state tournament berth, it is definitely one of our team goals and we fell one game short last year,” he said. We are hungry for the opportunity and we have to stay focused and forget about the consequences of the game and be ready to put our best selves on the floor when it's time to play.”

Tip-off between the Red Raiders and Wildcats is set for 3 pm at Wamego High School with the winner punching one of eight tickets to the state tournament in Salina next week.

For continuing coverage of both Wamego teams this postseason, stay tuned to the Little Apple Post.

By TYLER HENRY Little Apple Post contributorFollowing a 55-39 victory over Coffeyville in the sub-state semifinal on Wednesday, the Wamego boys basketball team will host Topeka-Hayden in the championship game on Saturday.The Red Raiders, still ranked #9 in Class 4A, will enter this game with an overall record of 14-7 while the Wildcats come in at 8-13.Wamego struggled from the field on Wednesday but played solid defense to take home an expected victory over the Golden Tornado.“We took care of the ball against Coffeyville and won the rebounding battle,” Red Raider head coach Troy Hemphill said. “That really allowed us to survive a subpar shooting night.”Wamego will need to step up their game against a frisky Wildcat team that upset 4-seeded Holton 53-43 in their semifinal on Wednesday.“Hayden has a solid team,” Hemphill said. “They have a really impressive inside presence and their guards make good decisions.”The Wildcats have been led all season by a trio of Jake Muller, Trent Duffey, and Joe Otting.Otting and Duffey have been able to use their size to give opposing defenses fits this season and the Raiders will need to pack the lane to prevent big nights from the Hayden posts.While the records tell the story of a wild upset earlier this week, a closer examination of the Topeka-Hayden schedule tells the story of a team that has prepared for this very moment by scheduling teams others in their league wouldn’t go near.“Hayden winning the first-round game is in no way an upset,” Hemphill said. “They bang heads with 5A and 6A teams all year and have beaten some of them. Their record is not relevant in the post-season. They are as experienced and talented as any team in 4A.”That schedule includes wins over 6A schools like Manhattan and Topeka, and 5A teams like Emporia, as well as several close losses to larger opponents that have prepared the Wildcats for March.While Topeka-Hayden is no normal 12-seed, Wamego has prepared for this moment all season as well, and is still the favorite on paper to survive and advance to the state tournament for the first time since 2018.“We are excited for the opportunity to earn a state tournament berth, it is definitely one of our team goals and we fell one game short last year,” he said. We are hungry for the opportunity and we have to stay focused and forget about the consequences of the game and be ready to put our best selves on the floor when it's time to play.”Tip-off between the Red Raiders and Wildcats is set for 3 pm at Wamego High School with the winner punching one of eight tickets to the state tournament in Salina next week.For continuing coverage of both Wamego teams this postseason, stay tuned to the Little Apple Post.

#9 Red Raiders host Topeka-Hayden looking for first state berth since 18'

The #4 Wamego girls basketball team punched their ticket to the state tournament in dominant fashion, eliminating the Holton Wildcats in the sub-state final for a second straight season, this time by a score of 53-26.

The Red Raiders will head to Salina next week while the Wildcats season comes to a close at 14-8.

“I'm extremely proud of our team for what we've accomplished so far this season,” Wamego head coach Brian McIntosh said. “They overcame a lot of adversity to achieve a few of their goals (NCKL champs and sub-state champs). They still have a few left, but I loved seeing the joy on their faces last night.”

Wamego dominated from start to finish thanks to a 22-point night from Paige Donnelly and 12 more from Ashten Pierson.

Defensively, the Raiders locked down the paint, keeping Holton’s inside scorers off the glass and out of rhythm for 32 minutes.

“Holton is a very physical and well-coached team,” McIntosh said. “We knew that we would have to limit their post touches in order to win the game. I thought our defensive pressure really hurt them. We also shot the ball well from the three-point line which was big since they were playing a zone.”

This year’s state bracket will be loaded as all five of the top teams in Class 4A, including #4 Wamego, survived upset bids at sub-state.

The competition will be fierce but the Raiders will be intent on making some serious noise in Salina next week.

“We want to play on Saturday,” McIntosh said. “In order to do that, we will need to lock in on whoever we play Wednesday. Staying present and attacking each day has gotten us to this point. We will need 4 days of good preparation then execute our game plan. When we are playing our style of basketball, we are pretty hard to beat.”

For coverage of the Wamego girl’s basketball team at the state tournament next week, stay tuned to the Little Apple Post.

By TYLER HENRY Little Apple Post contributorThe #4 Wamego girls basketball team punched their ticket to the state tournament in dominant fashion, eliminating the Holton Wildcats in the sub-state final for a second straight season, this time by a score of 53-26.The Red Raiders will head to Salina next week while the Wildcats season comes to a close at 14-8.“I'm extremely proud of our team for what we've accomplished so far this season,” Wamego head coach Brian McIntosh said. “They overcame a lot of adversity to achieve a few of their goals (NCKL champs and sub-state champs). They still have a few left, but I loved seeing the joy on their faces last night.”Wamego dominated from start to finish thanks to a 22-point night from Paige Donnelly and 12 more from Ashten Pierson.Defensively, the Raiders locked down the paint, keeping Holton’s inside scorers off the glass and out of rhythm for 32 minutes.“Holton is a very physical and well-coached team,” McIntosh said. “We knew that we would have to limit their post touches in order to win the game. I thought our defensive pressure really hurt them. We also shot the ball well from the three-point line which was big since they were playing a zone.”This year’s state bracket will be loaded as all five of the top teams in Class 4A, including #4 Wamego, survived upset bids at sub-state.The competition will be fierce but the Raiders will be intent on making some serious noise in Salina next week.“We want to play on Saturday,” McIntosh said. “In order to do that, we will need to lock in on whoever we play Wednesday. Staying present and attacking each day has gotten us to this point. We will need 4 days of good preparation then execute our game plan. When we are playing our style of basketball, we are pretty hard to beat.”For coverage of the Wamego girl’s basketball team at the state tournament next week, stay tuned to the Little Apple Post.

#4 Lady Raiders eliminate Holton for second-straight year, punch ticket to state

St. John's Beloit-Tipton 58, Pike Valley 22

GIRLS PREP BASKETBALL=Sub-State=Championship=Class 6A=East=Sub-State 1=Olathe North 48, Olathe West 39Sub-State 2=BV North 51, SM Northwest 43Sub-State 3=Blue Valley 43, Olathe Northwest 41Sub-State 4=SM West 42, Olathe South 33West=Sub-State 1=Derby 62, Wichita East 19Sub-State 2=Topeka 67, Liberal 46Sub-State 3=Washburn Rural 47, Manhattan 27Sub-State 4=Dodge City 52, Wichita Heights 46Class 4A=East=Sub-State 1=Eudora 54, Paola 38Sub-State 2=Wamego 53, Holton 26Sub-State 3=Bishop Miege 67, Topeka Hayden 31Sub-State 4=Labette County 49, Fort Scott 41West=Sub-State 1=Wellington 58, Circle 29Sub-State 2=Andale 47, Augusta 29Sub-State 3=McPherson 43, Rock Creek 38Sub-State 4=Clay Center 31, Clearwater 30Semifinal=Class 1A Div. 1=Burrton=Little River 51, Macksville 35St. John 64, Burrton 27Class 3A=Fredonia=Cherryvale 56, Galena 54Neodesha 52, Columbus 47Goodland=Goodland 49, Hoisington 37Phillipsburg 56, Hays-TMP-Marian 46Kingman=Cimarron 53, Kingman 28Hugoton 50, Holcomb 38Minneapolis=Riley County 39, Smoky Valley 28Southeast Saline 40, Beloit 27Nickerson=Hesston 29, Cheney 27Nickerson 63, Wichita Trinity 32Prairie View=Eureka 55, Burlington 46Frontenac 45, Girard 26Silver Lake=Nemaha Central 45, Hiawatha 33Silver Lake 55, Jefferson West 53West Franklin=Santa Fe Trail 63, Osage City 37West Franklin 45, Heritage Christian 34Class 1A Division 1=Clyde-Clifton=Clifton-Clyde 42, BV Randolph 23Washington County 33, Rock Hills 26Frankfort=Centralia 55, Troy 22Frankfort 41, Doniphan West 38Jetmore=Hodgeman County 41, La Crosse 27Ness City 45, Wichita County 39Lucas Unified=Osborne 50, Oberlin-Decatur 38Rawlins County 58, Sylvan-Lucas 54Olpe=Burlingame 37, Madison/Hamilton Co-op 31St. Paul 45, Olpe 27South Gray=South Central 40, Meade 37Spearville 48, Kiowa County 30Udall=Norwich 56, Oxford 26Pretty Prairie 49, Wichita Classical 13Class 1A Division 2=Axtell=Hanover 63, Wetmore 27Linn 53, Wakefield 31Beloit=Logan/Palco 54, Thunder Ridge 38St. John's Beloit-Tipton 58, Pike Valley 22Caldwell=Attica 64, Argonia 34South Haven 46, South Barber 23Central Plains=Central Plains 81, Wilson 18Rural Vista 49, Tescott 35Fowler=Ashland 46, Rolla 11Bucklin 38, Ingalls 34Lebo=Lebo 71, Southern Coffey 27Waverly 41, Hartford 34Stafford=Elyria Christian 58, Stafford 20Hutchinson Central Christian 53, Chase 18Wallace County=Golden Plains 53, Dighton 36Wheatland-Grinnell 52, Wallace County 42

Girls substate basketball championship results

The Riley County girls basketball team kept their Cinderella run alive with another upset win on Friday, this time over 2-seed Smoky Valley in the sub-state semis by a final score of 39-28.

The Vikings conclude their campaign at 15-7 while the Falcons advance to the sub-state championship game to face the #7 top-seeded Southeast of Saline Lady Trojans on Saturday.

Riley County led from wire to wire tonight, taking a 10-4 lead out of the first quarter and never looking back.

This win was made all the more impressive by the fact that just the five starters scored for the Falcons tonight, led by a 16-point effort from Lindsey Roles.

Roles was joined in double-figures by Hailey Sharp, with nine more added by Maddie Davis, all from three-point land.

Breanna Priddy of Smoky Valley led the way in the losing effort with 11 points but Riley County’s hallmark defense put the clamps on the rest of the roster, holding everyone else to one or fewer field goals for the game.

The Falcons attempted just two free throws in the first three quarters but got the job done from the stripe to finish the job in the fourth, sinking 8-14 to put the Vikings away.

With one more win, Riley County could punch their ticket to the state tournament in Hutch, but the Falcons will have their hands full with a Lady Trojan team that has won their last 12 straight coming into the final.

For continuing coverage of the Riley County at sub-state, stay tuned to the Little Apple Post.

By TYLER HENRY Little Apple Post contributorThe Riley County girls basketball team kept their Cinderella run alive with another upset win on Friday, this time over 2-seed Smoky Valley in the sub-state semis by a final score of 39-28.The Vikings conclude their campaign at 15-7 while the Falcons advance to the sub-state championship game to face the #7 top-seeded Southeast of Saline Lady Trojans on Saturday.Riley County led from wire to wire tonight, taking a 10-4 lead out of the first quarter and never looking back.This win was made all the more impressive by the fact that just the five starters scored for the Falcons tonight, led by a 16-point effort from Lindsey Roles.Roles was joined in double-figures by Hailey Sharp, with nine more added by Maddie Davis, all from three-point land.Breanna Priddy of Smoky Valley led the way in the losing effort with 11 points but Riley County’s hallmark defense put the clamps on the rest of the roster, holding everyone else to one or fewer field goals for the game.The Falcons attempted just two free throws in the first three quarters but got the job done from the stripe to finish the job in the fourth, sinking 8-14 to put the Vikings away.With one more win, Riley County could punch their ticket to the state tournament in Hutch, but the Falcons will have their hands full with a Lady Trojan team that has won their last 12 straight coming into the final.For continuing coverage of the Riley County at sub-state, stay tuned to the Little Apple Post.

Lady Falcons pull second upset to advance to sub-state final

After soundly defeating Tonganoxie 55-34 on Tuesday, the fourth-ranked Wamego girls basketball team will return home to host Holton in the sub-state championship game on Friday night.

The Red Raiders come into this contest at 19-2 overall while Holton enters at 14-7 fresh off a close 32-29 win over Independence.

This game is a rematch of last year’s sub-state championship game that saw Wamego crush the Wildcats 55-20 to advance to the state tournament.

“A trip to state is something that we’ve had on their minds since last year but they’ve stayed present and they understand that the next game is the most important one,” Wamego head coach Brian McIntosh said. “Holton remembers what happened last year and they’ll be ready to go.”

Like last year, this 4A sub-state final will be played in front of the Red Raider faithful, something that gave Wamego a big boost last season.

“It’s incredible,” McIntosh said. “We have a really amazing community that comes out and supports our girls and there’s a very real home-court advantage here.”

Several key players from both sides last year will be involved in this year’s rematch, and while the two did not meet in the regular season, both teams are very familiar with the other.

“This is a clash of completely different styles of basketball,” he said. “They want to pound the ball inside and pack it in on defense, we want to play fast and disrupt people full court. I think it will be a real chess match tonight.”

To limit the Wildcat offense, Wamego will have to be wary of Lindsey Wisdom and Macey Patch, who have given opponents fits on the interior this season.

“They’re a high-low team so they try to feed it into the paint and move the ball well down there,’ McIntosh said. “We can’t let them catch in their spots and we need to rotate well to keep them out of what they want to do.”

With just two losses in their ledger, the Red Raiders are optimistic about their chances of a return trip to state and an opportunity to compete in a more normal postseason.

“When our girls feel good they tend to play good and I think they’re in a really good spot mentally,” he said. “They’re hungry and they want another shot at getting to state and seeing what they can do on a neutral court.”

Tip-off between the Red Raiders and Wildcats is set for 7 pm at Wamego High School with the winner punching one of the eight tickets to the state tournament in Salina next week.

For continuing coverage of both Wamego basketball teams in the sub-state championships stay tuned to the Little Apple Post.

By TYLER HENRY Little Apple Post contributorAfter soundly defeating Tonganoxie 55-34 on Tuesday, the fourth-ranked Wamego girls basketball team will return home to host Holton in the sub-state championship game on Friday night.The Red Raiders come into this contest at 19-2 overall while Holton enters at 14-7 fresh off a close 32-29 win over Independence.This game is a rematch of last year’s sub-state championship game that saw Wamego crush the Wildcats 55-20 to advance to the state tournament.“A trip to state is something that we’ve had on their minds since last year but they’ve stayed present and they understand that the next game is the most important one,” Wamego head coach Brian McIntosh said. “Holton remembers what happened last year and they’ll be ready to go.”Like last year, this 4A sub-state final will be played in front of the Red Raider faithful, something that gave Wamego a big boost last season.“It’s incredible,” McIntosh said. “We have a really amazing community that comes out and supports our girls and there’s a very real home-court advantage here.”Several key players from both sides last year will be involved in this year’s rematch, and while the two did not meet in the regular season, both teams are very familiar with the other.“This is a clash of completely different styles of basketball,” he said. “They want to pound the ball inside and pack it in on defense, we want to play fast and disrupt people full court. I think it will be a real chess match tonight.”To limit the Wildcat offense, Wamego will have to be wary of Lindsey Wisdom and Macey Patch, who have given opponents fits on the interior this season.“They’re a high-low team so they try to feed it into the paint and move the ball well down there,’ McIntosh said. “We can’t let them catch in their spots and we need to rotate well to keep them out of what they want to do.”With just two losses in their ledger, the Red Raiders are optimistic about their chances of a return trip to state and an opportunity to compete in a more normal postseason.“When our girls feel good they tend to play good and I think they’re in a really good spot mentally,” he said. “They’re hungry and they want another shot at getting to state and seeing what they can do on a neutral court.”Tip-off between the Red Raiders and Wildcats is set for 7 pm at Wamego High School with the winner punching one of the eight tickets to the state tournament in Salina next week.For continuing coverage of both Wamego basketball teams in the sub-state championships stay tuned to the Little Apple Post.

#4 Wamego girls host Holton in sub-state championship rematch

After a 42-33 upset of the 3-seeded Lions, the Riley County girls basketball team will return to Minneapolis for the sub-state semifinal to take on the 2-seed in Smoky Valley.

The Lady Falcons come into this game at 9-10 while the Vikings enter at 15-6, fresh off a confident 53-33 win over the Ellsworth Bearcats.

While many were surprised by the first-round upset, Riley County was well prepared for that quarterfinal after facing a gauntlet of a 2021-22 season.

“Going on the road and winning the first round of sub-state has given the girls confidence and energy moving forward,” Falcons head coach Kelsey Nelson said. “Our record reflects a very difficult regular-season schedule but the girls have grown throughout and have set their eyes on playing their best basketball at this time.

Riley County has done just that, playing stifling defense down the stretch, holding their opponents to under 40 points per game this season.

“Our biggest strength is our defense and the way we control the game,” Nelson said. “When we play to our standard we are able to hold teams below their average with our active defense and rebounding. The girls do a great job of understanding the game plan and then going out and executing it.”

The Falcons will have their hands full with a Smoky Valley team that has won five of their last seven in convincing fashion, and whose offense averages well over 40 points per game.

“They have a really good guard that controls the game with the way she can shoot and drive,” she said. “They have two post players that are very athletic and can spread the court. We must play sound defense and limit them to one shot per possession.”

On the Riley County side of things, the Falcons have been led all season by the scoring trio of Hailey Sharp, Lindsey Roles, and CJ Rignell, who have combined to score nearly 30 points per game.

“Offensively we need movement and to continue to be aggressive to the basket,” Nelson said. “That will create shot opportunities or the option to dish to our teammates for a shot. When we run our set plays we need to execute and be ready to adjust to their defense.

Tip-off between the Falcons and Vikings is set for 6 pm with the winner advancing to face either Southeast of Saline or Beloit in the sub-state championship game on Saturday.

Tonight’s game will be streamed on the Salina, Little Apple, and JC Post thanks to First Bank Kansas.

For continuing coverage of Riley County at sub-state, stay tuned to the Little Apple Post.

By TYLER HENRY Little Apple Post contributorAfter a 42-33 upset of the 3-seeded Lions, the Riley County girls basketball team will return to Minneapolis for the sub-state semifinal to take on the 2-seed in Smoky Valley.The Lady Falcons come into this game at 9-10 while the Vikings enter at 15-6, fresh off a confident 53-33 win over the Ellsworth Bearcats.While many were surprised by the first-round upset, Riley County was well prepared for that quarterfinal after facing a gauntlet of a 2021-22 season.“Going on the road and winning the first round of sub-state has given the girls confidence and energy moving forward,” Falcons head coach Kelsey Nelson said. “Our record reflects a very difficult regular-season schedule but the girls have grown throughout and have set their eyes on playing their best basketball at this time.Riley County has done just that, playing stifling defense down the stretch, holding their opponents to under 40 points per game this season.“Our biggest strength is our defense and the way we control the game,” Nelson said. “When we play to our standard we are able to hold teams below their average with our active defense and rebounding. The girls do a great job of understanding the game plan and then going out and executing it.”The Falcons will have their hands full with a Smoky Valley team that has won five of their last seven in convincing fashion, and whose offense averages well over 40 points per game.“They have a really good guard that controls the game with the way she can shoot and drive,” she said. “They have two post players that are very athletic and can spread the court. We must play sound defense and limit them to one shot per possession.”On the Riley County side of things, the Falcons have been led all season by the scoring trio of Hailey Sharp, Lindsey Roles, and CJ Rignell, who have combined to score nearly 30 points per game.“Offensively we need movement and to continue to be aggressive to the basket,” Nelson said. “That will create shot opportunities or the option to dish to our teammates for a shot. When we run our set plays we need to execute and be ready to adjust to their defense.Tip-off between the Falcons and Vikings is set for 6 pm with the winner advancing to face either Southeast of Saline or Beloit in the sub-state championship game on Saturday.Tonight’s game will be streamed on the Salina, Little Apple, and JC Post thanks to First Bank Kansas.For continuing coverage of Riley County at sub-state, stay tuned to the Little Apple Post.

Lady Falcons look to continue Cinderella run against Smoky Valley

The Riley County girls will take on Smoky Valley in the 3A sub-state semifinal, and if you can't make it to the game in Minneapolis, the Little Apple Post has you covered. 

The game is scheduled for 6 p.m. Friday and will be streamed live on Little Apple Post thanks to The First Bank Kansas.

The winner of this game will advance to the final to play either Southeast of Saline or Beloit for a ticket to state on Saturday.

To watch the game live, click the link below.

The Riley County girls will take on Smoky Valley in the 3A sub-state semifinal, and if you can't make it to the game in Minneapolis, the Little Apple Post has you covered. The game is scheduled for 6 p.m. Friday and will be streamed live on Little Apple Post thanks to The First Bank Kansas.The winner of this game will advance to the final to play either Southeast of Saline or Beloit for a ticket to state on Saturday.To watch the game live, click the link below.<figure>
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Watch LIVE as the Riley County girls take on Smoky Valley in the 3A sub-state semis

Following a statement 57-18 win over Buhler on Tuesday, the Rock Creek Girls basketball team will return home to host McPherson in the sub-state final on Friday, with a ticket to the state tournament on the line.

The Lady Mustangs come into this game ranked seventh in Class 4A while the Bullpups enter at 14-7, fresh off a 52-25 defeat of Mulvane in their semifinal.

Rock Creek did every bit as good of a job keeping points off the board on Tuesday as they did putting points on it, continuing to gain steam in the month of March.

“I thought our defense was fantastic,” Mustang head coach Adam Plummer said. “After giving up a basket on Buhler’s first possession, we only gave up four more points until we subbed to start the fourth quarter.”

Rock Creek will now turn their attention to the 6-seeded Bullpups, who have been playing their best basketball down the stretch.

McPherson bookended a three-game losing streak with an 8-2 start and a six-game win streak that they carry with them into this contest.

"McPherson has great balance on offense,” Plummer said. “They have many players that can score and they have a good combo of inside-outside scoring that defensively keeps you honest.”

The Bullpups have done an excellent job this season of utilizing their three-point shooting to stay in and ahead in games, something the Mustangs will have to limit on Friday.

“We have some individual tendencies that we will try to take away but overall it’s the team approach of getting them off the 3-point line without getting beat off the dribble,” he said. “Defending ball screens and the dribble weave will be key for us to keep them from getting to the paint or kicking it to a wide-open shooter.”

On the offensive end, Rock Creek will need to be better themselves from deep against a much better McPherson defense.

“We did not shoot the ball well from the perimeter against Buhler, so we are hopeful that is out of our system for McPherson,” Plummer said. “Offensively we have to be aggressive on every catch and make sure the ball keeps moving and doesn’t get stuck.”

While this matchup will be tough, the Mustangs know what’s on the line and should get a boost from their home crowd in an exciting sub-state championship game.

“Confidence is high, we know McPherson is a good team and that we will have to play well,” he said. “We are looking forward to the opportunity to play in front of our home crowd with the chance to punch a ticket to state on Friday.”

Tip-off between the Mustangs and Bullpups is set for 7 pm at Rock Creek High School and the winner will be headed to Salina for the state tournament next week.

For continuing coverage of both Rock Creek basketball teams at sub-state, stay tuned to the Little Apple Post.

By TYLER HENRY Little Apple Post contributorFollowing a statement 57-18 win over Buhler on Tuesday, the Rock Creek Girls basketball team will return home to host McPherson in the sub-state final on Friday, with a ticket to the state tournament on the line.The Lady Mustangs come into this game ranked seventh in Class 4A while the Bullpups enter at 14-7, fresh off a 52-25 defeat of Mulvane in their semifinal.Rock Creek did every bit as good of a job keeping points off the board on Tuesday as they did putting points on it, continuing to gain steam in the month of March.“I thought our defense was fantastic,” Mustang head coach Adam Plummer said. “After giving up a basket on Buhler’s first possession, we only gave up four more points until we subbed to start the fourth quarter.”Rock Creek will now turn their attention to the 6-seeded Bullpups, who have been playing their best basketball down the stretch.McPherson bookended a three-game losing streak with an 8-2 start and a six-game win streak that they carry with them into this contest."McPherson has great balance on offense,” Plummer said. “They have many players that can score and they have a good combo of inside-outside scoring that defensively keeps you honest.”The Bullpups have done an excellent job this season of utilizing their three-point shooting to stay in and ahead in games, something the Mustangs will have to limit on Friday.“We have some individual tendencies that we will try to take away but overall it’s the team approach of getting them off the 3-point line without getting beat off the dribble,” he said. “Defending ball screens and the dribble weave will be key for us to keep them from getting to the paint or kicking it to a wide-open shooter.”On the offensive end, Rock Creek will need to be better themselves from deep against a much better McPherson defense.“We did not shoot the ball well from the perimeter against Buhler, so we are hopeful that is out of our system for McPherson,” Plummer said. “Offensively we have to be aggressive on every catch and make sure the ball keeps moving and doesn’t get stuck.”While this matchup will be tough, the Mustangs know what’s on the line and should get a boost from their home crowd in an exciting sub-state championship game.“Confidence is high, we know McPherson is a good team and that we will have to play well,” he said. “We are looking forward to the opportunity to play in front of our home crowd with the chance to punch a ticket to state on Friday.”Tip-off between the Mustangs and Bullpups is set for 7 pm at Rock Creek High School and the winner will be headed to Salina for the state tournament next week.For continuing coverage of both Rock Creek basketball teams at sub-state, stay tuned to the Little Apple Post.

#7 Lady Mustangs host McPherson in sub-state championship

GIRLS PREP BASKETBALL=Sub-State=Semifinal=Class 2A=Dexter=Garden Plain 53, Sedan 37West Elk 46, Bluestem 42, OTLyndon=Mission Valley 44, Central Heights 26Northern Heights 52, Chase County 27Plainville=Smith Center 53, Hoxie 43Trego 44, Cheylin 41Remington=Berean Academy 37, Hillsboro 36Remington 47, Flinthills 38Republic County=St. Mary's 48, Wabaunsee 30Valley Heights 74, Bennington 40Sublette=Elkhart 75, Ellinwood 56Sterling 69, Medicine Lodge 32Uniontown=Pittsburg Colgan 65, Northeast-Arma 25Uniontown 53, Pleasanton 38Valley Falls=Jackson Heights 47, Riverside 46Jefferson North 43, Atchison County 37

Thursday night girls basketball results

Northern Valley 60, St. John’s Beloit-Tipton 57

BOYS PREP BASKETBALL=Sub-State=Semifinal=Class 4A=West=Sub-State 3=Andale 46, Mulvane 28Class 3A=Fredonia=Columbus 71, Cherryvale 56Galena 40, Riverton 30Goodland=Hays-TMP-Marian 65, Scott City 43Norton 46, Phillipsburg 37Kingman=Chaparral 72, Lakin 47Hugoton 49, Holcomb 46Minneapolis=Council Grove 40, Beloit 32Southeast Saline 57, Smoky Valley 42Nickerson=Cheney 47, Haven 23Hesston 57, Wichita Collegiate 27Prairie View=Burlington 61, Frontenac 58Girard 60, Humboldt 28Silver Lake=Royal Valley 66, Marysville 40Sabetha 49, Nemaha Central 46, OTWest Franklin=Osage City 75, Heritage Christian 61Pleasant Ridge 65, KC Bishop Ward 52Class 1A Division 1=Burrton=Little River 51, Goessel 40Macksville 70, St. John 47Clyde-Clifton=Clifton-Clyde 70, Lincoln 26Solomon 58, Washington County 39Frankfort=Cair Paravel 46, Centralia 41Troy 34, Frankfort 32Jetmore=Jetmore 60, Quinter 59Ness City 72, La Crosse 48Lucas Unified=Lakeside 48, Sylvan-Lucas 35Osborne 53, Rawlins County 39Olpe=Burlingame 41, Madison/Hamilton Co-op 40Olpe 76, Crest 19South Gray=Meade 51, Satanta 50South Gray 68, Minneola 39Udall=Norwich 57, Oxford 37Wichita Classical 55, Udall 50Class 1A Division 2=Axtell=Axtell 59, Wetmore 55Hanover 66, Southern Cloud 35Beloit=Logan/Palco 49, Thunder Ridge 33Northern Valley 60, St. John’s Beloit-Tipton 57Caldwell=Attica 72, South Barber 37Caldwell 46, South Haven 39Central Plains=Central Plains 68, Wilson 45Centre 49, Otis-Bison 31Fowler=Bucklin 85, Moscow 52Ingalls 64, Ashland 41Lebo=Lebo 49, Hartford 44Waverly 49, Marais des Cygnes Valley 44Stafford=Pawnee Heights 41, Elyria Christian 39Stafford 58, Cunningham 40Wallace County=Greeley County 64, Triplains-Brewster 39Wheatland-Grinnell 44, Dighton 33

Thursday night basketball results

BOYS PREP BASKETBALL=Sub-State=Semifinal=Class 4A=East=Sub-State 1=Eudora 47, Louisburg 30Labette County 53, Independence 37Sub-State 2=Atchison 66, Baldwin 50Bishop Miege 80, Iola 42Sub-State 3=Paola 56, Chanute 36Tonganoxie 65, Parsons 61Sub-State 4=Wamego 58, Coffeyville 39West=Sub-State 1=McPherson 54, Clearwater 22Pratt 68, Ulysses 40Sub-State 2=Buhler 52, Wellington 42El Dorado 55, Circle 36Sub-State 3=Rose Hill 77, Clay Center 58Sub-State 4=Abilene 53, Augusta 31Rock Creek 61, Concordia 60Class 6A=East=Sub-State 1=BV North 63, Olathe Northwest 56BV Northwest 79, SM West 50Sub-State 2=Lawrence 65, Olathe East 40Olathe West 58, Olathe South 41Sub-State 3=Blue Valley 48, BV West 44SM Northwest 76, KC Wyandotte 48Sub-State 4=Olathe North 56, KC Harmon 46West=Sub-State 1=Lawrence Free State 76, Wichita East 45Sub-State 2=Junction City 67, Wichita South 62Wichita Heights 75, Liberal 23Sub-State 3=Dodge City 73, Topeka 47Washburn Rural 40, Wichita Southeast 38Sub-State 4=Derby 57, Wichita Campus 55Manhattan 68, Wichita Northwest 66

Wednesday night boys basketball results

GIRLS PREP BASKETBALL=Sub-State=Semifinal=Class 5A=East=Sub-State 2=Lansing 55, KC Piper 25Sub-State 4=DeSoto 51, Pittsburg 35West=Sub-State 1=Hays 37, Maize South 35Sub-State 3=Emporia 56, Valley Center 40Sub-State 4=Topeka Seaman 46, Salina South 35___

Wednesday night girls basketball results

By TYLER HENRY Little Apple Post contributor

The Rock Creek boys basketball team will be in search of a semifinal upset as they hit the road for Concordia on Wednesday night.

The Mustangs come into this game as the 12-seed at 8-12 while the Panthers enter as the 5-seed at 14-6.

While their overall record leaves something to be desired, Rock Creek has come a long way as a team after dropping eight of their first ten contests.

“We graduated eight seniors last year so we started out very inexperienced this season and we had some bumps early on,” Mustang head coach Jim Johnston said. “As the year progressed we’ve gotten better and better and we’re to a point now where the kids have all gotten with the speed of the game and we’re playing longer and longer stretches of good basketball.”

That experience culminated in a 6-4 second half of the season that allowed Rock Creek to gain some steam heading into sub-state.

“The kids know that we lost two or three games early that we probably wouldn’t lose now,” Johnston said. “We played St. Marys to a six-point game down the stretch so we know we can hang with good teams. They’re a lot more confident in their play and it’s good to play a different opponent that we haven’t seen before.”

On the other side of this matchup, Concordia has also been playing their best basketball of late and will carry a six-game win streak into the postseason.

The Panthers have leaned on their dynamic senior scoring duo of Tyler Hobrock and Cav Carlgren to do most of their damage this season, the pairing has combined for 30 points per game throughout the season.

“They’re very athletic and they're big with three players over 6-0,” he said. “They’re strong in the post with Hobrock and we’re going to have to get the ball out of his hands because that offense runs through him.”

Eliminating lapses will be key in Rock Creek's bid for a first-round upset, but if the team can limit Concordia on the glass this could be anyone's game.

By TYLER HENRY Little Apple Post contributor The Rock Creek boys basketball team will be in search of a semifinal upset as they hit the road for Concordia on Wednesday night.The Mustangs come into this game as the 12-seed at 8-12 while the Panthers enter as the 5-seed at 14-6.While their overall record leaves something to be desired, Rock Creek has come a long way as a team after dropping eight of their first ten contests.“We graduated eight seniors last year so we started out very inexperienced this season and we had some bumps early on,” Mustang head coach Jim Johnston said. “As the year progressed we’ve gotten better and better and we’re to a point now where the kids have all gotten with the speed of the game and we’re playing longer and longer stretches of good basketball.”That experience culminated in a 6-4 second half of the season that allowed Rock Creek to gain some steam heading into sub-state.“The kids know that we lost two or three games early that we probably wouldn’t lose now,” Johnston said. “We played St. Marys to a six-point game down the stretch so we know we can hang with good teams. They’re a lot more confident in their play and it’s good to play a different opponent that we haven’t seen before.”On the other side of this matchup, Concordia has also been playing their best basketball of late and will carry a six-game win streak into the postseason.The Panthers have leaned on their dynamic senior scoring duo of Tyler Hobrock and Cav Carlgren to do most of their damage this season, the pairing has combined for 30 points per game throughout the season.“They’re very athletic and they're big with three players over 6-0,” he said. “They’re strong in the post with Hobrock and we’re going to have to get the ball out of his hands because that offense runs through him.”Eliminating lapses will be key in Rock Creek's bid for a first-round upset, but if the team can limit Concordia on the glass this could be anyone's game.“We have to focus and play consistently for long periods of time,” Johnston said. “If we can do that we can play with anyone. We’re not overconfident but the kids are excited and ready to go.”Tip-off between the Mustangs and Panthers is set for 7 pm in Concordia with the winner advancing to the sub-state final to take on either 14-6 Abilene or 7-13 Augusta.For continuing coverage of both Rock Creek basketball teams at sub-state stay tuned to the Little Apple Post.

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