The Junction City High School swim team placed 3rd at the Centennial League Swim Championships.

Junction City had 6 All-League Swimmers and this is the most the program has had in one season.&nbsp;

(Ivan Velarde, Truman Fortner, Brennen Doan, Owen Bockman)

State swim will take place this Friday and Saturday, Feb. 21-22 in Lenexa, KS, at the Shawnee Mission District Aquatic Center

The Junction City High School swim team placed 3rd at the Centennial League Swim Championships.Junction City had 6 All-League Swimmers and this is the most the program has had in one season.&nbsp;1st&nbsp;teamTruman Fortner2nd&nbsp;TeamCaeler RayburnLarry PierceIvan VelardeHonorable MentionAntonio MartinezBrennen Doan24-25 6A State Qualifiers200yd Medley Relay(Ivan Velarde, Truman Fortner, Brennen Doan, Owen Bockman)100yd BreaststrokeTruman FortnerState swim will take place this Friday and Saturday, Feb. 21-22 in Lenexa, KS, at the Shawnee Mission District Aquatic Center

JCHS swim team highlights

The Topeka High Lady Trojans beat the Junction City Lady Jays 76-23 on Monday night. 

Topeka High won the opening tip and jumped out to an early lead and never looked back. After the first quarter, T-High led 25-8. The second quarter was very similar to the first, with JC again only scoring eight points. The Lady Trojans led 41-16 at the half. 

The third quarter is where Topeka pulled away, outscoring the Lady Jays 24-2 in the quarter to lead 65-18. The fourth quarter featured a running clock, and Topeka High beat JC 76-23. The Lady Trojans swept the Lady Jays this season. 

Junction City Freshman Isabel Pruitt led the team with 10 points, and junior Morgan Nabus had seven. 

Junction City falls to 1-16 on the season. 

The Junction City Blue Jays entered Monday night's matchup having lost six of their last eight games. The Blue Jays recovered from a slow start and beat Topeka 81-65. 

The Trojans began the game hitting their first three shots and led the Blue Jays for much of the first quarter, but JC recovered and led 16-12 after the first quarter. 

In the second quarter, Junction City exploded on offense and outscored T-High 29-11. The Blue Jays led by 20, 45-25 at halftime. 

Junction City controlled the game in the second half, leading by as many as 27 points. The Trojans tried to make it interesting down the stretch, cutting the lead to 14 late in the game, but Junction City held on and won, 81-65. 

The Blue Jays were led in scoring by senior Ja'Twaan Williams with 25 points. Senior Jackson Austin had 19, senior Larkin Turner had 15, and senior Isiah Handy added 12 points. 

Junction City improves to 11-6 on the year and, hosts Manhattan on Friday night for senior night.

By Anthony GorgesJC PostGirls recapThe Topeka High Lady Trojans beat the Junction City Lady Jays 76-23 on Monday night. Topeka High won the opening tip and jumped out to an early lead and never looked back. After the first quarter, T-High led 25-8. The second quarter was very similar to the first, with JC again only scoring eight points. The Lady Trojans led 41-16 at the half. The third quarter is where Topeka pulled away, outscoring the Lady Jays 24-2 in the quarter to lead 65-18. The fourth quarter featured a running clock, and Topeka High beat JC 76-23. The Lady Trojans swept the Lady Jays this season. Junction City Freshman Isabel Pruitt led the team with 10 points, and junior Morgan Nabus had seven. Junction City falls to 1-16 on the season. Boys recapThe Junction City Blue Jays entered Monday night's matchup having lost six of their last eight games. The Blue Jays recovered from a slow start and beat Topeka 81-65. The Trojans began the game hitting their first three shots and led the Blue Jays for much of the first quarter, but JC recovered and led 16-12 after the first quarter. In the second quarter, Junction City exploded on offense and outscored T-High 29-11. The Blue Jays led by 20, 45-25 at halftime. Junction City controlled the game in the second half, leading by as many as 27 points. The Trojans tried to make it interesting down the stretch, cutting the lead to 14 late in the game, but Junction City held on and won, 81-65. The Blue Jays were led in scoring by senior Ja'Twaan Williams with 25 points. Senior Jackson Austin had 19, senior Larkin Turner had 15, and senior Isiah Handy added 12 points. Junction City improves to 11-6 on the year and, hosts Manhattan on Friday night for senior night.

Blue Jay boys defeat Topeka High, JC girls fall

SALT LAKE CITY (AP) — Ezra Ausar had 21 points and Lawson Lovering posted a double-double to help Utah hold on for a 74-69 victory over Kansas State on Monday night.

Ausar made 7 of 14 shots and all seven of his free throws, adding eight rebounds for the Utes (15-11, 7-8 Big 12 Conference). Lovering totaled 15 points and 10 rebounds for his first double-double this season. Gabe Madsen added 13 points.

Brendan Hausen scored 17 to lead the Wildcats (13-13, 7-8), who have lost two straight following a six-game win streak. Max Jones and Dug McDaniel both scored 13 with McDaniel adding six assists.

Lovering had nine points for Utah and Jones scored 10 for Kansas State in a first half that ended in a 32-32 tie.

Utah scored the first seven points of the second half to grab the lead. A Lovering dunk upped the Utes' advantage to 46-37 with 14:36 left to play. Madsen hit a 3-pointer to give Utah a 57-50 lead with 5:22 left, but Hausen hit a 3-pointer and two free throws as the Wildcats scored the next seven points to tie it with 3:25 remaining.

It was 59-all when Miro Little scored in the paint for Utah and Madsen followed with a 3-pointer. Jones had a layup with 15 seconds left to get the Wildcats within two, but the Utes made 3 of 4 foul shots in the final 12 seconds to wrap up the win.

Utah outrebounded K-State 51-28. The Utes had 21 rebounds at the offensive end, leading to 14 second-chance points.

Utah travels to play UCF on Sunday. Kansas State will host Arizona State on Sunday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1739876173943.png" alt="Photo K-State Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo K-State Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>SALT LAKE CITY (AP) — Ezra Ausar had 21 points and Lawson Lovering posted a double-double to help Utah hold on for a 74-69 victory over Kansas State on Monday night.Ausar made 7 of 14 shots and all seven of his free throws, adding eight rebounds for the Utes (15-11, 7-8 Big 12 Conference). Lovering totaled 15 points and 10 rebounds for his first double-double this season. Gabe Madsen added 13 points.Brendan Hausen scored 17 to lead the Wildcats (13-13, 7-8), who have lost two straight following a six-game win streak. Max Jones and Dug McDaniel both scored 13 with McDaniel adding six assists.Lovering had nine points for Utah and Jones scored 10 for Kansas State in a first half that ended in a 32-32 tie.Utah scored the first seven points of the second half to grab the lead. A Lovering dunk upped the Utes' advantage to 46-37 with 14:36 left to play. Madsen hit a 3-pointer to give Utah a 57-50 lead with 5:22 left, but Hausen hit a 3-pointer and two free throws as the Wildcats scored the next seven points to tie it with 3:25 remaining.It was 59-all when Miro Little scored in the paint for Utah and Madsen followed with a 3-pointer. Jones had a layup with 15 seconds left to get the Wildcats within two, but the Utes made 3 of 4 foul shots in the final 12 seconds to wrap up the win.Utah outrebounded K-State 51-28. The Utes had 21 rebounds at the offensive end, leading to 14 second-chance points.Utah travels to play UCF on Sunday. Kansas State will host Arizona State on Sunday.___

🏀 Ezra Ausar, Lawson Lovering help Utah hold off Kansas State

Junction City girls varsity wrestling team had eight qualify for the KSHSAA State Tournament. 

Freshman Catie Dee at 145 lb. placed 8th, senior Jordis Serrano 110 lb. placed 7th, Freshman, Shalina Hicks 190 lb. placed 6th, sophmores, Ka’Ori Herring 235 lb. and Elizabeth Edgerton-Diaz 130 lb. place 5th, Elaina Twitty, junior placed 3rd&nbsp;at 125 lbs.&nbsp;

 Regional champions were 115 lb. Bree Villanueva with a record of 29-1, and Jaidyn Alvarado at 100 lbs., record of 29-1 with 27 pins including all first-round pins through regionals.&nbsp; 

The state tournament is in Overland Park, starting on Feb. 28th.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1739730696085.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Junction City girls varsity wrestling team had eight qualify for the KSHSAA State Tournament. Freshman Catie Dee at 145 lb. placed 8th, senior Jordis Serrano 110 lb. placed 7th, Freshman, Shalina Hicks 190 lb. placed 6th, sophmores, Ka’Ori Herring 235 lb. and Elizabeth Edgerton-Diaz 130 lb. place 5th, Elaina Twitty, junior placed 3rd&nbsp;at 125 lbs.&nbsp; Regional champions were 115 lb. Bree Villanueva with a record of 29-1, and Jaidyn Alvarado at 100 lbs., record of 29-1 with 27 pins including all first-round pins through regionals.&nbsp; The state tournament is in Overland Park, starting on Feb. 28th.

Junction City girls wrestling qualifies 8 for the 6A State Tournament

SALT LAKE CITY (AP) — Gabe Madsen scored 24 points and became Utah's career leader in made 3-pointers as the Utes beat No. 17 Kansas 74-67 on Saturday night.

Madsen's fifth and final 3-pointer of the game with 1:58 to play gave him the Utah career record of 288 made 3s. He then hit two free throws with 26 second to play to clinch the game for the Utes.

Utah (14-11, 6-8 Big 12) never trailed but Kansas tied the game at 60 before the Utes' big finish.

Zeke Mayo had to leave the game briefly with a lower leg injury but led Kansas (17-8, 8-6) with 15 points while Dajuan Harris Jr. had 14 points and Hunter Dickinson added 12.

Ezra Ausar scored 12 points and Jake Wahlin had 10 points and 12 rebounds to help Utah get its first Quad 1 win in 10 tries.

Kansas coach Bill Self got a technical with 11:37 to play and the resulting free throws by Madsen gave Utah a 60-49 lead. The Jayhawks scored 11 consecutive points after that.

Kansas: In the first game for the Jayhawks at Utah, Kansas committed 12 turnovers which led to 22 Utah points. Kansas has now dropped three of its last five games.

Utah: Despite a second-half drought of 7:17 and Lawson Lovering going 1 for 9 from the free-throw line, the Utes finally found a way to win against a top-flight opponent.

Capping a late 7-0 run, Madsen hit a stepback jumper after a head fake with 1:58 remaining to pass Nick Jacobson and top the school 3-pointer list.

Utah has 16 offensive rebounds and a 46-36 overall edge on the boards.

Utah hosts Kansas State on Monday night while Kansas plays at BYU on Tuesday night.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1739703657667.png" alt="Photo Kansas Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Kansas Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>SALT LAKE CITY (AP) — Gabe Madsen scored 24 points and became Utah's career leader in made 3-pointers as the Utes beat No. 17 Kansas 74-67 on Saturday night.Madsen's fifth and final 3-pointer of the game with 1:58 to play gave him the Utah career record of 288 made 3s. He then hit two free throws with 26 second to play to clinch the game for the Utes.Utah (14-11, 6-8 Big 12) never trailed but Kansas tied the game at 60 before the Utes' big finish.Zeke Mayo had to leave the game briefly with a lower leg injury but led Kansas (17-8, 8-6) with 15 points while Dajuan Harris Jr. had 14 points and Hunter Dickinson added 12.Ezra Ausar scored 12 points and Jake Wahlin had 10 points and 12 rebounds to help Utah get its first Quad 1 win in 10 tries.Kansas coach Bill Self got a technical with 11:37 to play and the resulting free throws by Madsen gave Utah a 60-49 lead. The Jayhawks scored 11 consecutive points after that.<h2>Takeaways</h2>Kansas: In the first game for the Jayhawks at Utah, Kansas committed 12 turnovers which led to 22 Utah points. Kansas has now dropped three of its last five games.Utah: Despite a second-half drought of 7:17 and Lawson Lovering going 1 for 9 from the free-throw line, the Utes finally found a way to win against a top-flight opponent.<h2>Key moment</h2>Capping a late 7-0 run, Madsen hit a stepback jumper after a head fake with 1:58 remaining to pass Nick Jacobson and top the school 3-pointer list.<h2>Key stat</h2>Utah has 16 offensive rebounds and a 46-36 overall edge on the boards.<h2>Up next</h2>Utah hosts Kansas State on Monday night while Kansas plays at BYU on Tuesday night.

🏀 Madsen scores 24 in Utah win over No. 17 Kansas

PROVO, Utah (AP) — Richie Saunders scored 17 points and grabbed 14 rebounds on Saturday night to help BYU beat Kansas State 80-65 and snap the Wildcats' six-game win streak.

Dallin Hall scored 16 points and Fousseyni Traore 11 for BYU (17-8, 8-6 Big 12). Keba Keita added nine points, 11 rebounds and five blocks.

Egor Demin threw down a dunk that gave BYU the lead for good less than five minutes into the game and sparked a 17-4 run that made it 26-12 about four minutes later. The Cougars led by at least eight point the rest of the way.

CJ Jones made layup for the Wildcats with 7:43 left in the first and half and neither team scored again until Hall's layup with 2:56 to go until halftime that gave BYU a 14-point lead.

Kansas State, which made four of its first 16 shots and at one point missed 10 consecutive field-goal attempts, shot 27% (9 of 33) in the first half.

Dug McDaniel led Kansas State (13-12, 7-7) with 22 points on 9-of-16 shooting, 3 of 7 from 3-point range. Brendan Hausen added 12 points, including three 3s.

The Wildcats lost for the first time since a 70-62 loss at Baylor on Jan. 22, the last in a six-game skid.

Hall hit a 3-pointer to give the Cougars a 22-point lead — their biggest of the game — less than four minutes into the second half. Kansas State responded with an 18-4 run to trim its deficit to 53-45. Saunders answered with a layup and BYU led by double figures for the final 10-plus minutes.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1739679165258.png" alt="Photo BYU Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo BYU Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>PROVO, Utah (AP) — Richie Saunders scored 17 points and grabbed 14 rebounds on Saturday night to help BYU beat Kansas State 80-65 and snap the Wildcats' six-game win streak.Dallin Hall scored 16 points and Fousseyni Traore 11 for BYU (17-8, 8-6 Big 12). Keba Keita added nine points, 11 rebounds and five blocks.Egor Demin threw down a dunk that gave BYU the lead for good less than five minutes into the game and sparked a 17-4 run that made it 26-12 about four minutes later. The Cougars led by at least eight point the rest of the way.CJ Jones made layup for the Wildcats with 7:43 left in the first and half and neither team scored again until Hall's layup with 2:56 to go until halftime that gave BYU a 14-point lead.Kansas State, which made four of its first 16 shots and at one point missed 10 consecutive field-goal attempts, shot 27% (9 of 33) in the first half.Dug McDaniel led Kansas State (13-12, 7-7) with 22 points on 9-of-16 shooting, 3 of 7 from 3-point range. Brendan Hausen added 12 points, including three 3s.The Wildcats lost for the first time since a 70-62 loss at Baylor on Jan. 22, the last in a six-game skid.Hall hit a 3-pointer to give the Cougars a 22-point lead — their biggest of the game — less than four minutes into the second half. Kansas State responded with an 18-4 run to trim its deficit to 53-45. Saunders answered with a layup and BYU led by double figures for the final 10-plus minutes.

🏀 Richie Saunders has 17 and 14 rebounds, BYU beats Kansas State 

The Junction City Lady Jays kept the game close for the first four minutes, then Washburn Rural took over and cruised to a 71-13 win. 

At the end of the first quarter, the Junior Blues led 17-4. Washburn Rural then had an offensive explosion in the second quarter, outscoring JC 28-4, and led 45-8 at the half. 

Rural continued to pour it on in the second half, leading 59-11 at the end of three, and then finished the game with a final score of 71-13. 

Junction City Freshman Isabel Pruitt led the Lady Jays with six points. Rural completed the season sweep of JC. 

Washburn Rural was ready from the opening tip and took a 7-0 lead to force an early Junction City timeout. The Junior Blues led by double-digits at the end of the first quarter, 18-7. In the second quarter, JC trailed by 16 points, 29-13. The Blue Jays then rattled off a 14-4 run to end the half and trailed 33-27. 

In the second half, the Blue Jays turned up their defensive intensity and turned defense into offense, which then gave the Blue Jays their first lead of the game late in the third quarter. Washburn Rural senior King Leonard made a floater at the buzzer, but JC led 50-49 at the end of the third. 

The Junior Blues took the momentum of the buzzer-beater into the fourth quarter and outscored JC to win the game 64-58. JC made it close down the stretch when senior Jayden Mears hit a three-pointer to cut the lead to 60-58 with 30 seconds to go. Rural made their free throws down the stretch and completed the season sweep over Junction City. 

In the game, Junction City had three players in double-digits. Senior Ja'Twaan Williams led the way with 12 points, and junior Lovell Autry and senior Jeremias Cruz had 10 in the game. 

JC falls to 10-6 on the year and 3-3 in Centennial League play. 

The next action will be Monday night, Feb. 17, when the Blue Jays host Topeka High School. (The games have been moved up to Monday due to potential inclement weather on Tuesday).

By Anthony GorgesJC PostGirls recapThe Junction City Lady Jays kept the game close for the first four minutes, then Washburn Rural took over and cruised to a 71-13 win. At the end of the first quarter, the Junior Blues led 17-4. Washburn Rural then had an offensive explosion in the second quarter, outscoring JC 28-4, and led 45-8 at the half. Rural continued to pour it on in the second half, leading 59-11 at the end of three, and then finished the game with a final score of 71-13. Junction City Freshman Isabel Pruitt led the Lady Jays with six points. Rural completed the season sweep of JC. The Lady Jays fall to 1-15 on the year. Boys recapWashburn Rural was ready from the opening tip and took a 7-0 lead to force an early Junction City timeout. The Junior Blues led by double-digits at the end of the first quarter, 18-7. In the second quarter, JC trailed by 16 points, 29-13. The Blue Jays then rattled off a 14-4 run to end the half and trailed 33-27. In the second half, the Blue Jays turned up their defensive intensity and turned defense into offense, which then gave the Blue Jays their first lead of the game late in the third quarter. Washburn Rural senior King Leonard made a floater at the buzzer, but JC led 50-49 at the end of the third. The Junior Blues took the momentum of the buzzer-beater into the fourth quarter and outscored JC to win the game 64-58. JC made it close down the stretch when senior Jayden Mears hit a three-pointer to cut the lead to 60-58 with 30 seconds to go. Rural made their free throws down the stretch and completed the season sweep over Junction City. In the game, Junction City had three players in double-digits. Senior Ja'Twaan Williams led the way with 12 points, and junior Lovell Autry and senior Jeremias Cruz had 10 in the game. JC falls to 10-6 on the year and 3-3 in Centennial League play. The next action will be Monday night, Feb. 17, when the Blue Jays host Topeka High School. (The games have been moved up to Monday due to potential inclement weather on Tuesday).

Washburn Rural sweeps Junction City

Executive Associate Athletics Director for Communications/PR&nbsp;&nbsp;

MANHATTAN, Kan. –&nbsp;K-State Athletics generates more than $486 million in annual economic activity for the Manhattan community and the state of Kansas according to a thorough economic impact study performed by nationally-renowned Tripp Umbach and the athletics department.

Tripp Umbach, who also recently performed a similar study with the university, utilized data from 2022-23 to conduct the study, which also revealed that more than 3,850 jobs resulted from the department’s impact. From a tax perspective, K-State Athletics generated $26.2 million in direct and indirect/induced tax payments for state and local governments in Kansas, with $21.0 million amount specifically benefiting Manhattan.

“The experience surrounding game days in Manhattan is an amazing site to see – from Aggieville, restaurants, hotels and of course our purple-filled stadiums,” Athletics Director Gene Taylor said. “On the heels of the most recent University-wide study, we wanted to exhaustively study ourselves on various fronts, and this summary from Tripp Umbach paints a solid picture of the overall value and impact K-State Athletics has on the local economy.”

Visitors from outside of the community have a tremendous impact as more than $161 million in expenditures were accounted for in Manhattan and $201 million for the state. In addition, the 450 Wildcat student-athletes who live in the community accounted for $9.1 million of that spending.

A significant portion of K-State Athletics’ economic impact is driven by visitor and fan spending before, during, and after sporting events. As a member of the Big 12 Conference, K-State attracts fans from across the country. Visitors from inside and outside Kansas flock to Manhattan to attend football, basketball, and other games. In FY23 alone, K-State Athletics welcomed 527,280 patrons to ticketed events, with many more attending non-ticketed games and matches.

By KENNY LANNOUExecutive Associate Athletics Director for Communications/PR&nbsp;&nbsp;MANHATTAN, Kan. –&nbsp;K-State Athletics generates more than $486 million in annual economic activity for the Manhattan community and the state of Kansas according to a thorough economic impact study performed by nationally-renowned Tripp Umbach and the athletics department.Tripp Umbach, who also recently performed a similar study with the university, utilized data from 2022-23 to conduct the study, which also revealed that more than 3,850 jobs resulted from the department’s impact. From a tax perspective, K-State Athletics generated $26.2 million in direct and indirect/induced tax payments for state and local governments in Kansas, with $21.0 million amount specifically benefiting Manhattan.“The experience surrounding game days in Manhattan is an amazing site to see – from Aggieville, restaurants, hotels and of course our purple-filled stadiums,” Athletics Director Gene Taylor said. “On the heels of the most recent University-wide study, we wanted to exhaustively study ourselves on various fronts, and this summary from Tripp Umbach paints a solid picture of the overall value and impact K-State Athletics has on the local economy.”Visitors from outside of the community have a tremendous impact as more than $161 million in expenditures were accounted for in Manhattan and $201 million for the state. In addition, the 450 Wildcat student-athletes who live in the community accounted for $9.1 million of that spending.A significant portion of K-State Athletics’ economic impact is driven by visitor and fan spending before, during, and after sporting events. As a member of the Big 12 Conference, K-State attracts fans from across the country. Visitors from inside and outside Kansas flock to Manhattan to attend football, basketball, and other games. In FY23 alone, K-State Athletics welcomed 527,280 patrons to ticketed events, with many more attending non-ticketed games and matches.– kstatesports.com -<figure>
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K-State athletics generates $486.1 million impact for state of Kansas

<a>MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;–</a>&nbsp;After serving the last three seasons as Kansas State’s tight ends coach,&nbsp;Brian Lepak&nbsp;will now work with the Wildcat offensive line, head coach&nbsp;Chris Klieman&nbsp;announced Thursday. Additionally,&nbsp;Drew Liddle, who has spent seven years on the K-State staff over two different stints, has been named the assistant offensive line coach after serving as an offensive analyst in 2024.

“Not only is Brian one of the top young coaches in our conference, but his background and experience with the offensive line made him the logical choice for this role,” Klieman said. “It was also important to have two coaches work in the trenches with our guys, and elevating Drew to assist Brian provides us stability and allows for a smooth transition.”

Lepak’s move to offensive line is part of K-State’s new-look offensive staff as&nbsp;Matt Wells&nbsp;was elevated to offensive coordinator earlier this week following the departure of offensive coordinator/offensive line coach Conor Riley last week.

<a>MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;–</a>&nbsp;After serving the last three seasons as Kansas State’s tight ends coach,&nbsp;Brian Lepak&nbsp;will now work with the Wildcat offensive line, head coach&nbsp;Chris Klieman&nbsp;announced Thursday. Additionally,&nbsp;Drew Liddle, who has spent seven years on the K-State staff over two different stints, has been named the assistant offensive line coach after serving as an offensive analyst in 2024.“Not only is Brian one of the top young coaches in our conference, but his background and experience with the offensive line made him the logical choice for this role,” Klieman said. “It was also important to have two coaches work in the trenches with our guys, and elevating Drew to assist Brian provides us stability and allows for a smooth transition.”Lepak’s move to offensive line is part of K-State’s new-look offensive staff as&nbsp;Matt Wells&nbsp;was elevated to offensive coordinator earlier this week following the departure of offensive coordinator/offensive line coach Conor Riley last week.RYAN LACKEY“&nbsp;

Lepak to Coach K-State’s Offensive Line, Liddle to Assist

Junction City High School senior Petren Bartolome was honored Tuesday night at halftime of the boys varsity basketball game for being selected to represent the Blue Jays at the 2025 <a href="https://www.facebook.com/KansasShrineBowl?__cft__[0]=AZW44fG8pwdwYpDv7WTVnPVpAtAmvFIEMdnB2-P2fKjLGekMIAJxeiCJmfWRxg2c-fqUHMCPEITlEw4jUh585E2TdrCHrCehMMvtka5H7jGTusCUiQh0Fl0OoJ7pYb82EHj3g_vxP1DVrl8SmVj-BIyGAO6G2uEbXGV8UDluX3rBDp-05SqE9gW30jFAdQ5GQV8&amp;__tn__=-]K-R">Kansas Shrine Bowl</a>.

Bartolome, who recently signed to play football at <a href="https://www.facebook.com/GoConqs?__cft__[0]=AZW44fG8pwdwYpDv7WTVnPVpAtAmvFIEMdnB2-P2fKjLGekMIAJxeiCJmfWRxg2c-fqUHMCPEITlEw4jUh585E2TdrCHrCehMMvtka5H7jGTusCUiQh0Fl0OoJ7pYb82EHj3g_vxP1DVrl8SmVj-BIyGAO6G2uEbXGV8UDluX3rBDp-05SqE9gW30jFAdQ5GQV8&amp;__tn__=-]K-R">Dodge City Community College</a> next fall, will play for the West Team on Saturday, June 21 at Memorial Stadium in Dodge City.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1739377052261.jpeg" alt="Petren Bartolome officially receives and accepts the invitation to play in the Kansas Shrine Bowl.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Petren Bartolome officially receives and accepts the invitation to play in the Kansas Shrine Bowl.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Junction City High School senior Petren Bartolome was honored Tuesday night at halftime of the boys varsity basketball game for being selected to represent the Blue Jays at the 2025 <a href="https://www.facebook.com/KansasShrineBowl?__cft__[0]=AZW44fG8pwdwYpDv7WTVnPVpAtAmvFIEMdnB2-P2fKjLGekMIAJxeiCJmfWRxg2c-fqUHMCPEITlEw4jUh585E2TdrCHrCehMMvtka5H7jGTusCUiQh0Fl0OoJ7pYb82EHj3g_vxP1DVrl8SmVj-BIyGAO6G2uEbXGV8UDluX3rBDp-05SqE9gW30jFAdQ5GQV8&amp;__tn__=-]K-R">Kansas Shrine Bowl</a>. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1739377174461.jpeg" alt="Junction City High School Football coach Randall Zimmerman with Blue Jay senior Petren Bartolome.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Junction City High School Football coach Randall Zimmerman with Blue Jay senior Petren Bartolome.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Bartolome, who recently signed to play football at <a href="https://www.facebook.com/GoConqs?__cft__[0]=AZW44fG8pwdwYpDv7WTVnPVpAtAmvFIEMdnB2-P2fKjLGekMIAJxeiCJmfWRxg2c-fqUHMCPEITlEw4jUh585E2TdrCHrCehMMvtka5H7jGTusCUiQh0Fl0OoJ7pYb82EHj3g_vxP1DVrl8SmVj-BIyGAO6G2uEbXGV8UDluX3rBDp-05SqE9gW30jFAdQ5GQV8&amp;__tn__=-]K-R">Dodge City Community College</a> next fall, will play for the West Team on Saturday, June 21 at Memorial Stadium in Dodge City.

Junction City's Petren Bartolome will play in Kansas Shrine Bowl

Junction City and Emporia entered the game on Tuesday night looking for their first win in Centennial League play. 

The Lady Spartans jumped out to an early lead and led 13-7 after one. Emporia expanded their lead to double-digits before halftime, but the Lady Jays cut it to nine points at the half trailing 22-13. 

In the second half, the Lady Spartans pulled away, leading by 20 points at the end of the third quarter, and then grew the lead in the fourth quarter, winning 49-21. 

Junior Morgan Nabus led the way for the JC girls with seven points, and Freshman Laniya Warmack had a career-high six points in the game. 

With the loss, the Lady Jays fall to 1-14, and 0-5 in Centennial League play. 

The Junction City Blue Jays entered Tuesday's matchup with Emporia on a three-game losing streak, and having lost five of their last six games. 

The first quarter was up-tempo, and the Emporia Spartans led by one, 14-13, going into the second quarter. 

Shots began falling for JC, with back-to-back threes from Isiah Handy and Jeremias Cruz. The Blue Jays outscored Emporia 21-13 in the second quarter, and JC led at the half 34-27. 

The third quarter was a defensive battle, with not a lot of scoring, and Junction City still led by seven after three quarters, 45-38.

The fourth quarter is when the excitement began, as it looked like the Blue Jays had a chance to put the game away. Emporia had other things in mind, as they shot lights out down the stretch. Madden Seidl for Emporia hit a three-pointer from the top of the key to tie the game at 58 with 14 seconds to go. JC had a chance to win it in regulation, but Jeremias Cruz three did not go, and the game went into overtime. 

To begin overtime, Cruz hit a three-pointer this time and gave the Blue Jays a three-point lead.  JC led by five with a minute to go, but the Spartans again came back. Two big threes for Emporia made it a one-point game, 67-66 with 20 seconds to go. Junior Lovell Autry made two free throws to give the Blue Jays a 69-66 lead. After an Emporia miss, the Blue Jays missed two free throws to seal the game. A half-court heave for the Spartans missed, and Junction City won in overtime. 

The Blue Jays snapped their three-game losing streak and improved to 10-5 on the season. 

Seniors Larkin Turner and Jeremias Cruz both had 16 points for JC, Autry had 13, and Isiah Handy added 11. 

Next up for JC is hosting Washburn Rural on Friday night at Blue Jay Event Center.

By Anthony GorgesJC PostGirls recapJunction City and Emporia entered the game on Tuesday night looking for their first win in Centennial League play. The Lady Spartans jumped out to an early lead and led 13-7 after one. Emporia expanded their lead to double-digits before halftime, but the Lady Jays cut it to nine points at the half trailing 22-13. In the second half, the Lady Spartans pulled away, leading by 20 points at the end of the third quarter, and then grew the lead in the fourth quarter, winning 49-21. Junior Morgan Nabus led the way for the JC girls with seven points, and Freshman Laniya Warmack had a career-high six points in the game. With the loss, the Lady Jays fall to 1-14, and 0-5 in Centennial League play. Boys recapThe Junction City Blue Jays entered Tuesday's matchup with Emporia on a three-game losing streak, and having lost five of their last six games. The first quarter was up-tempo, and the Emporia Spartans led by one, 14-13, going into the second quarter. Shots began falling for JC, with back-to-back threes from Isiah Handy and Jeremias Cruz. The Blue Jays outscored Emporia 21-13 in the second quarter, and JC led at the half 34-27. The third quarter was a defensive battle, with not a lot of scoring, and Junction City still led by seven after three quarters, 45-38.The fourth quarter is when the excitement began, as it looked like the Blue Jays had a chance to put the game away. Emporia had other things in mind, as they shot lights out down the stretch. Madden Seidl for Emporia hit a three-pointer from the top of the key to tie the game at 58 with 14 seconds to go. JC had a chance to win it in regulation, but Jeremias Cruz three did not go, and the game went into overtime. To begin overtime, Cruz hit a three-pointer this time and gave the Blue Jays a three-point lead. JC led by five with a minute to go, but the Spartans again came back. Two big threes for Emporia made it a one-point game, 67-66 with 20 seconds to go. Junior Lovell Autry made two free throws to give the Blue Jays a 69-66 lead. After an Emporia miss, the Blue Jays missed two free throws to seal the game. A half-court heave for the Spartans missed, and Junction City won in overtime. The Blue Jays snapped their three-game losing streak and improved to 10-5 on the season. Seniors Larkin Turner and Jeremias Cruz both had 16 points for JC, Autry had 13, and Isiah Handy added 11. Next up for JC is hosting Washburn Rural on Friday night at Blue Jay Event Center.

Blue Jays win in OT, Lady Jays fall to Emporia

LAWRENCE, Kan. (AP) — Hunter Dickinson scored 19 points to help No. 17 Kansas beat Colorado 71-59 on Tuesday night, handing the Buffaloes their 13th straight loss.

Besides Dickinson, Kansas (16-7, 7-5 Big 12) had three other players in double figures. Zeke Mayo added 13 points and Dajuan Harris and KJ Adams each had 10 each.

Kansas has alternated between wins and losses in the last seven games. Despite the double-digit margin, this victory was anything but easy.

Colorado (9-14, 0-12) used an early second-half run to trim a 14-point halftime deficit to just 6. Kansas didn't lead by more than 11 points until Adams hit a short jumper just before the shot clock expired to make it 69-56 with 1:31 left.

Sebastian Rancik led Colorado with a season-high 19 points. Bangot Dak added 11 points for the Buffaloes, and Elijah Malone had 10.

Colorado: Even after Kansas pulled away late in the first half to take a 40-26 lead into the break, the Buffaloes opened the second half with a 10-2 run to trim the deficit to six points.

Kansas: The Jayhawks needed a big game from Dickinson and they got it. With backup center Flory Bidunga scoring just fuur points, Dickinson's 19 points were critical.

Kansas held Colorado without a field goal for almost seven minutes in the first half to help the Jayhawks open their largest lead of the game. The Buffaloes missed 10 straight shots during the stretch.

Colorado shot just 17.4% (4-of-23) from 3-point range. The Buffaloes were 1-of-11 in the first half.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1739334512592.jpeg" alt="Colorado guard Julian Hammond III (3) tries to steal the ball away from Kansas center Hunter Dickinson (1) during the first half of an NCAA college basketball game, Tuesday, Feb. 11, 2025, in Lawrence, Kan. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)" />
 <figcaption>Colorado guard Julian Hammond III (3) tries to steal the ball away from Kansas center Hunter Dickinson (1) during the first half of an NCAA college basketball game, Tuesday, Feb. 11, 2025, in Lawrence, Kan. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)</figcaption>
 </figure>LAWRENCE, Kan. (AP) — Hunter Dickinson scored 19 points to help No. 17 Kansas beat Colorado 71-59 on Tuesday night, handing the Buffaloes their 13th straight loss.Besides Dickinson, Kansas (16-7, 7-5 Big 12) had three other players in double figures. Zeke Mayo added 13 points and Dajuan Harris and KJ Adams each had 10 each.Kansas has alternated between wins and losses in the last seven games. Despite the double-digit margin, this victory was anything but easy.Colorado (9-14, 0-12) used an early second-half run to trim a 14-point halftime deficit to just 6. Kansas didn't lead by more than 11 points until Adams hit a short jumper just before the shot clock expired to make it 69-56 with 1:31 left.Sebastian Rancik led Colorado with a season-high 19 points. Bangot Dak added 11 points for the Buffaloes, and Elijah Malone had 10.<h2>Takeaways</h2>Colorado: Even after Kansas pulled away late in the first half to take a 40-26 lead into the break, the Buffaloes opened the second half with a 10-2 run to trim the deficit to six points.Kansas: The Jayhawks needed a big game from Dickinson and they got it. With backup center Flory Bidunga scoring just fuur points, Dickinson's 19 points were critical.<h2>Key moment</h2>Kansas held Colorado without a field goal for almost seven minutes in the first half to help the Jayhawks open their largest lead of the game. The Buffaloes missed 10 straight shots during the stretch.<h2>Key stat</h2>Colorado shot just 17.4% (4-of-23) from 3-point range. The Buffaloes were 1-of-11 in the first half.<h2>Up next</h2>

🏀 No. 17 Kansas struggles before beating Colorado 

MANHATTAN, Kan. (AP) — Dug McDaniel scored a season-high 24 points and Kansas State beat No. 13 Arizona 73-70 on Tuesday night for its sixth straight victory — four against ranked opponents.

David N’Guessan had 16 points and seven rebounds for the resurgent Wildcats (13-11, 7-6 Big 12), who lost six in a row right before this winning streak. C.J. Jones added 10 points, and McDaniel finished with five steals, four rebounds and three assists.

KJ Lewis led Arizona (17-7, 11-2) with 15 points off the bench. The Wildcats missed a desperation heave at the buzzer, ending their six-game winning streak.

Jaden Bradley had 13 points, Henri Veesaar scored 12 and Tobe Awaka added 10 for Arizona, which lost for only the second time since Dec. 14.

Kansas State ended the first half on a 13-0 run to take a 35-29 lead into the break.

Arizona: Winning on the road in the Big 12 is tough, especially when facing one of the hottest teams in the country.

Kansas State: The Wildcats have caught fire and are playing like an NCAA Tournament team. If they can keep winning Big 12 games, it’ll be tough to keep them out.

Lewis fouled Max Jones on a 3-point attempt late in the first half, which led to three free throws and a 32-29 Kansas State lead.

Both teams were atrocious from the 3-point line as Arizona went 2 of 22 and Kansas State was 1 for 19 from deep.

Arizona hosts No. 6 Houston on Saturday. Kansas State visits BYU the same day.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1739332433877.jpeg" alt="Kansas State's C.J. Jones celebrates a shot and a foul during the first half of an NCAA college basketball game against Arizona, Tuesday, Feb. 11, 2025, in Manhattan, Kan. (AP Photo/Travis Heying)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas State's C.J. Jones celebrates a shot and a foul during the first half of an NCAA college basketball game against Arizona, Tuesday, Feb. 11, 2025, in Manhattan, Kan. (AP Photo/Travis Heying)</figcaption>
 </figure>MANHATTAN, Kan. (AP) — Dug McDaniel scored a season-high 24 points and Kansas State beat No. 13 Arizona 73-70 on Tuesday night for its sixth straight victory — four against ranked opponents.David N’Guessan had 16 points and seven rebounds for the resurgent Wildcats (13-11, 7-6 Big 12), who lost six in a row right before this winning streak. C.J. Jones added 10 points, and McDaniel finished with five steals, four rebounds and three assists.KJ Lewis led Arizona (17-7, 11-2) with 15 points off the bench. The Wildcats missed a desperation heave at the buzzer, ending their six-game winning streak.Jaden Bradley had 13 points, Henri Veesaar scored 12 and Tobe Awaka added 10 for Arizona, which lost for only the second time since Dec. 14.Kansas State ended the first half on a 13-0 run to take a 35-29 lead into the break.<h2>Takeaways</h2>Arizona: Winning on the road in the Big 12 is tough, especially when facing one of the hottest teams in the country.Kansas State: The Wildcats have caught fire and are playing like an NCAA Tournament team. If they can keep winning Big 12 games, it’ll be tough to keep them out.<h2>Key moment</h2>Lewis fouled Max Jones on a 3-point attempt late in the first half, which led to three free throws and a 32-29 Kansas State lead.<h2>Key stat</h2>Both teams were atrocious from the 3-point line as Arizona went 2 of 22 and Kansas State was 1 for 19 from deep.<h2>Up next</h2>Arizona hosts No. 6 Houston on Saturday. Kansas State visits BYU the same day.___

🏀 McDaniel scores 24 as Kansas State beats No. 13 Arizona

Junction City High School Athletic Director Chris Bogenhagen announced changes to the start times for Tuesday night's basketball games when the blue Jays host Emporia High.&nbsp;

Due to expected inclement weather late Tuesday night, the start times have been adjust for the varsity games.&nbsp;

Girls varsity will be at 4:30 in the Main Gym

Boys varsity will be at 6:00 in the Main Gym

Girls JV will play at 6:00 in the Aux Gym.

There will be no freshman games played Tuesday.&nbsp;

Junction City High School Athletic Director Chris Bogenhagen announced changes to the start times for Tuesday night's basketball games when the blue Jays host Emporia High.&nbsp;Due to expected inclement weather late Tuesday night, the start times have been adjust for the varsity games.&nbsp;Varsity gamesGirls varsity will be at 4:30 in the Main GymBoys varsity will be at 6:00 in the Main GymJV GamesBoys JV will play at 4:30 in the Aux GymGirls JV will play at 6:00 in the Aux Gym.There will be no freshman games played Tuesday.&nbsp;

JCHS moves up basketball game times for Tuesday night

<a>MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;–</a>&nbsp;Matt Wells, who served on the K-State football staff as the co-offensive coordinator/quarterbacks coach/associate head coach in 2024 has been promoted to offensive coordinator, head coach&nbsp;Chris Klieman&nbsp;announced Monday.

“We are fortunate to have someone experienced on staff in Matt, who I have known for 12-plus years and will seamlessly transition into the offensive coordinator role,” Klieman said. “He worked closely with Conor last season and had a big part in our offensive production. His resume speaks for itself, and his relationship with and development of Avery Johnson and our other quarterbacks will help our offense continue to grow.”

Wells replaces Conor Riley as the primary play caller, who was named the Dallas Cowboys’ offensive line coach late last week.

“It is such an honor to coach here at K-State, and I am thankful to Coach Klieman for this opportunity,” Wells said. “I have grown to love this school and our players throughout this past year. I am excited for this upcoming season and looking forward to building upon this offense with our players and staff.”

Wells hit the ground running in his first season on staff, tutoring&nbsp;Avery Johnson&nbsp;to a school-record 25 touchdown passes, while his sophomore signal caller ranked fifth in school history in passing yards (2,712) and completions (217). Additionally, Johnson was one of only five players in the nation and one of three from Power 4 schools to record at least 2,700 passing yards and 600 rushing yards, while he was one of nine signal callers nationally with at least 25 passing touchdowns and seven rushing touchdowns.

<a>MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;–</a>&nbsp;Matt Wells, who served on the K-State football staff as the co-offensive coordinator/quarterbacks coach/associate head coach in 2024 has been promoted to offensive coordinator, head coach&nbsp;Chris Klieman&nbsp;announced Monday.“We are fortunate to have someone experienced on staff in Matt, who I have known for 12-plus years and will seamlessly transition into the offensive coordinator role,” Klieman said. “He worked closely with Conor last season and had a big part in our offensive production. His resume speaks for itself, and his relationship with and development of Avery Johnson and our other quarterbacks will help our offense continue to grow.”Wells replaces Conor Riley as the primary play caller, who was named the Dallas Cowboys’ offensive line coach late last week.“It is such an honor to coach here at K-State, and I am thankful to Coach Klieman for this opportunity,” Wells said. “I have grown to love this school and our players throughout this past year. I am excited for this upcoming season and looking forward to building upon this offense with our players and staff.”Wells hit the ground running in his first season on staff, tutoring&nbsp;Avery Johnson&nbsp;to a school-record 25 touchdown passes, while his sophomore signal caller ranked fifth in school history in passing yards (2,712) and completions (217). Additionally, Johnson was one of only five players in the nation and one of three from Power 4 schools to record at least 2,700 passing yards and 600 rushing yards, while he was one of nine signal callers nationally with at least 25 passing touchdowns and seven rushing touchdowns.RYAN LACKEY

K-State’s Wells Named Offensive Coordinator

NEW ORLEANS (AP) — Cooper DeJean, Josh Sweat and the Philadelphia Eagles’ ferocious defense denied Patrick Mahomes, Travis Kelce and the Kansas City Chiefs a Super Bowl three-peat.

<a href="https://x.com/NFL/status/1888750819786256472">DeJean got a pick-6</a>&nbsp;on his&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/super-bowl-birthday-cooper-dejean-barkley-697c91e35802293f29cf0aed95e15436">22nd birthday</a>, Sweat tormented Mahomes and the Eagles routed the Chiefs 40-22 on Sunday to secure the franchise’s second Super Bowl championship.

Jalen Hurts threw for two touchdowns and ran for a score on a tush push, and Vic Fangio's defense was so dominant that the Eagles didn't need much from Saquon Barkley.

The game-changing running back finished with 57 yards,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/super-bowl-eagles-barkley-5e28abc26e50169e124fa99c2ef4058e">breaking Terrell Davis’ record</a>&nbsp;for yards rushing in a season, playoffs included. Hurts threw for 221 yards.

With Donald Trump&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-nfl-super-bowl-first-president-766c628f4ea3faf38d100e4f33f2ac8c">becoming the first president in office to attend a Super Bowl</a>, the Eagles outplayed Kansas City in every facet, delighting a raucous pro-Philly crowd that celebrated each score with a familiar rendition of “Fly! Eagles! Fly!”

Even&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/super-bowl-taylor-swift-travis-kelce-35c7b3b896c226566e4afa0baa7b69c5">Taylor Swift’s presence</a>&nbsp;couldn’t help the Chiefs. They lost for the first time in 10 games this season with the pop superstar in a suite watching boyfriend Travis Kelce, who didn’t catch a pass until late in the third quarter.

Not in Kansas City’s worst nightmares could its fans have imagined such a lackluster performance. The Chiefs had won three of the previous five Super Bowls, losing 31-9 to Tom Brady and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers four years ago.

Mahomes was 8-0 against Fangio’s defenses before the longtime coordinator and former Broncos head coach outcoached Andy Reid, capping his first season with his hometown team. Reid fell to 3-3 in Super Bowls, including a loss with the Eagles.

The Eagles sacked Mahomes six times, the most of his career, including 2 1/2 by Sweat. And they did it without Fangio calling a single blitz.

Barkley, the 2024 AP NFL Offensive Player of the Year, only had 31 yards rushing in the first half when Philly built a 24-0 lead.

The Chiefs were aiming to become the third team in NFL history to win three straight championships and the first to three-peat in the Super Bowl era.

Hurts nearly led the Eagles to victory against the Chiefs two years ago in Arizona, but Mahomes led a comeback and Harrison Butker kicked the game-winning field goal in the final minute for a 38-35 victory. Mahomes rallied Kansas City to an overtime victory over San Francisco last year for the Chiefs' second straight title.

This time, a revamped Philly defense featuring eight new starters from the 2022 team made sure Mahomes had no chance to pull off his magic.

Eagles coach Nick Sirianni,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/eagles-analysis-sirianni-sideline-antics-125b677b3a4d8cca37d89ead27b5fe1e">who mocked fans chanting “Fire Nick!”</a>&nbsp;during a victory over Cleveland in October and was called a “clown” on national television, should finally silence critics by adding a championship ring to a resume that includes the fifth-best winning percentage in league history.

Sirianni was showered with Gatorade with nearly three minutes left in the game while backup QB Kenny Pickett took snaps in mop-up duty.

Barkley helped push Hurts into the end zone from the 1 to give Philadelphia a 7-0 lead in the first quarter.

Up 10-0 after Jake Elliott’s 48-yard field goal, Sweat and Jalyx Hunt sacked Mahomes on consecutive plays. Mahomes then rolled out and made an errant throw that was picked by DeJean, who returned it 38 yards for a 17-0 lead.

It was Mahomes’ first pick-6 in 21 career playoff games and ended a streak of 297 straight passes without an interception.

All-Pro linebacker Zack Baun picked Mahomes again late in the second quarter, and Hurts connected with A.J. Brown on a 12-yard TD pass for a 24-0 lead.

<a href="https://x.com/NFL/status/1888774848114983241">Hurts threw a perfect 46-yard TD pass to DeVonta Smith</a>&nbsp;to make it 34-0 late in the third.

Mahomes fired a 24-yard TD pass to Xavier Worthy to avoid the shutout, but the 2-point conversion failed. He threw two late, mostly meaningless TD passes, one to DeAndre Hopkins and another to Worthy.

After two weeks of discussions about questionable calls that led to public perception that officials favor the Chiefs — a theory NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell called “ridiculous” — the first penalty of the game only fueled critics.

A 32-yard pass from Hurts to Brown to the Chiefs 18 on fourth-and-2 was negated by a penalty for offensive pass interference. Brady, now a Fox analyst, and officiating analyst Mike Pereira both disagreed with the call, although Brown shoved Trent McDuffie’s facemask.

On the next possession, the Eagles benefited from an unnecessary roughness penalty on McDuffie against Dallas Goedert following an incomplete pass on third-and-5.

Hurts then connected with Jahan Dotson on a 27-yard pass to the 1 and scored on the next play.

Hurts’ streak of 217 passes without a pick ended in the first half when he was intercepted deep in Kansas City territory, but the Chiefs didn’t capitalize.

The Green Bay Packers are the only NFL team to win three championships in a row, doing it from 1929-31 and 1965-67.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1739157518917.png" alt="Photo Philadelphia Eagles" />
 <figcaption>Photo Philadelphia Eagles</figcaption>
 </figure>NEW ORLEANS (AP) — Cooper DeJean, Josh Sweat and the Philadelphia Eagles’ ferocious defense denied Patrick Mahomes, Travis Kelce and the Kansas City Chiefs a Super Bowl three-peat.It wasn’t even close.<a href="https://x.com/NFL/status/1888750819786256472">DeJean got a pick-6</a>&nbsp;on his&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/super-bowl-birthday-cooper-dejean-barkley-697c91e35802293f29cf0aed95e15436">22nd birthday</a>, Sweat tormented Mahomes and the Eagles routed the Chiefs 40-22 on Sunday to secure the franchise’s second Super Bowl championship.Jalen Hurts threw for two touchdowns and ran for a score on a tush push, and Vic Fangio's defense was so dominant that the Eagles didn't need much from Saquon Barkley.The game-changing running back finished with 57 yards,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/super-bowl-eagles-barkley-5e28abc26e50169e124fa99c2ef4058e">breaking Terrell Davis’ record</a>&nbsp;for yards rushing in a season, playoffs included. Hurts threw for 221 yards.With Donald Trump&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-nfl-super-bowl-first-president-766c628f4ea3faf38d100e4f33f2ac8c">becoming the first president in office to attend a Super Bowl</a>, the Eagles outplayed Kansas City in every facet, delighting a raucous pro-Philly crowd that celebrated each score with a familiar rendition of “Fly! Eagles! Fly!”Even&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/super-bowl-taylor-swift-travis-kelce-35c7b3b896c226566e4afa0baa7b69c5">Taylor Swift’s presence</a>&nbsp;couldn’t help the Chiefs. They lost for the first time in 10 games this season with the pop superstar in a suite watching boyfriend Travis Kelce, who didn’t catch a pass until late in the third quarter.Not in Kansas City’s worst nightmares could its fans have imagined such a lackluster performance. The Chiefs had won three of the previous five Super Bowls, losing 31-9 to Tom Brady and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers four years ago.Mahomes was 8-0 against Fangio’s defenses before the longtime coordinator and former Broncos head coach outcoached Andy Reid, capping his first season with his hometown team. Reid fell to 3-3 in Super Bowls, including a loss with the Eagles.The Eagles sacked Mahomes six times, the most of his career, including 2 1/2 by Sweat. And they did it without Fangio calling a single blitz.Barkley, the 2024 AP NFL Offensive Player of the Year, only had 31 yards rushing in the first half when Philly built a 24-0 lead.The Chiefs were aiming to become the third team in NFL history to win three straight championships and the first to three-peat in the Super Bowl era.Hurts nearly led the Eagles to victory against the Chiefs two years ago in Arizona, but Mahomes led a comeback and Harrison Butker kicked the game-winning field goal in the final minute for a 38-35 victory. Mahomes rallied Kansas City to an overtime victory over San Francisco last year for the Chiefs' second straight title.This time, a revamped Philly defense featuring eight new starters from the 2022 team made sure Mahomes had no chance to pull off his magic.Eagles coach Nick Sirianni,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/eagles-analysis-sirianni-sideline-antics-125b677b3a4d8cca37d89ead27b5fe1e">who mocked fans chanting “Fire Nick!”</a>&nbsp;during a victory over Cleveland in October and was called a “clown” on national television, should finally silence critics by adding a championship ring to a resume that includes the fifth-best winning percentage in league history.Sirianni was showered with Gatorade with nearly three minutes left in the game while backup QB Kenny Pickett took snaps in mop-up duty.Barkley helped push Hurts into the end zone from the 1 to give Philadelphia a 7-0 lead in the first quarter.Up 10-0 after Jake Elliott’s 48-yard field goal, Sweat and Jalyx Hunt sacked Mahomes on consecutive plays. Mahomes then rolled out and made an errant throw that was picked by DeJean, who returned it 38 yards for a 17-0 lead.It was Mahomes’ first pick-6 in 21 career playoff games and ended a streak of 297 straight passes without an interception.All-Pro linebacker Zack Baun picked Mahomes again late in the second quarter, and Hurts connected with A.J. Brown on a 12-yard TD pass for a 24-0 lead.<a href="https://x.com/NFL/status/1888774848114983241">Hurts threw a perfect 46-yard TD pass to DeVonta Smith</a>&nbsp;to make it 34-0 late in the third.Mahomes fired a 24-yard TD pass to Xavier Worthy to avoid the shutout, but the 2-point conversion failed. He threw two late, mostly meaningless TD passes, one to DeAndre Hopkins and another to Worthy.After two weeks of discussions about questionable calls that led to public perception that officials favor the Chiefs — a theory NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell called “ridiculous” — the first penalty of the game only fueled critics.A 32-yard pass from Hurts to Brown to the Chiefs 18 on fourth-and-2 was negated by a penalty for offensive pass interference. Brady, now a Fox analyst, and officiating analyst Mike Pereira both disagreed with the call, although Brown shoved Trent McDuffie’s facemask.On the next possession, the Eagles benefited from an unnecessary roughness penalty on McDuffie against Dallas Goedert following an incomplete pass on third-and-5.Hurts then connected with Jahan Dotson on a 27-yard pass to the 1 and scored on the next play.Hurts’ streak of 217 passes without a pick ended in the first half when he was intercepted deep in Kansas City territory, but the Chiefs didn’t capitalize.The Green Bay Packers are the only NFL team to win three championships in a row, doing it from 1929-31 and 1965-67.

🏈 Eagles spoil Chiefs' three-peat bid, win the Super Bowl 

Twelve Junction City Lady Jay participated in the Centennial League dual tournament on Saturday.&nbsp; Coach Carl Laughlin said all 12 girls placed in the&nbsp; top 4.&nbsp;

Fourth place finishers were:Alexia Zink, Natalie Whitaker, Catelin Owens, Caitie Dee and Maddox Butler.

Third place finishers were Jordis Serrano and Elaina Twitt

Brandie Brown was a second place finisher&nbsp;&nbsp;

CHAMPIONS were 100 Jaidyn Alvarado and 115 Bree Villanueva&nbsp;

CENTENNIAL WRESTLER OF THE YEAR 115 (BREE) Villaneuva, 130 Elizabeth Edgerton-Diaz, and 190 Shalina Hicks.

Twelve Junction City Lady Jay participated in the Centennial League dual tournament on Saturday.&nbsp; Coach Carl Laughlin said all 12 girls placed in the&nbsp; top 4.&nbsp;Fourth place finishers were:Alexia Zink, Natalie Whitaker, Catelin Owens, Caitie Dee and Maddox Butler.Third place finishers were Jordis Serrano and Elaina TwittBrandie Brown was a second place finisher&nbsp;&nbsp;CHAMPIONS were 100 Jaidyn Alvarado and 115 Bree Villanueva&nbsp;CENTENNIAL WRESTLER OF THE YEAR 115 (BREE) Villaneuva, 130 Elizabeth Edgerton-Diaz, and 190 Shalina Hicks.

Lady Jay Centennial League wrestling results

IOWA CITY, Iowa (AP) —&nbsp;Former Iowa player and Nickerson High School standout Ava Jones announced on social media Saturday that she has cancer.

Jones said on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/avajones_35/p/DF0uLFnxNcZ/" target="_blank">Instagram</a>&nbsp;that she has Hodgkin lymphoma.

Just days after she committed to play for the Hawkeyes in 2022, Jones and her family were struck by a car in Kentucky. Her father, Trey Jones, died and she suffered a brain injury. Her mom was also injured.

“I was diagnosed with Hodgkin's lymphoma after the results from the biopsy came back,” she wrote. “This is the news no one ever wants to get, but especially after spending the last 2 and a half years working my butt off and recovering from getting hit by a car. My body is very strong and I am confident in the doctors here at Iowa.”

Her former teammate Caitlin Clark commented on Jones’ post writing, “Praying for you kid."

Jones' scholarship was honored by Iowa and she was on the basketball team as a freshman before she&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/iowa-ava-jones-retires-2b80c94b58f419264a4db5fb96a741a1" target="_blank">medically retired</a>&nbsp;eight months ago. She had several surgeries to address the brain injury as well as the multiple torn ligaments in her knees. She redshirted last season with hopes of playing at some point during her career at Iowa.

“It is with great sadness to announce that I am medically retiring from college basketball. My coaches, doctors, teammates and trainers have been amazing since the accident,” Jones said when she retired. “While I will no longer be a member of the women’s basketball program, I will still be on scholarship, receive a world-class education and forever be a Hawkeye. I’d like to thank my family for the never-ending support and I am excited for the next chapter of my life.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1739063585196.jpeg" alt="FILE - Iowa Hawkeyes forward Ava Jones looks on during an exhibition game between the Iowa Hawkeyes and the Clarke Pride at Carver-Hawkeye Arena in Iowa City, Iowa, Oct. 22, 2023. (Nick Rohlman/The Gazette via AP, File)" />
 <figcaption>FILE - Iowa Hawkeyes forward Ava Jones looks on during an exhibition game between the Iowa Hawkeyes and the Clarke Pride at Carver-Hawkeye Arena in Iowa City, Iowa, Oct. 22, 2023. (Nick Rohlman/The Gazette via AP, File)</figcaption>
 </figure>IOWA CITY, Iowa (AP) —&nbsp;Former Iowa player and Nickerson High School standout Ava Jones announced on social media Saturday that she has cancer.Jones said on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/avajones_35/p/DF0uLFnxNcZ/" target="_blank">Instagram</a>&nbsp;that she has Hodgkin lymphoma.Just days after she committed to play for the Hawkeyes in 2022, Jones and her family were struck by a car in Kentucky. Her father, Trey Jones, died and she suffered a brain injury. Her mom was also injured.“I was diagnosed with Hodgkin's lymphoma after the results from the biopsy came back,” she wrote. “This is the news no one ever wants to get, but especially after spending the last 2 and a half years working my butt off and recovering from getting hit by a car. My body is very strong and I am confident in the doctors here at Iowa.”Her former teammate Caitlin Clark commented on Jones’ post writing, “Praying for you kid."Jones' scholarship was honored by Iowa and she was on the basketball team as a freshman before she&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/iowa-ava-jones-retires-2b80c94b58f419264a4db5fb96a741a1" target="_blank">medically retired</a>&nbsp;eight months ago. She had several surgeries to address the brain injury as well as the multiple torn ligaments in her knees. She redshirted last season with hopes of playing at some point during her career at Iowa.“It is with great sadness to announce that I am medically retiring from college basketball. My coaches, doctors, teammates and trainers have been amazing since the accident,” Jones said when she retired. “While I will no longer be a member of the women’s basketball program, I will still be on scholarship, receive a world-class education and forever be a Hawkeye. I’d like to thank my family for the never-ending support and I am excited for the next chapter of my life.”

Former Nickerson player Ava Jones reveals cancer diagnosis

MANHATTAN, Kan. (AP) — David N'Guessan scored 20 points and Kansas State beat No. 16 Kansas 81-73 on Saturday for its fifth straight win, including three against ranked opponents.

Dug McDaniel added 15 points and Max Jones and Coleman Hawkins each scored 12 as Kansas State (12-11, 6-6 Big 12) beat Kansas for the third straight game in Manhattan, after two overtime victories over the Jayhawks.

Hunter Dickinson scored 21 points, Zeke Mayo added 15 and KJ Adams 13 for Kansas (16-7, 7-5).

Kansas State extended its lead to 55-43 at the 17:20 mark of the second half and maintained a comfortable lead the rest of the way.

Kansas: The Jayhawks need to find some consistency before the NCAA Tournament rolls around. In their last six games, the Jayhawks have followed each win with a loss.

Kansas State: The Wildcats can start thinking about postseason play. If they can continue their present run, they could end up in the tournament field.

Starting point guard Dajuan Harris Jr. picked up two early fouls and went to the bench for the rest of the half after getting whistled for his third with 9:56 remaning before the break. His only stat in the first half was three assists in just over four minutes. He played nearly the entire second half, finishing with four points and six assists.

Kansas State had 23 assists and 10 turnovers and fought off constant defensive pressure in the second half by Kansas.

Both teams are in action Tuesday. Kansas hosts Colorado while Kansas State hosts Arizona.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1739048737773.png" alt="Photo K-State athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo K-State athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>MANHATTAN, Kan. (AP) — David N'Guessan scored 20 points and Kansas State beat No. 16 Kansas 81-73 on Saturday for its fifth straight win, including three against ranked opponents.Dug McDaniel added 15 points and Max Jones and Coleman Hawkins each scored 12 as Kansas State (12-11, 6-6 Big 12) beat Kansas for the third straight game in Manhattan, after two overtime victories over the Jayhawks.Hunter Dickinson scored 21 points, Zeke Mayo added 15 and KJ Adams 13 for Kansas (16-7, 7-5).Kansas State extended its lead to 55-43 at the 17:20 mark of the second half and maintained a comfortable lead the rest of the way.<h2>Takeaways</h2>Kansas: The Jayhawks need to find some consistency before the NCAA Tournament rolls around. In their last six games, the Jayhawks have followed each win with a loss.Kansas State: The Wildcats can start thinking about postseason play. If they can continue their present run, they could end up in the tournament field.<h2>Key moment</h2>Starting point guard Dajuan Harris Jr. picked up two early fouls and went to the bench for the rest of the half after getting whistled for his third with 9:56 remaning before the break. His only stat in the first half was three assists in just over four minutes. He played nearly the entire second half, finishing with four points and six assists.<h2>Key stat</h2>Kansas State had 23 assists and 10 turnovers and fought off constant defensive pressure in the second half by Kansas.<h2>Up next</h2>Both teams are in action Tuesday. Kansas hosts Colorado while Kansas State hosts Arizona.___

🏀 K-State extends winning streak to 5 with victory over KU

The Topeka Hayden Wildcats swept Junction City on homecoming night at Blue Jay Event Center.

The Topeka Hayden Lady Wildcats jumped on the Junction City Lady Jays right from the opening tip and took a quick 18-0 lead. Junction City responded with a 6-0 run to trim the lead to 18-6, but Hayden pulled away and led 23-9 at the end of the first quarter. 

The second quarter was all Hayden, as JC did not score, and the Lady Wildcats led 42-9 at the half. The third quarter was very similar, with JC only scoring two points, and trailing 53-11. 

By Anthony GorgesJC PostThe Topeka Hayden Wildcats swept Junction City on homecoming night at Blue Jay Event Center.Girls recapThe Topeka Hayden Lady Wildcats jumped on the Junction City Lady Jays right from the opening tip and took a quick 18-0 lead. Junction City responded with a 6-0 run to trim the lead to 18-6, but Hayden pulled away and led 23-9 at the end of the first quarter. The second quarter was all Hayden, as JC did not score, and the Lady Wildcats led 42-9 at the half. The third quarter was very similar, with JC only scoring two points, and trailing 53-11. In the fourth quarter, the Lady Jays showed some fight and continued to play with energy, but the Lady Wildcats beat JC 61-14. In the game, only three JC players scored. Morgan Nabus made two three-pointers for six points, Bella Pruitt scored five, and Breya Allen had three. With the loss, Junction City goes to 1-13 on the season. Boys recap In a surprise upset, the Hayden Wildcats knocked off Junction City 64-55 on Friday night in JC. The Blue Jays won the opening tip and got off to a fast start, and senior Jayden Mears banked in a three-pointer at the buzzer to end the first quarter leading 22-15. The second quarter was all about the Wildcats outscoring JC 18-5. Similar to the end of the first quarter, JC's Jeremias Cruz banked in a three from the opposite wing to cut the Hayden lead down to 33-27 at the half. The third quarter featured several opportunities for JC to tie the game, or take the lead, but Hayden held onto a three-point lead at 46-43 going into the final quarter. The Wildcats hit clutch three-pointers and made free throws down the stretch, and beat the Blue Jays 64-55 on homecoming night. Junction City had four players in double-digits. Senior Larkin Turner led the way with 14 points, senior Ja'Twaan Williams had 12, senior Jeremias Cruz added 11, and junior Lovell Autry had 10. With the loss, the Blue Jays have lost five of their last six games and fall to 9-5 on the season. Next up for Junction City is hosting Emporia High on Tuesday night at Blue Jay Event Center.

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