By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays Post Sports

HAYS – The TMP-Marian Monarchs and Colby Eagles hadn’t squared
off on the hardwood since 2015, but Monday night, the atmosphere inside Al
Billinger Fieldhouse felt like the two teams picked up right where they left
off more than 10 years ago, with both games coming down to the wire.

In the first game of the night, TMP’s Claire Schippers hit a
game-winning three-pointer as time expired in a 37-36 victory.

The boys blew an 11-point halftime lead but were forced to
rally in a 67-58 win.

GIRLS: TMP 37, Colby 36 Colby jumped out to an early 3-0 lead before the Monarchs
(11-6) answered with a 13-4 run to end the first quarter.

Claire Schippers scored five of her career-high 18 points in
the first quarter as TMP built a 13-7 lead.

Colby (10-9) closed the gap to two, midway through the second
quarter and were within one, before Schippers’ runner with less than two minutes
left in the first half put TMP up 21-18 heading into the halftime break.

The two teams combined for just four field goals in the
third quarter, as Colby outscored the Monarchs 8-5 to tie the game at 26.

In the final frame, TMP opened a three-point lead but, with
just less than four and a half minutes left, Colby put together a 5-0 run,
taking the lead for the first time since the first possession of the game, at 31-29.

In the final minute of the game, TMP tied the game at 31
with a pair of Schippers' free throws. 

They then found themselves down 34-31 with 44 seconds to
play.

Hannah Rose converted on a three-pointer to tie the game at
34.

Colby retook the lead with just over 30 seconds to play, but
the Monarchs were left with 3.1 seconds left when Schippers banked in the
game-winning three-pointer as time expired, lifting TMP to a 37-36 victory.

Claire Schippers led all scorers with 18 points.

The win also ends a nine-game losing streak against the Eagles.

BOYS: TMP 67, Colby 58 The final game of the day, inside Al Billinger Fieldhouse, felt
like a big-time game, as the TMP boys came away with a 67-58 victory.

The first quarter saw nine lead changes and three ties
before the Monarchs’ Carson Liles gave the Monarchs a 15-14 lead with a
long-range jumper at the end of the first quarter.

Ty Schmeidler hit his only three-pointer of the game midway through
the second quarter to put TMP up 24-17.

In the final minute of the quarter, Will Eck and Ian Nehls
hit back-to-back threes, giving TMP their largest lead of the first half, 37-26
at halftime.

Nehls connected on a career-high six three-pointers and finished
with a game-high 20 points.

The halftime break, though, proved to be a momentum killer
for the Monarchs and the break Colby needed.

Down 11, 37-26, Colby opened the second half on a 15-0 run
for a 41-37 lead with more than three minutes left in the quarter.

TMP answered with back-to-back Grant Nehls field goals,
tying the game at 41. Jacob Seib and Ian Nehls closed out the quarter with four
straight points, giving TMP a 46-44 lead.

In the fourth quarter, Colby tied the game at 49, but Ian Nehls
connected on his final three-pointer of the night, putting TMP up 52-49.

From there, the Monarchs closed out the 67-58 victory.

Jacob Seib’s 17 points are a new season-high and were one of
four to score in double-figures.

Ian Nehls scored a season-high 20 points. Ty Schmeidler
added 14 points, and Grant Nehls added 10 points. 

By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays Post SportsHAYS – The TMP-Marian Monarchs and Colby Eagles hadn’t squared
off on the hardwood since 2015, but Monday night, the atmosphere inside Al
Billinger Fieldhouse felt like the two teams picked up right where they left
off more than 10 years ago, with both games coming down to the wire.In the first game of the night, TMP’s Claire Schippers hit a
game-winning three-pointer as time expired in a 37-36 victory.The boys blew an 11-point halftime lead but were forced to
rally in a 67-58 win.GIRLS: TMP 37, Colby 36 Colby jumped out to an early 3-0 lead before the Monarchs
(11-6) answered with a 13-4 run to end the first quarter.Claire Schippers scored five of her career-high 18 points in
the first quarter as TMP built a 13-7 lead.Colby (10-9) closed the gap to two, midway through the second
quarter and were within one, before Schippers’ runner with less than two minutes
left in the first half put TMP up 21-18 heading into the halftime break.The two teams combined for just four field goals in the
third quarter, as Colby outscored the Monarchs 8-5 to tie the game at 26.In the final frame, TMP opened a three-point lead but, with
just less than four and a half minutes left, Colby put together a 5-0 run,
taking the lead for the first time since the first possession of the game, at 31-29.In the final minute of the game, TMP tied the game at 31
with a pair of Schippers' free throws. They then found themselves down 34-31 with 44 seconds to
play.Hannah Rose converted on a three-pointer to tie the game at
34.<div><iframe width="100%" height="166" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/soundcloud%253Atracks%253A2263414829&color=%2337669a&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/tmp-wbkb-coach-post-v-colby" title="TMP WBKB Coach Post v Colby Feb 9, 2026" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">TMP WBKB Coach Post v Colby Feb 9, 2026</a></div></div>Colby retook the lead with just over 30 seconds to play, but
the Monarchs were left with 3.1 seconds left when Schippers banked in the
game-winning three-pointer as time expired, lifting TMP to a 37-36 victory.Claire Schippers led all scorers with 18 points.<div><iframe width="100%" height="166" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/soundcloud%253Atracks%253A2263414709&color=%2337669a&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/tmp-wbkb-highlights-v-colby" title="TMP WBKB Highlights v Colby Feb 9, 2026" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">TMP WBKB Highlights v Colby Feb 9, 2026</a></div></div>The win also ends a nine-game losing streak against the Eagles.BOYS: TMP 67, Colby 58 The final game of the day, inside Al Billinger Fieldhouse, felt
like a big-time game, as the TMP boys came away with a 67-58 victory. <div><iframe width="100%" height="166" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/soundcloud%253Atracks%253A2263414709&color=%2337669a&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/tmp-wbkb-highlights-v-colby" title="TMP WBKB Highlights v Colby Feb 9, 2026" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">TMP WBKB Highlights v Colby Feb 9, 2026</a></div></div>The first quarter saw nine lead changes and three ties
before the Monarchs’ Carson Liles gave the Monarchs a 15-14 lead with a
long-range jumper at the end of the first quarter.Ty Schmeidler hit his only three-pointer of the game midway through
the second quarter to put TMP up 24-17.In the final minute of the quarter, Will Eck and Ian Nehls
hit back-to-back threes, giving TMP their largest lead of the first half, 37-26
at halftime.Nehls connected on a career-high six three-pointers and finished
with a game-high 20 points.The halftime break, though, proved to be a momentum killer
for the Monarchs and the break Colby needed.Down 11, 37-26, Colby opened the second half on a 15-0 run
for a 41-37 lead with more than three minutes left in the quarter.TMP answered with back-to-back Grant Nehls field goals,
tying the game at 41. Jacob Seib and Ian Nehls closed out the quarter with four
straight points, giving TMP a 46-44 lead.In the fourth quarter, Colby tied the game at 49, but Ian Nehls
connected on his final three-pointer of the night, putting TMP up 52-49.From there, the Monarchs closed out the 67-58 victory.<div><iframe width="100%" height="166" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/soundcloud%253Atracks%253A2263414829&color=%2337669a&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/tmp-wbkb-coach-post-v-colby" title="TMP WBKB Coach Post v Colby Feb 9, 2026" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">TMP WBKB Coach Post v Colby Feb 9, 2026</a></div>x</div>Jacob Seib’s 17 points are a new season-high and were one of
four to score in double-figures.Ian Nehls scored a season-high 20 points. Ty Schmeidler
added 14 points, and Grant Nehls added 10 points. TMP will host Russell on Tuesday.

🏀 Monarchs sweep Colby as they renew an old rivalry

RILEY COUNTY —A member of the Kansas State University men's basketball staff is under investigation for alleged violent crimes.

Just before 1:30a.m. Monday, 29-year-old Mark Vital was booked into the Riley County Jail on requested charges of&nbsp;&nbsp;domestic battery; knowing rude physical contact with family member or dating relationship, according to the Riley County Police Department arrest report. 

On Monday afternoon, K-State Athletics released a statement on the arrest.

"We are aware of Mark Vital's arrest on Sunday night. He has been removed from all team responsibilities until the judicial process runs its course."

Just after 3a.m. Monday, Vital met the requirement of a $2,000 bond and is no longer in custody.

He is in his first season as a graduate student manager at K-State, according to his online bio. Vital was a three-time All-Big 12 selection and a member of Baylor’s 2021 National Championship team where K-State head coach Jerome Tang was an assistant.&nbsp; Vital is working towards a master’s in counseling and student development at K-State.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1770655588483.png" alt="Vital photo K-State Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Vital photo K-State Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>RILEY COUNTY —A member of the Kansas State University men's basketball staff is under investigation for alleged violent crimes.Just before 1:30a.m. Monday, 29-year-old Mark Vital was booked into the Riley County Jail on requested charges of&nbsp;&nbsp;domestic battery; knowing rude physical contact with family member or dating relationship, according to the Riley County Police Department arrest report. On Monday afternoon, K-State Athletics released a statement on the arrest."We are aware of Mark Vital's arrest on Sunday night. He has been removed from all team responsibilities until the judicial process runs its course."Just after 3a.m. Monday, Vital met the requirement of a $2,000 bond and is no longer in custody.He is in his first season as a graduate student manager at K-State, according to his online bio. Vital was a three-time All-Big 12 selection and a member of Baylor’s 2021 National Championship team where K-State head coach Jerome Tang was an assistant.&nbsp; Vital is working towards a master’s in counseling and student development at K-State.

K-State statement on arrest of basketball staffer

🎥🏀 Watch This Week's Tiger Talk

TMP-Marian vs Colby Monday, Feb. 9th, 6 p.m Hays, Kan.

Radio:&nbsp;KHAZ (99.5)&nbsp;<a href="https://99kzcountry.com/">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN</a> <a href="https://mix103fm.com/"></a>Video:&nbsp;Monarchs Sports Network&nbsp;CLICK HERE TO WATCH ($)

Tip-off for the girls' game is set for 6:00 p.m. The Hertz Rent-a-Car Pregame Show begins at 5:40 p.m. on 99.5 KZ Country.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575411582384.jpeg" alt="TMP YouTube Slate.jpg" />
 <figcaption>TMP YouTube Slate.jpg</figcaption>
 </figure>TMP-Marian vs Colby Monday, Feb. 9th, 6 p.m Hays, Kan.Radio:&nbsp;KHAZ (99.5)&nbsp;<a href="https://99kzcountry.com/">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN</a> <a href="https://mix103fm.com/"></a>Video:&nbsp;Monarchs Sports Network&nbsp;CLICK HERE TO WATCH ($)Tip-off for the girls' game is set for 6:00 p.m. The Hertz Rent-a-Car Pregame Show begins at 5:40 p.m. on 99.5 KZ Country.

🏀🎥 TMP-Marian returns home for non-MCL matchup with Colby

TMP-Marian vs Russell Tuesday, Feb. 10th, 6 p.m Hays, Kan.

Radio:&nbsp;KHAZ (99.5)&nbsp;<a href="https://99kzcountry.com/">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN</a> <a href="https://mix103fm.com/"></a>Video:&nbsp;Monarchs Sports Network&nbsp;<a href="https://vcloud.hudl.com/broadcast/embed/3489429">CLICK HERE TO WATCH ($)</a>

The TMP-Marian Monarchs play their second game in as many days as they play host to the Russell Broncos Tuesday night in a Mid-Continent League matchup.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575411582384.jpeg" alt="TMP YouTube Slate.jpg" />
 <figcaption>TMP YouTube Slate.jpg</figcaption>
 </figure>TMP-Marian vs Russell Tuesday, Feb. 10th, 6 p.m Hays, Kan.Radio:&nbsp;KHAZ (99.5)&nbsp;<a href="https://99kzcountry.com/">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN</a> <a href="https://mix103fm.com/"></a>Video:&nbsp;Monarchs Sports Network&nbsp;<a href="https://vcloud.hudl.com/broadcast/embed/3489429">CLICK HERE TO WATCH ($)</a>The TMP-Marian Monarchs play their second game in as many days as they play host to the Russell Broncos Tuesday night in a Mid-Continent League matchup.Tip-off for the girls' game is set for 6:00 p.m. The Hertz Rent-a-Car Pregame Show begins at 5:40 p.m. on 99.5 KZ Country.

🏀🎥 TMP Monarchs return to MCL play against Russell

Hays High at McPherson Tuesday, Feb. 10 - 6:00 McPherson, Kan.

Radio:&nbsp;KFIX (96.9)&nbsp;<a href="https://radio.securenetsystems.net/cwa/KFIX">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN</a> <a href="https://mix103fm.com/"></a>Video:&nbsp;Hays High Sports Network &nbsp; WATCH HERE - <a href="https://vcloud.hudl.com/broadcast/embed/3483709">CLICK HERE TO WATCH LIVE</a> &nbsp;

Hays High plays their final non-conference game of the regular season as they head to McPherson on Tuesday evening.

Girls: #5-5A Hays (16-1) at McPherson (8-9) Boys: #7-5A Hays (14-3) at McPherson (9-8)

Tip-off is set for 6:00. The Hertz Pregame Show will begin at 5:40 on 96.9 KFIX.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694699014932.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Hays High at McPherson Tuesday, Feb. 10 - 6:00 McPherson, Kan.Radio:&nbsp;KFIX (96.9)&nbsp;<a href="https://radio.securenetsystems.net/cwa/KFIX">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN</a> <a href="https://mix103fm.com/"></a>Video:&nbsp;Hays High Sports Network &nbsp; WATCH HERE - <a href="https://vcloud.hudl.com/broadcast/embed/3483709">CLICK HERE TO WATCH LIVE</a> &nbsp;Hays High plays their final non-conference game of the regular season as they head to McPherson on Tuesday evening.Girls: #5-5A Hays (16-1) at McPherson (8-9) Boys: #7-5A Hays (14-3) at McPherson (9-8)Tip-off is set for 6:00. The Hertz Pregame Show will begin at 5:40 on 96.9 KFIX.&nbsp;Video is available at the above link.

📺🏀 Hays High heads to McPherson

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - Fort Hays State's Brooke Loewe has again been named MIAA Athlete of the Week, announced Monday by the league office. The senior averaged a double-double last week, putting up 12.0 points, 11.0 assists, 4.0 rebounds and 3.5 steals per game in a pair of road wins over Northeastern State and Arkansas-Fort Smith to earn her second weekly honor from the league office.

Loewe opened the week with a 14-point, 14-assist double-double against the RiverHawks, surpassing 14 assists for the sixth time this season. To put that in context, entering this season the school record for assists in a game was 13. It was Loewe's ninth career double-double and her fifth of the season.

The Huxley, Iowa native then added 10 points, eight assists and three steals in a win over Arkansas-Fort Smith. She hit 81.3 percent from the charity line for the week (13-of-16), knocking down clutch free throws in the final minutes of both games to help the Tigers seal each victory.

Fort Hays State has earned seven of the 12 weekly honors given out by the conference office this season, more than the entire rest of the conference combined (five). No other school or individual has more than one award on the year, while Loewe now has two alongside five for Talexa Weeter.

The Tigers will be back at home this weekend starting Thursday (Feb. 12) when they host Emporia State beginning at 5:30 p.m.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1770669585211.png" alt="FHSU Athletics image" />
 <figcaption>FHSU Athletics image</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsKANSAS CITY, Mo. - Fort Hays State's Brooke Loewe has again been named MIAA Athlete of the Week, announced Monday by the league office. The senior averaged a double-double last week, putting up 12.0 points, 11.0 assists, 4.0 rebounds and 3.5 steals per game in a pair of road wins over Northeastern State and Arkansas-Fort Smith to earn her second weekly honor from the league office.Loewe opened the week with a 14-point, 14-assist double-double against the RiverHawks, surpassing 14 assists for the sixth time this season. To put that in context, entering this season the school record for assists in a game was 13. It was Loewe's ninth career double-double and her fifth of the season.The Huxley, Iowa native then added 10 points, eight assists and three steals in a win over Arkansas-Fort Smith. She hit 81.3 percent from the charity line for the week (13-of-16), knocking down clutch free throws in the final minutes of both games to help the Tigers seal each victory.Fort Hays State has earned seven of the 12 weekly honors given out by the conference office this season, more than the entire rest of the conference combined (five). No other school or individual has more than one award on the year, while Loewe now has two alongside five for Talexa Weeter.The Tigers will be back at home this weekend starting Thursday (Feb. 12) when they host Emporia State beginning at 5:30 p.m.

🏀 Loewe earns second MIAA Athlete of the Week honor

The 8th-ranked Fort Hays State women go for their 20th win when they take on Northeastern State on Thursday, February 5, 2026 at the NSU Event Center in Tahlequah, Okla.

The 8th-ranked Fort Hays State women go for their 20th win when they take on Northeastern State on Thursday, February 5, 2026 at the NSU Event Center in Tahlequah, Okla.<div><iframe title="FHSU Rewind-WBB at Northeastern State (Feb. 5, 2026)" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=ziin5-1a3f1da-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=1&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=2" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

🎧 Defend the Fort Podcast: FHSU Rewind-WBB at Northeastern State

🎥🏀 Redeem Designs Plays of the Week HHS vs Dodge City

🎥🏀 Redeem Designs Plays of the Week TMP vs Smith Center

HAYS, Kan. – Director of Athletics Dr. Lisa Goddard McGuirk announced on Monday the hiring of Garcia Ramser as Head Volleyball Coach at Fort Hays State University. Ramser becomes the ninth head coach in Tiger Volleyball history.

Ramser comes to FHSU from Adams State University in Colorado, where he served as head coach for the last two seasons (2024 and 2025). The Grizzlies saw an immediate improvement in Ramser's time leading the program, helping the Grizzlies to 26 wins over the two seasons, including a three-win improvement in his first season and a four-win improvement in his second season. In 2025, he led the Grizzlies to their first Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference Tournament appearance since 2017.

"I am grateful to Dr. Lisa Goddard McGuirk and the entire search committee for this opportunity to lead the Fort Hays State University volleyball program," said Ramser. "During my time in Hays and on the FHSU campus, it was very evident the program has strong support from the athletic staff, university, and community. I could not be more excited to join the Fort Hays State family."

"I look forward to our fans experiencing a fast-pace, aggressive, defensively driven style of play that will fuel our offense. From my initial time with the current team, it is evident they are a goal-oriented group willing to work hard to elevate our program in the MIAA. I am very excited to lead them in the pursuit of our goals."

"We are excited to welcome Garcia to Tiger Nation. Coach Ramser shares Tiger Athletics' steadfast commitment to excellence," said Director of Athletics Dr. Lisa Goddard McGuirk. "His wealth of diverse coaching and recruiting experience at the NCAA Division I and II levels, combined with his commitment to the student-athlete experience, stood out throughout our search process."

Prior to becoming the head coach at Adams State, Ramser was the lead assistant coach at Angelo State University, a program that has seen a high level of success sustained at the NCAA Division II level for nearly two decades under head coach Chuck Waddington. In his first season with the Rambelles, the COVID-19 season of 2020-21, he helped the team to a 16-2 overall record and win the AVCA National Championship tournament in the spring, since there was no fall NCAA Championship that year. In his four years overall at Angelo State (2020-23), he helped the team to two regional appearances in the NCAA Tournament and a pair of Lone Star Conference titles. He also helped coach four AVCA All-America selections, one AVCA Region Player of the Year, and 16 all-conference selections. Ramser was a recipient of the AVCA Thirty Under 30 Award.

Ramser also spent time at Canisius University in New York, where he was assistant coach for the 2019 season, then served as the interim head coach of the program from February to July of 2020 before moving on to Angelo State University. He helped the program to four all-conference selections.

Ramser earned his master's degree in Educational Leadership from Quincy University in Illinois, where he served as a graduate assistant with the men's volleyball program for a season (2018-19). Prior to that, he was the head coach of the men's club program at the University of Pittsburgh from 2016-2018. He was the National College Volleyball Federation Coach of the Year in 2018. Ramser earned his bachelor's in Materials Science and Engineering from the University of Pittsburgh Swanson School of Engineering in 2018.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1770659026872.png" alt="FHSU Athletics image" />
 <figcaption>FHSU Athletics image</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsHAYS, Kan. – Director of Athletics Dr. Lisa Goddard McGuirk announced on Monday the hiring of Garcia Ramser as Head Volleyball Coach at Fort Hays State University. Ramser becomes the ninth head coach in Tiger Volleyball history.Ramser comes to FHSU from Adams State University in Colorado, where he served as head coach for the last two seasons (2024 and 2025). The Grizzlies saw an immediate improvement in Ramser's time leading the program, helping the Grizzlies to 26 wins over the two seasons, including a three-win improvement in his first season and a four-win improvement in his second season. In 2025, he led the Grizzlies to their first Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference Tournament appearance since 2017."I am grateful to Dr. Lisa Goddard McGuirk and the entire search committee for this opportunity to lead the Fort Hays State University volleyball program," said Ramser. "During my time in Hays and on the FHSU campus, it was very evident the program has strong support from the athletic staff, university, and community. I could not be more excited to join the Fort Hays State family.""I look forward to our fans experiencing a fast-pace, aggressive, defensively driven style of play that will fuel our offense. From my initial time with the current team, it is evident they are a goal-oriented group willing to work hard to elevate our program in the MIAA. I am very excited to lead them in the pursuit of our goals.""We are excited to welcome Garcia to Tiger Nation. Coach Ramser shares Tiger Athletics' steadfast commitment to excellence," said Director of Athletics Dr. Lisa Goddard McGuirk. "His wealth of diverse coaching and recruiting experience at the NCAA Division I and II levels, combined with his commitment to the student-athlete experience, stood out throughout our search process."Prior to becoming the head coach at Adams State, Ramser was the lead assistant coach at Angelo State University, a program that has seen a high level of success sustained at the NCAA Division II level for nearly two decades under head coach Chuck Waddington. In his first season with the Rambelles, the COVID-19 season of 2020-21, he helped the team to a 16-2 overall record and win the AVCA National Championship tournament in the spring, since there was no fall NCAA Championship that year. In his four years overall at Angelo State (2020-23), he helped the team to two regional appearances in the NCAA Tournament and a pair of Lone Star Conference titles. He also helped coach four AVCA All-America selections, one AVCA Region Player of the Year, and 16 all-conference selections. Ramser was a recipient of the AVCA Thirty Under 30 Award.Ramser also spent time at Canisius University in New York, where he was assistant coach for the 2019 season, then served as the interim head coach of the program from February to July of 2020 before moving on to Angelo State University. He helped the program to four all-conference selections.Ramser earned his master's degree in Educational Leadership from Quincy University in Illinois, where he served as a graduate assistant with the men's volleyball program for a season (2018-19). Prior to that, he was the head coach of the men's club program at the University of Pittsburgh from 2016-2018. He was the National College Volleyball Federation Coach of the Year in 2018. Ramser earned his bachelor's in Materials Science and Engineering from the University of Pittsburgh Swanson School of Engineering in 2018.

🏐 Garcia Ramser named head volleyball coach at FHSU

We're joined by men's head coach Mark Johnson and women's head coach Talia Kahrs.

Tiger Talk airs Monday mornings at 9:00 a.m. on Tiger Radio Mix-103.3.

We're joined by men's head coach Mark Johnson and women's head coach Talia Kahrs.Tiger Talk airs Monday mornings at 9:00 a.m. on Tiger Radio Mix-103.3.<div><iframe title="Tiger Talk (February 9, 2026)" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=2n88k-1a3f140-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=1&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=2" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

🎧 Defend the Fort Podcast: Tiger Talk (February 9, 2026)

KAYS - (1400/94.3) KFIX - (96.9) KHAZ - (99.5) KJLS - (103.3) KKQY - (101.9)

Monday, February 9
 KJLS: Tiger Talk,
9:00am
 KHAZ: TMP-Marian
MWBKB vs. Colby, 5:40pm
 KAYS: Kansas MBKB vs. Arizona, 6:30pm

Tuesday, February 10
 KKQY: Trego MWBKB at
Hoxie, 5:00pm *
KFIX: Hays High MWBKB at McPherson, 5:40pm
 KHAZ: TMP-Marian MWBKB vs. Russell, 5:40pm

Wednesday, February 11
 KAYS: Hawk Talk with
Bill Self, 6:00pm

Thursday, February 12
 KJLS: Fort Hays State
MWBKB vs. Emporia State, 5:05pm

Friday, February 13
 KFIX: Hays High MWBKB
at Liberal, 5:40pm
 KHAZ: TMP-Marian MWBKB vs. Phillipsburg, 5:40pm

Saturday, February 14
 KAYS: Kansas MBKB at
Iowa State, 10:30am KJLS: Fort Hays State MWBKB vs. Newman, 1:35pm

KAYS - (1400/94.3) KFIX - (96.9) KHAZ - (99.5) KJLS - (103.3) KKQY - (101.9)Monday, February 9
 KJLS: Tiger Talk,
9:00am
 KHAZ: TMP-Marian
MWBKB vs. Colby, 5:40pm
 KAYS: Kansas MBKB vs. Arizona, 6:30pmTuesday, February 10
 KKQY: Trego MWBKB at
Hoxie, 5:00pm *
KFIX: Hays High MWBKB at McPherson, 5:40pm
 KHAZ: TMP-Marian MWBKB vs. Russell, 5:40pmWednesday, February 11
 KAYS: Hawk Talk with
Bill Self, 6:00pmThursday, February 12
 KJLS: Fort Hays State
MWBKB vs. Emporia State, 5:05pmFriday, February 13
 KFIX: Hays High MWBKB
at Liberal, 5:40pm
 KHAZ: TMP-Marian MWBKB vs. Phillipsburg, 5:40pmSaturday, February 14
 KAYS: Kansas MBKB at
Iowa State, 10:30am KJLS: Fort Hays State MWBKB vs. Newman, 1:35pmSunday, February 15
 none

🎧 Eagle Radio, Hull sports broadcast schedule

SANTA CLARA, Calif. (AP) — The “Dark Side” defense carried Sam Darnold and the Seattle Seahawks to a Lombardi Trophy.

Devon Witherspoon, Derick Hall, Byron Murphy and the rest of Mike Macdonald’s ferocious unit pummeled Drake Maye, and the Seahawks beat the New England Patriots 29-13 on Sunday to win the franchise’s second Super Bowl.

“We never waver, man. We believe in each other. We love each other, and now we’re world champions," Macdonald said.

Darnold&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/NFL/status/2020686171668709673">threw a touchdown pass</a>&nbsp;to AJ Barner, Kenneth Walker III ran for 135 yards and Jason Myers set a Super Bowl record by making all five of his field-goal tries.

“To do this with this team, I wouldn’t want it any other way,” Darnold said. “So proud of our guys, our defense. I mean, I can’t say enough great things about our defense, our special teams.”

Walker became the first running back to win the Super Bowl MVP award since Hall of Famer Terrell Davis did it with Denver 28 years ago.

Uchenna Nwosu punctuated a punishing defensive performance by&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/NFL/status/2020693977473908778">snagging Maye’s pass in the air</a>&nbsp;after Witherspoon hit his arm and running it back 45 yards for a pick-6.

"We went through a lot, but we believed," Witherspoon said. "All of you all doubters out there who said all that other stuff, you all don’t know what’s going on in this building. We’re one of one over here.”

Seattle won its first Super Bowl a dozen years ago behind its “Legion of Boom” defense, then was denied a repeat when New England's&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U7rPIg7ZNQ8">Malcolm Butler intercepted Russell Wilson</a>&nbsp;at the goal line. The Seahawks hadn't been back to the Super Bowl since.

Darnold become the first quarterback in the 2018 NFL draft class to win a Super Bowl, ahead of Josh Allen, Baker Mayfield and Lamar Jackson.

Labeled a bust, dumped by two teams and considered expendable by two others, Darnold proved his doubters wrong while helping the Seahawks go 17-3.

After leading the NFL with 20 turnovers in the regular season, Darnold didn’t have any in three playoff games. He wasn’t particularly sharp against a solid Patriots defense but protected the ball and made enough plays, finishing 19 of 38 for 202 yards.

“I know we won the Super Bowl, but we could have been a little bit better on offense, but I don’t care about that right now,” Darnold said. “It’s an unbelievable feeling, man. I’m just so happy for the guys in the locker room and the coaches that put in so much effort throughout the whole season.”

The Seahawks sacked Maye six times, including two apiece by Hall and Murphy.&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/NFL/status/2020684418369912865">Hall’s strip-sack</a>&nbsp;late in the third quarter set up a short field and Darnold connected with Barner on 16-yard scoring toss to make it 19-0.

<a href="https://x.com/NFL/status/2020691306520187315">Julian Love’s interception</a>&nbsp;set up another field goal that made it 22-7 with 5:35 left.

The Patriots (17-4) punted on the first eight drives, excluding a kneel-down to end the first half.

“Just reminding them that we’re 307 days into what hopefully is a long, successful relationship and program, and it's OK to be disappointed,” New England coach Mike Vrabel said.

Down 19-0, Maye and the Patriots' offense finally got going. He hit Mack Hollins over the middle in traffic for 24 yards and then lofted a perfect 35-yard TD pass to Hollins down the left side to cut the deficit to 19-7.

Tom Brady once led Bill Belichick’s Patriots to the greatest comeback in Super Bowl history, when New England rallied from a 28-3 deficit against Atlanta for a 34-28 overtime victory.

But Maye, who was runner-up to Matthew Stafford for the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/nfl-mvp-awards-1f6a4d94a8ffcdd5844855c5d4ba510a">AP NFL MVP award</a>&nbsp;in the closest race in two decades, didn’t come close. He had a chance to narrow the gap, but his ill-advised pass into triple coverage was picked by Love and the Patriots trailed by 15 when they got the ball back with 5:35 left. Maye said after the game that he&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/super-bowl-drake-maye-patriots-seahawks-62ba2fa92f77cdff8f9660945355d909">had a pain-relieving injection in his right shoulder</a>, which he injured in the AFC championship win at Denver, but said it didn't affect his play.

Then came Nwosu’s touchdown, a fitting way to cap an overwhelming effort by the NFL’s stingiest defense.

“Definitely hurts. They played better than us tonight,” Maye said.

Maye’s 7-yard TD pass to Rhamondre Stevenson late in the game only made the margin smaller.

The Seahawks took a 3-0 lead on Myers’ 33-yard field goal on the game’s opening drive. Myers connected from 39 and 41 yards to extend the lead to 9-0 at halftime. He was good from 41 on Seattle’s first drive of the third quarter to make it 12-0.

Cornerback Christian Gonzalez made two outstanding plays to prevent potential touchdowns in the second quarter. He raced back and leaped in the air to slap away a deep pass to Rashid Shaheed that could have been a 76-yard TD.

On Seattle’s last drive in the first half, Gonzalez knocked down a pass to All-Pro wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba that would have been a 23-yard TD.

Rylie Mills&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/NFL/status/2020657001202884987">pushed left guard Jared Wilson into Maye</a>&nbsp;and took both of them down on one of Seattle’s sacks.

Bad Bunny headlined a visually stunning&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/bad-bunny-super-bowl-2026-halftime-show-review-fbcd3dff50a4c6b0548bfa4712677eb0">halftime performance</a>&nbsp;that also featured appearances by Lady Gaga and Ricky Martin. The Grammy-winning Puerto Rican artist entirely in Spanish.

The Patriots failed to win the franchise’s seventh Super Bowl, which would have set an NFL record. They’re tied with the Steelers with six championships.

Vrabel, the AP NFL Coach of the Year, was aiming to become the fifth person to win a Super Bowl as a player and head coach and the first to do both with the same team.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1770608029498.png" alt="Photo Seattle Seahawks" />
 <figcaption>Photo Seattle Seahawks</figcaption>
 </figure>SANTA CLARA, Calif. (AP) — The “Dark Side” defense carried Sam Darnold and the Seattle Seahawks to a Lombardi Trophy.Devon Witherspoon, Derick Hall, Byron Murphy and the rest of Mike Macdonald’s ferocious unit pummeled Drake Maye, and the Seahawks beat the New England Patriots 29-13 on Sunday to win the franchise’s second Super Bowl.“We never waver, man. We believe in each other. We love each other, and now we’re world champions," Macdonald said.Darnold&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/NFL/status/2020686171668709673">threw a touchdown pass</a>&nbsp;to AJ Barner, Kenneth Walker III ran for 135 yards and Jason Myers set a Super Bowl record by making all five of his field-goal tries.“To do this with this team, I wouldn’t want it any other way,” Darnold said. “So proud of our guys, our defense. I mean, I can’t say enough great things about our defense, our special teams.”Walker became the first running back to win the Super Bowl MVP award since Hall of Famer Terrell Davis did it with Denver 28 years ago.Uchenna Nwosu punctuated a punishing defensive performance by&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/NFL/status/2020693977473908778">snagging Maye’s pass in the air</a>&nbsp;after Witherspoon hit his arm and running it back 45 yards for a pick-6."We went through a lot, but we believed," Witherspoon said. "All of you all doubters out there who said all that other stuff, you all don’t know what’s going on in this building. We’re one of one over here.”Seattle won its first Super Bowl a dozen years ago behind its “Legion of Boom” defense, then was denied a repeat when New England's&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U7rPIg7ZNQ8">Malcolm Butler intercepted Russell Wilson</a>&nbsp;at the goal line. The Seahawks hadn't been back to the Super Bowl since.Darnold become the first quarterback in the 2018 NFL draft class to win a Super Bowl, ahead of Josh Allen, Baker Mayfield and Lamar Jackson.Labeled a bust, dumped by two teams and considered expendable by two others, Darnold proved his doubters wrong while helping the Seahawks go 17-3.After leading the NFL with 20 turnovers in the regular season, Darnold didn’t have any in three playoff games. He wasn’t particularly sharp against a solid Patriots defense but protected the ball and made enough plays, finishing 19 of 38 for 202 yards.“I know we won the Super Bowl, but we could have been a little bit better on offense, but I don’t care about that right now,” Darnold said. “It’s an unbelievable feeling, man. I’m just so happy for the guys in the locker room and the coaches that put in so much effort throughout the whole season.”The Seahawks sacked Maye six times, including two apiece by Hall and Murphy.&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/NFL/status/2020684418369912865">Hall’s strip-sack</a>&nbsp;late in the third quarter set up a short field and Darnold connected with Barner on 16-yard scoring toss to make it 19-0.<a href="https://x.com/NFL/status/2020691306520187315">Julian Love’s interception</a>&nbsp;set up another field goal that made it 22-7 with 5:35 left.The Patriots (17-4) punted on the first eight drives, excluding a kneel-down to end the first half.“Just reminding them that we’re 307 days into what hopefully is a long, successful relationship and program, and it's OK to be disappointed,” New England coach Mike Vrabel said.Down 19-0, Maye and the Patriots' offense finally got going. He hit Mack Hollins over the middle in traffic for 24 yards and then lofted a perfect 35-yard TD pass to Hollins down the left side to cut the deficit to 19-7.Tom Brady once led Bill Belichick’s Patriots to the greatest comeback in Super Bowl history, when New England rallied from a 28-3 deficit against Atlanta for a 34-28 overtime victory.But Maye, who was runner-up to Matthew Stafford for the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/nfl-mvp-awards-1f6a4d94a8ffcdd5844855c5d4ba510a">AP NFL MVP award</a>&nbsp;in the closest race in two decades, didn’t come close. He had a chance to narrow the gap, but his ill-advised pass into triple coverage was picked by Love and the Patriots trailed by 15 when they got the ball back with 5:35 left. Maye said after the game that he&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/super-bowl-drake-maye-patriots-seahawks-62ba2fa92f77cdff8f9660945355d909">had a pain-relieving injection in his right shoulder</a>, which he injured in the AFC championship win at Denver, but said it didn't affect his play.Then came Nwosu’s touchdown, a fitting way to cap an overwhelming effort by the NFL’s stingiest defense.“Definitely hurts. They played better than us tonight,” Maye said.Maye’s 7-yard TD pass to Rhamondre Stevenson late in the game only made the margin smaller.The Seahawks took a 3-0 lead on Myers’ 33-yard field goal on the game’s opening drive. Myers connected from 39 and 41 yards to extend the lead to 9-0 at halftime. He was good from 41 on Seattle’s first drive of the third quarter to make it 12-0.<h2>Patriots player of the game</h2>Cornerback Christian Gonzalez made two outstanding plays to prevent potential touchdowns in the second quarter. He raced back and leaped in the air to slap away a deep pass to Rashid Shaheed that could have been a 76-yard TD.On Seattle’s last drive in the first half, Gonzalez knocked down a pass to All-Pro wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba that would have been a 23-yard TD.<h2>Mills gets a two-for-one sack</h2>Rylie Mills&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/NFL/status/2020657001202884987">pushed left guard Jared Wilson into Maye</a>&nbsp;and took both of them down on one of Seattle’s sacks.<h2>Bad Bunny shines at halftime</h2>Bad Bunny headlined a visually stunning&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/bad-bunny-super-bowl-2026-halftime-show-review-fbcd3dff50a4c6b0548bfa4712677eb0">halftime performance</a>&nbsp;that also featured appearances by Lady Gaga and Ricky Martin. The Grammy-winning Puerto Rican artist entirely in Spanish.<h2>Patriots denied a record 7th title</h2>The Patriots failed to win the franchise’s seventh Super Bowl, which would have set an NFL record. They’re tied with the Steelers with six championships.Vrabel, the AP NFL Coach of the Year, was aiming to become the fifth person to win a Super Bowl as a player and head coach and the first to do both with the same team.

🏈Seahawks ride their defense to a Super Bowl title, pounding the Patriots

ARKADELPHIA, Ark. - Despite a 14-8 advantage in base hits, the Fort Hays State baseball team fell to Harding 8-6 Sunday morning on the final day of the Henderson State Invitational.

The Tigers (2-5) scored in the first inning for the first time this season when Antonio Avila clubbed his first home run of the season. FHSU doubled its lead with an unearned run later in the frame, but Harding (3-1) answered with three runs on two hits and two walks in the home half of the first.

Fort Hays State responded in the top of the third when Tyson Jimenez worked a leadoff walk. Avila followed with a double, putting a pair in scoring position. Garretson Cook drove in the tying run with a groundout before Dylan Salcido gave the Tigers the lead with an RBI double to right.

The Bisons once again answered immediately, plating four runs on three hits, three walks and an error to go on top 7-4 before using a leadoff home run in the bottom of the fourth to take an 8-4 lead.

The Tiger pitching staff settled in after that, allowing only two hits over the next four innings to give the offense a chance to rally. FHSU had good chances to respond in the fourth and fifth but left a pair in scoring position each time.

Derek Woolwine closed the gap to two with a two-run home run in the top of the seventh, plating Cook and trimming the deficit to 8-6. The Tigers then loaded the bases in both the eighth and ninth innings, but the HU bullpen was able to get out of the jam each time to seal the win.

All nine Tiger starters collected at least one base hit, including a 3-for-5 day from Avila and two hits each from Woolwine, Salcido and Cooper Howell. Aaron Boutz (0-1) took the loss after allowing seven runs (six earned) over 2.2 innings of work. Jack Laird and Cody Bruss both worked a pair of scoreless innings, with Bruss striking out four batters and giving up zero hits.

Fort Hays State will make its home debut next weekend (Feb. 14-15) when the Tigers host Colorado School of Mines at Larks Park. The former conference rivals will meet up in a doubleheader on Saturday before wrapping up the series with a single game on Sunday, with first pitch slated for noon each day.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1770635963424.png" alt="Tony Moore (FHSU Athletics photo/Ryan Prickett)" />
 <figcaption>Tony Moore (FHSU Athletics photo/Ryan Prickett)</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsARKADELPHIA, Ark. - Despite a 14-8 advantage in base hits, the Fort Hays State baseball team fell to Harding 8-6 Sunday morning on the final day of the Henderson State Invitational.The Tigers (2-5) scored in the first inning for the first time this season when Antonio Avila clubbed his first home run of the season. FHSU doubled its lead with an unearned run later in the frame, but Harding (3-1) answered with three runs on two hits and two walks in the home half of the first.Fort Hays State responded in the top of the third when Tyson Jimenez worked a leadoff walk. Avila followed with a double, putting a pair in scoring position. Garretson Cook drove in the tying run with a groundout before Dylan Salcido gave the Tigers the lead with an RBI double to right.The Bisons once again answered immediately, plating four runs on three hits, three walks and an error to go on top 7-4 before using a leadoff home run in the bottom of the fourth to take an 8-4 lead.The Tiger pitching staff settled in after that, allowing only two hits over the next four innings to give the offense a chance to rally. FHSU had good chances to respond in the fourth and fifth but left a pair in scoring position each time.Derek Woolwine closed the gap to two with a two-run home run in the top of the seventh, plating Cook and trimming the deficit to 8-6. The Tigers then loaded the bases in both the eighth and ninth innings, but the HU bullpen was able to get out of the jam each time to seal the win.All nine Tiger starters collected at least one base hit, including a 3-for-5 day from Avila and two hits each from Woolwine, Salcido and Cooper Howell. Aaron Boutz (0-1) took the loss after allowing seven runs (six earned) over 2.2 innings of work. Jack Laird and Cody Bruss both worked a pair of scoreless innings, with Bruss striking out four batters and giving up zero hits.Fort Hays State will make its home debut next weekend (Feb. 14-15) when the Tigers host Colorado School of Mines at Larks Park. The former conference rivals will meet up in a doubleheader on Saturday before wrapping up the series with a single game on Sunday, with first pitch slated for noon each day.

⚾ Tigers fall to Bisons on final day in Arkansas

Fort Hays State has landed another quarterback for the upcoming 2026 season. Reigning MIAA Offensive Player of the Year Jackson Berry will be transferring from conference rival Pittsburg State after entering the transfer portal in January.

The Prosper, Texas native who spent four seasons at Division I Southern Utah&nbsp; before transferring to Pitt State, passed for 2,711 yards with 16 touchdowns and five interceptions. He rushed for 231 yards and three scores.

Berry the second Division I signal caller to transfer to FHSU, joining Major Cantrell who spent two seasons as a backup at Iowa State.



Hays Post SportsFort Hays State has landed another quarterback for the upcoming 2026 season. Reigning MIAA Offensive Player of the Year Jackson Berry will be transferring from conference rival Pittsburg State after entering the transfer portal in January.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Welcome to Hays, ‘Merica <a href="https://twitter.com/jacksonberryyyy?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@jacksonberryyyy</a> ‼️<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OTT26?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OTT26</a>🐯<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DefendTheFort?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DefendTheFort</a>🐯 <a href="https://t.co/xHW3BIACay">pic.twitter.com/xHW3BIACay</a>&mdash; FHSU Football (@FHSUFootball) <a href="https://twitter.com/FHSUFootball/status/2019934167039963236?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 7, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The Prosper, Texas native who spent four seasons at Division I Southern Utah&nbsp; before transferring to Pitt State, passed for 2,711 yards with 16 touchdowns and five interceptions. He rushed for 231 yards and three scores.Berry the second Division I signal caller to transfer to FHSU, joining Major Cantrell who spent two seasons as a backup at Iowa State.

🏈 Tigers add Pitt State QB to roster

LAWRENCE, Kan. (AP) — Flory Bidunga had 17 points, 10 rebounds and seven blocks and No. 11 Kansas beat Utah 71-59 on Saturday to take a seven-game winning streak into its Monday night home showdown with top-ranked Arizona.

Trey White added 16 points for Kansas (18-5, 8-2 Big 12). Darryn Peterson had 14. and Melvin Council 11.

Keanu Dawes led Utah (9-14, 1-9) with 20 points. Terrence Brown added 16. and Don McHenry had 12. The Utes have list five straight.

The Jayhawks led 38-31 at halftime and didn't take a double-digit lead until Council hit a short jumper midway through the second half. That was part of a 10-0 run, capped by a thunderous dunk by Peterson that made it 60-44.

Utah: Hosts No. 8 Houston on Tuesday night.

Kansas: Hosts No. 1 Arizona on Monday night.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1770501860007.jpeg" alt="Kansas Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Kansas Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>LAWRENCE, Kan. (AP) — Flory Bidunga had 17 points, 10 rebounds and seven blocks and No. 11 Kansas beat Utah 71-59 on Saturday to take a seven-game winning streak into its Monday night home showdown with top-ranked Arizona.Trey White added 16 points for Kansas (18-5, 8-2 Big 12). Darryn Peterson had 14. and Melvin Council 11.Keanu Dawes led Utah (9-14, 1-9) with 20 points. Terrence Brown added 16. and Don McHenry had 12. The Utes have list five straight.The Jayhawks led 38-31 at halftime and didn't take a double-digit lead until Council hit a short jumper midway through the second half. That was part of a 10-0 run, capped by a thunderous dunk by Peterson that made it 60-44.<h2>Up next</h2>Utah: Hosts No. 8 Houston on Tuesday night.Kansas: Hosts No. 1 Arizona on Monday night.

🏀 Flory Bidunga's 17 points, 10 rebounds lift KU over Utah 

Sunday, February 8
 none

KAYS - (1400/94.3) KFIX - (96.9) KHAZ - (99.5) KJLS - (103.3) KKQY - (101.9)Sunday, February 8
 none

ARKADELPHIA, Ark. - The Fort Hays State baseball team dropped a pair of contests on day two of the Henderson State Invitational, losing to Harding 8-6 before falling to the host Reddies 11-6. The Tigers are now 2-4 on the year, while the Bisons moved to 2-0 and the Reddies improved to 3-0 with their victories.

The Tigers and Bisons will meet up again Sunday beginning at 10 a.m. to wrap up the weekend.

Harding 8, Fort Hays State 6 Tiger starter Brett Jacobs retired the first seven batters he faced, but the Bisons strung together a trio of two-out base hits in the third to push across four runs. Harding stretched the lead to 5-0 after a leadoff triple in the fifth before scoring two more in the sixth.

Fort Hays State picked up its first base hit of the game in the fifth before plating a pair in the bottom of the sixth. Sean Amarante led off with a pinch-hit single before Tony Moore and Garretson Cook rattled off two-out base hits, getting the Tigers on the board. Moore later made it 7-2 when he came in to score on a balk.

The Tigers then took advantage of four free bases in the home half of the seventh, plating four runs to pull within 7-6. Three walks, a beaned batter and a bunt single plated two runs before Cook drove in a pair with a single to center.

Harding added an insurance run in the top of the eighth, building the lead to 8-6. Three more free passes loaded the bases in the bottom of the inning, but the Bisons bullpen got out of the jam with an infield pop up.

Jacobs (0-1) took the loss after allowing seven runs (six earned) on eight hits alongside six strikeouts in six innings of work. Bret Deegan tossed the final three frames, giving up one run on three hits while striking out one. Cook turned in a three-hit game, driving in a trio of runs.

Henderson State 11, Fort Hays State 6 The Tigers loaded the bases with one out in the first after a trio of free passes, but HSU starter Cade Morgan got out of the jam with a pair of fly outs. The Reddies then took the lead in the home half with two runs on three hits and an error.

Fort Hays State managed just one baserunner over the next three frames, while HSU doubled its lead with two more runs in the third. Cooper Howell led off the top of the fifth with a ground-rule double before coming in to score on an Antonio Avila base hit, getting the Tigers on the board.

The Tigers pulled within 4-3 thanks to two runs on three hits in the top of the sixth. Justin Lipka, Howell and Avila rattled off back-to-back-to-back singles, plating a pair and helping FHSU pull within one run.

FHSU then took the lead despite not recording a hit in the seventh. Three walks loaded the bases for Lipka, who was hit by a pitch to plate the tying run. Two more runs came in on an error, putting the Tigers in front 6-4.

The Reddies responded with six runs on three hits and five free passes in the home half of the seventh, retaking a 10-6 lead before tacking on one more run in the eighth.

Howell and Avila each had two of FHSU's six hits, while Garretson Cook reached base three times on one hit and two walks. Tucker Rusell got the start and allowed four runs (three earned) on five hits over 3.0 innings of work. Luke Berry (0-1) struck out seven batters over 3.2 innings of relief but allowed six runs on three hits and four walks to take the loss.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1770533919526.jpeg" alt="FHSU Athletics photo/Jordyn Bredenberg" />
 <figcaption>FHSU Athletics photo/Jordyn Bredenberg</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsARKADELPHIA, Ark. - The Fort Hays State baseball team dropped a pair of contests on day two of the Henderson State Invitational, losing to Harding 8-6 before falling to the host Reddies 11-6. The Tigers are now 2-4 on the year, while the Bisons moved to 2-0 and the Reddies improved to 3-0 with their victories.The Tigers and Bisons will meet up again Sunday beginning at 10 a.m. to wrap up the weekend.Harding 8, Fort Hays State 6 Tiger starter Brett Jacobs retired the first seven batters he faced, but the Bisons strung together a trio of two-out base hits in the third to push across four runs. Harding stretched the lead to 5-0 after a leadoff triple in the fifth before scoring two more in the sixth.Fort Hays State picked up its first base hit of the game in the fifth before plating a pair in the bottom of the sixth. Sean Amarante led off with a pinch-hit single before Tony Moore and Garretson Cook rattled off two-out base hits, getting the Tigers on the board. Moore later made it 7-2 when he came in to score on a balk.The Tigers then took advantage of four free bases in the home half of the seventh, plating four runs to pull within 7-6. Three walks, a beaned batter and a bunt single plated two runs before Cook drove in a pair with a single to center.Harding added an insurance run in the top of the eighth, building the lead to 8-6. Three more free passes loaded the bases in the bottom of the inning, but the Bisons bullpen got out of the jam with an infield pop up.Jacobs (0-1) took the loss after allowing seven runs (six earned) on eight hits alongside six strikeouts in six innings of work. Bret Deegan tossed the final three frames, giving up one run on three hits while striking out one. Cook turned in a three-hit game, driving in a trio of runs.Henderson State 11, Fort Hays State 6 The Tigers loaded the bases with one out in the first after a trio of free passes, but HSU starter Cade Morgan got out of the jam with a pair of fly outs. The Reddies then took the lead in the home half with two runs on three hits and an error.Fort Hays State managed just one baserunner over the next three frames, while HSU doubled its lead with two more runs in the third. Cooper Howell led off the top of the fifth with a ground-rule double before coming in to score on an Antonio Avila base hit, getting the Tigers on the board.The Tigers pulled within 4-3 thanks to two runs on three hits in the top of the sixth. Justin Lipka, Howell and Avila rattled off back-to-back-to-back singles, plating a pair and helping FHSU pull within one run.FHSU then took the lead despite not recording a hit in the seventh. Three walks loaded the bases for Lipka, who was hit by a pitch to plate the tying run. Two more runs came in on an error, putting the Tigers in front 6-4.The Reddies responded with six runs on three hits and five free passes in the home half of the seventh, retaking a 10-6 lead before tacking on one more run in the eighth.Howell and Avila each had two of FHSU's six hits, while Garretson Cook reached base three times on one hit and two walks. Tucker Rusell got the start and allowed four runs (three earned) on five hits over 3.0 innings of work. Luke Berry (0-1) struck out seven batters over 3.2 innings of relief but allowed six runs on three hits and four walks to take the loss.

⚾ Tigers fall twice on day two of Henderson State Inviational

FORT SMITH, Ark. – Fort Hays State fell to No. 25 ranked Arkansas-Fort Smith on Saturday. The Lions posted most points and highest shooting percentage by a Tiger opponent so far this season, winning 87-77 on their home floor. UAFS went to 18-4 overall and 9-4 in the MIAA, while FHSU moved to 15-8 overall and 7-7 in the MIAA.

The Lions were blazing hot in the first half, shooting 64 percent overall to take a 46-36 lead into halftime. UAFS hit nine 3-point field goals in the first half and went into the lead for good on one of the first half 3-pointers at the 15:57 mark. As hot as the Lions were shooting, they never led by more than 11 in the first half.

Arkansas-Fort Smith led the entire second half, reaching its largest lead of 18 with 13:11 remaining. The Tigers pulled within nine point of the Lions four times, but never could get any closer.

Muhamed Kante led FHSU with 18 points, followed by Kyle Grill with 15, Jahvari Martino with 12, and Eli Lawson with 11. FHSU shot 50.8 percent from the field overall and 83.3 percent at the free-throw line.

The Lions had six players reach double figures in scoring, led by Brandon Scott and Jarren McAllister each with 17. Three players hit three or more 3-point field goals for UAFS, led by Scott with five. UAFS finished at 57.7 percent from the field and a scorching hot 63.6 percent beyond the 3-point line (14-of-22).

Fort Hays State looks to bounce back from a tough road trip with a pair of home games next week. The Tigers host Emporia State on Thursday night (Feb. 12) before welcoming Newman on Saturday (Feb. 14).

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1770533636324.jpeg" alt="Muhamed Kante (FHSU Athletics photo/Gillian Lynch)" />
 <figcaption>Muhamed Kante (FHSU Athletics photo/Gillian Lynch)</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsFORT SMITH, Ark. – Fort Hays State fell to No. 25 ranked Arkansas-Fort Smith on Saturday. The Lions posted most points and highest shooting percentage by a Tiger opponent so far this season, winning 87-77 on their home floor. UAFS went to 18-4 overall and 9-4 in the MIAA, while FHSU moved to 15-8 overall and 7-7 in the MIAA.The Lions were blazing hot in the first half, shooting 64 percent overall to take a 46-36 lead into halftime. UAFS hit nine 3-point field goals in the first half and went into the lead for good on one of the first half 3-pointers at the 15:57 mark. As hot as the Lions were shooting, they never led by more than 11 in the first half.Arkansas-Fort Smith led the entire second half, reaching its largest lead of 18 with 13:11 remaining. The Tigers pulled within nine point of the Lions four times, but never could get any closer.Muhamed Kante led FHSU with 18 points, followed by Kyle Grill with 15, Jahvari Martino with 12, and Eli Lawson with 11. FHSU shot 50.8 percent from the field overall and 83.3 percent at the free-throw line.The Lions had six players reach double figures in scoring, led by Brandon Scott and Jarren McAllister each with 17. Three players hit three or more 3-point field goals for UAFS, led by Scott with five. UAFS finished at 57.7 percent from the field and a scorching hot 63.6 percent beyond the 3-point line (14-of-22).Fort Hays State looks to bounce back from a tough road trip with a pair of home games next week. The Tigers host Emporia State on Thursday night (Feb. 12) before welcoming Newman on Saturday (Feb. 14).

🏀 Hot-shooting Lions turn back Tigers in Fort Smith

DES MOINES, Iowa – Fort Hays State Women's Wrestling had eight individuals place at the Grand View Open on Saturday (Feb. 7). Alexis Burton was champion of the 160 class in the gold division, continuing her hot surge over the last two weeks. Isabella Renfro, Nichole Moore, Leiannah Landreth, Kaylee Ricketts, Hayleen Martinez, Jade Blackhart, and Kaylan Hitchcock all placed in their respective classes.

Burton continued her strong performance of late at 160, blazing her way to a 4-0 day in the gold division. She recorded a tech fall, won on criteria in a decision, then recorded another decision before winning the championship by forfeit.

Isabella Renfro's run of remaining unbeaten on the season ended at 26 matches as she took her first loss of the season in the semifinals of the gold division to Naomi Simon of Iowa (wrestling unattached) after winning her first two matches of the day. Renfro, ranked No. 2 nationally in NCAA, picked up a win in the consolation side before calling it a day, placing fourth. She is now 27-1 overall for the season.

Nichole Moore had a strong day at 145 in the gold division, going 6-1 before having to bow out due to her match limit for the day. She placed fourth. Moore went 1-1 to start the day, but then reeled off five-straight tech falls in the consolation side of the bracket to reach the third-place match, which she could not compete in due to the limit.

Leiannah Landreth placed fifth at 117 in the gold division, going 3-2 for the day. She won her fifth-place match by tech fall, her second of the day, to go with a fall.

Kaylee Ricketts placed sixth at 160 in the gold division. She won a pair of matches by fall to reach the semifinals before eventually taking sixth.

In the silver division, Hayleen Martinez (180), Jade Blackhart (145), and Kaylan Hitchcock (145) all placed. Martinez picked up three wins by fall to reach the final, but lost by the same result in the final. Blackhart recorded four wins for the day, all of the bonus-point variety. Hitchcock recorded three wins for the day to take fifth, also all of the bonus-point variety.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1770533447457.jpeg" alt="Lexi Burton (FHSU Athletics photo/Jordyn Bredengerg)" />
 <figcaption>Lexi Burton (FHSU Athletics photo/Jordyn Bredengerg)</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsDES MOINES, Iowa – Fort Hays State Women's Wrestling had eight individuals place at the Grand View Open on Saturday (Feb. 7). Alexis Burton was champion of the 160 class in the gold division, continuing her hot surge over the last two weeks. Isabella Renfro, Nichole Moore, Leiannah Landreth, Kaylee Ricketts, Hayleen Martinez, Jade Blackhart, and Kaylan Hitchcock all placed in their respective classes.Burton continued her strong performance of late at 160, blazing her way to a 4-0 day in the gold division. She recorded a tech fall, won on criteria in a decision, then recorded another decision before winning the championship by forfeit.Isabella Renfro's run of remaining unbeaten on the season ended at 26 matches as she took her first loss of the season in the semifinals of the gold division to Naomi Simon of Iowa (wrestling unattached) after winning her first two matches of the day. Renfro, ranked No. 2 nationally in NCAA, picked up a win in the consolation side before calling it a day, placing fourth. She is now 27-1 overall for the season.Nichole Moore had a strong day at 145 in the gold division, going 6-1 before having to bow out due to her match limit for the day. She placed fourth. Moore went 1-1 to start the day, but then reeled off five-straight tech falls in the consolation side of the bracket to reach the third-place match, which she could not compete in due to the limit.Leiannah Landreth placed fifth at 117 in the gold division, going 3-2 for the day. She won her fifth-place match by tech fall, her second of the day, to go with a fall.Kaylee Ricketts placed sixth at 160 in the gold division. She won a pair of matches by fall to reach the semifinals before eventually taking sixth.In the silver division, Hayleen Martinez (180), Jade Blackhart (145), and Kaylan Hitchcock (145) all placed. Martinez picked up three wins by fall to reach the final, but lost by the same result in the final. Blackhart recorded four wins for the day, all of the bonus-point variety. Hitchcock recorded three wins for the day to take fifth, also all of the bonus-point variety.

🤼‍♀️ Burton victorious, eight Tigers place at Grand View Open

HAYS, Kan. - The Fort Hays State men's wrestling team won a pair of bouts in a 35-9 loss against top-ranked Central Oklahoma Saturday afternoon inside Gross Memorial Coliseum.

The Bronchos claimed victory in the first six matchups, taking a 20-0 lead. Cason Lindsey helped the Tigers get on the board with a 7-2 decision at 165, using takedowns in both the first and third periods to secure the win. The Tigers were later granted six points thanks to a forfeit at 197 before UCO finished off the afternoon with a pin.

Eight other Tigers competed at the Missouri Valley Open, with a pair earning a spot on the podium. Competing unattached, Will Burchard turned in a 5-2 record to place fourth at 141 pounds. All four of his wins on the mat were bonus-point victories, including two pins and two technical falls.

Jett Schwartz was the lone Tiger to reach the semifinal, doing so at 133 pounds before placing fifth thanks to a 3-2 record. He picked up a pin in his first bout before winning in sudden victory in the quarterfinals.

Julien Kimling (unattached 141) and Tacoma Augustine (141) both earned three wins on the day, while Charlie Hutson (157) and Micah Castro (157) turned in matching 2-2 records.

The Tigers will return to action on Friday (Feb. 13) when they host second-ranked Nebraska-Kearney for senior night beginning at 7 p.m.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1770533756947.jpeg" alt="FHSU Athletics photo/Ryan Prickett" />
 <figcaption>FHSU Athletics photo/Ryan Prickett</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsHAYS, Kan. - The Fort Hays State men's wrestling team won a pair of bouts in a 35-9 loss against top-ranked Central Oklahoma Saturday afternoon inside Gross Memorial Coliseum.The Bronchos claimed victory in the first six matchups, taking a 20-0 lead. Cason Lindsey helped the Tigers get on the board with a 7-2 decision at 165, using takedowns in both the first and third periods to secure the win. The Tigers were later granted six points thanks to a forfeit at 197 before UCO finished off the afternoon with a pin.Eight other Tigers competed at the Missouri Valley Open, with a pair earning a spot on the podium. Competing unattached, Will Burchard turned in a 5-2 record to place fourth at 141 pounds. All four of his wins on the mat were bonus-point victories, including two pins and two technical falls.Jett Schwartz was the lone Tiger to reach the semifinal, doing so at 133 pounds before placing fifth thanks to a 3-2 record. He picked up a pin in his first bout before winning in sudden victory in the quarterfinals.Julien Kimling (unattached 141) and Tacoma Augustine (141) both earned three wins on the day, while Charlie Hutson (157) and Micah Castro (157) turned in matching 2-2 records.The Tigers will return to action on Friday (Feb. 13) when they host second-ranked Nebraska-Kearney for senior night beginning at 7 p.m.

🤼‍♂️ Top-ranked Bronchos defeat Tigers

FORT WORTH, Texas (AP) — Xavier Edmonds scored a career-high 26 points and his six unanswered points down the stretch lifted TCU over Kansas State 84-82 on Saturday.

Edmonds made the tying and go-ahead free throws for an 83-82 lead with six seconds left, capping a rally from a five-point deficit in the final minute and a half. He had two free throws with 1:10 remaining and his dunk with 35 seconds left had made it a one-point game.

An alley-oop dunk by Khamari McGriff gave Kansas State an 82-77 lead with 1 1/2 minutes to go. The Wildcats, who did not score again, had turnovers on their three remaining possessions.

Micah Robinson made one of two free throws with two seconds left for the final margin.

Edmonds made nine of 10 shots, seven of 13 free throws and grabbed 10 rebounds for his fifth consecutive double-double. Robinson scored 16 points, David Punch 14 and Jayden Pierre 10 for the Horned Frogs (14-9, 4-6 Big 12).

PJ Haggerty scored 30, Marcus Johnson 15, Nate Johnson 13 with 11 rebounds, and David Castillo 11 for K-State (10-13, 1-10).

Marcus Johnson connected on his first four 3-point attempts and the Wildcats jumped out to a 29-14 lead. Later in the half, TCU rallied with a 15-2 run and K-State led 46-42 at halftime.

Eight consecutive points from Haggerty turned a three-point K-State lead into a 64-53 advantage eight minutes into the second half. The Wildcats still had a double-digit lead — 78-68 — with 5 1/2 minutes remaining.

TCU has a four-game winning streak in the series.

TCU: The Horned Frogs host No. 7 Iowa State on Tuesday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1770502128873.png" alt="K-State Athletics" />
 <figcaption>K-State Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>FORT WORTH, Texas (AP) — Xavier Edmonds scored a career-high 26 points and his six unanswered points down the stretch lifted TCU over Kansas State 84-82 on Saturday.Edmonds made the tying and go-ahead free throws for an 83-82 lead with six seconds left, capping a rally from a five-point deficit in the final minute and a half. He had two free throws with 1:10 remaining and his dunk with 35 seconds left had made it a one-point game.An alley-oop dunk by Khamari McGriff gave Kansas State an 82-77 lead with 1 1/2 minutes to go. The Wildcats, who did not score again, had turnovers on their three remaining possessions.Micah Robinson made one of two free throws with two seconds left for the final margin.Edmonds made nine of 10 shots, seven of 13 free throws and grabbed 10 rebounds for his fifth consecutive double-double. Robinson scored 16 points, David Punch 14 and Jayden Pierre 10 for the Horned Frogs (14-9, 4-6 Big 12).PJ Haggerty scored 30, Marcus Johnson 15, Nate Johnson 13 with 11 rebounds, and David Castillo 11 for K-State (10-13, 1-10).Marcus Johnson connected on his first four 3-point attempts and the Wildcats jumped out to a 29-14 lead. Later in the half, TCU rallied with a 15-2 run and K-State led 46-42 at halftime.Eight consecutive points from Haggerty turned a three-point K-State lead into a 64-53 advantage eight minutes into the second half. The Wildcats still had a double-digit lead — 78-68 — with 5 1/2 minutes remaining.TCU has a four-game winning streak in the series.<h2>Up next</h2>TCU: The Horned Frogs host No. 7 Iowa State on Tuesday.