HAYS, Kan. – Fort Hays State baseball put on a show in front of their home crowd Sunday, exploding for a nine-run eighth inning to secure a commanding 13-2 run-rule victory over Missouri Southern at Larks Park. The win was punctuated by a walk-off grand slam from&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/trey-degarmo/8419">Trey DeGarmo</a>, sealing the Tigers' eighth MIAA victory in dominant fashion.

The Tigers (13-5, 8-1 MIAA) wasted no time setting the tone, as&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/zane-knox/8426">Zane Knox</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/derek-woolwine/8557">Derek Woolwine</a>&nbsp;launched back-to-back solo home runs in the first inning to put Fort Hays State up 2-0 early. Missouri Southern (12-7, 5-5 MIAA) struggled to get anything going offensively in the early innings, as Tigers' starter&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/paul-panduro/8460">Paul Panduro</a>&nbsp;kept their bats in check.

Fort Hays State extended its lead in the fourth inning, capitalizing on key at-bats.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/cooper-howell/8459">Cooper Howell</a>&nbsp;roped a leadoff double down the right-field line before&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/jamison-armstrong/8412">Jamison Armstrong</a>&nbsp;executed a textbook sacrifice bunt to advance the runner.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/derek-woolwine/8557">Derek Woolwine</a>&nbsp;then lifted a sacrifice fly to left field, scoring Howell to make it 4-0.Missouri Southern found some life in the top of the fifth, putting together a two-run frame. A leadoff single from Cooper Walkoff set the stage for an RBI single from Ethan Clark, while Jacob Filip followed with a sacrifice fly to trim the deficit to 4-2. However, that would be all the offense the Lions could muster, as Panduro worked out of the inning without further damage before turning the ball over to the bullpen.

From that point on, the Tigers' pitching staff locked in. Panduro (1-1) delivered 6 1/3 strong innings, allowing just two runs on eight hits while striking out four and walking one.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/kaleb-carpenter/8453">Kaleb Carpenter</a>&nbsp;took over in the seventh and slammed the door shut, retiring all five batters he faced with two strikeouts.

While the Tigers had been held scoreless since the fourth inning, they made up for lost time in the eighth, blowing the game wide open with an offensive outburst. Fort Hays State sent 13 batters to the plate in the inning, tallying nine runs on five hits and three walks.

The highlight of the day came with the bases loaded and DeGarmo stepping up to the plate. Already 3-for-3 on the day, the senior third baseman put an exclamation point on his dominant performance, launching a towering grand slam over the left-field fence to end the game in walk-off fashion via the 10-run rule. DeGarmo finished 4-for-4 with four RBIs, a home run, and two runs scored, turning in one of the best performances this season.

Offensively, the Tigers were relentless, tallying 13 hits and showcasing their depth throughout the lineup. Seven different players recorded at least one hit, with DeGarmo, Knox, Woolwine, Howell, and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/brady-kreutzer/8427">Brady Kreutzer</a>&nbsp;all turning in multi-hit performances. Knox and Woolwine each drove in two runs, while Howell added an RBI double. The Tigers also demonstrated patience at the plate, drawing eight walks and forcing Missouri Southern pitchers to work deep into counts.

With the victory, Fort Hays State solidified its position in the MIAA standings, continuing its impressive start to conference play. The Tigers will look to carry their momentum into next weekend's home series against Central Oklahoma at Larks Park.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741640983629.png" alt="FHSU Athletics photo/Ryan Prickett" />
 <figcaption>FHSU Athletics photo/Ryan Prickett</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsHAYS, Kan. – Fort Hays State baseball put on a show in front of their home crowd Sunday, exploding for a nine-run eighth inning to secure a commanding 13-2 run-rule victory over Missouri Southern at Larks Park. The win was punctuated by a walk-off grand slam from&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/trey-degarmo/8419">Trey DeGarmo</a>, sealing the Tigers' eighth MIAA victory in dominant fashion.The Tigers (13-5, 8-1 MIAA) wasted no time setting the tone, as&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/zane-knox/8426">Zane Knox</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/derek-woolwine/8557">Derek Woolwine</a>&nbsp;launched back-to-back solo home runs in the first inning to put Fort Hays State up 2-0 early. Missouri Southern (12-7, 5-5 MIAA) struggled to get anything going offensively in the early innings, as Tigers' starter&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/paul-panduro/8460">Paul Panduro</a>&nbsp;kept their bats in check.Fort Hays State extended its lead in the fourth inning, capitalizing on key at-bats.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/cooper-howell/8459">Cooper Howell</a>&nbsp;roped a leadoff double down the right-field line before&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/jamison-armstrong/8412">Jamison Armstrong</a>&nbsp;executed a textbook sacrifice bunt to advance the runner.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/derek-woolwine/8557">Derek Woolwine</a>&nbsp;then lifted a sacrifice fly to left field, scoring Howell to make it 4-0.Missouri Southern found some life in the top of the fifth, putting together a two-run frame. A leadoff single from Cooper Walkoff set the stage for an RBI single from Ethan Clark, while Jacob Filip followed with a sacrifice fly to trim the deficit to 4-2. However, that would be all the offense the Lions could muster, as Panduro worked out of the inning without further damage before turning the ball over to the bullpen.From that point on, the Tigers' pitching staff locked in. Panduro (1-1) delivered 6 1/3 strong innings, allowing just two runs on eight hits while striking out four and walking one.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/kaleb-carpenter/8453">Kaleb Carpenter</a>&nbsp;took over in the seventh and slammed the door shut, retiring all five batters he faced with two strikeouts.While the Tigers had been held scoreless since the fourth inning, they made up for lost time in the eighth, blowing the game wide open with an offensive outburst. Fort Hays State sent 13 batters to the plate in the inning, tallying nine runs on five hits and three walks.The highlight of the day came with the bases loaded and DeGarmo stepping up to the plate. Already 3-for-3 on the day, the senior third baseman put an exclamation point on his dominant performance, launching a towering grand slam over the left-field fence to end the game in walk-off fashion via the 10-run rule. DeGarmo finished 4-for-4 with four RBIs, a home run, and two runs scored, turning in one of the best performances this season.Offensively, the Tigers were relentless, tallying 13 hits and showcasing their depth throughout the lineup. Seven different players recorded at least one hit, with DeGarmo, Knox, Woolwine, Howell, and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/brady-kreutzer/8427">Brady Kreutzer</a>&nbsp;all turning in multi-hit performances. Knox and Woolwine each drove in two runs, while Howell added an RBI double. The Tigers also demonstrated patience at the plate, drawing eight walks and forcing Missouri Southern pitchers to work deep into counts.With the victory, Fort Hays State solidified its position in the MIAA standings, continuing its impressive start to conference play. The Tigers will look to carry their momentum into next weekend's home series against Central Oklahoma at Larks Park.&nbsp;&nbsp;

⚾ Tigers clinch series with run-rule victory over No. 25 Missouri Southern

🎥🏀 Redeem Designs Plays of the Week TMP vs Hoxie Girls Sub-State Championship

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Kansas City Chiefs have agreed to a two-year, $30 million contract with offensive tackle Jaylon Moore and a one-year, $3.5 million contract with his former 49ers teammate Elijah Mitchell, two people familiar with the deals told The Associated Press.

The people spoke on condition of anonymity because neither contract has become official.

The Chiefs spent the entire season searching for an upgrade at left tackle after rookie Kingsley Suamataia and second-year pro Wanya Morris struggled to protect Patrick Mahomes. They ultimately slid All-Pro guard Joe Thuney to tackle for the stretch run and the playoffs, but they were still unable to protect Mahomes in a lopsided Super Bowl loss to Philadelphia.

Last week, the Chiefs traded Thuney to the Bears for a fourth-round pick in the 2026 draft, creating another hole along their offensive line. It is possible that Suamataia transitions from tackle to guard and gets the first chance at that spot.

The trade nevertheless left Kansas City with one fewer option to play offensive tackle. And when the Ravens signed Ronnie Stanley to a three-year, $60 million contract to keep the best potential option off the free-agent market, the Chiefs began to look elsewhere, and they ultimately settled on a tackle in Moore who appeared in 55 games the past four years in San Francisco.

The 27-year-old Moore was picked by the 49ers in the fifth round out of the 2021 draft of Western Michigan. And while he only started 12 games for San Francisco, five of them came late last season, and he fared well in the expanded role.

The Chiefs could still draft an offensive tackle to provide competition or serve as an understudy, but Moore at least solidifies one of their biggest holes. They already have signed center Creed Humphrey to a long-term deal and are working on an extension for right guard Trey Smith, whom they used the franchise tag on earlier in the offseason.

Meanwhile, the Chiefs signed the 26-year-old Mitchell in the hopes he can revitalized an injury-prone career in Kansas City.

Mitchell wowed scouts at the NFL combine in 2021, when he ran a 4.38-second 40-yard dash, and he ran for nearly 1,000 yards in just 11 games as a rookie. But Mitchell only appeared in five games the following year because of knee injuries, and 11 games two seasons ago, before landing on the reserve/injured list during last year's roster cuts because of a hamstring injury.

The only other running backs on the Kansas City roster had been Isiah Pacheco, who is entering a contract year after missing a portion of last season because of an injury, along with journeyman Keontay Ingram and hybrid-fullback Carson Steele.

Their third-down back, Samaje Perine, is a free agent along with Kareem Hunt, who played well for the Chiefs after Pacheco got hurt. Hunt went unsigned last offseason because of an injury but is expected to get plenty of offers this offseason.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Kansas City Chiefs have agreed to a two-year, $30 million contract with offensive tackle Jaylon Moore and a one-year, $3.5 million contract with his former 49ers teammate Elijah Mitchell, two people familiar with the deals told The Associated Press.The people spoke on condition of anonymity because neither contract has become official.The Chiefs spent the entire season searching for an upgrade at left tackle after rookie Kingsley Suamataia and second-year pro Wanya Morris struggled to protect Patrick Mahomes. They ultimately slid All-Pro guard Joe Thuney to tackle for the stretch run and the playoffs, but they were still unable to protect Mahomes in a lopsided Super Bowl loss to Philadelphia.Last week, the Chiefs traded Thuney to the Bears for a fourth-round pick in the 2026 draft, creating another hole along their offensive line. It is possible that Suamataia transitions from tackle to guard and gets the first chance at that spot.The trade nevertheless left Kansas City with one fewer option to play offensive tackle. And when the Ravens signed Ronnie Stanley to a three-year, $60 million contract to keep the best potential option off the free-agent market, the Chiefs began to look elsewhere, and they ultimately settled on a tackle in Moore who appeared in 55 games the past four years in San Francisco.The 27-year-old Moore was picked by the 49ers in the fifth round out of the 2021 draft of Western Michigan. And while he only started 12 games for San Francisco, five of them came late last season, and he fared well in the expanded role.The Chiefs could still draft an offensive tackle to provide competition or serve as an understudy, but Moore at least solidifies one of their biggest holes. They already have signed center Creed Humphrey to a long-term deal and are working on an extension for right guard Trey Smith, whom they used the franchise tag on earlier in the offseason.Meanwhile, the Chiefs signed the 26-year-old Mitchell in the hopes he can revitalized an injury-prone career in Kansas City.Mitchell wowed scouts at the NFL combine in 2021, when he ran a 4.38-second 40-yard dash, and he ran for nearly 1,000 yards in just 11 games as a rookie. But Mitchell only appeared in five games the following year because of knee injuries, and 11 games two seasons ago, before landing on the reserve/injured list during last year's roster cuts because of a hamstring injury.The only other running backs on the Kansas City roster had been Isiah Pacheco, who is entering a contract year after missing a portion of last season because of an injury, along with journeyman Keontay Ingram and hybrid-fullback Carson Steele.Their third-down back, Samaje Perine, is a free agent along with Kareem Hunt, who played well for the Chiefs after Pacheco got hurt. Hunt went unsigned last offseason because of an injury but is expected to get plenty of offers this offseason.

🏈Chiefs bringing in offensive tackle Jaylon Moore and running back Elijah Mitchell, AP sources say

🎥🏀 Redeem Designs Plays of the Week HHS vs Hutchinson Girls Sub-State Championship

The Fort Hays State men take on Central Oklahoma in the MIAA Tournament championship game on Sunday, March 9, 2025 at Municipal Auditorium in Kansas City, Mo.

The Fort Hays State men take on Central Oklahoma in the MIAA Tournament championship game on Sunday, March 9, 2025 at Municipal Auditorium in Kansas City, Mo.<div><iframe title="FHSU Rewind-MBB vs. Central Oklahoma (March 9, 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=6ver6-18348ab-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 vs. UCO in MIAA Tourney finals

INDIANAPOLIS - The Fort Hays State women's basketball team earned an at-large bid into the 2025 NCAA Division II Women's Basketball Championship, announced on Selection Sunday. The Tigers will play as the No. 3 seed in the Central Regional for a second season in a row, with FHSU drawing No. 6 seed Southern Nazarene in the quarterfinal round.

The Tigers and the Crimson Storm will open the tournament on Friday (March 14) beginning at noon inside Lance Arena on the campus of Pittsburg State University. The Gorillas earned hosting duties after picking up the top overall seed in the region.

Fort Hays State enters the tournament 27-4 on the year, the fifth-most wins in a single season in team history. The Tigers posted their 14th-straight 20-win season, the longest active streak in Division II.

This is Fort Hays State's 10th selection to play in the NCAA Tournament, including nine trips to the dance in the last 11 years. The Tigers are 8-8 all-time in the tournament, 1-1 against teams from the GAC, 1-1 as the No. 3 seed and 1-0 against the No. 6 seed.

The Tigers have played in the regional in Pittsburg once before, earning the No. 5 seed in 2016 before falling to No. 4 Winona State in the quarterfinal round, 60-55.

Fort Hays State reached the regional semifinal last year as the No. 3 seed, beating Northwest Missouri in the quarterfinal round before falling to eventual national champion Minnesota State-Mankato in the semis.

There is a quick turnaround after Friday's quarterfinal round, with winning teams playing in the semifinals on Saturday (March 15) before advancing to the regional title game next Monday (March 17).

The Central Region champion will join seven other regional champions in Pittsburgh, Pa. at the NCAA Division II Women's Elite Eight March 24-28.

Fort Hays State is 2-0 all-time against Southern Nazarene, including a 45-43 win in the most recent meeting in 2022.

Tickets will go on sale Monday morning at the PSU Ticket Office or by calling (620) 235-4796. All tickets are general admission. Cost is $10 for an adult single-session ticket and $3 for a student single-session ticket.&nbsp;More information on the regional will be released as it becomes available.

2025 NCAA Division II Women's Basketball Championship Central Region Tournament Quarterfinal Matchups Noon - No. 3 Fort Hays State (27-4) vs. No. 7 Southern Nazarene (23-7) 2:30 p.m. - No. 2 Concordia-St. Paul (29-2) vs. No. 6 Southwest Minnesota State (26-4) 5 p.m. - No. 1 Pittsburg State (29-3) vs. No. 8 Harding (25-6) 7:30 p.m. - No. 4 Missouri Western (20-9) vs. No. 5 Minnesota State Mankato (24-7)&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741579772609.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsINDIANAPOLIS - The Fort Hays State women's basketball team earned an at-large bid into the 2025 NCAA Division II Women's Basketball Championship, announced on Selection Sunday. The Tigers will play as the No. 3 seed in the Central Regional for a second season in a row, with FHSU drawing No. 6 seed Southern Nazarene in the quarterfinal round.The Tigers and the Crimson Storm will open the tournament on Friday (March 14) beginning at noon inside Lance Arena on the campus of Pittsburg State University. The Gorillas earned hosting duties after picking up the top overall seed in the region.Fort Hays State enters the tournament 27-4 on the year, the fifth-most wins in a single season in team history. The Tigers posted their 14th-straight 20-win season, the longest active streak in Division II.This is Fort Hays State's 10th selection to play in the NCAA Tournament, including nine trips to the dance in the last 11 years. The Tigers are 8-8 all-time in the tournament, 1-1 against teams from the GAC, 1-1 as the No. 3 seed and 1-0 against the No. 6 seed.The Tigers have played in the regional in Pittsburg once before, earning the No. 5 seed in 2016 before falling to No. 4 Winona State in the quarterfinal round, 60-55.Fort Hays State reached the regional semifinal last year as the No. 3 seed, beating Northwest Missouri in the quarterfinal round before falling to eventual national champion Minnesota State-Mankato in the semis.There is a quick turnaround after Friday's quarterfinal round, with winning teams playing in the semifinals on Saturday (March 15) before advancing to the regional title game next Monday (March 17).The Central Region champion will join seven other regional champions in Pittsburgh, Pa. at the NCAA Division II Women's Elite Eight March 24-28.Fort Hays State is 2-0 all-time against Southern Nazarene, including a 45-43 win in the most recent meeting in 2022.Tickets will go on sale Monday morning at the PSU Ticket Office or by calling (620) 235-4796. All tickets are general admission. Cost is $10 for an adult single-session ticket and $3 for a student single-session ticket.&nbsp;More information on the regional will be released as it becomes available.2025 NCAA Division II Women's Basketball Championship Central Region Tournament Quarterfinal Matchups Noon - No. 3 Fort Hays State (27-4) vs. No. 7 Southern Nazarene (23-7) 2:30 p.m. - No. 2 Concordia-St. Paul (29-2) vs. No. 6 Southwest Minnesota State (26-4) 5 p.m. - No. 1 Pittsburg State (29-3) vs. No. 8 Harding (25-6) 7:30 p.m. - No. 4 Missouri Western (20-9) vs. No. 5 Minnesota State Mankato (24-7)&nbsp;&nbsp;

🏀 Tiger women draw the No. 3 seed in NCAA II Central Regional

INDIANAPOLIS – Fresh off a championship run in the MIAA Tournament, Fort Hays State Men's Basketball secured an automatic bid to the 2025 NCAA Division II Men's Basketball Championship Tournament, announced Sunday by the NCAA. With a record of 22-9, the Tigers earned the No. 7 seed in the Central Region and will take on No. 2 seed MSU Moorhead in the regional quarterfinals at Lee Arena in Topeka, Kansas.

This marks Fort Hays State's 15th NCAA Central Regional appearance overall and back-to-back years the Tigers are in the big dance. Under 24th-year head coach Mark Johnson, FHSU has reached the NCAA Tournament nine times.

The Tigers enter the tournament battle-tested, having navigated a grueling MIAA slate before claiming the conference tournament title. Their nation-leading scoring defense has been the backbone of their success.

Fort Hays State is one of two teams from the MIAA to earn a spot in the NCAA Tournament, joining nationally ranked and Central Region host Washburn. The Ichabods are the No. 1 seed in the Central Region, so the tournament will be held at Lee Arena in Topeka. The Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference placed five teams in the field, while the Great American Conference secured just one with Harding getting the automatic qualifier.

2025 NCAA Division II Men's Basketball Championship Central Region Tournament Quarterfinal Matchups Noon - No. 3 Winona State vs. No. 6 Southwest Minnesota State 2:30 p.m. -&nbsp;No. 2 MSU Moorhead vs. No. 7 Fort Hays State 5:00 p.m. -&nbsp;No. 1 Washburn vs. No. 8 Harding 7:30 p.m. -&nbsp;No. 4 Minot State vs. No. 5 Concordia-St. Paul

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741579471797.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsINDIANAPOLIS – Fresh off a championship run in the MIAA Tournament, Fort Hays State Men's Basketball secured an automatic bid to the 2025 NCAA Division II Men's Basketball Championship Tournament, announced Sunday by the NCAA. With a record of 22-9, the Tigers earned the No. 7 seed in the Central Region and will take on No. 2 seed MSU Moorhead in the regional quarterfinals at Lee Arena in Topeka, Kansas.This marks Fort Hays State's 15th NCAA Central Regional appearance overall and back-to-back years the Tigers are in the big dance. Under 24th-year head coach Mark Johnson, FHSU has reached the NCAA Tournament nine times.The Tigers enter the tournament battle-tested, having navigated a grueling MIAA slate before claiming the conference tournament title. Their nation-leading scoring defense has been the backbone of their success.Fort Hays State is one of two teams from the MIAA to earn a spot in the NCAA Tournament, joining nationally ranked and Central Region host Washburn. The Ichabods are the No. 1 seed in the Central Region, so the tournament will be held at Lee Arena in Topeka. The Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference placed five teams in the field, while the Great American Conference secured just one with Harding getting the automatic qualifier.2025 NCAA Division II Men's Basketball Championship Central Region Tournament Quarterfinal Matchups Noon - No. 3 Winona State vs. No. 6 Southwest Minnesota State 2:30 p.m. -&nbsp;No. 2 MSU Moorhead vs. No. 7 Fort Hays State 5:00 p.m. -&nbsp;No. 1 Washburn vs. No. 8 Harding 7:30 p.m. -&nbsp;No. 4 Minot State vs. No. 5 Concordia-St. Paul

🏀Tiger men draw No. 7 seed in Central Region of NCAA Tournament

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Fort Hays State fell in the MIAA Women's Basketball Tournament Championship Game on Sunday at Municipal Auditorium. Pittsburg State raced out of the gate to a 9-0 lead and the Tigers struggled to find their rhythm early, ultimately leading to an 81-73 victory for the Gorillas. FHSU is now 27-4 overall, while PSU moved to 29-3 overall. Both teams will await their NCAA Tournament future tonight during the selection show at 9:30 p.m. on NCAA.com.

Fort Hays State fell down 22-10 after one quarter and the lead grew as large as 22 in the first half for the Gorillas. Eventually PSU took a 16-point lead (43-27) to the locker room. The Gorillas shot nearly 50 percent in the first half, while FHSU struggled to just 33.3 percent.

The Tigers lost two more points of ground in the third quarter and went into the fourth down 18. The Gorillas held a 24-point lead with 8:49 to play, but the Tigers found a lot of success late and trimmed the final score all the way back down to an eight-point margin. FHSU had the lead down to six with six seconds to play.

Katie DeGarmo, the MIAA Player of the Year, moved into the all-time lead for scoring and rebounds at the MIAA Tournament. She had a double-double of 16 points and 11 rebounds. She finished with 227 points and 117 rebounds in her MIAA Tournament career.

Olivia Hollenbeck&nbsp;and Talexa Weeter&nbsp;tied for high-point honors for the Tigers, each with 17. Hollenbeck was just one rebound shy of a double-double with nine. Brooke Loewe&nbsp;also was close to a double-double with 15 points and nine assists. Weeter and DeGarmo were named to the all-tournament team for their success over three contests.

Grace Pyle led the Gorillas with 23 points, while Karenna Gerber added 19. All Gorillas that played in the game scored.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741578847355.png" alt="Fort Hays State's Brooke Loewe drives to the basket in the second half of the MIAA Tournament championship game against Pittsburg State on Sunday, March 9, 2025 in Kansas City, Mo. (FHSU Athletics photo/Ryan Prickett)" />
 <figcaption>Fort Hays State's Brooke Loewe drives to the basket in the second half of the MIAA Tournament championship game against Pittsburg State on Sunday, March 9, 2025 in Kansas City, Mo. (FHSU Athletics photo/Ryan Prickett)</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsKANSAS CITY, Mo. – Fort Hays State fell in the MIAA Women's Basketball Tournament Championship Game on Sunday at Municipal Auditorium. Pittsburg State raced out of the gate to a 9-0 lead and the Tigers struggled to find their rhythm early, ultimately leading to an 81-73 victory for the Gorillas. FHSU is now 27-4 overall, while PSU moved to 29-3 overall. Both teams will await their NCAA Tournament future tonight during the selection show at 9:30 p.m. on NCAA.com.<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/2050494612&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/talia-kahrs-postgame-1" title="Fort Hays State WBB Postgame Press Conference vs. Pittsburg State (March 9, 2025)" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Fort Hays State WBB Postgame Press Conference vs. Pittsburg State (March 9, 2025)</a></div></div>Fort Hays State fell down 22-10 after one quarter and the lead grew as large as 22 in the first half for the Gorillas. Eventually PSU took a 16-point lead (43-27) to the locker room. The Gorillas shot nearly 50 percent in the first half, while FHSU struggled to just 33.3 percent.The Tigers lost two more points of ground in the third quarter and went into the fourth down 18. The Gorillas held a 24-point lead with 8:49 to play, but the Tigers found a lot of success late and trimmed the final score all the way back down to an eight-point margin. FHSU had the lead down to six with six seconds to play.Katie DeGarmo, the MIAA Player of the Year, moved into the all-time lead for scoring and rebounds at the MIAA Tournament. She had a double-double of 16 points and 11 rebounds. She finished with 227 points and 117 rebounds in her MIAA Tournament career.<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/2050508320&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-wbkb-highlights-v-pitt" title="#9 Fort Hays State WBB Highlights vs. #8 Pittsburg State (March 9, 2025)" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">#9 Fort Hays State WBB Highlights vs. #8 Pittsburg State (March 9, 2025)</a></div></div>Olivia Hollenbeck&nbsp;and Talexa Weeter&nbsp;tied for high-point honors for the Tigers, each with 17. Hollenbeck was just one rebound shy of a double-double with nine. Brooke Loewe&nbsp;also was close to a double-double with 15 points and nine assists. Weeter and DeGarmo were named to the all-tournament team for their success over three contests.Grace Pyle led the Gorillas with 23 points, while Karenna Gerber added 19. All Gorillas that played in the game scored.

🏀 Tiger women fall short to Gorillas in MIAA championship game

&nbsp; KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Fort Hays State claimed its second MIAA Men's Basketball Tournament title with a 72-71 win over Central Oklahoma on Sunday afternoon at Municipal Auditorium. The Tigers grabbed the MIAA's automatic bid to the NCAA Tournament and will find out their opponent tonight during the NCAA selection show at 10 p.m. on NCAA.com. The Tigers moved to 22-9 overall, while the Bronchos finished their season at 19-13 overall.

The Tigers came out on the good end of a back-and-forth battle that saw 18 lead changes and 12 ties throughout. The last minute was full of drama as Kyle Grill&nbsp;broke a tie and put the Tigers up three with just under a minute to play. But just a few moments later, Israel Hart launched about a 30-foot 3-point field goal, made it, and was fouled. He hit the free throw to put the Bronchos up one with 47 seconds to go. Kaleb Hammeke&nbsp;drew a foul with 27 seconds to go and hit both free throws to put the Tigers on top. Then in typical Tiger fashion, defense punched their ticket to the NCAA Tournament as they got a defensive stop just before the buzzer to hang on by a point.

Both teams struggled to find any separation in the first half. Fort Hays State held the biggest lead of the half, a seven-point advantage with the score at 29-22. However, UCO outscored FHSU 14-6 over the final six minutes of the half to take a 36-35 lead at halftime.

With about 14:30 to go in the game, UCO held its largest lead of seven points by a score of 48-41. But the Tigers showed grit and countered with a 9-0 run to take the lead back at 50-48. The Tigers held a six-point lead of 67-61 with 3:30 to play, but the Bronchos countered with a 6-0 run to even the score and set up the drama in the final minute of the game that bounced the Tigers' way.

Kaleb Hammeke&nbsp;finished with a team-high 22 points. He was a perfect 6-of-6 at the free-throw line, hitting his most crucial pair of the game. He was named the tournament's Most Outstanding Player. Kyle Grill&nbsp;was also named to the All-Tournament Team, making his case with a 17-point performance going 7-of-10 from the field with three 3-point field goals. Dan Makuna&nbsp;provided a big stretch of minutes in the second half for the Tigers and finished with 11 points and a team-high seven rebounds. Hammeke dished out a team-high four assists. Lucas Hammeke&nbsp;was critical in FHSU's 9-0 run in the second half and finished with six points.

Hart led UCO with a double-double of 25 points and 10 rebounds. He also tied for his team's lead in assists with four. Jacobi Sebock had 16 points and JV Seat added 11. Hart and Seat were named to the all-tournament team as well.

Fort Hays State is a perfect 2-for-2 in MIAA championship games, also winning back in 2011. It was also the second tournament title under head coach Mark Johnson, who has now coached the Tigers to four conference titles (2 tournament, 2 regular season). The FHSU men are 6-1 overall in conference tournament title games in their NCAA Division II history.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741578272337.png" alt="FHSU Athletics photo/Ryan Prickett" />
 <figcaption>FHSU Athletics photo/Ryan Prickett</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU Athletics&nbsp; KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Fort Hays State claimed its second MIAA Men's Basketball Tournament title with a 72-71 win over Central Oklahoma on Sunday afternoon at Municipal Auditorium. The Tigers grabbed the MIAA's automatic bid to the NCAA Tournament and will find out their opponent tonight during the NCAA selection show at 10 p.m. on NCAA.com. The Tigers moved to 22-9 overall, while the Bronchos finished their season at 19-13 overall.<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/2050458512&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/mark-johnson-postgame-4" title="Fort Hays State MBB Postgame Press Conference vs. Central Oklahoma (March 9, 2025)" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Fort Hays State MBB Postgame Press Conference vs. Central Oklahoma (March 9, 2025)</a></div></div>The Tigers came out on the good end of a back-and-forth battle that saw 18 lead changes and 12 ties throughout. The last minute was full of drama as Kyle Grill&nbsp;broke a tie and put the Tigers up three with just under a minute to play. But just a few moments later, Israel Hart launched about a 30-foot 3-point field goal, made it, and was fouled. He hit the free throw to put the Bronchos up one with 47 seconds to go. Kaleb Hammeke&nbsp;drew a foul with 27 seconds to go and hit both free throws to put the Tigers on top. Then in typical Tiger fashion, defense punched their ticket to the NCAA Tournament as they got a defensive stop just before the buzzer to hang on by a point.Both teams struggled to find any separation in the first half. Fort Hays State held the biggest lead of the half, a seven-point advantage with the score at 29-22. However, UCO outscored FHSU 14-6 over the final six minutes of the half to take a 36-35 lead at halftime.<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/2050459264&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-mbkb-highlights-vs-6" title="Fort Hays State MBB Highlights vs. Central Oklahoma (March 9, 2025)" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Fort Hays State MBB Highlights vs. Central Oklahoma (March 9, 2025)</a></div></div>With about 14:30 to go in the game, UCO held its largest lead of seven points by a score of 48-41. But the Tigers showed grit and countered with a 9-0 run to take the lead back at 50-48. The Tigers held a six-point lead of 67-61 with 3:30 to play, but the Bronchos countered with a 6-0 run to even the score and set up the drama in the final minute of the game that bounced the Tigers' way.Kaleb Hammeke&nbsp;finished with a team-high 22 points. He was a perfect 6-of-6 at the free-throw line, hitting his most crucial pair of the game. He was named the tournament's Most Outstanding Player. Kyle Grill&nbsp;was also named to the All-Tournament Team, making his case with a 17-point performance going 7-of-10 from the field with three 3-point field goals. Dan Makuna&nbsp;provided a big stretch of minutes in the second half for the Tigers and finished with 11 points and a team-high seven rebounds. Hammeke dished out a team-high four assists. Lucas Hammeke&nbsp;was critical in FHSU's 9-0 run in the second half and finished with six points.Hart led UCO with a double-double of 25 points and 10 rebounds. He also tied for his team's lead in assists with four. Jacobi Sebock had 16 points and JV Seat added 11. Hart and Seat were named to the all-tournament team as well.Fort Hays State is a perfect 2-for-2 in MIAA championship games, also winning back in 2011. It was also the second tournament title under head coach Mark Johnson, who has now coached the Tigers to four conference titles (2 tournament, 2 regular season). The FHSU men are 6-1 overall in conference tournament title games in their NCAA Division II history.&nbsp;&nbsp;

🏀 Tigers win instant classic MIAA championship game over Bronchos

HAYS, Kan. – Fort Hays State baseball put up a fight until the final out but fell short in a 12-10 loss to Missouri Southern on Sunday (March 9) at Larks Park. Despite a late surge in the ninth inning, the Tigers couldn't overcome the Lions' offensive firepower, dropping to 12-5 overall and 7-1 in MIAA play.

Missouri Southern wasted no time jumping on the scoreboard, launching back-to-back solo home runs in the first inning to take a 2-0 lead. Fort Hays State threatened in the bottom half after a hit-by-pitch and a pair of singles loaded the bases, but the Tigers were unable to capitalize.

In the third, Fort Hays State responded when&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/derek-woolwine/8557">Derek Woolwine</a>&nbsp;blasted a two-run home run to right field, tying the game at 2-2. However, Missouri Southern reclaimed the lead in the fourth, stringing together walks and a clutch single up the middle to drive in two more runs, putting the Lions back on top 4-2.

Fort Hays State erupted for five runs in the bottom of the fourth to take control of the game. The rally started with&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/luis-ayala/8413">Luis Ayala</a>&nbsp;working a walk before&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/cooper-howell/8459">Cooper Howell</a>&nbsp;singled through the right side to put two runners aboard.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/brady-kreutzer/8427">Brady Kreutzer</a>&nbsp;followed with an RBI single, cutting the deficit to 4-3.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/sebastian-burgos/8415">Sebastian Burgos</a>&nbsp;then delivered a crucial double to deep center, plating another run to tie the game at 4-4. With runners on second and third,&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/cesar-saavedra/8433">Cesar Saavedra</a>&nbsp;drove in the go-ahead run with a sharp single to right, giving the Tigers their first lead of the game at 5-4.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/zane-knox/8426">Zane Knox</a>&nbsp;added an insurance run with a perfectly executed squeeze bunt to bring home Burgos before Woolwine capped off the rally with an RBI double down the line, extending the Tigers' advantage to 7-4.

The lead didn't last long as Missouri Southern stormed back with a four-run fifth inning. After a leadoff double and a strikeout, the Lions strung together a walk and a single to load the bases. Chayton Beck brought home a run with a single, cutting the deficit to 7-5. The biggest blow came off the bat of Cy Darnell, who hit a three-run homer to left field, flipping the score once again as Missouri Southern pulled ahead 8-7.

The Lions tacked on another run in the sixth with a bases-loaded walk, pushing the lead to 9-7. In the bottom half, Knox responded for Fort Hays State with a solo shot to right, cutting the gap to one at 9-8. Missouri Southern delivered another gut punch in the seventh when Brayden Luikart launched his second home run of the game, a three-run blast to left center, stretching the lead to 12-8.

Trailing by four entering the final frame, Fort Hays State made one last push. Woolwine sparked the comeback with a leadoff double down the right-field line.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/tyson-jimenez/8424">Tyson Jimenez</a>&nbsp;came in as a pinch-runner and quickly advanced to third when&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/trey-degarmo/8419">Trey DeGarmo</a>&nbsp;ripped a double to left. With one out, Ayala lifted a sacrifice fly to right field, bringing Jimenez home and making it a 12-9 game. On the next pitch, Howell delivered another clutch sac fly to center, scoring DeGarmo and bringing the Tigers within two at 12-10. However, Missouri Southern's closer Kyle Moore managed to shut the door, getting a called third strike to end the game and deny the Tigers' comeback attempt.

<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/derek-woolwine/8557">Derek Woolwine</a>&nbsp;led the Tigers with a stellar 4-for-5 performance, including a home run, a double, and three RBIs, providing a major spark for the Fort Hays State offense.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/zane-knox/8426">Zane Knox</a>&nbsp;also played a key role, driving in two runs with a solo homer and executing a crucial sacrifice bunt. The Tigers showcased a balanced offensive attack, with&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/cesar-saavedra/8433">Cesar Saavedra</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/cooper-howell/8459">Cooper Howell</a>, and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/brady-kreutzer/8427">Brady Kreutzer</a>&nbsp;each contributing RBIs.

On the mound,&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/cade-flaherty/8420">Cade Flaherty</a>&nbsp;got the start, pitching 4.2 innings while allowing eight runs on seven hits. Despite the early struggles,&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/brandon-chavez/8417">Brandon Chavez</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/brett-jacobs/8423">Brett Jacobs</a>&nbsp;provided solid relief, shutting down the Lions' offense and holding them scoreless after the seventh inning. However, Missouri Southern's Brayden Luikart proved to be the difference-maker, delivering a monster game with six RBIs on three hits, including two home runs, leading the Lions to victory.

Fort Hays State will look to bounce back tomorrow (March 10) for the rubber match between No. 25 Missouri Southern. First pitch is set for 1 p.m. at Larks Park.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741579200485.png" alt="FHSU Athletics photo/Ryan Prickett" />
 <figcaption>FHSU Athletics photo/Ryan Prickett</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsHAYS, Kan. – Fort Hays State baseball put up a fight until the final out but fell short in a 12-10 loss to Missouri Southern on Sunday (March 9) at Larks Park. Despite a late surge in the ninth inning, the Tigers couldn't overcome the Lions' offensive firepower, dropping to 12-5 overall and 7-1 in MIAA play.Missouri Southern wasted no time jumping on the scoreboard, launching back-to-back solo home runs in the first inning to take a 2-0 lead. Fort Hays State threatened in the bottom half after a hit-by-pitch and a pair of singles loaded the bases, but the Tigers were unable to capitalize.In the third, Fort Hays State responded when&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/derek-woolwine/8557">Derek Woolwine</a>&nbsp;blasted a two-run home run to right field, tying the game at 2-2. However, Missouri Southern reclaimed the lead in the fourth, stringing together walks and a clutch single up the middle to drive in two more runs, putting the Lions back on top 4-2.Fort Hays State erupted for five runs in the bottom of the fourth to take control of the game. The rally started with&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/luis-ayala/8413">Luis Ayala</a>&nbsp;working a walk before&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/cooper-howell/8459">Cooper Howell</a>&nbsp;singled through the right side to put two runners aboard.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/brady-kreutzer/8427">Brady Kreutzer</a>&nbsp;followed with an RBI single, cutting the deficit to 4-3.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/sebastian-burgos/8415">Sebastian Burgos</a>&nbsp;then delivered a crucial double to deep center, plating another run to tie the game at 4-4. With runners on second and third,&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/cesar-saavedra/8433">Cesar Saavedra</a>&nbsp;drove in the go-ahead run with a sharp single to right, giving the Tigers their first lead of the game at 5-4.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/zane-knox/8426">Zane Knox</a>&nbsp;added an insurance run with a perfectly executed squeeze bunt to bring home Burgos before Woolwine capped off the rally with an RBI double down the line, extending the Tigers' advantage to 7-4.The lead didn't last long as Missouri Southern stormed back with a four-run fifth inning. After a leadoff double and a strikeout, the Lions strung together a walk and a single to load the bases. Chayton Beck brought home a run with a single, cutting the deficit to 7-5. The biggest blow came off the bat of Cy Darnell, who hit a three-run homer to left field, flipping the score once again as Missouri Southern pulled ahead 8-7.The Lions tacked on another run in the sixth with a bases-loaded walk, pushing the lead to 9-7. In the bottom half, Knox responded for Fort Hays State with a solo shot to right, cutting the gap to one at 9-8. Missouri Southern delivered another gut punch in the seventh when Brayden Luikart launched his second home run of the game, a three-run blast to left center, stretching the lead to 12-8.Trailing by four entering the final frame, Fort Hays State made one last push. Woolwine sparked the comeback with a leadoff double down the right-field line.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/tyson-jimenez/8424">Tyson Jimenez</a>&nbsp;came in as a pinch-runner and quickly advanced to third when&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/trey-degarmo/8419">Trey DeGarmo</a>&nbsp;ripped a double to left. With one out, Ayala lifted a sacrifice fly to right field, bringing Jimenez home and making it a 12-9 game. On the next pitch, Howell delivered another clutch sac fly to center, scoring DeGarmo and bringing the Tigers within two at 12-10. However, Missouri Southern's closer Kyle Moore managed to shut the door, getting a called third strike to end the game and deny the Tigers' comeback attempt.<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/derek-woolwine/8557">Derek Woolwine</a>&nbsp;led the Tigers with a stellar 4-for-5 performance, including a home run, a double, and three RBIs, providing a major spark for the Fort Hays State offense.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/zane-knox/8426">Zane Knox</a>&nbsp;also played a key role, driving in two runs with a solo homer and executing a crucial sacrifice bunt. The Tigers showcased a balanced offensive attack, with&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/cesar-saavedra/8433">Cesar Saavedra</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/cooper-howell/8459">Cooper Howell</a>, and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/brady-kreutzer/8427">Brady Kreutzer</a>&nbsp;each contributing RBIs.On the mound,&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/cade-flaherty/8420">Cade Flaherty</a>&nbsp;got the start, pitching 4.2 innings while allowing eight runs on seven hits. Despite the early struggles,&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/brandon-chavez/8417">Brandon Chavez</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/brett-jacobs/8423">Brett Jacobs</a>&nbsp;provided solid relief, shutting down the Lions' offense and holding them scoreless after the seventh inning. However, Missouri Southern's Brayden Luikart proved to be the difference-maker, delivering a monster game with six RBIs on three hits, including two home runs, leading the Lions to victory.UP NEXTFort Hays State will look to bounce back tomorrow (March 10) for the rubber match between No. 25 Missouri Southern. First pitch is set for 1 p.m. at Larks Park.&nbsp;&nbsp;

⚾ Late rally not enough for FHSU against No. 25 Missouri Southern

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Kansas City Chiefs and linebacker Nick Bolton have agreed to a three-year, $45 million contract that keeps the quarterback of their defense out of free agency, a person familiar with the deal told The Associated Press on Sunday.

The person spoke to the AP on condition of anonymity because the contract had not been announced.

The Chiefs selected the 24-year-old Bolton in the second round of the 2021 draft out of Missouri, making the Texas native a homegrown star of sorts. He has started 53 of the 57 regular-season games he has played for Kansas City over the past four seasons, and helped the Chiefs win a pair of Super Bowl rings and make it to the big game again this past season.

Bolton's best season came in 2022, when he made 180 tackles in 17 games while picking off a pair of passes for a team that ultimately beat the Eagles in the Super Bowl. He was limited to eight games because of injuries two years ago, and this past season appeared in 16 games, making 106 tackles with an interception and a career-high three sacks.

Most importantly, the Chiefs value Bolton's high IQ in coordinator Steve Spagnuolo's complex scheme. He wears the helmet with the radio connection to the coaching staff, and he's responsible for making sure the rest of the defense is properly aligned.

The Chiefs have been busy as they prepare for the start of free agency this week.

This past Wednesday, the Chiefs&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/chiefs-bears-joe-thuney-trade-6d254efcbfad2dd3442864ca6d3bc57f">traded All-Pro offensive guard Joe Thuney</a>&nbsp;to the Bears for a fourth-round pick in the 2026 draft. The decision to deal the 32-year-old Thuney was largely a financial one, freeing up $16 million in salary cap space that the Chiefs planned to use to help re-sign some of their stars — such as Bolton — and address other needs.

The Chiefs have used the franchise tag on Pro Bowl offensive guard Trey Smith, which means they are obligated to pay him $23.4 million next season unless the side work out a long-term deal. Some of the money they saved from Thuney's contract they could use to sign the 25-year-old Smith to a long-term contract extension.

They also used some of the salary cap space Saturday when the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-city-chiefs-hollywood-brown-1d81799b407bab62a13b64a9556859ee">Chiefs agreed with wide receiver Marquise Brown</a>&nbsp;on an $11 million contract for next season. The deal is similar to the one-year contract Brown signed last season, when he hoped he could parlay a big season with quarterback Patrick Mahomes into a lucrative long-term contract.

Instead, Brown dislocated a shoulder joint on the first snap of the preseason, and surgery kept Brown out&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-city-chiefs-analysis-26984fac3c36156943cca2224a8d1125">until Week 15 of the regular season</a>. Brown had nine catches for 91 yards in two games before sitting out the final week of the season. He added five catches for 50 yards in the playoffs, including two for 15 yards in the Chiefs’ 40-22 loss to Philadelphia in the Super Bowl.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741641769828.jpeg" alt="Philadelphia Eagles running back Kenneth Gainwell (14) is tackled by Kansas City Chiefs defensive end Felix Anudike-Uzomah, left to right, defensive tackle Tershawn Wharton and linebacker Nick Bolton during the first half of the NFL Super Bowl 59 football game, Sunday, Feb. 9, 2025, in New Orleans. (AP Photo/Godofredo A. Vásquez)" />
 <figcaption>Philadelphia Eagles running back Kenneth Gainwell (14) is tackled by Kansas City Chiefs defensive end Felix Anudike-Uzomah, left to right, defensive tackle Tershawn Wharton and linebacker Nick Bolton during the first half of the NFL Super Bowl 59 football game, Sunday, Feb. 9, 2025, in New Orleans. (AP Photo/Godofredo A. Vásquez)</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Kansas City Chiefs and linebacker Nick Bolton have agreed to a three-year, $45 million contract that keeps the quarterback of their defense out of free agency, a person familiar with the deal told The Associated Press on Sunday.The person spoke to the AP on condition of anonymity because the contract had not been announced.The Chiefs selected the 24-year-old Bolton in the second round of the 2021 draft out of Missouri, making the Texas native a homegrown star of sorts. He has started 53 of the 57 regular-season games he has played for Kansas City over the past four seasons, and helped the Chiefs win a pair of Super Bowl rings and make it to the big game again this past season.Bolton's best season came in 2022, when he made 180 tackles in 17 games while picking off a pair of passes for a team that ultimately beat the Eagles in the Super Bowl. He was limited to eight games because of injuries two years ago, and this past season appeared in 16 games, making 106 tackles with an interception and a career-high three sacks.Most importantly, the Chiefs value Bolton's high IQ in coordinator Steve Spagnuolo's complex scheme. He wears the helmet with the radio connection to the coaching staff, and he's responsible for making sure the rest of the defense is properly aligned.The Chiefs have been busy as they prepare for the start of free agency this week.This past Wednesday, the Chiefs&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/chiefs-bears-joe-thuney-trade-6d254efcbfad2dd3442864ca6d3bc57f">traded All-Pro offensive guard Joe Thuney</a>&nbsp;to the Bears for a fourth-round pick in the 2026 draft. The decision to deal the 32-year-old Thuney was largely a financial one, freeing up $16 million in salary cap space that the Chiefs planned to use to help re-sign some of their stars — such as Bolton — and address other needs.The Chiefs have used the franchise tag on Pro Bowl offensive guard Trey Smith, which means they are obligated to pay him $23.4 million next season unless the side work out a long-term deal. Some of the money they saved from Thuney's contract they could use to sign the 25-year-old Smith to a long-term contract extension.They also used some of the salary cap space Saturday when the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-city-chiefs-hollywood-brown-1d81799b407bab62a13b64a9556859ee">Chiefs agreed with wide receiver Marquise Brown</a>&nbsp;on an $11 million contract for next season. The deal is similar to the one-year contract Brown signed last season, when he hoped he could parlay a big season with quarterback Patrick Mahomes into a lucrative long-term contract.Instead, Brown dislocated a shoulder joint on the first snap of the preseason, and surgery kept Brown out&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-city-chiefs-analysis-26984fac3c36156943cca2224a8d1125">until Week 15 of the regular season</a>. Brown had nine catches for 91 yards in two games before sitting out the final week of the season. He added five catches for 50 yards in the playoffs, including two for 15 yards in the Chiefs’ 40-22 loss to Philadelphia in the Super Bowl.

🏈Chiefs agree with middle linebacker Nick Bolton on 3-year, $45 million contract, AP source says

HAYS, Kan. - The Fort Hays State softball team split a doubleheader with Missouri Western on Sunday (March 9), falling in the opener 8-0 before taking the second contest 4-1. The Tigers are now 11-5 overall and 3-1 in MIAA action while the Griffons move to 12-7 on the year and 1-1 in conference play.

<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/paige-thexton/8200">Paige Thexton</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/morgan-schmidt/8190">Morgan Schmidt</a>&nbsp;carried the Tigers in the nightcap, with Thexton driving in all four FHSU runs including a three-run home run while Schmidt tossed another complete game to earn the win.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/jules-bosco/8199">Jules Bosco</a>&nbsp;had three hits on the day while reaching base a total of five times.

Next up for the Tigers is eight-straight non-conference matchups starting Tuesday (March 11, 1 p.m./noon MT) when FHSU heads to Colorado Springs, Colo. to take on UC-Colorado Springs.

Game 1 - Missouri Western 8, Fort Hays State 0 Missouri Western's Sydney Rader controlled the opener, allowing just three hits and issuing two walks in a complete-game shutout. The Griffons broke through with four runs on three hits in the second before adding one run in the third and three more in the seventh.

Trailing 5-0 in the bottom of the sixth, the Tigers had their best chance to score with the bases loaded and only one out. But Rader was able to get out of the jam with two strikeouts to maintain the shutout.

Bosco reached base three times, singling, drawing one walk and reaching on an error.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/lexi-mohr/8187">Lexi Mohr</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/madison-pierce/8188">Madison Pierce</a>&nbsp;also picked up singles in the opener.

<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/savanah-egger/8183">Savanah Egger</a>&nbsp;(5-3) took the loss after allowing six runs on seven hits over 6.0-plus innings of work, striking out four.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/korryn-johnson/8197">Korryn Johnson</a>&nbsp;came on to finish the game, allowing two more runs to score.

Game 2 - Fort Hays State 4, Missouri Western 1 Fort Hays State shook off the loss in the second contest thanks in large part to Schmidt and Thexton. Schmidt puzzled the Griffon bats all game, scattering four hits and two walks while allowing one run and striking out seven in a complete game. She did not allow more than two baserunners in any inning.

The home team pushed its first run across in the bottom of the second after&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/lexi-mohr/8187">Lexi Mohr</a>&nbsp;doubled to left center. Thexton later delivered a two-out single to right, driving in Mohr and giving FHSU a 1-0 lead.

Thexton then delivered another clutch two-out hit in the home half of the fourth when she crushed her first home run of the season, driving in three runs. Pierce had led off the inning with a double before&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/regan-curry/8182">Regan Curry</a>&nbsp;legged out a bunt single. The next two Tiger hitters were retired, but Thexton was able to come through when she drilled a 3-2 pitch soaring over the fence in left field.

The Griffons responded with two base hits in the top of the fifth, scoring to close within 4-1, before Schmidt (6-2) retired eight in a row to close out the win.

Thexton was 2-for-2 with four RBI and one run, while Bosco also collected two hits.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741578951371.png" alt="FHSU Athletics photo/Kaden Johnson" />
 <figcaption>FHSU Athletics photo/Kaden Johnson</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsHAYS, Kan. - The Fort Hays State softball team split a doubleheader with Missouri Western on Sunday (March 9), falling in the opener 8-0 before taking the second contest 4-1. The Tigers are now 11-5 overall and 3-1 in MIAA action while the Griffons move to 12-7 on the year and 1-1 in conference play.<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/paige-thexton/8200">Paige Thexton</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/morgan-schmidt/8190">Morgan Schmidt</a>&nbsp;carried the Tigers in the nightcap, with Thexton driving in all four FHSU runs including a three-run home run while Schmidt tossed another complete game to earn the win.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/jules-bosco/8199">Jules Bosco</a>&nbsp;had three hits on the day while reaching base a total of five times.Next up for the Tigers is eight-straight non-conference matchups starting Tuesday (March 11, 1 p.m./noon MT) when FHSU heads to Colorado Springs, Colo. to take on UC-Colorado Springs.Game 1 - Missouri Western 8, Fort Hays State 0 Missouri Western's Sydney Rader controlled the opener, allowing just three hits and issuing two walks in a complete-game shutout. The Griffons broke through with four runs on three hits in the second before adding one run in the third and three more in the seventh.Trailing 5-0 in the bottom of the sixth, the Tigers had their best chance to score with the bases loaded and only one out. But Rader was able to get out of the jam with two strikeouts to maintain the shutout.Bosco reached base three times, singling, drawing one walk and reaching on an error.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/lexi-mohr/8187">Lexi Mohr</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/madison-pierce/8188">Madison Pierce</a>&nbsp;also picked up singles in the opener.<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/savanah-egger/8183">Savanah Egger</a>&nbsp;(5-3) took the loss after allowing six runs on seven hits over 6.0-plus innings of work, striking out four.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/korryn-johnson/8197">Korryn Johnson</a>&nbsp;came on to finish the game, allowing two more runs to score.Game 2 - Fort Hays State 4, Missouri Western 1 Fort Hays State shook off the loss in the second contest thanks in large part to Schmidt and Thexton. Schmidt puzzled the Griffon bats all game, scattering four hits and two walks while allowing one run and striking out seven in a complete game. She did not allow more than two baserunners in any inning.The home team pushed its first run across in the bottom of the second after&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/lexi-mohr/8187">Lexi Mohr</a>&nbsp;doubled to left center. Thexton later delivered a two-out single to right, driving in Mohr and giving FHSU a 1-0 lead.Thexton then delivered another clutch two-out hit in the home half of the fourth when she crushed her first home run of the season, driving in three runs. Pierce had led off the inning with a double before&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/regan-curry/8182">Regan Curry</a>&nbsp;legged out a bunt single. The next two Tiger hitters were retired, but Thexton was able to come through when she drilled a 3-2 pitch soaring over the fence in left field.The Griffons responded with two base hits in the top of the fifth, scoring to close within 4-1, before Schmidt (6-2) retired eight in a row to close out the win.Thexton was 2-for-2 with four RBI and one run, while Bosco also collected two hits.

🥎 Tigers split with Griffons

Sunday, March 9 KJLS: Fort Hays State MBKB at MIAA Tournament (Finals), 12:30pm KJLS: Fort Hays State WBKB at MIAA Tournament (Finals), 3:05pm&nbsp;&nbsp;

Sunday, March 9 KJLS: Fort Hays State MBKB at MIAA Tournament (Finals), 12:30pm KJLS: Fort Hays State WBKB at MIAA Tournament (Finals), 3:05pm&nbsp;&nbsp;

🎧 Eagle Radio, Hull sports broadcast schedule

SUBLETTE – The TMP-Marian Lady Monarchs held their third straight postseason
opponent to a season low in points on their way to a sub-state championship Saturday
in Sublette and a return trip to the state tournament for the first time since
2018 with a 47-39 win over Hoxie.

The two teams started slow Saturday, trading baskets and the
lead back-and-forth to open the game with seven lead changes and four ties
before Hoxie closed out the first quarter with five straight points for a 14-11
lead.

They continued the run into the second quarter, outscoring the
Monarchs 10-3 to open the second quarter and build the game's largest lead for
either team at 10 points, 24-14 with just over two minutes to play in the first
half.

But the Monarchs wouldn’t go away. Instead, they put
together another run for which they have become known, outscoring Hoxie 22-5 to
take a 36-29 lead with just under five minutes to play in the game.

The run covered the end of the first half, the entire third
quarter, and the first three minutes and 10 seconds of the fourth quarter, or
13 minutes and 10 seconds of game time. 

After allowing 24 points in the first half, TMP limited
Hoxie to just 15 points in the second half.

During that stretch, TMP’s Gracyn Schippers scored eight of
her team-high 14 points, and Teagan Gottschalk converted on her second three-pointer
of the game and the season.

Hoxie threatened several times down the stretch, cutting TMP’s
lead to two twice, but the Monarchs closed the game out, converting 8-of-10 at
the free-throw line in the fourth quarter and secured the 47-39 victory.

Gracyn Schippers led TMP with 14 points and blocked two
shots. Brooke Koenigsman added 11 points. Claire Schippers finished with 10 points, and Teagan Gottschalk added eight points.
Gottschalk also added six rebounds.

The Monarchs will be the No. 8 seed at the 2A state
tournament with a record of 15-9.

They will open with the top-seed Moundridge at 2 p.m. Thursday
in Manhattan. Moundridge is 21-2.

The winner will face the winner of No. 4 Phillipsburg and No.
5 Inman. Those two teams play at 4 p.m. on Thursday.

You can see the full bracket <a href="https://www.kshsaa.org/Public/ScoreCenter/Brackets/Basketball/Girls/2AState.cfm?WeekID=6062&amp;Class=2A&amp;Activity=2">HERE</a>.

<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Sub-State Champs!!! <a href="https://t.co/KmXsWujL0S">pic.twitter.com/KmXsWujL0S</a>&mdash; TMP-Marian Monarchs (@TMP_Athletics) <a href="https://twitter.com/TMP_Athletics/status/1898555956843417922?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 9, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>SUBLETTE – The TMP-Marian Lady Monarchs held their third straight postseason
opponent to a season low in points on their way to a sub-state championship Saturday
in Sublette and a return trip to the state tournament for the first time since
2018 with a 47-39 win over Hoxie.<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/2049989956&color=%23294b71&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/john-linn-postgame-interview-6" title="John Linn Postgame Interview vs Hoxie (Mar 8th 25)" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">John Linn Postgame Interview vs Hoxie (Mar 8th 25)</a></div></div>The two teams started slow Saturday, trading baskets and the
lead back-and-forth to open the game with seven lead changes and four ties
before Hoxie closed out the first quarter with five straight points for a 14-11
lead.They continued the run into the second quarter, outscoring the
Monarchs 10-3 to open the second quarter and build the game's largest lead for
either team at 10 points, 24-14 with just over two minutes to play in the first
half.But the Monarchs wouldn’t go away. Instead, they put
together another run for which they have become known, outscoring Hoxie 22-5 to
take a 36-29 lead with just under five minutes to play in the game.The run covered the end of the first half, the entire third
quarter, and the first three minutes and 10 seconds of the fourth quarter, or
13 minutes and 10 seconds of game time. After allowing 24 points in the first half, TMP limited
Hoxie to just 15 points in the second half.During that stretch, TMP’s Gracyn Schippers scored eight of
her team-high 14 points, and Teagan Gottschalk converted on her second three-pointer
of the game and the season.Hoxie threatened several times down the stretch, cutting TMP’s
lead to two twice, but the Monarchs closed the game out, converting 8-of-10 at
the free-throw line in the fourth quarter and secured the 47-39 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/2049990828&color=%23294b71&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-vs-hoxie-1" title="TMP WBKB Highlights vs Hoxie (Mar 8th 25)" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">TMP WBKB Highlights vs Hoxie (Mar 8th 25)</a></div></div>Gracyn Schippers led TMP with 14 points and blocked two
shots. Brooke Koenigsman added 11 points. Claire Schippers finished with 10 points, and Teagan Gottschalk added eight points.
Gottschalk also added six rebounds.The Monarchs will be the No. 8 seed at the 2A state
tournament with a record of 15-9.They will open with the top-seed Moundridge at 2 p.m. Thursday
in Manhattan. Moundridge is 21-2.The winner will face the winner of No. 4 Phillipsburg and No.
5 Inman. Those two teams play at 4 p.m. on Thursday.You can see the full bracket <a href="https://www.kshsaa.org/Public/ScoreCenter/Brackets/Basketball/Girls/2AState.cfm?WeekID=6062&amp;Class=2A&amp;Activity=2">HERE</a>.

🏀TMP Lady Monarchs state-bound for first time since 2018

Hays traveled to Andover on Saturday trying to punch their ticket to the 5A State Basketball Tournament.&nbsp;

The score was tight early. The game was tied at three points a piece and then Hays took their only lead of the game at 6-5. The two teams were tied one more time in the first half at eight. The Indians though scored just two points over the next 6:15. Andover took advantage with a 15-2 run for a 27-13 lead.

The run proved to be the difference the rest of the way.&nbsp;

Andover hit seven three pointers in the first half on just twelve attempts. Hays did shoot 47% in the first half but the Trojans shot 60% from the field for a 32-18 lead at halftime.

Andover kept the Indians at arms length through out the second half. Hays cut a 19 point deficit down to 12 at one point but missed a layup to get any closer. The Trojans converted on a three point play the next possession for a 42-27 lead.

Hays trailed by 17 going to fourth quarter and never got closer than 14 in the 62-40 loss.

Hays (13-9) ends the season with five seniors playing their final game. Andover (19-3) heads to the state tournament for the ninth time.

Tiger Johnson ended the season with 50 made three point field goals, second most in a single season at Hays High.

Carter Lang 1; Johnny Cano 3; Trace Jacobs 0; Cooper Lindenmeyer 3; Trey Oakley 11; Tiger Johnson 6; Brody Harmony 0; Izaac Fox 10; Noah Smalley 0; Brecken Otte 0; Dawson Ruder 5; Alex Loving 2.

Hays traveled to Andover on Saturday trying to punch their ticket to the 5A State Basketball Tournament.&nbsp;The score was tight early. The game was tied at three points a piece and then Hays took their only lead of the game at 6-5. The two teams were tied one more time in the first half at eight. The Indians though scored just two points over the next 6:15. Andover took advantage with a 15-2 run for a 27-13 lead.The run proved to be the difference the rest of the way.&nbsp;Andover hit seven three pointers in the first half on just twelve attempts. Hays did shoot 47% in the first half but the Trojans shot 60% from the field for a 32-18 lead at halftime.Highlights<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/2049988388&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/hhs-mbkb-vs-andover-highlights" title="HHS MBKB vs Andover Highlights March 8 2025" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">HHS MBKB vs Andover Highlights March 8 2025</a></div></div>Andover kept the Indians at arms length through out the second half. Hays cut a 19 point deficit down to 12 at one point but missed a layup to get any closer. The Trojans converted on a three point play the next possession for a 42-27 lead.Hays trailed by 17 going to fourth quarter and never got closer than 14 in the 62-40 loss.Coach Sean Dreiling<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/2049988540&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/hhs-coach-sean-dreiling" title="HHS Coach Sean Dreiling Interview March 8 2025" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">HHS Coach Sean Dreiling Interview March 8 2025</a></div></div>Hays (13-9) ends the season with five seniors playing their final game. Andover (19-3) heads to the state tournament for the ninth time.Tiger Johnson ended the season with 50 made three point field goals, second most in a single season at Hays High.Carter Lang 1; Johnny Cano 3; Trace Jacobs 0; Cooper Lindenmeyer 3; Trey Oakley 11; Tiger Johnson 6; Brody Harmony 0; Izaac Fox 10; Noah Smalley 0; Brecken Otte 0; Dawson Ruder 5; Alex Loving 2.

🏀 Hays season ends in Andover

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - The ninth-ranked Fort Hays State women's basketball team avenged a pair of regular season losses against Missouri Western with a 77-73 win in the semifinal round of the 2025 MIAA Championship presented by Southern Bank on Saturday.

With the win the Tigers (27-3) will move on to the conference tournament title game on Sunday afternoon where they will face off with No. 8 Pittsburg State for the second consecutive season. The women's game is scheduled to tip off at 3:30 p.m. after the Tiger men take on Central Oklahoma in the other conference championship game beginning at 1 p.m.

The Griffons (20-9) quickly built an eight-point lead in the first quarter after pouring in 3-of-6 from behind the arc in the opening quarter. A pair of Talexa Weeter&nbsp;3-pointers allowed the Tigers to close within two by the end of the first frame, 19-17.

After scoring six points in the opening quarter, Katie Wagner, Katie DeGarmo quickly added five points in the first 62 seconds of the second frame to give the Tigers their first lead of the day, 22-19. Missouri Western later tied the score at 26 before a 3-pointer from Bailey Wilborn&nbsp;gave FHSU the lead for good midway through the second quarter.

Ellie Stearns&nbsp;added a 3-pointer soon after while Weeter hit two more layups, giving the sophomore 14 first-half points and stretching the Tiger lead as high as eight. But the Griffons were able to end the quarter on a 5-0 run, holding FHSU scoreless for more than four minutes to pull within 36-33 at the break.

Fort Hays State methodically pushed its lead back to eight midway through the third before a quick 6-0 Griffon run made it a two-point game, 46-44. The graduate student duo of DeGarmo and Olivia Hollenbeck&nbsp;answered with their own six-point run, padding the lead back to eight.

DeGarmo scored on the first possession of the fourth quarter, pushing the lead to double figures for the first time, 58-48. Fort Hays State later led by as many as 14, 64-50, with 7:25 to play.

No strangers to shaking off double-digit deficits against the Tigers after doing so twice in the regular season, the Griffons weren't done. Missouri Western poured in 4-of-7 from behind the arc down the stretch, helping the Griffons pull within one possession with 11 seconds to go.

Thanks to a 7-of-9 effort from the free-throw line over the final 63 seconds of action the Tigers were able to hold off the Griffon run once and for all.

The Tigers combined to shoot 51.7 percent from the floor (30-of-58), shooting 50 percent or better for the fourth time in the last five games and doing so for the 11th time this season.

DeGarmo led the team with 25 points and eight rebounds while finishing second on the squad with a season-high seven assists. The Maize, Kan. native now has 106 rebounds in 13 MIAA tournament games, tied for the most in a career in tournament history (Kathryn Flott, ESU, 2012-17). She also has 211 points in those games, two off the MIAA tournament scoring record (213 points, Shelley Foster, WU, 1992-95).Two days after racking up a career-high 35 points, fourth-most in a game in tournament history, Weeter racked up 21 points, seven rebounds, two assists, two steals and two blocks against the Griffons. Wilborn recorded 10 points, three assists and two steals after knocking down 3-of-5 from behind the arc, while&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-basketball/roster/brooke-loewe/8331">Brooke Loewe</a>&nbsp;distributed eight assists alongside seven points. Stearns hit a pair from behind the arc, totaling six points, six rebounds, two assists and two steals.

The Griffons also had a pair surpass the 20-point threshold, with first team All-MIAA pick Alyssa Bonilla totaling 26 points on five 3-pointers while Laura Toffali contributed 21 points.

The Tigers will play in the finals for the sixth time in the last eight tournaments, three more than any other school during that span. FHSU's seven appearances in the conference title game since joining the MIAA 19 years ago are second only to Emporia State during that span (nine).&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741496347648.png" alt="Fort Hays State's Katie DeGarmo (23) drives to basket while being defended by Missouri Western State's Malgorzata Byczkowska (33) in the first half of the MIAA Tournament semifinals on Saturday, March 8, 2025 in Kansas City, Mo. (FHSU Athletics photo/Ryan Prickett)" />
 <figcaption>Fort Hays State's Katie DeGarmo (23) drives to basket while being defended by Missouri Western State's Malgorzata Byczkowska (33) in the first half of the MIAA Tournament semifinals on Saturday, March 8, 2025 in Kansas City, Mo. (FHSU Athletics photo/Ryan Prickett)</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsKANSAS CITY, Mo. - The ninth-ranked Fort Hays State women's basketball team avenged a pair of regular season losses against Missouri Western with a 77-73 win in the semifinal round of the 2025 MIAA Championship presented by Southern Bank on Saturday.With the win the Tigers (27-3) will move on to the conference tournament title game on Sunday afternoon where they will face off with No. 8 Pittsburg State for the second consecutive season. The women's game is scheduled to tip off at 3:30 p.m. after the Tiger men take on Central Oklahoma in the other conference championship game beginning at 1 p.m.<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/2050015304&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/talia-kahrs-postgame-v" title="#9 FHSU WBB Postgame Press Conference vs. Missouri Western State (March 8, 2025)" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">#9 FHSU WBB Postgame Press Conference vs. Missouri Western State (March 8, 2025)</a></div></div>The Griffons (20-9) quickly built an eight-point lead in the first quarter after pouring in 3-of-6 from behind the arc in the opening quarter. A pair of Talexa Weeter&nbsp;3-pointers allowed the Tigers to close within two by the end of the first frame, 19-17.After scoring six points in the opening quarter, Katie Wagner, Katie DeGarmo quickly added five points in the first 62 seconds of the second frame to give the Tigers their first lead of the day, 22-19. Missouri Western later tied the score at 26 before a 3-pointer from Bailey Wilborn&nbsp;gave FHSU the lead for good midway through the second quarter.Ellie Stearns&nbsp;added a 3-pointer soon after while Weeter hit two more layups, giving the sophomore 14 first-half points and stretching the Tiger lead as high as eight. But the Griffons were able to end the quarter on a 5-0 run, holding FHSU scoreless for more than four minutes to pull within 36-33 at the break.Fort Hays State methodically pushed its lead back to eight midway through the third before a quick 6-0 Griffon run made it a two-point game, 46-44. The graduate student duo of DeGarmo and Olivia Hollenbeck&nbsp;answered with their own six-point run, padding the lead back to eight.DeGarmo scored on the first possession of the fourth quarter, pushing the lead to double figures for the first time, 58-48. Fort Hays State later led by as many as 14, 64-50, with 7:25 to play.<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/2050024424&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-wbkb-highlights-v" title="#9 Fort Hays State WBB Highlights vs. Missouri Western State (March 8, 2025)" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">#9 Fort Hays State WBB Highlights vs. Missouri Western State (March 8, 2025)</a></div></div>No strangers to shaking off double-digit deficits against the Tigers after doing so twice in the regular season, the Griffons weren't done. Missouri Western poured in 4-of-7 from behind the arc down the stretch, helping the Griffons pull within one possession with 11 seconds to go.Thanks to a 7-of-9 effort from the free-throw line over the final 63 seconds of action the Tigers were able to hold off the Griffon run once and for all.The Tigers combined to shoot 51.7 percent from the floor (30-of-58), shooting 50 percent or better for the fourth time in the last five games and doing so for the 11th time this season.DeGarmo led the team with 25 points and eight rebounds while finishing second on the squad with a season-high seven assists. The Maize, Kan. native now has 106 rebounds in 13 MIAA tournament games, tied for the most in a career in tournament history (Kathryn Flott, ESU, 2012-17). She also has 211 points in those games, two off the MIAA tournament scoring record (213 points, Shelley Foster, WU, 1992-95).Two days after racking up a career-high 35 points, fourth-most in a game in tournament history, Weeter racked up 21 points, seven rebounds, two assists, two steals and two blocks against the Griffons. Wilborn recorded 10 points, three assists and two steals after knocking down 3-of-5 from behind the arc, while&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-basketball/roster/brooke-loewe/8331">Brooke Loewe</a>&nbsp;distributed eight assists alongside seven points. Stearns hit a pair from behind the arc, totaling six points, six rebounds, two assists and two steals.The Griffons also had a pair surpass the 20-point threshold, with first team All-MIAA pick Alyssa Bonilla totaling 26 points on five 3-pointers while Laura Toffali contributed 21 points.UP NEXTThe Tigers will play in the finals for the sixth time in the last eight tournaments, three more than any other school during that span. FHSU's seven appearances in the conference title game since joining the MIAA 19 years ago are second only to Emporia State during that span (nine).&nbsp;&nbsp;

🏀 No. 9 Tigers vanquish Griffons, advance to MIAA title game

LAWRENCE, Ks. (AP) — Hunter Dickinson matched a career high with 33 points to lead Kansas past&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/ap-top-25-college-basketball-poll">No. 24</a>&nbsp;Arizona 83-76 on Saturday.

Zeke Mayo drilled five three-pointers and had 20 points while KJ Adams Jr. scored 12, including three dunks while the Jayhawks (20-11, 11-9 Big 12) built a 14-point first-half lead.

The Wildcats (20-11, 14-6) rallied for a brief lead before Dickinson took over, scoring 16 in the first half on 8-of-9 shooting, giving the Jayhawks a 39-30 halftime advantage.

Dickinson grabbed 10 rebounds for his 15th double-double of the year. He was 15 of 23 from the floor.

Jaden Bradley led Arizona with 21 points on 7-of-11 shooting and made all seven of his free-throw attempts. Caleb Love had 16 points and Trey Townsend scored 13 off the bench.

As Bradley and Love traded baskets, Arizona erased Kansas’ halftime advantage, taking a short-lived two-point lead at 68-66 with 6:02 to play. The pair combined for 26 second-half points.

Kansas has won 42 consecutive home finales and reached the 20-win mark for the 36th straight year.

Arizona has lost 5 of 8 since a six-game winning streak.

Adams tipped a rebound of Dickinson’s 3-point miss, then dunked an alley-oop pass for a 79-72 lead with 1:22. Adams had four dunks.

Kansas recorded 14 assists against one first-half turnover.

Arizona: Begins Big 12 Tournament play Thursday as the No. 2 or 3 seed.

Kansas: Begins Big 12 Tournament play Tuesday as No. 9 seed or Wednesday as No. 7 or 8 seed.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741477678993.png" alt="Photo Kansas athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Kansas athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>LAWRENCE, Ks. (AP) — Hunter Dickinson matched a career high with 33 points to lead Kansas past&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/ap-top-25-college-basketball-poll">No. 24</a>&nbsp;Arizona 83-76 on Saturday.Zeke Mayo drilled five three-pointers and had 20 points while KJ Adams Jr. scored 12, including three dunks while the Jayhawks (20-11, 11-9 Big 12) built a 14-point first-half lead.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741477727642.png" alt="photo Kansas athletics" />
 <figcaption>photo Kansas athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>The Wildcats (20-11, 14-6) rallied for a brief lead before Dickinson took over, scoring 16 in the first half on 8-of-9 shooting, giving the Jayhawks a 39-30 halftime advantage.Dickinson grabbed 10 rebounds for his 15th double-double of the year. He was 15 of 23 from the floor.Jaden Bradley led Arizona with 21 points on 7-of-11 shooting and made all seven of his free-throw attempts. Caleb Love had 16 points and Trey Townsend scored 13 off the bench.As Bradley and Love traded baskets, Arizona erased Kansas’ halftime advantage, taking a short-lived two-point lead at 68-66 with 6:02 to play. The pair combined for 26 second-half points.<h2>Takeaways</h2>Kansas has won 42 consecutive home finales and reached the 20-win mark for the 36th straight year.Arizona has lost 5 of 8 since a six-game winning streak.<h2>Key moment</h2>Adams tipped a rebound of Dickinson’s 3-point miss, then dunked an alley-oop pass for a 79-72 lead with 1:22. Adams had four dunks.<h2>Key stat</h2>Kansas recorded 14 assists against one first-half turnover.<h2>Up next</h2>Arizona: Begins Big 12 Tournament play Thursday as the No. 2 or 3 seed.Kansas: Begins Big 12 Tournament play Tuesday as No. 9 seed or Wednesday as No. 7 or 8 seed.

🏀 Dickinson's 33 points leads Kansas over Arizona 

&nbsp; HAYS, Kan. – Fort Hays State baseball continued its dominant start to conference play with an emphatic 11-7 victory over No. 25 Missouri Southern on Saturday at Larks Park. A seven-run first inning set the tone early, and despite a late push from the Lions, the Tigers controlled the game from start to finish to remain undefeated in MIAA action.

The Tigers wasted no time jumping on Missouri Southern, capitalizing on early pitching struggles to plate seven runs in the opening frame.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/elliott-herrmann/8422">Elliott Herrmann</a>&nbsp;led the offensive charge, launching two home runs and driving in three runs, while&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/brady-kreutzer/8427">Brady Kreutzer</a>&nbsp;delivered the biggest blow of the night with a grand slam on the first pitch he saw, part of his six-RBI performance.

On the mound,&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/ty-riley/8431">Ty Riley</a>&nbsp;(5-0) delivered another strong outing, keeping the Lions' offense in check for most of the night. The right-hander worked 6.1 innings, allowing four runs on five hits while striking out seven and walking three.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/kaleb-carpenter/8453">Kaleb Carpenter</a>&nbsp;took over in the seventh and held firm despite some late pressure from Missouri Southern. The junior righty pitched the final 2.2 innings, giving up three runs on four hits while striking out three to close out the win.

Missouri Southern struggled to generate offense early but attempted a comeback in the later innings. Ethan Clark provided the biggest highlight for the Lions with a three-run homer in the ninth, cutting into the Tigers' lead. Drew Townsend was a bright spot, going 3-for-5 with three runs scored, while Brayden Luikart and Jacob Filip each contributed an RBI. However, Fort Hays State's pitching and defense held firm, preventing the Lions from mounting a full comeback.

Fort Hays State's lineup proved relentless, tallying 12 hits and showing depth throughout the order. Seven of the nine starters recorded at least one hit, while five collected multiple knocks.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/cesar-saavedra/8433">Cesar Saavedra</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/zane-knox/8426">Zane Knox</a>, Herrmann,&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/cooper-howell/8459">Cooper Howell</a>, and Kreutzer all had multi-hit performances, providing steady production up and down the lineup.

With the win, Fort Hays State improves to 12-4 overall and 7-0 in MIAA play, maintaining its perfect conference record. The Tigers will look to extend their winning streak and complete the series sweep when they return to action on Sunday at 2 p.m.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741481151321.png" alt="FHSU Athletics photo/Ryan Prickett" />
 <figcaption>FHSU Athletics photo/Ryan Prickett</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU Athletics&nbsp; HAYS, Kan. – Fort Hays State baseball continued its dominant start to conference play with an emphatic 11-7 victory over No. 25 Missouri Southern on Saturday at Larks Park. A seven-run first inning set the tone early, and despite a late push from the Lions, the Tigers controlled the game from start to finish to remain undefeated in MIAA action.The Tigers wasted no time jumping on Missouri Southern, capitalizing on early pitching struggles to plate seven runs in the opening frame.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/elliott-herrmann/8422">Elliott Herrmann</a>&nbsp;led the offensive charge, launching two home runs and driving in three runs, while&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/brady-kreutzer/8427">Brady Kreutzer</a>&nbsp;delivered the biggest blow of the night with a grand slam on the first pitch he saw, part of his six-RBI performance.On the mound,&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/ty-riley/8431">Ty Riley</a>&nbsp;(5-0) delivered another strong outing, keeping the Lions' offense in check for most of the night. The right-hander worked 6.1 innings, allowing four runs on five hits while striking out seven and walking three.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/kaleb-carpenter/8453">Kaleb Carpenter</a>&nbsp;took over in the seventh and held firm despite some late pressure from Missouri Southern. The junior righty pitched the final 2.2 innings, giving up three runs on four hits while striking out three to close out the win.Missouri Southern struggled to generate offense early but attempted a comeback in the later innings. Ethan Clark provided the biggest highlight for the Lions with a three-run homer in the ninth, cutting into the Tigers' lead. Drew Townsend was a bright spot, going 3-for-5 with three runs scored, while Brayden Luikart and Jacob Filip each contributed an RBI. However, Fort Hays State's pitching and defense held firm, preventing the Lions from mounting a full comeback.Fort Hays State's lineup proved relentless, tallying 12 hits and showing depth throughout the order. Seven of the nine starters recorded at least one hit, while five collected multiple knocks.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/cesar-saavedra/8433">Cesar Saavedra</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/zane-knox/8426">Zane Knox</a>, Herrmann,&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/cooper-howell/8459">Cooper Howell</a>, and Kreutzer all had multi-hit performances, providing steady production up and down the lineup.With the win, Fort Hays State improves to 12-4 overall and 7-0 in MIAA play, maintaining its perfect conference record. The Tigers will look to extend their winning streak and complete the series sweep when they return to action on Sunday at 2 p.m.&nbsp;&nbsp;

⚾ Kreutzer grand slam carries Tigers past No. 25 Missouri Southern

&nbsp;HAYS, Kan. - The Fort Hays State softball team opened conference play Saturday with a pair of come-from-behind wins over Central Missouri, winning the opener 6-5 in walk-off fashion before taking the second contest 5-4. The Tigers improve to 10-4 overall and 2-0 in league play, while the Jennies are now 8-8 overall and 0-2 in MIAA action.

<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/savanah-egger/8183">Savanah Egger</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/morgan-schmidt/8190">Morgan Schmidt</a>&nbsp;both tossed complete game victories on the day, combining to strike out 18 batters while FHSU hitters struck out just eight times.

<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/jules-bosco/8199">Jules Bosco</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/madison-pierce/8188">Madison Pierce</a>&nbsp;both collected three hits on the day while&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/marisela-landa/8193">Marisela Landa</a>&nbsp;drove in a team-high three RBI.

The Tigers will wrap up the weekend Sunday (March 9) when FHSU hosts Missouri Western in another conference doubleheader beginning at noon.

Game 1: Fort Hays State 6, Central Missouri 5 The Jennies opened the scoring with a three-run home run in the second, but FHSU quickly got one of those runs back when&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/lilly-mohr/8194">Lilly Mohr</a>&nbsp;drilled a solo home run to left field.

Egger bounced back after the home run, retiring 13 of the next 15 batters to give the Tiger bats a chance to cut into the Jennie lead. Fort Hays State did just that with three unearned runs in the fourth inning. The frame was extended when an out call at second base was overturned via a coaches challenge. An error later gave&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/abbey-duarte/8206">Abbey Duarte</a>&nbsp;the chance to make it 3-2 with an RBI groundout before Landa gave the Tigers the lead with a two-RBI single to left.

The Tigers added another run in the fifth thanks to doubles from&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/audrey-gillespie/8185">Audrey Gillespie</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/paige-thexton/8200">Paige Thexton</a>, putting the home team in front 5-3.Down to their last out, the Jennies mounted a rally in the seventh with a double, a single and a walk. With the bases loaded, Egger got a fly ball to center but it was dropped by the Tiger fielder, allowing the Jennies to the game at five with two unearned runs.

Fort Hays State manufactured the winning run in the home half of the inning with two singles and a sacrifice bunt. UCM's Andi Siebeneck seemed to get out of the inning with a routine grounder to short, but it was also misplayed by the Jennie defender, allowing FHSU to win on a walk-off error.

Egger (5-2) struck out eight batters over 7.0 innings of work, allowing five runs (three earned) on seven hits and one walk.

Game 2: Fort Hays State 5, Central Missouri 4 The visitors again struck first in the second contest, pushing across four runs on four hits in the top of the third. UCM's Emily Brouse puzzled the Tiger hitters early on, allowing only one hit over the first four innings.

Schmidt rebounded after the big inning, retiring 14 of the last 19 UCM hitters to keep the Tigers in the game.

The home team finally broke through in the fifth, plating four runs on three hits and a pair of walks to tie things up. Bosco got the Tigers on the board with a bases-loaded double down the right-field line, plating a pair to cut the deficit in half. Pierce followed with a two-out, two-RBI single to center, tying the game at four.

Fort Hays State took the lead for the first time in the sixth when&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/regan-curry/8182">Regan Curry</a>&nbsp;led off with a single. The shortstop advanced to second on a sacrifice bunt before scampering home on a single from Landa, giving the Tigers a 5-4 lead.

The Jennies were able to get runners on the corners with one out in the seventh, but a pop up and a brilliant diving catch from&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/kaydawn-haag/8195">Kaydawn Haag</a>&nbsp;in center field secured the doubleheader sweep.

Schmidt (5-2) struck out 10 batters in her 7.0 innings of work, allowing four runs on nine hits and two walks.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741480929011.png" alt="FHSU Athletics photo/Ryan Prickett" />
 <figcaption>FHSU Athletics photo/Ryan Prickett</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU Athletics&nbsp;HAYS, Kan. - The Fort Hays State softball team opened conference play Saturday with a pair of come-from-behind wins over Central Missouri, winning the opener 6-5 in walk-off fashion before taking the second contest 5-4. The Tigers improve to 10-4 overall and 2-0 in league play, while the Jennies are now 8-8 overall and 0-2 in MIAA action.<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/savanah-egger/8183">Savanah Egger</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/morgan-schmidt/8190">Morgan Schmidt</a>&nbsp;both tossed complete game victories on the day, combining to strike out 18 batters while FHSU hitters struck out just eight times.<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/jules-bosco/8199">Jules Bosco</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/madison-pierce/8188">Madison Pierce</a>&nbsp;both collected three hits on the day while&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/marisela-landa/8193">Marisela Landa</a>&nbsp;drove in a team-high three RBI.The Tigers will wrap up the weekend Sunday (March 9) when FHSU hosts Missouri Western in another conference doubleheader beginning at noon.Game 1: Fort Hays State 6, Central Missouri 5 The Jennies opened the scoring with a three-run home run in the second, but FHSU quickly got one of those runs back when&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/lilly-mohr/8194">Lilly Mohr</a>&nbsp;drilled a solo home run to left field.Egger bounced back after the home run, retiring 13 of the next 15 batters to give the Tiger bats a chance to cut into the Jennie lead. Fort Hays State did just that with three unearned runs in the fourth inning. The frame was extended when an out call at second base was overturned via a coaches challenge. An error later gave&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/abbey-duarte/8206">Abbey Duarte</a>&nbsp;the chance to make it 3-2 with an RBI groundout before Landa gave the Tigers the lead with a two-RBI single to left.The Tigers added another run in the fifth thanks to doubles from&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/audrey-gillespie/8185">Audrey Gillespie</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/paige-thexton/8200">Paige Thexton</a>, putting the home team in front 5-3.Down to their last out, the Jennies mounted a rally in the seventh with a double, a single and a walk. With the bases loaded, Egger got a fly ball to center but it was dropped by the Tiger fielder, allowing the Jennies to the game at five with two unearned runs.Fort Hays State manufactured the winning run in the home half of the inning with two singles and a sacrifice bunt. UCM's Andi Siebeneck seemed to get out of the inning with a routine grounder to short, but it was also misplayed by the Jennie defender, allowing FHSU to win on a walk-off error.Egger (5-2) struck out eight batters over 7.0 innings of work, allowing five runs (three earned) on seven hits and one walk.Game 2: Fort Hays State 5, Central Missouri 4 The visitors again struck first in the second contest, pushing across four runs on four hits in the top of the third. UCM's Emily Brouse puzzled the Tiger hitters early on, allowing only one hit over the first four innings.Schmidt rebounded after the big inning, retiring 14 of the last 19 UCM hitters to keep the Tigers in the game.The home team finally broke through in the fifth, plating four runs on three hits and a pair of walks to tie things up. Bosco got the Tigers on the board with a bases-loaded double down the right-field line, plating a pair to cut the deficit in half. Pierce followed with a two-out, two-RBI single to center, tying the game at four.Fort Hays State took the lead for the first time in the sixth when&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/regan-curry/8182">Regan Curry</a>&nbsp;led off with a single. The shortstop advanced to second on a sacrifice bunt before scampering home on a single from Landa, giving the Tigers a 5-4 lead.The Jennies were able to get runners on the corners with one out in the seventh, but a pop up and a brilliant diving catch from&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/kaydawn-haag/8195">Kaydawn Haag</a>&nbsp;in center field secured the doubleheader sweep.Schmidt (5-2) struck out 10 batters in her 7.0 innings of work, allowing four runs on nine hits and two walks.&nbsp;&nbsp;

🥎 Tigers defeat Jennies twice to open MIAA play

No. 2 seed #9 Fort Hays State (26-3) vs. No. 3 seed Missouri Western (20-8) MIAA Tournament Semifinals Saturday, March 8, 2025 • 8:15 p.m. Kansas City, Mo. • Municipal Auditorium

Radio:&nbsp;KJLS (103.3)&nbsp;<a href="https://mix103fm.com/">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN</a> Video:&nbsp;MIAA Network:&nbsp;<a href="https://themiaanetwork.com/fhsutigers/">CLICK HERE TO WATCH ($)</a>

The ninth-ranked Fort Hays State women's basketball team will play in the semifinal round of the MIAA Championship presented by Southern Bank for an eighth-straight season on Saturday when the second-seeded Tigers take on No. 3 Missouri Western&nbsp;beginning at 8:15 p.m. inside historic Municipal Auditorium in downtown Kansas City, Mo.

The Tigers advanced to the MIAA semifinals for a 12th time since joining the league 19 years ago, tied with Emporia State for the most semifinal appearances during that span. FHSU's streak of eight-straight semifinal appearances is the longest active streak in the league and is the second-longest such streak since the Tigers joined the league in 2006-07.

This is Fort Hays State's 16th trip to the MIAA Championship, with the Tigers accumulating a record of 23-13 all-time in the tournament. FHSU is 6-5 in the semifinals, 4-0 as the No. 2 seed, 3-2 against the No. 3 seed, 2-0 against MWSU&nbsp;and 18-12 inside Municipal Auditorium.

A win Saturday would put the Tigers in the championship round for the second year in a row, the sixth time in the last eight seasons and the seventh time since joining the league 19 years ago. Only Emporia State (nine) has been in more title games than FHSU during that span.

Fort Hays State moved on to the semifinals after a 90-74 win over Central Missouri in the quarterfinals on Thursday, the most points scored by the Tigers in tournament history and the most points scored by any team in the MIAA tournament since 2016.

Talexa Weeter&nbsp;led the Tigers with a career-high 35 points, 11 rebounds and three 3-pointers. Her 35 points are the most scored by a Tiger in the MIAA tournament, fourth-most by any player in tournament history, the most points ever scored by a non-starter in the tournament, the ninth-most points scored by a Tiger in a single game in program history and the most scored by any FHSU player in over 20 years.

Two of Fort Hays State's three losses this season have come against the Griffons by a combined two points. The Griffons have won the last four overall in the series.

The Tigers led the conference with five All-MIAA selections, including Player of the Year Katie DeGarmo&nbsp;and Defensive Player of the Year Olivia Hollenbeck. The graduate student duo were both first team picks, while Kate Dilsaver, Brooke Loewe and Talexa Weeter&nbsp;were all honorable mention recipients. Hollenbeck and Dilsaver were also listed on the MIAA All-Defensive Team.

DeGarmo is the fifth player since 1980 to earn the conference's top honor in consecutive seasons and the first to do so since Washburn's Crystal Walker in 2001-02 and 2002-03. She is the third player in school history to earn first team honors three times, joining Annette Wiles and Kate Lehman. It is her fourth All-MIAA honor overall after also picking up second team status in 2021-22.

The Maize, Kan. native led the team with 16.6 points and 8.4 rebounds per game, ranking third in the league in each category. She was also third in assist/turnover ratio in the league (1.9) and ranked 12th in the conference with 1.6 steals per game. She is the program record holder with 1,199 career rebounds while ranking second with 2,198 points. DeGarmo is also fourth all-time in assists, fifth in steals and second in field goals at FHSU.

Hollenbeck is the first five-time all-conference performer in school history. This is her initial first team honor after garnering third team recognition each of the last two years and honorable mention status in her first two seasons at FHSU. She is the first Tiger to earn Defensive Player of the Year honors since Kate Lehman did it in three-straight seasons between 2013 and 2015.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741442774367.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsNo. 2 seed #9 Fort Hays State (26-3) vs. No. 3 seed Missouri Western (20-8) MIAA Tournament Semifinals Saturday, March 8, 2025 • 8:15 p.m. Kansas City, Mo. • Municipal AuditoriumRadio:&nbsp;KJLS (103.3)&nbsp;<a href="https://mix103fm.com/">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN</a> Video:&nbsp;MIAA Network:&nbsp;<a href="https://themiaanetwork.com/fhsutigers/">CLICK HERE TO WATCH ($)</a>The ninth-ranked Fort Hays State women's basketball team will play in the semifinal round of the MIAA Championship presented by Southern Bank for an eighth-straight season on Saturday when the second-seeded Tigers take on No. 3 Missouri Western&nbsp;beginning at 8:15 p.m. inside historic Municipal Auditorium in downtown Kansas City, Mo.The Tigers advanced to the MIAA semifinals for a 12th time since joining the league 19 years ago, tied with Emporia State for the most semifinal appearances during that span. FHSU's streak of eight-straight semifinal appearances is the longest active streak in the league and is the second-longest such streak since the Tigers joined the league in 2006-07.This is Fort Hays State's 16th trip to the MIAA Championship, with the Tigers accumulating a record of 23-13 all-time in the tournament. FHSU is 6-5 in the semifinals, 4-0 as the No. 2 seed, 3-2 against the No. 3 seed, 2-0 against MWSU&nbsp;and 18-12 inside Municipal Auditorium.A win Saturday would put the Tigers in the championship round for the second year in a row, the sixth time in the last eight seasons and the seventh time since joining the league 19 years ago. Only Emporia State (nine) has been in more title games than FHSU during that span.Fort Hays State moved on to the semifinals after a 90-74 win over Central Missouri in the quarterfinals on Thursday, the most points scored by the Tigers in tournament history and the most points scored by any team in the MIAA tournament since 2016.Talexa Weeter&nbsp;led the Tigers with a career-high 35 points, 11 rebounds and three 3-pointers. Her 35 points are the most scored by a Tiger in the MIAA tournament, fourth-most by any player in tournament history, the most points ever scored by a non-starter in the tournament, the ninth-most points scored by a Tiger in a single game in program history and the most scored by any FHSU player in over 20 years.Two of Fort Hays State's three losses this season have come against the Griffons by a combined two points. The Griffons have won the last four overall in the series.The Tigers led the conference with five All-MIAA selections, including Player of the Year Katie DeGarmo&nbsp;and Defensive Player of the Year Olivia Hollenbeck. The graduate student duo were both first team picks, while Kate Dilsaver, Brooke Loewe and Talexa Weeter&nbsp;were all honorable mention recipients. Hollenbeck and Dilsaver were also listed on the MIAA All-Defensive Team.DeGarmo is the fifth player since 1980 to earn the conference's top honor in consecutive seasons and the first to do so since Washburn's Crystal Walker in 2001-02 and 2002-03. She is the third player in school history to earn first team honors three times, joining Annette Wiles and Kate Lehman. It is her fourth All-MIAA honor overall after also picking up second team status in 2021-22.The Maize, Kan. native led the team with 16.6 points and 8.4 rebounds per game, ranking third in the league in each category. She was also third in assist/turnover ratio in the league (1.9) and ranked 12th in the conference with 1.6 steals per game. She is the program record holder with 1,199 career rebounds while ranking second with 2,198 points. DeGarmo is also fourth all-time in assists, fifth in steals and second in field goals at FHSU.Hollenbeck is the first five-time all-conference performer in school history. This is her initial first team honor after garnering third team recognition each of the last two years and honorable mention status in her first two seasons at FHSU. She is the first Tiger to earn Defensive Player of the Year honors since Kate Lehman did it in three-straight seasons between 2013 and 2015.The Lincoln, Neb. native ranked second in the conference with 2.3 steals per night while ranking third with 1.7 steals per game. She also ranked fifth in the league in scoring with 16.5 points per contest while posting the second-best field goal percentage in the league at 62.1 percent. Hollenbeck ranks fourth in school history with 1,864 points, second with 217 blocks and eighth with 200 steals in her career. She also ranks third in field goals and needs 30 rebounds to crack the top 10 list in that category at FHSU.Dilsaver earned her first All-MIAA recognition after averaging 2.0 steals per game, third-most in the league. She ranked fourth on the team with an average of 9.1 points per game while pouring in 24 3-pointers, second-most on the squad. The senior rounded out her stat line with 4.6 rebounds and 2.5 assists per game, making her the only player on the team to average two or more in four of the five major stat categories (points, rebounds, assists, steals, blocks).Loewe collected her first All-MIAA honor after leading the league with 192 assists this season, averaging 7.1 assists per game. The junior point guard ranks second in Division II in total assists while slotting third in average. She also ranked ninth in the league and third on the team with 1.7 steals per game while ranking fifth on the team with 7.2 points per contest. She broke the single season school record with her 192 assists and already ranks ninth in program history with 347 assists in just three seasons.Weeter picked up her first All-MIAA award after averaging 13.1 points per game off the bench. She ranked 17th in the league in scoring, making her the only player to rank in the top 25 in the league in scoring that is not a starter for their team. She scored in double figures 20 times this year, including five games with 20 or more points. The sophomore also ranks second on the team with 5.8 rebounds and 0.9 blocks per night.DeGarmo has totaled 168 points and 93 rebounds in 11 games in the MIAA Tournament, ranking fifth all-time in points and third in rebounds. She needs 45 points and 13 rebounds to tie the career record in each category. The graduate student averages 15.3 points, 8.4 rebounds and 2.6 assists in league tournament contests, scoring in double figures eight times and scoring at least 20 points four times.The winner of Saturday's semifinal will move on to the MIAA Championship game Sunday afternoon (March 9, 3:30 p.m.) to take on either top-seeded Pittsburg State or No. 5 seed Washburn. The loser will look ahead to the NCAA Division II Women's Basketball Championship Selection Show which is scheduled for 9:30 p.m. Sunday live on NCAA.com.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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