<b>MANHATTAN, Kan.</b>&nbsp;–&nbsp;<b>Brynn Carlson&nbsp;</b>was selected to the 2020-21 Academic All-America First Team by the College Sports Information Directors of America (CoSIDA), becoming the K-State’s third two-time honoree, the organization announced Monday.

Carlson becomes just the second Wildcat to be named Academic All-America First Team and the first since Cari Jensen in 2003. Carlson was selected to the 2019 Academic All-America Third Team and joins JuliAnne Chisholm (2009-10) and Jensen (2002-03) as the only Cats to earn Academic All-America honors twice.

Her Academic All-America award marks the seventh such honor is program history and sixth under head coach&nbsp;<b>Suzie Fritz</b>.

In addition to her pair of Academic All-America honors, Carlson’s academic résumé now includes two CoSIDA Academic All-District First Team selections in addition to three Academic All-Big 12 First Team accolades.

Carlson boasted a perfect 4.0 grade-point average in earning her master’s degree in nutrition, dietetics and kinesiology. Carlson was one of six to produce a perfect GPA on the All-America squads and one of three on the eight-member first team. Carlson was the only representative on the first team from the Big 12.

The 6-foot-4 Woodbury, Minnesota, native has been a first-team Academic All-Big 12 selection each of the last three seasons while also claiming Academic All-Big 12 Rookie Team honors in 2017-18.

During the 2020 season, Carlson averaged 2.73 kills per set while hitting .209 with 22 digs and 17 blocks. She reached double-figure kills seven times, including a season-high 20 kills twice.

Carlson produced her first 300-kill season in 2019, leading the Cats offense with 309 kills and 328 points. She set career highs in kills per set (2.83), sets played (109), hitting percentage (.203) and digs (67).

K-State (13-8, 10-6 Big 12) finished third in the Big 12 standings during the 2020-21 season, marking its highest conference finish since 2008.

The 2021 season is set to begin Friday, August 27 at the Nebraska Invitational. The Wildcats’ home opener is scheduled for Thursday, September 9 against Ohio at Bramlage Coliseum. Season tickets are now on sale&nbsp;<a href="https://kstatesports.evenue.net/cgi-bin/ncommerce3/SEGetGroupList?groupCode=VB&amp;linkID=kansuse&amp;shopperContext=&amp;caller=&amp;appCode=" target="_blank">here</a>.

<p><b>MANHATTAN, Kan.</b>&nbsp;–&nbsp;<b>Brynn Carlson&nbsp;</b>was selected to the 2020-21 Academic All-America First Team by the College Sports Information Directors of America (CoSIDA), becoming the K-State’s third two-time honoree, the organization announced Monday.</p><p>Carlson becomes just the second Wildcat to be named Academic All-America First Team and the first since Cari Jensen in 2003. Carlson was selected to the 2019 Academic All-America Third Team and joins JuliAnne Chisholm (2009-10) and Jensen (2002-03) as the only Cats to earn Academic All-America honors twice.</p><p>Her Academic All-America award marks the seventh such honor is program history and sixth under head coach&nbsp;<b>Suzie Fritz</b>.</p><p>In addition to her pair of Academic All-America honors, Carlson’s academic résumé now includes two CoSIDA Academic All-District First Team selections in addition to three Academic All-Big 12 First Team accolades.</p><p>Carlson boasted a perfect 4.0 grade-point average in earning her master’s degree in nutrition, dietetics and kinesiology. Carlson was one of six to produce a perfect GPA on the All-America squads and one of three on the eight-member first team. Carlson was the only representative on the first team from the Big 12.</p><p>The 6-foot-4 Woodbury, Minnesota, native has been a first-team Academic All-Big 12 selection each of the last three seasons while also claiming Academic All-Big 12 Rookie Team honors in 2017-18.</p><p>During the 2020 season, Carlson averaged 2.73 kills per set while hitting .209 with 22 digs and 17 blocks. She reached double-figure kills seven times, including a season-high 20 kills twice.</p><p>Carlson produced her first 300-kill season in 2019, leading the Cats offense with 309 kills and 328 points. She set career highs in kills per set (2.83), sets played (109), hitting percentage (.203) and digs (67).</p><p>K-State (13-8, 10-6 Big 12) finished third in the Big 12 standings during the 2020-21 season, marking its highest conference finish since 2008.</p><p>The 2021 season is set to begin Friday, August 27 at the Nebraska Invitational. The Wildcats’ home opener is scheduled for Thursday, September 9 against Ohio at Bramlage Coliseum. Season tickets are now on sale&nbsp;<a href="https://kstatesports.evenue.net/cgi-bin/ncommerce3/SEGetGroupList?groupCode=VB&amp;linkID=kansuse&amp;shopperContext=&amp;caller=&amp;appCode=" target="_blank">here</a>.</p>

Carlson Named CoSIDA Academic All-America First Team

<b>MANHATTAN, Kan.</b>&nbsp;–&nbsp;With the return of tailgating, re-entry, band performances on the field and a new beer garden in addition to 100% capacity, single-game tickets for K-State’s seven-game home slate in 2021 are on sale now.

Ahearn Fund members and season ticket holders will be able to purchase tickets now, while the general public can begin ordering on Wednesday. Fans can order online at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.refillthebill.com/" target="_blank">www.RefillTheBill.com</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="http://www.k-statesports.com/tickets" target="_blank">www.k-statesports.com/tickets</a>&nbsp;in addition to by phone at 1-800-221-CATS.

Ticket prices begin at just $25 for the home opener against Southern Illinois on September 11 and the next week against Nevada, while they start at $35 for the final four home games and $55 for the tilt against Oklahoma on October 2. The single-game prices may increase or decrease throughout the season due to demand. A full list of prices are listed below.

Additionally, fans can order a 3-Game Mini Plan for $150 to select either one of the home non-conference games (Southern Illinois or Nevada), either the Oklahoma or Iowa State game and pair those two selections with either the TCU, West Virginia or Baylor contents.

Also available is a $199 Flex Season Ticket, giving fans access to all seven home games. This unique season ticket gives fans the best available unsold seat, which they will receive on their mobile phone the day before each home game.

Many of the gameday protocols will return from 2019 – including full capacity, full tailgating, re-entry, and band performances on the field – while the new&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/news/2021/5/24/athletics-k-state-announces-new-powercat-porch-beer-garden-inside-bill-snyder-family-stadium.aspx" target="_blank">Powercat Porch</a>&nbsp;beer garden will be in service for the first time. The Powercat Porch will be located in the southeast corner of the stadium, next to the new Shamrock Zone and beneath the Carl and Mary Ice Videoboard. The porch will feature beer, wine and margarita sales for fans and is the second beer garden inside the stadium with the south Goss Family Tailgate Terrace open to all fans since 2019.

<p><b>MANHATTAN, Kan.</b>&nbsp;–&nbsp;With the return of tailgating, re-entry, band performances on the field and a new beer garden in addition to 100% capacity, single-game tickets for K-State’s seven-game home slate in 2021 are on sale now.</p><p>Ahearn Fund members and season ticket holders will be able to purchase tickets now, while the general public can begin ordering on Wednesday. Fans can order online at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.refillthebill.com/" target="_blank">www.RefillTheBill.com</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="http://www.k-statesports.com/tickets" target="_blank">www.k-statesports.com/tickets</a>&nbsp;in addition to by phone at 1-800-221-CATS.</p><p>Ticket prices begin at just $25 for the home opener against Southern Illinois on September 11 and the next week against Nevada, while they start at $35 for the final four home games and $55 for the tilt against Oklahoma on October 2. The single-game prices may increase or decrease throughout the season due to demand. A full list of prices are listed below.</p><p>Additionally, fans can order a 3-Game Mini Plan for $150 to select either one of the home non-conference games (Southern Illinois or Nevada), either the Oklahoma or Iowa State game and pair those two selections with either the TCU, West Virginia or Baylor contents.</p><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626103461964.png" alt="" />
                        <figcaption></figcaption>
                    </figure><p>Also available is a $199 Flex Season Ticket, giving fans access to all seven home games. This unique season ticket gives fans the best available unsold seat, which they will receive on their mobile phone the day before each home game.</p><p>Many of the gameday protocols will return from 2019 – including full capacity, full tailgating, re-entry, and band performances on the field – while the new&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/news/2021/5/24/athletics-k-state-announces-new-powercat-porch-beer-garden-inside-bill-snyder-family-stadium.aspx" target="_blank">Powercat Porch</a>&nbsp;beer garden will be in service for the first time. The Powercat Porch will be located in the southeast corner of the stadium, next to the new Shamrock Zone and beneath the Carl and Mary Ice Videoboard. The porch will feature beer, wine and margarita sales for fans and is the second beer garden inside the stadium with the south Goss Family Tailgate Terrace open to all fans since 2019.</p>

Refill The Bill: Single Game Tickets on Sale Now

LAWRENCE, Kan. (AP) — A former University of Kansas football player says the university offered him more than $50,000 in benefits if he left the program and stayed quiet about harassment he experienced from four other players on the team.

Caperton Humphrey&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansascity.com/sports/college/big-12/university-of-kansas/article252152528.html">told&nbsp;</a>the Kansas City Star that he received little help from school officials after he reported the threats and harassment from teammates.

Humphrey, who played at Kansas in 2017 and 2018 first as a walk-on and later on scholarship, said the feud he had with several teammates culminated in a confrontation between Humphrey and the other players in his apartment when the players threatened him, his father and his 15-year-old brother.

Humphrey said at some point in February 2019, someone loosened the lug nuts on one of the tires on his vehicle enough that he noticed the tire wobbling in his side-view mirror. Humphrey reported that incident to police, but no arrest was made because there wasn’t evidence to show who loosened the nuts holding the wheel on.

Humphrey said he told university officials about the harassment and that he had seen some of the other players selling drugs at the apartment building where they all lived. But former football coach Les Miles responded by suggesting the players work it out between themselves during full-contact drills in practice.

The newspaper reported that Miles and former KU athletic director Jeff Long didn’t respond to inquiries for this story, and KU compliance director David Reed and other KU Athletics officials declined to comment.

The Kansas City Star also contacted each of Humphrey’s four former teammates about his allegations. Two of them didn’t respond and two declined to comment. The newspaper did not name the other former players.

Humphrey said that ultimately the university offered to pay his tuition and his monthly stipend of $1,289 if he took online KU classes from his home in West Virginia and agreed not to talk about what happened. The university also agreed to reimburse Humphrey for his trip home from college and pay to ship his belongings to him from a storage unit in Lawrence. Those items were worth a little over $50,000.

Humphrey’s father, Jamie Humphrey, said his son has battled depression and started to see a psychiatrist since his time in Lawrence, and the family is considering a lawsuit against the university and the officials involved.

“Les Miles and Jeff Long swept this under the rug and tried to buy our silence,” Jamie Humphrey said. “This is how they operated while representing Kansas.”

<p>LAWRENCE, Kan. (AP) — A former University of Kansas football player says the university offered him more than $50,000 in benefits if he left the program and stayed quiet about harassment he experienced from four other players on the team.</p><p>Caperton Humphrey&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansascity.com/sports/college/big-12/university-of-kansas/article252152528.html">told&nbsp;</a>the Kansas City Star that he received little help from school officials after he reported the threats and harassment from teammates.</p><p>Humphrey, who played at Kansas in 2017 and 2018 first as a walk-on and later on scholarship, said the feud he had with several teammates culminated in a confrontation between Humphrey and the other players in his apartment when the players threatened him, his father and his 15-year-old brother.</p><p>Humphrey said at some point in February 2019, someone loosened the lug nuts on one of the tires on his vehicle enough that he noticed the tire wobbling in his side-view mirror. Humphrey reported that incident to police, but no arrest was made because there wasn’t evidence to show who loosened the nuts holding the wheel on.</p><p>Humphrey said he told university officials about the harassment and that he had seen some of the other players selling drugs at the apartment building where they all lived. But former football coach Les Miles responded by suggesting the players work it out between themselves during full-contact drills in practice.</p><p>The newspaper reported that Miles and former KU athletic director Jeff Long didn’t respond to inquiries for this story, and KU compliance director David Reed and other KU Athletics officials declined to comment.</p><p>The Kansas City Star also contacted each of Humphrey’s four former teammates about his allegations. Two of them didn’t respond and two declined to comment. The newspaper did not name the other former players.</p><p>Humphrey said that ultimately the university offered to pay his tuition and his monthly stipend of $1,289 if he took online KU classes from his home in West Virginia and agreed not to talk about what happened. The university also agreed to reimburse Humphrey for his trip home from college and pay to ship his belongings to him from a storage unit in Lawrence. Those items were worth a little over $50,000.</p><p>Humphrey’s father, Jamie Humphrey, said his son has battled depression and started to see a psychiatrist since his time in Lawrence, and the family is considering a lawsuit against the university and the officials involved.</p><p>“Les Miles and Jeff Long swept this under the rug and tried to buy our silence,” Jamie Humphrey said. “This is how they operated while representing Kansas.”</p>

Former football player says KU ignored harassment complaints

MANHATTAN, Kan. (WIBW) - Kansas State’s Jordan Wicks was selected by the Chicago Cubs in the 2021 MLB Draft.

The Wildcats pitcher was picked with the 21st overall selection.

Wicks becomes the first K-State player to ever be selected in the first round of the MLB Draft. While in Manhattan, the lefty pitcher broke the ‘Cats record for all-time career strikeouts (230) and the single-season strikeout record (118).

“I couldn’t be happier to be a Chicago Cub,” Wicks said in an interview with ESPN following his selection. “[I bring] a premier sense of competitiveness. I want to win more than anyone out there. I’m ready to bring that to Chicago. I attack hitters and I am so excited.”

<p>By WIBW TV</p><p>MANHATTAN, Kan. (WIBW) - Kansas State’s Jordan Wicks was selected by the Chicago Cubs in the 2021 MLB Draft.</p><p>The Wildcats pitcher was picked with the 21st overall selection.</p><p>Wicks becomes the first K-State player to ever be selected in the first round of the MLB Draft. While in Manhattan, the lefty pitcher broke the ‘Cats record for all-time career strikeouts (230) and the single-season strikeout record (118).</p><p>“I couldn’t be happier to be a Chicago Cub,” Wicks said in an interview with ESPN following his selection. “[I bring] a premier sense of competitiveness. I want to win more than anyone out there. I’m ready to bring that to Chicago. I attack hitters and I am so excited.”</p>

Cubs select K-State's Jordan Wicks

CLEVELAND (AP) — The Cleveland Indians and Kansas City Royals began their All-Star break a little earlier than expected. Their Sunday afternoon game was postponed 90 minutes before the scheduled first pitch at Progressive Field because of inclement weather. It will be made up as part of a seven-inning doubleheader on Sept. 20 in Cleveland. The Indians won the first three games of the series, the first two with game-ending homers in the ninth inning by Franmil Reyes and Bobby Bradley.

<p>CLEVELAND (AP) — The Cleveland Indians and Kansas City Royals began their All-Star break a little earlier than expected. Their Sunday afternoon game was postponed 90 minutes before the scheduled first pitch at Progressive Field because of inclement weather. It will be made up as part of a seven-inning doubleheader on Sept. 20 in Cleveland. The Indians won the first three games of the series, the first two with game-ending homers in the ninth inning by Franmil Reyes and Bobby Bradley.</p>

Royals-Indians postponed

One half inning into their ballgame against the Baldwin City Blues the Junction City Brigade trailed 5-0 at Rathert Field Saturday night. But they began to rally, soon had the lead, and went on to win 17-7 with the game being called due to a 10-run rule after eight innings.

The victory completed a three-game sweep for Junction City over Baldwin City this week.&nbsp;

The Brigade will host the Kansas City Monarchs at 7 p.m. Monday.

<p>One half inning into their ballgame against the Baldwin City Blues the Junction City Brigade trailed 5-0 at Rathert Field Saturday night. But they began to rally, soon had the lead, and went on to win 17-7 with the game being called due to a 10-run rule after eight innings.</p><p>The victory completed a three-game sweep for Junction City over Baldwin City this week.&nbsp;</p><p>The Brigade will host the Kansas City Monarchs at 7 p.m. Monday.</p>

Brigade rally from big early deficit to win

&nbsp;Less than two months away from the college football season, the Big 12 released its preseason rankings Thursday — and both KU and K-State are in the bottom half.

Media members picked the Wildcats, 4-6 last season, to finish seventh with 163 points.

The Jayhawks enter the Lance Leipold era picked last in the league with 39 points. KU wrapped up its final season under Les Miles 0-9 in 2020.

Oklahoma is picked to win the Big 12 for the sixth-straight season. The reigning champs received 35 of 39 first-place votes.

Iowa State, last year’s runner-up, earned the other four first-place votes for second place.

<p>&nbsp;Less than two months away from the college football season, the Big 12 released its preseason rankings Thursday — and both KU and K-State are in the bottom half.</p><p>Media members picked the Wildcats, 4-6 last season, to finish seventh with 163 points.</p><p>The Jayhawks enter the Lance Leipold era picked last in the league with 39 points. KU wrapped up its final season under Les Miles 0-9 in 2020.</p><p>Oklahoma is picked to win the Big 12 for the sixth-straight season. The reigning champs received 35 of 39 first-place votes.</p><p>Iowa State, last year’s runner-up, earned the other four first-place votes for second place.</p><ol>
                        <li>Oklahoma (35): 386</li><li>Iowa State (4): 351</li><li>Texas: 273</li><li>Oklahoma State: 266</li><li>TCU: 255</li><li>West Virginia: 185</li><li><b>Kansas State: 163</b></li><li>Baylor: 124</li><li>Texas Tech: 103</li><li><b>Kansas: 39</b></li>
                    </ol>

Big 12 Preseason football predictions are out

There was a win for the Junction City Brigade baseball team Thursday night at Rathert Field. The Brigade defeated the Baldwin City Blues 10-6.

These teams meet again Friday night at 7 p.m. in Baldwin City.

<p>There was a win for the Junction City Brigade baseball team Thursday night at Rathert Field. The Brigade defeated the Baldwin City Blues 10-6.</p><p>These teams meet again Friday night at 7 p.m. in Baldwin City.</p>

Brigade win against Baldwin City

TOPEKA, Kan. (WIBW) - The Kansas Highway Patrol helped a Broncos Quarterback get back home after a lugnut hit his windshield.

The Kansas Highway Patrol says you never know who you can help as a Kansas Highway Patrol Trooper. On Wednesday, troopers helped Broncos Quarterback Drew Lock after a lugnut crossed the median and embedded itself in his windshield.

<p>By WIBW TV's Sarah Motter</p><p>TOPEKA, Kan. (WIBW) - The Kansas Highway Patrol helped a Broncos Quarterback get back home after a lugnut hit his windshield.</p><p>The Kansas Highway Patrol says you never know who you can help as a Kansas Highway Patrol Trooper. On Wednesday, troopers helped Broncos Quarterback Drew Lock after a lugnut crossed the median and embedded itself in his windshield.</p><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">You never know who you can help as a <a href="https://twitter.com/kshighwaypatrol?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@kshighwaypatrol</a> Trooper. <br><br>Today it was <a href="https://twitter.com/DrewLock23?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DrewLock23</a> (Denver Broncos-QB) 🙂<br><br>Join us ➡️ <a href="https://t.co/1vkdPVOqiC">https://t.co/1vkdPVOqiC</a> <br>🇺🇸 <a href="https://t.co/JUCxv8INuG">pic.twitter.com/JUCxv8INuG</a></p>&mdash; Trooper Ben (@TrooperBenKHP) <a href="https://twitter.com/TrooperBenKHP/status/1412862379973656580?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 7, 2021</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Safe travels the rest of your way across Kansas <a href="https://twitter.com/DrewLock23?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DrewLock23</a> 👍<br><br>Crazy having a (lug-nut) fly across the median striking your windshield and nearly go through it! <br><br>Glad your <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/seatbelt?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#seatbelt</a> was fastened. 👍<br><br>Have a safe season now and into the future. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ServiceCourtesyProtection?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ServiceCourtesyProtection</a> 🇺🇸 <a href="https://t.co/DXDLon2l0Y">pic.twitter.com/DXDLon2l0Y</a></p>&mdash; Trooper Ben (@TrooperBenKHP) <a href="https://twitter.com/TrooperBenKHP/status/1412854443121557507?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 7, 2021</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>

KHP helps Broncos QB after lugnut gets caught in his windshield

TOPEKA, Kan. (WIBW) - More than 6,000 Kansans are set to take part in this year’s Sunflower State Games.

“We are looking in great shape as far as registration numbers go,” Cassie Criger, executive director of the Games, said. “Our mission is to bring an Olympic-style festivity to all ages and all skill levels.”

Athletes will compete in 43 events at 20 venues across the Capital City this weekend and next.

“There’s gonna be some really good competition this year, and also we’ve got our sports that are just fun like miniature golf and cornhole,” Criger said.

The games are for everyone. Competitors from ages five to 99 will participate in everything from basketball to fishing, team paintball and axe throwing.

The Games kick off Friday with a free-to-attend Cauldron Fest and Tailgate Party from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Hummer Sports Park. The cauldron will be lit around 6:00 p.m.

“We’ll have inflatables, we’re going to have face painting and balloons, there will be a couple food trucks out here,” Crirger said.

It’s a team effort from the lighting of the torch to the final event. More than 700 volunteers will help out this year.

“The goal is just to get people to come out and be active and get their body moving again,” Criger said. “Especially coming out of the COVID year, everybody is ready to come back out and start competing.”

<a href="https://www.sunflowergames.com/" target="_blank">The registration deadline</a>&nbsp;for next weekend’s events is Friday, July 9.

<p>By WIBW's Marleah Campbell</p><p>TOPEKA, Kan. (WIBW) - More than 6,000 Kansans are set to take part in this year’s Sunflower State Games.</p><p>“We are looking in great shape as far as registration numbers go,” Cassie Criger, executive director of the Games, said. “Our mission is to bring an Olympic-style festivity to all ages and all skill levels.”</p><p>Athletes will compete in 43 events at 20 venues across the Capital City this weekend and next.</p><p>“There’s gonna be some really good competition this year, and also we’ve got our sports that are just fun like miniature golf and cornhole,” Criger said.</p><p>The games are for everyone. Competitors from ages five to 99 will participate in everything from basketball to fishing, team paintball and axe throwing.</p><p>The Games kick off Friday with a free-to-attend Cauldron Fest and Tailgate Party from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Hummer Sports Park. The cauldron will be lit around 6:00 p.m.</p><p>“We’ll have inflatables, we’re going to have face painting and balloons, there will be a couple food trucks out here,” Crirger said.</p><p>It’s a team effort from the lighting of the torch to the final event. More than 700 volunteers will help out this year.</p><p>“The goal is just to get people to come out and be active and get their body moving again,” Criger said. “Especially coming out of the COVID year, everybody is ready to come back out and start competing.”</p><p><a href="https://www.sunflowergames.com/" target="_blank">The registration deadline</a>&nbsp;for next weekend’s events is Friday, July 9.</p>

More than 6,000 Kansans expected to compete at this year’s Sunflower State Games

The&nbsp; Hays Larks defeated the Junction City Brigade 6-4 in summer collegiate baseball at Rathert Field Wednesday night. The game was tied 3-3 before the Larks scored three runs late in the contest.

Junction City will host the Baldwin City Blues at 7 p.m. Thursday.

<p>The&nbsp; Hays Larks defeated the Junction City Brigade 6-4 in summer collegiate baseball at Rathert Field Wednesday night. The game was tied 3-3 before the Larks scored three runs late in the contest.</p><p>Junction City will host the Baldwin City Blues at 7 p.m. Thursday.</p>

Brigade fall to the Larks

<b>MANHATTAN, Kan.</b>&nbsp;– Kansas State junior&nbsp;<b>Phillip Brooks</b>&nbsp;has been named to the 2021 Preseason All-Big 12 team as a kickoff/punt returner by media representatives who cover the league, the conference office announced Wednesday.

It is the first preseason all-conference honor for Brooks, who was a First Team All-Big 12 returner by the league’s coaches following the 2020 season. It is one of multiple preseason honors by the 2020 All-American, who was most recently named a Preseason All-American by Phil Steele.

Brooks enters the 2021 campaign ranking second in school history and tied for sixth in Big 12 history with three punt-return touchdowns, which is tied for first nationally among active players entering the season. Last season, the Lee’s Summit, Missouri native was a Third Team All-American punt returner after putting together a 23.7-yard punt return average, a mark that would have led the nation and be the best in school history if he had one more return to meet the NCAA required minimum.

Brooks’ best game of the year came against Kansas when he set a school record with 189 punt-return yards and two touchdowns en route to Big 12 Special Teams Player of the Week honors. His two punt-return touchdowns were the most in Big 12 history for a conference game, while his 47.25-yard average against the Jayhawks was the highest by any player in the nation with at least four attempts since at least 1996.

K-State takes part in the 2021 Academy Sports + Outdoors Big 12 Media Days next Wednesday at AT&amp;T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. The Wildcats will be back in AT&amp;T Stadium just over seven weeks later as they open the 2021 season on September 4 against Stanford in an 11 a.m. contest televised by FS1.

Kansas State begins its seven-game home slate on September 11 when the Wildcats host Southern Illinois prior to a date with Nevada the next week. Fans can order tickets online at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.k-statesports.com/tickets" target="_blank">www.k-statesports.com/tickets</a>&nbsp;by phone at 1-800-221-CATS or at the main ticket office inside Bramlage Coliseum.

<p><b>MANHATTAN, Kan.</b>&nbsp;– Kansas State junior&nbsp;<b>Phillip Brooks</b>&nbsp;has been named to the 2021 Preseason All-Big 12 team as a kickoff/punt returner by media representatives who cover the league, the conference office announced Wednesday.</p><p>It is the first preseason all-conference honor for Brooks, who was a First Team All-Big 12 returner by the league’s coaches following the 2020 season. It is one of multiple preseason honors by the 2020 All-American, who was most recently named a Preseason All-American by Phil Steele.</p><p>Brooks enters the 2021 campaign ranking second in school history and tied for sixth in Big 12 history with three punt-return touchdowns, which is tied for first nationally among active players entering the season. Last season, the Lee’s Summit, Missouri native was a Third Team All-American punt returner after putting together a 23.7-yard punt return average, a mark that would have led the nation and be the best in school history if he had one more return to meet the NCAA required minimum.</p><p>Brooks’ best game of the year came against Kansas when he set a school record with 189 punt-return yards and two touchdowns en route to Big 12 Special Teams Player of the Week honors. His two punt-return touchdowns were the most in Big 12 history for a conference game, while his 47.25-yard average against the Jayhawks was the highest by any player in the nation with at least four attempts since at least 1996.</p><p>K-State takes part in the 2021 Academy Sports + Outdoors Big 12 Media Days next Wednesday at AT&amp;T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. The Wildcats will be back in AT&amp;T Stadium just over seven weeks later as they open the 2021 season on September 4 against Stanford in an 11 a.m. contest televised by FS1.</p><p>Kansas State begins its seven-game home slate on September 11 when the Wildcats host Southern Illinois prior to a date with Nevada the next week. Fans can order tickets online at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.k-statesports.com/tickets" target="_blank">www.k-statesports.com/tickets</a>&nbsp;by phone at 1-800-221-CATS or at the main ticket office inside Bramlage Coliseum.</p>

K-State’s Brooks Named to Preseason All-Big 12 Team

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Salvador Pérez’s walk-off single capped Kansas City’s four-run rally as the Royals beat the Cincinnati Reds 7-6. The Royals scored six runs off the Reds’ bullpen in the final two innings and Pérez got his third game-ending hit this season. Trailing 6-3 to start the ninth, the Royals got the tying run on second with no outs without the benefit of a hit. Ryan O’Hearn walked and Hunter Dozier was hit by a pitch. Michael A. Taylor then rolled a ground ball through the legs of Eugenio Suarez at third, scoring O’Hearn. With one out, Nicky Lopez flared a ball into short left field, scoring both runners to tie it 6-6. He advanced to third on a throw and error on the play. Whit Merrifield walked and Andrew Benintendi struck out, bringing Pérez to the plate.

<p>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Salvador Pérez’s walk-off single capped Kansas City’s four-run rally as the Royals beat the Cincinnati Reds 7-6. The Royals scored six runs off the Reds’ bullpen in the final two innings and Pérez got his third game-ending hit this season. Trailing 6-3 to start the ninth, the Royals got the tying run on second with no outs without the benefit of a hit. Ryan O’Hearn walked and Hunter Dozier was hit by a pitch. Michael A. Taylor then rolled a ground ball through the legs of Eugenio Suarez at third, scoring O’Hearn. With one out, Nicky Lopez flared a ball into short left field, scoring both runners to tie it 6-6. He advanced to third on a throw and error on the play. Whit Merrifield walked and Andrew Benintendi struck out, bringing Pérez to the plate.</p>

Royals rally in the ninth to defeat Cincinnati

Junction City defeated the Lawrence Travelers 7-4 in Mid Plains League baseball Tuesday night in Lawrence.

Junction City will host the Hays Larks at 7 p.m. Wednesday.

<p>Junction City defeated the Lawrence Travelers 7-4 in Mid Plains League baseball Tuesday night in Lawrence.</p><p>Junction City will host the Hays Larks at 7 p.m. Wednesday.</p>

Brigade defeat the Lawrence Travelers

LAWRENCE, Kan. (WIBW) - Ochai Agbaji and Remy Martin will both return to Kansas for the upcoming season, per multiple reports Tuesday.

<a href="https://twitter.com/DraftExpress/status/1412395482513559578?s=20" target="_blank">ESPN’s Jonathan Givony&nbsp;</a>first tweeted Tuesday morning Agbaji, who led the Jayhawks in scoring last season, has withdrawn from the NBA Draft.

Agbaji averaged 14.1 points per game last season, along with 3.7 rebounds and 1.9 assists. He shot 37.7% from three and 42% from the floor.

The Kansas City, Missouri-native was named an All-Big 12 Honorable Mention selection for the second-straight season.

Later in the afternoon,&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/JonRothstein/status/1412477245504081925?s=20" target="_blank">CBS Sports’ Jon Rothstein</a>&nbsp;reported Arizona State transfer Remy Martin also made the decision to withdraw and will take the court for KU this season.

Martin, who&nbsp;<a href="https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/31427091/arizona-state-sun-devils-remy-martin-enters-transfer-portal">ESPN called&nbsp;</a>“arguably the best available transfer in the portal,” averaged 19.1 points and 3.7 assists at Arizona State last season. In 2019-2020, he put up 19.1 points and 4.1 assists per game.

Agbaji and Martin join Jalen Wilson, who&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wibw.com/2021/07/02/jalen-wilson-announces-return-ku-2021-22-season/" target="_blank">announced last week</a>&nbsp;he would withdraw from the Draft and return to Lawrence.

Wednesday marks the deadline for players to withdraw from the NBA Draft and keep their eligiblity.

<p>By WIBW's Marleah Campbell</p><p>LAWRENCE, Kan. (WIBW) - Ochai Agbaji and Remy Martin will both return to Kansas for the upcoming season, per multiple reports Tuesday.</p><p><a href="https://twitter.com/DraftExpress/status/1412395482513559578?s=20" target="_blank">ESPN’s Jonathan Givony&nbsp;</a>first tweeted Tuesday morning Agbaji, who led the Jayhawks in scoring last season, has withdrawn from the NBA Draft.</p><p>Agbaji averaged 14.1 points per game last season, along with 3.7 rebounds and 1.9 assists. He shot 37.7% from three and 42% from the floor.</p><p>The Kansas City, Missouri-native was named an All-Big 12 Honorable Mention selection for the second-straight season.</p><p>Later in the afternoon,&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/JonRothstein/status/1412477245504081925?s=20" target="_blank">CBS Sports’ Jon Rothstein</a>&nbsp;reported Arizona State transfer Remy Martin also made the decision to withdraw and will take the court for KU this season.</p><p>Martin, who&nbsp;<a href="https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/31427091/arizona-state-sun-devils-remy-martin-enters-transfer-portal">ESPN called&nbsp;</a>“arguably the best available transfer in the portal,” averaged 19.1 points and 3.7 assists at Arizona State last season. In 2019-2020, he put up 19.1 points and 4.1 assists per game.</p><p>Agbaji and Martin join Jalen Wilson, who&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wibw.com/2021/07/02/jalen-wilson-announces-return-ku-2021-22-season/" target="_blank">announced last week</a>&nbsp;he would withdraw from the Draft and return to Lawrence.</p><p>Wednesday marks the deadline for players to withdraw from the NBA Draft and keep their eligiblity.</p><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Sources: Kansas&#39; Remy Martin will withdraw from the 2021 NBA Draft and play in college next season. Transfer from Arizona State.</p>&mdash; Jon Rothstein (@JonRothstein) <a href="https://twitter.com/JonRothstein/status/1412477245504081925?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 6, 2021</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Breaking: Ochai Agbaji will withdraw from the NBA draft and return to Kansas for his senior season, a source told ESPN. Agbaji, one of the best defenders in college basketball, is a potential first round pick in 2022. <a href="https://t.co/vqJqbGUVkr">https://t.co/vqJqbGUVkr</a></p>&mdash; Jonathan Givony (@DraftExpress) <a href="https://twitter.com/DraftExpress/status/1412395482513559578?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 6, 2021</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>

Reports: KU’s Agbaji, Martin to return for 2021-22 season

<b>MANHATTAN, Kan.</b>&nbsp;– K-State Athletics, in conjunction with the KSU Alumni Association, invites all K-Staters to join us on Tuesday, July 13 for the 2021 Virtual Catbacker Tour presented by Kansas Strong.

This year’s Catbacker Tour will be broadcasted live from Manhattan at 12 p.m. (CT) on July 13.&nbsp;The virtual program will feature fun interviews with head coaches&nbsp;<b>Jeff Mittie</b>&nbsp;(women’s basketball),&nbsp;<b>Bruce Weber</b>&nbsp;(men’s basketball) and&nbsp;<b>Chris Klieman</b>&nbsp;(football) in addition to Alumni Association President and CEO&nbsp;<b>Amy Button Renz</b>, K-State President&nbsp;<b>Richard Myers</b>&nbsp;and many more.

Voice of the Wildcats&nbsp;<b>Wyatt Thompson</b>&nbsp;will host the event and sit down with several K-State student-athletes to preview their coming seasons.&nbsp;Featured athletes will be&nbsp;<b>Brooklyn Entz</b>&nbsp;(soccer),&nbsp;<b>Aliyah Carter</b>&nbsp;(volleyball),&nbsp;<b>Mike McGuirl</b>&nbsp;(men’s basketball),&nbsp;<b>Ayoka Lee</b>&nbsp;(women’s basketball) and&nbsp;<b>Skylar Thompson</b>&nbsp;(football).

K-Staters will also have the opportunity to submit questions to student-athletes during the broadcast and be eligible to win unique K-State Athletics prizes and gear.&nbsp;Prizes include K-State Nike gear, K-State men’s basketball gear, Harley Day ride, game tickets and an autograph Cats script football helmet signed by the coaching staff.&nbsp;To submit questions to our student-athletes or to be eligible to win prizes, fans must&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sb_output.aspx?form=25" target="_blank">register here</a>&nbsp;and tune in on July 13.&nbsp;Prize winners will be announced during the broadcast.

To watch the 2021 Virtual Catbacker Tour, visit either&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kstatesports.com/" target="_blank">www.kstatesports.com</a>&nbsp;or the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/kstatesports/" target="_blank">K-State Athletics Facebook</a>&nbsp;page at 12 p.m. on Tuesday, July 13.

<p><b>MANHATTAN, Kan.</b>&nbsp;– K-State Athletics, in conjunction with the KSU Alumni Association, invites all K-Staters to join us on Tuesday, July 13 for the 2021 Virtual Catbacker Tour presented by Kansas Strong.</p><p>This year’s Catbacker Tour will be broadcasted live from Manhattan at 12 p.m. (CT) on July 13.&nbsp;The virtual program will feature fun interviews with head coaches&nbsp;<b>Jeff Mittie</b>&nbsp;(women’s basketball),&nbsp;<b>Bruce Weber</b>&nbsp;(men’s basketball) and&nbsp;<b>Chris Klieman</b>&nbsp;(football) in addition to Alumni Association President and CEO&nbsp;<b>Amy Button Renz</b>, K-State President&nbsp;<b>Richard Myers</b>&nbsp;and many more.</p><p>Voice of the Wildcats&nbsp;<b>Wyatt Thompson</b>&nbsp;will host the event and sit down with several K-State student-athletes to preview their coming seasons.&nbsp;Featured athletes will be&nbsp;<b>Brooklyn Entz</b>&nbsp;(soccer),&nbsp;<b>Aliyah Carter</b>&nbsp;(volleyball),&nbsp;<b>Mike McGuirl</b>&nbsp;(men’s basketball),&nbsp;<b>Ayoka Lee</b>&nbsp;(women’s basketball) and&nbsp;<b>Skylar Thompson</b>&nbsp;(football).</p><p>K-Staters will also have the opportunity to submit questions to student-athletes during the broadcast and be eligible to win unique K-State Athletics prizes and gear.&nbsp;Prizes include K-State Nike gear, K-State men’s basketball gear, Harley Day ride, game tickets and an autograph Cats script football helmet signed by the coaching staff.&nbsp;To submit questions to our student-athletes or to be eligible to win prizes, fans must&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sb_output.aspx?form=25" target="_blank">register here</a>&nbsp;and tune in on July 13.&nbsp;Prize winners will be announced during the broadcast.</p><p>To watch the 2021 Virtual Catbacker Tour, visit either&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kstatesports.com/" target="_blank">www.kstatesports.com</a>&nbsp;or the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/kstatesports/" target="_blank">K-State Athletics Facebook</a>&nbsp;page at 12 p.m. on Tuesday, July 13.</p>

K-State Athletics Announces 2021 Virtual Catbacker Tour Presented by Kansas Strong

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (WIBW) - As fireworks lit up the sky, different sparks were flying between Tyreek Hill and Keeta Vaccaro on the 4th of July.

Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Tyreek Hill popped the question to his now-fiancee Keeta Vaccaro on Sunday evening. The pair posted a video and picture of the engagement.

The couple posed for a picture as white boards were removed from a sign that read “Will You Marry Me?” Fireworks lit up beside them as Vaccaro said yes and a beautiful diamond ring now sparkles on her finger.

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1625599347220.png" alt="Chiefs' WR Tyreek Hill poses with his now fiancee following their engagement. The image was posted on Hill's Instagram" />
                        <figcaption>Chiefs' WR Tyreek Hill poses with his now fiancee following their engagement. The image was posted on Hill's Instagram</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>By WIBW's Sarah Motter</p><p>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (WIBW) - As fireworks lit up the sky, different sparks were flying between Tyreek Hill and Keeta Vaccaro on the 4th of July.</p><p>Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Tyreek Hill popped the question to his now-fiancee Keeta Vaccaro on Sunday evening. The pair posted a video and picture of the engagement.</p><div><blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/tv/CQ-A8b6pZfv/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="13" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);"><div style="padding:16px;"> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/tv/CQ-A8b6pZfv/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank"> <div style=" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div></div></div><div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display:block; height:50px; margin:0 auto 12px; width:50px;"><svg width="50px" height="50px" viewBox="0 0 60 60" version="1.1" xmlns="https://www.w3.org/2000/svg" xmlns:xlink="https://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"><g stroke="none" stroke-width="1" fill="none" fill-rule="evenodd"><g transform="translate(-511.000000, -20.000000)" fill="#000000"><g><path d="M556.869,30.41 C554.814,30.41 553.148,32.076 553.148,34.131 C553.148,36.186 554.814,37.852 556.869,37.852 C558.924,37.852 560.59,36.186 560.59,34.131 C560.59,32.076 558.924,30.41 556.869,30.41 M541,60.657 C535.114,60.657 530.342,55.887 530.342,50 C530.342,44.114 535.114,39.342 541,39.342 C546.887,39.342 551.658,44.114 551.658,50 C551.658,55.887 546.887,60.657 541,60.657 M541,33.886 C532.1,33.886 524.886,41.1 524.886,50 C524.886,58.899 532.1,66.113 541,66.113 C549.9,66.113 557.115,58.899 557.115,50 C557.115,41.1 549.9,33.886 541,33.886 M565.378,62.101 C565.244,65.022 564.756,66.606 564.346,67.663 C563.803,69.06 563.154,70.057 562.106,71.106 C561.058,72.155 560.06,72.803 558.662,73.347 C557.607,73.757 556.021,74.244 553.102,74.378 C549.944,74.521 548.997,74.552 541,74.552 C533.003,74.552 532.056,74.521 528.898,74.378 C525.979,74.244 524.393,73.757 523.338,73.347 C521.94,72.803 520.942,72.155 519.894,71.106 C518.846,70.057 518.197,69.06 517.654,67.663 C517.244,66.606 516.755,65.022 516.623,62.101 C516.479,58.943 516.448,57.996 516.448,50 C516.448,42.003 516.479,41.056 516.623,37.899 C516.755,34.978 517.244,33.391 517.654,32.338 C518.197,30.938 518.846,29.942 519.894,28.894 C520.942,27.846 521.94,27.196 523.338,26.654 C524.393,26.244 525.979,25.756 528.898,25.623 C532.057,25.479 533.004,25.448 541,25.448 C548.997,25.448 549.943,25.479 553.102,25.623 C556.021,25.756 557.607,26.244 558.662,26.654 C560.06,27.196 561.058,27.846 562.106,28.894 C563.154,29.942 563.803,30.938 564.346,32.338 C564.756,33.391 565.244,34.978 565.378,37.899 C565.522,41.056 565.552,42.003 565.552,50 C565.552,57.996 565.522,58.943 565.378,62.101 M570.82,37.631 C570.674,34.438 570.167,32.258 569.425,30.349 C568.659,28.377 567.633,26.702 565.965,25.035 C564.297,23.368 562.623,22.342 560.652,21.575 C558.743,20.834 556.562,20.326 553.369,20.18 C550.169,20.033 549.148,20 541,20 C532.853,20 531.831,20.033 528.631,20.18 C525.438,20.326 523.257,20.834 521.349,21.575 C519.376,22.342 517.703,23.368 516.035,25.035 C514.368,26.702 513.342,28.377 512.574,30.349 C511.834,32.258 511.326,34.438 511.181,37.631 C511.035,40.831 511,41.851 511,50 C511,58.147 511.035,59.17 511.181,62.369 C511.326,65.562 511.834,67.743 512.574,69.651 C513.342,71.625 514.368,73.296 516.035,74.965 C517.703,76.634 519.376,77.658 521.349,78.425 C523.257,79.167 525.438,79.673 528.631,79.82 C531.831,79.965 532.853,80.001 541,80.001 C549.148,80.001 550.169,79.965 553.369,79.82 C556.562,79.673 558.743,79.167 560.652,78.425 C562.623,77.658 564.297,76.634 565.965,74.965 C567.633,73.296 568.659,71.625 569.425,69.651 C570.167,67.743 570.674,65.562 570.82,62.369 C570.966,59.17 571,58.147 571,50 C571,41.851 570.966,40.831 570.82,37.631"></path></g></g></g></svg></div><div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style=" color:#3897f0; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:550; line-height:18px;"> View this post on Instagram</div></div><div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"><div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"></div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"></div></div><div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"></div> <div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg)"></div></div><div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style=" width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"></div> <div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"></div></div></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"></div></div></a><p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/tv/CQ-A8b6pZfv/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by ItskeetaV (@keeta_vaccaro)</a></p></div></blockquote> <script async src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script></div><p>The couple posed for a picture as white boards were removed from a sign that read “Will You Marry Me?” Fireworks lit up beside them as Vaccaro said yes and a beautiful diamond ring now sparkles on her finger.</p><div><blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CQ9PBDQBCSW/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="13" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); 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 Tyreek Hill pops question to now-fiancee as sparks fly

Columbus Blue Jackets goaltender Matiss Kivlenieks died of chest trauma from an errant fireworks mortar blast in what authorities described Monday as a tragic accident at a Michigan home on the Fourth of July.

Police in Novi, Michigan, said the firework tilted slightly and started to fire toward people nearby Sunday night. The 24-year-old Kivlenieks was in a hot tub and tried to get clear with several other people, police Lt. Jason Meier said. Authorities earlier said the Latvian had died of an apparent head injury during a fall, but an autopsy clarified the cause of death.

The fire department and EMTs got to the home shortly after 10 p.m. and took Kivlenieks to a hospital, where he was pronounced dead, Meier said. The Oakland County Medical Examiner’s office reported preliminary autopsy results Monday afternoon.

Prior to the autopsy, police said Kivlenieks was believed to have slipped and hit his head on concrete while running from a malfunctioning firework.

“At the moment, we’re pretty certain this was a tragic accident,” Meier said.

Columbus general manager Jarmo Kekalainen tweeted: “Life is so precious and can be so fragile. Hug your loved ones today. RIP Matiss, you will be dearly missed.” Blue Jackets president of hockey operations John Davidson called it a “devastating time” for the team.

“Kivi was an outstanding young man who greeted every day and everyone with a smile and the impact he had during his four years with our organization will not be forgotten,” he said.

Kivlenieks’ death came on the eve of Game 4 of the Stanley Cup Final in Montreal. Bell Centre held a moment of silence for Kivlenieks prior to the national anthems, and Tampa Bay Lightning coach Jon Cooper offered remarks about Kivlenieks after his team’s overtime loss to the Canadiens.

“I just want to give our heartfelt condolences to the Kivlenieks family,” Cooper said. “It’s an awful tragedy for anybody, any family to go through that. But somebody in the NHL family, as close as we all are as the teams even battling out there, from all the Lightning, our condolences.”

NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman said Kivlenieks’ “love for life and passion for the game will be deeply missed by all those who have been fortunate to have him as a teammate and a friend.”

The Latvian Hockey Federation called Kivlenieks’ death “a great loss not only for Latvian hockey but for the entire Latvian nation.”

Kivlenieks most recently represented Latvia this spring at the world hockey championship in which he played four games. He played two games for the Blue Jackets and eight for the American Hockey League’s Cleveland Monsters this past season.

A native of Riga, Latvia, Kivlenieks signed with the Blue Jackets as a free agent in May 2017 and played eight games for the club overall. He was seen as a possible No. 2 goaltender next season if Joonas Korpisalo or Elvis Merzlikins is traded.

Kivlenieks was at Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course in Lexington last Tuesday as a guest of IndyCar driver Alexander Rossi. Rossi announced that day he was going to race in Mexico in November, and Kivlenieks took a ride around Mid-Ohio in a Honda Ridgeline to help promote both Rossi and Sunday’s IndyCar race.

“This hits hard,” Rossi tweeted. “Prayers to the family and the team.”

Meier said the autopsy findings prompted officers to re-interview some witnesses. He said police will continue trying to interview as many people as they can who were there.

“We’re starting to put together a pretty good picture of what occurred,” he said.

Meier said police who responded to the emergency calls said there was a “large gathering” at the home but he didn’t have an estimate of how many people were there.

Meier would not provide the address of the property in Novi, a northern suburb of Detroit. A police report had not yet been completed.

“What a tragic loss for all of us who knew him and I am thinking and praying for his family,” former Blue Jackets captain Nick Foligno tweeted. “Heaven gained a darn good goalie and better person… Just, way too soon.”

Former Columbus defenseman David Savard learned of the accident from Foligno.

“That was a brutal wakeup this morning,” Savard said in French. “That was a good kid with a lot of talent who was going to be a part of the team next year or in the future. That’s extremely sad.”

<p>By Associated Press</p><p>Columbus Blue Jackets goaltender Matiss Kivlenieks died of chest trauma from an errant fireworks mortar blast in what authorities described Monday as a tragic accident at a Michigan home on the Fourth of July.</p><p>Police in Novi, Michigan, said the firework tilted slightly and started to fire toward people nearby Sunday night. The 24-year-old Kivlenieks was in a hot tub and tried to get clear with several other people, police Lt. Jason Meier said. Authorities earlier said the Latvian had died of an apparent head injury during a fall, but an autopsy clarified the cause of death.</p><p>The fire department and EMTs got to the home shortly after 10 p.m. and took Kivlenieks to a hospital, where he was pronounced dead, Meier said. The Oakland County Medical Examiner’s office reported preliminary autopsy results Monday afternoon.</p><p>Prior to the autopsy, police said Kivlenieks was believed to have slipped and hit his head on concrete while running from a malfunctioning firework.</p><p>“At the moment, we’re pretty certain this was a tragic accident,” Meier said.</p><p>Columbus general manager Jarmo Kekalainen tweeted: “Life is so precious and can be so fragile. Hug your loved ones today. RIP Matiss, you will be dearly missed.” Blue Jackets president of hockey operations John Davidson called it a “devastating time” for the team.</p><p>“Kivi was an outstanding young man who greeted every day and everyone with a smile and the impact he had during his four years with our organization will not be forgotten,” he said.</p><p>Kivlenieks’ death came on the eve of Game 4 of the Stanley Cup Final in Montreal. Bell Centre held a moment of silence for Kivlenieks prior to the national anthems, and Tampa Bay Lightning coach Jon Cooper offered remarks about Kivlenieks after his team’s overtime loss to the Canadiens.</p><p>“I just want to give our heartfelt condolences to the Kivlenieks family,” Cooper said. “It’s an awful tragedy for anybody, any family to go through that. But somebody in the NHL family, as close as we all are as the teams even battling out there, from all the Lightning, our condolences.”</p><p>NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman said Kivlenieks’ “love for life and passion for the game will be deeply missed by all those who have been fortunate to have him as a teammate and a friend.”</p><p>The Latvian Hockey Federation called Kivlenieks’ death “a great loss not only for Latvian hockey but for the entire Latvian nation.”</p><p>Kivlenieks most recently represented Latvia this spring at the world hockey championship in which he played four games. He played two games for the Blue Jackets and eight for the American Hockey League’s Cleveland Monsters this past season.</p><p>A native of Riga, Latvia, Kivlenieks signed with the Blue Jackets as a free agent in May 2017 and played eight games for the club overall. He was seen as a possible No. 2 goaltender next season if Joonas Korpisalo or Elvis Merzlikins is traded.</p><p>Kivlenieks was at Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course in Lexington last Tuesday as a guest of IndyCar driver Alexander Rossi. Rossi announced that day he was going to race in Mexico in November, and Kivlenieks took a ride around Mid-Ohio in a Honda Ridgeline to help promote both Rossi and Sunday’s IndyCar race.</p><p>“This hits hard,” Rossi tweeted. “Prayers to the family and the team.”</p><p>Meier said the autopsy findings prompted officers to re-interview some witnesses. He said police will continue trying to interview as many people as they can who were there.</p><p>“We’re starting to put together a pretty good picture of what occurred,” he said.</p><p>Meier said police who responded to the emergency calls said there was a “large gathering” at the home but he didn’t have an estimate of how many people were there.</p><p>Meier would not provide the address of the property in Novi, a northern suburb of Detroit. A police report had not yet been completed.</p><p>“What a tragic loss for all of us who knew him and I am thinking and praying for his family,” former Blue Jackets captain Nick Foligno tweeted. “Heaven gained a darn good goalie and better person… Just, way too soon.”</p><p>Former Columbus defenseman David Savard learned of the accident from Foligno.</p><p>“That was a brutal wakeup this morning,” Savard said in French. “That was a good kid with a lot of talent who was going to be a part of the team next year or in the future. That’s extremely sad.”</p>

Columbus Blue Jackets goalie dies after fireworks accident

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Chiefs’ Patrick Mahomes is teaming with USA Football to host three youth football coaching clinics across Missouri this summer while his 15 and the Mahomies Foundation has provided grants to 15 youth football leagues.

The collaboration between the three-time Pro Bowl quarterback and USA Football was announced Monday.

Webb City (Missouri) High School coach John Roderique, who has led the Cardinals to a state-record 12 championships, and longtime Rockwood (Missouri) Summit High School coach Mike Bellars will lead the clinics. Their purpose is to prepare other coaches to teach youth athletes based on their age, skill level and the type of football games they are playing.

The first of the clinics, which are free to youth football coaches, will take place July 27 in the Kansas City suburb of Olathe, Kansas. The second will take place July 31 in Web City, Missouri, and the third on Aug. 7 in Kansas City, Missouri.

Along with the clinics, the 15 and the Mahomies Foundation announced that $2,000 operating grants will be distributed to 15 area youth leagues across the region. They will be awarded through an online grant application.

“Smart coaching can make a lasting and positive impact on kids and their sports development,” said Mahomes, who has led the Chiefs to three consecutive AFC tile games and back-to-back Super Bowl appearances. “I’m happy to partner with USA Football to support healthy football practices for coaches and youth athletes across the KC region.”

The collaboration is another example of the investment that Mahomes and his wife, Brittany Matthews, are making in their adopted community. Mahomes recently purchased a minority interest in the Kansas City Royals while Matthews, who played professional soccer in Iceland, is part owner of the Kansas City franchise in the National Women’s Soccer League.

Meanwhile, the 15 and the Mahomies Foundation have donated hundreds of thousands of dollars to local causes. That includes funding the renovation of Martin Luther King Jr. Park, not far from Arrowhead Stadium, which will feature an all-inclusive play site along with opportunities to learn about and commemorate King’s work.

“Patrick’s commitment to kids through his 15 and the Mahomies Foundation is immense and uncommon,” USA Football chief executive Scott Hallenbeck said. “We value Patrick’s friendship and love of the game to deliver best-in-class coach training and grants to help elevate youth football programs throughout Greater Kansas City.”

Mahomes will join the Chiefs’ other quarterbacks, rookies and select veterans in reporting to training camp July 23 at Missouri Western State University in St. Joseph. The rest of the team reports July 28, with the first full-squad workout the following day open to the public for the first time since the 2019 preseason.

The Chiefs open the regular season Sept. 12 against the Cleveland Browns.

<p>By Associated Press</p><p>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Chiefs’ Patrick Mahomes is teaming with USA Football to host three youth football coaching clinics across Missouri this summer while his 15 and the Mahomies Foundation has provided grants to 15 youth football leagues.</p><p>The collaboration between the three-time Pro Bowl quarterback and USA Football was announced Monday.</p><p>Webb City (Missouri) High School coach John Roderique, who has led the Cardinals to a state-record 12 championships, and longtime Rockwood (Missouri) Summit High School coach Mike Bellars will lead the clinics. Their purpose is to prepare other coaches to teach youth athletes based on their age, skill level and the type of football games they are playing.</p><p>The first of the clinics, which are free to youth football coaches, will take place July 27 in the Kansas City suburb of Olathe, Kansas. The second will take place July 31 in Web City, Missouri, and the third on Aug. 7 in Kansas City, Missouri.</p><p>Along with the clinics, the 15 and the Mahomies Foundation announced that $2,000 operating grants will be distributed to 15 area youth leagues across the region. They will be awarded through an online grant application.</p><p>“Smart coaching can make a lasting and positive impact on kids and their sports development,” said Mahomes, who has led the Chiefs to three consecutive AFC tile games and back-to-back Super Bowl appearances. “I’m happy to partner with USA Football to support healthy football practices for coaches and youth athletes across the KC region.”</p><p>The collaboration is another example of the investment that Mahomes and his wife, Brittany Matthews, are making in their adopted community. Mahomes recently purchased a minority interest in the Kansas City Royals while Matthews, who played professional soccer in Iceland, is part owner of the Kansas City franchise in the National Women’s Soccer League.</p><p>Meanwhile, the 15 and the Mahomies Foundation have donated hundreds of thousands of dollars to local causes. That includes funding the renovation of Martin Luther King Jr. Park, not far from Arrowhead Stadium, which will feature an all-inclusive play site along with opportunities to learn about and commemorate King’s work.</p><p>“Patrick’s commitment to kids through his 15 and the Mahomies Foundation is immense and uncommon,” USA Football chief executive Scott Hallenbeck said. “We value Patrick’s friendship and love of the game to deliver best-in-class coach training and grants to help elevate youth football programs throughout Greater Kansas City.”</p><p>Mahomes will join the Chiefs’ other quarterbacks, rookies and select veterans in reporting to training camp July 23 at Missouri Western State University in St. Joseph. The rest of the team reports July 28, with the first full-squad workout the following day open to the public for the first time since the 2019 preseason.</p><p>The Chiefs open the regular season Sept. 12 against the Cleveland Browns.</p>

Chiefs’ Mahomes joins USA Football in youth football support

Junction City picked up a summer baseball win over the Barn Academy of Manhattan by the score of 20-6 Monday evening at Rathert Field. Junction City jumped out to a big early lead and never trailed in the contest.

The Brigade host the Hays Larks at 7 p.m. Wednesday.&nbsp;

<p>Junction City picked up a summer baseball win over the Barn Academy of Manhattan by the score of 20-6 Monday evening at Rathert Field. Junction City jumped out to a big early lead and never trailed in the contest.</p><p>The Brigade host the Hays Larks at 7 p.m. Wednesday.&nbsp;</p>

Brigade roll past the Barn Academy

MANHATTAN, Kan. (WIBW) - K-State Football will welcome a new man behind the mic this fall.

Mitch Fortner will take over for Dave Lewis as the Wildcats’ new public address announcer. Lewis signed off for the final time last fall after 14 seasons.

“It definitely means a lot to me that I get the opportunity to do it for the team I grew up loving all my life,” Fortner said. “I think it also maybe adds a little bit to the pressure of not messing up the job and hoping people still enjoy the game day atmosphere even though it’s going to be a completely new voice.”

Fortner, Manhattan-born and Clay Center-raised, is no stranger to the Wildcats.

Over the last six years, the K-State faithful have heard him on the call at men’s and women’s basketball, volleyball, baseball and women’s soccer games.

He even got a taste of his new role at Bill Snyder Family Stadium once before, filling in for Lewis.

<p>By WIBW TV</p><p>MANHATTAN, Kan. (WIBW) - K-State Football will welcome a new man behind the mic this fall.</p><p>Mitch Fortner will take over for Dave Lewis as the Wildcats’ new public address announcer. Lewis signed off for the final time last fall after 14 seasons.</p><p>“It definitely means a lot to me that I get the opportunity to do it for the team I grew up loving all my life,” Fortner said. “I think it also maybe adds a little bit to the pressure of not messing up the job and hoping people still enjoy the game day atmosphere even though it’s going to be a completely new voice.”</p><p>Fortner, Manhattan-born and Clay Center-raised, is no stranger to the Wildcats.</p><p>Over the last six years, the K-State faithful have heard him on the call at men’s and women’s basketball, volleyball, baseball and women’s soccer games.</p><p>He even got a taste of his new role at Bill Snyder Family Stadium once before, filling in for Lewis.</p>

K-State football will have a new public address announcer

LAWRENCE, Kan. (AP) — Jalen Wilson withdrew from the NBA draft on Friday and announced he would return to Kansas for his sophomore season, providing more experience on the wing for a rebuilt team that should begin among the top five in the nation. The 6-foot-8, 220-pound Wilson averaged 11.8 points and a team-high 7.8 rebounds last season, helping the Jayhawks reach the second round of the NCAA Tournament. Kansas is still awaiting decisions from Ochai Agbaji, who declared for the draft after his junior season, and Remy Martin, who intends to transfer from Arizona State should he withdraw from the draft.

<p>LAWRENCE, Kan. (AP) — Jalen Wilson withdrew from the NBA draft on Friday and announced he would return to Kansas for his sophomore season, providing more experience on the wing for a rebuilt team that should begin among the top five in the nation. The 6-foot-8, 220-pound Wilson averaged 11.8 points and a team-high 7.8 rebounds last season, helping the Jayhawks reach the second round of the NCAA Tournament. Kansas is still awaiting decisions from Ochai Agbaji, who declared for the draft after his junior season, and Remy Martin, who intends to transfer from Arizona State should he withdraw from the draft.</p>

Wilson returns for sophomore season at KU

JUNCTION CITY, Kan. — Kade Graff smacked a base hit down the left field line, scoring the winning run in the bottom of the ninth, as the Brigade defeated the Lawrence Travelers 4-3.

Tristan Wolf pitched 7 innings in the effort, giving up two earned runs, but it would be Zach Ebert who tallied the win, pitching a spotless top of the ninth.&nbsp;

Junction City had not played since sweeping a double-header against the Topeka Golden Giants, but the five day layoff didn't seem to bother the Brigade. Trailing 3-1 entering the bottom of the seventh, JC would tack one on the board in that inning, and add one more the each the eighth and the ninth to come from behind for the victory.&nbsp;

Junction City improved to 12-7 on the season with the win and stay in first place in the Mid-Plains League. The Brigade will take on the Lawrence Travelers again tomorrow from Lawrence before taking them on in the series-finale at Rathert Field Saturday night at 7 p.m..&nbsp;

<p>JUNCTION CITY, Kan. — Kade Graff smacked a base hit down the left field line, scoring the winning run in the bottom of the ninth, as the Brigade defeated the Lawrence Travelers 4-3.</p><p>Tristan Wolf pitched 7 innings in the effort, giving up two earned runs, but it would be Zach Ebert who tallied the win, pitching a spotless top of the ninth.&nbsp;</p><p>Junction City had not played since sweeping a double-header against the Topeka Golden Giants, but the five day layoff didn't seem to bother the Brigade. Trailing 3-1 entering the bottom of the seventh, JC would tack one on the board in that inning, and add one more the each the eighth and the ninth to come from behind for the victory.&nbsp;</p><p>Junction City improved to 12-7 on the season with the win and stay in first place in the Mid-Plains League. The Brigade will take on the Lawrence Travelers again tomorrow from Lawrence before taking them on in the series-finale at Rathert Field Saturday night at 7 p.m..&nbsp;</p>

Brigade walk off Travelers

<b>MANHATTAN, Kansas –&nbsp;</b>K-State women’s basketball will have a new voice in its strength and conditioning program, as 2015 K-State graduate Lane Trudo has been tabbed as the program’s Strength and Conditioning Coach for the 2021-22 season.

“We are glad to have Lane join our staff,” said head coach Jeff Mittie about the addition of Trudo. “He brings an excellent amount of experience in women’s basketball and has excelled in every area of his young career.”

In his role as the team’s strength and conditioning coach, Trudo is responsible for designing and implementing strength and conditioning programs for the team as a whole and individual student-athletes. He will also work with the K-State Athletic Training staff to facilitate individualized rehabilitation programs for athlete recovery from surgical procedures or injuries.

Prior to coming to Manhattan, Trudo worked for two seasons at Mercer University in Macon, Georgia, where he started as the Assistant Director of Strength and Conditioning and was promoted to Director of Strength and Conditioning for Olympic Sports for the 2020-21 season.

While with the Bears, Trudo worked with the men’s and women’s basketball programs and the volleyball and beach volleyball squads where he designed and implemented the training for those teams.

In the 2020-21 season, Trudo was responsible for the strength and conditioning programs for 10 sports. As a result of his efforts, the Mercer women’s basketball program won the 2021 Southern Conference title and reached the 2021 NCAA Tournament.

Before joining the Mercer staff, Trudo spent the 2017-18 and 2018-19 athletic seasons at Lamar as the Assistant Strength and Conditioning Coordinator. During his time at Lamar, Trudo worked with the men’s and women’s basketball and baseball teams, which included strength and power development, linear and lateral speed, conditioning, mobility, and pre-game and practice warm-ups.

While working with those teams, he trained one All-American and saw the women’s basketball team win back-to-back Southland Conference regular season titles. He also assisted in the development of a ninth-round draft pick in the 2018 MLB Draft and two draft picks in 2019.

Before spending two years at Lamar, Trudo spent a year and a half at William Penn University in Oskaloosa, Iowa, as a graduate assistant athletic performance coach. While at William Penn, Trudo helped train four men’s basketball All-Americans and worked with men’s basketball, baseball and men’s soccer.

Trudo earned his Master of Business Leadership from William Penn University in 2018.

Trudo, a 2015 graduate of K-State with a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology with an emphasis in Exercise Physiology, worked for two seasons with the Wildcats as a volunteer assistant in strength and conditioning as an undergrad student. He grew from originally working with Olympic sports teams to working with football and Olympic sports.

Trudo is a certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist with the National Strength and Conditioning Association. He is also a Level I Coach with USA Weightlifting and holds certification in CPR and AED use by the American Heart Association.

For the 2021-22 season, the Wildcats will return eight letter winners led by 2022 All-America candidate Ayoka Lee and All-Big 12 candidate Rachel Ranke. K-State will add the services of five newcomers including: Rebekah Dallinger (Sydney, Australia), Brylee Glenn (Kansas City, Missouri), Jaelyn Glenn (Kansas City, Missouri) Malene Lind Pederson (Aabyhoj, Denmark) and Serena Sundell (Maryville, Missouri).

<p><b>MANHATTAN, Kansas –&nbsp;</b>K-State women’s basketball will have a new voice in its strength and conditioning program, as 2015 K-State graduate Lane Trudo has been tabbed as the program’s Strength and Conditioning Coach for the 2021-22 season.</p><p>“We are glad to have Lane join our staff,” said head coach Jeff Mittie about the addition of Trudo. “He brings an excellent amount of experience in women’s basketball and has excelled in every area of his young career.”</p><p>In his role as the team’s strength and conditioning coach, Trudo is responsible for designing and implementing strength and conditioning programs for the team as a whole and individual student-athletes. He will also work with the K-State Athletic Training staff to facilitate individualized rehabilitation programs for athlete recovery from surgical procedures or injuries.</p><p>Prior to coming to Manhattan, Trudo worked for two seasons at Mercer University in Macon, Georgia, where he started as the Assistant Director of Strength and Conditioning and was promoted to Director of Strength and Conditioning for Olympic Sports for the 2020-21 season.</p><p>While with the Bears, Trudo worked with the men’s and women’s basketball programs and the volleyball and beach volleyball squads where he designed and implemented the training for those teams.</p><p>In the 2020-21 season, Trudo was responsible for the strength and conditioning programs for 10 sports. As a result of his efforts, the Mercer women’s basketball program won the 2021 Southern Conference title and reached the 2021 NCAA Tournament.</p><p>Before joining the Mercer staff, Trudo spent the 2017-18 and 2018-19 athletic seasons at Lamar as the Assistant Strength and Conditioning Coordinator. During his time at Lamar, Trudo worked with the men’s and women’s basketball and baseball teams, which included strength and power development, linear and lateral speed, conditioning, mobility, and pre-game and practice warm-ups.</p><p>While working with those teams, he trained one All-American and saw the women’s basketball team win back-to-back Southland Conference regular season titles. He also assisted in the development of a ninth-round draft pick in the 2018 MLB Draft and two draft picks in 2019.</p><p>Before spending two years at Lamar, Trudo spent a year and a half at William Penn University in Oskaloosa, Iowa, as a graduate assistant athletic performance coach. While at William Penn, Trudo helped train four men’s basketball All-Americans and worked with men’s basketball, baseball and men’s soccer.</p><p>Trudo earned his Master of Business Leadership from William Penn University in 2018.</p><p>Trudo, a 2015 graduate of K-State with a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology with an emphasis in Exercise Physiology, worked for two seasons with the Wildcats as a volunteer assistant in strength and conditioning as an undergrad student. He grew from originally working with Olympic sports teams to working with football and Olympic sports.</p><p>Trudo is a certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist with the National Strength and Conditioning Association. He is also a Level I Coach with USA Weightlifting and holds certification in CPR and AED use by the American Heart Association.</p><p>For the 2021-22 season, the Wildcats will return eight letter winners led by 2022 All-America candidate Ayoka Lee and All-Big 12 candidate Rachel Ranke. K-State will add the services of five newcomers including: Rebekah Dallinger (Sydney, Australia), Brylee Glenn (Kansas City, Missouri), Jaelyn Glenn (Kansas City, Missouri) Malene Lind Pederson (Aabyhoj, Denmark) and Serena Sundell (Maryville, Missouri).</p>

Trudo Hired as K-State Women’s Basketball Strength Coach

<b>MANHATTAN, Kan.</b>&nbsp;– Eight home games at Bramlage Coliseum, including a marquee matchup with Marquette, the Hall of Fame Classic at T-Mobile Center and road contests against regional foes Wichita State and Nebraska highlight the 2021-22 Kansas State men’s basketball non-conference schedule released on Thursday (July 1).

The upcoming 2021-22 season will mark a return to full capacity at Bramlage Coliseum, as the Wildcats open their eight-game non-conference home schedule against Florida A&amp;M on Wednesday, November 10. The team will also host a pair of to-be-determined exhibition games prior to the season opener.

“I have said a number of times that building your non-conference schedule is nearly as important as recruiting,” said head coach&nbsp;<b>Bruce Weber</b>. “As a staff, you want to build a quality schedule that gives your team a chance at an NCAA Tournament bid, but also help develop them as the season goes along. We still have a relatively young team, so it was important to give them more experience especially at home to build confidence.”

K-State previously announced several components of its non-conference schedule, including the Hall of Fame Classic with Arkansas, Cincinnati and Illinois on Monday and Tuesday, November 22-23 at the T-Mobile Center in Kansas City, a matchup with Wichita State at INTRUST Bank Arena in downtown Wichita on Sunday, December 5, a home game with Marquette in the BIG EAST/Big 12 Battle on Wednesday, December 8 as well as road contests at Nebraska on Sunday, December 19 and at Ole Miss in the Big 12/SEC Challenge on Saturday, January 29, 2022.

In all, the Wildcats will play at least 17 home games (not including exhibitions) in 2021-22, including the nine-game Big 12 schedule with visits from reigning national champion Baylor and NCAA Tournament participants Kansas, Oklahoma, Oklahoma State, Texas, Texas Tech and West Virginia. The complete conference schedule is expected to be released early in the fall.

Season tickets for the 2021-22 season will go on sale on Wednesday, July 21.

<p><b>MANHATTAN, Kan.</b>&nbsp;– Eight home games at Bramlage Coliseum, including a marquee matchup with Marquette, the Hall of Fame Classic at T-Mobile Center and road contests against regional foes Wichita State and Nebraska highlight the 2021-22 Kansas State men’s basketball non-conference schedule released on Thursday (July 1).</p><p>The upcoming 2021-22 season will mark a return to full capacity at Bramlage Coliseum, as the Wildcats open their eight-game non-conference home schedule against Florida A&amp;M on Wednesday, November 10. The team will also host a pair of to-be-determined exhibition games prior to the season opener.</p><p>“I have said a number of times that building your non-conference schedule is nearly as important as recruiting,” said head coach&nbsp;<b>Bruce Weber</b>. “As a staff, you want to build a quality schedule that gives your team a chance at an NCAA Tournament bid, but also help develop them as the season goes along. We still have a relatively young team, so it was important to give them more experience especially at home to build confidence.”</p><p>K-State previously announced several components of its non-conference schedule, including the Hall of Fame Classic with Arkansas, Cincinnati and Illinois on Monday and Tuesday, November 22-23 at the T-Mobile Center in Kansas City, a matchup with Wichita State at INTRUST Bank Arena in downtown Wichita on Sunday, December 5, a home game with Marquette in the BIG EAST/Big 12 Battle on Wednesday, December 8 as well as road contests at Nebraska on Sunday, December 19 and at Ole Miss in the Big 12/SEC Challenge on Saturday, January 29, 2022.</p><p>In all, the Wildcats will play at least 17 home games (not including exhibitions) in 2021-22, including the nine-game Big 12 schedule with visits from reigning national champion Baylor and NCAA Tournament participants Kansas, Oklahoma, Oklahoma State, Texas, Texas Tech and West Virginia. The complete conference schedule is expected to be released early in the fall.</p><p>Season tickets for the 2021-22 season will go on sale on Wednesday, July 21.</p>