Western Conference Track &amp; Field Meet Scottsbluff, NE 4/30/24 Boys Team Champion: Sidney Girls Team Champion: Sidney <a href="https://www.athletic.net/TrackAndField/meet/539603/results">All Individual Event Results Link</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1629461621684.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Western Conference Track &amp; Field Meet Scottsbluff, NE 4/30/24 Boys Team Champion: Sidney Girls Team Champion: Sidney <a href="https://www.athletic.net/TrackAndField/meet/539603/results">All Individual Event Results Link</a>

Sidney sweeps Western Conference Track Meet Tuesday

MIAMI (AP) — Dane Myers hit a game-winning single in the 10th inning as the Miami Marlins overcame a five-run deficit and beat Colorado 7-6 on Tuesday night, making the Rockies the first team since 1900 to trail in each of its first 29 games.

Miami (7-24) bounced back from a 5-0 first-inning deficit by scoring five times in the ninth, then rallied from down 6-5 in the 10th and ended a seven-game losing streak.

“For anybody that says that they don’t care, they don’t fight, they don’t work, that kind of proves everyone wrong,” Marlins manager Skip Schumaker said. “The results are the results. I get it. But it’s not for a lack of want or a lack of caring. Those guys really care. They want to win and they’re prepared to win every day.”

The Rockies (7-22) had lost Sunday and joined the 1910 St. Louis Browns as the only teams to trail in each of their first 28 games.

Colorado never was behind until after the final pitch.

Backed by a 5-0 first-inning lead, Ryan Feltner entered the ninth trying for his first professional complete game but allowed Vidal Bruján’s leadoff single, hit Christian Bethancourt with a pitch, then gave up Luis Arraez’s RBI double.

Justin Lawrence relieved and walked Bryan De La Cruz, gave up Myers’ two-run single, forced in a run when he hit Jesús Sánchez with a pitch with the bases loaded and allowed Emmanuel Rivera’s sacrifice fly.

“It’ll take me a while to think about my performance,” Feltner said. “Right now, I just feel like I let the team down. I got to finish that ninth inning out. Never been in a position like that before, and I’m hungry to get back there to the ninth and finish out next time.”

Ryan McMahon’s RBI double against Tanner Scott (1-4) put the Rockies ahead 6-5 in the 10th, but De La Cruz had a run-scoring double off Jalen Beeks (2-2) in the bottom half and scored when Myers’ grounded an opposite-field single to right. Hunter Goodman made a one-hop throw to the plate but the ball bounced out of Elias Díaz’s mitt as De La Cruz slid into the catcher.

“I was just looking for something over the plate,” Myers said.

Myers got his his first big league walk-off hit. He entered in the eighth after Jazz Chisholm Jr. was ejected by plate umpire Jansen Visconti for arguing a called third strike.

“He was the first one to thank me,” Myers said of Chisholm. “He’s a good clubhouse guy and teammate. It feels good to pick up a guy like Jazz and I’m glad I was able to do that.”

Jordan Beck, a 23-year-old Rockies outfield prospect, went 2 for 4 in his major league debut. He singled in his first big league at-bat.

Miami won a series opener for the first time this season.

Elehuris Montero hit a three-run homer in the first against Sixto Sánchez after McMahon and Charlie Blackmon had RBI singles.

Rockies: OF Nolan Jones (low back strain) was placed on the 10-day IL. ... LHP Lucas Gilbreath (left shoulder soreness) was transferred to the 60-day IL.

Marlins: INF Jake Burger (left intercostal muscle strain) and LHP Braxton Garrett (left shoulder impingement) will play with Triple-A Jacksonville on rehab assignments Wednesday.

RHP Dakota Hudson (0-4, 6.57) will start the second game of the series for the Rockies on Wednesday. RHP Roddery Muñoz (0-0, 3.60) is scheduled to start for the Marlins.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1714533811982.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>MIAMI (AP) — Dane Myers hit a game-winning single in the 10th inning as the Miami Marlins overcame a five-run deficit and beat Colorado 7-6 on Tuesday night, making the Rockies the first team since 1900 to trail in each of its first 29 games.Miami (7-24) bounced back from a 5-0 first-inning deficit by scoring five times in the ninth, then rallied from down 6-5 in the 10th and ended a seven-game losing streak.“For anybody that says that they don’t care, they don’t fight, they don’t work, that kind of proves everyone wrong,” Marlins manager Skip Schumaker said. “The results are the results. I get it. But it’s not for a lack of want or a lack of caring. Those guys really care. They want to win and they’re prepared to win every day.”The Rockies (7-22) had lost Sunday and joined the 1910 St. Louis Browns as the only teams to trail in each of their first 28 games.Colorado never was behind until after the final pitch.Backed by a 5-0 first-inning lead, Ryan Feltner entered the ninth trying for his first professional complete game but allowed Vidal Bruján’s leadoff single, hit Christian Bethancourt with a pitch, then gave up Luis Arraez’s RBI double.Justin Lawrence relieved and walked Bryan De La Cruz, gave up Myers’ two-run single, forced in a run when he hit Jesús Sánchez with a pitch with the bases loaded and allowed Emmanuel Rivera’s sacrifice fly.“It’ll take me a while to think about my performance,” Feltner said. “Right now, I just feel like I let the team down. I got to finish that ninth inning out. Never been in a position like that before, and I’m hungry to get back there to the ninth and finish out next time.”Ryan McMahon’s RBI double against Tanner Scott (1-4) put the Rockies ahead 6-5 in the 10th, but De La Cruz had a run-scoring double off Jalen Beeks (2-2) in the bottom half and scored when Myers’ grounded an opposite-field single to right. Hunter Goodman made a one-hop throw to the plate but the ball bounced out of Elias Díaz’s mitt as De La Cruz slid into the catcher.“I was just looking for something over the plate,” Myers said.Myers got his his first big league walk-off hit. He entered in the eighth after Jazz Chisholm Jr. was ejected by plate umpire Jansen Visconti for arguing a called third strike.“He was the first one to thank me,” Myers said of Chisholm. “He’s a good clubhouse guy and teammate. It feels good to pick up a guy like Jazz and I’m glad I was able to do that.”Jordan Beck, a 23-year-old Rockies outfield prospect, went 2 for 4 in his major league debut. He singled in his first big league at-bat.Miami won a series opener for the first time this season.Elehuris Montero hit a three-run homer in the first against Sixto Sánchez after McMahon and Charlie Blackmon had RBI singles.TRAINER’S ROOMRockies: OF Nolan Jones (low back strain) was placed on the 10-day IL. ... LHP Lucas Gilbreath (left shoulder soreness) was transferred to the 60-day IL.Marlins: INF Jake Burger (left intercostal muscle strain) and LHP Braxton Garrett (left shoulder impingement) will play with Triple-A Jacksonville on rehab assignments Wednesday.UP NEXTRHP Dakota Hudson (0-4, 6.57) will start the second game of the series for the Rockies on Wednesday. RHP Roddery Muñoz (0-0, 3.60) is scheduled to start for the Marlins.

Rockies set ugly new record with horrible loss to Marlins

DENVER (AP) — Jamal Murray overcame a strained left calf, management's suggestion he sit this one out and another haymaker from the Los Angeles Lakers to score 32 points and sink the game-winner with 3.6 seconds left Monday night.

That sent LeBron James to his earliest playoff exit ever and the Denver Nuggets tottering into Round 2 with a 108-106 win in Game 5 that featured 16 lead changes and 10 ties and was only secured when Taurean Prince's halfcourt heave fell short as time expired.

“Shout-out to the Lakers, they gave us a great series,” said Murray, who also hit the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/denver-nuggets-los-angeles-lakers-score-c6101ac1b716a0dfde2b851993b80057">franchise's first playoff buzzer-beater</a>&nbsp;in Game 2.

“Those are shots that you dream of as a little kid,” said Murray, who called this one just “a little better.”

If not for his dogged determination — and defiance — Murray never would have had the chance to seal the series.

“I came in a little earlier today to see if I was going to be able to go, and I felt like I could and they just didn't want me to risk it,” recounted Murray, who warmed up with an ice pack strapped to his injured calf. "They told me no. They told me no.

"And I didn't say no. I didn't want to leave my teammates out there,” added Murray, who missed 23 games due to injury in 2023-24. “We've been battling all season. Everybody's hurt at some point, everybody's going through something and I just wouldn't be able to live with myself if I wasn't able to play this game.

”I'm just glad they listened to me — and listened to me listening to my body — and just trusting me with it."

James' two free throws tied it at 106 with 26 seconds left and the Nuggets, just as they did in Game 2, eschewed the timeout and Murray took the ball on a high screen-and-roll to his left, shaking Austin Reaves as he crossed through the lane and swished the 14-footer.

“That kid’s a warrior, man," Nuggets coach Michael Malone said. "The bigger the moment, the kid just continues to shine.”

Nikola Jokic, who committed an uncharacteristic seven turnovers, narrowly missed his 19th career playoff triple-double with 25 points, 20 rebounds and nine assists and Michael Porter Jr. scored 26.

James had 30 points and 11 assists and Anthony Davis had 17 points and 15 rebounds but appeared bothered down the stretch after banging his left shoulder into Porter in the second half.

The Nuggets advanced to face the Minnesota Timberwolves in the second round starting next weekend. That series starts in Denver, where the Nuggets are a Western Conference-best 36-8, including 3-0 in the playoffs.

The Nuggets trailed for about three-fourths of the minutes in this series, they scuffled through extended shooting slumps and they're a banged-up bunch that can definitely use the rest.

“First of all, tip your hat to them,” James said. “Defending champions. They’re great team. Super-well coached and made the plays down the stretch to win the series. You give credit where credit is due, that’s for sure.”

Davis matched Murray’s 16 first-half points and the Lakers led 53-50 at halftime. They pushed that advantage to nine points but the Nuggets closed on a 21-10 run to take an 81-79 lead into the fourth quarter that was tight until the buzzer.

The Nuggets, who swept the Lakers in the Western Conference finals last summer on their way to winning the franchise's first NBA championship, beat the Lakers for the 12th time in their last 13 games.

The only other time James was eliminated in the first round of the playoffs came in 2021 when the Phoenix Suns beat L.A. in six games.

So, this was the shortest of James' 17 trips to the playoffs despite the Lakers taking the reigning champs to the brink in all five games.

“I couldn’t be more proud of our crew despite everything that happened,” said Lakers coach Darvin Ham, who's sure to be on the hot seat. “Obviously, the series didn’t go in our favor, didn’t start the way we wanted it to, but to win that one at home, fight tooth and nail today to get this one, our guys showed a lot of guts and a lot of character."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1714487047588.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>DENVER (AP) — Jamal Murray overcame a strained left calf, management's suggestion he sit this one out and another haymaker from the Los Angeles Lakers to score 32 points and sink the game-winner with 3.6 seconds left Monday night.That sent LeBron James to his earliest playoff exit ever and the Denver Nuggets tottering into Round 2 with a 108-106 win in Game 5 that featured 16 lead changes and 10 ties and was only secured when Taurean Prince's halfcourt heave fell short as time expired.“Shout-out to the Lakers, they gave us a great series,” said Murray, who also hit the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/denver-nuggets-los-angeles-lakers-score-c6101ac1b716a0dfde2b851993b80057">franchise's first playoff buzzer-beater</a>&nbsp;in Game 2.“Those are shots that you dream of as a little kid,” said Murray, who called this one just “a little better.”If not for his dogged determination — and defiance — Murray never would have had the chance to seal the series.“I came in a little earlier today to see if I was going to be able to go, and I felt like I could and they just didn't want me to risk it,” recounted Murray, who warmed up with an ice pack strapped to his injured calf. "They told me no. They told me no."And I didn't say no. I didn't want to leave my teammates out there,” added Murray, who missed 23 games due to injury in 2023-24. “We've been battling all season. Everybody's hurt at some point, everybody's going through something and I just wouldn't be able to live with myself if I wasn't able to play this game.”I'm just glad they listened to me — and listened to me listening to my body — and just trusting me with it."James' two free throws tied it at 106 with 26 seconds left and the Nuggets, just as they did in Game 2, eschewed the timeout and Murray took the ball on a high screen-and-roll to his left, shaking Austin Reaves as he crossed through the lane and swished the 14-footer.“That kid’s a warrior, man," Nuggets coach Michael Malone said. "The bigger the moment, the kid just continues to shine.”Nikola Jokic, who committed an uncharacteristic seven turnovers, narrowly missed his 19th career playoff triple-double with 25 points, 20 rebounds and nine assists and Michael Porter Jr. scored 26.James had 30 points and 11 assists and Anthony Davis had 17 points and 15 rebounds but appeared bothered down the stretch after banging his left shoulder into Porter in the second half.The Nuggets advanced to face the Minnesota Timberwolves in the second round starting next weekend. That series starts in Denver, where the Nuggets are a Western Conference-best 36-8, including 3-0 in the playoffs.Not that it has been easy.The Nuggets trailed for about three-fourths of the minutes in this series, they scuffled through extended shooting slumps and they're a banged-up bunch that can definitely use the rest.“First of all, tip your hat to them,” James said. “Defending champions. They’re great team. Super-well coached and made the plays down the stretch to win the series. You give credit where credit is due, that’s for sure.”Davis matched Murray’s 16 first-half points and the Lakers led 53-50 at halftime. They pushed that advantage to nine points but the Nuggets closed on a 21-10 run to take an 81-79 lead into the fourth quarter that was tight until the buzzer.The Nuggets, who swept the Lakers in the Western Conference finals last summer on their way to winning the franchise's first NBA championship, beat the Lakers for the 12th time in their last 13 games.The only other time James was eliminated in the first round of the playoffs came in 2021 when the Phoenix Suns beat L.A. in six games.So, this was the shortest of James' 17 trips to the playoffs despite the Lakers taking the reigning champs to the brink in all five games.“I couldn’t be more proud of our crew despite everything that happened,” said Lakers coach Darvin Ham, who's sure to be on the hot seat. “Obviously, the series didn’t go in our favor, didn’t start the way we wanted it to, but to win that one at home, fight tooth and nail today to get this one, our guys showed a lot of guts and a lot of character."

Murray's second game-winner sinks Lakers, Nuggets advance 108-106

Nebraska won the weekend series but couldn’t complete the sweep, as the Huskers fell 4-1 in the series finale against Iowa on Sunday at Hawks Field at Haymarket Park.

Nebraska (27-14, 10-5 Big Ten) scored a run on two hits and an error, while Iowa (24-17, 10-8 Big Ten) recorded four runs on eight hits.

Tyler Stone doubled and drew a walk, while Case Sanderson had a hit and a walk. Josh Caron drove in the Huskers’ lone run of the game.

Will Walsh dropped to 4-3 on the season, allowing three runs on five hits in 4.2 innings of action. Casey Daiss pitched one inning, giving up one run on a hit. Grant Cleavinger, Evan Borst, Rans Sanders, Kyle Perry and Kyle Froehlich combined to blank the Hawkeyes over the final 3.1 innings, holding Iowa to just two hits.

Iowa grabbed a 1-0 lead in the opening frame after a two-out walk, followed by an RBI double to left field.

A two-out solo homer to the left-field berm doubled the lead for the Hawkeyes in the second inning.

The Huskers plated their lone run of the game behind a pair of hits in the fourth inning. Riley Silva reached on a fielder’s choice, before Stone’s double to right-center had runners on second and third with one out for the Big Red. Caron lifted a sacrifice fly to right, scoring Silva and trimming the deficit to 2-1.

The Hawkeyes got the run back in the next half inning with a two-out solo homer into the Iowa bullpen in the top of the fifth.

Cole Evans opened the bottom of the fifth with a walk and later stole second, before moving to third on a wild pitch. The NU offense couldn’t get a timely two-out hit to bring home Evans and cut into the deficit.

Iowa had a runner on third with one out in the sixth after a leadoff double and a groundout to second. A wild pitch allowed the runner on third to jog on home to give the Hawkeyes a 4-1 advantage.

The Huskers were retired in order over the final three innings to preserve the three-run victory for the Hawkeyes in the series finale.

Nebraska returns to action with a midweek matchup at Creighton on Tuesday, April 30 at Charles Schwab Field in Omaha.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1714356856923.jpeg" alt="Husker Baseball" />
 <figcaption>Husker Baseball</figcaption>
 </figure>Courtesy: Husker AthleticsNebraska won the weekend series but couldn’t complete the sweep, as the Huskers fell 4-1 in the series finale against Iowa on Sunday at Hawks Field at Haymarket Park.Nebraska (27-14, 10-5 Big Ten) scored a run on two hits and an error, while Iowa (24-17, 10-8 Big Ten) recorded four runs on eight hits.Tyler Stone doubled and drew a walk, while Case Sanderson had a hit and a walk. Josh Caron drove in the Huskers’ lone run of the game.Will Walsh dropped to 4-3 on the season, allowing three runs on five hits in 4.2 innings of action. Casey Daiss pitched one inning, giving up one run on a hit. Grant Cleavinger, Evan Borst, Rans Sanders, Kyle Perry and Kyle Froehlich combined to blank the Hawkeyes over the final 3.1 innings, holding Iowa to just two hits.Iowa grabbed a 1-0 lead in the opening frame after a two-out walk, followed by an RBI double to left field.A two-out solo homer to the left-field berm doubled the lead for the Hawkeyes in the second inning.The Huskers plated their lone run of the game behind a pair of hits in the fourth inning. Riley Silva reached on a fielder’s choice, before Stone’s double to right-center had runners on second and third with one out for the Big Red. Caron lifted a sacrifice fly to right, scoring Silva and trimming the deficit to 2-1.The Hawkeyes got the run back in the next half inning with a two-out solo homer into the Iowa bullpen in the top of the fifth.Cole Evans opened the bottom of the fifth with a walk and later stole second, before moving to third on a wild pitch. The NU offense couldn’t get a timely two-out hit to bring home Evans and cut into the deficit.Iowa had a runner on third with one out in the sixth after a leadoff double and a groundout to second. A wild pitch allowed the runner on third to jog on home to give the Hawkeyes a 4-1 advantage.The Huskers were retired in order over the final three innings to preserve the three-run victory for the Hawkeyes in the series finale.Nebraska returns to action with a midweek matchup at Creighton on Tuesday, April 30 at Charles Schwab Field in Omaha.<h2>RELATED STORIES</h2>

Huskers take two of three from Iowa

MEXICO CITY (AP) — Kyle Tucker and the Houston Astros had a very successful stay in Mexico City.

Tucker, Jose Altuve and Jeremy Peña each hit a solo homer, helping Framber Valdez and the Astros beat the Colorado Rockies 8-2 on Sunday.

Tucker and Yainer Diaz each drove in two runs as Houston swept the two-game series at Alfredo Harp Helú Stadium.

“The plan was to use the series as a springboard looking forward,” Astros manager Joe Espada said. “We want this series to be like a new beginning for us. We need to have more urgency."

Valdez (1-0) pitched five innings of two-run ball in his first big league start since April 2. The left-hander allowed five hits, struck out six and walked none.

“He threw the ball well the first couple of innings," Espada said. "Command was not there, but he settled in the third and he gave us five innings. It was encouraging to see the way he threw the ball.”

Valdez had been sidelined by elbow inflammation, one of several pitching injuries that had contributed to Houston’s 9-19 start. Justin Verlander is back, but the Astros are awaiting the return of José Urquidy, Luis Garcia and Lance McCullers Jr. at some point this season.

"When the rotation is healthy, we have proved that we can do great things in the postseason,” Espada said.

Elias Díaz had two hits for Colorado, and Sean Bouchard and Jacob Stallings each drove in a run. Austin Gomber (0-2) was charged with four runs and six hits in seven innings.

“We have not played our best baseball and our record is indicative of that, but the players come with energy to compete. There has not been one sign of them not being happy,” manager Bud Black said. “We will continue to play hard."

Houston had lost five in a row before arriving in Mexico City, scoring a total of 10 runs during the slide. But it fared much better at Alfredo Harp Helu, with its elevation of 7,349 feet.

Yordan Alvarez hit two homers and Tucker also went deep during&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/astros-rockies-score-mexico-e59bfeb0e73b01ad897774d82ea689d1">Saturday’s 12-4 victory</a>.

Tucker connected in the first inning in the finale of the two-game set. Altuve went deep in the third, and Peña hit his third homer in the fourth.

It was Houston’s second regular-season visit to Mexico. It swept two games in Monterrey against the Angels in May 2019.

The Astros also played exhibition games in Mexico against the Padres in 2016 and Marlins in 2004.

The Rockies also had played in Mexico before. They beat San Diego in Monterrey in their 1999 season opener.

Colorado pushed across two runs in the second, tying it at 2. Bouchard singled home Elias Díaz, and Stallings had a sacrifice fly.

Altuve responded with his seventh homer on a drive to left.

Houston broke it open with four runs in the eighth. Alex Bregman hit an RBI single, and Yainer Diaz added a two-run double.

Astros: RHP Hunter Brown (0-4, 9.68 ERA) is scheduled to start Tuesday night against Cleveland. Carlos Carrasco (1-2, 4.63 ERA) pitches for the Guardians.

Rockies: RHP Ryan Feltner (1-2, 5.68 ERA) will start the series opener against the Marlins on Tuesday in Miami.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1714356687208.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>MEXICO CITY (AP) — Kyle Tucker and the Houston Astros had a very successful stay in Mexico City.Tucker, Jose Altuve and Jeremy Peña each hit a solo homer, helping Framber Valdez and the Astros beat the Colorado Rockies 8-2 on Sunday.Tucker and Yainer Diaz each drove in two runs as Houston swept the two-game series at Alfredo Harp Helú Stadium.“The plan was to use the series as a springboard looking forward,” Astros manager Joe Espada said. “We want this series to be like a new beginning for us. We need to have more urgency."Valdez (1-0) pitched five innings of two-run ball in his first big league start since April 2. The left-hander allowed five hits, struck out six and walked none.“He threw the ball well the first couple of innings," Espada said. "Command was not there, but he settled in the third and he gave us five innings. It was encouraging to see the way he threw the ball.”Valdez had been sidelined by elbow inflammation, one of several pitching injuries that had contributed to Houston’s 9-19 start. Justin Verlander is back, but the Astros are awaiting the return of José Urquidy, Luis Garcia and Lance McCullers Jr. at some point this season."When the rotation is healthy, we have proved that we can do great things in the postseason,” Espada said.Elias Díaz had two hits for Colorado, and Sean Bouchard and Jacob Stallings each drove in a run. Austin Gomber (0-2) was charged with four runs and six hits in seven innings.The Rockies have dropped 11 of 14 games.“We have not played our best baseball and our record is indicative of that, but the players come with energy to compete. There has not been one sign of them not being happy,” manager Bud Black said. “We will continue to play hard."Houston had lost five in a row before arriving in Mexico City, scoring a total of 10 runs during the slide. But it fared much better at Alfredo Harp Helu, with its elevation of 7,349 feet.Yordan Alvarez hit two homers and Tucker also went deep during&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/astros-rockies-score-mexico-e59bfeb0e73b01ad897774d82ea689d1">Saturday’s 12-4 victory</a>.Tucker connected in the first inning in the finale of the two-game set. Altuve went deep in the third, and Peña hit his third homer in the fourth.It was Houston’s second regular-season visit to Mexico. It swept two games in Monterrey against the Angels in May 2019.The Astros also played exhibition games in Mexico against the Padres in 2016 and Marlins in 2004.The Rockies also had played in Mexico before. They beat San Diego in Monterrey in their 1999 season opener.Colorado pushed across two runs in the second, tying it at 2. Bouchard singled home Elias Díaz, and Stallings had a sacrifice fly.Altuve responded with his seventh homer on a drive to left.Houston broke it open with four runs in the eighth. Alex Bregman hit an RBI single, and Yainer Diaz added a two-run double.UP NEXTAstros: RHP Hunter Brown (0-4, 9.68 ERA) is scheduled to start Tuesday night against Cleveland. Carlos Carrasco (1-2, 4.63 ERA) pitches for the Guardians.Rockies: RHP Ryan Feltner (1-2, 5.68 ERA) will start the series opener against the Marlins on Tuesday in Miami.

Astros sink Rockies a second time in Mexico City, 8-2 Sunday

DENVER (AP) — In his&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/AltitudeTV/status/1784696243845009534">postgame on-ice interview</a>, Valeri Nichushkin described his day in as many words as he had goals: “I feel amazing.”

Nichushkin recorded his first career hat trick,&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/Avalanche/status/1784690965313179734">Alexandar Georgiev</a>&nbsp;turned in another strong showing and the Avalanche beat the Winnipeg Jets 5-1 in Game 4 on Sunday to move a win away from advancing.

It’s been a roller-coaster season for the 29-year-old Nichushkin, who missed nearly two months earlier this year to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/nichushkin-nhl-avalanche-e709acc29926fca7c96cba87bd74b559">receive care from</a>&nbsp;NHL/NHLPA Player Assistance Program. The 6-foot-4, 210-pound fast-moving Nichushkin is getting up to full speed.

“It's hard to stop the big man,” said Artturi Lehkonen, who scored the game's first goal.

<a href="https://twitter.com/Avalanche/status/1784682486267584563">Cale Makar</a>&nbsp;also scored for the Avalanche, who grabbed a 3-1 lead in the first-round series. Game 5 is Tuesday night in Winnipeg.

Nichushkin added an empty-netter with 13 seconds left to give him his third goal and his first hat trick in game No. 580 of his NHL career, including regular season and postseason.

“That surprises me. I thought he did have (a hat trick) before this. Pretty cool,” Makar said. “When he's using his body right and skating well, a pretty special player to watch.”

Georgiev was on the hot seat after a shaky Game 1, but his confidence keeps surging with every big save. He stopped 26 shots in the matinee game.

Vezina Trophy-favorite Connor Hellebuyck continues to struggle in net. He allowed four goals on 30 shots before being replaced by Laurent Brossoit for the third period. Hellebuyck has surrendered 19 goals in the series.

“I don’t think those goals are his fault,” forward Mark Scheifele said of Hellebuyck. “He’s our backbone. He’s our heart and soul.”

Lehkonen and Nichushkin have both scored in all four games of the series. Makar had a goal and an assist Sunday to give him 73 points (18 goals, 55 assists) in 65 career playoff games. It’s the second-highest points per game average (1.12) by a defenseman in postseason history, behind only Bobby Orr (1.24).

Makar's goal was a masterpiece as he took the puck deep in his zone, weaved through several Winnipeg defenders, found some open space and lined a shot past Hellebuyck.

“He’s the best for a reason,” teammate Casey Mittelstadt said of Makar. “That’s what he does.”

There was a scary moment in the third period when Winnipeg forward Vladislav Namestnikov was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/jets-avalanche-namestnikov-671a98e2d25434ef645f0cc1b02a0c49">hit in the left side of his face by a puck</a>. Namestnikov was trying to jump out of the way of a shot from teammate Nate Schmidt when the puck hit a stick and struck him. Namestnikov stayed down on the ice as trainers rushed out. He skated off with help, a towel pressed to his head, and exited through the Avalanche bench. He was taken to the hospital for further evaluation.

On Friday, Jets defenseman Brenden Dillon&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/jets-brenden-dillon-7450783d5302a0df90ee228bff6fe168">suffered a laceration on his hand</a>&nbsp;after appearing to be cut by a skate blade during a scrum following the final horn in Colorado's 6-2 win Friday.

The Jets committed four penalties in the second, helping the Avalanche break open the game with a three-goal period. Nichushkin cashed in by scoring a pair of power-play goals to give Colorado a 4-1 lead.

“We've got to change our game plan," Nino Niederreiter said.

Jets coach Rick Bowness had another suggestion — stay out of the penalty box.

“The problems are self-inflicted,” Bowness said. “Penalties took us out of the game."

Avalanche forward Nikolai Kovalenko made his NHL debut after being recalled from the Colorado Eagles of the American Hockey League. Kovalenko became the sixth Avalanche/Quebec Nordiques player to make his league debut in the postseason.

Kovalenko’s father, Andrei, was a member of the Avalanche when the team moved to Denver for the 1995-96 season. Andrei Kovalenko was part of the trade that helped the Avalanche acquire Hall of Fame goaltender Patrick Roy from Montreal in December 1995.

This was a rare home playoff matinee game for the Avalanche. The last time they hosted an afternoon postseason contest was on April 17, 2004, against Dallas in Game 5 of the Western Conference quarterfinals. Colorado won 5-1.

“Job’s not finished,” Lehkonen said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1714356614489.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>DENVER (AP) — In his&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/AltitudeTV/status/1784696243845009534">postgame on-ice interview</a>, Valeri Nichushkin described his day in as many words as he had goals: “I feel amazing.”Nichushkin recorded his first career hat trick,&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/Avalanche/status/1784690965313179734">Alexandar Georgiev</a>&nbsp;turned in another strong showing and the Avalanche beat the Winnipeg Jets 5-1 in Game 4 on Sunday to move a win away from advancing.It’s been a roller-coaster season for the 29-year-old Nichushkin, who missed nearly two months earlier this year to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/nichushkin-nhl-avalanche-e709acc29926fca7c96cba87bd74b559">receive care from</a>&nbsp;NHL/NHLPA Player Assistance Program. The 6-foot-4, 210-pound fast-moving Nichushkin is getting up to full speed.“It's hard to stop the big man,” said Artturi Lehkonen, who scored the game's first goal.<a href="https://twitter.com/Avalanche/status/1784682486267584563">Cale Makar</a>&nbsp;also scored for the Avalanche, who grabbed a 3-1 lead in the first-round series. Game 5 is Tuesday night in Winnipeg.Nichushkin added an empty-netter with 13 seconds left to give him his third goal and his first hat trick in game No. 580 of his NHL career, including regular season and postseason.“That surprises me. I thought he did have (a hat trick) before this. Pretty cool,” Makar said. “When he's using his body right and skating well, a pretty special player to watch.”Georgiev was on the hot seat after a shaky Game 1, but his confidence keeps surging with every big save. He stopped 26 shots in the matinee game.Vezina Trophy-favorite Connor Hellebuyck continues to struggle in net. He allowed four goals on 30 shots before being replaced by Laurent Brossoit for the third period. Hellebuyck has surrendered 19 goals in the series.“I don’t think those goals are his fault,” forward Mark Scheifele said of Hellebuyck. “He’s our backbone. He’s our heart and soul.”Lehkonen and Nichushkin have both scored in all four games of the series. Makar had a goal and an assist Sunday to give him 73 points (18 goals, 55 assists) in 65 career playoff games. It’s the second-highest points per game average (1.12) by a defenseman in postseason history, behind only Bobby Orr (1.24).Makar's goal was a masterpiece as he took the puck deep in his zone, weaved through several Winnipeg defenders, found some open space and lined a shot past Hellebuyck.“He’s the best for a reason,” teammate Casey Mittelstadt said of Makar. “That’s what he does.”Nathan MacKinnon added two assists.Nate Schmidt scored for Winnipeg.There was a scary moment in the third period when Winnipeg forward Vladislav Namestnikov was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/jets-avalanche-namestnikov-671a98e2d25434ef645f0cc1b02a0c49">hit in the left side of his face by a puck</a>. Namestnikov was trying to jump out of the way of a shot from teammate Nate Schmidt when the puck hit a stick and struck him. Namestnikov stayed down on the ice as trainers rushed out. He skated off with help, a towel pressed to his head, and exited through the Avalanche bench. He was taken to the hospital for further evaluation.On Friday, Jets defenseman Brenden Dillon&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/jets-brenden-dillon-7450783d5302a0df90ee228bff6fe168">suffered a laceration on his hand</a>&nbsp;after appearing to be cut by a skate blade during a scrum following the final horn in Colorado's 6-2 win Friday.The Jets committed four penalties in the second, helping the Avalanche break open the game with a three-goal period. Nichushkin cashed in by scoring a pair of power-play goals to give Colorado a 4-1 lead.“We've got to change our game plan," Nino Niederreiter said.Jets coach Rick Bowness had another suggestion — stay out of the penalty box.“The problems are self-inflicted,” Bowness said. “Penalties took us out of the game."Avalanche forward Nikolai Kovalenko made his NHL debut after being recalled from the Colorado Eagles of the American Hockey League. Kovalenko became the sixth Avalanche/Quebec Nordiques player to make his league debut in the postseason.Kovalenko’s father, Andrei, was a member of the Avalanche when the team moved to Denver for the 1995-96 season. Andrei Kovalenko was part of the trade that helped the Avalanche acquire Hall of Fame goaltender Patrick Roy from Montreal in December 1995.This was a rare home playoff matinee game for the Avalanche. The last time they hosted an afternoon postseason contest was on April 17, 2004, against Dallas in Game 5 of the Western Conference quarterfinals. Colorado won 5-1.No time to think about this win, though.“Job’s not finished,” Lehkonen said.

Avalanche bury Jets Sunday, now one win from advancing to 2nd round

LOS ANGELES (AP) — With one championship ring and a tenacious veteran core, the Denver Nuggets are a daunting matchup for any opponent in the NBA.

They're clearly a particular nightmare for LeBron James and the Los Angeles Lakers, who are one game away from an early summer after Denver stretched its winning streak in this lopsided rivalry to a whopping 11 games.

Aaron Gordon had a playoff career-high 29 points and 15 rebounds, Nikola Jokic added 24 points, 15 rebounds and nine assists, and the Nuggets moved to the brink of the second round with a 112-105 victory over the Lakers in Game 3 of their first-round series Thursday night.

Jamal Murray scored 22 points to help the defending NBA champion Nuggets win their seventh straight playoff meeting with James and the Lakers in dominating style. Denver has rallied from a double-digit deficit in all three games, and the Nuggets went out of their way after Game 3 to praise an opponent they've utterly dominated recently.

“I think every game is tougher and tougher,” Jokic said. “They were up 20 in Denver, they were up 12 today in the first half, but I think it’s really hard to play against the same team over and over again. ... That’s a really tough team, and every game is really interesting and tough to win. Every game we’re playing catch-up, and they’re really talented. It’s really hard to close a team out.”

Michael Porter Jr. added 20 points for Denver, which took control in the third quarter and cruised through the final minutes to its fifth straight road win over Los Angeles, starting with&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/nba-playoffs-2023-nuggets-lakers-9f7a28f73a56c431672d840c93185b60">its sweep of last season's Western Conference finals</a>.

“It’s fun to win games,” Porter said. “I don’t think anybody besides the media looks at the 11 (straight victories), because it’s hard. It’s not easy to beat this team. Last game, coming back from 20 points, we had to scratch and claw. So it’s not easy. But of course we like winning, and the more times we can win the better.”

Game 4 is Saturday night in Los Angeles. No NBA team has ever rallied from an 0-3 playoff deficit.

Anthony Davis had 33 points and 15 rebounds, and James added 26 points and nine assists for the Lakers, who haven't beaten the Nuggets since Dec. 16, 2022 — and have rarely looked capable of ending that streak.

“You come out with the mindset, ‘Let’s get one, force a Game 5, and then we go from there,’” James said. “As long as you still have life, then you obviously have belief. I just think you play ’til the wheels fall off. That’s what it’s always about for me. That’s a mindset, and I know (Davis) feels the same way.”

Austin Reaves scored 22 points for Los Angeles, which surged into the postseason with largely outstanding play since the holidays, capped by&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/lakers-pelicans-score-512b31d9302c2511842f8de7aa68725e">an impressive play-in win over New Orleans</a>&nbsp;to snatch the seventh seed. The Lakers had won 12 of 15 heading into this series — but now they're one loss away from failing to win a playoff round for the third time in four years since their 2020 NBA title.

“They have a championship confidence,” Lakers coach Darvin Ham said about the Nuggets. “That starting group has been together for a long time. Their net rating is off the charts as a starting group. They had guys step up and make plays.”

Davis and James were outstanding once again, but they can't do it alone. The Lakers missed 15 of their first 16 3-point attempts in Game 3, going nearly 34 minutes between 3-point buckets.

D’Angelo Russell went scoreless in 24 minutes of play for the Lakers, who got only two assists out of their inconsistent third option on offense. Russell missed all seven of his shots, including six 3-point attempts.

Meanwhile, Gordon had the highest-scoring playoff game of his 10 NBA seasons, highlighted by 10 points in the third quarter while Denver took control. Jokic also made nine of his 13 shots and barely missed his 17th career postseason triple-double.

The second-seeded Nuggets began their title defense&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/denver-nuggets-los-angeles-lakers-score-c6101ac1b716a0dfde2b851993b80057">with two wins in Denver</a>, pulling away late in Game 1 before snatching Game 2 with a furious comeback capped by Murray’s winning jumper at the buzzer.

After blowing a 20-point lead in the second half of Game 2, the seventh-seeded Lakers were left feeling frustrated, outmanned — and occasionally confused, according to Davis, who said the Lakers sometimes don’t know what they’re doing when faced with Denver’s offensive versatility.

None of those problems had been alleviated in Game 3, and now the Lakers are one loss away from the end of James' remarkable 21st NBA season. Los Angeles hadn't played a home game in 16 days, and it has won just once at home since March 24.

“Just last season, I was up 3-0 and ended up in a Game 7,” said Lakers guard Gabe Vincent, who played for the Miami Heat last season when they nearly blew a 3-0 lead on Boston. “Crazier things have happened.”

But the Nuggets went 16-4 in last season’s playoffs, and they appear capable of another steamroll through the postseason after comfortably handling the talented Lakers through three games.

Russell's disappearing act was compounded by another quiet game from starter Rui Hachimura, who had only five points while taking four shots in 28 minutes.

Denver turned a small halftime deficit into a 10-point lead with a 24-10 run to start the second half led by Gordon and Murray, who combined for 19 points in the third quarter. The Lakers never got closer than eight points down the stretch in the fourth quarter.

While the Lakers' fans left the building in the final minutes, a small group in the Lakers' end chanted “Fire Darvin!”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1714151957250.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>LOS ANGELES (AP) — With one championship ring and a tenacious veteran core, the Denver Nuggets are a daunting matchup for any opponent in the NBA.They're clearly a particular nightmare for LeBron James and the Los Angeles Lakers, who are one game away from an early summer after Denver stretched its winning streak in this lopsided rivalry to a whopping 11 games.Aaron Gordon had a playoff career-high 29 points and 15 rebounds, Nikola Jokic added 24 points, 15 rebounds and nine assists, and the Nuggets moved to the brink of the second round with a 112-105 victory over the Lakers in Game 3 of their first-round series Thursday night.Jamal Murray scored 22 points to help the defending NBA champion Nuggets win their seventh straight playoff meeting with James and the Lakers in dominating style. Denver has rallied from a double-digit deficit in all three games, and the Nuggets went out of their way after Game 3 to praise an opponent they've utterly dominated recently.“I think every game is tougher and tougher,” Jokic said. “They were up 20 in Denver, they were up 12 today in the first half, but I think it’s really hard to play against the same team over and over again. ... That’s a really tough team, and every game is really interesting and tough to win. Every game we’re playing catch-up, and they’re really talented. It’s really hard to close a team out.”Michael Porter Jr. added 20 points for Denver, which took control in the third quarter and cruised through the final minutes to its fifth straight road win over Los Angeles, starting with&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/nba-playoffs-2023-nuggets-lakers-9f7a28f73a56c431672d840c93185b60">its sweep of last season's Western Conference finals</a>.“It’s fun to win games,” Porter said. “I don’t think anybody besides the media looks at the 11 (straight victories), because it’s hard. It’s not easy to beat this team. Last game, coming back from 20 points, we had to scratch and claw. So it’s not easy. But of course we like winning, and the more times we can win the better.”Game 4 is Saturday night in Los Angeles. No NBA team has ever rallied from an 0-3 playoff deficit.Anthony Davis had 33 points and 15 rebounds, and James added 26 points and nine assists for the Lakers, who haven't beaten the Nuggets since Dec. 16, 2022 — and have rarely looked capable of ending that streak.“You come out with the mindset, ‘Let’s get one, force a Game 5, and then we go from there,’” James said. “As long as you still have life, then you obviously have belief. I just think you play ’til the wheels fall off. That’s what it’s always about for me. That’s a mindset, and I know (Davis) feels the same way.”Austin Reaves scored 22 points for Los Angeles, which surged into the postseason with largely outstanding play since the holidays, capped by&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/lakers-pelicans-score-512b31d9302c2511842f8de7aa68725e">an impressive play-in win over New Orleans</a>&nbsp;to snatch the seventh seed. The Lakers had won 12 of 15 heading into this series — but now they're one loss away from failing to win a playoff round for the third time in four years since their 2020 NBA title.“They have a championship confidence,” Lakers coach Darvin Ham said about the Nuggets. “That starting group has been together for a long time. Their net rating is off the charts as a starting group. They had guys step up and make plays.”Davis and James were outstanding once again, but they can't do it alone. The Lakers missed 15 of their first 16 3-point attempts in Game 3, going nearly 34 minutes between 3-point buckets.D’Angelo Russell went scoreless in 24 minutes of play for the Lakers, who got only two assists out of their inconsistent third option on offense. Russell missed all seven of his shots, including six 3-point attempts.Meanwhile, Gordon had the highest-scoring playoff game of his 10 NBA seasons, highlighted by 10 points in the third quarter while Denver took control. Jokic also made nine of his 13 shots and barely missed his 17th career postseason triple-double.The second-seeded Nuggets began their title defense&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/denver-nuggets-los-angeles-lakers-score-c6101ac1b716a0dfde2b851993b80057">with two wins in Denver</a>, pulling away late in Game 1 before snatching Game 2 with a furious comeback capped by Murray’s winning jumper at the buzzer.After blowing a 20-point lead in the second half of Game 2, the seventh-seeded Lakers were left feeling frustrated, outmanned — and occasionally confused, according to Davis, who said the Lakers sometimes don’t know what they’re doing when faced with Denver’s offensive versatility.None of those problems had been alleviated in Game 3, and now the Lakers are one loss away from the end of James' remarkable 21st NBA season. Los Angeles hadn't played a home game in 16 days, and it has won just once at home since March 24.“Just last season, I was up 3-0 and ended up in a Game 7,” said Lakers guard Gabe Vincent, who played for the Miami Heat last season when they nearly blew a 3-0 lead on Boston. “Crazier things have happened.”But the Nuggets went 16-4 in last season’s playoffs, and they appear capable of another steamroll through the postseason after comfortably handling the talented Lakers through three games.Russell's disappearing act was compounded by another quiet game from starter Rui Hachimura, who had only five points while taking four shots in 28 minutes.Denver turned a small halftime deficit into a 10-point lead with a 24-10 run to start the second half led by Gordon and Murray, who combined for 19 points in the third quarter. The Lakers never got closer than eight points down the stretch in the fourth quarter.While the Lakers' fans left the building in the final minutes, a small group in the Lakers' end chanted “Fire Darvin!”

Nuggets put Lakers on brink of summer break with 3-0 playoff lead

ENGLEWOOD, Colo. (AP) — The sixth quarterback selected in the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/live/nfl-draft-2024-updates">2024 NFL draft</a>&nbsp;was No. 1 in the Denver Broncos' eyes.

The Broncos bypassed a bevy of blue-chip defenders to draft former Oregon quarterback Bo Nix with the 12th pick Thursday night.

“He stood out in a lot of areas,” coach Sean Payton said. “His arm strength, we saw it at his pro day, but then even in the private workout was very good. And he’s super smart.”

Denver has churned through 13 starting quarterbacks since Peyton Manning retired as a Super Bowl champion following the 2015 season. None of the signal-callers who have followed him has been able to lead Denver back to the playoffs.

Their eight-year playoff drought is exacerbated by seven straight losing seasons and watching Patrick Mahomes lead division rival Kansas City to three Super Bowl parades in five years, including the past two.

There was plenty of speculation the Broncos would have to move up to get in on the quarterback run, but they've already unloaded three first-round draft picks since 2022, including two in the Russell Wilson trade that&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/denver-broncos-sean-payton-nfl-draft-2605ee521f58b7d3ebb1d2e4647c4578">didn't work out</a>.

Caleb Williams, Jayden Daniels and Drake Maye went 1-2-3 as expected, and when the New York Giants bypassed a QB at No. 6, Payton felt good about the three QB-needy teams — Minnesota, Denver and Las Vegas — all being set to get their man.

Then, the Atlanta Falcons pulled off the stunner of Round 1, selecting Michael Penix Jr. at No. 8 even though they just signed Kirk Cousins to a four-year, $180 million contract.

“New York would have been the surprise team and if New York took a quarterback, then there's three waiting for two,” Payton said. “And so once New York cleared, I'm sure every team we're talking about felt like all right. And then Atlanta takes a quarterback and that's the fun part about this draft. You can't dive into everyone's draft room to know how they feel about someone.”

The Falcons' move threw teams for a loop and the Broncos sweated it out when the Vikings swapped the No. 11 pick for the New York Jets' 10th overall selection. They exhaled when the Vikings took QB J.J. McCarthy and the Jets took an offensive tackle.

"We could have moved a couple of picks back and maybe gotten a couple of picks,” general manager George Paton said. “But at the end of the day, 'This was our guy. Let's just take him. Let's not overthink it.' And we would have been sick if we lost him just for, you know, a couple of fifth-round picks or what have you.”

So, ultimately, the Broncos stood pat and didn't have to part with any picks to get the quarterback they wanted, one whom Payton acknowledged was “bigger than I thought he was” at 6-foot-2 and 217 pounds.

Half of the top dozen selections were quarterbacks for the first time ever.

“I wasn't shocked. I think the six of us, we're all capable of playing at the next level,” Nix said. “It's going to be fun to watch everybody and see how they develop. I wasn't shocked at all because I think this class of quarterbacks was very strong.”

Nix joins a quarterback room that includes newly acquired&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/jets-broncos-zach-wilson-0f36a1ec7cd75358ccdd7d51f19791ee">Zach Wilson</a>, whom the Broncos traded for Monday after the 2021 second overall pick had three disappointing seasons with the New York Jets.

Also on the roster is Jarrett Stidham, who split his two starts last season after coach Sean Payton benched Russell Wilson, and Ben DiNucci.

“They're all going to compete,” Payton said. “Bill (Parcells) taught me a long time ago, let's just let them play and we've got to maximize the reps that we have and let them develop, and that stuff will sort itself out."

“Well, I know everybody has to compete, I know everybody has to go to work,” Nix said. “We haven't had any conversations thus far past draft prep. But I just can't wait to get around the locker room, I can't wait to get around the guys, meet all my new teammates, meet coaches and get to work.”

Russell Wilson signed with the Pittsburgh Steelers, but remains the highest-paid player on Denver's roster because the Broncos will pay $37.79 million of his $39 million salary in 2024. That's on top of the $85 million in dead cap charges they'll absorb over the next two years.

After three solid seasons at Auburn, Nix had two terrific seasons at Oregon, where he threw for 74 touchdowns with 10 interceptions and he completed almost 75% of his passes in 27 games.

Because he capitalized on the extra year the NCAA granted athletes because of the pandemic, Nix played in a whopping 61 college games.

Now he's ready to lead Denver out of its nearly decade-long doldrums.

He thanked the Broncos for “putting their beliefs in me.”

Nix is the first player the Broncos have selected in the first round since 2021, when they chose cornerback Patrick Surtain II with the ninth overall pick.

Story by Arnie Stapleton AP Pro Football Writer<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1714133460248.jpeg" alt="Oregon quarterback Bo Nix looks to pass against Washington during the first half of the Pac-12 championship NCAA college football game Dec. 1, 2023, in Las Vegas. The Denver Broncos drafted former Nix with the 12th pick in the NFL draft Thursday night, April 25, 2024." />
 <figcaption>Oregon quarterback Bo Nix looks to pass against Washington during the first half of the Pac-12 championship NCAA college football game Dec. 1, 2023, in Las Vegas. The Denver Broncos drafted former Nix with the 12th pick in the NFL draft Thursday night, April 25, 2024.</figcaption>
 </figure>ENGLEWOOD, Colo. (AP) — The sixth quarterback selected in the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/live/nfl-draft-2024-updates">2024 NFL draft</a>&nbsp;was No. 1 in the Denver Broncos' eyes.The Broncos bypassed a bevy of blue-chip defenders to draft former Oregon quarterback Bo Nix with the 12th pick Thursday night.“He stood out in a lot of areas,” coach Sean Payton said. “His arm strength, we saw it at his pro day, but then even in the private workout was very good. And he’s super smart.”Denver has churned through 13 starting quarterbacks since Peyton Manning retired as a Super Bowl champion following the 2015 season. None of the signal-callers who have followed him has been able to lead Denver back to the playoffs.Their eight-year playoff drought is exacerbated by seven straight losing seasons and watching Patrick Mahomes lead division rival Kansas City to three Super Bowl parades in five years, including the past two.There was plenty of speculation the Broncos would have to move up to get in on the quarterback run, but they've already unloaded three first-round draft picks since 2022, including two in the Russell Wilson trade that&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/denver-broncos-sean-payton-nfl-draft-2605ee521f58b7d3ebb1d2e4647c4578">didn't work out</a>.Caleb Williams, Jayden Daniels and Drake Maye went 1-2-3 as expected, and when the New York Giants bypassed a QB at No. 6, Payton felt good about the three QB-needy teams — Minnesota, Denver and Las Vegas — all being set to get their man.Then, the Atlanta Falcons pulled off the stunner of Round 1, selecting Michael Penix Jr. at No. 8 even though they just signed Kirk Cousins to a four-year, $180 million contract.“New York would have been the surprise team and if New York took a quarterback, then there's three waiting for two,” Payton said. “And so once New York cleared, I'm sure every team we're talking about felt like all right. And then Atlanta takes a quarterback and that's the fun part about this draft. You can't dive into everyone's draft room to know how they feel about someone.”The Falcons' move threw teams for a loop and the Broncos sweated it out when the Vikings swapped the No. 11 pick for the New York Jets' 10th overall selection. They exhaled when the Vikings took QB J.J. McCarthy and the Jets took an offensive tackle."We could have moved a couple of picks back and maybe gotten a couple of picks,” general manager George Paton said. “But at the end of the day, 'This was our guy. Let's just take him. Let's not overthink it.' And we would have been sick if we lost him just for, you know, a couple of fifth-round picks or what have you.”So, ultimately, the Broncos stood pat and didn't have to part with any picks to get the quarterback they wanted, one whom Payton acknowledged was “bigger than I thought he was” at 6-foot-2 and 217 pounds.Half of the top dozen selections were quarterbacks for the first time ever.“I wasn't shocked. I think the six of us, we're all capable of playing at the next level,” Nix said. “It's going to be fun to watch everybody and see how they develop. I wasn't shocked at all because I think this class of quarterbacks was very strong.”Nix joins a quarterback room that includes newly acquired&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/jets-broncos-zach-wilson-0f36a1ec7cd75358ccdd7d51f19791ee">Zach Wilson</a>, whom the Broncos traded for Monday after the 2021 second overall pick had three disappointing seasons with the New York Jets.Also on the roster is Jarrett Stidham, who split his two starts last season after coach Sean Payton benched Russell Wilson, and Ben DiNucci.“They're all going to compete,” Payton said. “Bill (Parcells) taught me a long time ago, let's just let them play and we've got to maximize the reps that we have and let them develop, and that stuff will sort itself out."Nix knows that.“Well, I know everybody has to compete, I know everybody has to go to work,” Nix said. “We haven't had any conversations thus far past draft prep. But I just can't wait to get around the locker room, I can't wait to get around the guys, meet all my new teammates, meet coaches and get to work.”Russell Wilson signed with the Pittsburgh Steelers, but remains the highest-paid player on Denver's roster because the Broncos will pay $37.79 million of his $39 million salary in 2024. That's on top of the $85 million in dead cap charges they'll absorb over the next two years.After three solid seasons at Auburn, Nix had two terrific seasons at Oregon, where he threw for 74 touchdowns with 10 interceptions and he completed almost 75% of his passes in 27 games.Because he capitalized on the extra year the NCAA granted athletes because of the pandemic, Nix played in a whopping 61 college games.Now he's ready to lead Denver out of its nearly decade-long doldrums.He thanked the Broncos for “putting their beliefs in me.”Nix is the first player the Broncos have selected in the first round since 2021, when they chose cornerback Patrick Surtain II with the ninth overall pick.

Broncos select former Oregon QB Bo Nix with the 12th pick in the NFL draft

(AP) The Denver Broncos drafted former Oregon quarterback Bo Nix with the 12th pick in the NFL draft on Thursday night, bypassing a bevy of blue-chip defenders to grab a signal-caller they believe could be their first one since Peyton Manning to establish a foothold at the position.

The Broncos have had 13 starting QBs since Manning retired a Super Bowl champion after the 2015 season, and Denver hasn't been back to the playoffs since.

Ultimately, they didn't have to part with any picks to get the quarterback they wanted. Nix was the sixth QB selected, behind Caleb Williams, Jayden Daniels, Drake Maye, Michael Penix Jr. and J.J. McCarthy.

The Broncos traded for quarterback&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/jets-broncos-zach-wilson-0f36a1ec7cd75358ccdd7d51f19791ee">Zach Wilson</a>&nbsp;on Monday. The 2021 second overall pick had three disappointing seasons in New York. Also on the roster is QB Jarrett Stidham, who went 1-1 last season after Sean Payton benched Russell Wilson.

Russell Wilson signed with the Pittsburgh Steelers but remains the highest-paid player on Denver's roster because the Broncos will pay $37.79 million of his $39 million salary in 2024.

(AP) The Denver Broncos drafted former Oregon quarterback Bo Nix with the 12th pick in the NFL draft on Thursday night, bypassing a bevy of blue-chip defenders to grab a signal-caller they believe could be their first one since Peyton Manning to establish a foothold at the position.The Broncos have had 13 starting QBs since Manning retired a Super Bowl champion after the 2015 season, and Denver hasn't been back to the playoffs since.There was plenty of speculation the Broncos would have to move up to get in on the quarterback run, but they've already unloaded three first-round draft picks since 2022, including two in the Russell Wilson trade that&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/denver-broncos-sean-payton-nfl-draft-2605ee521f58b7d3ebb1d2e4647c4578">didn't work out</a>.Ultimately, they didn't have to part with any picks to get the quarterback they wanted. Nix was the sixth QB selected, behind Caleb Williams, Jayden Daniels, Drake Maye, Michael Penix Jr. and J.J. McCarthy.The Broncos traded for quarterback&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/jets-broncos-zach-wilson-0f36a1ec7cd75358ccdd7d51f19791ee">Zach Wilson</a>&nbsp;on Monday. The 2021 second overall pick had three disappointing seasons in New York. Also on the roster is QB Jarrett Stidham, who went 1-1 last season after Sean Payton benched Russell Wilson.Russell Wilson signed with the Pittsburgh Steelers but remains the highest-paid player on Denver's roster because the Broncos will pay $37.79 million of his $39 million salary in 2024.

Broncos bringing Bo to Denver: Nix one of record 6 QBs taken in NFL Draft 1st Round

By: John Murphy CSC Sports Information Director

CHADRON, Neb. -- The Chadron State College softball team suffered two low scoring defeats against the Black Hills State Yellow Jackets in Chadron Thursday afternoon, losing in game one 2-0 before being defeated 2-1 in game two.

The losses drop CSC to 11-37 overall and 11-27 in Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference play. BHSU improves to 14-31 overall and 13-27 in the conference.

In game one, the Eagles finished with six hits and had one error. The Yellow Jackets had two runs, five hits and one error.

The Yellow Jackets took a 1-0 lead in the top of the third inning. With runners on first and second, Tyler Whitlock hit a double to right center for the Yellow Jackets, scoring the runner from third.

Their second run was scored in the top of the fourth inning. BHSU began the inning with a single and a double to put two runners in scoring position. The next batter hit a single to center field to make the score 2-0 in the visitors' favor.

The Eagles, who had a runner on in every inning except the fourth, had runners advance to second base in the sixth and the seventh innings but were unable to bring them home.

Kenzi Garner received the loss on the mound. The junior allowed five hits, two runs and had four strikeouts. Neither team drew a walk in the game.

In the Eagle's 2-1 defeat in game two, they finished with one run with five hits and two errors. The Yellow Jackets had two runs, nine hits and no errors.

Black Hills State took an early 2-0 lead after scoring one run in first and one in the second inning.

In the first, a two-out double to center field brough in a run from third base. The guests second run was scored after two consecutive errors by the CSC defense in the second inning.

The Eagles first hit of the game occurred with the leadoff batter in the bottom of the third inning.

J'lyssa Martinez led off the inning with a solo homer to right field, making the score 2-1.

Defensively, the Eagles found the bases loaded in the top of the fourth inning but a Brooklyn Levin strikeout ended the scoring threat from the Yellow Jackets.

After leaving two runners on in the bottom of the inning, the Eagles didn't record another hit until the bottom of the seventh inning.

Trailing 2-1, the Eagles needed one run in the seventh to force extra innings. With one out, CSC hit three consecutive singles to load the bases.

CSC's next two batters fouled out to third base, ending the game with a final score of 2-1 in the guests favor.

Levin received the loss in seven innings of work. The freshman allowed nine hits and two runs, one being earned. Despite walking two batters, Levin set a new career high with 10 strikeouts.

The Eagles and Yellow Jackets will both conclude their seasons with another double-header tomorrow. Four seniors from each team will be honored between the two games. First pitch is scheduled for 11 a.m.  

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1714098868511.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By: John Murphy CSC Sports Information DirectorCHADRON, Neb. -- The Chadron State College softball team suffered two low scoring defeats against the Black Hills State Yellow Jackets in Chadron Thursday afternoon, losing in game one 2-0 before being defeated 2-1 in game two.The losses drop CSC to 11-37 overall and 11-27 in Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference play. BHSU improves to 14-31 overall and 13-27 in the conference.In game one, the Eagles finished with six hits and had one error. The Yellow Jackets had two runs, five hits and one error.The Yellow Jackets took a 1-0 lead in the top of the third inning. With runners on first and second, Tyler Whitlock hit a double to right center for the Yellow Jackets, scoring the runner from third.Their second run was scored in the top of the fourth inning. BHSU began the inning with a single and a double to put two runners in scoring position. The next batter hit a single to center field to make the score 2-0 in the visitors' favor.The Eagles, who had a runner on in every inning except the fourth, had runners advance to second base in the sixth and the seventh innings but were unable to bring them home.Kenzi Garner received the loss on the mound. The junior allowed five hits, two runs and had four strikeouts. Neither team drew a walk in the game.In the Eagle's 2-1 defeat in game two, they finished with one run with five hits and two errors. The Yellow Jackets had two runs, nine hits and no errors.Black Hills State took an early 2-0 lead after scoring one run in first and one in the second inning.In the first, a two-out double to center field brough in a run from third base. The guests second run was scored after two consecutive errors by the CSC defense in the second inning.The Eagles first hit of the game occurred with the leadoff batter in the bottom of the third inning.J'lyssa Martinez led off the inning with a solo homer to right field, making the score 2-1.Defensively, the Eagles found the bases loaded in the top of the fourth inning but a Brooklyn Levin strikeout ended the scoring threat from the Yellow Jackets.After leaving two runners on in the bottom of the inning, the Eagles didn't record another hit until the bottom of the seventh inning.Trailing 2-1, the Eagles needed one run in the seventh to force extra innings. With one out, CSC hit three consecutive singles to load the bases.CSC's next two batters fouled out to third base, ending the game with a final score of 2-1 in the guests favor.Levin received the loss in seven innings of work. The freshman allowed nine hits and two runs, one being earned. Despite walking two batters, Levin set a new career high with 10 strikeouts.The Eagles and Yellow Jackets will both conclude their seasons with another double-header tomorrow. Four seniors from each team will be honored between the two games. First pitch is scheduled for 11 a.m.

Eagles Softball: CSC offense struggles in tight losses to BHSU

DENVER (AP) — Elias Díaz capped Colorado's six-run eighth inning with a tiebreaking RBI double, and the Rockies beat the San Diego Padres 10-9 on Thursday.

Elehuris Montero and Hunter Goodman homered for Colorado, which earned a split of the four-game series. Brenton Doyle and Brendan Rodgers each had three of the Rockies' 14 hits.

“Everybody put everything together, took a good (at-bat), and the results came,” Díaz said.

Rodgers started Colorado's big rally with a one-out double. Sean Bouchard then walked before Goodman greeted Wandy Peralta (1-1) with a 448-foot drive to left-center for his first homer of the season.

The 24-year-old Goodman was recalled from Triple-A Albuquerque on Wednesday.

“(Peralta) works mostly away, so I was looking for something up in the zone,” Goodman said. “He hung a changeup and I put a good swing on it.”

Jacob Stallings singled, Ezequiel Tovar walked and Brenton Doyle singled to produce another run for Colorado. After Tovar scored on a passed ball, Díaz lifted the Rockies to a 10-9 lead when he doubled into the left-field corner against Stephen Kolek.

Peralta faced five batters in the eighth and gave up three hits and a walk.

“The second a guy gives up a home run, I can’t just go take out a guy who has a microscopic ERA and has gotten righties out all year,” San Diego manager Mike Shildt said. “I’ve got a veteran guy out there who knows now to get a ground ball and is one pitch away from getting a ground ball. It didn’t work out.”

Tyler Kinley (1-0) got three outs for the win. Justin Lawrence pitched a 1-2-3 ninth for his second save.

Ha-Seong Kim and Jurickson Profar homered for Padres, who had won three of four. Xander Bogaerts had two hits and drove in a run.

Kim hit a three-run drive in the third against Dakota Hudson, and Profar added a two-run shot in the seventh against Nick Mears. Eguy Rosario’s RBI single in the top of the eighth gave the Padres a 9-4 lead.

Hitting second in the order for the second time this season, Doyle scored three times and swiped two bases while raising his batting average to .330. Díaz finished with three RBIs as the Rockies improved to 5-8 at home and 7-19 overall.

“You never know a game is going to play out,” Colorado manager Bud Black said. “No doubt we are off to a tough start, so every win we get we feel good about. It gives us the direction. We know some numbers are going to turn around. We just have to hang in there.”

Colorado's eight series without a series win to start the season is the longest such stretch to begin a season in franchise history.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1714098712437.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>DENVER (AP) — Elias Díaz capped Colorado's six-run eighth inning with a tiebreaking RBI double, and the Rockies beat the San Diego Padres 10-9 on Thursday.Elehuris Montero and Hunter Goodman homered for Colorado, which earned a split of the four-game series. Brenton Doyle and Brendan Rodgers each had three of the Rockies' 14 hits.“Everybody put everything together, took a good (at-bat), and the results came,” Díaz said.Rodgers started Colorado's big rally with a one-out double. Sean Bouchard then walked before Goodman greeted Wandy Peralta (1-1) with a 448-foot drive to left-center for his first homer of the season.The 24-year-old Goodman was recalled from Triple-A Albuquerque on Wednesday.“(Peralta) works mostly away, so I was looking for something up in the zone,” Goodman said. “He hung a changeup and I put a good swing on it.”Jacob Stallings singled, Ezequiel Tovar walked and Brenton Doyle singled to produce another run for Colorado. After Tovar scored on a passed ball, Díaz lifted the Rockies to a 10-9 lead when he doubled into the left-field corner against Stephen Kolek.Peralta faced five batters in the eighth and gave up three hits and a walk.“The second a guy gives up a home run, I can’t just go take out a guy who has a microscopic ERA and has gotten righties out all year,” San Diego manager Mike Shildt said. “I’ve got a veteran guy out there who knows now to get a ground ball and is one pitch away from getting a ground ball. It didn’t work out.”Tyler Kinley (1-0) got three outs for the win. Justin Lawrence pitched a 1-2-3 ninth for his second save.Ha-Seong Kim and Jurickson Profar homered for Padres, who had won three of four. Xander Bogaerts had two hits and drove in a run.Kim hit a three-run drive in the third against Dakota Hudson, and Profar added a two-run shot in the seventh against Nick Mears. Eguy Rosario’s RBI single in the top of the eighth gave the Padres a 9-4 lead.Hitting second in the order for the second time this season, Doyle scored three times and swiped two bases while raising his batting average to .330. Díaz finished with three RBIs as the Rockies improved to 5-8 at home and 7-19 overall.“You never know a game is going to play out,” Colorado manager Bud Black said. “No doubt we are off to a tough start, so every win we get we feel good about. It gives us the direction. We know some numbers are going to turn around. We just have to hang in there.”Colorado's eight series without a series win to start the season is the longest such stretch to begin a season in franchise history.The Padres had won seven of eight against the Rockies, who have trailed at some point in each of their first 26 games. The 1910 St. Louis Browns trailed in their first 28 games for the major league record.SOUTH OF THE BORDERNext up for Colorado is a two-game series against Houston this weekend at Mexico City’s Alfredo Harp Helú Stadium, which has an elevation of 7,349 feet. The games will be played at the highest altitude in major league history.“It still comes down to baseball,” Black said. “Us against them.”“Mexico loves baseball,” Black continued when asked about potential expansion. “I’m sure it is in deep conversations about where to go.”TRAINER’S ROOMPadres: CF Jackson Merrill (right groin tightness) was scratched.Rockies: OF Nolan Jones (stiff back) missed his second straight game after leaving in the seventh inning Tuesday.UP NEXTPadres: RHP Joe Musgrove (3-2, 5.74 ERA) brings a two-game win streak into the opener of a three-game home series against Philadelphia. RHP Aaron Nola (3-1, 3.16 ERA) starts for the Philles on Friday night.Rockies: RHP Cal Quantrill (0-2, 4.33 ERA) faces Astros RHP Ronel Blanco (2-0, 1.33 ERA) on Saturday.