Slots are filling up for Fort Riley's one-of-a-king Bow Slinger 3-D Archery Tournament on Aug. 21 and 22. The event is the only tournament in the world where competitors can shoot from an M-1 tank. Archers of all ages, military or civilian, are invited to take on the nearly two-mile course , featuring three-dimensional targets, including the "Bigfoot of the Flint Hills."

Pre-register by Aug. 20 at <a href="http://riley.armymwr.com">riley.armymwr.com</a>&nbsp;or in person at Fort Riley's Outdoor Adventure Park, 5202 Normandy Drive. Registration fees are $45 for active duty Soldiers, $35 for youth age $17 and under, and $45-$55 for all other adults depending on the category. Youth categories are ages 8-11, 12-14, and 15-17 years old. Youth will compete on Aug. 21 and adults will compete on Aug. 22.&nbsp;

Top five shooters from each category with 10 or more shooters will compete in a class shoot-off for cash prizes. Check-in begins at 7a.m. each day, with a mandatory meeting for all shooters at 8:30. The tournament slings into action at 9. Food will be available for purchase and the event should wrap up by 2p.m..&nbsp;

Archers without Department of Defense ID cards who wish to take on the challenge can get a day pass at the Visitor Control Center at the Marshall Army Airfield Gate located off I-70, exit 301. Pre-registered participants will not need to stop at the Visitor Control Center, but must use Henry Gate for access. More information about accessing Fort Riley can be found at <a href="http://home.army.mil/riley">home.army.mil/riley</a>&nbsp;or by calling 785-239-2982. The Visitor Control Center is open 5a.m. to 9p.m. weekdays, and 8a.m. to 4p.m. on weekends.&nbsp;

For more information about Fort Riley's one-of-a-kind archery tournament, call 785-239-5412.

Slots are filling up for Fort Riley's one-of-a-king Bow Slinger 3-D Archery Tournament on Aug. 21 and 22. The event is the only tournament in the world where competitors can shoot from an M-1 tank. Archers of all ages, military or civilian, are invited to take on the nearly two-mile course , featuring three-dimensional targets, including the "Bigfoot of the Flint Hills."Pre-register by Aug. 20 at <a href="http://riley.armymwr.com">riley.armymwr.com</a>&nbsp;or in person at Fort Riley's Outdoor Adventure Park, 5202 Normandy Drive. Registration fees are $45 for active duty Soldiers, $35 for youth age $17 and under, and $45-$55 for all other adults depending on the category. Youth categories are ages 8-11, 12-14, and 15-17 years old. Youth will compete on Aug. 21 and adults will compete on Aug. 22.&nbsp;Top five shooters from each category with 10 or more shooters will compete in a class shoot-off for cash prizes. Check-in begins at 7a.m. each day, with a mandatory meeting for all shooters at 8:30. The tournament slings into action at 9. Food will be available for purchase and the event should wrap up by 2p.m..&nbsp;Archers without Department of Defense ID cards who wish to take on the challenge can get a day pass at the Visitor Control Center at the Marshall Army Airfield Gate located off I-70, exit 301. Pre-registered participants will not need to stop at the Visitor Control Center, but must use Henry Gate for access. More information about accessing Fort Riley can be found at <a href="http://home.army.mil/riley">home.army.mil/riley</a>&nbsp;or by calling 785-239-2982. The Visitor Control Center is open 5a.m. to 9p.m. weekdays, and 8a.m. to 4p.m. on weekends.&nbsp;For more information about Fort Riley's one-of-a-kind archery tournament, call 785-239-5412.

Calling all archers; the Fort Riley Bow Slinger tournament is back!

JUNCTION CITY, Kan - Following an outstanding weekend, the Junction City Blues are heading to the state tournament following a zone championship.

The Blues, who came from behind to defeat McPherson 12-9 on Saturday after a lengthy rain delay, utilized clutch hitting from Aidan Field and Cooper Bogenhagen in the sixth inning to take the lead, and Logan Lindsley would come on and retire McPherson in order to close out the win.&nbsp;

Sunday, the Blues shut out the Salina Hawks 10-0 to advance into Monday's championship. In that game, more clutch hitting came through for Junction City, as Michael Boganowski, Griffin Bohanan, Aidan Field, and Brock Bazan recorded RBIs in a run-filled 6th inning.

On Championship Monday, the Blues once again squared off with the Salina Hawks, who rallied to win the consolation bracket and earn their trip to the title game. Once again, Junction City would prove to be too much, as Levi Mehl started the game on the mound and kept the Hawks in check, allowing JC to jump out to the lead and ultimately win 14-3.&nbsp;

The victory in the championship pushes Junction City into the State Tournament at Salina's Dean Evans Stadium July 28th-31st. The tournament will be comprised of eight teams from across the Sunflower State, broken down into two pools of four. The winner of each pool will face off in the State Championship.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626980878581.jpeg" alt="Junction City Blues pose after their zone championship win over the Salina Hawks" />
 <figcaption>Junction City Blues pose after their zone championship win over the Salina Hawks</figcaption>
 </figure>By Jackson SchneiderJUNCTION CITY, Kan - Following an outstanding weekend, the Junction City Blues are heading to the state tournament following a zone championship.The Blues, who came from behind to defeat McPherson 12-9 on Saturday after a lengthy rain delay, utilized clutch hitting from Aidan Field and Cooper Bogenhagen in the sixth inning to take the lead, and Logan Lindsley would come on and retire McPherson in order to close out the win.&nbsp;Sunday, the Blues shut out the Salina Hawks 10-0 to advance into Monday's championship. In that game, more clutch hitting came through for Junction City, as Michael Boganowski, Griffin Bohanan, Aidan Field, and Brock Bazan recorded RBIs in a run-filled 6th inning.On Championship Monday, the Blues once again squared off with the Salina Hawks, who rallied to win the consolation bracket and earn their trip to the title game. Once again, Junction City would prove to be too much, as Levi Mehl started the game on the mound and kept the Hawks in check, allowing JC to jump out to the lead and ultimately win 14-3.&nbsp;The victory in the championship pushes Junction City into the State Tournament at Salina's Dean Evans Stadium July 28th-31st. The tournament will be comprised of eight teams from across the Sunflower State, broken down into two pools of four. The winner of each pool will face off in the State Championship.

JC Legion Post #45 is state-bound

Per multiple reports, both the University of Texas and the University of Oklahoma are exploring multiple avenues to exit the Big 12 Conference, including potentially joining the Southeastern Conference.

Both teams are required to maintain their conference status until the current grant of rights agreement expires in 2025. When that happens, much like in 2010, conferences may shift in order to find larger monetary agreements with sports networks to televise thier events.&nbsp;

This is all purely based off anonymous sources currently, but no one with clout at either OU or Texas, nor in the SEC offices has actually denied that there is mutual interest between the parties.&nbsp;

If the two current Big 12 members were to end up into the SEC, it would create the nation's first 16-team "super conference," all while leaving the eight other current league members in rather uncertain spots.&nbsp;

Local schools like Kansas, Kansas State, and Iowa State would all of course have strong cases to potentially join other power conferences in the NCAA, but there would be nothing of certainty.&nbsp;

Many have already speculated that this will become a done deal in the coming weeks, but others are still cautiously optimistic in the Big 12 landscape.&nbsp;

By Jackson SchneiderPer multiple reports, both the University of Texas and the University of Oklahoma are exploring multiple avenues to exit the Big 12 Conference, including potentially joining the Southeastern Conference.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BREAKING?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BREAKING</a>: Early next week, the <a href="https://twitter.com/TexasLonghorns?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TexasLonghorns</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/UofOklahoma?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@UofOklahoma</a> will send a letter to the <a href="https://twitter.com/Big12Conference?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Big12Conference</a> stating that neither school will renew their media contracts when they expire in 2025. -more-&mdash; Jason Whitely (@JasonWhitely) <a href="https://twitter.com/JasonWhitely/status/1418041621820579841?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 22, 2021</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Both teams are required to maintain their conference status until the current grant of rights agreement expires in 2025. When that happens, much like in 2010, conferences may shift in order to find larger monetary agreements with sports networks to televise thier events.&nbsp;This is all purely based off anonymous sources currently, but no one with clout at either OU or Texas, nor in the SEC offices has actually denied that there is mutual interest between the parties.&nbsp;If the two current Big 12 members were to end up into the SEC, it would create the nation's first 16-team "super conference," all while leaving the eight other current league members in rather uncertain spots.&nbsp;<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Big 12 commissioner Bob Bowlsby just last week on conference realignment/expansion: &quot;...It doesn&#39;t appear to me that the motivation is there at this point in time. Not to say it couldn&#39;t happen but it&#39;s not one of the things that keeps me up at night&quot; <a href="https://t.co/HegDa5vKxx">pic.twitter.com/HegDa5vKxx</a>&mdash; Chris Lilly KAKE (@ChrisLillyKAKE) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChrisLillyKAKE/status/1417979715651096578?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 21, 2021</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Local schools like Kansas, Kansas State, and Iowa State would all of course have strong cases to potentially join other power conferences in the NCAA, but there would be nothing of certainty.&nbsp;Many have already speculated that this will become a done deal in the coming weeks, but others are still cautiously optimistic in the Big 12 landscape.&nbsp;

REPORT: Texas, OU to seek new conference at end of 2025

Junction City and the Baldwin City Blues will meet in the semifinal round of&nbsp; the Mid Plains League playoffs this weekend.&nbsp;

Baldwin City defeated the Topeka Golden Giants in a first round series while the Junction City Brigade received a bye.&nbsp;

Brigade General Manager Cecil Aska said that game one of the series between the Blues and the Brigade will be Friday night in Baldwin City. Game two will be at 7 p.m. Saturday at Rathert Field in Junction City. If a game three is necessary in the best two out of three series it will be played at Rathert Field Sunday evening.

Sabetha also received a first round bye in the playoffs and will await the winner of the series between the Midwest A's and the Lawrence Travelers.

Junction City and the Baldwin City Blues will meet in the semifinal round of&nbsp; the Mid Plains League playoffs this weekend.&nbsp;Baldwin City defeated the Topeka Golden Giants in a first round series while the Junction City Brigade received a bye.&nbsp;Brigade General Manager Cecil Aska said that game one of the series between the Blues and the Brigade will be Friday night in Baldwin City. Game two will be at 7 p.m. Saturday at Rathert Field in Junction City. If a game three is necessary in the best two out of three series it will be played at Rathert Field Sunday evening.Sabetha also received a first round bye in the playoffs and will await the winner of the series between the Midwest A's and the Lawrence Travelers.

Brigade will play Baldwin City in the playoffs

MILWAUKEE - The Kansas City Royals swept the Milwaukee Brewers in a brief, two-game series, winning Wednesday afternoon 6-3.

Brad Keller tallied his seventh win of the season, pitching 6.2 innings, allowing three earned runs on six hits, six strikeouts, and two walks.&nbsp;

Brewers' pitcher Brent Suter took the loss, as he allowed Kansas City to score three runs, all unearned, on four hits.&nbsp;

The Royals managed six runs off the back of Nicky Lopez and Hunter Dozier, who each tallied two RBIs. Jorge Soler homered in his second consecutive game, for his ninth of the year.&nbsp;

Kansas City has now swept Milwaukee in the season series, winning all four matchups with the Brewers this year.&nbsp;

The Royals now improve to 39-55 on the season, 18.5 games back of the Chicago White Sox. KC will open a seven-game home stand Friday night with three contests against the Detroit Tigers and four against the first place White Sox.

MILWAUKEE - The Kansas City Royals swept the Milwaukee Brewers in a brief, two-game series, winning Wednesday afternoon 6-3.Brad Keller tallied his seventh win of the season, pitching 6.2 innings, allowing three earned runs on six hits, six strikeouts, and two walks.&nbsp;Brewers' pitcher Brent Suter took the loss, as he allowed Kansas City to score three runs, all unearned, on four hits.&nbsp;The Royals managed six runs off the back of Nicky Lopez and Hunter Dozier, who each tallied two RBIs. Jorge Soler homered in his second consecutive game, for his ninth of the year.&nbsp;Kansas City has now swept Milwaukee in the season series, winning all four matchups with the Brewers this year.&nbsp;The Royals now improve to 39-55 on the season, 18.5 games back of the Chicago White Sox. KC will open a seven-game home stand Friday night with three contests against the Detroit Tigers and four against the first place White Sox.

Royals sweep Brewers 

<a>MANHATTAN, Kan.</a>&nbsp;–&nbsp;Kansas State sophomore running back&nbsp;Deuce Vaughn&nbsp;earned his second honor this week as he was named to the watch list for the Doak Walker Award, the PwC SMU Athletic Forum announced Wednesday.

Vaughn, who was on the Maxwell Award watch list on Monday, is the first Wildcat to be named to the watch list for the Doak Walker Award – which goes to the nation’s top college running back – since Alex Barnes was a preseason candidate in 2018.

A product of Round Rock, Texas, Vaughn was one of only two players in the nation last season to have at least 600 rushing yards and 400 receiving yards – joining Clemson’s Travis Etienne and Alabama’s Najee Harris – as he led the team in both categories with 642 yards and 434 yards, respectively. Vaughn, who led all true freshmen in the nation with his 1,076 scrimmage yards, was named the 2020 True Freshman of the Year by 247Sports in addition to being an Honorable Mention All-American and a Freshman All-American by multiple outlets.

Heading into his sophomore campaign, Vaughn has earned numerous Preseason All-America honors and was on the Preseason All-Big 12 team.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626877675416.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a>MANHATTAN, Kan.</a>&nbsp;–&nbsp;Kansas State sophomore running back&nbsp;Deuce Vaughn&nbsp;earned his second honor this week as he was named to the watch list for the Doak Walker Award, the PwC SMU Athletic Forum announced Wednesday.Vaughn, who was on the Maxwell Award watch list on Monday, is the first Wildcat to be named to the watch list for the Doak Walker Award – which goes to the nation’s top college running back – since Alex Barnes was a preseason candidate in 2018.A product of Round Rock, Texas, Vaughn was one of only two players in the nation last season to have at least 600 rushing yards and 400 receiving yards – joining Clemson’s Travis Etienne and Alabama’s Najee Harris – as he led the team in both categories with 642 yards and 434 yards, respectively. Vaughn, who led all true freshmen in the nation with his 1,076 scrimmage yards, was named the 2020 True Freshman of the Year by 247Sports in addition to being an Honorable Mention All-American and a Freshman All-American by multiple outlets.Heading into his sophomore campaign, Vaughn has earned numerous Preseason All-America honors and was on the Preseason All-Big 12 team.

K-State’s Vaughn Nabs Spot on Doak Walker Award Watch List

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (WIBW TV) - Veteran defensive end Alex Okafor will return to Kansas City this season, according to the NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport.

Rapoport tweeted Tuesday the Chiefs have agreed to a one-year deal with the 30-year-old free agent.

Okafor joined the Chiefs in 2019 following two seasons with the Saints.

His time in Kansas City has been riddled with injuries. A torn pec in Week 15 forced him to miss the team’s Super Bowl LIV run. The following season, Okafor spent a stint on the injured reserve due to hamstring issues.

Okafor has recorded eight sacks in 19 games in his two seasons with the Chiefs.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626816290754.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By WIBW TV's Marleah CampbellKANSAS CITY, Mo. (WIBW TV) - Veteran defensive end Alex Okafor will return to Kansas City this season, according to the NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport.Rapoport tweeted Tuesday the Chiefs have agreed to a one-year deal with the 30-year-old free agent.Okafor joined the Chiefs in 2019 following two seasons with the Saints.His time in Kansas City has been riddled with injuries. A torn pec in Week 15 forced him to miss the team’s Super Bowl LIV run. The following season, Okafor spent a stint on the injured reserve due to hamstring issues.Okafor has recorded eight sacks in 19 games in his two seasons with the Chiefs.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Free agent pass-rusher Alex Okafor is signing back with the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Chiefs?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Chiefs</a>, source said. He gets a 1-year deal and will return to KC, his home for the last two seasons.&mdash; Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapSheet/status/1417535689353310208?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 20, 2021</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>

Report: Chiefs re-sign DE Alex Okafor

JUNCTION CITY, Kan. - Construction of Junction City's new high school building has delayed the start of school by two weeks to August 25th, but although classes are delayed, the start of high school athletics will continue on time, but in alternate locations.

Junction City High School Athletic Director Matt Westerhaus said in an interview that initial practices will take place at the old high school building on Eisenhower Drive, to allow for construction to be safely completed.

In addition to practices taking place away from the new site, Westerhaus says that some of the initial contests of the year may be moved to alternate sites or delayed, including the&nbsp; first Blue Jay football game.

"We're making preparations to potentially delay some of our initial home events," he said. "One of those being our home football game on September 3rd. So, we have already made preparations to move that date with Topeka High, so that will be an away game and we'll play that on Thursday, September the 2nd."

The rescheduling means that Junction City will play its first three games of 2021 on the road. Week two, the Blue Jays will renew their rivalry with Manhattan at Bishop Stadium, and in week three Junction City will travel to Topeka to take on the Seaman Vikings for the final time as Centennial League foes.&nbsp;

The change also means that the following three weeks of the season will then be at home. As of now, Junction City's inaugural game at its new home will be set for Friday, September 24th against Washburn Rural.&nbsp;

"It's kind of nice that we have the flexibility to do that because we play Topeka High twice this year," said Westerhaus. "So, we can simply move the game week six to week one at their place, and week one to six at our place."

The revised Junction City High School football schedule is as follows:

JUNCTION CITY, Kan. - Construction of Junction City's new high school building has delayed the start of school by two weeks to August 25th, but although classes are delayed, the start of high school athletics will continue on time, but in alternate locations.Junction City High School Athletic Director Matt Westerhaus said in an interview that initial practices will take place at the old high school building on Eisenhower Drive, to allow for construction to be safely completed.In addition to practices taking place away from the new site, Westerhaus says that some of the initial contests of the year may be moved to alternate sites or delayed, including the&nbsp; first Blue Jay football game."We're making preparations to potentially delay some of our initial home events," he said. "One of those being our home football game on September 3rd. So, we have already made preparations to move that date with Topeka High, so that will be an away game and we'll play that on Thursday, September the 2nd."The rescheduling means that Junction City will play its first three games of 2021 on the road. Week two, the Blue Jays will renew their rivalry with Manhattan at Bishop Stadium, and in week three Junction City will travel to Topeka to take on the Seaman Vikings for the final time as Centennial League foes.&nbsp;The change also means that the following three weeks of the season will then be at home. As of now, Junction City's inaugural game at its new home will be set for Friday, September 24th against Washburn Rural.&nbsp;"It's kind of nice that we have the flexibility to do that because we play Topeka High twice this year," said Westerhaus. "So, we can simply move the game week six to week one at their place, and week one to six at our place."The revised Junction City High School football schedule is as follows:Week 1 - @ Topeka HighWeek 2 - @ ManhattanWeek 3 - @ Topeka SeamanWeek 4 - Home vs. Washburn RuralWeek 5 - Home vs. Topeka WestWeek 6 - Home vs. Topeka HighWeek 7 - @ EmporiaWeek 8 - Home vs. Highland ParkWeek 9 - TBD - Playoffs Round 1&nbsp;

JCHS postpones football home opener

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Kansas City Chiefs fans will have to get tickets in advance to visit the Super Bowl runner-up's training camp this year, and they won't be able to get autographs from players because of COVID-19.

Dr. Paul Schroeppel, the AFC champions' head orthopedic surgeon, said Monday that fans won't be allowed to interact with players under the NFL's protocols for preventing coronavirus outbreaks. He discussed the rules during a daily webcast by the University of Kansas Health System.

The Chiefs open their training camp in St. Joseph, Missouri, on July 28 with a special event for season ticket holders, with practices open to other fans July 29, with attendance limited.

Missouri has seen&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-health-coronavirus-pandemic-michael-brown-fc8de32279eb2a37d17a92bbb1912a94">a surge in new COVID-19 cases</a>&nbsp;because of the faster-spreading delta variant.

“The league has very strict protocols,” Schroeppel said. “I think they've done everything they can to control transmission in those situations. Of course, when you get a crowd together, it's going to be very difficult, particularly for those unvaccinated.”

He said the Chiefs are “doing quite well” among NFL teams with players voluntarily getting vaccinated.

Schroeppel said the team plans to allow full attendance at Arrowhead Stadium during the season, but that could change based on COVID-19 case numbers.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Kansas City Chiefs fans will have to get tickets in advance to visit the Super Bowl runner-up's training camp this year, and they won't be able to get autographs from players because of COVID-19.Dr. Paul Schroeppel, the AFC champions' head orthopedic surgeon, said Monday that fans won't be allowed to interact with players under the NFL's protocols for preventing coronavirus outbreaks. He discussed the rules during a daily webcast by the University of Kansas Health System.The Chiefs open their training camp in St. Joseph, Missouri, on July 28 with a special event for season ticket holders, with practices open to other fans July 29, with attendance limited.Missouri has seen&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-health-coronavirus-pandemic-michael-brown-fc8de32279eb2a37d17a92bbb1912a94">a surge in new COVID-19 cases</a>&nbsp;because of the faster-spreading delta variant.“The league has very strict protocols,” Schroeppel said. “I think they've done everything they can to control transmission in those situations. Of course, when you get a crowd together, it's going to be very difficult, particularly for those unvaccinated.”He said the Chiefs are “doing quite well” among NFL teams with players voluntarily getting vaccinated.Schroeppel said the team plans to allow full attendance at Arrowhead Stadium during the season, but that could change based on COVID-19 case numbers.

Chiefs to bar fan interaction with players at training camp

MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;– Season tickets for the upcoming 2021-22 men’s basketball season will go on-sale at 8:30 a.m., CT on Wednesday, July 21, athletic department officials announced on Monday (July 19).

The upcoming 2021-22 season will mark a return to full capacity at Bramlage Coliseum, as the Wildcats’ home schedule will feature 18 home games, beginning with an exhibition against Pittsburg State on Thursday, November 4. Overall, the squad will host nine non-conference games, including a marquee matchup with Marquette in the Big East/Big 12 Battle on Wednesday, December 8, to go along with its usual nine Big 12 opponents.

Fans have a variety of ticket prices and locations from which to choose from, with bench season tickets starting at just $250 each. With the Wildcat 4-Pack, fans can purchase four season tickets in the bench or Cat Cushion areas starting at $752, depending on location, for a savings of $62 per ticket.

New full season-ticket requests will be able to select their seat during the ordering process from any seat location available from the 2019-20 season.&nbsp;An Ahearn Fund contribution is required for all premium, chairback and cushioned seating. Specific required giving levels by section are listed at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.ahearnfund.com/" target="_blank">www.AhearnFund.com</a>.

Fans who order season tickets by the Incentive Deadline of Monday, August 23, will have the $10 processing fee waived, and a three-month payment plan option.

Also, fans who order before the Priority Deadline of Friday, September 24, will receive a concessions discount card for $1 off popcorn, hot dogs and water all season as well as access to the season ticket exchange program and a two-month payment plan option.

In addition to the home schedule, season ticket holders will have the first opportunity to pre-order tickets for the Hall of Fame Classic at T-Mobile Center in Kansas City, November 22-23, and the game at INTRUST Bank Arena against Wichita State on December 5.

Fans can purchase season tickets in a variety of ways, including toll free at (800) 221.CATS (2287) and online at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kstatesports.com/tickets" target="_blank">www.kstatesports.com/tickets</a>.

<a>Non-Conference Schedule Set</a>

Eight home games at Bramlage Coliseum, including a marquee matchup with Marquette, the Hall of Fame Classic at T-Mobile Center and road contests against regional foes Wichita State and Nebraska highlight the 2021-22 non-conference schedule that was released on July 1.

K-State will open the season with four of its first six games at home, including back-to-back contests to open the season against Florida A&amp;M on Wednesday, November 10 and Omaha on Wednesday, November 17.

After a trip to Kansas City for the Hall of Fame Classic, the Wildcats will return home for games against North Dakota on Sunday, November 28 and Albany on Wednesday, December 1.

Other non-conference home games include a rematch with Marquette in the BIG EAST/Big 12 Battle on Wednesday, December 8 to go with matchups against Green Bay on Sunday, December 12, McNeese State on Tuesday, December 21 and Morgan State on Wednesday, December 29.

In all, the Wildcats will play 18 home games in 2021-22, including the nine-game Big 12 schedule with visits from reigning national champion Baylor and NCAA Tournament participants Kansas, Oklahoma, Oklahoma State, Texas, Texas Tech and West Virginia.

The complete conference schedule is expected to be released early in the fall.

Matchups at Hall of Fame Classic, Wichita State

In addition to the home schedule, K-State will play regional games at the aforementioned Hall of Fame Classic at the T-Mobile Center in Kansas City on Monday-Tuesday, November 22-23 as well as a matchup with Wichita State at INTRUST Bank Arena on Sunday, December 5.

The Wildcats will meet Arkansas in the semifinals of the Hall of Fame Classic at 8 p.m., CT on November 22 before playing either Cincinnati or Illinois on November 23 at either 6 or 8:30 p.m., CT. It will be the first meeting with the Razorbacks in nearly 30 years and the third such meeting in Kansas City.

K-State and Wichita State will meet for the first time since 2003 in the first-ever meeting at INTRUST Bank Arena in downtown Wichita on December 5. The contest is the first of a 4-game series with the Shockers that will be followed by a home game at Bramlage Coliseum in 2022.

<a>K-State is set to return four of its top-5 scorers, including super senior&nbsp;Mike McGuirl&nbsp;and rising sophomores&nbsp;Davion Bradford,&nbsp;Selton Miguel&nbsp;and&nbsp;Nijel Pack, for the 2021-22 season. In all, the team will return nine lettermen, including juniors&nbsp;Kaosi Ezeagu&nbsp;and&nbsp;Carlton Linguard, Jr., sophomore&nbsp;Luke Kasubke&nbsp;and&nbsp;Seryee Lewis.</a>

The only Wildcat senior in 2020-21, McGuirl led the team in assists (3.6 apg.) and steals (1.0 spg.) and was second in scoring (11.8 ppg.) while starting all 29 games. The freshman trio of Bradford, Miguel and Pack combined to average 25.4 points, 10.4 rebounds, 5.6 assists and 2.0 steals in 2020-21, as Pack (12.7 ppg.) became the first true freshman to lead the team in scoring since 2013-14.

Three transfers – senior&nbsp;Mark Smith&nbsp;(Missouri), junior&nbsp;Markquis Nowell&nbsp;(Little Rock) and sophomore&nbsp;Ismael Massoud&nbsp;(Wake Forest) – have been added to the roster to go along with a pair of incoming freshmen in&nbsp;Maximus Edwards&nbsp;and&nbsp;Logan Landers.

How to follow the ‘Cats:&nbsp;For complete information on K-State men’s basketball, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kstatesports.com/" target="_blank">www.kstatesports.com</a>&nbsp;and follow the team’s social media channels on&nbsp;<a href="mailto:@KStateMBB" target="_blank">Twitter</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/kstatembb/?hl=en" target="_blank">Instagram</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/kstatembb/" target="_blank">Facebook</a>.

MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;– Season tickets for the upcoming 2021-22 men’s basketball season will go on-sale at 8:30 a.m., CT on Wednesday, July 21, athletic department officials announced on Monday (July 19).The upcoming 2021-22 season will mark a return to full capacity at Bramlage Coliseum, as the Wildcats’ home schedule will feature 18 home games, beginning with an exhibition against Pittsburg State on Thursday, November 4. Overall, the squad will host nine non-conference games, including a marquee matchup with Marquette in the Big East/Big 12 Battle on Wednesday, December 8, to go along with its usual nine Big 12 opponents.Fans have a variety of ticket prices and locations from which to choose from, with bench season tickets starting at just $250 each. With the Wildcat 4-Pack, fans can purchase four season tickets in the bench or Cat Cushion areas starting at $752, depending on location, for a savings of $62 per ticket.New full season-ticket requests will be able to select their seat during the ordering process from any seat location available from the 2019-20 season.&nbsp;An Ahearn Fund contribution is required for all premium, chairback and cushioned seating. Specific required giving levels by section are listed at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.ahearnfund.com/" target="_blank">www.AhearnFund.com</a>.Fans who order season tickets by the Incentive Deadline of Monday, August 23, will have the $10 processing fee waived, and a three-month payment plan option.Also, fans who order before the Priority Deadline of Friday, September 24, will receive a concessions discount card for $1 off popcorn, hot dogs and water all season as well as access to the season ticket exchange program and a two-month payment plan option.In addition to the home schedule, season ticket holders will have the first opportunity to pre-order tickets for the Hall of Fame Classic at T-Mobile Center in Kansas City, November 22-23, and the game at INTRUST Bank Arena against Wichita State on December 5.Fans can purchase season tickets in a variety of ways, including toll free at (800) 221.CATS (2287) and online at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kstatesports.com/tickets" target="_blank">www.kstatesports.com/tickets</a>.<a>Non-Conference Schedule Set</a>Eight home games at Bramlage Coliseum, including a marquee matchup with Marquette, the Hall of Fame Classic at T-Mobile Center and road contests against regional foes Wichita State and Nebraska highlight the 2021-22 non-conference schedule that was released on July 1.K-State will open the season with four of its first six games at home, including back-to-back contests to open the season against Florida A&amp;M on Wednesday, November 10 and Omaha on Wednesday, November 17.After a trip to Kansas City for the Hall of Fame Classic, the Wildcats will return home for games against North Dakota on Sunday, November 28 and Albany on Wednesday, December 1.Other non-conference home games include a rematch with Marquette in the BIG EAST/Big 12 Battle on Wednesday, December 8 to go with matchups against Green Bay on Sunday, December 12, McNeese State on Tuesday, December 21 and Morgan State on Wednesday, December 29.In all, the Wildcats will play 18 home games in 2021-22, including the nine-game Big 12 schedule with visits from reigning national champion Baylor and NCAA Tournament participants Kansas, Oklahoma, Oklahoma State, Texas, Texas Tech and West Virginia.The complete conference schedule is expected to be released early in the fall.Matchups at Hall of Fame Classic, Wichita StateIn addition to the home schedule, K-State will play regional games at the aforementioned Hall of Fame Classic at the T-Mobile Center in Kansas City on Monday-Tuesday, November 22-23 as well as a matchup with Wichita State at INTRUST Bank Arena on Sunday, December 5.The Wildcats will meet Arkansas in the semifinals of the Hall of Fame Classic at 8 p.m., CT on November 22 before playing either Cincinnati or Illinois on November 23 at either 6 or 8:30 p.m., CT. It will be the first meeting with the Razorbacks in nearly 30 years and the third such meeting in Kansas City.K-State and Wichita State will meet for the first time since 2003 in the first-ever meeting at INTRUST Bank Arena in downtown Wichita on December 5. The contest is the first of a 4-game series with the Shockers that will be followed by a home game at Bramlage Coliseum in 2022.<a>The Wildcats At A Glance</a><a>K-State is set to return four of its top-5 scorers, including super senior&nbsp;Mike McGuirl&nbsp;and rising sophomores&nbsp;Davion Bradford,&nbsp;Selton Miguel&nbsp;and&nbsp;Nijel Pack, for the 2021-22 season. In all, the team will return nine lettermen, including juniors&nbsp;Kaosi Ezeagu&nbsp;and&nbsp;Carlton Linguard, Jr., sophomore&nbsp;Luke Kasubke&nbsp;and&nbsp;Seryee Lewis.</a>The only Wildcat senior in 2020-21, McGuirl led the team in assists (3.6 apg.) and steals (1.0 spg.) and was second in scoring (11.8 ppg.) while starting all 29 games. The freshman trio of Bradford, Miguel and Pack combined to average 25.4 points, 10.4 rebounds, 5.6 assists and 2.0 steals in 2020-21, as Pack (12.7 ppg.) became the first true freshman to lead the team in scoring since 2013-14.Three transfers – senior&nbsp;Mark Smith&nbsp;(Missouri), junior&nbsp;Markquis Nowell&nbsp;(Little Rock) and sophomore&nbsp;Ismael Massoud&nbsp;(Wake Forest) – have been added to the roster to go along with a pair of incoming freshmen in&nbsp;Maximus Edwards&nbsp;and&nbsp;Logan Landers.How to follow the ‘Cats:&nbsp;For complete information on K-State men’s basketball, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kstatesports.com/" target="_blank">www.kstatesports.com</a>&nbsp;and follow the team’s social media channels on&nbsp;<a href="mailto:@KStateMBB" target="_blank">Twitter</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/kstatembb/?hl=en" target="_blank">Instagram</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/kstatembb/" target="_blank">Facebook</a>.

Men’s Basketball 2021-22 Season Tickets on Sale July 21

<a>MANHATTAN, Kan.</a>&nbsp;–&nbsp;Kansas State senior quarterback&nbsp;Skylar Thompson&nbsp;and sophomore running back&nbsp;Deuce Vaughn&nbsp;have been named to the watch list for the 2021 Maxwell Award, the Maxwell Football Club announced Monday.

Thompson was named to the watch list for a second-straight season. It marked the first time the Wildcats had two members on the Maxwell Award watch list since quarterback Jake Waters and wide receiver Tyler Lockett were on the initial watch list in 2014.

A career 30-game starter, Thompson enters his second senior season ranked in the top 10 in school history of 15 career categories, including the top mark in interception percentage (1.84), ranking third in yards per completion (12.87), fifth in completions (390), passing efficiency (136.01), rushing yards (1,083) and rushing touchdowns (22) by a quarterback, and seventh in passing yards (5,201) and passing touchdowns (30). The Independence, Missouri, native is just the second player in school history to throw for 5,000 yards and rush for 1,000 yards, while he can be the first to hit the 6,000/1,000 mark this season.

In an injury-shortened 2020 campaign, Thompson threw for 626 yards and accounted for seven touchdowns in three games, including four total scores in K-State’s 21-point comeback win at No. 3 Oklahoma to secure the Wildcats’ first ever road win over a top-five team.

Bursting onto the scene as a true freshman in 2020, Vaughn led K-State in both rushing (642 yards) and receiving (434 yards) as he was one of just three players in the nation last season with at least 600 rushing yards and 400 receiving yards, joining Clemson’s Travis Etienne and Alabama’s Najee Harris.

Vaughn was named the True Freshman of the Year by 247Sports, a Freshman All-American by The Athletic and Football Writers Association of America, and an Honorable Mention All-American by Phil Steele and Pro Football Focus. The 2020 Big 12 Offensive Freshman of the Year, Vaughn was the first Wildcat true freshman in the Big 12 era (since 1996) to earn First or Second Team All-Big 12 honors on offense.

Kansas State opens the 2021 campaign on September 4 at AT&amp;T Stadium in Arlington, Texas in the Allstate Kickoff Classic against Stanford. The game will kick off at 11 a.m., and will be televised by FS1. Fans can purchase tickets to the game – in addition to season and single-game tickets for the Wildcats’ seven-game home schedule – by visiting&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kstatesports.com/tickets" target="_blank">www.kstatesports.com/tickets</a>&nbsp;or by calling 1-800-221-CATS.

<a>MANHATTAN, Kan.</a>&nbsp;–&nbsp;Kansas State senior quarterback&nbsp;Skylar Thompson&nbsp;and sophomore running back&nbsp;Deuce Vaughn&nbsp;have been named to the watch list for the 2021 Maxwell Award, the Maxwell Football Club announced Monday.Thompson was named to the watch list for a second-straight season. It marked the first time the Wildcats had two members on the Maxwell Award watch list since quarterback Jake Waters and wide receiver Tyler Lockett were on the initial watch list in 2014.A career 30-game starter, Thompson enters his second senior season ranked in the top 10 in school history of 15 career categories, including the top mark in interception percentage (1.84), ranking third in yards per completion (12.87), fifth in completions (390), passing efficiency (136.01), rushing yards (1,083) and rushing touchdowns (22) by a quarterback, and seventh in passing yards (5,201) and passing touchdowns (30). The Independence, Missouri, native is just the second player in school history to throw for 5,000 yards and rush for 1,000 yards, while he can be the first to hit the 6,000/1,000 mark this season.In an injury-shortened 2020 campaign, Thompson threw for 626 yards and accounted for seven touchdowns in three games, including four total scores in K-State’s 21-point comeback win at No. 3 Oklahoma to secure the Wildcats’ first ever road win over a top-five team.Bursting onto the scene as a true freshman in 2020, Vaughn led K-State in both rushing (642 yards) and receiving (434 yards) as he was one of just three players in the nation last season with at least 600 rushing yards and 400 receiving yards, joining Clemson’s Travis Etienne and Alabama’s Najee Harris.Vaughn was named the True Freshman of the Year by 247Sports, a Freshman All-American by The Athletic and Football Writers Association of America, and an Honorable Mention All-American by Phil Steele and Pro Football Focus. The 2020 Big 12 Offensive Freshman of the Year, Vaughn was the first Wildcat true freshman in the Big 12 era (since 1996) to earn First or Second Team All-Big 12 honors on offense.Kansas State opens the 2021 campaign on September 4 at AT&amp;T Stadium in Arlington, Texas in the Allstate Kickoff Classic against Stanford. The game will kick off at 11 a.m., and will be televised by FS1. Fans can purchase tickets to the game – in addition to season and single-game tickets for the Wildcats’ seven-game home schedule – by visiting&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kstatesports.com/tickets" target="_blank">www.kstatesports.com/tickets</a>&nbsp;or by calling 1-800-221-CATS.

K-State’s Thompson, Vaughn Earn Nod on Maxwell Award Watch List

KANSAS CITY, MO (July 18, 2021)&nbsp;– The Milwaukee Brewers and Major League Baseball have announced that Tuesday’s scheduled game between the Kansas City Royals and Milwaukee Brewers in American Family Field has been moved from its original 7:10 p.m. start to a&nbsp;3:10 p.m. first pitch.&nbsp; The change was requested and approved to allow the game to be played without conflicting with Game #6 of the NBA Finals between the Phoenix Suns and Milwaukee Bucks scheduled for Tuesday night in Milwaukee.

The game can be heard on 107.9 FM and KJCK AM 1420 with the pregame broadcast beginning at 2:30 p.m.

KANSAS CITY, MO (July 18, 2021)&nbsp;– The Milwaukee Brewers and Major League Baseball have announced that Tuesday’s scheduled game between the Kansas City Royals and Milwaukee Brewers in American Family Field has been moved from its original 7:10 p.m. start to a&nbsp;3:10 p.m. first pitch.&nbsp; The change was requested and approved to allow the game to be played without conflicting with Game #6 of the NBA Finals between the Phoenix Suns and Milwaukee Bucks scheduled for Tuesday night in Milwaukee.The game can be heard on 107.9 FM and KJCK AM 1420 with the pregame broadcast beginning at 2:30 p.m.

Game time for Royals on Tuesday changes

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Matt Harvey ended his nine-game losing skid with his best performance in years, pitching six crisp innings and sending the Baltimore Orioles over the Kansas City Royals 5-0. Harvey had been winless in 12 starts since his previous victory on May 1. The former All-Star allowed just three singles, walked one and struck out two against his former team. He improved to 4-10 this season. Harvey’s six innings matched his season high. This was the first time since September 2018 that Harvey pitched at least six innings and didn’t allow a run. Hunter Dozier tied a career high with four hits for the Royals.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Matt Harvey ended his nine-game losing skid with his best performance in years, pitching six crisp innings and sending the Baltimore Orioles over the Kansas City Royals 5-0. Harvey had been winless in 12 starts since his previous victory on May 1. The former All-Star allowed just three singles, walked one and struck out two against his former team. He improved to 4-10 this season. Harvey’s six innings matched his season high. This was the first time since September 2018 that Harvey pitched at least six innings and didn’t allow a run. Hunter Dozier tied a career high with four hits for the Royals.

Royals are shut out by the Orioles

Junction City has received the top seed in the six-team Mid Plains League postseason tournament. As a result the Brigade will get a first-round bye and will advance to the semifinal round.

Junction City has received the top seed in the six-team Mid Plains League postseason tournament. As a result the Brigade will get a first-round bye and will advance to the semifinal round.<figure>
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Brigade will be the top seed in the Mid Plains League Tournament

Junction City - Topeka Golden Giants baseball scheduled at Rathert Field Friday night was cancelled. After the rain earlier in the day the outfield was not playable.

Rathert Field will host the Mid Plains League All Star game at 7 p.m. Saturday.

Junction City - Topeka Golden Giants baseball scheduled at Rathert Field Friday night was cancelled. After the rain earlier in the day the outfield was not playable.Rathert Field will host the Mid Plains League All Star game at 7 p.m. Saturday.

Brigade game is cancelled

ARLINGTON, Tex. — Coming off one of the more unusual seasons in recent memory, Kansas State football looks ahead to 2021 with positivity, according to Wildcats' Head Coach Chris Klieman.&nbsp;

Wednesday, Klieman took to the podium inside AT&amp;T Stadium and addressed hundreds of media in attendance face-to-face for the first time in over a year.&nbsp;

"Kudos to Commissioner Bowlsby, to get us through a really tough time," said Klieman. "We had a difficult season last year in a number of respects, but I think if you don't grow and learn from something then it can really overshadow the problems that you had. We really grew, and I learned an awful lot about myself as a leader, about myself as a coach, about myself as a mentor and our staff did as well. We had some really good wins and some good times, and we had some really tough times and some of those tough times weren't even on the field."

Kansas State will return 16 starters from 2020, with 10 on offense and six on defense, when it opens up the 2021 season on a neutral site against Stanford at the very same stadium where Klieman spoke to the media Wednesday, but one position that Klieman is the most excited for is quarterback.&nbsp;

"I feel really good about us going in to 2021, and it starts off with our quarterback, having Skylar Thompson back," said Klieman. "but I also will throw Will Howard into that mix too because we have two starting quarterbacks returning and it's pretty cool when quarterback oftentimes is a position that you either have one or you have none and we have at least two, and some other kids that potentially have a chance."

Klieman also highlighted the returning offensive line, which could become a strength for the Wildcats this season, after an inauspicious 2020 up front.&nbsp;

Coach Klieman stated that where K-State needed the most improvement was on defense.&nbsp;

"Where we have t omake great strides is on defense. We were not a very good defense throughout last year," he said. " We had a couple of nice moments on defense, but not good enough in this league to be successful, and that's something we're going to work like heck to get sured up."&nbsp;

To hear full remarks from K-State Head Coach Chris Klieman, click the link below.&nbsp;

<a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/chris-klieman-big-12-media-day-2021">CHRIS KLIEMAN AUDIO</a>

ARLINGTON, Tex. — Coming off one of the more unusual seasons in recent memory, Kansas State football looks ahead to 2021 with positivity, according to Wildcats' Head Coach Chris Klieman.&nbsp;Wednesday, Klieman took to the podium inside AT&amp;T Stadium and addressed hundreds of media in attendance face-to-face for the first time in over a year.&nbsp;"Kudos to Commissioner Bowlsby, to get us through a really tough time," said Klieman. "We had a difficult season last year in a number of respects, but I think if you don't grow and learn from something then it can really overshadow the problems that you had. We really grew, and I learned an awful lot about myself as a leader, about myself as a coach, about myself as a mentor and our staff did as well. We had some really good wins and some good times, and we had some really tough times and some of those tough times weren't even on the field."Kansas State will return 16 starters from 2020, with 10 on offense and six on defense, when it opens up the 2021 season on a neutral site against Stanford at the very same stadium where Klieman spoke to the media Wednesday, but one position that Klieman is the most excited for is quarterback.&nbsp;"I feel really good about us going in to 2021, and it starts off with our quarterback, having Skylar Thompson back," said Klieman. "but I also will throw Will Howard into that mix too because we have two starting quarterbacks returning and it's pretty cool when quarterback oftentimes is a position that you either have one or you have none and we have at least two, and some other kids that potentially have a chance."Klieman also highlighted the returning offensive line, which could become a strength for the Wildcats this season, after an inauspicious 2020 up front.&nbsp;Coach Klieman stated that where K-State needed the most improvement was on defense.&nbsp;"Where we have t omake great strides is on defense. We were not a very good defense throughout last year," he said. " We had a couple of nice moments on defense, but not good enough in this league to be successful, and that's something we're going to work like heck to get sured up."&nbsp;To hear full remarks from K-State Head Coach Chris Klieman, click the link below.&nbsp;<a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/chris-klieman-big-12-media-day-2021">CHRIS KLIEMAN AUDIO</a>

Klieman previews 2021 at Big 12 Media Days

UPDATE: According to Big 12 Officials, Kansas Head Coach Lance Leipold will appear via Zoom at 1p.m..

LAWRENCE, Kan. — Kansas football was one of the five teams scheduled to appear in Arlington at the 2021 Big 12 Media Days, but the first public appearance for the Jayhawks under new Head Coach Lance Leipold will have to wait.

Due to sever weather in the Lawrence area, Leipold and the select players scheduled to appear were unable to depart from the local airport to get to the event in the Dallas area.&nbsp;

Announced in a tweet by Kansas Football, Kwamie Lassiter II and Kenny Logan Jr. stated they gated they couldn't make it, but plan to post some behind the scenes action the rest of the day.&nbsp;

The Jayhawks will open the Lance Leipold era on Friday, September 3rd against South Dakota.&nbsp;

UPDATE: According to Big 12 Officials, Kansas Head Coach Lance Leipold will appear via Zoom at 1p.m..LAWRENCE, Kan. — Kansas football was one of the five teams scheduled to appear in Arlington at the 2021 Big 12 Media Days, but the first public appearance for the Jayhawks under new Head Coach Lance Leipold will have to wait.Due to sever weather in the Lawrence area, Leipold and the select players scheduled to appear were unable to depart from the local airport to get to the event in the Dallas area.&nbsp;Announced in a tweet by Kansas Football, Kwamie Lassiter II and Kenny Logan Jr. stated they gated they couldn't make it, but plan to post some behind the scenes action the rest of the day.&nbsp;<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">You know what they say, you can plan a pretty picnic but you can’t predict the weather…😒 Couldn’t make it to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Big12MediaDays?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Big12MediaDays</a> due to weather, but we’ve still got you covered with content from Rock Chalk Headquarters! Follow along throughout the day! <a href="https://t.co/RZSNXVaSvk">pic.twitter.com/RZSNXVaSvk</a>&mdash; Kansas Football (@KU_Football) <a href="https://twitter.com/KU_Football/status/1415688427173974018?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 15, 2021</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The Jayhawks will open the Lance Leipold era on Friday, September 3rd against South Dakota.&nbsp;

Kansas Football absent from Big 12 Media Day due to weather

RLINGTON, Texas (WIBW) - In his third year leading the Wildcats, Chris Klieman is eager to get back to a winning record.

K-State started the 2020 season 4-1 before closing the year with five straight losses, capped off by a 69-31 loss to Texas.

It was a year filled with adversity on and off the field for K-State. Klieman’s squad was hammered by COVID cases and quarantines, often keeping dozens of players sidelined. Starting quarterback Skylar Thompson went down to injury Oct. 3 against Texas Tech and didn’t return.

But, Klieman said Wednesday at Big 12 Media Days, regardless of 2020′s obstacles, a successful 2021 relies on an improved defense.

“We did not play good defense in 2020,” Klieman said. “COVID or no COVID, it doesn’t matter. COVID doesn’t help you tackle or not tackle. We didn’t tackle well enough. For us to be successful, we have to be really good on defense and be a much better tackling team.”

K-State gave up 444.7 yards per game in 2020 — up from 364 in 2019.

By WIBW TVRLINGTON, Texas (WIBW) - In his third year leading the Wildcats, Chris Klieman is eager to get back to a winning record.K-State started the 2020 season 4-1 before closing the year with five straight losses, capped off by a 69-31 loss to Texas.It was a year filled with adversity on and off the field for K-State. Klieman’s squad was hammered by COVID cases and quarantines, often keeping dozens of players sidelined. Starting quarterback Skylar Thompson went down to injury Oct. 3 against Texas Tech and didn’t return.But, Klieman said Wednesday at Big 12 Media Days, regardless of 2020′s obstacles, a successful 2021 relies on an improved defense.“We did not play good defense in 2020,” Klieman said. “COVID or no COVID, it doesn’t matter. COVID doesn’t help you tackle or not tackle. We didn’t tackle well enough. For us to be successful, we have to be really good on defense and be a much better tackling team.”K-State gave up 444.7 yards per game in 2020 — up from 364 in 2019.

Defense will be a key for K-State football this season

Junction City jumped out to a 5-0 lead after two innings and never trailed enroute to an 8-2 win over the Midwest A's at Rathert Field Wednesday night.

The Brigade totaled 10 hits in the victory.&nbsp;

Junction City will turn right around and host the Topeka Golden Giants Thursday evening at 7 p.m. That game was originally scheduled to be played in Rossville but has been moved to Rathert Field.

Junction City jumped out to a 5-0 lead after two innings and never trailed enroute to an 8-2 win over the Midwest A's at Rathert Field Wednesday night.The Brigade totaled 10 hits in the victory.&nbsp;Junction City will turn right around and host the Topeka Golden Giants Thursday evening at 7 p.m. That game was originally scheduled to be played in Rossville but has been moved to Rathert Field.

Brigade post a win over the Midwest A's

ARLINGTON, Tex. - Big 12 football season officially kicked off Wednesday, as the first of two media days began from AT&amp;T Stadium in Arlington. As per usual, the event began with comments from Big 12 Commissioner Bob Bowlsby, who revisited last year, recounting Coronavirus pandemic.

"I think you'll find that teams in all sports that were the most self-disciplined, that followed the guidelines, that did the testing things that they needed to do, that did the necessary social distancing, adhered to protocols when they were traveling and on the road and in locker rooms and the like, they are the ones that were ultimately the most successful," said Bowlsby.&nbsp;

This season, all teams currently have plans to open their stadiums back up to 100% capacity, but Bowlsby says that with ongoing concerns of variant strains, there will likely still be some forms of testing and protocols surrounding teams.

"Frankly, I'm kind of -- I'm exhausted. I didn't -- I wasn't excited about revisiting protocols for this fall, and yet I think if you're honest with one's self, you have to -- you have to look at this and say, yeah, we wish we were done with it, but we're probably not quite done with it," he said. "We are certainly, as we go forward, encouraging student-athletes to get vaccinated, and in doing that, to minimize the impact that the Delta variant will have on our activities. Frankly, anyone not getting vaccinated is taking unnecessary and unwarranted risks. And that's not just student-athletes; that's anybody in our society. I think the Delta variant may, indeed, be a blessing for us because it punctuates the fact that we're not done with this yet."

According to Bowlsby no protocols have been established as of yet, but alluded to protocols being established later on, stating, "if we've learned anything, it's to be patient."&nbsp;

In 2020, with reduced crowd sizes, the financial footprint left by COVID-19 was also a burning question from media, but Bowlsby wasn't shy about the outcome.

"You know, in our case, we distributed about $35 million per school this year, plus or minus, and that was about probably $4.5 million per school less than we would have expected when we went into the year. "Expected" may not be exactly the way to say it because we were already in the midst of the pandemic and knew that we had to make some adjustments," said the Commissioner. "I think the long-term impact of it is going to be felt more in campus than it is through the central distribution from the conference office. We expect to be able to get our games in this fall, and we derive from that the revenue that we get from two TV contracts and a CFP involvement and other bowl games and NCAA Tournament and the like, and most of those things are likely to return to some semblance of normal."

Bowlsby was then asked about the balance of wanting to return to normal by filling stadiums to sort of correct the financial shortcomings caused by the virus with also battling the ongoing concern of the variants.

"I think all of our schools are relying on local health officials and doctors that serve on our conference medical committee. So we are drawing upon the best information that we can," he said. "In the end, these kinds of decisions have always been made on a local basis, local health officials, in some cases governors' offices. But if we get to a point where public assembly is ill-advised because of a spike in the variant, it's not inconceivable we would go back and try and revisit those things on an institutional basis or collectively. I think it's entirely possible and it's exactly that sort of occurrence that we're trying to anticipate and make sure that when the middle of August comes around, if we find that we've got nine miles of bad road in front of us, that we can make an informed decision."

The Big 12 Football Media Days then continued on to players and coaches from Iowa State, TCU, West Virginia, Oklahoma and Kansas State, with the other half of the league appearing tomorrow.&nbsp;

By Jackson SchneiderARLINGTON, Tex. - Big 12 football season officially kicked off Wednesday, as the first of two media days began from AT&amp;T Stadium in Arlington. As per usual, the event began with comments from Big 12 Commissioner Bob Bowlsby, who revisited last year, recounting Coronavirus pandemic."I think you'll find that teams in all sports that were the most self-disciplined, that followed the guidelines, that did the testing things that they needed to do, that did the necessary social distancing, adhered to protocols when they were traveling and on the road and in locker rooms and the like, they are the ones that were ultimately the most successful," said Bowlsby.&nbsp;This season, all teams currently have plans to open their stadiums back up to 100% capacity, but Bowlsby says that with ongoing concerns of variant strains, there will likely still be some forms of testing and protocols surrounding teams."Frankly, I'm kind of -- I'm exhausted. I didn't -- I wasn't excited about revisiting protocols for this fall, and yet I think if you're honest with one's self, you have to -- you have to look at this and say, yeah, we wish we were done with it, but we're probably not quite done with it," he said. "We are certainly, as we go forward, encouraging student-athletes to get vaccinated, and in doing that, to minimize the impact that the Delta variant will have on our activities. Frankly, anyone not getting vaccinated is taking unnecessary and unwarranted risks. And that's not just student-athletes; that's anybody in our society. I think the Delta variant may, indeed, be a blessing for us because it punctuates the fact that we're not done with this yet."According to Bowlsby no protocols have been established as of yet, but alluded to protocols being established later on, stating, "if we've learned anything, it's to be patient."&nbsp;In 2020, with reduced crowd sizes, the financial footprint left by COVID-19 was also a burning question from media, but Bowlsby wasn't shy about the outcome."You know, in our case, we distributed about $35 million per school this year, plus or minus, and that was about probably $4.5 million per school less than we would have expected when we went into the year. "Expected" may not be exactly the way to say it because we were already in the midst of the pandemic and knew that we had to make some adjustments," said the Commissioner. "I think the long-term impact of it is going to be felt more in campus than it is through the central distribution from the conference office. We expect to be able to get our games in this fall, and we derive from that the revenue that we get from two TV contracts and a CFP involvement and other bowl games and NCAA Tournament and the like, and most of those things are likely to return to some semblance of normal."Bowlsby was then asked about the balance of wanting to return to normal by filling stadiums to sort of correct the financial shortcomings caused by the virus with also battling the ongoing concern of the variants."I think all of our schools are relying on local health officials and doctors that serve on our conference medical committee. So we are drawing upon the best information that we can," he said. "In the end, these kinds of decisions have always been made on a local basis, local health officials, in some cases governors' offices. But if we get to a point where public assembly is ill-advised because of a spike in the variant, it's not inconceivable we would go back and try and revisit those things on an institutional basis or collectively. I think it's entirely possible and it's exactly that sort of occurrence that we're trying to anticipate and make sure that when the middle of August comes around, if we find that we've got nine miles of bad road in front of us, that we can make an informed decision."The Big 12 Football Media Days then continued on to players and coaches from Iowa State, TCU, West Virginia, Oklahoma and Kansas State, with the other half of the league appearing tomorrow.&nbsp;

Remarks from Big 12 Commissioner Bob Bowlsby

MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;–&nbsp;Kansas State sophomore men’s golfer&nbsp;Cooper Schultz&nbsp;carded a 36-hole score of 5-under par 139 on Monday at Blue Hills Country Club in Kansas City, Missouri, to qualify for the 121st&nbsp;playing of the US Amateur later this summer.&nbsp;

Schultz will be the first Wildcat to compete in the US Amateur since&nbsp;Ben Fernandez&nbsp;in 2017.&nbsp;

Schultz, who carded a 1-over par 73 in the first round on Monday, came back in the afternoon 18 with a 6-under par 66 to qualify by one shot. The Andover, Kansas, native was 4-under par over his final nine holes, including birdies on No. 17 and No. 18 to edge past a three-way tie at 4-under par 140.&nbsp;

The 121st&nbsp;US Amateur will be played August 9-15 at Oakmont Country Club in Verona, Pennsylvania, while the stroke play co-host venue will be Longue Vue Club. The field of 312 competitors will play two rounds of stroke play on August 9 and 10 to determine the top 64 players that will advance to match play, which begins on Wednesday, August 11. The 36-hole championship match will be contested on Sunday, August 15.&nbsp;

Coverage of match play during the US Amateur will be shown on Golf Channel and Peacock.&nbsp;

MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;–&nbsp;Kansas State sophomore men’s golfer&nbsp;Cooper Schultz&nbsp;carded a 36-hole score of 5-under par 139 on Monday at Blue Hills Country Club in Kansas City, Missouri, to qualify for the 121st&nbsp;playing of the US Amateur later this summer.&nbsp;Schultz will be the first Wildcat to compete in the US Amateur since&nbsp;Ben Fernandez&nbsp;in 2017.&nbsp;Schultz, who carded a 1-over par 73 in the first round on Monday, came back in the afternoon 18 with a 6-under par 66 to qualify by one shot. The Andover, Kansas, native was 4-under par over his final nine holes, including birdies on No. 17 and No. 18 to edge past a three-way tie at 4-under par 140.&nbsp;The 121st&nbsp;US Amateur will be played August 9-15 at Oakmont Country Club in Verona, Pennsylvania, while the stroke play co-host venue will be Longue Vue Club. The field of 312 competitors will play two rounds of stroke play on August 9 and 10 to determine the top 64 players that will advance to match play, which begins on Wednesday, August 11. The 36-hole championship match will be contested on Sunday, August 15.&nbsp;Coverage of match play during the US Amateur will be shown on Golf Channel and Peacock.&nbsp;

K-State’s Schultz Qualifies for 121st US Amateur

DENVER, Co. (WIBW) - Royals catcher Salvador Perez and second baseman Whit Merrifield were part of the American League’s eighth-straight All Star Game win Tuesday night.

The AL never trailed, jumping out to a 4-0 lead and walking away with a 5-2 win.

Merrifield, playing in his second All-Star Game, assisted on the final out.

Offensively, he struck out swinging in the sixth inning, then came back in the eighth with a single for the Royals’ first and only hit.

Perez struck out swinging in his two at-bats in the second and fourth innings. The Royals catcher is now 7-0 in All-Star Game appearances.

By WIBW TVDENVER, Co. (WIBW) - Royals catcher Salvador Perez and second baseman Whit Merrifield were part of the American League’s eighth-straight All Star Game win Tuesday night.The AL never trailed, jumping out to a 4-0 lead and walking away with a 5-2 win.Merrifield, playing in his second All-Star Game, assisted on the final out.Offensively, he struck out swinging in the sixth inning, then came back in the eighth with a single for the Royals’ first and only hit.Perez struck out swinging in his two at-bats in the second and fourth innings. The Royals catcher is now 7-0 in All-Star Game appearances.

Two Royals play in the All Star game

MANHATTAN, Kan. (WIBW) - Select K-State fans have a chance to check out the soon-to-be-opened Shamrock Zone this week.

K-State Athletics announced Tuesday all season ticket holders and Ahearn Fund members are invited to tour the new facility at an open house Thursday and Friday.

The facility will be open 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Thursday, and 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Friday. Fans attending should enter at Gate D of Bill Snyder Family Stadium, then go into the Shamrock Zone from the south concourse.

“A sincere appreciation goes out to all of our donors and contributors to the Building Champions Capital Initiative,” K-State AD Gene Taylor said. “This $50 million project was fully funded without the use of any state or university dollars, and the new spaces and amenities will greatly benefit our fans as we continue to provide them with the best experience possible.”

The Shamrock Zone will be open on various game days this season for&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/news/2021/7/13/k-state-athletics-announces-shamrock-zone-open-house-dates-in-season-guidelines.aspx" target="_blank">football, volleyball, and men’s and women’s basketball</a>.

The 13,500 square-foot facility is more than seven times larger than the previous Legend’s Room. It can be accessed from both the south concourse of Bill Snyder Family Stadium and the main concourse of Bramlage Coliseum.

Inside, fans will find a bar, buffet, video boards and televisions, 318 club seats, 10 suites and loge boxes, and lounge spaces with tables and seating.

K-State has not yet announced an official opening date for the Shamrock Zone, but says the “finishing touches” will be completed soon.

By WIBW's Marleah CampbellMANHATTAN, Kan. (WIBW) - Select K-State fans have a chance to check out the soon-to-be-opened Shamrock Zone this week.K-State Athletics announced Tuesday all season ticket holders and Ahearn Fund members are invited to tour the new facility at an open house Thursday and Friday.The facility will be open 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Thursday, and 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Friday. Fans attending should enter at Gate D of Bill Snyder Family Stadium, then go into the Shamrock Zone from the south concourse.“A sincere appreciation goes out to all of our donors and contributors to the Building Champions Capital Initiative,” K-State AD Gene Taylor said. “This $50 million project was fully funded without the use of any state or university dollars, and the new spaces and amenities will greatly benefit our fans as we continue to provide them with the best experience possible.”The Shamrock Zone will be open on various game days this season for&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/news/2021/7/13/k-state-athletics-announces-shamrock-zone-open-house-dates-in-season-guidelines.aspx" target="_blank">football, volleyball, and men’s and women’s basketball</a>.The 13,500 square-foot facility is more than seven times larger than the previous Legend’s Room. It can be accessed from both the south concourse of Bill Snyder Family Stadium and the main concourse of Bramlage Coliseum.Inside, fans will find a bar, buffet, video boards and televisions, 318 club seats, 10 suites and loge boxes, and lounge spaces with tables and seating.K-State has not yet announced an official opening date for the Shamrock Zone, but says the “finishing touches” will be completed soon.

K-State season ticket holders invited to tour new $50 million Shamrock Zone

MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;– K-State left-handed pitcher&nbsp;Eric Torres&nbsp;was selected in the 14th&nbsp;round (No. 411 overall) by the Los Angeles Angels on the final day of the 2021 Major League Baseball First-Year Player Draft on Tuesday.

Torres is the fourth Wildcat to be taken in the 2021 MLB Draft, as&nbsp;Jordan Wicks,&nbsp;Carson Seymour&nbsp;and&nbsp;Zach Kokoska&nbsp;were chosen over the first 10 rounds. Four selections within the first 15 rounds equal the most in program history (2011), with the four total selections marking the most since 2017.

Torres, along with Wicks and Seymour, are the first trio of pitchers in K-State history to be taken in the first 15 rounds.

A product of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Torres made a team-high 25 relief appearances in 2021, going 4-0 with a save and a 2.75 ERA. He struck out 58 hitters while walking just nine over 39 1/3 innings pitched. Torres held opponents to one or fewer earned runs in 18 of his 25 outings.

Over his last 25 1/3 innings (13 appearances), the six-foot Torres allowed just two earned runs for a 0.71 ERA while racking up 38 strikeouts. He set season highs with 4 1/3 innings and eight strikeouts in his final outing of the season, scattering two hits in a 5-2 victory over TCU at the Big 12 Championship.

He totaled 6 1/3 scoreless innings over three games at the 2021 Big 12 Championship, earning all-tournament team recognition. During Big 12 play, he went 1-0 with a 2.33 earned run average and 28 strikeouts.

In three seasons at K-State, Torres has appeared in 49 times with a 5-2 record, two saves and a 3.51 ERA. He has totaled 105 career strikeouts over 74 1/3 innings pitched while opponents are hitting .204 against him.

Torres is the second Wildcat to be selected by the Angels organization, joining Wade Hinkle in 2012.

Head coach&nbsp;Pete Hughes&nbsp;has now overseen 79 draftees in his 24-year head coaching career, with five coming in three seasons at K-State.

Player /&nbsp;Round /&nbsp;Pick /&nbsp;Team

RHP Carson Seymour / 6 / 172 / New York Mets

OF Zach Kokoska / 10 / 290 / Colorado Rockies

LHP Eric Torres / 14 / 411 / Los Angeles Angels

MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;– K-State left-handed pitcher&nbsp;Eric Torres&nbsp;was selected in the 14th&nbsp;round (No. 411 overall) by the Los Angeles Angels on the final day of the 2021 Major League Baseball First-Year Player Draft on Tuesday.Torres is the fourth Wildcat to be taken in the 2021 MLB Draft, as&nbsp;Jordan Wicks,&nbsp;Carson Seymour&nbsp;and&nbsp;Zach Kokoska&nbsp;were chosen over the first 10 rounds. Four selections within the first 15 rounds equal the most in program history (2011), with the four total selections marking the most since 2017.Torres, along with Wicks and Seymour, are the first trio of pitchers in K-State history to be taken in the first 15 rounds.A product of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Torres made a team-high 25 relief appearances in 2021, going 4-0 with a save and a 2.75 ERA. He struck out 58 hitters while walking just nine over 39 1/3 innings pitched. Torres held opponents to one or fewer earned runs in 18 of his 25 outings.Over his last 25 1/3 innings (13 appearances), the six-foot Torres allowed just two earned runs for a 0.71 ERA while racking up 38 strikeouts. He set season highs with 4 1/3 innings and eight strikeouts in his final outing of the season, scattering two hits in a 5-2 victory over TCU at the Big 12 Championship.He totaled 6 1/3 scoreless innings over three games at the 2021 Big 12 Championship, earning all-tournament team recognition. During Big 12 play, he went 1-0 with a 2.33 earned run average and 28 strikeouts.In three seasons at K-State, Torres has appeared in 49 times with a 5-2 record, two saves and a 3.51 ERA. He has totaled 105 career strikeouts over 74 1/3 innings pitched while opponents are hitting .204 against him.Torres is the second Wildcat to be selected by the Angels organization, joining Wade Hinkle in 2012.Head coach&nbsp;Pete Hughes&nbsp;has now overseen 79 draftees in his 24-year head coaching career, with five coming in three seasons at K-State.Wildcats in the 2021 MLB DraftPlayer /&nbsp;Round /&nbsp;Pick /&nbsp;TeamLHP Jordan Wicks / 1 / 21 / Chicago CubsRHP Carson Seymour / 6 / 172 / New York MetsOF Zach Kokoska / 10 / 290 / Colorado RockiesLHP Eric Torres / 14 / 411 / Los Angeles Angels

Angels Pick Torres on Final Day of 2021 MLB Draft

MANHATTAN, Kan. - Kansas State men's basketball will lose sophomore guard Montavious Murphy to transfer, the Spring, Texas native announced via Twitter Tuesday.

Murphy averaged 5 points and 25 minutes per game in his freshman season with K-State before playing in just four contests in 2020 due to injury.&nbsp;

By Jackson SchneiderMANHATTAN, Kan. - Kansas State men's basketball will lose sophomore guard Montavious Murphy to transfer, the Spring, Texas native announced via Twitter Tuesday.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Thank You Kansas State <a href="https://t.co/mRlEajzxVX">pic.twitter.com/mRlEajzxVX</a>&mdash; Montavious Murphy (@Monte_Murphy) <a href="https://twitter.com/Monte_Murphy/status/1415004583697518597?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 13, 2021</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Murphy averaged 5 points and 25 minutes per game in his freshman season with K-State before playing in just four contests in 2020 due to injury.&nbsp;The loss of Murphy means that the Wildcats will now have lost every player from Bruce Weber's 2019 recruiting class that was originally made up of Dajuan Gordon, Antonio Gordon, David Sloan, Goodnews Kpegeol, and Montavious Murphy.&nbsp;Weber and the Wildcats will enter the 2021-22 season coming off a 9-20 year in 2020, but bring back nine players from a season ago, as well as the transfer additions of Mark Smith (Missouri), Markquis Nowell (Little Rock), and Ismael Massoud (Wake Forest). The Wildcats will also add freshman Logan Landers, a 6-10 center from Wisconsin, and freshman Maximus Edwards, a 6-5 small forward from New York.&nbsp;