KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Kyle Manzardo had a two-run double in the 10th inning to tie the club record for most RBIs on opening day and the Cleveland Guardians defeated the Kansas City Royals 7-4 on Thursday.

Manzardo joined Tris Speaker (1925) and Leon Wagner (1964) with four RBIs on opening day.

Manzardo also become the third MLB player with a double, triple and homer on opening day, joining Don Baylor (1973), Gee Walker (1937).

Steven Kwan led off the 10th with a run-scoring double. With two outs and Kwan at third, reliever Sam Long intentionally walked Carlos Santana to face Manzardo, who drove in both runners.

Emmanuel Clase took the win and Paul Sewald earned the save.

Vinnie Pasquantino broke the scoreless tie with a three-run homer in the third for Kansas City.

The Guardians answered with a run in the fourth. Manzardo hit a one-out triple and Jhonkensy Noel drove him in with a sacrifice fly.

The Guardians got another run in the fifth on another sacrifice fly. Cleveland put runners on first and second with no outs and Jose Ramirez drove in Gabriel Arias with the second run.

Manzardo homered on the first pitch he saw in the sixth to give the Guardians a 4-3.

The Royals tied it at 4-all in the bottom of the ninth off Clase on Michael Massey’s sacrifice fly.

The Royals had runners on first and third and no outs in the eighth, with the top of the order up. But Jonathan India hit into a fielder's choice, resulting in a double play.

Manzardo had 12 doubles, no triples and five home runs in 145 at bats in his debut last season.

Gavin Williams of Cleveland is scheduled to face Seth Lugo for Kansas City when the clubs resume the three-game series on Saturday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1743118799657.png" alt="Kansas City Royals' Vinnie Pasquantino hit a three-run home run during the third inning of&nbsp; the game. Image courtesy KC Royals" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Royals' Vinnie Pasquantino hit a three-run home run during the third inning of&nbsp; the game. Image courtesy KC Royals</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Kyle Manzardo had a two-run double in the 10th inning to tie the club record for most RBIs on opening day and the Cleveland Guardians defeated the Kansas City Royals 7-4 on Thursday.Manzardo joined Tris Speaker (1925) and Leon Wagner (1964) with four RBIs on opening day.Manzardo also become the third MLB player with a double, triple and homer on opening day, joining Don Baylor (1973), Gee Walker (1937).Steven Kwan led off the 10th with a run-scoring double. With two outs and Kwan at third, reliever Sam Long intentionally walked Carlos Santana to face Manzardo, who drove in both runners.Emmanuel Clase took the win and Paul Sewald earned the save.Vinnie Pasquantino broke the scoreless tie with a three-run homer in the third for Kansas City.The Guardians answered with a run in the fourth. Manzardo hit a one-out triple and Jhonkensy Noel drove him in with a sacrifice fly.The Guardians got another run in the fifth on another sacrifice fly. Cleveland put runners on first and second with no outs and Jose Ramirez drove in Gabriel Arias with the second run.Manzardo homered on the first pitch he saw in the sixth to give the Guardians a 4-3.The Royals tied it at 4-all in the bottom of the ninth off Clase on Michael Massey’s sacrifice fly.<h2>Key moment</h2>The Royals had runners on first and third and no outs in the eighth, with the top of the order up. But Jonathan India hit into a fielder's choice, resulting in a double play.<h2>Key stat</h2>Manzardo had 12 doubles, no triples and five home runs in 145 at bats in his debut last season.<h2>Up next</h2>Gavin Williams of Cleveland is scheduled to face Seth Lugo for Kansas City when the clubs resume the three-game series on Saturday.

⚾ Manzardo shines for Cleveland in opening day win over the Royals

Thursday, March 27
 KAYS: Kansas City
Royals vs. Cleveland Guardians, 2:30pm

Saturday, March 29
 KAYS: Kansas City
Royals vs. Cleveland Guardians, 2:30pm

Sunday, March 30
 KAYS: Kansas City
Royals vs. Cleveland Guardians, 12:30pm

Thursday, March 27
 KAYS: Kansas City
Royals vs. Cleveland Guardians, 2:30pmFriday, March 28 noneSaturday, March 29
 KAYS: Kansas City
Royals vs. Cleveland Guardians, 2:30pmSunday, March 30
 KAYS: Kansas City
Royals vs. Cleveland Guardians, 12:30pm

🎧 Eagle Radio, Hull sports broadcast schedule

In honor of Bob Davis, the legendary broadcaster of the FHSU Tigers, Kansas Jayhawks and Kansas City Royals who passed away last week, we bring you the Tigers 1984 NAIA national championship game vs. Wisconsin-Stevens Point on March 20, 1984 at Kemper Arena in Kansas City, Mo.

In honor of Bob Davis, the legendary broadcaster of the FHSU Tigers, Kansas Jayhawks and Kansas City Royals who passed away last week, we bring you the Tigers 1984 NAIA national championship game vs. Wisconsin-Stevens Point on March 20, 1984 at Kemper Arena in Kansas City, Mo.<div><iframe title="1984 NAIA national championship vs. Wisconsin-Stevens Point (March 20, 1984)" 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=tg5qc-dede92-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=1&font-color=&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=2" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

🎧 Defend the Fort Podcast: FHSU Rewind-MBB 1984 national title game

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Fort Hays State freshman Suzana Faucz was named the MIAA Women's Tennis Athlete of the Week on Wednesday after helping Fort Hays State to a 3-0 record in non-conference road matches last week.

Faucz went 6-0 overall for the week in singles and doubles play combined. She played two singles matches at the No. 3 position and one at the No. 2 position. She also played a pair of doubles matches at the No. 2 position and one at the No. 1 position with Irina Alfonso. Faucz had a key singles win in three sets (3-6, 6-1, 1-0 (10-4)) at Sioux Falls, helping the Tigers to a tight 4-3 win. Faucz moved to 11-5 overall in singles play and 14-2 overall in doubles play with Alfonso for the season.

Faucz helped Fort Hays State extend its team winning streak to eight-straight matches. The Tigers sit at 9-2 overall for the season entering conference play this week.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1743017751897.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsKANSAS CITY, Mo. – Fort Hays State freshman Suzana Faucz was named the MIAA Women's Tennis Athlete of the Week on Wednesday after helping Fort Hays State to a 3-0 record in non-conference road matches last week.Faucz went 6-0 overall for the week in singles and doubles play combined. She played two singles matches at the No. 3 position and one at the No. 2 position. She also played a pair of doubles matches at the No. 2 position and one at the No. 1 position with Irina Alfonso. Faucz had a key singles win in three sets (3-6, 6-1, 1-0 (10-4)) at Sioux Falls, helping the Tigers to a tight 4-3 win. Faucz moved to 11-5 overall in singles play and 14-2 overall in doubles play with Alfonso for the season.Faucz helped Fort Hays State extend its team winning streak to eight-straight matches. The Tigers sit at 9-2 overall for the season entering conference play this week.&nbsp;&nbsp;

🎾 FHSU's Faucz named MIAA Tennis Athlete of the Week

The 24th ranked Tigers host Emporia State in the first game of a 3-game midweek conference series on Tuesday, March 25, 2025 at Larks Park in Hays, Kan.

The 24th ranked Tigers host Emporia State in the first game of a 3-game midweek conference series on Tuesday, March 25, 2025 at Larks Park in Hays, Kan.<div><iframe title="FHSU Rewind: BSB vs. Emporia State (March 25, 2025)" 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=q4r27-1861861-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=1&font-color=&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=2" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

🎧 Defend the Fort Podcast: FHSU Rewind-BSB vs. Emporia State

Wednesday, March 26 none

Wednesday, March 26 noneThursday, March 27
 KAYS: Kansas City
Royals vs. Cleveland Guardians, 2:30pmFriday, March 28 noneSaturday, March 29
 KAYS: Kansas City
Royals vs. Cleveland Guardians, 2:30pmSunday, March 30
 KAYS: Kansas City
Royals vs. Cleveland Guardians, 12:30pm

ROCK CREEK – The Hays High baseball team split their season
opening doubleheader at Rock Creek Tuesday. The Indians took the opener 8-1
before losing the nightcap 5-4.

Game 1: Hays 8, Rock Creek 1
 The Indians jumped out early with two runs in the top of the first. An
error, a walk and a wild pitch moved runners into scoring position. Brett
Rhoades then hit a line drive to left which scored Cooper Johnson. Carter Graham later scored on
a wild pitch.

HHS added four in the third on a Rhoades groundout, a Camden
Sanders fielders choice and Landon Hardman two-run single which pushed the lead to 6-1.

Carter Graham opened the fourth with a single and scored on
Rhoades triple. Trace Jacobs sac fly drove in Rhoades to push the lead to 8-1.

Cooper Johnson (1-0) allowed one unearned run on three hits
over six innings with seven strikeouts and two walks and picked up the win.

Rhoades had two of the Indians five hits and drove in three
runs.

Game 2: Rock Creek 5, Hays 4
 Rock Creek jumped out early with three in the first. Camden Sanders got the
Indians on the board in the top of the second on a one-out RBI single.

Rock Creek would answer with a run in the bottom of the inning for a 4-1 lead.

Jalen Smith’s two-run single in the third pulled Hays within
a run at 4-3. They tied the game on a Jonathan Cano single in the sixth
but Rock Creek scored the go-ahead run in the bottom of the inning on a wild pitch.

HHS got a baserunner in the seventh but fly out and strike
out ended the game.

Trace Jacobs (0-1) pitched 2/3 of an innings of relief and suffered the
loss. Carter Graham made the start allowed three earned runs on four hits over 2
innings. Jalen Smith allowed a run on three hits in 3 1/3 innings of relief.

Jalen Smith led the offense with two hits and drove in two.

Hays PostROCK CREEK – The Hays High baseball team split their season
opening doubleheader at Rock Creek Tuesday. The Indians took the opener 8-1
before losing the nightcap 5-4.Game 1: Hays 8, Rock Creek 1
 The Indians jumped out early with two runs in the top of the first. An
error, a walk and a wild pitch moved runners into scoring position. Brett
Rhoades then hit a line drive to left which scored Cooper Johnson. Carter Graham later scored on
a wild pitch.HHS added four in the third on a Rhoades groundout, a Camden
Sanders fielders choice and Landon Hardman two-run single which pushed the lead to 6-1.Carter Graham opened the fourth with a single and scored on
Rhoades triple. Trace Jacobs sac fly drove in Rhoades to push the lead to 8-1.Cooper Johnson (1-0) allowed one unearned run on three hits
over six innings with seven strikeouts and two walks and picked up the win.Rhoades had two of the Indians five hits and drove in three
runs.Game 2: Rock Creek 5, Hays 4
 Rock Creek jumped out early with three in the first. Camden Sanders got the
Indians on the board in the top of the second on a one-out RBI single.
Rock Creek would answer with a run in the bottom of the inning for a 4-1 lead.Jalen Smith’s two-run single in the third pulled Hays within
a run at 4-3. They tied the game on a Jonathan Cano single in the sixth
but Rock Creek scored the go-ahead run in the bottom of the inning on a wild pitch.HHS got a baserunner in the seventh but fly out and strike
out ended the game.Trace Jacobs (0-1) pitched 2/3 of an innings of relief and suffered the
loss. Carter Graham made the start allowed three earned runs on four hits over 2
innings. Jalen Smith allowed a run on three hits in 3 1/3 innings of relief.Jalen Smith led the offense with two hits and drove in two.

⚾ HHS splits season opener at Rock Creek

HAYS, Kan. - No. 24 Fort Hays State baseball used the home run ball to deliver a 15-5 run-rule victory over Emporia State Tuesday at Larks Park. The Tigers&nbsp; scored 12 of their 15 runs off of&nbsp; four home runs, which included a pair of two-run blasts by Derek Woolwine and grand slams from Zane Knox and Tony Moore..

It's the fourth time this season the Tigers&nbsp; (20-6, 15-2 MIAA) have hit four home runs in a game and it's the fastest the program has reached 20 wins since 2006 when they did it in their first 25 games.&nbsp;

The Tigers jumped out to an early lead in the first inning. After Cesar Saavedra&nbsp;was hit by a pitch to start the game, Woolwine&nbsp;launched a two-run blast to left field, putting Fort Hays State on top 2-0. Two innings later Trey DeGarmo walked then promptly stole second before Woolwine delivered his second two-run homer to center to extend the lead to 4-0.

Emporia State answered with a four-run fourth. TJ Racherbaumer lead off the inning with a triple then Noah Steele homered to center. Back-to-back homers from Cooper Schwindt and Jovanni Toledo tied the game 4-4.&nbsp;

FHSU answered with three in the bottom of the inning. Saavedra was hit by a pitch for the second time, Tony Moore followed with a walk. DeGarmo came through with an RBI single to put the Tigers back in front. Brady Kreutzer ripped a clutch two-run triple, bringing home which scored Moore and DeGarmo to extend the Tigers' advantage to 7-4.

After the Hornets scratched across an unearned run in the fifth to cut the deficit to 7-5, the Tigers' erupted in the sixth. Zane Knox launched a grand slam to right field, extending the lead to 11-5. The Tigers put the game away in the seventh. Luis Ayala drew a leadoff walk, Copper Howell followed with a bunt single then a Saavedra walk&nbsp;set the stage for Tony Moore. The Hoisington freshman delivered a grand slam to right-center to end the game.

Mike Acierno made the start for the Tigers and pitched three scoreless innings before giving up the four runs in the fourth. Brett Jacobs (2-0) pitched the final 3 2/3 innings and allowed one unearned run on two hits and picked up the win.

The first place Tigers head to Warrensburg for a key MIAA series with No. 3 Central Missouri beginning Friday at Crane Stadium.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1742952827469.png" alt="Fort Hays State's Derek Woolwine (22) is congratulated by Trey DeGarmo (5) and Brady Kreutzer (13) after hitting a two-run homer against Emporia State on Tuesday, March 25, 2025 at Larks Park in Hays, Kan. (FHSU Athletics photo/Ryan Prickett)" />
 <figcaption>Fort Hays State's Derek Woolwine (22) is congratulated by Trey DeGarmo (5) and Brady Kreutzer (13) after hitting a two-run homer against Emporia State on Tuesday, March 25, 2025 at Larks Park in Hays, Kan. (FHSU Athletics photo/Ryan Prickett)</figcaption>
 </figure>Hays PostHAYS, Kan. - No. 24 Fort Hays State baseball used the home run ball to deliver a 15-5 run-rule victory over Emporia State Tuesday at Larks Park. The Tigers&nbsp; scored 12 of their 15 runs off of&nbsp; four home runs, which included a pair of two-run blasts by Derek Woolwine and grand slams from Zane Knox and Tony Moore..<div><iframe width="100%" height="300" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/2063305832&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true&visual=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/fhsu-baseball-coach-justin" title="Justin Wichert Postgame vs. Emporia State ()March 25, 2025)" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Justin Wichert Postgame vs. Emporia State ()March 25, 2025)</a></div></div>It's the fourth time this season the Tigers&nbsp; (20-6, 15-2 MIAA) have hit four home runs in a game and it's the fastest the program has reached 20 wins since 2006 when they did it in their first 25 games.&nbsp;The Tigers jumped out to an early lead in the first inning. After Cesar Saavedra&nbsp;was hit by a pitch to start the game, Woolwine&nbsp;launched a two-run blast to left field, putting Fort Hays State on top 2-0. Two innings later Trey DeGarmo walked then promptly stole second before Woolwine delivered his second two-run homer to center to extend the lead to 4-0.Emporia State answered with a four-run fourth. TJ Racherbaumer lead off the inning with a triple then Noah Steele homered to center. Back-to-back homers from Cooper Schwindt and Jovanni Toledo tied the game 4-4.&nbsp;FHSU answered with three in the bottom of the inning. Saavedra was hit by a pitch for the second time, Tony Moore followed with a walk. DeGarmo came through with an RBI single to put the Tigers back in front. Brady Kreutzer ripped a clutch two-run triple, bringing home which scored Moore and DeGarmo to extend the Tigers' advantage to 7-4.After the Hornets scratched across an unearned run in the fifth to cut the deficit to 7-5, the Tigers' erupted in the sixth. Zane Knox launched a grand slam to right field, extending the lead to 11-5. The Tigers put the game away in the seventh. Luis Ayala drew a leadoff walk, Copper Howell followed with a bunt single then a Saavedra walk&nbsp;set the stage for Tony Moore. The Hoisington freshman delivered a grand slam to right-center to end the game.<div><iframe width="100%" height="300" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/2063306060&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true&visual=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/fhsu-baseball-vs-emporia" title="#24 Fort Hays State BSB Highlights vs. Emporia State (March 25, 2025)" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">#24 Fort Hays State BSB Highlights vs. Emporia State (March 25, 2025)</a></div></div>Mike Acierno made the start for the Tigers and pitched three scoreless innings before giving up the four runs in the fourth. Brett Jacobs (2-0) pitched the final 3 2/3 innings and allowed one unearned run on two hits and picked up the win.UP NEXTThe first place Tigers head to Warrensburg for a key MIAA series with No. 3 Central Missouri beginning Friday at Crane Stadium.

⚾ No. 24 Tigers erupt in run-rule win over Hornets

GREAT BEND - The High girls soccer team opened the 2025 season with an impressive 9-2 win at Great Bend Tuesday. 

HHS (1-0) got a hat trick from Karlee Crispin. Kinslee Newll and Dani Willeford both added two goals. Sienna Lummus and Annie Humphrey also scored a goal.

The Indians are back on the road at Junction City on Tuesday, April 1.

Hays PostGREAT BEND - The High girls soccer team opened the 2025 season with an impressive 9-2 win at Great Bend Tuesday. HHS (1-0) got a hat trick from Karlee Crispin. Kinslee Newll and Dani Willeford both added two goals. Sienna Lummus and Annie Humphrey also scored a goal.UP NEXTThe Indians are back on the road at Junction City on Tuesday, April 1.

⚽ HHS girls open season with big win at Great Bend

BLUE SPRINGS, Mo. – Fort Hays State Men's Golf placed seventh out of 18 teams competing at the NSIC Preview Invitational, held at Adams Pointe Golf Club. Cooper Scheck turned in another top-10 finish individually in a tie for eighth, while the Tigers charged up seven positions in the team standings by shooting 1-under as a team in round two.

The Tigers were 14th as a team after the first round when they shot 15-over par as a team (303). The shaved 16 strokes off that score in the second round with a 1-under 287. Three Tigers were at even or better on the second day after all five team scorers shot over par in the first round.

Scheck charged up the leaderboard on day two after shooting a 2-over 74 in the first round. He carded a 4-under 68 on day two with six birdies and just two bogeys, moving up 32 places in the individual standings to a tie for eighth at 2-under par overall. The 4-under par round tied two other golfers for the best score on day two and was just one stroke shy of the best round carded in the tournament, a 67 shot by tournament champion Thomas Gutzner of Concordia-St. Paul who finished at 9-under par overall. Scheck had 11 birdies overall in the tournament and was at 5-under par overall at one point on day one.

Playing as an individual, Parker Krob had a solid tournament individually shooting even par overall. He shot a 1-under 71 in the first round and then a 1-over 73 in the second round. He was a par machine on day one with 15 to go with two birdies and one bogey. He had four birdies and five bogeys in the second round to go with nine pars. He tied for 14th individually.

Cole Streck shot 2-over par overall to finish 25th. He shot a 2-over 74 on the first day and then an even-par 72 on day two. He had seven birdies throughout the tournament. Jackson Rader finished 55th at 6-over par. He shot 78 on the first day before an even-par 72 on the second day. Rader carded the only eagle of the tournament for FHSU, while also notching six birdies.

Jacob George finished at 9-over par overall with rounds of 78 and 75. He had two birdies in the tournament. Jordan McCaslin was 13-over par overall with rounds of 77 and 80. He had five birdies in the tournament.

Concordia-St. Paul won the tournament as a team at 4-under par overall (572). Bemidji State and Friends tied for second at 2-under par overall. Winona State was also under par as a team at -1. The Tigers finished 18 strokes back of the winning pace with a total of 590.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1742945135377.png" alt="&nbsp; FHSU Athletics photo" />
 <figcaption>&nbsp; FHSU Athletics photo</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsBLUE SPRINGS, Mo. – Fort Hays State Men's Golf placed seventh out of 18 teams competing at the NSIC Preview Invitational, held at Adams Pointe Golf Club. Cooper Scheck turned in another top-10 finish individually in a tie for eighth, while the Tigers charged up seven positions in the team standings by shooting 1-under as a team in round two.The Tigers were 14th as a team after the first round when they shot 15-over par as a team (303). The shaved 16 strokes off that score in the second round with a 1-under 287. Three Tigers were at even or better on the second day after all five team scorers shot over par in the first round.Scheck charged up the leaderboard on day two after shooting a 2-over 74 in the first round. He carded a 4-under 68 on day two with six birdies and just two bogeys, moving up 32 places in the individual standings to a tie for eighth at 2-under par overall. The 4-under par round tied two other golfers for the best score on day two and was just one stroke shy of the best round carded in the tournament, a 67 shot by tournament champion Thomas Gutzner of Concordia-St. Paul who finished at 9-under par overall. Scheck had 11 birdies overall in the tournament and was at 5-under par overall at one point on day one.Playing as an individual, Parker Krob had a solid tournament individually shooting even par overall. He shot a 1-under 71 in the first round and then a 1-over 73 in the second round. He was a par machine on day one with 15 to go with two birdies and one bogey. He had four birdies and five bogeys in the second round to go with nine pars. He tied for 14th individually.Cole Streck shot 2-over par overall to finish 25th. He shot a 2-over 74 on the first day and then an even-par 72 on day two. He had seven birdies throughout the tournament. Jackson Rader finished 55th at 6-over par. He shot 78 on the first day before an even-par 72 on the second day. Rader carded the only eagle of the tournament for FHSU, while also notching six birdies.Jacob George finished at 9-over par overall with rounds of 78 and 75. He had two birdies in the tournament. Jordan McCaslin was 13-over par overall with rounds of 77 and 80. He had five birdies in the tournament.Concordia-St. Paul won the tournament as a team at 4-under par overall (572). Bemidji State and Friends tied for second at 2-under par overall. Winona State was also under par as a team at -1. The Tigers finished 18 strokes back of the winning pace with a total of 590.

⛳Scheck finishes top 10, Tigers place seventh at NSIC Preview

RUSSELLVILLE, Ark. - Katie Wagner DeGarmo of Fort Hays State received a second All-America honor for the 2024-25 season on Tuesday (Mar. 25). She was named to the D2CCA All-America Team as a third-team selection. DeGarmo was one of 21 women nationwide in NCAA Division II to earn D2CCA All-America honors for the year.

DeGarmo is just the third player in FHSU Women's Basketball history to receive All-America honors from multiple organizations in the same year, joining Kate Lehman (2014 and 2015) and Tatyana Legette (2019). DeGarmo was already named a WBCA All-America selection for the second-straight year back on March 20. She is also only the third player in program history to earn All-America honors in multiple years (2024 and 2025), joining Annette Wiles (1989 and 1990) and Kate Lehman (2014 and 2015).

The D2CCA All-America team is voted on by school athletic communications professionals nationwide in NCAA Division II. The award was formerly sponsored by Daktronics when Kate Lehman earned a first-team selection in 2015, but has since changed to D2CCA. DeGarmo and Lehman are the only two in program history to receive Daktronics or D2CCA All-America honors.

As a third-team selection, DeGarmo was among the top 15 in voting for the D2CCA All-America Team. She was among the top 10 for players selected as All-America by the WBCA, earning first-team honors.

DeGarmo wrapped up one of the greatest careers in program history by averaging 17.2 points, 8.6 rebounds, 3.2 assists and 1.6 steals per game in 2024-25, while knocking down 49.2 percent of her shots from the floor in 33 contests. She ranked in the top 10 in the MIAA in points (third), rebounds (third), assists (10th) and field-goal percentage (seventh).

DeGarmo was the MIAA Player of the Year for a second year in a row in addition to earning D2CCA All-Central Region First Team honors for the second-consecutive season. She was named to the MIAA All-Tournament Team and also earned a spot on the NCAA Central Region All-Tournament Team.

The graduate student scored in double figures 31 times this season, including nine games with 20 or more points. She recorded 10 double-doubles on the year, bringing her career total to 46. Her 567 points scored in 2024-25 are sixth-most in a single season in program history.

DeGarmo finished her career with 2,299 points in 156 games, ranking second in program history. She is the leading rebounder in school history with 1,248, while ranking fourth in assists (408), tied for second in steals (236), and second in field goals made (865).

She helped the Tigers to 28 wins in 2024-25, sixth-most in school history. The Tigers surpassed 20 wins for the 14th consecutive season, extending the longest streak in NCAA Division II.

DeGarmo was the lone player from the MIAA named to the D2CCA All-America Team. All five players from the Central Region on the national ballot received All-America honors.

FIRST TEAM * Bri Stoltzman, Southwest Minnesota State Rylie Bisballe, Grand Valley State Grace Foster, Lubbock Christian Alisha Little, Colorado State-Pueblo Nala Williams, Cal State Dominguez Hills * Ron Lenz National Player of the Year

SECOND TEAM Emily Chmiel, East Stroudsburg Ashley Ingram, Texas Woman's Caroline Martin, North Georgia Olivia Reed Thyne, Colorado Mesa Emilee Weakley, Frostburg State

THIRD TEAM Sage Hawley, Harding Sunny Huerta, Central Washington Diamond McDowell, Anderson Katie Wagner DeGarmo, Fort Hays State Lili Wilken, Alabama-Huntsville

HONORABLE MENTION Lindsey Becher, Concordia-St. Paul Destiny Garrett, Georgia Southwestern Hannah Giddey, Southern Nazarene Melanie Hoyt, Saint Anselm Leslie Huffman, Fairmont State Zoe Miller, Ashland

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1742944553442.png" alt="" />
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 </figure>FHSU AthleticsRUSSELLVILLE, Ark. - Katie Wagner DeGarmo of Fort Hays State received a second All-America honor for the 2024-25 season on Tuesday (Mar. 25). She was named to the D2CCA All-America Team as a third-team selection. DeGarmo was one of 21 women nationwide in NCAA Division II to earn D2CCA All-America honors for the year.DeGarmo is just the third player in FHSU Women's Basketball history to receive All-America honors from multiple organizations in the same year, joining Kate Lehman (2014 and 2015) and Tatyana Legette (2019). DeGarmo was already named a WBCA All-America selection for the second-straight year back on March 20. She is also only the third player in program history to earn All-America honors in multiple years (2024 and 2025), joining Annette Wiles (1989 and 1990) and Kate Lehman (2014 and 2015).The D2CCA All-America team is voted on by school athletic communications professionals nationwide in NCAA Division II. The award was formerly sponsored by Daktronics when Kate Lehman earned a first-team selection in 2015, but has since changed to D2CCA. DeGarmo and Lehman are the only two in program history to receive Daktronics or D2CCA All-America honors.As a third-team selection, DeGarmo was among the top 15 in voting for the D2CCA All-America Team. She was among the top 10 for players selected as All-America by the WBCA, earning first-team honors.DeGarmo wrapped up one of the greatest careers in program history by averaging 17.2 points, 8.6 rebounds, 3.2 assists and 1.6 steals per game in 2024-25, while knocking down 49.2 percent of her shots from the floor in 33 contests. She ranked in the top 10 in the MIAA in points (third), rebounds (third), assists (10th) and field-goal percentage (seventh).DeGarmo was the MIAA Player of the Year for a second year in a row in addition to earning D2CCA All-Central Region First Team honors for the second-consecutive season. She was named to the MIAA All-Tournament Team and also earned a spot on the NCAA Central Region All-Tournament Team.The graduate student scored in double figures 31 times this season, including nine games with 20 or more points. She recorded 10 double-doubles on the year, bringing her career total to 46. Her 567 points scored in 2024-25 are sixth-most in a single season in program history.DeGarmo finished her career with 2,299 points in 156 games, ranking second in program history. She is the leading rebounder in school history with 1,248, while ranking fourth in assists (408), tied for second in steals (236), and second in field goals made (865).She helped the Tigers to 28 wins in 2024-25, sixth-most in school history. The Tigers surpassed 20 wins for the 14th consecutive season, extending the longest streak in NCAA Division II.DeGarmo was the lone player from the MIAA named to the D2CCA All-America Team. All five players from the Central Region on the national ballot received All-America honors.FIRST TEAM * Bri Stoltzman, Southwest Minnesota State Rylie Bisballe, Grand Valley State Grace Foster, Lubbock Christian Alisha Little, Colorado State-Pueblo Nala Williams, Cal State Dominguez Hills * Ron Lenz National Player of the YearSECOND TEAM Emily Chmiel, East Stroudsburg Ashley Ingram, Texas Woman's Caroline Martin, North Georgia Olivia Reed Thyne, Colorado Mesa Emilee Weakley, Frostburg StateTHIRD TEAM Sage Hawley, Harding Sunny Huerta, Central Washington Diamond McDowell, Anderson Katie Wagner DeGarmo, Fort Hays State Lili Wilken, Alabama-HuntsvilleHONORABLE MENTION Lindsey Becher, Concordia-St. Paul Destiny Garrett, Georgia Southwestern Hannah Giddey, Southern Nazarene Melanie Hoyt, Saint Anselm Leslie Huffman, Fairmont State Zoe Miller, Ashland

🏀 DeGarmo named to D2CCA All-America team

GREENSBORO, N.C. – Fort Hays State Baseball moved up three spots in the latest ABCA NCAA Division II Baseball Poll, released on Tuesday. The Tigers jumped from No. 27 last week to No. 24 this week after winning two out of three in a tough road series at Pittsburg State last weekend. The Tigers are 19-6 overall and lead the MIAA standings at 14-2.

Fort Hays State joins Central Missouri as the two teams from the MIAA listed in the national poll, which ranks a Top 30, while Central Oklahoma is receiving votes. Central Missouri is ranked No. 3 in the nation and will host No. 24 ranked FHSU later this week (Mar. 28-30) for a three-game series in Warrensburg. Both FHSU and UCM hold overall records of 19-6 for the season, while FHSU leads the MIAA at 14-2 and UCM is second at 11-3. But first, Fort Hays State plays its first of three conference games with Emporia State (14-10, 7-6 MIAA) this season on Tuesday (Mar. 25) at Larks Park in Hays.

After a 5-4 overall start to the season, Fort Hays State has been on a tear in MIAA play winning 14 of its last 16 games. FHSU is 7-2 this season against teams which have spent time among the Top 30 of the ABCA Top 25 Poll this season. FHSU went 2-1 against Missouri Southern when it was ranked No. 25, 3-0 against Central Oklahoma when it was ranked No. 29, and 2-1 against Pittsburg State, which ranked as high as No. 27 back in the March 4 edition of the ABCA Poll but was unranked when playing FHSU last weekend.

Fort Hays State also jumped into the Top 25 of the supplemental online&nbsp;<a href="https://www.diviibaseball.com/rankings">D2Baseball Poll</a>&nbsp;this week, released on Monday (Mar. 24). The Tigers are No. 25, while Central Missouri ranks No. 5. Fort Hays State has yet to crack the NCBWA poll this year, which releases every Wednesday.

ABCA DII Coaches Poll - March 25, 2025 Rank - School - Record - Points 1 - Tampa (Fla.) - 23-4 - 270 2 - Lenoir-Rhyne (N.C.) - 24-4 - 258 3 - Central Missouri - 19-6 - 255 4 - Catawba (N.C.) - 23-7 - 240 5 - Angelo State (Texas) - 24-6 - 235 6 - Minnesota State - 17-2 - 220 7 - Westmont (Calif.) - 24-5 - 218 8 - Texas-Tyler - 25-8 - 212 9 - Carson-Newman (Tenn.) - 23-6 - 198 10 - Point Loma (Calif.) - 20-8 - 192 11 - Florida Southern - 22-6 - 180 12 - Rollins (Fla.) - 20-7 - 171 13 - Mount Olive (N.C.) - 20-9 - 158 14 - West Chester (Pa.) - 17-5 - 148 15 - Young Harris (Ga.) - 20-9 - 140 16 - North Greenville (S.C.) - 25-8 - 138 17 - Grand Valley State (Mich.) - 19-5 -136 18 - Harding (Ark.) - 24-5 - 125 19 - West Texas A&amp;M - 23-7 - 115 20 - Millersville (Pa.) - 18-3 - 108 21 - Delta State (Miss.) - 22-7 - 92 22 - Davenport (Mich.) - 18-5 - 90 23 - Seton Hill (Pa.) - 17-3 - 82 24 - Fort Hays State (Kan.) - 19-6 - 70 25 - West Florida - 19-10 - 60 26 - St. Edward's (Texas) - 22-8 - 50 27 - Chico State (Calif.) - 18-11 - 38 28 - Colorado Mesa - 18-8 - 34 29 - East Stroudsburg (Pa.) - 16-6 - 19 T30 - Cal State San Bernardino - 21-9 - 12 T30 - North Georgia - 20-9 - 12&nbsp;

Others Receiving Votes:&nbsp;Augustana (S.D.), Shippensburg (Pa.), New Haven (Conn.), California (Pa.), Saginaw Valley State (Mich.), Ashland (Ohio), Lubbock Christian (Texas), Mississippi College, Arkansas Monticello, Molloy (N.Y.), Central Oklahoma, Cal State Dominguez Hills, Northwest Nazarene (Idaho), Cal State Monterey Bay, Missouri-St. Louis, Lewis (Ill.), Francis Marion (S.C.), Barton (N.C.), Flagler (Fla.), Lander (S.C.), Bentley (Mass.), Southern Connecticut State, Southern New Hampshire, Goldey-Beacom (Del.)&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1742917427956.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsGREENSBORO, N.C. – Fort Hays State Baseball moved up three spots in the latest ABCA NCAA Division II Baseball Poll, released on Tuesday. The Tigers jumped from No. 27 last week to No. 24 this week after winning two out of three in a tough road series at Pittsburg State last weekend. The Tigers are 19-6 overall and lead the MIAA standings at 14-2.Fort Hays State joins Central Missouri as the two teams from the MIAA listed in the national poll, which ranks a Top 30, while Central Oklahoma is receiving votes. Central Missouri is ranked No. 3 in the nation and will host No. 24 ranked FHSU later this week (Mar. 28-30) for a three-game series in Warrensburg. Both FHSU and UCM hold overall records of 19-6 for the season, while FHSU leads the MIAA at 14-2 and UCM is second at 11-3. But first, Fort Hays State plays its first of three conference games with Emporia State (14-10, 7-6 MIAA) this season on Tuesday (Mar. 25) at Larks Park in Hays.After a 5-4 overall start to the season, Fort Hays State has been on a tear in MIAA play winning 14 of its last 16 games. FHSU is 7-2 this season against teams which have spent time among the Top 30 of the ABCA Top 25 Poll this season. FHSU went 2-1 against Missouri Southern when it was ranked No. 25, 3-0 against Central Oklahoma when it was ranked No. 29, and 2-1 against Pittsburg State, which ranked as high as No. 27 back in the March 4 edition of the ABCA Poll but was unranked when playing FHSU last weekend.Fort Hays State also jumped into the Top 25 of the supplemental online&nbsp;<a href="https://www.diviibaseball.com/rankings">D2Baseball Poll</a>&nbsp;this week, released on Monday (Mar. 24). The Tigers are No. 25, while Central Missouri ranks No. 5. Fort Hays State has yet to crack the NCBWA poll this year, which releases every Wednesday.ABCA DII Coaches Poll - March 25, 2025 Rank - School - Record - Points 1 - Tampa (Fla.) - 23-4 - 270 2 - Lenoir-Rhyne (N.C.) - 24-4 - 258 3 - Central Missouri - 19-6 - 255 4 - Catawba (N.C.) - 23-7 - 240 5 - Angelo State (Texas) - 24-6 - 235 6 - Minnesota State - 17-2 - 220 7 - Westmont (Calif.) - 24-5 - 218 8 - Texas-Tyler - 25-8 - 212 9 - Carson-Newman (Tenn.) - 23-6 - 198 10 - Point Loma (Calif.) - 20-8 - 192 11 - Florida Southern - 22-6 - 180 12 - Rollins (Fla.) - 20-7 - 171 13 - Mount Olive (N.C.) - 20-9 - 158 14 - West Chester (Pa.) - 17-5 - 148 15 - Young Harris (Ga.) - 20-9 - 140 16 - North Greenville (S.C.) - 25-8 - 138 17 - Grand Valley State (Mich.) - 19-5 -136 18 - Harding (Ark.) - 24-5 - 125 19 - West Texas A&amp;M - 23-7 - 115 20 - Millersville (Pa.) - 18-3 - 108 21 - Delta State (Miss.) - 22-7 - 92 22 - Davenport (Mich.) - 18-5 - 90 23 - Seton Hill (Pa.) - 17-3 - 82 24 - Fort Hays State (Kan.) - 19-6 - 70 25 - West Florida - 19-10 - 60 26 - St. Edward's (Texas) - 22-8 - 50 27 - Chico State (Calif.) - 18-11 - 38 28 - Colorado Mesa - 18-8 - 34 29 - East Stroudsburg (Pa.) - 16-6 - 19 T30 - Cal State San Bernardino - 21-9 - 12 T30 - North Georgia - 20-9 - 12&nbsp;Others Receiving Votes:&nbsp;Augustana (S.D.), Shippensburg (Pa.), New Haven (Conn.), California (Pa.), Saginaw Valley State (Mich.), Ashland (Ohio), Lubbock Christian (Texas), Mississippi College, Arkansas Monticello, Molloy (N.Y.), Central Oklahoma, Cal State Dominguez Hills, Northwest Nazarene (Idaho), Cal State Monterey Bay, Missouri-St. Louis, Lewis (Ill.), Francis Marion (S.C.), Barton (N.C.), Flagler (Fla.), Lander (S.C.), Bentley (Mass.), Southern Connecticut State, Southern New Hampshire, Goldey-Beacom (Del.)&nbsp;&nbsp;

⚾ Tigers up to No. 24 in latest ABCA rankings

Tuesday, March 25
 KAYS: Fort Hays State
BSB vs. Emporia State, 2:30pm

Tuesday, March 25
 KAYS: Fort Hays State
BSB vs. Emporia State, 2:30pmWednesday, March 26 noneThursday, March 27
 KAYS: Kansas City
Royals vs. Cleveland Guardians, 2:30pmFriday, March 28 noneSaturday, March 29
 KAYS: Kansas City
Royals vs. Cleveland Guardians, 2:30pmSunday, March 30
 KAYS: Kansas City
Royals vs. Cleveland Guardians, 12:30pm

Fort Hays State softball hosts Northwest Missouri State on an MIAA doubleheader on Sunday, March 23, 2025 at Fleharty Family Field in Hays, Kan.

Fort Hays State softball hosts Northwest Missouri State on an MIAA doubleheader on Sunday, March 23, 2025 at Fleharty Family Field in Hays, Kan.<div><iframe title="FHSU Rewind - SB vs. NW Missouri State" 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=c2sau-185f9c9-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=1&font-color=&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=2" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

🎧 Defend the Fort Podcast: SB vs. NW Missouri State

HAYS, KS – The USD 489 Board of Education approved the hiring of Chris Drees as the new assistant principal and activities director at Hays High School during their meeting on Monday.

Drees will succeed Lance Krannawitter, who is retiring.

Currently the athletic director and head basketball coach at Plainville High School, Drees brings extensive experience to the position. During his 12-season tenure at Plainville, he compiled a 159-117 record, led the team to three state tournament appearances, and achieved a state runner-up finish in 2014.

Hays PostHAYS, KS – The USD 489 Board of Education approved the hiring of Chris Drees as the new assistant principal and activities director at Hays High School during their meeting on Monday.Drees will succeed Lance Krannawitter, who is retiring.Currently the athletic director and head basketball coach at Plainville High School, Drees brings extensive experience to the position. During his 12-season tenure at Plainville, he compiled a 159-117 record, led the team to three state tournament appearances, and achieved a state runner-up finish in 2014.

Drees hired as Hays High Assistant Principal and Activities Director

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Kaleb Hammeke&nbsp;of Fort Hays State was named to the National Association of Basketball Coaches (NABC) All-District Team for the third-straight year in the Central Region. He was a selection on the second team once again. Hammeke helped the Tigers to their 15th NCAA Tournament appearance and 22-10 overall record in 2024-25.

This is the second all-region award for Hammeke this season after also being named to the D2CCA All-Central Region Second Team. It was his second career regional honor from the D2CCA.Hammeke finished the season averaging 16.5 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game. He scored in double figures 31 times and dished out three or more assists in games 28 times.

Hammeke is now the all-time leading scorer in FHSU Men's Basketball history, finishing his career with 2,086 points. He also ranks third all-time in assists with 576 and second all-time in steals with 175. With 585 career rebounds, Hammeke was the only active NCAA Division II player in 2024-25 with at least 2,000 career points, 500 career assists, and 500 career rebounds. He also ranks second all-time in field goals made (715), third in 3-point field goals made (214), and fourth in free-throws made (442) in FHSU program history.

Hammeke is a five-time All-MIAA selection overall, receiving first-team honors each of the last three seasons. In his first year on the court at FHSU, he was the MIAA Freshman of the Year.

Hammeke was one of 10 players selected to the NABC All-District Team for the Central Region. He is one of four players to earn the honor from the MIAA, Jordan Frison of Pittsburg State, Jacob Hanna of Washburn and Jack Bachelor of Washburn. The Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference had four selections on the team and the Great American Conference had two.

NABC All-District Team for the Central Region in 2024-25. Central Region First Team Jordan Frison, Pittsburg State Jacob Hanna, Washburn Carson Johnson, MSU Moorhead Antwan Kimmons, Concordia-St. Paul Caleb Van De Griend, Minot State

Second Team Jack Bachelor, Washburn Hobert Grayson, Ouachita Baptist Kaleb Hammeke, Fort Hays State Stevie Strong, Southern Nazarene Kyreese Willingham, Minnesota State

Coach of the Year: Brett Ballard, Washburn&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
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 </figure>FHSU AthleticsKANSAS CITY, Mo. – Kaleb Hammeke&nbsp;of Fort Hays State was named to the National Association of Basketball Coaches (NABC) All-District Team for the third-straight year in the Central Region. He was a selection on the second team once again. Hammeke helped the Tigers to their 15th NCAA Tournament appearance and 22-10 overall record in 2024-25.This is the second all-region award for Hammeke this season after also being named to the D2CCA All-Central Region Second Team. It was his second career regional honor from the D2CCA.Hammeke finished the season averaging 16.5 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game. He scored in double figures 31 times and dished out three or more assists in games 28 times.Hammeke is now the all-time leading scorer in FHSU Men's Basketball history, finishing his career with 2,086 points. He also ranks third all-time in assists with 576 and second all-time in steals with 175. With 585 career rebounds, Hammeke was the only active NCAA Division II player in 2024-25 with at least 2,000 career points, 500 career assists, and 500 career rebounds. He also ranks second all-time in field goals made (715), third in 3-point field goals made (214), and fourth in free-throws made (442) in FHSU program history.Hammeke is a five-time All-MIAA selection overall, receiving first-team honors each of the last three seasons. In his first year on the court at FHSU, he was the MIAA Freshman of the Year.Hammeke was one of 10 players selected to the NABC All-District Team for the Central Region. He is one of four players to earn the honor from the MIAA, Jordan Frison of Pittsburg State, Jacob Hanna of Washburn and Jack Bachelor of Washburn. The Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference had four selections on the team and the Great American Conference had two.NABC All-District Team for the Central Region in 2024-25. Central Region First Team Jordan Frison, Pittsburg State Jacob Hanna, Washburn Carson Johnson, MSU Moorhead Antwan Kimmons, Concordia-St. Paul Caleb Van De Griend, Minot StateSecond Team Jack Bachelor, Washburn Hobert Grayson, Ouachita Baptist Kaleb Hammeke, Fort Hays State Stevie Strong, Southern Nazarene Kyreese Willingham, Minnesota StateCoach of the Year: Brett Ballard, Washburn&nbsp;&nbsp;

🏀 Hammeke named to NABC All-District team for third-straight year

Monday, March 24 noneTuesday, March 25
 KAYS: Fort Hays State
BSB vs. Emporia State, 2:30pmWednesday, March 26 noneThursday, March 27
 KAYS: Kansas City
Royals vs. Cleveland Guardians, 2:30pmFriday, March 28 noneSaturday, March 29
 KAYS: Kansas City
Royals vs. Cleveland Guardians, 2:30pmSunday, March 30
 KAYS: Kansas City
Royals vs. Cleveland Guardians, 12:30pm

HAYS, Kan. – Fort Hays State Softball pushed its win streak to nine games with a doubleheader sweep of Northwest Missouri State on Sunday afternoon (Mar. 23) at Fleharty Family Field. The Tigers won by scores of 11-3 (5 inn.) and 4-3, moving to 20-6 overall and 5-1 in the MIAA. The Bearcats fell to 12-19 overall and 2-8 in the MIAA. This is the fastest FHSU has reached 20 wins in a season under 11th&nbsp;year head coach Adrian Pilkington.

Fort Hays State 11, Northwest Missouri State 3 (5 inn.) The Tigers had to fight through some early adversity to get on track in the first game. The Bearcats put a run on the board before the Tigers recorded an out in the first inning as the first four batters reached base.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/morgan-schmidt/8190">Morgan Schmidt</a>&nbsp;fought through the early struggles to get three straight outs and limit the damage to just two runs. The Tigers would instantly flip the game in their favor in the bottom half of the opening inning.

<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/lilliana-ramirez-johnson/8189">Lilliana Ramirez-Johnson</a>&nbsp;started a rally with a 1-out double.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/madison-pierce/8188">Madison Pierce</a>&nbsp;walked and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/abbey-duarte/8206">Abbey Duarte</a>&nbsp;singled to load the bases.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/regan-curry/8182">Regan Curry</a>&nbsp;cut the Bearcat lead in half with a sacrifice fly RBI and then&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/lilly-mohr/8194">Lilly Mohr</a>&nbsp;walked to load the bases again.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/lexi-mohr/8187">Lexi Mohr</a>&nbsp;followed with a two-RBI single to put the Tigers up 3-2 and then&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/paige-thexton/8200">Paige Thexton</a>&nbsp;delivered an RBI single to make it 4-2 Tigers.

The Tigers kept piling on runs to build a strong lead with two in the second, and one each in the third and fourth to make the lead 8-2. In the second, Ramirez-Johnson doubled home a run and Duarte singled in a run.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/lilly-mohr/8194">Lilly Mohr</a>&nbsp;launched a solo homer to left center field in the third and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/lexi-mohr/8187">Lexi Mohr</a>&nbsp;had a sacrifice fly RBI in the fourth.

The Bearcats picked up one more run in the fifth on an RBI triple, but the Tigers responded with three runs in the bottom half of the inning to force the run rule.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/jules-bosco/8199">Jules Bosco</a>&nbsp;scored on a wild pitch and then Curry eventually drove in the game winning runs on a 2-RBI single up the middle.

Schmidt moved to 9-2 overall on the season with the win. She allowed five hits, walked one, and struck out one. NWMSU starter Cassidy Paulson took the loss, now 2-4, allowing the first six runs to FHSU in 2 innings of work. Olivia Moyer allowed three runs in 2.1 innings of relief and Kylee Rockhold allowed two runs in the fifth and did not record an out.

Fort Hays State 4, Northwest Missouri State 3 Fort Hays State never trailed in the second contest, but had NWMSU pull within a run twice in the game.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/savanah-egger/8183">Savanah Egger</a>&nbsp;slammed the door on any hope of a Bearcat comeback by retiring the final seven batters of the game. She threw a complete game with seven strikeouts, moving to 9-4 on the season, while scattering seven hits.

The Tigers only had one RBI in the game and took advantage of Bearcat miscues that produced three of the four runs. The Tigers loaded the bases in the second and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/paige-thexton/8200">Paige Thexton</a>&nbsp;was hit by a pitch to pick up the only FHSU RBI of the game. Later in the inning, she scored on a passed ball to make it 2-0. After NWMSU hit a solo home run in the fourth, the Tigers moved up 4-1 in the bottom of the inning when the Bearcats committed a throwing error with two outs that allowed two runs to score.

A 2-RBI double was the final damage for NWMSU on the scoreboard in the fifth, but Egger worked out of danger to hang on to the lead and went on to close out the game with authority.

Jaydn Streigle took a tough-luck loss for NWMSU, allowing just one earned run. She allowed six hits and struck out four, moving to 3-6 on the season.

Fort Hays State heads on the road next weekend for conference doubleheaders at Washburn (Fri. Mar. 28) and Emporia State (Sat. Mar. 29).&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1742771887936.png" alt="FHSU Athletics photo/Seth Kincaid" />
 <figcaption>FHSU Athletics photo/Seth Kincaid</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsHAYS, Kan. – Fort Hays State Softball pushed its win streak to nine games with a doubleheader sweep of Northwest Missouri State on Sunday afternoon (Mar. 23) at Fleharty Family Field. The Tigers won by scores of 11-3 (5 inn.) and 4-3, moving to 20-6 overall and 5-1 in the MIAA. The Bearcats fell to 12-19 overall and 2-8 in the MIAA. This is the fastest FHSU has reached 20 wins in a season under 11th&nbsp;year head coach Adrian Pilkington.<div><iframe width="100%" height="300" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/2061446896&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true&visual=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/adrian-pilkington-postgame" title="Adrian Pilkington Postgame vs. Northwest Missouri State (March 23, 2025)" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Adrian Pilkington Postgame vs. Northwest Missouri State (March 23, 2025)</a></div></div>Fort Hays State 11, Northwest Missouri State 3 (5 inn.) The Tigers had to fight through some early adversity to get on track in the first game. The Bearcats put a run on the board before the Tigers recorded an out in the first inning as the first four batters reached base.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/morgan-schmidt/8190">Morgan Schmidt</a>&nbsp;fought through the early struggles to get three straight outs and limit the damage to just two runs. The Tigers would instantly flip the game in their favor in the bottom half of the opening inning.<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/lilliana-ramirez-johnson/8189">Lilliana Ramirez-Johnson</a>&nbsp;started a rally with a 1-out double.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/madison-pierce/8188">Madison Pierce</a>&nbsp;walked and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/abbey-duarte/8206">Abbey Duarte</a>&nbsp;singled to load the bases.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/regan-curry/8182">Regan Curry</a>&nbsp;cut the Bearcat lead in half with a sacrifice fly RBI and then&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/lilly-mohr/8194">Lilly Mohr</a>&nbsp;walked to load the bases again.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/lexi-mohr/8187">Lexi Mohr</a>&nbsp;followed with a two-RBI single to put the Tigers up 3-2 and then&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/paige-thexton/8200">Paige Thexton</a>&nbsp;delivered an RBI single to make it 4-2 Tigers.<div><iframe width="100%" height="300" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/2061447504&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true&visual=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/fhsu-sb-highlights-vs" title="Fort Hays State SB Game 1 Highlights vs. NW Missouri State (March 23, 2025)" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Fort Hays State SB Game 1 Highlights vs. NW Missouri State (March 23, 2025)</a></div></div>The Tigers kept piling on runs to build a strong lead with two in the second, and one each in the third and fourth to make the lead 8-2. In the second, Ramirez-Johnson doubled home a run and Duarte singled in a run.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/lilly-mohr/8194">Lilly Mohr</a>&nbsp;launched a solo homer to left center field in the third and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/lexi-mohr/8187">Lexi Mohr</a>&nbsp;had a sacrifice fly RBI in the fourth.The Bearcats picked up one more run in the fifth on an RBI triple, but the Tigers responded with three runs in the bottom half of the inning to force the run rule.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/jules-bosco/8199">Jules Bosco</a>&nbsp;scored on a wild pitch and then Curry eventually drove in the game winning runs on a 2-RBI single up the middle.Schmidt moved to 9-2 overall on the season with the win. She allowed five hits, walked one, and struck out one. NWMSU starter Cassidy Paulson took the loss, now 2-4, allowing the first six runs to FHSU in 2 innings of work. Olivia Moyer allowed three runs in 2.1 innings of relief and Kylee Rockhold allowed two runs in the fifth and did not record an out.Fort Hays State 4, Northwest Missouri State 3 Fort Hays State never trailed in the second contest, but had NWMSU pull within a run twice in the game.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/savanah-egger/8183">Savanah Egger</a>&nbsp;slammed the door on any hope of a Bearcat comeback by retiring the final seven batters of the game. She threw a complete game with seven strikeouts, moving to 9-4 on the season, while scattering seven hits.The Tigers only had one RBI in the game and took advantage of Bearcat miscues that produced three of the four runs. The Tigers loaded the bases in the second and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/paige-thexton/8200">Paige Thexton</a>&nbsp;was hit by a pitch to pick up the only FHSU RBI of the game. Later in the inning, she scored on a passed ball to make it 2-0. After NWMSU hit a solo home run in the fourth, the Tigers moved up 4-1 in the bottom of the inning when the Bearcats committed a throwing error with two outs that allowed two runs to score.<div><iframe width="100%" height="300" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/2061447888&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true&visual=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/fhsu-sb-highlights-vs-1" title="Fort Hays State SB Game 2 Highlights vs. NW Missouri State (March 23, 2025)" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Fort Hays State SB Game 2 Highlights vs. NW Missouri State (March 23, 2025)</a></div></div>A 2-RBI double was the final damage for NWMSU on the scoreboard in the fifth, but Egger worked out of danger to hang on to the lead and went on to close out the game with authority.Jaydn Streigle took a tough-luck loss for NWMSU, allowing just one earned run. She allowed six hits and struck out four, moving to 3-6 on the season.UP NEXTFort Hays State heads on the road next weekend for conference doubleheaders at Washburn (Fri. Mar. 28) and Emporia State (Sat. Mar. 29).&nbsp;&nbsp;

🥎 FHSU runs win streak to nine with sweep of Bearcats

PITTSBURG, Kan. – Fort Hays State&nbsp;

overcame an early deficit and relied on a clutch home run from Defek Woolwine along with strong relief pitching from Kaleb Carpenter and Branden Chavez and beat Pittsburg State 5-4 Sunday afternoon at Al Ortolani Field.&nbsp;

Pittsburg State wasted no time getting on the board in the bottom of the first. Alex Rodgers led off with a triple to right-center, putting immediate pressure on Tigers' starter Trevor Baugh. Rickey Sanchez capitalized with a sacrifice fly to center, scoring Rodgers to give the Gorillas a 1-0 lead.

Fort Hays State (19-6, 14-2 MIAA), who won two of three in the series,&nbsp; answered in the third inning. After Cooper Howell&nbsp;reached on a single and Cesar Saavedra&nbsp;followed with a hit of his own, a wild pitch advanced both runners into scoring position. Trey DeGarmo&nbsp;came through with a single up the middle, plating Saavedra to even the score at 1-1.

Pittsburg State quickly regained the lead in the bottom half of the third. Rodgers, who was a sparkplug at the top of the lineup, reached again—this time with a single to left. He swiped second and advanced to third on a sacrifice bunt by Sanchez. Moments later, Bugner dropped a bunt single, allowing Rodgers to cross home and put the Gorillas back in front, 2-1.

The Gorillas tacked on two more runs in the fifth. Rodgers drew a walk and advanced to third on a single by Sanchez. Bugner continued his hot day at the plate with another RBI single, scoring Rodgers. Later in the inning, Hayden Dyer added a sacrifice groundout to drive in Sanchez, extending Pittsburg State's lead to 4-1.

In the top of the sixth, Woolwine started the Tigers rally with a single through the right side. Brady Kreutzer followed with a base hit of his own, putting two aboard with no outs. Elliott Herrmann&nbsp;then delivered a clutch RBI single up the middle, scoring Woolwine to cut the deficit to 4-2. Kreutzer later came home on a fielder's choice by Luis Ayala, making it a one-run game at 4-3.

The Tigers took their first lead of the game in the seventh in dramatic fashion. Saavedra ripped a double to left to start the inning, setting the stage for Woolwine. The senior first baseman launched a two-run homer over the right-field wall, flipping the script and giving Fort Hays a 5-4 lead.

Once the Tigers took the lead, the bullpen took control. Kaleb Carpenter&nbsp;entered in the fifth inning and silenced Pittsburg State's offense, tossing 2 2/3 scoreless frames while striking out five and allowing just two hits. Brandon Chavez&nbsp;came in for the eighth and picked up a crucial six-out save, his eighth of the season. He worked a flawless eighth and, after issuing a one-out walk in the ninth, retired Rodgers and Sanchez to secure the win.

With the win, Fort Hays improved to 19-6 overall and 14-2 in MIAA play, streng&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1742764623313.png" alt="FHSU Athletics photo/Ryan Prickett" />
 <figcaption>FHSU Athletics photo/Ryan Prickett</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsPITTSBURG, Kan. – Fort Hays State&nbsp;

overcame an early deficit and relied on a clutch home run from Defek Woolwine along with strong relief pitching from Kaleb Carpenter and Branden Chavez and beat Pittsburg State 5-4 Sunday afternoon at Al Ortolani Field.&nbsp;Pittsburg State wasted no time getting on the board in the bottom of the first. Alex Rodgers led off with a triple to right-center, putting immediate pressure on Tigers' starter Trevor Baugh. Rickey Sanchez capitalized with a sacrifice fly to center, scoring Rodgers to give the Gorillas a 1-0 lead.Fort Hays State (19-6, 14-2 MIAA), who won two of three in the series,&nbsp; answered in the third inning. After Cooper Howell&nbsp;reached on a single and Cesar Saavedra&nbsp;followed with a hit of his own, a wild pitch advanced both runners into scoring position. Trey DeGarmo&nbsp;came through with a single up the middle, plating Saavedra to even the score at 1-1.Pittsburg State quickly regained the lead in the bottom half of the third. Rodgers, who was a sparkplug at the top of the lineup, reached again—this time with a single to left. He swiped second and advanced to third on a sacrifice bunt by Sanchez. Moments later, Bugner dropped a bunt single, allowing Rodgers to cross home and put the Gorillas back in front, 2-1.The Gorillas tacked on two more runs in the fifth. Rodgers drew a walk and advanced to third on a single by Sanchez. Bugner continued his hot day at the plate with another RBI single, scoring Rodgers. Later in the inning, Hayden Dyer added a sacrifice groundout to drive in Sanchez, extending Pittsburg State's lead to 4-1.In the top of the sixth, Woolwine started the Tigers rally with a single through the right side. Brady Kreutzer followed with a base hit of his own, putting two aboard with no outs. Elliott Herrmann&nbsp;then delivered a clutch RBI single up the middle, scoring Woolwine to cut the deficit to 4-2. Kreutzer later came home on a fielder's choice by Luis Ayala, making it a one-run game at 4-3.The Tigers took their first lead of the game in the seventh in dramatic fashion. Saavedra ripped a double to left to start the inning, setting the stage for Woolwine. The senior first baseman launched a two-run homer over the right-field wall, flipping the script and giving Fort Hays a 5-4 lead.Once the Tigers took the lead, the bullpen took control. Kaleb Carpenter&nbsp;entered in the fifth inning and silenced Pittsburg State's offense, tossing 2 2/3 scoreless frames while striking out five and allowing just two hits. Brandon Chavez&nbsp;came in for the eighth and picked up a crucial six-out save, his eighth of the season. He worked a flawless eighth and, after issuing a one-out walk in the ninth, retired Rodgers and Sanchez to secure the win.n the sixth.With the win, Fort Hays improved to 19-6 overall and 14-2 in MIAA play, streng&nbsp;&nbsp;

⚾ Tigers rally for series win at Pittsburg State

LEXINGTON, Ky. (AP) — Kansas State forward Temira Poindexter missed her first six shots against Kentucky in the second round of the women's NCAA Tournament. She finished by hitting eight 3-pointers, and the last one sent the visiting Wildcats to the Sweet 16.

Poindexter made a&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/MarchMadnessWBB/status/1903901655135088762">corner 3 with 56 seconds</a>&nbsp;left in overtime, and Kansas State's defense did the rest to preserve an 80-79 victory Sunday on Kentucky's home court.

“In those moments, I do get down on myself,” Poindexter said. “My teammates come in and have my back and tell me to keep shooting so it really lifts me up and gives me confidence.”

Fifth-seeded Kansas State (28-7) dodged four misses by No. 4 seed Kentucky (23-8) in the closing seconds to advance to face either JuJu Watkins and top-seeded Southern California or No. 9 seed Mississippi State in a regional semifinal in Spokane, Washington.

Kentucky star Georgia Amoore missed a jumper with 21 seconds left, a 3-pointer with 16 seconds remaining and then a baseline layup at the buzzer. Amelia Haslett also missed a 3 that would have put Kentucky ahead at Rupp Arena.

“As soon as I caught it, I realized how open I was and it’s up to fate at that point,” Amoore said about her final attempt.

Poindexter finished 8 of 15 beyond the arc to score 24 points.

“Give her credit. She knocked down some very tough shots and we had a couple of situations where we had miscommunication and she got free,” Kentucky coach Kenny Brooks said.

Serena Sundell added 19 points and 14 assists for Kansas State, and her turnaround jumper with 8 seconds left forced overtime. Ayoka Lee scored 16.

Clara Strack led Kentucky with 22 points. Amoore scored 18 points on 7-of-23 shooting.

Amoore hit a 3-pointer from the top of the key to give Kentucky a 69-67 lead with 32 seconds left in regulation. After Sundell's basket, Kentucky's Dazia Lawrence could not get a clean look before time expired.

There were 21 lead changes, seven in the fourth quarter and overtime.

“You go the last ten minutes of the game and there were just huge shots by both teams and different players,” Kansas State coach Jeff Mittie said. “I’m really proud of our group to to be down five and to need to really dig deep defensively and make plays, but also very little margin for the other end.”

Kansas State: Sundell had 11 points in the first quarter to steady the visiting Wildcats after Kentucky jumped out to an early 7-0 lead. She also became the school's career assist leader.

Kentucky: The host Wildcats built small leads but could never extend their advantage to double digits.

Teonni Key rebounded her own missed jumper to make a layup that gave Kentucky a 66-61 lead with 2:11 to play. Kansas State responded with 3-pointers by Jaelyn Glenn and then Poindexter in a 40-second span. Key finished with 13 points and 15 rebounds.

Kentucky came in averaging seven blocks per game, but it was Kansas State denying shots with 13 blocks, including two on 3-point attempts in the second quarter. Those fueled a 12-3 run that propelled Kansas State to a 33-31 halftime lead.

Kansas State will have to wait until late Monday night to learn its regional semifinal opponent. Kentucky will have to replace Amoore, a second-team All-American, and Lawrence, a key contributor and another transfer.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1742812835573.jpeg" alt="Kansas State Athletics photo" />
 <figcaption>Kansas State Athletics photo</figcaption>
 </figure>LEXINGTON, Ky. (AP) — Kansas State forward Temira Poindexter missed her first six shots against Kentucky in the second round of the women's NCAA Tournament. She finished by hitting eight 3-pointers, and the last one sent the visiting Wildcats to the Sweet 16.Poindexter made a&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/MarchMadnessWBB/status/1903901655135088762">corner 3 with 56 seconds</a>&nbsp;left in overtime, and Kansas State's defense did the rest to preserve an 80-79 victory Sunday on Kentucky's home court.“In those moments, I do get down on myself,” Poindexter said. “My teammates come in and have my back and tell me to keep shooting so it really lifts me up and gives me confidence.”Fifth-seeded Kansas State (28-7) dodged four misses by No. 4 seed Kentucky (23-8) in the closing seconds to advance to face either JuJu Watkins and top-seeded Southern California or No. 9 seed Mississippi State in a regional semifinal in Spokane, Washington.Kentucky star Georgia Amoore missed a jumper with 21 seconds left, a 3-pointer with 16 seconds remaining and then a baseline layup at the buzzer. Amelia Haslett also missed a 3 that would have put Kentucky ahead at Rupp Arena.“As soon as I caught it, I realized how open I was and it’s up to fate at that point,” Amoore said about her final attempt.Poindexter finished 8 of 15 beyond the arc to score 24 points.“Give her credit. She knocked down some very tough shots and we had a couple of situations where we had miscommunication and she got free,” Kentucky coach Kenny Brooks said.Serena Sundell added 19 points and 14 assists for Kansas State, and her turnaround jumper with 8 seconds left forced overtime. Ayoka Lee scored 16.Clara Strack led Kentucky with 22 points. Amoore scored 18 points on 7-of-23 shooting.Amoore hit a 3-pointer from the top of the key to give Kentucky a 69-67 lead with 32 seconds left in regulation. After Sundell's basket, Kentucky's Dazia Lawrence could not get a clean look before time expired.There were 21 lead changes, seven in the fourth quarter and overtime.“You go the last ten minutes of the game and there were just huge shots by both teams and different players,” Kansas State coach Jeff Mittie said. “I’m really proud of our group to to be down five and to need to really dig deep defensively and make plays, but also very little margin for the other end.”<h2>Takeaways</h2>Kansas State: Sundell had 11 points in the first quarter to steady the visiting Wildcats after Kentucky jumped out to an early 7-0 lead. She also became the school's career assist leader.Kentucky: The host Wildcats built small leads but could never extend their advantage to double digits.<h2>Key moment</h2>Teonni Key rebounded her own missed jumper to make a layup that gave Kentucky a 66-61 lead with 2:11 to play. Kansas State responded with 3-pointers by Jaelyn Glenn and then Poindexter in a 40-second span. Key finished with 13 points and 15 rebounds.<h2>Key stat</h2>Kentucky came in averaging seven blocks per game, but it was Kansas State denying shots with 13 blocks, including two on 3-point attempts in the second quarter. Those fueled a 12-3 run that propelled Kansas State to a 33-31 halftime lead.<h2>Up next</h2>Kansas State will have to wait until late Monday night to learn its regional semifinal opponent. Kentucky will have to replace Amoore, a second-team All-American, and Lawrence, a key contributor and another transfer.___

🏀 K-State women headed to Sweet 16 after OT win over Kentucky

Sunday, March 23 KAYS: Fort Hays State SB (DH) vs. Northwest Missouri State, 12:40pm

Sunday, March 23 KAYS: Fort Hays State SB (DH) vs. Northwest Missouri State, 12:40pm

PHILADELPHIA (AP) — Penn State’s Carter Starocci won an unprecedented fifth national title and Oklahoma State’s Wyatt Hendrickson stunned Olympic gold medalist Gable Steveson 5-4 in the heavyweight final Saturday night at the NCAA men’s wrestling championships with President Donald Trump in attendance.

Hendrickson, a transfer from Air Force, trailed in the last match of the evening until scoring on a takedown in the final minute — the only takedown Steveson allowed all season.

Hendrickson saluted Trump after his victory. With a United States flag draped over his shoulders, he then walked over and shook Trump’s hand and hugged him as part of his celebration. Trump&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-ncaa-wrestling-championships-sports-trips-8f68a03e4c6926ef2e159e67d70a8466">attended the event, just as he did as a candidate in 2023</a>&nbsp;when the tournament was in Tulsa, Oklahoma.

“It’s bigger than worlds, Olympics, anything,” an emotional Hendrickson said moments after the win.

Minnesota’s Steveson, seeking his third national title, was on a 70-match win streak. The 2021 and 2022 national champion retired at the end of the 2022 event, but returned this year after stints in World Wrestling Entertainment and the National Football League.

Steveson entered the third period with a 3-2 lead before&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/NCAAWrestling/status/1903634014193287509" target="_blank">giving up the takedown with about 20 seconds remaining</a>. The crowd erupted when Hendrickson scored and as time expired.

Starocci’s Nittany Lions claimed their third four-peat, running away from the field to claim their 12th men’s Division I men’s wrestling national title under coach Cael Sanderson.

Starocci defeated Northern Iowa’s Parker Keckeisen 4-3 in the 184-pound final. Keckeisen was the defending champion in the class.

“It means a lot to me, but as for me — I never want to down play the moment — but I mean, it’s always cool, but one thing that Coach Cael really instills in us, this is all just preparation for the next thing.”

Penn State, just the second program to have 10 All-Americans in one season, scored 177 points to top its record from last year. The Nittany Lions picked up another championship when Mitchell Mesenbrink won the 165 final 8-2 over Iowa’s Michael Caliendo. Mesenbrink finished unbeaten this season after losing in the national final a year ago.

Nebraska finished second with 117 points and closed out it’s best tournament ever with Ridge Lovett winning at 149 and Antrell Taylor at 157. Oklahoma State finished third with 102.5 points and Iowa was fourth with 81.

North Carolina State freshman Vincent Robinson defeated Oklahoma State’s Troy Spratley 2-1 at 125, and Illinois’ Lucas Byrd defeated Iowa’s Drake Ayala 3-2 at 133.

At 141, Ohio State’s Jesse Mendez rallied from a 5-0 deficit to beat Nebraska’s Brock Hardy 12-9 and claim his second straight national title. Hardy was the No. 1 seed.

At 149, Lovett toppled the defending champion, Virginia Tech’s Caleb Henson, 1-0. Lovett became the first Cornhusker national champion since Jordan Burroughs in 2011.

Nebraska’s Taylor hung on to defeat Purdue’s Joey Blaze 4-2.

Oklahoma State’s Dean Hamiti defeated Missouri’s Keegan O’Toole 4-1 in overtime to win at 174. O’Toole, the national champ at 165 in 2022 and 2023, challenged a takedown during regulation that was reversed and allowed him to get to overtime. In sudden victory, another takedown was challenged, but this time, it was upheld, and Hamiti celebrated with first-year coach David Taylor.

Iowa’s Stephen Buchanan defeated Penn State’s Josh Barr 5-2 in the 197 final. He’s been an All-American at Wyoming, Oklahoma and now Iowa.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1742783143243.png" alt="Oklahoma State's Wyatt Hendrickson, right, reacts after defeating Minnesota's Gable Steveson during a 285-pound match in the finals at the NCAA wrestling championship, Saturday, March 22, 2025, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke)" />
 <figcaption>Oklahoma State's Wyatt Hendrickson, right, reacts after defeating Minnesota's Gable Steveson during a 285-pound match in the finals at the NCAA wrestling championship, Saturday, March 22, 2025, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke)</figcaption>
 </figure>PHILADELPHIA (AP) — Penn State’s Carter Starocci won an unprecedented fifth national title and Oklahoma State’s Wyatt Hendrickson stunned Olympic gold medalist Gable Steveson 5-4 in the heavyweight final Saturday night at the NCAA men’s wrestling championships with President Donald Trump in attendance.Hendrickson, a transfer from Air Force, trailed in the last match of the evening until scoring on a takedown in the final minute — the only takedown Steveson allowed all season.Hendrickson saluted Trump after his victory. With a United States flag draped over his shoulders, he then walked over and shook Trump’s hand and hugged him as part of his celebration. Trump&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-ncaa-wrestling-championships-sports-trips-8f68a03e4c6926ef2e159e67d70a8466">attended the event, just as he did as a candidate in 2023</a>&nbsp;when the tournament was in Tulsa, Oklahoma.“It’s bigger than worlds, Olympics, anything,” an emotional Hendrickson said moments after the win.Minnesota’s Steveson, seeking his third national title, was on a 70-match win streak. The 2021 and 2022 national champion retired at the end of the 2022 event, but returned this year after stints in World Wrestling Entertainment and the National Football League.Steveson entered the third period with a 3-2 lead before&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/NCAAWrestling/status/1903634014193287509" target="_blank">giving up the takedown with about 20 seconds remaining</a>. The crowd erupted when Hendrickson scored and as time expired.Starocci’s Nittany Lions claimed their third four-peat, running away from the field to claim their 12th men’s Division I men’s wrestling national title under coach Cael Sanderson.Starocci defeated Northern Iowa’s Parker Keckeisen 4-3 in the 184-pound final. Keckeisen was the defending champion in the class.Starocci kept it all in perspective.“It means a lot to me, but as for me — I never want to down play the moment — but I mean, it’s always cool, but one thing that Coach Cael really instills in us, this is all just preparation for the next thing.”Penn State, just the second program to have 10 All-Americans in one season, scored 177 points to top its record from last year. The Nittany Lions picked up another championship when Mitchell Mesenbrink won the 165 final 8-2 over Iowa’s Michael Caliendo. Mesenbrink finished unbeaten this season after losing in the national final a year ago.Nebraska finished second with 117 points and closed out it’s best tournament ever with Ridge Lovett winning at 149 and Antrell Taylor at 157. Oklahoma State finished third with 102.5 points and Iowa was fourth with 81.North Carolina State freshman Vincent Robinson defeated Oklahoma State’s Troy Spratley 2-1 at 125, and Illinois’ Lucas Byrd defeated Iowa’s Drake Ayala 3-2 at 133.At 141, Ohio State’s Jesse Mendez rallied from a 5-0 deficit to beat Nebraska’s Brock Hardy 12-9 and claim his second straight national title. Hardy was the No. 1 seed.At 149, Lovett toppled the defending champion, Virginia Tech’s Caleb Henson, 1-0. Lovett became the first Cornhusker national champion since Jordan Burroughs in 2011.Nebraska’s Taylor hung on to defeat Purdue’s Joey Blaze 4-2.Oklahoma State’s Dean Hamiti defeated Missouri’s Keegan O’Toole 4-1 in overtime to win at 174. O’Toole, the national champ at 165 in 2022 and 2023, challenged a takedown during regulation that was reversed and allowed him to get to overtime. In sudden victory, another takedown was challenged, but this time, it was upheld, and Hamiti celebrated with first-year coach David Taylor.Iowa’s Stephen Buchanan defeated Penn State’s Josh Barr 5-2 in the 197 final. He’s been an All-American at Wyoming, Oklahoma and now Iowa.

🤼‍♂️ Newton native Wyatt Hendrickson wins NCAA wrestling title

PITTSBURG, Kan. – No. 27 Fort Hays State dropped a tough road contest against Pittsburg State on Saturday afternoon, falling 5-1 in an MIAA matchup at Al Ortolani Field. The Tigers (18-6, 13-2 MIAA) took an early lead in the fourth inning, but a three-run sixth inning propelled the Gorillas (18-6, 8-6 MIAA) to victory. The result snapped a six-game win streak for the Tigers.

Both teams struggled to generate offense early, as starters Paul Panduro&nbsp;and Maddox Thornton&nbsp;worked through the first three innings without allowing a run. Fort Hays State finally broke the scoreless tie in the top of the fourth. Elliott Herrmann&nbsp;singled up the middle with one out before Trey DeGarmo&nbsp;followed with a single of his own to right-center. After a hit-by-pitch loaded the bases, Cooper Howell&nbsp;lifted a sacrifice fly to right field, bringing Herrmann home for the first run of the game.

Pittsburg State threatened in the bottom half of the inning but was turned away by Panduro. The right-hander worked efficiently through five innings, but the Gorillas finally broke through in the sixth. A two-out rally started with a walk to Drew Bugner, followed by another free pass to Hayden Dyer. Austin Warkins then delivered an RBI single to right, tying the game at 1-1. Moments later, Jake Skaggs lined a two-run double into the gap, scoring both Dyer and Warkins to give the Gorillas a 3-1 lead.

The Tigers looked for an answer in the seventh, but Pittsburg State's defense turned a key double play to keep FHSU off the board. The Gorillas added an insurance run in the bottom of the inning when Bugner singled to left and later came around to score on an error.

Spencer Maley&nbsp;took the mound for Fort Hays State in the eighth, but Pittsburg State managed to tack on one more run.&nbsp;Fort Hays State had one final chance in the ninth, but Pittsburg State closer Cooper Crouch shut the door with a clean inning.

The Tigers were limited to just seven hits on the day, with Cesar Saavedra&nbsp;leading the way at 2-for-4, including a stolen base. Herrmann, DeGarmo, Howell, Ayala, and Woolwine each added a hit, but FHSU struggled to find timely offense.

Panduro, a Pittsburg State transfer, took the loss after going 5 2/3 innings, allowing three runs on six hits with five walks and one strikeout. Brett Jacobs&nbsp;and Maley combined for 2 1/3 innings in relief, striking out three. Thornton&nbsp;earned the win for Pittsburg State, tossing eight innings of one-run ball while scattering seven hits and striking out four.

The Tigers will look to bounce back in the series finale tomorrow (March 23) as they continue MIAA play on the road.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1742694624675.png" alt="FHSU Athletics photo" />
 <figcaption>FHSU Athletics photo</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsPITTSBURG, Kan. – No. 27 Fort Hays State dropped a tough road contest against Pittsburg State on Saturday afternoon, falling 5-1 in an MIAA matchup at Al Ortolani Field. The Tigers (18-6, 13-2 MIAA) took an early lead in the fourth inning, but a three-run sixth inning propelled the Gorillas (18-6, 8-6 MIAA) to victory. The result snapped a six-game win streak for the Tigers.Both teams struggled to generate offense early, as starters Paul Panduro&nbsp;and Maddox Thornton&nbsp;worked through the first three innings without allowing a run. Fort Hays State finally broke the scoreless tie in the top of the fourth. Elliott Herrmann&nbsp;singled up the middle with one out before Trey DeGarmo&nbsp;followed with a single of his own to right-center. After a hit-by-pitch loaded the bases, Cooper Howell&nbsp;lifted a sacrifice fly to right field, bringing Herrmann home for the first run of the game.Pittsburg State threatened in the bottom half of the inning but was turned away by Panduro. The right-hander worked efficiently through five innings, but the Gorillas finally broke through in the sixth. A two-out rally started with a walk to Drew Bugner, followed by another free pass to Hayden Dyer. Austin Warkins then delivered an RBI single to right, tying the game at 1-1. Moments later, Jake Skaggs lined a two-run double into the gap, scoring both Dyer and Warkins to give the Gorillas a 3-1 lead.The Tigers looked for an answer in the seventh, but Pittsburg State's defense turned a key double play to keep FHSU off the board. The Gorillas added an insurance run in the bottom of the inning when Bugner singled to left and later came around to score on an error.Spencer Maley&nbsp;took the mound for Fort Hays State in the eighth, but Pittsburg State managed to tack on one more run.&nbsp;Fort Hays State had one final chance in the ninth, but Pittsburg State closer Cooper Crouch shut the door with a clean inning.The Tigers were limited to just seven hits on the day, with Cesar Saavedra&nbsp;leading the way at 2-for-4, including a stolen base. Herrmann, DeGarmo, Howell, Ayala, and Woolwine each added a hit, but FHSU struggled to find timely offense.Panduro, a Pittsburg State transfer, took the loss after going 5 2/3 innings, allowing three runs on six hits with five walks and one strikeout. Brett Jacobs&nbsp;and Maley combined for 2 1/3 innings in relief, striking out three. Thornton&nbsp;earned the win for Pittsburg State, tossing eight innings of one-run ball while scattering seven hits and striking out four.UP NEXTThe Tigers will look to bounce back in the series finale tomorrow (March 23) as they continue MIAA play on the road.

⚾ No. 27 Tigers stumble at Pittsburg State

Sunday, March 23 KAYS: Fort Hays State SB (DH) vs. Northwest Missouri State, 12:40pm

Saturday, March 22
 noneSunday, March 23 KAYS: Fort Hays State SB (DH) vs. Northwest Missouri State, 12:40pm

NEW YORK (AP) —George Foreman, the fearsome heavyweight who lost the “Rumble in the Jungle” to Muhammad Ali before his inspiring second act as a 45-year-old champion and a successful businessman, died Friday night. He was 76.

Foreman's family&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DHe5UtIJ4IQ/" target="_blank">announced his death on social media</a>.

“A devout preacher, a devoted husband, a loving father, and a proud grand- and great-grandfather, he lived a life marked by unwavering faith, humility and purpose," his family wrote.

A native Texan, Foreman began his boxing career as an Olympic gold medalist who inspired fear as he climbed to the peak of the heavyweight division by stopping Joe Frazier in 1973. His formidable aura evaporated only a year later when Ali pulled off one of the most audacious victories in boxing history in Zaire, baiting and taunting Foreman into losing his belt in one of the greatest fights ever staged.

Foreman left the sport a few years later, but returned after a 10-year absence and a self-described religious awakening.

He then pulled off one of the most spectacular knockouts in boxing history in 1994, flooring Michael Moorer — 19 years his junior — with one perfect combination to claim Moorer's two heavyweight belts.

Foreman's transformation into an inspirational figure was complete, and he fought only four more times before moving onto his next career as a genial businessman, pitchman and occasional actor.

He was best known as the face of the George Foreman Grill, a rudimentary cooking machine which sold more than 100 million units and made him much wealthier than his sport ever did.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1742612515555.jpeg" alt="Heavyweight boxer George Foreman flexes his muscles after weighing in at 260 pounds for his upcoming fight against Shannon Briggs at the Trump Taj Mahal Casino Resort in Atlantic City., N.J., Thursday, Nov. 20, 1997. ((AP Photo/Charles Rex Arbogast, File)" />
 <figcaption>Heavyweight boxer George Foreman flexes his muscles after weighing in at 260 pounds for his upcoming fight against Shannon Briggs at the Trump Taj Mahal Casino Resort in Atlantic City., N.J., Thursday, Nov. 20, 1997. ((AP Photo/Charles Rex Arbogast, File)</figcaption>
 </figure>NEW YORK (AP) —George Foreman, the fearsome heavyweight who lost the “Rumble in the Jungle” to Muhammad Ali before his inspiring second act as a 45-year-old champion and a successful businessman, died Friday night. He was 76.Foreman's family&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DHe5UtIJ4IQ/" target="_blank">announced his death on social media</a>.“A devout preacher, a devoted husband, a loving father, and a proud grand- and great-grandfather, he lived a life marked by unwavering faith, humility and purpose," his family wrote.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1742612646985.jpeg" alt="George Foreman (AP Photo, file)" />
 <figcaption>George Foreman (AP Photo, file)</figcaption>
 </figure>A native Texan, Foreman began his boxing career as an Olympic gold medalist who inspired fear as he climbed to the peak of the heavyweight division by stopping Joe Frazier in 1973. His formidable aura evaporated only a year later when Ali pulled off one of the most audacious victories in boxing history in Zaire, baiting and taunting Foreman into losing his belt in one of the greatest fights ever staged.Foreman left the sport a few years later, but returned after a 10-year absence and a self-described religious awakening.He then pulled off one of the most spectacular knockouts in boxing history in 1994, flooring Michael Moorer — 19 years his junior — with one perfect combination to claim Moorer's two heavyweight belts.Foreman's transformation into an inspirational figure was complete, and he fought only four more times before moving onto his next career as a genial businessman, pitchman and occasional actor.He was best known as the face of the George Foreman Grill, a rudimentary cooking machine which sold more than 100 million units and made him much wealthier than his sport ever did.

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