USD 475 has announced that the Junction City High School girl’s bowling team placed first overall at the Manhattan Varsity Meet on Monday afternoon. On the boy’s side, the Blue Jays claimed runner-up honors inside Little Apple Lanes. Individually, Ava Oentrich and Cael Smith led the way for JCHS by placing first overall.

USD 475 has announced that the Junction City High School girl’s bowling team placed first overall at the Manhattan Varsity Meet on Monday afternoon. On the boy’s side, the Blue Jays claimed runner-up honors inside Little Apple Lanes. Individually, Ava Oentrich and Cael Smith led the way for JCHS by placing first overall.

JCHS bowlers compete in Manhattan

MANHATTAN, Kan. (AP) — Tylor Perry scored eight of his 26 points in overtime and Kansas State beat No. 4 Kansas 75-70 on Monday night in the 300th matchup of their heated rivalry.

“It was a fun environment to be in,” Perry said. “Our fans did a very good job of packing it in and setting the mood for the game. Kansas is obviously a very good basketball team. Everybody was excited to play. I feel that we went out there, we did what we had to do in order to get the win.”

Perry’s 3-pointer with 1:54 left gave the Wildcats a 70-66 lead. Hunter Dickinson's basket trimmed it to 70-68, but Perry’s two free throws extended the margin back to four.

Dajuan Harris Jr. cut it to 72-70 with two free throws before Kevin McCullar Jr. missed the front end of a 1-and-1 for Kansas with 22 seconds remaining. Arthur Kaluma sank a pair of foul shots and Perry added another one to seal it, ending Kansas State's four-game losing streak.

“I thought that they were the more athletic and explosive team,” Kansas coach Bill Self said. “I thought we showed stretches where we were as well. But the bottom line is, it comes down to making free throws.”

Kansas State is 6-0 in overtime this season, and 11-0 in coach Jerome Tang's two seasons in Manhattan.

“In overtime, it’s about players making plays,” Tang said. “They don’t feel the pressure. We work on it every day in practice, but I don’t know that that’s necessarily the reason. I think guys just make plays and their confidence level grows.”

Cam Carter had 19 points and 11 rebounds for K-State (15-8, 5-5 Big 12). Kaluma added 13 points and eight boards.

Dickinson had 21 points and 12 rebounds to pace Kansas (18-5, 6-4). Harris and McCullar each added 15 points, and KJ Adams Jr. scored 13.

Kansas scored the first nine points of the second half to open its largest lead at 41-30. But the Wildcats scored the next 11, capped by a three-point play from Carter.

“I thought our guys did a great job,” Tang said of his team's response. “TP (Perry) had an 8-0 run on his own. But the guys locked back in. The fact that we were able to make it a ballgame again and put some score pressure on them helped us.”

Perry hit three free throws with 4:49 left in regulation to give K-State a three-point lead. Dickinson scored inside, but Carter answered from long range to give the Wildcats a 58-54 lead.

Harris hit a layup to tie it with 2:14 left, and McCullar's layup gave Kansas a 62-60 lead with 1:47 to go. Perry tied it again with a layup.

Kaluma’s putback with 23 seconds remaining was answered by Adams' bucket with 14.2 seconds left to send the game to overtime.

“I thought we had it,” Harris said. “I remember two years ago when we came back in overtime. I’ve been there, Coach has been there before. I just thought we had the game, but they can compete, too, you know.”

Kansas State hit five 3-pointers in the first half but went into the locker room trailing 32-30.

Kansas: It’s the sixth-most played rivalry in men’s college basketball, and the Jayhawks know they’re going to get K-State’s best effort in these games.

Kansas State: The Wildcats need to keep up the sort of intensity they showed Monday night if they’re going to revitalize their fading NCAA Tournament hopes.

Kansas: Returns home to face No. 13 Baylor on Saturday.

MANHATTAN, Kan. (AP) — Tylor Perry scored eight of his 26 points in overtime and Kansas State beat No. 4 Kansas 75-70 on Monday night in the 300th matchup of their heated rivalry.“It was a fun environment to be in,” Perry said. “Our fans did a very good job of packing it in and setting the mood for the game. Kansas is obviously a very good basketball team. Everybody was excited to play. I feel that we went out there, we did what we had to do in order to get the win.”Perry’s 3-pointer with 1:54 left gave the Wildcats a 70-66 lead. Hunter Dickinson's basket trimmed it to 70-68, but Perry’s two free throws extended the margin back to four.Dajuan Harris Jr. cut it to 72-70 with two free throws before Kevin McCullar Jr. missed the front end of a 1-and-1 for Kansas with 22 seconds remaining. Arthur Kaluma sank a pair of foul shots and Perry added another one to seal it, ending Kansas State's four-game losing streak.“I thought that they were the more athletic and explosive team,” Kansas coach Bill Self said. “I thought we showed stretches where we were as well. But the bottom line is, it comes down to making free throws.”Kansas State is 6-0 in overtime this season, and 11-0 in coach Jerome Tang's two seasons in Manhattan.“In overtime, it’s about players making plays,” Tang said. “They don’t feel the pressure. We work on it every day in practice, but I don’t know that that’s necessarily the reason. I think guys just make plays and their confidence level grows.”Cam Carter had 19 points and 11 rebounds for K-State (15-8, 5-5 Big 12). Kaluma added 13 points and eight boards.Dickinson had 21 points and 12 rebounds to pace Kansas (18-5, 6-4). Harris and McCullar each added 15 points, and KJ Adams Jr. scored 13.Kansas scored the first nine points of the second half to open its largest lead at 41-30. But the Wildcats scored the next 11, capped by a three-point play from Carter.“I thought our guys did a great job,” Tang said of his team's response. “TP (Perry) had an 8-0 run on his own. But the guys locked back in. The fact that we were able to make it a ballgame again and put some score pressure on them helped us.”Perry hit three free throws with 4:49 left in regulation to give K-State a three-point lead. Dickinson scored inside, but Carter answered from long range to give the Wildcats a 58-54 lead.Harris hit a layup to tie it with 2:14 left, and McCullar's layup gave Kansas a 62-60 lead with 1:47 to go. Perry tied it again with a layup.Kaluma’s putback with 23 seconds remaining was answered by Adams' bucket with 14.2 seconds left to send the game to overtime.“I thought we had it,” Harris said. “I remember two years ago when we came back in overtime. I’ve been there, Coach has been there before. I just thought we had the game, but they can compete, too, you know.”Kansas State hit five 3-pointers in the first half but went into the locker room trailing 32-30.BIG PICTUREKansas: It’s the sixth-most played rivalry in men’s college basketball, and the Jayhawks know they’re going to get K-State’s best effort in these games.Kansas State: The Wildcats need to keep up the sort of intensity they showed Monday night if they’re going to revitalize their fading NCAA Tournament hopes.UP NEXTKansas: Returns home to face No. 13 Baylor on Saturday.

Kansas State knocks off No. 4 Kansas in overtime

HALEY VOLLMER Senior in Marketing

How did you get into rodeo? My parents taught me how to ride horse before I could ride a bike! As I got older, we went to youth rodeo competitions and I fell in love with horses and rodeoing! I then began junior high, high school, and now college rodeo!

What advice would you give to youth/high school rodeo athletes? Some advice I would give to youth/high school rodeo athletes is to soak in the moments of getting to compete! It is such an amazing thing we get to do with our animals, family, and friends and we should try to soak it all in, not focusing as much on the results of our competition but what we get the opportunity to do!

What is one thing you want people to know about K-State Rodeo? That the team members truly are all great friends, and support each other so well. We work hard to help one another be the best we can be in and out of the arena! We compete both as a team and as individuals, and even when we are competing against each other as individuals we are so supportive of one another!

*Questionnaires were sent to the K-State Rodeo team and we will feature athletes daily leading up to the 2024 K-State Rodeo, which will be Thursday, February 15th through Sunday, February 18th.

The 2024 K-State Rodeo will be the final one in historic Weber Arena. <a href="https://www.kstaterodeoclub.com/k-state-college-rodeo.html">Tickets must be purchased in advance.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707169893295.png" alt="K-State Rodeo's Haley Vollmer, photo submitted by athlete" />
 <figcaption>K-State Rodeo's Haley Vollmer, photo submitted by athlete</figcaption>
 </figure>HALEY VOLLMER Senior in MarketingEvents: Breakaway RopingHow did you get into rodeo? My parents taught me how to ride horse before I could ride a bike! As I got older, we went to youth rodeo competitions and I fell in love with horses and rodeoing! I then began junior high, high school, and now college rodeo!What advice would you give to youth/high school rodeo athletes? Some advice I would give to youth/high school rodeo athletes is to soak in the moments of getting to compete! It is such an amazing thing we get to do with our animals, family, and friends and we should try to soak it all in, not focusing as much on the results of our competition but what we get the opportunity to do!What is one thing you want people to know about K-State Rodeo? That the team members truly are all great friends, and support each other so well. We work hard to help one another be the best we can be in and out of the arena! We compete both as a team and as individuals, and even when we are competing against each other as individuals we are so supportive of one another!*Questionnaires were sent to the K-State Rodeo team and we will feature athletes daily leading up to the 2024 K-State Rodeo, which will be Thursday, February 15th through Sunday, February 18th.The 2024 K-State Rodeo will be the final one in historic Weber Arena. <a href="https://www.kstaterodeoclub.com/k-state-college-rodeo.html">Tickets must be purchased in advance.</a>

Meet Haley Vollmer - K-State Rodeo Athlete

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - The Kansas City Royals announced today that they have agreed to the biggest contract in franchise history with shortstop&nbsp;Bobby Witt Jr., a 14-year agreement that includes 11 years guaranteed.

“From the moment I was drafted in 2019, the entire Royals organization and fans have treated me and my family like their own,” Witt Jr said. “This city and this team have felt like home since day one, and it’s an honor to have the opportunity to continue to represent all of KC. I am incredibly grateful to the Sherman family and the Royals front office for believing in me, and I promise to do everything in my power to help bring championship baseball back to Kansas City!”

“We are extraordinarily proud to announce an historic deal with a very special player,’” said&nbsp;John Sherman, Chairman and CEO of the Kansas City Royals. “Like our fans, I’m thrilled that this ensures Bobby will compete in a Royals uniform for many years to come. Bobby makes us better, and I’m grateful for his commitment to our fans, our city, and our team.”

“From the day we drafted him we felt confident Bobby would become one of our game’s brightest stars and biggest talents,” said&nbsp;J.J. Picollo, Royals Executive Vice President and General Manager. “These last two seasons have been confirmation of that talent, and proof that he’s an even better teammate. We know he wants to win here for our fans as much as we do.”

Witt Jr., 23, recorded 20 home runs and 30 stolen bases as a rookie in 2022. Last year, he recorded 30 home runs and 49 stolen bases, becoming the first player in Royals history with a 30/30 season. In doing so, he became the seventh player in Major League history to go 30/30 in his age-23 season or younger, and was the second American League shortstop—regardless of age—to post a 30/30 season, following&nbsp;Álex Rodríguez, who went 40/40 in 1998. Witt Jr.’s sophomore season earned him 7th place in the American League Most Valuable Player voting.

Witt Jr.’s combination of home runs (30) and steals (49) last season has been matched only four times in Major League history, by&nbsp;Eric Davis&nbsp;(1987),&nbsp;Barry Bonds&nbsp;(1990),&nbsp;Mike Trout&nbsp;(2012) and&nbsp;Ronald Acuña Jr.&nbsp;(2023).

No player in Major League history has matched Witt Jr.’s combination of HR (50) and steals (79) through his first two seasons.

Witt Jr. last season led the Royals in games played (158), hits (177), triples (11), home runs (30), RBI (96), stolen bases (49), OPS (.813, min. 150 AB) and runs (97). Among American League leaders, he ranked 2nd in stolen bases, 3rd in hits, tied for 3rd in total bases (317), tied for 7th in runs, 8th in extra-base hits (69) and tied for 9th in batting average (.276). He also tied&nbsp;Corbin Carroll&nbsp;for the Major League lead with 11 triples, which were the most by any Royal since&nbsp;Carlos Beltrán&nbsp;had 12 triples in 2001.

Witt Jr. in 2023 became the sixth American League player in the last 75 years with at least 30 home runs and 10 triples in a season, following&nbsp;Joe DiMaggio&nbsp;(1950),&nbsp;Mickey Mantle&nbsp;(1955),&nbsp;Jim Rice&nbsp;(1977 and 1978),&nbsp;Nomar Garciaparra&nbsp;(1997) and&nbsp;Curtis Granderson&nbsp;(2011).

On defense, Witt Jr. in 2023 recorded 14 Outs Above Average, a range-based metric of fielding skill presented by&nbsp;Statcast, which ranked him 1st among American League shortstops and 3rd among all positions in the American League, trailing only Cleveland’s second baseman&nbsp;Andrés Giménez&nbsp;(18) and teammate&nbsp;Maikel Garcia&nbsp;(15).

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707163121855.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas City RoyalsKANSAS CITY, Mo. - The Kansas City Royals announced today that they have agreed to the biggest contract in franchise history with shortstop&nbsp;Bobby Witt Jr., a 14-year agreement that includes 11 years guaranteed.“From the moment I was drafted in 2019, the entire Royals organization and fans have treated me and my family like their own,” Witt Jr said. “This city and this team have felt like home since day one, and it’s an honor to have the opportunity to continue to represent all of KC. I am incredibly grateful to the Sherman family and the Royals front office for believing in me, and I promise to do everything in my power to help bring championship baseball back to Kansas City!”“We are extraordinarily proud to announce an historic deal with a very special player,’” said&nbsp;John Sherman, Chairman and CEO of the Kansas City Royals. “Like our fans, I’m thrilled that this ensures Bobby will compete in a Royals uniform for many years to come. Bobby makes us better, and I’m grateful for his commitment to our fans, our city, and our team.”“From the day we drafted him we felt confident Bobby would become one of our game’s brightest stars and biggest talents,” said&nbsp;J.J. Picollo, Royals Executive Vice President and General Manager. “These last two seasons have been confirmation of that talent, and proof that he’s an even better teammate. We know he wants to win here for our fans as much as we do.”Witt Jr., 23, recorded 20 home runs and 30 stolen bases as a rookie in 2022. Last year, he recorded 30 home runs and 49 stolen bases, becoming the first player in Royals history with a 30/30 season. In doing so, he became the seventh player in Major League history to go 30/30 in his age-23 season or younger, and was the second American League shortstop—regardless of age—to post a 30/30 season, following&nbsp;Álex Rodríguez, who went 40/40 in 1998. Witt Jr.’s sophomore season earned him 7th place in the American League Most Valuable Player voting.Witt Jr.’s combination of home runs (30) and steals (49) last season has been matched only four times in Major League history, by&nbsp;Eric Davis&nbsp;(1987),&nbsp;Barry Bonds&nbsp;(1990),&nbsp;Mike Trout&nbsp;(2012) and&nbsp;Ronald Acuña Jr.&nbsp;(2023).No player in Major League history has matched Witt Jr.’s combination of HR (50) and steals (79) through his first two seasons.Witt Jr. last season led the Royals in games played (158), hits (177), triples (11), home runs (30), RBI (96), stolen bases (49), OPS (.813, min. 150 AB) and runs (97). Among American League leaders, he ranked 2nd in stolen bases, 3rd in hits, tied for 3rd in total bases (317), tied for 7th in runs, 8th in extra-base hits (69) and tied for 9th in batting average (.276). He also tied&nbsp;Corbin Carroll&nbsp;for the Major League lead with 11 triples, which were the most by any Royal since&nbsp;Carlos Beltrán&nbsp;had 12 triples in 2001.Witt Jr. in 2023 became the sixth American League player in the last 75 years with at least 30 home runs and 10 triples in a season, following&nbsp;Joe DiMaggio&nbsp;(1950),&nbsp;Mickey Mantle&nbsp;(1955),&nbsp;Jim Rice&nbsp;(1977 and 1978),&nbsp;Nomar Garciaparra&nbsp;(1997) and&nbsp;Curtis Granderson&nbsp;(2011).On defense, Witt Jr. in 2023 recorded 14 Outs Above Average, a range-based metric of fielding skill presented by&nbsp;Statcast, which ranked him 1st among American League shortstops and 3rd among all positions in the American League, trailing only Cleveland’s second baseman&nbsp;Andrés Giménez&nbsp;(18) and teammate&nbsp;Maikel Garcia&nbsp;(15).

⚾ Royals announce 14-year contract agreement with Bobby Witt Jr.

USD 475 has announced that the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/JCHSUSD475?__cft__[0]=AZUi16WdOkVSUU-VpOrpapzQ5cj8x0k5VJshKRRE1Wctswp8ywzh1iQA25A9rZ8vgGeh-tXITG4G95oMfKAALcLu1x10ckKIMQ8JPulebPA06hFpekSwuL5DmbV9PPs1t5GCt6UpxJRwqKJZX0-7XCNkzLBG0cQZib1Tgq7zji4KpVZLhJRlKfyzfmlsB1mMWiw&amp;__tn__=-]K-R">Junction City High School </a>&nbsp;wrestling program had a strong showing on Saturday at the 2024 Centennial League Championships in Manhattan.

 Overall, the Blue Jays had five student-athletes bring home league titles by going 4-0 on the day in their respective weight classes. 

 Earning championship honors on the boy’s side were Cooper Bogenhagen (165 pounds) and Chris Coy (215 pounds).

On the girl’s side, Jaidyn Alvarado (100 pounds), Juliana Villanueva (115 pounds) and Victoria Perez (190 pounds) all claimed league titles.<a href="https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/thrivein475?__eep__=6&amp;__cft__[0]=AZUi16WdOkVSUU-VpOrpapzQ5cj8x0k5VJshKRRE1Wctswp8ywzh1iQA25A9rZ8vgGeh-tXITG4G95oMfKAALcLu1x10ckKIMQ8JPulebPA06hFpekSwuL5DmbV9PPs1t5GCt6UpxJRwqKJZX0-7XCNkzLBG0cQZib1Tgq7zji4KpVZLhJRlKfyzfmlsB1mMWiw&amp;__tn__=*NK-R">&nbsp;</a>

USD 475 has announced that the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/JCHSUSD475?__cft__[0]=AZUi16WdOkVSUU-VpOrpapzQ5cj8x0k5VJshKRRE1Wctswp8ywzh1iQA25A9rZ8vgGeh-tXITG4G95oMfKAALcLu1x10ckKIMQ8JPulebPA06hFpekSwuL5DmbV9PPs1t5GCt6UpxJRwqKJZX0-7XCNkzLBG0cQZib1Tgq7zji4KpVZLhJRlKfyzfmlsB1mMWiw&amp;__tn__=-]K-R">Junction City High School </a>&nbsp;wrestling program had a strong showing on Saturday at the 2024 Centennial League Championships in Manhattan. Overall, the Blue Jays had five student-athletes bring home league titles by going 4-0 on the day in their respective weight classes. Earning championship honors on the boy’s side were Cooper Bogenhagen (165 pounds) and Chris Coy (215 pounds).On the girl’s side, Jaidyn Alvarado (100 pounds), Juliana Villanueva (115 pounds) and Victoria Perez (190 pounds) all claimed league titles.<a href="https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/thrivein475?__eep__=6&amp;__cft__[0]=AZUi16WdOkVSUU-VpOrpapzQ5cj8x0k5VJshKRRE1Wctswp8ywzh1iQA25A9rZ8vgGeh-tXITG4G95oMfKAALcLu1x10ckKIMQ8JPulebPA06hFpekSwuL5DmbV9PPs1t5GCt6UpxJRwqKJZX0-7XCNkzLBG0cQZib1Tgq7zji4KpVZLhJRlKfyzfmlsB1mMWiw&amp;__tn__=*NK-R">&nbsp;</a>

JCHS wrestling results

LAWRENCE, Kan. (AP) — Hunter Dickinson had 20 points to lead four Jayhawks in double figures as No. 8 Kansas beat No. 4 Houston 78-65 in front of a frenzied crowd on Saturday.

“That was our best crowd of the season,” Kansas coach Bill Self said, “and we’ve had some good ones.”

Kansas (18-4, 6-3 Big 12) got 17 points each from Kevin McCullar and Johnny Furphy, and 10 from KJ Adams.

The Jayhawks hit nine of their first 10 shots, helping them to a 23-11 lead at the second media timeout. The Cougars, who lead the nation in field goal defense (35.5%) allowed Kansas to shoot 68% (17 of 25) in the first half.

“I didn’t anticipate getting off to that good to start,” Self said. “We thought the best way to attack them was to use all 50 feet wide and 47 feet long, and then hopefully be able to play behind their aggressiveness to start the game. We did that perfectly.”

Houston (19-3, 6-3) was led by L.J. Cryer with 24 points while J’Wan Roberts and Emanuel Sharp scored 11 points each.

Houston came into the game with the nation’s best scoring defense at 52.9 points per game allowed and had not allowed more than 72 points in a game all season. The Jayhawks hit 53 points with 14:17 left in the second half on a layup by Dickinson.

The Jayhawks led 43-28 at halftime. The Cougars had not allowed more than 30 points in a first half all season.

“A blindfolded person would do better than we did,” Houston coach Kelvin Sampson said. “The day was all about the Kansas program, the tradition and Bill getting his team ready to play in this gym. I mean, the way they shot the ball you’d thought we lost by 30. We lost by 13.”

Kansas extended its 15-point halftime lead to 20 in the second half. Houston cut the lead to 10 at 68-58 with about five minutes to play but could not get closer.

“We knew it was going to be a battle from the beginning,” Furphy said. “I think we did a really good job of setting the tone early. They’re definitely a really good side. They’re a really tough physical team.”

Dickinson said he’d never been part of an offensive output like Saturday.

“We showed a lot of execution on the offensive side,” he said. “When we’re able to hit shots, it’s pretty, pretty hard to defend. We had 43 points in the first half against the No. 1 ranked defense in the country. I don’t think (I’ve seen that) in my career.”

While it was a big win, especially in the conference race, Self was quick to point out that the conference season is only halfway done.

“I think it’s a little premature to talk about this as one of the biggest wins,” he said. “If this was playing for some kind of stakes, you could certainly make a bigger case. But it’s still just February 3.

“I don’t mean to minimize it. It was a great win. But we’ve had a lot of really good wins in this building.”

Houston: The Cougars weren’t about to go away easily. They trimmed a 58-38 deficit to 10 points with the help of a 10-2 run.

Kansas: The Jayhawks were intent on showing conference newcomers Houston that the road to the Big 12 Championship goes through Lawrence.

Houston: The Cougars return home for a Tuesday night game against Oklahoma State.

Kansas: The Jayhawks visit Kansas State on Monday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707008126068.png" alt="Photo Kansas Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Kansas Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>LAWRENCE, Kan. (AP) — Hunter Dickinson had 20 points to lead four Jayhawks in double figures as No. 8 Kansas beat No. 4 Houston 78-65 in front of a frenzied crowd on Saturday.“That was our best crowd of the season,” Kansas coach Bill Self said, “and we’ve had some good ones.”Kansas (18-4, 6-3 Big 12) got 17 points each from Kevin McCullar and Johnny Furphy, and 10 from KJ Adams.The Jayhawks hit nine of their first 10 shots, helping them to a 23-11 lead at the second media timeout. The Cougars, who lead the nation in field goal defense (35.5%) allowed Kansas to shoot 68% (17 of 25) in the first half.“I didn’t anticipate getting off to that good to start,” Self said. “We thought the best way to attack them was to use all 50 feet wide and 47 feet long, and then hopefully be able to play behind their aggressiveness to start the game. We did that perfectly.”Houston (19-3, 6-3) was led by L.J. Cryer with 24 points while J’Wan Roberts and Emanuel Sharp scored 11 points each.Houston came into the game with the nation’s best scoring defense at 52.9 points per game allowed and had not allowed more than 72 points in a game all season. The Jayhawks hit 53 points with 14:17 left in the second half on a layup by Dickinson.The Jayhawks led 43-28 at halftime. The Cougars had not allowed more than 30 points in a first half all season.“A blindfolded person would do better than we did,” Houston coach Kelvin Sampson said. “The day was all about the Kansas program, the tradition and Bill getting his team ready to play in this gym. I mean, the way they shot the ball you’d thought we lost by 30. We lost by 13.”Kansas extended its 15-point halftime lead to 20 in the second half. Houston cut the lead to 10 at 68-58 with about five minutes to play but could not get closer.“We knew it was going to be a battle from the beginning,” Furphy said. “I think we did a really good job of setting the tone early. They’re definitely a really good side. They’re a really tough physical team.”Dickinson said he’d never been part of an offensive output like Saturday.“We showed a lot of execution on the offensive side,” he said. “When we’re able to hit shots, it’s pretty, pretty hard to defend. We had 43 points in the first half against the No. 1 ranked defense in the country. I don’t think (I’ve seen that) in my career.”While it was a big win, especially in the conference race, Self was quick to point out that the conference season is only halfway done.“I think it’s a little premature to talk about this as one of the biggest wins,” he said. “If this was playing for some kind of stakes, you could certainly make a bigger case. But it’s still just February 3.“I don’t mean to minimize it. It was a great win. But we’ve had a lot of really good wins in this building.”THE TAKEAWAYHouston: The Cougars weren’t about to go away easily. They trimmed a 58-38 deficit to 10 points with the help of a 10-2 run.Kansas: The Jayhawks were intent on showing conference newcomers Houston that the road to the Big 12 Championship goes through Lawrence.UP NEXTHouston: The Cougars return home for a Tuesday night game against Oklahoma State.Kansas: The Jayhawks visit Kansas State on Monday.___

Kansas rolls to big win over Houston 

STILLWATER, Okla. (AP) — Javon Small scored 18 points and Quion Williams recorded a double-double and Oklahoma State held on to beat Kansas State 75-72 on Saturday.

The Cowboys (10-12, 2-7 Big 12) have won two of their last three games and sent Kansas State (14-8, 4-5) to its fourth-straight loss. The Wildcats' last win came on Jan. 20 when they beat Oklahoma State at home 70-66.

Williams scored 17 points and grabbed 10 rebounds, reserve Jamyron Keller scored 12 points and Brandon Garrison and John-Michael Wright each scored 10 for the Oklahoma State.

Tylor Perry scored 19 points for Kansas State, Cam Carter scored 17, Alex Kaluma 14 and backup Will McNair Jr. 12.

Keller made 1 of 2 foul shots with 12.2 seconds left to provide the Cowboys with the game's final margin. Carter missed a 3-point attempt, and after recovering the long rebound, Perry gathered it in, drove to his left and put up a desperation 3 attempt that went right of the rim never touching the iron.

Oklahoma State never trailed in the second half.

After trailing for most of the first half, the Cowboys found a spark. Down 24-19 they proceeded to outscore Kansas State 12-3 over the final 6 1/2 minutes and led 29-27 at halftime.

The Wildcats host eighth-ranked Kansas on Monday. The Cowboys — losers of eight of nine — will enter the Big 12 gauntlet when they travel to face No. 4 Houston on Tuesday, heads to No. 23 Oklahoma on Feb. 10 and then hosts No. 22 BYU on Feb. 17.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707007919725.png" alt="Photo KSU Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo KSU Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>STILLWATER, Okla. (AP) — Javon Small scored 18 points and Quion Williams recorded a double-double and Oklahoma State held on to beat Kansas State 75-72 on Saturday.The Cowboys (10-12, 2-7 Big 12) have won two of their last three games and sent Kansas State (14-8, 4-5) to its fourth-straight loss. The Wildcats' last win came on Jan. 20 when they beat Oklahoma State at home 70-66.Williams scored 17 points and grabbed 10 rebounds, reserve Jamyron Keller scored 12 points and Brandon Garrison and John-Michael Wright each scored 10 for the Oklahoma State.Tylor Perry scored 19 points for Kansas State, Cam Carter scored 17, Alex Kaluma 14 and backup Will McNair Jr. 12.Keller made 1 of 2 foul shots with 12.2 seconds left to provide the Cowboys with the game's final margin. Carter missed a 3-point attempt, and after recovering the long rebound, Perry gathered it in, drove to his left and put up a desperation 3 attempt that went right of the rim never touching the iron.Oklahoma State never trailed in the second half.After trailing for most of the first half, the Cowboys found a spark. Down 24-19 they proceeded to outscore Kansas State 12-3 over the final 6 1/2 minutes and led 29-27 at halftime.The Wildcats host eighth-ranked Kansas on Monday. The Cowboys — losers of eight of nine — will enter the Big 12 gauntlet when they travel to face No. 4 Houston on Tuesday, heads to No. 23 Oklahoma on Feb. 10 and then hosts No. 22 BYU on Feb. 17.

Oklahoma State hands Kansas State 4th straight loss

Chapman Boys Basketball fell to Southeast of Saline 59 - 44.

Weston Langvardt led Chapman with 13 points.

Chapman Boys Basketball fell to Southeast of Saline 59 - 44.Weston Langvardt led Chapman with 13 points.

Chapman boys basketball result

The Lady Jays were defeated by the Topeka High Trojans on Friday night by a final score of 63-39. 

Despite just an 11-point halftime deficit, Junction City never got settled back in after halftime. 

It was a career high of 22 points from senior Sara Rexrode, but outside of her dominant presence in the paint, the Lady Jays offense could not get anything going.&nbsp;

With the loss the Lady Jays drop to 1-13 on the season. It's a quick turnaround as they will travel to Emporia on Saturday for a make-up game.&nbsp;

The Blue Jays once again got off to a fast start and cruised to another victory on Friday night. Junction City defeated the Trojans of Topeka High 83-49.&nbsp;

Junior Jackson Austin continues his dynamite three-point shooting, as he knocked down five triples against the Trojans. Austin once again led the team in scoring finishing with 25 points. Sophomore Lovell Autry had a strong game adding 20 points, including several baskets through contact and converting for a three-point play. Also in double-digits was junior Larkin Turner with 10 points.&nbsp;

Junction City's 83 points is the second highest points they have scored in a game this season.&nbsp;

With the win the Blue Jays improve to 13-2 on the season. For reference on how great of a start this is, Junction City finished last season with a total of 13 wins. Coach Nick Perez has his team playing well down the stretch with key Centennial league games still to play.&nbsp;

Coming up for the Blue Jays next is a trip to Washburn Rural on Tuesday, Feb. 5, then a home rematch against Manhattan next Friday, Feb. 9.&nbsp;

By Anthony GorgesJC PostGirls recapThe Lady Jays were defeated by the Topeka High Trojans on Friday night by a final score of 63-39. Despite just an 11-point halftime deficit, Junction City never got settled back in after halftime. It was a career high of 22 points from senior Sara Rexrode, but outside of her dominant presence in the paint, the Lady Jays offense could not get anything going.&nbsp;With the loss the Lady Jays drop to 1-13 on the season. It's a quick turnaround as they will travel to Emporia on Saturday for a make-up game.&nbsp;Boys recapThe Blue Jays once again got off to a fast start and cruised to another victory on Friday night. Junction City defeated the Trojans of Topeka High 83-49.&nbsp;Junior Jackson Austin continues his dynamite three-point shooting, as he knocked down five triples against the Trojans. Austin once again led the team in scoring finishing with 25 points. Sophomore Lovell Autry had a strong game adding 20 points, including several baskets through contact and converting for a three-point play. Also in double-digits was junior Larkin Turner with 10 points.&nbsp;Junction City's 83 points is the second highest points they have scored in a game this season.&nbsp;With the win the Blue Jays improve to 13-2 on the season. For reference on how great of a start this is, Junction City finished last season with a total of 13 wins. Coach Nick Perez has his team playing well down the stretch with key Centennial league games still to play.&nbsp;Coming up for the Blue Jays next is a trip to Washburn Rural on Tuesday, Feb. 5, then a home rematch against Manhattan next Friday, Feb. 9.&nbsp;

Lady Jays fall to Topeka Trojans, Blue Jays win big and improve to 13-2

Chapman Boys Basketball fell to Beloit 67 - 44.&nbsp;

Kalen Gruver had 15 points and Gage Picking 14 points for Chapman.

Chapman Boys Basketball fell to Beloit 67 - 44.&nbsp;Kalen Gruver had 15 points and Gage Picking 14 points for Chapman.

Chapman boys basketball falls to Beloit

Junction
City High School senior Losiah Autry recently announced his
commitment to play college football at Ottawa University next season. Along with
his announcement on social media, he has also officially signed with
Ottawa.  


Autry
was a wide receiver for the Junction City Blue Jay football team this season and
tallied 11 catches for 226 yards and two touchdowns. 


Along
with playing football next fall for the Ottawa Braves, he plans to
study Communications and Journalism. Autry has a strong passion for
taking photos and plans to pursue photography during his college
career.  


By Anthony GorgesJC Post<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1706827132689.jpeg" alt="Junction City senior Losiah Autry signed with Ottawa University to play college football this fall. (Photo courtesy of Geary County Schools-USD 475 Facebook page)." />
 <figcaption>Junction City senior Losiah Autry signed with Ottawa University to play college football this fall. (Photo courtesy of Geary County Schools-USD 475 Facebook page).</figcaption>
 </figure>Junction
City High School senior Losiah Autry recently announced his
commitment to play college football at Ottawa University next season. Along with
his announcement on social media, he has also officially signed with
Ottawa. 
Autry
was a wide receiver for the Junction City Blue Jay football team this season and
tallied 11 catches for 226 yards and two touchdowns. 
Along
with playing football next fall for the Ottawa Braves, he plans to
study Communications and Journalism. Autry has a strong passion for
taking photos and plans to pursue photography during his college
career.

Junction City's Losiah Autry signs with Ottawa for football

&nbsp;K-State Athletics is proud to announce that it has collaborated with Wildcat NIL to become the official name, image and likeness partner for the department.&nbsp;Wildcat NIL is an independently owned and operated group of passionate supporters -- predominantly former K-State student-athletes -- who have joined together to provide NIL opportunities to student-athletes.

“Name, image and likeness continues to evolve and be a big part of the current landscape of college athletics, and it was very important for us as a department to partner with a collective so we can provide our student-athletes every opportunity to benefit from NIL,” Athletics Director Gene Taylor said. “Wildcat NIL has taken enormous strides over the past year to help our student-athletes any way possible, and we are pleased to recognize them as our official partner for NIL.”

“Wildcat NIL is incredibly proud to be the Official NIL Collective of K-State Athletics,” said Curry Sexton, one of the Managing Directors of Wildcat NIL. “This partnership underscores the paramount significance of name, image, and likeness in the current landscape of college athletics.&nbsp;The K-State Family now has a tremendous opportunity to get involved and help elevate our athletics programs through NIL."

Wildcat NIL offers comprehensive NIL services, which includes options for one-time donations, monthly memberships, business sponsorships and partnerships, athlete endorsement deals and merchandise.&nbsp;

&nbsp;K-State Athletics is proud to announce that it has collaborated with Wildcat NIL to become the official name, image and likeness partner for the department.&nbsp;Wildcat NIL is an independently owned and operated group of passionate supporters -- predominantly former K-State student-athletes -- who have joined together to provide NIL opportunities to student-athletes.“Name, image and likeness continues to evolve and be a big part of the current landscape of college athletics, and it was very important for us as a department to partner with a collective so we can provide our student-athletes every opportunity to benefit from NIL,” Athletics Director Gene Taylor said. “Wildcat NIL has taken enormous strides over the past year to help our student-athletes any way possible, and we are pleased to recognize them as our official partner for NIL.”“Wildcat NIL is incredibly proud to be the Official NIL Collective of K-State Athletics,” said Curry Sexton, one of the Managing Directors of Wildcat NIL. “This partnership underscores the paramount significance of name, image, and likeness in the current landscape of college athletics.&nbsp;The K-State Family now has a tremendous opportunity to get involved and help elevate our athletics programs through NIL."Wildcat NIL offers comprehensive NIL services, which includes options for one-time donations, monthly memberships, business sponsorships and partnerships, athlete endorsement deals and merchandise.&nbsp;

K-State Names ‘Wildcat NIL’ Official Athletics Partner for Name, Image, Likeness

Highlights from the Topeka West Invitational on 1/31 for the Junction City Blue Jays Boys Swimming team included a fourth place finish out of ten teams. Assistant Coach Aaron Craig said that the Blue Jays compiled 274 points.

--200yd Medley Relay: 2nd&nbsp;(Ivan Velarde, Creytin Sanner, Truman Fortner, Noah Lamb)--200yd Freestyle: 2nd&nbsp;(Adrian Duarte)

--200yd Individual Medley: 3rd&nbsp;(Creytin Sanner) 6A State Consideration time

--500yd Freestyle: 2nd&nbsp;(Adrian Duarte)

--200yd Freestyle Relay: 2nd&nbsp;(Ivan Velarde, Truman Fortner, Creytin Sanner, Noah Lamb)

--400yd Freestyle Relate: 2nd&nbsp;(Noah Lamb, Adrian Duarte, Truman Fortner, Creytin Sanner)

Highlights from the Topeka West Invitational on 1/31 for the Junction City Blue Jays Boys Swimming team included a fourth place finish out of ten teams. Assistant Coach Aaron Craig said that the Blue Jays compiled 274 points.--200yd Medley Relay: 2nd&nbsp;(Ivan Velarde, Creytin Sanner, Truman Fortner, Noah Lamb)--200yd Freestyle: 2nd&nbsp;(Adrian Duarte)--200yd Individual Medley: 3rd&nbsp;(Creytin Sanner) 6A State Consideration time--50yd Freestyle: 2nd&nbsp;(Noah Lamb)--500yd Freestyle: 2nd&nbsp;(Adrian Duarte)--200yd Freestyle Relay: 2nd&nbsp;(Ivan Velarde, Truman Fortner, Creytin Sanner, Noah Lamb)--400yd Freestyle Relate: 2nd&nbsp;(Noah Lamb, Adrian Duarte, Truman Fortner, Creytin Sanner)

Blue Jay swimming results

MANHATTAN, Kan. (AP) — Oklahoma coach Porter Moser had seen enough of Kansas State's three leading scorers on film that he knew taking away any combination of them would probably mean good things for the Sooners on Tuesday night.

They couldn't stop Tylor Perry. But they completely shut down Cam Carter and Arthur Kaluma.

That defensive performance, combined with 23 points from Jalon Moore and 21 from Javian McCollum, helped No. 23 Oklahoma pull away from the Wildcats down the stretch for a 73-53 victory.

“Our guys got a lot of respect for their guys. We watched Kaluma and Carter and those guys, and I thought our guys did a good job on them,” said Moser, whose team allowed Perry to score 23, but never let Carter and Kaluma get going.

The Wildcats' two top scorers were a combined 3 of 20 from the field, 0 for 10 from the 3-point arc and had eight turnovers.

“I thought our guys really took the challenge on,” Moser said. “They knew how good those guys were.”

Sam Godwin added 11 points and Rivaldo Soares had 10 for Oklahoma (26-5, 4-4 Big 12), which actually blew most of a 17-point first-half lead before using a 12-1 run over the closing minutes to win its final scheduled trip to Bramlage Coliseum.

The Wildcats (14-7, 4-4) didn't score for more than 8 minutes to start the game and finished 16 of 53 from the field (30.2%) and 4 of 28 from the 3-point arc. They also turned the ball over 14 times while losing their third consecutive game.

“I'll have to go back and look at the film and see if there's something there,” Kansas State coach Jerome Tang said. “Even though we didn't score, I thought we were playing with good energy and got some good looks.”

Kansas State probably couldn't imagine a worse start than its last time out, when fourth-ranked Houston shut out the Wildcats for nearly 6 minutes to begin a 74-52 blowout. But the Sooners held them scoreless through two media timeouts before David N'Guessan finally made the second of two foul shots with 11:49 to go in the first half.

The Wildcats' first field goal didn't come until the 10:30 mark. By that point, Oklahoma had built a commanding lead.

“Players have to make plays, and make plays for each other,” Tang said. “We're not getting enough of that.”

The Sooners weren't great offensively, either. They led just 35-19 at the break. And their failure to capitalize on all of that cold Kansas State shooting nearly cost them as their lead dwindled to 51-44 with less than 8 minutes to go.

That's when the Sooners pulled down two offensive boards and Godwin got a bucket to go. Kansas State misfired at the other end, Oklahoma got another offensive rebound and Otega Oweh ended an 0-for-10 shooting slump with another basket.

The Sooners were off on the run that put the game away.

“We’ve got some hard workers,” Carter said after the loss, “and we’re going to bounce back.”

Oklahoma had lost four of its last six with only a single true road win at Cincinnati, so picking up a win at Kansas State should provide the Sooners with some much-needed momentum for the second half of the Big 12 schedule.

Kansas State was outscored 40-18 in the paint. That doesn't compute when the Wildcats also were so poor from the 3-point arc.

Oklahoma returns home to play Big 12 newcomer UCF on Saturday.

Kansas State heads to Oklahoma State on Saturday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1706700930350.png" alt="Photo K-State Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo K-State Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>MANHATTAN, Kan. (AP) — Oklahoma coach Porter Moser had seen enough of Kansas State's three leading scorers on film that he knew taking away any combination of them would probably mean good things for the Sooners on Tuesday night.They couldn't stop Tylor Perry. But they completely shut down Cam Carter and Arthur Kaluma.That defensive performance, combined with 23 points from Jalon Moore and 21 from Javian McCollum, helped No. 23 Oklahoma pull away from the Wildcats down the stretch for a 73-53 victory.“Our guys got a lot of respect for their guys. We watched Kaluma and Carter and those guys, and I thought our guys did a good job on them,” said Moser, whose team allowed Perry to score 23, but never let Carter and Kaluma get going.The Wildcats' two top scorers were a combined 3 of 20 from the field, 0 for 10 from the 3-point arc and had eight turnovers.“I thought our guys really took the challenge on,” Moser said. “They knew how good those guys were.”Sam Godwin added 11 points and Rivaldo Soares had 10 for Oklahoma (26-5, 4-4 Big 12), which actually blew most of a 17-point first-half lead before using a 12-1 run over the closing minutes to win its final scheduled trip to Bramlage Coliseum.The Wildcats (14-7, 4-4) didn't score for more than 8 minutes to start the game and finished 16 of 53 from the field (30.2%) and 4 of 28 from the 3-point arc. They also turned the ball over 14 times while losing their third consecutive game.“I'll have to go back and look at the film and see if there's something there,” Kansas State coach Jerome Tang said. “Even though we didn't score, I thought we were playing with good energy and got some good looks.”Kansas State probably couldn't imagine a worse start than its last time out, when fourth-ranked Houston shut out the Wildcats for nearly 6 minutes to begin a 74-52 blowout. But the Sooners held them scoreless through two media timeouts before David N'Guessan finally made the second of two foul shots with 11:49 to go in the first half.The Wildcats' first field goal didn't come until the 10:30 mark. By that point, Oklahoma had built a commanding lead.“Players have to make plays, and make plays for each other,” Tang said. “We're not getting enough of that.”The Sooners weren't great offensively, either. They led just 35-19 at the break. And their failure to capitalize on all of that cold Kansas State shooting nearly cost them as their lead dwindled to 51-44 with less than 8 minutes to go.That's when the Sooners pulled down two offensive boards and Godwin got a bucket to go. Kansas State misfired at the other end, Oklahoma got another offensive rebound and Otega Oweh ended an 0-for-10 shooting slump with another basket.The Sooners were off on the run that put the game away.“We’ve got some hard workers,” Carter said after the loss, “and we’re going to bounce back.”BIG PICTUREOklahoma had lost four of its last six with only a single true road win at Cincinnati, so picking up a win at Kansas State should provide the Sooners with some much-needed momentum for the second half of the Big 12 schedule.Kansas State was outscored 40-18 in the paint. That doesn't compute when the Wildcats also were so poor from the 3-point arc.UP NEXTOklahoma returns home to play Big 12 newcomer UCF on Saturday.Kansas State heads to Oklahoma State on Saturday.

No. 23 Oklahoma pulls away from cold-shooting K-State

LAWRENCE, Kan. (AP) — Hunter Dickinson and K.J. Adams Jr. each scored 16 points to lead a balanced scoring attack and No. 8 Kansas defeated Oklahoma State 83-54 on Tuesday night.

All five Kansas starters scored in double figures.

“It was good not to have to stress as much,” Kansas coach Bill Self said. “We played well. Offensively, we were able to move the ball. We got the shots we wanted and we shared it. Our shot distribution was good. Marko (Elmarko Jackson) saw a couple go down, so there were a lot of good things offensively.”

The Jayhawks, who played without all-America candidate Kevin McCullar Jr., cruised throughout the second half. Their lead never dipped below the halftime margin of 18 points.

“Obviously it was a tough night for us, but Kansas had a lot to do with it,” Oklahoma State coach Mike Boynton said. “We obviously didn’t play well enough to give ourselves much of a chance.

"They can hurt you a lot of ways. Today, we tried to make them beat us from 3-point range, but they showed us they were capable of beating us from 3 early. That makes it harder to put more attention on Hunter.”

Kansas (17-4, 5-3 Big 12) got 12 points from Dajuan Harris Jr., 11 from Johnny Furphy and 10 from Jackson. Dickinson had a double-double with 11 rebounds, and Harris had seven assists. Dickinson went over 2,000 points in his career, counting his first three years at Michigan.

Self was pleased with the aggressiveness of Harris, who had his second-most points of the season.

“We wanted Juan to shoot the ball,” he said. “I think he was more aggressive. I told Juan he needs to quit listening to me and he needs to quit listening to everybody else what they think he should be doing to play well. It’s ridiculous, including me.

"All he’s done is won a state high school championship, won a national championship. He wins every pickup game. I tell him, ‘Just play and trust your instincts. Quit trying to do what other people say you need to do.’ He needs to make sure his team wins. And that’s what he does.”

Oklahoma State (9-12, 1-7) was led by John-Michael Wright with 16 points. Brandon Garrison added 11 points after scoring the first seven points of the game for the Cowboys.

Kansas gradually pulled away in the first half, grabbing its first double-digit lead with 11:12 left in the first half on a jumper by Jackson. When Dickinson hit a foul-line jumper to cap a 12-0 run, the Jayhawks led 33-15. They led by as many as 21 points in the first half before taking a 44-26 lead into the locker room.

“I looked at it as an opportunity,” Jackson said of playing without McCullar. “We've got a motto here of ‘Next man up.’ You just have to be ready for your opportunity.”

Oklahoma State: The Cowboys, the youngest team in the Big 12 Conference, don't have the depth to compete in the upper tier of the conference at this point.

Kansas: The Jayhawks didn't miss leading scorer McCullar, who was out with an undisclosed injury.

Oklahoma State: Hosts Kansas State on Saturday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1706700825546.png" alt="Photo Kansas Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Kansas Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>LAWRENCE, Kan. (AP) — Hunter Dickinson and K.J. Adams Jr. each scored 16 points to lead a balanced scoring attack and No. 8 Kansas defeated Oklahoma State 83-54 on Tuesday night.All five Kansas starters scored in double figures.“It was good not to have to stress as much,” Kansas coach Bill Self said. “We played well. Offensively, we were able to move the ball. We got the shots we wanted and we shared it. Our shot distribution was good. Marko (Elmarko Jackson) saw a couple go down, so there were a lot of good things offensively.”The Jayhawks, who played without all-America candidate Kevin McCullar Jr., cruised throughout the second half. Their lead never dipped below the halftime margin of 18 points.“Obviously it was a tough night for us, but Kansas had a lot to do with it,” Oklahoma State coach Mike Boynton said. “We obviously didn’t play well enough to give ourselves much of a chance."They can hurt you a lot of ways. Today, we tried to make them beat us from 3-point range, but they showed us they were capable of beating us from 3 early. That makes it harder to put more attention on Hunter.”Kansas (17-4, 5-3 Big 12) got 12 points from Dajuan Harris Jr., 11 from Johnny Furphy and 10 from Jackson. Dickinson had a double-double with 11 rebounds, and Harris had seven assists. Dickinson went over 2,000 points in his career, counting his first three years at Michigan.Self was pleased with the aggressiveness of Harris, who had his second-most points of the season.“We wanted Juan to shoot the ball,” he said. “I think he was more aggressive. I told Juan he needs to quit listening to me and he needs to quit listening to everybody else what they think he should be doing to play well. It’s ridiculous, including me."All he’s done is won a state high school championship, won a national championship. He wins every pickup game. I tell him, ‘Just play and trust your instincts. Quit trying to do what other people say you need to do.’ He needs to make sure his team wins. And that’s what he does.”Oklahoma State (9-12, 1-7) was led by John-Michael Wright with 16 points. Brandon Garrison added 11 points after scoring the first seven points of the game for the Cowboys.Kansas gradually pulled away in the first half, grabbing its first double-digit lead with 11:12 left in the first half on a jumper by Jackson. When Dickinson hit a foul-line jumper to cap a 12-0 run, the Jayhawks led 33-15. They led by as many as 21 points in the first half before taking a 44-26 lead into the locker room.“I looked at it as an opportunity,” Jackson said of playing without McCullar. “We've got a motto here of ‘Next man up.’ You just have to be ready for your opportunity.”THE TAKEAWAYOklahoma State: The Cowboys, the youngest team in the Big 12 Conference, don't have the depth to compete in the upper tier of the conference at this point.Kansas: The Jayhawks didn't miss leading scorer McCullar, who was out with an undisclosed injury.UP NEXTOklahoma State: Hosts Kansas State on Saturday.Kansas: Hosts No. 4 Houston on Saturday.

No. 8 Kansas easily defeats Oklahoma State 

The Junction City Blue Jays produced another thrilling game inside Blue Jay Event Center when they defeated Blue Valley Northwest 60-53 on Tuesday night.&nbsp;

The Huskies are the defending 6A state champions and had been dominant all season long, but Junction City was up for the challenge and grabbed a quick lead and never looked back.&nbsp;

It was another great performance by junior sharp shooter Jackson Austin with 17 points, both Tre Ruffin and Larkin Turner added 11 points, and sophomore Lovell Autry finished with 10 points.&nbsp;

Despite being much smaller than the Huskies, the Blue Jays battled on both ends of the floor and held a double-digit lead for most of the second and third quarters. The largest lead for Junction City was a 17 point lead in the second quarter.&nbsp;

"Our guys play with so much heart," said head coach Nick Perez. "I am so proud of our guys, this team is special."

Along with great performances on both ends of the court, the home crowd, especially the student section helped fire up Junction City throughout the game. "The crowd was amazing," Perez said. "That student section got loud towards the end, and that is what we need every game."

With the win, the Blue Jays improve to 12-2 on the season. Their next action is Friday night, on the road at Topeka High School.&nbsp;

The Lady Jays were defeated 71-20 by the Topeka Hayden Wildcats.&nbsp;

The leading scores on the night were Morgan Nabus and Sara Rexrode both with six points.&nbsp;

With the loss, the Lady Jays fall to 1-12 on the season and will travel to Topeka High School on Friday night.&nbsp;

By Anthony GorgesJC PostThe Junction City Blue Jays produced another thrilling game inside Blue Jay Event Center when they defeated Blue Valley Northwest 60-53 on Tuesday night.&nbsp;The Huskies are the defending 6A state champions and had been dominant all season long, but Junction City was up for the challenge and grabbed a quick lead and never looked back.&nbsp;It was another great performance by junior sharp shooter Jackson Austin with 17 points, both Tre Ruffin and Larkin Turner added 11 points, and sophomore Lovell Autry finished with 10 points.&nbsp;Despite being much smaller than the Huskies, the Blue Jays battled on both ends of the floor and held a double-digit lead for most of the second and third quarters. The largest lead for Junction City was a 17 point lead in the second quarter.&nbsp;"Our guys play with so much heart," said head coach Nick Perez. "I am so proud of our guys, this team is special."Along with great performances on both ends of the court, the home crowd, especially the student section helped fire up Junction City throughout the game. "The crowd was amazing," Perez said. "That student section got loud towards the end, and that is what we need every game."With the win, the Blue Jays improve to 12-2 on the season. Their next action is Friday night, on the road at Topeka High School.&nbsp;Junction City Lady Jay resultsThe Lady Jays were defeated 71-20 by the Topeka Hayden Wildcats.&nbsp;The leading scores on the night were Morgan Nabus and Sara Rexrode both with six points.&nbsp;With the loss, the Lady Jays fall to 1-12 on the season and will travel to Topeka High School on Friday night.&nbsp;

Blue Jays pull off exciting win over Blue Valley Northwest, improve to 12-2

The Junction City High School USD 475 boy’s swimming team recently had two individuals and two relays qualify for the Kansas State High School Activities Association Boys State Championships in Topeka next month.

The Blue Jays have now had a representative at state, which will take place on Feb. 16-17 at the Capitol Federal Natatorium in Topeka, each of the last five years.

“We are super proud of these boys. They have worked so hard and have really weathered all of the cancelled meets and practices. It all came together for us,” said Anna Schlesener, JCHS head coach.

Earning a trip to state was the 200-medley relay with a blistering time of 1:48.69. The quartet consisted of Ivan Velarde, Creytin Sanner, Noah Lamb and Truman Fortner. The Blue Jays also qualified in the 200 free relay with a time of 1:36.81.

Individually, Sanner, who will head to state for a second-straight year, qualified in the 100 breast stroke after clocking a time of 1:04.17. Lamb will also represent JCHS in Topeka, competing in the 100 fly with a time of 56.58.

By the duo qualifying for state, it marks the first time in Schlesener’s 13-year career she has had two individuals advance to the state meet.

“This senior class is one of the best I have ever coached. It has been a few years since we have had an individual qualify and Noah and Creytin came in with a positive mindset, which helped them come out with qualifying times. We couldn’t be prouder,” said Schlesener.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Junction City High School release&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1706641908469.jpeg" alt="Photo courtesy of Geary County Schools USD 475 Facebook page" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy of Geary County Schools USD 475 Facebook page</figcaption>
 </figure>--The Junction City High School USD 475 boy’s swimming team recently had two individuals and two relays qualify for the Kansas State High School Activities Association Boys State Championships in Topeka next month.The Blue Jays have now had a representative at state, which will take place on Feb. 16-17 at the Capitol Federal Natatorium in Topeka, each of the last five years.“We are super proud of these boys. They have worked so hard and have really weathered all of the cancelled meets and practices. It all came together for us,” said Anna Schlesener, JCHS head coach.Earning a trip to state was the 200-medley relay with a blistering time of 1:48.69. The quartet consisted of Ivan Velarde, Creytin Sanner, Noah Lamb and Truman Fortner. The Blue Jays also qualified in the 200 free relay with a time of 1:36.81.Individually, Sanner, who will head to state for a second-straight year, qualified in the 100 breast stroke after clocking a time of 1:04.17. Lamb will also represent JCHS in Topeka, competing in the 100 fly with a time of 56.58.By the duo qualifying for state, it marks the first time in Schlesener’s 13-year career she has had two individuals advance to the state meet.“This senior class is one of the best I have ever coached. It has been a few years since we have had an individual qualify and Noah and Creytin came in with a positive mindset, which helped them come out with qualifying times. We couldn’t be prouder,” said Schlesener.&nbsp;&nbsp;

JCHS Boys Swimming Qualifies For State

MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;– A six-game home slate that features three games against teams new to the conference over the last two years highlights the 2024 football schedule that was announced Tuesday by K-State Athletics and the Big 12 Conference.

K-State opens the 2024 campaign on August 31 against UT Martin in the first ever meeting between the schools before the Wildcats travel to face Tulane on September 7. The game at Tulane marks the second-straight season the Wildcats will play a road non-conference game, their first time doing so since a three-year span in 2015 (UTSA), 2016 (Stanford) and 2017 (Vanderbilt). K-State is looking to avenge a 17-10 home loss to the Green Wave in 2022.

The Wildcats return home to close out non-conference play by hosting new Big 12 foe Arizona on either Friday, September 13 or Saturday, September 14 in the first game of a previously scheduled non-conference series that was announced in 2016. The exact date of that game will be determined later this spring. It will be the eighth meeting all-time between Arizona and K-State but the first in Manhattan. The teams have not met since a contest in Tucson in 1978.

For the 23rd&nbsp;time in the 29-year history of the Big 12, K-State will begin conference play away from home when the Wildcats travel to Provo, Utah, to take on BYU on September 21. The series with the Cougars is tied, 4-4, and the Wildcats will face BYU in the regular season for the first time since 1977. The teams last met in the 1997 (post 1996 season) Cotton Bowl.

The Wildcats follow the trip to Provo with a home game against Oklahoma State on September 28 before their first of two bye weeks during the 2024 campaign on October 5.

K-State will be road tested throughout October and the first part of November with three of its next four games on the road. The Wildcats begin the stretch at Colorado on October 12, their first trip to Boulder since 2010 when the Buffaloes were a member of the Big 12. K-State then travels to West Virginia on October 19, going back to Morgantown after not playing the Mountaineers during the 2023 season.

The 2024 edition of the Dillons Sunflower Showdown will take place in Manhattan on October 26 before the Wildcats travel to Houston on November 2.

Following its second bye week of the year on November 9, K-State hosts new Big 12 member Arizona State on November 16. Much like Arizona, it will be the seventh time the Wildcats and Sun Devils will meet on the gridiron but the first in Manhattan and the first in a regular-season game since 1989. K-State defeated ASU, 34-27, in the 2002 Holiday Bowl.

The Wildcats will celebrate their seniors on November 23 with a game against Cincinnati – the Bearcats’ first visit to Manhattan since 1996 – before closing out the regular season at Iowa State on November 30.

<a>The 2024 Big 12 Championship game will be held on December 7 at AT&amp;T Stadium in Arlington, Texas.</a>

Kansas State will announce season-ticket options for the 2024 season in the near future.

<a>2024 K-STATE FOOTBALL SCHEDULE (Dates Subject to Change)</a>

September 13&nbsp;or&nbsp;14-Arizona-Manhattan, Kan.

September 28-Oklahoma State-Manhattan, Kan.

October 19-at West Virginia-Morgantown, W.Va.

November 16-Arizona State-Manhattan, Kan.

Associate Athletics Director for Communications

MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;– A six-game home slate that features three games against teams new to the conference over the last two years highlights the 2024 football schedule that was announced Tuesday by K-State Athletics and the Big 12 Conference.K-State opens the 2024 campaign on August 31 against UT Martin in the first ever meeting between the schools before the Wildcats travel to face Tulane on September 7. The game at Tulane marks the second-straight season the Wildcats will play a road non-conference game, their first time doing so since a three-year span in 2015 (UTSA), 2016 (Stanford) and 2017 (Vanderbilt). K-State is looking to avenge a 17-10 home loss to the Green Wave in 2022.The Wildcats return home to close out non-conference play by hosting new Big 12 foe Arizona on either Friday, September 13 or Saturday, September 14 in the first game of a previously scheduled non-conference series that was announced in 2016. The exact date of that game will be determined later this spring. It will be the eighth meeting all-time between Arizona and K-State but the first in Manhattan. The teams have not met since a contest in Tucson in 1978.For the 23rd&nbsp;time in the 29-year history of the Big 12, K-State will begin conference play away from home when the Wildcats travel to Provo, Utah, to take on BYU on September 21. The series with the Cougars is tied, 4-4, and the Wildcats will face BYU in the regular season for the first time since 1977. The teams last met in the 1997 (post 1996 season) Cotton Bowl.The Wildcats follow the trip to Provo with a home game against Oklahoma State on September 28 before their first of two bye weeks during the 2024 campaign on October 5.K-State will be road tested throughout October and the first part of November with three of its next four games on the road. The Wildcats begin the stretch at Colorado on October 12, their first trip to Boulder since 2010 when the Buffaloes were a member of the Big 12. K-State then travels to West Virginia on October 19, going back to Morgantown after not playing the Mountaineers during the 2023 season.The 2024 edition of the Dillons Sunflower Showdown will take place in Manhattan on October 26 before the Wildcats travel to Houston on November 2.Following its second bye week of the year on November 9, K-State hosts new Big 12 member Arizona State on November 16. Much like Arizona, it will be the seventh time the Wildcats and Sun Devils will meet on the gridiron but the first in Manhattan and the first in a regular-season game since 1989. K-State defeated ASU, 34-27, in the 2002 Holiday Bowl.The Wildcats will celebrate their seniors on November 23 with a game against Cincinnati – the Bearcats’ first visit to Manhattan since 1996 – before closing out the regular season at Iowa State on November 30.<a>The 2024 Big 12 Championship game will be held on December 7 at AT&amp;T Stadium in Arlington, Texas.</a>Kansas State will announce season-ticket options for the 2024 season in the near future.<a>2024 K-STATE FOOTBALL SCHEDULE (Dates Subject to Change)</a>August 31 - UT Martin - Manhattan, Kan.September 7-at Tulane-New Orleans, La.September 13&nbsp;or&nbsp;14-Arizona-Manhattan, Kan.September 21-at BYU-Provo, UtahSeptember 28-Oklahoma State-Manhattan, Kan.October 12-at Colorado-Boulder, Colo.October 19-at West Virginia-Morgantown, W.Va.October 26-Kansas-Manhattan, Kan.November 2-at Houston-Houston, TexasNovember 16-Arizona State-Manhattan, Kan.November 23-Cincinnati-Manhattan, Kan.November 30-at Iowa State-Ames, Iowa– k-statesports.com –&nbsp;RYAN LACKEYAssociate Athletics Director for Communications

K-State, Big 12 Announce 2024 Football Schedule

BALTIMORE (AP) — Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce were at their magnificent best in the first half, and Kansas City's defense delivered another masterpiece against Lamar Jackson and Baltimore, helping the Chiefs reach the Super Bowl for the fourth time in five years with a 17-10 victory in the AFC championship game Sunday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1706484917159.png" alt="Photo courtesy Kansas City Chiefs" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy Kansas City Chiefs</figcaption>
 </figure>BALTIMORE (AP) — Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce were at their magnificent best in the first half, and Kansas City's defense delivered another masterpiece against Lamar Jackson and Baltimore, helping the Chiefs reach the Super Bowl for the fourth time in five years with a 17-10 victory in the AFC championship game Sunday.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FKansasCityChiefs%2Fposts%2Fpfbid0eWYWDnUALZR8xBpPCJq6gUZm9rDBMprgao3kty8fHkJnz6GvG6JbKjuWZhVHDwzJl&show_text=true&width=500" width="500" height="590" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></div>Kelce caught 11 passes for 116 yards and a touchdown, and now the big question at next month's Super Bowl in Las Vegas is whether his girlfriend Taylor Swift will be able to make it there in the middle of her tour. The pop star was on hand again Sunday, and the 34-year-old Kelce was at his best.Kansas City (14-6) will face either San Francisco or Detroit on Feb. 11, and a win would make the Chiefs the first team to win it all in back-to-back seasons since the New England Patriots 19 years ago.Swift's presence has turned the Chiefs into even more of a glamour team than they already were, but it's been more of a blue-collar performance on the field this season. Aside from Kelce, Mahomes hasn't had the receiving playmakers he's enjoyed in years past.Instead, the defense has been a big part of why Kansas City won the AFC West and eventually prevailed in two straight road playoff games against Buffalo and Baltimore to win the conference.The Chiefs led 17-7 at halftime, and Justin Tucker's 43-yard field goal with 2:34 to play was the only scoring of the second half.

Sports