OAKLAND, Calif. (AP) — The Oakland Athletics have signed a binding agreement to purchase land for a new retractable roof ballpark in Las Vegas after being unable to build a new venue in the Bay Area.

Team president Dave Kaval said Wednesday night the team finalized a deal last week to buy the 49-acre site where the A's plan to build the stadium close to the Las Vegas Strip with a seating capacity of 30,000 to 35,000.

The A's will work with Nevada and Clark County on a public-private partnership to fund the stadium. Kaval said the A's hope to break ground by next year and would hope to be move to their new home by 2027.

"It's obviously a very big milestone for us,” Kaval said. “We spent almost two years working in Las Vegas to try to determine a location that works for a long-term home. To identify a site and have a purchase agreement is a big step.”

The A's had been looking for a new home for years to replace the outdated and run-down Oakland Coliseum, where the team has played since arriving from Kansas City for the 1968 season. They had sought to build a stadium in Fremont and San Jose before shifting their attention to the Oakland waterfront.

Las Vegas would be the fourth home for a franchise that started as the Philadelphia Athletics from 1901-54.

"We're turning our full attention to Las Vegas," Kaval said. “We were on parallel paths before. But we’re focused really on Las Vegas as our path to find a future home for the A's.”

Commissioner Rob Manfred said in December the A’s would not have to pay a relocation fee if the team moved to Las Vegas.

“We’re past any reasonable timeline for the situation in Oakland to be resolved,” Manfred said then.

Oakland Mayor Sheng Thao said in a statement that she was disappointed the A's didn't negotiate with the city as a “true partner.”

“The city has gone above and beyond in our attempts to arrive at mutually beneficial terms to keep the A’s in Oakland," she said. "In the last three months, we’ve made significant strides to close the deal. Yet, it is clear to me that the A’s have no intention of staying in Oakland and have simply been using this process to try to extract a better deal out of Las Vegas. I am not interested in continuing to play that game — the fans and our residents deserve better.

“I am incredibly proud of what we have accomplished as a City, including securing a fully entitled site and over $375 million in new infrastructure investment that will benefit Oakland and its Port for generations to come. In a time of budget deficits, I refuse to compromise the safety and well-being of our residents. Given these realities, we are ceasing negotiations and moving forward on alternatives for the redevelopment of Howard Terminal.”

The A's would be only the second MLB team to change cities in more than a half-century. Since the Washington Senators became the Texas Rangers for 1972, the only team to relocate was the Montreal Expos, who became the Washington Nationals in 2005.

The A's lease at the Coliseum expires after the 2024 season. The A's has struggled to draw fans to the Coliseum in recent years as owner John Fisher has slashed payroll and many of the team's most recognizable stars have been traded away.

Oakland had the lowest opening day payroll in baseball at at $58 million — less than the combined salaries of Mets pitchers Max Scherzer and Justin Verlander, who tied for the major league high of $43.3 million.

The team is 3-16 this season and has been outscored by 86 runs — the worst mark through 19 games since 1899. The average attendance through 12 home games this season is 11,027 for the lowest mark in the majors and less than half of the league average of about 27,800. The A’s haven’t drawn 2 million fans at home since 2014 -- their only year reaching the mark since 2005.

If the A's leave Oakland, the city with a rich sports tradition would have no major pro sports teams with the NFL's Raiders having moved to Las Vegas in 2020 and the NBA's Warriors moving across the bay to San Francisco in 2019.

“We know it's a difficult message for our folks in Oakland,” Kaval said. “Obviously we’re grateful for all the hard work that went into the waterfront. But we have been unable to achieve success or make enough progress.”

Las Vegas is quickly become a sports mecca after years of being considered a pariah because of ties to the gambling industry. With gambling legalized in much of the country, the city now could have a baseball team to join the NHL's Golden Knights, who began as an expansion team in 2017 and the Raiders.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681999619252.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>OAKLAND, Calif. (AP) — The Oakland Athletics have signed a binding agreement to purchase land for a new retractable roof ballpark in Las Vegas after being unable to build a new venue in the Bay Area.Team president Dave Kaval said Wednesday night the team finalized a deal last week to buy the 49-acre site where the A's plan to build the stadium close to the Las Vegas Strip with a seating capacity of 30,000 to 35,000.The A's will work with Nevada and Clark County on a public-private partnership to fund the stadium. Kaval said the A's hope to break ground by next year and would hope to be move to their new home by 2027."It's obviously a very big milestone for us,” Kaval said. “We spent almost two years working in Las Vegas to try to determine a location that works for a long-term home. To identify a site and have a purchase agreement is a big step.”The A's had been looking for a new home for years to replace the outdated and run-down Oakland Coliseum, where the team has played since arriving from Kansas City for the 1968 season. They had sought to build a stadium in Fremont and San Jose before shifting their attention to the Oakland waterfront.Las Vegas would be the fourth home for a franchise that started as the Philadelphia Athletics from 1901-54."We're turning our full attention to Las Vegas," Kaval said. “We were on parallel paths before. But we’re focused really on Las Vegas as our path to find a future home for the A's.”Commissioner Rob Manfred said in December the A’s would not have to pay a relocation fee if the team moved to Las Vegas.“We’re past any reasonable timeline for the situation in Oakland to be resolved,” Manfred said then.Oakland Mayor Sheng Thao said in a statement that she was disappointed the A's didn't negotiate with the city as a “true partner.”“The city has gone above and beyond in our attempts to arrive at mutually beneficial terms to keep the A’s in Oakland," she said. "In the last three months, we’ve made significant strides to close the deal. Yet, it is clear to me that the A’s have no intention of staying in Oakland and have simply been using this process to try to extract a better deal out of Las Vegas. I am not interested in continuing to play that game — the fans and our residents deserve better.“I am incredibly proud of what we have accomplished as a City, including securing a fully entitled site and over $375 million in new infrastructure investment that will benefit Oakland and its Port for generations to come. In a time of budget deficits, I refuse to compromise the safety and well-being of our residents. Given these realities, we are ceasing negotiations and moving forward on alternatives for the redevelopment of Howard Terminal.”The A's would be only the second MLB team to change cities in more than a half-century. Since the Washington Senators became the Texas Rangers for 1972, the only team to relocate was the Montreal Expos, who became the Washington Nationals in 2005.The A's lease at the Coliseum expires after the 2024 season. The A's has struggled to draw fans to the Coliseum in recent years as owner John Fisher has slashed payroll and many of the team's most recognizable stars have been traded away.Oakland had the lowest opening day payroll in baseball at at $58 million — less than the combined salaries of Mets pitchers Max Scherzer and Justin Verlander, who tied for the major league high of $43.3 million.The team is 3-16 this season and has been outscored by 86 runs — the worst mark through 19 games since 1899. The average attendance through 12 home games this season is 11,027 for the lowest mark in the majors and less than half of the league average of about 27,800. The A’s haven’t drawn 2 million fans at home since 2014 -- their only year reaching the mark since 2005.If the A's leave Oakland, the city with a rich sports tradition would have no major pro sports teams with the NFL's Raiders having moved to Las Vegas in 2020 and the NBA's Warriors moving across the bay to San Francisco in 2019.“We know it's a difficult message for our folks in Oakland,” Kaval said. “Obviously we’re grateful for all the hard work that went into the waterfront. But we have been unable to achieve success or make enough progress.”Las Vegas is quickly become a sports mecca after years of being considered a pariah because of ties to the gambling industry. With gambling legalized in much of the country, the city now could have a baseball team to join the NHL's Golden Knights, who began as an expansion team in 2017 and the Raiders.

Party's over or just beginning? Oakland A's plan move to Las Vegas with new stadium

DENVER (AP) — Jamal Murray never had this type of performance with such an ear-splitting soundtrack to go with it.

Murray scored 40 points and Michael Porter Jr. had 13 of his 16 in the fourth quarter, powering the Denver Nuggets past the Minnesota Timberwolves 122-113 on Wednesday night for a 2-0 lead in the NBA playoff series.

Murray hadn't ever produced even a 30-point playoff game at Ball Arena — his two 50-point postseason performances came in the NBA bubble in Florida in 2020.

“It's nice,” Murray said. “It's nice having a crowd. They got me going. That fires us up and gives us a lot of life even when we're not playing our best.”

Nuggets coach Michael Malone called it a “passionate, heartfelt performance,” and he gave Murray a big hug when he brought him out in the closing seconds and implored the crowd to show its appreciation.

“I knew they would anyway, our fans are great,” Malone said. “But just to reward him and acknowledge the effort he just gave forth. He left a piece of him out there tonight.”

Nikola Jokic added 27 points, nine assists and nine rebounds for the Nuggets, who blew an early 21-point lead and trailed 89-87 heading into the fourth quarter.

Anthony Edwards had 41 points for the Wolves, who shot a sizzling 81% in the third quarter to erase a 64-59 halftime deficit.

“They were the aggressors in that moment,” Jokic said. “I think in that situation we just need to relax and play the right way.”

Minnesota had shot just 39% in the first half, just slightly better than it did in a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/playoffs-timberwolves-nuggets-a2ae2657b2c1c0e74d6bbf999947a3ab">29-point loss</a>&nbsp;in the series opener Sunday night.

“We knew at some point we’d see the aggressive, attacking Timberwolves,” Malone said. “In that third quarter we saw it and they played great and we didn’t defend in the third quarter, but I was proud of how we responded in that fourth quarter.”

The series shifts to Minneapolis for Game 3 on Friday night.

The Nuggets' recovery began in the fourth quarter with Porter scoring eight straight points — on a four-point play, a reverse layup and two free throws — but the Nuggets couldn't shake the energized Wolves, who clawed back and went ahead 99-98 on an Edwards' jumper.

Porter replied with a 3-pointer that restored Denver's lead for good.

“We can’t wait until we go down 20 or 15 in the first half and try to figure out how to get back into the game,” Edwards said. “If we found something tonight, we’ve got to stick with it first quarter.”

Rudy Gobert scored 19 points but was whistled for a technical foul while arguing his fifth foul, a shove in Jokic's back. It was teammate Kyle Anderson — whom Gobert punched in the Timberwolves' final regular-season game — who calmed down Gobert.

Murray led the counterpunch to Minnesota's big third-quarter run, something he couldn't do the last two postseasons as he recovered from a torn left ACL.

“That was tough," Murray said, “just sitting down watching.”

This is the first time the Nuggets have taken a 2-0 lead in a series under Malone.

“What we have to do is not be satisfied,” Malone said. “If you’re going to be a great team, you’ve got to be selfish. Be selfish ... man. Let’s go up and get Game 3. Let’s not be complacent.

“That was my biggest concern coming into tonight and it will be an even bigger concern going into Game 3. We know it’s going to be a crazy environment there. Their fans have been asking for Denver. Well, here we come.”

Timberwolves: Karl-Anthony Towns scored 10 points on 3-of-12 shooting. In the series, he has scored 21 points on 8-for-27 shooting. Edwards made 6 of 10 3-pointers, same as Murray.

Nuggets: Denver outscored Minnesota 19-3 on fast breaks in the first half but finished with just a 19-16 advantage. ... Murray scored a quick 14 points as the Nuggets hit 10 of their first 15 shots in the first quarter.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681999467850.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>DENVER (AP) — Jamal Murray never had this type of performance with such an ear-splitting soundtrack to go with it.Murray scored 40 points and Michael Porter Jr. had 13 of his 16 in the fourth quarter, powering the Denver Nuggets past the Minnesota Timberwolves 122-113 on Wednesday night for a 2-0 lead in the NBA playoff series.Murray hadn't ever produced even a 30-point playoff game at Ball Arena — his two 50-point postseason performances came in the NBA bubble in Florida in 2020.“It's nice,” Murray said. “It's nice having a crowd. They got me going. That fires us up and gives us a lot of life even when we're not playing our best.”Nuggets coach Michael Malone called it a “passionate, heartfelt performance,” and he gave Murray a big hug when he brought him out in the closing seconds and implored the crowd to show its appreciation.“I knew they would anyway, our fans are great,” Malone said. “But just to reward him and acknowledge the effort he just gave forth. He left a piece of him out there tonight.”Nikola Jokic added 27 points, nine assists and nine rebounds for the Nuggets, who blew an early 21-point lead and trailed 89-87 heading into the fourth quarter.Anthony Edwards had 41 points for the Wolves, who shot a sizzling 81% in the third quarter to erase a 64-59 halftime deficit.“They were the aggressors in that moment,” Jokic said. “I think in that situation we just need to relax and play the right way.”Minnesota had shot just 39% in the first half, just slightly better than it did in a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/playoffs-timberwolves-nuggets-a2ae2657b2c1c0e74d6bbf999947a3ab">29-point loss</a>&nbsp;in the series opener Sunday night.“We knew at some point we’d see the aggressive, attacking Timberwolves,” Malone said. “In that third quarter we saw it and they played great and we didn’t defend in the third quarter, but I was proud of how we responded in that fourth quarter.”The series shifts to Minneapolis for Game 3 on Friday night.The Nuggets' recovery began in the fourth quarter with Porter scoring eight straight points — on a four-point play, a reverse layup and two free throws — but the Nuggets couldn't shake the energized Wolves, who clawed back and went ahead 99-98 on an Edwards' jumper.Porter replied with a 3-pointer that restored Denver's lead for good.“We can’t wait until we go down 20 or 15 in the first half and try to figure out how to get back into the game,” Edwards said. “If we found something tonight, we’ve got to stick with it first quarter.”Rudy Gobert scored 19 points but was whistled for a technical foul while arguing his fifth foul, a shove in Jokic's back. It was teammate Kyle Anderson — whom Gobert punched in the Timberwolves' final regular-season game — who calmed down Gobert.Murray led the counterpunch to Minnesota's big third-quarter run, something he couldn't do the last two postseasons as he recovered from a torn left ACL.“That was tough," Murray said, “just sitting down watching.”And only dreaming of nights like this.RARIFIED AIRThis is the first time the Nuggets have taken a 2-0 lead in a series under Malone.“What we have to do is not be satisfied,” Malone said. “If you’re going to be a great team, you’ve got to be selfish. Be selfish ... man. Let’s go up and get Game 3. Let’s not be complacent.“That was my biggest concern coming into tonight and it will be an even bigger concern going into Game 3. We know it’s going to be a crazy environment there. Their fans have been asking for Denver. Well, here we come.”TIP-INSTimberwolves: Karl-Anthony Towns scored 10 points on 3-of-12 shooting. In the series, he has scored 21 points on 8-for-27 shooting. Edwards made 6 of 10 3-pointers, same as Murray.Nuggets: Denver outscored Minnesota 19-3 on fast breaks in the first half but finished with just a 19-16 advantage. ... Murray scored a quick 14 points as the Nuggets hit 10 of their first 15 shots in the first quarter.

Nuggets top T-Wolves for 2-0 series lead behind 40 points from Murray

DENVER (AP) — Rodolfo Castro hit a 458-foot homer and drove in four runs, leading Pittsburgh over the Colorado Rockies 14-3 Wednesday to complete the Pirates’ first three-game sweep at Denver since 2019.

Colorado has lost eight straight games, its longest skid since nine in a row last Aug. 27 to Sept. 4. The Rockies are a National League-worst 5-14 and the game drew 18,511, the smallest crowd for a Coors Field game with unrestricted ticket sales since 18,341 on April 18, 2013.

Pittsburgh won the first and third games of the series by identical scores and outscored Colorado 33-9 this week, the Pirates’ most runs in a three-game series since July 28-30, 2000, against San Diego.

“I’m pretty excited right now, not because of myself, but the whole group,” Castro said. “All the work that we have put in together since spring training, it’s showing up now, and we’re winning some games. That’s always exciting.”

Andrew McCutchen put the Pirates ahead in the first with an RBI double off Austin Gomber (0-4) and hit a 442-foot home run to center field in the second as Pittsburgh took a 9-0 lead. The 2013 NL MVP, back with the Pirates for the first time in six years, is hitting .310 with four homers and nine RBIs in 17 games.

Pittsburgh has won eight of its past 10 road games and has swept two road series, matching its 2022 season total. The Pirates matched their season high of 14 runs and had 18 hits, one shy of their most.

“It’s just a matter of timely hitting,” McCutchen said. “Things happen that way in this game. For me, I’ve been around enough. I’m not gonna get too high on it. It’s one of those things where it was a good series. We took care of business. We won games we were supposed to win.”

Johan Oviedo (2-1) gave up one run and three hits in six innings with six strikeouts and three walks. The 25-year-old right-hander has allowed two earned runs over 19 2/3 innings in his past three starts.

Gomber gave up nine runs, matching his career high, nine hits and three walks in two innings. His ERA is 12.12 and he tied Washington’s Josiah Gray and San Francisco’s Logan Webb for the major league lead in losses.

Connor Joe, who played during the previous two seasons in Colorado, and Jason Delay each had three hits for the Pirates. Delay’s bases-loaded, line-drive single in the first drove in two runs for a 5-0 lead.

“It’s a fun vibe,” Joe said. “It has been all year. We’re continuing it. We’re dancing. We’re celebrating everything. The small things. The homers. It’s a good vibe in the clubhouse. We’re happy and looking to continue this run.”

Ryan McMahon had three of Colorado’s five hits.

LF Bryan Reynolds was ejected in the fifth inning after arguing with umpire Adam Beck about a called third strike that ended the inning. Reynolds was replaced in left field by Jack Suwinski, who shifted from center.

Pirates: 1B Ji Man Choi is expected to miss the next eight weeks with a left Achilles tendon strain. ... LHP Rob Zastryzny will be sidelined seven to 10 weeks with a left ulnar neuritis. … LHP Jarlín García still can’t pick up or throw a ball as he deals with a nerve injury in his left upper arm. … RHP Chase De Jong will throw batting practice this week. He is on the 15-day IL with a lumbar spine muscle strain.

Rockies: RHP Daniel Bard was activated from the 15-day IL and threw nine pitches in a perfect eighth inning. He had been sidelined since spring training by anxiety.

Pirates: RHP Roansy Contreras (1-1) starts on Thursday against visiting Cincinnati, which gives RHP Luke Weaver his season debut.

Rockies: RHP Ryan Feltner (0-2) starts at Philadelphia on Thursday, entering with an 8.78 ERA. LHP Matt Strahm (1-1) starts for the Phillies.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681960088761.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>DENVER (AP) — Rodolfo Castro hit a 458-foot homer and drove in four runs, leading Pittsburgh over the Colorado Rockies 14-3 Wednesday to complete the Pirates’ first three-game sweep at Denver since 2019.Colorado has lost eight straight games, its longest skid since nine in a row last Aug. 27 to Sept. 4. The Rockies are a National League-worst 5-14 and the game drew 18,511, the smallest crowd for a Coors Field game with unrestricted ticket sales since 18,341 on April 18, 2013.Pittsburgh won the first and third games of the series by identical scores and outscored Colorado 33-9 this week, the Pirates’ most runs in a three-game series since July 28-30, 2000, against San Diego.“I’m pretty excited right now, not because of myself, but the whole group,” Castro said. “All the work that we have put in together since spring training, it’s showing up now, and we’re winning some games. That’s always exciting.”Andrew McCutchen put the Pirates ahead in the first with an RBI double off Austin Gomber (0-4) and hit a 442-foot home run to center field in the second as Pittsburgh took a 9-0 lead. The 2013 NL MVP, back with the Pirates for the first time in six years, is hitting .310 with four homers and nine RBIs in 17 games.Pittsburgh has won eight of its past 10 road games and has swept two road series, matching its 2022 season total. The Pirates matched their season high of 14 runs and had 18 hits, one shy of their most.“It’s just a matter of timely hitting,” McCutchen said. “Things happen that way in this game. For me, I’ve been around enough. I’m not gonna get too high on it. It’s one of those things where it was a good series. We took care of business. We won games we were supposed to win.”Johan Oviedo (2-1) gave up one run and three hits in six innings with six strikeouts and three walks. The 25-year-old right-hander has allowed two earned runs over 19 2/3 innings in his past three starts.Gomber gave up nine runs, matching his career high, nine hits and three walks in two innings. His ERA is 12.12 and he tied Washington’s Josiah Gray and San Francisco’s Logan Webb for the major league lead in losses.Connor Joe, who played during the previous two seasons in Colorado, and Jason Delay each had three hits for the Pirates. Delay’s bases-loaded, line-drive single in the first drove in two runs for a 5-0 lead.“It’s a fun vibe,” Joe said. “It has been all year. We’re continuing it. We’re dancing. We’re celebrating everything. The small things. The homers. It’s a good vibe in the clubhouse. We’re happy and looking to continue this run.”Ryan McMahon had three of Colorado’s five hits.AN EARLY EXITLF Bryan Reynolds was ejected in the fifth inning after arguing with umpire Adam Beck about a called third strike that ended the inning. Reynolds was replaced in left field by Jack Suwinski, who shifted from center.TRAINER’S ROOMPirates: 1B Ji Man Choi is expected to miss the next eight weeks with a left Achilles tendon strain. ... LHP Rob Zastryzny will be sidelined seven to 10 weeks with a left ulnar neuritis. … LHP Jarlín García still can’t pick up or throw a ball as he deals with a nerve injury in his left upper arm. … RHP Chase De Jong will throw batting practice this week. He is on the 15-day IL with a lumbar spine muscle strain.Rockies: RHP Daniel Bard was activated from the 15-day IL and threw nine pitches in a perfect eighth inning. He had been sidelined since spring training by anxiety.UP NEXTPirates: RHP Roansy Contreras (1-1) starts on Thursday against visiting Cincinnati, which gives RHP Luke Weaver his season debut.Rockies: RHP Ryan Feltner (0-2) starts at Philadelphia on Thursday, entering with an 8.78 ERA. LHP Matt Strahm (1-1) starts for the Phillies.

Pirates embarrass Rockies again sending Colorado to worst start ever

Spring football wraps up... Softball wins series at BH and looks toward postseason with big road series this week... RMAC Outdoor T&amp;F Championships in Chadron approaching!

<div><iframe title="CSC Sports Journal - 4/19/23" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=j4ftx-13e8b4a-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=1b1b1b&font-color=&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=c73a3a"></iframe></div>Spring football wraps up... Softball wins series at BH and looks toward postseason with big road series this week... RMAC Outdoor T&amp;F Championships in Chadron approaching!<figure>
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🔊PODCAST: CSC Sports Journal - 4/19/23

DENVER (AP) — Andrew McCutchen homered, Mark Mathias had a career-high four hits and the Pittsburgh Pirates took advantage of an off night from Colorado starter Kyle Freeland to beat the Rockies 14-3 on Monday.

Freeland (2-1) posted a 0.96 ERA through his first three starts and had pitched at least six innings in each outing but was ineffective against the Pirates.

McCutchen, who had two hits, launched a solo homer in the first inning — his third of the season — and the first seven Pittsburgh batters reached in a six-run second.

“We got on the board early with the ’Cutch homer and then we just continued to grind through,” Pirates manager Derek Shelton said. “You look up and you have 15 or 16 hits.”

Ke’Bryan Hayes drove in the ninth run of the game with two outs in the third to raise Freeland’s ERA to 3.80. Freeland allowed nine runs — seven earned — after giving up just two runs entering Monday.

“They were attacking early, and they were able to get fastballs in early counts,” Freeland said. “Any advantage counts and I wasn’t able to put them away.”

Rich Hill (1-2) cruised through six innings to pick up his first win with the Pirates.

“It was just that intensity and that effort that continued to build over the six innings,” the 43-year-old Hill said. “Why I’ve been able to play for as long as I have been able to play is that intensity.”

Kris Bryant had three hits, including his first homer at Coors Field since joining the Rockies before the 2022 season.

“It’s cool to kind of get that out of the way, and not just get it out of the way but feel really good about all my at-bats in the game tonight,” Bryant said. “I feel like I could definitely do more, but I’ve got to look at more of the positives. Some of the numbers look good, but I would love to do better just in terms of helping this team win.”

Jack Suwinski hit a 461-foot homer into the second deck in right off Colorado infielder Alan Trejo in the ninth.

“You think, this is fun, as you’re scoring all these runs, but then you also think, we’re in Colorado, in this ballpark, and our bullpen was a little bit short. So it was pretty much, we need to keep going,” Shelton said.

Rockies third baseman Elehuris Montero, acquired in the Nolan Arenado trade with St. Louis, committed costly errors in the second and fifth and bobbled another grounder that would have potentially been an inning-ending double play in the fifth. That led to two more runs on a single by Carlos Santana.

Rockies closer Daniel Bard is back with the team and could be activated from the 15-day injured list Tuesday. He has been on the IL since the start of the season due to anxiety. ... Colorado RHP Antonio Senzatela (left ACL tear) will pitch an extended spring training game in Arizona on Tuesday.

The 37-year-old Santana had two hits in his 1,800th career game, which ranks seventh among active players. However, he’s not first on his team; McCutchen has played in 1,911 major league games.

Santana also beat out a potential double-play ball to keep the six-run second inning going.

“It says so much about him as a professional and it’s the reason we wanted him in our clubhouse,” Shelton said.

The Pirates will send RHP Vince Velasquez (1-2, 5.40 ERA) against Colorado RHP José Ureña (0-2, 9.90) on Tuesday night.

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 </figure>DENVER (AP) — Andrew McCutchen homered, Mark Mathias had a career-high four hits and the Pittsburgh Pirates took advantage of an off night from Colorado starter Kyle Freeland to beat the Rockies 14-3 on Monday.Freeland (2-1) posted a 0.96 ERA through his first three starts and had pitched at least six innings in each outing but was ineffective against the Pirates.McCutchen, who had two hits, launched a solo homer in the first inning — his third of the season — and the first seven Pittsburgh batters reached in a six-run second.“We got on the board early with the ’Cutch homer and then we just continued to grind through,” Pirates manager Derek Shelton said. “You look up and you have 15 or 16 hits.”Ke’Bryan Hayes drove in the ninth run of the game with two outs in the third to raise Freeland’s ERA to 3.80. Freeland allowed nine runs — seven earned — after giving up just two runs entering Monday.“They were attacking early, and they were able to get fastballs in early counts,” Freeland said. “Any advantage counts and I wasn’t able to put them away.”Rich Hill (1-2) cruised through six innings to pick up his first win with the Pirates.“It was just that intensity and that effort that continued to build over the six innings,” the 43-year-old Hill said. “Why I’ve been able to play for as long as I have been able to play is that intensity.”Kris Bryant had three hits, including his first homer at Coors Field since joining the Rockies before the 2022 season.“It’s cool to kind of get that out of the way, and not just get it out of the way but feel really good about all my at-bats in the game tonight,” Bryant said. “I feel like I could definitely do more, but I’ve got to look at more of the positives. Some of the numbers look good, but I would love to do better just in terms of helping this team win.”Jack Suwinski hit a 461-foot homer into the second deck in right off Colorado infielder Alan Trejo in the ninth.“You think, this is fun, as you’re scoring all these runs, but then you also think, we’re in Colorado, in this ballpark, and our bullpen was a little bit short. So it was pretty much, we need to keep going,” Shelton said.Rockies third baseman Elehuris Montero, acquired in the Nolan Arenado trade with St. Louis, committed costly errors in the second and fifth and bobbled another grounder that would have potentially been an inning-ending double play in the fifth. That led to two more runs on a single by Carlos Santana.TRAINER’S ROOMRockies closer Daniel Bard is back with the team and could be activated from the 15-day injured list Tuesday. He has been on the IL since the start of the season due to anxiety. ... Colorado RHP Antonio Senzatela (left ACL tear) will pitch an extended spring training game in Arizona on Tuesday.JOIN THE CLUBThe 37-year-old Santana had two hits in his 1,800th career game, which ranks seventh among active players. However, he’s not first on his team; McCutchen has played in 1,911 major league games.Santana also beat out a potential double-play ball to keep the six-run second inning going.“It says so much about him as a professional and it’s the reason we wanted him in our clubhouse,” Shelton said.UP NEXTThe Pirates will send RHP Vince Velasquez (1-2, 5.40 ERA) against Colorado RHP José Ureña (0-2, 9.90) on Tuesday night.

Pirates storm ship in series opener at Coors Field, 14-3

BY: CON MARSHALL CSC Sports Information

Two Chadron State College cowgirls placed high in their events at the Casper College rodeo last weekend. Sierra Lee of Rhame, N.D., was the barrel racing runner-up and Rylee Naprestek of Gothenburg was fourth in breakaway roping.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Lee was sixth in the first go-round of the barrels in 14.71 seconds, then placed second in the finals in 14.40 seconds to also claim second overall.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Naprestek caught her first calf in 3.0 seconds to place seventh in the go-round, but broke the barrier on her second run.&nbsp; However, she was one of just four finalists to catch two calves and was fourth overall.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Another CSC barrel racer, Payton Gorwill of Arthur, tied for first and second in the opening go-round in 14.49 seconds, but she tipped over a barrel in the finals, knocking her out of the averages.&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Two more CSC cowgirls, Whitley Reeder of Belle Fourche, S.D., and Shailey McAbee of Hyannis, were among the 11 breakaway finalists, but did not catch their second calves.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; There were 91 breakaway ropers and 71 barrel racers at the Casper rodeo.&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; In the men’s action, Cinch Kiger of Overton, Neb., was sixth in the averages after scoring 69 and 55 points on the barebacks he drew.&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Jake Chasek of Mitchell roped and tied both of his calves in tie down roping, but his times did not place him among the top six.&nbsp; Grant Turek of St. Paul, Neb., also made the tie down finals, but he didn’t catch his second calf.&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Another CSC cowboy, Colton Storer of Arthur, and Rhett Witt of Laramie County Community College in Cheyenne made the team roping finals, but did not get a time on their second run

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The University of Wyoming will host the final rodeo of the school year in the Central Rocky Mountain Region this weekend.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681835120088.jpeg" alt="CSC Rodeo 2023" />
 <figcaption>CSC Rodeo 2023</figcaption>
 </figure>BY: CON MARSHALL CSC Sports InformationTwo Chadron State College cowgirls placed high in their events at the Casper College rodeo last weekend. Sierra Lee of Rhame, N.D., was the barrel racing runner-up and Rylee Naprestek of Gothenburg was fourth in breakaway roping.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Lee was sixth in the first go-round of the barrels in 14.71 seconds, then placed second in the finals in 14.40 seconds to also claim second overall.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Naprestek caught her first calf in 3.0 seconds to place seventh in the go-round, but broke the barrier on her second run.&nbsp; However, she was one of just four finalists to catch two calves and was fourth overall.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Another CSC barrel racer, Payton Gorwill of Arthur, tied for first and second in the opening go-round in 14.49 seconds, but she tipped over a barrel in the finals, knocking her out of the averages.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Two more CSC cowgirls, Whitley Reeder of Belle Fourche, S.D., and Shailey McAbee of Hyannis, were among the 11 breakaway finalists, but did not catch their second calves.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; There were 91 breakaway ropers and 71 barrel racers at the Casper rodeo.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; In the men’s action, Cinch Kiger of Overton, Neb., was sixth in the averages after scoring 69 and 55 points on the barebacks he drew.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Jake Chasek of Mitchell roped and tied both of his calves in tie down roping, but his times did not place him among the top six.&nbsp; Grant Turek of St. Paul, Neb., also made the tie down finals, but he didn’t catch his second calf.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Another CSC cowboy, Colton Storer of Arthur, and Rhett Witt of Laramie County Community College in Cheyenne made the team roping finals, but did not get a time on their second run&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The University of Wyoming will host the final rodeo of the school year in the Central Rocky Mountain Region this weekend.

Pair of CSC cowgirls earn high places at Casper rodeo

Softball head coach Kaley Ness and football head coach Jay Long appear on the show to talk about their season, spring practices and the CSC spring football game!&nbsp; The show was filmed live at The Ridge in Chadron on April 12, 2023 and is hosted by Dave Collins.

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Ui9GMRkhTf8" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>Softball head coach Kaley Ness and football head coach Jay Long appear on the show to talk about their season, spring practices and the CSC spring football game!&nbsp; The show was filmed live at The Ridge in Chadron on April 12, 2023 and is hosted by Dave Collins.<figure>
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🎥 CSC Sports Road Show - April 12, 2023

LINCOLN - Nebraska Athletics is proud to officially unveil a modernized version of Herbie Husker, one of the most iconic logos and mascots in college athletics. Nebraska Vice Chancellor/Director of Athletics Trev Alberts and University leaders led the initiative to develop an updated and modernized version of the Herbie Husker logo and costume.&nbsp; The new logo is being unveiled today and the updated Herbie Husker mascot will make his first public appearance at Saturday's Red-White Spring Game presented by FNBO.

The return to a Herbie Husker costume and logo that closely resembles the original version comes as Nebraska celebrates the 50th&nbsp;year of Herbie Husker. Alberts and University leadership have also placed a priority on embracing the Cornhusker tradition and the agricultural background of the state of Nebraska. "Herbie Husker has been one of the iconic symbols of Nebraska Athletics for nearly 50 years," Alberts said.&nbsp; "Our fans are passionate about all things related to the Huskers, and they have a particular fondness for Herbie.&nbsp; We are excited to present modernized Herbie Husker marks and logos and thrilled to unveil our new Herbie mascot at Saturday's spring game." Led by Director of Licensing Lonna Henrichs and Spirit Squad Head Coach Erynn Butzke, Nebraska Athletics began working with Torch Creative in January of 2022 to develop the new logos.&nbsp; Throughout the process, the focus remained on digitally updating the beloved Herbie mark that features blonde hair, overalls, and an ear of corn in his pocket. "Partnering with Trev, Lonna, and the University of Nebraska on modernizing Herbie has been a dream come true for Torch Creative," the company said. "We have the ultimate respect for their passion for Cornhusker Athletics and worked to match this enthusiasm in creating a more contemporary look for Herbie yet harkens back to the original 1974 version.&nbsp; Much like that iteration, we hope the modern Herbie continues to represent the heritage of the university and its passionate fanbase." In addition to the primary Herbie Husker logo, sport specific logos were created for 10 of Nebraska's varsity programs. &nbsp;&nbsp;Nebraska Athletics has also updated its marks for Lil' Red and the Blackshirts. New merchandise is now available online at shop.huskers.com and fans can purchase new Herbie gear at Saturday's spring game. The Herbie Husker character evolved out of Nebraska's trip to the Cotton Bowl following the 1973 season. Artist Dirk West designed a Cornhusker cartoon for the Cotton Bowl press headquarters, and Nebraska Sports Information Director Don Bryant later contacted West for permission to use the cartoon. West refined his original cartoon and improved some of the character's features. The new Herbie Husker character first appeared on the cover of the 1974 Nebraska Football media guide and has been a favorite of Nebraska fans over the past five decades.&nbsp; The previous updated iteration of the Herbie Husker character occurred in 2003. That version of Herbie Husker had represented the Cornhuskers at athletic competitions over the past two decades.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681749946886.jpeg" alt="updated Herbie Husker for volleyball team, courtesty UNL" />
 <figcaption>updated Herbie Husker for volleyball team, courtesty UNL</figcaption>
 </figure>LINCOLN - Nebraska Athletics is proud to officially unveil a modernized version of Herbie Husker, one of the most iconic logos and mascots in college athletics. Nebraska Vice Chancellor/Director of Athletics Trev Alberts and University leaders led the initiative to develop an updated and modernized version of the Herbie Husker logo and costume.&nbsp; The new logo is being unveiled today and the updated Herbie Husker mascot will make his first public appearance at Saturday's Red-White Spring Game presented by FNBO.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Sometimes to move forward, you gotta look back. <a href="https://t.co/tqjPX5UdZl">pic.twitter.com/tqjPX5UdZl</a>&mdash; Nebraska Huskers (@Huskers) <a href="https://twitter.com/Huskers/status/1647978248226365445?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 17, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div> The return to a Herbie Husker costume and logo that closely resembles the original version comes as Nebraska celebrates the 50th&nbsp;year of Herbie Husker. Alberts and University leadership have also placed a priority on embracing the Cornhusker tradition and the agricultural background of the state of Nebraska. "Herbie Husker has been one of the iconic symbols of Nebraska Athletics for nearly 50 years," Alberts said.&nbsp; "Our fans are passionate about all things related to the Huskers, and they have a particular fondness for Herbie.&nbsp; We are excited to present modernized Herbie Husker marks and logos and thrilled to unveil our new Herbie mascot at Saturday's spring game." Led by Director of Licensing Lonna Henrichs and Spirit Squad Head Coach Erynn Butzke, Nebraska Athletics began working with Torch Creative in January of 2022 to develop the new logos.&nbsp; Throughout the process, the focus remained on digitally updating the beloved Herbie mark that features blonde hair, overalls, and an ear of corn in his pocket. "Partnering with Trev, Lonna, and the University of Nebraska on modernizing Herbie has been a dream come true for Torch Creative," the company said. "We have the ultimate respect for their passion for Cornhusker Athletics and worked to match this enthusiasm in creating a more contemporary look for Herbie yet harkens back to the original 1974 version.&nbsp; Much like that iteration, we hope the modern Herbie continues to represent the heritage of the university and its passionate fanbase." In addition to the primary Herbie Husker logo, sport specific logos were created for 10 of Nebraska's varsity programs. &nbsp;&nbsp;Nebraska Athletics has also updated its marks for Lil' Red and the Blackshirts. New merchandise is now available online at shop.huskers.com and fans can purchase new Herbie gear at Saturday's spring game. The Herbie Husker character evolved out of Nebraska's trip to the Cotton Bowl following the 1973 season. Artist Dirk West designed a Cornhusker cartoon for the Cotton Bowl press headquarters, and Nebraska Sports Information Director Don Bryant later contacted West for permission to use the cartoon. West refined his original cartoon and improved some of the character's features. The new Herbie Husker character first appeared on the cover of the 1974 Nebraska Football media guide and has been a favorite of Nebraska fans over the past five decades.&nbsp; The previous updated iteration of the Herbie Husker character occurred in 2003. That version of Herbie Husker had represented the Cornhuskers at athletic competitions over the past two decades.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Nebraska Athletics unveils updated Herbie Husker

(AP) Jamal Murray overcame some early jitters to have 24 points and eight assists in his first playoff game since the 2020 NBA bubble as the top-seeded Denver Nuggets routed the Minnesota Timberwolves 109-80 Sunday night.

“Murray was Murray," Wolves point guard Chris Conley said. "He’s one of the better scorers, playmakers, from our position.”

Michael Porter Jr., who scored 18 points in his first playoff game since missing last year's run with a bad back, said Murray used his time off after blowing out his left knee in 2021 to improve his basketball IQ.

“I told him the other day I feel like he's better now than before the injury,” Porter said. “I know he probably doesn't feel it, but just his overall game, his awareness, he had like a year off where he had to just watch.”

Porter scored 18 points and Nikola Jokic added 13 points, 14 rebounds and a half dozen assists in 28 minutes as Denver snapped a five-game skid in playoff openers — and became the only higher seed to win on its homecourt Sunday.

Both Porter and Murray started off slow offensively, so they turned up their defense, diving for loose balls and crashing the glass until they found their shooting touch.

“That was the game right there,” Murray said. “It wasn't even offense. I think Mike and I struggled early and we were still playing defense. We were running the floor playing defense, boxing out, playing physical. Everybody made an impact.”

Anthony Edwards led Minnesota with 18 points. Karl-Anthony Towns, who was rounding into form this month after missing 52 games with a bad calf, missed 10 of his first 12 shots and finished with 11 points.

“It’s the NBA. It’s not forgiving. Just things happen," Towns said. "They did a great job, give them credit. They had a long week preparing for us and they got ready and you could tell on the court they knew our plays and knew what they’re doing. So we’ve just got to come back ready for Game 2. It’s a series — just move on, flush it and get ready.”

Minnesota coach Chris Finch lamented Denver's tougher physicality and better control.

“Way more physical than we were,” he said. "They played with more speed, more force, they kicked our butts in every category that you possibly can imagine.”

Jokic said during the Nuggets' week off that he was eager to see how they'd do do with Murray and Porter back in the lineup with him after injuries and surgeries waylaid Denver's Big Three each of the last two postseasons.

The answer was emphatic: the trio combined for 55 points, 33 rebounds and 16 assists — with just two combined turnovers — as all five of Denver's starters scored in double figures as did reserve Bruce Brown, who chipped in 14.

The Nuggets were the only one of four home teams to win Sunday as the Bucks, Grizzlies and Suns all surrendered homecourt advantage to lower seeds in the first round.

The opener marked Murray's first playoff appearance since his breakout performance in the 2020 NBA bubble, when he twice put up 50 points on the Jazz in helping the Nuggets reach the Western Conference Finals where they lost to LeBron James and the Lakers. Murray tore his left ACL eight months later and missed the Nuggets' last two playoff runs.

“It is kind of wild to think it’s been that long," Denver coach Michael Malone said before tip-off. “I’m just so happy for him, proud of him. It has not been an easy journey for him, but I think this year, we’ve seen Jamal have moments where that’s the Jamal Murray that we all love and remember.”

The Timberwolves were without starting forward Jaden McDaniels, their best perimeter defender, who broke his right hand punching a wall in Minnesota's final regular season game.

Towns promised things would be different in Game 2.

“I don’t think this team has many nights like this,” he said of the Wolves, who hadn't been held to 80 or fewer points since Nov. 19, 2016.

Malone said before tip-off he expected some chippiness in the series: “I don't mind spicy. This is the playoffs. This isn't like regular season games.”

He got just that in the third quarter when rookie Christian Braun got into a tussle with Kyle Anderson after Anderson's flagrant foul.

Timberwolves: Minnesota surrendered the first eight points of the game and the first nine points after halftime. The Wolves fought back to take a 17-16 lead in the first quarter but there was no similar comeback in the third.

Nuggets: Jokic re-entered the game with 7:46 remaining and the Nuggets ahead by 30. He quickly picked up his fifth and sixth fouls, including a flagrant on Edwards. Asked on TNT afterward why he went back into the game, Jokic said, “I think that is not a question for me. ... I don't have a problem to play in garbage time or whatever.”

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 </figure>(AP) Jamal Murray overcame some early jitters to have 24 points and eight assists in his first playoff game since the 2020 NBA bubble as the top-seeded Denver Nuggets routed the Minnesota Timberwolves 109-80 Sunday night.“Murray was Murray," Wolves point guard Chris Conley said. "He’s one of the better scorers, playmakers, from our position.”Michael Porter Jr., who scored 18 points in his first playoff game since missing last year's run with a bad back, said Murray used his time off after blowing out his left knee in 2021 to improve his basketball IQ.“I told him the other day I feel like he's better now than before the injury,” Porter said. “I know he probably doesn't feel it, but just his overall game, his awareness, he had like a year off where he had to just watch.”Porter scored 18 points and Nikola Jokic added 13 points, 14 rebounds and a half dozen assists in 28 minutes as Denver snapped a five-game skid in playoff openers — and became the only higher seed to win on its homecourt Sunday.Both Porter and Murray started off slow offensively, so they turned up their defense, diving for loose balls and crashing the glass until they found their shooting touch.“That was the game right there,” Murray said. “It wasn't even offense. I think Mike and I struggled early and we were still playing defense. We were running the floor playing defense, boxing out, playing physical. Everybody made an impact.”Anthony Edwards led Minnesota with 18 points. Karl-Anthony Towns, who was rounding into form this month after missing 52 games with a bad calf, missed 10 of his first 12 shots and finished with 11 points.“It’s the NBA. It’s not forgiving. Just things happen," Towns said. "They did a great job, give them credit. They had a long week preparing for us and they got ready and you could tell on the court they knew our plays and knew what they’re doing. So we’ve just got to come back ready for Game 2. It’s a series — just move on, flush it and get ready.”Minnesota coach Chris Finch lamented Denver's tougher physicality and better control.“Way more physical than we were,” he said. "They played with more speed, more force, they kicked our butts in every category that you possibly can imagine.”Jokic said during the Nuggets' week off that he was eager to see how they'd do do with Murray and Porter back in the lineup with him after injuries and surgeries waylaid Denver's Big Three each of the last two postseasons.The answer was emphatic: the trio combined for 55 points, 33 rebounds and 16 assists — with just two combined turnovers — as all five of Denver's starters scored in double figures as did reserve Bruce Brown, who chipped in 14.The Nuggets were the only one of four home teams to win Sunday as the Bucks, Grizzlies and Suns all surrendered homecourt advantage to lower seeds in the first round.The opener marked Murray's first playoff appearance since his breakout performance in the 2020 NBA bubble, when he twice put up 50 points on the Jazz in helping the Nuggets reach the Western Conference Finals where they lost to LeBron James and the Lakers. Murray tore his left ACL eight months later and missed the Nuggets' last two playoff runs.“It is kind of wild to think it’s been that long," Denver coach Michael Malone said before tip-off. “I’m just so happy for him, proud of him. It has not been an easy journey for him, but I think this year, we’ve seen Jamal have moments where that’s the Jamal Murray that we all love and remember.”The Timberwolves were without starting forward Jaden McDaniels, their best perimeter defender, who broke his right hand punching a wall in Minnesota's final regular season game.Towns promised things would be different in Game 2.“I don’t think this team has many nights like this,” he said of the Wolves, who hadn't been held to 80 or fewer points since Nov. 19, 2016.SPICY NUGGETSMalone said before tip-off he expected some chippiness in the series: “I don't mind spicy. This is the playoffs. This isn't like regular season games.”He got just that in the third quarter when rookie Christian Braun got into a tussle with Kyle Anderson after Anderson's flagrant foul.TIP-INSTimberwolves: Minnesota surrendered the first eight points of the game and the first nine points after halftime. The Wolves fought back to take a 17-16 lead in the first quarter but there was no similar comeback in the third.Nuggets: Jokic re-entered the game with 7:46 remaining and the Nuggets ahead by 30. He quickly picked up his fifth and sixth fouls, including a flagrant on Edwards. Asked on TNT afterward why he went back into the game, Jokic said, “I think that is not a question for me. ... I don't have a problem to play in garbage time or whatever.”

Nuggets rip Timberwolves to open playoff series, 109-80

BY: JOHN MURPHY CSC Sports Information Director

&nbsp; SPEARFISH, S.D. -- April 16, 2023 --&nbsp;The Chadron State College softball team defeated the Black Hills State Yellow Jackets in three of the four games played this weekend in Spearfish, South Dakota. Black Hills lone victory occurred in the game one of the series. Chadron State improves to 20-23 overall and 18-18 in RMAC play. The Yellow Jackets are now 5-31 in regular season and conference play. Black Hills won game one 3-4 before CSC won the next three, 13-4, 3-2 and 5-1. CSC had two solo homeruns in the top of the first inning of game one, one from&nbsp;<a href="https://chadroneagles.com/sports/softball/roster/lauren-zimmerman/8876">Lauren Zimmerman</a>&nbsp;and the other from&nbsp;<a href="https://chadroneagles.com/sports/softball/roster/ashland-baca/8878">Ashland Baca</a>. The Yellow Jackets responded with four runs in the bottom of the second inning. Chadron State lowered their deficit to 3-4 in the bottom of the seventh but were unable to add another run. <a href="https://chadroneagles.com/sports/softball/roster/tori-haug/8880">Tori Haug</a>&nbsp;received the loss for the Eagles, falling to 5-14 on the year. The junior from Commerce City, Colorado, allowed nine hits while walking two batters and striking out four. CSC had two errors in the loss. The Eagles responded in game two by scoring a run in every inning and run ruling their opponent in five innings. Scoring started with three runs in the top of the first inning. Baca reached first on a fielder's choice. The Yellow Jacket defense got the force out at third base but&nbsp;<a href="https://chadroneagles.com/sports/softball/roster/bailey-steinke/8874">Bailey Steinke</a>&nbsp;was able to advance home. A passed ball added the second run for CSC, scoring&nbsp;<a href="https://chadroneagles.com/sports/softball/roster/jaelyn-martinez-lewis/8883">Jaelyn Martinez-Lewis</a>. <a href="https://chadroneagles.com/sports/softball/roster/jessie-henchenski/8862">Jessie Henchenski</a>&nbsp;singled to center field, bringing Baca home for CSC for the third run. After one run by Black Hills in the bottom of the first, Zimmerman hit a three-run double in the top of the second inning.&nbsp;<a href="https://chadroneagles.com/sports/softball/roster/sloane-quijas/8868">Sloane Quijas's</a>&nbsp;RBI single in the inning would bring home Zimmerman, giving CSC a 7-1 lead. Martinez-Lewis would add one more run in the top of the third, advancing home on a wild pitch. After a second run for the Yellow Jackets in the bottom of the third, CSC would add three more runs in the fourth inning. First,&nbsp;<a href="https://chadroneagles.com/sports/softball/roster/mackenzi-kroll/8865">Mackenzi Kroll</a>&nbsp;hit a two RBI homer to center field. Henchenski would add another RBI to her stat line with a solo homerun, giving the Eagles a 11-2 lead. Baca finished the scoring for CSC in the top of the fifth with a two-RBI homer, scoring herself and Rothstein. <a href="https://chadroneagles.com/sports/softball/roster/delaney-farnsworth/8879">Delaney Farnsworth</a>&nbsp;improved to 13-9 with the complete game victory. In five innings, she allowed six hits while striking out five batters and walking one. Zimmerman and Baca each had three RBI's for CSC in the victory. Chadron State's bats stayed hot in the third game of the series. Zimmerman started the games scoring in the top of the fourth inning with a solo homerun. A Henchenski single in the inning brought home Martinez-Lewis, giving CSC a 2-0 lead. The Yellow Jackets responded with a two-run homerun to tie the game in the bottom of the inning. Kroll would add her second homerun of the series in the top of the sixth inning, giving the Eagles the 3-2 victory. On her birthday, Haug improved to 6-14. In seven innings, she struck out three batters and walked two while allowing seven hits. Chadron State led from start to finish in the fourth and final game of the series. A Zimmerman grounder in the top of the first inning allowed CSC's baserunners to advance a base, scoring Steinke. CSC added another run with a similar situation in the inning. Baca grounded out to third base but&nbsp;<a href="https://chadroneagles.com/sports/softball/roster/aliyah-rothstein/8869">Aliyah Rothstein</a>&nbsp;was able to score. Two more runs were added by the Eagles in the top of the third. Zimmerman advanced to second and Martinez-Lewis scored on a wild pitch, giving CSC a 3-0 lead. The second run of the inning was added on a Baca double, scoring Zimmerman. The final run by Chadron State was scored on another wild pitch in the top of the sixth inning.&nbsp;<a href="https://chadroneagles.com/sports/softball/roster/brady-laucomer/8881">Brady Laucomer</a>&nbsp;advanced to second while Henchenski scored, giving CSC the 5-1 victory. Farnsworth improved to 14-9 with her second win of the weekend. The freshman from Centennial, Colorado, struck out five batters and allowed eight hits. Chadron State is back in action next weekend when they travel to face University of Colorado – Colorado Springs.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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 </figure>BY: JOHN MURPHY CSC Sports Information Director&nbsp; SPEARFISH, S.D. -- April 16, 2023 --&nbsp;The Chadron State College softball team defeated the Black Hills State Yellow Jackets in three of the four games played this weekend in Spearfish, South Dakota. Black Hills lone victory occurred in the game one of the series. Chadron State improves to 20-23 overall and 18-18 in RMAC play. The Yellow Jackets are now 5-31 in regular season and conference play. Black Hills won game one 3-4 before CSC won the next three, 13-4, 3-2 and 5-1. CSC had two solo homeruns in the top of the first inning of game one, one from&nbsp;<a href="https://chadroneagles.com/sports/softball/roster/lauren-zimmerman/8876">Lauren Zimmerman</a>&nbsp;and the other from&nbsp;<a href="https://chadroneagles.com/sports/softball/roster/ashland-baca/8878">Ashland Baca</a>. The Yellow Jackets responded with four runs in the bottom of the second inning. Chadron State lowered their deficit to 3-4 in the bottom of the seventh but were unable to add another run. <a href="https://chadroneagles.com/sports/softball/roster/tori-haug/8880">Tori Haug</a>&nbsp;received the loss for the Eagles, falling to 5-14 on the year. The junior from Commerce City, Colorado, allowed nine hits while walking two batters and striking out four. CSC had two errors in the loss. The Eagles responded in game two by scoring a run in every inning and run ruling their opponent in five innings. Scoring started with three runs in the top of the first inning. Baca reached first on a fielder's choice. The Yellow Jacket defense got the force out at third base but&nbsp;<a href="https://chadroneagles.com/sports/softball/roster/bailey-steinke/8874">Bailey Steinke</a>&nbsp;was able to advance home. A passed ball added the second run for CSC, scoring&nbsp;<a href="https://chadroneagles.com/sports/softball/roster/jaelyn-martinez-lewis/8883">Jaelyn Martinez-Lewis</a>. <a href="https://chadroneagles.com/sports/softball/roster/jessie-henchenski/8862">Jessie Henchenski</a>&nbsp;singled to center field, bringing Baca home for CSC for the third run. After one run by Black Hills in the bottom of the first, Zimmerman hit a three-run double in the top of the second inning.&nbsp;<a href="https://chadroneagles.com/sports/softball/roster/sloane-quijas/8868">Sloane Quijas's</a>&nbsp;RBI single in the inning would bring home Zimmerman, giving CSC a 7-1 lead. Martinez-Lewis would add one more run in the top of the third, advancing home on a wild pitch. After a second run for the Yellow Jackets in the bottom of the third, CSC would add three more runs in the fourth inning. First,&nbsp;<a href="https://chadroneagles.com/sports/softball/roster/mackenzi-kroll/8865">Mackenzi Kroll</a>&nbsp;hit a two RBI homer to center field. Henchenski would add another RBI to her stat line with a solo homerun, giving the Eagles a 11-2 lead. Baca finished the scoring for CSC in the top of the fifth with a two-RBI homer, scoring herself and Rothstein. <a href="https://chadroneagles.com/sports/softball/roster/delaney-farnsworth/8879">Delaney Farnsworth</a>&nbsp;improved to 13-9 with the complete game victory. In five innings, she allowed six hits while striking out five batters and walking one. Zimmerman and Baca each had three RBI's for CSC in the victory. Chadron State's bats stayed hot in the third game of the series. Zimmerman started the games scoring in the top of the fourth inning with a solo homerun. A Henchenski single in the inning brought home Martinez-Lewis, giving CSC a 2-0 lead. The Yellow Jackets responded with a two-run homerun to tie the game in the bottom of the inning. Kroll would add her second homerun of the series in the top of the sixth inning, giving the Eagles the 3-2 victory. On her birthday, Haug improved to 6-14. In seven innings, she struck out three batters and walked two while allowing seven hits. Chadron State led from start to finish in the fourth and final game of the series. A Zimmerman grounder in the top of the first inning allowed CSC's baserunners to advance a base, scoring Steinke. CSC added another run with a similar situation in the inning. Baca grounded out to third base but&nbsp;<a href="https://chadroneagles.com/sports/softball/roster/aliyah-rothstein/8869">Aliyah Rothstein</a>&nbsp;was able to score. Two more runs were added by the Eagles in the top of the third. Zimmerman advanced to second and Martinez-Lewis scored on a wild pitch, giving CSC a 3-0 lead. The second run of the inning was added on a Baca double, scoring Zimmerman. The final run by Chadron State was scored on another wild pitch in the top of the sixth inning.&nbsp;<a href="https://chadroneagles.com/sports/softball/roster/brady-laucomer/8881">Brady Laucomer</a>&nbsp;advanced to second while Henchenski scored, giving CSC the 5-1 victory. Farnsworth improved to 14-9 with her second win of the weekend. The freshman from Centennial, Colorado, struck out five batters and allowed eight hits. Chadron State is back in action next weekend when they travel to face University of Colorado – Colorado Springs.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Eagles keep pushing toward RMAC softball playoffs with series win at BHSU

SEATTLE (AP) — Luis Castillo retired his first 18 batters, Jarred Kelenic hit an RBI single and the Seattle Mariners beat the skidding Colorado Rockies 1-0 on Sunday to complete a three-game sweep.

Kelenic extended his hitting streak to a career-best 10 games and played outstanding defense in right field, including a diving catch in the eighth inning that saved a run.

Seattle managed only four hits but won its fourth in a row. Colorado has dropped its last five games.

“What an awesome outing by Luis Castillo,” Mariners manager Scott Servais said. “Total control of the whole game today.”

Castillo (1-0) struck out the side in the second and fanned eight over the first six innings before Jurickson Profar led off the seventh for the Rockies with a soft single to left-center. Kris Bryant followed with an infield single.

But with two outs and runners at second and third, Castillo got Ryan McMahon to line out to shortstop J.P. Crawford, ending Colorado’s only threat.

“It came into my mind around the fifth inning when I looked up at the scoreboard and I realized nobody’s gotten on base” Castillo said through a translator. “And I remember just going into the dugout and everybody’s just quiet.”

Castillo permitted two hits and struck out nine in seven innings. Justin Topa worked a one-hit eighth, and Paul Sewald struck out the top three batters in the order to finish the three-hitter and earn his fourth save.

Kelenic delivered an RBI single to right field in the sixth to score Ty France from second base.

On defense, Kelenic snagged two hard-hit balls to keep Castillo’s bid for a perfect game intact, then made a terrific grab in the eighth to rob pinch-hitter Elias Diaz.

“I got a good jump,” Kelenic said. “Ball was tailing away from me and I knew I had to just beat it to the spot. Those balls are tailing like that, you have to outrun it.”

Noah Davis, making his first major league start for the Rockies, retired his first eight batters before Kolten Wong singled. Davis pitched five scoreless innings, allowing three hits and three walks while striking out five.

“I thought his poise was there in his first major league start,” Colorado manager Bud Black said.

Dinelson Lamet (1-1) walked two in the sixth before Brad Hand gave up Kelenic’s run-scoring single.

To clear a roster spot for Davis, the Rockies optioned INF/OF Nolan Jones to Triple-A Albuquerque. Jones didn’t get into a game with Colorado after being called up Tuesday. He was hitting .359 with six home runs and 14 RBIs at Albuquerque.

Davis made one relief appearance in 2022 for the Rockies. He made three starts at Albuquerque with a 4.26 ERA.

Rockies: LHP Kyle Freeland (2-0) faces Pittsburgh on Monday. He’s allowed two runs in 18 2/3 innings this season.

Mariners: RHP Chris Flexen (0-2) looks to rebound Monday against Milwaukee after allowing eight runs on 10 hits in his last outing.

<figure>
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 </figure>SEATTLE (AP) — Luis Castillo retired his first 18 batters, Jarred Kelenic hit an RBI single and the Seattle Mariners beat the skidding Colorado Rockies 1-0 on Sunday to complete a three-game sweep.Kelenic extended his hitting streak to a career-best 10 games and played outstanding defense in right field, including a diving catch in the eighth inning that saved a run.Seattle managed only four hits but won its fourth in a row. Colorado has dropped its last five games.“What an awesome outing by Luis Castillo,” Mariners manager Scott Servais said. “Total control of the whole game today.”Castillo (1-0) struck out the side in the second and fanned eight over the first six innings before Jurickson Profar led off the seventh for the Rockies with a soft single to left-center. Kris Bryant followed with an infield single.But with two outs and runners at second and third, Castillo got Ryan McMahon to line out to shortstop J.P. Crawford, ending Colorado’s only threat.“It came into my mind around the fifth inning when I looked up at the scoreboard and I realized nobody’s gotten on base” Castillo said through a translator. “And I remember just going into the dugout and everybody’s just quiet.”Castillo permitted two hits and struck out nine in seven innings. Justin Topa worked a one-hit eighth, and Paul Sewald struck out the top three batters in the order to finish the three-hitter and earn his fourth save.Kelenic delivered an RBI single to right field in the sixth to score Ty France from second base.On defense, Kelenic snagged two hard-hit balls to keep Castillo’s bid for a perfect game intact, then made a terrific grab in the eighth to rob pinch-hitter Elias Diaz.“I got a good jump,” Kelenic said. “Ball was tailing away from me and I knew I had to just beat it to the spot. Those balls are tailing like that, you have to outrun it.”Noah Davis, making his first major league start for the Rockies, retired his first eight batters before Kolten Wong singled. Davis pitched five scoreless innings, allowing three hits and three walks while striking out five.“I thought his poise was there in his first major league start,” Colorado manager Bud Black said.Dinelson Lamet (1-1) walked two in the sixth before Brad Hand gave up Kelenic’s run-scoring single.TRANSACTIONTo clear a roster spot for Davis, the Rockies optioned INF/OF Nolan Jones to Triple-A Albuquerque. Jones didn’t get into a game with Colorado after being called up Tuesday. He was hitting .359 with six home runs and 14 RBIs at Albuquerque.Davis made one relief appearance in 2022 for the Rockies. He made three starts at Albuquerque with a 4.26 ERA.UP NEXTRockies: LHP Kyle Freeland (2-0) faces Pittsburgh on Monday. He’s allowed two runs in 18 2/3 innings this season.Mariners: RHP Chris Flexen (0-2) looks to rebound Monday against Milwaukee after allowing eight runs on 10 hits in his last outing.

Rockies swept in Seattle, Castillo retires first 18 hitters

BY: JOHN MURPHY CSC Sports Information

&nbsp; CHADRON, Neb. -- April 14, 2023 --&nbsp;The Chadron State College football team finished its spring football schedule with the spring game Friday night on Elliott Field. There were three different teams in the game. The teams were drafted by CSC coaches, creating a White, Cardinal and Gray team. White against Cardinal were the two teams playing each other, while players for the Gray team were allowed to play for either team. Three touchdowns were scored in the game and other points were added with different games between quarters. Scoring started with 7:31 left in the first quarter for the cardinal team. Quarterback&nbsp;<a href="https://chadroneagles.com/sports/football/roster/heath-beemiller/8943">Heath Beemiller</a>&nbsp;found CSC Track and Field All-American&nbsp;<a href="https://chadroneagles.com/sports/football/roster/brodie-roden/9018">Brodie Roden</a>&nbsp;for a 52-yard touchdown. It didn't take long for the white team to respond with a long touchdown of their own. White team quarterback&nbsp;<a href="https://chadroneagles.com/sports/football/roster/preston-pearson/8989">Preston Pearson</a>&nbsp;found&nbsp;<a href="https://chadroneagles.com/sports/football/roster/tommy-thomas/9006">Tommy Thomas</a>&nbsp;for a 75-yard touchdown only 26 seconds later. The touchdown was the only six-pointer for the white team. All of their other points were scored between games. The third and final touchdown of the game occurred with 3:45 in the opening period. Beemiller and Roden would once again connect on a deep ball, this one for 48 yards. The duo connected on a 70-yard touch pass in fourth quarter with 7:53 remaining, but the touchdown was called back due to an offensive holding penalty. The Cardinal team scored seven points in the mini games and the white team scored 14. The games included "Punt, Pass, Kick", WR vs DB pass rush, OL vs DL punt catches and OL vs DL route running.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
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 <figcaption>CSC Football</figcaption>
 </figure>BY: JOHN MURPHY CSC Sports Information&nbsp; CHADRON, Neb. -- April 14, 2023 --&nbsp;The Chadron State College football team finished its spring football schedule with the spring game Friday night on Elliott Field. There were three different teams in the game. The teams were drafted by CSC coaches, creating a White, Cardinal and Gray team. White against Cardinal were the two teams playing each other, while players for the Gray team were allowed to play for either team. Three touchdowns were scored in the game and other points were added with different games between quarters. Scoring started with 7:31 left in the first quarter for the cardinal team. Quarterback&nbsp;<a href="https://chadroneagles.com/sports/football/roster/heath-beemiller/8943">Heath Beemiller</a>&nbsp;found CSC Track and Field All-American&nbsp;<a href="https://chadroneagles.com/sports/football/roster/brodie-roden/9018">Brodie Roden</a>&nbsp;for a 52-yard touchdown. It didn't take long for the white team to respond with a long touchdown of their own. White team quarterback&nbsp;<a href="https://chadroneagles.com/sports/football/roster/preston-pearson/8989">Preston Pearson</a>&nbsp;found&nbsp;<a href="https://chadroneagles.com/sports/football/roster/tommy-thomas/9006">Tommy Thomas</a>&nbsp;for a 75-yard touchdown only 26 seconds later. The touchdown was the only six-pointer for the white team. All of their other points were scored between games. The third and final touchdown of the game occurred with 3:45 in the opening period. Beemiller and Roden would once again connect on a deep ball, this one for 48 yards. The duo connected on a 70-yard touch pass in fourth quarter with 7:53 remaining, but the touchdown was called back due to an offensive holding penalty. The Cardinal team scored seven points in the mini games and the white team scored 14. The games included "Punt, Pass, Kick", WR vs DB pass rush, OL vs DL punt catches and OL vs DL route running.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Cardinal tops White 21-20 in exciting Chadron State spring game

The Alliance Invitational Track and Field meet scheduled for Saturday, April 15, has been postponed due to rain and cold temperatures.

The meet has been rescheduled for Monday, April 17, at Alliance Bulldog Stadium.&nbsp; Field events will begin at 9 am and Track events will start at 11 am.

<figure>
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 </figure>The Alliance Invitational Track and Field meet scheduled for Saturday, April 15, has been postponed due to rain and cold temperatures.The meet has been rescheduled for Monday, April 17, at Alliance Bulldog Stadium.&nbsp; Field events will begin at 9 am and Track events will start at 11 am.

Alliance Track & Field Invite-Postponed

Head Coach Jay Long provides a full spring ball update and preview of Friday night's spring game with Voice of the Eagles Dave Collins! The show was recorded LIVE at The Ridge on April 12,2023.

<div><iframe title="CSC Sports Road Show - Football HC Jay Long - 4/12/23" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=mwjpe-13e2051-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=1b1b1b&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=c73a3a"></iframe></div>Head Coach Jay Long provides a full spring ball update and preview of Friday night's spring game with Voice of the Eagles Dave Collins! The show was recorded LIVE at The Ridge on April 12,2023.<figure>
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🔊 PODCAST: CSC Sports Road Show - Football HC Jay Long - 4/12/23

Eagles Head Coach Kaley Ness joins Dave Collins to talk about the incredible four-game shutout series win over ASU and much more! The show was recorded LIVE at The Ridge on April 12, 2023.

<div><iframe title="CSC Sports Road Show - Softball Coach Kaley Ness - 4/12/23" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=qvbkf-13e1f9f-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=1b1b1b&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=c73a3a"></iframe></div>Eagles Head Coach Kaley Ness joins Dave Collins to talk about the incredible four-game shutout series win over ASU and much more! The show was recorded LIVE at The Ridge on April 12, 2023.

🔊 PODCAST: CSC Sports Road Show - Softball Coach Kaley Ness - 4/12/23

Thanks to:&nbsp; Nebraska School Activities Association

The Nebraska School Activities Association (NSAA) and the Nebraska State College System (NSCS) are pleased to announce the 16,149 recipients of the 2022-2023 Nebraska State Colleges MultiActivity Student Award.  

The award recognizes students in grades 9-12 who participate in at least three NSAA sanctioned activities during the academic year. Each high school student who participates in at least three NSAA  activities will be recognized and awarded a certificate of achievement by the NSAA and the Nebraska State Colleges.  Activity participation will be tracked using student eligibility lists, submitted to the NSAA by each member school.  The top schools in four classes will be determined based on the percentage of multi-activity student award winners compared to the total number of students in grades 9-12.

The NSAA and the NSCS are also thrilled to highlight the five high schools with the most multi-activity students. These high schools will be presented with a banner at the NSAA State Soccer Championships in May to display at their school.

Panhandle Schools listed in the Top 10 for Multi-Activity Students...

Sidney...#5...76 Multi-Activity students with an enrollment of 365 ...20.80%

Alliance...#6...86&nbsp; Multi-Activity students with an enrollemtn of 449....19.20%

Gering...#8...92&nbsp; Multi-Activity students with an enrollment of 562....16.40%

Sioux County....Tied for #7....21&nbsp; Multi-Activity students with an enrollment of 28.....75%

The Top schools in each class...Class A...Kearney High School...Norfolk High School.&nbsp; Class B...Seward High School.&nbsp;&nbsp;Class C...Aquinas Catholic High School.&nbsp; &nbsp;Class D...Arcadia High School


To see the complete list of Top 10 Schools and the full list of&nbsp; 16, 149 student recipients go to&nbsp; &nbsp;www. nsaahome.org

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633474113203.jpeg" alt="NSAA" />
 <figcaption>NSAA</figcaption>
 </figure>Thanks to:&nbsp; Nebraska School Activities AssociationThe Nebraska School Activities Association (NSAA) and the Nebraska State College System (NSCS) are pleased to announce the 16,149 recipients of the 2022-2023 Nebraska State Colleges MultiActivity Student Award. The award recognizes students in grades 9-12 who participate in at least three NSAA sanctioned activities during the academic year. Each high school student who participates in at least three NSAA activities will be recognized and awarded a certificate of achievement by the NSAA and the Nebraska State Colleges. Activity participation will be tracked using student eligibility lists, submitted to the NSAA by each member school. The top schools in four classes will be determined based on the percentage of multi-activity student award winners compared to the total number of students in grades 9-12.The NSAA and the NSCS are also thrilled to highlight the five high schools with the most multi-activity students. These high schools will be presented with a banner at the NSAA State Soccer Championships in May to display at their school.Panhandle Schools listed in the Top 10 for Multi-Activity Students...Class BSidney...#5...76 Multi-Activity students with an enrollment of 365 ...20.80%Alliance...#6...86&nbsp; Multi-Activity students with an enrollemtn of 449....19.20%Gering...#8...92&nbsp; Multi-Activity students with an enrollment of 562....16.40%Class DSioux County....Tied for #7....21&nbsp; Multi-Activity students with an enrollment of 28.....75%The Top schools in each class...Class A...Kearney High School...Norfolk High School.&nbsp; Class B...Seward High School.&nbsp;&nbsp;Class C...Aquinas Catholic High School.&nbsp; &nbsp;Class D...Arcadia High School
To see the complete list of Top 10 Schools and the full list of&nbsp; 16, 149 student recipients go to&nbsp; &nbsp;www. nsaahome.org

2022-2023 Nebraska State Colleges Multi-Activity Student Award Recipients Announced

By Hyannis Area Schools Principal/Superintendent&nbsp;Travis Hawk

By Hyannis Area Schools Principal/Superintendent&nbsp;Travis Hawk<figure>
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Hyannis Area Schools announce hiring of Varsity Volleyball Coach 

By: Mike Glesinger&nbsp; Panhandle Post

Alliance High School Activities Director Anita James,&nbsp; will be stepping down from her position at the end of the school year, but won't be moving very far.&nbsp; &nbsp;The Alliance Public Schools Board of Education officially approved Ms. James changing positions from Activities Director to High School Assistant Principal beginning in the 2023-24 school year.&nbsp;

Anita is a native of Lexington, Ne and has been with the Alliance Public School system for the past 15 years.&nbsp; She began as a Physical Education teacher and Coach at Alliance Middle School, eventually taking over as Middle School AD after 6 years, while continuing to teach and coach.&nbsp; &nbsp;In 2017, she became the High School Activities Director and doing some Assistant Principal duties as well.&nbsp; Anita will take over for Tera Digman, who resigned,&nbsp; to take a Principal position at Hay Springs Schools.

In an email to Panhandle Post,&nbsp; Anita stated..."I have had the pleasure of working with some amazing teachers, coaches, students, and community members here in Alliance and look forward to continuing to do that in my new role!&nbsp; Some of the memories I have while being the activities director will last me a lifetime, so will the relationships I've built with the people and students I have worked with. I couldn't have done my job without the support of our coaches, administrators, and others.&nbsp; I'm thankful for the opportunity to serve as the Activities director these past 6 years. It has taught me a lot and I've got to see our students and our coaches do some pretty amazing things, and I'm excited to continue to be an Alliance Bulldog and see that success of our students, but will just be in a different role!"

The APS Board also approved the hiring of former Alliance High School Teacher and Coach Michael Baker, to take over as Activities Director next school year.&nbsp; Baker was a teacher and coach in Alliance for 22 years, serving as boys head basketball coach two different times,&nbsp; before leaving at the end of last year to take a position as head boys basketball coach at the new Lincoln Northwest High school.&nbsp; Baker is a native of Harrison, Ne and has coached at Atwood, Ks and Wheeler Central schools before coming to Alliance in 2000.&nbsp; He lead Alliance to 3 State Tournament appearances as Boys Basketball Coach.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681236749321.jpeg" alt="AHS Activities Director Anita James (APS Photo)" />
 <figcaption>AHS Activities Director Anita James (APS Photo)</figcaption>
 </figure>By: Mike Glesinger&nbsp; Panhandle PostAlliance High School Activities Director Anita James,&nbsp; will be stepping down from her position at the end of the school year, but won't be moving very far.&nbsp; &nbsp;The Alliance Public Schools Board of Education officially approved Ms. James changing positions from Activities Director to High School Assistant Principal beginning in the 2023-24 school year.&nbsp;Anita is a native of Lexington, Ne and has been with the Alliance Public School system for the past 15 years.&nbsp; She began as a Physical Education teacher and Coach at Alliance Middle School, eventually taking over as Middle School AD after 6 years, while continuing to teach and coach.&nbsp; &nbsp;In 2017, she became the High School Activities Director and doing some Assistant Principal duties as well.&nbsp; Anita will take over for Tera Digman, who resigned,&nbsp; to take a Principal position at Hay Springs Schools.In an email to Panhandle Post,&nbsp; Anita stated..."I have had the pleasure of working with some amazing teachers, coaches, students, and community members here in Alliance and look forward to continuing to do that in my new role!&nbsp; Some of the memories I have while being the activities director will last me a lifetime, so will the relationships I've built with the people and students I have worked with. I couldn't have done my job without the support of our coaches, administrators, and others.&nbsp; I'm thankful for the opportunity to serve as the Activities director these past 6 years. It has taught me a lot and I've got to see our students and our coaches do some pretty amazing things, and I'm excited to continue to be an Alliance Bulldog and see that success of our students, but will just be in a different role!"The APS Board also approved the hiring of former Alliance High School Teacher and Coach Michael Baker, to take over as Activities Director next school year.&nbsp; Baker was a teacher and coach in Alliance for 22 years, serving as boys head basketball coach two different times,&nbsp; before leaving at the end of last year to take a position as head boys basketball coach at the new Lincoln Northwest High school.&nbsp; Baker is a native of Harrison, Ne and has coached at Atwood, Ks and Wheeler Central schools before coming to Alliance in 2000.&nbsp; He lead Alliance to 3 State Tournament appearances as Boys Basketball Coach.

Position changes announced at Alliance High School

**Broadcast Note:&nbsp; Double Q Country will broadcast the game live on 97.5 and 105.9 FM beginning at 5:15 PM.

&nbsp; CHADRON, Neb. -- April 10, 2023 --&nbsp;Chadron State College football starts their final week of spring practice today, as they prepare for their spring game, which is scheduled for Friday, April 14, at 6 p.m. The Eagles return eight offensive and nine defensive starters from last years squad that finished 3-8. Three quarterbacks who received valuable playing time last season are competing for the starting spot this spring. <a href="https://chadroneagles.com/sports/football/roster/heath-beemiller/8322">Heath Beemiller</a>, a junior from Chandler, Arizona, played the most out of the group with eight appearances. Beemiller, the 2022 season opening starter, completed 53 percent of his passes for 1112 yards with six touchdowns and 11 interceptions on the season. Once the Arizona native suffered an injury,&nbsp;<a href="https://chadroneagles.com/sports/football/roster/mason-hamilton/4585">Mason Hamilton</a>&nbsp;took over quarterback duties. The sophomore from Gillette, Wyoming had a completion percentage of 56.34 percent with three touchdowns and one interception. Hamilton threw for 356 yards before suffering a season ending injury. With Beemiller unable to return,&nbsp;<a href="https://chadroneagles.com/sports/football/roster/preston-pearson/8268">Preston Pearson</a>&nbsp;earned the following three starts for the Eagles. Pearson, a redshirt freshman from Kearney, Nebraska, had 676 yards with a 69.14 completion percentage on the season. He finished with six touchdowns and four interceptions. With the departure of&nbsp;<a href="https://chadroneagles.com/sports/football/roster/jalen-starks/4621">Jalen Starks</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://chadroneagles.com/sports/football/roster/dorian-collier/8219">Dorian Collier</a>&nbsp;is the most experience returnee in the running back room. Collier played in eight games last year, rushing for 338 net yards. <a href="https://chadroneagles.com/sports/football/roster/ahlonte-hair/8239">Ahlonte Hair</a>, a junior from Live Oak, Florida, and&nbsp;<a href="https://chadroneagles.com/sports/football/roster/tommy-thomas/8290">Tommy Thomas</a>, a redshirt freshman from Fort Collins, Colorado, both are returning in the receiver corps. Along with the receiver duo, All-RMAC tight end&nbsp;<a href="https://chadroneagles.com/sports/football/roster/peter-krohn/4596">Peter Krohn</a>, CSC's third leading receiver in 2022, is also returning. <a href="https://chadroneagles.com/sports/football/roster/ro-abercrombie/8204">Ro Abercrombie</a>, a redshirt freshman, is also had a great spring and showed he can play at the position, Offensive Coordinator&nbsp;<a href="https://chadroneagles.com/sports/football/roster/coaches/micah-smith/517">Micah Smith</a>&nbsp;said. Another All-RMAC selection, offensive lineman&nbsp;<a href="https://chadroneagles.com/sports/football/roster/michael-decamillis/4195">Michael DeCamillis</a>, returns to lead the oline for CSC. A handful of younger and new players are expected to add support to the offensive line. "Up front I think as a total group they've done a really good job this spring," Smith said. &nbsp; Defensively, an All-American in Hunter O'Conner returns at the defensive end position. Due to off-season surgery, O'Conner is not participating this spring. <a href="https://chadroneagles.com/sports/football/roster/kobe-whipple/4260">Kobe Whipple</a>, a five-year starter, also returns at defensive line. "The defensive line is probably our most experienced group," Defensive Coordinator&nbsp;<a href="https://chadroneagles.com/sports/football/roster/coaches/clint-sasse/513">Clint Sasse</a>&nbsp;said. Four of last seasons six leading tacklers return this spring. At the linebacker position,&nbsp;<a href="https://chadroneagles.com/sports/football/roster/xavier-harrell/4587">Xavier Harrell</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://chadroneagles.com/sports/football/roster/joey-geil/4203">Joey Geil</a>&nbsp;look to lead the group. Harrell led the Eagles with 66 total tackles last season, while Geil had 55. The secondary will be looking to replace for All-RMAC selections&nbsp;<a href="https://chadroneagles.com/sports/football/roster/bobby-peele/5697">Bobby Peele</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://chadroneagles.com/sports/football/roster/brendan-brehmer/4186">Brendan Brehmer</a>.&nbsp;<a href="https://chadroneagles.com/sports/football/roster/dax-yeradi/4632">Dax Yeradi</a>&nbsp;is a name that has been mentioned to help replace the duo. Another name is&nbsp;<a href="https://chadroneagles.com/sports/football/roster/harvey-reynolds/4245">Harvey Reynolds</a>, a junior from West Palm Beach, Florida. Reynolds had 49 tackles a season ago. All-Region kicker&nbsp;<a href="https://chadroneagles.com/sports/football/roster/gunnar-jones/8248">Gunnar Jones</a>&nbsp;has graduated so CSC will be looking to replace him on the special-teams side. A junior college transfer and an incoming freshman will compete in the fall for the starting kicking role. Friday evenings game will be free and open to the public.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681229049010.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>BY: JOHN MURPHY CSC Sports Information Director**Broadcast Note:&nbsp; Double Q Country will broadcast the game live on 97.5 and 105.9 FM beginning at 5:15 PM.&nbsp; CHADRON, Neb. -- April 10, 2023 --&nbsp;Chadron State College football starts their final week of spring practice today, as they prepare for their spring game, which is scheduled for Friday, April 14, at 6 p.m. The Eagles return eight offensive and nine defensive starters from last years squad that finished 3-8. Three quarterbacks who received valuable playing time last season are competing for the starting spot this spring. <a href="https://chadroneagles.com/sports/football/roster/heath-beemiller/8322">Heath Beemiller</a>, a junior from Chandler, Arizona, played the most out of the group with eight appearances. Beemiller, the 2022 season opening starter, completed 53 percent of his passes for 1112 yards with six touchdowns and 11 interceptions on the season. Once the Arizona native suffered an injury,&nbsp;<a href="https://chadroneagles.com/sports/football/roster/mason-hamilton/4585">Mason Hamilton</a>&nbsp;took over quarterback duties. The sophomore from Gillette, Wyoming had a completion percentage of 56.34 percent with three touchdowns and one interception. Hamilton threw for 356 yards before suffering a season ending injury. With Beemiller unable to return,&nbsp;<a href="https://chadroneagles.com/sports/football/roster/preston-pearson/8268">Preston Pearson</a>&nbsp;earned the following three starts for the Eagles. Pearson, a redshirt freshman from Kearney, Nebraska, had 676 yards with a 69.14 completion percentage on the season. He finished with six touchdowns and four interceptions. With the departure of&nbsp;<a href="https://chadroneagles.com/sports/football/roster/jalen-starks/4621">Jalen Starks</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://chadroneagles.com/sports/football/roster/dorian-collier/8219">Dorian Collier</a>&nbsp;is the most experience returnee in the running back room. Collier played in eight games last year, rushing for 338 net yards. <a href="https://chadroneagles.com/sports/football/roster/ahlonte-hair/8239">Ahlonte Hair</a>, a junior from Live Oak, Florida, and&nbsp;<a href="https://chadroneagles.com/sports/football/roster/tommy-thomas/8290">Tommy Thomas</a>, a redshirt freshman from Fort Collins, Colorado, both are returning in the receiver corps. Along with the receiver duo, All-RMAC tight end&nbsp;<a href="https://chadroneagles.com/sports/football/roster/peter-krohn/4596">Peter Krohn</a>, CSC's third leading receiver in 2022, is also returning. <a href="https://chadroneagles.com/sports/football/roster/ro-abercrombie/8204">Ro Abercrombie</a>, a redshirt freshman, is also had a great spring and showed he can play at the position, Offensive Coordinator&nbsp;<a href="https://chadroneagles.com/sports/football/roster/coaches/micah-smith/517">Micah Smith</a>&nbsp;said. Another All-RMAC selection, offensive lineman&nbsp;<a href="https://chadroneagles.com/sports/football/roster/michael-decamillis/4195">Michael DeCamillis</a>, returns to lead the oline for CSC. A handful of younger and new players are expected to add support to the offensive line. "Up front I think as a total group they've done a really good job this spring," Smith said. &nbsp; Defensively, an All-American in Hunter O'Conner returns at the defensive end position. Due to off-season surgery, O'Conner is not participating this spring. <a href="https://chadroneagles.com/sports/football/roster/kobe-whipple/4260">Kobe Whipple</a>, a five-year starter, also returns at defensive line. "The defensive line is probably our most experienced group," Defensive Coordinator&nbsp;<a href="https://chadroneagles.com/sports/football/roster/coaches/clint-sasse/513">Clint Sasse</a>&nbsp;said. Four of last seasons six leading tacklers return this spring. At the linebacker position,&nbsp;<a href="https://chadroneagles.com/sports/football/roster/xavier-harrell/4587">Xavier Harrell</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://chadroneagles.com/sports/football/roster/joey-geil/4203">Joey Geil</a>&nbsp;look to lead the group. Harrell led the Eagles with 66 total tackles last season, while Geil had 55. The secondary will be looking to replace for All-RMAC selections&nbsp;<a href="https://chadroneagles.com/sports/football/roster/bobby-peele/5697">Bobby Peele</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://chadroneagles.com/sports/football/roster/brendan-brehmer/4186">Brendan Brehmer</a>.&nbsp;<a href="https://chadroneagles.com/sports/football/roster/dax-yeradi/4632">Dax Yeradi</a>&nbsp;is a name that has been mentioned to help replace the duo. Another name is&nbsp;<a href="https://chadroneagles.com/sports/football/roster/harvey-reynolds/4245">Harvey Reynolds</a>, a junior from West Palm Beach, Florida. Reynolds had 49 tackles a season ago. All-Region kicker&nbsp;<a href="https://chadroneagles.com/sports/football/roster/gunnar-jones/8248">Gunnar Jones</a>&nbsp;has graduated so CSC will be looking to replace him on the special-teams side. A junior college transfer and an incoming freshman will compete in the fall for the starting kicking role. Friday evenings game will be free and open to the public.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Chadron State football spring game set for Friday night

DENVER (AP) — Germán Márquez tried to work through the tightness he was feeling in the middle of his right forearm.

After all, the Colorado Rockies starter was pitching, in his words, “super good." Catcher Elias Díaz, though, convinced him to call it a night. Take the cautious route.

Márquez pitched five strong innings before exiting, Alan Trejo tied a career-high with three hits and the Rockies beat the St. Louis Cardinals 7-4 on Monday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681228943465.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>DENVER (AP) — Germán Márquez tried to work through the tightness he was feeling in the middle of his right forearm.After all, the Colorado Rockies starter was pitching, in his words, “super good." Catcher Elias Díaz, though, convinced him to call it a night. Take the cautious route.Márquez pitched five strong innings before exiting, Alan Trejo tied a career-high with three hits and the Rockies beat the St. Louis Cardinals 7-4 on Monday.“I think I’ll be all right, be OK,” Márquez said. “Just tightness.”The 28-year-old Márquez (2-1) was warming up for the sixth inning when Díaz saw a look on Márquez's face that brought him to the mound.“I say, ‘Is something wrong here?’” Díaz said. “I was like, ‘Let’s just stop here.’”After a visit from the trainer and manager Bud Black, Márquez exited to a cheer from the crowd after an outing in which he allowed two runs and struck out four.The hard-throwing righty now has 979 career strikeouts, which is six away from tying Jorge De La Rosa’s mark for most K’s in Rockies history.“I was commanding everything good,” said Márquez, who wasn't sure if he would miss a start. “I felt it and I had to be worried about it.”In 2019, Márquez was shut down in August due to pain in his elbow. He said this was nothing like that.“Just precaution," he said.Colorado got production from the bottom of its lineup with young shortstop Ezequiel Tovar producing a pair of doubles while Trejo added three singles and two RBIs.“The guys at the bottom want to pull their weight, too," Black said. “Good stuff.”It was another quick one with the game lasting 2 hours, 14 minutes. Colorado has yet to have a game go longer than three hours.Steven Matz (0-2) struggled for a second straight start, allowing six runs and nine hits over 5 2/3 innings. He surrendered four runs over 5 1/3 innings in a loss to the Braves last week.Jordan Walker&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/Cardinals/status/1645613054665674753">singled in the seventh to extend</a>&nbsp;his hitting streak to 10 games. It’s the longest by a rookie to start their career in Cardinals history.“I haven’t thought about it,” Walker said of the mark. “A little frustrating day. ... As long as I keep putting the ball in play, things will work out. That’s kind of my mindset right now.”Nolan Arenado's nine-game hitting streak was halted as he returned to Coors Field. He dazzled with his glove, though, starting a pair of double plays for the Cardinals. Arenado earned eight Gold Gloves over his eight seasons (2013-20) with the Rockies.TRAINER’S ROOMCardinals: OF Lars Nootbaar (bruised left thumb) took between 40 and 50 swings in the batting cage Monday. “Pretty happy with how it went,” Nootbaar said. “I just talked to some of the trainers and we’re marking it down as a positive day.”Rockies: Closer Daniel Bard turned in another solid bullpen session. Bard’s on the injured list due to anxiety. “He’s doing well, doing great,” Black said. “No timetable.” ... OF Randal Grichuk (bilateral sports hernia) is slated to play in an extended spring training game Tuesday.ARENADO’S RETURNArenado said it's beginning to feel more and more like just another game when he returns to Coors Field. That’s because only a few players are left on the roster from his days in Colorado.He was traded to the Cardinals before the 2021 season — along with cash — for Austin Gomber, Elehuris Montero and prospects.“It feels like it was so long ago, but it really wasn’t that long ago,” Arenado said before the game. “It’s a little weird. But I definitely get some good feelings back.”UP NEXTRockies lefty Kyle Freeland (2-0, 0.00 ERA) has yet to allow a run over 12 2/3 innings heading into his third start of the season Tuesday against St. Louis. The Cardinals will throw righty Miles Mikolas (0-1, 9.64)